Theom Design's Measuring Tape Ring is Oh So Couture

I am very particular about the jewelry I wear. I don't like to wear pieces that you can find just anywhere. I like to seek out individuals who are doing something a little different.

Theom Designs by Menelaos Theodosiades out of Cyprus, does extraordinary work. Menalaos is both an Interior and Fashion Designer, so one day he is designing the exterior off a restaurant and the next, he's making fascinating jewelry and clothing.

Check out the amazing photos of his chairs, Granny Bag and necklaces, to mention just a few items.

My favourite pieces are his rings because when I wear jewelry, I like to rock a big statement piece and let it be the focus of my ensemble.

This stunning measuring tape ring (pictured above) stands high on my finger. It's like a bouquet, really, or fireworks that move with your every gesture. It says, "I love fashion and I'm not afraid to stand on the outer edges to prove it." It screams, "I know what I like and this is it." It alights when I raise my glass of wine or when I reach to shake someone's hand. It shimmies and shakes when I dance and it remains in the spotlight no matter how dim the lights.

Want to be noticed? Then get yourself  Theom Design Jewelry. Because there's nothing else like it.

ShoptoBeGreen.com Offers Organic, Natural & Sustainable Products

If you don't have a small family-owned green products retailer near you, you know have one online.

Shoptobegreen.com offers organic, natural and sustainable products for your body and your home. Many factors go into the careful selection of vendors and their products. They ask themselves,"Can this product reduce the public's use of petroleum products; lower landfill contribution either through bio-degradability, pre-cycle and recycle usage; and lowering chemical exposure by providing naturally made alternatives?"

They also prefer to carry products "made out of recycled materials created in an environmentally friendly way; like our reclaimed wood furniture, recycled water bottle felt pillows, and junk mail greeting cards. We also choose to carry a lot of products that are handmade by small family owned companies (like Tumbleweed Bead Co, GB Proudfoot, Decoylab and Beehive Kitchenware). One of the many reasons we love small companies is because their products tend to be handmade at the time you place your order so there are no large warehouses of inventory sucking up energy."

You can tell they've put a lot of thought into this:

"We look for items that can replace petroleum based products (like soy candles) and products that can help conserve energy usage (like LED lights and solar electronics). We carry jewelry made only from recycled metals and we will only carry antique or Canada mined diamonds so you can rest assured that it is not a conflict diamond. Our policy on products from outside of the US is to find companies that help reduce waste like Verterra’s biodegradable disposable kitchenware, Chaba reclaimed wood decor, and AquaOvo Therm-o glass bottle. We look for companies with Fair Trade policies such as our Pomiare Clayware, BeeHive Kitchenware Ceramics, and Himalayan salt lamps."

Not only is that a time-saver from shopping store to store, but it's a heartwarmer too - you can feel good about absolutely everything you purchase here. How great to support these smaller, independent producers!

I got to try Solay Wellness, for instance, which I'd never come across before. Their Whipped Body Butter is so luxurious and light, that I've been slathering all over my body ever since it arrived. And my skin has never been so soft! And the Detox Face Mask is the perfect way to combat a stressful day and/or damaged skin.

G.B. Proudfoot is another company I hadn't heard of and was thrilled to discover. Their Original Organic Lip Balm is not only soothing, it's got the most invigorating scent - ginger and orange - you'll want to eat it! For truly soft, renewed skin, their Tea with Lemon & Honey Scrub (pictured above) goes to work on ridding you of any dry skin and leaves behind rich, moist skin, all done with natural ingredients.

Not only is Shoptobegreen.com a fantastic place to shop for yourself, it makes gift-giving a breeze.

Shop now. Shop green. Shop responsibly.

Oh Egg Press - How I Love Thee!

I have been writing about Egg Press for years because their cards are always sweet, charming and hit just the right note. It is one of the few lines that I always get a "What a great card!" compliment.

So I'm beyond thrilled to share their new products with you - so innovative, so fun! Check 'em out:

- Charm cards (pictured above) are a present and card all in one! The recipient gets all the tools to make earrings, bracelets and necklaces all in a flat package that is easily mailed. And at such an affordable price, you can get them for everyone on your gift list!

- Letterpressed recipe cards are the only folded ones I've ever seen - and what a fabulous idea! You send your sentiments and a recipe. How cool is that? They are sized to fit in a traditional recipe box, and the name of the dish can be seen through a sweet little die-cut window. Sold in a set of 6 (jars, yum, food, veggie, sand dollar, cook), just try not to buy out the entire stock. These are going to go quickly.

-   The new line of letterpressed cards with Angela Adams have the bold, colourful, sunny graphics that are so right now and that you have come to know and love over the years (I've had Angela Adams stationery and notebooks for what seems like decades now).  They may just have you wanting to redo your whole place in this fashion. Just watch!

Check out Egg Press' brand new website and stock up on these amazing cards.

Egg Press, I will love you until the end of time.

Look Fabulous Without Draining Your Wallet with The Bling Society Jewelry

I have always wanted to look like a million bucks, but I've never had the disposable income for it. I covet runway items, but have to shop off the rack.

So I search for expensive looking things that fit my budget. I hunt for bargains that would fool even Hollywood folks.

That's why I'm so enthralled to have found The Bling Society.

Founder and CEO, Samantha Delaney says "There was a gap in the market, a space between beautiful jewelry and play pieces that was clearly defined by price.  I couldn't find amazing costume pieces that didn't cost a fortune, nor did I want to sacrifice great quality.  That gap inspired the foundation of The Bling Society." 

Using Grade AAA stones and properties such as Sterling Silver 925 and 18ct gold, you'll be able to set the room a sparkle with your jewelry without having to part with your entire paycheck.

Choose from fabulous rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, bangles, and brooches. You can also shop by collection: Art Decoratif, Babylon Black , Billionaire Couture, La Crevier Couture, Park Avenue Bling, Safara Couture and Sui Generis.

Look royally exquisite with Louche around your neck. This 20.0ct round-cut 'French Blue' simulated diamond with square and marquise-cut diamonds set on a silver 925 setting will upgrade any outfit. And Old Hollywood - a 30.0ct marquise and round-cut simulated diamond bracelet complete with traditional clasp - is the perfect bracelet for bringing the glamour of yesterday to today. This is definitely one of my favourites.

And that's what I love most about The Bling Society - you can shop for a range of styles and prices that are affordable for your individual budget. 

I went with a modern choice that harkens back to a simpler time - the Chic Couture Ring (pictured above). This stack of 5 pure 1.0ct round-cut pink simulated diamonds set on a rose gold band allows you to choose your amount of bling. One band says simple elegance, and 5 says "I will be noticed." It even has RG stamped inside the band, so no one will ever know it was actually affordable. Let them think you've got a bundle - nothing wrong with that, I say.

I may not have the salary of a rich person, but I sure want to look like one. Thanks to The Bling Society, now I do.

Bond No. 9's Newest Scent Madison Square Park Comes with Jewelry!

Some scents are truly timeless.

I wrote about Bond No. 9's collection way back in 2009 and yet, I still covet these eau de parfums. Bond No. 9 stand the test of time, somehow conveying warm memories of the past and still being undoubtedly modern and fresh no matter how much time has passed.

Now there is a new beauty on the block - Madison Square Park. You can see how vibrant the park is and how beautiful and dramatic the neighbourhood is. I think the neon pink and green bottle is the perfect way to honour such a place. After all, there is so much to see and do, and if you've been to New York, you know how stimulating it is. Every time I come home from visiting, I feel like I'm actually vibrating for a few days after. It is a high that's hard to come down from.

That's what I love about Bond No. 9 - you can bring a piece of the city with you. And Madison Square Park is one delicious scent! It's unlike any other scent I've come across (and remember, I test them for a living). It is a truly joyous scent with a hint of fruit and champagne bubbles. It feels like summer picnics and laughter or an evening on a large deck somewhere covered in teeny white lights and couples dancing like in a 1940s movie. But it's also so 2011, like being in an art gallery on a Sunday afternoon sipping wine and thinking about structure and form or shopping for local products in your neighbourhood with friends. But it's actually an exhilarating blend of grape hyacinth, huckleberry, prairie dropseed grass, red leaf rose, red hunter tulips and teakwood.

The bottle comes with a removable, grass-green Deco Modern rose-blossom bracelet which can be used as a bracelet or brooch. Bond No. 9 suggests wearing "its double rows of beads on your wrist, or detach the vintage-style rose centerpiece, to use as a brooch"

A gorgeous eau de parfum and bracelet all-in-one? I think your summer is now officially made.

Shop now.

Shop the Trends with Bizou Jewelry & Fashion Accessories

Every season it seems things have changed - baggy pants are now cigarette thin, blousy tops have turned boxy and where colour blocking and solids were hot, now it's all about prints.

How is a girl supposed to keep up, not only closet-wise, but money-wise?

I have found the perfect solution - Bizou!

Shop affordable, trendy jewelry and fashion accessories without having to spend hours scouring the mall. Choose perfect mix-and-match items to add a "hot off the runway" look to your wardrobe. And the best part? It won't cost you a fortune and there are styles and trends to suit everyone.

Take the leopard print for example. It's smokin' hot right now, but sometimes it can be too much. That's why you want to add just a hint of it. The Leopard Bow Headband is pretty and feminine with just a little edge to it. Yeah, that's perfect! Or what about this Watch with Printed Leopard Dial?

The white strap will look great against your tanned arm, the diamond-like jewels will catch the light while you sip drinks on the patio and the leopard-print face will remind you that you still have your wild side!

And let's be honest - you have a closet full of plain black shoes, don't you? Sister, I think it's high time you spiced it up a little. I adore these Floral Print Ballet Flats (pictured above). And they are so soft - even the sides and edges - so you won't have to spend the summer hobbling around with blisters and bandages like with most flats! And the delicate little print will sass up your skinny jeans, micro minis and maxi dresses in an instant.

These are just a few examples of all that Bizou has to offer, so shop the entire collection and get a wardrobe worthy of the catwalk without having to break the bank.

Finally Be Hands-Free with Wallets2Wear!

Look, I take my bag everywhere I go: I don't leave it in the car and even if I'm just popping out for one or two things, I barrel it over my shoulder just in case.

But there are some nights where I want to leave it all behind - I want to be footloose and fancyfree without having to cart my purse around with my all night.

However, my wardrobe presents a unique problem - almost everything I own has no pockets. I rarely wear jeans and all of my tops are streamlined - not a pocket in sight!

So Wallets2Wear is a saving grace for me, because it allows me the peace of mind of having my essentials "on hand" without having to carry a damn thing. You simply fill up the pouch, close the flap and slip it on or close up the sides - depending upon the design. Watch a quick video to see how easy it is!

Plus they are so stylish, I would want to wear these even if they didn't come with the ever-so-handy zip pocket.

I have two so I can dress it up or down:

All That Glitters - I wear this one (pictured above) with LBDs and when I need a little something to perk me up. Large striped silver beads and smaller plain silver beads add chic to any outfit.

White Bandana Wrap - This adds a little flair to my everyday gear. Little does anyone know it also makes my life easier, in addition to making me look good. 

Shop the entire range of Wallets2Wear and get yourself some stylish accessories as well as additional place to keep your lipstick, iPod, etc.

New Ring Guard Solution Resizes Rings Quickly & Easily

A couple of years ago, some friends were in New York or Boston somewhere and picked out a ring that they thought was very "me."

Usually people get this very wrong, but this couple couldn't have chosen better - a  very modern, edgy patent black thick band that goes almost as high as my knuckle. Problem is, I've never been able to wear it as it's way too big.

So when I found out about new Ring Guard Solution, I was thrilled - I can finally wear this backlog of jewelry that's just been tucked away in a jewelry box for years due to purchasing the wrong size and all the fluctuation in my weight (I eat and write for a living, so you can just imagine... If only they made this for my waistline!)

It's so easy to use - simply squeeze a small amount of Ring Guard Solution gel to the inside of the ring and let it dry (up to 3 hours).

It will set to a clear, soft plastic that fills in the gap between your ring and finger but remains invisible. You can't feel a thing, except that your ring finally fits comfortably. In fact, it's better than wearing your rings on their own because you get that extra padding. And it stays on - whether you're at your computer typing, washing the dishes, even swimming. No more slipping and sliding!

If you ever want to remove it, it just peels off and doesn't leave any marks or scratches on your rings (like those bulky metal or plastic ring guards that you may have used in the past).

According to Ring Guard Solutions, the tube has enough gel to "treat several dozen rings." At only $7.95 a tube, it's costing mere cents to make your rings wearable again. And after 3 years, I can finally wear that wonderful ring my friends brought back from their trip.

I think that's pretty wonderful, don't you?

Buy Ring Guard Solution now.

Go Get Yourself Some Beauitful Minimalist Jewelry from h. sakurai

For many, 2010 was all about cutting back, paring down and simplifying.

I can't think of a better way to celebrate than with h. sakurai jewelry!

As much as I admire bold jewelry, I am always drawn back to fine, delicate jewelry. Like the work of Hiroko Sakurai, you have to lean in close. Then you're rewarded wiith the surprise of the intricate detail and craftsmanship.

Like these gorgeous odes to New York. The iconic skyline has never looked prettier. And these necklaces with their featherish designs are so compelling, I bet you will wear them all the time.

I'm rockin' the Lucky dice necklace and matching earrings, which are a perfect way to ring in the new year - bring on the luck!

These earrings (pictured above) are little beauties and just a bit edgy. Plus, they are so much more enticing and original those fake diamond studs I've been wearing for years. And I love the unexpectedness and as a result, freshness of the silver die on gold chain. It gives it such a modern look and thus, updates my whole wardrobe in an instant.

You don't have to wear big, chunky jewelry to make a statement.

In fact, I think these say much more. 

Shop the entire h. sakurai collection now.

My Top Perfume Picks of 2010: Part 2 - Go Get 'Em Now, Stores Close Early Today!

I have had a ton of fun testing so many perfumes this year. Here are the rest of my picks for Best Perfumes of 2010!

Don't forget to check out my past fragrance posts as well.

Enjoy!

**Lola Marc Jacobs Velvet Edition**

I chose Marc Jacobs BANG this week for top cologne and his fragrances for women also make it onto my faves list, including Lola, the Velvet Edition.

This limited edition bottle, marking Lola's first anniversary, is so stunning, the bottle is as much the present as the fragrance - frosted violet glass is topped with a thick gold band and a velvety, soft flower cap with vibrantly coloured petals.

The scent is intriguing and completely original. I've never experienced anything like it. It develops over time so the different ingredients and components come out one after another - fuchsia peony, pink peppercorn, pear d'anjou, ruby red grapefruit, rose, geranium, vanilla, tonka bean adn creamy musk.

It is decidedly feminine and exudes strength without being potent. It is creamy, floral, modern and playful. In other words, everything you want.

Get the Lola Gift Set now and be sure to pick up the Lola Limited-Edition Perfume Bracelet as well. With the Lola scent in a solid inside the flower and the bracelet's heavy gold chain, you will  be the belle of the ball with this awesome accessory.

Explore the Lola universe here.

**Daisy Pop Art Edition**

This Jeffrey Koons-like bottle makes for such a fun and memorable gift. 

The fragrance is described as "a sparkling floral bouquet," but for me, it's deeper than that. It has a woodsy feel. That must be the musk and jasmine, but the essences of grapefruit, strawberries and violet give it a fresh, unique scent that is all at once intoxicating and youthful. It makes you want to shorten your skirt, get up and dance and do all those things you said you'd do this year.

It's the scent of possibility.

And the Daisy Solid Perfume Ring will make choosing your New Year's Eve accessories a snap! This modern, chic, over-sized ring is a great way to make a statement and keep your scent close.

You can explore the whole Daisy world here.

Give Original, Gorgeous, Handmade Jewelry This Holiday From Tweak!

I am always on the lookout for cool jewelry, but truthfully, it's hard to find unique stuff that's affordable.

So when I stumbled upon Tweak, I was thrilled!

Ontario designer Caroline Bruce has created a line of stunning jewelry with each piece being carefully hand selected and crafted and completely one-of-a-kind.

I was able to visit her pop-up shop of sorts when she was in Toronto this month and perused through her incredible collection that showcases her immense talent of choosing stones that complement and contrast one another beautifully.

I love that she uses different stones snugged next to one another - the different shapes, textures and colours make for very modern pieces that have staying power. And because there are so many colours to play off of, you can wear them with virtually anything. Whether you're dressing up for cocktails or heading out for brunch with friends in t-shirt and jeans, Tweak makes you look put together in an instant.

I am immediately drawn to the awesome off-centre stylings of the Fuss Collection, Asymmetrical Pendants and Hooked, complete with gorgeous fish.

I cannot help but pick up a Collage Bracelet.  Mine is a mix of dark blues, grays and clear natural stones and beads (Jasper, Soldalite, Osbidian, Chinese Crystal, Faceted Glass, Web Jasper, Lapis Lazuli and Glass, to be exact). Oh, I just love it. And each bracelet is finished with a magnetic clasp, so you don't have to wait until someone's around to help you to put it on!

The Quintet Collection has something for everyone. Each necklace has 5 different stones, so you can ramp up your wardrobe with just this one statement piece. I love the pastels in this one (pictured above) but I went with something a little edgier. Very similar to this necklace, I got one with a medley of dark greys and a hit of lemon-lime (Olive Jade, Dalmatian Jasper, Porcelain, Chinese Crystal and Pyrite). It is classy enough to wear to work, but works as a rockin' accessory to my after 5 clothes.

I don't know how Caroline came up with it, but I absolutely, wholeheartedly can't get enough of the Duet Collection. Two very different pieces juxtaposed on a shiny silver strand - I think it's so damn sexy! I love the look of mine (similar to those shown)- Striped Agate with Crystal Quartz and Olive Jade.  I wore it to dinner with a friend recently and she mentioned how much she liked it - twice!

Caroline says, "At the risk of sounding trite, I have to confess that I really fall in love with every piece I make,” says Caroline. "I want a woman to see a piece of my jewelry, fall in love with it and not be able to stop herself from wearing it three days in a row! That’s the greatest compliment for me.  

“I try not to make anything I could go out and buy. If I have an idea and then see something similar in a magazine or online, I throw it out or alter it to make it into something totally me. I know there are very few new ideas left in the world of jewelry, but I like to think that my colour combinations, compositions and use of materials are at least somewhat unique.” 

And because I know this means as much to me as it does you, the finishing clasp on her necklaces are simple and beautiful and make it incredibly easy to take it on and off. Caroline also will custom make you pieces, but don't worry - no pieces are ever exactly alike, so you are guaranteed to have something that no one else will have, at no extra cost! How incredible is that?  And she always packages everything beautifully and encloses a list of all the stones and beads for your particular pieces. It's that kind of personal touch that you just can't help but fall in love with.

I've fallen hard for Tweak. I know you have too. Shop now and make this holiday one they won't ever forget.

p.s. If you don't know which style to get, buy a gift certificate and let them pick it out themselves.

Give a Fair Trade Gift This Season From Ten Thousand Villages

Fair Trade products are handcrafted from sustainable materials using environmentally-friendly methods.

Ten Thousand Villages have been providing vital, fair income to people in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East by selling their handicrafts and telling their stories since 1946.

In 2011, Ten Thousand Villages will be celebrating its 65th anniversary, making it Canada's largest and oldest Fair Trade organizations.

Ten Thousand Villages Stores are staffed in part by volunteers, but please feel free to shop online if you like (I like going to the store in my neighbourhood as it is welcoming and warm and happens to be just around the corner - there are 49 stores across Canada). You can shop for handcrafted jewelry, personal accessories, home decor, textiles, skin care, food products, toys and instruments as well as many other items. For each items, there is printed product information so your gift comes with a real story.

For Christmas, there are amazing decoration and ornaments to select from, as well as unique Nativity Scenes. They even have a Stocking Stuffers category, to make shopping that much easier for you.

If you're really stuck for what to choose, try these lists: Gifts for Him, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Kids, Gifts for the Hostess, Gifts for Teachers and Corporate Gift Ideas.

Here are some of my favourite picks:

- Coiled Paper Ball Ornaments add so much colour to the tree.

- I'm a big fan of Putumayo CDs.

- The Tea Holder/Box makes your tea a little extra special.

- Embossed Boxes can transform into a beautiful and meaningful  memory box.

- What a statement piece! I love the Black Metal Lamp and Shade.

- The Blue Tibetan Wool Accent Rug (pictured above) will be something they cherish forever.

- I am fascinated by the Himalayan Calendar and 40-Year Calendar.

- The Hogla Leaf Storage Stool is 2 gifts in one - nice!

- Ooh, I love the Handwoven Grey Silk Scarf.

- Give the gift of an indoor garden with the Ceramic Herb Pots (3 Pieces).

- Blow their minds with the Upside Down Map.

And for the food lover on your list, these cookbooks are a great gift that keeps on giving and the Black Horn Salad Servers are a classy gift. The Eight Piece Ceramic Sushi Set is simply fabulous and the Elegant Olive Wood Cutting Board is a cook's dream.

Two other wonderful options are Gift Cards and Living Gifts.

It's easy to see why it pays to shop at Ten Thousand Villages.

Shop now and make this holiday a meaningful, memorable one.

Discover Cute & Affordable Jewelry From Total She

My wardrobe tells of my many sides:

- sleek dresses, pencil skirts, flowing pants and dressy blouses for restaurant reviews and fancy nights out

- jeans, tees and casual tops for long walks and hanging out 

- workout gear for keeping slim, despite eating and sitting writing for a living

I think that your jewelry should tell a similar story.

Total She offers fun and flirty jewelry that won't cost an arm and a leg.  Choose from bracelets, earrings, pendants & chains, and personalized jewelry & gifts for both men and women.

Each piece is named for someone, such as the Grace CZ Pendant and Chrissy Bracelet with matching Meaghen earrings!

I got the Stephanie Earrings (pictured above) natch.

They are stainless steel and hypo-allergenic, so I can wear them without worry of infection. They are cute and really light. And since they're only $20, I can afford to get the Colleen Pendant (which will bring my friend Colleen to mind) and these pretty Audrey Earrings.

Choose jewelry from Total She and get pieces to match all your sides.

Discover the Beauty & Serenity of Meditation Rings

I am trying to live in the now, be present and be aware.

But I fail miserably at is most days.

So when I saw the stunning Meditation Rings, I thought, "Ooh, this is just what I need."

And who doesn't want new, beautiful jewelry that does more than just look good?

Based on ancient Tibetan Prayer Wheels,the practice of turning and spinning is said to do many things including enhance compassion and help you find a peaceful state of mind.

These beautiful  hand-hammered, 9 Kt Gold & Sterling Silver Meditation Rings help you to decrease your stress by moving/spinning one or several of the bands, depending upon which design you choose.

You'll be amazed at how simple it is and how quickly it goes to work on your anxieties and worries.  These rings are not only gorgeous (don't you just love the juxtaposition of the different materials, colours and textures?), but are also said to "bring good luck & fortune" to the wearer.

A lot of people play with their rings anyway, so why not have one that helps reduce your stress and calm your mind at the same time?

I have been wearing the 9 KT Gold & Sterling Silver Meditation ring with one Yellow Gold spinning band (pictured above) and I love the motion of spinning the gold band around the silver ring. Having studied Japanese and Tibetan Buddhism, I can tell you that the peace that comes with this simple act is bigger than you can imagine. But you don't have to practice Buddhism to benefit from this amazing jewelry.

Our lives are so hectic and hurried these days, that it's wonderful to take a moment and just be quiet and calm.

How wonderful is it that you don't have to spend time on the floor on a mat or away at a retreat, but simply wear an exquisite ring from Meditation Rings?

What a fantastic present for both you and those around you!

Shop now.

Smart Glass Recycled Jewelry - Drink It. Wear It. LOVE It!

I can't think of a better necklace than a Smart Glass necklace for me.

After all, what better gift for a food writer than the Murano Necklace (pictured above)?

In the words of Atlanta Designer Kathleen Plate, "Inspired by the artists of Murano, Italy, this necklace combines the best shapes, colors, and textures of our most popular pieces."

It's striking for sure. And really, I don't have anything like it in my collection.

But here's the best part - it's made from food and drink bottles! Kathleen, you're a woman after my own heart.

The aqua part is from a sake bottles, the pine coloured "o" is from a red wine bottle and the clear glass part in the middle? From a salad dressing bottle!! 

And there's no way that Kathleen could know how much I love salad (So much that I have one pretty much everyday. So much so that when I make one at home, our cat Cosmo comes over for a lick of dressing).

What a ingenious idea. 

It's no wonder Aveda came to her for an order and Coca-Cola commissioned her to create a line of jewelry using their signature bottles.

And there's something so satisfying about wearing not only beautiful jewelry, but one with a past. Jewelry that has been shaped and cared for by hand.

Kathleen has a real eye for design and detail. After all, she finishes the Murano with delicate silver strands that add a decidedly modern edge, but with a slight flapper feel. 

Check out the entire Recycled"Open" line, where the Murano lies, and be sure to stop by the Coca-Cola licensed products, Boutique line, Rings and Cufflinks, Recycled, Earrings, Necklaces, Bracelets, Home and Hardware and Guys line.

I think you just got a new place to do all of your present buying. 

I know I did.

Discover the Most Stunning Jewelry by Philippa Roberts

"Oh my!" I exclaimed when I opened the box.

Beneath my fingers lay the most exquisite, delicate jewelry by Philippa Roberts.

It's the kind of jewelry that seems understated at first, but is completely and utterly breathtaking up close.

Her different collections show her range in use of colour, materials and textures.  Just look at Butter, Dusk and Delight are. Many designers get stuck in one solitary look, but Phillppa has really shown that she can work in a number of ways.

All of them so beautiful.

She works in both gold and silver and uses pearls and  semi-precious stones to create texture and shape.  But she has this unbelievable touch.

Check out the gorgeous Beach Collection that arrived on my doorstep:

You can't tell how finely crafted these Eclipse in Vermeil Earrings are by the picture. And the size too. They are a medium size, so they stand out without being ostentatious.

Perfect.

I don't normally wear gold (blonde hair, pinkish skin), but this gold isn't the bright stuff that your parents wear. This is muted, almost brushed, giving it a modern look and feel. I feel fantastic in this gold!

I wore the Ruffled Circle in Vermeil with Apatite, Chalcedony and Aqua Necklace the first day it arrived. It was the last meeting of our book club and I was wearing an ocean blue dress. I saw the necklace and thought how pretty it would look with it.

Oh, the compliments! Again, it is Philippa's tremendous talent that allows you to wear such delicate pieces and yet make a statement. I love the warbly gold ring and the pale sea-coloured stones are so peaceful. I like that it's different but not too out there. 

And the ultimate compliment? I met my fella afterwards and he said how pretty my necklace was. You know it's good when...

I have been looking for decades for a bracelet like the Double Chalcedony  Bracelet (pictured above).

The soft look of the stones finished a gold ring clasp, done in a similar fashion to the necklace and earrings, makes it such a exquisite addition to your outfit.  And unlike most bracelets that droop and run up and down my arm, I put it on and it fit perfectly.

Ahhhh.

I could go on and on, but I think you probably want to go and get yourself some of Philippa Roberts Jewelry.

Be Fashionable and Savvy With Teething Bling by Smart Mom Jewelry

My Mom has beautiful hair.

So beautiful that she gets stopped on the street, running for a bus or in the doctor's office.

Apparently when I was a baby, I would not stop tugging at it, so she cut it short. And kept it that way (probably mostly out of habit) until just a few years ago.

So I can see why my friend who is pregnant might want to switch from her Tiffany bracelet to Teething Bling by Smart Mom Jewelry.

Made from the same material as most teething toys, their pendants and bangles are safe for babies to chew on (products are non-toxic, phthalate, BPA, PVC, latex and lead free) and all pendants come with a breakaway clasp as an added safety measure.

Those without kids might scoff and say that kids should be taught not to chew on their mother's jewelry and what kind of child does that?!

Just yesterday I saw a kid almost pull her Mom's earring off - with almost part of her ear with it.

And no one's saying that you have replace your jewelry forever. Maybe just during the teething stage is all...

I like the simple design of the pendants (solids and patterns) and their coordinating bangles - gift sets are also available.

Thinking about the classic styles my friend favours, I chose Jade, which looks straight from the Far East and will go with everything.

Finally, a baby gift for both Mom and child, and one that you know will get used.

And no need to cut your hair short!

Vemayca Cosmetic Bags Solve All Your Makeup Bag Woes

How many times have you had this happen:

You buy a really beautiful cosmetic bag. You just love it. You love seeing it in your purse, putting it in your carry-on, pulling out your lipstick.

But your liquid foundation bottle cracks and your makeup leaks all over the bag. There's no getting that stuff out.

Or it's covered in a thin film of bronzer dust or marks from your eyeliners and lipglosses. No matter how many times or how carefully you wash it, there's no saving your bag.

So you give up on beautiful bags and start buying ugly cheap ones at the dollar store, because you're not going to waste your money. You're not going through all that again.

Well, now you can have a beautiful bag that you can keep for as long as you want, thanks to Vemayca Cosmetic Bags.

See, the beauty of these bags is that they come with a removable soft pearl liner. As soon as the inside starts to get grubby, put a clean one in. That way, you get the bag of your dreams and you can house your cosmetics without worrying anymore!

And there's much to love about this bag, besides the amazing, innovative feature of the removable liner. First of all, it's one of the biggest cosmetics bags without being a trunk or case, so you can finally carry all of what you need without crowding everything. I love that there are 2 generous side pockets with zippers and all of the zippers have big metal "o"s that make it super easy to open and close (just think how much you'll appreciate it at places like airport security or those nights after you've had one too many margaritas!

One feature that you might not think of is the flat bottom (for once, ladies, this is a GOOD thing!). It allows you to keep the bag upright so you can apply and reapply your makeup with ease and hands-free. So talk on your cell while you do a quick touch up - this bag will keep up with you.

And of course we've got to talk about how it feels. Veronica M. Mayo, Founder, has selected a soft, velvety fabric that makes it so enjoyable to touch and use. It comes in 2 colours - black and red.

Of course you can use it for more than just makeup. But with a system this brilliant, it's hard not to load it full of your essential cosmetics.

Soooo, maybe you should get two. One colour for your makeup, the other for cellphone, keys etc...

Now that's organized!

Shop at Ten Thousand Villages and Make a Real Difference!

Ten Thousand Villages is a non-profit Fair Trade organizations that sells stylish, ethnically-inspired and ethically sources products in stores and online.

They provide vital, fair income to Third World people by marketing their handicrafts and telling their stories in North America.

By shopping at Ten Thousand Villages, you can buy gifts with meaning, green gifts and shop ethically for you and your home all in one convenient location. Just imagine how meaningful a graduation, wedding or anniversary gift when it's been handcrafted with such love, care and dedication. And they have a gift registry, which is wonderful.

You can choose from personal accessories, home furnishing, textiles, books and stationery, plant and garden, jewelry, skin care, food items, toys and musical instruments, some of which are made from reused, reclaimed, sustainable or organic materials.

Here are some of my recent favourites:

The Cotton Ikat Tablecloth w/ Gingham shows off the season's biggest trend and is just in time for patio season. Your backyard barbecue never looked better. On second thought, you'd better get the matching napkinsfor a truly complete look.

We use a Bamboo Folding Table as our coffee table so that our living room can work in a number of different ways.

I think the Natural & Lime Kaisa Basket is the perfect accent piece for my breakfast bar. And the Reverse Painted Serving Tray (pictured above) is a wonderful time saver when entertaining.

For no-fail gift giving, Portraits is a stellar choice, as is The BitterSweet World of Chocolate. Bookends are always useful and what about a wine rack that folds up? Perfect for taking up to the cottage for the week! And who doesn't love jewelry as a gift?

Being an avid cook, I love how fresh the food and ingredients are, as well as the fact it is all fairly-traded and much of it is organic - all at completely and affordable prices! I get my spices here (like their wonderful curry and za'atar) and I pay LESS for them than at my local grocery store!

Last year, I bought over half of my Christmas presents at Ten Thousand Villages and for once, I felt good about shopping. My purchases really meant something.

You can visit them online via the US or Canada or go in person to one of their many store locations.