Make Drinks Like the Pros with Lime Tree Cove Cocktail Salts

Mixology has become one of North America's favourite pastimes.

My fella has become an excellent drink maker in recent months. Frothy, boozy concoctions from the 20s and 30s are a current fave.

But I do love classics such as Margaritas and Bloody Marys. The key to these fabulous beverages is in the rimming. If you don't line 'em with salt, they aren't the real deal. The problem is, how do you do it without making a huge mess?

I found the solution at Lime Tree Cove.

CEO Tim McCaffery writes about how the company started:

"We began when my fiancè asked me, 'Can you re-salt my margarita?' The concept of a better way to prepare rimmed cocktails was born."

Tim and his crew have created the perfect tools and ingredients (all natural) to rim your drinks with ease. 

The Barmaid (pictured above) takes drink rimming and salting to a whole new level. This handheld device allows you to make margaritas, mojitos, martinis, pina coladas, and whatever else you like to sip on. Just wet the rim of your glass with lime, lemon , etc. Place the Barmaid on the rim of your glass, press the button and go around the edge. The Barmaid does the rest, dispensing just the right amount of salt the the glass' edge. You can control the amount of salt by pressing more for more and less for less. Sooo easy!

Want something a little fancier than just plain salt? The Gourmet Samplers allow you an exciting range of spices and seasonings to try.  I taste-tested the Margarita Fiesta Sampler. Offering 4 variations to whet your whistle, there's something here for everyone: Tangy Lime Salt, Spicy Chili Salt, Sea Salt and Fresh Lemon Sugar for those wanting a sweet finish to their drink.

Next time your friends want to go out for drinks, tell 'em they can have handcrafted, personalized drinks at your place. Just see where you all end up.

Shop the entire Lime Tree Cove Collection now.

ShoptoBeGreen.com Offers Organic, Natural & Sustainable Products

If you don't have a small family-owned green products retailer near you, you know have one online.

Shoptobegreen.com offers organic, natural and sustainable products for your body and your home. Many factors go into the careful selection of vendors and their products. They ask themselves,"Can this product reduce the public's use of petroleum products; lower landfill contribution either through bio-degradability, pre-cycle and recycle usage; and lowering chemical exposure by providing naturally made alternatives?"

They also prefer to carry products "made out of recycled materials created in an environmentally friendly way; like our reclaimed wood furniture, recycled water bottle felt pillows, and junk mail greeting cards. We also choose to carry a lot of products that are handmade by small family owned companies (like Tumbleweed Bead Co, GB Proudfoot, Decoylab and Beehive Kitchenware). One of the many reasons we love small companies is because their products tend to be handmade at the time you place your order so there are no large warehouses of inventory sucking up energy."

You can tell they've put a lot of thought into this:

"We look for items that can replace petroleum based products (like soy candles) and products that can help conserve energy usage (like LED lights and solar electronics). We carry jewelry made only from recycled metals and we will only carry antique or Canada mined diamonds so you can rest assured that it is not a conflict diamond. Our policy on products from outside of the US is to find companies that help reduce waste like Verterra’s biodegradable disposable kitchenware, Chaba reclaimed wood decor, and AquaOvo Therm-o glass bottle. We look for companies with Fair Trade policies such as our Pomiare Clayware, BeeHive Kitchenware Ceramics, and Himalayan salt lamps."

Not only is that a time-saver from shopping store to store, but it's a heartwarmer too - you can feel good about absolutely everything you purchase here. How great to support these smaller, independent producers!

I got to try Solay Wellness, for instance, which I'd never come across before. Their Whipped Body Butter is so luxurious and light, that I've been slathering all over my body ever since it arrived. And my skin has never been so soft! And the Detox Face Mask is the perfect way to combat a stressful day and/or damaged skin.

G.B. Proudfoot is another company I hadn't heard of and was thrilled to discover. Their Original Organic Lip Balm is not only soothing, it's got the most invigorating scent - ginger and orange - you'll want to eat it! For truly soft, renewed skin, their Tea with Lemon & Honey Scrub (pictured above) goes to work on ridding you of any dry skin and leaves behind rich, moist skin, all done with natural ingredients.

Not only is Shoptobegreen.com a fantastic place to shop for yourself, it makes gift-giving a breeze.

Shop now. Shop green. Shop responsibly.

Take Your Food to Another Level with Sea to Sky Seasonings Salts

Do you get into a routine where everything you make tastes the same?

I certainly do. I tend to rely on the same spices, do the same 10 dishes again and again and fall into the same pattern at mealtime because I'm rushed for time.

I've recently discovered however, that all it takes is a little salt. Not just any salt, of course. I'm talking about Sea to Sky Seasonings Salts.

These Canadian-inspired infused seasonings & salts enhance flavours way beyond simple table salt. The goal of Sea to Sky Seasonings is "to elevate your taste experience to a new level," and they have most certainly reached it.

By  using as many locally grown, ethical and organic ingredients as possible, you get the freshest, most vibrant taste. And you won't find any food colourings or other flavour enhancers here - just natural ingredients that will enliven both your food and your palates.

New flavours are introduced seasonally - I tried some earlier this season such as Vancoucer Coast & Mountains Berry & Honey Salt (try rimming your Margarita glass with this one - heaven), Vancouver Island Seaweed Salt (so good a top of salmon!), Thompson Okanagan Apple Salt, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Garlic Salt (I shook this all over my homemade sweet potato fries), Northern BC Wild Mushroom Salt (so decadent on eggs!) and for the every day, I quickly became addicted to Kootenay Rockies Spring Skiing Salt (so fresh!).

And now I want to try these from Sea to Sky Seasoning core lineup:

Bacon & Tomato Salt - Smokey Oyama bacon, concentrated sundried tomatoes and sea salt all packaged into one delicious ingredient?  Oh my!

Cabernet Sauvignon Salt - This Cab Sav from the Niagara region is sure to intensify your evening's menu.

Cinnamon, Chocolate & Chipotle - How sexy is this combination? Just think of all you can use it on!

Silk Spice - Created by Chef Silke Seiler, this seasoning is fascinating and completely unique. What a fabulous gift for the food lover in your life!

Shop the entire Sea to Sky Seasonings Store and rev up your cooking - naturally!

Oh Egg Press - How I Love Thee!

I have been writing about Egg Press for years because their cards are always sweet, charming and hit just the right note. It is one of the few lines that I always get a "What a great card!" compliment.

So I'm beyond thrilled to share their new products with you - so innovative, so fun! Check 'em out:

- Charm cards (pictured above) are a present and card all in one! The recipient gets all the tools to make earrings, bracelets and necklaces all in a flat package that is easily mailed. And at such an affordable price, you can get them for everyone on your gift list!

- Letterpressed recipe cards are the only folded ones I've ever seen - and what a fabulous idea! You send your sentiments and a recipe. How cool is that? They are sized to fit in a traditional recipe box, and the name of the dish can be seen through a sweet little die-cut window. Sold in a set of 6 (jars, yum, food, veggie, sand dollar, cook), just try not to buy out the entire stock. These are going to go quickly.

-   The new line of letterpressed cards with Angela Adams have the bold, colourful, sunny graphics that are so right now and that you have come to know and love over the years (I've had Angela Adams stationery and notebooks for what seems like decades now).  They may just have you wanting to redo your whole place in this fashion. Just watch!

Check out Egg Press' brand new website and stock up on these amazing cards.

Egg Press, I will love you until the end of time.

My New Life Guide Is Lotta Jansdotter's Handmade Living: A Fresh Take on Scandinavian Living

I have loved Lotta Jansdotter for years and have written about her products at every opportunity. I wrote about her sewing book back in 2007 and her notecard book, labels and stickers back in 2010.

There is such a clean simplicity to everything that she does that I find so calming and simultaneously appealing.So when I discovered her new book, Handmade Living: A Fresh Take on Scandinavian Style, I knew I'd found my new life guide.

What I mean by that is adapted her philosophies and looks into my own life. While there are many similarities to our looks and homes, I am always looking for ways to improve, simplify, declutter and spend more time on the things that truly matter.

Lotta graciously lets us in on her home and office and shows us fantastic ways to decorate, design and entertain. But really, it is more a lesson about a way of life. In the introduction, she writes, "It's my aim to show you that living a stylish life does not require a lot of money. It simply takes some interest, patience, and a touch of creativity."

I really believe that  you can live a full life without spending a lot. It's like a lot of organizing books say - keep only what really matters and you will enjoy those few things so much more. So I am already on board with her on this one. I think I just need a little honing and maybe a little more Scandinavian touches throughout the place.

Lotta also says that for her, "home is not really home unless there is a bit of cooking involved," so she she not only shares some of her beloved recipes, but includes recipe cards at the back.

I think what I find so fascinating is that she lives in bustling New York doing all of these wildly creative, energetic things and yet, her home is a haven of serenity, calm and beauty. This, while she has a husband, 2 year-old son and a cat. It's not a pristine white on white penthouse where things don't get touched and/or moved. This is like our home - where people live their lives and get dirty and have laundry to do and garbage to take out. What a relief to find someone like us (because we all know that people like Martha Stewart has staff and is prickly about mess). Just look at her kitchen - things are stacked and stacked. It feels just like home, doesn't it?

She gives great advice about everything from covering your windows so they still let in light to using up wasted space with baskets and shelves. And now I want "tray slings" and to instill "Fika" and "Smorgastarta" in my life! - you're just going to have to get the book to find out what they are.My favourite part of the book is about her office. She loves it so much that she decorates and reorganizes it all the time. A woman after my own heart.

I know about 20 people that could really use this book and about 50 that would love it just for the beautiful wisdom and ideas within it, not to mention the photos. What a gorgeous gift this makes - both for yourself and for others. 

And really, giving yourself the life you deserve is the best gift of all. Which is why this is going on my permanent holiday and birthday gift list. Because this kind of joy should be spread all around!

Buy your copies of Handmade Living now.

The New Rubbermaid Filter Fresh Water Bottle - The Only Bottle You Need

It's sweltering out. I bet you're drinking tons of water.

Are you still buying bottled water? Sure, that $1 or $2 might not seem like much when you purchase just the one, but think about how many you've bought this week. That's a trip to the movies!

I'm guilty of buying bottled water too. Often tap water doesn't taste fresh or clean to me, even though I know it's just fine.

The best solution I've found is the New Rubbermaid Filter Fresh Water Bottle.

It has a filter right in it, so you can use plain old tap water. The filter gets rid of chlorine, making it fresh and tasty, as well as saving you tons of money and saving the environment from all those disposable plastic bottles.

Each filter provides the equivalent of 300 bottles of water, so you really get your money's worth and don't have to worry about changing the filter every few days like many on the market.

I love that it holds 600ml (20 oz.) of water! It's more than the regular bottles you buy, but not so much that it weighs you down.

The bottle is BPA-free and can accommodate all kinds of ice cubes. The screw tight lid is leak-proof, so whether you're commuting by subway, car or mountain range, your water stays in the bottle. And there is a nice sized twist on cap that allows you to drink and hydrate comfortably (I don't know how people drink from those wide-mouth ones without it dribbling all down their front).

This is my new favourite travel companion as it fits in cup holders (hallelujah!) and has a fun finger loop that makes it easy to carry, even if your hands are full (and when aren't they?)

I stopped buying bottled water, thanks to the New Rubbermaid Filter Fresh Water Bottle. I've already saved a ton of time (no need to search out a store for water anymore), money (it's safely stashed in my wallet ) and the environment (no recycling anymore bottles).

What seems like a teeny switch actually makes a helluva difference.

Make the change too! Get the whole family/office/posse  New Rubbermaid Filter Fresh Water Bottles.

Bhold Shoe Bags Pamper Your Shoes - Each Individual One

Maybe you've been only using your shoe bags for traveling. I have. Because they aren't really all that pretty or that functional for anything more than keeping your shoes separate from your clothes in your luggage.

That's until I got Bhold Shoe Bags.

Proudly made and designed in Canada, you won't be able to resist these pretty little numbers. They come in so many patterns suitable for both men, women and young ladies, so they make a wonderful gift for the world traveler or the never-ending organizer.

Far superior to the ones you've used up until now, Bhold Bags are lined (your shoes have never been so pampered - I call my bags my "shoe spas") and come with a separator, so that each shoe gets its own cushy department and stay in tip-top shape. How swank is that?! The two drawstrings are finished with wooden beads, making it easy to stash and store your shoes in an instant.

And there are so many collections to choose from: Bella, an embellished collection that reminds me of frothy wedding cakes, Bling, for those that want to add a little shimmer and shine with Swarovski crystals to their closet, Top Shelf is a rich collection of sumptuous patterns and colours, Playful is all about whimsical and colourful cottons, and the Active Collection, which oozes city chic.

I got the Pixie Gurl (pictured above) which I use for storing away my lovely towering heels and wedges as well as toting my flats with me when I'm heading out for a night on the town and know that I will only get as far as the restaurant before I'll have to switch out of my teeterting booties.

Of course, you don't have to use them only for shoes - wrap wine or champagne, store your audio equipment (who says you can't still rock a yellow discman?) or keep all of your hair accessories together and organized. The possibilities are endless.

I am thrilled to have found Bhold Bags. They are the solution I didn't know I needed. Next on my list? A Bhold Shopping Bag!

Shop the entire Bhold Collection now.

Cake Vintage Kitchen Papers Turns Your Dinner Party Into the Event of the Season

I love to entertain, but truthfully I'd rather spend my money on ingredients instead of the decorations. But I do like to spruce the place up a bit. It really needs a lift when company's coming by.

That's why my new favourite dinner party accessory is Cake Vintage Kitchen Papers.

This line of beautifully-styled vintage looking papers dresses up your table quickly and without a lot of expense. And you can choose to reuse or recycle them, meaning they'll take up less space than your Grandmother's linens.

Perfect Serving Placemats elevate your food so that everything has the feel of a fine French meal. Whether your tableware is handmade in Portugal or from Ikea, your guest will at least know where which fork goes where. And there's 50 of 'em, so that oughta get you through the summer.

And since doilies are so passe, update your look with 8" Serving Papers (pictured above).  This pad of 25 tear-off sheets means that you can use them under everything from your leek and cheese souffle appetizer to your homemade rhubarb crumble dessert.

For the food lover who's always dabbling in the kitchen, the Cook's Journal is a phenomenal gift. It has a table of contents and each recipe is numbered (space for 40-hand written dishes), with room for the ingredients and directions. With vintage images throughout, it is the most beautiful journal and an instant cookbook - just fill in the blanks and you've got your best-seller completed!

Using soy based inks & 30% recycled content, these are treasured items that make not only wonderful entertaining accompaniments, but incredibly memorable gifts too. 

Shop the entire Cake Vintage Kitchen Papers collection now. A portion of all of proceeds are donated to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Fund at Vanderbilt.

Why You Should Make the Switch to IQ Cleaners

Not all "natural" and "eco-friendly" cleaners work.

Sometimes they leave behind streaks and essential oil smudges.So it's important to find one that actually cleans well enough that you don't feel like you have to clean afterwards. Been there, done that.

Scent is also very important to me. I want something that smells "clean" but not astringent.There's nothing better than walking into the house and inhaling a big ol' whiff of "this house has been taken care of."

That's why I'm think iQ Cleaners are a smart choice:

- The wicked design  of an empty bottle with a cartridge. You pop in the cartridge and add water. Better for the environment (80% less waste) and a lot easier to carry home.

- They do what they say they do: clean.

- Non-toxic ingredients means that I can feel good about using them at home. After all, our Cosmo has been known to lick the floor on occasion.

- You can finally afford cleaners again. Thanks to iQ, they've created an inexpensive options for those of us who don't want to have to choose between buying a cleaner or pair of shoes...

- The scents are wonderful - flowery, but not sweet, and yes, clean-smelling. Woo woo!

I tried 3 of the 4 cleaners and was thrilled with them all. The All-Purpose Cleaner goes to work in my office and the kitchen without any elbow grease required. I clean our bathroom a lot, so it's nice to know that iQ Bathroom Cleaner is always up to the task. It makes it smell amazing too, which I really appreciate. And with mirrored doors everywhere, you wouldn't believe how much Glass Cleaner I go through. This is one I can actually afford. 

When's the last time you were "thrilled" with your cleaners? That's what I thought.

So get yourself iQ Cleaners and have a clean, safe home that smells wonderful without having to break the bank. It really is that easy.

Celebrate William & Kate's Royal Visit with The Coaster Company!

The  Royal Couple: William & Catherine - Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are visiting Canada. How will you celebrate and commemorate this epic event?

No one has better mementos than England's The Coaster Company!

These UK-made Royal Wedding Commemorative Products give you a wide range of photos and products to choose from.  

I think coasters are the way to go, because you get to not only see and enjoy the images, but they come in handy if you like to have a cuppa while you're at your desk or while you're watching the telly (writing about the UK has definitely brought out my English side, as you can see!).  But all of their designs are also available in placemats and mousemats as well.

And because they are so affordable, you can get a bunch for yourself and give the rest as gifts. Such a handsome couple should be displayed, shouldn't they?

The Balcony Kiss on Union Jack Background (pictured above) or without the background preserves that moment in time beautifully. Or perhaps you prefer them waving on the Palace Balcony. Leaving Westminster Abbey is a lovely shot, as is the close up of William & Kate in the Wedding Carriage.And the inclusion of the Crest on this Wedding Commemorative Coaster makes is a wonderful souvenir for Royal's fans.

For those of you who are history buffs, you'll know that according to history files, Keep Calm and Carry On was a poster produced by the British government in 1939 during the beginning of World War II.   It was intended to raise the morale of the British public in the event of invasion, but it never really caught on until its rediscovery in 2000. Since then, it's become a popular catch phrase that actually resonates well in our technologically-laden world.  So I recommend getting a Set of Six Keep Calm and Carry On Coasters  (I love that they come in a variety of colours) for yourself and then a bunch to keep on hand for gifts. You know your friends are going to love 'em as much as you do!

And for a fun take on that, be sure to get these amazing coasters: Calm Down You Can Still Marry Harry, Don't Panic There's Still One Prince Left, Don't Panic You Can Still Marry Pippa and I'm Just Wild About Harry.

Shop The Coaster Comapny's entire collection and commemorate the Royal Visit with something that you'll actually use and you can actually afford (take that, overpriced coins or plates). 

Luxuriate in Linen Towels This Summer from the UK's LinenMe

Linen is a timeless fabric. 

I remember seeing black and white photos of Audrey Hepburn and Katharine Hepburn in linen pants and suits and yet, here they are today at stores like TopShop and Banana Republic.

But perhaps you've never considered linen for your home. Linen Me in England has a whole online shop dedicated to not only linen clothes, linen scarves and linen fabrics but bed linen, throws & blankets, kitchen linen, table linen and bathroom linen.

Inga, an interior designer who graduated from London’s KLC School of Design, explains her love of linen:

"Over years I have come to the conclusion that pure linen, like any other natural fiber, has some sort of magic powers, and I love to share my expertise, skills and passion with LinenMe customers. Making our luxury products affordable and available to any home and taste has always been one of the highest priorities at LinenMe. I’m a regular visitor and exhibitor at interior design fairs in the UK, Germany, France, Japan and USA, so I do try to produce home interior accessories suitable for various tastes, fitting different size standards and as much up-to-date as possible." 

In addition all of the designs at LinenMe are produced in a small, family owned facility in Lithuania. 

I love looking through this site because it shows that linen can be extremely vibrant and colourful like the Silk Wool Orange Scarf and this stunning Purple Linen Dress! And while looking through all of the beautiful items, I was surprised to learn that there are thick and luxurious linen bath towels. I had only seen linen tea towels and cloths before.

So I was really excited to try a Natural Striped Huckaback Linen Bath Towel Lucas (pictured above) to greet me after an energizing shower or a relaxing dip in the tub. This 100% organic linen towel is so super soft (it's been pre-washed, so it's even softer than you can imagine) that you'll wonder why you've been buying cotton towels all these years. The size (70 x 130 cm, 100 x 150 cm) means that everyone in the family will get to envelope themselves and have that spa-at-home feeling and the stripes lend a decidedly modern and exciting look to an otherwise ordinary bathroom.

I'm making the switch over the linen everything - what about you?

Shop LinenMe's incredible collection now.

Get Organized with Scribble on Everything's Incredible Chalkboard Weekly Calendar Decal

I bet you're thinking that you could totally get organized for once and for all, if only you could find a system that not only allows you to customize it to your needs but is big enough to go on the wall.

Because you've got some big ass ideas and nowhere right now to put 'em!

Enter the most fabulous chalkboard of the decade - Scribble on Everything's Chalkboard Weekly Calendar Decal.

It is the most fabulous for so many reasons, including:

- The blocks (8, 12x13.5" chalkboard decals and 8, 12x3" diecut days of week chalkboard decals) are so big that when I unfurled them all on a sheet, I held it from ceiling to floor and it was longer than my walls (and I have fairly high ceilings, so you can just imagine that these are really something). This is really worth noting because sometimes you just need a really big space to allow your mind to open up and this is one of the only calendars that I've seen that really does hold everything that you could possible need to put in there (Octomom, I'm talking to you).

- The other amazing feature besides their ginormous size is that you can put 'em exactly where you want 'em. This is truly a genius feature because not everyone works Sun-Sat. Some people like the week to start on Monday. And who says that they all have to be in one row, starting left to right? Put your calendar blocks where it makes sense for you. If that means all around your armoire and sewing machine, then hells yes, that's where it shall go.

- The decals are made from matte vinyl, which doesn't leave a permanent mark or residue and yet they work like a real blackboard.  And it was made for us modern folks - clean the dustless chalk (you get a twelve pack included with your decals) off with a damp cloth - no mess like the primary school classroom you remember. Thank goodness!

There is no excuse not to be organized thanks to Scribble on Everything's Chalkboard Weekly Calendar Decal.

They have other really cool stuff too - check it out!

Obol Keeps Your Cereal From Getting Soggy

I am very sensitive to the texture of food. I don't like that stringy feeling of overcooked shrimp or anything that's mushy (you should see how hard the nectarines I buy are). 

So I can understand the desire to keep your crunchy cereal from turning into pudding. Especially if you eat like puffed wheat, that seems to soften as soon as it hits the milk.

That's why you've got to get yourself the Obol. It keeps everything separate until you're ready to pull it together. And nothing says you've got to use it only for cereal - soup and crackers, chips and dip, it works for so many things! In fact, why don't you send me a tweet or leave a comment here or on my facebook page to what you're going to use yours for?

If you're like most people, you'll be happy with the Obol in CreamWhite. But why not add a splash of colour with the new Lime & Tangerine Obols? Ooh, they're fun. And all are available as of June 1st at Brookstone.

As a restaurant reviewer and food writer, it's important to me that the textures of food be the way they're intended. And my Obol lets me blend the ingredients together at my leisure.

Now that's customized!

Get yourself some Obols now and put an end to soggy cereal once and for all.

Vermont Soap Organics Deep Cleans Without Toxic Chemicals

I am trying to rid our house of chemicals and go all natural wherever possible.

One of the first places I hit was underneath the skin where I store my house cleaners. A clean house is very important to me, but now that we have the option of cleaners that use natural ingredients instead of toxic chemicals, I want to replace everything under there.

The problem is, some natural cleaners just don't do the job well enough.

So I'm always on the lookout for something that doesn't just smell good or makes my appliances look good, but really gets in there and cleans.

Vermont Soap Organics produces "USDA Approved, Certified Organic alternatives to the chemical and detergent based personal care products now in general use," and their Farm & Ranch Multi-Surface Cleaner stands up to my vigourous testing.

I like that it works on everything in the bathroom and kitchen, it brings out a shine on the taps as well as the porcelain and countertops. I feel good knowing that its free of artificial preservatives, colours, fragrances alcohol and detergents too.

Not only that, it smells good. Using saponified  organic coconut, olive and jojoba oils, organic orange oil, tea tree and other natural essential oils, organic aloe and rosemary extract, you get that fresh, clean aroma without inhaling anything harmful.

But don't feel you can only use it on your room's surfaces - it works on all washable materials including wood, plastics, leather, cloth, people, pets, car interiors and much more (just be sure to test a small area prior to use).

So instead of having 5 bottles under the sink, have just the one. The good one.

Buy Farm & Ranch Multi-Surface Cleaner now.

Get the Cleanest Floors You've Ever Had with Rubbermaid's Reveal Microfiber Spray Mop

I've got hardwood floors throughout my home. And then tiles in the kitchen and bathroom.

That combined with my fella and I working out of our one-bedroom home with our cat at our feet leaves our place somewhat overrun. Oh, and when I'm not writing, I'm cooking, so needless to say, our floors need to be cleaned once a day.At least.

That being said, as much as I love a clean house, I don't want to spend hours scrubbing floors. That's why I am head over heels for Rubbermaid's New Reveal Microfiber Spray Mop!

The microfiber pad is phenomenal - I can't believe how clean the floors get, with no need to go over them again (thank goodnesss)! Rubbermaid says it picks up "50% more dirt and dust per swipe than traditional mops," but it seems like a higher number to me.My kitchen and bathroom tiles have these grooves where everything slips into. The Reveal cleaned 'em  right out. All that hair (it's not just the cat, we all shed), dust, dirt, food, everything gets picked up.  And because of the design, it swivels and gets into teeny, tiny corners like no other mop I've ever tried.

I think because of the thick, thirsty microfiber material, it holds more water than most pads and it's able to  clean thoroughly with each swab you do. My floors look amazing (yes, you can come and see them, but please call first). A refillable spray bottle allows you to wash your floors in whatever eco cleaners you like. Me, I like to use just water (try it and tell me your floors don't shine up a storm), so I appreciate that I can fill the bottle and pull the handle and spray as I go (why anyone would still use a bucket in this day and age is beyond me, but all this time, I have been having to go over to the sink and re-wet my cloth - no more!).  That means, that I can clean much, much faster.

I've never seen a velcro stickiness like this before either. You never ever have to worry about the pad becoming loose (a problem I've had in the past with other mops) because you have to use some upper arm strength to tear the pad off when you're done. So mop away knowing that the pad is always safe and secure. I also love the cushiony foam handle, which makes for very comfortable mopping. Why not make the experience as enjoyable as possible?And there's no need for disposable anything with this mop. You get 200 times with each pad. Toss your pad into the wash, not in the garbage like those ones from the drugstore. Ech.

Buy it online at Rubbermaid.com, at Lowes, Loblaws, Home Hardware, Walmart and Home Depot for $29.99 (it comes with one spray bottle and one cleaning pad). Additional cleaning pads can be purchased for $6.99 and spray bottles are $4.49.

Rubbermaid Reveal Microfiber Spray Mop, where have you been all of my life? I know have all this extra time on my hands, thanks to you.

Ahhh.

Full Circle Makes the Best Kitchen & Cleaning Tools!

Why are you still using that scrub brush that you got from the dollar store two years ago?

Ew. Not to mention that it is nowhere near eco-friendly.

That's why you've got to check out Full Circle.

Their cleaning tools are so beautiful, so wonderful to hold and use, completely eco-friendly and sustainable and - here's the biggest suprise - absolutely affordable!

Everything from dish brushes, scrub brushes, sponge, cloths, towels,to make-your-own natural cleaning set and home composting solutions are available here, so you can clean and have a clean conscience.

The Be Good Dish Brush has quickly become one of our most used kitchen tools ever. I used to just rely on a sponge and dish cloth, but this recycle plastic, renewable bamboo dish brush gets at all the stuck-on food and grease with so little elbow grease, I have time to go and make myself a drink afterwards!

Now that the Farmer's Markets are getting going, the The Ring Vegetable Brush is a must for gently removing dirt from your hand-picked carrots, potatoes, mushrooms, etc. The natural and recycled bristles work out the land from your veg quickly and easily. And the part bamboo handle is just gorgeous (Why can't Full Circle make jewelry too? This is the perfect bangle!) and so smooth. Everything Full Circle makes is just so easy on the hands, something that you certainly wouldn't notice with those cheap plastic things you've been using up until now, but you can't help but take note of - rest your thumb there, put your hand there, ahh!

And speaking of brushes, the Reach Bottle Brush works in travel mugs, baby bottles and I've been using mine to also clean the sludge that occurs in vases full of water (why does it do that?) and dust out the inside of my lamps. You simple place the longer end of the brush on the inside and squeeze the handle to clean both surfaces simultaneously. The handle and bristles are made with recycled plastic and the wire is made of  recycled stainless steel. This is one of those tools that you didn't realize was so handy until you had it, and now you can't live without it.

One of my favourite designs is the Stick'em Magnetic Kitchen Towel (pictured above). You know how chefs have a towel that sits on their hip so that they can wipe their hands or grab a hot pan out of the oven with one quick move? That's what this towel is like. You can put it wherever is most convenient, not just where it happens to fit.You can toss it towards the fridge or stove and it sticks! How cool is that? And here's the best part - the bamboo and organic cotton blend is so cushy and soft, you use it more than any other towel that's passed through the house. Ooh, if only there was pajamas in this material...

These are just a few of the amazingly wonderful, inexpensive kitchen tools from Full Circle. Look around and finally get items that are worthy of you.

My New Favourite Party Go-To Dessert is Kari's Malva Pudding

One of the biggest headaches for me when it comes to planning a dinner party is worrying about what to serve for dessert.

As I don't bake too often, I am always wondering what to offer people after the dinner dishes have been cleared. Chocolates seem too mundane and anything like cupcakes or macarons seem overdone. I want to serve something original and exciting, but truthfully, I'm not quite at the level of being able to do it myself.

So I looked to the pros, searching for an exhilarating choice. And I found it all in Kari's Malva Pudding.

These handmade cakes come way of the Mansfeld Family in Aptos California. Most notably by Miss Kari herself.  Using fresh "cage-free eggs from the Glaum chicken ranch just up the road and fresh apricot jam from the local farmer's market with no corn syrup in it," you'll appreciate all the wholesome, natural ingredients as well as the fact that one serving is only 230 calories!

Each pudding is spongy, light and moist and is like no other dessert I've ever had.  Slightly caramelly, it has a dulce de leche, creme brulee kind of feel, mixed with moist, fresh-from-the-oven cake. You serve it warm with custard, fruit or a complete showstopper - ice cream.

The pudding is is hand-poured and packaged and frozen fresh. You wouldn't believe how easy it is to:

- defrost

- heat up and serve in an instant

- store (up to 4 days at room temperature, in the fridge for up to 2 weeks)

- pass off as your own, if you want to (I never would, but I won't judge you if you do)

I am stunned that something that was shipped to me frozen can taste so out-of-the-oven fresh and homemade!

Be sure to get both Kari's Malva Pudding and the Chocolate Pudding because if you share these with your dinner guests, they are going to go like lightning.  

Of course, you could keep Kari's Malva Pudding all to yourself. But something tells me as much as you'll want to covet it for yourself, you won't be able to resist sharing it with friends and family!

Clancy's Fancy Hot Sauces are a Gourmand's Dream!

Hot sauces almost always deliver heat without much flavour.

It takes quite a bit of searching and tasting before you come across one that really stands out with flavours that penetrate your food and palate.

Created by Colleen Clancy, this sauce is like no other that you've ever had. It is fresh and full-bodied, savory with meaty, umami wickedness. It's no wonder, with ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil, Michigan honey, wheat-free tamari, fresh garlic, cayenne peppers and molasses. I've had "gourmet" hot sauces before, but never anything with this kind of culinary pedigree.

There are 3 heat levels - Mild, Hot and Extra Hot - and I love each and every one equally. The Mild delivers a very mild heart but so much flavour that I've been covering much of my plates with it when I don't feel like anything spicy. When I'm in the mood for some heat, I turn it up a notch with Hot, which has some, but a very bearable amount of kick. The Extra Hot packs a wallop, but you still get so much flavour that it's just as addictive as the rest. I don't quite have my palate developed to handle the heat of this one, but I'm working on it!

I have to say that I want to carry a bottle around in my purse with me so that I'm never without it. It's making food without it seem like less than. Oh god, have I turned into one of those people who carries around her hot sauce like a crazy person?

Yes, I think I have folks.

And it's all Clancy's Fancy's fault.

Colleen, thank you so much for such a wonderful flavour journey each time I have one of your sauces. It is truly remarkable. It's also remarkable that I really don't like to have anything without a hit of your magic wonder in a bottle either. Bad news for someone that eats for a living.

p.s. If you're smart, you'll become a Clancy's Fan as I did.

Cocktails, Anyone? Ultimate Bar Book Has Got You Covered!

Because our summers are so short here, I think we tend to take them pretty seriously. So on the first warmish day, you'll see us outside on patios, imbibing in a cocktail or two. Sure we'll still have our coats on, but there's nothing more summery than taking a few minutes out to enjoy a good drink.

The problem happens when you get home and realize that all you know how to make are lame cocktails from the 90s. How are you supposed to entertain your friends serving Long Island Iced Teas and Rum & Cokes?

That's why you've got to get yourself a copy of Ultimate Bar Book. It has the classic drinks you've known and loved with an introduction to the newest drink recipes that will impress the crowd - and having them come back for more, no doubt!

You won't have to worry about running out because there are more than 1,000 recipes (that oughta get you through at least the summer!) and that's not just regular drinks - there's garnishes, rims, infusions, and syrups; punches, gelatin shooters, hot drinks, and non-alcoholic beverages here too.

And in case you've never really set up a home bar before, author Mittie Hellmich tells you everything you need to get started.

If you start now, you'll be ready to be the first to host a cool cocktails fete celebrating the season. Buy your copy of Ultimate Bar Book now and always be prepared to host a little soiree or a big blowout.

p.s. And in case you've celebrated a little too much, there are some hangover tips included in the book as well. It really does have everything!

Slice - For When You Want to Just Cut to the Chase, or the Paper!

Have you ever gone to use your scissors to only be shocked by how dull they are? And aren't they just so bulky and uncomfortable to grip onto and use?

Slice has created a line of innovative household items such as Stainless Steel Scissors that are so beautifully designed, you'll wonder why you were stuck with those ugly black ones for all those years! They have paired with world-renowned designers to create objects of not only beauty, but function.

Designed by Karim Rashid, the Japanese stainless steel scissors (pictured above) are a work of art, but no so much that you can't use them. In fact, the hand-polished finger-grips are quite comfortable (whether you use your left or right hand!), despite the flat shape. The blades are sharp, so you can cut your way through stuff without having to use your hand for strength.

It's hard to find a good Letter Opener, but this one just zips through your envelopes, no matter how thin or thick. The zirconium oxide ceramic blade works on the envelope, not on your hand, so no more paper cuts or slicing your hand open. And because it's magnetized, you can always keep it within reach. And I know, just because you can open your bills faster, doesn't mean they'll necessarily get paid any sooner!

If you're at artist or tend to need to cut and open a lot of materials, you're going to love the Safety & Precision Cutters! The Slice Safety Cutter is not only a life-saver, but an immense time-saver. Opening and removing the shrink wrap from CDs and DVDs suddenly takes just one sec. Cut pictures and recipes out from magazines or articles from the paper smoothly and quickly! And there's that magnet again, so you won't lose it, or use the key-ring hole so that you can have it with you on the go.

The Precision Cutter is another Karim Rashid design. He's made this one safe and sharp, thanks the zirconium oxide blade and comfortable handle, so you can work your heart out without worry of it slipping. It also gives you great control so don't be surprised if you start doing intricate paper cutouts amidst the projects you're working on!

And for those of use, forever trying to find a vegetable peeler that actually:

- works

- and feels good in the hand

Slice and Karim Rashid have come up with a superb Vegetable Peeler - the Y-Peeler - that will have you eating more fruit and veggies than ever because it's so much fun and easy to use! The super-sharp ceramic blade gets through both soft and tough skins, and the handle is so comfortable, you'll want all of your kitchen utensils to come with the same comfy grip! That's neat is that the ceramic blade is "non-allergenic, chemically neutral, and impervious to acid, fat and salt. Won't brown food, transfer smells, or leave a metallic taste." I'd never even thought about those things before! No wonder it's recommended by the Cooking Club of America! 

Slice is really onto something here - making our everyday tools work in today's environments with our needs in mind. And despite using famous designers, Slice has managed to keep the tools at affordable prices, so you can have chic items without having to cough up a week's paycheck! 

And it's all for a good cause to boot: Slice was founded in 2008 by TJ Scimone as a way to help fund long-term care for his son, Alex, who is autistic. A minimum of 1% of all Slice product sales is donated to help fund autism research. By purchasing their products, you’re helping to find a cure for the millions of children and their families who live with autism every day.

Shop the entire Slice collection and get tools that fit in with your modern lifestyle. Isn't it about time?