Need some help motivating a youngster to play outside and exercise? Read Steve Ettinger’s darling picture book for children titled “Wallie Exercises.”

This book tells the story of a lazy dog that prefers staying inside and sleeping rather than playing outside (the situation sounds oh so familiar) and exploring. Wallie’s clothes begin to be too small for him because of his lazy ways (again…another great parallel). An exercising elephant helps this lazy dog get fit. This book teaches about hydration, warming up and working out.

The book ends with suggestions and fun games that Wallie did that your child can do too. The Wallie Wiggle Wag Walks and Relay Race and Silly Shark Squats are some of the exercises that your kids will love.

The writer behind this book has credentials that make it effective exercises you know are safe and legit. Steve Ettinger, the author is also a certified strength and conditioning specialist. The illustrator, Pete Proctor is a former teacher who knows what kids like to read. His adorable illustrations of the characters make this a visually stimulating book anyone can enjoy.-Amber

This book is available online at wallieexercises.com.

****DAILY DISH GIVEWAWAY***
Go to wallieexercises.com and leave us a comment on daily dish telling us the award this book received from Mom’s Choice Awards. One random selection winner will receive an autographed book.

AB Golf Designs—the market leader for attention-grabbing specialty head covers and accessories produces their new retro styled “Throwback Collection” with polyester fibers made from recycled plastic bottles that look and feel like wool (this manufacturing process helps diminish dependence on oil and minimize waste, in turn limiting toxic emissions from incinerators and reducing air, water and soil contamination.) I love a company that embraces new environmentally friendly manufacturing options. I am impressed with AB Golf Designs commitment to keep the greens—green.

This cover goes onto the club and shaft easily by expanding in the right places, yet keeping its form. Easy to get on and easy to pull off make it a critical component for me because it can be a real annoyance when you need your driver and the head cover won’t come off!

Their line is a huge hit with PGA and LPGA Tour players and a novice golfer from Salt Lake City. Me. I’m not a regular on the course, nor do I have stellar form or a swing that gets noticed, but my gear gets the attention because it is colorful and expressive.

I tested the “numero uno” driver head cover from the company’s “Bling” line. It matches my eye-catching golf bag from keri bag and looks good in the bag. The cherry-red cover is embossed with the image “1” with small diamond-looking studs. It is a bit more expensive than most head covers, but the diamond-looking embellishment makes a sassy statement for a more individualistic look on the course.-Amber

Available online here.

I was so excited to actually use my new Rosebloom Keri Sport bag by Adams Golf. It had been sitting pretty in my garage waiting for the bleak weather to turn to Spring. The one time I braved the storm and went golfing in the freezing temperatures my cute golf bag got noticed because it was a pick me up for everyone on the course. It’s cheerful fabric charmed its way to many conversations that day.

As the weather warmed up I was able to hit up the range more frequently. The comments about my cute golf bag consistently came my way. I have never heard the word “cute” uttered more from men. Now, if the men like it…women will adore it.

Women, of course know exactly what classifies something to be cute. So, what makes it so cute? The pink rosebloom print on the white bag is a unique pattern designed by Keri Murschell that you typically don’t see on a golf bag, which makes me think of my golf bag as an oversized purse. It is the perfect accessory.

Rare is it to find a golf bag that you actually want to lug around. The first chance to put the bag down is usually how it goes, but with this lightweight fashionable golf bag I wanted it strapped to me all day. The padded double-strap allowed perfect balance and prevented any one shoulder stress from overuse. It was comfortable and when I did set it down the legs easily came out each time, making it a sturdy stand bag. Only a few good bags actually stand up with ease, as you grab your club. This stand feature took no effort at all.

Behind the beauty of this bag lies a durable, functional bag that integrates pockets of every size for every purpose. This good looking get up offers plenty of storage in the sleeve and zippered pockets for all my golf gear and the 8-way full-length dividers keep my clubs nicely separated.

My favorite feature is the insulated pocket to keep beverages cold. This accommodation allows me to keep myself well hydrated so that by hole 15 I’m not lagging.

If you’re a golf pro or a novice this bag is for you. Don’t you want to hear the word cute said by men? Buy the bag and see what happens on the greens.

This bag – and other bags designed by Keri for Adams Golf – are also available in sets that include the bag, matching head covers and clubs! What’s more, is they’re available at different price points depending on the budget. Adams Golf is the market leader for women’s equipment.
-Amber

Available here or at adamsgolf.com.

We kick off our Spring Quilt Market coverage with our video interview featuring Chelsea Andersen of Pink Fig Design. You’ll also notice our Brand New Boutique Cafe Intro – we hope you LOVE IT!

Chelsea Andersen shares her “I Love Paris” fabric as well as her beautiful girl and teen clothing patterns. A big hit at Market were Chelsea’s NEW Roxy and Lola doll patterns, we can’t wait for you to see the cuteness!! Pink Fig is also offering a Free tshirt design on their blog, and a way for you to make a difference! All that and more!!

Comment in our show notes to enter to win an OUTSTANDING GIVEAWAY Package from Pink Fig Design! Watch our episode for details! Don’t forget to Comment, Tweet and Facebook share this show as well for additional entries.
We will draw the winner on June 10th, 2011!!
UPDATE!! Our Winner has been drawn randomly from all entries recieved. Congratulations to Kymmie Marriner! I have sent you details on how to collect your awesome prize!

Thanks to everyone for commenting, tweeting, Facebooking and blogging about our giveaway. We have lots more Market Swag to giveaway so keep entering.

** Click button below to view video coverage, or view it on our YouTube channel right here>>

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I am all about packing my kids a healthy lunch (or rather, giving them the tools to pack themselves a healthy lunch), but sometimes the prep work involved as far as fruits and vegetables is a bit daunting. And my kids can only eat baby carrots so many times as a side dish before they’re ready to start throwing them at me.

Thanks to Revolution Foods and their organic fruit Mashups, my kids can have a serving of fruit—and multiple fruits at that—without the washing, peeling, slicing and dicing. I know, fresh is best, but when you’re going on 5 hours of sleep a night, fresh isn’t always an option at 7am.

What are Mashups? Mashups are 100% organic fruit purees without any added sugar. They also don’t contain any trans fats, HFC or artificial ingredients. Mashups come in squeezable packs with a kid-safe, resealable cap, so they’re perfect for lunches and on-the-go snacks. Mashups are available in four flavors: Grape, Berry, Tropical and Strawberry Banana.

Revolution Foods sent us a sampling of the Mashups for the kids to try. My 13- and 11-year-olds weren’t brave enough (or cool enough) to give them a test run, but George and Livi did. Note: One of the flavors was a carrot one, which I don’t see offered on the site yet. Perhaps it will be offered soon, as these are super new! (By the way, iIt was George’s least favorite.)

Here’s what the kids thought of the Mashups. This video is one of my favorites—gotta love the honest of kids!

George actually really loved the Mashups in his oatmeal. For a few days straight he had me make him a bowl of oatmeal and then he doctored it up with the berry and strawberry banana Mashups. You could even add the Mashups to yogurt, smoothies or probably even as a substitute for oil in some recipes. You can buy them online and in select grocery stores. They’ll run you just over $1 a piece, so I’m not sure I’d use them in my kids’ daily lunches, but I would totally consider them a great option for food storage and our emergency food supply. My kids would rather eat these than reconstituted applesauce any day!—Emily

*** Giveaway! Revolution Foods is giving away a gift box of Mashups samples and a Revolution Foods t-shirt! ***

Here’s how to enter. You can do as many of these as you’d like. Each one is worth one entry into our giveaway; please leave a separate comment for each one you do:

•Visit RevolutionFoods.com and leave a comment telling us which of their products you think your kids would like the most.
•“Like” Revolution Foods on Facebook and leave a comment telling us you did.
•Follow Revolution Foods on Twitter and leave a comment telling is you’re their newest follower.
•Tweet about this giveaway and leave a comment with the URL of your tweet.

Include a valid email address for our drawing. We’ll draw the winner from the comments and contact her via email. Deadline: June 2, 2011 (midnight). The winner will have 24 hours to claim her prize or a new winner will be chosen.

A sock company that has a blister-free guarantee is pretty much the most compelling thing to get me to buy a pair of socks.

KENTWOOL Golf Socks created an enhanced cushioning system at strategic micro-stress points along the foot to maximize comfort, reduce the risk of injury and boost on-course performance. The blend of fine merino wool and high-tech fibers protects feet from chafing. All their high-tech experience with textiles (they’ve been around since 1848—it is the nation’s longest-running textile company) it would be an easy guarantee to produce a high performance pair of socks.

Now I was skeptical about its claim because I am one that gets blisters easily. Seems that my bitty size 5 foot is often overtaken by redness and blisters after extensive time in any pair of shoes I wear. So, who knew it was all in the socks? I was spending too much money replacing my shoes where I should have been replacing my socks! I had no idea specialized socks really worked, but, they do.

Don’t let the title KENTWOOL Golf Socks fool you—you don’t need to have a set of irons to wear these. In fact, I tested the low profile skinny when I was running, biking and yes, golfing. Initially I tried them on the greens and was so impressed with its wicking ability. Here in Utah, Spring has turned more like a second winter with cold rain and sleet, so of course I loved the warmth the socks offered me while playing golf, but would they be too warm without the cold air? I decided to take my test to the gym and wear my “golf” socks running. I worked out hard on the treadmill. I sweat everywhere, including my feet, yet my feet were dry at the end of the workout and there was no odor. The moisture management technology did a great job keeping my feet dry, but, they were a bit too warm for my liking. The socks did a great job wicking sweat away, controlling odor and maximizing comfort with cushioning but they are best for outdoor activities where there is a chill in the air.

KENTWOOL’s claim is accurate. Blister-free socks—they are. The days I wear these socks are the days there are no signs of irritation on my heels, toes or arches. My purple low profile skinny socks will be so worn out because I literally wear them every other day. So, my suggestion would be—stock up. I’ve experienced no loosening of the seams with its constant washing, but, stock up because your feet will thank you.-Amber

Ever want to chuck your makeup bag out the window because you just can’t find the right shade for your skin color? Or have you ever wished you could go from day to night makeup with the same compact? I think that’s the main reason Hissyfit was created: to save women like us from royal makeup tantrums!

With beautiful fragrances, gorgeous colors and advanced botanical extracts, our products deliver the ultimate level of protection for super smart women who want to protect, renew and perfect their skin every day. Hissyfit products are proudly Australian made using the finest ingredients, including powerful botanical extracts. ...

Their most ingenious product is the Hissyfit Clockpots by Reggie Wells. These portable, easy-to-use compacts feature “expert-picked” color combos for every skin tone. Available for Face (foundation and highlight plus four contouring powders), Eye (primer plus four eye-shadow trios) and Cheek (sponge applicator plus four color duos), the Clockpots claim to make it easy to create a professional look at home.

Hissyfit sent me the Face, Eye and Cheek Clockpots plus their Saving Face Foundation (SPF of 50) and Saving Face Buffing Powder. I tried the foundation first, but unfortunately it was the wrong color to give it a day-long review. I could tell it had a really nice texture and consistency for an SPF of 50, and had it been in my right shade, I would have totally worn it. It has green tea, pomegranate, jojoba and aloe—ingredients I love!

Next up is the Saving Face Buffing Powder—a hit! I love a good finishing powder that keeps my skin more matte than shiny yet feels lightweight. This one totally did that. It kept my makeup looking good all day long and felt really good on my skin. Perhaps it’s due to all the bontanicals inside (aspen bark extract, green and white tea extracts, jojoba and aloe).

Last are the Clockpots, and here’s where I tell you I can’t really tell you much about them. The shades sent for review weren’t right for me, so I didn’t dare apply them. (I have a hard enough time trying to make my makeup look good!) And for me, the Clockpots were a bit overwhelming. I kept reading the directions so I’d know which shades were for which time of day, and I thought the compact a bit large. i couldn’t imagine packing that for travel OR throwing it in my handbag for makeup touch-up later in the day. Out of the three products sent, this was probably my least favorite, but perhaps someone with a bit more confidence in her makeup skills (and a much larger makeup bag) would do just fine!

Overall, I loved the creaminess and high SPF of the Saving Face Foundation (even if the color was wrong) and the effectiveness of the Saving Face Buffing Powder, but I’m still not convinced on the Hissyfit Clockpots. If any of you have tried them, let me know! I’d love to hear your take!—Emily

Pack your bags and drive along with Daria into “The U.S. of A” – haha! Quilt Market will never be the same again.

My apologies in advance, I was alone in the car for the first time without someone yelling “Mommy”. Here’s the first video of me on my way to Quilt Market in SLC, we have loads and loads of designer interviews on the way in the coming weeks (minus my singing I promise).

While you’re awaiting the Designer Interviews – why not kick back and read my Quilt Market Summary and view our hundreds of Market photos >>

Did you know acne is the #1 indications seen by dermatologists? And nearly 75% of Americans report using acne products. Oh, and 50% of women and 25% of men suffer from acne? So basically, if you suffer from the occasional—or not-so-occasional—blemish, you’re not alone.

I’ve tried more than my fair share of products claiming to reduce the occurrence of acne and/or treat blemishes. So far I love the Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser, but as far as post-cleansing, I have yet to find a product that truly seems to work…and I’ve tried quite a few including the knock-off version of ProActiv. (Now all I have are nicely bleached towels.)

No surprise I was totally game to try La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Duo, a dual action acne treatment “clinically proven to treat acne as effectively as the leading prescription” with results in only 3 days and “minimum irritation.” Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Here’s why it’s supposed to be so nifty:

• Key ingredients of 5.5% micronized benzoyl peroxide acne medication (reduces inflammation while minimizing irritation) and 0.4% micro-exfoliation LHA (precise cell-by-cell exfoliation).


• Non-drying, non-comedogenic, oil-free, paraben-free.


• Dermatologist tested on all skin types, even the most sensitive. Test on mult-ethnic skin.

Crazy thing is, this little tube of Effaclar Duo holds a truly “big” and effective acne treatment. And I’m not the only one who can attest to that. I used it on my chin area where I tend to get the tiniest bumps and then on the occasional zit that would hit my cheek once a month. It smoothed and cleared in those three days. I did find twice a day was too much for my skin and it started to dry out a bit, but once a day was perfect.

The other person who loves this little tube is Madison, my 13-year-old daughter. For the past few months she’s been showing the signs of that whole puberty thing with a collection of the tiniest acne on her nose. I had her try the Effaclar Duo and within those allotted 3 days, it had cleared up in a major way. (I would have done before and after pics, but she so wasn’t going for that.) For her, two applications a day also started drying out her skin (we do live in Utah after all), but once a day has been perfect for managing it. And she couldn’t be happier!

Priced at around $35, I am here to tell you it’s totally worth it. TOTALLY. Now the only problem is figuring out whose bathroom currently has the tube of La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo cream. Oh, and this go-round, no bleached towels or sheets!—Emily

I am back home after an incredible visit to International Quilt Market in Salt Lake City. Joined by my partners in crime, Megan (AKA Brassy Apple) and Emily (AKA Is This Really My Life) we took on the gigantic venue in cute heels and came back toting hours of video interviews, hundreds of photos, and oodles of Giveaways for YOU! I can’t even begin to express the gorgeous things we saw at market, the designers have outdone themselves this year. It was such a treat to meet up with so many new faces as well, we enjoy cheering on the new designers on the block.

While at Market I was able to attend a few of the events/parties including the exclusive Sweet Hot Yam’s Event and the Bloggers Quilt Market Meetup which Boutique Cafe helped to sponsor. Both events were a blast, jam packed with attendees, and I was so honored to be included in the festivities.

Our interview schedule was literally packed from sun up to sun down. There wasn’t time to stop, it was go-go-go – but I feel it will all be worth it as I roll out the new episodes (as quickly as possible) over the coming weeks. I hope you will all be thrilled to hear from the designers themselves about what they were showcasing, what their inspirations are, and how fun and hilarious some of the moments were that we captured for you on video.

Some Highlights of my trip included:

-Seeing all of my dear friends at Market that I have missed over the past few years.
-Hanging with my girls, Megan and Emily – they are incredible friends and I am awed by their help in getting all of our footage, photos and networking for BC at Market. Amazing!
-Rooming at the Marriott with Paula Prass, Jennifer Storey, and Jona Giammalva – you gals rock!
-Having the tables turned on me and being interviewed by Kim and Kris of The DIYDish! Can you say Hot Seat?
Meeting Nancy Soriano and Jo Packham Cofounders of The Creative Connection
-Chatting with local bloggers in SLC about Boutique Cafe, Market, my family and the gorgeous and incredible weather while we were down there!
-Soaking my feet at night
and many more things I will be sharing throughout our coverage so stay tuned!

PHOTO SHARE

**To visit my bursting gallery of over 300 Quilt Market photos that we took while in SLC click here and head to my Flickr album. I’d LOVE to read your comments!

Please watch for our upcoming Market Interviews coming soon – I’m so excited to share them with all of our Boutique Cafe viewers! Now get clickin’ those Flickr photos because there is great stuff in there! – Daria

Though my love of shoes leans heavily on stilettos, I am a fan of any pair that combines comfort, durability and style. If it combines all those things with a charitable cause, even better.

Ahnu offers footwear for men and women who enjoy an active lifestyle—and, of course, some serious style too:

Whether designed for hiking on trails through the Big Sur Mountains or taking a run through Golden Gate Park, we infuse technology that keeps us centered, balanced, and ultimately comfortable for miles on end. And while our passions drive us to create great performance products, our values guide us to be responsible throughout all of our environmental and social encounters.

So if we can inspire a more balanced life that begins with getting outside, then we’re making the connections that influenced us to start this brand.

Back to that charitable cause. Ahnu footwear recently announced their breast cancer prevention initiative: For each pair of women’s Numentum™ performance shoes sold in April and May 2011, the brand will donate $5 to the Breast Cancer Fund. The initiative is taking place in more than 150 doors nationwide, and online at www.onlineshoes.com.

I was lucky enough to test out a pair of Ahnu Montara hiking shoes for Boutique Cafe’s Daily Dish.

Once I had the correct size (definitely order a half size up), I found they fit perfectly the moment I put them on…and by perfectly, I mean no break-in time needed (i.e., no blisters). Though I didn’t get to take them hiking in the mountains due to our super long winter and super late spring (I’m talking frigid temps earlier this week), I did wear them as actively as possible at the park and around town. No blisters, no hot spots and super lightweight on the feet. Honestly, I couldn’t believe how light these hiking shoes were—and comfy to boot (pun intended).

Me taking the Montaras for a test drive. Super cute AND super comfy! I even took a quick run to the car and they felt great!

I’m thinking the comfiness is due to that Numentum™ Technology, “a neutral positioning system engineered to encourage the foot’s natural biomechanics.” It sounds all techie but it sure feels good! Though I have the Montara in Coffee Bean, I adore the Ruby Wine, a delicious red. I also love the Rockridge II and Nicasio styles.

Ahnu has already contributed more than $20,000 to the Breast Cancer Fund and expects to donate a total of $30,000 before the end of 2011. How awesome is that?

Check out Ahnu’s entire collection of Numentum™ Technology women’s footwear here. And remember, for every pair purchased, the company will donate $5 to the Breast Cancer Fund.—Emily

P.S. You can find Ahnu on Facebook and Twitter!

I don’t know which is more praiseworthy—the fact that the yoga mat stays in place and doesn’t have a funky stench after its use or that the makers of the yoga mat, Natural Fitness have made it with planet friendly products? Either way, this eco-chic company deserves some praise. Namaste.

The eco-smart yoga mat is made from Polymer Environmental Resin. This material is safer for our health (most mats are made from PVC foam which contain harmful toxic chemicals) and the environment. This material is very durable. Non-stick and lightweight makes practicing poses a breeze. Measuring at 24” by 69” by 6 mm I tried the Burgundy/Mustard mat. It was a crowd pleaser at the gym. Receiving multiple comments from strangers about the cute design on my mat had me notice just how decorative it is and definitely a stand out in the sea of solid purple and blue mats.

The price is right at just $29.95. Makes me feel better about spending money on something that preserves our environment as well.

Now, the yoga mat is great but what I really loved was what I carried my yoga mat in—the reconstructed yoga tote. It’s a one-of-a-kind piece of art draped on your shoulder. It is so eye-catching and completely unique. No two bags are the same because the bags are constructed from old banners and tents. The waterproof material is slick. The tote is nice because you can roll your mat up, stash it and seal the bag up with the velcro clasp. The inner-zip pocket is another unexpected feature that is perfect for keys and a cell phone. Same price as the mat $29.95.

Shop green and while you’re at their website, check out Project C.A.R.E.
I like a committed company that is methodical in their approach to preserve our earth.
I also like a company that keeps yoga essentials at a minimum price. Just under $30 for each item.—Amber

To celebrate our trip and upcoming coverage of Quilt Market we’re offering a SWEET AD DEAL to all of you! Today only (May 11th, 2011) ALL ADS ARE 50% OFF!!

Now is the perfect time to get your ads in before the huge influx of traffic hits our site over the next several weeks for review of Market coverage. We invite you to enjoy this special promotion today, there’s only added traffic and customers to gain!

To snag this deal – simply go to our Ad Upload Form Here and fill out your information, then when our system sends you to Paypal you pay half! YAY!

Enjoy – we’re excited to support your businesses and see your traffic soar

I am giddy that this week, in just a few days I’ll have the experience once again of attending Quilt Market in Salt Lake City. Quilt Market is a twice a year phenomenon where fabric designers, pattern makers, sewing enthusiasts and industry gather to showcase what they have been working on. It’s a treat and there is always great energy in the air. Sometimes you feel like you’re bursting with ideas just by being in the room.

We have been covering Quilt Market as Press for our viewers for several years now, and I have a feeling that this year is going to be the best ever! To share in all the creative fun I have a great team coming along with me – Emily our Contributing Editor and owner of Is This Really My Life, and Megan (our past Queen of Chat on Boutique Cafe) and owner of Brassy Apple. Aren’t I a lucky girl to have such a talented and amazing team?!! Just look for the two tall, amazingly stunning gals with cute hair and great shoes and you’ll spot Emily and Megan!! We are gearing up for all the fun and mayhem that Quilt Market provides. If you are attending and see us in the aisles please stop and say hello, we would love to meet you. I also have a few goodies to give away…shhhhhh its kind of a surprise.

Boutique Cafe will be featuring a huge selection of Market interviews, pictures and oodles of giveaways with many of your favourite designers, so be sure to check back here for post-Market coverage. We will even be partying with many bloggers at the Quilt Market Meet-up on Saturday evening. Thursday evening I’m hoping to make it to Quilt Market Sweet Treats and Drinks, a mixer so I’m crossing my fingers that my plane arrives on time for us to attend. It’s going to be a whirlwind of a weekend (feet don’t fail me now), but I can’t wait to get back and share all that we have discovered with you.

See you in SLC and beyond everyone! XO - Daria

If you have questions for specific designers, we would love to capture them answering you on video. Simply post or email your question and we’ll do our best to ask the designer for you at Market. Just a fun way to bring you all along with us.

Moms are so important to us, in fact we try to honor Motherhood year-round at Boutique Cafe. This year we wanted to gift something to each and every mother out there, it’s hard to buy for millions of Mom’s so Maggie and I teamed up again to offer you some amazing FREE printables for your wonderful Mothers.

The first printable download the gorgeous saying, print it and frame it up for Mom! This is a beautiful saying she will want to look at all year in her home. I know that I {adore} mine, I just printed it up yesterday and it’s lovely. We’re offering it four sizes:

Click Here to Download the PDFs, choose the size you want to print at home or send to your local print shop. Your Mom will love it!
4×6
5×7
8×10
11×14

Our second freebie takes just a few more simple Photoshop skills to customize. We’re gifting you a “Mommy Business Card” template. Now you can share your contact info with other Mommys at the playground and get together for Gymboree class or playdates. Drop in your own picture and contact information, have your Mommy Card printed up and get connected. We love this idea {plus isn’t Emalie just adorable on her mommy’s card below? Thanks Maggie and Emalie!}

Click Here to Download the Photoshop template for our customizable Mommy Card

Happy Mother’s Day to each and every one of you!

What makes cyclists endure a sore backside on a century ride or trek up a mountain only to risk life and limb on the ride back down? Is it the feel of the wind around helmet-adorned hair or a view that beats the passenger seat of a car? Whatever it is, Cyclelogical seems to “get” cyclists. Their collection of men’s and women’s bicycle gear is some of the most fun I’ve seen, and if you love to hop on a bike and ride, you’ll love Cyclelogical.

First, a bit about Cyclelogical:

Cyclelogical exists to bring the best travel and bike commuter gear to the market. Our gear will get you to and from your destination, be it the office or the grocery store, with all the right equipment and just the right amount of options, no more….no less. Cyclelogical will get you there safely and totally in style! Our gear is made with the highest quality and most durable materials. We know, because we have researched them and tried them out.

That whole thing about style is so true! Cyclelogical sent me the women’s Bike Me and Cycling Is Off the Chain tees to test for our Daily Dish readers.

Both tees had a bit of a longer length and more narrow fit, which I liked, but they did seem to run a bit small. The Bike Me tee had the softest fabric but was a titch shorter in length. The Cycling Is Off the Chain tee had a really nice length but a little less stretch. Both are washable in cold water BUT the directions say “lay flat to dry.” Guess who didn’t read that part and assumed drying them on low would work? That would be me. Though they didn’t seem to shrink too much, they did shrink just enough to make me wish I’d gone with a large rather than medium. So be sure and order one size up in those tees, especially if you’re going to forget to dry them correctly!

Madison absolutely LOVED the Bike Me tee and I loved the Off the Chain one. It makes me feel kinda cool to sport a fun, eye-catching tee that lets people know I love cycling. I’m actually considering buying the Chain Flower Hoody with its super cute design on the back!

Their men’s collection is awesome as well. My faves are Bike Power Retro and City Fixie tees. Cyclelogical also has some fun gear like their Minima and Townie Rust packs. And if you find you’re riding early in the morning or later at night, you’ll want to invest in a pack of reflective Chopspokes. No, they won’t make a cool noise like those plastic spoke beads, but they will keep you a heck of a lot safer.

Along with cool tees, Cyclelogical also has a super cool mission “to help the environment by keeping gasoline consumption down, sustaining a healthy mind and body, and keeping the world we live in safe for bicycle commuting everywhere.” I like a company that likes the environment and likes keeping me safe.

If you have a cycling family member or friend and want to give them something other than a month’s supply of energy gel or a new insulated water bottle, give them a Cyclelogical tee. They will love it and you will love being her new favorite!—Emily

*** Giveaway! Cyclelogical is giving away one tee, winner’s choice! ***

Here’s how to enter. You can do as many of these as you’d like. Each one is worth one entry into our giveaway; please leave a separate comment for each one you do:

•  Visit CyclelogicalGear.com and leave a comment telling us which tee you’d choose.
•  “Like” Cyclelogical on Facebook and leave a comment telling us you did.
•  Follow Cyclelogical on Twitter and leave a comment telling is you’re their newest follower.
•  Tweet about this giveaway and leave a comment with the URL of your tweet.

Include a valid email address for our drawing. We’ll draw the winner from the comments and contact her via email. Deadline: May 20, 2011 (midnight). The winner will have 24 hours to claim her prize or a new winner will be chosen.

Pinterest is a website that allows you to ‘pin’ up your favorite photos and must-have links in one convenient place. It’s all that, but it’s so much more…Pinterest is a source for all things beautiful and creative.

I love it think of it as “Pure Sugar for your Mind and Imagination”. I’m throughly addicted to showcasing things I find interesting, beautiful, or that I want to make/gift. It’s like a virtual filebox, dream board, and a way to share what you love and your style with others.

You can use Pinterest to gather ideas for your next DIY project or Kids Birthday extravaganza, plan your wedding theme down to the perfect bridal dress and shoes, or get a giggle from some of the funny sayings that show up on the site.

You can follow my boards and pins here>> and then create your own as well – I can’t wait to see what you love! Be warned, you won’t be able to stop pinning your faves – I’m a giver so I had to let you in on your newest daily craving. XO Daria

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