RATE IT! Dimi - New Face of Adidas

Well, it's about time! Time for the Manchester United's striker with the calm countenance & killer goal scoring ability to get some major commercial endorsements worldwide. 

Dimitar Berbatov has been announced as the new face of Adidas for 2009. Dimi will join fellow Adidas football stars, Frank Lampard, Kaka & Lionel Messi, in the new campaign that rolls out shortly. Now leading the attack on the pitch for United, he's the perfect candidate. Me likey!

Oh, and it's his birthday today too! Just don't do too much celebrating tonight, Berba - we need you to score plenty of goals tomorrow vs. Everton!

HATE IT! Domino is....DEAD

No, no, NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Say it ain't so!!!!! Add another casualty due to the economic downturn - Domino magazine - the funky, stylish home decor magazine is gone, baby, gone! 

I'm flabbergasted by its demise. It's the only truly cool home decorating/entertaining zine out there. And just when I get a subscription for a Christmas present too!

HATE IT! No Grey Area!

Is it over? Has the irrational and highly irritating Izzy on 'Grey's Anatomy' finally kicked ghostly stalker, Denny to the curb? Oh, please say it's so! It's taken me all the strength that I can muster to keep -- on -- watching this show. I've intentionally PVR'd the last three eps, and watched them back in fast forward to avoid the slow growing real-time viewing realization that this show is crap. At least if I watch it quickly, I don't feel like I've lost a precious hour of my time -- an hour that could have been put to better use watching pretty much anything else (spare '90210' and 'Desperate Housewives', both of which give me hives). 

'Grey's in my estimation jumped the shark last season ..or whenever the pale, uninteresting Meredith died (briefly). The show flat-lined at that very moment and hasn't been resuscitated properly since. I hate myself for even watching in FF. I hate this series. 'Like' left long long ago. There is no grey area. I hate it.

HATE IT! Dark Chocolate Magnets

Here's another cruel prank. See these dark decadent chocolates? They're magnets. It's a chocolate fraud. Such inventions should be outlawed. 

HATE IT! Last Rolo - Yeah, Right!

Look behind you, Valentine's Day is fast on the approach - a day both loathed & loved in equal measure. It certainly doesn't help that products such as this 'Last Rolo' exist. 

We've all seen the commercials: would you give your last Rolo to your nearest & dearest? A very kind gesture, I'm sure -- if it was real. This product takes the sweet sentiment and makes it sickly. Instead of giving the love of your life your very last chocolate gem, you can gift them with a replica -- one that isn't chocolate, isn't edible. So in essence, you can have your Rolo and eat it too. Blech. Any partner of mine who weaseled out, giving me a rock-hard copy and ate the last *real* Rolo would find himself alone on February 14. Don't fall for it!

RATE IT! Gossip Girl Sneak Peek - Carnal Knowledge

The shakes. The sleepless nights! It's been a week without an episode of 'Gossip Girl' and I'm eating for comfort and wearing pjs *all the time*. Thank goodness I've uncovered this preview for next Monday's new episode. There's a light at the end of the tunnel so it may be safe to wear proper clothes and eat sensibly now.

RATE IT! Franz-tastic!

It's been *years*! On the brink of not being able to wait another ... day ... longer, Glasgow's finest pop-rockers have pulled me back from the edge, and finally released their third album, "Tonight".  

Trust me. It's a must-buy. Seriously. 

Franz fans, get set for plenty of live giggage. The band already have scores of dates confirmed for Europe this Spring with more shows to follow elsewhere.

(photo: franzferdinand.co.uk)

RATE IT! Hot Mess

Hehe! Yes...Hot Mess! 

Here's an extra sweet tee for those of us who like pancakes with our *real* maple syrup. Mrs. Butterworth and Aunt Jemima, need not apply.

Like this declaration is a surprise!? I'm Canadian, after all. Not just a simple pour will do, DROWN IT in authentic syrup. Sweet!

Just another fashionable find from my new fave t-shirt company, Loyal Army clothing.

RATE IT! Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day

Yes, even the humble plastic bubble used to secure dainty items in shipping and packing is honoured with its own special day - today.

To properly celebrate, click here and pop some virtual bubble wrap. You know you want to!

RATE IT! Franz Ferdinand: Tonight

Oh happy day! The release of the new Franz album is *almost* here (and...IS here for UK peeps). Take a look at this electronic press kit exploring the making of "Tonight."

Only one more sleep...only one more sleep -- for me! :)

RATE IT/HATE IT! Gossip Girl Break

We're knee-high in the snowy winter doldrums and what does the CW do? Schedule a 'Gossip Girl' repeat for tonight. The free falling temperatures and on-going snow-a-rama mean that we demand not only comfort food to satiate us in our cozy abodes but good, trashy television. It helps make our hermit-like existence acceptable. 

If it's any consolation, there are plenty of juicy 'Gossip Girl' spoilers circling over head! I won't dare repeat them here in case our friends from the UK are about (season two just began across the pond), so if you want to be all-knowing, click here. There's a smorgasboard of delights waiting for our consumption in future episodes. Kinda makes the absence this week a little easier to swallow. 

(photo: the CW)

RATE IT! New Franz Ferdinand - In Video

Here's the latest single, "Ulysses" from the soon-to-be released (Monday in the UK, Tuesday in North America) third album by Franz Ferdinand, "Tonight". Yes! All hail pointy shoes & skinny ties!

Tough night, guys? The boys are looking quite disheveled and zonked -- much fun! Reminds me of something Depeche Mode would get up to on film. This track is not the best one off this new album either so I'm perplexed as to why it was selected for some chart action. Hmmm...well, no matter. It's still stomping good Franz fun. Enjoy!

RATE IT! Good Food/Bad Food Bag

No one eats properly *all* the time! I challenge anyone to stand up and honestly proclaim that they never, ever devour so-called bad foods. Besides, life would be so boring if no ice cream or potato chips crossed your lips. 

Here's a bag that celebrates the ying/yang of eating. Sometimes you feel like a salad - sometimes you scarf down hot dogs & chips. Good food, bad food -- it's all necessary for a well-balanced life. When you're feeling a bit naughty, show the world the 'bad food' side of the bag. Cheerful sundaes & fortune cookies will see you merrily on your way. Having a long run of healthy chowing down? Flip the bag around and presto -- carrots, oranges, even a wheepy onion will prove that you've had your 5 servings a day. If only dieting were this easy - and adorable! Check out the close-ups of the foodie prints to fulfill your appetite!

RATE IT! Lipstick Stays Put

It may have made its exit from the current NBC schedule, but according to their Primetime Entertainment President, Angela Bromstad, 'Lipstick Jungle' isn't dead. 

Reports of its demise are premature, and its survival will be discussed in upcoming meetings regarding the NBC fall schedule. The program did have ratings growth with its move to Friday nights and has a vocal fan base who have been petitioning for the show to stay put. 

Personally, I hope 'Lipstick' remains. It's one of the few shows featuring likable adult female characters -- juggling career and personal lives just like the rest of us. Okay, they're wearing fabulous clothes, don't know the meaning of glass ceiling and can afford to live in Manhattan -- so *not* like the rest of us, but that's also part of its charm! Reality with a heavy dose of escapism. Some people have taken swipes at Brooke Shields' acting or a few minor story details, but the program is far more entertaining that 'Grey's Anatomy' or 'Desperate Housewives.' Jump the shark, anyone?

RATE IT! Amber Le Bon

Surname sound familiar? Yes, this gorgeous gal is the eldest daughter of Duran Duran lead singer, Simon Le Bon and his supermodel wife, Yasmin. 

At 18 years old, Amber is following in her Mum's stiletto'd footsteps as a model having just recently nabbed UK retailer River Island's Spring/Summer campaign. Not bad for a rookie!

With parents such as her's was there any doubt about Amber's stunning good looks? It's all in the genes.

(photo: the Daily Mail.co.uk)

HATE IT! Tacky Obama Souvenirs

Barack Obama finally made it to the White House. His journey & eventual arrival is historic and awe-inspiring. One would believe that the integrity of the new leader would be echoed in the souvenirs that were spawned out of the occasion's overwhelming excitement. Every Presidential inauguration brings with it the requisite coin sets, buttons,t-shirts and commemorative plates amidst the paraphernalia. Some classy, some downright ugly and some....totally absurd and lacking in taste!

Take these Barack Obama flip flops. Yep, they're real...for sale in Denver, Colorado of all places. A bit mistimed, don't you think? Sure, the new President is clearly represented several times over but the *idea* of sandal-esque footwear in January -- in chilly Denver is a bit ridiculous. Not to mention the plethora of Obamas over-populating these flip flops...so obnoxiously weird and not Presidental *at all*! It kinda takes the idea of walking in Barack's footsteps a bit too far! Tacky!

Thanks to Darren for the inspiration!

RATE IT! Oh Crap! I'm Having a Baby!

Cary from List of the Day featured this book on his most excellent site a few days ago (do yourself a favour and visit LOTD - one of the most fun web destinations, let me tell you!)... and I couldn't help myself.

Welcome to: 'Oh Crap! I'm Having a Baby!'

IT'S HILARIOUS! Well, the photos shown here sure are rib-ticklers. I haven't seen the rest of this publication but if it's anything like the previews on display, it definitely blows the lid off the idyllic world of procreating. Me, I'll get a dog instead, thanks!

RATE IT! Sniffany & Co. Dog Bed

Who doesn't love Tiffany? Now your beloved four-pawed friend can too! 

This pillow is just so dog-gone cute! Sniffany & Co! The iconic blue box complete with white ribbon makes this dog bed luxurious and oh, so special! And doesn't your fur baby deserve the very best?

RATE IT! Wall-E Pez

Lovely Wall-E & his beloved, Eve -- as Pez dispensers! 

Apparently, this movie couple was only released in Europe, but many are now appearing on eBay. Very sweet!

Catch them while you can!

RATE IT! Chucker Punch!

Viewers got a gold mine of Gossip Girl satisfaction last night! I won't spill the details for those friends who haven't seen the ep yet, but to those who have, I think you know what I mean!

Chuck! A locked door! A damsel in distress, and one mean right hook. We always knew Chuck had it in him. 

And top marks for the pink cashmere pullover & matching socks - shame you only get a glimpse at the full affect in this screen grab. Believe me, it was fab!

Bless the Baby Bass! Bless the new alliance!

(photo: Giovanni Rufino for the CW)

RATE IT! Happy Birthday, Owen

Yes, I'm going to get all giddy and proclaim a very bubbly 'happy birthday' to my favourite football player on the planet, Mr. Owen Hargreaves. 

Manchester United's #4 -- currently recovering from a double knee operation in Colorado. Not the ideal way to mark your birthday but hey...if it means Owen will be back with the team in the UK...even just in training by season's end, then it's one wish I hope comes true when the birthday candles are blown out. 

RATE IT! Enchanted April

Have you seen the wonderfully touching British film, 'Enchanted April'?

It's not a new release -- it played on theatre screens back in 1992, and earned two Golden Globe Awards as well as several Academy Award nominations. The film boasts an accomplished cast including Miranda Richardson, Joan Plowright (both Golden Globe winners), Alfred Molina, Polly Walker, Josie Lawrence and Jim Broadbent. It's long been one of my favourite films and it appears that I'm not alone! 'Enchanted April' is one of the most requested movies on DVD according to Amazon.com. And here's where the problem lies...the movie is not currently available on this format. If you're desperate like me & worn out your VHS copy, you can get your paws on a Swedish DVD -- just overlook the sub-titles and enjoy. There have been numerous rights issues that have kept this gorgeous movie off store shelves but apparently, the veil will soon be lifted!

Word has it that the rights have all been cleared and a DVD release should soon follow. It's a shame that this movie, one that lovingly takes two post-war London women from their dismal, winter environs away to the lush warmth & splendor of Italy on a quest to rediscover themselves & their happiness, is not yet available *now* when we need it the most! In a winter that seems terribly long and frightfully frigid, we could all use a trip to Portofino to boost our spirits even if it's while we're sat on the sofa!

RATE IT! United & On Top

How's your weekend so far? Mine? Do you have to ask? 

Manchester United just squeaked out a 1-0 win over Bolton in the English Premiership. Dimitar Berbatov scored a header as the clock clicked to the 90 minute mark. Game over - literally! The win has restored United back to the top of the EPL table - the proper world order has been restored, and I'm taking credit for Berba's adept charge that netted us our win. Well, I *do* have his shirt!

(photos: AP Photo)

RATE IT! Snark

Ha! What caught my eye was this book's title, "Snark." Who doesn't dig snarkiness once in awhile? A daily dose of snark keeps the mind sharp, and your sense of humour in check. Yes, it can be ego-crushingly mean as well. And fun! When life gets a bit too serious for its own good, some smartly prepared snark can let off steam. Obviously, it's a weighty subject as author David Denby has published this lengthy essay on the topic.

I have not read this book, nor have I even seen it out & about but with that title it does look promising. 

RATE IT! Last Chance Harvey

I haven't seen any advance screenings of this film but the trailer looks very charming ~ I really *have* to see this movie!

Emma Thompson...Dustin Hoffman -- two of the best actors of our time, together again (previously, they shared screen time in 'Stranger Than Fiction'). The third co-star...LONDON! Best city on the planet. This sweet story about love in middle age is due to grace theatres in North America on wide release today. Can't wait!

HATE IT! Gossip Girl Sneak Peek ~ You've Got Yale

Next Monday's 'Gossip Girl' ep looks like it's treading on 'Privileged' territory (yep, it's that *other* show from the CW that comes over all rosy & Disney, so sugary to give you cavities after watching). Since when did GG become all about studying & good school grades? Uh, NEVER! To add to the problem, I'm not sure about this new guest star. She's supposed to be a teacher ~ she looks the same age as Serena, Blair et al! No doubt, Dan will probably fall for her...bloody typical! And when did Dorota get a dog? I'm confused...and so is Chuck. At least I'm in good company.

HATE IT! Gossip No More! It's Confirmed

After several leaked stories about a possible 'Gossip Girl' spin-off -- both of which were kicked to the curb by the GG creators -- comes word of a real, CONFIRMED 'Gossip Girl' off-shoot.

Josh Schwartz has confirmed that a pilot episode focusing on the teen life of Serena's Mum, Lily, will be broadcast this May. The spin-off will take place in 1980's Los Angeles, as the young Lily Rhodes (as she was then known) lives a crazed teen existence, hanging out on the Sunset Strip while living with her disgraced sister. 

Must say that I am intrigued but will people watch? Does Lily's backstory have enough oomph to fill a series -- and one that is set in a decade many a 'Gossip Girl' fan didn't even experience? Me, I'll watch anything related to GG but a part of me is worried that this new venture will cheapen the 'brand'. And of course, it won't feature Chuck Bass! Now there's a big, fat negative!

(photo: Giovanni Rufino for the CW)

RATE IT! Fuzzy Creature from the 70's

Lookie what I found!! I had one of these when I was a kid! I loved it's fuzzy fluffed eyes off. Actually I don't recall mine *having* eyes but I guess it did - nor do I remember that the product was a "Squirmles" but that's just semantics. You can get three in one go! Plenty of fun...well for us adults who remember them as kids. I'm sure today's rug-rats would be bored witless as it doesn't scream, animate or work off a keyboard. Kids today, eh?

RATE IT! Blake Graces Vogue

Ah, the press just can't get enough of Serena! First, Page 6 ...now Vogue! Actually, the Vogue cover is the real (life) deal. Gossip Girl's Blake Lively is the cover starlet for the February issue of *the* style bible.

Or ...is it? Could the font of all things stylish and fashionable be headed for a stumble? Rumours are whirling around the zine & fashion worlds that Blake was picked for the cover in an attempt to boost the mag's circulation. Apparently, not all is well in the cashbox of Anna Wintour. A creative drought? Lack of advertisers? Stars and readers heading elsewhere? Maybe magazine readers are just tired of the underfed, boring supermodels that often get cover duty. I normally pass on Vogue -- it's too far up its self but I just might fork out the bucks to get this issue with Blake. Looks like their plan worked!

RATE IT! Game Tasters Scattergories

I've lost many a Christmas holiday afternoon playing Scattergories, losing all track of time & having a laugh with this brain busting game. Now such time wasting can occur on your next airplane journey with this new mini Scattergories play set. 

Ever get plane brain? That fuzzy, dumbed down feeling after several numb hours on a jet? No more! Now with Game Tasters Scattergories, you can keep your mind sharp on those agonizing long journeys. The fast-thinking game comes complete with mini pencils, category cards, timer (and not the buzzer version found in the big box version -- so you won't annoy the people seated around you), alphabet dice, and paper. All housed in a compact tub that's easy to pack. 

RATE IT! Nessie Card

Born out of my childhood, I've always had a fascination with the mystery of the Loch Ness Monster. On my first and only venture to Scotland, Loch Ness was my #1 destination choice. Unfortunately, I didn't spot Nessie with my own eyes, but I did cart home many trickets, stuffed toys, and (shh!!) even some stones from the loch. 

Stumbling across this card find, it's the perfect item for my 'rate it' list - whimsical, unique and fun. Perfect for the friend who's done the unbelievable!

RATE IT! USA - Under New Management

The economy may be circling the drain, and many people are slipping on the brink of lay-offs but there's still an optimistic air wafting strongly from the USA. Heck, I'm Canadian and I can feel the breeze up here, north of the 49th parallel!

The recent U.S. election results have Americans & many other nationalities worldwide doing an inspired happy dance and now you can have the perfect accompaniment to the celebrations ~ from Loyal Army comes this sweet t-shirt just in time for the Inauguration of Barack Obama on January 20.

Cute and to the point -- with a hopeful & forward thinking smile. Perfect!

RATE IT! New Franz Ferdinand

Only 14 more sleeps (that's 2 weeks) until the next BRILLIANT release from Glasgow music gods, Franz Ferdinand. 

"Tonight" will be released on Tuesday, January 27 in North America, and one day *earlier* on the 26th in the UK. The band a few weeks back wrapped up a mini-club tour around North American hot spots -- the Toronto show at Lee's Palace was one of the best I've ever seen and with concerts in the triple digits under my belt, that's saying something. Full of energy, fantastically groove-addictive new songs -- the album is an instant 'rate it.' I cannot wait.

RATE IT! Love/Hate

Apparently, there's a fine line between love or hate, or in my Lose That Girl speak, rate or hate! Speaking of which...take a peek at this new Cristiano Ronaldo Nike commercial. Cris carted home some more serious footie hardware today receiving FIFA's World Player of 2008 trophy this evening in Zurich. Simply ~ he's the best player in the WORLD! 

Personally, I love Cris. He's a Red Devil and for that, I'm eternally grateful! And watch for Cristiano's cameo. Nice try, Ronnie - we all know it's you!  Thanks to c9 for the tip!

RATE IT! Lustful Leering

It's the morning after the Golden Globes and the web is overly saturated with commentaries on who won, the best dressed and who was missing their wedding ring (J-Lo, but whatevs).

I'm still over the moon for Kate Winslet's double, and the trophy clear out by the gang from '30 Rock' that nothing else matters in my tiny but cozy corner of the universe. Oh, except for some man-candy from the night's proceedings, so time to indulge and then I'll leave it be.

Here are my male picks for red carpet hottie. Robert Downey Jr., Simon Baker, and Jon Hamm.

(pics: Getty, AP Photo, Getty)

RATE IT! No Longer the Bridesmaid...

Some things are definitely worth the wait! After seven Golden Globe nominations, and seemingly *always* being the runner-up, Kate Winslet finally won...not one, but TWO! Yes, our fave Kate won both the supporting actress award for 'The Reader', and the leading lady nod for 'Revolutionary Road' last night. Kate should have won ages ago -- she's really one of the most stellar actors of our age, and after watching other less worthy people winning awards year after year, it's certainly refreshing to see the good ol' gal from Reading, England get her day -- and then some!

Let's hope the Hollywood Foreign Press have just taught the other award voting types in Tinseltown (yes, I'm staring steely eyed at YOU, Academy Award voters!!) to chose the RIGHT leading lady when their golden gods are handed out in a few weeks time! LOVE YA, KATE!!

Oh...and BTW....*loved* her 2nd acceptance speech. Trying to recall all her fellow nominees...she named them all but forgot Angelina Jolie, uttering something like, 'who's the other one?' BWAH HAHAHAHA! Burst your bubble, over-rated baby mama! Of course, Kate is a sweetie and it was an honest mistake, but still...can I believe for awhile that it wasn't? 

(photo: Reuters)

RATE IT! Manchester United Wins

Can't stay to babble...still celebrating United's absolute 3-0 victory over Chelsea today in the English Premiership. We kicked ass. Surprised? Nope! Best effort this season by our side by far. Every man was fan-freakin'-tastic!!

Still giddy....even the long Golden Globes ceremony didn't damper my bubbly spirits! (more on that later!)

(photo: AP Photo)

RATE IT! United We Stand

Got any big plans for this weekend? Mine looks full to bursting.

First things first...the centerpiece of my weekend is the ultimate in footie fixtures on Sunday. The Manchester United match versus Chelsea. United, with two games in hand on both Chelsea and Liverpool (yawn...who are both *briefly* ahead of our dear team in the EPL standings) look to capitalize on their London counterparts. The entire weekend revolves around the importance of this match. 

Oh, and I might take down the Christmas decorations...maybe.

(photo: AP Photo)

RATE IT! Comic Strip Bandages

Bandages, band-aids -- whatever you call them, they're usually a pain in the ass. They're ugly, and a constant reminder of your careless apple slicing mishap or that ridiculous flip you took on the icy sidewalk. In other words, you relive that embarrassing accident over & over again every time you set eyes on that beige blob of plastic & gauze.

Because I detest these blah plasters so very much, I take such glee in discovering new, funky bandages that will not annoy but solicit a laugh or two. Take these comic strip bandages from Vat19 -- OUCH! POW! BAM! Yeah, that's more like it! Let's have some comedy with our first aid. Cuts & scrapes just got some much needed street cred. Super hero in training? Well..if the bandage fits...

RATE IT! Donut Maker

Who says that Tim Horton's, or Dunkin' Donuts get to have all the fun! Now you can make your own mini donut delights from your own kitchen. 

Meet the Dough-Nu-Matic! Funny monicker, but true - yep, that's it's name. This dynamo will form & cook up your own tasty treats in under a minute. Once delivered from the conveyor, you can add the toppings of your choice or just leave 'em plain.

I'm not sure what's more of a laugh -- watching them pop out, or eating them.

RATE IT! I Heart Hot Chocolate

If the winter chill has gotten the best of you, then it's time to curl up inside with a mug of warm lovin'!

Check out this cute 'You Warm My Heart' hot cocoa mix. Complete with little heart marshmallows, this silky chocolate froth will delight both you & your special sweetie. Why wait until Valentine's Day -- beat the chill & indulge now!

RATE IT! Street Gang

In the stampede to get all the Christmas shopping done, a new book completely flew under my gift-buying radar. "Street Gang: The Complete History of Sesame Street" by Michael Davis was released in hardback in mid-December. Never mind purchasing it for others...*I* want this book!

As a kid I lived, breathed and watched Sesame Street for hours on end. Today, I'd love to read all about the beginnings when this hallmark of children's programming took its first baby steps. It's getting all sorts of fantastic reviews, and is apparently full of the details that we all want to know. Can't wait...I'm ordering my copy today! In the meantime, if you've read this backstage account, post a comment and let us all know what you think.

HATE IT! Chip Necklace

I've heard of edible art but this wacky necklace is just silly!

A chip on your shoulder? How about one (or three) dressed around your neck? Accessories guru Tatty Devine makes all sorts of cool wearables but this example is not one of them. 

Hmmm....maybe if they were salt & vinegar...nah!

RATE IT! Lawsuit Ready!

With the new year comes a need to hit the ground running, where squabbles are concerned! Don't let new year bitch fights fester without any retaliation -- get yourself this handy book and be ready for revenge ~ pronto!

'How to Sue Everyone' provides the forms, you just need to fill in the reason! Who knew lawsuits could be so fun & easy! Almost makes you want to have a barney just for the hell of it.

HATE IT! Dairy Queen's Reese's Blizzard

FINALLY, I got to indulge in the holy grail of Dairy Queen Blizzards, the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Blizzard. Why the holy grail reference? Well, DQ Canada announced this Bliz as the special of the month in November - but I only discovered its existence back in early December. I *adore* the collision of chocolate & peanut butter...in cookies, chocolate bars! I've written in glorious rapture about how much I idolize the guest star appearance of said peanut butter cups in a Chocolate X-treme Blizzard. Dangerously delicious heaven in a waxy paper cup! So imagine my exaltation when I found this Blizzard still on the menu here. The calendar may shout "January" & we've just taken baby steps into the new year, but for DQ Canada, the November Blizzard of the Month still rules. Or does it?

It's with great dissatisfaction & a sense of extreme disappointment that I must admit this soft-serve specialty is...nasty! It's bland, gritty and just not up to my over-wrought expectations. There's so little chocolate affixed to these baby peanut butter cuplets that the choco-peanut infusion doesn't work. You really do need the chocolate overload of a Chocolate X-treme, or the hall-of-fame worthy Brownie Batter Blizzard to make the peanut butter exercise your taste buds properly. After all that time of waiting for an introduction to this match made in sweet heaven, the meeting was so anti-climactic. Why this "treat" is still on the menu here, I have no clue, but take my advice and avoid at all costs. Meanwhile our US counterparts have a new Blizzard on the sked for January. Lucky ducks, meet the Turtle Oreo Blizzard. Yep, you read correctly....a marriage of Oreo cookies, creamy caramel, pecans and DQ's famed soft serve. Enjoy while us Canucks starve ourselves until February when hopefully our DQ will get with the program and unveil a new Blizzard of the Month, instead of some late Fall bottom of the barrel re-run. 

RATE IT! He's Back!

It's time to pack away the Christmas treats and clear those festive cookie crumbs. Our *real* addiction is back! Four long weeks have passed since our last desperate glimpse of a grieving, messed up Chuck Bass and his 'Gossip Girl' co-horts. Think last ep was a Chuck tour de force? We're really due for some fireworks tonight as Chuck's uncle picks up the scent of deceased Bart's billions, and lands smack dab in the middle of the cash. That's Chuck's cash. Can - not - WAIT! 

News Update: apparently, Michelle Trachtenberg (Georgina Sparks) will be returning to the UES later in the series for more hi-jinx. She bugged me to no end the first time around although she did add some demented drama to the proceedings.

(photo: Giovanni Rufino for the CW)

RATE IT! Drip Clips

Back to business after the holidays but with some much needed whimsy! Just what every desk needs - Drip Clips. Who says an office existence can't be fun? Silly...yes, but ingenious! A magnet keeps the clip 'drip' in place until you need it. Use them, I just want to play with them! Doodling while on the phone is so last year!

RATE IT! Here's to the New Year, New Eps!

Looks like 2009 is going to be stellar for us 'Gossip Girl' obsessives...roll on January 5th!

RATE IT! Bring on 2009!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! 

Love this photo! It's from New Year's Eve celebrations last year in New York City. Times Square, gotta love it! Hope everyone had a fun-filled New Year's Eve...now onto 2009!