Champagne Living

How to make the PERFECT pasta meal

2011-02-28T13:39:00.000-05:00

“It is so much more than just grabbing a jar of generic sauce at the store, boiling some water and mixing it all up in a bowl,” said Dave Hirschkop, the namesake of the Dave’s Gourmet (www.davesgourmet.com) line of sauces and veteran pasta and sauce aficionado. “There are subtle secrets in every step of the process, from choosing the sauce, boiling the water, and plating the finished meal that can take an everyday dull meal and turn it into a gourmet dining experience.”

He should know. His sauces have been named tops in the industry by the Sofi Awards two years running, making him a recognized expert in designing the perfect bowl of pasta. His tips include:

* Choosing the Pasta -- If you want a great pasta experience, choose a variety of pasta that receives the sauce and spices well. Thinner more delicate shapes should pair with lighter thinner sauces. Pick pasta made from durum wheat and a slightly rougher pasta or shaped pasta holds the sauce better.

* Choosing the Sauce -- Good marinara is made primarily from tomatoes, not tomato paste. If your sauce ingredients list paste, water or sugar as the first ingredient, then you need to put the jar down slowly and back away from it. Some sauces make a better base so don’t be afraid to doctor it with meat, cheese, or fresh veggies. Also, to keep your pasta love life interesting, experiment with different flavors of sauce (tomato cream, butternut, wild mushroom, etc.).

* Boiling the Pasta -- Use plenty of water, add salt to it, and never put dry pasta in the water until it has reached a rolling boil. Stir occasionally and, once the pasta nears the minimum cooking time on the package start tasting it. Take the pasta out when it is al dente or a little firm. The pasta will continue to cook a little after you take it out.

* Heating the Sauce – For an even more flavorful pasta dish take the pasta out of the water a few minutes early and let it finish cooking in the sauce.

* Plating the Pasta -- When you strain the pasta, do not run water over the pasta unless you are making a cold pasta salad. Make sure to strain really well as nobody likes watery pasta. Place a ladle of sauce at the bottom of your serving bowl before dumping the cooked pasta in. Then, ladle generous amounts of sauce into the bowl, and toss the pasta so the sauce is evenly distributed. Then you can add extra sauce to each plate according to your dinner guests’ taste. You might want to garnish each plate with some fresh basil or even parsley. Freshly grated Parmesan or Parmesan Reggiano is a great touch and tasty

* Preparing the Bread -- The bread is important, because at the end of the meal, a good textured bread can be used to soak up the excess sauce in the plate. To make the most of the bread, bake it for 6-8 minutes at 350 degrees. This will make for toasty nooks and crannies that will capture the sauce in your plate without letting the bread go limp or soggy. Garlic bread can also be a delicious alternative.

“A great pasta meal is all about the details and the creative flair,” Dave added. “If you take care to pay attention to those details and put forth a tiny bit of extra effort, every pasta meal at home can be a gourmet meal you can be proud of.”

You pierced WHAT?

2011-02-28T13:28:00.000-05:00

Amazingly, body trends are being followed by home and design trends, but it's not the little black dress that's being followed. Instead, you'll be seeing edgier trends including piercings, tattoo's and more. Check out these way's to pierce your home, without leaving a hole that won't close up!

Not ready to pierce your body? Check out atypyk for this pierced mug.

Belly button rings abound in Ron Gilad's lighting and wall fixtures.

Royal Holiday gets an "A"

2011-02-24T10:57:00.001-05:00

It's been a LONG time since I've seen a report card. Ben is an adult, and it's been a gazillion years since I was in a classroom, but I do recall the thrill of getting that piece of paper and seeing the first letter of the alphabet staring back at me.

It's no different when it's a company involved and they're getting that big "A" for doing things the RIGHT WAY. One of my favorite vacation companies "Royal Holiday" has just received that honor for their hard work of making guests and owners happy by the Better Business Bureau. If you're a long term reader, you know that Royal Holiday spoiled me in Cancun last year (and they can spoil you as well).

I'm thinking that an "A" is not enough...perhaps an A+? With their 100% customer satisfaction rating, you know that you're going to get the ULTIMATE experience.

To read more about how Royal Holiday measures up, just check out this recent article from CNBC

To celebrate their perfect score Royal Holiday is giving away a Sony Cybershot 12.1 Digital Camera to one of Champagne Living's readers!

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I've got a backstage pass for you

2011-02-24T08:34:00.001-05:00

Premieres, debuts and backstage passes...it's' great to be part of the "in" crowd. This Spring, Macy's is going to let YOU be a part of this special group as well, as long as you own a smartphone.

This spring, Macy's wants to help you to unlock magical moments in-store when you scan a code or send a text message with Macy's Backstage Pass. Using QR codes and your smartphone, you'll be able to receive exclusive videos staring celebrity designers and fashion authorities. The Backstage Pass will provide you with essential tips, information on the latest trends, advice and inspiration straight from your favorite style icons.

This mixture of entertainment and fashion, Macy's Backstage Pass codes will deliver 30-second films to your smartphone that provide fashion inspiration, advice and tips. Following the initial video feature, you will have the option to select longer length content that will take you even further backstage with each designer or brand.

Check out some of the designers that they have ligned up:

Bobbi Brown
Sean "Diddy" Combs
Tommy Hilfiger
Michael Kors
Greg Norman for Tasso Elba
Rachel Roy
Irina Shabayeva for I.N.C.
and a host of the nation's most influential fashion bloggers for Macy's newest exclusive collection, bar III.

Expect to also see Martha Stewart and Madonna's Material Girl in videos currently set to debut a few weeks following the launch.

Ready to try it NOW? Here's a sneak preview of what to expect with Rachel Roy's QR code. Simply scan it with your smartphone's QR reader (if don't already have a QR code reader application installed, Macy's will offer a free* QR reader download by texting "reader" to MACYS (62297).

For those without the technology on their phones, the videos are also accessible by texting the keyword found beside each Backstage Pass to MACYS (62297) and the exclusive content will be sent as an MMS message.

10 Ways to save at the gas pump

2011-02-24T07:56:00.001-05:00

Have you been to the pump lately? The price of gasoline is soaring, which means there's less in our wallet. If you follow the following 10 frugal fuel-consumption tips so you won't have to leave the gas pump with a half-empty tank.

1. Use Your Smart Phone
There are plenty of money-saving apps dedicated to trimming everyday expenses, some of which include travel costs. The GasBuddy app will coordinate your location with the best gas prices in your area. Another app worth test driving is CheapGas, which provides precise directions to the nearest and least-expensive gas station.

2. Shop Online
According to a recent study by Carnegie Melon's Green Institute, shopping online saves an average of 35-percent in gas consumption. Next time you're seeking a new pair of trousers, shop online to cut down on fuel costs. Those who prefer to avoid delivery charges can find plenty of free shipping coupons at sites like FreeShipping.org or CouponSherpa.com, which offer deals for popular stores like JCPenney, Verizon, Home Depot & DELL.

3. Lay-off the Lead Foot
We know everyone is in a hurry, but zipping through traffic is anything but gas efficient. Stick to the speed limit and remember speeds exceeding 40 mph force your vehicle to overcome forceful wind resistance, thus consuming fuel faster. Keep an eye on your odometer for maximum fuel efficiency.

4. Leave Rapid Starts to the Jack Rabbits
Do you race away from stop lights at the speed of Br'er Rabbit? You're wasting a lot of gas just to reach the next stop light a second faster.

5. Coordinate Carpools
Carpooling simply makes sense -- or is it cents? Use the Carpicipate app to locate like-minded neighbors or community members interested in sharing rides.

6. Be Loyal to Your Reward Card
Grocery stores like King Soopers offer up to 10-cents off per gallon for buying groceries and filling up at their tanks. Some stores offer an additional savings if you pay cash, when combined with your reward card. Just make sure you save your cashier's receipt to get the full savings.

7. Buy Discount Gas Gift Cards
Did you know you don't have to pay full price for a gift card? Sites like GiftCardGranny.com offer a diverse selection of discount gas gift cards from various card vendors. Run out of cash on your card? GiftCardGranny offers an alert on newly available discount gift cards, so you'll be notified every time there's a new card available.

8. Fuel Up at Warehouse Pumps
Filling up at your local warehouse club can save you anywhere from five to 10 cents on fuel compared to surrounding gas stations.

9. Give Generic a Go
Just like pantry staples and other generics, buying "off-brand" gas gets your car from place to place in the same shape as fuel from name-brand stations. In fact, it's often the same gas, yet the price can differ by about 20 cents a gallon.

10. Use Low Octane
According to NPR's Car Talk, using a higher octane gas when your car doesn't need it is worthless. Check your vehicle's manual to determine how low you can go.

Visit Go Frugal With These 10 Gas-Saving Tips to view the full article.

Bioidentical Hormones to the rescue

2011-02-23T23:18:00.001-05:00

Social media is an amazing thing. In my post-menopausal craziness I took the airwaves - or rather facebook. I'd been reading about bioidentical hormones. Oprah, Dr. Phil McGraw's wife Robin and MOST vocally, Suzanne Somers all swear by them. When I'd meet women who appeared to be younger than their age, I'd ask them how they stay looking like time stood still and the answer was always the same - bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Even on a trip to Vegas I had a manicurist at the spa at the Monte Carlo who I thought was about 40, tell me that she was turning 65, when I asked her HOW she stayed so young, she answered "bioidentical hormones."

BHRT can be an expensive proposition. IF you can even find a doctor who prescribes them you're looking at blood tests of about $500 followed by concoctions based on the result that are mixed specifically for you in a compound pharmacy and not covered by any health insurance.

My friend "A" from The Review Broads started on them about 6 months ago. Her entire life has changed as a result. She feels young, vitale and healthy again (at 62). Her skin and hair glow and her weight has stabilized. Her love life has blossomed and she's a new person.

So...I put out the call. I called out on facebook that I needed bioidentical hormones. Little did I know that you can purchase the all natural creams and pills directly. My call for help was answered that same day by email. I was offered a supply of At Last Naturals, a line of all, natural products for women – developed by a woman - for women who are experiencing the bothersome symptoms of menopause, perimenopause or PMS.

I began using them just abut 2 weeks ago. While I'm done with the hot flashes, my biggest concern was the insomnia that comes with menopause. I've been through all sorts of drugs, supplements, warm milk, etc. with nothing helping. I will say that since beginning my At Last Natural Equigest cream that I've actually been sleeping. If that's the only thing it ever does for me - it's worth a million dollars (I've been suffering with post-menopausal insomnia for over 15 years)...thankfully the Equigest that I started using only costs about $26 a tube.

The product line includes the following

· At Last Naturals Wild Yam Extra Strength Gel
· At Last Naturals Vaginal Gel
· At Last Naturals Wild Yam Meno-Herbs
· At Last Naturals Meno-Herbs2 (with Protykin)
- At Last Naturals Equigest Progesterone Cream

Are you experiencing PMS? Are you peri-menopausal? Or like me, have you been through "the change" and no longer feel yourself? Check out At Last Naturals, read their website (do you homework and talk to you doctor as well), pick up one of the many books on the subject.

Visit the At Last Naturals Facebook page for chances to win great prize packages or to learn more about the products and get fun, informative tips for breezing through body changes brought on by menopause, perimenopause and PMS.

I received product to facilitate this review, but all opinions are my own.

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The Fall Trend Report from Harper's Bazaar

2011-02-23T15:50:00.000-05:00

Harper's Bazaar's New York fall fashion verdict is in! If you've been wondering JUST what you'll be seeing in the coming months - you'll be craving crimson, getting crafty, sartorially speaking, mixing and matching all the season's fantastic new prints. Long and lean is the runway silhouette of the moment, be it a floor-grazing skirt or a smart pantsuit.

Here's what came across the runway -

Crimson Tide: A ruby red Wizard of Oz reference in Rodarte's finale added a shock of color to their collection's otherwise dusty, prairie-inspired palette. A wool shift in a striking red struck a cord at Carolina Herrera.

The Clash: Thakoon showed stripes mixed every which way and the result was dizzyingly chic.

Cloak & Swagger: A puffer-poncho hybrid at Alexander Wang showed the designer’s continually clever take on outerwear.

Luxury & Demand: Leopard, leather and luxury was the sartorial alliteration of Elie Tahari’s fall collection.

Great Lengths: Prabal Gurung's pale pink evening look swept the floor in the most elegant of ways.

Suit Yourself: Ralph Lauren’s pinstriped suit proved more appropriate for cocktail hour than the office. The swingy trousers and blouse-less vest were a sultry take on the menswear look.

For more FABULOUS photos and descriptions check out the New York trend report at Harper's Bazaar

La la La Rambla - Tea Collection

2011-02-22T15:27:00.002-05:00

I know that a lot of you are dealing with cold and snow once again, and just being able to look forward to new spring and summer clothing is a real treat. Today I have the honor of trying a dress from the new Spring 2011 collection of Women's clothing by Tea Collection.

The La Rambla dress is 100% cotton and for me it would be a year round dress (if I lived up north, I might put a thin turtleneck underneath it to change the look slightly in the winter and make it a bit warmer).

Tea Collection can be found in stores throughout the US. Check for a LOCATION near you, or purchase from online stores or directly from Tea Collection Online.

I received this dress to facilitate a review, all opinions are strictly my own.

The best apps for travel - guest post by Michelle Blackmore

2011-02-22T08:00:00.001-05:00

Now I’m sure you won’t remember either, but there was a time; so rumor has it; when mobile phones only made phone calls! It hardly seems possible now when there’s an app for our mobile phones so they can pretty much do anything and everything for us, bar mopping up the kitchen floor!

And our small plastic lifelong friends are essential when it comes to going on holiday too. With downloadable apps making our holidays even easier, here are the top travel apps on the market today:

‘Lonely Planet Phrase Book’ App - http://www.lonelyplanet.com/mobile/apple/iphone.php

There’s nothing worse than travelling overseas and making an embarrassing faux pas because you’ve used the wrong word for something, or you just want to say please and thank you in the native lingo. So get yourself Lonely Planet’s app which is full of useful phrases and quick references, over 600 in fact, in over 10 languages. And the best thing about this app is that the phrases you ask for are sent to you via text and come in phonics, which means you can pronounce them correctly too! You can also ask for audio recordings to make it even easier!

‘FlightTrack Pro’ App - http://www.mobiata.com/apps/flighttrackpro-iphone

A useful app if you fly a lot, this app will give you information prior to your flight which includes your boarding gate status and any delays it might be experiencing. It also includes information on your flight’s departure time and its estimated arrival time, based, when flying, the plane’s current speed, altitude and location! The app will also allow you to share your flight information via Facebook and Twitter, as well as email, which is useful if someone is picking you up from the airport.

'StayHip' app - http://www.mobiata.com/apps/stayhip-iphone

Looking to stay in a beautiful hotel? Well if Boutique style is your thing and city hopping is your travel ideal, then get yourself StayHip which will provide you with instant listings of over 400 Boutique hotels worldwide! Select a city or location and you’ll get information on room rates, availability and the route on how to get there!

‘Know What To Tip’ App -

It’s customary to tip in almost every country nowadays. But the amount you tip is very different from country to region and waiter to the concierge. So don’t risk offending anyone whilst you’re away, and certainly don’t risk getting dreadful service the follow day as you didn’t tip properly – get yourself the Know What To Tip App. This useful app will tell you what is the appropriate tip in over 100 countries from the bell boy to the tour guide to the waiter to the ski instructor!

‘Zagat To Go’ Restaurant Guide App - http://mobile.zagat.com/

Fancy eating somewhere really special? Need a restaurant that’s child friendly, or in a particular location? Well, for over 30 years Zagot To Go restaurant guide is considered the best! And now it’s available in an invaluable app. It rates over 40,000 restaurants worldwide and advises on menu, value for money, directions, even the decor of the restaurant!

‘HopStop’ Route Guide App -http://www.hopstop.com

If you’re on a city break and reliant on public transport it’s worth taking at look at HopStop – this handy app will map out the route from your location to the nearest underground/subway, railway station, bus stops and taxi ranks. Currently the app is available for over 15 major cities in Europe and America.

‘The Weather Channel’ App - http://www.weather.com/mobile/

Whether you want to check the weather a few days before you fly out or want to check the weather whilst you’re away the Weather Channel App, will provide you with a breakdown of the weather each day both locally and globally.

‘About Trip Journal’ App - http://www.trip-journal.com

Keep your holiday alive forever with this great app that allows you to capture your holiday whilst you’re enjoying it and keep it forever. Download images as you take them and video footage, load up blog entries and real-time updates. It’s linked to Google Earth so when your friends log in to see what you’re up to they can see where you are on your travels. It also links up to social networking sites such as Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

Michelle Blackmore is an experienced traveller and contributor to the http://www.heathrowinformation.co.uk Heathrow airport information website, which offers up-to-date information for air passengers flying into and out of the UK via Heathrow airport.

Article Source: http://www.articlecity.com/articles/travel_and_leisure/article_5754.shtml

The French rental - real or a hoax?

2011-02-21T10:23:00.001-05:00

There has been quite a bit of buzz lately about this new French Rent a Girlfriend site that has been passed around from one online user to the next. So much so, that over 500 women actually signed up to be RENTAL girlfriends the first day it went live, and not surprisingly over 5,000 men signed up to pay for the service. The first month brought 180,000 hits to this site.

Touted as a girlfriend rental (and NOT a protitution or escort site), http://www.loueunepetiteamie.com/ gives men in France the option of renting a date for an important event or even an hourly rate for a coffee house date.

The man behind loue une petite amie, has owned and operated the largest rental and leasing website in France. He contends that this is a service like any other (no sex involved). Interestingly, French law is rather vague on this whole issue (pimping is illegal, prostitution is not).

The question is...is it a hoax or not? The website's creator is now saying that it was simply a marketing ploy to create a fun classified ad site.

I'm thinking that we women need a girlfriend site as well. I read so many emails, message board updates, and tweets saying that the only friends that some people have are online. In 2011 it seems that it is much more difficult to meet new friends. Wouldn't it be fun to have a site where one could meet a wonderful new friend, in REAL life?

That's a "loue une petite amie" I can get behind (rental fees would be to cover the cost of the website...a one time fee).

A house of wine

2011-02-21T09:11:00.000-05:00

Well, perhaps not an ENTIRE house, but it's interesting to see what designers are doing with wine barrels these days. No, not those wine barrel chairs so popular in the early 70's. Today's designers have taken the wine barrel to NEW levels.

The Wine Barrel chandelier from Restoration Hardware.

The appropriately named "Tannin Lounger" by Kiernan Ball

What better way to keep your wine, then on a wine barrel stave wine rack?

Ready, Set, Tie that Scarf - Hermès

2011-02-20T08:53:00.000-05:00

Hold on one minute as I put away this brown paper bag. I've almost stopped hyperventilating.

It's time for the Hermès Sample Sale in Manhattan.

While scoring a Birkin might be difficult (you KNOW that the sales staff will grab them for themselves before the doors to the sale even open), you WILL be able to buy some fabulous silks, perfume, and of course some of Hermès signature jewelry, as well as leather goods, ties and ready to wear fashion.

Prices at the LAST sale were about 60% off of retail on average (with some items only 20% off). You probably won't find anything from THIS year's collection, but Hermès is classic, so it doesn't really matter. Be prepared to have limits placed on the amount of handbags and leather goods that you can purchase (the usual limit is 5)

The sale will be hosted at:
Soiffer Haskin, 317 W. 33rd St. (near 8th Ave.)

Dates & Times:
Wednesday, March 23rd, 9am~6pmThursday, March 24th, 9am~8pm
Friday, March 25th, 9am~6pm
Saturday, March 26th., 9am~6pm
Sunday, March 27th, 1pm~5pm

Ready, Set, Shop.....

Champagne Living Primer #3 - surround yourself with like minded people

2011-02-18T16:44:00.000-05:00

One of the keys to getting what you want out of life is to surround yourself with the right people. In the social media/blogging world I've been lucky to have some wonderful mentors. People like Katja Presnal of Skimbaco, Wendy Limauge of Sweeties Sweeps, Ava - Broad "A" from The Review Broads, and others have all helped me in different ways. Having people that you can bounce ideas off of, lean on in times of need, and of course be a good friend, all influence who you are and what you will become.

On the other side - think about how YOU influence the people in your world. By living up to your full potential, you have the power to influence others.

Yes, no matter what we're talking about, being friendship, work, or family it's all about relationships. This doesn't mean that you need to friend every Tom, Dick or Harry...pick and choose wisely who you surround yourself with. The quality of people in your life will help to shape your life.

Stay away from people who are negative or complain a lot. People who try to sway you from your goals are not people that you want to be around. Look around and see exactly who it is in your life that causes you problems and put those relationships on the back burner to focus on people who bring you happiness. They're more likely to help you along your journey.

CSN stores

2011-02-18T12:49:00.001-05:00

Valentine's Day has come and gone without a big to-do at The Mansion. I may not have "trained" Mr. S in the fine art of gift giving, but that doesn't mean that I went without getting an absolutely GORGEOUS piece of jewelry.

I've learned (the hard way) that if I REALLY want something...I buy it for myself. The hints, notes, pictures circled in magazines and left on the refrigerator door, all seem to be invisible. His idea of a gift, is getting me some wonderful chocolates....and if I'm not home as soon as he brings them in the house, I am assured that the box will have been opened before with pieces missing (and the candy moved around to sort of look like it belongs that way).

My newest "thing" is pearls. I have a stunning pearl necklace from my wedding (many years ago), that has gotten more beautiful with age. Two months ago I purchased a simple pair of pearl stud earrings, but for Valentine's Day I wanted a ring that could be worn not only for evening, but for every day. Something casual and inexpensive. Having shopped at CSN for modern furniture, I knew that I'd be able to find something AWESOME at ONE of their over 200 stores.

I found this beauty at CSN in their jewelry store. A quick look through the pearl rings (I used the search button to narrow down my options) and I KNEW that this cute little Skyline Silver Ring with a pearl and CZ accents (no one will EVER know they're not the real thing) would be perfect.

While I was shopping anyway (ah, the wonders of department store type shopping online), I took a look at the rugs. Clem (the mini bull-terrier) had made the kitchen rug "his own" and it was looking rather ragged from dog hair, and the stray wool that was coming off due to him grabbing it and running through the mansion...rug in mouth (of course he'd shake it a little for good measure).

This black rug with a rooster matches my kitchen colors PERFECTLY and is a great size for right in front of the sink.

It wasn't easy choosing though, considering just how many rugs that CSN carries.

My order arrived within a week and I've been very happy with the quality of both of my purchases. While the CSN stores can seem a bit overwhelming (just because they have over 200 online stores), once you get down to what you REALLY want, it's very easy to shop, order and even return (if you're not satisfied with your purchase).

CSN's 200+ stores are located at csnstores.com

I received a gift certificate to facilitate this review. All opinions are strictly my own.

Floral arranging made easy from Flower Duet

2011-02-17T12:29:00.000-05:00

One of my pleasures is to fill the mansion with flowers. I'm particularly fond of flowers that come from bulbs like tulips, lilies, daffodils, gladiolas, etc. There's nothing like walking into the house and see them on my dining room table, the hall table and other spots. They give a touch of spring during the winter and a bit of the outdoors the rest of the year. The scent and the delicate petals really call out to my senses.

I tend to purchase arrangements, mostly because I'm all thumbs when it comes to placing flowers in a vase. I can trim and make them look FULL, but I don't have that "artistic" sense when it comes to floral arranging.

I'm hoping that my new DVD Flower Arranging: Create A Gorgeous Bouquet/The Flower Duet Way: How To Create A European Wrap Bouquet will help me overcome my inability to create a beautiful arrangement. I sat down to watch it yesterday and Kit and Casey from Flowerduet make it look quite easy. This DVD includes instructions on making a bridal bouquet, a centerpiece and a tall organic bouquet.

Using just a few bunches of flowers, Kit and Casey walk you through the process of purchasing the the flowers, conditioning them, how to keep them fresh, creating sweet bouquets, and maintaining them so that they last. The step by step instructions are VERY easy to follow. For example when creating the bouquet you are instructed to hold the flower at 1:00 while turning the stem to 7:00. The demonstration of what this looks like makes it so that even someone like ME can do it.

Great for Do-It-Yourself Brides on a Budget: Get this DVD to learn how to create bridal bouquets, hand-tied posies and centerpieces
Includes Professional Florist Secrets: Flower Duet is on location at our favorite flower vendor to teach you how to choose fresh flowers and optimize their vase life
Learn more: This is the first of many Flower Duet DVDs to come - our series will include wired flowers for creating corsages and boutonnieres

I'm looking forward to the next DVD in the series, as I'd love to learn how to make all different types of arrangements. What a great way to learn how to arrange and save on your floral costs.

Flower Arranging: Create A Gorgeous Bouquet/The Flower Duet Way: How To Create A European Wrap Bouquet is available from the Flower Duet website.

I received a copy of this DVD to facilitate my review. All opinions are strictly my own.

Travel Auction for Charity

2011-02-16T16:58:00.000-05:00

Saturday, February 26 is the date that Keep Memory Alive will host its 15th annual Power of Love Gala at Bellagio in Las Vegas. Along with a whirlwind evening of live entertainment and culinary bliss, Power of Love guests will enjoy an unparalleled auction bidding experience with impressive, over-the-top items to benefit Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.

Take a look at some of the auctions! If you're in the Las Vegas area, it will be worth a visit.

Michael Mondavi Family Bella Italia Wine Tour

The highest bidder will see Italy from the eyes of the epicurean elite with an eight-night wine tour of Italy for four people created by Michael Mondavi. You will receive the VIP treatment at Italy’s best wineries while visiting the country’s stunning wine regions. The unforgettable experience includes unmatched accommodation and whimsical culinary indulgences.

Australia Over The Top

Four friends will go “down under” in a BIG way with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Australia. Guests will spend two nights in the beautiful cosmopolitan city of Sydney, and enjoy a spectacular luxury dinner cruise hosted by the legendary wines of Wolf Bass. Continuing the wine experience, guests will fly to Adelaide for 2 nights for an exclusive wine tasting with Penfolds Chief Winemaker Pater Gago, a private tour of famed Penfolds Magill Estate Winery and culinary escapade at Magill Estate Restaurant. Then, guests will see the Great Barrier Reef for four days aboard the MY Texas, a luxurious 145-foot yacht, and enjoy lavish food, wine and scenery.

Extravagance South Lake Tahoe Style

A fabulous and timeless weekend getaway to Lake Tahoe is in store for the highest bidder of this auction. The winner will be able to take along four guests to the home of the Ruvos’ beloved Shakespeare Ranch in the breath-taking Glenbrook Village. Visitors will spend a special weekend enjoying festivities including bull riding, barrel racing, carnival games, high-end barbecues and beach parties on the majestic shores of Lake Tahoe. Guests will also be spoiled with an intimate dinner provided by Superstar Chef Emeril Lagasse and will be surprised with a celebrity entertainer.

Generating the bulk of KMA’s annual revenue, the gala auction is imperative to the success of KMA’s and the Center for Brain Health’s mission to enhance treatments and research of neurocognitive disorders.

Have you ever figured The Real Cost of Living?

2011-02-16T07:47:00.000-05:00

What do you think you'd find if you sat down and figured out the REAL cost of your choices would be? Would you be OVERPAYING for college? Is it REALLY cheaper to own than to rent? I can't even FATHOM how much it cost me to have kids (sorry Ben, but you're an expensive proposition). Not that you should make ALL of your choices based on money, but think about it.

In The Real Cost of Living: Making the Best Choices for You, Your Life, and Your Money by Carmen Wong Ulrich, she tackles how to make better decisions (both large as well as small) that involve $$$. Not only that, but she weights the real cost of money vs. the real PERSONAL cost of making certain decisions (unusual for a personal finance book).

Included in her "real costs" are:

Home
Marriage and Divorce
Family
College
Bad Habits
Being Your Own Boss
Credit Cards
Saving
Investing

The only problem that I have is that when it comes to saving and investing, things (and figures) change constantly... so, take her advice, and do a little research to make sure that the numbers add up.

On a personal level, I found the chapter on college to be fascinating (considering "B" is a recent graduate). The cost of an education is extremely high these days, and when weighed against the declining job market, it's a pretty interesting equation. For example what is the value of $40,000 in college debt when the pay for college grads has DECREASED by 10% yet tuition has risen 20%? She doesn't suggest that you don't go to school, but rather to look at the options to lower your costs (both during and after the college years).

Overall, The Real Cost of Living is a good guidebook to keep your finances in check. It's uncomplicated methods and straight talk is refreshing.

The Real Cost of Living: Making the Best Choices for You, Your Life, and Your Money is available at bookstores everywhere.

We received a copy of this title for our book review. All opinions are strictly our own.

My postcard to Briggs & Riley

2011-02-14T15:08:00.000-05:00

"Having a wonderful time, wish you were here." - That should be my slogan. As you know, I'm a girl on the go. When I'm NOT on the go, I'm planning my next trip. There are times when my contact with people at home is via postcard, although my brother, loves to taunt me when he's away without me (see the postcard that I received from him not too long ago).

(Le Marais tu manque = The Marais misses you *)

I can pack for a trip in 15 minutes flat, I've done it so many times. If I'm staying 4 days or less, I simply roll everything into a duffel or carry-on, any longer and I have to take a real suitcase. As a travel writer (I write travel columns for a few different online venues as well as here in the "world travel" section) and someone who LOVES to spend her free time exploring new lands, my luggage takes a BEATING. When I add up just how much I've spent on buying luggage over the past ten years, I get SICK.

It's time for something that I can easily pack, can be used for airplane travel or just a weekend in South Beach, and LASTS. I've been doing my research and there are a few brands that can withstand a LIFETIME of travel. My pick?

Briggs & Riley

This weekend, I went out to buy myself a little Valentine's Day gift. I headed to the mall to shop (and have lunch with some friends). My first stop was to Bag 'n Baggage, mostly because I knew that they offered the largest selection of luggage. After browsing through the bags that seemed to be like what I have now (and I knew that one good toss by the flight crew and they were DONE), I made my way to "the wall." You know, "the wall" is the spot where they always put THE GOOD STUFF.

There were two lines of luggage in the category that I wanted. One was the brand that only comes in one color and has little to no personality, the other - Briggs & Riley, who offer three different lines, each of them very unique. After looking at the Baseline and Transcend lines, the saleswoman took down some of the BRX pieces. Yes, they're marketed for the adventure traveler, but really...isn't that what I am (I'm always looking for the next adventure).

Why BRX?

1. It's classic good looks. You know how I love fashion, but there's nothing like luggage that screams, I'm a classic. No one will ever know how long I've owned it, where it's been, or where it will be going next.

2. It's lightweight. VERY lightweight (the 19" carry-on is only 7 lbs and the 25 - 9 lbs, 10% - 20% less than other bags). That means an extra pair of shoes or two (or 3), without going over the weight limit for when I DO check. Plus I can easily lift the bag into my car, up a step, etc.

3. Docking system. Each of the pieces offer a clip which allows you to almost piggy-back one bag to the other. Check out the photo of the carry-on with the duffle clipped to it.

4. Expandable. Yes, even my old luggage expanded, but an expandable duffel???? AMAZING!

5. Hide-Away tag. - The luggage tag is HIDDEN and pops up when you pull the lever. No worries about someone seeing and stealing your information.

6. It's SO well made. - the hardware (zippers and pulls) are self-repairing and ergonomic, the fabric is water-resistant, ripstop and uses a variety of different fabrics to make it durable.

7. Wheels. - I didn't buy a wheeled piece because I wanted something to sling over my shoulder, but I checked out the cool wheels that can handle ANY terrain.

8. Lifetime Guarantee - Like all of Briggs & Riley luggage. If your bag is ever broken or damaged (even if it's by an airline baggage handler) they'll repair it FREE OF CHARGE. This is probably the NUMBER ONE reason that I purchase Briggs & Riley luggage. I only have to buy it ONCE and I'll have it for the rest of my life.

I purchased the Exchange 26 Duffle. It has some incredible features, like hidden backpack straps, LOTS of pockets, a shoulder strap with comfort padding and more. The BEST feature though? The fact that I can comfortably pack EVERYTHING that I need and NEVER have to worry about the airline ruining my bags. Oh, and yes...it's rugged, but it STILL looks great with a pair of red heels.

* The Marais runs from the 3rd to 4th district (or arrondissements) in Paris. I used to live nearby, and have gone back year after year, specifically to stay in the Marais. My brother visited without me last year...

While I received compensation from Collective Bias, all opinions are strictly my own.

Give your piggies a Valentine's Day gift!

2011-02-14T11:20:00.000-05:00

Today is Valentine's Day and I'm giving myself a gift. A Pedicure! I would normally go to the salon to have them done, but I'm still at the tail end of a cold, so I'll be relaxing at home, give MYSELF a spa day and enjoy. I have TWO issues when I do my nails (both at home and at the salon)....going outside immediately after without RUINING my pedicure by putting on shoes. In the summertime (flip-flop time) it's easy, but winter, even here in South Florida...going outside without socks on a 50 degree day is a bit chilly (I can only imagine what it would be like going out in Boston even in the fall and spring).

I've recently discovered Pedisavers. These little socks (that look like fingerless gloves) allow me to have a pedicure and run outside even when it's cold out, because I have SOCKS on.

This Valentine’s Day, nothing says “Be Mine” more than Pedisavers, a post-pedicure treat that will keep you standing pretty -- and standing strong -- in the fight against cancer! These one-size-fits-all specialty socks are the ultimate step towards perfect pediCUREs. Slide them on before polishing to seal in moisturizers, kick uncomfortable toe separators to the curb, and keep piggies toasty warm in flip-flops ALL the way home. Proceeds from pink pairs are donated breast cancer research. Every Pedisavers color is paired with a cause. Black, white, and soon -- teal -- give more than your toes some much needed TLC!

You can pick these great little socks up in salons nationwide.

I received product to facilitate this review. All opinions are strictly my own.

Haven't bought your Valentine's Day cards yet?

2011-02-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

Smitten Kittens

StoreyShop

The Hungry Workshop

Bella Muse

The WONDERFUL Manolo Blahnik

2011-02-11T17:02:00.000-05:00

Raised on a banana plantation in the Canary Islands, the exuberant Manolo Blahnik, designer of iconic women’s shoes, remains as joyful as ever about the possibilities of his art. Like Valentino and Lagerfeld, Blahnik is one of the last living lions of style. Talking to him, it’s easy to imagine him rushing around his space, continuing to work on his next fantastical stiletto. He has a warm, musical voice, and floats from subject to subject with the same joy and youthful curiosity that has informed his work from the very beginning.

Here are some quotes from his upcoming interview in United Airline's February edition of Hemispheres Magazine.

On toe cleavage:
“I think it’s more exciting and sensual... Before me, there was no toe cleavage at all. ”

On becoming a shoe designer:
“Things happen by accident. But now I love what I do, and I can’t live without it.”

On working:
“I like to create a very complicated shoe that looks simple. I get excited when I come to the factory. I could be there every day.”

On early exposure to fashion:
“The Canary Islands- it was very far away… I grew up with images- reading Vogue, with Irving Penn and Richard Avedon. Those people were my visual education.”

On his parents:
“It was mad the way we grew up. They were always encouraging us to paint- to do this, to do that.”

On staying joyful:
“Work. I work more now than I did thirty years ago. I feel absolutely responsible for all these people.”

On finding inspiration in old films:
“I adore films. It’s my diet, my nourishment.”

Let's Make-Up and be....

2011-02-11T15:50:00.000-05:00

While I can apply basic make-up without looking like a clown (yes, that's ME in that picture), I wouldn't say that I'm adept at applying eye make-up. One of the reasons is that my lids droop from age and I'm in desperate need of an eye-lift (if you're a plastic surgeon and are reading this and would like a lifestyle blogger to review your eye-lift services...feel free to e-mail me).

I've always wanted to learn how to create some of those sexy looks. Did I mention that I also wear glasses (when I'm too lazy to pop in my contacts)?

I NEEDED HELP!

That help arrived in the form of a book called Style Eyes by celebrity makeup artist Taylor Chang-Babaian.

Beginning with a clean slate, Taylor teaches step-by-step methods of how to NOT JUST apply eye-shadow, but how to conceal flaws, create a frame via perfect eyebrows and what do do when you where glasses. Whether you're in your 20's or over 40 - Taylor offers tricks for helping us look our best.

My BIGGEST concern is always trying to hide the dark circles under my eyes. I never really thought about how brightening the REST of my face with blush was a great way to look healthier and draw the attention AWAY from the dark hollows.

Upturned eyes
Thin lids
Deepset eyes
The SMOKY look
Using glitter
Natural look (I like this for every day)
Even the Sultry look
are all included and MORE...LOTS MORE

If you're like me, and can't figure out how to do your eyes WITHOUT looking like you drew with crayon all over the place (guilty), grab this great paperback book. It will end up alongside your cosmetics on the vanity...like mine is.

Style Eyes is available at Amazon.com for only $12.21 (less than I pay for eye-shadow).

I received a copy of this title for this book review. All opinions are strictly my own..

Champagne Living from someone who's DONE IT

2011-02-11T12:15:00.001-05:00

I love when things fall into my lap, like this e-mail that I received on The Review Broads this morning. It's just in sync with what my "Champagne Living Primer." I'm sharing it in it's entirety. I'm thinking that Mr. Jacobsen's book might be an inspirational read.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Phineas Fogg’s goal was speed when the character in Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days attempted to circumnavigate the globe. Larry Jacobson was going more for quality when he set sail for his trip, taking more than six years to live out an adventure he dreamed of as a child.

“When I was 13, I shattered both bones in my right leg while skiing, and was laid up for more than three months in a complete hip-to-toe cast,” remembered Jacobson, author of The Boy Behind The Gate (www.larryjacobson.com), his chronicle of his 2,070 days on the open sea. “My mother tried to keep me occupied, and I read every magazine my mom would bring home – from Popular Mechanics to Boy’s Life -- as I watched my friends play outside. When I was finally free of the cast, I remember hobbling around as my brother brought home an eight-foot Styrofoam Sea Snark dinghy he had rescued from a garbage pile. Most people would have seen trash, but I saw a super yacht. We repaired it and I painted it yellow, and began dreaming that one day I’d sail around the world.”

For most people, a childhood dream that grand would have remained just that – a childhood dream. Not for Jacobson, however. He began sailing as a teenager, against the wishes of his father who would have preferred he had taken up golf instead. By the time he was in high school, he began racing sailboats competitively, and was well on his way to making his dream come true. After getting his education and owning a travel business, he saw an opening to act on his dreams when his business was sold.

“As I analyzed the money I’d get for my share of the business, I realized I might have enough money to make my dream trip happen, with just a bit left over when I got back,” he added. “In reality, I spent just about every dime I had and then some, but I can’t think of any better use for money than making your life’s dream come true. The truth is, I feel like the luckiest man alive, because I don’t have to wonder ‘what if.’ I lived my dream, and had adventure enough to last three lifetimes. My only lament is that more people don’t seize their opportunities to fulfill their dreams. If I have any mission in life right now, it’s to let people know that we all have strength deep inside to live our dreams. We just don’t know it’s there until we need it”

Jacobson’s advice for others who feel their childhood – or professional or even current -- dreams have passed them by, include:

* Write it down – There is something about writing down your life’s ambitions and even your day-to-day goals on paper that just makes them more real. After all, if you can’t articulate your dreams to yourself, how will you ever come close to making them come true?

* Overcome the Fear -- When I made my choice, I was basically leaving a good business, good friends and a good life to venture into the biggest unknown there is. The main reason why many people never get to live their dreams is because they never take the plunge. They are so tethered to their daily lives that they cannot imagine how to live beyond that framework or the identity they have created for themselves. Ignore your fear of the unknown and embrace the adventure of something new. Letting go makes everything possible. Be willing to take a risk.

* Persevere – Dig deep for strength. When we had to stay up for 36 hours and hand steer our way to Australia after losing the autopilot and nearly losing the mast, we dug deep and found strength we didn’t know we had.

“I know it sounds like an infomercial, but the truth is that if you can dream it, you can do it,” he added. “We all have to choose how we live our lives, but the sad part is so many of us never realize that the choice is ultimately ours to make. We’re not forced into anything. We choose, on one level or another. We can live our dreams, or we can just live. What choice are you going to make?”

For more of Larry Jacobson's story - pick up his new book The Boy Behind the Gate: How His Dream of Sailing Around the World Became a Six-Year Odyssey of Adventure, Fear, Discovery and Love

The primer - living a passionate life

2011-02-11T08:03:00.000-05:00

By living your life with PASSION, the outcome will be a much more rewarding life, and THAT is one of the important cornerstones of the Champagne Living style of living.

Have you ever noticed that when you really love what you're doing, that you get immense enjoyment from even the most difficult tasks? Living your life with passion, not only for the people that you love, but your work, your community and even your home can bring an incredible sense of satisfaction.

Do you still have that passion?
What's keeping you from living your life with incredible gusto?
Do you take the time EVERY day to think about your dreams and goals?

If not ~
What's holding you back?

When is the LAST time that you dug into a project with incredible drive?

Remember that notebook you started last week with your dreams? Well, it's time to get passionate about those dreams.

Take out that notebook again and look at what you wrote. What items are you truly passionate about?

Take a look at HOW you spend most of your day.
What can you do to ignite some passion into your day?
How would you live TODAY if you knew it was your LAST day?

It's a deep sense of caring that allows us to live what we really love. Passion allows us to be creative, to take risks, and overcome the negative. Why just go through the motions when you can take that leap and create a more fulfilling life.

Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.

It's cold & flu season - protect yourself

2011-02-10T18:15:00.001-05:00

As a frequent traveler, I worry about germs. I was NEVER like this until recently, and now after getting sick on a recent trip, I'm even MORE concerned. I thought I was immune.

Now I notice the coughing and sneezing and the face that there's no way to keep armrests, handrails, etc., clean on a consistent basis. So I've joined the ranks of the hand sanitizer users. I keep a container in my car, one in my handbag, one in my carry on luggage and one on the kitchen counter. With all of this sanitizing, my skin gets DRY. Why? Because generally alcohol is used as a major ingredients.

This week I've had the opportunity to try a new Hand Sanitizer on the market called Veripur. Frankly, I wish I had brought it with me to Duluth a two weeks ago (where I caught this cold). It offers 4 hour conitnuous germ protection, so I could have put it on in the car and not had to worry again until I was on the plane. I have a 3 oz. tube, so I would have been able to bring in onboard in my little plastic baggie and protected myself AGAIN before landing.

What makes Veripur different than OTHER hand sanitizers? Well, besides the fact that it kills 99.99% of germs, it's alcohol free and actually moisturizes your skin...so no more dry skin from in an attempt to not get sick. Available in both a light fresh scent as well as unscented, Veripure is packed with vitamin E, avocado, jojoba, grape seed oils and natural extracts.

How VERIPUR™ with SafetyDerm® patented technology works:

• Deeply cleans and disinfects the skin
• Creates an invisible, undetectable shield on the surface of the skin that kills 99.9% of germs on contact and then continues to fight germs for four hours

VERIPUR™ Benefits:

• Kills 99.9% of germs upon application
• Four Hour Continuous germ protection after application
• Non-drying, alcohol free
• Contains hydrating moisturizers
• Helps prevent the spread of germs
• Tested and proven effective against 20 commonly found strains of bacteria and four viruses
• Convenient size for travel and to bring anywhere – the home, office, beach, sporting events and gym

VERIPUR™ is available exclusively at Walgreens in two sizes.

3 fl. oz tube for $5.99
13 fl. oz pump bottle for $10.99

I wrote this review while participating in a Mom Central Consulting blog tour on behalf of Veripur Hand Sanitizer Moisturizer. I received a Veripur product sample and a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate