the knack

Impart Fresh Flavours with Olive & Olives Organic Olive Oils

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:18:00 +0000

I have figured out the best and easiest way to cook well is to have a well-stocked pantry. This takes time as you'll want to find good ingredients, but this way, you will almost always produce great results.

This is why I am a big believer in a fantastic olive oil. It can take the most basic dish and make it revolutionary. And one of my new favourite discoveries is Olive & Olives.

This Canadian shop (with stores in Toronto and Montreal) was started by Claudia and Danièle and Claudia's obsession about Spanish olive oil, and has quickly grown into an industry.

And you can see why. The quality is what makes the difference in a good oil. In fact, I just want to drink Olive & Olives Organic Estate Bottled Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a cup. This unctuous blend of arbequina and arbreblanque olives is fruity, fresh and has a kick of spice that whether you're dipping bread, marinating meat, dressing a salad with it or drizzling it over ice cream (try it - it's wicked).

Of course, this is just one of many available to choose from. And a good pantry will also always have a stellar vinegars and olives and other pantry items on hand, so whether you have 30 mins or 3 hours to make a meal, it will no doubt be a memorable one.

Stock the pantry shelves with Olive & Olives now.

Delight in the Venetian Countryside with Bottega Veneta Parfum

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:51:00 +0000

January is a tough month to try and get through - it's cold, snowy and everything feels stale and flat.

That's all about to change now that you've got Bottega Veneta Parfum.

This intensely pleasing scent is like no other before it. Because Bottega Veneta is known for its extraordinary leather goods, don't be surprised if you take in some leathery notes.

Tomas Maier, Creative Director of BV, imagined the scent as a dream of the Venetian countryside. Summer breezes, worn wood floors soaked in sunshine, leather-bound books and flowers comprise a picture that I want to get lost in every single day. And now I can, thanks to this luscious scent.

Bottega Veneta is comprised of sensual notes of bergamot, patchouli, jasmine sambac and oak moss, with effervescent pink peppercorns to keep it light and lively. The bottle is so exquisite, with its leather tie at the neck, that you'll feel like you're unwrapping a present each and every time you envelop yourself in this fragrance.

Whether you're looking to get a new fragrance for yourself or for someone else (Valentine's Day is getting closer...), you really ought to get Bottega Veneta Parfum. It's the one I can't stop reaching for, can't stop wearing.

Bottega Veneta Parfum is available at select Holt Renfrew and select Bay Stores across Canada.

Step It Up This Valentine's Day with Taza Chocolate!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:30:00 +0000

Although it seems like Christmas was just a few weeks ago (it kinda was), it's time to start thinking about Valentine's Day.

Now you could do what you always do and go to the mall, get a cheezy card because that's all they have and then stuff a gift card in it because you don't really know what get.

Let me help. Get some Taza Chocolate and watch the sparks fly.

Taza Chocolate is far beyond your usual chocolates. First of all, it's stone ground, organic, sustainable and direct trade certified, so you're getting a responsibly-made product that you can feel good in buying and supporting.

Secondly, it's made in a traditional fashion. It all evolved from a trip that cofounder Alex Whitmore took to Oaxaca back in 2005, which is how the company's dedication to "crafting artisan, Mexican-style chocolate in the United States" came to be.

Made in small batches by hand, you can actually see how your batch was made! You can't do that with those red and black boxes you no doubt used to pick up at the drugstore.

And of course, all of this tender care and attention translates to a divine treat that is unlike any other chocolate you've ever had. Salted Almond Chocolate Mexicano Discs, for example, has an amazingly unique texture and texture. Made only with organic, single-origin Hispaniola cacao beans, organic cane sugar, whole organic raw, then roasted California almonds and kosher salt, this sweet and salty indulgence can also be used to make Mexican hot chocolate (I'm using mine to make Chicken Mole and to add spice and smoothness to my chilis as well - get the whole collection, pictured above).

If you want straight-up chocolate, this 87% Stone Ground Dark Chocolate Bar will satiate your craving, whether it's something you want to nibble on or use to bake your loved one a delectable dessert this Valentine's Day.

Once you've had Taza, it's hard to go back to anything else.

Be sure to check out the entire Taza Chocolate store - there is so much to see and discover!

Philosophy's Purity One-Step Facial Cleanser Removes Even the Most Stubborn Makeup

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:20:00 +0000

I won't even buy makeup anymore that doesn't come off with just water.

Because despite their bold claims, many cleansers don't work off that waterproof mascara that you just doled out $20 for or that liquid eyeliner that is supposed to last until next Tuesday. And then you're stuck with a face of smudged makeup that still won't come off, so now you look like the cast of a George Romero film.

Great.

And if you do happen to stumble across a cleanser that removes your makeup, it no doubt acts like paint remover and your skin is left a dry, brittle, gross mess.

Sigh.

But your days of having to live with your makeup on for more than 24 hours are over, thanks to the wonderful miracle of Philosophy's Purity Made Simple One-Step Cleanser!

It multitasks just like you do! Ridding you of all your workday/night-on-the-town makeup without hurting your very sensitive peepers, it also gives your pores a what's-what and then goes on to tone and moisturize your skin with natural oils such as rosewood, sandalwood, carrot seed and sage.

So go ahead and buy that eyeshadow that will stay put all weekend, that lip liner that is practically a tattoo and that foundation that just won't budge.

You can have your cake and eat it too, thanks to Philosophy's Purity Made Simple One-Step Cleanser.

Hallejuah!

Bring the Garden Indoors with Alighiero Campostrini's Bath Collection

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:50:00 +0000

Things tend to get a little stale in winter - the windows are sealed shut, air circulates at a snail's pace and everything seems to smell a little bit like roast squash.

That's why you're going to want to get yourself Alighiero Campostrini's Bath Collection.

See, these soaps don't aspire to be or seem European - they actually are. For more than a century in fact. This artisan soap uses a secret family formula from 1894 and "ancient Tuscan soap-making techniques," that delivers a product that is so superior to the soap that you're used to, that you will abandon those drugstore bars immediately.

With every bar, you get a handmade creation. Vegetable oils, beeswax and glycerinare poured by hand into antique bronze molds. Then, Florentine botanical fragrances are added. These scents will completely captivate you, as will the packaging, with illustrations by Italian artist Giorgio Mattioli.

These vegetable soaps not only go a long way to giving you softer, smoother skin this season, they will fill your bathroom, chest of drawers, bedroom and kitchen with fresh, garden-inspired scents.

The big brick of Primitivo brings Italy into your home. Rich with pure olive oil and a warm, earthy scent, this gorgeous soap will make you feel like you're staying in a rustic villa surrounded by flowers and gardens. They should just call soap "Vacation," which is why it also makes a wonderful gift. I mean, we can't all afford to be traipsing off the Italy every few months, but there's no reason we shouldn't be able to

It's also available in Frutatto, Verdone and Gentile.

Exclusively available at C.O. Bigelow, think of these fabulous soaps as not just rich skin moisturizers or cleansing bars - think of them as home fragrances that are also a fabulous gift that requires no gift wrapping.

Shop Alighiero Campostrini now.

Estée Lauder's New Pure Colour Gloss in Citron Kiss is Poppin'!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 15:30:00 +0000

There is a wonderfully fun song by L'il Mama called "Lipgloss."

She raves about various lipglosses that she's coveting.

If I could do one, I'd do it about Citron Kiss, the new golden gloss from the Pure Colour Spring 2012 Collection by Tom Pecheux, Creative Makeup Director, Estée Lauder.

Tom says:

"My inspiration behind the collection was vacationing in Arizona, enjoying the warm sun, the amazing desert colours and the shadows that play on the sand and rocks. I was thinking of a gorgeously healthy-looking woman that had an element of fantasy in her personality. I wanted to convey that with a palette of strong yet soft colours."

Mmm, doesn't that sound just perfect for this time of year, when we all need warming up and a little extra glow?

And that's why Citron Kiss is such a perfect addition to your makeup collection right now. This limited edition gloss gives you that sun-kissed effect without making you look like you're a Vegas showgirl. In fact, it's quite sheer and just lightly sprinkles sunshiney warmth to your lips.

What seals this amazing gloss as an absolute beauty essential is that it can be worn on its own or over another lip product as a way to enhance and warm it up.

And if you're like me and tend to shy away from golds (I'm so pink that it often looks weird on me), don't be afraid of this one. It's not only long-lasting, it works with your skin like no other precious metal before it. In fact, it may just suit you better than what you've been using up until now.

That's the power of Estée Lauder - you will covet this so much that when the limited edition run is over, you will spend the rest of your days trying to replicate its look and feel.

So go run and get yourself the Pure Colour Topaz Spring 2012 Collection now before its too late.

Say Hello to Softer, Smoother Skin with Olivella's Hand & Body Creams

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 15:34:00 +0000

My skin needs a lot of extra attention in winter.

Since I don't drive, I walk or take transit everywhere. Which often means my skin's right out in the elements - snowstorms, rain pelting down, whatever mother nature brings. So it gets mighty rough and raw. Especially after all the cleaning, cooking and washing I do.

So I need the "good stuff," products that will sink in and make a difference quickly. Hand cream that will hold up to me working with paper all day (how drying is that?) to outside in the cold to elbow deep in hot water doing dishes.

Yeah, I'm asking a hell of a lot, but Olivella is up to the task.

Olivella Hand Cream uses 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil, which if you've ever got any on your hands, you'll know it softens you skin as soon as you rub it in and doesn't leave behind a greasy feel at all. So you can imagine my delight in finding something to get my hands silky again. This light green (from the olives, of course) luxury-in-a-bottle absorbs quickly and has a wonderfully fresh scent.

And let's not forget the body. Even though I'm not out and about without a stitch of clothing on, my legs and arms do dry up during these snowy months. So I'm keeping everything supple thanks to Olivella's Body Cream. It feels so good to apply this lightly-scented green cream that you might just want to put it on once in the morning and once before bed. But you won't need to. Put it on the once and just see how plump and soft your skin becomes.

You can see why I adore Olivella's products. Check out their Daily Facial Cleansing Tissues, Face & Body Soap and their Bar Soaps too. In fact, just shop the entire store. At these prices, you can't afford not to!

Cooking Up A Storm Cookbook Keeps Recipes of New Orleans Alive

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:25:00 +0000

New Orleans is a treasured place and a lot of that has to do with the food.

Hurricane Katrina took not only lives, but people's belongings and heirlooms. Just imagine if you didn't have your Mom's cookie recipe or your Grandfather's secret roux that makes gravy perfect every time. The Times-Picayune of New Orleans gave New Orleans residents a place to share their recipes, to keep their food and culture alive. And lucky for you and I, the newspaper put 250 of them in the amazing cookbook, Cooking Up a Storm: Recipes Lost & Found from The Times-Picayune of New Orleans. Each recipe includes the history of it too, so you get not only a memorable dish, but an unforgettable story to go along with it.

I feel privileged to have this book, to continue on their culinary history in my own home. As you know, I am completely smitten with Southern food and culture, so this cookbook is one that will always be dear to my heart. Knowing what people lost and how they rallied together to save these recipes just makes me want to tell their stories to the world.

In the meantime, I'm going to fold these recipes into my repertoire. So don't be surprised if you see me with a Sazerac in hand (a cocktail first made in a French Quarter bar back in 1859), nibbling on McKenzie's Oyster Patties, inhaling Natchitoches Meat Pies and Semonlina's Muffuletta Pasta with a side of Piccadilly-Style Carrot Souffle and finishing off with Bon Ton's Bread Pudding.

I might not live in New Orleans but Cooking Up a Storm sure makes me feel like I do. And now, the food of New Orleans lives through me too.

Get your copy now.

The Spa Comes to You with Appia Nomadic Spa!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:54:00 +0000

Recently I went on an incredible trip to Montreal where I was pampered with a facial in the comfort of my gorgeous Le Germain Hotel room by Appia Nomadic Spa.

It was memorable for many reasons, but I've got to say - how nice to not have to leave your room for a treatment like a massage or facial. Just think - you don't have to worry about what you look like, there's no need to have to apply makeup before heading back home, in fact, there's no heading back home, just the luxury of lounging in your room while having your treatment!

A mobile trunk is wheeled into your room and like the drink cart on airplanes, it opens up to reveal wonderful potions, or in this case, lotions!

Using Appia and TaTa Harper products, I received a wonderfully thorough 1-hour Golden Glow Facial.

Appia was developed in Quebec with local ingredients such as wild field honey, maple sugar, apple cider and white spruce. Not only does each come with powerful properties, but you get the added bonus of nature's natural aromatherapy as well. Take Appia's Fresh Honey Cleansing Milk, for instance. The delicate scent of warm honey is so soothing and relaxing, you might just drift off for awhile on the table. And just imagine that feeling while you wash your face before bed - you might just get a good night's sleep for once!

TaTa Harper Skincare has been beloved in Hollywood for years. Handmade in Vermont with 100% natural ingredients, these products are completely addictive because you'll see results immediately and they smell so good, you'll be tempted to eat them!

When you're traveling, whether it's for work or pleasure, there is something to be said for being able to unwind for at least an hour.

From now on, that hour's going to include Appia Spa.

In Need of a New Stylish Scent? Let JACOB Dress You Up!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:08:00 +0000

I have been wearing JACOB clothing since I was a teen and as I write this, I'm rockin' Runway Diva from their new Nail Collection.

So when I got news that JACOB created three signature fragrances, "designed exclusively for Canadian women," I knew I had to try them out. And on.

First of all, I adore that they're whisper light so you're enveloped in the scent, but the people around you won't be. You want to intrigue your companions, not douse them in perfume, right?

Secondly, I love that each scent is distinct:

- Like a good wine, Classique goes with everything, so you'll be tempted to wear it every day of the week. Feminine and tingly, this melange of pink pepper, citrus, peony petals, wisteria blossoms, amber and white cedar is pretty and alluring without ever being too much or too complicated.

- Joie De Vivre is the sweetest of the bunch, thanks to passionfruit and pineapple, but white freesia, sensual wood and musk keep it from being cloying or tween.

- Surprisingly, the island vibe from Very Chic captivates me every time. I'm not normally drawn to fragrances that feature vanilla prominently, but that deep amethyst plum, black amber and sensual woods give it an undoubtedly sexy vibe (picture skinny dipping at shore's edge at midnight). A light touch of tangerine, mango and blossoms keep it from being too dark or heavy.

Whether you're shopping at one of JACOB's retail locations or online, these new fragrances will be the best addition to your wardrobe this season.

Things Get Mighty Delicious Thanks to Studio Oh!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:29:00 +0000

My life pretty much revolves around food and cooking. So when I discovered Studio Oh!, I knew I'd found my home-away-from-home.

Featuring products for all your kitchen needs, you'll not only find great stuff for yourself, but gifts that will be perfect for the next birthday/anniversary/dinner party gala.

One of Oh! Kitchen's beautifully-designed Recipe Keepers (available in a variety of designs) is a gift that they'll actually use! It allows you to work away at the recipe at hand without damaging the page, thanks to clever clear page protectors. And the flip-top layout makes your computer print out, magazine page or photocopy easy to manage and read. The 6 repositionable tabs (with pre-printed and blank stickers) and back pocket help keep you organized (and we both know what a challenge it is to keep your recipes organized!). And in case you're cooking away and need to quickly check on substitutions or conversions, you'll find it right here, so no need to step away from the rice you've got on gentle boil or the onions you want to soften without burning. With 70 pages to fill, you'll actually be able to finally try all of those recipes you've been collecting for ~~years~~ decades. Talk about a gift.

And because not all of us have time to wash and iron our placemats, Oh! Kitchen has created Paper Placements that look not only as good as cloth ones, but in opinion much better, thanks to the vibrant prints and patterns they created! If you want something classic, Celebrate in Silver, Silver & Black or Celebrate in Gold look smashing against your homemade fare. If you want something a little more traditional, Bountiful Fruit, Floral/Lime Green or Floral/Teal will add a colourful punch to all those beige root vegetables you're cooking. And for those with a soft spot for retro, Garden Variety, Italiano and Retro Cafe are great fun. There are 50 sheets per pad, printed with food-safe soy-basked ink on FSC paper, so go ahead and eat in style without any added laundry. Amen!

I love to share and send recipes with friends and relatives and one of the most memorable, gorgeous ways is Oh! Kitchen's Mini Boxes of Recipes. Choose from these delightful collections - Cupcakes, French Cookies, Chocolate, Tea Time, Champagne Cocktails (pictured above) and Small Bites. Each box contains 20 recipes each with a stunning vintage illustration. The box is embellished with foil stamping, so there's no need to gift wrap these beauties either (cha-ching - time and money saved!)

I have been sending Cupcakes ones to friends as kind of a winter pick-me-up and Champagne Cocktails came just in the nick of time - we moved just before Christmas and our lovely friends and neighbours who have come by visit have come armed with Champagne. It's nice to drink on it's own, but we wanted something more exciting - so guess who's having Lemon Hummers, Stormy Seas and Old-Time Cream Soda? Thank you Oh! Kitchen. For the Small Bites box too. Entertaining has been super easy thanks to having recipes like Magic of India Eggplant Pakoras, Tres Chic Truffled Chickpea Salad and Wine A Bit Creamed Mushrooms & Parsley Toasts.

Shop all of Studio Oh! and make 2012 your most delicious year to date.

EvolutionMan's Skincare Makes A Great Valentine's Day Present

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:56:00 +0000

Guys get off so easy, don't they? They can use a 2-in-1 shampoo and look great, splash water on their face and not even brush their hair and still look sexy and clean.

It doesn't seem fair, does it?

But just because they're not using a skincare system doesn't mean they shouldn't be. But fellas don't want to be spending hours at a makeup counter trying to figure out what they need and what they should be doing - they need a simple plan to follow.

Which is where the lovely and very sexy EvolutionMan comes in.

I wrote about their wicked nail polishes just before Christmas (still addicted!) and am thrilled to introduce you to this skincare line that again, the ladies might just steal away for themselves.

The cold, harsh wind of winter always leaves you with dry, flaky skin. To look anew in just one step, use Wash & Buff. Tiny microbeads gently work away dead skin, as well as daily grime, sweat and the environmental gunk that's in the air and now, on your face. Apply to your damp face and neck and gently massage it in. Rinse with warm water and just feel the difference - clean, smooth, radiant skin! And all it took was a few seconds of your time. See why you're going to want to try this for yourselves, ladies?

And us gals aren't the only ones to have to deal with dark circles and bags under our eyes. Revitalize Eye Gel combats everything, including puffiness and fine wrinkles (get a head start on staying youthful- looking while you can) and has a cooling sensation that is quite refreshing. Yep, this one might not get back to my fella's medicine cabinet....

I've always thought that there are a few guys that could use a little extra moisture. Often, guys look just fine on their own, but occasionally I'll see skin that's just crying out for some quenching. Why not just get into the habit of applying a moisturizer now and then you never have to worry about it? And there's no better time to start than these frigid, wind-chilled days. What I love about Moisture Protect SPF 20 is that it's matte, so you never have to worry about shine (You don't see this very often in women's skincare, do you? Why not? We don't want to be slick with shine anymore than you do). I also appreciate how weightless (and grease-free) it is, as well as including SPF right in it, so you don't have to try and remember to do that extra step. Oh, and the fact that my skin slurped it right up and just moments after, my skin looked more supple. Got. To. Love. It!

And for those of us who don't live in LA, we're lookin' mighty pale at this time of year. So if you're feeling like you a bit of added colour, Moisture Protect SPF 20 Bronze will give you a healthy glow that steers clear of any sort of likeness to George Hamilton.

Guys want to be just as kissable as us girls, so EM Lip Balm SPF 15 can be tucked away in that teeny pocket of his skinny jeans, with no one the wiser as to why his lips look and feel so luscious. It's tremendously silky to put on - without a glossy finish - so just watch as it becomes as vital for him to carry as his iPhone and coffee card.

Shaving successfully depends entirely on the tools you use, which is why I've tucked away Cleanse & Shave for my legs and which my fella should absolutely steak back to keep his face looking baby smooth. This non-foaming shave cream might just become the reason why you can't keep your hands off one another...

See why I can't get enough of EvolutionMan? Shop the entire collection now. For you and your fella.

Shop Laurie Raphaël's Boutique & Become An Instant Gourmand at Home

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 16:18:00 +0000

If you are going to Montreal, there's many places to stay, but nothing as exquisite as the Hotel Le Germain.

While the stunning, luxurious rooms are enough to wow you on their own, you've got to eat at their restaurant, Laurie Raphaël, located on the hotel's premises.

I'll be writing about my exquisite meal in detail shortly for Poetry of Food magazine, but in the meantime, I thought you should know that you can buy their memorable ingredients to take home with you through their beautiful Boutique.

It's always hard for me to leave Montreal, a city bursting with fantastic food, so it was nice to have LR's Strawberry Jam (pictured above) and Grilling Salts to console and tide me over until my next visit.

I don't eat a lot of bread, so jam usually lasts a long time in our house. However, LR's Strawberry Jam - made only from strawberries, sugar, pectin and agar agar - was all gone in two days. Fresh and vibrant, it was like having freshly-picked strawberries in a summer field as opposed to strawberry jam in the cold of winter (there are other varieties available- be smart and get 'em all!).

The incredible Grilling Salts have amped up all of the dishes - fish, chicken, beef and veg - and even inspired me to use it in different ways like lightly sprinkled on hot, bubbling, cheesy bruschetta and mixed in with my Caesar salad dressing!

Laurie Raphaël Boutique allow you to elevate your cooking with just one or two ingredients. Just imagine - you'll be having restaurant-quality meals without having to leave the house.Now that's luxurious!

Reserve a table at Laurie Raphaël and shop their Boutique now.

p.s. Start saving now for the amazing Gourmet Suitcase!

Esteé Lauder's New DayWear BB Multi-Perfecting Beauty Benefit Creme SPF 35 is Extraordinary!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 13:36:00 +0000

It's not often that a product does everything you want it to, nevermind go beyond that.

But Esteé Lauder's NEW DayWear BB Multi-Perfecting Beauty Benefit Creme SPF 35 is one of the most exhilarating skincare products you'll ever use. It does it all - moisturizes (so go ahead and skip that step in the morning), protects (no need to apply an SPF on top of it like your other face creams) and perfects (it offers sheer coverage so you get a moisturizer and sheer foundation/cover up in one) - all in a third of the time that it normally takes you and frees up that much needed real estate in your bathroom cabinet.

Here are just a few more elements of DayWear BB Creme that make me swoon:

- it comes loaded with an Super Antioxidant Complex, feeding my skin while preserving my youthful look

- a blend of sheer pigments, brightening optics and light-reflective pearls make me look alert and fresh-faced, no matter how sleep-deprived or over-caffeinated I am

- the light cucumber scent makes you feel like you're at the spa

- available in two neutral shades, you get a look that's completely natural

Once you use this, you won't be able to go back to your many steps, full-coverage makeup and skincare routine. DayWear BB Creme was made for you and I - we want to look good, but we don't want to spend more time in front of the mirror than necessary.

Esteé Lauder's NEW DayWear BB Multi-Perfecting Beauty Benefit Creme SPF 35

is available now at Esteé Lauder counters across Canada.

Junkmill on Etsy - Your Source For Amazing Digital Collage Sheets!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:38:00 +0000

Chandra Orr of Michigan has created something very unique with Junkmill, her Etsy online shop.

Out-of-the-ordinary, completely extraordinary digital collage sheets that have an edge to them are far beyond what the big box craft stores offer you. These not only evoke another time, another place, but are so rich in colour and quality that even if you don't scrapbook or DIY craft, you'll be cutting out these images to paste onto your notebooks, kitchen utensil containers and anything else you can get your hands on!

Whether you're into vintage, steampunk, victorian or gothic aesthetics, you'll be swooning over Chandra's incredible creations. There really is something for everyone:

- The Corset Sheet boasts images that will please both fashionistas and vintage clothing lovers. I love how thick and sturdy the paper is. It feels like it's from that time period.

- Ooh, the Vintage Labels Sheet makes me want to stay home and cover everything in these. The Vintage Liquor ones as well. The fine paper has a slight gloss and texture to it. The gold bits really pop and shine. And of course the colours too. It's like having stuff right out of that time period but in mint condition - the best of both worlds, if you ask me!

- I had an apartment once that friends called Zen Therapy. It was serene with Asian accents everywhere. Despite having moved on from there both physcially and decoratively decades ago, I still have an affinity for Asian images and art. The Asian Ephemera 2 Sheet Set satiates my desire to always have that beauty surround me.

- My amazingly talented friend Diana who bookbinds and makes incredible stationery would love to get her hands on this Vintage Metallic Paper and make something. Me? I'd write a letter to someone on it. It's too stunning not to share.

- Know someone who loves words? Vintage Vocabulary Sheets are a hoot.

- You don't have to pick a side - Cats & Dogs offers something for all animal lovers!

- And if you can't decide (I know, right? It's all so incredible!), get the Mini Medley and Mini Medley II Sheets or the Very Vintage Collection that gives you a bit of everything.

- With Valentine's Day quickly approaching, this Love Sheet will come in awfully handy.

- Junkmill is famous for the Zombie Pin Ups, also available in 1" images and circles. It's no wonder. Don't you just love these? In fact, they almost make a better valentine, don't they?

Can you believe how beautiful they are and that you get all of these images for just a few dollars? It's no wonder I want one of everything.

In addition to digital collage sheets, Chandra also offers gorgeous Vintage Matchboxes that are a fantastic gift or display. Oh, and there's Mini Envelopes and Tags too. You'd better start writing all of this down...

You can see why I am completely addicted to Junkmill. I think you'll be too once you see how incredible the quality is. Shop now and see for yourself.

p.s. There is always something new and exciting happening here, so subscribe to the Junkmill blog and like 'em on Facebook too to keep up to date.

Cocoon Apothecary Skin Care Goes the Extra Mile - Naturally

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:12:00 +0000

I am always on the lookout for natural beauty solutions. One of my new favourite finds is Canada's own Cocoon Apothecary, created and made in small batches by Jessica Burman.

This artisinal skin care line provides not just pure essential oils and nutrients, but aromatherapy properties as well. And you don't have to worry about chemicals here - everything is made from non-toxic, vegan ingredients. Did you resolve to buy more natural, eco-friendly products this year? Check that off your list. This most certainly fits the bill - Jessica uses amber bottles that can be reused and recycled, pre-cycled pumps and caps and corn labels. And the bottles are sheathed in pretty post-consumer tubes that are recyclable, biodegradable and compostable. Is your current skincare line going out of its way to help save the environment like this?

If you're already battling dry skin this season, you'll want to try Petal Purity Facial Cleanser, one of the most hydrating cleansers I've tried. Your skin gets clean and conditioned thanks to virgin coconut and sweet almond oil, along with lavender (that helps keep acne at bay) and geranium (closes pores) essential oils. Inhaling the scents of lavender and geranium while stripping your face of all the day's makeup and impurities is a ritual that you won't be able to live without.

To keep skin looking fresh and taut, the beautiful scent of roses keeps this Rose Dew Toner from being boring. It only has two ingredients - certified organic rose hydrosol and certified organic witch hazel hydrosol. You know simplest is best. And now you've got the bottle to prove it!

And no better time like these wintery months to nourish your skin with a good face cream. Cocoon's best selling product - Rosey Cheeks Facial Cream - brings back the lush scent of roses to your bathroom. What a feeling! You'll love the velvety feel of this and watch as shea butter, rose absolute and rosehip, avocado and green tea oils hydrate your skin all the way back to what its like in springtime! No flakes, no redness here, and it prevents the signs the aging. It's easy to see why this quickly becomes a necessity.

Some companies do great products - Cocoon Apothecary does it ALL. And then some.

Shop their entire line now.

Lose The Weight with You Can Trust a Skinny Cook Cookbook

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0000

I am trying to lose weight, get more fit and generally improve my health in any way I can.

One of best ways I know how is to make healthy meals at home, but over the last few months, I've run through my standard dishes and am in need of new, easy and satisfying items to add to the mix.

That's when I discovered You Can Trust a Skinny Cook.

The idea behind it is that you can stay trim without starving yourself, which is exactly what I need. Eating real, delicious food without using "lite" anything. Yep, that's the way to go, I think. Author Allison Fishman writes:

"For almost a decade, I was a corporate executive, running around, eating food that was cooked by other people. I was overweight. When I ate at home, it was to everyone's benefit that I didn't cook. I was a disaster in the kitchen.

I left the corporate world and went to culinary school. I wanted to help people who had never learned to cook (like me) make good food and gain confidence in the kitchen.

And then something crazy happened. I cooked all morning at school, practiced what I learned at home in the afternoon, ate a lot, and lost 20 pounds. I knew that cooking for myself was the healthiest way to eat for a variety of reasons, but how could a person eat so much and lose weight?"

She says that she doesn't deprive herself (a powerful lesson, no?) and that "For some people, it's music. For others, it's art. For me, it's food. I plan to live a long, healthy life eating delicious food every day." I'm adapting that for myself if that's all right.

And I'm going to incorporate Mexican Breakfast Tortillas, Shaved Salad with Miso Dressing, Chicken and Andouille Gumbo, Stuffed Mushrooms, Moroccan Carrots, Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage, Fuss-Free Meatballs in Marinara, Skirt Steak with Chimichurri Sauce, Thai Beef, Cherry Clafouti, Lemon Curd Tartlets, Double-Chocolate Biscotti and Pecan Snowballs into the fold. Talk about indulgent!

I'll leave you with this that she wrote - "I'll take healthy and happy over scrawny and cranky any day."

Get this awesome school of thought, complete with recipes and great kitchen tips with You Can Trust a Skinny Cook.

Orange Circle Studio's Calendars & Planners Make It Easy to Get on Track!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Sometimes the secret to being organized is having somewhere beautiful to write everything. When you've got a pretty calendar, you want to look at it and use it. It's no wonder you haven't been productive - who wants to look at something utilitarian from an office supply chain every day?

I love the beautiful calendars and planners from Orange Circle Studio.

Take the Bold Blossoms Magnetic Message Centre, for instance. The contemporary floral design is striking, isn't it? I think it adds real pop to any space. And of course having the large grid schedule in which to record your appointments makes double booking yourself a thing of the past. And the addition of the attractive12" x 12" whiteboard - complete with dry-erase pen and 2 magnets - means that everything stays in one central location. Which means that finally the whole family is on the same page and you get to do it all on a beautiful background for once.

And for those of you who need to keep track of things a little more intricately, the 2012 Do It All Mom Planner has got you covered. This sweetly designed book is designed in a soothing colour palette, making it a sheer joy to keep track of everything you've got going on. 286 stickers are included so planning becomes a little less mundane than you're used to.

A pocket right on the cover gives you instant access to your lists, receipts and whatever else you need to stash close at hand. An entire week is spread over two pages with spaces for up to 5 people, giving you a clear look at who's doing what when. A whack of 60 tear-off to-do and shopping lists saves you from having to look for paper elsewhere, so you can write things down as soon as you think of them - saving you a ton of time and energy.

And the elastic band closure makes it easy to bring this perfectly sized life plan everywhere you go. Because you're going to need it to accomplish everything you want to do this year.

These are only two of the amazing calendar and planner options at Orange Circle Studio, so shop the entire collection and get something that not only rocks your day, but rocks your entire world.

Beyoncé's Latest Fragrance Gets Your Pulse Racing

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 14:08:00 +0000

Beyoncé's fragrances are always a joy to review because they are unequaled and so distinct, yet always with a depth and warmth to them that make them especially enticing.

Having already fallen for Heat and Heat Rush, I couldn't wait to see what her latest scent, Beyoncé Pulse, offers.

I know that a lot of beauty writers spend a lot of time on the bottle, but for me it's not usually something that floors me. But the design of Pulse's bottle is completely revolutionary - this girl should design Oscars and other awards because it is stunning. What a work of art!

And the fragrance of course is just as arresting. It's packed with sensual notes, making it decidedly feminine, and yet there is such strength to it that it couldn't have been made by anyone other than B. herself.

The scent includes her favourite flower, the orchid, but what I get is sun and sand and suntan lotion - a kind of coconut, drinks on the beach, kind of vibe. Perhaps it's the Blue Curacao accord that I'm drawn to that's entwined with fresh Pear Blossom and frosted Bergamot here. Or maybe it's the warmth of the florals that makes me think of the islands - the Bluebird Orchid, Peony and Midnight Blooming Jasmine. I know that some of the enticement comes from Madagascar Vanilla, Musk and precious Woods. The combination is like a holiday in a bottle - without any of the expense or sun damage!

Beyoncé Pulse is the perfect winter scent because it brings the fun and sun of vacation and travel right to the comfort of home, with the added bonus of being an alluring perfume to boot.

If you want something a little different, a little exciting, get Beyoncé Pulse.

2012 just got a little more exciting.

Special Technology Report: You've Got to Get the NEW Dell Inspiron One 2320 All-In-One Computer!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 16:38:00 +0000

Since most of us live and breathe on our computers, having an ideal setup makes all the difference in your day, in your work, in your productivity.

One of the most revolutionary changes to make workday - and thus, my entire day - came thanks to Dell's NEW Inspiron One 2320.

This slim and trim all-in-one desktop is a fantastic option for families who can access entertainment as well as information or those of us who spend a time of time working away at screen.

The first thing I noticed is that because the screen is upright, only 66 mm thin and held up by a clear kickstand back, really the only real estate on my small desk that was taken up was the keyboard and mouse. It freed up so much space that I felt like not only more room to work, but room to breathe. Talk about a gift! You can choose to mount it to the wall as well, which is a fantastic way to work, don't you think? And with only the one power cord, your desktop remains uncluttered. At least until you dump all of your paperwork on it, anyway. Which makes me think this is a great option if you have room in the family room and/or kitchen too.

The other thing was the huuuuuge screen (23” WLED with 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) resolution). What a difference it makes! In fact, the first day I got less done than usual because I could see so much more - more tabs open, more documents to read - but after that, I became more efficient because everything was right there and I didn't have to go searching for it.

Then there was my posture. My fella is always worrying about my back because I hunch over my laptop all day. Despite having it elevated and a supportive chair, I still tend to bend my body into a "c" shape while I work. But because the screen is so big and upright on the Inspiron One 2320 my neck and posture remained straight. My body felt so much more relaxed not only throughout the day, but at the end of the day as well.

The keyboard is one of the nicest I've ever used. Easy on the fingers and compact without being hard to navigate, you'll have a hard time using others after this Rolls Royce version.

And out of all the computers I've tested and tried (I wrote for PC World Canada and Mac World Canada, amongst other tech publications and sites), the Inspiron One 2320 is by far the most fun to use. First of all, there's the touch screen aspect that gives my tired mouse hand a rest and makes me feel like I'm in Minority Report. And if you've got l'il ones, it comes pre-loaded with touch games like “Bug Blast” and “Drum Zone,” so they can get in on the fun too! Secondly, the feature Dell Stage lets you place "shortcuts to documents, music, photos, videos, and frequently used web pages right on the desktop," that look and feel like tiles, making them easy to see and access. This helps me track everything that I'm working on without having to go searching for everything. What a relief!

And Stage also includes SyncUP powered by Nero that "synchronizes content across other supported devices in your home network, and offers 2GB of free personal cloud storage to access and store favourite content anytime, from anywhere connected to a Wi-Fi network with browser access." So now you can work without being tethered to your desk. Whether that means while you're away on vacation or simply working out in the living room, this gives you options.

Thanks to the Intel 2nd generation Core i processor options, it's fast. Superfast. It's got built-in Wi-Fi and an HD webcam, so whether you're streaming HD movies or videos or making 'em, you know it's going to be great quality. And if you get the optional remote, you can watch TV on it too.

It's the perfect combination of family entertainment centre and work station rolled into one sleek computer.

If a new computer is on your list this year, I highly recommend Dell's Inspiron One 2320. It's got everything you want, plus a lot more that you'll soon discover you can't live without.

Get yours now.

Bobbi Brown's Lash Glamour Extreme Lengthening Mascara Changes Everything

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 14:51:00 +0000

Just because the holidays and New Year's are over, doesn't mean wanting to look glam goes out the window.

In fact, aren't the gray doldrums of January the perfect time to put a little oomph into your everyday look?

All it takes is a few swipes of Lash Glamour Extreme Lengthening Mascara by Bobbi Brown. I first experienced it at the TIFF Suite back in September, where makeup pro Melanie from Murale put it on me. It's her favourite, she said, because it doesn't clump and lengthens like no other.

Which is why I love it as not just a special occasion mascara, but an everyday one. The brush is so finely designed that as you swoop it on, the mascara - boasting olive-derived emollients, Vitamin B and humectants - adheres to each lash, lengthening it beyond anything that you've experienced and never clumping like you're used to. Or flaking. Or smudging.

Lash Glamour Extreme Lengthening Mascara is one of those products that once you find it, you hold it near and dear, because it not only changes your look, it changes your day.

Can you say that about your current mascara?

Get Bobbi Brown's Lash Glamour Extreme Lengthening Mascara now.

Soap & Glory's Peace Hand Hand Care Kit Is Insanely Addictive!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:19:00 +0000

Before moving into a new house last month, I went in to clean the dust and residue off of everything. Then of course, it all came back once we moved in and tore open boxes full of our stuff. Between the cleaning products and breaking down box after box, I needed to not only wash my hands a lot, but pamper them too as they became chapped and sore.

Soap & Glory's amazing Peace Love Hand Hand Care Kit has given me super soft, clean hands with the bonus of smelling so good, I can't stop inhaling their slightly sweet, springtime-is-here scent!

This super fun duo is wonderfully packaged and named - Wash Your Hands Of It soft liquid hand soap is pretty in pink and delivers the wonderful softness of shea butter . The fun photo of a 1950-ish housewife adds instant kitsch to your kitchen or bathroom. Hand Food nourishes your skin with shea butter, grape seed, macadamia and sweet almond oils and a fragrance that lingers, thank goodness. It even comes with a retro metal rack for extra visual interest.

This set makes a wonderful birthday, housewarming (hint, hint) or hostess gift. And if you just want to get one for yourself just because, that's okay too. In fact, get a couple. You're going to love it that much.

I do.

Buy Soap & Glory's extraordinary Peace Love Hand Hand Care Kit now.

Ruby's Red Wash Get Those Stains Out

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 15:33:00 +0000

Look, I'm just going to say it - some of us, many of us, have bloody underpants. It comes with being a lady and that's the simple truth.

But instead of having to throw away some of your favourite panties because of your period like you've been doing all of these years, it turns out you only need one thing - the amazing Ruby's Red Wash.

It's super easy to use:

- Rinse your undies under cool running water as soon as you can

- "After rinsing, use a small basin or plug up the bathroom sink and fill with just a bit of water, just enough to cover the stained area of the garment or material. You don’t need to immerse the entire piece in the water (or the solution). In fact, if you do, the blood will often travel or ‘bleed’, to the originally unstained areas, and then you’ve got more of a mess on your hands. If you’ve already done that, however, don’t worry, you can submerge a whole pair of panties, for instance."

- Pour a capful of Ruby's on the stain and rub with a soft-bristled brush. Most stains dissolve under 30 minutes, so you can leave it soaking if you need to go do something else.

The solution smells clean and fresh and is non-toxic and biodegradable. You can use it on any blood-stained clothes and bedding in addition to undies, so it saves you from having to get rid of your stuff, saving you a lot of time, money and energy.

It turns out that just because it's bloody, doesn't mean it's ruined.

Get Ruby's Red Wash now.

DesignZeit Has the Coolest Diary So You Can Plan the New Year in Style!

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 14:26:00 +0000

Every year, DesignZeit creates a new diary, giving you the opportunity to own a very limited-edition journal in which to record your appointments and commitments. Every year they include a colour editorial section on a visual arts topic (next year it's Australian architecture!). Isn't that soooo much better than something black, plastic and b-o-r-i-n-g from an office supply store that everyone and their brother is using?

The 2012 Edition is the beautiful A4 Architects & Designers Diary, featuring their 42nd topic - Comic Masters - An Idiosyncratic Overview. This scholarly commentary includes illustrations of Batman and Superman, L'i'l Abner, Joe Dope, The Spirit and Star Ledger and is found at the front of the diary. The artwork is truly stunning - it's like having the original comics right at your side!

I love the large size format (8.25" x 11.75") and that it's not only hardcover, but you get to choose the rich cover material: Black linen cloth, Metallic steel charcoal with new hammered texture (currently sold out), and Iridescent Red/Russet with weave pattern that shimmers gold. Talk about personalizing it to your taste (again, why would you choose a black plastic one when you could have this?)!

I am also head over heels with what feels like a European layout with a full week-at-a-glance across the top of two pages. Under each day's white box is a space for notes, time sheets and expenses. This fits right in with my freelance lifestyle, but also works whether you're contract, a full-time employee or an entrepreneur. I like that this is a different layout than most calendars I've used - it gives me a chance to work and think differently. What an opportunity to start the year off right.

Feel free to plan the hell out of this year and next with a 4-page year planner for 2012 and a 2-page forward planner for 2013. I know I'm going to! And for your convenience, there are also pages on international paper sizes and proof correction marks, as well as space for your most used names and addresses.

I spent a lot of time these last few months trying to find a planner that is really something. I found that and so much more in the 2012 Edition is the beautiful A4 Architects & Designers Diary from DesignZeit. And at the same price that you'd pay for a plain ol' boring one from the office supply store.

Oh yeah, it's going to be a great year. Order yours now!

Start the New Year Off Right with Calvin Klein's Forbidden Euphoria

noreply@blogger.com (the knack) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 16:10:00 +0000

Calvin Klein's fragrance Forbidden Euphoria is like sex between the sheets - sensual and just a little bit naughty. A little bit like letting your bra peek through your blouse, its just that little nudge toward sexual boldness. What an amazing scent. All at once young and fresh, it also has the depth to it that quite sophisticated. It's the perfect place to be.

I love how it evolves - sometimes there's a really deep pluminess and warmth and sometimes it is almost effervescent in its lightness. A heady mix of sparkling mandarin, peach blossom and iced raspberry gives way to the florals pink peony, tiger orchid and jasmine. The warm, pillowy part comes from patchouli, skin musks and cashmere woods.

Even the wide bottle with sensuous curves and swoops is gorgeous. What a great present - for yourself or someone you'd like to indulge.

Forbidden Euphoria will no doubt have you slow dancing and edging close to someone this new year. It is completely and utterly addictive - in and out of the sheets.

It's available at Bay stores across Canada, so get it now.