Free Rice: Free Intelligence Test

I'm 100% hooked on Free Rice, a remarkably addicting online game that strengthens your vocabulary, while feeding the hungry.

Here's how it works: For every word you correctly define, you send 20 grains of rice to hungry people around the world. If you're like me and spend hours on the site "trying" to get smart(er), you'll see your numbers skyrocket.

Give it a shot. At the very least, you'll have a new procrastination tool at work.

Campaign for B-I-N-G-O in '08

Call me crazy (again), but I'm campaigning for a Bingo comeback. This set from Restoration Hardware brings a level of sophistication to a game that some (not all) think is boring and for old people. But I stand behind this timeless game and ask all of you for your support in '08.

Who's with me???

It's About Time

My all-time favorite restaurant in the city - Bandera - could easily be a tourist trap, but it's actually a wonderful departure from the crowds along Michigan Avenue. Hands down, I've frequented this cozy spot more often than any other restaurant.

If you want to look like a regular, request a window seat after 7 p.m. near the live trio jazz band and order the skillet cornbread with the Macho Salad as your entrée.

A Jewel in West Town

Words can't express how much I love West Town Tavern's food, atmosphere and wine selection.

Next time the parents or friends are in town, check out this West Town jewel and try the grilled pork tenderloin with squash, leeks, bacon and an apple - Riesling sauce. Yum, yum, yum.

Spring Fashion Fever

I must have Spring Fashion Fever, because I'm drawn to everything that's inappropriate for the current weather conditions. Once again, these peep-toe pumps from Frye are just-right...once the temperature hits 60 degrees...in March (I hope).

You Had Me at Pockets

Since it's 30 degrees in Chicago, it's a little early for this Diane von Furstenberg dress, but I think it deserves some preseason attention. I love the color, pleating and of course, the pockets.

Now This is a Leather Jacket

Due to distant memories of bomber jackets with maps inside, I normally shy away from leather jackets, but this fabulous frock from Hayden-Harnett is an exception to that rule.

Feathers and Robins and Coral, Oh My!

Back on the prowl for my apartment, Thomas Paul pillows are my latest find for those stylish finishing touches.

Have a Green Holiday

It seems everything is going green this year and with this heighten way of thinking comes creativity from the best in class. The holiday windows at Barney's are no exception, where you'll find Rudolph the Recycling Reindeer, a display designed by Creative Director Simon Doonan that’s made entirely out of recycled cans.

Manners in a Minute, Just in Time for Holiday Party Madness

Social anxiety got you down this jolly season? Dreading the endless holiday parties with friends, acquaintances and/or strangers? Never fear, Domino magazine has put together this handy "Manners in a Minute" video to calm your nerves and ensure you handle every situation with class...and grace.

Frosty Cold Brewskies, Delivered Fresh, By You

For the guy who has everything and loves to tailgate, the Motorized Cooler from Hammacher Schlemmer is the only gift they need this holiday season. And with a top speed of 14 m.p.h, no party is too far for hauling beer.

Pocket Full of Sunshine Sample

In case you missed The Hills (so called) finale last night, the best thing that came out of the show was definitely Natasha Bedingfield's new song, "Pocket Full of Sunshine." It looks like the album is being released on January 22, so in the meantime, please enjoy the full version, as well as a quick sample of my new favorite song. Pocket Full of Sunshine Pocket Full of Sunshine Pocket Full of Sunshine Pocket Full of Sunshine Lyrics lyrics pocket full of sunshine lyrics

Bringing Back the Stash

The moment my good friend in NYC rocked a mustache last year, I knew they'd be hot (in time). And as today's RedEye reports, it's the "Return of the Mustache" in Hollywood. So men, throw away your razor, cause this trend will hit Chicago in about a year. (Just enough time to grow out that stubble). If you're a faster grower, Chicago's Mustaches for Kids Stash Bash is Monday, Dec. 17 and benefits the Off the Street Club. See you there?


Thanks to the American Mustache Institute for the lovely images.

Now This is How to Spoil Your Pooch

If I had a dog, I can assure you I would never paint the poor thing's nails, but I had to share the latest extension of the Juicy Couture brand - Pooch care and this "Juicy Crittoure" Polished Paws Brown Nail Polish. Another pampering option - Pawtection - Softening Paw Balm.

Me, Myself & I

Green and all about me! I love this Henri Bendel notebook in metallic green.

D&G Masterpiece

I'm digging the new Dolce & Gabbana Jewels ad. The song is fierce and the models are well, hot, of course.

Wrap in Style

Looking for a unique way to wrap my Christmas presents this year? Check out this super cool wrapping paper from Happy Merry Whatever. This aluminum foil option is cheap/chic all wrapped up in one. Dang that was good...

Glide-On Lip Color

I'm heading to Sephora TODAY to pick up NARS' silky smooth Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Marina. Let's just hope it's at Sephora, cause it's too cold to be running around looking for lipstick.

Fabulously Stunning Coat

How stunning is this Erin Fetherston coat? Really, how cute would it be for all of my holiday party grand entrances?

Bringing Sassy Back

I know anklets are typically reserved for strippers and the occasional high-class prostitute, but for some reason, I've ALWAYS wanted to wear one (and well). And no, I'm not talking about anything like this snazzy cell phone holster. Something subtle, sophisticated and sexy, which after a few too many minutes searching online, believe does not exist.

In case you didn't know I was a nerd...

If you've played it once with me, you've played it 100 times (sometimes for fear of your life). I'm such a nerd, I know, but I love the board/card game, Sequence. It really is an exciting game of strategy!