Pucker Up! It's Lip Appreciation Day!

Tomorrow is Saint Patricks Day. Time to practice that pucker in preparation for all the Kiss Me's. Today's the day to appreciate your lips!

Even if you're not Irish, Lip Appreciation Day reminds us to take care of those inviting lips or ours. After all, without them your nose would lead right into your chin and your teeth wouldn't have that lovely frame.

Treat your lips to something special today. Get them a luscious lip balm like Sweetest Kisses or Banana-Coconut. Give them a little exercise by whistling. Kiss somebody!

For more about Lip Appreciation Day, check out www.wellcat.com.

A New Spring Cometh

I am well versed in the ways of procrastination, avoidance and denial. But when reality comes and slaps you in the face, I can practice those arts no longer.

Spring is coming.

I do love spring, but my inert laziness has kept me thinking - almost hoping - that it would stay away a little bit longer. This morning, the little yellow crocuses blooming in my yard reminder me that spring is on its way and there's no stopping it. So get ready. And so I shall.


Spring brings forth all the sleeping plants from Mother Nature. Chickweed is already starting to grow in the walkway. Trees and forsythia are pushing out little buds, nurturing them to grow and prepare to flower.It really is a magically renewing time.

So I'm looking around the yard and finalizing the plans that have been ruminating around my mind since the first seed catalog arrived. There's lots to do - cleaning up overgrown plants and shrubs, trimming trees, cleaning out the beds and prepping them for their soon to arrive guests, and collecting the items that have blown across the yard.

I'm looking forward to it.

Why I'll Miss Winter

Just so you know, I LOVE spring and summer. The warmth of the sun shining down, the garden growing, the beach - it's all good. However, as I've gotten older I've gained a real appreciation of winter and the cold weather. I'm apparently alone in this celebration of our snowy season, at least here in New Jersey. So I thought I'd share some of the reasons why I enjoy winter and will miss it when we slide into spring.

• On a cold winter night - there is nothing as absolutely fabulous as hot chocolate chai tea - with or without your spirited libation of choice.
• Snow storms force you to spend time together with your family. Too much together time encourages teens to take a very active interest in shoveling and clearing the walkways and driveways.
• There is still time to get in shape for the summer clothes that you bought 2 years ago and haven't worn yet.
• In winter you are spared the sight of the old guy down the street bent over his garden wearing nothing but a speedo, socks and sandals.
• A day that is warm and bright and sunny while snow still blankets the ground is just plain extra magical.
• Snow covers and beautifully hides the pile of junk in the corner of the yard that you keep avoiding.
• The garden, still hidden with snow, looks so much better in your mind than in reality.
• It is sooooo much easier to bundle up when you're cold than strip down when you're hot. You can only take off so much, but you can always keep layering.
• In winter - you don't have to shave your legs. At least not as often.

You see, winter does have it's benefits. Spring will most certainly be celebrated with planting, gardening and windows open wide, but I will miss winter when it's gone. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go find that razor.