Monday, December 22, 2008

Guys-- It's Not Too Late to Get the Stocking Stuffers Right!

Okay, so this blog is called Stuff Kimmy Likes for a reason-- I write about stuff I like. Admittedly, I don't speak for every girl on the planet, but I am willing to share some tips that I think might be beneficial to the general population.

So here's what I have to say to men about Stocking Stuffers for their girlfriend/wife. [Ladies, feel free to forward a this to your guys.]

Guys, I cannot stress enough that this is a hugely under-used way to score major points with your lady every year. Sound impossible/ridiculous/like I might be wrong? Believe me when I tell you that I'm not wrong about this. Think about it-- stocking stuffers give you a chance to show her in some tiny, inexpensive ways that you are paying attention to the little things. Which your girl loves, as you know. So I am going to tell you how to do it, while keeping the Hassle Factor at a minimum.

Here's the key:
It's NOT about filling a stocking with cheap crap. She'll be onto that quicker than you can say "book of Life Savers and an orange." No, it's all about things you know she enjoys. It could be anything. This is much easier than you think, as I'm going to show you. Consider me your Stocking Stuffer Wingman.

Where to go for the best results: The Drugstore.

Gentlemen, your local drugstore is where you can hit the stocking stuffing jackpot. Seriously, I don't know any girl who couldn't find a handful or three of little things she'd like to have. [Note: for every specific product I suggest, I'm posting a link where you can see a picture, so you'll know what to look for. Print everything out, if you think it will help you.] Now grab a basket, and let's get this done.

You can start at the very front of the store, with the
Snacks.

Does she chew gum, or is she an Altoid girl? Does she like candy bars, or does she go more for gummy bears? Stop for a second and think about what she snacks on during a road trip, or what she gets when you go to see a movie. If she likes Reese's Cups, she might like the yummy new Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Squares. In my world, you need something salty and something sweet. So what's her favorite kind of potato chip? You could include a snack bag, or a mini can of Pringles. (Note-- if she's watching her weight, don't go crazy with the snacks. I know they can take up lots of room in the stocking, which I am sure is part of your goal [insert eye roll here], but you don't want to undermine her efforts to maintain a healthy diet.)

Next up, with no groaning from you, let's think about Beauty Stuff.

Don't panic, either. I know that most CVS stores usually have someone in the department to answer questions, so if you get stuck, just ask someone for help. (No matter what drugstore you're in, I'd venture a guess that you can get assistance.)

Okay. Does she file and/or paint her nails? Then look for polish colors she might like. If you're not comfortable about selecting colors for her, remember that many women use bolder/brighter colors on their toes, so you really can't go wrong. My friend Lynn loves the new nail polish pens that she got at CVS, so look/ask for those. Also, the very best Top Coat (translation: clear polish that speeds up drying time) in the world is called Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat, and they carry it at many drug stores-- it's a fabulous treat, and a must-have for any girl who paints her nails. A nail file is a safe bet for anyone, whether they are into nail polish or not.

Does she use lip balm? Nivea has a new Kiss line I particularly recommend-- especially the Kiss of Moisture one in the dark blue tube. There are several varieties in this line, and they're cheap, so you can get a couple for her to try.

Does she like hand lotion, or taking care of her feet? Curel makes some great products in their Targeted Therapy line-- the Fast Absorbing Hand & Cuticle Cream is fabulous. My current Foot Faves are the Blue Foot Smoothing Disk from Sally Hansen/LaCross-- you'll find it with the nail clippers and files, and Kerasal Foot Ointment, which is in the foot aisle (where the insoles, foot sprays, and that kind of stuff are).

If she uses body wash, Dove has a Go Fresh line of great-smelling products like Grapefruit  Lemongrass. If you find a wash she might like, snag one of those pouffy mesh sponge thingies to go with it.

A good, safe beauty bet is in the Burt's Bees section, where you'll find lots of cutely packaged, high quality, natural goodies that most any girl would enjoy.

Next up is the Travel Sizes section.

Don't miss this aisle, because she will use these items for much more than traveling-- she can keep these little goodies in her desk at work, in her purse, in her glove compartment, or in her gym bag. Small containers of Q-Tips, baby bottles of body lotion, hand sanitizer, or even a purse size pack of Kleenex is good. They usually have those tiny lint rollers, too-- who couldn't use one of those?

Let's move on to the Office Supplies

This section seems boring, at first, but they have all sorts of pens, highlighters, post-its, notepads, etc. Don't just grab anything that's on sale-- go for the cute things that you can see her wanting to use. Just about anybody can use a small notepad for their purse. Cute sticky notes make great bookmarks.

Off to The Magazine Rack


Does she like to crochet? Get her a magazine about crocheting. Is one of her favorite actors on the cover of a magazine? Grab it! (The amazing Tina Fey is on the cover of Vanity Fair right now, for example.) If she likes to cook, Martha Stewart's tiny "Everyday Food" magazine is fantastic. O Magazine is a safe bet for any Oprah fan.

The Medicine Aisle

'Tis the season... to get sick. She's probably been running ragged, trying to make the holidays go as perfectly as possible for everyone, and her body might be ready to crash. Grab some Airborne. If she's already sick, get her something to make her more comfortable, like tasty throat lozenges. If she's been headachey, get her a Head On stick, or some Be Koools (yes, with three Os). The key here is to Think Soothing.

Miscellaneous Things to Check Out


Go down the Seasonal Aisle, just in case something jumps out at you that your girl might think is cute. I once found some adorable little bitty salt & pepper shakers shaped like Santas in the Seasonal Aisle at CVS that I still love. The key here is cute-- not tacky/ugly.

Also, if you aren't on a budget, you can check out the Gift Card display. If she loves to read, maybe a Barnes & Noble gift card. Does CVS carry iTunes cards? If so, that's a score for any iPod user. Starbucks, restaurants, movie theatres. Any of these would be great additions, and perfect invitations to go out (possibly even with you!).

Finally, The Greeting Card Aisle

Take a minute and pick out a card for her. In it, you can tell her a couple of things that you think are special about her, and include it in the stocking. Seriously-- I know it sounds gross, but TRUST ME, grasshopper. She will be so touched, and you will get major bonus points for it. Just do it. I wouldn't steer you wrong.

What Not To Do


I'm adding this section at Lynn's suggestion. Here are the things you do NOT want to get her. Nothing to suggest that you think she may need to improve her appearance/hygiene, like self-tanner, acne treatment, or mouthwash. Nothing to address any PMS or moodiness. No cleaning products or pest control. No batteries.

Good luck and have fun!!!

Buying gifts that people will enjoy is really rewarding. I hope I've given you some ideas that will help you stuff the best stocking ever. As long as you are thinking of what she likes during the whole process, you should be successful.

Feel free to leave a comment to let me know of your success, as well as any other suggestions that I've left out.

Otherwise, happy holidays!

Love,
Kimmy

P.S. If time is not an issue for you, and you're not opposed to going to a mall, there are also tons of great Stocking Stuffers to be found at some other stores, like Origins (my personal favorite), Bath & Body Works, and Sephora. In strip malls, look for Bed Bath & Beyond, ULTA, and The Container Store.

P.P.S. Just got another awesome suggestion from Ashley-- SCRATCH-OFF LOTTERY TICKETS. Woo! What a great idea!

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Okay, I win stuff ALL THE TIME. Wanna try to win something, too?

One of my favorite beauty blogs, CybeleSays, is having a fantastic contest that I want to share with you. She's clearing out her beauty closet! (It gives me chills to even type that, it's so exciting!)

Each prize will contain products that all together total at least $50! Some of the brands: Berwick Beauty, Bourjois, Essie, tarte, Chanel, Haute Face, Rimmel, Surgeon's Skin Secret, L'Occitane, MAC, Urban Decay, Lise Watier, Benefit, Sephora, Clinique, Diana B, Boots, Blue Q, Raw Skincare, Matrix, Estee Lauder, Von Natur, philosophy, Jergens, Sally Hansen and more!

Anyway, here's where to go and how to enter. There will be seven lucky winners, so your chances are good. Best of luck!

Thanks, Cybele, for a chance to win such awesome prizes.

Love,
Kimmy

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Join RueLaLa.com and get a $10 credit!

In one of my very first blogs, I talked about how much I love love love RueLaLa.com. They have great sales on a wide variety of brands, usually 30-80% off.

Well, I am pleased to share an opportunity to join this by-invitation-only site with an added bonus-- through December 31st, you get a $10 credit as soon as you join!

That's right! All you have to do is click here and enter my email address, which is . Today they launched three sales-- Free People, Ellen Tracy, and Tracy Porter dinnerware.

To give you even more of an idea of what sorts of sales they offer, here is a lineup of what's coming up in the next couple of days...

Dec 11th, 11am
Kate Spade
Samsonite Black Label

Dec 12th, 11am
David Yurman Jewelry

Dec 15th, 11am
Honora Jewelry
Laundry by design Outerwear


Anyway, I hope you enjoy shopping with them as much as I have.

Love,
Kimmy

Origins 25% Discount-- on Value/Gift Sets, Too!


This is the way to maximize your savings at Origins.com, because their awesome value sets are eligible for the discount this time.

Also, get Free Shipping on every order. Yay!

Enjoy!
Kimmy

Sunday, December 7, 2008

My Mom

On December 6, 1986, my Mom died of cancer. She was, among countless other things, beautiful, silly, supportive, stylish, intelligent, complicated, witty, gifted, dorky, sophisticated, encouraging, quirky, and loving. She was, in many ways, an amazing mother-- a great listener, a raving fan, an imaginative playmate. She was far from perfect, but she taught me more than anyone I've ever known. I have missed her every single day of the 22 years she's been gone.

I realized that I didn't have any pictures of her on my computer, so I've been scanning some today. So, if you'll indulge me, here's my Mom. Her name was Marjorie.

These are from her senior year of high school.






This one is soon after I was born. She's with her sister, my Aunt Amy, and my cousins, Becky and Bill.

[Sidenote: Despite growing up in different states, seeing each other only on holidays, Becky and I would grow up to be roommates in college, soul-mates, best friends. Her birthday was yesterday. Happy birthday, Becky Old Lady!]








Sometimes she was kind of a fashionista. This was after a football game. (My dad was the coach. I suppose I was the mascot.) I think she made that outfit herself. I love the scarf!









A couple of years later, I got a brother! His name was Matt. (To this day, his name is Matt, in fact!)

I think this is one of the happiest pictures I have of Mom.


This was when I was in first grade. Every morning, she and Matt would watch me get on the bus at Kevin Hayward's driveway, a couple of houses down the street. Then, they'd go to the Waffle House for breakfast. Her favorite waitress, Charlene, would put their order in as soon as her car pulled into the parking lot. We loooved Charlene.

I now have a deep, possibly ridiculous love for the Waffle House. Thanks, Mom!







I know my face is all cruddy in this picture, but it's one of my favorites. I think it was taken at the photobooth at the K-Mart or something.






This portrait was taken when I was about 12. Check out my wings!






This was in Destin. I think I was in ninth or tenth grade. I got my love for beach time from Mom.

Finally, what I think is my most recent picture of Mom, probably not too long before she became ill. I think this was taken at Lake Rabun, in North Georgia. She loved spending time at the Mountains, and relished every trip up there.


If you're still with me, thank you. She was a special, unique woman, and I just felt like sharing a bit of her here.

I love love love you, Mom.

Kim

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Bobbi Brown Friends & Family!!!!

If I haven't mentioned one of my favorite beauty blogs ever, Musings of a Muse, I have been remiss. The lovely Muse gives some of the best cosmetic reviews out there, with tons of pictures, so it's almost like you're trying the products right along with her. I mention her today because it is because of her that I can share (what I consider to be) some very exciting news...



Bobbi Brown Cosmetics is offering a 20% off Friends and Family discount!!! Now, you must act fast, and get your shopping cart in order ASAP, because it starts today and ends tomorrow. The code is BFF08A.

Other things to know...
You can get 4% cash-back if you go to the website via Ebates!
Free Shipping on every order!
Free Samples with every order!

Bobbi Brown is my favorite color line, so I am positively thrilled about this news. Thanks, Musey Muse!

Hope you enjoy this very rare savings opportunity. Let me know if you're a Bobbi fan, and what you get with your discount. Enjoy!

Love,
Kimmy

Monday, December 1, 2008

A FAVORITE OF MINE on Sale-- HURRY!


Sorry for the yelling, but I'm supposed to be getting ready to walk out the door. Obviously, I'm not-- shoot, I am still in sweats and don't have a lick of makeup on, but had to come right here this very second and say that My Favorite Pajamas Ever In The Whole Wide World are on sale at Target RIGHT THIS SECOND. I don't know how long they will be; hence, the quick and urgent blog posting.

So here they are-- Nick & Nora Pajama Sets for $19.99.

Gotta run (as if I ever do that)!

Love,
kimmy

"Cyber Monday" Deals Worth Mentioning

NOTE: I will be updating this list as I find more offers throughout the day, so please check back for more additions.

OldNavy.com

20% off, using code SAVENOW
Free Shipping, using ONEDAY
**6% cash-back using Ebates.

Gap.com

15% off, using code GAP15
**6% cash-back using Ebates.

Kohls.com

15% off + Free Shipping, using code CYBER15
**8% cash-back using Ebates.

Bath & Body Works

25% off, using code 25PERCENT
Kimmy's pick: Sweetest Softest Adult & Kids Socks, 2 for $12

Overstock.com

15% cash-back if you pay using Paypal.
6% cash-back using Ebates.
Various offers.

SoftWalkShoes.com

They've extended their site-wide 50% off sale through midnight tonight.
Use code 50SALESW

WorldMarket.com

Save 25% site-wide, using code HOLIDAYFREE
Free Shipping on orders of $50 or more.

Bucky.com

Free Shipping on all orders.
Get $5 off purchase of $49 or more, using code BUCKYFIVE at checkout.
Kimmy's pick: Ultralight Eye Mask-- perfect for nightly use and/or travel. This is one of my Must-Haves!

New York & Company
30% off all online purchases using code 1477
5% cash-back on Ebates.

That's all for now. Will be back as I hear of more. As always, let me know of your successes by leaving comments!

Love,
Kimmy

*** Already back with more! ***

Mario Badescu

Just read this on one of my favorite beauty blogs, Beauty In Real Life!
In celebration of a year of amazing blog reviews and reader comments, Mario Badescu is offering 15% off, using code BEAUTYBLOG at checkout. Offer ends December 15th.
Kimmy's pick: long-time industry favorite, Drying Lotion. Great combo of Calamine and Salicylic Acid to heal and dry acne quickly. My very own, personal skin only responds to Salicylic Acid when it breaks out, so I am a fan.

BananaRepublic.com

10% off with code EXTRA10
Free Shipping with code ONEDAY
6% cash-back using Ebates

PiperLime.com

20% off with code MONDAY (note-- some brands are excluded, so see site for details)
6% cash-back using Ebates

AnnTaylor.com

30% off, plus Free Shipping. Code MONDAY30
3% cash-back using Ebates

AnnTaylorLoft.com
30% off, plus Free Shipping using code GIFTS
3% cash-back using Ebates

JCrew.com

Extra 30% off sale items, code EXTRA30
4% cash-back using Ebates

RalphLauren.com

30% off + Free Shipping -- code HOL2008
6% cash-back using Ebates

Origins.com

$10 off purchase of $35 or more-- code FANTENOFF
Also, Free Shipping on any order.
5% cash-back using Ebates

Friday, November 28, 2008

Quick Black Friday Shopping Help

I've been remiss in not sharing these before now, but here they are-- the guides I use for stretching my dollars during Post-Thanksgiving sales.

BFads.net


BlackFriday.info


DealNews


Best of luck-- let me know if you score anything major! I saved big at OldNavy.com, who had my husband's favorite cords for $14.75 a pair. Also did well at Kohls.com, especially with a free shipping coupon I found at RetailMeNot, which is always worth checking before submitting any online order. I haven't paid shipping at all today, just because there were codes out there to be used!

Oh! I also use Ebates to get cash back on purchases, which I highly recommend. For example, I got 9% back on my Old Navy purchase today, and 8% back from Kohl's.

Best of luck to you-- let me know if you have any bargain hunting questions by leaving a comment!

Love,
Kimmy

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Happy Thanksgiving

Just a note to let you know how thankful I am to my readers "out there." I hope you and yours have had a lovely holiday today.

Love,
Kimmy

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Extended! 50% off The Most Comfortable Shoes In Zee World!

Making this quick--

The most comfortable shoes I have ever had on my feet are from a company called SoftWalk. I have a pair of these, and I literally wear them every single day. The cushion is like that wavy, bumpy egg-crate foam, so my feet actually feel more comfortable wearing the shoes! It's amazing. They are light as a feather, too, which I love-- I don't like wearing heavy shoes, no matter how comfortable they are. Oh, and they also wear really well, in that I've had them for over two years, and the sole still looks like new on the bottom.

Anyway, I've been saying for at least two winters that I need to get some with a back, so my feet are comfortable AND warm. Well, the Shoe Goddesses must have heard me when I said it last night, because I got an email from them this morning.

Friends and Family discount of 50% off EVERYTHING in the store (online only), until Sunday (extended from Friday) at midnight. The code is 50SALESW.

Here's the link: www.SoftWalkShoes.com

Go, now! RUN!

You can thank me later.

Love,
Kimmy

Thursday, November 20, 2008

30% off at Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft


Shop and save 30% off and get Free Shipping at Ann Taylor and/or Ann Taylor Loft!

Thinking of Changing the Name of My Blog To "A Friends & Family Gathering!"



Obviously, many companies are doing the Friends & Family thing, in order to help stretch their customers' dollars this holiday season. Today, I got word that Kiehl's is following suit, and offering 20% off between Saturday, November 22nd, and Saturday, December 1st. Just use code FAMILY at checkout. Yay, Kiehl's! They have fantastic products, made with quality ingredients.

I'm a big fan of their Lip Balm #1. This holiday, they have a Limited Edition Trio of flavored versions-- in Mint, Pear, and Cranberry. Sounds delicious. Also sounds like the perfect set to get and split up for gift-giving. The Liquid Hand Soap is also really nice.

Their baby line is widely acclaimed, and a favorite of many moms and dads. They also have great stuff for men and dogs.

Hope you enjoy. Let me know what you get with your discount.

Love,
Kimmy

Friday, November 14, 2008

Origins Facebook Friends 25% DISCOUNT!!!


Many readers know that I loooove Origins-- I worked for them for many years, and probably still "bleed green." Well, I may not work there anymore, but I still use their fantastic products. So I am thrilled to have a discount offer to share with you.

Get 25% off for your holiday shopping at Origins.com from now thru 11/19, using code FriendsFB! And if you're on Facebook, become a Fan of Origins-- obviously, it pays off.

Here are the details on the Origins Facebook Fans special offer--

* Offer valid only at Origins.com and may not be used in combination with any other offer. Offer applies to merchandise purchases only and is not applicable to the purchase of Gift Cards or eGift Cards, pending purchases or purchases made prior to today or after 11/19/08. Offer does not apply to promotional sets, value items, sale items, sales tax or shipping charges. Offer only applies to items shipping to a single address.

And here are some of my all-time favorite products that I strongly recommend.

The Dr. Weil Collection. "What does a 66 year old man with a white beard know about beauty?" It's a great question! When Origins teamed up with Dr. Weil, they showed us videos explaining his approach to total wellness, and why he was such a perfect complement to our already great skin care line. (I just noticed I still say "us," like I still work there. I can't help it!) Anyway, as I listened to him and watched him, he instantly became my boyfriend. He is so knowledgeable about inflammation, which causes infinite problems in our bodies, and, thus, our skin. His line of Plantidote products for Origins are fabulously soothing, and make your skin look and feel incredibly healthy. I particularly love the Award-Winning Mega Mushroom Face Serum and the Mega Mushroom Face Cream.

A Perfect World White Tea Collection
. This is one line I will always love. White Tea is the tops in providing antioxidant benefits-- four times the polyphenols of Green Tea, and 12 times that of Vitamin C. I not only use it on my skin, but I drink it like crazy (especially whenever I'm feeling under the weather). Two must-haves from this line: the White Tea Skin Guardian and the Intensely Hydrating Body Cream (AKA "The Oprah Cream," due to it being on her Favorite Things list a few years ago).

Modern Friction-- Nature's Gentle Dermabrasion. This is my absolute favorite dermabrasion product on the market. What sets it apart is its Rice Starch, which is rather sticky, and literally helps to pull dead skin from the surface. The smoothness is remarkable, and it really does change the look and texture of your skin, even after just one use. I love that it's now available in a set of three little tubes-- much more hygenic that way. One helpful usage tip to remember: if in doubt, use LESS than you think you need!

And finally, one that probably isn't all that exciting, but is, perhaps, the ONE product I can't live without--- Well Off Fast & Gentle Eye Makeup Remover. My eyes are easily irritated, and this is the only one I have ever found that doesn't bother my eyes. In my opinion, it's as gentle as water.

That's enough of my favorites. What are yours? And if you have questions about anything, feel free to let me know.

Happy shopping!

Love,
Kimmy

P.S. Check into their complimentary gift wrap, too. I'm pretty sure they still offer it. =)

Saturday, November 8, 2008

9 More Weeks of Weekend Winners!

Kat, over at Sunshine & Lemonade continues her 10 Weeks of Weekend Winners contest this week, so check it out! (She will announce week 1's winners tomorrow, btw.)

This week, it's all about the tatas. But isn't everything always about the tatas, when you think about it?

When you get there, be sure to tell her KimmyDarling sent ya.

Good luck to you, 'cause I plan on winning this one, too!

Love,
Kimmy

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Quick heads-up on a really cool site!

I just discovered a site that is such a smart use of technology that I had to come blog about it immediately.

It's called Frucall, and it allows you to comparison shop (for free!) via your cell phone. You just text the SKU number for whatever it is you're looking at (that's the number underneath the barcode) to Frucall, and they'll turn right around and send you a text message with the lowest online prices available! It is the perfect tool for Bargain Shoppers like me.

For those who don't Text, you can also do it by phone. (And for folks with web access on their phones, you can do it on their website, too.)

Isn't that smart? I love it!

Anyway, check it out and let me know what you think.

Love,
Kimmy

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

More Friends & Family!


This time, for Sephora, from November 6th through November 10th. Woohooooo!!!!!

Let me know what you get...

Kimmy

Saturday, November 1, 2008

10 Weeks of Weekend Winners

You might know by now how much I luuuuuurve contests. Well, one of my favorite bloggers, Kat, from Sunshine & Lemonade, is running an awesome contest that will run for ten weeks.

Check it out here.
(Although I plan on winning this week, so don't feel like you have to, or anything. ;)

BTW, hope your Halloween was frightful and fun!
Kimmy

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Mad Love for the Friends & Family

In case you didn't know, I love cosmetics. Skin care, color, smell-goods, you name it. I am a product junkie, for sure. I spent many years working for The Estee Lauder Companies (for the Origins brand), which I really loved. One thing to know about many prestige cosmetic lines that you find at the mall is that they don't go on sale. I mean, they may do value sets at the holidays, or the occasional Gift With Purchase, but they don't ever offer a discount on everything at the counter like they do in the rest of the store. But... one of the cool things Estee Lauder started doing when I was there was offering the Friends & Family discount to use on the web (or free-standing stores like Origins). Well, this week, they're running one for Prescriptives! Yay!

From today through Friday, October 24th, get 25% off, plus Free Shipping, using the code FRIEND8 at checkout.



I haven't used anything from Prescriptives lately, but I have heard great things about the Super Line Prevention Xtreme Lifting Concentrate. (I love the pen applicator!) I'm also wanting to try the Colorscope Plush Blush for cheeks and lips, because I'm all about the gel blush right now.

Anyway, you've got the code, so go stock up and save!

Love,
Kimmy

Monday, October 20, 2008

Speaking of Head Gear...

One of the products I recently won in a contest is called a Tassi Hair Holder. It's kinda hard to explain, but I'll do my best. It's a terry cloth headband that you use to keep your hair back when you wash your face, etc. Thing is, it not only keeps the hair in front out of the way, but it is smartly designed to keep long hair off your neck and face, too!

It's best explained on their website, so go there for a better illustration.

Here's the thing I love about it, and forgive me if this gets gross, but it's the truth, so I'm telling it. Since I have Chronic Daily Migraine, I get sick a lot. Meaning I often vomit. Which also means that I often need to keep my hair back, you know, while I'm getting sick. Believe me when I say that the last thing I want to do when I'm sick with a migraine is put my hair in a ponytail or a banana clip, because that is very uncomfortable for a tender head. (And my husband is wonderful, but I don't want to wake him up in the middle of the night every time I need my hair held back from the commode.)

Enter, the Tassi. Oh my gosh, y'all, it is straight from HEAVEN when I am in that awful state. It quickly and comfortably goes on and keeps my hair back off of my face and out of the mess of it all. Thank you, Tassi Creators! Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!!!!! Because if there is one thing more depressing than going back to bed with a raging migraine, after having thrown up for the fourth time, it's going back to bed with Puke Hair. It's so sad, and nobody should have to do it.

So the lesson for today is this. The Tassi is for everyone who needs to put their hair back when washing their face, applying skin care, or doing their makeup, sure. It may be one of the best girly stocking stuffers since those Garment Deodorant Remover thingies. But if you have a friend who gets sick a lot, this is a GREAT gift idea, so I hope you'll remember it when you hear of someone who could use such a thing. Believe me, she will appreciate it.

Love,
Kimmy

Violet Love

I am always on the hunt for products that are good for people who suffer from migraines. Over the summer, I read a little blurb in Health magazine (one of my faves, BTW) about a company who makes headbands that are super-comfortable, and neither cause nor contribute to migraines. I checked them out, and got in touch with them to express my appreciation.

Well, to my delight, they sent me a headband to try. It is ADORABLE, and just could not be more comfortable.

I am SO tickled to finally find something with which I can pull my hair back, especially when working out, without causing discomfort. They have all kinds of prints, and I officially want one of each.

Anyway, if any of you are headband wearers, and want style AND comfort, check out Violet Love Headbands!

Thumbs WAY up from me.

Saturday, October 4, 2008

Mercy.


My copy of Entertainment Weekly arrived this afternoon, as it does every Friday. This time, though, it had the most beautiful man I have ever seen on its cover. One of my all-time favorite actors, gentlemen, philantropists, and Good Guys, Paul Newman. It took my breath.

Shine on, kind man. You will be missed, but will continue to inspire so many of us.

Sincerely,
Kimmy

Friday, October 3, 2008

Two Favorites in One!

I can't deny it-- I looooooove me some Reality TV. It's a horrible habit that I can't quit. So I am very much looking forward to the second season of Celebrity Rehab 2. What can I say? I'm a Codependent who happens to 1) have a huge crush on "Dr. Drew" Pinsky (especially in jeans and a t-shirt), Addiction Specialist, and 2) have special places in my heart for the dark and damaged. Whattayagonnadoo? [shrug]

According to VH1's website, "similar to the first cycle, the second season of “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew” will follow the real-life experiences of celebrity patients undergoing detoxification and treatment at a center in the Los Angeles area. The show will follow Jeff Conaway as he checks back into rehab after a series of back surgeries, setbacks and subsequent reliance on pain medications." Sean Stewart (Rod Stewart's son), Amber Smith (model/actress-- no idea who she is), Rodney King, Nikki McKibbon (from American Idol), Steven Adler (Guns n Roses) and Tawny Kitaen (Actress, car crawler). "Gary Busey, who is 13 years sober, will also be joining the cast to share his experiences and thoughts on the recovery process." (Personally, I had no idea that Gary Busey was sober-- didn't we just see him bitch out a young girl on the red carpet recently? Didn't seem all that sober to me then, but whatever. Should be interesting!)

Anyway, another thing I love, without shame, is a band called Alter Bridge. I think that their lead singer, Myles Kennedy, is one of the best vocalists ever, and that his bandmate, Mark Tremonti, is an absolutely amazing guitarist. Well, VH1 is using one of their songs to promote the new season. Yay!

So here is the video for "Watch Over You," with scenes from the upcoming season of Celebrity Rehab. If you're a fan of the show, can you watch it without tearing up? I, myownself, cannot do it.



The new season starts on Thursday, October 23rd, at 10pm EST.

Enjoy!
Kimmy

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Wish List

Since I love to read, and, thus, buy books, I'm a fan of the Amazon Wish List. I've used it for a while, and enjoy being able to hear about a book and add it to the online list with a note to remind me where I heard about it or why it interested me. (Truth be told, sometimes I even add a note if I see it cheaper somewhere else-- by using AllBookStores to compare prices.) I have a few lists, so that I can keep it all somewhat organized. I have lists for books, movies, music, marketing, cooking, and "fun stuff," which is a catch-all for things like pajamas, headphones, cosmetics, and other random things that I would like.

I keep the lists for myself, mostly, but it sure has been nice to send my husband to look at it when he needs gift ideas for me. I wish everybody used them, though, so I could see them! So, to that end, I want to share something I discovered today, which makes it even easier to add things to your list-- things that aren't even from Amazon!

It's the "Universal Wish List" button! It's a button you add to your browser (a lot like the "Share on Facebook" button, if you're familiar with that), so it's visible every time you open your browser. When you see something you like while you're surfing the web, such as a new Limited Edition Eyeshadow Palette Bobbi Brown has available on her site, for example, you just click on Add to Wish List, and a little box will pop up to confirm that you want to add it, and let you choose in which list to put the item. It's brilliant! I love it.

Anyway, it's a cool tool. Check it out, and get to work on your lists.

Enjoy!
Kimmy

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Was today Christmas???

It felt like it! Why, you ask? Well...

In my mailbox today, there was a lovely card from my cable provider, offering me Showtime and The Movie Channel for free for TWELVE MONTHS. So that's cool enough, right? A full year of more channels-- exactly what my butt needs to get a little bigger?

Well, here's why it felt like Christmas. My new Favorite Show on Television, as of a couple of weeks ago, is called Dexter. Guess what channel it's on. Oh, yes. It's on Showtime. Yaaaay!

After a couple of trusted friends were raving about the show on a messageboard I frequent, I decided to check it out. After all, it was easy to do-- I could watch the first season online via Netflix (possibly my Favorite Service on the Internet)! So I watched the first episode, and was instantly hooked. The premise, if you've not heard about it, is that Dexter is a Blood Spatter Expert for the Miami Police Department. Oh, AND HE'S A SERIAL KILLER. Uh-oh, right? It is delicious! The characters are richly written and beautifully acted, the plot is unique, twisted, and twisty, and each episode is jam-packed with relevant plot development, rather than filled with airy filler. I watched the first season in two days, then watched Season 2 on DVD. The third season just started on Sunday, the premiere of which I watched online last week, thanks to some entertainment blog I found, which had a secret code to preview it, courtesy of Showtime.


But now I can watch it on the big screen at home. In Hi-Def, even! I am so excited. Thanks, Cox Communications, for the free movie channels. And thanks to the guy who answered the phone when I called to take advantage of the special offer. After he changed my service, he said,

"okay, we're all done here."
I said, "suhhhhweeeeeeeeet! Do you even KNOW what you have just GIVEN ME?!!"
He said, "umm, I am pretty sure I do, but what do you mean?"
"Well, only the greatest thing you could give somebody whose favorite show on television is DEXTER, that's what!" [shouting/shrieking now]
"Oh, well, that's great. I'm glad you're pleased. I hope you enjoy it."
"Enjoy it? I'm about to do a round-off back-handspring right this second!"
"Oh... well... may I suggest some stretches before the handsprings, then?"
"BWAAAAAAHAHAHAAAAAAAA! That's funny. Good idea. Thanks! Bye!"

And I did about 42 round-off back-handsprings in a row. I did! On the inside. And so, as I am sure you can imagine, I'm very tired now, and am going to bed.

Goodnight, Dexter! See you next Sunday at 9 o'clock Eastern!

Love,
Kimmy

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

My Flickr-based Mosaic

(click on picture for a larger version)

1. crowns and wands, 2. Shellfish over Grits, 3. The Carving on Stone Mountain, Georgia, 4. Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow, 5. movie night, 6. Sweet Tea, 7. Seagrove Beach, FL, 8. Five Nut Brownie, 9. Best gift a mommy can have., 10. Wonderment, 11. Unique, 12. My first Wawaya

1. What is your first name? Kimmy

2. What is your favorite food? Southern cuisine

3. What high school did you attend? Stone Mountain High

4. What is your favorite color? various shades of purple

5. Who is your celebrity crush? Jack Black

6. Favorite drink? Sweet Tea

7. Dream vacation? Seagrove Beach, Florida

8. Favorite dessert? Houston's Five Nut Brownie

9. What do you want to be when you grow up? A mommy.

10. What do you love most in life? Wonderment.

11. One word to describe you? Unique

12. Your Flickr name? KimmyDarling


If you have some time to kill, may I suggest creating your own flickr based mosaic.

Here's how: Go to flickr, type your answer to each of the above questions into flickr's search box. Using only the images that appear on the first page, choose your favorite and copy and paste each of the URL’s into the Mosaic Maker (3 columns, 4 rows). Voila!

Thanks to Karin at What the Font for sharing this idea with me.

Love,
Kimmy

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Contests.

Winning contests, to be exact.

I've won lots of stuff lately-- mostly from my favorite beauty blogs (a few of which you can check out if you look to the bottom right of this page). I'll be blogging on the winnings with which I have fallen in love as time goes on, but today I'm talking about the thrill of winning stuff.

I love that feeling, and really do run around like the most frenzied of newly-picked-to-play Price is Right contestants when I win... on the inside. I don't really run around at all, truth be told, but the spirit of it is absolutely there. I bet the people who offer the contest have no idea how much I am delighted by being chosen as their winner, but I try to convey that if/when I can.

Anyway, today I came across a fantastic video of the announcement of a contest winner. It was awesome, and it made me wish I had a contest to offer all five of you who read this, just so I could do something equally as exciting when I pick one of you as the winner. Unfortunately, however, I have no such contest, so we must all live vicariously through the guy in the video...




Congratulations, Deb in Denver! I actually know a Deb in Denver, but it's not the same one. But damn, I wish it was!

Tell me-- what's the best thing you've ever won in your whole life? I would love to hear about it.

Anyway, thanks for reading. Hope you win something wonderful very soon.

Love,
Kimmy

Saturday, September 20, 2008

A haiku.

Entitled "Google Reader."


tell me right away
what Perez has said about
who has shown their ass