tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33532356687738536652024-03-13T00:47:58.985-07:00Chicago Girly GirlDressed and Ready to Blog About itchicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-73757776471061342762010-02-22T12:47:00.000-08:002010-02-22T13:09:13.585-08:00Ageless Beauty - Product Review<span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">I remember one summer in college, I was visiting my boyfriend at his family’s home in </span><a style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" href="http://www.beverlyhills.org/">Beverly Hills</a><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">. I was lounging by the pool with my boyfriend’s Mom, when she began telling me about her skincare regimen. My eyes glazed over as she went on and on. After awhile, I sort of tilted my head and looked at her, then made a remark about how I usually just “grab whatever cleanser and moisturizer I can find at the drug store.” She laughed and said, “I could get away with that when I was twenty too.”</span><o:p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"></o:p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >She was right, <a href="http://www.olay.com/">Oil of Olay</a> isn’t exactly cutting it now that I have crow’s feet and while Brad’s Mom spends more money on skin care and makeup, than the average person spends on a car….there <span style="font-style: italic;">are</span> options for us beauty junkies living on more <span style="font-style: italic;">modest</span> budgets. Thank Goodness!!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Meet <span style="font-weight: bold;">Style and Spa</span>, a new line of all natural skincare products <span class="ecxecx937035322-11022010">designed to duplicate the professional spa therapy experience at home</span>. The luscious product line refreshes, refines and reinvigorates skin for a youthful, fresh appearance.</span></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >Style & Spa products are non-comedogenic and will not clog pores; the range of products includes everything from cleansers to eye cream and body oils. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span class="style2"><span style="font-family:Arial;">The <a href="http://www.styleandspa.com/products.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Serenity Hydra Deluxe</span></a></span></span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><a href="http://www.styleandspa.com/products.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></a><span class="style2"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.styleandspa.com/products.html">Traveler's Kit</a> </span>($25) has it all:</span></span><span class="style2"><o:p></o:p></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSChybtNMgu4W_y7rSQh4pdeAyseiJAdJhBqOnBSedPrbZ8VCoGwdCbU5MJwodAs8pILydXYsQZN0U8nOClAXQMGXM5mZgdUdtDXE9uxiFbqDJLW87-h6LPFNtHvDHvbTOqywFiKOOJw/s1600-h/product+pic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSChybtNMgu4W_y7rSQh4pdeAyseiJAdJhBqOnBSedPrbZ8VCoGwdCbU5MJwodAs8pILydXYsQZN0U8nOClAXQMGXM5mZgdUdtDXE9uxiFbqDJLW87-h6LPFNtHvDHvbTOqywFiKOOJw/s200/product+pic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441174081097611538" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >·<span style=""> </span>Hydrating Cleansing Balm <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >·<span style=""> </span>Essence of Hydration <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >·<span style=""> </span>Hydrating Crème Concentrat</span><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >e for Eyes </span></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >·<span style=""> </span>Hydrating Protection SPF 30 <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span style=";font-family:Arial;" >·<span style=""> </span>Hydrating Crème Concentrate</span><span class="ecxecx937035322-11022010"><o:p></o:p></span><span class="style2"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span class="style2"><span style="font-family:Arial;">You will <span style="font-style: italic;">love, love, love</span> the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hydrating Cleansing Balm</span> (with exfoliating properties) and the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hydrating Crème Concentrate for Eyes</span>. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span class="ecxecx937035322-11022010"><o:p></o:p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial;" >Style & Spa is offering Chicago Girly Girl readers 10% off any purchase plus free shipping!</span></span></p><p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><a href="http://www.styleandspa.com/"><span style=";font-family:Arial;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">www.styleandspa.com</span></span></a></p><p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgau3wVh3fAG0e5lpS4IW7KN55js8xHTXL-UXuAdZub4xtQjK_JEA-JIAV1z-9XwRtcIN19t4WQoulsRtRzkpMJhQ4X2UOk1B-i4stK2fSB99neNyTda5rr8Xe6U_FIlSsMxIKuyEcfUw/s1600-h/StyleSpaLogoBW.bmp"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgau3wVh3fAG0e5lpS4IW7KN55js8xHTXL-UXuAdZub4xtQjK_JEA-JIAV1z-9XwRtcIN19t4WQoulsRtRzkpMJhQ4X2UOk1B-i4stK2fSB99neNyTda5rr8Xe6U_FIlSsMxIKuyEcfUw/s320/StyleSpaLogoBW.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441173622800248130" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span class="ecxecx937035322-11022010"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span class="ecx049014218-08022010"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle"><span style=";font-family:Arial;" ><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-69014632024443847742009-09-27T22:02:00.000-07:002009-10-20T05:23:06.096-07:00No Fuss Beauty - Luscious Lashes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6uCIqGXA7FNwdHVL-J6D6bm-8Y6Eynrdy6URYtNAu5UbMzUOQ4WAixO2fMwNcEzBhywHmOSdAbv6Y5i5hQU-fGaiuuqp_3odEUIBP8KDv15iAnMSYiE3CSKAupFeympwMP7lfjYdOA/s1600-h/FL+0254.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6uCIqGXA7FNwdHVL-J6D6bm-8Y6Eynrdy6URYtNAu5UbMzUOQ4WAixO2fMwNcEzBhywHmOSdAbv6Y5i5hQU-fGaiuuqp_3odEUIBP8KDv15iAnMSYiE3CSKAupFeympwMP7lfjYdOA/s320/FL+0254.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386382835583974002" border="0" /></a>I remember a time when I thought that the most beautiful woman on Earth was Smurfette. I am pretty sure that was the same year that my brother dared me to eat a piece of dog food (and I did) – okay so that was quite some time ago. As an adult, I have the long, blonde hair but impossibly long lashes? Maybe with a little help…<br /><br />Eyelash extensions are one of the fastest growing beauty trends and for good reason. My morning make-up regimen is significantly faster because I don’t have to bother with mascara. Also, I feel like I need <span style="font-style: italic;">less</span> make up because the lashes are so gorgeous (and attention getting!)<br /><br />Recently, I was scuba diving in the Yucatan Peninsula and getting into and out of, salt water all day long. Yet, I still had long, black eyelashes without a trace of raccoon eyes.<br />Eyelash extensions are tremendously popular with brides because of the “Wow!“ Factor. A word of caution: after you get them, you’ll be hooked.<br /><br />The only place to go is <a href="http://www.flutterlashstudio.com/">Flutter Lash Studio</a> in Lincoln Park. Their work is very high quality and you’ll love the feel (think girly-girl nirvana meets noveau-chic.) Joan did my full set (a full set is the only way to go in my opinion) and I was so relaxed that I fell asleep. Definitely have them do a quick eyebrow shaping as well.<br /><br />A few things to keep in mind:<br /><ul><li>Your first appointment can take up to 2 hours but the follow-up appointments (every 2 – 4 weeks) will only take an hour or so.</li></ul><ul><li>After you get them on, you will need to keep your face dry for about 24 hours (this is so that the glue can set.)</li></ul><ul><li>With proper care, your eyelash extensions will last indefinitely (with only minimal touch-ups). I recommend staying away from oil-based products and steam or intense heat. </li></ul>Flutter uses the <a href="http://www.xtremelashes.com">Xtreme Lashes®</a> line which is the highest quality product available. I made the mistake of trying other products in the past because I was traveling and I was sorely disappointed.chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-8546764621840455122009-06-13T19:40:00.000-07:002009-06-13T20:27:27.507-07:00Chicago Girly Girl’s Boutique Round Up<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">I remember calling my friends when I was younger – we’d plan our outfits and wear the same cheesy Gap sweater to the football game, complete with matching bows in our hair. Ah, those were simpler times. Now, answering the door to s</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">ee your friend rocking the same dress equals disaster. <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />“Noooo! We cannot show up at a party wearing the same thing!!” </span><br /><br />One of the reasons that I like traveling so much is because I love finding the out-of-the-way boutiques with totally unique clothing and accessories. An absolute favorite is Pandora’s Box in Martha’s Vineyard. I was elated, yet surprised to find great boutiques in Rochester, Richmond and New Orleans. I justify my purchases because no</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">t only will they will remind me of my trip, but also because I can feel confident wearing something as unique as I am. </span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><br />Chicago is a <span style="font-style: italic;">magical</span> city filled with <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">endless</span> options for fashion and beauty – trunk shows, fashion shows, beauty events and shopping. It is </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">girly girl <span style="font-style: italic;">nirvana</span>. Here is a list of my favorite Chicago boutiques. Enjoy!<br /><br /></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.rr1chicago.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">RR1</span></a></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">RR1 is a hidden gem, housed in a narrow, wood-paneled pharmacy established in the thirties. What you should look for here: clever gifts, original jewelry and decorative items for the home. <br />814 N Ashland Ave</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> Chicago, IL 60622<br />P: (312) 421-9079<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.betaboutique.com/">Beta Boutique </a> </span><br />This Wicker Park boutique is tucked behind Damen Avenue on a cobblestone street – you will find contemporary women’s samples and overstock at seriously discounted prices: 40% - 90%.<br />2016 W Concord Place</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> Chicago, IL 60647<br />P: (773) 276-0905<br /><br /><a href="http://www.hubbahubbachicago.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hubba Hubba </span></a><br /></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"> Looking for the perfect dress for a date Friday night? You’ll find it here. Hubba Hubba addicts keep coming back because of the reasonable prices and darling clothing (romantic to classic.) </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">3309 N. Clark St.<br />Chicago, IL 60657<br />P: (773) 477-1412<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ciaobellachicago.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ciao Bella </span></a><br /></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Owner, Amy Lechelt-Basta offers an impressive range of versatile clothing for the well-travelled individual.<br /></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">3829 N Southport Ave</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> Chicago, IL 60613</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> P: (773) 388-2201<br /><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/mexican-shop-evanston"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mexican Shop </span></a><br /></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">You will find some extraordinary jewelry in this Evanston shop. It is well-worth the trip to E-town.<br /></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">801 Dempster St</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> Evanston, IL 60201<br />P: (847) 475-8665<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Some non-clothing boutiques you should check out: </span><br /><a href="http://www.icanflourish.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Flourish </span></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">www.icanflourish.com </span><br /><a href="http://www.asraigarden.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Asrai Garden</span></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">www.asraigarden.com </span><br /><a href="http://www.anewleafchicago.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">A New Leaf </span></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">www.anewleafchicago.com </span><br /><a href="http://paperdollchicago.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Paper Doll </span></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">paperdollchicago.com</span></span></span>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-90591980462416775652009-06-05T15:20:00.001-07:002009-06-07T14:17:18.648-07:00Summer Solstice Beauty Event - Get Your Tickets Before They're Gone!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70P9KP00brUbYW-UuOfiWkeR7V-VdSKKp_HszHfH_4W2E3vc9AXTOJHTy986a-cAt-hHmqdHeZ_5rB_0U5O-ytC3AiySGy5mL45KR5ed-Cz3fVdk7uywcDj4jXr-R4adDK4AMjz0IkQ/s1600-h/Primp.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 155px; height: 125px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70P9KP00brUbYW-UuOfiWkeR7V-VdSKKp_HszHfH_4W2E3vc9AXTOJHTy986a-cAt-hHmqdHeZ_5rB_0U5O-ytC3AiySGy5mL45KR5ed-Cz3fVdk7uywcDj4jXr-R4adDK4AMjz0IkQ/s200/Primp.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343981598835251442" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >High fashion meets beauty at this decadent affair hosted by Chicago Girly Girl and RED 7 Salon. Indulge your senses in Nutella crepes and truffled popcorn by <a href="http://www.figcatering.com/">Fig Catering</a>, wine tastings by <a href="http://www.madhousewifecellars.com/">Mad Housewife</a> and beauty treatments by RED 7.<br /><br /><br /><br />Fashion Designers <a href="http://kateboggiano.com/">Kate Boggiano</a>, <a href="http://www.laramiller.net/">Lara Miller</a> and <a href="http://www.serpico-collection.com/">Serpico</a> will unveil their summer lines and jewelry designers Sarah Radford (<a href="http://chicgemsetc.com/">Chic Gems</a>) and <a href="http://www.juliafailey.com/">Julia Failey</a> will showcase their latest adornments. Attendees can also shop from clothing, cosmetics and accessories by retailers like <a href="http://www.votrevu.com/">Votre Vu</a>, <a href="http://www.tallulahcosmetics.com/">Tallulah Cosmetics</a>, <a href="http://www.ciaobellachicago.com/">Ciao Bella</a>, <a href="http://www.hubbahubbachicago.com/">Hubba Hubba</a>, <a href="http://maisondecouture.org/">Maison de Couture</a>, <a href="http://www.bessandloie.com/">Bess and Loie</a>, <a href="http://www.kissmyface.com/">Kiss My Face</a>, <a href="http://luckydayboutique.myshopify.com/">Lucky Day Boutique</a>, <a href="http://www.arbonneinternational.com.au/products/">Arbonne</a> and <a href="http://beautygram.com/">The Honeymoon Bag</a>.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >Thursday June 11, 6 - 8:30 p.m.</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br /><a href="http://www.red7salon.com/"><span>RED 7 Salon</span></a><br />210 W. Kinzie, 2nd floor, Chicago</span><br /><br />Tickets are $20 and include a goody bag.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><br />There are a limited number of tickets. To ensure entry, buy your ticket <a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=5947868">HERE</a></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;font-size:130%;" >! You can also e-mail kristin@ChicagoGirlyGirl.com.</span><br /></span>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-35005114731997552692009-05-14T09:48:00.000-07:002009-06-07T14:16:02.406-07:00Ultimate Girls Night Out - Grab the Girls!!<span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >Wine? Nutella crepes? Shopping? Beauty Treatments? check. check. check. check.<br />The goody bags are especially nice. We don't mess around!<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >CHICAGO GIRLY GIRL AND RED 7 SALON US</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >HER IN SUMMER WITH THE ULTIMATE GIRL’S NIGHT OUT – SUMMER SOLSTICE BEAUTY EVENT</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >Beauty Enthusiasts Indulge in a Whimsical Evening of Girly Fun, Beauty and Shopping</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><br /><br />CHICAGO – The boats are back in the harbor, the town is a flurry with fans dressed in red and blue making their way towards Wrigley Field and the countdown to the Old St. Pat’s Block Party has officially begun. It’s summer, ladies! Before you head to the beach, you’d better make sure those toes are in tip-top-shape!<br /><br />Fortunately, you can get all dolled up and do some shopping at the Summer Solstice Beauty Event at RED 7 Salon (210 W. Kinzie St.), Thursday </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >June 11 from 6-8:30 p.m</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >. Guests will enjoy wine tasting from Mad Housewife, sinful, gourmet hors d’oeuvres from Fig Catering and beauty treatments from RED 7. Fashion Designers Kate Boggiano, Lara Miller and Serpico will unveil their summer lines and jewelry designers Sarah Radford (Chic Gems) and Julia Failey will showcase their latest adornments. Attendees can also shop from clothing, cosmetics and accessories by retailers like Votre Vu, Tallulah Cosmetics, Ciao Bella, Hubba Hubba, Kiss My Face, Lucky Day Boutique, Arbonne and The Honeymoon Bag.<br /><br />Tickets are $20 and include a goody bag.</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > Reserve your spot by purchasing your ticket, <a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=PLM72MAJXFPM6&lc=US&item_name=Summer%20Solstice%20Beauty%20Event%20Ticket&amount=20%2e00&currency_code=USD&button_subtype=products&tax_rate=8%2e750&bn=PP%2dBuyNowBF%3abtn_paynow_LG%2egif%3aNonHosted">HERE</a>!<br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ><form action="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr" method="post"><br /><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ><span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnM2TtRqqhXqTpnLFvtYo2vh2XG4JBPUK3CKRdBLcVWcVdpADKGglowXIy-y0mExt-CLDZ1pQGILFUCwxWxsfcAbH5EzupbdGPwgmNc9nrENL4LIxq1ncni67s73YsH-TLFNrbZLaMEg/s1600-h/il_155x125.69802751.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 155px; height: 125px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnM2TtRqqhXqTpnLFvtYo2vh2XG4JBPUK3CKRdBLcVWcVdpADKGglowXIy-y0mExt-CLDZ1pQGILFUCwxWxsfcAbH5EzupbdGPwgmNc9nrENL4LIxq1ncni67s73YsH-TLFNrbZLaMEg/s200/il_155x125.69802751.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335723390702957890" border="0" /></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></form></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" ></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:Arial;font-size:13;" > </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-91175581829949220662009-05-04T13:15:00.000-07:002009-05-04T13:37:38.589-07:00Mother's Day Gift Idea<span style="font-family:arial;font-size:100%;">Everyone says this, but my Mom is the best. Not only does she patiently answer <span style="font-style: italic;">every </span>cooking question I have, but she is also the <span style="font-style: italic;">first</span> person I call when I have strange ailments or have accidentally died my hands silver (and have to go to a wedding in an hour). Somehow the woman knows <span style="font-style: italic;">everything</span>. More importantly, she appreciates my quirky sense of humor (who else calls their Mom and starts with "Hi Mom. How in the hell are you?")<br /><br />If you are not sure what to get your Mum for Moth</span><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:100%;">er's Day, check out the sleek designs at <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.chicgemsetc.com/">Chic Gems</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">.</span> They have truly fabulous jewelry and you're bound to find something that Mom would like. For Chicago Girly Girl readers, Chic Gems will give you 30% off your purchase and will even throw in a pair of matching earrings, with purchase of a necklace! </span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:100%;" >Simply put "MOTHER" in the special promo box. If</span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:100%;" > you are sending something directly to Mom, indicate that shipping and billing are separate in the </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">"notes" section.</span></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi5509ZTrr3Nsv4KRHX5OdGBBpDu0z2dfUWkU1EKgBIXC0APJDRjFCpEdgppeMpVxjWPH5Z9ZwdZIx8G0HjEOAl35bE1sSlnBnEsDrCVXpJ4BL9FudGx9dOcUq3WdfLCaD6YBHtcE9_w/s1600-h/t_spring08-9_edited.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi5509ZTrr3Nsv4KRHX5OdGBBpDu0z2dfUWkU1EKgBIXC0APJDRjFCpEdgppeMpVxjWPH5Z9ZwdZIx8G0HjEOAl35bE1sSlnBnEsDrCVXpJ4BL9FudGx9dOcUq3WdfLCaD6YBHtcE9_w/s200/t_spring08-9_edited.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332070548430656642" border="0" /></a>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-88924746641178599062009-04-29T15:06:00.000-07:002009-04-29T15:13:30.201-07:00Woman's Best Friend: Martinis and Manicures<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">7.3 million American women have difficulty conceiving. However, many of these cases could have been prevented through simple lifestyle changes. Education is imperative, and what better way to learn than over complimentary manicures and martinis?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The American Fertility Association’s Manicures & Martinis Infertility Prevention Program is a national series of events dedicated to young women in their 20’s and 30’s who aren’t quite ready to conceive, but might one day want to have a child. Fertility experts from Fertility Centers of Illinois will lead a conversation about how to prevent infertility whenever possible, the reality of the Biological Clock, the harmful effects of STD’s and environmental toxins, and the differences between gynecologists and reproductive endocrinologists. Attendees will also enjoy complimentary manicures and martinis, or a Fertilitini - an all organic alcohol-free cocktail. <br /><br />Corey Whelan, The AFA’s Program Director and event series creator says that dealing with infertility robs women of control over their own lives. Education about our bodies and things we can do to preserve our fertility potential, gives that control back. “This program has proven to be an empowering and liberating experience for women, whether they choose motherhood or not,” she adds. <br /><br />Manicures and Martinis offers education to young women in a fun and enjoyable setting. Dr. John Rapisarda, Reproductive Endocrinologist with the Fertility Centers of Illinois agrees that knowledge is power. “Creating early awareness of factors leading to infertility is the first step towards reducing the number of women impacted later in life,” he adds. <br /><br />The AFA’s Executive Director, Ken Mosesian further explains that through post-event surveys, young women have expressed how much they’ve learned about the basics of reproduction, their biological clocks, the importance of preventing STD’s as well as birth control. One participant said, ‘Finally, some answers.” <br /><br />As an added perk, those who attend Manicures & Martinis Chicago may choose to be treated to a complimentary Yoga and acupuncture session, courtesy of Pulling Down the Moon. The national series has been greeted with overwhelming success in New York City and other large metropolitan areas. Young women in their early 20s and 30’s are invited to attend and learn all they can about safeguarding themselves from becoming part of the 7.3 million statistic. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Manicures & Martinis</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday, May 12 from 6:00-7:30 </span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Allyu -- 600 W. Chicago Ave.</span><br /><br />Riverwalk Speakers: Angelina Beltsos, MD and John Rapisard, MD of Fertility Centers of Illinois Registration Contact Info: vivian@theafa.org or 646.861.3226</span><br /></span>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-37935171975260658982009-04-21T21:04:00.000-07:002009-04-21T21:36:17.016-07:00ChicagoGirlyGirl’s Green Beauty Must Haves<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">It is Earth Day, which is a </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >great</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> time to think how your actions, even your beauty regimen, affect the planet. A survey suggests that women are generating about twice as much waste as men, due to the fact that they have double the number of personal products in their medicine cabinet. As a society, we may more sophisticated than ever, but most of us are completely una</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">ware of the harmful toxins and chemicals that exist in the majority of our beauty products. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice beauty for health and with a little knowledge and savvy, you won’t need to. </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbyTyaqSJc9oL7vBUQqadZFce3xLbyghKaFZHB4BpSRIwcnMg0cQLOdntltQH9DkNUc_MGR-p7uC9fvjqoAQuUqLDadRxXA68w6NtGbmTIYiGmcQXIpCLCczRl91hmvbGdQ7Nov_VaA/s1600-h/Arcona.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbyTyaqSJc9oL7vBUQqadZFce3xLbyghKaFZHB4BpSRIwcnMg0cQLOdntltQH9DkNUc_MGR-p7uC9fvjqoAQuUqLDadRxXA68w6NtGbmTIYiGmcQXIpCLCczRl91hmvbGdQ7Nov_VaA/s200/Arcona.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327366096794780498" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >SKIN CARE LINE </span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.arcona.com/">Arcona</a> Basic 5 Arcona skin care products are made of natural enzymes, herbs, vitam</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">i</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">n</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">s and a scientific cutting edge delivery system to repair and restore the skin on a deep cellular</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"> level; the </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Basic Five strengthen</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">s, enh</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">ances and speeds up the skin’s own renewal cycle from 30</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"> to 7 days, w</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">hich helps to combat premature aging. Those who use the line report that their skin has never looked better. I call it the Arcona glow. </span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.arcona.com/page/100/CTGY/1007">Travel kit </a> $87.00 </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >MAKE UP</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.bareescentuals.com/">Bare Escentuals</a> is made from 100% bareMinerals and is free of preservatives, talc, oil, fragrance and other harmful chemicals. Mineral make up gives your skin a soft and luminous texture with little effort. An absolute must have for any girl! </span><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >HA</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >IR</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.aveda.com/">Aveda</a>, a global leader in corporate environmental sustainability, not only has phenomenal, plant-based prod</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">ucts, but they are also committed to preserving the planet. Aveda was the first beauty company to manufacture on 100 percent wind-powered energy and they use the highest possible post-consumer recycled (PCR) content in packaging. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >NAILS </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Did you know that the majority of nail polishes in stores contain toxic chemicals that have been linked to Leukemia and birth defects? When you go to the nail salon, be sure there is proper ventilation and if you’re pregnant, wear a mask. <a href="http://www.nailaidcares.com/">Most importantly, take your own polish with you (polish should be free of phthalates, toluene, and formaldehyde).</a> </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">$10 </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4DdMhexrYHDJ4TA-vgzGIkIWLnH5hZbrz3JsoJitCD3Rc_QTjnhAJFKdmbxjoyO5Fac81vkExW1FbMDyLEKgWc8u1bW0WGjVLcGPrhShVqaM-kGjf8D68Do0Uqdj5084R9vpyj_eNQw/s1600-h/Kiehls.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 124px; height: 187px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4DdMhexrYHDJ4TA-vgzGIkIWLnH5hZbrz3JsoJitCD3Rc_QTjnhAJFKdmbxjoyO5Fac81vkExW1FbMDyLEKgWc8u1bW0WGjVLcGPrhShVqaM-kGjf8D68Do0Uqdj5084R9vpyj_eNQw/s200/Kiehls.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327366695555042418" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >BO</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >DY </span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.kiehls.com/">Kiehls</a> Aloe Vera Biodegradable Liquid Body Cleanser 100% Biodegradable formula and fragrance, formulated without parabens, SLS and Dyes. The bottle is made from 100% recycled plastic. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">6.8 fl. oz. Pump </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">$16.50 </span><br /><br /><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.yes-to-carrots.com/">Yes to Carrots</a> Body Lotion Yes To products are paraben free and contain all the yummy goodness of organic fruits, vegetables, and Dead Sea minerals. This organic carrot and pumpkin lotion is potent, touting anti-oxidants that purify and revitaliz</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">e the skin. </span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">8.45 fl.oz </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">$7.99 </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >LIPS </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Lipstick and lip gloss comes off as you consume beverages and food throughout the day. In fact, research has found that women will inges</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">t nearly nine pounds of lipstick over the co</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULz7LtTBE5dm_HjhOAWWyFqpN9tfcVVhcQl2tgBeyDEJDjKeiZ8wYwTnlh9CmQ53CGFAG9UN1RExsAfOTTOueqwsmCO9Tv0QAN9CLd3eoPwgmXtFMKzXeaIfAoxq2RQruxto9aK_9fg/s1600-h/PlantLove.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 129px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjULz7LtTBE5dm_HjhOAWWyFqpN9tfcVVhcQl2tgBeyDEJDjKeiZ8wYwTnlh9CmQ53CGFAG9UN1RExsAfOTTOueqwsmCO9Tv0QAN9CLd3eoPwgmXtFMKzXeaIfAoxq2RQruxto9aK_9fg/s200/PlantLove.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327367294125553426" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">urse of their lives!</span></span><br /><a href="http://www.cargocosmetics.com/"><br /></a><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.cargocosmetics.com/">PlantLove Natural Lipsticks</a> Made with botanical ingredients not mineral oils, nor petroleu</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">m. The company believes in using only eco-friendly packaging, in fact, even the lipstick tube is biodegradable. My favorite part is that the box can </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">actually be planted after use, because it’s made with biodegradable paper containing flowers and seeds! </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >ORGANIC CLOTHING </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">It’s important to re</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">alize that for every action, there is a reaction. To farm the amount of cotton that it takes to make just one t-shirt, a traditional farmer uses approximately 3.5 pounds of fertilizer and over 300 gallons of water. For one shirt!!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.3clothingco.com/site">3 Clothing Company</a> is an ethical and socially conscious company that believes that every person can make a difference in this world. 3 is taking the lead by using 100% certified organic/clean cotton and eco-friendly water-based inks in the creation of fashionable and artistic clothing. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">$34 </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >ACCESSORIES MADE FROM RE-USED MATERIALS </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"> <a href="http://www.fiveaccessories.com/">FIVE Accessories</a> – eco friendly bags made from recycled materials like potato chip bags and bamboo; made in places like Honduras, Bali, Cambodia, Guatemala and India. For every </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7s8b4Lbmoa3ONPBxyYQEpkHzP8vSN1v6ZST0r-212unkesXP2-jNoFa3RuFxn31-l4WhUnS_G2WdpkMid6bF2PLAcXkuICLdz_Ifm19Jwmv0ZJlWfc09T25XfhCP2YyHvFRui3H-OA/s1600-h/Five.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 190px; height: 194px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7s8b4Lbmoa3ONPBxyYQEpkHzP8vSN1v6ZST0r-212unkesXP2-jNoFa3RuFxn31-l4WhUnS_G2WdpkMid6bF2PLAcXkuICLdz_Ifm19Jwmv0ZJlWfc09T25XfhCP2YyHvFRui3H-OA/s200/Five.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327367945838733874" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">bag sold owner Christine Hutchison, gives five dollars back to the community where it was made. </span></span>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-83370112439183270572009-04-19T15:13:00.000-07:002009-04-19T16:11:42.529-07:00Maybe, Baby!<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">A few years ago, I found myself in a flurry of wedding party madness. I was throwing bridal showers and bachelorette parties like it was my <span style="font-style: italic;">job</span>. Now, all of these girls are having babies and instead of vodka-filled weekends in Miami, we’re playing baby bingo and marveling at onesies. Times are a <span style="font-style: italic;">changin</span>’!</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><br />We opted for high tea at Mint Julep in the suburbs (Palatine). The private room was beautiful with lots of natural light. We had several different kinds of tea sandwiches, scones, pastries and teas.<br /><br />I thought I’d share some of the highlights with you.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj430_ESaEzJXUV7fQEv0xBatWRrAITRbfYQG_DIiw79AEuGzYWW7kXa5OqXqRUgX7pwWq5X7mS-tVGFpLlyt8o6q6kqML9YFAoPVH3G9E2D_z8FUsY6AhMV4mcieYCXSBymPVd2A399A/s1600-h/DSCN1224.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj430_ESaEzJXUV7fQEv0xBatWRrAITRbfYQG_DIiw79AEuGzYWW7kXa5OqXqRUgX7pwWq5X7mS-tVGFpLlyt8o6q6kqML9YFAoPVH3G9E2D_z8FUsY6AhMV4mcieYCXSBymPVd2A399A/s200/DSCN1224.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326540157884546018" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Décor</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">The bab</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">y will be a boy so I tried to stick to a color scheme of lavender, periwinkle and eggshell. I bought 15 or so h</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">elium balloons and scatt</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">ered them throughout the room. On the gift table, I had a gorgeous bouquet of blue and white hydrangeas.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilk2K4FmG_a3KMa0VF035ZN5p_9szsvVSG_ubZlKyONQBLcCUCDiZKDuTFLK8hRnSlYWiwaQcHZ55s3OOzZ7qDACcIyntEHDnkaM97TmqwLAkzSEa6R_Hvi-Zmfr14xkcx1DRrRtocPQ/s1600-h/DSCN1192.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilk2K4FmG_a3KMa0VF035ZN5p_9szsvVSG_ubZlKyONQBLcCUCDiZKDuTFLK8hRnSlYWiwaQcHZ55s3OOzZ7qDACcIyntEHDnkaM97TmqwLAkzSEa6R_Hvi-Zmfr14xkcx1DRrRtocPQ/s200/DSCN1192.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326540808807189186" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Parting Gifts </span></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">I purchased tiny clay pots and potted pansies in them. Finally, I added a blue or purple rib</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">bon to the pots. One was given to every guest and the end of the shower. Mom had decided on a jungle nursery theme, so I ordered these darling <a href="http://www.thecookiecuttershop.com/">jungle animal cookie cutters</a> online. I made several batches </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">of monkeys, lions, hippos, giraffes and elephants and then frosted them. They were placed in small plastic bags and tied with a bow. Every guest got to </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">take a cookie also. The pansies and the cookies brightened the table considerably and gave the room more character.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Activities </span><br />We did three activities and I gave prizes to the winner of each. Note: it is advisable to bring one or two extras i</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">n the event of a </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">tie. For gifts, I tried to keep it around $5-$10 for each bag. I found lots of cute girly gifts in </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.chicago-chinatown.com/">China Town</a> (small compact mirror and jewelry case) and I also checked out <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/">Cost Plus World Market</a> for little earrings, chocolate, etc.</span></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Baby food sniff test - Take 6-10 cans of baby food and discard the label. Then number each can and have the guests smell to determine the flavor of the bab</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">y food.<br /></span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Celebrity baby name - I listed celebrity names on the left and their cute/outlandish baby names on the right (out of order). Guests then match up which baby belongs to the celebrity.</span></span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Nursery rhyme game. Take an old classic like “Rub a dub dub, three men in a tub…” then leave a space for the guests to fill in the missing words. I printe</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">d the activities on colorful paper, keeping in line with the color scheme (that makes a big difference!) </span></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Noteworthy Gifts </span><br /></span></span><ul><li><a href="http://www.lillybit.com/shop/index.php?act=viewCat&catId=8"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Lilly Bit Diaper Clut</span></span></a><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.lillybit.com/shop/index.php?act=viewCat&catId=8">ch </a>– absolutely darling diaper clutch that is compact and stylish. Who knew?<br /></span></span></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.icanflourish.com/shop2.cfm?id=82">Sheep/sound machine</a> – looks like a stuffed animal and lulls the </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">little one to sleep. </span></span></li></ul><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhpRF5ZIgq9Ae9-LAz9zAcUpPVIhxxH588nQH2bhqNHzK3B_YaFO8s45UNkxgOzAkr252SZv3tWLsGTrhSNEZ9c1rfajgK7dwnKqVYlLU7mqy_s91elcpxyBOP6zDe71Gy028C7yNy_A/s1600-h/DSCN1224.JPG"><br /></a>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-41043278702174967662009-04-13T07:34:00.000-07:002009-04-19T16:13:17.884-07:00Beauty Myths Debunked<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">I am a beauty junkie. Somehow, all is right with the world when I leave the hair salon and walk down the street. I feel pretty and confident –like the <span style="font-style: italic;">best</span> version of myself. My life can be filled with chaos and turmoil, but as long as there are manicures and pedicures, I will be okay. I look at eyebrow shaping and facials as a necessity. Why <span style="font-style: italic;">wouldn’t </span>I take care of the feminine attributes I was given? My desire to attain beauty nirvana has led me to try some not-so-glamorous treatments. I once put a Roma tomato on my nose to eliminate blackheads; the blackheads disappeared but I was then left with a bright red nose for about a week—<span style="font-style: italic;">nothing </span>could be less sexy than a clown nose, let me tell you. On the first day of a new job I got a round brush caught in the back of my head, which had to be cut out. This was terribly unpleasant and certainly an omen of things to come. The most traumatizing affair however, was one evening when I was trying to get ready for a wedding, my boyfriend caught me wrestling with my pantyhose on the bedroom floor. The pantyhose won. <br /><br />Princess Di was reportedly an enema addict, citing this uncomfortable treatment for her radiant complexion.<br /><br />We women do some crazy things to stay ahead of the allure curve. Read ahead to find out if these beauty rituals are worth it:<br />1. You need to change the part in your hair to prevent thinning.<br />TRUE. I do this every year because a few years ago, I had a hair stylist point out how much thinner my hair was on the right side of my head, which was the direction that my hair was parted. Evidently, the hair will thin out underneath because of the weight. Most stylists will agree that changing your part every so often is a good idea. <br /><br />2. Eating greasy food and chocolate will give you acne.<br />FALSE– for the most part. Eating greasy food on a regular basis won’t spontaneously generate acne however, you’re not going to have a lustrous complexion either. Touching your face, stress and hormones are generally the culprits… </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><br />3. Headstands to give a youthful glow?<br />TRUE. Have you been to a yoga class lately? You should go. seriously. Headstands increase the blood supply to the face and brain which helps aid circulation. This can improve memory function, aid sleep, increase energy, promote hair growth and assist with menstrual difficulties. Yogis like it because when the body is inverted it can help fight the effects of gravity by easing the spine and organs back into correct alignment. Eva Mendez reportedly hangs upside downtown to slow down the signs of aging. <br /><br />4. Naturally whiten teeth with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.<br />TRUE. Baking soda can naturally whiten teeth. Simply mix baking soda with a small amount of water or hydrogen peroxide, then brush. You can also mash a strawberry, add some baking soda to it and do the same thing – this version tastes a lot better! Be careful not to brush too hard and only to do this 2 or 3 times a month. <br /><br />5. Cutting hair makes hair grow faster.<br />FALSE. Hair grows at the same rate both day, and night, morning, and bedtime –about ¼ to ½ inch per month. All the hair grows at the same rate no matter if they are cut in layers or a blunt cut. <br /><br />6. Eating jello makes your hair thicker.<br />DUNNO. The results are mixed on this one. Many women swear by it. <br /><br />7. Shaving makes hair grow back thicker?<br />FALSE. That is a myth. </span></span>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-60777593517099337602009-03-28T13:50:00.000-07:002009-03-28T14:28:41.599-07:00Feng Shui Revitalization –Tips for Spring Cleaning Your Sprit<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Have you ever walked into someone’s house and felt incredibly uncomfortable for no apparent reason? O</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">r maybe you were standing next to someone and you could feel the overwhelming negativity oo</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">zing from their pores. Think about that for a second. Now think about a time when you walked into a big, beautiful church, like The Sistine Chapel. I am not a religious person but I am completely </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >obsessed</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> with the idea of buying a church, so that I can renovate it, turn it into condos and live there. I </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >love</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> being in church because the energy is so pure, people allow themselves to be </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >transformed</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> here and higher learning is taking</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"> place. I get goose bumps and I am completely absorbed by the positive energy moving through. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Feng Shui is the Chinese system of creating energetic harmony in your environment, to affect your health and happiness. Applying some of the basic Feng Shui principles to your home will not only make your home more beautiful and tranquil; but it can also act as a catalyst for </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >big</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> change, improving your luck, and breathing ne</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">w life into your relationships and career. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkO4HKVQmFqZfpOdrrT05mOIT3kQy0Omde3BqDPncaitZkUPO_3LfCWU_yZEdfvZRaIGL0I6ECM5NVmqjlOKDMQbC4rLYmsIQcQWFWl9lQdv241GTGjIyIDmYViD-rdmLGoI3Ns11xjw/s1600-h/Pinwheel.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 155px; height: 125px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkO4HKVQmFqZfpOdrrT05mOIT3kQy0Omde3BqDPncaitZkUPO_3LfCWU_yZEdfvZRaIGL0I6ECM5NVmqjlOKDMQbC4rLYmsIQcQWFWl9lQdv241GTGjIyIDmYViD-rdmLGoI3Ns11xjw/s320/Pinwheel.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318352446160841186" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tips</span></span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >1.) Start with the front door, which is <span style="font-style: italic;">very</span> important because it represents the flow of chi entering and leaving your home. It is the first thing you see and the first thing your guests see, so make a good, first impression! Remove shoes, piles of paper and junk –keep the area clean and clear to allow qi (life force) to enter. </span><br /><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >2.) Remove clutter. Clutter sucks the vital energy out of you and can often be blamed for the blocks that one experiences in life. Clean out closets, give away anything you don’t need. Keep only the items that nourish and inspire you. </span><br /><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >3.) Clear the energy regularly by opening windows, burning incense or performing a clearing (burning a bunch of dried sage). Do this when you move into a new house (to avoid predecessor factors), after you’ve recovered from sickness and after a divorce or break up (to avoid lingering separation energy). The idea is to clean out any old and lingering negative energy. Chimes are also a wonderful tool for breaking up stagnant energy as well.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">4. Bring the outside in. Bring in elements such as wood, metals, water and appropriate colors, to help a room feel more balanced and less cluttered. Bring in as many plants and flowers as you can because they give off oxygen for fresher air. Choose lucky flowers and plants, like jade and bamboo to generate fields of energy. Place a water fountain in a room for a calm, soothing sound. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">5. Get rid of harsh, toxic chemicals. Go through the cleaning supplies in your kitchen, supply closet and garage. Throw out all of the toxic, chemical based cleaners and replace them with natural, eco-friendly products.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">To Attract a New Job</span></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Need to find a new job? Place a beautiful wooden box on your desk with a positive affirmation inside to represent growth in your job potential. A strong headboard will help your career and your marriage!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">To Attract Love</span><br />Clear out your closets and make more space for someone to enter your life. Do the same for your bookshelves. Keep a couple of bottles of wine and chocolate in the house to prepare for their arrival. Finally, be mindful of artwork where there is only one figure (two is <span style="font-style: italic;">always</span> better because otherwise, you’re telling the universe that you like being alone!)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">To Attract Money </span><br />Decorate with the colors purple, red and green to attract prosperity. Place a prosperity Buddha or a bowl of foreign coins in the southeast corner of your house. This is awkward because my southeast corner is my shower. Hmmm….</span></span>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-84484168563695885452009-03-08T15:34:00.000-07:002009-03-08T16:53:55.469-07:00Man Hunting: How to Catch a Man in a Big City<p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Our mothers went to school, they got married and soon after, they began having children. My Mom being the Saint that she is, offered up her advice and consolation <span style="font-style: italic;">many </span>times over the years, as she watched her baby, break up with guy after guy. She withheld judgment when I passed on several good guys, opting instead, for the conceited socialite and the narcissistic</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> doctor. </span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">“I just don’t understand. You’re smart, you’re beautiful and you’re independent. Why is it so <span style="font-style: italic;">hard</span> for you to find the right guy?” She’d lament.<br /></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">My friends would initially offer support and eventually they would ask "So what was wrong with <span style="font-style: italic;">this</span> one?"<br /></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">It’s no easy task meeting quality men in a big city. Guys tend to hang onto fraternity boy tendencies <i>longer</i> and women are so devoted to their careers that they aren’t fazed in the slightest by flying solo at a wedding, or showing up at their 30<sup>th</sup> birthday party without a date.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The ease of shopping for a mate online with Web sites like <a href="http://www.match.com/" target="_blank">match.com</a> and<a href="http://www.jdate.com/" target="_blank"> jdate</a>, have resulted in a culture where no one chats up their neighbor anymore. Instead of smiling at the cute guy standing in line at Starbucks, we're multi-tasking and responding to e-mails via blackberry. It is a sad state of affairs.<br /></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">I <span style="font-style: italic;">eventually</span> got it right and I know that you will too! Below are a few tips that are simple yet <span style="font-style: italic;">effective</span>. If you slow down<span style="font-style: italic;"> just</span> a little and make some room in your life for that special guy - you might just find that person you've been holding out for!<i></i></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b><i>Chicago Girly Girl’s Tips for Man Hunting:</i></b></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>1. Invest in YOU</b>. Take a creative writing class, a meditation workshop, or learn belly dancing. Harness your inner goddess by nourishing your spirit. What does this have to do with love, you ask? When you <i>really like</i></span> who you are as a person, so will everyone else.</p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>2. Go where the men are.</b> This one is pretty self explanatory. Ladies, unless they already have a woman (or man) on their arms, you will NOT find a guy at the ballet. Grab a friend and go to a hockey game or join a coed softball team. Sports bars on game days will work to your favor, as long as you know some basics (who is playing, basic rankings, etc.)</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>3. Cast your social net wider.</b> If you’re like me, you want to spend your time with the select few who have made it to your A-list. If you’re single, this could actually work against you. The advantage to hanging out with new people is that you will have access to the single men that they know! Say "yes", the next time your coworker invites you to her husband’s happy hour. You’ll meet a <i>lot</i> more prospective candidates by going outside of your comfort zone. So switch things up!!</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>4. Be brazen</b>. Say you’re out one night and you see a guy that is the life of the party. He is cute and you can’t help but notice his magnetic smile! Wait for the right opportunity to walk over and say hello. <i>Few</i> girls do this, so I assure you when he sees a cute girl walking over to him, he will be thrilled. After a few minutes, tell him that you have to get back to your friends but that you enjoyed your conversation. Don’t ask for his number or card. Unless he’s married or gay, he will ask how he can get in touch with you.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style="font-family: arial;">5. Flirt.</b><span style="font-family:arial;"> I once knew a girl who would walk into a bar in front of her husband and she’d wink and smile at every guy she saw. Heads turned and her clueless husband beamed with pride. If you’re trying to get someone’s attention, sometimes the best way is to flirt with his friend. You must do this carefully however. Optimally, you want to flirt with the friend, while Mr. Hottie </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >isn’t </span><span style="font-family:arial;">paying attention. When Mr. Hottie himself glances in your direction, tone it down.</span><br /></span></p>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-24913998043927145802009-02-27T20:30:00.000-08:002009-02-27T21:05:31.758-08:00Date Hot Spots<a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4K8SJR4uUjGOr3ywOFtCrsOAuCgWXuhVKc6gsCtWOcD6NwWiO09vMRnzTByuMd0YMELTTQoEM09qZ4rY5oMOpRDfx1v79xrzOZONeLURbwWAOIK_R_AciZK7f5pO0CIDFYtmc15p0hg/s1600-h/ice+skating.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4K8SJR4uUjGOr3ywOFtCrsOAuCgWXuhVKc6gsCtWOcD6NwWiO09vMRnzTByuMd0YMELTTQoEM09qZ4rY5oMOpRDfx1v79xrzOZONeLURbwWAOIK_R_AciZK7f5pO0CIDFYtmc15p0hg/s320/ice+skating.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307705909231899170" border="0" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >Somehow, I am the first person that people call when they have a date. Often times, the call is from a girlfriend but sometimes guys ask too. On a personal note, I don’t know whether I should be flattered (maybe they think I’m a cultured nightlife enthusiast who appreciates all the city has to offer) or insulted (because they think I eat out too much or have been on <span style="font-style: italic;">way</span> too many dates.)</span> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The call is always the same. “I have a date. “Where should we goooo?” Their voices exud</span><span style="font-size:100%;">e both excitement and dread.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">I usually ask a few questions like “Which date is it?” and “What kind of person is the lucky guy?”</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Unfortunately, winter time in Chicago doesn’t offer <span style="font-style: italic;">a lot </span>in the way of creativity, but that doesn’t mean you are limited to a night at the Cheesecake Factory.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Stick to some of the ideas below and you’ll have fun, even if there’s not a love connection.</span></p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="EC_MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">First Date</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Even if you think that you might really like this person, it is better to have a casual first dat</span><span style="font-size:100%;">e. You want there to be an adequate amount of activity, in case the guy is a dud. Conversely, if the chemistry is right, an environment conducive to conversation is ideal. </span></p> <ul style="font-family:arial;"><li><span style="font-size:100%;">A<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Bulls </span>or <span style="font-weight: bold;">Blackhawks game</span> is a great idea, particularly if both parties appre</span><span style="font-size:100%;">ciate sports. This is kind of a no brainer because most men are sports fans.</span></li></ul> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.unitedcenter.com/">To look at the Bulls and Blackhawks schedule, click here.</a></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <ul style="font-family:arial;"><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ice skating</span> at <span style="font-weight: bold;">Millenium Park</span>. This is fun because you are likely asking him to go outside of his comfort zone. Watch his behavior; if he is a fumbling idiot, but is </span><span style="font-size:100%;">able to laugh at himself, then he has earned himself a second date!<span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCPvlc_gsLQXUOS_aDIldcKxBKmwtnGR86eYxjJWLpTe6JLhODSRq00bJ4vW43tOvO7QAvCY8p9MwILUZfoFdFxA9J6cSRQLkqz8UGRWd3H0eVkXZ3RFH2CbsGOuIYW3SAiQgHCt2asw/s1600-h/van+gogh.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 93px; height: 140px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCPvlc_gsLQXUOS_aDIldcKxBKmwtnGR86eYxjJWLpTe6JLhODSRq00bJ4vW43tOvO7QAvCY8p9MwILUZfoFdFxA9J6cSRQLkqz8UGRWd3H0eVkXZ3RFH2CbsGOuIYW3SAiQgHCt2asw/s200/van+gogh.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307706155786248882" border="0" /></a></span></span></li></ul> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.millenniumpark.org/">To view skating hours at Millenium Park, click here!</a></span></p> <ul style="font-family:arial;"><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Walk through the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Art Institute of Chicago</span> on Thursday night – it’s free and open until 8 p.m! </span></li></ul> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">11 S. Michigan Avenue</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.artic.edu/aic">To see which exhibits are currently showing at The Art Institute of Chicago, click here!</a></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHeUQVbFSD0xl9_tEH0wRGBa7GOWaeO4jwwB0tigyjmvjui9ika_OMMdci-5eKJSfv1j8zxfcXrSoXyvGuTsdQjZGFsdou3XHdMnpxDddg_cJil8CDnat2sHquwOCXOpfwRV2vM1lZQ/s1600-h/Chicago+Cultural+Center.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHeUQVbFSD0xl9_tEH0wRGBa7GOWaeO4jwwB0tigyjmvjui9ika_OMMdci-5eKJSfv1j8zxfcXrSoXyvGuTsdQjZGFsdou3XHdMnpxDddg_cJil8CDnat2sHquwOCXOpfwRV2vM1lZQ/s200/Chicago+Cultural+Center.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307706744913441874" border="0" /></a></span></p> <ul style="font-family:arial;"><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Take a trip to the<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Chicago Cultural Center</span>, which is not only one of the mo</span><span style="font-size:100%;">st </span><span style="font-size:100%;">impressive buildings in the city, but also a home to film festivals (March 6 – 8), poetry readings, art </span><span style="font-size:100%;">exhibitions and cultural celebrations.</span></li></ul> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">78 E. Washington Street</span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.chicagoculturalcenter.org/">Find out what exciting things are happening at the Chicago Cultural Center here!</a></span><br /></span></p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="EC_MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">Not The First Date...</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><cite><span style="font-style: normal;">If you’ve survived the awkward first date –hooray! -- and are ready for more datey activities, then keep reading. </span></cite></span></p> <ul style="font-family:arial;"><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Webster’s Wine Bar </span>– has to be one of the most charming spots in the city. This dimly lit hangout boasts an impressive list of wines by the glass – It is the perfect date spot.</span></li></ul> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">1480 W. Webster Ave</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:black;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.websterwinebar.com/">Peruse the extensive wine list at Webster's Wine Bar, here!</a></span><br /></span></span></p> <ul style="font-family:arial;"><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tango Sur</span> – This Southport haunt never disappoints. The BYOB spot features traditional Argentinean steaks with chimichurri sauce. The tango music is barely audible over the hordes of people – they don’t take reservations but the wait is always worth it.</span></li></ul> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">3763 N Southport Ave</span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.tangosur.com/">To visit Tango Sur online, click here!</a></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTP0W-jTqmvNxKY6ilMtWU5wLQLg0nKohoCdhEORG7Wv03RVt6I1oWF9FR7VKL2HHD_SoUYO6KA6y4sAVA_FailPrsOFEONUoy4eBUABkTdrA3GK3NQVUJNrkZOB_Yk_fdJAVO0srq8Q/s1600-h/Firefly_Chicago.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 149px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTP0W-jTqmvNxKY6ilMtWU5wLQLg0nKohoCdhEORG7Wv03RVt6I1oWF9FR7VKL2HHD_SoUYO6KA6y4sAVA_FailPrsOFEONUoy4eBUABkTdrA3GK3NQVUJNrkZOB_Yk_fdJAVO0srq8Q/s200/Firefly_Chicago.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307706515007304290" border="0" /></a></span></p> <ul style="font-family:arial;"><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Firefly</span> – is a quaint, Boystown French bistro. The food is marvelous and it’s easy to get cozy and stay for a few hours.</span></li></ul> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">3335 N. Halsted St.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://fireflyonhalsted.com/">To visit Firefly online, click here!</a></span><br /></span></p>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-78167442980951721732009-02-18T23:30:00.000-08:002009-02-19T00:06:58.999-08:00Art Review - Julie Blackmon and Joseph Grigely<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPwV2bre7xnEGh2FJWq5_j4DPnvZL0MX9JnnVcon2Y74zrB-ItjjvH0B-rKnOgYXtcJkZxLl5rxmoAzkzRIxQtRCCd6UIPK6bbNwTCYTbsgiP6yhRziGp1OTQF4eFv8kb-uhGE3wRnw/s1600-h/The+Hill.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 220px; height: 219px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPwV2bre7xnEGh2FJWq5_j4DPnvZL0MX9JnnVcon2Y74zrB-ItjjvH0B-rKnOgYXtcJkZxLl5rxmoAzkzRIxQtRCCd6UIPK6bbNwTCYTbsgiP6yhRziGp1OTQF4eFv8kb-uhGE3wRnw/s320/The+Hill.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304410399384819362" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><i style="">Joseph Grig</i></b></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><i style="">ely at the Museum of Contemporary Art </i></b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:85%;" >(220 East Chicago)</span></span> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Joseph Grigely‘s exhibition at the MCA, <b style=""><i style="">St. Cecilia</i></b>, is a definitely worth a second look – which, is something I rarely do when viewing contemporary art. </span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Given my aversion to Christmas, I rushed through the film installation w</span><span style="font-size:100%;">here “Christmas carols” are sung by the Baltimore Choral Arts Society, as though I were being followed by Jehovah's Witnesses. <i style="">Then,</i> I spotted <b style=""><i style="">We’re Banteri</i></b></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><i style="">ng Drunkening About What’s I</i></b></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><i style="">mportant in Life</i></b>, 2007. It was here that I lingered with childlike curiosity, mesmerized by the patchwork of hand-written notes scribbled on maps and stationary. This wall is a kaleidoscope of colors, shapes and tex</span><span style="font-size:100%;">tures, composed of pieces of paper which once lived in a cash-register, a hotel nightstand, a menu in a French restaurant – it’s like peeking into an artists’ diary with funny quips, confessions, remarks and little drawings portraying silly squirrels and smoking snowmen. This piece is a byproduct of Grigely’s disjointed conversatio</span><span style="font-size:100%;">ns with friends and perfect strangers (Grigely will often ask people to write down a statement when he is unable to lip-read.)</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The artist claims that “the walls owe a lot to Josef Albers, Sol Le Witt and Agnes Martin.”<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiz7F69_TBlVZY9NrOgZc-cFtcJGA1cdG57a3hz4zMx2GWTP6HNQSsGRWP52bY7ggskpROAfHZmLR_sxsiqc5JXxsizc3RmoeWzB5o2PUxf33t3mWp0b2F14UDweotLLgPOMdHKuwqsw/s1600-h/Clown.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 107px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiz7F69_TBlVZY9NrOgZc-cFtcJGA1cdG57a3hz4zMx2GWTP6HNQSsGRWP52bY7ggskpROAfHZmLR_sxsiqc5JXxsizc3RmoeWzB5o2PUxf33t3mWp0b2F14UDweotLLgPOMdHKuwqsw/s200/Clown.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304411280079961858" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> I see no trace of these artists, however, I appreciate the piece for its simplicity and ambiguity.<span style=""> </span>Some of the papers are simple, one reads <i style="">“yuck”</i> and another reads, <i style="">“she loves you”</i> (the word “went” is next to “she” but has been crossed out.) </span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Others offer mor</span><span style="font-size:100%;">e comic relief: </span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><i style=""><span style=""> </span>“She asked ‘Are those your flowers?’ voluptuous lady holding a big orange”</i></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">And some tell a story with a picture. </span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><i style="">What Did I Say?, </i></b>2008 is equally entertaining, featuring more pieces of paper fro</span><span style="font-size:100%;">m “conversations” with former professors, friends, acquaintances a</span><span style="font-size:100%;">nd strangers. When I stand here looking at the wall, I get a glimpse of what it would be like to be deaf. One nap</span><span style="font-size:100%;">kin displays text that reads: <span style="font-style: italic;">“Would you like a salami and smoked turkey cold plate? Yes. No. Another soda?”</span></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">And then I discover a two headed dog and a squirrel that looks an awful lot like Gizm</span><span style="font-size:100%;">o and my mood shifts back to</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> amusement and utter fascination. </span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjli3Hob9Aj0YT41lshWhAI9LShv6zKia7KeCwdLvRaZeODbUGnwArqcmaXOUIxr6FrqCszdT3nFYf8OIH9bOu7ZdMbDe_IfwsAU6N0jlE-5rFg4NwXHZo2qkMOCXcWE7JI4RAE-dYi-g/s1600-h/Antlers.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjli3Hob9Aj0YT41lshWhAI9LShv6zKia7KeCwdLvRaZeODbUGnwArqcmaXOUIxr6FrqCszdT3nFYf8OIH9bOu7ZdMbDe_IfwsAU6N0jlE-5rFg4NwXHZo2qkMOCXcWE7JI4RAE-dYi-g/s320/Antlers.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304414072683830098" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;">I giggle at a card that looks a lot like this:</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWCfQMyzoGvecx-KUjcZ_H03XlJ5rlINthqd-G-gvvdNSi7pRdUyPcmq22BLn76Bvje20q39GgsqzC7aQNPCmU_rpIaWVXxO7190LnTf1FzEo1PA8Z47FaIRT88eWrl58KtgSpk6za-Q/s1600-h/Antlers.JPG"><br /></a></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The 53-year-old artist marvels at how Europeans </span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">describe him as an artist who explores communication, while Americans are quick to reduce him as the deaf artist. Grigely’s work seeks to explore the idiosyncrasies of language and communication.<span style=""> </span>I am pulled in by his delivery, which is that of a mischievous intellect with a great sense of humor. I am left with one question:<span style=""> </span>What’s with the smoking snowman that I keep seeing everywhere?</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><i style=""><span style="font-size:130%;">Julie Blackmon at Catherine Edelman Gallery</span> </i></b><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:85%;" >(300 W</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">est Super</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">ior)</span></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Julie Blackmon paints a picture of the world I live in –magical and chaotic. To say that Blackmon’s work is captivating would be like saying chocolate is good. Ummm….chocolate is <span style="font-style: italic;">divine</span>, and so too are Blackmon’s photographs. The whimsical prints jump off of the wall begging you to investigate them further. The lucid colors and dreamlike compositions make me a little seasick at first, but once I have gotten my bearings, I am nothing short of smitten. Her contrasty prints are peppered with unexpected nuances, offering an imaginative alternative to suburban family life.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALeJaNdZozk3pDrfOuAl0szkoSUFfCKaLamNbqHFr1cOIb0DRKQPfl8sQCpkLYJQCZSSe379wUnbDChhzrrM89PrpXgq1ORVUV-_koqIoW9W61Sw4JZluiebAdNB3ItogXQEWVrRHKA/s1600-h/SnowDay.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALeJaNdZozk3pDrfOuAl0szkoSUFfCKaLamNbqHFr1cOIb0DRKQPfl8sQCpkLYJQCZSSe379wUnbDChhzrrM89PrpXgq1ORVUV-_koqIoW9W61Sw4JZluiebAdNB3ItogXQEWVrRHKA/s200/SnowDay.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304410528387632338" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><i style="">Snow Day</i></b>, 2008, instills both nostalgia and dread in the viewer. A darling toddler look</span><span style="font-size:100%;">s as though she is half ready to run outside in her little boots and long-johns. She is perplexed staring at her belly as the bright, sunny day pokes through the door behind her, where her brothers are playing. Scarves and gloves are sprinkled on the floor along with fresh snow. I empathize with the Mom who is cursing snow days as she cleans the house later. </span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" face="arial"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><i style=""><br /></i></b></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" face="arial"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M8iCj799c3cgdSUqqwe2lYz8nz3SoSRXoBMShTCwxYndHw7_jDUjnTVVa2wwJYCEBO6aGUelopxXimlpnZdpUULPOm3uAus-_MMiXVB-yqeiZQaX-Tl8rh-I4siLTf8B3Zc0dy99wA/s1600-h/American+Gothic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M8iCj799c3cgdSUqqwe2lYz8nz3SoSRXoBMShTCwxYndHw7_jDUjnTVVa2wwJYCEBO6aGUelopxXimlpnZdpUULPOm3uAus-_MMiXVB-yqeiZQaX-Tl8rh-I4siLTf8B3Zc0dy99wA/s200/American+Gothic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304410773734039426" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><i style=""><br /></i></b></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b style=""><i style="">American Gothic</i></b>,2008, is quixotic and dreary. Why would anyone dress their family in matching sweaters when they could be wearing all black and looking like an advertisement for Prozac?? I particularly like the duck who admires the family from a comfortable distance. I wonder if they have ducks on craigslist.</span></p>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-5107368923290944622009-02-12T05:55:00.000-08:002009-02-13T10:39:16.042-08:00Valentine's Day Guys Guide<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxXo6X-kFQAB7oR9Ox39n2aJ6PhSrXucZvSoidNQn3MYLM4ipHUsijjjWdVwBomLmCHauIjBZLtzOu_jRvTQQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">click here to watch the WGN Valentin</span></span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">e's Day Survival for men on Feb. 12!</span></span><br /><br />My least favorite Valentine’s Day was the year that m</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >y girlfriend Emma called me into her office. “You are not going to believe what Josh got me” she said. I walked in to assess the Valentine’s Day crisis. There were already two other gi</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >rls huddled together giggling. “Uh-oh” I thought. The first problem was that Emma had been trying to break up with this guy for a good two weeks at this point. The second problem was that he sent her a teddy bear holding a balloon (which said “I love you”) in one hand and a vase with one ros</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >e in the other. TO THE OFFICE. He sent this to the off</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >ice!!! </span><br /></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >Awkward</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >. I couldn’t help but join in the giggling. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >“Tom (my sp</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >ecial man friend at the time) knows better,” I thought. To my horror, I returned to my office a few minutes later and discovered a large teddy bear adorned in black silk boxers decorated with red hea</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >rts. He too brought something with him, it was chocolates. I felt icky. I hate teddy bears, I hate stuffed animals wearing sexy clothes and Fanny May chocolates tastes like cocoa flavored toilet paper. </span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >When the girls came into my office they erupted into laughter. </span><br /></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >“What do I do with this?”I asked them. If I discard the little guy then Tom would ask to see it.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >“Oh my God. I can’t be with someone who thinks this is a good idea!” I exclaimed. </span><br /></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >I decided</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" > to hide the evidence and threw away the boxers in the office kitchen and then, I hid the teddy bear my desk drawer. Then the phone calls started. It was Tom. I let it g</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >o to voicemail once or twice. When I finally answered the phone, I uncovered the following: </span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >1.) Tom thought my colleagues and friends would be impressed if he sent a silk, heart boxer wearing teddy bear accompanied by chocolate</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >s, TO MY OFFICE, where people take me seriously. </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >2.) His Mom alerted him that the best teddy bear maker was whatever A-hole company </span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >that sent me this teddy bear to begin with. </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >3.) Girls like it when you sent them stuff at work, so that they feel important. </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">4.) Maria the cleaning lady, somehow uncovered that I threw away said, sexy boxers which co</span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">uld only fit a one-year</span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">-old and paid a visit to me in my office. She continued to ask me over and over again in Spanglish, why I threw them away and could she have them. </span><br /></span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">The best Valentine’s Day I ever had was sharing a home cooked meal with a former boyfriend. We split a bo</span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">ttle of wine and cooked then stayed in.<br /><br />Gentleman, don’t be Tom!!</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">The guide below will make you a model boyfriend or husband. You’re welcome – you</span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"> can send me lavish gifts or flowers afterwards… </span><br /></span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Make it Heartfelt </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Spend a little time thinking about what is important to your girlfriend or wife. Think about stories she has told you in the </span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">past and try to connect the dots to identify things that she cherishes. </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Did you take </span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">a memorable trip together? Frame a photograph from the trip and give it to her. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Is her secret fantasy to become a jewelry designer? Then sign her up for lessons locally or visit etsy.com to find handmade pieces that she might really like.These are the best gifts bec</span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">ause it shows t</span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">hat you care and that you pay attention. </span><br /></span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Socially Aware Gift Ideas </span><br />Does your lady friend recycle and live at Whole Food</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">s? If she is a bleeding heart democrat then she is likely environme</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">ntally and socially conscious as well. The following gifts are rea</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LVdUT2e4UjYSlzgQg9aXyLscnIMtJNh6ER4bTJOx5FJ07ZZFZMzWadUvGuK2K_mDjfFo8rAk9BlOe4OuW8bCelnIwk0sRmVSY2aIfeGsg_vnefOtzPAPr5R1Qn0UJD65BCNhFxndqw/s1600-h/Silver+Bag+from+5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LVdUT2e4UjYSlzgQg9aXyLscnIMtJNh6ER4bTJOx5FJ07ZZFZMzWadUvGuK2K_mDjfFo8rAk9BlOe4OuW8bCelnIwk0sRmVSY2aIfeGsg_vnefOtzPAPr5R1Qn0UJD65BCNhFxndqw/s200/Silver+Bag+from+5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302045201269949986" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">sonably priced and ethic. </span></span><ul style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">FIVE Accessories</span> – eco friendly bags made from recycled </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">materials like</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"> potato chip bags and bamboo in placed like Honduras, Bali, Cambodia, Guatemala and India. For every bag sold owner Christine Hutchison, gives five d</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">ollars back to the community where it was made.</span></span></li></ul><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.fiveaccessories.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Click here to v</span></a></span></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHixXic9NlSVJTxEMA9IrboCoZ-7MiRxetycrkbCZLaT466upirrQ2hBasBXwlcdyI3QD_Rcvi56mXbpnEmf20q2XAfpXcQMGtABsAcC_jUh3oHZ_2Q1jo4dNYEA-qOox4UlZKocI9Kw/s1600-h/orchids.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 144px; height: 158px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHixXic9NlSVJTxEMA9IrboCoZ-7MiRxetycrkbCZLaT466upirrQ2hBasBXwlcdyI3QD_Rcvi56mXbpnEmf20q2XAfpXcQMGtABsAcC_jUh3oHZ_2Q1jo4dNYEA-qOox4UlZKocI9Kw/s200/orchids.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302045496926079122" border="0" /></a><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.fiveaccessories.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">isit FIVE Accessories online!</span></a><br /></span><br /></span></span><ul style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >Fair Trade Flowers</span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" > - Fair Trade-certified flowers guarantee fair wages in d</span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" >eveloping countries where flowers are harvested. It’s only a difference of a few dollars and it really makes an impact. </span><br /></span></span></li></ul><a href="http://www.transfairusa.org/content/flowers"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >Click here to find out more about Fair Trade Flowers!</span></a><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Please find out what flowers she likes firs</span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">t. If you don’t know, ask her Mom or her best friend. Don’t buy her carnations – they are a funeral flower. Tell a friend. </span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0h6lboU3hdl7RwG4Son_qAF1FuhCxKuThOUgDS28PjPtexen3jJTOo7_BBeddeXkwlszCYRY6leszuUMIXOZMYnzl-zXaTluzqtSyUxrwba5RzYZDhgjDB9JvD17Zs_t6OO0m9PWDw/s1600-h/Lush+perfume.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 110px; height: 110px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0h6lboU3hdl7RwG4Son_qAF1FuhCxKuThOUgDS28PjPtexen3jJTOo7_BBeddeXkwlszCYRY6leszuUMIXOZMYnzl-zXaTluzqtSyUxrwba5RzYZDhgjDB9JvD17Zs_t6OO0m9PWDw/s200/Lush+perfume.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302046270129132754" border="0" /></a><br /><ul style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cru</span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">elty free perfume</span> – ($39.95) Flower Market perfume by<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Lush</span> cele</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">brates timeless b</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">eauty with classic florals and it is cruelty free (not tested on anim</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">als)! </span></span></li></ul><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><a href="http://www.lushusa.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Visit Lush online here!</span></span></span></a></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><a href="http://www.lushusa.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><br /><br /></span></a></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Turn up the Heat </span><br /></span></span></span><ul style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"><li><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Intercourses</span> by Martha Hopkins and Randall Lockridge – ($19.77) This aphrodisiac cookbook is a must have because you can use it year round; not only are the dishes simple but they taste phenomenal! Cook a quiet dinner in this Valentine’s </span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" >Day and enjoy the simplicity of it all.</span></span></span></li></ul><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" ><br /><a href="http://www.intercourses.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" >Click here to buy your book today! </span></a><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgM8Hi04nQWaV92oFxcnc6bQoQjSl1Zg3QgENBYf1RcmpnanP0uvQ_Xe4UQU-jOkaOgKC4rp1LysvEzAHqym8GiGbS4KhbJPVoW3cIb8I4LrVKzSQwSJ5BoaLnsPz3MPID1LSSzqvzA/s1600-h/Voges.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 136px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgM8Hi04nQWaV92oFxcnc6bQoQjSl1Zg3QgENBYf1RcmpnanP0uvQ_Xe4UQU-jOkaOgKC4rp1LysvEzAHqym8GiGbS4KhbJPVoW3cIb8I4LrVKzSQwSJ5BoaLnsPz3MPID1LSSzqvzA/s200/Voges.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302046513395704338" border="0" /></a><br /><ul><li><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Aphrodisiac Red Fire Hat Box by </span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Vosges </span>– ($75) Turn up the heat with this kit from Vosges: it contains spicy chocolate bonbons, an Aphrodisiac guided tasting and red feathers.</span></span></li></ul><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" ><a href="http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><br />Click here to buy your chocolates right now!</span></a></span><a href="http://www.vosgeschocolate.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><br /></span></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Get your sweetie the ultimate Valentine’s Day experience. A gift certificate to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Evlove Intimates</span>, where she’ll get to design her very own lingerie. The gift that keeps on giving, you’ll get her the perfect gift (for both of you to enjoy) and a</span></span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"> truly unique experience of creating it herself!</span><br /><a href="http://www.evloveintimates.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><br />View the</span><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" > </span><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" >Evlove website and make your purchases here!</span><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><br /></span></a><br /></span></span><ul style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);"><li><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Racy Portrait</span> – Is your partner usually the center of attention? Women that bare it all for the camera find it to be</span></span><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"> an empowering experience. And she’ll have a keepsake for life! </span></span></li></ul><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.salomephoto.com/"><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:85%;" ><br />Visit the Thom Rouse Gallery here for more information!</span></a></span></span> <p style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);font-family:arial;" class="EC_MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span></p>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-8216698954108849402009-02-05T16:41:00.000-08:002009-02-07T15:38:45.077-08:00Fanciful Flirting<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8GK8b1k2aPiCWXeJ7j5Rg-57_THTF7ByH2TyV85bQWDWl2FZxu8mxybjGWglVTLUIj1o0L05T8KetVbz8cYhWpe0HisL2UMc2LFD9657CC3v9-4fHZlbYi-If0nWaDH2-48Kqxu2nw/s1600-h/Flirt+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8GK8b1k2aPiCWXeJ7j5Rg-57_THTF7ByH2TyV85bQWDWl2FZxu8mxybjGWglVTLUIj1o0L05T8KetVbz8cYhWpe0HisL2UMc2LFD9657CC3v9-4fHZlbYi-If0nWaDH2-48Kqxu2nw/s320/Flirt+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299486360092074002" border="0" /></a><br /><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">I remember preschool, one sunny, spring afternoon, sitting in the sandbox next to Billy “Big Cheeks” Thompson. One second, I am content, making a little sand castle, minding my own business and “WHAM”, out of nowhere “Big Cheeks” threw a mud pie in my face. I was furious. I left the playground in a huff and soon after I was driving home with my Mom in the family station wagon – my brother and sister affectionately referred to this car as the “blood mobile”. I was crying and inconsolable. My first male disappointment --if I had known how many more of these I had ahead of me, I might have started spiking the cool aid at a <span style="font-style: italic;">much</span> earlier age.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">“You know why Billy threw a mudpie in your face, don’t you?” my mother asked.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">“Because he’s a meanie” I retorted.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">“Because he<i style=""> likes</i> you,” she said.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">I gave her a look that indicated I was sure she spent the afternoon drinking AND ironing. Later I learned that my Mom was right, about almost everything.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Flirting and finding a man in a big city is a lot like shopping on Black Friday; it’s completely overwhelming but shoppers keep going in hope of finding the perfect pair of designer boots, fifty percent off. Chicago is not short on men, by any stretch of the imagination, but the good ones are tough to find.<span style=""> </span>Men, it seems have more options than they know what to do with and they are programmed to live the frat boy lifestyle as long as they can get away with it. Ironically, I find that the women who fair well in modern dating act more like Billy “Big Cheeks” than your average girl. I think the mistake that most women make is being too accessible and too nice.<span style=""> </span>Women are hard wired to be accommodating and to put everyone else first. When it comes to dating and life for that matter, it is important to recognize that people treat you the way you <span style="font-style: italic;">allow</span> them to treat you, this is human nature. Men want to see how much they can get away with and believe it or not, they want to be told “no”. <span style=""> </span>It’s a challenge they’re after and to win the flirting gold medal, you must be smart, supportive, difficult <span style=""> </span>and fun in equal amounts.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Flirting is amusing but if you’re trying to catch a big fish, you’re going to need better bait. Another fact in human psychology is that we are attracted to that which retreats from us. Think about it. Have you ever had someone get too intense, too quickly? And how did you react? You dodged his calls and eventually asked him to please lose your number. Right? <span style=""> </span>The lesson is simply to refrain from putting all of your cards on the table.<span style=""> </span>Keep a few just for yourself. <span style=""> </span>This isn’t cruel and it’s not game playing. It shows self respect and what’s more, it shows him that you’re not counting on him to furnish 100% of your happiness.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">According to the dictionary, to flirt means <span style=""></span>to court triflingly or act amorously without serious intentions; play at love; coquet.</span></p> <p style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" class="EC_MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;">Flirtatious Facts</span></p> <ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">While women are ovulating they are attracted to a more dangerous, flirty type of guy. </span></li></ul> <ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Flirting is often times, subconscious, and many times people will flirt when they are feeling socially awkward. Alcohol has long been touted as a social lubricant, so too is flirting!</span></li></ul> <ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Men who work as stylists or personal trainers tend to be very flirtatious. Why? To get you to come back!</span></li></ul> <ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">German singles are encouraged to board the Flirt Express to find that special someone. Last year, nearly 5,000 people tried to buy tickets and there were only 800 seats.</span></li></ul>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-81590604550408711892009-01-31T22:38:00.000-08:002009-02-01T21:53:48.642-08:00Valentine's Day Girls Guide<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6N0EMQFGFeTy0Yf4_dl7Tqf0fiZ8_sHEKCHUM2_QyQcbF-Si2I1KXYgiIcNbeeANUKUPv9vGDh5AoaXi0P04WsuQZvEmEdRyF-Y1C56qPK3-hhU2y0sa5I1b80EhHgVuOp8YYAmW7DA/s1600-h/LYON+Hearts.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 178px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6N0EMQFGFeTy0Yf4_dl7Tqf0fiZ8_sHEKCHUM2_QyQcbF-Si2I1KXYgiIcNbeeANUKUPv9vGDh5AoaXi0P04WsuQZvEmEdRyF-Y1C56qPK3-hhU2y0sa5I1b80EhHgVuOp8YYAmW7DA/s320/LYON+Hearts.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297719773316438690" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">I always struggle with what to get my special man friend on Valentine’s Day. This is probably be</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">cause most the men I know detest Valentine’s Day. I recently read a statistic that one billion valentines are sent each year worldwide, making the day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year, behind Christmas. The majority of the card purchases are by women -- 85 percent in fact, which I think sort of says it all. That said, I always get him something knowing that I will look like a jerk if he does something elaborate or thoughtful, which he will.<br /><br />Selecting the perfect gift for your guy is pretty simple and if you start to panic, just remember that we have it <span style="font-style: italic;">a lot </span>easier than they do! The most important thing you need to remember is quite simple: simply match the appropriate gift based on the level of intimacy you have as a couple. If you’ve only been on a few dates, then homemade brownies or his favorite cookie should do it. If you’ve been together for a cou</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">ple of years you might need to put some more effort into it. </span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCq63i2Xjk0MyeMyTdwMxiCXGimzGLllMxuPg-uo_WfXFZUXIigdlTyUVr0G5sbubwMy3u1C2FwC3AvU-lDIxG4hgEalzzqi60ljPJWVJjm4t1I-qXlFlI41wODQTtZsA04YKxjvN6SA/s1600-h/Wine+Opener.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 180px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCq63i2Xjk0MyeMyTdwMxiCXGimzGLllMxuPg-uo_WfXFZUXIigdlTyUVr0G5sbubwMy3u1C2FwC3AvU-lDIxG4hgEalzzqi60ljPJWVJjm4t1I-qXlFlI41wODQTtZsA04YKxjvN6SA/s200/Wine+Opener.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297719911340466434" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><br />I hope the guide below will be of use to you!<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />What man doesn’t love gadgets?</span> </span></span><span style="font-style: italic;">Seriously. Do you know any? I don't.</span><br /></span></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Is he a wine drinker? Replace his outdated wine opener with this one: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Vacu Vin Winemaster </span></span></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Price $49.99<br /></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005AS54/ref=asc_df_B00005AS54700749?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&tag=dealt239087-20&linkCode=asn">Buy the Vacu Vin Winemaster!</a></span><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjNnDK1GLIFPKCA4oiVaEtvxy63GzbIbPux0-9q1CGRT10GNxNaJBCatEQ0QuL1tXSq0uY1sH88DUIByrkh9uDHQN0iZrYa9NSYf3smGXaLxjOJBdLgXVGQuOMNIMIQVgXCW9-LoPuA/s1600-h/Swiss+Army+Knife.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjNnDK1GLIFPKCA4oiVaEtvxy63GzbIbPux0-9q1CGRT10GNxNaJBCatEQ0QuL1tXSq0uY1sH88DUIByrkh9uDHQN0iZrYa9NSYf3smGXaLxjOJBdLgXVGQuOMNIMIQVgXCW9-LoPuA/s200/Swiss+Army+Knife.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297720194601529730" border="0" /></a><br /><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Does he take his annual camping trip with the guys a little too seriously? If so, this might come in handy: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Victorinox Swiss Army One Ha</span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">nd Trekker Lockblade Pocket Knife </span><br /></span></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Price $26.35<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_k?url=search-alias%3Dgarden&field-keywords=swiss+army+knife&x=0&y=0"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;font-family:arial;" >Buy the Victorinox Swiss Army One Hand Trekker Lockblade Pocket Knife!</span></span></a><br /><br /></span></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Is he directionally challenged? Think how many arguments can be avoided with this glorious little tool! <span style="font-weight: bold;">Garmin Nuvi 270 3.5 inch Portable GPS Navigator</span></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkdZWYPYgTx9S4C88gfljzCZZc32NnbwFhX5XsIkWh5T6SobVrh674uqFVzWxu1iTKOhqHEyDva218_-zF_XjoMHpFJO5Vrp-j_ectDHDGWYr-9PQPyfzt0nIIfDp2sngUTIrFjRRFA/s1600-h/Garmin.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 115px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkdZWYPYgTx9S4C88gfljzCZZc32NnbwFhX5XsIkWh5T6SobVrh674uqFVzWxu1iTKOhqHEyDva218_-zF_XjoMHpFJO5Vrp-j_ectDHDGWYr-9PQPyfzt0nIIfDp2sngUTIrFjRRFA/s200/Garmin.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297720486690949842" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Price $150.66<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=garmin&x=0&y=0">Buy the Garmin Nuvi 270 3.5 inch Portable GPS Navigator!</a> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" ><br />The beauty of simplicity </span><br /><br /></span></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">You can’t beat a quiet night in. If you waited too long to get reservations or you just don’t feel like fighting the masses, then opt for cooking and sharing a meal together in. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Intercourses aphrodisiac cookbook</span> is a must have because you can use it year round; not only are the dishes simple but they taste phenomenal! </span></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><br />Price $19.77<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.intercourses.com/book.htm">Buy a copy of Intercourses aphrodisiac cookbook!</a> </span><br /><br /></span></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Concert tickets </span>– Is he a huge Rob Zombie fan? Buy him two tickets and tell him he can take whoever he wants. (This is also a test!) If he chooses to take you then suck it up and grab the thickest black eye pencil you can get your hands on. Going to a concert that is out of your comfort zone will win you major cool points!</span></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.ticketmaster.com/">Peruse concert tickets here!</a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">“Huh?” </span></span><br />Not really sure if you and Mr. Right Now have a future together?? Give him a gift that will confuse him. Why? Because it’s just plain fun to do!<br /><br /></span></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Message in a bottle (reading their press release makes me <span style="font-style: italic;">soooo</span> glad that I don’t do commercial PR for silly products). <br /></span></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.bottlemeamessage.com/">Order your message in a bottle here! </a></span><br /><br /></span></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Hot Sauce of The Month Club<br /></span></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"><a><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.sweatnspice.com/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Sign up for the hot sauce of the month club here!</span></a> </span><br /><br />Give him a Snuggie and include a note that reads <span style="font-style: italic;">“For those nights when I am out late dancing with my girlfriends and you are on the couch with your hand in your pants.” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://www.getsnuggie.com/flare/next">Order your snuggie here!</a><br /></span></span></span>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-81389038729466895432009-01-24T11:04:00.000-08:002009-02-01T22:02:30.497-08:00What You Can Learn from the Most Dangerous Seductresses<a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAHFydVI58oTvQp8wP-gfaPPRn3M0PJjp6q-iHl4qOeyvw4nuyxYtjqtXrY9bNz3LS5BHNH7VvnEA3HJykcqtTj8EIyFQlCJyK3krXjL0iCa94bTUUvRx22XsD7gMtGS1wAxV9msZeig/s1600-h/CleopatraVD+DAY.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 153px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAHFydVI58oTvQp8wP-gfaPPRn3M0PJjp6q-iHl4qOeyvw4nuyxYtjqtXrY9bNz3LS5BHNH7VvnEA3HJykcqtTj8EIyFQlCJyK3krXjL0iCa94bTUUvRx22XsD7gMtGS1wAxV9msZeig/s200/CleopatraVD+DAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294955668728420290" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >It’s Va</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >lentine’s Day and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chicago Girly Girl </span>believes that </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >whether you are single or paired off, </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >you should use this time of year to harness your inner goddess and celebrate all the qualities that make you unique. </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >Seductress</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >es have received a bad rap for challenging the conventions of society; they </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >were</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > persecuted in witch hunts, accused of </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >being slavish man-pleasers by feminists and improperly labeled as dumb blondes and bimbos. True femme fatales defy these cheap stereotypes. In fact, seductresses</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > are actually models of full empowerment—women of ach</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >ievement and w</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >orth, who’ve chosen to excel in both love and life.<br /><br />The women below include bombshells, </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >non-beauties, intellectuals, artists, adventurers and </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >non-conformists. They were apt in iden</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >tifyin</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >g the many different layers of seduction and knew that to be powerful, they’d have to do more than exploit their god-given beauty. Some were blessed with good looks but <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">all </span>were seductres</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >ses because of their intellig</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >ence, psychological prowess and grasp of human behavior. <span style="font-size:130%;"> </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:130%;" ><span style=""><span style="font-weight: bold;">Top T</span></span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:130%;" ><span style=""><span style="font-weight: bold;">en Ultimate Seductresses</span></span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:130%;" > </span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cleopatra</span> – Queen of Egypt. Her legacy survives</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > in numerous works of art, literature and film. I</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >n most depictions, Cleopatra is portrayed as a great beauty and her successive conquests of the world's most powerful men is taken to be proof of her aesthetic and sexual appeal. Few can argue that Cleopatra was easy on the eyes but this was nothing compared to h</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >er wit, charm and sweet voice; she was also illustrious, intelligent</span><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYlBG-EYiwq0WNkTqZxjQ8EUv3XhNHfkAOeahvr-EhfDt2WLk3VSMKU4G8J8m8oGqERiPgNEqDBBlHC_tMCx4YflS334LHJUj3mdq40j9mrnDKNC5ejJg9_UySBws4NRJwv8hPWI8HHg/s1600-h/SalomeVDAY.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 135px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYlBG-EYiwq0WNkTqZxjQ8EUv3XhNHfkAOeahvr-EhfDt2WLk3VSMKU4G8J8m8oGqERiPgNEqDBBlHC_tMCx4YflS334LHJUj3mdq40j9mrnDKNC5ejJg9_UySBws4NRJwv8hPWI8HHg/s200/SalomeVDAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294949882138188754" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > and politically astute. </span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Lou Andreas Salome</span> (1861-1937) - Lou Andreas Salome was a novelist, essayist, psychoanalyst, and a muse as well as one of the world’s most dangerous seductresses. Salome was a peer of Sigmund Freud a</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >nd challenged the gender roles of her day because of her indifference to moral conventions and insatiable intellectual curiosity. Salome captivated Nietzsche, romanced Rilke, and stole Freud's heart. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpu-L3qDcDChGZuJC2bwxARXe51Sd8PQOV1nBvNBcbIJHQmQTp00TnucjJTzjsCtkBw2Hosc3D2v6tUmYlERZ_b1HYWnxu2qB1hOgmYw-hYK7w9BgTdkjqn0rEmgVRnWWclginySai9A/s1600-h/Josephine+BakerVDAY.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 101px; height: 158px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpu-L3qDcDChGZuJC2bwxARXe51Sd8PQOV1nBvNBcbIJHQmQTp00TnucjJTzjsCtkBw2Hosc3D2v6tUmYlERZ_b1HYWnxu2qB1hOgmYw-hYK7w9BgTdkjqn0rEmgVRnWWclginySai9A/s200/Josephine+BakerVDAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294950466327853778" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Josephi</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">n</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">e B</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">aker</span> (1906-1975) – actress and</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > entertainer, American expatriate</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > who</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > later bec</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >a</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >me a French citizen. Known as “Black Pearl”, Baker w</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >as the first African Americ</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >a</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >n</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > female to star in a major motion picture, to integrate an American concert hall, an</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >d to become a world-famous entertainer. She is also noted for her contributions to the Civil Rights Movement in the United States and for and for being an inspiration to generations of African American female entertainers and others. She assisted the French Resistance by smuggling secrets written</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > in invisible ink on her sheet musi</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >c dur</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >ing the Second World War and because of this, she became the first American-born woman to receive the highest French military honor, the Croix de Guerre. </span><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiD1coFKkGyhfGldEpbjNJaV3FGOMJnJyROAluh3RUlgatMhAmdaQjicEYsQqLrqaoJgCZTVlIDEQALuVgD6YtQPqfRPqn0Wgcm7SUA71S-ntvIbuzNz6o4Qcxd2ulsmFnhFuflId0hg/s1600-h/ViardotVDAY.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 103px; height: 132px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiD1coFKkGyhfGldEpbjNJaV3FGOMJnJyROAluh3RUlgatMhAmdaQjicEYsQqLrqaoJgCZTVlIDEQALuVgD6YtQPqfRPqn0Wgcm7SUA71S-ntvIbuzNz6o4Qcxd2ulsmFnhFuflId0hg/s200/ViardotVDAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294950787811051010" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Paulin</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">e Viardot </span>- When a fascinator like Pauline Viardot worked the voodoo of her personality on men, no one could resist this 'very ugly' nineteenth-century opera diva,</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > including Ivan Turgenev, the literary George Clooney of his day. She sparkled with warmth and life, massaged egos, dispensed TLC, released inhibitions, threw delicious parties, and talked "</span><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrnQ0Qhr71uDLs1-B-jTZ5q1uFi2ozXxNN2_NtH-LKI5Z4GyEe8tiTS6cdaxARxvneGlDkFG4D5qDZfWjluKRO_dPtzzJN7g7FV6CaLaibV8D13Qh6MRDcPPmdrzLbk7D88GiAbpY0A/s1600-h/Violet+Gordon.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 81px; height: 131px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrnQ0Qhr71uDLs1-B-jTZ5q1uFi2ozXxNN2_NtH-LKI5Z4GyEe8tiTS6cdaxARxvneGlDkFG4D5qDZfWjluKRO_dPtzzJN7g7FV6CaLaibV8D13Qh6MRDcPPmdrzLbk7D88GiAbpY0A/s200/Violet+Gordon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294951087837581554" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >like a princess.</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >" <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span></span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Viole</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">t Gordon Woodhouse</span> - a violinist who lived in a life-long ménage a cinq with fo</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >ur devoted "sup</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >erhusbands." To say that she defied conventional beliefs would be a great understatement. </span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoXzW7w0_uPnsXqQYJC-AsswNfngSOHRS4hzL2fLAiXVgOFTNJ3MafjgtiiOZO1c7xeehwNKxQMqvCQMQoeYm20x0-VkcKMlwv8XoHdSHacE0B-D6fYNLUHtFsc4VeX1muDuSneIO4kA/s1600-h/Lola+MontezVDAY.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 153px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoXzW7w0_uPnsXqQYJC-AsswNfngSOHRS4hzL2fLAiXVgOFTNJ3MafjgtiiOZO1c7xeehwNKxQMqvCQMQoeYm20x0-VkcKMlwv8XoHdSHacE0B-D6fYNLUHtFsc4VeX1muDuSneIO4kA/s200/Lola+MontezVDAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294951765470296722" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lola Montez </span>(1821-1861) - was an Irish-born dancer born under the name Eliza Rosan</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >na Gilbert. </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >She was also an actress who went on to become a famous Spanish dancer and eventually, the courtesan and mistress</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > of King Ludwig I </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >of Bavaria; King Ludwig later made her the Countess of Landsfeld</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >. </span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqk6DQVlFTYAZJD15pPLP7PiKhrSc_YnlEKylSKVguMVZ1aDJn6g0mh7dsdLcKYkOYud2Yq9gt8nhhAyAaPs_LbLtTR13KnMTYh8Lj82AGxRzp-RhVqlJpMzrFQKu7R7Vb2B6LDVvWA/s1600-h/Wallis+SimpsonVDAY.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 120px; height: 120px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqk6DQVlFTYAZJD15pPLP7PiKhrSc_YnlEKylSKVguMVZ1aDJn6g0mh7dsdLcKYkOYud2Yq9gt8nhhAyAaPs_LbLtTR13KnMTYh8Lj82AGxRzp-RhVqlJpMzrFQKu7R7Vb2B6LDVvWA/s200/Wallis+SimpsonVDAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294952049225726578" border="0" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Walli</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">s</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;"> S</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">i</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">mpson </span>(1895-1986) - Duchess of</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > Windsor, American socialite who marrie</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >d,</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >as her third husband, Prince Edward, Duk</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >e of Windsor, formerly King Edwar</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >d </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >VIII of the </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >United Kingdom. She was described as charismatic, electric and comp</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >ulsively ambitious. </span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiof6yk7w_Cyok4gDfWAcweoaaArh-Sm0ASv_XOXh_4OurcIPkr_10jpAhleXhEli_oLU-lqP09VTSnJ2KhUy0deV3wn9Yw1T9KEvrabPPdClU8isBl9-V0JssR1Rw3nAg9tgD8T8-UEA/s1600-h/Catherine+the+GreatVDAY.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 160px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiof6yk7w_Cyok4gDfWAcweoaaArh-Sm0ASv_XOXh_4OurcIPkr_10jpAhleXhEli_oLU-lqP09VTSnJ2KhUy0deV3wn9Yw1T9KEvrabPPdClU8isBl9-V0JssR1Rw3nAg9tgD8T8-UEA/s200/Catherine+the+GreatVDAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294952285611310610" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cathe</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">r</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">ine the Great</span> (1729-1796) – Empress of Russia. During her reign, Catherine the Great expanded Russia's borders to the Black Sea and into central Europe. She promoted westernization and modernization within the context of her autocratic control over Russia and promoted education and the Enlightenment among the elite. Catherine the Great is</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" > often remembered for her many love</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >rs. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHLwSaq4uMshfWi8bxXiofmCzSBvyFxGgoeR7AWkYr0fAfSC3B74IxRdRlr1sNkWe23swxvDf2ql-3bWcKzj-bpVZtrXkYA4GO9Mq-GZQ891kjc7PRTtOH9wimFZAjeTW_uZgYdQX5g/s1600-h/Mae+WestVDAY.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 97px; height: 122px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpHLwSaq4uMshfWi8bxXiofmCzSBvyFxGgoeR7AWkYr0fAfSC3B74IxRdRlr1sNkWe23swxvDf2ql-3bWcKzj-bpVZtrXkYA4GO9Mq-GZQ891kjc7PRTtOH9wimFZAjeTW_uZgYdQX5g/s200/Mae+WestVDAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294953367920042194" border="0" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mae West </span>(1893-1980) - West was an American actress, playwright, screenwriter, and sex </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >symbol. Known for her bawdy double entendres, West made a name for herself </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >in Vaudeville and on the stage in New York before moving to Hollywood to becom</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >e a comedian, actress and writer in the motion picture industry. One of the more </span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >controversial stars of her day, West encountered many problems including censorship. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitGj1r0lo3AgiEinLMwFJ4KtumaU-OAd_HR2SFBiSEyWgeGyzWgwDTDT1GVm2n9oO5fR7ZLsVFKiz3twj-Dlrih_Q_Bc49J-6bFDq04iD5LZ3-LaLbNDtQWHAn2dFqP2b18Jw0HoZqcg/s1600-h/Gloria+SteinemVDAY.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 101px; height: 129px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitGj1r0lo3AgiEinLMwFJ4KtumaU-OAd_HR2SFBiSEyWgeGyzWgwDTDT1GVm2n9oO5fR7ZLsVFKiz3twj-Dlrih_Q_Bc49J-6bFDq04iD5LZ3-LaLbNDtQWHAn2dFqP2b18Jw0HoZqcg/s200/Gloria+SteinemVDAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294953726761070770" border="0" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Glori</span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">a Steinem</span> (born in 1934) - Steinem is an American feminist icon, journalist, and social and political activist. Rising to national prominence in the 1970s, she became a leading political leader of the decade, and one of the most important crusaders of the second-wave of the women's rights movement. As a journalist, Steinem went undercover as a Playboy Bunny at the New York Playboy Club for a piece in Huntington Hartford's Show magazine. <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span></span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >How To Put Anyone Under Your Spell</span><br />1. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Be Miss Congeniality</span>. Despite what you might think, looks aren’t nearly as important as charisma and personality. The most dangerous seductresses used character, swank, and love smarts to enchant and influence men.<br /><br />2. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Strive to be an over achiever.</span> The most powerful aphrodisiac is personal excellence. Think about it -- the hig</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >her we climb, the greater our sex appeal! Overachieving women are anything but needy because they are self sufficient. They are prepared to go at it alone if the relationship sours.<br /><br />3. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Master the art of conversation.</span> As an aphrodisiac, nothing beats the sorcery of conversation. Wit wins every time.<br /></span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >4. <span style="font-weight: bold;">You can go your own way.</span> Well behaved women rarely make history. The greatest seductresses were daring renegades—independent, autonomous, ambitious, confident and unfeminine by societal standards.<br /><br />5. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hot. Cold. </span>If the mind is the supreme erogenous zone, then the key to holding the interest and devotion of your partner is emotion-in-motion. Seductresses stoke desire into a passion through a continuous interplay of elate and sedate, delight and difficulty, intimacy and mystery. They aren’t afraid of the “no” word and because of this, they captivate their subjects with spellbinding authority. Men don't want another over-eager pleaser, they want to labor for love. They want a one-in-a-million somebody who keeps them entranced</span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >, interested, and on their toes.<br /><br />6. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dress the part.</span> Chemistry has less to do with appearance than mental magic, but it should not be neglected. On the love path, it’s wise to deploy physical lures for maximum impact. Dress smart and be mindful of body language, posture and the tone of your voice.<br /><br /></span><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Helpful Reading:<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZNYZmPIrq2p64IBI2UDpz5eQ_3UYllvxdH1zYTnLhLjTNb5jxfk8FcQkgigOiHThJNrHviJl1uQ7B0Tlb0kiSOQa73u5PHhvs0bDQSg-nWQIQ5lhC1jbflQaW5cb9LA_y5GTSFZsAA/s1600-h/Seductress.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 62px; height: 98px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZNYZmPIrq2p64IBI2UDpz5eQ_3UYllvxdH1zYTnLhLjTNb5jxfk8FcQkgigOiHThJNrHviJl1uQ7B0Tlb0kiSOQa73u5PHhvs0bDQSg-nWQIQ5lhC1jbflQaW5cb9LA_y5GTSFZsAA/s200/Seductress.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294958617340421842" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHgJNtFC2CSv71CJZWVK6dSjZiUHHtKqGS5cXGcH85dWJepxVlvzgGSZnKoDIXuZfW7-N3dNAMiyE_OHafHy_tgPHws14KjZ-bc5nrGIPerc0TuHxD0sTHMEoh4SciBupAY4Ygq13og/s1600-h/Art+of+Seduction.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 86px; height: 129px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHgJNtFC2CSv71CJZWVK6dSjZiUHHtKqGS5cXGcH85dWJepxVlvzgGSZnKoDIXuZfW7-N3dNAMiyE_OHafHy_tgPHws14KjZ-bc5nrGIPerc0TuHxD0sTHMEoh4SciBupAY4Ygq13og/s200/Art+of+Seduction.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294959115104094434" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br /></span> </span>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-62960393968040202362009-01-12T13:14:00.000-08:002009-02-01T22:06:55.704-08:00If you like it then you should have put a ring on it.<p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">A couple of weeks ago I was shopping with my boyfriend. We weren’t really shopping as much as trying to avoid family during the holiday season. As we walked by a jewelry store, he asked “Do you want to go in?” What girl doesn’t want to go in? I mean, really, it’s jewelry.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">We’ve talked about marriage extensively and I knew he was interested in looking at engagements rings, not tennis bracelets. My first thought was “I need a drink” and the next thought was “Oh my God, we a</span><span style="font-size:100%;">re in a mall. Am I really shopping for an engagement ring in a mall?” My mind began racing with images of me driving a caravan and taking jello casseroles to potluck dinners with five kids in tow.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">“Just to give us an idea” he added. </span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">I smiled. “Okay.”</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">As we peered into the cases I quickly identified a few rings that I wanted to try on. Then mania struck. Next thing I knew, I had shed my coat, left my purse on the floor and was trying on rings with a fury. W</span><span style="font-size:100%;">e had two people helping us and in twenty minutes I had tried on every ring in the store. After an hour or so I had narrowed it down to three, two actually, but Debra, a saleswoman was really pushing this ring that had three identical sized, princess-cut <span style=""> </span>diamonds. I kept telling her that it looked strange because the middle stone needed to be bigger, but she wasn’t having it. We were going home with that ring if <span style="font-style: italic;">she</span> had anything to say about it – AND she and her husband were having dinner at Red Lobster that evening. “I just love those cheese biscuits!” She kept saying.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04AN0vWXkY6SHwDmZXNPRF4voKbeLkc_JjoK-tkplQyHwXdOj8CI6WQWOLGF0ULdEhomWyCuBXRjoa1D1xt8mMM58Uk706PiXoRNgDaeYT3pCqTpQtBOuWIgebt3hDuh1I0Ko_MRLgA/s1600-h/Estate+ring.jpeg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 87px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh04AN0vWXkY6SHwDmZXNPRF4voKbeLkc_JjoK-tkplQyHwXdOj8CI6WQWOLGF0ULdEhomWyCuBXRjoa1D1xt8mMM58Uk706PiXoRNgDaeYT3pCqTpQtBOuWIgebt3hDuh1I0Ko_MRLgA/s320/Estate+ring.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290520325079598386" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Ring number one was a beautiful estate ring. I was sure, before walking into the store that this was the ring I wanted. I felt like the center stone needed to be a tiny bit bigger, but it was gorgeous. Platinum setting, princess- cut center stone, surrounded by little diamonds, even on the band. Soooo pretty.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ZsolaUSbX0HbV5P9x2xOGId_e8KbKfojUjOBI-78bIrOzcCKktKjtL51oP429q-Hzjoi56_M39Smq7UOSD9vSLBr8mVNi5he7lzEcXXGO3DpJcuWMj2J-zGRZqHdCKhcUlnUMQIXWA/s1600-h/Princess+Cut.jpeg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 109px; height: 108px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ZsolaUSbX0HbV5P9x2xOGId_e8KbKfojUjOBI-78bIrOzcCKktKjtL51oP429q-Hzjoi56_M39Smq7UOSD9vSLBr8mVNi5he7lzEcXXGO3DpJcuWMj2J-zGRZqHdCKhcUlnUMQIXWA/s320/Princess+Cut.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290520522113326514" border="0" /></a></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Ring num</span><span style="font-size:100%;">ber two. Hello beautiful. It was gorgeous – simple yet elegant. It had a platinum</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> band with a perfectly clear two carat diamond on top. “I feel like I can’t go any smaller than this because my fingers are short and stubby.” I told him. (I actually had an ex boyfriend call them chubby little baby hands. Very upsetting.)</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">I laughed at myself, acknowledging how ridiculous that must have sounded to the sales associates. I remembered that commercial where the couple is shopping for a television and the man tells his fiancée “I bet later, we’ll wish we’d gone bigger.” Next, they are at the jewelry counter and she delivers the same response.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">My patient boyfriend smiled. “Do you like the ring? Quality, size, setting, everything?” <span style=""> </span>he asked.</span></p> <p class="EC_MsoNormal" style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;">I gave him a big smile and nodded, leaning into him. “I agree,” he said.</span></p>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-27860415136878136632008-12-22T15:58:00.000-08:002009-02-01T22:23:03.589-08:00Maid of Honor Toolbox – 5 Must Haves For A Sassy (yet Classy) Celebration<div><span style="font-family:arial;"><em>27 Dresses</em> hit a<em> little</em> too close to home. Not to toot my own horn but I am the Best Maid of Honor ever. Toot! Toot!! At this point, I have it down to a fine art. The speech that brings tears and laughter to the audience, the bridal shower which I will not only organize and cater but where I will also act as the florist, therapist, stylist and diet coach, the thoughtful keepsake for the bride which she will cherish forever and last, but certainly not least, the bachelorette party that is worth a lifetime of memories and gut-wrenching laughter (and if I have anything to say about it a run-in with the law!)<br /></span><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Do you have a friend about to enter into a lifetime agreement called marriage?? If so, I have tools for you sister!!<br /></span><br /><strong><em></em></strong></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><em>Bachelorette Party Activities:</em></strong> </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Design Your Own Lingerie Party by Evlove Intimates - The ultimate bachelorette party activity.</strong></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFiqHr_-uYYkpgg6l68XN7tRkuVyNzw3oYBYk1q0RHzm9z72z8uroeI8bNLSykGPY_RXXdxNclRAVJEQCoZWeMk3lD-CLIbgtCAgAyguHbApn3T52O1Zs8Su_myyCR1EG9dJbnFPaV0g/s1600-h/Evlove1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282832949754072850" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 140px; height: 200px;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFiqHr_-uYYkpgg6l68XN7tRkuVyNzw3oYBYk1q0RHzm9z72z8uroeI8bNLSykGPY_RXXdxNclRAVJEQCoZWeMk3lD-CLIbgtCAgAyguHbApn3T52O1Zs8Su_myyCR1EG9dJbnFPaV0g/s200/Evlove1.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:arial;">To start, pour a glass of wine and select your favorite style (there are 10 to choose from including G-string, boy short, or thong on the bottom and bralet or cami up top). Next choose one of the lush fabrics (modal, lace, nylon mesh). And finally, add the finishing touches or trim (ribbon, braid, satin) and an applique (bow or flower).<br /></span></div><div>In three weeks and you’ll receive your very own, specially designed lingerie set in a silky, lingerie bag.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEo1Uj1ektHol5NgecansBQZQMO9OG2fpjL-lmCyynjDBeMrXbqgNp41r-VSIM6zpeY5n69sZodo_MiTe9o5anBDEpz-DUNYHBRxwWdxRr3m_SZW82r1k7X-by7YY6zNtAv5-zJZ1eBA/s1600-h/Evlove2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282833913654016130" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; float: right; width: 133px; height: 200px;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEo1Uj1ektHol5NgecansBQZQMO9OG2fpjL-lmCyynjDBeMrXbqgNp41r-VSIM6zpeY5n69sZodo_MiTe9o5anBDEpz-DUNYHBRxwWdxRr3m_SZW82r1k7X-by7YY6zNtAv5-zJZ1eBA/s200/Evlove2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em>“I get so much joy out of helping women celebrate their beauty—it’s why I started the company and why I am passionate about my work. I think the lingerie parties have become so popular because they give women a unique opportunity to play lingerie designer and truly create something that is one of a kind!” said owner Jenny Dombroski. “The experience is fun, memorable and best of all the bride gets the perfect gift – one she creates herself!”</em><br /></div><div><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://www.evloveintimates.com/bridal" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:78%;">www.evloveintimates.com/bridal</span></a></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTYoIKmT7cu0uFlhSttGzlQxJSl5ZxNVHwI0Z5j0-0nt4otoiUCm0804jBX5u0veipqEZKkMorKJ7sAO_eEcOxYWU2uJDUyEVbnhS2zghts7HiXfFZUlCNwVGsAZf37eCKyKRGycHwA/s1600-h/Flirty+Girl.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282834605556162114" style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; float: right; width: 200px; height: 142px;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTYoIKmT7cu0uFlhSttGzlQxJSl5ZxNVHwI0Z5j0-0nt4otoiUCm0804jBX5u0veipqEZKkMorKJ7sAO_eEcOxYWU2uJDUyEVbnhS2zghts7HiXfFZUlCNwVGsAZf37eCKyKRGycHwA/s200/Flirty+Girl.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Flirty Girl Fitness</strong> – These ladies have thought of everything! You can take a pole dancing or strip-tease class, get manicures and pedicures and there is even a bar service. My girlfriends and I learned a choreographed pole dance to <em>Santa Baby.</em> Now that is a girl’s night out!!</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> </span></div><br /><div><br /><a href="http://www.flirtygirlfitness.com/"><span style="font-size:78%;">http://www.flirtygirlfitness.com/</span></a></div><br /><div> </div><div><strong><em></em></strong> </div><div><strong><em>Gifts for the Bride:</em></strong><br /></div><div><strong>Cutest Bridal Flip Flops by Girl Two Doors Down’s</strong> – adorned with a crystal ring and inscribed with the wor<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrFRv1ZdD8dmxP1p4hej_vw0_pFDqPnXxP4fSCIzdN8pGQKC-2nUaREfvHb3Uu8n1wX0twoKoJY_ZICFSo6AUsgeiUG8QMawRYPI3_AK-WflBxWxPPiZx99uSNd13-mLUQKcEBia9YPA/s1600-h/Flip+Flops.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282835264156279682" style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; float: left; width: 150px; height: 175px;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrFRv1ZdD8dmxP1p4hej_vw0_pFDqPnXxP4fSCIzdN8pGQKC-2nUaREfvHb3Uu8n1wX0twoKoJY_ZICFSo6AUsgeiUG8QMawRYPI3_AK-WflBxWxPPiZx99uSNd13-mLUQKcEBia9YPA/s200/Flip+Flops.jpg" border="0" /></a>ds, “What’s mine is mine, what’s his is definitely all mine — I do!!” </div><br /><div><br />Eva Longoria wore a pair of these before her big day as did a handful of other celebrities.<br /><a href="javascript:productzoom();"></a><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:78%;" ><a href="http://www.savvysneaks.com/idoweflflbyg.html">www.savvysneaks.com/idoweflflbyg.html</a></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><strong>Handmade Photo Album by AI Paper Design – A heartfelt keepsake for the bride to be.</strong> </div><br /><div>I usually present this to the bride at the shower, near the end of the festivities. </div><br /><div>As guests come in, they are asked to pose for a Polaroid picture, then they write a piece of advice (on marriage or their thoughts on love) onto pretty paper. The inside of the album consists of envelopes so I attach the photo of the guest (by using photo corners) on the front side of the envelope and their advice goes inside. Someone had <em>better</em> give me one of these for my wedding. I’ve given several and every time I think “I kind of want to hold on to this for when my time comes.”<br /></div><div>AI Paper Company<br />P: (248) 414-7222<br /><br /><a href="http://www.aipaper.com/"><span style="font-size:78%;">www.aipaper.com</span></a></div><br /><div><br /><strong>T-Shirt Deli</strong> – create a cute tank top that reads “Mrs. X” (fill in bride’s new surname). She will love it and she’ll be relieved that she won’t have to spend hours deciding what to wear to the bachelorette party! If you really want to wow the bride, you can print shirts for the bridal party as well. This is not only a cute gesture but it also helps keep track of a large group in crowded places (we all know this only gets <em>more</em> difficult throughout the night as more martinis are consumed and penis paraphernalia is lost!)</div><br /><div><a href="http://www.tshirtdeli.com/"><span style="font-size:78%;">www.tshirtdeli.com</span></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span></div><br /><div><strong><em>Misc:</em> </strong></div><br /><div><strong>Paper Doll</strong> – the cutest invitations and albums are found in this charming Wicker Park boutique. They also feature modern stationery and gifts. </div><div><br /><a href="http://www.paperdollchicago.com/"><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:78%;" >www.paperdollchicago.com</span></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282836952083525250" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 320px; height: 207px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYhyphenhyphenVyw-Dx1Uk2Cynktd5_lJkl0ZhiJRFW1PDgKpkol66leKyScNFcdr-HFnAk9qp7Dao3UFOb9NgzYmCGR067vBERCNd6_SqPAO1xpF6Dw8rI3TalYPxH4menEXWqnCDy8oOwAiPzg/s320/paper+doll.jpg" border="0" /><br /></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></div>chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3353235668773853665.post-3805616864740799802008-12-20T12:40:00.000-08:002009-02-01T22:30:03.240-08:00Flirting with 30 - beauty profileOkay, so I was thirty, a few weeks ago. Sigh. I like many women am traumatized by the thought of getting older, but I suppose I should count my lucky stars that I get carded more often than not, and I’m often told that I look four or five years younger.<br /><br />Nevertheless, I have always been a sun worshipper and I am a very expressive person as well. The line across my forehead seems to find me in every photo and lately, every time I glance in the mirror, I have noticed the laugh lines that frame my mouth. This usually ends in a loud “Why me? Why??” as I look to the sky and hold out my hands like a kid standing under a piñata. I am committed to stopping the aging process and minimizing fine lines and sun spots -- I will attempt to do this with a holistic approach to health and careful skin regimen. Jennifer Aniston seems to have found a cure for aging and DAMN it, I will too!<br /><br />A few years ago I realized that I was too liberal with smiles. I smiled at my boyfriend even when I was annoyed with him, I smiled at the pizza guy, I smiled at dogs, small children and the old lady crossing the street. Living in a big city, this often generates confusion and in many instances, glares. Not only that, but I realized that I was deepening my fine lines and for what? So that the hipster making my latte in the morning would think I was nice (and unlike the people hastily grabbing for their coffees?) No more!! Smile rationing was in full effect and the only people who can see my pearly whites are friends, family, and current gentleman caller. Okay, so I still smile at dogs. I can’t help it.<br /><br />I learned over the years that if you want to be beautiful it needs to start from the inside. Being a good person is crucial but I am also referring to nutrition. I try to stick to a healthy diet of antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits. I have drastically cut back on sugar, processed foods and I replaced coffee for green tea. I almost always have a bottle of water in my hand. I am sorry to say, but if you want a porcelain complexion then you have to stay away from booze and smoking, unless of course your idea of beauty is Amy Winehouse.<br /><br />I decided several months ago to try my very first peel, but, instead of opting for a chemical peel and looking like one of those scary peroxide blondes who looks like she survived a forest fire on her way to work (and wears huge sunglasses even though it's raining outside) , I opted for a subtler approach.<br /><br /><strong>Green Peel®,</strong> was developed by Dr. Schrammek and involves a blend of dried, crushed herbs being massaged into the skin. Green Peel does not injure the skin. In fact, most of the herbs contained in Green Peel are known in for their healing, soothing and regenerating effect. Spirulina, one of the herbs found in Green Peel, is estimated to contain 250 vitamins, minerals and trace elements.<br /><br /><strong>Helena Spa<br /></strong>P: (312) 545-4108<br /><br />I did my research and discovered that Helena K offers the most reasonable deal around. Unlike most salons, she will also include the products you need to care for your skin in the days following your treatment. The actual treatment itself takes about an hour and a half. You will feel a light burn during the treatment while the herbs are being rubbed into your skin. I recommend that you get an eyelash tint and eyebrow wax and tint, because for the next 5 days, you will not be able to wear make-up. Helena also includes a marvelous, tinted moisturizing crème to use on your skin for those five days, so hiding in your house is unnecessary.<br /><br /><strong><em>Day 1<br /></em></strong>Get your Green Peel toward the end of the day. You might experience a little bit of redness. It is important to stay out of the sun and if you have to be outside, please wear a hat (at the end of the 5 days you can wear sunscreen).<br /><br /><strong><em>Day 2<br /></em></strong>Your skin will be absolutely radiant! I had men stopped in their tracks in downtown Chicago. My skin looked incredible! Helena instructed me to wear the tinted cream, which I did, but she also shaped and tinted my eyebrows and she tinted my eyelashes, so I looked really put together despite not wearing foundation.<br /><br /><strong><em>Day 3 and 4<br /></em></strong>It is likely that you will see some peeling. Not to worry. Just continue to massage the tinted cream into your skin.<br /><br /><strong><em>Day 5<br /></em></strong>Return to Helena for a final visit. She will lightly exfoliate the dead skin. When you walk out you won’t believe how radiant you skin looks. Most spas do not offer this final consultation – just one more reason why Helena is the best.<br /><br /><strong>Tips:<br /></strong>- For the five days preceding your Green Peel, you must be very careful with sun exposure. If you have to be outside, wear a hat. After the 5 days is up, you can wear SPF.<br />- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!<br />- You should not wear make-up for the five days after your treatment<br />- You should be very careful not to get your face wet for the five days after the treatment (if you can keep your skin dry then the herbs will work that much better – and they will continue to work!)chicagogirlygirl.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00144033028279415191noreply@blogger.com1