So, the other day I got this catalog in the mail that I had never heard of. It was called “Solutions: Products That Make Life Easier!” and it truly does have a lot of neat-o stuff that would help most people organize, clean, etc. around their house/garden, etc. Check ‘em out here: http://www.solutions.com/jump.jsp?itemID=0&itemType=HOME_PAGE

(Enter Coupon Code 13069 for 15% off! in the shopping bag)

I figured this “Solutions” deal was another of those “As Seen On TV” type catalogs, but no (though it did have a few items that have appeared on the telly, but they seem of slightly higher quality than most) it was mostly just cool products that I wanted. Ha-ha! But seriously folks, from rugs and shelf organizers to gadgets and travel helping thingies, this catalog had a lot to offer. I even went through it twice and kept it! (Mega-rare for me, it’s usually straight to the recycling bin!) They even have products for the office and for your pets! Sweet!

Now I tend to get a lot of random catalogs, but I (and you!) can manage which you receive or would like to no longer receive here: https://www.catalogchoice.org/login A fabulous site that allows you to decide what hits your mailbox! SWEET! I will say that if you choose to no longer receive a specific catalog, you’ll still get the next one, but it should stop after that. Also, if you order something from that company, you’re very likely to start getting their catalogs again. Just an FYI.

I wanted to share with you some of the fabulous products they had that I would personally love to get. But first I would like to show you a product I had thought I invented and was working on a couple of prototypes. Even the description for the item seemed to come straight from my brain, but honestly? I’m just super glad that this quality product is out there to help people like me: http://www.solutions.com/jump.jsp?itemID=15510&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C4%2C494%2C10020&iProductID=15510

Keep your car neat and organized! Hang your purse, shopping bags and jackets from this mini headrest hanger—they stay off the floor, won’t tip over, and won’t get scuffed or dirty in transit.

And this is super handy, I am going to have to buy a set of these: http://www.solutions.com/jump.jsp?itemID=15106&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C4%2C494%2C10020&iProductID=15106 This way you can just unscrew the valve cap, fill your tires and screw ‘em back on…no worrying about losing them! Remember, properly inflated tires give better gas mileage and more even wear on your tires!

An everlasting nail file? Yep! This round, ceramic nail file claims to never really need replacing. Sounds fab! And no worries about taking it on a place (no sharp point): http://www.solutions.com/jump.jsp?itemID=12921&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C4%2C489%2C10014&iProductID=12921

Okay, this one made me laugh, but only because of the picture. I mean, would you really keep a pocket with your “valuables” under your gauzy thin shawl? Ha-ha! But it is a cool idea. I would use it for concerts & clubs, but perhaps the senior centers aren’t as safe as they used to be! http://www.solutions.com/jump.jsp?itemID=15603&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C4%2C14%2C10005&iProductID=15603

I must admit, these look too good to pass up and I am considering purchasing them right now! Perfect for walking the dog or running to the mailbox or grocery store. These fleece slippers have a durable outsoles so your feet stay comfy and warm even if you’re not lounging around the house! http://www.solutions.com/jump.jsp?itemID=10927&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C4%2C14%2C10005&iProductID=10927

And possibly my fave item on their website, the Peephole viewer! It allows you to see who’s on the other side of your door without letting on that you’re home at all! http://www.solutions.com/jump.jsp?itemID=15421&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C4%2C26%2C10018&iProductID=15421 So cool! And I just got my first peephole in our new apartment! It’s a little pricey ($129), but if I could afford it I would totally buy this!

So, what do you think my darling-dears? Do you have a fave gadget? I’d love to hear about it!

First on this one instead of a nightstand: http://ikeahacker.blogspot.com/2010/02/toothbrush-cup-nightstand.html

Then I saw this incredibly amazing bench-hack: http://ikeahacker.blogspot.com/2009/12/bench-bag-and-snudda.html
Holy shit! It’s almost a breakfast nook…or anything! And it’s cheap! It’s all made using $7.99 Lack side tables: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40104270  and $13 Adel drawer fronts:http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90078674
Gorgeous!!!

Have you hacked something from Ikea or just have a fave from the blog? Tell me about it!!!

You simply must see her interview here with her discovery story and her recovery story and some fabulous fashion shots…she is just amazing!

http://www.vogue.it/en/vogue-curvy/seen-in-vogue/2010/02/crystal-renn

And yes, I said CURVY! I’m not 100% behind this yet, but I love the concept at least. Vogue Italia launches a Curvy site!

http://www.stylelist.com/2010/02/24/vogue-italia-launches-vogue-curvy-currently-starring-plus-size-models/?icid=main|main|dl5|link4|http%3A%2F%2Fwww.stylelist.com%2F2010%2F02%2F24%2Fvogue-italia-launches-vogue-curvy-currently-starring-plus-size-models%2F

Last year, Johnny Depp played John Dillinger, a one-time inmate who escaped from prison in “Public Enemies.” Now he’s trying to help others find freedom. The actor is raising awareness of an attempt to secure a new trial for three inmates, who he feels have been wrongly convicted. Depp will be appearing on “48 Hours Mystery” this Saturday to make his case.

Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin and Jessie Misskelley were convicted of the gruesome May 1993 killing of three West Memphis, Arkansas, children. The convicted trio was dubbed the “West Memphis 3.” Citing a mishandled crime scene, a botched investigation, and the media scrutiny surrounding the case, many – including Eddie Vedder and Depp’s former girlfriend Winona Ryder – believe the three accused were wrongly convicted. Even Rick Murray, the father of one of the victims, Christopher Byers, has expressed doubts about the guilt of the “West Memphis 3.”

On the show, Depp says, “I firmly believe Damien Echols, Jason Baldwin, and Jessie Misskelley are totally innocent. It was a need for swift justice to placate the community.” Depp continues, “Damien Echols is on death row to be killed by lethal injection.” At the time of their arrests, all three men were 18 years old or younger, and Echols has now spent more than 15 years on death row.

How committed is Depp to their cause? He took a break from promoting his new film — the big-budget 3D extravaganza, “Alice in Wonderland” — to tape the segment for “48 Hours Mystery.”

You can help! Go here to buy shirts and more or to donate directly to their defense fund: www.wm3.org & stay up to date on their case here: http://wm3.vox.com/

Watch the full debate here: http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/FaceOff/

I would love to recap it or explain it all for you, but let me just say this: It is far more impactful and powerful when you get your own first impression from this. It is a very controversial subject and a very personal one for me. I think everyone (not just women) has an opinion and a personal story on the subject and while I would love to hear from anyone who reads this blog, I ask only that you are respectful and use your manners, please.

I was very moved by this debate and it will air on ABC this evening. I hope that you find the time to watch and decide for yourself what is right for you.  =0)