Not From Condensed

Winter seems to be coming to an end? That’s what us North Easterners thought last week when we turned the calendar over to March. Then we got slammed with the biggest snow storm of the season. I got let out of work early and all I wanted was a steaming cup of soup to sip on as I caught up on Oprah and soap operas. I could have called the Chinese place down the street to deliver me some hot and sour soup for the 2nd night in a row, but feeling like Miranda was not the confidence boost I was looking for.

Then I was reading my bible Daily Candy and they had featured a great soup place. Trouble was this soup shack was 3,000 miles away in Seattle. So now I am employing all my Seattle readers to go out and try Lect’s Soup Stop (http://lectssoupstop.com/) and tell me what I am missing. Lect’s serves two fresh varieties of soup every day; everything is local, natural ingredients and never made from that condensed nastiness. Stop in next Tuesday for Georgetown Beer Broccoli Bacon Cheddar or Friday for this original chowder Smoked Salmon Chowder. For just a fiver, you get a pint of soup to warm your soul, with some bread for dunking. Not only do you fill up on fresh ingredients, profits from your tasty lunch go to city charities. Now you don't have to feel guilty about chowing down. Head over to 5327 Denver Avenue South, to stock up on some soup before the March madness of snow creeps up on Seattle.

Luxe-aholics

Do you hate scouring the internet to see what the deals are out there? This is where Luxe Club One come into play. It does the dirty work for you. It finds the deals on various shopping sites and lists the offers for you to easily ready. You can scan the left hand column to see if your favorite store is slashing prices. To the right of the icon is the detailed description of what the offer is. Scan those and see if it is actually worth your effort. When you click into the icon, they take you directly to the retailer’s site. They feature new sites daily depending on who wants to lure customers in with more discounts. Don’t see anything today? Sign up for their emails and you will know when to pounce on that sweater on Shop Bop that has been slashed by 70%. This is a great resource to have in these tough economic times because you can indulge without spending as much as you once would. Keep this one in your back pocket of those tattered jeans, because soon enough you are going to need a pair of brand new ones.

LA Beauties

Thanks to Daily Candy, our LA readers can relax in the lap of luxury without feeling the pinch on the pocketbook:

Deal 1:
What: Score $15 haircuts from high-end stylists and assistants on Academy Training Nights at Neil George Salon (http://www.neilgeorge.biz/)
Why: Ninety percent off ain’t bad.When: Every other Tues., by appointment only.
Where: 9320 Civic Center Dr., b/t Santa Monica & Beverly Blvds., Beverly Hills (310-385-9332).

Deal 2:
What: Stop by Sky Sport & Spa (http://www.skysportspa.com/) and work out for a ten-spot. You know you love Workout and have always wanted a chance to get inside that gym.
Why: Drop and give them $10.
When: Mon.-Sat., 7 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: 8500 Wilshire Blvd., b/t La Cienega Blvd. & Le Doux Rd., Beverly Hills (310-652-7721).

Deal 3:
What: Relax — an hour-long massage will set you back $30 at the Tao Healing Arts Center/Shiatsu Massage School of California (http://www.thaconline.com/).
Why: That’s the rub.When:
Schedule varies. Call for appointment.
Where: 2309 Main St., b/t Strand St. & Hollister Ave., Santa Monica (310-581-0097).

Deal 4:
What: Guinea pigs get free (yes! free!) manicures, pedicures, and skin care services at Burke Williams (http://www.burkewilliamsspa.com/) training center.

Why: Ten-fingered discount.When: Every so often. Call to volunteer.

Where: 8659 Hayden Pl., off Higuera St., Culver City (310-839-5895).

Deal 5:

What: Book Marinello Spa Academy (http://www.marinello.com/def/main.aspx) for facials starting at $11, waxing at $7, and a V-Day minifacial and makeup sesh for $16.

Why: Hits the spa-t.

When: Tues.-Fri., 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Sat., 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where: 567 S. Fairfax Ave., b/t Lindenhurst Ave. & W. Sixth St. (323-931-1183).

So if you take advantage of these excellent deals, let me know and the other readers what a great time you had. Go ahead and feel your most fabulous self

Read this then buy

Shameless plug trying to make you fabulous!

Read this article from the LA Times by Melissa Magsaysay about how great a preppy blazer is: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/alltherage/2009/01/the-perfect-pre.html


Then buy this http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18981435


You know you want to have a look that is current and one of a kind. I only have one to sell so go get it!

Full Price? Are you kidding me?

Some of you may have heard of this thing called the internet; obviously since your reading this blog. But since there is a recession, the internet has been a fabulous resource for me to find the various sales for you to shop. Just a little help was given by Daily Candy and Lucky.

Seattle
Lamixx Clothing (http://www.lamixx.blogspot.com/) : Buy three, get one half off; 5 days left at these prices. Stock up on affordable classics that are just as sleek as they are affordable. Every piece is under $100, so there is no excuse to pass this sale up. Not from the Seattle area? Check it out online at 80spurple.com.
Violette (ekochic.com): This Pioneer Square gem is marking down fall and holiday merchandise from 40 to 70% through Thursday. Right now, you can scoop up names like Velvet, Karmel, Rebe, and more for serious bargains. 212 First Ave. S206-652-8991Mon.-Fri., 11-6; Sat., 11-5; Sun., 12-4
Last Waltz (lastwaltzboutique.com): Since closing the doors of its storefront this fall, former Belltown boutique La Rousse has been online only—until this week! A new partnership with Central-district shop Last Waltz has made a few key La Rousse items available in the eco-minded boutique. Also on tap: the store's winter sale with ample markdowns from 30 to 70%. 1406 18th Ave. 206-328-5512Tues.-Sun., 11-6Polite Society (shoppolitesociety.com): Upscale 1st Avenue boutique Polite Society is celebrating the New Year by marking down the store's entire stock throughout the month. Discounts of up to 40% make labels like Helmut Lang and Ted Baker a bit more recession-friendly. 1924 First Ave. 206-441-4796Mon.-Sat., 11-7; Sun., 11-5
Juniper (juniperinmadrona.com): This week, Madrona's green authority Juniper marks down its extensive selection of sustainable lines like Stewart+Brown, John Patrick Organics, and Souchi by up to 50%. 3314 E. Spring St. 206-838-7496Tues.-Sat., 11-6Lambs Ear (lambsearshoes.com): Enjoy savings of up to 50% the annual winter sale, with every remaining pair of shoes from fall and winter marked down—including hard-to-find lines like Ellen Verbeek, Mischa Lambpert, and Loeffler Randall—as well as handbags by Bare. 3516 Fremont Pl. N206-632-2626Mon.-Thurs., 11-6; Fri.-Sat., 11-7; Sun., 11-5

Washington D.C.
Treat (shoptreat.com): This Alexandria "sample sale" boutique is in the midst of a massive winter clearance on coveted brands like Milly, Theory, and Karen Zambos. Save 25% off the lowest price on any red-lined sale items, as well as an extra 30% with the purchase of two or more sale items. 114 S. Royal St. 703-535-3294Fri.-Sat., 11-7; Sun., 12-6
Profile: The stylish boutique is offering discounts of up to 40% on its winter merchandise, including evening-worthy dresses and gowns. 2003 11th St. 202-332-4111

Atlanta
Chelsea Parkes (chelseaparkes.com): Shop the online home shoe and accessory boutique and find deep discounts on year-round styles, including ballet wedges by Cole Haan–Air, pumps by Biviel, and basic black heels from Corso Como. 227 Sandy Springs Pl. 404-256-3344Mon.-Sat., 11-6
Sage (xhaleboutique.com): Snatch up great pieces you can wear right now during this chic boutique's winter blowout sale. Select clothing, accessories, and jewelry, as well as boots and shoes, all of which are now half-price. 37 W. Paces Ferry Rd. 404-233-8280Mon.-Fri., 11-8; Sat., 10-8; Sun., 12-6
Blonde (blondeathens.com): All fall and winter merchandise is dramatically reduced at this amazing boutique. Score great deals on pieces from Tucker, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, DVF, and Mara Hoffman. 1260 S. Milledge Ave. 706-353-6196Mon.-Sat., 12-6
The Fickle Manor (ficklemanor.com): Stop by this massive clearance sale, where multiple racks are now brimming with fall and winter merchandise that has been reduced from 25 to 75%. Heavily represented: Nicole Miller, Red Engine, Poleci, Nally, Millie, and Notice. 1402-4 N. Highland Ave. 404-541-0960Mon.-Sat., 10-6
Heliotrope Home (heliotropehome.com): This unconventional gift store has reduced select items storewide by 50 to 70% to make room for the new inventory arriving this month. Shop now for dramatic savings on gifts for upcoming birthdays—or even the next holiday season—including windowpane lanterns, Urban Rituelle soaps, candles and heirloom ornaments. 248 W. Ponce de Leon Ave. 404-371-0100Mon.-Thurs., 10-9; Fri.-Sat., 10-10; Sun., 11-8

Boston
Sara Campbell (saracampbell.com): Save up to 50% on clothing, shoes, accessories, and gifts
44 Plympton St. 617-482-7272Mon.-Fri., 10-5:30; Sat., 10-5
The Achilles Project (achilles-project.com): On Friday, January 16, and Saturday, January 17, the Achilles Project is hosting a special weekend sale event with deals on fall-winter pieces from Opening Ceremony, Diesel, Cavalli, and Wayne. Prices start at $50. 283 Summer St. 617-423-2257Event: Fri., 11:30-9; Sat., 12-9
X-hale boutique (xhaleboutique.com): Save up to 75 % on all winter stock at this Newton Highlands gem: Find denim by Goldsign and Joe's, Rese Pilates workout gear, and casualwear from Splendid, Ebb & Flow, and more. If your wardrobe has a gap, x-hale has the perfect solution. 25 Lincoln St., Newton617-581-6530Mon.-Wed., 10-5; Thurs., 10-7; Fri.-Sat., 10-5
Dress (dressboston.com): Save 40 to 60% on fall and holiday collections from 3.1 Phillip Lim, Adam, Lyell, Vanessa Bruno, Vena Cava, and others at Dress' end-of-season megasale. 221 Newbury St. 617-424-7125Mon.-Thurs., 11-7; Fri.-Sat., 11-6; Sun., 12-5

Chicago
Virtu (virtuchicago.com): In celebration of its 8TH anniversary, this boutique is offering 10% off storewide throughout the month. The highest savings—up to 40%—are on incredible holiday items, including Snow & Graham's holiday cards, tags, and gift wrap. 2034 N. Damen Ave. 773-235-3790Tues.-Sat., 11-6; Sun., 11-5
Material Possessions (materialpossessions.com): Now through the 18th, save 20 to 50% on glamorous home decor and jewelry at Material Posessions' semiannual sale. Additionally, all holiday items are now half off, so you can stock up on festive items for next year's celebrations. 704 N. Wabash Ave. 312-280-4885Mon.-Sat., 10-6; Sun., 12-5954 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka847-446-8840Mon.-Sat., 10-5
Tula (tulaboutique.com): Scoop up serious bargains during Tula boutique's Recessionista Relief Warehouse Sale this Wednesday, through Tuesday, January 20. Browse through racks priced at $25, $50, $100, and $200, and find amazing deals on lines like Sonia by Sonia Rykiel, Development by Erica Davies, and Hache. 3738 N. Southport Ave. 773-549-2876Event: Wed., Jan. 14 - Tues., Jan. 20Regular hours: Wed.-Fri., 11-7; Sat.-Sun., 11-6
Willow (shopwillow.net): Tired of predictable holiday cards? Stock up on fabulously cheeky holiday ones for 50% off for next year at Willow—our favorites include a crisp holiday wreath made out of laser-cut recycled cardboard, and a deck of cards featuring 50 fancy holiday cocktails. 908 N. Damen Ave. 773-772-0140Tues.-Fri., 11-7; Sat., 11-6; Sun., 12-4
House of Sole (houseofsole.net): Save a 75% on fall and winter footwear at House of Sole beginning Thursday. The epic sale kicks off Thursday evening, with cocktails, snacks, and an exclusive peek at the clearance racks. 1237 S. Michigan Ave. 312-834-0909Event: Thurs., Jan. 15, 6-9Regular hours: Tues.-Fri., 12-7; Sat., 11-7; Sun., 12-5

Dallas
Krimson & Klover: This Uptown retailer keeps us hooked with is constantly updated stock of on-trend clothing, jewelry, and accessories from fun brands like Shoshanna and Grace Sun. Save 20% on any one item through February. 3111 Cole Ave., Ste. 101214-871-2334

Houston
Encore (encorehouston.com): Local vintage emporium Encore is the perfect place to indulge your 2009 resolutions to dress better while also spending a lot less. This week, Lucky readers get a special 20 percent off any full-price item including new and gently-worn designer finds by Chanel, Moschino, Prada, and more. Plus, you'll also find sale items reduced to 80 percent of their original price. 6415 San Felipe, Suite J713-334-9327Tues.-Wed., 10-6; Thurs., 10-7; Fri.-Sat., 10-6 A Bientot: This accessories mecca epic winter sale runs just 2 days Monday, January 12, through January 13. Absolutely everything in the store—from A.V. Max bangles to Jeffrey Campbell heels—will be marked down from 20-80%. 3268 Westheimer Road713-523-3997Mon.-Sat., 10-5
Rebecca & Drew Manufacturing (rebeccaanddrew.com): In addition to custom-made shirts, design duo Rebecca & Drew recently created a chic line of separates. Right now, their sleek River Oaks space is stocked with an incredible array of fall and winter pieces—all marked down 35%. 2015 D West Gray713-522-7500Mon.-Sat., 10-6

Los Angeles
Ron Herman: Nothing beats this LA landmark’s annual post-holiday sale, always chock-full of amazing finds. Expect 50% reductions on tons of fall clothing by Rag & Bone, Inhabit, Rebecca Taylor, Alexander Wang, and others. 325 N. Beverly Dr., Beverly Hills310-550-0910Mon.-Sat., 10-7; Sun., 12-611677 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood310-207-0927Mon.-Sat., 10:30-7; Sun., 12-53900 Cross Creek Rd., Malibu310-317-6705Mon.-Sat., 10-6; Sun., 12-5
H.D. Buttercup: This sprawling home furnishings complex offers everything from antique Persian rugs to Moroccan lanterns to Assouline books, all arranged in individual, easy-to-browse mini boutiques. At its biannual sale through Thursday save up to 70% on bedding, home furnishings, and gift items. 3225 Helms Ave., Culver City310-558-8900Mon.-Sat., 10-7; Sun. 11-6
Sigerson Morrison: Superchic shoes—from ankle boots to round-toe flats—are at least half off original prices. 8307 W. Third St. 323-655-6133Mon.-Sat., 10:30-6:30; Sun., 12-5
Agent Provocateur: Save 50% on signature saucy underpinnings. Highlights include lacy bras, sheer panties, and sweet-meets-sexy slips. The sale runs through Tuesday, January 20. 7961 Melrose Ave. 323-653-0229Mon.-Sat., 11-7
Trina Turk: This L.A.-based designer's fall and holiday collections are half off regular prices. Our picks: graphic print tunics, beaded cropped cardigans, and vibrant knit dresses. 8008 W. Third St. 323-651-1382Mon.-Sat., 11-7; Sun., 12-5
Harmony Lane: An irresistible mix of practical and polished clothing is on sale: metallic LaRok tops, bold print Nieves Lavi dresses, and pintucked Plenty by Tracy Reese jackets are 50% off. 189 S. Beverly Dr. 310-777-8888Mon.-Fri., 10-7; Sat., 11-7; Sun., 12-5
Maxfield: Post-holiday sale features 60% markdowns on spruce-up-your-wardrobe pieces by Dries Van Noten, Gucci, Prada, and more. 8825 Melrose Ave. 310-274-8800Mon.-Sat., 11-7
Noodle Stories: At this fashion-forward boutique, look for sleek minimalist designer clothing by Malo, Yohji Yamamoto, and Martin Margiela reduced up to 50%. 8323 W. Third St. 323-651-1782Mon.- Sat., 10-6; Sun., 12-5
The Kids Are Alright: Visit this Long Beach spot for deep discounts on easy-to-wear clothing by Porridge, Corey Lynn Calter, Oligo Tissew, and Mink Pink, plus jewelry by Pade Vavre and others. The sale runs through the end of the month. 3405 E. Broadway, Long Beach562-433-5890Mon.-Sat., 10:30-7, Sun., 11-6
Jigsaw London: Smart, polished chiffon-lined cardigans, floaty cocktail-party dresses, crisp trousers, and other versatile silhouettes, along with shoes and bags, are reduced at least 30%. 225 26th St. 310-395-8883Mon.-Sat., 10-6; Sun., 12-5

Miami
Nordstrom (nordstrom.com): Shop the big designer finale sale Friday, through Wednesday, January 21. Save 65 to 70% off well-chosen fall 2008 American and European designer pieces, including lines such as D&G, Nanette Lepore, Theory, and Trina Turk. Found it for an even better price? Nordstrom will price match as long as you can prove the competition is offering a better price. Aventura Mall, 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura305-356-6900Mon.-Sat., 10-9:30; Sun., 12-8

NYC
Oak (oaknyc.com): The industrial-minimalist boutique is halving prices on clothes this week; starting Monday, they're marked down an additional 10%.28 Bond St. 212-677-1293208 N. Eighth St., Brooklyn 718-782-0521
Dempsey & Carroll (dempseyandcarroll.com): Stock up on personalized correspondence cards and envelopes during Dempsey & Carroll's annual sale, through Saturday, January 21. 1049 Lexington Ave. 212-570-4800
Eryn Brinié (erynbrinie.com): The already inexpensive Korean chain is reducing its entire stylish inventory 50% 501 Broadway212-625-9300
The Conran Shop (conranusa.com): One of our favorite design stores, the Conran Shop is offering accessories like Alexis Bittar jewelry and Gregor Jenkins tables up to 75% off. 407 E. 59th St. 212-755-9079
Shelly Steffee (shellysteffee.com): At her Meatpacking District boutique, save up to 65% off the elegant, modern fall 2008 collection. 34 Gansevoort St. 917-408-0409
Marithé + François Girbaud (girbaud.com): Stop by this French-based boutique for savings of 70 to 90% before its doors close on Thursday, January 15. 47 Wooster St. 212-625-0066
Yumi Kim (yumikim.com): All week long, Yumi King's cheery, feminine pieces are 50 to 80 percent off. 105 Stanton St. 646-452-8755
BoConcept (boconcept.us): All in-stock upholstered furniture from the eye-catching Scandinavian retailer is 20% off, through Monday, January 26.
Dramatics NYC (dramaticsnyc.com): This salon is slashing prices through the end of the month at its 9 locations throughout: Brazilian Blow Outs (regularly $350 to $550) are $250, Crown Highlights with a deep conditioner (regularly $75) are $30, and a 45-minute facial is $55 (regularly $110).
Links of London (linksoflondon.com): Fine contemporary jewelry, leather goods, and accessories are up to half off through Saturday.

Philly
Katye K (katyek.com): This new store (it has yet to celebrate its first anniversary) is kicking off a huge winter sale Monday. Find clothing from Ella Moss, Mike & Chris, Burning Torch, Velvet, JWLA, and more discounted between 30 and 50%, as well as accessories from 20 and 40% off. 510 Lancaster Ave., Haverford610-525-5552Tues.-Sat., 10-6
Claire Dickson: Nearly everything at this stylish boutique is on sale—from Theory and Nanette Lepore tops to Trina Turk and Tracy Reese dresses. The deals will last until the mid February, so stock up now; some goods are even discounted up to 70%. 545 Germantown Pk., Lafayette Hill610-825-8668Mon.-Sat., 9:30-5:30
Nicole Miller (nmphilly.com): Known for her elegant, timeless cocktail dresses, Nicole Miller makes go-to pieces for everything from parties to date nights. Starting this Thursday come by either location of the designer's boutiques and find select merchandise reduced between 50 and 75% during this semiannual sale. 4249 Main St., Manayunk215-930-0307Mon.-Sat., 11-7; Sun., 12-5200 South Broad St. 215-546-5007Mon.-Sat., 10-7; Sun., 12-5
Studio CL (thestudiocl.com): Relief for sufferers of dry, damaged hair during the frigid winter months: On Tuesdays and Thursdays through March 31 at this Center City salon, you can get nourishing keratin treatments for $100 (instead of $150), as well as dry haircuts (just come to your appointment with clean, dry hair) for $35 (instead of $70). 128 S. 19th St. 215-496-0604Mon.-Fri., 9-7:30Arcadia Boutique (arcadiaboutique.com): At this earth-friendly NoLibs boutique's second annual Hangover Sale, find all sale merchandise marked down an additional 20% (on top of 30 to 70% reductions) for the month. Plus, they'll take $20 off your entire bill when you spend $100. 819 N. Second St. 215-667-8099Wed.-Sat., 12-8; Sun., 12-5

Portland
Meringue Boutique (meringueboutique.com): Lake Oswego's colorful, on-trend boutique is holding its annual denim sale through Sunday, January 31. Save 30 to 70 % on Paige Premium Denim, William Rast, True Religion Brand Jeans, Seven for All Mankind, AG, and more. Select styles are marked a flat $50. 385 First St. Lake Oswego503-635-1063Mon.-Sat., 9-7; Sun., 10-6
Imelda's and Louie's (imeldasandlouies.com): Our go-to source for wearable, on-trend shoes, bags, and jewelry is hosting a post-holiday sale through Sunday. Save 20 to 70% on styles from Born, Frye, Jeffrey Campbell, Kenneth Cole, Earth, and more. 3426 SE Hawthorne 503-233-7476935 NW Everett St. 503-595-4970Mon.-Fri., 10-7; Sat., 10-6; Sun., 12-5
Office (officepdx.com): During this chic business boutique's first-ever Nesting Sale—from Fridayto Sunday, January 25—save 25% and take advantage of free shipping on furniture from Blu Dot and In Modern. 2204 NE Alberta St. 503-282-7200Tues.-Fri., 11-6; Sat., 11-5; Sun., 11-4
Moxie (moxiepdx.com): Now you have more of an incentive to stop by this boutique for current trends from local and independent designers: Save 20% through Thursday; plus, get up to 80% off already discounted sale items. 2400 E. Burnside503-29-MOXIETues.-Sat., 11-7; Sun., 12-6

San Fran
Karikter: Save up to 60% on merchandise at this European design shop, where you'll find Haba Toys, leather bags by My Wallit, gorgeous books, collectible goods by TinTin, and lots more. 418 Sutter St. 415-434-1120Mon.-Sat., 10-6; Sun., 12-5
Barneys New York Outlet (barneys.com): Save an additional 50 % on select merchandise during the Barneys Winter Clearance Blowout. Clearance items include spring and winter pieces by Rebecca Taylor, Marc Jacobs, Co-op, and Liquid. 629 Factory Dr., Napa 707-226-9876Mon.-Thurs., 10-8; Fri.-Sat., 10-9; Sun., 10-6
The Firm: Stop by the end-of-season sale for up to 60 percent savings on fall and winter merchandise. Expect day and evening options from names like Chaiken and Yumi Kim. 2999 Washington St. 415-409-0214Mon.-Sat., 11-7; Sun., 12-5
Ambiance: All store locations are marking down sale items an additional 20% for the entire month of January. Find stylish frocks by Free People, cocktail dresses by French Connection, and perfect-fitting Joe's jeans. 1864 Union St. (and other locations) 415-923-9797 Mon.-Fri., 11-7; Sat., 10-7; Sun., 11-7

To(e) Fun

If you didn’t have a shoe fetish before Sex and the City, I am sure you have one now. However it is hard to keep your closet stocked with Manalos and Louboutains while also eating three balanced meals. So us thrifty girls who need to keep our toes fabulous and our bellies full look to Kathryn Amberleigh for help. She has great classic shoes with a funky twist. The colors are vibrant and rich. Her collection is a fabulous way to enhance your current wardrobe and spice up your clothes you have bored with all season. The shoes are made with premium materials, but don’t carry the same price tag. Most of the pumps are under $150.


There are styles for everyone. The prepster in all of us will fall in love with the “Clara.” With a classic bow at the toe, they will look great with a neat navy blazer, and your pearls. There is no place like home when you slip into the “Lime-Light” pair. Playing rock-band at home? How about an Angelika for your feet? Every inner rock star needs these shoes to complete her skinny jeans and leather jacket. When I go to replace my ravaged black pumps, I am going to pick up the “Shorty.” The art-deco heel is so current right now, and spices up a basic pair of shoes. I am going to be purchasing a pair; however the real question is which ones. Since there is a little bit of each type of girl in me, it is going to be hard limiting myself

Sneaker(ly) Creative

Did you happen to get the most boring, plainest sneakers for Christmas? Can’t return them because Aunt Sharon always nags you because you have NEVER liked on of her gifts. Now you can satisfy your inner creative side and shut Aunt Sharon up this year. Check out SneakArt to jazz up your boring pair of kicks. This site lets you customize your sneakers for a fraction of the cost of some other sites and you can get your results with-in minutes. Those other sites make you wait weeks as they stitch together your “custom” sneakers. Are they even custom? I thought I saw my leopard print and skull converse sneakers on the girl across the street.
SneakArt offers stickers for you to adorn your sneakers. Their product is easy to use and takes minutes to complete. The unique stickers are weather proof and can withstand the elements. Bored with your current artistic expression? The stickers can be peeled off for you to start fresh. Give it a try to see how you can express your feelings through your feet

An Old But Clean Diaper

Thanks to Daily Candy:

Here’s a West Side Story you haven’t heard before.
You just met a girl named Maria, a single mother of two who was recently laid off.
Maria turns to charities for child-rearing necessities — but they, too, are down on their luck.
WestSide Baby (and its hardworking staff of two) — which supplies almost 95 social agencies in the Seattle area with diapers, cribs, clothing, and toys — has been forced to turn away requests due to donation shortages. And from September to early November alone, the nonprofit saw demand more than double.
Diapers (especially sizes three to six), car seats, and boys’ clothes are always needed. But with many shelves entirely empty, the nonprofit will gladly accept any item listed on its site in new or gently used condition.
Not everything’s free (or easy) in America.
WestSide Baby, 10032 15th Avenue Southwest (206-767-1662 or westsidebaby.org). To volunteer, e-mail volunteercoordinator@westsidebaby.org.

So if you are from the Seattle area or just feel compelled to help out, please take a moment and help those who have a budget much tighter. So if your kid's have already grown up and their crib is gathering dust, this is the perfect opportunity for you to clean out and make some room. Live in Boston and can't get your stuff to Seattle, try and find a local charity near you.

Lend Me the Latest

Times are tough and money needs to go to more important things than your romance novel collection. Can’t give up that small pleasure? Well why don’t you get back to your childhood roots and head to your local library. Do you know how much the library costs you to read the latest books? NOTHING; its free. In these economic times this is the greatest time to use your library. Go pick up the latest best seller for free. Can’t finish it in the two weeks you are allotted? Re-new the book and it is still free.

Another news flash! Since the last time you went to the library you probably had braces and DVD stood for who knows what, there have been significant changes as well. You can borrow (aka rent) the summer blockbuster you never go to the theaters to see or finally watch the classics. Once again a night in at home with a great movie only costs you the popcorn you attempted to make in the microwave before it burned.

Wake up and use the resources your tax dollars are funding. The library is one of the greatest resources your town has to offer. There are constantly special events that will bring a community together, and entertain your family for hours. So renew your love for the library, but remember to return your books on the due date. It would be a shame to have to pay that ten cent over-due fee.

Don't miss this rare deal

Please refer to my post on 9/13/08 about the atelier.....she is offering 50% off her merch....hurry up an buy buy buy

Don't miss this rare deal
One of my favorite stores on Etsy.com, the Atelier (http://www.theatelier.etsy.com) is having a summer clearance sale. The designer has the most exquisite jewelry that are unique and intriguing. The prices range from the very affordable to the more desirable. The pieces are original, classic, and creative. Colors are vibrant and will spruce up any outfit. To make everything better the Atelier is having a promotion, 40% off everything in stock. That necklace that may have been a bit of a reach could now be super affordable.
I purchased Lapis earrings that I have had my eye on for over a year. I am so happy The Atelier ran this promotion or I may have not purchased. Another great plus to this shop, is that The Atelier accepts returns.
The Atelier uses various materials from gold to semi-precious gemstones. Since the materials are of the earth, they will be different and have character all on its own. I am sure if you purchased a piece your friends would think that your husband or boyfriend broke the bank for your anniversary. But you can keep the secret to yourself that you were able to afford this incredible glamour on a budget.