5 Must Haves: Katherine Lande

The Average Girl's Guide is starting a new regular series called 5 Must Haves featuring gals around the country sharing their 5 must haves... the question is, what's the topic? Tune in each week to find out.

Katherine Lande:
5 Must Haves... for a stylish girl on the go!

You think you have an eye for fashion? Meet Katherine. As Fashion & Style Director for Palm Beach Media Group, she creates all things visual at Palm Beach Illustrated, Naples Illustrated and Weddings Illustrated. Cover design, fashion spreads, you name it. And, they're jaw-dropping.

 

She constantly has her pulse on the hottest trends and loves to explore rare and unique vintage fashion, jewelry and antiques.  She also has a totally worth-reading blog Les Luxes where she writes about luxuries, both big and small. She's an in-the-know fashionista; you want to hear what she has to say. Trust me.

Here's her five must-haves for a stylish gal on the go (who wants to go shopping?!):

Layer it up

I get chilly easily so I always carry a lightweight scarf with me wherever I go. This one from Calypso has a pop of army green, which I'm obsessing over for fall. Its easy to carry around and appropriate with all my looks whether its a day in the office, store browsing on Worth Ave., or location scouting for a photo shoot. Be sure to look for a lightweight fabric that will transition well from indoors-to-out and season-to-season.

G1 scarf, Calypso St. Barth, $95
calypso-celle.com


Go Bold

This fall it’s all about a bold lip, definitely a fun change for me. I’ve been inspired by all the fashionistas I saw during New York Fashion Week and the styling of J. Crew's fall catalog. The stylist for J. Crew used Nars Funny Face, a fave of president and creative exec director Jenna Lyons, but I've found that Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Intense 36 offers the right look as well. Be sure to keep the rest of your face simple, which is perfect for those days I'm running a bit behind. And since it’s the main beauty product for the entire day, less to touch up and lug around.

Nars lipstick in Funny Face, $24 and Make Up For Ever lipstick in Rouge Artist Intense 36, $19



Safety First

Being a constant girl on-the-go, I'm never disconnected from my Blackberry. On days when I’m on location shooting fashion editorials I have a tendency to drop and misplace it constantly. A chic leather case from Kate Spade keeps my Blackberry safe no matter if it's floating around in my handbag or lying amongst my styling supplies. This stylish must-have item also makes for a perfect gift; what girl wouldn't want one more luxe accessory?

Blackberry pouch, Kate Spade, $25, katespade.com
{TAGG tips: 1. for your iPhone carriers like this gal, check out Kate's gorgeous version, $40; 2. free shipping on all ground orders, thanks Kate! and 3. sign up for their mailing list on the homepage and get 15% off your first order).


Statement Making

I'm a lover of shoes, statement shoes at that, but constantly running around I need something that can take wear & tear. This season a very trend-on short boot will be just the thing. I’m envisioning wearing this Joie ankle boot with just about everything in my wardrobe, which makes getting dressed that much easier and quicker. By day I’ll pair them up with my favorite skinny jeans, and by night will rock them out with a structured dress or something embellished with fur or sequins for a chic rough-luxe look. Because the boot is short I can play around with adding a sock or tight if there’s a chill in the air. One good ankle boot = endless quick and easy looks.

Joie Santo strappy ankle bootie, $425, bergdorfgoodman.com
{TAGG tip: Can't afford the real thing, or want to test the trend for less? Check out this pair from Aldo or this one from Target!}



Freshen Up
When I’m feeling tired or have very little time to go from work to an evening of events, I turn to Mario Badescu’s Rosewater Facial Spray for a fresh pick me up. It’s beautifully fragrant and formulated with herbal extracts that give your skin an instant boost and added hydration. It can also be used to spray on dry hair, an added bonus when you only have a few minutes to freshen up. Also perfect for keeping your skin hydrated when flying. Highly used during the social season.

Facial spray with aloe, herbs and rosewater, Mario Badescu, 4oz: $7, mariobadescu.com

Divine Deal: Jasmere

Jasmere, a site that helps you save on specialty retailers, has today home-made caramels for just $8 (reg. $22) from a company that funds cancer research. A tasty good deal. For you? A gift? We likey.

Plus, new deals are posted almost daily. A friend got (at a huge discount) what she considers the best cookies she ever tasted from NYC-based This Chick Bakes, thanks to this site. I'm jealous. Now, I need some caramels!

Register/check it out here: http://bit.ly/9vXkh5.

Divine Deals: Get your Groupon

Are you affiliated with Groupon, the web site that gets you up to 90% off deals in your city, be it restaurants, shopping, fun and games, you name it? It's awesome and growing quickly in cities around the country. Best to get on this train now. My bro in Chicago buys at least one Groupon deal a week and being in South Florida, I've bought a few (it's growing here).

Today, check out this deal:
- Get a subscription to Florida Travel + Life for just $5 (reg. $12)! It's for the Ft. Lauderdale groupon but regardless of where you live you can score this deal. Great magazine to see what's happening around the state --and where we can get a mini getaway -- and also great as a gift to a friend or relative.

New to Groupon? Click here. Already a member and want get today's mag deal, click here!

Savvy Shopping: Hot Black Heels

Black heels are a serious wardrobe staple. In fact, this average gal has at least a dozen types that as I tell the hubs, are totally, 100 percent necessary. Open v. closed toes, different heel heights, gladiator, mary janes, lacey detailing, you name it. I need them all... and am hungry for more!

Enter my Fall inspiration: Michael Kors suede pumps. 

How fabulous are these? Can the back detailing with the zipper be any more glorious? Plus, the wedge is way more comfortable than a heel of this height. You'll wear this with everything, all season long... and be the hottest ticket in town. Also love these in the other shades: purple, grey and tan. ($150).


For those looking for a less expensive alternative, here's a few options:

Adore these Merona suede wedges from Target for a teeny-tiny fraction of the price ($30). Granted, there's no zipper, but that will make these last a few more seasons since they're less trendy. These also come in plum, taupe, bordeaux, brown and grey. Totally wearing these with everything, from work skirts to jeans and my new green cargo pants. Nothing is off-limits here.
TAGG TIP: Target's shoes are BOGO 1/2 off through Oct. 2. Yes, GREAT DEAL. Tempted to buy these in black and plum (or, maybe mix and match with a pair of camel brown ankle booties, or grey boots, or...)!

Can't resist the zipper?

Check out these options. First, we have a black peep-toe, zipper-detail in the front and back, cut-out platform heel with slight gladiator feel from Madden Girl from Steve Madden that's totally hot without looking totally uncomfortable. Score! And, less than $60 to boot. Adore.

Next, we go full-on bootie with this hot number from Urban Outfitters that can be added to absolutely anything: skirts, skinny jeans, a dress with belted cardigan, you name it. Instant style for just $58.

And, check out these obsession-worthy heels from Forever21. Platform, peep-toe, crazy-high heels with a back-detail zipper and contrast colors that's to-do for. And, just $27.80? Might not be the most comfortable shoes in your closet, but they'll certainly be among the hottest! I can only work so many miracles...

This is just the beginning!

The options are limitless when it comes to fashionable heels. Find a rockin' pair and live in them all year long. Look forward to seeing you out on the town! xo



Fab Find: Sprout Watches

As I've mentioned before, I have a slightly large watch addiction. I flat out love them. I have a compulsive need to always know the time, so I might as well look fashionable doing it.

My latest discovery? Sprout watches, which feature an organic cotton strap. Saw one while flipping through the latest Nordstrom catalog and I had to learn more. They're rugged and durable, yet totally stylish and practical. Available in a ton of color combinations at stores from Nordstrom to Target and Sears -- the eco-friendly watches are light-weight and feature a natural bamboo dial. For just under $30, these are a total fashionista steal! Sprout's also have smaller face sizes than the one to the right, but I'm partial to the larger one.

Color combinations range across the board, from this brown and blue hikers dream (and mine; the military green look is so fall 2010) to black, khaki, hot pink, red, light blue, navy and more. Check them out at your fav store: Target, Sears or Nordstrom. Sears right now has a few as low as $23.99!

Happy shopping! 

Divine Deal: Chili's to Charity, and Queso

EAT FOR A GOOD CAUSE!

Today, Monday, Sept. 27, Chili's is donating 100 percent of its profits to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. 100%?! Who does this?? So wonderful. Love supporting companies who do the right thing.

And, if you're a Chili's fan, score this coupon to use today or for another trip there:  FREE CHIPS AND QUESO. Mmmmm (a bit of a weakness, to be honest. Share with friends).

Now, go eat some quesadillas and feel good about it! I demand it.

Now: Healthy Tips for Fall

Happy Monday! With it practically Fall (I just painted my nails dark navy blue, so it must be!), now is the time to find smart ways to stay healthy all-season long.

To preface: Before sharing weight maintenance or weight loss advice -- whichever you're seeking -- you should know that I'm a proud Weight Watchers lifetime member. I lost 35 lbs about seven years ago! I'm currently a bit higher than my goal, but it's hopefully temporary (due to some meds). I'll get back; we've all been there before, right? We're just all average gals wanting to look and feel our best!

Here's tips that I am confident will make a real difference:

 1. Don't drink your calories. Always my #1! Yes, you can have a glass a wine, a light beer, a cocktail, etc., but if you're really serious about dropping some lbs the easiest thing to do is to limit alcohol and wine and stick to water and other calorie-free options. While h20 is always best, feel free to opt for diet teas, lemonades and a soda here and there if it helps keep your cravings at bay and keeps you full. If you are going to have a glass though, you better damn well enjoy it! Just know that one 120 cal. serving is not the size of your x-large wine glass!

2. Be honest with yourself. See #1 about your oversized wine glass. You're not foolin' anyone, missy.

3. Count the BLTs: bites, licks and tastes. This is a Weight Watcher mantra that's so true. Just because you're only having a few bites, or a handful of french fries or onion rings from your partner's plate, doesn't mean it doesn't count (unfortunately!). Sorry. Truth hurts, I know.

4. If you can't control yourself, don't take even just one bite. I don't know about you, but I sometimes lack self control, especially around food. If I'm at a party, for example, and there's something decadent, I won't take a bite if I'm watching myself because once I know how good it is I'll want more. This way I can almost trick my brain into thinking it's not worth it. If you're not good at having just one bite, try it, it works.

4. Quantity eater? Me too. Find things to satiate you or keep you occupied. Feel like you need to munch on something while watching TV? Make a bag of 94% fat free kettle or butter popcorn -- my fav; eat an apple (love!), frozen grapes (just stick your grapes in the freezer for a while; so good), blueberries and others fruits; carrot sticks with hummus; or just chew gum to occupy your mouth (I dig the flavored kinds like Trident Tropical Twist).

5. Use a smaller plate. I'll be honest: I like seconds. I don't care if I had the most enormous first portion you've ever seen or one bite. I'll want seconds of pasta, cereal, veggies, anything! To curb my calorie intake, I often use our salad plates for my entree. It's all about the illusion; you're going to pack your plate regardless of the size. Plus, if you want seconds you can go for it, guilt-free!

6. Find exercise you love.  Don't love going to the gym? Don't! Take advantage of some cooling temperatures and go for a fast walk with friends. I got into running by going for walks, which turned into runs, with my roomie and a few other friends while living in Tampa years back. It was our time to gossip and to catch up without other distractions. So fun. It NEVER felt like exercise. Not for you? Try biking, pilates, yoga, or better yet... dance around your room like a crazy lady (we've all been there, don't hate!).


Me, enjoying a crepe in Paris!



7. Most importantly, enjoy what you eat! I totally believe in splurging, in weight 5 pounds more than I'd ideally love to because well, I love food and want to enjoy myself. What's the point of being a stick if you're miserable, right? Right! Just save your calories and fat for things you really enjoy, not mindless eating and drinking when you're not even really appreciating it. 

And worse case? Remember... it's just one meal! Don't give up or get mad at yourself. While all us gals joke about it, one meal really isn't going to add cellulite to our tush. It's about a lifestyle, not a diet.

Now, go forth, eat and conquer!

Quick Bites: Clever Cookies

Want to make the perfect cookies? No stress!

Use the recipe on the Toll House bag (it's a classic for a reason!) and then add your own touches, like dried cherries, peanut butter chips or coconut. Whatever you -- or the peeps you're giving it to -- likes. For reference, I like peanut butter. Just sayin'.

Yum!!

Divine Deal: Restaurant.com just $1!

WOW! What are you waiting for? Restaurant.com is offering up a phenomenal 90 whopping percent off $25 gift certificates to tons of fantastic restaurants. That's $1 people! Just use the code WOW at check-out. Believe it's been at least a year since they've offered this promotion.

While some places have restrictions, who cares?! You're saving $24 each time you dine! Totally worth stocking up, or giving these as gifts to friends and family. Give this as a gift for no-reason to a girlfriend who's been super sweet lately or your gram for just being her. Remember, it's nationwide!

Head to restaurant.com now! You'll be glad you did.

Now: Take a Better Photo

Woohoo, it's Friday! With the weekend on the horizon, you know there's going to be plenty of 'kodak-worthy' moments during football viewing parties, nights out on the town and fabulous dinners with even more fabulous friends. So, it's critical that you have the skills to take a great photo.

We were fortunate enough to sit down with of one heck of a talented photographer, Lauren Lieberman of Palm Beach-based LILA PHOTO. She's been shooting for 10 years, starting while at UF with a company called Flash where she captured fraternity and sorority parties. She quickly honed her skills with a high-end wedding photographer and then opened her own biz where she regularly covers events from polo and galas to corporate needs and moments requiring aerial photography (hang out of a heli, anyone?). Most importantly, her work is just plain awe-some.

So, you want to take a better photo?? Here's what she has to say:

Perspective: Did you  know most photos are taken from 5'6" tall and 10 feet away? Bor-ing! Lauren's just 4'10" so she's become accustomed to taking shots from different angles and perspectives, and you should too. Here's a few tips:

• Get on the floor with kids or stand with the camera straight above them (prefocus so you're ready when they look up; we'll get to what this means in a second).
• Climb up on a bar stool to get a crowd shot instead of just being at eye level.
• Slightly tilt the camera for a fun angle on what's happening.

Prefocus: if you're always a second late catching photos (esp. of the kiddies or a pet), listen up! While the best shots typically don't have the subject right in the center, that's where the sensor is on most cameras so you have to start there. Point the center of your camera toward your subject, then hold the button just half way down. Once that happens, you can move your camera to recompose the shot how you want, waiting for the mili-second when your child gives you that mega-watt smile or silly face! When moving the camera, consider this:

• Rule of thirds: think of the camera frame in thirds; instead of keeping the subject in the center experiment with how you fill each of the frames. Don't be afraid to go off-center.
• Fill the frame: play around with getting super close up to really capture someones face. It's incredible the difference compared to when you're a few feet away.

Example of "Fill Flash."
Brandon (polo player) and Erica Phillips with
Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick



Flash: "Turn OFF the flash and find the light!" If there's daylight, direct your subjects toward the window or any natural light. You should stand against the window/light with the subject nearby to get the natural light. It gives everyone such a gorgeous glow!

• BUT (isn't there always a BUT?): Turn ON the flash when you least expect to. Called "fill flash," turn your flash on to balance the brightness of the outside background and to light your subjects if they're in the shade. If you use the 'auto' function it might not use the flash so your picture will be dark. Turn that bad boy on so you get a better photo!

ZOOM: When taking fun, social photos take a few steps back (just a few; not too far) and then slightly zoom in. Notice that cameras have optical and digital zooms. The optical is the one that matters, the digital one just magnifies the images (that's why they get blurry). Don't use that!



And, this is a little nerdy/techy, but here's one fabulous tip for taking close-up pictures of small objects that I just had to share:

Macro button: all cameras are a little different, but my Canon has the macro button just opposite the flash. Go to this mode to take crazy good photos of really small objects like flowers and anything you see (just not people)! Fill the frame with these interesting elements and remember to move the camera around to get different perspectives. This macro function will focus on your object and slightly blur everything in the background... just like a professional photographer!

Thanks again to Lauren Lieberman for teaching us how to wow 'em with our photo taking skills! Now, get out there and get clicking!

-- all photo credits: LILA PHOTO

Now: Look Gorgeous in Photos

Tomorrow, an expert Palm Beach-based photographer is going to give you the ultimate tips to take a perfect photo. Just wait, it's going to transform how you capture your life. In the interim, wanted to give you tips to make yourself look your best in photos! Who doesn't want that?
 

forward positioning, hand on the hip,
fresh make up! (I'm 2nd from left)



Get ready to strut your stuff this weekend and strike a pose, hot stuff.

What to do:

General positioning: Angle yourself at the camera and lean slightly forward with your weight on the forward foot, which instantly elongates the neck. It doesn't look good if you stand straight on and/or lean away. Trust us; try both in the mirror and see for yourself. 



With the hubs
on vacay!


• Sitting: don't sit cross legged with your back against the chair (makes legs look abnormally large). Instead sit at the edge of the seat with good posture. 10 lbs, gone! 
• Hand on the hip: it's almost become a joke with some friends, but that hand on the hip really helps eliminate that ugly fat upper arm syndrome that happens on even the twiggiest gals.
• Don't compensate for others: whether you're shorter or taller than others in the pic with you, don't change your stance. I've been guilty of this. I slightly bend down or subconsciously round my shoulders to be at the same height as others. No, no. Be proud your height, regardless of how much of it you have!
• Be aggressive: Tell the photographer what you want! It's best if the photographer is slightly higher than you, or at least the same height. If you're standing and they're sitting; make 'em stand up. It's so much more flattering.  
• Keep make-up fresh: If you're going to an event where you know they'll be vying for a photo, touch up face with a new coat of lipstick, a swipe of blush, some powder to minimize shine and a fresh coat of mascara to make your eyes pop. The extra two minutes will not only leave you feeling good, it will really show when the flash pops. 



Photo credit: LILA PHOTO

 
• Grab some props: are you with a bunch of friends? Try to avoid a static pose. Love this bridal shower photo of gals holding parasols. See what's around you and go for it!

And, most important of all:

• Relax, and think happy thoughts: photos don't hide anything! Don't stress about whether or not you're going to look good.... over-thinking comes across on your face. It helps if you smile with your eyes; your whole face lights up!



photo credit: LILA PHOTO





Savvy Shopping: Cash for your Cards

Best. Website. Ever. ... if you have giftcards you don't want! Or, want some at discounted rates!

If you have giftcards taking up space in your wallet and time and time again you walk into that store and can't find anything you want, well here's the site for you: Card Pool.

For example, I've been holding on to about $75 to Pottery Barn for way too long. You're thinking, how can you have a hard time spending that? Well, I'm really on the hunt for furniture and it's an in-between amount; not enough for anything substantial and don't need more furnishings. Well, Card Pool will pay me about $60 for it. Pretty good! And, a little more if I want an Amazon gift certificate instead.

Plus, you can also buy gift cards at a discounted price, up to 30 percent off! While most average about 10 percent off, it's still a very smart purchase for the shops you frequent, like Macy's, H&M, J. Crew, iTunes, Home Depot and many more. Stack this discount with other coupons, like the famous 20% off from Bed, Bath & Beyond, and if you buy online, go through Ebates to make your purchase and you could be getting back up to 15% more from your purchase. Savvy shopping, indeed!

There's other sites like Plastic Jungle that do this too but I love that Card Pool has right there a way to find out the cost of your card, if you don't know it off hand. I can never remember.

Get rid of what you don't, and start getting what you do!

Quick Bites: Oatmeal to the Extreme

Breakfast time!

Do you like instant oatmeal but feel like there's just never enough?

Do this: buy one with high fiber and protein (sometimes it says 'weight control' or high fiber) to keep you full longer and then add in an extra 1/3 or 1/4 cup of water. Cook it in the micro a bit longer so it has a thick consistency. It really works!

And, add in a few almonds or raisins, too! Plus, I also toss in some flax seed for added fiber -- good for the digestive track (and can't taste it).

Enjoy!

Fab Find: Bobble bottle

Do you drink h2o? (then you need to keep reading!)

Since you're a water drinker like the rest of us, I must, must introduce you to the most wonderful water bottle I have ever seen. My best friend L was sporting this the other day and it's just genius. Called a Bobble, it's reusable, BPA-free, good for the environment, attractive and perfect for on-the-go.  Best of all, it has a filter so you can fill it wherever you are. No worries about finding filtered while you're out or wasting $$ on a Dasani or Zephyrhills on the go. How cool is that?? This puppy will pay for itself after just a few refills!

And, to make your heart feel good: It's an answer to the $17 billion Americans waste each year on portable water. Crazy.

The water bobble comes in three sizes: 13, 18.5 and 34 ounces, and the filter has six color options: blue, green, red, magenta, yellow and black.  The fashionable filter is the equivalent to 300 water bottles that won't go to landfills! Don't you feel better already?

Bobbles are available on its web site, or you can get them at Amazon. Prices are the same, $9.99 to $12.95 (I'm always partial to Amazon since it's a bigger site).

Happy drinking... and saving the earth (no pressure, right?).

Now: Look Fab Forever

DO NOT BE AFRAID TO WEAR YOUR FAB CLOTHES!

I'm seeing waaaay too many cool chicks wearing frumpy clothes when I bet they have cute duds at home. I used to be guilty too; "saving" a beloved shirt for who-knows-what. Why??? I'm now embracing my wardrobe. I bought it to enjoy it! Forget that blah shirt, and put on one of... your fab blouses, tanks or dresses. Seriously. It's enough already! :)


-- xoxo, your fellow avg gal

Savvy Shopping: Clean Closet, Happy Gal

We spend way too much time thinking about what we're going to wear, what we need to buy and what we wish we had in our closet. Is your closet overflowing, yet you don't love most of what's in there? Try these tips to help clean through the clutter and get what you really need.

TIP #1: Determine what you wear, discard what you don't.

Do you know most people only wear a fraction of their clothes? To see what you actually wear – and what you can part with – do this: turn all of your hangers backwards -- so it hangs looking like a question mark. If you're motivated, take a few extra minutes to pull out any items you know you're ready to donate. Now, every time you wear an item and return it to the closet turn the hanger the right way again. After a few months you’ll see what hasn’t been worn. Strongly consider if it’s time to give these items a better home (donation, consign, give to a friend, etc).

When I did this, I not only found items I could part with, I also put together outfits I haven't worn in ages or normally wouldn't combine because I was trying to make use of more of my wardrobe!

TIP #2: If you must, think before you donate.

I find it hard to get rid of clothes... though I am getting better. I’m crazy sentimental and therefore, kind of a pack rat. To minimize wasted space in my closet, I go through my closet every few months and make two piles: a donation pile and a “I don’t think I need it but can I live without it??” pile. I put that pile in the back corner of my closet (or wherever is convenient for you) and a few months later check it out. Did I miss these items? I wind up keep one or two things but the rest? Didn't even miss it. Donation! If you find it hard to part with items, try this method.

TIP #3: Plan before you buy.

With every new trend and every season, us average gals are dying for new pieces to add to our wardrobe. This season for example, there are so many trends: military, neutrals, greys, faux fur, leapord... I could go on and on. Before buying, consider what you really need and want.

Recently, I knew I wanted a Tory Burch wallet, skinny green cargo pants and a few blouses for daytime (felt like I only had blah tees and work-ish type shirts). Sooo.... I didn't buy a pair of jeans on a great sale at Loehmann's or pair of Steve Madden sandals on sale for $25 from $80 because I really didn't need them... just wanted them. BUT, I have since bought my fab wallet and last week I scored my skinny green cargos. And, every time I look at these items I'm really happy. Happier than those random jeans that would be sitting next to 20 more in my closet.

What do you really want? Make a list and stick to it!

****TIP #4: Only buy it if you love it (not because it's on sale!)****
Think of me as your best friend hanging over your shoulder as you're in the fitting room. When looking at sale items, ONLY purchase if you love it and would buy it at full price. I don't mean if you could afford it at full price, but do you think it's worth it? If you’re only buying it because “it looks good on me for $12 yet it's kind of bunches here and I wish it was slightly longer" then is it really a deal? Will you wear it? Save that money toward one better item! You'll be happy you did.

TIP #5: Don't be afraid to return
Did you buy something and a few weeks later you're thinking, why the hell did I buy this? Then, put in the to-be-returned item and reciept (I hope you save all your receipts, for at least a few months!) in your car right now. This way, if you happen to unexpectedly pass the mall or that boutique you can return it. I swear this has saved me time, effort and money countless times.

Happy de-clutting, saving... and shopping!

Divine Deal: Ebates!

Do you shop online? If so, do you know about Ebates?

If you shop online and you do not, you are totally missing out on extra cash-ola in your pocket! I recently discovered it thanks to a few other bloggers and have already made about $10 just buying what I normally would. No joke.

Here's the scoop: when you shop online -- including favorites like Gap, Target, Nordstrom, even Home Depot for the guys -- click through Ebates FIRST rather than going directly to the site... what happens is that Ebates gives you a percentage of what you spend! There's more than 1,200 registered sites, with percentages from 2-20% (so you also know it's legit; 1,200 of the country's biggest brands are not going to participate in something that's not)! For example, Banana Republic right now gets you a whopping 15% back!!


Think about it: make a seriously good buy -- or even a full-price splurge -- and it's now that much more of a deal. You're getting your own money back. What's not to love?? Plus, if you search a store you're interested in, it tells you about coupon codes, too. Big love for that. Four times a year you'll get a check from them or can get paid via PayPal.
To sign up, click here NOW. It takes literally 15 seconds to sign up and best of all? You'll get a $5 bonus after you make your first purchase (and so do I... yay for both of us!)

Is this a Happy Friday or what?! Make it a great one! xoxo
:)

Quick Bites: Chocolate Under 150 Cals

Are you a crazy chocoholic like me? Seriously, it's an addiction. I can't end a meal -- sometimes even breakfast (shhh, don't tell!) -- without a bite or two of chocolate. Often I have just a few dark chocolate m&'ms or mini tootsie rolls that we have stashed in the pantry but sometimes I want something more substantial without loading on the calories. I'm awful at portion control so I typically don't buy big bags of things or 1/2 gallons of ice cream because I just can't stop! For example, I just purchased a box of Reeses cereal (it was on sale; I'm such a sucker!) and man is it going fast! It's actually a great snack (as are lots of other cereals, even the chocolatey ones) but I recommend putting it individual bags if you're anyone like me.
With all that in mind, here's a few of my under 150 calorie favorites, in no particular order:

Chocolate Vitatops (100 calories): Available now at major supermarkets, I still try to buy them at Costco or when they're on sale because they're a little pricey. Also, subscribe to their newsletter to keep in the loop about specials.

Jell-o Mousse Temptations in dark chocolate decadence: Love this stuff! The container's not huge, but it has a rich, satisfying flavor and it's thick and creamy; not at all what you'd expect for 60 measly calories! Plus, I often put a scoopful of fat free or low fat cool whip on top (and even a few sprinkles, if available) to really sweeten the deal... all under 100 calories total. Comes in four flavors.

Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches and cones: I can't pick which one I like best. I love the peanut butter and chocolate sandwich and the vanilla and caramel cone. They're so good and clocking in at just 150 or so calories each? Yes, please. Plus, the magicians at Skinny Cow somehow infused a couple of grams of fiber in each, so for you Weight Watchers, many are only two points each. Yayyyy!

"Granola" bars: I hate to even refer to them this way because they're so much better than a wimpy oat-y sounding bar. These recs are as close to a chocolate bar as you'll get for half the calories and way less fat. Some of these even pack a good dose of fiber, important for your digestive system and to keep you full longer. Love these three:

• Fiber One chocolate granola bars: I mentioned these in a post last year. They're pretty common now and with good reason. Chewy, flavorful... and a pretty good size for about 140 calories! For the best bang for your buck, buy them at Target in the packs of 10 or 12; much better value than your local grocer. I also use coupons, but that's a story for another day.

• Clif Kid Organic Z Bar in Chocolate Chip or Chocolate Brownie (about 130 cal): YUM! These aren't huge but the chocolate chip tastes like you're eating a yummy chocolate chip cookie. I often pick these puppies up at Whole Foods or Target.
• GM's Golden Grahams Treats: NEW fab find. Just tested these because they were on sale, and well... because I have no self control. You're getting a sense of that, right? They're sooooo good. It's like eating cereal (my favorite food!), chocolate and marshmallow all together for just 130 calories. Good thing they're individually packaged!

And, if you're at the grocery store or market and MUST pick up something from the candy section, go for these:

M&M's pretzel: The whole bag has just 150 calories! Granted there's not 40 pieces in there but it's a satisfying portion. Plus you can have the psychological enjoyment of picking up candy from the store without feeling guilty. Who doesn't love that?

Fab Find: Case Culture

A few weeks ago I was asked to review fashionable cases for my iPhone by a company called Case Culture. Have to admit I was a little hesitant because as a kind of clumsy gal (understatement of the year!), I didn't really want to part with my hard case in favor of one made of a softer stretchy silicone --- even if it was just to test.

Fortunately, no worries here! Success!

After two weeks of roaming the world with two of the styles --- including a few drops along the way, of course -- these cases are keepers! With styles available for five versions of the Blackberry as well as the iPhone, the cases are clearly more durable than I originally thought. Thinking it should be called Case Couture instead of Case Culture, my only wish is that they have more styles to choose from.  I've been sporting the black and white "whimsical" case (see left) as well as the pink "cure" case (see below), where 15% off the proceeds are donated to support research for a cure to breast cancer. A company with a heart? Love!

 

They also make sorority and fraternity cases, which if I was back at UF could totally picture myself wanting to sport my letters with the one object that never leaves my side. You feel the same right? This iPhone is practically glued on to my body so it's critical that it reflects my personal style. Plus, at just $9.99 each these are a freaking steal! Think these would be a fun gift for someone (esp. a college student with their letters). Best of all, you can buy two or three for the cost of one case at the Apple store (and avoid an awfully horrific line to check out!).

http://www.caseculture.com/

@caseculture

Mmm? McCormick & Schmicks

Date night! The hubs and I headed to McCormick & Schmicks at CityPlace in West Palm Beach, Fla. for a belated anniversary celebration. A national chain with nearly 90 locations in more than 20 states, we had pretty high expectations for this popular seafood restaurant. With a $100 gift card to use from my birthday back in March, we were ready for a good meal. And, what we had was...alright. Not spectacular or delish, but just alright. Fortunately, we had such a nice time out, people watching, chatting about who knows what and relishing about our adorable little girl, that the night was just wonderful. But, of course you're here to read about what we ate, so here goes... (and read to the end for a TAGG tip!)

First up was the fried calamari ($7.95). While it was flavorful, it was also slightly soggy, not offering a crispy bite like you'd expect. Can't say we left it over though... we were hun-gry!

We also ordered the flash-fried lobster roll. We love sushi and lobster, so what's not to like? Again, we were slightly disappointed. They should have taken note from Lemongrass in Delray. Now that's a lobster roll! At M&S, the lobster meat was chopped and put side-by-side with julienned vegetables. We decided the lobster could have easily been crab. It didn't have much taste, even when pulled out of the roll to sample. Oh, and random rant: the soy sauce was in a dish smaller than the pieces... pet peeve! What does the chef expect me to do??

Moving on to the main course, the hubs ordered the Chilean sea bass with udon noodles and vegetables. Nice presentation when they poured the sauce at the table. Love that. His dish was really good; fish was soft and buttery yet seared nicely on the outside and the noodles were al dente. We recommend!

I got the corvina (a mild white fish) with a sweet potato shrimp hash and corn chowder that the waitress referred to as "a sleeper hit" on the menu. I went for it! While the fish had a nice, mild flavor some of the sweet potato pieces weren't fully cooked! We couldn't even get our forks in them. Bad news. And, while the corn chowder (which can be ordered separately as a soup) had a nice, bold corn flavor, it was lacking some corn kernel pieces that I enjoy. Personal preference. The leading disappointment though was that two-thirds through I noticed what looked like a few small pieces of bacon under my fish. Eek. I don't eat bacon! (another story: don't ask how I made it through three cities in Italy without eating pork!). While the waitress first tried to convince me it was red onion, she quickly came back, took my plate, apologized and brought us a complimentary dessert. Oops!

I'm glad she did though. While we were too full to order a dessert, who can turn away a complimentary one? Not these two. Mmm. We had a decadent chocolate-constructed cup filled with white chocolate mousse and a few berries. M&S is smart: end the meal well!

While I wouldn't rush back there, I would go back. The fish was fresh and they have great, affordable lunch dishes; there's a 10 for $10 menu. If I lived closer, I'd certainly check them out.

REVIEW
Food: B-/C+
Service: B

TAGG TIP: If you go, it's totally worth getting the M&S preferred member card. It costs $25 but they credit you $25, give you $30 credit on your birthday, plus a whole smorgasbord of other perks that make it totally worthwhile. Right now, I have a $55 credit waiting to be used!