Card Tricks

They say business cards are a pure and simple reflection of an individual's character. If that was the case, what would yours say about you? (Keep in mind that "they" also say the same thing about cars and pets)

5 Friends You Don't Need...

CNN's Judy McGuire wrote an article entitled "5 Friends You Don't Need in Your Life" and it hit home to me especially in these last few months where I have been (kindly) editing my list of friends. The excerpt below describes the typical prototypes one should avoid. To read the entire article, visit http://www.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/10/24/tf.five.friends/index.html.

"Drama Queen
The Drama Queen isn't happy (and "happy" is a relative term here) unless she's freaking out. Little things us boring normals would shrug off -- like a missed bus or parking ticket -- become monumental shriekfests. She doesn't get the flu, she gets oh-my-god-I-think-it's-cancer! Everything is a crisis, and she demands constant handholding and attention.

Nurse Betty
There is nothing that makes this one as happy as a friend in need. This may seem like a good quality (and often is -- for a while), but once you've got your butt back in gear, she either loses interest or, worse, reminds you constantly of how bad things once were, in the hopes that you'll fall back into feeling like crap so she can "save" you again.

The Lady-Hater
"I don't have female friends because all the women I meet are jealous of me." Yes, someone actually said this to me. Instead, this person prefers her friends to be of the male variety -- ideally hopelessly in love with her and willing to do her bidding.

The Critic
Also known as the frenemy, the critic is chockfull of helpful suggestions. For instance, you know your favorite dress? Well, it makes you look kind of fat. No offense. Speaking of which -- have you gained a little weight? Or are you pregnant? Are you sure? Well, never mind, you can have some of her old "fat" clothes since she has no use for them anymore.

The Leg Humper
Do you know what it's like to walk into a bar and find one of your closest friends making out with the guy you've had a crush on for an entire year? I do! Granted, that's nowhere near as bad as my friend Melissa who discovered her husband was schtupping her BFF, but still. It stung. And sure, nobody forced Melissa's husband to be a cheating jerk, but a good girlfriend never would've gone there with him.
You'll know when you're in the presence of one of these bottom-feeders by the way you become invisible the second there's a guy in the vicinity."

Quelqu'un M'a Dit

Give a Little, Get a Lot

Since moving back to Houston, I have constantly been trying to get more involved with local charity and philanthropy projects supporting women and children as I no longer have the luxury of being surrounded by an active college fueled lifestyle. I recently ran across an international organization, Women for Women which “mobilizes women to change their lives through a holistic approach that addresses the unique needs of women in conflict and post-conflict environments.”

Sponsors are able to contribute to an interesting sponsorship program which covers financial benefits aiding in small business loans (microcredit lending) where these women are able to assume leadership positions in villages, participate in reconstruction of communities, train other women and become universal role models. Sponsors also exchange letters with women so a really personal bond is created which provides amazing emotional benefits to the women (and you) also. It might not be local, but it is definitely a small step to take with a massive impact. See (www.womenforwomen.org) for more information.

All That Glitters...

In the words of Rachel Zoe, "I lit-rally love me a metallic." Blazer is Rag & Bone, dress is Dennis Basso Spring 2010 Collection debuted in Paris Fashion Week recently. Will DIE to have either in my bursting closet collection.

Kid Friendly, Mother Approved

Celeb endorsed jewelry typically makes one think of the customary Fred Leighton, Bvulgari, Cartier trimmings, not usually cute kitschy Hello Kitty and Wizard of Oz adorned beaded jewels. Tarina Tarantino is changing all that with her contemporary line of accessories ranging in price from $30 bucks a pop and up. Noteworthy clients include Katy Perry, Cameron Diaz and Paris Hilton (who is perhaps not so noteworthy). Her collection changes every few seasons but maintains best sellers like her profile enamel rings and glittering charm earrings along with a few outlandish yet incredible impressive baubles. Visit www.tarinatarantino.com to get your shop on.

A Love Story?

All of you pseudo conservative nuts say what you want about Michael Moore and what is so kindly referred to as his “disgusting socialist outlook on American culture and life”, but you have to admit his work inspires an intellectual thought progression that is often lost on society today. His new film, Capitalism: A Love Story examines the “disastrous impact of corporate dominance on the everyday lives of Americans (and by default, the rest of the world).” I think that although many people may not agree 100% with Moore’s views, this film is exploring the foundation of the recession that our country is currently attempting to pull itself out of. Therefore, regardless of the politics that clearly surround the economic situation, the public should learn as much as we can even if it comes from a source that is not exactly considered America’s sweetheart. Visit http://www.capitalismalovestory.com/ for more info.