Organic Housekeeping

I received this book as a bridal shower gift, but really started to use it when we moved this summer. Once my cleaning supplies run out, I've agreed to replace each one with a healthier, green version. This book does a great job of showing you how virtually every surface in your house can be cleaned with materials you already have in your pantry (i.e. baking soda and vinegar compose about 90% of the cleaning materials). Therefore, you don't really need to make room for 12 different cleaners. Besides the basic cleaning, so far I've cleaned my coffee pot and my dishwasher--not bad.

Foundation brush

For a long time, I thought foundation brushes were just for women who shellacked lots of foundation and crazy crayon makeup all over their faces religiously. However, in the few times I've had my makeup done professionally, each time the artist has used one. I've been told that the special bristles help spread the makeup evenly, and also, as with all makeup, make it look like you're not wearing any makeup at all. This one from MAC is really nice because the center is angled, allowing you to get into little areas on your face. I however, haven't yet brought myself into debt to purchase an entire set of professional makeup brushes (yikes--their duster brush is $45), but this one from Sonia Kushuk is really nice--I use it to put concealer under my eyes--my #1 makeup must-have.

Garden Claw Gold Cultivator

We planted some shrubs in front of the house last week and my mom lent me this. It's really great because it tills the soil, is easy on your back (you can stand upright and use it), and it really helps you dig up some massive stuff.

Born shoes

I wanted a really good pair of shoes for all of the walking I'll be doing on my trip, but they had to be cute as well. I have already been to Europe in the non-cute, overly functional phase (i.e. hiking boots to EVERY occasion) and I promised myself that style mishaps would't happen again. I found shoes just like this style for a great deal at DSW for about half the price. They had them in brown, too. The lining has breathable leather with little holes and good arch support. Feels like I'm wearing slippers. Good grippers on the soles.

Travel blanket/pillow

Liz got me this for my birthday/trip to Ireland and I can't wait to use it! It's a pillow and when you unzip it, a blanket awaits you inside. Plus, it's really fuzzy and soft, and you don't have to share it with other airplane travelers (ew). Patina always has great gifts; thanks Liz!

Aveda nourish-mint smoothing lip color

Give me most skin/cosmetic products from your average discount store, and I'll be allergic to them. This history runs deep, as I've had a dermatologist in my life since the ripe age of 6 mos. I consider Aveda a little piece of heaven. Their hair products (esp. their shampoo) is phenomenal. But lipstick is even more of a treasure--as just like my mom--I can't wear almost any kind of lipstick. It's got SPF and mint in it, which gives you just a little tingle. $14 / 21 colors. Also comes in sheer.

Martha Stewart pom-poms

For anyone who wouldn't make a craft to begin with, perhaps you should just ignore this post. However, I spied these at Michael's a few months ago, and I think they are the epitome of whimsy. I wish I had known about these when I had my wedding, because they would have made a great addition to the colored lanterns that were hung from the ceiling. A pack of 8 pom-poms is $20, which includes the wires, tissue and template. A lot of the how-tos are right on MS's website. These would also be great for a bridal/baby shower; one woman wrote that she hung them above her baby's crib (watch out for falling paper, however). There are also tissue paper flowers (which are really lovely and not high school dance-ish) ($20/27); and party favor boxes with flowers ($10/8). Perfect for spring/summer inspiration!