Cool Stuff con Queso

Color Me Katie

2009-01-15T18:56:00.000-08:00

This is my new favorite blog today.

Color Me Katie.

Lovely.

Victory Ford's Apartment

2009-01-14T00:45:00.000-08:00

I only discovered Lipstick Jungle after it was announced it was canceled. This is, sadly, how I roll. And now I'm in love with something that will no longer exist. Drat. (If you are like me and somehow missed it completely, you should seriously search it out on iTunes or reruns or wherever it is you can find lost things.)

The show is definitely aesthetically pleasing. Completely lovely.

And Ilene Rosenzweig of Swell is a lead writer for the show, so it's smart. (She is married to Cad writer Rick Marin. Their apartment is amazing. Of course it is.)

And okay now I'm seeing that the show is maybe not going away. Not sure. But you can sign a petition to keep it here.
Also, Victory Ford's apartment is my new inspiration for our middle room. (Images here are from the Bandelle blog. Another fantastic discovery...)

Right now, I'm thinking about the walls. Blue. Definitely blue. While I was typing this, I just ordered five samples from Benjamin Moore to try out (oh how I love you Internet) I'll keep you posted on the progress.

I Want a Simple Bed.

2009-01-13T00:38:00.000-08:00

I want a simple low-to-the ground bed. Nothing fancy. Nothing expensive. Just a change. I'm thinking this Malm bed from Ikea might be worth a try.

If I Could Only Have One Treat, I'd Have It From Marie Belle.

2009-01-12T00:28:00.000-08:00

So I've decided in 2009 I'm going to limit myself to one sweet treat a week. That's right. 52 a year. Not 52 a day like I normally have. Hopefully this will encourage me to be choosier.

And if I only got to choose one for the whole year, it would be chocolates from Marie Belle. Oh yes it would.

A Pot of Sunshine.

2009-01-09T12:23:00.000-08:00

Okay, I realize I'm possibly going through a bit of a yellow phase. But how fun and cheery would it be to whip up some soup in this Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven?!

Blurb Books

2009-01-08T12:16:00.000-08:00

Blurb Books.

I've loved them from afar. But it's time I got closer.This year, I will make four of them. At least.

Inspiration.

2009-01-07T12:02:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure why but I think it would be even more fun to type on my keyboard if I were wearing this ring from Star of the East.How's that for justification?

The "Cool" Fanny Pack is Dead. Long Live the Hip Sack.

2009-01-06T11:12:00.000-08:00

As I was walking this morning, I realized I had finally reached a point in my life when I found a reason to use a fanny pack. I also realize this is a not a good thing. At all. It means I'm approaching 80. But that said and in all honestly, it would help me quite a lot to have a place to put a phone and keys while moving around the university near my house.

So when I got back, I googled "Cool Fanny Packs." Sad. I know. The results were sad too. And then I remembered Etsy.And I found the hip sack by may.tree.ark. Sometimes it's all in the marketing. Because it's not a fanny pack. It's a hip pack. For the hip. So it's hip see? For the hipsters. And for the people that need a place to put their phone while they walk.

Reality Check. I need to read more.

2009-01-05T00:19:00.000-08:00

Since my #2 resolution involves reading more (and drinking more hot green tea while I'm doing it), I'm making Reality Check my next book to finish. I started it before the holidays, and it's really just fantastic. Realistically inspirational. And a great gift for anyone starting a new venture or adventure. Plus. It's funny. So there's that.

A Dream Workspace

2009-01-01T15:35:00.000-08:00

Otherwise known as office porn (or my version of it anyway).

It's quite clear to me that if I had this lovely office, I could accomplish great things! I'd be happy doing them anyway. Everything you see is from West Elm. And it's joyous.

Black Eyed Peas Bowl

2008-12-31T10:52:00.001-08:00

This is what I'll be using all day tomorrow.

Kitchen bowl from my beloved Fishs Eddy.

Putting the Tee in 3T

2008-12-31T00:59:00.000-08:00

Harry needs new tshirts. I know. Weird right? It's so wasteful how he keeps growing out of his perfectly good clothes. Gah.

Good thing Amazon has this easy click three buttons and you've spent $172.72 on tshirts feature. Or maybe I didn't actually click purchase. But if I did, I'd buy these.

The World Peace Please Tee.

The Johnny Cash Tee.

The Peace Music Love Tee.

And the Punk Rock Tee above.

Get On With it Already.

2008-12-30T07:31:00.000-08:00

I love cool stuff. And it's all around. (Hooray!) And I'm about eight months behind in posting some of the cool things I've seen or that people have sent me. Sooo... I'm going to stop feeling bad about that and just do something about it. And I'm going to start right here and right now with this lovely and motivating series from Orange Beautiful.

Were You Raised By Wolves?

2008-05-16T00:17:00.000-07:00

Do you know someone who needs to get a clue about the mysteries of adulthood?

Perhaps someone who is just graduating from college? Or entering the adult life force? Or maybe someone who's been in the adult world for a while, but still just needs a clue. Or two. Or twenty.

Well.

This is your book.

Were You Raised By Wolves? Clues to the Mysteries of Adulthood by Christie Mellor, author of the three-martini playdate.

This girl is funny. And a wonderfully delightful writer. She says what we're all thinking when the hordes of interns enter our worlds around this time each year...oh people, get a clue! And stop acting like you own the joint. And it's not good to smell like joints. And the way you're bodyslamming yourself to be cool is hurting my joints. So just stop. And read this book.

It covers it all with style and candid humor. Straight up guides on getting lipstick stains out off of shirts, first jobs, first bosses, easy recipes, ironing, tipping, paying taxes, throwing dinner parties, and other things to avoid when drunk.

Let it be known that this is my official gift of choice to all college grads, and I'm keeping a copy or two in my desk for overachieving and underachieving interns.

In the author's own words, "It's time to set down that bottle of expensive water, review some simple rules of etiquette, and take a few totally random tips that will help you get through life without irritating too many people."

Where was this book when I was 22?

Also, I reviewed this for Parent Bloggers Network. And I'm giving a copy away. So leave a comment here between now and Friday May 23. The Hurricane will pick a lucky winner. And as always, I really hope you win.

Mama Rock. Oh Yes She Does.

2008-04-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

Rose Rock has one famous son. But more impressive, she raised 17 children and foster children. So she's super successful. How did she raise all these kids I ask?

She had 10 rules.

And she shares them in this most fantastic book: Mama Rock's Rules (Ten Lessons for Raising a Household of Successful Children). The lovely parent bloggers of Parent Bloggers Network sent me this book to review it. And I must say, even though I'm only a moderate Chris Rock comedy fan, I loved this book.

Loved. This. Book.

Each rule is broken up into chapters with titles like "I Am Your Mama, Not Your Friend", "Push Unable Off The Table", "Spirituality is Not Just For Sundays" and "Don't Lie Down With Anything You Don't Want To Live With Forever". No nonsense.

Seriously great.

But the included advice and sections are my absolute favorites. In fact, I firmly believe Ms. Rock should put out a tshirt line with some of her one liners. Because I want shirts with Roseisms on them like this:

"Don't Quack Like a (Gangsta) Duck - Unless You Are a (Gangsta) Duck"

"Feed Them and They Will Tell You Everything"

"If They Don't Accept You Because of Your Hair: Don't Be There"

Fantastic.

I don't want to go into too much detail and give anything away, but this is a must read. A fresh, wholesome very direct approach about raising kids. Because, really, when you're raising 17, who has the time to mess around?

And okay, sure, it takes way more than just a book to raise so many successful people. But it's a great read and a great way to think about this all-important job of parenting. As far as I'm concerned, she knows what she's talking about. At least 16 times more than I do. At least.

So it's official. This is officially my favorite Mother's Day gift I've seen so far. You can buy it here. You can also watch a fun video of an interview with Rose Rock here.

Want to win one? Leave a comment here. The Hurricane will draw a winner by Friday morning. And seriously, I hope you win.

It's Shelf Porn.

2008-03-21T20:27:00.001-07:00

Do organized shelves get you going?
Check out organize dot com.

The Keenest Shoes Around

2008-03-19T20:29:00.000-07:00

If you happen to be an extremely active two-and-a-half-year-old person with impressively wide feet, I very strongly advise that you spend the summer in these durable, cool, waterproof shoes (Newport H2 from Keen). They are worth every penny. Trust me.

Free Music.

2008-03-18T20:14:00.000-07:00

Check it. On Cool Mom Picks.

You Know I'm Obsessed With Cupcakes Right? Now There Are Designer Cupcakes. I'm Doomed.

2008-03-15T20:18:00.000-07:00

Wow. These are the Christian Loubotin of cupcake wrappers.
But I doubt they're red on the bottom.

See Kai Run this Spring

2008-03-04T21:09:00.000-08:00

The new See Kai Run line is in.
Check it.

In(side) the Loop

2008-03-01T20:08:00.000-08:00

I just discovered this blog.

Love it.

Fe-Fi-Mo-Momma

2008-02-13T21:16:00.000-08:00

This little beauty from lowercase tee
is the cleverest political merch I've seen so far this primary season.

If you've seen other cute items (for any candidate), let us know.

The Sky Isn't Visible From Here

2008-02-11T05:24:00.000-08:00

I've always been a fan of fiction.

Since birth.

After all, that's what most of us first learn books to be...tales of fairies, Loraxes, Fudge, and Ramona. And that's what my bookshelves knew. And so that's what I read. Hundreds and hundreds of thousands of words of fiction.

Sure, there were random non-fiction bits throw in, for school and all, but it seems I've always liked the pretend better. So much so that at age 30, I actually broke up with a guy because he said fiction novels were stupid. (Because although he was incredibly cute, he was stupid, obviously.)

But then someone turned me on to the genre of the personal essay and the memoir novel. And I fell in love. And in a round about way, that's what initiated my interest into reading others' blogs. Because in many ways and forms, that's exactly what they are. Just out there for anyone to read, relate to, or not.

Then sometimes, someone takes it to the next level.

I'd say Felicia Sullivan has done exactly that with her new novel The Sky Isn't Visible From Here as she recounts growing up as the adult in a Brooklyn household with a powerfully addicted mother. What's even more moving, even more than the incredible details she includes, is the way she soberly connects these formative years into the life she pieces together for herself seventeen years later. The way that the children that we were, become the women that we are. It's so honest. So honest that even though my childhood in central Texas couldn't have been more different, I completely understand where she's coming from and how we get there.

It's that good.

Her broken heart is quiet and strong. Her details are specific and bizarre. Her story is completely touching and inspiring. In fact, in reading it, I'm celebrating her victories with her and I'm thinking, I'd completely be her friend in real life. In fact, if she had a blog, I'd read it. And then I realized, of course she does. Because she's brilliant. So you can read that too. You can also read an excerpt of The Sky Isn't Visible from Here on the Huffington Post.

And you can purchase the book here.

Or you can win a copy of it here. Right here. By leaving a comment before Wed. Feb. 13th, midnight EST. And as always, I seriously hope you win.

The Ultimate Tea Diet from the Good Doctor Tea.

2008-01-28T06:19:00.000-08:00

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me.”
--C.S. Lewis

Remember when tea was just something old ladies and English people drank? Well, no more, my friend. Now, it’s severely hip. Ever since Moby opened up his own shop. (Or maybe it was cool before that. I can’t tell.) And it's been fiercely cool for at least as long as Miley Cyrus has been in a bra. Give or take.

But Mark “Dr. Tea” Ukra, has been going all tea, all the time for much longer. In fact, his family has been involved in the tea biz for generations. And today, he runs a schwanky tea store and wrote about book called The Ultimate Tea Diet. And he swears that tea will “help us lose weight, reduce our cravings for sweets, suppress our appetite, increase our insulin’s effectiveness, lower our cholesterol, and stimulate thermogenesis, which helps the body burn fat for energy.” And stuff.

Big claims from someone whose name reminds me of a certain gold jewelry wearin’ 80s star. But. It turns out this guy is nothing like B.A. Baracus. Except they both live in LA.

I pity the fool who drinks coffee.
The good doctor starts off by making some pretty serious accusations that coffee is the devil. Like, it makes you trap body fat. It raises your blood sugar. It slows down your metabolism. It worsens your PMS. And it makes you kill kittens. Maybe.

But you get the gist. Coffee = bad. Tea = good. I’m a serious coffee drinker, so I already have one eyebrow raised.

He’s not a doctor, he just plays one on tea.
Mark “Dr. Tea” Ukra makes no claims to be a doctor. He’s just a guy who owns a cool tea shop and talks to people about tea all day everyday and has for years. (Oh and some little girls at a birthday party gave him the name and then his co-workers wouldn’t stop razzing him about it, so he embraced it. That’s the story.)

So, basically, you could call him the Pope of Tea or the Tea Czar, whatever. He’s just a guy that knows a lot about tea. And in this book he says that is has three main ingredients: caffeine to stimulate, L-theanine to neutralize the harmful side effects of caffeine and act as an appetite suppressant, and ECGC, which causes you to burn fat faster and more efficiently. In other words, tea reduces your appetite and stimulates your metabolism.

So there’s this book about tea.
The book starts off by going into the history of different kinds of teas...white tea, green tea, etc. but maintains they all come from the same plant (Camellia Sinensis) so all have essentially the same benefits. There's a lot of other stuff, but here are some interesting tidbits:

Tea’s been around for almost 5,000 years.
There are 12,500 to 20,000 types of green teas produced in China alone
oolong is he Champagne of teas.
White tea is the ‘tea of Royals’ and is the most delicate and least processed
Black tea has the most caffeine but still only half the amount of coffee.
75% of tea produced is black tea...which is the type consumed by 87% of Americans

Then he goes into a lot of detail about the details of tea, the history of tea, the nuances of tea, the preparation of tea, the serving of tea, and so on of tea. The dude seems to know his tea, hence the pretend name.

The research found in 2006 that EGCG could “modulate insulin secreation by inhibiting glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH). Which seems to mean that this is good for weight loss. Actually, they go into two pages of detail about what consuming too much sugar and carbs do to your body and not much of it is good. It’s enough to make me want to eat bark for a year. And that’s saying something.

And then they talk about a study that showed drinking tea helped you burn 12% more fat than drinking water.

Lots of talk about flavonoids, free radicals and cancer prevention. The first two sound like people that hang out in my neighborhood, the third sounds like a cause I can get behind. So by page 53, I’m sold.

He puts the T in diet. (So it’s not just die.)
Okay then the diet part starts. A 14-day diet plan and a 35-day totally reasonable workout chart.

Then there are a lot of recipes. That incorporate tea. A lot of recipes. This chapter looked like skiing down the black slopes to me, so I basically skipped it. But it’s nice to know it’s there if I’m ever feeling adventurous.

It ends with tons of great tea store recommendations. With web addresses and phone numbers. This is brilliant. I would be a fan of this book if only for this list. Sure, his store is the first one; but he also includes his picks for other great tea stores (and remember, the dude knows tea) including 20 different cool tea finds online...including my fave, Mighty Leaf.

So here’s what I thought.
I liked The Ultimate Tea Diet a lot. It's smart. It’s a fast read, and it makes sense. I’m completely motivated to try it. So I am. Starting Feb. 4, after I finish this silly thing I'm doing with my co-workers, I'm taking tea to the next level. Of course, I'll keep you posted on the results.

In the meantime, I'm ordering some of the good doctor's peppermint patty tea (since I won't be eating the girl scout cookies.)

Want to win some?

Just leave a comment! I'll pick one lucky pal (on Wednesday @ midnight) to tea with me.

Cheers!

Sofa So Good.

2008-01-21T08:46:00.000-08:00

The HcQ and I have different tastes in a lot of things.
Furniture being one of them.
Because if I had to pick a sofa bed today, this is what I'd pick. The Logo sofa from apt.

It just seems happy.

And he would pick this...The Hennessy Leather Sofa from Crate & Barrel

I'm thinking this might be the compromise.Tillary modular from West Elm.
Maybe.

Counting the Days

2008-01-09T00:05:00.000-08:00

My friend Adrienne had this Snow & Graham calendar on her desk all last year.
And all last year I thought, next year I too will have this calendar.
And so now I do.
And the 2008 version is fantastic.

This Year, Take Out The Laundry.

2008-01-08T00:20:00.000-08:00

I'm loving this bag from Chinese Laundry I found on Glamour.
A bit of cheery yellow for 2008.
Cheers!

After All, It's Not Too Pink

2008-01-07T08:38:00.000-08:00

I'm loving this etsy shop Not Too Pink. Check it out.
Very cool designs.
Anyone redecorating right now? I'm thinking one of these prints would make a room happy.

Whatever You Do, Buy Olympia

2007-12-03T00:09:00.000-08:00

And you can Buy Olympia at buyolympia dot com.

Here are a few reasons you might want to.

Bitten with the Urge the Shop!

2007-11-28T21:32:00.001-08:00

Okay, so SJP's Bitten line might not be new.

But after seeing the cool dress on PR4 that they're going to carry, I'm more motivated than ever to check out Steve & Barry's.

Recover with mi SPA

2007-11-26T00:34:00.000-08:00

Needing to recover from travel? Turkey? Family? Shopping? All of the above? Well treat yourself with mi SPA. You totally deserve it.

They have lovely soaps

Treats for your face

Bath and body greatness

And if for some reason, none of that works.
Dress yourself into a Zen-like state of mind.

Or just focus on what you love.

I hope your holiday was happy and your recovery is quick.

Your Every Whim

2007-11-21T05:57:00.000-08:00

Have you seen some of my friend Adrienne's cool holiday card designs?

If not, you should really check them out at Your Every Whim.

If not, you should really check them out at Your Every Whim.

Kind of gets you in the spirit of things, huh?

The Gift That Keeps on Giving

2007-11-20T00:05:00.000-08:00

The DrinkMaster Mix Master.

Wrap it Up!

2007-11-19T05:52:00.000-08:00

I'm not one for traditional holiday wrapping paper,
so I'm loving the collection from Pop Ink.

The Daring Book for Girls

2007-11-14T00:02:00.000-08:00

A while ago I reviewed The Dangerous Book for Boys for Parent Bloggers Network and found it to be a good reminder that, when it comes to raising a son, I have a lot to learn and a ton of experiences ahead of me. The Daring Book for Girls reminded me that I have a lot I still need to experience for myself.

The book by Andrea Buchanan and Miriam Peskowitz, covers pretty much every topic I could ever think of possibly needing or wanting to know more about. How's that for comprehensive? They even have a cool little video to give you a preview. But this gist is, each little chapter (there are about 107 of them) covers info and overviews on a variety of important topics like what you should pack for Africa, what you should carry in your toolbox, and what you should know about Joan of Arc. Also, there are many how-tos included like how to whistle with two fingers, read palms, play hearts, build a campfire, be a spy, invest in bonds. Seriously. Why did I waste time going to school? Reading through this book, I felt like I somehow missed a lot of good information in the late 70s, early 80s.

So that's why I'm thinking this book isn't just for little girls. Although, my nieces will all find a copy of this wrapped under the tree in a few weeks. I'm thinking, I'm giving this to my friends for birthday presents. Because you're never too old learn how to make your own paper (and quill pen). More importantly, you're never too old to be a daring girl!

Feeling daring? Leave a comment to enter a giveaway...we'll give one copy of The Daring Book for Girls away to one lucky winner, who will be chosen Midnight on Friday. Good luck!

Also, Kristin Chase, co-founder of PBN will be speaking to the authors, Andi and Miriam, on her radio show podcast tonight, along with Joanne from Punditmom and Bitsy from ValuewIT.com. Check out the show at this link tonight, Wed. 11/14, at 9-9:30 EST. Hear from the authors themselves what they were thinking when they wrote their chapters on boys and making cootie catchers.

How do you like your eggs? Sauteed? Or Crocheted?

2007-11-13T20:13:00.000-08:00

Check out this nifty knitty food from Candypop Creations.

Tag, You're It.

2007-11-11T20:03:00.000-08:00

Now that we're firmly in November, I'm feeling inspired to think about the Holidays. Especially since my family is celebrating Christmas in two weeks. Don't ask. So since I'm already starting to wrap presents, I was thrilled to find these little numbers from Elle's Studio. Won't they be great gift tags?

Snowflake Circle Tags

And these might be fun as coasters.
Hey, why not?

And why not have a giveaway. Leave a comment and you'll be registered to win your choice of fun item from Elle's Studio. Winner chosen at midnight Wed. Happy 43 days until Christmas!

Deceptively Delicious

2007-10-24T00:29:00.000-07:00

You might have heard a little bit about this book. Deceptively Delicious by Jessica Seinfeld. There's been some buzz on the Internet, and on oh, Oprah. But that's what tends to happen when you create something lovely. And also when you know people. Probably. Jessica Seinfeld fits in both of these categories. The knowing and the doing. And she has done a great job at putting together a fun little recipe book with "simple secrets to get your kids eating good food."

She's a self-proclaimed non-professional chef. But she came up with some ideas that work and have been "relentlessly" tested on her own kids (and what's his name).

It's all about hiding vegetables in food.

Carrots in Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffins. Butternut squash in Mac and Cheese. Mushrooms and Zucchini in Burgers. Spinach in Brownies. You get the gist.

The thing is, I've tried some of these, and they're great! And I'm not just loving them for the Hurricane, I'm digging that I'm tricking myself. Anyway I can get more food in my food and not notice is alright by me.

Agree?

Then check it out.

Parent Bloggers Network sent me a copy. It's wonderfully art directed with a total retro feel. A great addition to the collection. But this one, I'm actually using. If only to consume more veggies myself.

Besides not being able to read the title without the Lucky Charms theme song running through my head, I love this book. It's so freaking cute. Love the concept, the illustrations, the whole package. So all that said...

GIVEAWAY ALERT: Want to check it out? Leave a comment. I'll give one away. You have until Monday night at midnight to comment and we'll draw a lucky winner whoohoo. And as always, I seriously hope you win.

A Hat Mateys

2007-10-23T00:36:00.000-07:00

Just in case you are looking for a cute pirate's hat...and I was...Gymboree has these bad boys 2T-5T for $6.99. Grab and eye patch and you're good to go.

PRIZEY: One Stop, Lots of Giveaways

2007-10-22T22:12:00.001-07:00

You gotta check out this site. PRIZEY. One place that lists a ton of giveaways going on online. Swell right? Plus, they feature some of my very favorites...Cool Mom Picks, Parent Bloggers Network, Design Mom, and um Sk*rt (because we love giveaways on sk*rt).

So really. How can you not completely love them?

Plus, in the spirit of free cable, somehow they've magically given me some weird power to post giveaways. Like I know. But it you know of any you'd like for me to post or share, then let me know. You know? It's the way things go. On PRIZEY. Check it.

My Son's New Favorite Video: Phonics 4 Babies

2007-10-15T06:55:00.000-07:00

My son has just discovered Sesame Street.

This makes me incredible happy, since three decades ago it was the show that made me fall in love with New York (a place I'm loving in person as I type this), and learning, and yes, puppets. In fact, I'm fairly positive it's the place that introduced me to legendary ventriloquist, puppeteer and children's television show host, Shari Lewis. And just as things move in a full-circle motion, it just so happens that now The Hurricane is now madly in love with Shari's daughter Mallory and her puppet pals. That's right. His new favorite video is Phonics 4 Babies, a video with puppets, and phonics, and lots of alphabet singing. It was developed in association with prominent clinical advisors from UCLA, speech pathologists and child educators. And it really reminds me of the shows I watched on PBS back in the day. Before Elmo. And before Micheal Stipe. Back when Sesame Street was just a block, not a blockbusting cool fest of too many characters and rock stars to even know where to start.

I received the video from Parent Bloggers. And The Hurricane will be eternally grateful. And I'm just thrilled with the retro-ness of it all. It's nice to see that somethings don't change. Like sassy sock puppets. It seems they still completely rock a two-year-old's world.

Check out Phonics 4 Babies. My kid loves it. (Even more than he loves Elmo...) (And that's a lot.)

RYKÄ: Athletic Shoes For Women

2007-09-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

"If your shoes don't work out, neither will you." That was one of the first things I read on the RYKÄ website. And I get that. I really do. To be fair and honest, I believe women also have a number of other obstacles to exercise..."schedule" being my current ginormous issue. But, I have to say, a great pair of shoes can make anything more fun. Especially working out. I don't know exactly why this is, but it is. Plus, when it comes to exercise, I'll do anything for that extra bit of motivation.Of course getting a new pair of shoes in the mail from RYKÄ via the Parent Bloggers Network did provide a little kick in the pants. I mean, when you get new shoes, you HAVE to wear them right? It's the law. And the MC2 Walk shoes I received were so cushy and white (and dare I say bouncy) that I really did have a sudden urge to run up and down my street. Because they fit. They felt good and I felt good in them. Almost athletic. And for me that is really saying a lot. Because some women are extremely talented in the athletic department, but this woman is not. Plus, I never find athletic shoes that I really love. And I'm not alone there.

A woman named Sheri Poe created RYKÄ twenty years ago because she was sick of athletic shoes that didn't fit. And who can blame her? Most of us would do the same, only we don't. Otherwise, we'd all be starting bra, bathing suit and jeans companies, wouldn't we? So okay, Ms. Poe is a super overachiever. And we get to benefit from her shoe discomfort. Because, her creations, well, they fit. And although the company is now owned by American Sporting Goods Corp., it seems they are still motivated to make excellent athletic wear. And they're committed exclusively to women. You gotta love that.

According to their Web site, "all RYKÄ shoes are made on a woman's last (the mold or shape of a woman's foot), and are designed and developed taking into account a women's unique fit needs - narrower in the heel and wider in the forefoot." (Plus, they have a shoe finder, which is kind of like a Cosmo quiz. And who can resist a quiz? Especially when it deals with shoes.) But even better, the site swears that RYKÄ is committed "to helping women enhance their lives through fitness." And really, how can you not be motivated by something committed to helping you enhance your life? They're like the Oprah of athletic shoes.

And this is what I currently need. An Oprah. Of athletics.

As I've mentioned, Karen and I are training for the Houston Marathon. To walk it. That's right, to purposefully walk it. Because, as I've said before, if I run it, I'll still be walking it. So we're being deliberate about the walking from the start. However, even still, we are forced to train. Because that's what responsible adults do when they lose their minds and walk 42.195 kilometers (or 26.2 miles). I believe she is doing better than I am, but I think it's fair to say we both have a long road ahead of us. Figuratively and literally.

And on that 26 mile trek, I'll be wearing RYKÄ.

They're that comfortable.

And don't worry, I'll keep you posted on how that all works out. Between now and January, I'll be spending a lot of time with these shoes.

But even more exciting and relevant to your life, between now and almost All Hallows Eve, Ryka is giving away 50 pairs a day. That's right. 50. 50 shoes and 50 shirts. They're also giving an equal number to a fantastic charity. So I say you should visit the site and register to win shoes of your own. I will be. I'm feeling like I might need a back up pair. Or two. At least.

The Little Black Book of Style

2007-09-19T00:20:00.000-07:00

Yes, it’s true, I wore three outfits in one afternoon.

1. A cool little sleeveless bathing-suit-cover-up-looking thing (that is all the rage, I swear) over dark jeans with my super cool new Superhero necklace and super pumps. With my hair pulled back in two knotted up and tucked under pigtail bun things. Very artsy. Very cool. Very much how I wanted to feel at the preschool mom’s coffee gathering. So when anyone wonders why I haven’t done my assigned scrapbook pages (from last year), it’s because I’m artsy and can’t be confined by deadlines. Not because I’m the suit working mom who thinks she’s too busy (and who doesn’t love her children enough) to do the scrapbook pages. See? Working mom image crisis averted with one simple outfit.

2. Suit.

3. Jeans and tee to have dinner at family friendly restaurant. Because suits and kids’ menus don’t mix. Ask anyone.

Even as all the costume changes were happening (just call me Cher), I felt ridiculous. And then, I thought. What would Nina do in the situation? Lucky for me I now have the answer to this (and many other) question(s) in The Little Black Book of Style by Nina Garcia, the latest Parent Bloggers Network goodie I received in the mail.

“This book will change your life. Okay, maybe that’s a bit dramatic. Maybe it won’t change your life. But it will change your closet, which will in turn change your attitude, which can in fact change your life. So maybe it’s not a bit dramatic. You be the judge.”
- Nina Garcia

The little black book (which is literally a smallish black book) is itself as stylish as anything else on my bookshelf. So much so, I think it’s starting its own clique that the Jane Greens, Sophie Kinsellas and Candace Bushnells would all gladly give up their dust jackets to get in (while the Sylvia Plaths and Virginia Woolfs are scowling in the corner, Anne Lamott is just annoyed it doesn’t have a chapter on Northern California, and Ayn Rand thinks I’m an idiot.)

More importantly, and back to the most popular book on the shelf, it promises to help build your style confidence and awake the fashion editor in you. Nina is a fashion editor after all. So she should know.

And she apparently does.

Because what follows is the smartest, sleekest, and most inspiring look at unique looks and creative expression that I’ve seen.

"Nothing makes a woman more beautiful than the belief that she’s beautiful."
-Sophia Loren

The first chapter is “Be Your Own Muse” which essentially made me want to channel Holly Golightly and dress with heart, soul and creative energy. I’m sure it has a different effect for everyone. Since each muse is different. And all.

The next bit talks about fashion rules. "The Basics." Some are fairly predictable. (Invest in essential staples, etc.) But some are not.

Because her ‘staples’ are fantastic and might even include a Hermes Birkin, and really, how can you argue with that crackpotastic logic? I for one can not. But despite that little distraction which sent me searching online for the best discount designer handbag websites (email me, I’ll forward them to you), the first and the overall theme to me was learn how to edit. She then goes into specifics about how to do this. I can not express how much I love this concept. As someone who lives in a house built in 1928 with a closet that is approximately 1928 millimeters wide, I completely appreciate and connect with the idea of editing. What’s more, her process is brilliant. I can’t wait to put it in action.

She then moves into “Inspirations” and gives you a number of film, music and art suggestions to get you going. Then follows that up with a Lot of “What to Wear When” ideas. And finishes off with “Insider Tricks and Tips.”

And what’s great is, it’s all packaged in a great outfit.

"One should either be a work of art or wear a work of art."
- Oscar Wilde

Love the illustrations. Love the typographic treatments. This little book of style is a little work of art. Even my art director colleagues were raving.

So, if you haven’t figured it out yet, my advice is, you should invest in yourself by investing in this little book. It will lift your spirits to consume it. For yourself. For your best friend. For your other best friend. In fact, this is my staple gift I’m giving for every fantastically wonderful friend’s birthday party I’m attending over the next year or so. Seriously.

My favorite part. The book is full of smart, relevant, quirky quotes and quips from everyone you could imagine. They’re all true stand-outs, graphically and topically. And in the end, they all come back to being yourself, no matter what they say (Sting). Nina Garcia knows this, and she wears it with style.

Plus she’s obviously brilliant.

“You can never have enough high heels. You just can’t.”
- Nina Garcia

Did I mention how much I love this book?

GIVEAWAY ALERT!!! Because I love you, I'm giving one copy of this to an extremely lucky winner. Just leave a comment here between now and Sunday night at midnight CST and you're registered. And as always, I really hope you win.

---------------

And while you're in the mode, check out sk*rt's Up-and-Coming Eliza magazine giveaway. Because voting is the new black.

Win a Subscription to Eliza Magazine from Sk*rt

2007-09-18T22:48:00.000-07:00

There is a new up-and-coming fashion magazine out there. It’s called Eliza.

Beautifully shot. Beautifully printed. An excellent addition to your collection. And since it is such an up-and-coming periodical, we thought a free, year-long subscription to Eliza would be a great way to draw your attention to the sk*rt Up-and-Coming section. The section where stylemakers, divas and mavens decide what is worthy of the sk*rt Popular section.

Think you can spot a good link when you see one? Then you (yes you!) can be a sk*rt stylemaker, a sk*rt diva, a sk*rt maven too. All you have to do is go to the Up-and-Coming section and scroll through the pages, all the while keeping watch for the best of the best links. Then click “love-it” and show that your opinion counts.To enter your name for the free subscription to Eliza, just share your point-of-view with fellow sk*rt users by voting for at least 10 items in the Up-and-Coming section by this Saturday, September 22nd. Then send us an email to: sharethelove@sk-rt.com and let us know you entered. Be sure to include your sk*rt username so we know it’s you. We’ll announce the winner next week.Happy voting you trendmakers. And if you can’t wait to see if you won, get your own subscription to Eliza here.

Cool Mom Picks Has a New Outfit.

2007-09-17T09:04:00.001-07:00

Have you been to Cool Mom Picks lately? If not, you should totally go check out their new look. It was designed by Laurie Smithwick from Leap Design and Upside Up and sk*rt. And it's as fab as the selections the cool moms pick. Check it out.

Make Your Own Model

2007-09-14T00:28:00.000-07:00

Think Weird Science. Only without the creepy teenage boys. So, on second thought, maybe you should just think online paper dolls that you can create and dress with the latest from H&M. Because that's more what it's like. Check it out under the Dressing Room link.

Rain Rain Go Away

2007-09-13T19:37:00.000-07:00

It's officially Hurricane Season around here. (And I'm not talking about the beverage.) And there's no better way to celebrate Hurricane Season that with a snappy red umbrella.

Unless it's with a snappy pink and white umbrella.

BookMooch

2007-09-11T00:21:00.000-07:00

I'm sure somewhere you have a book you'd like to give away. On the other hand, I bet there's some book out there you'd like to receive. And where there's a yen, there's a yang. And now there's an online book swap called Bookmooch. And I found it on sk*rt.

$28 Dress.

2007-09-10T00:33:00.000-07:00

Isaac Mizrahi.
Target.

Pumpkin is the New Handcream.

2007-09-07T21:52:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Desert Essence Hand Repair Cream is made with Organic Pumpkin Seed Oil, with high levels of vitamin A, C, E and K, plus zinc, helps to combat daily environmental stress on the hands. In the immortal words of Jessica Simpson...I don't know what it is, but I want it. Plus, it's only $3.99.

What Would You Pay for the Time of Day?

2007-09-06T21:59:00.000-07:00

I'd pay $7 for this watch from New York & Company.

Hang-Ups, Hook-Ups, and Holding Out

2007-09-05T02:55:00.000-07:00

If I remember correctly, I had more hang-ups than hook-ups or holding out when I was growing up. But then, I "grew up" in the 1980s. When people wore lots of neon and spiral perms. So that might explain a lot. But you know who didn't explain a lot. My mom. (Sorry mom, but you didn't. Love you.)

How much would I love to have had this book then?

I'm not sure why I agreed to review Girlology: Hang-Ups, Hook-Ups and Holding Out when Parent Bloggers Network asked, because from the mom's perspective I may never need it. See, I have a little boy. And he's not even two.

But I was interested in it as a former girl. A current and future best-aunt-ever to girls. A person who is, if I'm honest, a bit intimidated by "the talk" when (or if) it all comes us. Because (once again, sorry mom) it was never really modeled to me how you handle these types of questions.

What Types Of Questions?
We sort-of had the 'don't ask, don't tell' philosophy when I grew up watching Thriller and wearing jellies. But, this book radically breaks the 'don't ask' law and is organized into questions. Things like:

My doctor says I'm a good weight, so why do I still feel fat?
How can I make my parents like my boyfriend?
When should I see a gynecologist instead of a pediatrician?
Am I the only girl who isn't having sex?
What are date rape drugs?

And so on. There are approximately 200 questions that the book asks and then answers in smart, no-nonsense, non-parent-sounding sound bites, even though they're written by really smart girl doctors, Melisa Holmes, MD, an ob-gyn and mother of 3 girls, and Patricia Hutchison, MD, a pediatrician and mother of 2 girls. I love it. They offer "the quickie answer" and then "the full scoop" on everything from sex, to drugs to body changes. They don't leave anything out and they seriously know just how to put things. Up front. Honest. Smart.

So Why Ask? Why the Book? Why Bother?
Looking through, I really remember (and realize) how many questions I had growing up (that, sadly, I had answered by watching Madonna videos). The point of this book is to get the answers from M.D.s not MTV.

I guess the book also made me realize how fast kids grow up these days. That said, I'm going to go ahead and say this book is a must-have for pre-teens. I'd actually like to say it's a must for teenagers...if I'm honest, I'd really like to say it's for college students...but I'm thinking that would be way too late. So I'd want to have this book on hand when my nieces start reading US Magazine. Which, I think happens around the age of ten these days right? Maybe we can push it to 12.

It just seems kids are exposed to things earlier than ever, so you might as well give them the correct information up front. But be warned (and yes, sisters-in-law, I will get your permission and approval before gifting it into your households), there are very specific questions in there about sex. So don't freak. Because honestly, that's the whole point of the book. To start conversations. Open communication. Offer information. Because it seems to me, the more real, honest, and specific you can be, the better. After all, if they don't get it here, they'll get some version of it somewhere. The girl doctors seem to agree. And I have to believe, like me, they initially got most of their vital information from Judy Blume. And they know there's a better way.

Giveaway Time.
Want a better way? Want to win a copy? Leave a comment. I'll give away one copy next Monday.

The Bilingual Edge

2007-08-13T00:33:00.000-07:00

Parent Bloggers Network asked me if I'd be interested in reviewing a Harper Collins book called The Bilingual Edge written by Georgetown University linguistics professors Kendall King, PhD, and Alison Mackey, PhD. And I said sure. Because, as you may know, we're already in the throws of teaching the Hurricane both Spanish and English. And, of course, he's more interested in learning mime.

So I was especially intrigued when I read their three major myths about second language learning:

1. Only bilingual parents can raise bilingual children
2. Television, DVDs and ‘edutainment’ like bilingual talking toys are great ways for all children to learn second languages.
3. Exposing a child to two languages means that child will be a late talker.

More specifically, I was interested in number 3. Because so far, I've heard and experienced everything to the contrary.

But these are Ph.D.s talking. Linguistically brilliant Ph.D.s (with good teeth). So okay, although it's true that I have had vast experience in child rearing over the last 22 months, I'm thinking these two might know a little more than I do about this topic. Maybe.

So, I read it.

And the book is smart.

First off, they convince you (as if you needed convincing, really) that learning more than one language at an early age is a good thing. Children benefit from academic, social, cultural and intellectual advantages that come with learning an additional language. This is probably not a big shock to anyone on the planet, but they do bring the argument home. If you're already convinced of this, move on to chapter three, where they talk about selecting the right language (or languages) for your child.

The chapter layout is something that I definitely like about this book.

The book is not a Jane Austen read, and the authors know it. It's a reference book of sorts. So the chapters are designed and organized by question. For instance, “When Should a Child Learn a Second Language?” is also known as Chapter 4. And “How Can I Best Promote Language Learning at Home?” is chapter 6. You get the gist. You can quickly look through to find what you need. So, it's perfect for those reading with specific questions. Or for those that read ahead to finish the ending of the final Harry Potter book before they even get home from the bookstore.

So in that line of thinking, I skipped ahead to Chapter 10: "What do I need to know about language delay, so-called expert advice, special needs, and my child's apparent lack of progress?"

The book came through again. It didn't tell me what I wanted to hear (see myth #3). It made my realize again what a gift bilingualism is.... and how it's a bit of work but completely worth the effort. It also made me take a deep breath and stop comparing my son to what others were (and are) saying at his same age.

My son completely understands both Spanish and English. He's not confused. The book points to decades of carefully conducted research studies point to the fact that young children distinguish early on between their two languages. Plus, it's obvious. He knows who is speaking what and when and why, and even more importantly, he now knows what is being said. He completely gets both languages. He'll speak them when he's ready.

Our children are growing up in a world that has outgrown its boundaries.

In fact, sometimes it actually seems our greatest barriers involve the 6,000 languages spoken today, if only because they block our communication.

Perhaps because there's a greater focus in the U.S. on learning languages at such an early age, this next generation will have a real shot at shrinking the world even more. And I say, the less barriers to understanding, the better.

Bottom Line: The Bilingual Edge presents learning two (or more) languages to be relatively simple and completely attainable. There are specific steps, tips and practices anyone can implement to help give their kids the benefit of bilingualism. And, more importantly to me, it was a good reminder to "chill out" a bit while you're moving in that direction.

Giveaway Time. That's right. Leave a comment here, and you'll be entered to win your own copy of The Bilingual Edge. The winner will be announced on Thursday. And as always, I really hope you win.

Mind Candy Clothing

2007-07-16T21:38:00.000-07:00

What Would Hermione Wear?

Mind Candy Clothing."Because math is sexy.
Reading is the new black.
And there's nothing hotter than nuclear science."

Found on Cool Mom Picks.

Summer Reading. Had Me A Blast.

2007-07-12T12:31:00.000-07:00

A few of my favorite summer beach reading book suggestions are found at the Queso.

Tastespotting: Found on sk*rt

2007-07-11T21:38:00.000-07:00

Tastespotting. It's amazing. I'm in love. I found it on sk*rt.

Photo by Steamykitchen

Marimekko Sale at Finn Style

2007-07-10T21:51:00.000-07:00

It's on at Finn Style until July 14.

Rejiggered: Found at sk*rt

2007-07-09T21:58:00.000-07:00

Peach Berry Mojito recipe.

Um, yum.

Discovered at sk*rt.

The 24-Hour Pharmacist

2007-07-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

A pharmacist on call? When I think of this concept, I think of Studio 54, a place that I am, of course, way too young and naïve to have ever experienced. Or I think of 24-Hour Party People, a song by the Happy Mondays and an average film about an exceptional musical movement.

I think of some guy named Eric whom you page (Page! My imagination doesn't get out of 1987 very often) to bring you a tiny baggie of something that will transform a sh*tty evening into an all-night party. Or maybe I've been watching too much Less Than Zero. And have you figured out that I'm an idiot when it comes to pharmaceuticals?

See, for whatever reason, I've never been all that interested in drugs. Perhaps it has something to do with an alcoholic grandfather who managed to scare two generations straight…or, well, straightish. But I've never felt any real calling to call someone up in the middle of the night for a fix.

Until I had a child. And now, a 24-hour pharmacist sounds like a darn good idea that has nothing to do with illegal substances and everything to do with health and sleep. Because even though I may occassionally be a slacker in the health department, I'll do anything for me and mine to sleep more.

So all that said, when Parent Bloggers Network asked me to review The 24-Hour Pharmacist, by Suzy Cohen, R. PH., a book promising natural secrets for total body health from behind the counter (not to mention the whole "look younger, feel healthier, save time and money'"sell), I was so in.

Before I received this book, I thought it would be a reactive reference book I could go to in the wee hours before the dawn of crack to search for a quick remedy for the baby's upset stomach, runny nose, ear infection, whatever. But these people don't let you sit around being all lazy and reactive, like doctors typically do. No. They offer the up-front, practical, holistically healthy tips that not only change your sleeping patters…they change you life. Well, in theory.

However I wouldn't be surprised at all if this stuff really works. Because it's smart. It's advice my other grandfather (not the drunk one) would have given. Clean living, practical advise. And he lived to be almost 100.

So while it's not designed as an index guide for scrambling answers, this is organized by "Above the Waist", "Above the Neck", "Below the Waist" and "Everything In Between". Then they have a whole section urging us to "Think Outside of the Pill". No late-night calls to Eric here.

But they do have great chapters you can call on "When He Wants Viagra and You Want Valium" or "How can I stop my husband from snoring?"...or even, gasp!, "How can I train my body to lose fat?." Really? You can do that? The key is proactive prevention. And the whole book is full of smart steps, tips, ways and means to work healthy habits into your busy life.

Plus they say choclolate and coffee are good for you. So they are obviously brilliant, and I love them forever.

Want to know more? You should seriously check out this book. I'm really loving it and now losing sleep because I'm staying up reading it. (But I am drinking more water.) You can pick up a copy here.

Also, while you're in the mode, visit Parent Bloggers Network and leave a comment. If you comment, you’ll be entered to win a $50 gift card to CVS!.

Also, this time, I'm keeping my copy. Sorry. Don't hate. You'll understand when you get yours.

Check it out...I found it on sk*rt

2007-06-05T06:11:00.001-07:00

I found some excellence on the sk*rt Up-and-coming section this morning. Check it out.

A lovely recipe blog called La Tartine Gourmande.Found here.

Menta! Artwork and gifts on the Modish page.

Found here.

And my favorite... a fantastic little article on sk*rt. Found here.

What have you found?

I Just Found These on Sk*rt...

2007-06-04T00:03:00.000-07:00

Slingback. Mary Jane. Wedge. Platform. Espadrilles. Meet the Franco Sarto 'Queen' Espadrille. They're fantastic. And I found them on sk*rt. See what you can find.

I'm in Love with Allison Strine Designs.

2007-05-30T04:51:00.000-07:00

Check out this brilliant artist's collection of pendants, prints, cards, and necklaces.

Lost and Foundling

2007-05-23T19:52:00.000-07:00

I just found this wonderful Etsy page for Foundling, an accessories line inspired by and created from discarded things. Betsy Carr is the artist behind Foundling. Check it out!

Green Goes To Dinner

2007-05-21T20:40:00.001-07:00

Check out these Totally Bamboo dinner plates
from Green Culture dot com.

Who says green is ugly?

Danger! A Book for Boys.

2007-05-18T08:53:00.000-07:00

UPDATED: That's right, there's yet another giveaway. Check it out below.

I've almost positive I've never been described as dangerous. Even when I spent my formative years on a ranch in Texas...outside with boy cousins and my very outdoorsy brother, covered in mud, collecting cool bugs, fishing things, shooting things, barefoot with skinned knees and lightening bugs. We ran as a pack, and the fact that I was a girl never occurred to any of us to make a bit of difference. But still. I've always thought being wild, free, and outdoors was my nurture, but maybe not my nature.

So as things go and because that was approximatly 17 lives ago, I'm not really that adventurous, outdoorsy type anymore. Kind of like when Peter Pan grows up to be Robin Williams as a lawyer. Only with less law and more martinis.

And then I had a little boy.

And the adventure began again.

Because my little boy would rather be outside than look at you. In fact, the first thing he does each morning is moan, very sleepily get out of bed, aimlessly and shoelessly patter around, slowly realize he's awake and (gasp!) inside, and bang on the back door with the intensity of an inmate to please for the love of God be let out. This entire process, from bed to backyard, takes approximatly 45 seconds to complete.

Because he's athletic, he's adventurous, he's mechanical, he's outdoorsy, and he's stereotypically all boy.

And I'm the opposite. Plus, I'm downright bookish.

So thank the goodness there's a book to help me.

The Dangerous Book for Boys
by Gonn Iggulden and Hal Iggulden

The Parent Bloggers Network sent it for me to review, and I honestly can not give this book enough praise. It's so chock full of goodness, I don't know where to start. Except at the begining with a quote from Sir Frederick Treves.

"Be loyal. Be kind. Remember that the hardest thing to acquire is the faculty of being unselfish. As a quality, it is one of the finest attirbutes of manliness."

Then the authors start.

"In this age of video games and cell phones, there must still be a place for knots, treehouses, and stories of incredible courage."

And they keep going.

With extraordinary stories of courage and determination. And tips on Morse code. How to make crystals. The rules of rugby. History lessons on famous battles. First aid. Navigation. Coin tricks. Commom trees. Timers and tripwires. Juggling. Cloud formations. Girls. Even understanding grammar, sampling Shakespeare, and poems every boy should know (and they aren't limericks). Awesome!

So, right. That makes sense. Being a boy isn't just about being outside, it's about being excellent.

And being adventurous has nothing to do with extreme sports or coordination. It's about the learning, the growing, and the discovering. I'd forgotten. In my air conditioned, wifi world, where adventure happens on a TV island, I'd forgotten.

Now if the book just had something on how to go on slides without tearing your suit pants.

Because obviously I need this book too. I have a lot to learn. And I have a lot to remember. There are so many reasons that I'm thankful I've been blessed with a little boy in my life. And learning how to discover outside again is one of them.

So Here's What I Really Thought: I love this book. I'm not kidding. The content is amazing. The binding is beautiful. It's smart. It's brilliant. In fact, I honestly think it's a must have for anyone who is a boy, who is dating a boy, is married to a boy, or knows a boy. It's also the most fantastic birthday present for boys of all ages. I just took a copy to a 37-year-old birthday party, and it was a huge hit. You absolutely should look into this book. You will not be disappointed.

In fact, I think this book is so great that I firmly believe someone needs to win one. So leave a comment here, and the Hurricane will draw. Comments will be open until 10 p.m. PST on Monday, May 21. You seriously better hope you win. Or, if you want to be sure you get your hands on a copy of this book, you can buy one here.

OR. Here's an update. Visit Parent Bloggers Network and share your own childhood memories in the comments and you’ll be entered to win a Vector 22 Two-Man Tent from The North Face! Winner to be announced in our Round-Up Review on May 22.

Update: Marenmadsen, you won! Email me.

I Love This Bag.

2007-05-17T21:40:00.001-07:00

And it's only $19.99 at Target. Hurry.

Baking Cookies Bites

2007-05-17T21:35:00.000-07:00

Okay, baking cookies is actually fun. Especially when you're baking ABC (as in already been chewed, duh) cookies from Perpetiual Kid.

Awesome.

Maybe the Coolest Doormat Ever

2007-05-16T07:39:00.000-07:00

This would only be better to own if your name was actually Matt.
From Stacks and Stacks.

The Vue From Here.

2007-05-14T06:02:00.000-07:00

The good people at the Parent Bloggers Network asked if I'd review a hybrid car. I said, sure. And then I reminded them that I'm from Texas. And that we love to drive our gigantic enormous gas guzzling cars at top speeds so that we can more effectively run over endangered species so they won’t get in our way when we cut down trees to drill for oil in our backyards. You’ve heard that, right? Still want me to review your fancy, smancy Jetsons car? They said yes. So here we go.I drove the new green (literally, it was green) Saturn Vue Green Line for a week. But instead of ranting and raving and going on and on about the radio and the cupholders and the stuff I usually care about, I'm going to boil it down to what I think was most important.

1. It's a hybrid SUV. There aren't all that many of them out there. I've always liked hybrids in theory more than in practice because of this fact. You see, I'm a fan of the SUV for several reasons. One, that's what our family fits in. Two, I was hit by a very drunk driver a few years ago, and if I hadn't been in an SUV, I'd be seriously dead now. So, right or wrong, I'm convinced they're safer around here. But I also like the idea of the good green hybrid juju cancelling out my SUV driving juju. So, my next car will definitely be a hybrid SUV. I've been thinking this for a while, and now I'm convinced. Here's a chart of the few hybrid SUVs on the market, and the Saturn Vue Green Line scores very well. It's also much less expensive than others, but we'll get to that in a minute.

2. You don't have to fill up your tank as often. As I might have mentioned, I live in Texas. In the most SUV-driving state in all the land. (Probably.) I also live in a city where there are a lot of people who drive a heck of a lot. And I mean a lot. I actually don’t happen to be one of those drive-a-lot people since I work approximately nine and half blocks from my house. But, I did manage to do a little more than normal this week without even trying. With work events, a birthday party across town, etc., I drove 101 miles in the Vue. And I didn’t even get to the half-tank mark. What does this mean? The information I have reports that the hybrid VUE gets 20% better gas mileage than the regular Vue…27 city and 32 highway. Also here’s what I can tell you, I drove much more than I normally do this week, and I didn’t have to fill up once…not even close. This is good for the environment and good for my extra spending. (That's right, that means more to Manzini.)

3. It's really quiet. I love this. And I love the fact that the engine shuts off when you stop at a stop sign, stop light, you know, wherever. It's the coolest thing. It helps with gas efficiency, and it magically starts up again when the brake pedal is released. You might feel like you're in a spaceship. In a good way.

4. It's affordable. In fact, it's so affordably priced (starting at $23K) that I can't even believe it. (Truth be told, when I went online and built the Vue of my dreams...leather, XM radio, you know...it was more like $26,500, but still WAY less with all the bells and whistles that the others' base.) And OnStar plus one year of OnStar service is standard, which I love. So, as they say, with the Saturn Vue, you can go green without going broke.

5. The car is cool. In fact, it's so cool that even planet-hating Texans were taking notice. In even more fact, while I was out and about in the VUE, I had a ton of conversations with people who are ready to buy a hybrid. And actually, driving a hybrid seems to be a great way to meet people. (Seriously, if you want to make new friends, just buy a hybrid. I'm telling you. It's better than one of those sororities or dating servies.) Pretty much everywhere I went…the grocery store, the Hurricane’s school, restaurants, stop lights (I’m not kidding), people asked me about the car I was driving. Also, you should know, I run with a fancy-car driving crowd. Especially this last week. I went to four big social events for work, and as I was in the valet line dropping off and picking up, I had people ask me about the hybrid everytime. I felt like Leonardo DiCaprio.

Also, after driving this for a week, I felt like, more than ever, there are a lot of us out here on the same page. We want to be green, to do our parts, to do more, to do better. All of it. And now we have more options to do so. I love that. I’m glad car companies are finally getting a variety of hybrids out there (The Vue Green Line is one of 12 that GM is launching). And I really like that we are starting to see some affordable options. And some larger vehicle options for those of us with larger families. And for those of us from Texas.

"Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot,

Nothing is going to get better. It's not."

— Dr. Seuss, from The Lorax

For Those of You Who Need Options

2007-05-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

What a cool sectional, right?

Well get this, it can be arranged in nine other ways.
Dr. Pitt knows the value of options.
Check it.

Thanks to the Padrino for finding this.

It's Not Your Bag, Baby.

2007-05-10T10:07:00.001-07:00

For some reason, having one of these luggage tags from Pamela Barsky on my bags makes standing around the luggage turnstile a little more fun. Aren't they cool? I found them at Mighty Goods.

These are D.A.Y.S. to remember.

2007-05-09T12:05:00.000-07:00

This Turquoise Flower Necklace from the D.A.Y.S. Collection by Stepania is featured at The Succulent Wife. It's a bit of a splurge...but with Mother's Day right around the corner, I think it's totally splurgeworthy. Am I right?

Bookplates Are Great.

2007-05-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

I've always been a lover of the bookplates. And these from Felix Doolittle look like something I'd want in my books. The site has great stationery too. Check it out.

Thanks Kristin!

Dahlia Sushi Set

2007-05-07T09:31:00.000-07:00

This darling Dahlia sushi set from Little Flower Designs really makes me want to eat a Sunshine Roll. Although, pretty much anything makes me want to eat a Sunshine Roll.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

2007-05-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

If you're celebrating like we are (with beergaritas), then you'll be needing some glasses. I much prefer my margs in a martini glass (not a plastic Solo cup a la Padrino). And here's the one I wish I had today from The Royal from the Martini Company.
It has a cool 70's vibe going on, don't you think?

Also, Jenny's famous Beergarita recipe is here. And for all my non-alcoholic friends, here are some fab no alkie marg recipes for ya.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Cheers!

And Another Thing!

2007-05-03T07:30:00.000-07:00

This Homecoming silkscreen by Jaime Zollars would look great in the new room.
I'm just saying.

Coolness Cubed.

2007-05-02T08:51:00.000-07:00

I'm loving these cubes from West Elm for lots of reasons. Although, I'm almost positive bringing these into our home will result in a more than one Hurricane ER visit. Because he firmly believes that furniture is made for climbing. And jumping.

See the entire room I'm loving at the Queso.

Memory Within Reach

2007-05-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

From Design Within Reach: Maharam, a pioneer in commercial fabric designs since 1902, offers stunning patterned materials to the trade. For those of us who long for Maharam designs but don't plan to reupholster the apartment, Maharam patterns are now available through the Maharam Memory Game. Like the classic memory game, players turn over two cards at a time and try to match the patterns. Consisting of 72 cards on heavy stock, richly colored and printed in Germany, the game features 36 different patterns, everything from "I Morosi Alla Finestra" by Gio Ponti (1930) to "Optik" by Verner Panton (1969).

Cool huh?

Sleep Tight.

2007-04-30T06:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, now for my sweet dreams. Here's what I'm wishing for...a new bed. And this one from C&B will do just fine.

Baby Gifts.

2007-04-27T07:35:00.000-07:00

I recently found what I think is a fantastic baby shower gift. These awesome charms from Little Jules, featured at Cool Mom Picks.

They sent me one with the Hurricane's name and birth info on it, and I get compliments on it all the time. All the time.

It's so great (and rare) to find something so sentimentastic and stylish at the same time. Check it. And if you're in the baby shower mood, check this one out.

Sweet Dreams

2007-04-26T12:02:00.000-07:00

Even though the Hurricane is still in a crib, I'm already dreaming about what his room will look like very soon. And Desire to Inspire has some sweet ideas.

Mod Mints

2007-04-25T09:01:00.000-07:00

In the immortal words of Farmer Ted,

"Fresh breath is a priority in my life."

And so is good design.

Check out these fantastic Mint Tins from The Succulent Wife.

Hey Fadiddle Diddle

2007-04-24T06:39:00.000-07:00

There are lots of reasons to like blogging. Another of mine involves finding excellent things other bloggers create, make, produce, sell, etc. Here's one of my favorites. Fadiddle. Where they make creative onesies and kids tees with thread and talent. Check it.

Lemon + Lemon = Love

2007-04-23T12:04:00.001-07:00

I'm almost sure the best part of our brunch this weekend was a fantastic lemon cake with lemon icing made from this Williams-Sonoma mix. It was the easiest baking experience ever. And worth the extra investment.

Friday Find: Mother's Day

2007-04-20T06:02:00.000-07:00

Cool Mom Picks has all you need for Mother's Day ideas. Right here in their Mother's Day Gift Guide. And I'm not just saying that because I write for them. I'm saying it because there are a lot of really cool things in one place. So it's easy.

In fact, since I actually think everyday is mother's day, I bought a bunch of new-mom gifts and shower gifts from there.

Because I like to shop in my pajamas.

Modern Art

2007-04-19T09:56:00.000-07:00

On Blog con Queso, we're talking about art. Melissa Pfeiffer lets her artistic voice be heard through ModernSeed, a company she created to offer a straighforward source for modern children's design that spanned all categories. Their products are varied and include the above Blu Dot Buttercup rocker. The site is kind of like a kid friendly modern art collection. Check it.

Boca Beth is Muy Bueno. (I learned that on Boca Beth)

2007-04-17T04:39:00.000-07:00

I recently raised my hand high when the good people of Parent Bloggers Network asked for those interested in looking into the Spanish language program, Boca Beth. Because we're all working to learn languages around here. You see, we are now a bilingual household. Which is really cool, as long as you’re bilingual. Which I’m not. Yet. So sure, I was hoping the Hurricane would like this program, which includes coloring books, dvds, cds, a puppet and maraca, created by mom and educator Beth Butler. But also, because my brain is older and less malleable than some others in our house, I figured I could use as much help as possible.

So we tried it out.

Here's the part where I wish our 18-month-old Hurricane could write this review. Because he would probably pontificate with a Spanish punch. He’d also no doubt tell you how he completely dug the Boca Beth I Like Animals/Me Gustan Animales DVD. Porque es realmente bueno. And because the kid really likes to dance, and sing, and watch other kids dance and sing. And that’s what’s going on during the first 23 minutes of this thing. That, and lots of animal footage. And this is all happening while Beth teaches the audience around 200 words and 85 phrases featuring animals from the neighborhood to the Serengeti.

The next 25 or so minutes show a Boca Beth classroom semicircle gathering of kids and parents talking and singing in Spanish. This is the point I though we’d lose him. You see, the Hurricane is not really that patient of a TV watcher. In fact, he's rarely interested any actual TV, and only loves a few Baby Einsteins. So I figured he’d get bored pretty quickly with the semicircle still cam. But oh how I was wrong. This was his very favorite part. He absolutely loved watching Beth, the puppet Boca, and the kids sing in Spanish.

It’s a cool idea, and here’s my favorite part about it…my son loved it. Loved it. The graphics aren’t Disney quality, and I might rather watch Grey’s Anatomy, but my favorite kid, well he was entranced. As someone who is learning English and Spanish at the same time, he absolutely lit up hearing them spoken together…back to back…connected…and I think he actually started to connect some concepts. For instance, we’ve been working on the “What does the cow/dog/cat/lion/pig/dinosaur/monster say?” game for weeks. And I think we’ve mastered cow. And maybe dog. But after watching the “What does the lion say/ ¿Qué dice el león?” portion of the program, he got it. Maybe it was actually seeing the lion. Or maybe it was because we now know how to ask that in Spanish. But something clicked. And now he rooooowwwwwllllllssss like a mad man.

So overall, I would say the Boca Beth program was a big hit in our household.

The Hurricane is connecting the languages with animals. And we're learning too. For instance, now I know how to sing the “No More Monkeys Jumping on the Bed” song in Spanish. And this can be handy. For instance, remember how we talked about songs that get stuck in your head? Well, the next time that pesky Justin Timberlake song barges into my cranium, I’ll just think…” No más monos que saltan en la cama.” And viola! Replaced. No more JT for days.

----------------

And now my friends, it's giveaway time. Leave a comment here and a Hurricane chosen winner gets a Boca Beth song CD (worth $15) in the mail. Whoohoo! And leave a comment at the Parent Bloggers Network and you could win a Boca Beth prize package (worth $45). Good luck. Or as the Hurricane says, buena suerte!

ADDED: It seems that if you leave a comment here, you're also registered to potentially win the Boca Beth prize package. Yay you.

And the Winner Is.....NAMONA. You completely won. Email me at helloqueso at gmail dot com, and I'll send the CD your way. Ole!

Citrus Champagne Vinegar

2007-04-15T19:09:00.000-07:00

This citrus champagne vinegar from O Olive Oil is freaking fantastic.

I purchased it to flavor up this salad.
And wow.

(I just happened to run across it at my local grocery store.
But you can also buy it online here or here.)

I Love This Dress.

2007-04-12T21:36:00.000-07:00

Anthropologie has some fantastic dresses this spring.

Absolutely great.

And I'm completely digging this one.

But what do you think...

...is it more awesome 70s retro, or more Mrs. Roper?

Be honest.

Notes from the Underbelly

2007-04-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

Hilarious.

If you didn't see the premier, catch it next Wednesday.

Wry Baby Wry

2007-04-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

Wry Baby has created the stuff you wish you'd thought of.

Because it's funny.

The Best Spread.

2007-04-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

It just doesn't get any better than Lemon Curd on toast. It's well known to be the happiest breakfast in the universe. Go ahead. Try to find a happier breakfast. You won't.

And as far as I'm concerned, the best curds around come from Harvey Nichols, Tiptree and Edinburg Preserves (pictured above).

I get my favorites here at the British Isles store in Htown. It's lemontastic.

--------------------

And speaking of lemontastic, and other great things Great Britain, I don't know if you noticed. But some lovely person called Mark from Pink Milk dot co dot uk left a message in the last post with a great offer.

Any Queso reader can get 10% off any Pink Milk online order by simply using the code 'conQueso' before the end of the month.

It's a great offer, and it completely works. So I bought the lunchbox.

Yay Mark! Yay Pink Milk!

Friday Find: Pink Milk is My Favourite and My Best.

2007-04-06T08:38:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, the ultimate AlphaMom, Isabel, introduced me to Pink Milk dot co dot uk. The Web's dedicated Charlie and Lola shop. And because Isabel loves Charlie and Lola (and because she has the most fantastic site featuring the best writers around), well, I'm absolutely completely keen on both her and Pink Milk. Check it out. You won't be disappointed. Honestly and promisely.

Mother's Day Isn't That Far Away.

2007-04-04T21:30:00.000-07:00

So thank the goodness that Amy Bengston is out there
to make all our Mother's Day Dreams come true.

Kick Ass Sea Glass

2007-04-03T22:03:00.000-07:00

I'm a little bit into slash obsessed with sea glass right now.

And dbO Home has some fantastic pieces.

Huggies Overnights + Giveaway = Love

2007-04-02T00:33:00.000-07:00

So the good people at PBN asked if I’d review a pack or two of Huggies Overnights. The wonder diapers that take away all your problems. Or something. And so I said, heck yeah, sure, duh, bring it.

Because I know a thing or two about diapers.

I’ve been a nappy expert ever since I changed the first diaper of my life, at age 34.5.

That’s right.

But I’ve made up for lost time. Especially when you consider that over the last 18 months, I’ve changed approximately 2,750 diapers. Give or take. Give more than take.

However, I’d never changed a Huggie. You see, we’ve been a strictly Pampers family ever since the Hurricane was born. Correction, ever since someone gave me about 20 packs of diapers at a baby shower. And we just stayed with them. Mainly because I was lazy. And because they worked. Well, mostly. But not at night. At all.

What is it about the nighttime that makes it the righttime to pee your little infant brains out? I’m not sure. And chalk it up to good hydration and/or a small bladder, but our little dude could squirt it out after dark. And bless his heart, he’d wake up wet. Really wet.

So I looked forward to seeing if these things could stand up to my Category 5 Hurricane.

The day I got them in the mail I went to lunch with a longtime, incredibly pragmatic, low-key friend, and I randomly mentioned the Huggies review I’d be doing. And. She. Freaked. She freaked, and she flipped, and she raved. And she said that "Oh my gosh, they're the most AMAZING diapers ever, ever, ever; and hey, also, I drive 156* miles out of my way to get these diapers because they are the only ones that don't leak, and they're the very best in all the land. The very best I say! The best!"

So, I tore open the package with high expectations. They had to fit. They had to be comfortable (or seemingly so), and they had to keep him dry.

And I wasn't disappointed.

First of all, you don't have to drive 156* miles to get them. And also they fit, they looked comfy, and these bad boys aren’t letting anything through. Thirty successful straight nights of complete dryness. And on the very first Huggies morning, the Hurricane woke up dry, happy, and singing. I swear. Singing. And sure, I’m not positive that the singing had anything to do with the nappies, but it was cute.

Also, we're giving a pack of Huggies Overnights away. Leave a comment, and you'll be in the Hurricane drawing. Comments will be open until Wednesday at midnight. Good luck!

COURTNEY a mother of five under five...you won! And really, how appropriate is that. Email me and I'll send them your way. Yay you.

*Also, she's completely lying. She doesn't really drive 156 miles to get them. If she does, she's nuts, because I've seen them at a few places within a few miles of my house. Also, you can totally get them here, and they'll deliver them to your door. I'm just saying.

Friday Find: Like You Really Need Another Reason to Love Imogen

2007-03-30T19:23:00.000-07:00

This week's find was released last September, but wow am I glad I finally found it. (Thank you Adrienne for sending it!) Check out Imogen Heap creative genius at work.

You might give some serious thought to buying her album if you haven't already.

Fabulous Stationery

2007-03-30T05:59:00.000-07:00

Meet my new favorite place to buy notecards.

The Big Cheese Giveaway

2007-03-25T22:25:00.000-07:00

I met this wonderful person named James last week in New York who raved about Murry's Cheese Shop in the West Village. Then, as things tend to happen, the HcQ and I accidentally found ourselves at its doorstep Friday night. It was wonderful. And they know cheese. So, of course, we love them. Plus they have this thing called a cheese blog.

I'm in heaven.

And you're in luck. You can win their complete guide to cheese right here at Cool Stuff con Queso. The cheese book from the Queso. Just leave a comment, and you are entered in the Hurricane drawing for your very own copy of The Murray's Cheese Handbook containing everything you'd want to know about cheese. Behold the power. Comments will be open until Wednesday night at midnight.

AND WE HAVE A WINNER: Mark!...who said Yes Please, for Cheese...you totally won! Email me at helloqueso at gmail dot com to claim your cheese, brah.

Friday Finds: Blogher Business Style

2007-03-22T22:43:00.000-07:00

Well, as you might have read on the Queso, I'm at Blogher Business for my day job. It's excellent. I've met a ton of smart, interesting people and found some excellent finds along the way. Here are a just a few...

Simply the Greatest Recipe Site Ever.

Simply Recipes may not be new to you, because it's, um, HUGE! But if you haven't discovered it, you must check this site out. I met Elise, the brainchild and muscles behind it, earlier today. She's brilliant. In both the American and British version of brilliant. She takes all the photos for the site herself, and I'm almost positive she makes every recipe. If you haven't already done so, you must add this to your bookmarks.

Natural Beauty

Terralina is a skin care product line that "offer the best from nature, avoiding the use of harsh or potentially harmful ingredients." It has no parabens, no PEGs, no ethoxylates, no glycols, no acrylates, no silicones, and no artificial fragance I don't even know what half of that is, but I know this...I put some of the lotion on today, and it's fantastic. And it smells amazing. You can have them send you a free sample from their Web site. And Gina Garrubbo, the CEO and Co-founder is a gem of a wonderful person.

Smart Ass and Sassy Maternity Tees

I went to dinner tonight with a group that included a girl (and her darling six-week old boy) named Kristen who sells some cute maternity Tshirts. I really like the "Drinking for Two" shirt for dads.

A Find That Finds

And now, a find that keeps on finding. She Finds dot com. An excellent place to find stuff. They shop the Web so you don't have to. I met Michelle, founder of She Finds, today, and she's as excellently cool as this fab site. Check it.