Sunday, December 27, 2009

Wet, Slippery and Keeps on Giving...



We've spent the past few days in the company of close friends and family. We've unwrapped our gifts and eaten more than our share of holiday turkeys, hams, sweet potatoes, cookies and other miscellaneous yuletide treats. But, hopefully, we've kept in mind that there are millions of others across the world who are far less fortunate this holiday season. And there's a few extra dollars of Christmas cash from Aunt Pearl or Grandma Rose sitting in our pockets... why not keep that "giving" momentum going?


As the quote goes, "Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you have fed him for a lifetime." Fish are in plentiful supply in the inland rivers and lakes of Angola and in the Black Sea region of Georgia (a former Soviet republic). Yet many hungry families in this region have no way to catch them. Provide an impoverished youth with equipment such as a fishing pole, hooks and lines, a fishing basket — and the satisfaction of providing for his or her family.


Click here to send a World Vision Fishing Kit to a family in need:
http://donate.worldvision.org/OA_HTML/xxwv2ibeCCtpItmDspRte.jsp?item=1445800

Through World Vision, give a gift that will change a life. You can also send a friend or family member a cool card to notify them of a purchase made on their behalf. Choose from goats, pigs, chickens... or if you are feeling really generous, an array of 13 farm animals! During the check out process, you have the option of sending a notification card to the recipient by mail, e-mail or by simply printing one from home.


Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today.  Teach a man to fish; and you have fed him for a lifetime”

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Nothing To Wine About...


Organic Wine Trio - Wine Collection Gift
I babbled on and on about the Eco-Wine Trio, but I have also found an Organic Wine Trio at Wine.com that you just can't miss out on! Discover the purity and sense of place offered by these fabulous organically grown wines: a luscious Viognier from Yalumba; a Cabernet-Merlot blend by OKO winery in the Languedoc, and spicy Petite Sirah from Red Truck Winery. Includes: Australia: Yalumba Organic Viognier Think intense white flowers-particularly honeysuckle and apricot nectar, with hints of freshly turned earth. Silky, rich and luscious with a lovely fresh finish. Great press - 90+ ratings for both 2007 and 2008 vintages. California: Red Truck Petite Sirah Very darkly colored - typical peppery Petite Sirah gushing ripe raspberry, chocolate covered cherries and plums. France: OKO Cabernet-Merlot. OKO is made from organically Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the Languedoc region of Southern France. Click, order and start sipping!

Monday, December 7, 2009

It's Time To Dish!

While staying with good friends in Arizona over the Thanksgiving holiday, I came across SO many "babble worthy" items and ideas, but I have to say that the Cook for the Cure plate took the cake. Pun intended ;0) One late desert afternoon, a smiling neighbor appeared with an offering of delicious orange cranberry bread atop this ultra inspirational Cook for the Cure plate.

The friendly neighbor explained all about "Pass the Plate", a new element of the Cook for the Cure® program that raises funds and inspires others to support the breast cancer movement.

Click on the link below, purchase a specially marked plate, created by KitchenAid and Villeroy & Boch, and register it online:

http://www.shopkitchenaid.com/product_detail.asp?HDR=cfc&T1=KTA+CFC+PLATE

Then cook some tasty treats to put on your plate and pass it to a friend! You're on your way to making an impact. Susan G. Komen will donate $5 every time the plate is passed and registered. Share your story and watch as your plate travels from person to person. Pass the Plate in honor of someone special during this holiday season or just to help make a difference.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Go Gold on Black Friday



Gold Jeweled Ornaments - Set of 3

Pick up a festive set of three holiday ornaments that glitter with gold. Buy a gift, make a difference. What's the big deal about fair trade products anyway you ask? Well, fair trade partners empower craftspeople to preserve traditions and create better lives for their families and communities. When you purchase a fair trade product, you help artisans achieve livable wages, skills training, and sustainable business development while breaking the cycle of poverty. Tara Projects, a fair trade group of artisans in northern India embroider and embellish these ornaments by hand with intricate designs, glass beads, and sequins.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

For Ladies Only



KitchenAid Cook for the Cure 7-Speed Artisan Hand Mixer -Pink

Unless your guy is extra secure in his manhood, don't expect to find him whippin' up a batch of brownies using the pale pink "Cook for the Cure" hand mixer from KitchenAid... which is just fine... go ahead and give him dish duty instead. This she-she 7-speed artisan hand mixer was created to give gourmet goddesses a way to give back by supporting the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Click on the image or link above to order from one of The Blonde's favorite kitchen gadget sites... KitchenU!

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Burnin' For Boobies




Just came across this little gem of a holiday gift idea... the "Ribbons of Love" soy candle by Archipelago. Has an organic cotton wick and burns with the fresh scents of Pink Grapefruit, Clementine, Pomelo. Conceived and discreetly signed by the Women of Archipelago for the Women of the World to help fund the fight against breast cancer. One for mom, one for grandmom, one for sis, one for hairdresser, one for the mildly annoying manicurist that has big hair and snaps her gum... check, check, check, check and check!

Friday, November 13, 2009

The iPhone Case That Starred in "Sideways"


OK, maybe not... but, one of my I-net industry gal pals turned me onto this awesomely unique iPhone case. I absolutely HAD to have one!!!! The Elan form cork cover has a hard shell underneath to give your iPhone some serious protection from bumps, bangs... or perhaps an occasional drop of Cabernet ;) Love it, love it. One catch, you can only use the cover with the first generation iPhone. Awww, but still, it's just too cool. Hello?! Great little stocking stuffer for your wine or eco-friendly friends...

PLUS, you can get 25% off of this fab little find (just til November 30th) by clicking on the link below:



Saturday, November 7, 2009

How to Get a Perfect Tan in November...


Being a Florida girl, I'm always slathering on layers of SPF 50, but must say that I despise having a skin tone which matches a freshly bleached sheet. Self tanners are a good option for bringing back some of that golden brown color, but who can stand those wierd smelling synthetic self-tanners? Enter Europe's greenest beauty brand, Lavera, with some great options.

Sophie Uliano, author of New York Times Bestseller: Gorgeously Green, 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life even says that this is "One of the best self-tanners on the market. It smoothes on like a luscious body lotion and after a few hours, reveals a truly flawless tan."

So there you have it, The Blonde's recommendation for a perfect tan without any of the dangers associated with exposure to the sun's UV rays. Using all natural, vegetable-derived DHA, these products SMELL GREAT too, unlike those nasty synthetic tanners!

Click on the link below to SAVE 40% on Lavera's Perfect Tan Kit while supplies last:

Save 40% on Lavera CLearance Perfect Tan Kit

Lavera also supports Susan G Komen For The Cure with its Lavere Intensiv Line and has recently been named "Top Green Beauty Brand" by OEKO-TEST Magazine, the leading consumer report, environmental and health focused organization in Europe.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

This Britt is NOT a Hot Mess...


It's a confirmed hot success... yep, The Blonde is getting in a quick caffeinated babble before she heads off to NYC. As much as I try to cut down on my daily java intake, I just can't pass up a really good cup o' joe! Plus, I'm gonna need it this week ;)

Anyway, on my July adventure to Costa Rica, I came across some amazing coffee from Cafe Britt that I have to dish about. Where are all my fellow coffee connoisseurs out there?

If you are into organic and eco-friendly, you absolutely have to try Cafe Britt Organic Shade Grown Coffee. It's dark roasted with rich flavor hints of apple and laurel. And, Cafe Britt has been cultivating and processing certified organic coffee since 1991... WAY before organic was cool. Cafe Britt Organic is harvested from plantations that use 100 organic materials to improve and fertilize the soil. The coffee bushes flourish under the shady embrace of native Costa Rican tree species, which increase the plantation's biodiversity by attracting migrating birds and other animals. This makes for long-term sustainability of the region's agro-ecosystem. Cafe Britt also practices fair trade.

Click on the link below to shop Cafe Britt Organic Coffee:

Cafe Britt Organic coffee: Directly from Costa Rica 100% eco-friendly plantations!

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Save Alex Hamilton...

It's final, I'll be doing ALL of my holiday shopping online. Can think of a zillion better things to do than wait in line after line at a busy store, searching for something perfect to give my favorite peeps, only to find out that they are sold out of what I need. Plus, the Blonde is very picky about her purchases!

So to save time and hard earned bucks, I'll be taking advantage of deals from online shops like Wine.com.

For the next three days, you can save a Hamilton ($10) on your order by using the promo code below:

Save $10 on your order of $150 or more. Enter code OCT2009 in your shopping cart at checkout. Hurry, offer ends 10.31.09.

They carry one of my most favorite Zins... WS rated at a 93, I might add... Seghesio!


"Rich and powerful yet supple, ripe but still balanced. Though jammed with personality, this is focused and complex, approachable now, but better in a few years. Shows aromas of black cherry and licorice, with dense plum, cracked pepper and espresso flavors that finish with ripe tannins. Drink now through 2015."
93 Points
Wine Spectator

Sunday, October 25, 2009

A Sweet Deal...


I was SO excited to see that Chocolate.com is offering a 10% discount code for purchases made before October 31st... I am loving some of the amazing artisan chocolates you can find on this site. And, I have to say, Pacari Organic Dark Chocolate from Ecuador is a "must try."

If you haven't heard much about Pacari, they take into consideration the sustainability of the Ecuadorian eco-system and select top-notch organic ingredients. These ingredients are chosen based on minimal impact on the environment and the health benefits of those who enjoy. All those anti-oxidants! They follow fair trade practices and have several programs that benefit the Ecuadorian farmers and their communities.

Click below and use coupon code HALL09 at check out for 10% off:

Save 10% with coupon code HALL09 at Chocolate.com until October 31

Friday, October 23, 2009

Butter Me Up!


This one goes out to all the Blonde's Midwestern gal pals... when you are in the midst of Winter and the mercury dips down past 30 degrees, here is a suggestion for keeping the memory of your last beach vacation close at hand... the Body Shop's Coconut Body Butter! These make awesome stocking stuffers and great "Secret Santa" gifts. And right now, the are on SALE. Grab a few and stash them away for holiday gifts.

It's a luxuriously rich, intensive cream with a lush coconut scent that moisturizes for up to 24 hours and is made with Community Trade pure organic cold-pressed virgin coconut oil. Pass the pina coladas please!

AND, I bet you didn't know that since 1995, The Body Shop has been buying cocoa beans from the Kuapa Kokoo company in Ghana, a fair trade co-operative that consists of over 30,000 small-scale farmers. The money made by the co-operative enables the development of community projects such as schools and village wells in addition to providing the farmers with income to support their families.

Click promo link below to take advantage of The Body Shop's 2 for $30 offer on Body Butter:

All Body Butters are 2 for $30 at The Body Shop. Shop Now>

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

A Polish with Power

After talking with my mom about OPI's Breathe Life Nail Lacquer (a gorgeous fresh-air, silvery blue), I scoured the web to find someplace that still sold it. Created exclusively to help the Lung Cancer Foundation of America in its efforts to raise funds for early detection, diagnosis, and, most importantly...a cure. Every dollar contributed makes a tremendous impact. Lung cancer has stopped our women from breathing long enough. Let's cure it! What many people don't realize is that lung cancer is the #1 cancer killer of women. It kills more than the 6 next largest cancer killers combined. 60% of new lung cancer victims will be non-smokers. 85% of those diagnosed with lung cancer will die in 5 years or less. Another great gift idea that gives back! I found it on Amazon here:  http://www.amazon.com/OPI-Breathe-Life-Nail-Lacquer/dp/B001W30GZS

Saturday, October 17, 2009

8 more days...


until tickets FINALLY go on sale for South Beach Wine and Food Fest 2010 sponsored by the Food Network! But, I'm not counting down or anything... check out the list of events here:  http://sobefest.com/2010/events.php

And if South Beach isn't in your geo range, you can always search around the LocalWineEvents.com site for awesome food and wine gatherings closer to home,  I LOVE this site:  http://www.localwineevents.com/resources/

Monday, October 12, 2009

Eco Wines that Give Back



Check out this new Eco Wine Trio that includes three premium red wines from the Boisset Family Estates – the first available PET wine bottles in the US! What in the heck are PET bottles, you say? Well, they are BPA-free plastic bottles that weigh 90% less and have a 50% lower carbon footprint than glass bottles and feature a unique oxygen-barrier that helps ensure wine quality and taste. All neatly packaged and presented in a gift box produced of 100% recycled packaging. How cool is that? What's even cooler, is that 10% of the retail price will be sent to the EarthEra Renewable Energy Trust, which funds construction of new, renewable energy projects in the U.S.

You can order the Eco Wine Trio or check out wine.com's entire selection of biodynamic, organic and sustainable wines by clicking below:

Shop our best selling "green" wines that use sustainable, organic and/or biodynamic practices in the vineyard and/or winemaking process.

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Old Favorite from the Archives... Bits and Pieces


People. People important to you, people unimportant to you cross your life, touch it with love and carelessness and move on. There are people who leave you and breathe a sigh of relief and wonder why you came into contact with them. There are people who leave you and you breathe a sigh of remorse and wonder why they had to go away and leave such a gaping hole. Children leave parents; friends leave friends. Acquaintances move on. People change homes. People grow apart. Enemies move on. Friends love and move on. You think of many who have moved into your hazy memory. You look on those present and wonder.

I believe in God's master plan in lives. He moves people in and out of each other's lives, and each leaves his or her mark on the other. You find you are made up of bits and pieces of all who ever touched your life, and you are more because of it, and you would be less if they had not touched you.

Pray God that you accept the bits and pieces in humility and wonder, and never question, and never forget.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

What's the Good Word?


I'm SO over the doomers and gloomers that consume most of our media sources... anyone with me on this???? That's what I thought! In that case, do yourself a favor and keep the positive mojo moving in your direction by bookmarking this site: http://www.happynews.com/

Loving this story in particular... http://www.happynews.com/news/9232009/helping-women-sweat-success.htm

If you are reading this, commit yourself to one random act of kindness today... here are some ideas: pay for the car behind you at the toll booth, send a card to someone you've been thinking about, pay a stranger a fabulous compliment, hug a friend for no good reason, send an a Publix gift card to a family that can use it... anonymously.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Handbag and Wine Money


Whether you are eager to pick up that bottle of Seghesio Zin, fab new handbag or wanting to "pay it forward" and give a little more to your favorite charity... but are also realizing that your checkbook and the economy aren't allowing you the financial flexibility you have been used to... the Blonde comes to the rescue with a suggestion!!!!

If you are like me and have a pile of books laying around that you have already read and are willing to pass along... check this out: http://cash4books.net/index.php?ref=130641

You just input the ISBN number of the book online and see how much Cash4Books.com is willing to pay you. They pay for shipping, all you need to do is box 'em up and take 'em to the PO. Hey, at the very least, it's Starbuck's money! We can all use a little extra money love right now!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Smoke in a Bottle?


No, not quite... but Cosentino's Cigar Zin certainly does seem to be something that you would ask a genie in a bottle to bring you LOTS of.

Pairs perfectly with any heavy meat dish. Ripe berry, clove and pepper notes highlight this lovely wine. Highly recommended. You can purchase online here:
http://www.cosentinowinery.com/cosentino/catalog/index.jsp?cat_id=1009

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Chocolate Solves Everything


After a frenetic week of travel to Chicago and Fort Lauderdale...ooo... and the new W Hotel on Atlantic Blvd (AIA) in Lauderdale is just gorgeous I have to say. A huge Bliss Spa, Whiskey Blue, and hot new club called the Living Room makes it a beach destination well worth visiting.

Check it out: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/property/dining/attraction_detail.html?propertyID=1522&attractionId=1003074564

However, I have ditched the heels and WHBM dress... and am now SO relishing this chill rainy Saturday morning at home sweet home... home... otherwise known as my "girl cave." The only thing I'm missing now is one of my favorite chocolates from the Dagoba Organic line. They have the most unique blends of chocolate. Yep, one word, DEADLY... especially the Lavender Blueberry. An amazing experience of lavender, blueberries and cacao that is blended together for a divine, calming experience. Keep one of these babies tucked away in a safe place when the monthly cravings hit ;)

Find Dagoba here:
http://www.dagobachocolate.com/

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Stars T's Shine Above the Rest


I would have 10 of these 3/4 sleeve T's... one in every color if I could. SO LOVE Michael Stars!!! Cohen's signature "shine" fabric will always be a favorite of mine. They used to sell his line at Sak's and Bloomingdale's, but now Michael Stars sells direct from their own site. The dresses are oh so adorable and comfy too...

Check out the 3/4 sleeve T's here: http://www.michaelstars.com/p-0021-Shine_34_Sleeve_Crew.php?color=BAYOU&item_num=1

They last FOREVER and are a purchase well worth making. I have one in black and a shine cap sleeve crew in "blush." Awesome!

Friday, August 28, 2009

Time to Wine...


Scoop for my fellow oneophiles...The Miami International Wine Fair is coming up in less than a month!

500 producers will be at the Miami Beach Convention Center showcasing more than 1,500 wines from 20 countries. An event that takes place the weekend of September 26th and 27th and is not to be missed. Ooo, last time I went I picked up a handful of amazing dark chocolate samples... a perfect accompaniment with that big glass of Cab.

I can't wait! BONUS: There is a 15% discount code at LocalWineEvents.com, just sign up for "The Juice" newsletter and pick up the code here: http://www.LocalWineEvents.com/users/register/148247-60

See you there!

Thursday, August 20, 2009


Honestly, I have had the hardest time finding a gorgeous lightweight scent that doesn't overwhelm or overpower in this crazy August Florida heat... but I came across one recently and had to share. It's brought to you by the terrific folks at Tocca, (famous for their luxurious candles) check out Amalfi Aqua Profumata! Refreshing notes of cucumber and mint headline this awesome little find.

I'm just loving it... and at $38, it won't break the bank!

http://www.tocca.com/store/catalog/tocca-beauty/fine-fragrances/amalfi-aqua-profumata

Monday, August 17, 2009

Goin' Nuts


Following the Costa Rica vacay (which consisted of many ice cold Imperials and other carb laden indulgences... yep, told myself carbs don't count when you are out of the country...lol), I decided to put myself on a training diet.

In the process of researching healthier food options, I heard about one of the yummiest ideas yet!

If you are a fan of peanut butter, check this out...
http://www.peanutwonder.com/

Made from peanuts that have actually been DE-FATTED!!! 85% less fat and 40% less calories! Crazy, I know, but wait til you taste this stuff. Every bit as good as normal peanut butter. Actually, I think it's better. My new fav snack is "Peanut Wonder" on slices of Granny Smith apples. I got a few jars at Whole Foods, but most larger health food stores carry it.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

An Awesome Wine Deal... In a Snap!



My lovely girlfriend Sus recently introduced me to a killer wine bargain... normally I would keep this information on the "DL" because it's really almost too good to share, but I need to throw you all a bone since I've been offline for awhile. LOL!

Check out the '07 Snap Dragon Red from Cali. At about $8 a bottle, you simply cannot go wrong! It's also listed in the September issue of "Food & Wine" magazine as one of California's top wines at $15 or less. A serious steal. If you live in the SWFL area, head into The Liquor Store at Fiddlesticks. They are one of the few places locally that carry it! Plus, the owners are WAY cool.
Directions here: http://www.theliquorstore.net/directions.asp

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Costa Was The Mosta!



My lovelies! I am SO sorry that I have neglected you for nearly 90 days... shame on moi! At any rate, I am back and with more tales of adventure than you can imagine.

The gypsy soul in me began to stir again in July as the Babbling Blonde made her way to the gorgeous... I repeat, GORGEOUS country of Costa Rica for a week with the darling Miss Christy.

Days of hiking, zip lining and (of course) fishing led into nights of sipping Catena Alta Malbec on the balcony while listening to howler monkeys call into the dark treetops.

Perhaps my most cherished experience was that of the Simbiosis Volcanic Hot Springs in Rincon De La Vieja National Park. Glimpses of my youth came rushing back as we turned ourselves into human mud pies, brushing on the steamy mineral coating from head to toe.

If you ever consider a visit to Northwest Costa, do not miss Rincon De La Vieja and Simbiosis. Read more about the spa and its history here: http://www.simbiosis-spa.com/

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

San Francisco Hiatus!


Wow, have I missed you! My sincere apologies for the long hiatus. The Blonde was busy networking away in one of her favorite cities, San Francisco, and needed to regroup. Soooo much to dish about, where do I start?

Loved, just loved spending a few nights with a few of my best girls hanging out at The Clift hotel. How could you not? The Redwood Room is just plain one of the sexiest places to hit in the city for cocktails... plus, there were a few appearances by hot Latin guy #1 (the original - who came on the scene in January prior to hot Latin guy #2 from Food & Wine Fest weekend in Miami and WAY before hot, but bad news, Latin guy #3).

So, after a few internet industry parties and indulging in some of the best San Fran cuisine, it's back to home base. And, let me tell you, the next few weeks are going to be ones to look forward to! You get to follow along with me as I engage in an all out crusade to find "A Date Worth Keeping." That's right, the new mantra is "five per week." Somehow, someway, I have to find a way to meet five NEW eligible men per week... starting NOW.

Friday, April 3, 2009

It's All About Willpower


After narrowly escaping an encounter with yet another handsome Latin Miami boy... my, they certainly do a darn good job of finding my weaknesses... I'm sure, trying to tempt me with Spanish text messages! I will demonstrate self-control, I will demonstrate self-control, I will... I will run off to join a few of my best girls for sushi and sake. Fabulous idea!

Maybe I had a faint glimmer of what some might call willpower when it came to the man, but if I come across an amazing make-up or fashion find, it's over. That said, I am SO excited to use my new Alima Pure shadows on my baby blues before I head out for the evening!

Check out these cruelty free, pure colors that contain no additives, fillers or fragrances:
http://www.alimapure.com/roi/772/Mineral-Cosmetics-Eyes/Luminous-Shimmer-Eyeshadow/

Huge fan of the Luminous Shimmer Shadows. With colors like Chai, Aubergine, Mirage and Truffle, how can you possibly go wrong?

Friday, March 27, 2009

Honestly...


Calling all those antioxidant fans out there! I just have to dish about my new favorite thing. In case you haven't realized it yet, I most always have a "new favorite thing." I am SO loving the USDA Organic line of "Honest Teas." Low cal, high in antioxidants... which I desperately need after a few weeks of... fun ;)

Cool name, even cooler bottle of tea. My personal choice selection is the Moroccan Mint Green. Light, refreshing and perfect for hot Florida days. Can't get enough of it, really. When you go pick up your first bottle don't forget to take a peek under the cap. Each bottle cap has a different quote or saying on the inside. Like I said, LOVE it!

Honest Tea even has a Facebook fan page! You can check out the site to find out who sells and distributes: http://www.honesttea.com/products/glass/

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Where have you Bin?


18 that is... the Blonde and one of her girls escaped a Saturday afternoon rain shower by hiding out in the Design District of Miami... at a favorite little bistro & wine bar. Yep, that's it, Bin 18. Just don't look for Turning Leaf or Woodbridge on the list. Not gonna find 'em here...this place is full of wonderful boutique wine treasures! Preview the wine menu at http://www.bin18miami.com/cellar.html

We sipped on the zippy Huber Hugo Austrian Gruner Veltliner, but I have to say that the Pretty Sally Cabernet Rose will always have a special place in my heart (one of the few "pink"wines I will ever put in my glass). The Cab/Zin blend is outstanding as well.

To learn more about Pretty Sally cool climate Australian wines check out: http://www.prettysally.com/

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Sweet Treats


So cool! I have to share! I've seen several magazine articles on Dylan's Candy Bar and finally checked out the site. Just about any and every magnificent confection you've ever dreamed of can be ordered online or by visiting the shop in NYC.

There's old favorites like Chupa Chups, Jelly Bellies, Warheads, Pez dispensers of every kind, Peeps, even sugar free and kosher candy! Too fun! And, if you are looking for the most fabulous Easter baskets on the planet for your top girlfriends, look no further... http://www.dylanscandybar.com/gift-baskets/

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Saturday Night Torture!



After my past three weekends of wine fest-ing, Latin boy rendezvous-ing, and Ritz Carlton High Tea-ing... I've grounded myself on a Saturday. So sad, but so true. This Leonine social butterfly is feeling oh so cooped up and tortured! Ok, well life isn't that bad.

I shouldn't complain, I had the best "girl" day ever. Started out at the Waterside Shops in Naples. You've never been?! Oooo, you really have to pay a visit, you won't be sorry, promise! They just opened a fabulous new Nordstrom, I was able to drool over the 1837 line at Tiffanys, and they even have a Swarovski Crystal store! Check out some of the gorgeous Swarovski Crystal baubles at: http://www.swarovski.com/Web_US/en/0110/category/Jewellery/Pierced_Earrings.html

Even made it to work out with my personal trainer at 6 PM... admirable... but, no fun to behave!

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Just Wining About Messages


These days we have this incredibly novel feature that comes with our cell phone service packages... even if you live in the dark ages and still operate from a landline, landlines have it too... it's called VOICEMAIL. Yes, and all but the worst of communicators know how to use it. Sorry boys, I hate to be the one to inform you that if you call, we SEE it on our caller id. Ummm, yeah, might as well leave a message. Make it something clever and witty. After all, the pressure is on. Must be, otherwise why would recording your voice at the tone be such a frightening experience? Hmmm, maybe in my case, the Spanish to English translation under the gun throws them off.

Speaking of phones, I have to tell you that I absolutely adore my iPhone and the coolest cork cover that my girlfriend found and gifted to me!!! Wanna see? Check it out: http://news.softpedia.com/news/iPhone-Cork-Case-78806.shtml

It's awesome because it doesn't collect all the random pieces of lint and dirt from the bottom of your purse and reminds me of one of my favorite hobbies... drinking wine!

BTW, I learned after this past weekend, Chilean reds do me no favors the next morning. The Twomey Merlot that my Chicago gal pal and I enjoyed this past weekend is a completely different story. Trust me, I was never a merlot fan either... until Twomey was poured in my glass. If you are looking for a splurge, go for it! It's 110% worth the $50 price tag. I've heard the Pinot is just as fab, but it sells out in a hurry. Read about Twomey Cellars and the Soutirage Traditional method of winemaking: http://www.twomeycellars.com/main/index.html

Friday, March 6, 2009

What a Beach!


Although I still owe a few details from last weekend, (I promise that I haven't forgotten) I can't help but cue you in on the upcoming weekend plans! One of my top ten Chicago gal pals and I are heading to the gorgeous white sands of Sanibel and Captiva Islands for some long overdue bonding time and vitamin D. The Lighthouse Beach and Turner Beach are two of my absolute favorites. Turner wins out when it comes time for sunset though. For a complete list of the beaches on these Islands, check out: http://www.sanibel-captiva.org/play/beaches.asp

Time to pack the beach bag, then grab the OJ and Veuve Clicquot! Anything better than sun, sand and a few mimosas? Hardly!

Have to start out early to beat the seasonal traffic (blasted Midwestern snowbirds), so we have plans to caffeinate first by stopping at the Sanibel Bean. These people know coffee and it's an absolute pit stop every time I cross the Causeway. http://www.sanibelbean.com/

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Feelin' Bleau


The crystal chandeliers and glamorous intrigue of the Bleau Bar caused a serious sensory rush the instant my black stilettos stepped through the glass door. I was 100% sure that I could live here and never, ever go back. Without question, I was head over Via Spiga heels in love with this hotel!

Given that it was a picture perfect Miami Beach day in the mid 70's, not a cloud in the sky and just a light breeze off the Atlantic, I dialed my gorgeous Saturday sidekick and asked about the plan for the next few hours. Ok, so maybe I couldn't understand the nuances of the conversation due to the thick latin accent, but I knew it was beach or pool... the options were clear. Only, in my haste to leave the condo, I had forgotten to pack my bikini! 911! I remained calm, poured a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, walked downstairs to Aquamarine and (although we women all know how hard it is to find a hot suit on the fly) somehow made it happen. Thanks Lenny! http://www.lennyswimwear.com/

Saturday afternoon with a fab new suit, a bottle of wine, my own cabana boy and the hottest pool scene ever... life is good.