America Battles Obesity, Dropping 5 Million Pounds
With health care legislation pending in Congress, Americans are anxious to see how the government will respond to the nation’s biggest obstacle to wellness: obesity. Even with reform and advances in medicine on the horizon, nearly 1.5 million citizens have taken matters into their own hands, joining Dr. Ian Smith’s 50 Million Pound Challenge, which announced this week the loss of its 5 millionth pound – a watershed moment for the members of The Challenge and for a nation struggling against obesity and its medical consequences.
The hard truth is that two-thirds of Americans are overweight and obesity-related costs run up a $147 billion tab annually. But momentum from September’s 50 Million Pound Challenge Walk Off, which brought together 16 city governments and 6,000 people in more than 80 cities across America, inspired veteran Challengers and newcomers alike to drive harder toward the 5 million pound milestone this month. Faced with recent studies claiming that women overweight in their middle age suffer greater risk of severe health problems in later years and that obesity is quickly becoming the leading cause of cancer in Western countries, Challengers are taking their weight loss more earnestly than ever before.
The 50 Million Pound Challenge
“Two and a half years ago we charged ourselves – as individuals, as communities and as a nation – to turn the health crisis in America around,” said Dr. Ian Smith, founder of The 50 Million Pound Challenge and New York Times bestselling author of The 4 Day Diet. “Together we’ve lost more than 5 million pounds and made big strides toward improving our lives and lifting the heavy burden of obesity from America’s health care costs. We proved that The Challenge is an historical movement.”
As the 5 million pound accomplishment indicates, members of the Challenge have had unprecedented success losing weight. The 50 Million Pound Challenge takes a community-based approach that provides members with free resources at 50millionpounds.com, including a 30-day diet plan, online journal, personal weight and activity trackers, and interactive support system needed for long-term success. The 50 Million Pound Challenge is free thanks to State Farm®, whose agents provide free information about the Challenge to their communities, and who are also losing weight as part of the growing community of Challengers.
Challengers across the country have had life-changing experiences achieving their share of the weight loss. Craig Nash of Chicago, IL, lost 199 pounds. Charmen Daley of Orlando, FL, lost 127 pounds. Kenya Morgan of Salisbury, NC, lost 70 pounds. “I knew that I wanted to be there for my husband and children and they deserved to have me at my best. There is no greater motivation than that,” Morgan said.
THE WHITE HOUSE RESPONDS DIRECTLY TO THE WOMEN OF iVILLAGE
ABOUT THE HEALTH CARE DEBATE
Women Concerned About Cost & Quality of Care and Medication, Pre-existing Conditions, and Health Issues Specifically Affecting Women
Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius responds to questions from the iVillage community about health care reform in a video produced by the Administration, which breaks exclusively on iVillage.com (www.ivillage.com/michelleobama). First Lady Michelle Obama began the health care reform conversation in a video message that first broke on iVillage last week.
The community’s questions centered around common themes, including the cost of care; insurance; pre-existing conditions; women’s health issues, such as infertility and breast cancer; quality of care and the high cost of drugs.
“Health care is clearly top-of-mind for the women of iVillage, and that was reflected in the outpouring of thoughtful, substantive questions from them,” said Jodi Kahn, Executive Vice President, iVillage. “We’re so glad to provide this incredible opportunity for the iVillage community to engage with the White House on such an important issue that dramatically impacts women and their families.”
Here are some highlights from Secretary Sebelius’ video response.
On pre-existing conditions: “One of the new features of new insurance marketplace is….insurance companies will no longer be able to eliminate folks based on a pre-existing condition; there will be a limit for how much they can charge for out-of-pocket costs.”
On women’s health issues like maternity leave: “Too many policies have no maternity coverage at all,” replies Sebelius. “That has to change.”
Got questions? iVillage.com has the answers…by Christabelle
Wow is all I have to say when I logged onto iVillage.com this morning. I hate to admit it has been a while, but what a pleasant surprise when I saw an entirely re-designed website – and yes – it has an OMG factor that kept me surfing for hours (to the dismay of the Monday morning work pile sitting next to me).
With a fresh new look, content that is relevant and modern and tons of new categories to choose from, I actually bumped out Facebook as my home page and have now dedicated it to iVillage.com! The new site sprinkles in a little bit for everyone (from Entertainment and Parenting to Beauty and Style) , but what truly caught my attention was the Halloween section.
A tiny bit obsessed (ok – maybe not so tiny) with the upcoming festivities – I have been on the mad hunt for inexpensive ways to prepare all of my munchkins (aka my friend’s kids) for trick-or-treating around the neighborhood. With a firm padlock on my wallet, my credit cards have been jailed and virtually out of use…but with some fantastic tips I found at iVillage.com/Halloween – I can actually make some really super-cute costumes for the kiddies with stuff I already have lying around the house. Economical and green (insert a little pat on my own back).
Whether you want to turn your kid into a Fruit of the Loom guy (think purple balloons), a robot (think tinfoil) or a bathing baby (think a supped up red wagon) – you can do it all FOR UNDER $10 (and yes, I did put it to the test…I came in spending $8.53 at the local Walgreens).
Check out full costume instructions at iVillage.com/Halloween how-to-videos by clicking HERE . Have fun and enjoy a Halloween that doesn’t spook out your bank account.
Whole Foods is opening up in my neighborhood at the end of this summer. I couldn’t be more excited to shop…fresh foods – organic greens – fair trade items…this is sure going to beat shopping at the Associated Grocery Store (which I lovingly call the “Ass-Can”) around the corner from where I live. As I prepare for my dream grocer to arrive, I am also conditioning myself to be more green and hug Earth just a little bit tighter. How, you ask, can I do that and still be stylish and every bit the fashionista I am? Simply put, with ECOBAGS.
Did you know that the US Environmental Protection Agency states that over 380 billion (with a “b”) plastic bags, sacks and wraps are consumed in our country this year? That’s A LOT of plastic – worse yet – only .06% is recycled. That is why I have devoted myself to shopping with ECOBAGS Totes With Quotes – the eco-friendly reusable bags that are stylish, affordable, fashion forward and GOOD FOR THE PLANET! With celebrity followers like Jessica Biel and Rachel McAdams, you know you are on fashion’s fast track.
With totes featuring “Get Hip To Green”, “Think Global Act Local” , “Make Love Not Carbon”, “Talk Green to Me” and my personal favorite “Nothing On Me is Plastic”; there is sure to be a bag for everyone…including the rocker, the activist, the eco-aware, the parent and even the envogue. Toss these machine washable totes into your purse when you shop at the grocery store, farmer’s market, even at the mall (each bag can hold up to the equivalent of 4-5 plastic bags). They are great for road trips, the gym and vacations…I have become the talk of the beach with my ECOBAG draped across my shoulder.
With price points that vary from $5.99 – $16, you can follow the BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag) mantra even on a budget! Check out ECOBAGS.com and find the bag that suits your persona.
Anyone who knows me for five minutes, knows about my obsession with psychics. Since I was a youngster, I have been fascinated by the mystical and metaphysical, saving my money to treat myself to psychic readings twice a year. I have had my share of “bad” experiences…including one who told me I would never have kids and one who told me I was a witch in my past life (yes…two things NO woman wants to hear). But when my path crossed with Justine Kenzer (AKA PsychicGirl), she became my one and only.
Justine gave me my first reading over the computer, which I thought would be a bit impersonal – how could her psychic guides read me throught the world wide web. My reading wound up being not only warm and comforting – it also resulted in a HUGE WOW moment in my life. Justine sprinkled my reading with humor, kind words and honesty – alongside her true clairvoyent abilities to read into my past, present and future. Her insight is remarkable and her predictions freakishly on target. With celebrity clients like Eva Longoria, Teri Hatcher, Karen Allen, Carmen Electra and Suzanne Sommers…would you expect any less? Now, on year six of knowing and loving Justine, she has become not only my personal ‘PsychicGirl‘ but a dear friend whose talent and skills continue to overwhelm me with every reading. Skeptics are welcome – you will walk away with your jaw dropped to the floor wondering to yourself ‘how does this stunning, fashionable, raven haired woman do it?’…I have stopped asking her how and just learned to trust her visions and know she always has an eye out for my best interests. Read what her other clients are saying if you don’t believe me (which you always should!) by clicking HERE.
Readings with PsychicGirl Justine Kenzer can be arranged via phone, in person and even over IM! Yes, technology has definitely caught up with this ancient tradition. Book in advance - PsychicGirl has a bevy of clients that keep her booked up pretty solid. And know your money has been well earned and spent as a 35-40 minute reading will cost you $200 (via PayPal). Have a question about readings? Contact her at justine@psychicgirl.com.
Now here comes the reallllly good part…PsychicGirl is giving one lucky Christabelle’s Closet reader and shopper a FREE 35-40 minute reading (a $200 value).
HOW TO ENTER: THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED!
Just hop over to PsychicGirl.com and come back here and add a comment to this post on why you think Justine Kenzer – PSYCHICGIRL – is the coolest, most talented psychic around! Contest closes on July 10, 2009 (Midnight EST). ONE lucky winner will be chosen on July 11, 2009. Winner will be notified directly via email and will be responsible for setting up their own appointment. No purchase necessary. US residents only. Must be 18 to enter. Void where prohibited. One entry only, please!
In order to graduate from the University of Rhode Island, I needed to finish a 25 page term paper…the topic escapes me now (since it was 100 years ago)…but what happened to me at 3 AM will stick with me for life. Sitting in my sorority chapter room, I typed the final few sentences on my word processor (am I dating myself?) feeling accomplished, preparing smugly for my “A”, when I kicked the plug out of the wall. No auto save…no nothing. My paper was LOST. As I cried my eyes out…pulled out a few hairs…and downed a bottle of tequila – I prayed there was some sort of back-up system on my WP – needless to say – there was not. Arm and protect your favorite college bound graduate with some fabulous new gadgets that will not only SAVE their work (and lives), but enhance their presentations and keep their systems running smooth as butter. I smell a 4.0…
Baby got back…or at least baby got backed up with Segate Replica Complete PC Backup Systems. No more stacks of disks, flash drives and CD’ s cluttering their desk, book bag and shelves! The Replica by Seagate continuously stores up-to-date copies of EVERYTHING on your PC. Your graduate will never have an issue with lost papers, photos, music, or videos, but will also NEVER have to worry about computer crashes, hardware failure, accidental file deletion and evil viruses. Seagate Replica copies it all (including your operating system, programs and other software). If you have an issue you can simply restore your entire PC to a previous point in time when your computer was error-free, without having to spend countless hours of reconfiguring settings and applying applications that are confusing and time consuming. Just connect your Replica via USB cable and click a few buttons. It is truly that simple and is the life preserver for anyone who owns a computer. With a SRP of $130 – The Seagate Replica Complete PC Backup (250 GB) can be the difference between keeping your sanity and being committed to a padded cell – well worth the money for sure. They even have a multi PC (500 GB) version that comes with a docking station.
Now that their information is vaulted - protect the actual laptop and keep it cool! iHome’s Laptop Cooling Pad is a must have gadget that houses 2 built-in fans to keep your laptop from overheating. Powered directly from your notebook’s USB port (so no batteries, plug ins etc needed), the iHome’s Laptop Cooling Pad provides continuous air flow under your notebook that gives your machine maximum performance while keeping it chilled. Sort of like a compact air conditioner, but for your PC. Completely portable and lightweight, the compartment underneath the cooling pad stows the USB cable for convenient packing and traveling. With a suggested retail price of $29.99 – this adjustable cooling pad can fit any size laptop with a secure fit and a promise of cooling circulation…a grad gotta-have-it!
Late night study groups always have one thing in common – CAFFEINE. Whether it is a bottom-less mug of java or a beloved Red Bull - these tasty jolting treats have a high risk of spillage (especially into the wee hours of the night). Forget the pages of your textbook being stuck together – what about your mouse and keyboard! In most cases – this would be a “fried” nightmare. But not if your accessories are made by Unotron! Waterproof – Spillseal Technology and Germ Proof – Unotron is keeping students happy on campuses across the nation. Unotron’s latest washable keyboard even has an antimicrobial additive in the plastic to protect the product. The GermStopper SpillSeal® Washable corded keyboard is washable by design encouraging to wipe, wash and sterilize their keyboards to help “stop germs”. SpillSeal® keyboards feature a hermetically sealed casings that prevent solid matter and fluids from entering the keyboard where they cannot be flushed out. The Scroll Seal Washable Optical Mouse has all of the functions of a regular mouse, but has a sealed structure that lets you wash and sterlize it. It can even withstand being immersed in antibacterial solutions and rinsed under your kitchen sink! WOW…no more germs spread from your dirty roommate’s paws…SRP $45.99 (keyboard); $69.99 (mouse) at UnitronOnline.com
Class presentations ain’t what they used to be…long gone are the posterboard presentations and zerox copied handouts. Presentations have become more and more technologically competitive, so arm your grad with tools that will help to not only impress the crowd, but also help to create a concise and thorough demonstation of work. Canson’s PAPERSHOW is a revolutionary Plug&Play solution which makes it possible to project one’s handwritten notes directly on a screen! VERY COOL TO SAY THE LEAST! The PAPERSHOW solution contains the special interactive paper, the digital pen and the USB key which contains the software for an easy way to WOW your audience. With just a few short steps your grad can be well on their way to communication in the 21st Century by using a Bluetooth connection embedded right into the pen and USB key! Transmitting up to 6 meters away, PaperShow can be used for a small classroom presentation and a large auditorium sized audience. Standing or facing the audience, you write on the PAPERSHOW interactive paper and instantaneously your notes are displayed on a large screen – so Copperfield! Want to share your presentation and/or meeting notes with a group? Easy as pie with the command ”e-mail” automatically creates a message with your document as an attachment. All you have to do is insert the names of the recipients…talk about blowing your professor out the door. Know a recent college graduate? Won’t their new employer be impressed in their first marketing meeting, when PAPERSHOW gets whipped out…an “A” and schmoozing your new boss seem well worth the $199 price tag at Staples.com
If you are looking for a sleeker way to make a more traditional demonstration, iHome makes a powerful 2.4 GHz Wireless Presenter (available in black and white). Simply, insert the mini USB receiver into your notebook’s USB port and you’re ready go without synching the presenter and the receiver. 2.4 GHz frequency provides an instant and secure connection without interference from other electronic devices up to 30ft. That means you can dance around the room all you want as you give your power point presentation. Including commands like next/previous slide, black screen and more, iHome gives you a powerful and professional way to get your message out there, all at your fingertips. BONUS: The built-in laser point allows you to point at specific information in your presentation enabling the audience to easily see in a dark environment. With a suggested retail price of $70, it is a small price to pay to have the whole world (or at least your whole presentation) at your fingertips from across the room! Available at Walmart.com
HAMPTONS EDITION: Hello Mr. Hampton, meet Ms. Rock-It-To-Ya…by Christabelle
The Hampton’s have a certain reputation…pish posh, polished, polo playing, pedigree folks who summer out east. A little Lilly Pulitzer here, a dash of Ralph Lauren there all contribute to the fairy tale persona of this exclusive vacation destination. And though I am a fan of crisp whites, monogrammed anything, Hermes scarves and Calypso silk peasant skirts, there is an absence of edgier style on Main Street of East Hampton. At least up until this weekend.
As I snacked on my peanut butter and chocolate ice cream cone from Scoop du Jour,en route to Elie Tahari, blood red and black hit me like lightening bolts from next storefront. A new girl has hit town and she brings with her a rocker chic that ever so desperately needed to be filled – especially in the “haahhmptons dahling”. That new girl is Kristen Farrell - goldsmith to the stars.
With one peek at her collection, it exudes exquisite passion and work(wo)manship. With another peek, it oozes fierce style and individuality. With a third peek, it grabs you tight and doesn’t let go. You need to have it…and you need it NOW.
With every facet of her artistically hand crafted jewelry there are subtle details hidden within. Her appreciation for mystical creatures and medieval armor comes to life as wearable art, fashioned with the finest gems and precious metals. These “one of a kind” creations, to no surprise, have been spotted on some of the most influential people in Hollywood and beyond (Tyra Banks, Jessica Alba to name a fabulous few). And, who can blame them - Kristen Farrell sometimes spends up to six months perfecting one single piece of jewelry. With intense depth and character, Kristen Farrell brings a fresh, new rocker dimension to the upscale jewelry scene (did we mention this talented designer is only in her twenties?). Her energy, excitement, and passion empower each piece allowing the bearer to reveal themselves in ways they never imagined. Bring your AMEX BLACK for these exclusive pieces…starting price to own a piece of Kristen Farrell is $6K …all the way up to and over $110K. And yes, worth every penny.
Visit Kristen Farrell on your next trip out east and tell her Christabelle sent you!
Kristen Farrell
19 Main Street
East Hampton, NY
631-329-8900
HAMPTONS EDITION:Goose Bumps Down Your Legs Good by Christabelle
I wait with baited breath every year for Memorial Day to roll around once again, so I can travel to my dear, sweet Montauk. Though traditionally not the warmest weekend in the NYC area – nor the sunniest – it is a tradition. For as far back as I can remember, we always open the season of beaching, sanding, surfing and lobstering in Montauk on Memorial Day weekend.
Ryan Star performing in Long Island (5/21/09)
But this year, I was even more anxious to begin the summer sojurn to the Hamptons because I was serenaded by a Star at the “opening pitch”. Ok..me and about 50 or so other people were serenaded by a Star. No ‘twinkle, twinkle little star’ here – after all, I am talking about Ryan Star – armed with the girth, power and heat of the Sun-kind-of-star.
Ollie’s in Amityville, Long Island was the venue…an unassuming bar in the small sleepy town whose claim to fame was a possessed house. The crowd formed thickly at the stage in anticipation of Ryan Star’s “acoustic” performance – a long awaited for show, since he has been touring with American Idol winner David Cook since February! I, a grown woman, found myself pushing people over just to get to the front – like a teen-age crazed fan of NKOTB. And then it began…Ryan Star walked out on stage and the room stood still. Clad in a Kristen Farrell pendant worthy of a rockstar of his caliber (see next post), as he opened his mouth and intense, passionate music effortlessly flew out, Montauk became a distant thought in my head. As Ryan engaged with his fans from the low, dark stage – his playful rhetoric with his followers was endearing and at times hilariously obnoxious (he called for his publicist to come in for “damage control” – and the crowd ate it up like ice cream on a hot summer day).
The set list had something for everyone…a little new, a little old…drummer Justin from the days of ”Stage” (Ryan’s childhood band) even made a guest appearance for a song. Opening with his new single from upcoming 11:59 (dropping Summer 2009), Last Train Home, sprinkling in the ever ethereal song Breathe, rockin’ Right Now and blasting “oldie” crowd pleaser Psycho Suicidal Girl. Ryan, in true, hard-core rocker mode, ended the show 10 songs performed with a sweat-soaked shirt and a busted guitar string. Need I say more?
Though I consider myself a die-hard fan of Mr. Star, I realized the girls in front of me who drove 10 hours and the ones to my left that flew in from Chicago JUST TO SEE THE SHOW, put me to shame. My only complaint…it had to come to an end. I could have sat in Ollie’s the whole weekend and skipped Montauk all together (and those of you who know me personally know that is a BIG BOLD statement).
Ryan Star…your are on fire RIGHT NOW…and forever. You have a fan for life. You should be a fan too…I promise you won’t be disappointed CHECK OUT RYAN’S NEWEST CUTS HERE
Christabelle’s Closet (www.ChristabellesCloset.com) was featured as one of Life & Style Magazine’s favorite places to shop designer discounts on the web! Check it out…and come shop with us!
Having beautiful, healthy babies is a blessing…having the muffin top over my jeans that comes along with it – is NOT. During a recent press event in NYC, Christabelle immediately phoned me in Maine to bring the HOTTEST new under-outer garment to hit the market onto my New England radar. A shapewear that not only smoothes the bumps, lumps, nooks and crannies…but is fashionable, chic and even comes in nursing styles! I was sold just talking to her, but when the samples to review arrived…I cried out in joy that FINALLY someone figured it out…that someone is Heather Thomson – the stunning (seriously, she is gorge!) genius behind Yummie Tummie.
As a former fashion designer, celebrity stylist, creative force behind P. Diddy’s Sean John line, labels launched by Beyoncé Knowles as well as Jennifer Lopez’s Sweetface brand and a mommy of two, Heather understands the needs of both celebrities and consumers.
Yummie Tummie is the first shapewear that’s comfortable, sexy and meant to be seen! When Heather became frustrated with the existing shapewear options available to her and her clients – all of which compressed the bust, didn’t stay in place, were horribly uncomfortable and hideous to behold – she schemed, sketched, cut and sewed to come up with an ingenious solution to a universal problem: No matter how young, fit and slender you are, a so-called “muffin top” or tummie bulge will rear its ugly head. And usually at the worst times! I can recall hideous shapewear we used in college for our formals. At the end of the night, there was a pile of them in the garbage can in the ladies room – NO ONE wanted to be caught wearing “THAT” in the dark…my grandmother wouldn’t even be caught dead wearing those old-school girdles.
The effects of Yummie Tummie are dramatic, both physically and mentally. You will look better, feel more confident, and stand taller. Think of Yummie Tummie as a tank top or T-shirt on steroids: that favorite, super-soft, lightweight cotton wardrobe staple you wear alone or under everything you own. From your bust up and your hip bones down, it is exactly that. But, made with a patent-pending dual fabric technology, its extra bonus comes from its same-tone, firm control midsection panel, which smoothes and shapes your tummie and hips, eliminating pounds off your appearance, and camouflaging any lumps and bumps.
Because that panel is made with a microfiber fabric that actually wicks moisture away, you will always feel cool and comfortable. And, it never, ever rolls, rides up or pushes your “blub” to other locations. It is made with sleek yarns that do not cling, so you can wear it under anything. Yummie Tummie is truly a fabulous undergarment that can be worn each and every day as a foundation, a layering piece, or even on its own.
Get me one of EVERYTHING – EVERY STYLE, EVERY COLOR and STAT…I have never felt thinner, lighter, smoother and sexier. Get your Yummie Tummie, Tushie, Ta-Tas ON…www.YummieTummie.com
Teach Your Little One To Love the Planet…by Elizabelle
Imagine a world where we have taught environmental sustainability as a fundamental concept to our children –
just as we teach shapes, colors, letters and the importance of saying “please and thank you.”
Now teaching little ones about taking care of the environment and being not only eco-friendly, but eco-conscious in every step of their lives. Idbids helps you take “iddy biddy steps to a greener world”. Teach your children (and even yourself) the fundamentals of being accountable for the state of the Earth.
Each Eco-friendly Starter Kit contains all you need to get started: NEW FOR 2009! With the purchase of each Idbid kit, a child can enter a code online that will help protect the habitats of animal friends through The Nature Conservancy’s Plant A Billion Trees campaign, Adopt an Acre® or Rescue the Reef® programs.
In the land of green, little is the new big. Meet the Idbids – Scout, Lola and Waverly. Likable (make that lovable) characters (make that friends) here to find little partners (make that children) who discover the big (make that important) part they can play in keeping our Earth happy, healthy and green – one iddy biddy step at a time.
One 9″ Idbid plush toy –Scout the cloud, Lola the flower of the bunch or Waverly the bright blue water drop – lovingly handcrafted using 100% organic Egyptian cotton which has been colored with natural organic dyes – no two are alike, just like children!
Colorful photographic storybook introduces the Idbids and invites the child to go on a wonderful journey of discovery. By taking iddy biddy steps along with his or her Idbid, the child learns about our Earth and what he or she can do to make a difference. Printed on recycled paper with ecofriendly inks.
Official Idbids Field Guide includes 10 doable iddy biddy steps. The child can chart his or her progress as steps are completed every day. Printed on recycled paper with eco-friendly inks.
Organic cotton backpack for the journey, can be used to carry the Idbid and Field Guide, for school books or for storing a collection.
Online reward program recognizes the child with a personalized Certificate of Completion once the Field Guide is complete.
The kit packaging is made from recycled and eco-friendly materials and includes paper doll cutouts and a playland insert.
Now there is something to make Mother Nature proud! Check out all of the “for the love of green” products at http://idbids.tystoybox.com/
I am a fan of Facebook, MySpace, Twitter et al…The popularity of online social media has created one of the trendiest forms of expression: sharing emotions in real time via message boards, statuses, or tweets. This generation of internet users has embraced the opportunity to share their lives with the online world. Enter Oops…..I’m Sorry (www.oopsimsorry.com), the interactive website and market leader in online confessionals. Yes…a place to cleanse your wrong-doings on the internet!
This website is a social media tool with a focus: helping people move past the things that didn’t quite go as planned. The free and easy-to-use website allows members, under a user name, to post an “Apology To” message, letting people know they care about something that went wrong, an “Apology Due” message where they can express feelings of anger or hurt caused by someone else’s actions, or post a “Confession,” anonymously, as a way for members to get things off their chest. Lastly, through the “Virtual Conscience” members can send positive, guiding, supportive messages anonymously to help others manage the “oops” in life. The message boards empower users to share their thoughts and feelings without hesitation, no matter what time of day. They eliminate the fears associated with speaking face-to-face and let others see they too are not the only one who makes mistakes.
The unique and interactive nature of Oops…..I’m Sorry allows members to deal with their dilemmas by simply acknowledging them and the feelings they’ve inspired or with the help of other members’ support and guidance. Letting go of anger or resentment can improve one’s well-being – whether you giving or receiving forgiveness. Online social websites providing message boards for people to deal with life’s trials have been quickly embraced. Oops…..I’m Sorry has thousands of members and growing. Don’t you have something to get off your chest? I am about to post an apology to an “ooops” I did over 20 years ago and believe it or not – I actually feel a bit of salvation.
Check out www.OopsImSorry.com and get it off your chest! Saying “I am sorry…” has never been so easy.
As sure as the ball dropping in Times Square, New Year’s resolutions to get in shape abound. After January 1, the gyms are packed, lines at the health food store snake down the block and everyone’s talking about looking fine in 2009.
But a few weeks into the month, just as the mercury dips and retail prices decline, you can also count on a sharp dip in workout dedication. To the rescue: Rev-your-resolve tricks from one of the most inspirational trainers around–Jillian Michaels of TV’s The Biggest
Loser, who developed the workout to go along with our annual Jump Start Diet.
MAJOR MOTIVATOR 1:Write down your goals
Hoping to slim down for your college reunion? Want to tone your butt and thighs in time for shorts season? Looking for flat, sexy abs you’ll be proud to show off at the pool? Put it all in writing, either in a journal or
somewhere you can see it easily (the door to your fridge, perhaps?). When you find that your motivation is dwindling, simply read your list to get back on track.
MAJOR MOTIVATOR 2:Reward yourself
Each time you fulfill one of your goals, treat yourself to something you deserve: a pedicure or a magazine (like SELF!). This will help you stay excited and motivated to clear your next hurdle.
MAJOR MOTIVATOR 3: Pair up for workouts
Planning a sweat session with a pal is one surefire way to ensure you actually show up. Someone’s waiting for you! Beginning a healthy eating plan with a friend is similarly effective. Dieters who have support from their
buddies are more likely to keep the weight off than those who fly solo, according to research from the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology.
MAJOR MOTIVATOR 4: Tune in
When the beat goes on, so does your workout! Listening to music as you walk can make you go farther, according to research from the Journal of Music Therapy. And choosing an MP3 player over the TV at the gym can help you
feel more positive as you sweat, a study from Elon University in North Carolina indicates. Michaels loves any song by The Roots, but you can find plenty of keep-you-going exercise playlists at Self.com.
MAJOR MOTIVATOR 5: Envision fun workouts and a fitter, firmer, more fabulous
you
Visualizing an energizing and entertaining workout a few minutes each day can make you feel more excited to exercise, research shows. Once you’ve covered your workout, focus on you: “Think about what you’re trying to achieve,” Michaels says. “Having intention behind your actions is extremely powerful.”
I awoke to the news…TOM BRADY FINALLY POPPED THE QUESTION TO GISELE BUNDCHEN!
Having spent a number of years working in the PR deparment for Victoria’s Secret, I felt like family reading the news of the engagement. The former VS Angel merging greatness with the hunky Patriots QB…cupid really does roam the earth.
Congrats to the very genetically blessed couple. Can’t wait to see the pups they produce…
From People.com Forget the Super Bowl party, it’s time to plan a wedding.
Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady are making some major post-season plans after getting engaged in Los Angeles over the weekend, PEOPLE has learned.
The New England Patriots quarterback, 31, proposed with a diamond solitaire to the Brazilian supermodel, 28, on Friday.
“He asked and she accepted,” a source close to the couple tells PEOPLE. Family and friends were informed over the weekend. An official announcement, as well as preliminary wedding details, are being planned by Bündchen and her closest friends this week.
“The couple is discussing a huge fashionista event in the spring or a more intimate and quicker ceremony in Costa Rica, where Gisele has a home,” the source adds.
The UBER HOT couple made it official this weekend! They got officially hitched…
From People.com:
In a white fantasy wedding, Fergie and Josh Duhamel were married Saturday under magnolia trees filled with thousands of white roses, PEOPLE confirms.
The Black Eyed Peas singer, 33, wearing a Dolce & Gabbana gown, and the actor, 36, tied the knot at the Church Estates Vineyards in Malibu.
Fergie carried a bouquet of white flowers studded with crystals as the couple exchanged H. Stern rings engraved with personal messages. Ten bridesmaids were dressed in contrasting black.
Fergie’s specially-designed engagement ring featured a 4-carat brilliant cut diamond set amid other diamonds. A narrowed diamond wedding band completed the set. Duhamel’s ring was made of white gold with a brushed finish.
The ceremony was followed by a reception in a tent decorated as a forest of trees, with the ceiling covered in lights.
To read the rest of the story…click HERE
People.com has reported Bristol Palin, the 18-year-old daughter of former Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin, gave birth on Sunday to a healthy 7 lb., 4 oz., baby boy in Palmer, Alaska.
The baby’s name is Tripp Easton Mitchell Johnston, according to Jones. Baby Tripp takes his surname from his dad, Levi Johnston, an apprentice electrician and former Wasilla High School hockey player who has been dating Bristol for three years.
If you have a love-affair with food…I mean really love food (especially Northern Italian cuisine)…you will thank me eternally for this blog. If you live in NYC or plan to visit, do yourself a favor and make a reservation at Crispo - NOW (and I am not being dramatic – the place reserves out weeks in advance…so when I say now, I mean NOW…stop reading this and call: 212.229.1818 ).
Our group walked into Crispo on Saturday night and waited to be seated at a cozy table for four (on reservation, of course!). The place was packed and energy bounced off the 150 seat restaurant like music. With a spectacular entry way of black steel, glass inlaid awning, the flat iron glass doors, enclosed patio with an old oak leaf wrought iron fence, the design of the restaurant makes you feel like you are back in time – “19th Century – Old New York”. Hoping we would be escorted down the secret passageway into the warmth of the Garden (where the backdrop is of all things, antique Berkel slicers, cast iron toys and meat hooks), I was a bit disappointed when we were brought to the table right off the kitchen (where I became all too aware of a meat slicer – fully functioning - in the vicinity of my head). No sooner had we sat, that my disappointed turned into pure glee, when I realized the man behind the meat (which I later found out to be called the “Salami Station”) was none other than Frank Crispo himself! An honor…indeed.
Looking over the menu, I could feel a pool of saliva as it gathered under my tongue (and in all my graces, actually showed it to Phil at the dinner table). Each meal looked better than the last (which had looked better than its predecessor). Finally (after a good 20 minutes – 20 solid decision making minutes) I chose the Prosciutto, Bufala Mozzarella, Cippolini & Arugula to start with the the “Ravioli di Ricotta” Tartufo Nero as my main course. My only compaint is that the meal had to end…so very depressing. I ate everything. I even pulled a Tony Soprano and sponged the plate clean with a loaf of bread. No wonder my jeans won’t button this morning (sigh!).
With a quick look over my shoulder, I got the opportunity to converse with “the man” – who graciously took some time out of his very (insanely) busy evening, to give us some history on the artifacts and design of the restaurant (and of course, the cuisine). Chatting with the owner, Frank, turned an exemplary meal into a full encompassing experience that went above and beyond just satisfying a growling stomach. We left feeling as though we had taken a little subway ride to Italy…an epicurean journey that will continue to bring us back to Crispo time and time again.
With the most intensely spectacular Northern Italian food money can buy – they carry a very simple philosophy at Crispo: purchase top quality ingredients; make the dishes with love; let the guest enjoy. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! AND all the meals are cooked to order…need I really say any more? Visit Frank Crispo and experience cuisine the way to was meant to be…a multi-sensoral experience. A festival for all FIVE senses.
While you are there – make sure to try the Prosciutto (it is what they are known for), the “Ravioli di Ricotta” Tartufo Nero (my mouth actually called my cell to thank me for eating it!), and the Limoncello (which is made fresh - on-site – thanks Frank!). Looking for more mouth-watering items to order…click HERE to view the entire menu of Crispo delights. I will be seeing you there…fork in hand…smile on face.
> STORE CLOSINGS AND LAYOFFS
>
> If you have gift cards, hurry up and use them!!
If you fell for the most current scam being blasted over the internet and to an in-box near you…well, you are not the only one! The latest web-hoax has hit the WWW and is scaring shoppers away from buying gift cards this holiday season by posting a very ominous list of retailers closing their doors.
Ann Taylor? Gap? Home Depot…could it be? Could all my go-to places to shop be closing their doors? Will my gift cards be worthless in the weeks to come? I was (as you probably were too) “warned” that over 30 of our favorite retailers are all closing shop and that we should NOT buy gift cards from them. As of January 1, 2009, they will no longer have a value. Over thirty companies – even our friend Disney. Are you smelling a skunk yet? I am.
Come to find out, majority of this list is just plain garbage – a stunt, no doubt – concoted by a marketing genius at one of those gift card swap companies (or even credit card companies wanting to increase pre-loadead card sales). Moral of the story is, do your research and buy gift cards from stores you know and trust. Truth in the list – sure, some retailers have closed – and they have made it clear for a long time coming – CompUSA, Sharper Image, Levitts…we have heard the bleak news for months now.
To ensure I was giving my readers GOOD COUNSEL on this topic, I did some Nancy Drew sleuthing and got in touch with my friends over at Ann Taylor. Here is what they had to say about their current state of affairs – which quite frankly, is good news and not anywhere near the doom and gloom as stated in the hoax:
Ann Taylor is a financially strong Company with a healthy balance sheet. We already communicated early this year that we are closing a number of stores through 2010, but we continue to open new stores and have close to 1,000 stores in our fleet. Ann Taylor and LOFT Gift Cards are a great idea for gifting this holiday, and they can be redeemed at any of our stores or online. Although the source of this viral email is questionable, we felt we should clarify the misleading information because we want our clients to always feel confident in their Ann Taylor purchases.
With that said, I am hopping over to Ann Taylor and buying myself an early Christmas treat- a gift card…and I am not going to use it until January 2009 – the inside scoop is it will contain a bounce-back for 15% off my entire purchase when I use it. SCORE!
Our advice – hit “delete” when this e-mail invades your in-box and tell your friends NOT to believe the hype…Spread the word.
Drama should stay where it belongs – in the next episode of The Hills…not in your holiday shopping experience!
GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE…by Christabelle
When I got my first job in New York City, as a PR Assistant, the Ann Taylor that shared space in the building I worked became my go-to-store for the essentials I needed to fill my new role with the big players. I have a soft spot for the company that fashioned me for my first interview, my first big corporate PR event and a number of “whoops I snagged my stocking right before the big meeting” dilemmas. I was thrilled to learn every Fall, Ann Taylor offers the sale of ANN Cares Cards in all of the Company’s stores and on-line
The ANN Cares Card donates ninety percent (90%) of the purchase price of every card sold directly to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®, an organization dedicated to funding valuable research to prevent and cure breast cancer in our lifetime. Those who purchase the $25 ANN Cares Card, which is available now through October 15, will receive 20% off every purchase of $100or more at Ann Taylor, Ann Taylor LOFT, Ann Taylor Factory, LOFT Outlet, www.anntaylor.com, and www.anntaylorLOFT.com through the end of October. In 2007, Ann Taylor donated over $1.3 million to the fight against breast cancer! Go AT – with our help…we can DOUBLE it this year!
During the month of October, Ann Taylor hosts Salute to Survivors Shopping Events in select markets across the country to celebrate breast cancer survivors and support Susan G. Komen for the Cure® The events feature special offers, live DJs, refreshments, and local survivors modeling Ann Taylor fashions. Attendees at the shopping events receive a 20% discount on in-store merchandise, with 5% of the proceeds benefiting local Affiliates of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. Each participating store will make a guaranteed minimum donation of $1,000 to the local Komen Affiliate. Get your shopping ON at these events in your areas – especially the one on October 30 in NYC – I will be there with my credit card waving furiously through the air:
DATE (‘08)
STORE
CITY
10/15
LOFT at Chevy Chase Pavilion
Washington, DC
10/16
Ann Taylor at Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL
10/16
Ann Taylor at Connecticut Ave.
Washington, DC
10/16
Ann Taylor at Park Meadows
Denver, CO
10/16
LOFT at North Bridge
Chicago, IL
10/16
LOFT at Prudential Center
Boston, MA
10/23
Ann Taylor at Atrium Mall
Chestnut Hill, MA
10/24
LOFT at Cherry Creek Mall
Denver, CO
10/30
Ann Taylor at Rockefeller Center
New York, NY
All events are held from 6 – 8 PM.
For more information on how you can get involved with Ann Taylor’s fight against breast cancer, visit www.ANNCares.com
On a trip to Steamboat Springs, CO this past winter, a large group of us went out to celebrate the final show of Duckbutter- a local and fabulous band lead by rockin’ frontman Scott Ramsay. A beer here, a hot wing there – the The Tugboat Grill & Pub quickly packed out with fans from near and far (I can’t give this place enough kudos – def hit it apres ski should you ever find yourself in Steamboat). Crowded is an understatement – as the bar capacity maxed itself out.The wrong setting for what happened next…
As I made my way to the bar, I was stopped in my tracks. Literally, unable to move my feet an inch forward – the smell of rotting carcass instantly filled my nostrils and cemented me to the already sticky floors of the pub. I looked around me and it seemed as though everything had turned slow motion – like I was caught in a time warp from the Matrix…Duckbutter sounded more like Charlie Brown’s school teacher - I was very aware of my own heart beat as it echoed in my head – my straightened hair started to spontaneously curl as the eye of the toxic stank storm infiltrated my lung capacity. Call it altitude sickness if you want…but this had nothing to do with the altitude. It had to do with an ass. A heinously sick ass. An ass that very clearly died a slow and tortured death and wanted to take us all down with it. Had I only know then, what I know now…
The culprit of this foul and offensive odor was never convicted of the crime - even after an encore performance one hour later, but should I ever be caught in the war against gas again, I am prepared – I am armed with SUBTLE BUTT and I am not afraid to pull you out of a crowd and tell you to use it! Subtle Butt (by Garment Guard) are disposable gas neutralizers that act as filters for noxious odors that leak (purposely and not) from the human body. This pack of 5 saving graces effectively catches the stench caused by flatulence. Each 3.25″ square filter is made of soft fabric with an antimicrobial treatment. The fabric is impregnated with activated carbon, which faces outward for bad odors to adhere to and get neutralized. Like a Roach Motel, but for your butt.
It is no joke – guard yourself, guard your friends and don’t let a dinner at Taco Bell give you night terrors for life. For $9.95 per pack – this is the perfect gift for your gassy pal. Buy 1…buy 10…buy 100 at GarmentGuard.com
Want to learn how to wear them? Check out their video below…
So I have never really been a “celeb-raholic” – oh sure – I run to my mailbox when I know my issue of US Weekly has arrived. And I get morning emails from People.com every day. But these are more ways to satiate my love of Pop Culture…not because I long to see, touch and stalk celebrities.
John Ritter as Jack Tripper
A bit jaded from being in the “biz” for so long – I am rarely moved by the existence of celebrities in my presence – with the exception of meeting John Ritter before his untimely (and just SAD!) death at the Emmy Awards in 2002. That had my knees knocking for weeks (comon’ – didn’t everyone have a crush on Jack Tripper?!?)
But as I sat in Montauk over July 4th weekend with my man, eating way too much food at the Gig Shack (yes, you all know by now I am obsessed with the place – which BTW introduced a kick ass Carrot Cake this season) – in walks DAVID SCHWIMMER. I am a Friend’s LOVER – have been since the first episode, so it was a total treat to see him in the flesh. However, who walked in NEXT threw me over the celeb-reality cliff!
Bethenny Frankel - Real Housewives of NYC
BETHENNY FRANKEL (from the Real Housewives of NYC) strolls in as fabulous as can be with her boyfriend. Though perhaps I should be a bit ashamed that reality TV entertains me as much as it does, I’M JUST NOT – at least not in this instance. Common’ – those are ladies that live in MY CITY – which makes it MY REALITY. Bethenny was the sole reason I watched the entire season -religiously . In a nutshell – she made me PEE. She should quit nutrition and hop on the SNL train. Her dry humor and incessant mockery of the other cast members had me rolling time and time again. Getting to see her cute self (in ADORABLE Lilly Pulitzer capri pants no less – a Christabelle’s Closet staple!) was awesome…and I got to tell my Real Housewives obsessed friend Shane that I had a close encounter of the Frankel kind at the Gig Shack- while she was munching baguettes in France. She cursed a lot – I think she has been in Paris too long. I should have passed her my card, in hopes she would consign her designer wardrobe with us…but alas…stalking is just NOT my thing (thank goodness – right????).
And then – in walks Matt Dillon…is it weird that I was more excited to see Bethany in the flesh? One to ponder. I nudged Phil (my honey) to give him the celebrity alert and in true form – he didn’t recognize any of them. He can spot the make, model and year of a guitar from clear across a room and recite lyrics to Zappa music in his sleep. Celebs – not so much. I think I will torture him with an E! marathon this weekend to prep him for our next adventure out east…
Those of you who know me – know Montauk, Long Island is my favorite place on the planet. If I could live there all summer I would (don’t think I haven’t thought about opening up Christabelle’s Closet Beachside!)
Last summer, I unearthed possibly the most delightful place to eat – apres beach – and was DELIGHTED to discover it returned this year. If you are heading out to the last stop on the island this summer – it would behoove you to make a stop at THE GIG SHACK.
Right on Main Street (a few blocks from the main beach at Nick’s), the Gig Shack offers a variety of familiar favorites – all with a twist from some foreign land. Spices from Asia and sauces from the Caribbean – the Gig Shack adds a little “je ne sais quoi” to their dishes with the delicate balance of local and foreign. I LOVE IT!
Though sad to see my favorite pulled pork was ‘pulled’ from the menu, there are tons of new delights that I am psyched to indulge in after my sandy afternoons at Ditch Plains. Their award winning red velvet cake is back with a vengeance and as soon as I am off the South Beach Diet, it will be making a new home in my tum. DELIC! If you get anything from the menu – the red velvet cake is the way to go (no fears – it isn’t shaped like an aardvark for those Steel Magnolia fans out there). It should be illegal to eat it has such a high “yum” factor.
Family owned, it is always a pleasure to see the smiling faces of Tracey and Arden (mother and son duo who always seem to be on-site to make dining even more of an experience). I can’t say enough – so GO CHECK IT OUT FOR YOURSELF and go hungry – tell them Christabelle sent you!
From time and again, I like to play on the sensitive strings of my MASS (otherwise known as a Mass-hole) born and bred BFF from college. We feud over baseball (Yankees vs. Red Sox) – ice hockey back in the day (Rangers vs. Bruins) – and just the general lifestyle choices between New England and New York City. She had a baby – I sent an “I LOVE NY” onesie as a gift. I call her answering machine and leave the city sounds of car horns and fire engines. I have cabbies call her from my cell phone…I have fun – to say the least.
Well, now she has moved into a new home in Maine and I found the perfect housewarming gift for her from Fill-R-Up here on the Upper East Side. A BASKET FULL OF NEW YORK CITY THEMED GIFTS
From the largest coffee mug I have ever seen (I think my face fits in it!) that bears our famous city logo, to I love NY key chains for her new set of house keys …she will not doubt be bittersweet about this delivery! Have I gotten the last word on our ongoing battle…we shall see what she comes up with to zing me back.
You want to send your BFF a very creative gift basket (NYC themed or not)? Check out the brainchild of Amanda Poses, Fill-R-Up, on the Upper East Side of NYC. Don’t live in NYC? Don’t fret! You can also shop via their website: www.fill-r-up.com
Though my background would lead you to believe I am a golden sun goddess (1/2 Greek and 1/2 Italian) – I am actually more from the school of skim milk (1/2 translucent and 1/2 blue). With that said, I am exceptionally psychotic about my skin and my skincare regime.
Having been a publicist for luxury beauty companies for what seems like 100 years, I have grown great disdain for the “claims” new products are always exclaiming off their ads, boxes and editorial blurbs…action words like “revolutionary”, “first on the market”, “groundbreaking”, and “breakthrough technology” to me, are just that – ACTION WORDS. A bit of fluff to help spice up a press release with little active results.
Until this past January, when I learned about a little thing called ASTAXANTHIN (courtesy of the “it” surgical dermatologist, Dr. Kenneth Mark). A bit of a skeptic, I listened to what the good doctor said about this ingredient he uncovered and blended into an award winning cream (KMMD Antioxidant Hydrating Cream with Astaxanthin). 1000times more potent that Vitamin E -200 times more potent than Vitamin C….hmmmm…my wheels started to spin indeed. I mean, Dr. Mark is 1 of 800 fellowship-trained Mohs’ Skin Cancer Surgeons in the world. He certainly has the credentials to make a non-believer TRULY back that this product has the power it boasts. Not to mention I came across a quote in Shape and New Beauty Magazine from him, so my beauty editor friends back him as well – now it was my turn.
So my trial began. Instantly, I adored this cream – just for the color that appeared from the pump – PINK! Yes, perhaps it is a bit childish, but just the way a red inner heel of a stiletto screams out to me and makes me love the shoe just a bit more – I feel the same way about my beauty products. I digress…so out comes this wonderfully soft pink cream – no scent (another plus). The texture was creamy, without being heavy and seemed to instantly hydrate my skin (though not greasy – I have some major issues with excess…ummm…sebum as we call it in the PR world…OILY SKIN in layman’s terms).
I followed Dr. Mark’s instructions – apply after my shower and before bed. I committed myself to two weeks…I just want to see some difference in my skin in two week (which is what most good skin creams claim). Well, IT JUST DIDN’T HAPPEN! Now, don’t go blog bashing Dr. Mark…it was actually quite the contrary. It happened in just two days! Ok, so I don’t look 18 again, but my skin felt instantly like a baby’s bum, my rosacea hit the road and a blemish that looked as though it was going to erupt at any given moment seemed to retreat back to the depths of hell where it formulated. Could it be that THIS cream really works?
Well, all I have to say is this…it worked (and continues to work) for me! I cleaned out my other skin creams and passed them out at my last girls night to my friends in what I call my bi-annual “Beauty Pinata” night. All but one – Dr. Kenneth Mark Antioxidant Hydrating Cream with Astaxanthin (perhaps a mouthful, but worth memorizing, I promise!). I think I am having a bit of a love affair with this new cream…please don’t tell my boyfriend.
If you are lucky enough to live in the super fabulous Hampton’s this summer - you can not only get your hands on his products in person (and skip having to get them shipped to you via their website) but you can get this “it” doc to work on your skin from a menu of dermatological services…and then hop on over to Saks Fifth Avenue on Main Street and do a little shopping
Dr. Kenneth Mark – Southampton Office
365 County Road 39A, Suite 14
Southampton, NY 11968
Phone: 631.283.0002
Fax: 631.283.1932
When Will I Win the Lottery??…by Christabelle
The Hampton’s have a certain reputation…pish posh, polished, polo playing, pedigree folks who summer out east. A little Lilly Pulitzer here, a dash of Ralph Lauren there all contribute to the fairy tale persona of this exclusive vacation destination. And though I am a fan of crisp whites, monogrammed anything, Hermes scarves and Calypso silk peasant skirts, there is an absence of edgier style on Main Street of East Hampton. At least up until this weekend.
In the land of green, little is the new big. Meet the Idbids – Scout, Lola and Waverly. Likable (make that lovable) characters (make that friends) here to find little partners (make that children) who discover the big (make that important) part they can play in keeping our Earth happy, healthy and green – one iddy biddy step at a time.
As sure as the ball dropping in Times Square, New Year’s resolutions to get in shape abound. After January 1, the gyms are packed, lines at the health food store snake down the block and everyone’s talking about looking fine in 2009.
I awoke to the news…TOM BRADY FINALLY POPPED THE QUESTION TO GISELE BUNDCHEN!
The UBER HOT couple made it official this weekend! They got officially hitched…
If you have a love-affair with food…I mean really love food (especially Northern Italian cuisine)…you will thank me eternally for this blog. If you live in NYC or plan to visit, do yourself a favor and make a reservation at 
While you are there – make sure to try the Prosciutto (it is what they are known for), the “Ravioli di Ricotta” Tartufo Nero (my mouth actually called my cell to thank me for eating it!), and the Limoncello (which is made fresh - on-site – thanks Frank!). Looking for more mouth-watering items to order…click 
If you fell for the most current scam being blasted over the internet and to an in-box near you…well, you are not the only one! The latest web-hoax has hit the WWW and is scaring shoppers away from buying gift cards this holiday season by posting a very ominous list of retailers closing their doors.
The ANN Cares Card 
On a trip to Steamboat Springs, CO this past winter, a large group of us went out to celebrate the final show of 
Those of you who know me – know Montauk, Long Island is my favorite place on the planet. If I could live there all summer I would (don’t think I haven’t thought about opening up Christabelle’s Closet Beachside!)
Dr. Kenneth Mark – Southampton Office