Perhaps I’m just on a Calvin Klein kick these last few days, but I love this  Calvin Klein Jeans Burnout Floral Tee.  The shade of blue is almost universally flattering, and the combination of the v-neck and the scattered graphics makes it a little preppy and clean cut while still looking really casual and laid-back.  At $45, it’s also fairly reasonable for a shirt you could wear frequently for relaxation, shopping, running errands, or working out.

Calvin Klein Jeans Burnout Floral Tee
A slim-fitting tee with unique burnout floral scroll print, from Calvin Klein Jeans

At any given time, I have at least 3-4 boxes of brownie mixes in my pantry.  I’ve also been known to make them from scratch once in a while, but I don’t have the kind of time 50s housewives had so that isn’t exactly a regular occurrence.  I love plain brownies, frosted brownies, Funfetti Brownies, and even cheesecake brownies (on occasion), so you can probably guess how thrilled I was to see a pan just for brownies.

The Baker’s Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan capitalizes on something all true brownie lovers know - the best part of the brownie is the edge.  Baked properly, the edge of the brownie is just a little bit more firm than the rest, but every bit as flavorful.  Even better, it has a satisfying “bite” and perhaps just a hint of a butter taste, if that’s how you greased the pan.  At $34.95, the Baker’s Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan is a brownie bargain.

It’s amazing how much of a difference a good set of bedding can make.  I used to pay very little attention to my bedding, opting for whatever was cheap and comfortable.  In the last few years, though, I’ve accumulated a few nice sets, and I switch them in an out with the seasons and my moods.

The result?  A more relaxed (or energy-inspiring) bedroom based on what I want at the time.  I love this Acacia Bedding Set from Calvin Klein Home, as it would be a perfect relaxed, autumn sort of set.  Although it’s a little high (not a surprise, coming from Calvin Klein), it looks amazingly soft and luxurious.

Calvin Klein Home “Acacia” Comforter, King Bedding
A tranquil fern pattern in plum and pewter brings a sophisticated natural touch to this comforter. Made of vat-dyed Italian cotton and easily reversible to fit any slumbering mood.

I’m not usually a big fan of Coach products. I’m all for buying quality products and paying a bit more, but I don’t feel the need to advertise that all over my body. I often like the pieces that aren’t logo-crazy, but I’ve just gotten a little tired of seeing Coach logos everywhere.

That said, I’m a little embarrassed at the fact that I like these Coach Kyrie Logo Signature Tennis Shoes. They’re $85-90, so they’re really not *too* unreasonable, and I love the fact that they make your feet look smaller. They’d be perfect for casual wear with almost anything, so you’d definitely get your money’s worth.

I love ocean-inspired and nautical decor, so I was really excited to see this collection of housewares from Michael Aram.  They’re contemporary and bright, but they retain a lot of personality (as opposed to a more stark and modern look).  The only downside is the price, as some of the pieces are a little expensive - but I guess they’d make good gifts or splurges.

I’ve included several pieces from the collection below, but I especially love the salad servers and the candle holder.

Michael Aram “Coral Reef” Salad Servers
Connected with purity, protection and serenity, deep-sea coral has always fascinated. Hand-sculpted by Michael Aram, this set of two servers captures the ravishing color and intricate texture of the one-of-a-kind creature. Each measures 12″ long.

Michael Aram “Coral Reef” Bowl, 9″
Connected with purity, protection and serenity, deep-sea coral has always fascinated. Featuring a hand-sculpted coral base and detachable bowl, this magnificent bowl captures the ravishing color and intricate texture of the one-of-a-kind creature. Coordinate with other Coral Reef giftware from Michael Aram.

Michael Aram “Coral Reef” Candle Holder
Connected with purity, protection and serenity, deep-sea coral has always fascinated. This magnificent hand-sculpted candleholder by Michael Aram adds lush dimension to any setting. Holds three candles. Measures 14.25″ tall.

Michael Aram “Coral Reef” Nut Bowl
Connected with purity, protection and serenity, deep-sea coral has always fascinated. Featuring a hand-sculpted coral base and detachable bowl, this magnificent bowl captures the ravishing color and intricate texture of the one-of-a-kind creature. Coordinate with other Coral Reef giftware from Michael Aram.

Michael Aram “Coral Reef” Bowl, 6.5″
Connected with purity, protection and serenity, deep-sea coral has always fascinated. Featuring a hand-sculpted coral base and detachable bowl, this magnificent bowl captures the ravishing color and intricate texture of the one-of-a-kind creature. Coordinate with other Coral Reef giftware from Michael Aram.

When I was in junior high, I knew a girl who lived in an incredibly strange house with shag carpeting (I should note that I went to junior high in the 1990s, not the 1970s).  It was actually a really nice place, just a little odd - and I loved it.  I immediately went home and told my parents that we should get tall shag carpeting throughout the house, much to their horror.

I still love shag carpeting, but for now I’m content to buy a Black Fleece Shag Area Rug.  I doubt my landlord would appreciate it if I remodeled.  I have a black one that’s very similar to the one below, and it looks great in the theater room.  Of course, they also have a lot of happier colors, and they’re all just $30 (which means you won’t feel bad tossing it when you move/redecorate/get married to someone who hates it).

RENUE RUG 40X60″: Black

Just click the pictures to check out the  blue, multi-color, pink, green, or purple rugs:

If a person was so inclined, he or she could read a new business book every day, never leaving enough time to get around to actually doing business. Sadly, I know a few people who do that, and every time I talk to them, they ask me why they never get promoted, even though they work so hard…but that’s another story for another time.

I try to limit myself to one business book every month or two, and right now, I’m working on Personality Not Included: Why Companies Lose Their Authenticity And How Great Brands Get it Back.  The title is kind of a mouthful, but so far, I’m thoroughly impressed by the book.  Although it is a business-specific book, there’s actually a lot of psychology included, so it’s actually an interesting read for almost anyone.  If nothing else, it will give you some insight into the types of things companies do to win your business and attention.

I’ll admit that I initially picked it because I loved the cover art (what can I say, I’m a sucker for chickens), but I’m actually really glad that I did.

 I don’t wear a ton of jewelry, but when I do, I require it to be exceptional.  This contemporary Silver Bubble Ring from Palm Beach Jewelry certainly fits the bill.  It reminds me of a cross between a piece I once saw in Cartier and…Medusa’s snake hair.  That may not sound all that great, but I think the overall effect is quite stunning.   Best of all, the Silver Bubble Ring is sleek enough that you can get away with wearing it with almost anything you own.

Silver Bubble Ring
Price: $69.99

I’m not sure that I’d ever really *need* a Temperature Controlled LED Shower Light, but it certainly does look cool…right?   Just imagine the surprise of a date or houseguest who happens upon your club-worthy shower.  You could add one of those waterproof mp3 players and a little techno, and it would be just like that post-college trip you took to Ibiza, minus the fantastic beaches, handsome Spanish men, and amazing food.

Actually, there’s a very practical use to this LED shower light, especially for the very old and very young.  After you reach a certain temperature, the color shifts from blue to red, letting people know when it’s okay to step in without a major temperature shock.

Temperature Controlled Shower Light
Price: $44.95
First there was the awesome Faucet Light and now now there is the brilliant LED shower light.The LED Shower Light will make for a unique showering experience for guests and for kids. The light will go from Bright Blue to Fire Red when the water hits the temperature (89 Deg. F/ 32 Deg. Celsius).  Easy to install. Fits most showerheads.  No batteries or external power source. Water flow generates the light stream.

I can’t remember the last time I wore a pair of patent leather Mary Janes, but this pair of Red Mary Janes from Bandolino is just adorable. They’d look great with a pair of bootcut jeans and a nice top, or you could put together a cute retro look with black and white pieces paired with the bright red shoes.

Just skip the ruffly white socks this time around. Red patent leather flats are great, but you’re not 4 anymore.

Bandolino “Daymn” Red Mary Jane Flat Women’s Shoes
These red patent leather Mary Janes from Bandolino have a sporty look that’s perfect for days when you’re on the go.

Not crazy about those?  Check out some of these other Mary Janes:

Palladium Women’s Palau Mary Jane
Price: $78.95
Tropical paradises await when you slip on this enchanting Mary Jane Leather upper Leather lining Removable cushioned insole Rubber sole.

Draven Women’s Dainty Jane Mary Jane
Price: $32.95
Exquisite chrome skull embellishment provides subtle flair on this trend-setting Mary Jane. Polyurethane upper with custom floral corduroy detail.  Adjustable buckle closure.

Converse Women’s “Deluxe” Mary Jane Sneaker Women’s Shoes
The perfect blend of schoolgirl style and sporty attitude in one pair of casual flats.

Joie Shoes Sweet Pea Mary Jane Ballet Flat
Price: $73.5
An inspired take on the sweet Mary Jane style, courtesy of Joie. Distressed canvas flat with rounded toe and buckle closure at Mary Jane strap. Leather sole. Made in Italy. Sizing conversion: 35=5, 36=6, 36.5=6.5, 37=7, 37.5=7.5, 38=8, 38.5=8.5, 39=9, 39.5=9.5, 40=10 - Berry

Women’s Sienna Mary Jane Shoe
Price: $74.95
Designed with hidden stitches in waterproof suede and removable jute, cork, natural latex footbed.

Sugar The Mary Jane Cat in Brown Pineapple, Shoes for Women
Sugar The Mary Jane Cat in Brown Pineapple, Shoes for Women