10 Easy Eco-Friendly Solutions

Method all purpose cleaner in French Lavender. Smells great and is environmentally friendly!

You see the ads in your glossy fashion mags for hybrid Toyotas, you catch the odd commercial for reducing carbon emissions while flicking channels during breaks on Entertainment Tonight. You've heard about Al Gore's documentary An Inconvenient Truth (and one day you will watch it, you promise).

The thing is, for you a more eco-friendly lifestyle seems very inconvenient. Public transportation? Nasty! Composting kitchen scraps? Too much work. Go Granola? Hello - I like to shave my legs, thanks.

Well, every little bit counts. Leave the tree hugging to your more militant friends and check out these easy eco-solutions that won't hugely disrupt your life. Once you see how simple an eco-friendlier life can be, you may be ready to take the next step.

1. Turn off your electronics when they aren't being used. Screen savers do not save enough energy, so when you're finished with your computer shut it down. In the same way, don't run the TV just for background noise. If you want background music, use your radio. I just checked my units - my TV uses 125 watts, my CD player takes 43 watts, and my clock radio only needs 6 watts. And we all know from kindergarten to turn off lights in rooms that are not being used, right?

2. Buy fruits and veggies in season and preferably from local sources. Consider how much fuel is being used to ship something halfway across the world compared to another item that comes from upstate. The same reasoning applies to your alcohol: try a local micro-brewery or winery.

3. Ask the grocery cashier to pack your bags full. Your cupboards and closets are full enough with old shopping bags you can't use up fast enough anyway. Certain larger objects don't need to be packaged at all. When you're ready to take the next step, bring your own reusable bags to the store.

4. Vintage is cool and you probably shop at those stores anyway, but why not take it to the next level in pre-worn fabulous fashion? Organize a closet swap with your friends - Cosmos, fancy cheese and fruit, great music, and all the stuff from your closet that you don't mind parting with! At the end of the night, anything that goes unclaimed can be donated.

5. Go paperless where possible. Many major utilities, credit cards, and other bills in the U.S. and Canada offer e-billing, and most banks will pull those e-bills directly onto your web banking so everything is in the same place and easy to pay from your accounts. In some areas, you can also cancel flyer delivery for all those discount furniture outlets and dollar stores you wouldn't be caught dead shopping at anyway.

6. Make sure every laundry or dishwasher load is filled to capacity. Use warm or cold water if possible and choose the "eco" setting on your machine if it's available. Not only will you help the environment with less waste, it'll save you money in the long run!

7. Maintain your vehicle properly. Check your tires regularly and make sure you get tune-ups and oil/filter changes on schedule. It will increase your mileage and avoid major repairs before their time. If it's time to buy a different car, seriously consider a hybrid or an efficient gas model. You want to aim for an average consumption of 30 miles/gallon (US) or 8 Litres/100km, and with fuel prices only on the rise you will quickly recoup the extra purchase cost. If you are a ZipCar member or often need to rent, ask your provider if they have hybrids available.

8. Reduce your heating and air conditioning costs using your windows. Put up some light-colored sheers over sun-facing windows; on hot days leave the curtains closed so they reflect the sun's radiation but still allow plenty of diffused light into your space. Open your windows overnight to let the day's heat out and the cool night air in. On cold days, draw your curtains back and let the full force of the sun warm up your rooms.

9. Insulate your hot water tank with a special blanket (this one from Lowe's (US) for under $20 or this one from Home Depot (Canada)) and lower the temperature to 120F (50C) or the eco setting recommended by the manufacturer. Every 10-degree (F) drop saves 3-5% in energy costs and reduces the amount of build-up in your tank, which also prolongs the life of your unit. When you go on vacation, drop the temperature to the minimum setting to save even more energy.

10. Get an energy audit. Many utility companies offer free audits and many local (some national) governments have rebates or tax deduction incentives if you choose to upgrade your appliances or renovate to improve efficiency. Depending on the work you have done, it could increase the value of your home too.

Got an energy and money saving tip to share? Add your wisdom in the comments!

We Now Have a Dude in ChickChat!

Finally! We have a Dude participating in ChickChat! Our discussions have become much juicier with the addition of the male perspective. They're also funnier. Here are a few of our favorite qoutes:

	"Sigh... I smell big discrimination here. So basically, weaker men, not as interesting men, and I think i need to ask around to see how i chew." "Men generally don't care about the colour of their underwear as long as they are not pink."

"I can't seem to find the one. As that magic number is incrementing every year. I am just afraid to die a lonely old man, like al pacino in Godfather III."

Kudos to hunter_jc for sharing the male perspective and giving our discussions more balance.

Now to the rest of you guys secretly reading the forums and not participating: It's time to step up!!

Read more juicy forum conversations

The Best Time to Fly for Cheap!

Did you know that many airlines will lower their rates at midnight (EST)? Or that weekend specials are usually released on Thursday nights?

No? Neither did we.

That is, until recently when member Spotty posted this article in our forums.

You might want to read that article before you book your next flight. Sweet!

Thanks, Spotty!

Is Your Makeup Style Winter Ready?

Hey Chickies! It's Joy here giving you the scoop on makeup trends and tips to keep you looking as beautiful! As the seasons change, so should your makeup. Just because it's dull and dreary outside doesn't mean you have to look like that too! Skin tends to look duller and drier in the winter so opt for creamier textures or products that have a luminous effect. Get rid of the winter blues and brighten up your look with pops of colour that give your skin a fresher and more radiant glow.

Red-Raspberry Anyone?

Don't be scared of the words "red" and "raspberry" together - you'll be seeing more raspberry come Spring but in pink tones! To create the perfect flush, think skiing in Whistler and less baby doll-like cheeks. To mimic sun-kissed skin, dust bronzer on the cheekbones, temples, nose, and chin. On the eyes, all you need is a sweep of shimmery eye shadow in neutral tones with a few coats of mascara. To give the colour of 'just-pinched' cheeks, choose a red-raspberry or burgundy coloured blush in either a cream, gel-stain, or powder form (choose a powder that has a shimmer or satiny sheen to it). Finish the lips off with a tinted lip balm or sheer gloss in a similar tone.

Nars Abyssinia Single Eyeshadow, $21

Fair to Medium Skin:
Bronzer - If you've always been afraid of bronzer, Laura Mercier's Pressed Powder Bronzer in Matte Bronze Light is perfect for you.
Eyes - Choose pearly white golds or champagne gold shadow like Nars' Abyssinia Single Eye Shadow (a delicate pearl sheen) which is new for Spring!
Cheeks - For the perfect rosy glow, try something like Three Custom Color's Lip and Cheek Stain in Ski Bunny.
Lips - Use the same Three Custom Color's Lip and Cheek Stain in Ski Bunny for the lips.

Tarte Cheek Stain in Blushing Bride, $28

Medium to Medium-Dark Skin:
Bronzer - Benefit's Hoola is a great matte bronzer for medium-dark skin with a golden-yellow undertone, for the perfect faux tan.
Eyes - Sheer bronze tones look beautiful against medium-dark skin. I really like Nars' Duo Eyeshadow in Key Largo (a pale peach and shimmering bronze).
Cheeks - For a more realistic flush, go for a burgundy or plumy colour like Tarte's Cheek Stain in Blushing Bride. Apply directly from the stick or rub it on your finger then dab.

Lips - For a similar colour on the lips, try Bobbi Brown's Tinted Lip Balm in Pink Raspberry, a sheer bright red-pink.

Nars Blush in Crazed, $25

Dark to Deep Dark Skin:
Bronzer - Some dark skin tones don't require bronzer but it's a great alternative to setting your makeup. Try Iman's Sheer Finish Bronzing Powder in Clay.
Eyes - The focus of this look is on the cheeks so give eyes a shimmery finish in a sheer bronzey gold or amber gold like M.A.C.'s Eye Shadow in Amber Lights (golden amber) or Woodwinked (warm antique gold) for a muted metallic effect.
Cheeks - Use a light touch with Nars' Crazed Blush, a raspberry red with shimmer. Layer on apples of cheeks until desired intensity.
Lips - To avoid looking too made up, choose a sheer gloss or stain in deep burgundy or deep plum like M.A.C.'s Lipgelee in Moistly.

If you have naturally red cheeks use your bronzer as a blush and let your natural rosiness come through. And if you prefer warmer hues, give cheeks and lips a glow with apricot or terracotta hues.

Got a question you'd like Joy to answer on our blog? Email us.

Check out Joy's profile

Australia: Canada is Safe, eh?

Australians Advised to "exercise caution" When Traveling to Canada

For some reason, the Australian government's "Smart Traveller" website is cautioning their public that Canada isn't exactly a safe travel destination:

"Bush and forest fires can occur any time in Canada. You should consult local news reports and authorities before visiting forested areas and follow the advice of local authorities."

"We advise you to exercise caution and monitor developments that might affect your safety in Canada because of the risk of terrorist attack."

"Pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks."

"All oceanic regions of the world can experience tsunamis, but in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, there is a more frequent occurrence of large, destructive tsunamis because of the many large earthquakes along major tectonic plate boundaries and ocean trenches."

Fellow Canadians: Yikes! This is sounding pretty dangerous! Perhaps we should move?

Yahoo did a great write up on this website. The best part is the countries listed as safer than Canada:
China
Chile
Croatia
Czech Republic
Belarus
Romania
South Korea
Ireland
Norway
Japan
and Latvia. WTF??

Read the Yahoo article

Read the sage advice from the Government of Australia about traveling to Canada

FREEBIE ALERT: January 25 08

Gold Moor Mud Gift Box (value of $32)

Happy Friday! We have another freebie to give away from Spa Boutique...

Enter in the forums here

Read more about this Freebie Friday.

Fortune Hunters Episodes Now Online

For anyone who missed last weekend's episode of Fortune Hunters featuring ChickAdvisor, the full episode is available online on the CBC website here. Click on clip 2 of 3 "The Web".

The impact from the show has been fantastic. There have been some great reviews, such as this one from Jesse Hirsh and we have been invited to speak at a number of events including last night's Third Tuesday. They made a podcast about the event you can listen to here. The podcast is about 10 minutes long, but we are the first interview.

We are thrilled with the show and would like to thank the CBC for giving us this opportunity. We are especially grateful to the producers and camera crew for their hard work. The filming took place over several weeks and they did a phenomenal job without making us feel cramped. Thanks a million!

And of course, thank YOU to all of you for making ChickAdvisor worth featuring!

XOXO

7 Ways To Tweak Your Diet

If you're like me, you overindulged a little during the holidays. Now a month later, the daily ritual of hopping to pull your pants over your hips and sucking in the gut to button them is starting to get a little old.

Sure, we should exercise more but who has time to squeeze that into a morning schedule? They say you shouldn't exercise right before bed, and anyway there's Grey's Anatomy et al to consider.

You can find all sorts of great dieting tips on Good Morning America, but I like to supplement those ideas with time-tested tips from my mom and grandmothers. They call it Apron Logic - I call it genius. Here you have it then:

Notes From The Apron: How To Lose Those Pesky Christmas Pounds

1. The Water Trick - every time you feel a hunger pang, drink a glass of water and wait 5 minutes. The water will take the edge off and make you less likely to stuff the last of the Rudolph cookies in your mouth, plus it helps you meet your daily water quota. If after five minutes you're still hungry, try another tip.

2. The Cooking Trick - cook up a nice meal, preferably one that requires more time and multiple steps. The aroma plus the obligatory taste tests reduces my appetite so much that by the time we sit down to eat I only want a small portion. I have no idea why this works, I just know that it does.

3. The 3-Course Meal - eat your meal in courses, starting with a large helping of salad or veggies. Eat at a slower pace so that by the time you get around to the fattier meat and starch course you'll be almost full already.

4. The Snack Prep Trick - nip your impulse snacking in the bud and prepare a selection of healthy snacks ready to grab. Chop up fruit and veggies into snackable portions, stock up on unsalted nuts or raisins, and make sure you have your favorite yogurt flavor on hand.

5. The Shop Smart Trick - never shop for groceries when you're hungry. If you shop right after work when your tummy is grumbling in anticipation of dinner, you'll probably fall victim to an unhealthy impulse buy. Instead of choosing a quick box meal, go for the healthier version. It may take longer to prepare but isn't jammed full of preservatives.

6. The Chocolate Switch - sometimes you just need a chocolate fix, but instead of creamy milk chocolate you should try a decadent dark chocolate. Not only does dark chocolate contain anti-oxidants, its richness satisfies you sooner and you'll eat less. Bars with 70% cocoa are best.

7. The Goal Setting Trick - don't make goals that are too big to swallow. Take it one day at a time and set mini goals for yourself that are attainable. Decide "I won't snack on junk food today" instead of worrying about what it'll take to lose 5 pounds in a month.

No matter what your big-picture diet goals are, snacking smart will keep you healthier and less worried when the hunger gremlins strike. With all the negative attention diet pills and weight reduction surgery are getting, it's good to get back to some common sense ideas of how to live better without sacrificing your enjoyment of good food.

This post was co-authored by MizzRobin and Mamaluv.

MizzRobin is a ChickAdvisor member and researcher. She loves Cosmos and hates people with no common sense. She can be found most days sharing her good sense in ChickChat.

Heath Ledger Has Died

We are shocked and devastated to learn that Heath Ledger has died. The cause of death is believed to be related to an overdose of over the counter medication, but they are calling it accidental (not suicide). The charming Aussie actor is the father of two year old Matilda and the ex-husband of Michelle Williams.

This is so horrible I don't even know what to say.

Read more

7 Tips for Maximizing Your Fitness Goals This Year

With the beginning of a new year on the horizon, people often look for a fresh start on their fitness goals. January is one of my busiest months as a fitness & health leader while people try to break away from their holiday habits.

In the beginning phases of your workout efforts, whether you are following one of my personalized training programs or some other generic plan, you must stay consistent if you want to see a significant difference! The first 4-6 weeks are crucial to your success, this is often when people either start to see real results or drop out.Having said that, here are a few tips I put together to keep you motivated this New Year:

1. Establish your goals: Try to make a realistic commitment such as exercising 3 times a week after work and once on weekends. Creating realistic goals will set you up for success.

2. Figure out a plan: Running into a gym and lifting a bunch of weights is good but to do so in an organized, goal-oriented fashion will ensure maximum results are met.

3. Get into a routine: This is key...Results will only come through consistent behaviour. Plan your day around your workouts as opposed to pushing it to the end of the day when you’re tired.

4. Evaluate your progress: This is my favorite, find a pair of pants that never fits and try them on every other week or so to see how they look. The scale is not always a good measure of your efforts.

5. Make frequent changes to your program: Modify your program around every few weeks to keep your body in a constant state of change, adaptation, and improvement!

6. Keep track of your progress: Keeping a diary of your workouts will not only ensure you give all of your muscle groups an even workout, it will also give you a sense of accomplishment and momentum.

7. Reward yourself: I personally like to treat myself to something new at the end of each week for good behaviour. Positive reinforcement is very powerful and gives you a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction!

If you can adopt some of these simple concepts into your daily life, you should find yourself in better standing than the beginning of the holiday season!

Your fitness expert, Marc Laverdure B.Sc., C.S.C.S.

Got a question for our fitness expert? Email us!

Kookiest Popular Products of 2007

Don't just smear that honey on your toast, slather it on your face! Our members use honey on their faces to treat breakouts, moisturize dry patches and give their skin a healthy glow. Read up on that weirdness.

I was recently asked during an interview: "What are some of the most unusual items that have been popular on ChickAdvisor?" I thought that was a great question because there have actually been a number of surprising oddball items that have been recommended by our members for their unconventional alternative uses.


Vaseline has been a surprising chart topper for a while, but not for the traditional reasons you may think. (Oh behave, not that!) Our Chicks recommend you use it like this:
* mix it with aloe to treat eczema
* use it to keep brows in place
* put some up your nose to treat hayfever
* use it as an effective and inexpensive eye makeup remover

From the kitchen sink to your face! Pure Tea Tree Oil is a beloved zit zapper, ingrown hair treatment, ear cleaner and kitchen sanitizer!

Wanna swap hair secrets with your horse?

A member recently recommended Mane n' Tail Shampoo & Conditioner for Horses as a beauty solution for your own tresses. Sounds wacked, no? But Lucky Magazine recently recommended the same product in their January 08 issue, so it must be good. Oh, and it retails on Amazon for about a dollar. Beat that!


Speaking of hair, Goody must have done something right since our members would rather use their Ouchless Hair Elastics above all others. And here we thought a hair tie was just a hair tie...

For some reason Special K made a cameo on the site. Seems our Chicks don't snack on chocolate bars, they bring little baggies of chocolate cereal to work.

These are just a few interesting tidbits. If you really want to get juicy, log in to our forums and read what they say on everything from makeup to break ups, fashion trends.... and farting.

This Chick Is A Mother Hen

I'm standing in front of my bathroom mirror, putting on makeup. My daughter watches me with a curious look on her face.

"Mom, you don't have to get all fancy for us."
"Sometimes moms like to look extra nice, just for fun."
"I like it better when you just look... regular."

***

My friend showed up to a Mom & Tot event once. Another friend asked her about her smoky-eyed makeup technique.

"Oh my gosh!" my friend confessed with embarrassment. "I think that's yesterday's mascara!"

***

Other hidden benefits when you're a mom:
* your cuticles have never been softer than when they get daily smearings of diaper cream,
* unwashed hair styles really nicely (even up to a week - trust me, I've been there),
* water conservation is easier when 3 little bodies insist on sharing your shower. To avoid this, you learn how to take the quickest showers possible.

***

We may not be the youngest of the Chicks on this block, but we Mother Hens have a girly side that must be satisfied, if only to remind ourselves of the days Before Children. Then there are the days when we're tired from multitasking work, household, and family and really need a pedicure or a great concealer for the bags under our eyes.

At first glance, you might assume that ChickAdvisor has little to offer moms. We'd like to change that. We'll feature a mommy-themed post regularly on ChickLit and other great changes are in the works!

Bootie Call: Cute Boots Online for Cheap!

FRYE Women's Tina Shortie Cuff Boot, $202ish

Why bother going to the mall when you can shop at home in your pj's while sipping your favorite tea? The selection is certainly better and the prices can't be beat! Now if only everyone would start shipping to Canada...

Here are our picks for every trend this winter:

Giddy-Up!

STEVEN by Steve Madden Giddyap Riding Boot, $140ish

By far the most common boot on the streets these days, the Riding Boot is extremely versatile and comfortable. They add instant style to any outfit without endangering life and limb on slippery sidewalks or pesky grates.

Swash-bucklin'

Miss Sixty Dyana High Shaft Boot, $95ish

The season's embellishment with buckles add a contemporary twist to this classic boot. Wear with a skirt or over skinny jeans. The high heel and tighter calf make these the dressier sister of The Riding Boot.

Singin' in the Rain

Chooka Women's Metallic Dots Boot, $55ish

For some reason the rubber boots you wore when you were 10 are back in style, but they've added whimsical patterns and multiplied the price tenfold. Surprisingly, these do look really cute when worn properly ~ HOWEVER ~ wear them as an accent with basic black or muted colors or you will look like a 10 year old again.

Fugly

EMU Australia Bronti Hi Boot, $75ish

Though we have openly aired our anti-Ugg sentiments here on the blog and elsewear, these white Emu's are *almost* cute! If you must go fugly (f&cking ugly for those of you reading this blog who are not of this planet), then give these a whirl.

The Bootie

Guess Faila Bootie, $65ish

Not a Shoe... Not Yet a Boot. It looks like it might give you ankle support, but sadly the shortest versions (like this one) do not. However it looks mighty cute paired with tights and a skirt or worn with jeans or dress pants. The most contemporary versions of the bootie come in lace-up style circa 1920s... but it's hard to come by a pair that don't look like you dug them out of Granny's attic.

Happy Shopping!

ChickAdvisor on Fortune Hunters! Jan 19/08

Ya, baby! ChickAdvisor is being profiled on CBC Newsworld's Fortune Hunters this Saturday January 19th at 6:30pm EST.

If you want to check it out, make sure you actually get this channel as it is not the same as regular CBC. We actually had to go out and order cable...


NEWS RELEASE
www.cbc.ca


ARE YOU READY TO QUIT YOUR JOB AND START YOUR OWN BUSINESS?
DIANNE BUCKNER HOSTS FORTUNE HUNTERS
BEGINS SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 AT 6:30 P.M. (ET) ON
CBC NEWSWORLD

Social networking websites, exotic fruit drinks, eco-friendly products – these are some of the hottest business trends right now and hungry entrepreneurs want a piece of the action. But how? FORTUNE HUNTERS, a new show airing Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. ET (repeats Sundays at 1:30 p.m.ET and at 4:30 p.m. ET) beginning January 12, will explore the latest money-making trends and introduce viewers to the people who are cashing in now.

Created by Dianne Buckner, current host of DRAGONS’ DEN and long-time host of CBC NEWS: VENTURE, the program will showcase today’s top business trends and how those trends fit into the global economy, as well as how Canadians could cash in on potential business opportunities right here at home.

Every week the show is divided into three segments: in the first, Buckner introduces a trend for the week and profiles a Canadian company – a Fortune Hunter -- attempting to cash in on that trend. The second segment features interviews with business trend experts -- such as reno king Mike Holmes, Dragon’s Den’s Kevin O’Leary and Arlene Dickinson and fitness foe Hal Johnson -- who will analyze the trend of the week and assess its business viability. The final segment – My First Million –profiles celebrities of the business world and their secrets to success. From the brain behind Goodlife Fitness, to the frank founder of Le Chateau, to the icon Wallace McCain of McCain Foods, these business gurus reveal their struggles to make it to the top and provide tips on how to get there.


Upcoming FORTUNE HUNTERS topics include:
o Web 2.0 – dot-com money-making is on the rise again, inspiring thousands of inventive entrepreneurs. Fortune Hunter: Toronto’s Ali and Alex deBold, from ChickAdvisor.com. My First Million: Bubbleshare’s Albert Lai.

o Fast Fashion – the obsession with instant gratification has turned the fashion world upside-down and retailers want in on this quick turn-around phenomenon. Montreal’s Fortune Hunters: Monte Perlman and Steven Belfer of Crisca. My First Million: Le Chateau’s Herschel Segal in Montreal.

o Exoticism – there is a growing appetite among consumers for exotic foods from around the world, from ethnic supermarkets to spicy sauces. Ontario Fortune Hunter Anita Saini’s Devya Gourmet. My First Million: Vancouver’s T & T Supermarket’s Cindy Lee.

o Raging Renos – the U.S. real estate market may be melting down, but the Canadian market is as hot as ever as Canadians spend a bundle on home improvements. Ontario Fortune Hunter Randy Uens’ Rhinobags. My First Million: RONA’s Robert Dutton from Quebec.

o Mompreneurs – statistics show an astounding number of new businesses are started by women – many of them mothers seeking to combine childcare with a home-based venture. Toronto’s Fortune Hunter Darlene Martin with Bijouxbead. My First Million: BC’s Robeez Footwear’s Sandra Wilson.

o Franchise Fantasies – franchising can be a challenging pathway to big money, but new concepts in franchises are on the rise. Ontario Fortune Hunter Glen Kowarsky’s Dogs at Camp. My First Million: BC’s Dale Wishewan and Booster Juice.

o Perfect Health – everyone wants to live long and healthy lives, making for plenty of opportunities to cash in on the quest for better health. Ontario’s Julie Aurora with Mom’s Healthy Cereal. My First Million: Goodlife Fitness’ Patch Evans from London, Ontario.

o Boomerism – the baby boomer generation is reaching retirement age, and big bucks can be made off filling their needs. Ontario Fortune Hunters Robert and Beverley Tang with DanceScape. My First Million: Nurse Next Door’s John de Hart and Ken Sim in BC.

o Organics – food companies are clamouring to create organic products, and the “eat local” phenomenon is growing quickly – but what does “organic” really mean? BC’s Fortune Hunter Kalpna Solanki’s Bobo Baby Food. My First Million: Planet Organic’s Mark Craft from Alberta. (now in Victoria BC)

o Easy Eating – many Canadians are too busy to cook but want a home-cooked meal – new companies are offering options in the “ready-to-eat” category. Halifax Fortune Hunters Greg and Paulette Dunn’s Creating Dinners. My First Million: McCain Foods’ Wallace McCain from New Brunswick.



FORTUNE HUNTERS is written and produced by James Dunne and Dianne Buckner.


Sign up for their newsletter Bullet Points and each week you’ll receive the latest in trends, business tips and information on every new episode.

Watch the preview of our episode here!

Creepy Tom Cruise Video

This fame thing is just not healthy...


Poor Tommy. Not only has the world been laughing at him for years, now someone has gone and taken a video of him while high, ranting about the virtues of Scientology and posted it on youtube. Or at least that is what appears to be the case...

January's Freebie Friday

What better to do to banish winter blues than to pamper yourself?

Our Freebie Friday for January is the Gold Moor Mud Gift Box from Spa Boutique (value of $32).



The kit includes:

• 100 ml Pine Mud Bath:Take an enjoying mud bath in this luxurious moor mud and experience the feeling it renders to your body. The unique blends of plant extracts and trace minerals, vitamins and phyto-hormones will give your body the necessary tools to beat the daily aches and pains caused by our stressful life. Twenty minutes of bathing and you will feel your sense of well being. Moor extract is a natural therapeutic mud from the Outaouais region, prepared according to a special solubilization process. The therapeutically active humic acids are rendered 100% water-soluble and are thus optimally absorbed by the body.



• 100 ml Lavender Mud Bath Moor extract is a natural therapeutic mud from the Outaouais region of Canada, prepared according to a special solubilization process. The therapeutically active humic acids are rendered 100% water soluble and are thus optimally absorbed by the bather. This lavender mud bath will thoroughly relax your body. The lavender essential oil helps to rejuvenate the skin tissues.



• 1 oz Health Body Bar The health body bar is an ideal companion for the treating of cellulite, circulation disorders, or just lathering up the body. It is an active, but mild soap, which is biodegradable. Its active ingredients will stimulate and increase blood circulation. It is a natural agent soap containing glycerin and lavender essential oil. It has a ph of 5.5 therefore useful as a cleansing soap and make-up remover.



• 14 g Natural Mask The black moor mask is a fantastic tool to treat the three types of acnes. It is combined with three essential oils used to treat acne prone skin. Lemon essential oil is antibacterial, rosemary is a strong cholagogue treating digestive acne and sage officinalis is a hormone balancer for hormonal acne. Use the mask on affected area every day for a full week and notice the disappearance of your acne. In severe cases of juvenile acne the drawing out power of moor mud will help eliminate black heads and impurities.

Wanna win this? On a random Friday in January we will post this freebie in our forums. Respond to the thread to be automatically entered to win.

Please note, you must be logged in to read and respond to forum threads.

Read up on some past Freebies

The 10 Worst Cars of 2007

© Pontiac

Thinking of buying a new car this year? You might want to consider this list before dropping the cash. Forbes.com has compiled a list of the 10 biggest losers for 2007: the most unreliable, fastest depreciating, least safe and most recalled. Buckle up!

The Car Why it's a loser

1. The Chrysler Sebring ~ for recalls and faulty parts.

2. Dodge Nitro ~ for worse than average reliability and recalls.

3. Jeep Liberty ~ for performing badly on crash tests - yikes!

4. Dodge Caliber R/T AWD ~ for much lower than average reliability ratings.

5. Dodge Magnum ~ for bad depreciation and unreliability.

6. Ford Crown Victoria ~ ancient mechanical platform. Who cares? Old person/cop car anyway...

7. Chevrolet Aveo ~ worse than average reliability, fuel consumption and generally marginal ratings.

8. Nissan Quest ~ for a "much worse than average" reliability and major safety recall.

9. Hyundai Entourage ~ again that whole "much worse than average" rating thingy...

10. Pontiac Grand Prix ~ the one decent looking car of the bunch. It's on the chopping block for marginal crash test safety ratings and terrible resale value.

Read the full article from Forbes

On The Subject of Muffintops...

I remember eating LifeSaver candies as a child. This hilarious commercial makes me want to run out and get a whole case! Hopefully Dr. Workout will have an antidote, though...



I think this should be required viewing for husbands and boyfriends, don't you?

Top 10 Beauty Products of 2007

Happy New Year to all the Chicks out there! It's Ellen here and I am so thrilled to be part of the ChickAdvisor team. Today I'd like to share with you my favourite 10 products from 2007. I of course have more than 10 favourite products but if I was to share them all with you, it would take me weeks to type them all out!

And in no particular order, here they are...

MAC Royal Assets Eyeshadow Palettes ($45)
Though now only available through eBay these gilded antique-inspired compacts are my favourite pieces from the M.A.C Holiday Antiquitease collection. They are absolute works of art that came in gold and silver, with ceramic embossing inlaid on the lid. My favourite palette is 6 Smokey Eyes and I have been using it constantly.

NARS Orgasm Blush ($29.00) MUST HAVE
This has to be the perfect blush for almost every gal on the planet. Made with transparent pigments for a soft and sheer look, it imparts a lovely, peachy glow that makes you look healthy.











Bobbi Brown Pink Quartz Shimmer Brick Compact ($38 USD)
Pretty, Pretty, Pretty. Five shimmery shades of pink, rose, beige and gold blend together to create a soft golden glow. Layer over blush as a highlighter on cheekbones or use individual shades as eye shadow.

Though Bobbi Brown's products are a little pricey, you just cannot beat the quality - a little goes a long way and they feel great on the skin.












CoverGirl VolumeExact ($7.99) STEAL
Much like its popular cousin LashExact, this mascara has a special brush formation that detangles and separates lashes allowing for a clump free, smooth application every time, providing 4x the volume.

Available in Very Black, Black, Black Brown and Blue Black.
















Lancôme Fever Gloss ($29) MUST HAVE
This luxurious gloss creates a crystal shine that dazzles with sparkles of light. It is my new best bud. Oh so moisturising, it keeps my pouter soft and I like the fact that it isn't sticky (like some glosses I could mention). The Lancôme Fever Gloss features a special applicator that is in the form of a heart, offering low or high coverage and ensures perfect contours.

Available in 15 fabulous colours. My personal favourite is Heatstroke - love it!














Smashbox High Definition Healthy FX Foundation SPF 15 ($44.00)
This is my favourite liquid foundation and I find that my skin looks flawless when I use it. Smashbox's latest foundation is oil-free but still gives you time-release moisturization and firming benefits that last all day.

















Clarisonic Skincare Brush (195.00 USD) SPLURGE
This is one of Oprah's 'Favorite Things' and if she likes it, it must be good. Well I am proud to say that the Clarisonic was one of my favourites well before it was mentioned on Oprah!

From the inventor of Sonicare toothbrushes, this skincare tool is like a very large toothbrush with a head that oscillates back and forth, gently loosen dirt and oil. It is clinically show to be twice as effective at cleaning your skin than regular manual cleansing.

I found that within days of using it, my pores were definitely visibly clearer, especially around my nose and my blemishes began to disappear. I really like that this hand-held device is completely waterproof and can venture into the shower with me. It makes life pretty easy.

Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser ($6.99) STEAL
Why spend a fortune on a facial cleanser? Sometimes the more expensive the brand, the better but in the case of Cetaphil, $7 will do nicely thank you. This non-irritating formula is designed to remove surface oils, dirt and makeup without leaving skin feeling tight or overly dry.

DaLish ($70.00)
This is the perfect grab and go makeup kit you could possibly want. Including three blendable concealers/foundations, a cream blush, two lip glosses, two eye shadows, a highlighter, mascara and an eyeliner, pop it in your gym bag or take it away on a trip.














Origins Plantidote Mega-Mushroom Body Cream ($45USD)
After my daily shower I slather this rich cream onto my body. It contains all sorts of exotic ingredients such as Murumuru, Shea, Cocoa and Cupuacu butters, Hypsizygus ulmarius, Reishi and Cordyceps Mushrooms, Ginger, Turmeric and Holy Basil.

So what do you think of my choices? Is there an item that you adore that was not mentioned?

Got a question you'd like Ellen to answer on our blog? Email us.

Check out Ellen's profile

Fortune Hunters Begins!

Tonight is the first episode of CBC's Fortune Hunters. It airs at 6:30pm EST on CBC. ChickAdvisor appears in the 2nd episode on January 19th, but if you want to get a feel for the show, watch it tonight!

Here's a quick promo for our upcoming episode!

For a list of show times click here.

Can Diet Coke Be Good For Your Health?

The marketing folks at Coca-Cola have unveiled their latest offering: a Diet Coke with ... vitamins and minerals.

Yes, you read that right! This new, more nutritious (?) Diet Coke Plus includes 15% of your recommended daily intake of niacin, vitamins B6 and B12, and 10% RDI of zinc and magnesium.

"We wanted to take the convenience of the #1 low-calorie beverage in the world and combine it with essential vitamins and minerals," explains Coke exec Katie Bayne. "But we knew we had to deliver on the great taste people had come to expect from us."

What do you think about this? Is this marketing genius or the most ridiculous thing you've ever heard?

Watch Coke's promo video here

The Cashmere Mafia

Photo credit: ABC

Have you guys seen this show yet? I stumbled into it while flipping channels Sunday night and am undecided. At first glance, it is very much a Sex and the City wannabe - no surprise since SATC creator, Darren Star is behind this one too, but it is also kind of fun. The production value is really good and the cast is polished and perfect. Just the kind of shallow entertainment we Chicks take guilty pleasure in.

The premise: Four 30 - 40ish- something alpha chicks who have been friends since college support each other through the trials and tribulations of life and love.

The twist: Instead of obsessing over Manolos, these women are consumed with their careers. They are all successful executives living in New York City trying to balance marriage, kids and work.

The weakness: These 4 characters are just a tougher savvier version of Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha. They call emergency meetings (at lavish restaurants of course!) and prioritize their friendship above all else. The women are fairly cold and hard. They don't have the warmth of our 4 favorite girls. The men in their lives play a secondary role at best. Sound familiar? I'm not sure they can differentiate themselves from SATC.

What's your take? Do you like it?

Watch the trailers on ABC. American viewers can watch the episodes online in full.

Awesome Travel Deals from Travelzoo

Sandy beaches, cozy ski chalets, the bliss of doing nothing...

The plan: Escape with 3 best girls to the Dominican for a week to lie in the sun, drink loads of all-included margaritas, get a decent tan, but avoid getting those silly bead braids.

The details: Not worked out yet. Can't get much research done with the boss constantly looking over my shoulder. Honestly don't even know where to begin!

The budget: $1000. $800 As much as my $10 an hour salary can get me. Note to self: discuss the possibility of raise with boss and remind him of my efforts on the social committee this year...

Even if money is tight, vacation memories are priceless and something you will always treasure whereas you will never fondly look back at that time 3 of your best girls took off to the beach and you stayed home watering your plants. That's why when you find a good seat sale or last minute deal you should immediately pack your bags.

Thankfully Travelzoo has done all of the research for you. Sign up for their free Top 20® list and every Wednesday they will email you the hottest 20 travel deals on the internet.

By the looks of this week's Top 20, you'd better start packing. Check out the deals available!

$89 Florida: Buy One Roundtrip Seat, Get 2nd at 50% OFF
Sunwing Airlines

$139 Banff Resort with Upgrade & Extras, Valued Over $200
Hidden Ridge Resort

$668 & up Dominican 4-Star Vacations at $300 OFF
Redtag.ca

$129 Vancouver Luxury Hotel, Save Over 50%
Pan Pacific Vancouver

$99 & up Worldwide Fare Sale, Fly thru Spring
Air Canada

$659-$669 Cuba: Last-Minute Packages from Alberta
TargetVacations.ca

$89 Toronto All-Suite Hotel at 35% OFF
Town Inn Suites

US$649 Balcony Cabin on 7-Night Caribbean Cruise
CruiseBrothers.com

$420 & up Las Vegas 3-Night Getaways incl. All Taxes
Expedia.ca

US$850 Australia 'AirPass' including 3 Bonus Flights
Qantas Airways

$139 Quebec 'Ice Hotel' Package w/Loads of Extras
Ice Hotel Quebec-Canada

$398 Non-Stop to New York from Vancouver, Roundtrip
Cathay Pacific

US$749 Cruise the Mediterranean on World's Newest Ship
Norwegian Cruise Line

$89 Niagara Falls Package for 2, including Meals
Courtyard by Marriott Niagara Falls

$212 Los Angeles from Toronto (R/T), This Weekend
American Airlines

$140 Ft. Lauderdale Resort w/Oceanview Upgrade
Bahia Mar Beach Resort

$699 Puerto Vallarta 7-Night Packages, Travel in February
traveltSt.ca

$237 Paris from Montreal or Quebec City, Roundtrip
Air Transat

$90 Buffalo Hotel in Shopping District, 40% OFF
Hyatt Regency Buffalo

US$4697 S. America 46-Night Cruise, $500 Credit & Extras
CruCon Cruise Outlet


Sign up for Travelzoo’s Top 20 – Canada

Sign up for Travelzoo’s Top 20 – USA

Release Date: 1.09.08
Copyright (c) 2007 Travelzoo Inc. All Rights Reserved.
*Taxes & fees may apply

Winners of the Free Tickets to The Wedding Show

Thank you to everyone who entered our contest for the free tickets to The Wedding Show. We had 2 pairs to give away, courtesy of The Wedding Co.

Here are the best stories engagement stories you shared...

The Scavenger Hunt - WINNER

"Geoff proposed a few days before Christmas. We had finished a lovely dinner at Blowfish when he suggested we take a walk. We ended up at Chapters (where we first met). He told me to wait in the magazine section while he went to the restroom. I knew something was up! My suspicions were confirmed shortly when I heard my name being called over the public announcement system and I was instructed to go to the front desk. Okay! Breathe! This is it� I was ready to scream YES! but in true Geoff fashion, everything had to be earned. I guess it was his last chance to play hard to get with me. ;-) At the front desk I was handed a red bag and inside was my first clue.

He had set up a SCAVENGER HUNT!

Clue 1: We've been through many challenges together and you've passed them all. So this last challenge should be an easy one: all you need to do is find me. Simply go to where we shared hot chocolates.

Off to the second floor I went. As I made my way closer to the next clue I heard our song (100 years by Five For Fighting) playing throughout the store. I picked up the next clue at the Starbucks counter.

I was having so much fun!!!

Clue 2: Congrats, you are one step closer! Now find the story of The Alchemist. Hurry, even though the song playing says 100 years, you must find me before it ends.

Geoff had given me that book on our first date. I still remember what he wrote on the inside cover: that life was about following your dreams and he wanted to share the journey with me. And what a journey our relationship has been to say the least! I found the next clue in a red envelop taped to the front cover of the book.

Clue 3: You are so close! Now all you have to do is descend like an angel down the escalator as you did the first time you found me and I'll be waiting in the same spot.

As I did just that I was extremely touched at the efforts he put into recreating our first date. I was overwhelmed with fond memories. This final clue brought me to the Chapters Lounge where it all began; a fateful meeting of chance four years ago. This time he was waiting on bended knee. And so our journey continues... As another chapter ends in this story we open a new one."

~ Lexy


The Beach - WINNER

"The beach at winter time!? Sounds crazy to me! But on this day we went ot the Pinery for a winter hike, just me and my boyfriend. We are outdoorsy people and always go camping and hiking and exploring, so this was ordinary to me and I didn't know what was coming!

Our hike ended on the beach and it was so beautiful because the waves looked like they were frozen in time. We sat on a log and for a while we were so quiet we couldn't hear a thing. After a long silence his first words were "I lied"... he got down on BOTH knees and explained that he brought me to this very beautiful spot for a reason... to ask me to spend my life with him. I said "yes" right away but appearently it came out as a squeek because he had to ask me again! He stayed on his knees for a long time while it sank in.

I'm an island girl, born and raised in the Caribbean and lover of the sun, sand and sea. He is allergic to the sun and thrives in the dark cold winter.... so this proposal was the perfect mix for us... at the beach on a calm winter day.

Of course I tease him about getting down on BOTH knees.... he was begging ;)"

~ Rachel


Honerable mentions:

Birks Blew It

"My fiance and I had been dating for almost four years, living together for about three of those. He decided to take me shopping to look at rings. As soon as we got to Birks, I immediately fell in love with what was the most beautiful ring I had ever laid eyes on. Of course it was very pricey and we left wondering how he/we could ever afford such a luxury.

A couple of months later, the phone rang one Saturday afternoon in October. I loked at the display, smiled and said "Michael it's Birks jewellers calling, I think it's for you"! His face dropped as he took the phone. It so happens that Birks ruined the surprise by accidently calling the wrong number and I knew immediately what was about to happen.

We drove to the mall together, he insisted that i wait in the truck. He returned with my ring and told me that I could have it if I would marry him. I was so excited that i used hand lotion and sanitizer to force it on my finger where it remained for the next year, for the simple fact that I couldn't get it off. He swears that his plan was to dress up as a prince on Halloween and propose to me. I don't believe him.

Here we are a year and three months later, anxiously awaiting our wedding day which is in just under six months, and we couldn't be happier."

~ Christina


He Took Back the Promise Ring

"On the evening before we were to leave for a 2-week vacation to Europe, out of nowhere he asked for my “promise’ ring back, which I had been wearing for years! He was pretending to be very angry about something when he asked for it back, so I didn’t know what was happening and started to cry.

Then he came back into the room and got down on one knee and said “I took that one away from you so that I could give you this one,” which turned out to be a much bigger ring of which he had personally designed the band of. Absolutely gorgeous!"

~ Natalie


Thanks to all of you for sharing your stories with us. We loved reading them!

Winners have been contacted with instructions on getting their free tickets.

Toronto: Winterlicious Jan 25 - Feb 7

Every year, twice a year Toronto gets the luxury of sampling gourmet 3 course meals from some of the finest restaurants in the city for only $20 - $35. Winterlicious begins!

Book early as reservations to the best hot spots get snapped up right away.

Click here for a list of participating restaurants and to check out the Winterlicious menus

5 Ways to Get Out of Debt

You're maxed out on payments and a pay raise or job switch isn't in the near future. It's a safe bet that improving your personal finances made it onto your list of New Year's resolutions. With outstanding student loans, car payments and moving away from home, some experts estimate that the 18-24 demographic may spend a whopping 30% of their income on debt payments. Add a few kids to the mix, and the older demographics aren't much better off.

How do you avoid bankruptcy, pay your debts, and still manage to enjoy life a little?

1. Reduce your interest payments

Call your credit companies and ask for a break on their interest rates. If you have cards that collect points, you can usually request to switch to a better rate instead of receiving rewards. You could go from a rate of 18-28% to 10% or less, depending on how eager the credit company is to keep your business. If they are not helpful, switch to a lower interest card and transfer as many of your other balances as you can.

2. Consolidate your debt

If you have multiple loans, ask your bank for a consolidated loan. This will lump all your small payments into one larger payment and give you a set payment each month which will help you budget. You may find credit unions have even better rates than big banks, but you may need to be a member of a specific group to qualify (e.g. military, religious affiliation, etc.).

3. Make a payment plan

Collect all your credit bills and note the minimum payments on each. Take the smallest loan (not smallest interest rate) and plan to double the minimum payment (make only the minimum payments on the other bills). When that debt is paid off, take the amount you were paying on that loan and add it to the minimum payment of the second smallest debt. When that is also satisfied, take the total to the next smallest, and continue until you are applying all the previous payments to the last loan. This way you are always paying the same amount each month and can budget better.

4. Pay yourself

Sounds crazy when you're strapped for cash as it is, but you'd be surprised how easily you can go from zero to a decent sized nest egg with very little sacrifice. Commit to an affordable amount that you will save every month. Set up an automatic withdrawal with your bank and have the funds placed in an interest-bearing savings account. This is your rainy day fund, so don't lock it into something you can't access but make sure you are getting the best rate your bank can offer. You want this rainy day fund to be approximately 3 months of living expenses in case of illness or unemployment. Once you've filled your rainy day fund, continue to pay the same amount (or more) into a guaranteed investment or mutual fund (e.g. 401K in US, RRSP in Canada). Find out if your employer offers incentives for retirement savings.

Some people say that you should save for retirement right away, but I have always believed that having a healthy balance in an account locked away for 40 years from now won't help you next week unless you are willing to pay the penalty for early withdrawal (which negates the investment, now doesn't it?). Make a firm commitment to start on the retirement fund as soon as your immediate need has been filled.

5. Budget!

Without a realistic budget, all the tips I've mentioned above will be stopgap measures at best. Let out your inner control freak and get down to the nitty gritty.

Start by tracking your expenses over a three month period. If you've kept your receipts or have itemized bank statements you can backtrack your spending, but if not start tomorrow. Break your expenses into defined categories: rent/mortgage & utilities, groceries & household supplies, entertainment, clothes & beauty products, vehicle expenses (including insurance and maintenance), gifts (e.g. birthdays, holidays), debt payments, etc.

Once you have 3 months worth of data, figure out your average monthly costs in each category. Identify non-critical expenses and make plans to reduce them. Don't eliminate all your frills, because it will only work for a few weeks and then you'll be so frustrated that you'll rebound with a spending orgy. For example: don't order take-out but cook instead, only buy clothes you actually need, create weekly menus to make grocery shopping more efficient, and try to drive less often.

Set limits on your spending categories and stick to them - $300 for groceries and household supplies, $150 on clothing and beauty products, etc. Make the limits realistic, but also ensure that you will actually save money if you follow them. After 3 months of living by your budget, take a look at your financial status. If you see an improvement, treat yourself to an affordable reward!

Do you have a tip for controlling your debt load that you are willing to share? Please add your 2¢ in the comment section!

McD's Wants to Make You a Cappuccino

"I'll have a Big Mac, an order of Fries and a large skinny no foam latte please!"

*image credit: McDonalds

You may find yourself saying that at a golden arches drive through near you - sooner than you think! McDonalds has announced plans to introduce gourmet coffee to their offerings this year. They are taking on coffee giant Starbucks, hiring Baristas at all of their US burger chains. They've already been doing it in the UK and Canada will no doubt follow shortly.

What do you think? Would you order a latte from McDonalds?

Read more.

Top 10 Restaurant Picks for 2007

While 2007 wasn't a huge travel year for us, we did manage to visit a few cities and try some excellent food. Here's our list of the top 10 restaurant experiences we had this year:

Best Service

1. Sushi Yasuda - New York
Conveniently located a couple of blocks from Grand Central Station, this is a one of a kind sushi experience you won't want to miss. The fish is so fresh you'll have trouble eating sushi anywhere else. Try the scallops with a hint of lemon. They are absolutely delicious and melt in your mouth. Sit at the sushi bar where you can interact with your very own Chef.

What really sets Sushi Yasuda apart is the service. They treat you like royalty. You never have to pull out your own chair, wipe up your own dribblings or ever ask to have your water glass refilled. Your server stands behind you and zips in and out cleaning up that blob of rice you just dropped or that dribble of soy sauce with an "excuse me!" each time - yet they do it in such a way you won't find it annoying in the least. We spent about $130, $30 of which was tip. Yes, it was that good.

sushiyasuda.com


Best Food

2. Le Select Bistro - Toronto
This is one of our all time favorite restaurants. Le Select is a truly authentic French bistro with beautiful decor, savory food and an extensive wine collection. You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu and we have consistently had excellent service on every visit. You can order a la carte or enjoy their prix fixe menu for $30 a person, which includes soup or salad, main course and desert.

Come here when you are missing Paris.

leselect.com

3. The Boiler House - Toronto
Located in the heart of the historic Distillery District, here you will discover a beautiful brick and beam restaurant with lofty ceilings, live music on the weekends, mouth watering food and fantastic service. This is the ideal spot for a romantic date or to bring a group of friends who appreciate fine food. You should budget about $150 - $200 for 2 three course meals with wine and espresso.

boilerhouse.ca


Best Vibe

4. 107 Fourth Avenue Wine Bar & Cafe - Ottawa
Located in the Glebe in an old house, it is both intimate and lively with some private nooks as well as more open areas. Come with good friends and share a glass or several of their fantastic wines - many of which you can't get at the LCBO. They also serve food and desert. We only tried the chocolate cheese cake (superb!) but our friends had a thin crust tomato basil pizza and bread with olive oil and balsamic. We shared several bottles of wine between 6 of us, each better than the next!

We capped the night off with a perfect shot of espresso. Espresso aficionados take note, they have done it right: the espresso is a cup of rich velvety European goodness. This is rare.

107fourthavenue.com


Best Value

5. Seoul City Restaurant - Toronto
Seoul City is a little gem on Queen Street W that has been open for about a year. We've been here twice and it is amazing. The ambiance is really nice, excellent service and the food is fantastic and well priced.

You must try the carpaccio with pear, the spicy crab cakes and the beef ribs. The last time we were here we came with 4 people and the bill was $140, which included several drinks, appetizers, 4 mains and 3 chocolate cakes for desert. I don't know any other restaurant in Toronto where you can get this kind of food and service for that kind of price.

Seoulcityrestaurant.com


Best Presentation

6. Wasabi - Winnipeg
Wasabi is a really great sushi spot in the 'Peg. Since we have family there who happen to cook exceptionally well, we rarely go out to eat. But when we do, it's always Wasabi. They have two locations. The one we go to is in an old house that has been converted into a restaurant. It has a really great atmosphere and on the top level you can sit on the floor in traditional Japanese style. Try the Chef's menu and sample everything! Your senses will not be disappointed as presentation and flavor are their specialties.

7. Blow Fish - Toronto
Blow Fish falls under the "pricey but worth it" category. Located on the trendy King West strip in an old bank converted into a restaurant, they serve up taste style and ambiance. The food is beautifully presented so it is almost as fun to look at as it is to eat. Try the blowfish giant ebi shooter for a truly unique visual and taste experience. Portions are small but decadent.

Budget about $150 - $180 for two people or if that is too steep, grab a seat at the bar for a cocktail and enjoy the tunes from their live DJ.

blowfishrestaurant.com


Best Lunch on The Go

8. Sandwich Box - Toronto
Healthy gourmet sandwiches at Subway prices. You can either select a recommended sandwich or you can make your own. They have the most delicious bread selection. Try their Rosemary Focaccia with grilled vegetables and asiago cheese or load up at their extensive salad bar. Every sandwich comes with a plain side salad and it is all packed away in cute little white boxes that you can eat out of.

Sandwichbox.ca

Best Cafe

9. B Espresso Bar - Toronto
This authentic Italian cafe makes the smoothest, creamiest lattes in town. Each one comes out with a swirly decoration in the foam. Bar Manager, Alessandro loves to greet his female customers with a boisterous "Ciao Bella!" and a kiss.

During the World Cup the small cafe is packed with people in business suits cheering and shouting at the large flat screen tv. The gourmet selection for lunch is well worth the price and they often have delicious pasta specials you won't want to miss. Want a glass of wine with lunch? No problem. They have a decent wine selection and are also open on Thursday nights for Italian Cocktails Night. You will love the decor, the service and pretty much everything about this place.

bespressobar.com


Best Brunch

10. Xacutti - Toronto
Xacutti is an Indian restaurant by night and a hot brunch spot weekend mornings. The modern decor and loungy music paired with the generous gourmet selection attract Hipsters by the line-ups. Try the banana macadamia nut flap jacks with brown sugar butter and a glass of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. If you prefer savory, the croissant over stuffed with spicy scrambled eggs and smoked salmon is a great bet. Expect to spend about $40 for two people. Go early as they don't take reservations for Brunch.

Xacutti.com

The Top 5 Songs to Sing Along to When You're by Yourself

Sing like no one's listening...

We all do this. Alone in the car, at home or wherever you are when that amazing must-sing-along song comes on. And you do so. With abandon. You would die of embarrassment if anyone could hear you.

2007 has been a great year of along-singing at ChickAdvisor H.Q. So I've compiled a short list of the top 5 songs you can sing along to with feeling.


1. Hurt (Christina Aguilera)
The music is so beautiful you’ll be tempted to start oooing during the intro before the lyrics begin but try to hold back and use that moment to really prepare. Afterall, you’ll be singing with Christina Aguilera and that is no easy feat.

Your big moment:
“I would hold you in my arms, I would take the pain away. Thank you for all you’ve done. Forgive all your mistaaakes. Ooooh I’m sorry for. Blaming you. For everything I just couldn’t do. And I’ve hurt myself by hurting you….”


2. Porcelain Doll (Megan McCauley)
Sing this when you feel people don't realize how truly beautiful yet fragile you are. It will make you feel loads better.

Your big moment:
“Why doesn’t anyone stay here why do they leave meee-e? Don’t they realize I’m a Porcelain Doll? Small and sure, beautiful, breakable.”

There’s another great part after that about her being beautiful and demure but we recommend you stick to the oohs and ahs for this part as the lyrics are really hard to understand.


3. White Flag (Dido)
Sing this for the one that got away. Sing this because it's such a damn good song.

Your big moment:
“I will go down with this ship. I won’t put my hands up and surrender. There will be no white flag above my door. I’m in love and always will be." Repeat x3



4. A Song for You (Celine Dion)
This is great inspiration for you would be songwriters out there who feel passionately in love yet can't put it into words. Take a note from Celine Dion. The lyrics don't necessarily need to make sense.

Your big moment:

“Then I hope you’ll understaaaand once you’ve listened to the end...

(pause for the violin solo and to wipe away a tear or two )

Heard the music in my head so before I could forget. I start singing, ya I was singing thiiiiissong foooor yoouuuuu. I just made up the words….. Na na na na hoo oo ooyeaaaa…”


5. Goodbye My Lover (James Blunt)
This is the perfect closed eye singing song. It's really repetitive and he sings high enough that you won’t have to go up an octave but not so high the dog sings along. Throw your head back and really get into it. Think of all your past loves but imagine them better than they were. Helps with the drama.

Your big moment:
“Goodbye my lover, good bye my friend. You have been the one, you have been the one for me. Goodbye my lover goodbye my friend you have been the one, you have been the one for me. I’m so hollow bayba, I’m so hollow I’m so I’m so I’m so I’m so hollow….”


Honorable mentions:

Every time (Britney Spears)
I know you have this song. I know you want to sing it.

Alone (Celine Dion)
Some great angry air synthesizer solo moments here.

I Get Along Without You (Diana Panton)
You need to have a lot of patience to sing this song or at least a jazzy background. You’ll find that jazz singers have their own tempos and don’t like to follow the accompaniment, but a lovely song nonetheless.

Meet The Pros

While there is nothing better than good advice shared between friends, sometimes you need to bring in an expert to answer your burning questions.

Need help shedding the last five pounds? Want to banish the appearance of cellulite this summer?

Fitness expert Marc Laverdure from Doctorworkout.com can help!

A longtime fitness and health activist, Marc is the founder of successful online personal training website, DoctorWorkout.com. His work is regularly featured in Wish Magazine.

Marc has worked with all skill levels from professional athletes to beginners. He teaches his clients how to improve their overall physical health through exercise, guiding them through weight loss, muscle tone, aerobic endurance and sport-specific training.

He provides advice on a wide range of topics from diet and nutrition, to post-injury and even post-natal workouts. He takes pride in designing exercise programs that are specific to the needs of the individual THAT ACTUALLY WORK!

Most importantly, he provides his clients with the confidence and professional support they need to see positive end results.

Need beauty tips? Wondering which products are worth the splurge?

Look no further than Lipstick Powder 'n Paint's, Ellen Mirza on the hottest new beauty products and tips.

Ellen is a freelance beauty writer living in Bloor West Village, Toronto with her husband and two pug puppies. She is the founder of popular beauty blog, Lipstick Powder 'n Paint and has been published in a variety of national publications. Ellen provides a light-hearted approach to news and advice on skin care, make-up, hair care, bath and body and fragrance products.

The 36-year-old Torontonian grew up in London, England, lived and worked in Sydney, Australia and then emigrated in '95 to Vancouver, British Columbia. With the huge success of the beauty blog and her freelance writing career, Ellen decided in May 2007, to make the move to Toronto and be in the heart of the Canadian beauty industry.

Ellen holds a Degree in Design from NESCOT in London and a Marketing Diploma from BCIT in Vancouver.

Clueless when it comes to applying your makeup? Is mascara and lip gloss the most you can muster?

Makeup Junkie’s, Joy David-Tillberg has you covered.

Joy is a certified makeup junkie, professional freelance makeup artist, and beauty writer based in Toronto. She is the founder of MakeupJunkie.ca where she shares step by step tips on makeup application for all ethnicities and skin types. Some of her work has landed in the pages of Flare and Fashion magazine, ChickAdvisor.com and Slice.ca.

Joy covers the beauty scene at fashion events in Toronto including L'Oreal Fashion Week. As a makeup artist, Joy specializes in print, runway, television, and weddings. One of her goals is to try every makeup brand possible and she says she is well on her way there!

Whether it's applying false eyelashes or covering a zit, if you are in a beauty 911 crisis, Joy has your back.

To send a question to our experts, email us and we'll feature the best ones. Watch the blog for tips, tricks and answers to your questions.

Toronto: Win Free Tickets to The Wedding Show!

The Wedding Show: January 11 - 13

The Wedding Show at the Carlu is the premiere wedding event of the year. Now in it's 7th year, The Wedding Show's hand picked professionals will guide you, inspire you, and make the process of planning your wedding enjoyable and fun. Their stylish and intimate setting at the Carlu make The Wedding Show the ideal place to start or finish creating your perfect day.

Win 4 FREE TICKETS!
The Wedding Show is giving away 2 pairs of tickets to ChickAdvisor members right now! All you have to do to enter is tell us your proposal story. How did he pop the question? Was it a complete surprise or did you see it coming from a mile away? Email us your story or share it in our forums this week.

Winners will be announced Wednesday January 9th.

The Highlights
Oyster shucking with Celebrity Chef Jamie Kennedy Friday night from 6-7:30
The best in the industry- Meet the top 100 wedding professionals
Sweet treats, favours and more- Indulge at The Wedding Co. candy store
Your name in ink- On site calligraphy by Claire Reyes
Saturday decorate your own favours- hands-on demonstration by Bonnie Gordon
Take home a bag full of Wedding Co. ideas, contacts and your copy of Wedlux Magazine.

Dates And Times
Friday January 11 5-9
Saturday January 12 10-6
Sunday January 13 10-5

Tickets
$20 at the door, or reserve yours online at ticketweb.ca.
Hint: Sign up for the wedding co's weekly newsletter and get $3 off your ticket!

For more information please contact Catherine Lash at The Wedding Co. 416.597.0143 info@theweddingco.com
www.theweddingco.com

Happy New Year!

What's better than an old Abba video to ring in the New Year with cheer?

Enjoy the 80's cheese.

My New Year's Resolutions

I have always loved New Year's resolutions. Especially because they can be phrased so vaguely, like:

1. Lose weight - no mention of how much or when this is supposed to take place. So for example, if I lose 5 pounds in January and then do nothing all year it would still fulfill my resolution.

2. Reduce debt - does switching balances over to lower interest credit cards count?

3. Be more charitable - unloading a box of clothes I don't like anymore at Goodwill is still charity, right?

The experts say we should be more focused on small, realistic goals that we will stick to through the year and hopefully beyond. They also recommend that we tell someone our goals so that they will hold us accountable. Today my friends, I'm telling you my ten New Year's resolutions.

1. I will not roll my eyes at unsolicited advice, but instead look for the grains of truth. I can think of a few relatives that will be happy to hear this.

2. I will not be suckered into any large purchases, even the ones where I Do Not Pay Until 2012. If I can't afford them now, how will I be able to pay it off when my kids are teenagers?

3. I will stop losing keep working on not losing my temper. Which leads to...

4. I will drive on the interstate less often, and avoid rush hour at all costs.

5. I will improve my eating habits. However, I will also stop worrying about whether I should take that second piece of birthday cake. Celebratory calories don't count anyway.

6. I will take a greater interest in world events. When surfing msn.com, for example, I will at least skim through the news headlines before scrolling down to the entertainment gossip.

7. I will learn to accept compliments graciously.

8. I will stop worrying about the gradual effects of age. That's what Clairol and a great pair of jeans are for.

9. I will focus on spiritual growth rather than financial gain.

10. I will really really try to keep at least one of these resolutions.

That's for 2008. For tonight, I resolve to sit in my hot tub, drink champagne and eat the rest of the Christmas chocolate with my husband, ringing in the new year quietly and without a lot of fuss. Because my real New Year's resolution is to enjoy life more, and there's no better time to start than right now.

Happy New Year!