ALL FOR A FEW PERFECT WORDS...

This book was given to me by my sister, for the holidays. She knew I dated Miki Dora, a world champion surfer, and he's the subject of this amazing and inspirational read.

Miki was the ultimate non-conformist, best surfer in the world, and con man who pulled scams all over the world and finally got caught after Interpol and the FBI closed in on him, (not when I knew him!). This book would make a great film, and I hear Leonardo Di Caprio has some interest in it, a perfect follow up to his Catch Me If You Can success.

If you're at all interested in surfing, surf culture, surf history, and the enigmatic Dora, this is a must. Beautifully written, painfully researched, and lovingly told, this story proves truth is stranger than fiction.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060773316/ref=s9subs_c6_14_at1-rfc_g1_si1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-1&pf_rd_r=0A5AKC7C8KXYCM0CD79Z&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=463383351&pf_rd_i=507846

TEA TIME...WITH A SPLASH OF STYLE

Hey, everyone loves a cup of tea this time of year. It's cold and snowy and what better way to fend off the chill --- and keep those summer vacation fantasies alive?

How about a lovely cup with this fabulous tea from my inspired and creative friend, illustrator Elaine Biss. I tell you, this girl is so talented, her fun, quirky, whimsical designs will cover the earth some day.

Check out http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18617260
and go get a cup of some hot style!

BOUNCING BACK

The economy is in free fall, I know. But I just got included in an article in the New York Post about entrepreneurs who, faced with hard times, turned adversity into advantage. It's called Bouncing Back, and I hope it will inspire you!


New York Post article:
http://www.nypost.com/seven/12082008/jobs/bouncing_back_143158.htm

GETTIN CLOSER TO OPRAH!

I just got invited to a dance performance of the Alvin Ailey dance troupe next week. It's their 50th anniversary and it should be exciting. My friend Marie invited me to be her guest, and what a surprise when she told me that Oprah will be there to congratulate the troupe on their long-lasting success.

Well, I'm one step closer to getting on the couch to tell Oprah what she did for me by having The Ah Ring in O magazine! It jumpstarted the business and I've been dying to thank her.

WHERE HOLLY GOLIGHTLY LIVED.

Yes, one of the best things about New York is walking around all the beautiful streets with brownstones on the Upper East side. Ever since I've lived here, I've wondered which apartment had Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn) as a tenant, and that was shown in the movie, Breakfast At Tiffany's.

Somehow, I discovered the address the other day, and walked right over there. Luckily, it's still there, gorgeous street and all, even in the midst of a building boom that mounts big, glass skyscrapers next to historic carriage houses and is threatening to destroy the charm and beauty of our turn of the century architecture. Wow, George Peppard was gorgeous in that film, too!

PEACE IS THE NEW BLACK!

Walking down Fifth Avenue today, after going though Central Park, I saw this slogan as part of a window display at Henri Bendel's today -- PEACE IS THE NEW BLACK. I was in Central Park for the Chanel/Karl Lagerfeld/Zaha Hadid Mobile Art experience. It leaves for London on Sunday, and was an architectural and artistic mind-blower, long live creativity.

MAKEUP'S MAGICAL NEW LOOK FOR HOLIDAY.

This gorgeous, glittering new look is hot off Parisian runways for Noel, 2008! From Dior Beauty, take inspiration for providing a little drama at your holiday parties. Get the shade Pure Diamonds, a nail polish at Saks Fifth Avenue for $19.00 and start planning what you'll wear!

SNAG THIS GOODIE BAG!

Anthony Luciano makes handbags that are more than just gorgeous, they are true works of art. One of a kind, with exotic skins, persian lamb, leather flowers and other couture samplings, you do need major cash IN your handbag to afford one. See them at www.anthonyluciano.com or pop into a Neiman Marcus for a look -- or to purchase these sure to be heirloom pieces.

GRAPHICALLY SPEAKING

This design blog www.dezeen.com offers the trendiest in design, architecture, graphics and more.

This cute and lively alphabet was designed by AIRSIDE, www.dezeen.com/category/graphics. A totally innovative way to look at your A,B,C's.

DAZED AND CONFUSED...ABOUT WINE?

If you're like me, I'm a little mystified in wine stores. I love browsing them, but find myself a tad confused with the enormous number of bottles...and truthfully, I really enjoy looking at the labels, a beautiful one gets me every time.

However, these smart people decided to pair up food and wine for you, in one simple and beautiful step. www.winethatloves.com makes it so easy to pick what wine goes with what food...genius! You won't have to guess about what to serve with pasta, fish, pizza, etc.

HEY, GIRLFRIEND!

It's been brought to my attention that September 21st is NATIONAL WOMEN'S FRIENDSHIP DAY...and since everyone knows we'd never survive without our girlfriends, let's celebrate that. Go to a movie, out to lunch, go shopping, get a mani together or try that new cocktail you've heard about.

One of the best websites that celebrates gal pals is www.girlfriendology.com --they're all about female friendship, inspiration, appreciation and celebration, plus support with podcasts (one featuring yours truly), contests, reviews, resources, videos, blogs and more.

DON'T YOU ADORE DIOR?

Don't miss Dior's Diva VIP online auction September 15th to 25th. You'll have a chance to bid on fabulous Dior prizes such as a day with a personal chef, a Dior beauty internship, a unique couture handbag filled with Dior makeup and an original piece of art designed by fashion illustrator Elaine Biss. It's for Look Good Feel Good charity, so bid away! You must register here first, www.adoredior.com.

MAD ABOUT MAD MEN

I have gone crazy for Don Draper! The AMC series, MAD MEN, runs Sunday nights, and is full of retro clothes, cars and careers! Having been an advertising copywriter for years myself, I'm stunned by the shenanigans that take place at Sterling Cooper. Working on Madison Avenue in New York was always my dream, and I eventually got there, albeit too late (thankfully) for the unbridled sex and imbibing of sauce that they depict....But I love the way it shows the creative process of advertising.

ROOM SERVICE

Look what just blew in from the Windy City...this fabulous shop in Chicago is worth a stop on your tour of the neighborhood. Gorgeous Mid-Century modern stuff, side by side with Vosges "Haute" chocolates, side by side with vases and other must haves for rooms in style. From one of a kind pieces -- to pieces you just have to have one of -- this is a store you'll love. Room Service is located at 5438 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL. 773-878-5438.

LATEST LOWDOWN ON LUSCIOUS LIPS

Aren't we all looking for bigger, more luscious lips....and for the perfect color to show them off? If you're like me, you've tried all the drug store brands and even popped for some super high-end delights (once I paid $65). Either way ---the shade isn't right, or it just evaporates into thin air.

Now, here comes something new to try that has fabulous wearability, great consistency, is non-drying and frankly, simply genius in the color department! Lipstick Queen lipsticks come in 10 sheer color shades (THE SAINTS) with a matching color in 10 opaque shades (THE SINNERS)! Find them at www.lipstickqueen.com or at Barney's New York. They retail for $18.00.

Chief Lipstick Queen, founder Poppy King, has devoted her life to coming up with the perfect pout. Also try her Oxymoron, a lipstick that she calls a "matte gloss" -- it looks matte but feels like a gloss. Four great subtle rosy shades that can also double as a cheek blush, $20.00.

TAG....YOU'RE IT!

I found these gorgeous tags on www.etsy.com from a great artist named Pacokeco. She is so talented -- and the work is such good quality. I received 8 tags for $3.00, a fabulous price for these hand made goodies. Etsy is all about handcrafted items that are unique and distinctive. Go take a look for paper goods and much, much more. Many artists will customize their order for you.

HOW TO SAVE $8,670.00

According to Page Six, Sexy Selita Eubanks, a Victoria's secret model, was spied at the fancy Borgata hotel in Atlantic City. Apparently, she was browsing for a diamond band, bought one and said, "I'm marrying me, I'm engaged to myself," before plunking down $9,000 for the sparkly diamond band...hmm, those of us in the know, know she could of saved $8,670.00 by buying herself an Ah Ring@ from www.divinediamonds.com!

TAKE THE FIFTH .... ON THE FOURTH!

Perfect for the barbeque, this festive design will really add some patriotic splash to the Fourth of July holiday. From Pommery, the Pop America series of champagne is a fun addition to celebrate our nation's independence.  Find it at www.sherry-lehmann.com.

We won't tell anyone how much it cost ($15.00 for the mini-bottle).

MMMMM....MASON AND MIA COSMETICS

This cosmetic line is sure to "tan-talize" you. Try Mason and Mia's bronzy and beautiful products for a golden glow.  From their Summer Dreamin' 2008 collection, you'll find bronzers, mineral veils, eyeshadows, and gloss. 

It's the best way to look like a day at the beach ---- without the damage. 

Visit www.masonandmiacosmetics.com.

CALLING ALL AUTHORS....

All you budding writers out there, did you know you can publish a hard copy book of photos, fiction, chick lit or anything you please? Check out www.blurb.com and you will get a hardbound book that looks like you made a six figure deal with a big time publisher!

GIMME SOME SUGAR!

Go check out www.sugarluxe.com for fantastic, fun, and affordable artwork that has a 60's funk sensibility. Created by artist Chandra Michaelsaka, her colorfully brilliant designs are only one part of this multi-talented artist's repertoire and mission. Card cases, compacts, key rings, and much more stuff...don't miss this!

ATTENTION FASHION ACCESSORY DESIGNERS...

I was just interviewed for a book called START YOUR OWN FASHION ACCESSORY BUSINESS, written by veteran writer Eileen Figure Sandlin. It will be out next year from Entrepreneur Press.

In the meantime, there are plenty of other great resources, plus many other books by Eileen, at www.entrepreneurpress.com.

SOAK THIS UP

Now that travel season is starting, I've found some cute little ways to pack some travel detergent, in case of an emergency on the road. Perfect for one sinkful of handwashing.

Visit www.soakwash.com for MINI SOAKS -- biodegradable, leakproof, 6 ml capsules at $1.25 each. Three scents, flora, citrus and fragrance-free.

Starbucks is a Star (now) in my book!

Hey, am I the last to know (since I steer clear of Starbucks 'cause the stuff is so good and soo fattening), that they have now started putting calorie counts on the coffees? This is such good news, and I hope many restaurants follow their lead.

I had something that was 60 calories and it feel great knowing that I didn't waste 500 calories of my day guzzling something down. Kudos to the marketing guy or girl that pushed that one through.

Get A Bigger Chest (of drawers!)

Ohhh...this chest has it all! Gorgeous silver leaf, great detailing, French flea market style and works with all types of decor from modern to antique.


Check out www.roomservicehome.com for this beauty and improve your look in any room -- bedroom, dining room or living room. 35" high x 35" wide x 22" deep. $1798.00.

Announcing Spring!

These gorgeous cards are perfect for Spring. In luscious pink and chocolate, Paulette of Paper Nosh.com's unique designs are found at Etsy.com. Announce anything in great style!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9927577

Turning a fresh eye on eyeglass chains

I'm always on the lookout for sparkling new items! Eyejewels from www.verseyejewels.com are sure to start the conversation going at a party, the office, and when you're out. If you've ever lost a pair of sunglasses, it's time to get eyeglass holders.

Now you can hang onto those expensive Prada glasses effortlessly. (And no, I do not mean old lady eyeglass holders!)

www.verseyejewels.com has come up with a fantastic collection of gorgeous eyeglass chains...they shimmer in stunning silver, or glitter in gold with diamond accents. These are not only unique, but cute, fun and really useful, too.

Have it your way!

Non-fattening but just as fast as a fast food burger, I'm enchanted with custom designing my own handbag. I discovered wwwBspurses.com where you can make your own style!

Choose hardware, fabric, handles, etc. and it instantly appears before your eyes via technology. Great prices, too from $45.00 to $150.00.

A kid's party where the gift is giving...

The next time you blow tons of money on your kid's birthday party, think about doing it THIS way next time. A "Giving Birthday Party" is about giving presents, not receiving them. The kids bring used books, gifts and cake mixes and then proceed to fill a birthday box for a very needy child who ordinarily wouldn't get a birthday celebration.

Please check out www.family-to-family.org.

The Paparazzi Experience...if you're not famous.

As savvy readers of Variety magazine know, the term "non-pro" refers to people who are not in the entertainment business. Well, now we find they are sick and tired of NOT being famous. Enter Celeb 4 A Day, a service which offers paparazzi coverage to the average Joe.

They will follow you around with cameras, take your photo, scream out your name, give you a pretend publicist, and a pretend bodygard, and even mock-up a magazine cover with your photos!!!

Toooooo crazy, right? L.A, San Francisco and Austin, Texas so far, soon to expand to the hinterlands. The piece they did on them on The Today Show was hilarious.

Tall, Dark and Handy!

OK, some of us single women don't know our way around a power drill, even if Barbara K made it with a blue handle...so girls, look what I discovered --- WWW.RENTAHUSBAND.COM! This site is the solution for your (handy)man needs.

We knew once you could rent a hot handbag at www.bagborroworsteal.com, getting a guy to get up on a ladder was right around the corner.

Get Your Mortgage Paid Off!!

I came across this amazing contest in Country Living magazine, a great publication that I read for tips on how to create comfy, cozy home environments -- which comes in handy in noisy, dirty, concrete New York City.

You could possibly win $250,000 to pay off the mortgage on your home! Enter at mortgage.countryliving.com for more information on the sweepstakes...unfortunately, here in New York city, that wouldn't even make a dent in most people's mortgages.

Divapreneur is born!

Hey, we all know a lot of savvy women who start businesses for themselves...(like yours truly!), but now there's a wonderful new website devoted to helping them!

A new community found at Divapreneur.ning.com is a great place for women to grow their businesses, network, find products, resources and just have fun! You need to be invited to join, so if you are interested, please contact me.

Tradition With a New Twist

These fine silhouette portraits give the classic heirloom look, but they are done with a new digital twist. Just email a photo to Sharman Armstrong, and she will illustrate the subject and embellish with all the detail that makes it custom. These are not paper cut-outs at all, but they have all the charm of the old classics and look amazing framed. Portraits start at $75.00 for an 8 x 10.

Contact her for more information at www.customsilhouettes.com.

Get "Carried" Away

OK, I stole that headline..but couldn't resist. The posters are all over town to promote the new SEX AND THE CITY movie, with a release date of May 30. So as they say, get ready for some more martinis, men, and Manolos!

Watch the trailer below:
www.sexandthecitymovie.com

WIN FREE STUFF...

It's easy to enter -- free and takes only a couple of seconds...Divine Diamonds.com is involved in a new contest with SONY PICUTRES and MTV for the DVD release of Jessica Simpson's film "Blonde Ambition." It's your chance to Rise To The Top.

You might win The Ah Ring, and some other cool stuff like a Sony VAIO notebook, and $1500 in clothes and accessories from Famous Fashions with a makeover thrown in.

Enter here:
www.divinediamonds.com

It Takes A Village....(to date these days).

Yes, girls...men are so hard to understand that it takes a whole heap of girlfriends to help figure them out, right? Well, there's a new book out you're going to want to own, which sheds some light on the way guys REALLY think. It's by a smokin' hot dude with a lot of attitude, and it will let you in on secrets that you need to know.

It's called The Manual: A True Bad Boy Explains How Men Think, Date, and Mate--and What Women Can Do to Come Out on Top by Steve Santagati, and you can get it at www.amazon.com.

Divine Goodness (In Chocolate)

I just happened into a gourmet chocolate boutique today, and amongst the $65.00 a pound chocolates (hey, this is New York City!), I found a little sweet taste that is absolutely DIVINE!

That's right, for $1.59 DIVINE Chocolates "heavenly chocolate with a heart" as they say, were absolutely delicious....the 1.5 oz. bar of dark chocolate melted in my mouth. They have a very interesting story about how the chocolate is created, and they sell across the country. Visit them at www.divinechocolateusa.com.

Check back later, closer to Valentine's Day for a little sweet giveaway.

Pocket Pal

We know we all have to shape up for the New Year, but as those resolutions fall by the wayside, here is one thing will make it sooooo much easier. This pedometer from Sportline looks just like a credit card, thin and chic, and fits in your pocket. Counts calories and steps and looks good in three different fun colors. ThinQ Pocket Pedometer is $30.00 from www.sportline.com

Pandora would have loved this box!

If you're a jewelry collector like me, you need a nice home for your jewelry. Two beautiful examples are the antique silver or ivory lacquer Lux Jewelry Boxes, both with a black velvet lining from www.westelm.com ($89.00). They are a nice size -- 16" x 13" x 9"tall, and have a tasseled key and Asian looking, decorative lock motif, and they're so pretty you'll want to leave them on the dresser. Or put them in the bathroom and fill with all those makeup brushes and pencils that have been taking up space on the shelf.

Baby... It's MORE than cold outside.

Well, the temperature has dropped here in New York City, so I thought it appropriate to recommend something warm and cozy and -- on sale! The new Garnet Hill catalog has a luscious soft cotton jersey robe trimmed in cashmere that's ankle length with a long, lean silhouette. Best of all it's marked down ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS.....that's right, it's only $48.00 instead of $148.00! No more raggy bathrobes, ever! Visit www.garnethill.com.