I feel like a little girl who has something really amazing to share, so who better to share it with than my favorite blog readers? Last night I decided to try an at-home hair remedy I heard about on a segment of The Doctors when I happened to be flipping through the channels, and saw Kathy Ireland with her thick, flowing, gorgeous hair talking about gelatin. She said she used gelatin hair treatments, and the female doctor on the show said it made medical sense because of its “protein building properties”.

To be honest, I’ve been neglecting my hair a bit and haven’t made time for much more than a simple shampoo followed by a dallop of conditioner in the shower! Since google is a girl’s best friend, and I missed the whole segment, I decided to do a little research. Come to find out, gelatin contains keratin.

On a (coincidental) side note, I recently drove by a sign in a salon window that said, “Stop in for a Keratin Treatment.” I felt compelled to touch my hair, and the dry feeling made me almost immediately drop everything, make a u-turn, and head directly into the salon. I opted to stay focused on my deadlines sans keratin.

So, yesterday afternoon when we went into Target, I decided to splurge on a package of Knox Original Unflavored Gelatin. After all, the package was $1.60, and there were 4 packets inside, so I figured what’s the harm in a 40 cent experiment? Who was I kidding? I was super-excited to try the treatment!

Later that evening, when the kids were snuggled in their jammies and the hubby was content with the Yankees-Tigers game, I boiled some water, dissolved the gelatin, mixed with my conditioner, gave my hair a nice, clarifying shampoo and then went to town with the treatment. My conditioner thickened when mixed with the gelatin, and I took time to cover every strand of my hair with it. I left it on for an hour, even though I read 20 minutes would suffice.

I rinsed it out, and let it air dry. I woke up today, and MAN did my hair feel softer than ever!! But, I still wasn’t convinced if it was just ‘placebo effect’. Then, I went to see my client (Susan) who I meet with weekly, and the first thing she said, “Your hair looks great! Super shiny today!”

Umm…speechless. I wasn’t hallucinating , so I had to share the secret 40 cent gelatin hair fix with her and you…

Thank you, The Doctors, Kathy Ireland, and Google!

“Everything good that I know was taught to me by great teachers and I feel like giving back and sharing the technique is the thing to do.” ~ Betty Buckley

Inspired to Share the 40 Cent Gelatin Hair Fix is a post from: Inspired Girl* by Jennifer Tuma-Young

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I love quotes, anything to bring a bit of light and inspiration into the “long days” and busy schedules. So, you can imagine when I took Lu to Michael’s Crafts for a school supply trip, how excited I was to find this amazing notebook. On the opening page it says:

“The only requirement of having a dream is believing in it.” ~Molly Baker

When I came home, intrigued by such a cute, stylish, and positive design (see you can have style from the inside-out!), I went to their website, and found out that every year Carolina Pad teams up with non-profits to raise funds and awareness for worthy causes.

This notebook is from the Dreamsicle Collection. Carolina Pad teamed up with Jackie McFee (JACK!E) and Girls on the Run International to launch this line. “The GOTR after-school curriculum-based program inspires more than 50,000 girls a year to celebrate their bodies, honor their voices, and embrace their gifts in more than 150 cities across North America.”

Wow, all I can say is “thank you” for inspiring our children.

Inspiring Our Children – Carolina Pad Collection is a post from: Inspired Girl* by Jennifer Tuma-Young

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You can view, download, and share the Gifts with Soul Holiday Gift Guide 2010 online by clicking on this magazine image, or just scroll below to view the gift guide in the various posts right on my blog:

Link to the Full 5-Part Holiday Gift Guide: View Online or Download is a post from: Inspired Girl* by Jennifer Tuma-Young

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Favorite Reality Show Made Reality

Reality shows can be a favorite indulgence for people. These gift ideas are about creating an experience out of the reality show- specific ideas for some popular shows are below. Make sure your gift has the logo of the show, perhaps wrap the “clue box” in the show’s signature color, print the logo off of the show’s website, and glue to the top of the “clue box”.

For Food Network and/or Top Chef Lovers

If you’re best friend, spouse, or dear relative is a huge Food Network fan or Top Chef lover (or any cooking show for that matter), why not create a cooking experience for him or her? Put together a little “clue box”, maybe with a large spoon, an apron, perhaps a cookbook from his/her favorite cooking show, then give a gift certificate for a private cooking lesson, complete with a “serving party” where a few guests can taste the new chef’s creations! Spice it up even more by setting the date for the lesson and planning the small after-party, and this will definitely be a fun gift to remember:

For Dancing with the Stars Devotees

After seeing Jennifer Gray this season on Dancing with the Stars, I was definitely hooked! I know millions of people are, too. There’s also something very “dreamy” about twirling around a room, even me with absolutely ZERO rhythm would love to take on the ballroom dance floor. This could be such a fun experience gift! Fill the “clue box” with a pair of dancing shoes or a fun scarf, maybe even make it funny by including foot cream for aching feet (for afterwards!). Dance schools often run holiday specials for single private or small group dance lessons, so check out a local studio and give the gift certificate so your friend or relative can live the dream of dancing:

For Project Runway Fans

Designing clothes may not be a cinch, especially if you are not a designer. But, there are places that will let you come in and be a designer for a day! At least they will give you one-on-one or small group sewing classes, to make a simple project or even a purse. I actually went to a Purse Making Party for my friend’s Bachelorette at M. Avery Designs in Hoboken, NJ- it was a blast! Find a local sewing shop that does something similar and purchase a gift certificate for a lesson. Create a “clue box” filled with thread and scrap fabric, maybe even print out some design sketches, and this is custom-designed gift for a Project Runway Fans:

Never Miss an Episode of How to Look Good Naked

I love this show- I think it’s an incredible inside-out transformation, and I believe all women of every shape and size should see themselves as beautiful! I think a perfect gift for fans of the show would be a Boudoir photography session. Do a little research, find a Boudoir photographer who focuses on self-esteem, like Jessica Morrisy Photography. Make the “clue box” fun, include a sheet (if you’re a fan of the show you know the final shoot usually begins with the gal in just a sheet!), and arrange for hair and makeup, too! Local cosmetology schools usually have great rates and very talented people to do hair and makeup for the Boudoir shoot. Definitely a gift that’s unique:

Some More Fun & Play “Experience” Gift Ideas

* Pack a Picnic: Perfect for the work-aholic or mom who never gets a break, having a picnic is a serene way to have some fun! Give the picnic basket and fill it with clues about the place you’ve chosen. Be creative and pick a place with special significance for you and the recipient. Perhaps roadtrip to the park he/she grew up near, go back to the spot you first met, or picnic on the carpet in your own living room. Make it even easier if the recipient has children or pets to tend to, arrange for the sitter. Plan the date and mark it on the calendar.

* Need for Speed: There are many “experience” gifts that have the speed factor- driving a race car, skydiving…as a matter of fact Excitations has over 2,000 unique experience gifts from private yoga to paintball to helicopter tours. These gifts are memory makers for sure!

* Chore Free for a Change: While house cleaning, washing &  folding clothes, and organizing are all things most of us just ADORE giving a gift of house cleaning, or a laundry service, or an organizer is always a treat! Try websites like Service Magic to find local contractors to do the service of your choice. Make the “clue box” with fun hints (i.e. a feather duster, a pack of detergent, one sock), and plan something fun for you and the recipient to go out and do– instead of chores!

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa!

I hope this 5-part Gifts with Meaning guide has helped you think a bit about the meaning of the gifts you are giving this holiday season. Remember, it’s not about the price tag or label. With just a little thought, giving meaningful, beautiful gifts is pretty simple. I’m sure you have some incredible ideas, too, and I would LOVE if you shared with me! I will be publishing the full 5-part Gift Guide (with even more gift ideas, tips, and resources) on LifeGloss next week.

In the meantime, here are the links to the other 4 parts:

Part 1: Jewelry & Cufflinks

Part 2: Handmade Items

Part 3: Gadgets & Gizmos

Part 4: For the Dreamer

Gifts With Meaning: inspired girl 2010 Holiday Gift Guide Part Five- Fun & Play is a post from: Inspired Girl* by Jennifer Tuma-Young

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The Symbolic Token

There is something very powerful that happens when we share our dreams with others, and then others begin to dream for us. If someone has shared his/her dream with you, honor the dream with a symbolic token as a beautiful gift with lots of meaning.

For example, if a friend said she always wanted her own coffee shop, buy her something that would go inside- a stool, a glass countertop display platter (fill it with donuts to really create the vision), a picture that she could hang on the walls. Or, if another friend dreams of owning a home, give him a key and a “Welcome” mat. I think you get my drift- The most important thing is to listen, and then choosing a symbolic token is simple. We must show our friends and family that we, too, believe in their dreams!

The Dream Savings Bank

If you read my post the other day on LifeGloss about Visualization, you know how powerful our dreams are, and that their strength increases when we turn dreams into motion by visualization, writing them down, and speaking them aloud.  So, when I saw this ‘Dream Bank’ on uncommongoods, I had to share it as a gift meaning.

You can put a photo of the object of your friend’s desires (a trip to Paris, a new bike, a key to your home, or cooking classes- you get the drift) in the pine frame and then fill the bank with spare dollars, nickles and pennies. This would be an amazing gift to a friend who has given up on his/her dream! By placing his/her ‘dream photo’ with a little seed money, it’s a visual reminder that you still believe! It’s $25 and you can find it HERE.

Tees that Transform

When someone is working hard on a dream, he/she may face obstacles, challenges, even set-backs. That’s why I am in love with Transformation Tees’ line of empowering shirts. An affirmation that our strength must come from within, the tee’s reverse message only reveals itself when you face yourself in the mirror! It is designed to serve as a personal reminder of your goal. With messages like “Be present”, “I am a Warrior”, and “I will make this leap with faith”, these 100% pima cotton shirts are the perfect gift for any dreamer. They also come shipped in a custom made gift box with cards that explain how the shirt works and what it means. Visit Transformation Tees to see all of the gorgeous colors and styles:

A Framed Letter from the Heart

This “Fly Forth Angel Card” is so beautifully symbolic. Write a letter, and give the card with a beautiful frame so the recipient can always have the image and your words close to heart. You can even use a frame with several shadow boxes, and in the other slots place symbolic tokens of the “dream” or even 3-dimensional words. This is an original illustration by artist, Rebecca Parsons, and is available on Zazzle for just $3.35:

Unfolding the Vision Kit

Having a clear vision is key for any dreamer. Sometimes we have a dream in our hearts, but we don’t have true clarity on what we want. Sure, I have seen many of vision boards, dream books, and so on to help with this. But I adore “The Unfolding Your Life Vision Kit“, because it is designed as a way to create a visual collage book that is a personal, portable work of art and a visual affirmation of your values, goals and dreams. This is such a neat, fun way to give the dreamer in your life, and at just $35 for one kit, $60 for two, and $110 for 4 you may just have to give it to a group of friends and host a party after the holidays to make your collage books together:

More Dream-Catching Ideas:

* Find a piece of jewelry that represents the dream- Etsy is great for unique, handmade finds.

* Put together a “Dreamer’s Care Package” with items from hardware stores, Walmart, Target, dollar stores. Once you are focused on what the dream is, items are easy to find!

* Give a Flip video camera with a note (or pre-made video message) to tell the dreamer to document his/her journey.

* Make a calendar on LuLu.com that you designed specifically with the dreamer’s dream in mind. Include inspiring messages and photos for each month.

Here are the other parts of the inspired girl* 2010 Holiday Gift Guide- Gifts with Meaning:

* Part One: The Standards Amped Up a Notch (jewelry, cufflinks, etc.)

* Part Two: Handmade Heaven (simple DIY tips and handmade finds)

* Part Three: For the Gadget Girl or Guy (cases, coverings, tekkie stuff)

Gifts With Meaning: inspired girl 2010 Holiday Gift Guide Part Four- Dream Catching Ideas is a post from: Inspired Girl* by Jennifer Tuma-Young

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* Monday- The Standards Amped Up a Notch : this section is about common gift ideas made a little more meaningful, including  jewelry and cuff links.

* Tuesday- Handmade Heaven: this section includes unique, handmade items that the recipient probably has not seen before, including hand stamped items, linens, and more!

This section is for people who love technology. I have found some incredible  gifts for gadget and gizmo lovers. And, it’s all about the “thought” that goes into the gift to add even beauty and meaning to it !

Gadget Cases and Coverings

For the iPad, Kindle, or Mac Book

This sweet personalized iPad sleeve is not just cute, it can be completely customized! You can change the monogram to a meaningful date or phrase, mix up the colors a bit, make it personal to the receiver. For $48, you are giving a one-of-a-kind original, handmade by Clara Uribe and can be found on Etsy.

I happen to love the symbolism of the Cherry Blossom. It has many meanings, depending on the culture, but what strikes me is the delicate nature of the flower combined with the strength of the branch. Some say it simply symbolizes education. Having this beautiful decal on your iPad or kindle is a great reminder of the power of the written word. It also means friendship and happiness! For just $6.50 by vinylSoul, it’s definitely a perfect gift for a gadget girl…

Note: There are tons of unique cases and decals on Etsy, ranging in price, and DEFINITELY worth a look if you know someone who is excited over his/her iPad, Kindle, or MacBook. Check out pages of them HERE.

For the iPhone, iTouch, or Blackberry Storm

Whenever I see an old fashioned style phone booth, I smile. So I fell in love with this adorable British Red Phone Booth Gadget Case. Make it even more meaningful by including a not about keeping touch, calling anytime, or even writing out the James Taylor lyrics to “You Gotta Friend”. For just $20, this handcut case makes a great gift for a friend, relative, or grab bag:

Owls are said to be insightful, wise, insightful, and protective. When I saw this owl gadget case for $22, I immediately thought it would be perfect for the “father-figure” in your life! Again, add to the meaning of the gift by including a little note, something like “Thank you for always teaching me, looking out for me, protecting me.” You can even add a quote associated with the meaning of the owl:

“We are all visionaries, and what we see is our soul in things…”~Henri Amiel

There’s an App for That…

Ok, so there are TONS of iPhone apps. I don’t personally have an iPhone, but I know when someone is into apps, they are INTO APPS! Simply get an iTunes gift card, then do some research to find one that has a special meaning. Print out the description, and get them a “token” symbol that matches the app!

From coffee apps to apps that blow kisses to apps that keep track of the wines you love…like this one called “Cellar” . Cellar is a portable, swipeable showcase of what’s currently in your cellar or wine rack, plus the Garage feature lets you store wine that you’ve decided you might buy again, available on the App Store:

Making Memories- Photo Gifts

iConvert Photo Scanner

Nowadays, every photo is pretty much digital. But how many of us have boxes and boxes of old photos wilting away? When I saw this iConvert photo scanner, and its simple one touch technology, I immediately thought how great it would be to not only give the gift, but to scan the photos (or at least get started on the scanning) for someone? Surprise your spouse with all of his high school football photos saved on his hard drive, or bring tears to mom’s eyes by scanning in her prom pics. Once the photos are scanned, there are so many more meaningful things you can do with them! On sale for $79.95 at Brookstone:

HP iPrint Photo with HP Photosmart Plus

Now, this tekkie gift with meaning does just the opposite- it gets the photos out of a device and to the printer! It seems that years ago we had boxes of photos, but today photos are trapped in our devices. HP iPrint Photo 3.0 is a free downloadable mobile app that allows you to capture and edit photos, and wirelessly print photos, PDF and text files directly from your iPad, iPhone or iPod touch to HP Inkjet printers connected to a local wireless (WiFi) network.

Walmart has the HP Photosmart Plus Wireless All-in-One Printer on sale for just $89:

Tomorrow Part 4: Dream Catching Ideas for the ‘dreamer’ on your list!

Gifts With Meaning: inspired girl 2010 Holiday Gift Guide Part Three- For the Gadget Guru is a post from: Inspired Girl* by Jennifer Tuma-Young

Related Posts:

* Monday- The Standards Amped Up a Notch : this section is about common gift ideas made a little more meaningful, including  jewelry and cuff links.

* Tuesday- Handmade Heaven: this section includes unique, handmade items that the recipient probably has not seen before, including hand stamped items, linens, and more!

* Wednesday- For the Gadget Girl or Guy: this section is for people who love technology, including apps, ipad accessories, and other cool gizmos that add beauty and meaning to life.

* Thursday- Dream Catching Ideas: this section is for the ultimate “dreamer” in your life, including gifts that help the dreamer keep their vision alive and moving forward.

* Friday- The Gift of Fun & Play: this section is all about experiences, giving gifts of an activity, time, something fun to do AND removing all boundaries so the recipient can do it.

Essential Materials for DIYers

There are so many simple ways you can give a handmade gift, even if you are not so crafty! Let’s start with some essential materials to have in order to make handmade heaven happen- many of which you can find at dollar stores or Walmart:

Clear Glass Jars

There are so many things you can simply put in a jelly jar, like dry ingredients for your famous cookie recipe, homemade pumpkin butter, sea salts for a relaxing spa bath, assorted gumballs, folded “fortunes” on mini note cards. Be creative and make it extra special by including a note about what’s inside. You can purchase a dozen clear glass jars for under $15 on Amazon. They are a beautiful, minimalist way to send holiday love in jar.

Brown Bags and Labels

Think of all of the wonderful things you can “brown bag” and give as a meaningful, homemade gifts: a custom Winter Coffee Mix blending flavors and adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg or cocoa powder, homemade rock sugar with a invite to have afternoon tea together, a mixed bag of buttons with ideas on how to use them (decorate lamp shades, jean pockets, make a brooch). Again, having brown bags on hand is simple, inexpensive, and can be a beautiful package for a handmade gift:

Festive Papers, Hole Punch, and Ribbon

Sharing ourselves, our stories, our passions- the best gift anyone can receive! Make a little booklet of your best recipes, add personal notes not just ingredients. Or, share your 10 life lessons, each with its own page and photo. You can create a dream journal with leading questions and blank pages then add in your favorite quotes and your own dreams. Maybe music is your fancy- write lyrics to your favorite songs and make a custom CD to go with the booklet. Put yourself into the booklet, and it’s sure to be cherished:

Stencils, Paint, and Sponge

Having a stencil on hand can turn anything into a custom gift. You can stencil a monogram or symbol on hand towels, tees, even a decorative pillow. You can create a jewelry box, a treasure chest, a birdhouse. Or, buy a yard of fabric, stencil something and frame it for one-of-a-kind artwork. It shows the recipient you made an extra effort to create a special present, like this one featured on the haystack needle:

Boxes, Ribbon, & Paper

Of course, having boxes, ribbon, and paper on hand can transform a candle, a gift card, jellybeans,  even a pair of socks or gloves from ho-hum to meaningful. And think “outside the box” ; my sister-in-law is amazing at finding unique containers, coverings, bows, and accents for each gift. Choose colors and materials thoughtfully, make the tag stand out by adding a saying, quote, or words from your own heart:

Bohemian Chic Wrap

Simple Abundance Wrap:

Glittery and Gorgeous

Hand-Made Gifts to Purchase

There are so many meaningful handmade gifts that you can purchase, too. I love receiving handmade items because you know there is a story woven into it. Someone’s grandmother sat with them and taught the kids how to quilt, or another’s “space for healing” only happened when she was behind a sewing machine…the time, love, and detail of handmade items is pretty awe inspiring. So, here are a couple of my favorite handmade gifts to get your mind going.

Vintage Inspired Pink Altered Mini Album

Every girl needs a place to hold her thoughts and dreams, movie tickets, and inside jokes… why not a cute pink mini album? The heart on the cover is handcut from a vintage quilt. The bottom ruffle is a vintage dress pattern, the top pleat is a vintage math textbook page, the quotes are actually vintage doublesided English and German flashcards. At just $10 by the Career Scrapper, and filled with inspiration with words like “The Good Stuff”, “pieces of my life” , and images of flittering butterflies, this is the perfect gift for any girly girl on your list:

Handmade Crochet Mary Jane Slipper

I love a good pair of slippers- it’s so relaxing to slip on a pair and float around the house. Giving someone slippers is like giving permission to just “be”. And, giving handmade slippers taps into the true spirit of the season. I heart these crochet mary jane slippers. At just $14 on Artfire.com, you really can’t go wrong:

Handmade Ceramic Pottery Angel Plate

This plate just reminds me of an angel by the water- gorgeous blue/green color, with a lace impressed texture. It’s a shabby chic porcelain handmade charger plate. At just $20 per plate on Artfire, this is a meaningful gift for anyone who appreciates cermics:

Cozy and Chic Gray Scarf with Fringe

Scarfs make a lovely gift, especially in the winter months. I love this cozy and chic gray scarf with fringe by Elde on Etsy. Its not only soft and warm, it is multi-functional and can be worn as a scarf, a shawl, or a vest! For $69, this is perfect for any girl with style from the inside-out. And, you can find handmade scarves on Etsy at every price point, starting at just $5!!

Stay tuned for Part 3 of Gifts with meaning…I will continue tomorrow!

Gifts With Meaning: inspired girl 2010 Holiday Gift Guide Part Two- Handmade Heaven is a post from: Inspired Girl* by Jennifer Tuma-Young

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I’ve put together a 5-Part Holiday Gift Guide of Gifts With Meaning, and included lots of simple, fun ideas on how to make even a gift card or money strike a deeper cord.

The list is broken down by these categories, and I will post 1 each day this week:

* The Standards Amped Up a Notch : this section is about common gift ideas made a little more meaningful, including  jewelry and cuff links.

* Handmade Heaven: this section includes unique, handmade items that the recipient probably has not seen before, including hand stamped items, linens, and more!

* For the Gadget Girl or Guy: this section is for people who love technology, including apps, ipad accessories, and other cool gizmos that add beauty and meaning to life.

* Dream Catching Ideas: this section is for the ultimate “dreamer” in your life, including gifts that help the dreamer keep their vision alive and moving forward.

* The Gift of Fun & Play: this section is all about experiences, giving gifts of an activity, time, something fun to do AND removing all boundaries so the recipient can do it.

Jewelry with Meaning for Her

Kathy Bransfield is known for distinctively meaningful jewelry. I just love the simplicity of her designs, and the way the stamped quotes are under a symbol. Her necklaces are priced between $54 and $88, so check out her collection of almost 60 different necklaces each with a beautiful message. I especially love the “A friend is someone…” design, which reads  “A friend is someone who understands your past, believes in your future and accepts you today just the way you are.” This is the perfect gift for a dear friend:

If you’ve read my blog, you know I’m an Anthropologie junkie, so of course I could have picked a hundred pieces from their catalog. But this Bedecked Brooch Necklace spoke volumes to me. First, brooches have a vintage feel, perfect for an “old soul”.  And, while many know the dragonfly symbolizes change or evolution, it also represents poise and power. I love the iridescent color of both the necklace and a real dragonfly. The magical property of iridescence is also associated with the discovery of one’s own abilities by unmasking the real self and removing inhibitions or self-doubt. Priced at $48, give this necklace as a gift to represent her grace and strength:

Other AMAZING places to find meaningful jewelry for her:

* Etsy: Prices ranging from $5 to $5000, you can find something unique and special for anyone on your list!

* Andrea Rosenfeld Designs: Features artisan jewelry infused with the intent to heal as well as kinetic, gallery art pieces. Perfect for an art-loving gal with a flair for unique, meaningful handmade jewelry!

* LuLu Bell Design: From earrings to lockets to the Shelly Cuff bracelet, LuLu Bell has handmade pieces that with prices starting at $15!

* Giving Tree Jewelry: Wishbone necklaces, spiritual gear, and more. You’ll find pieces from over 50 artists from big names to independent designers who can customize something just for you. Several of their pieces have been featured on celebrities like Halle Berry, Hayden Panettiere, and Sarah Jessica Parker, as well as in various magazines. The Giving Tree specializes in “jewelry with meaning”.

Make It Even More Special Tip:

Once you pick out a piece of jewelry, write a message on a note card of what the piece means. Buy a cute frame for the note card, and the receiver will always have a reminder of the beautiful meaning behind the gift.

Quick Reference to Meaning of  Gem Stones:

Google is a girl’s best friend. Looking up the meaning of a certain gem stone or material or symbol is simple! Print out this quick reference guide (adapted from I Bequeath Thee) for shopping, or plan ahead by knowing what type of piece you are looking for when you hit the stores.

Amethyst: Amethyst is said to calm the emotions, create clarity of thought, and assist in attaining wisdom. It is also believed to draw the attention beyond the mind, to the realm of pure spiritual knowledge; and to help one let go of all that is old and holds back, in order to fully embrace one’s spiritual destiny.

Aquamarine: Aqaumarine is believed to aid in releasing anxiety and fear, to help relaxation on long journeys, give insight and perception when dealing with people, and give protection. Aquamarine gemstones are also credited with aiding in mental clarity and meditation.

Emerald: The gorgeous green stone has been said to lift depression and insomnia. It is also believed to give knowingness of the heart, peaceful dreams, and to transmit balance, healing & patience.

Gold: Gold is intimately linked with Divinity and those gods associated with the Sun. It symbolizes wealth and success, increases personal power, enhances relaxation and enjoyment of life, promotes good health and success. Wearing gold in everyday life increases personal power, and promotes courage, confidence and willpower. Gold chains worn around the neck preserve health.

Hematite: Hematite is believed to reduce stress and anxiety and also to promote awareness of personal issues and patterns.

Opal: It is believed that opals clarify by amplifying and mirroring feelings, buried emotions and desires, including love and passion. Opal is said to aid in visualization, imagination, dreams, and healing.

Pearls: Pearls have variously been associated with chastity, power, courage, or modesty. They have been seen as symbols of a pure heart and mind, innocence, and faith. Gold and black pearls are believed to bring prosperity. Because the pearl comes from the sea, it is believed to have watery and lunar elements, and therefore to help balance the emotions. Some divers believe wearing pearls will lend protection from sharks.

Sapphire: Sapphires are associated with peace and happiness, and believed to help with communication, insight, intuition, inspiration, and prayer.

Gifts With Meaning for Him

Steel wheat pennies are somewhat rare. In 1943 copper was in short supply as it was being used to make shell casings for the war, so pennies were made of steel with a zinc coating that year. I found these Steel Wheat Cuff Links on Etsy-  the perfect gift for a guy who likes to talk history, giving him a story to tell about his cuff links! For just $20 by FriendlyGesture, this is a bargain gift with meaning:

100% Sterling cuff links with customized names will let him wear his heart on his sleeve. How sweet to stamp the kids names, an inside joke, a special date…you can personalize this pair, and the hand stamping gives them a very cool “imperfect” feel. For $150 these Men’s Silver Cuff Links by Hot Mama Designs will make him smile:

Make It Even More Special Tip:

Sometimes the men aren’t as keen on having “I love you” engraved on a dog tag, bracelet, or ring. Try something unique, personal, and meaningful by choosing words in another language.

Here are some Latin phrases:

NEMO NISI MORS no one but death shall part us

VERITAS INLUSTRAT truth enlightens

INTER NOS between us

TIBI. IN OMNE TEMPUS for you forever

And Italian phrases…

Il mio cuore è per voi my heart is for you

Un milione di baci love and kisses

Avere fiducia have faith

Stay Tuned for Part 2  of  Gifts  with Meaning Holiday 2010 Gift Guide. I will continue tomorrow…

Gifts With Meaning: inspired girl 2010 Holiday Gift Guide Part One- Jewelry & Cufflinks is a post from: Inspired Girl* by Jennifer Tuma-Young

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I applaud Dove for their “Real Beauty” campaign, and being one of the first major brands to open up a dialogue about self-love, confidence, acceptance, and beauty regardless of age, shape, or size.

And, thankfully, a friend and blog reader reminded me of my dream yesterday when I posted some of my favorite fall French terry jackets. She commented:

Love the French Terry Hoodie…..just very disappointed there are no 1x 2x 3x sizes and I am a 2x. As a Big Beautiful Woman I would love to see something fashionable in plus sizes.

So, I headed straight to Google (a girl’s best friend) in search of beautiful French terry jackets in sizes up to 4x, and here are some of my favorite finds…

I was beaming to find this Style & co. long sleeve ruffled front jacket, similar to the one Carol loved. I am also a huge fan of romantic ruffles paired with the structure on the sides. Wear it with jeans or pants, it is perfect for fall, and (on sale!) at Macy’s for $48.30:

Missphit has a line of adorable clothing, from dresses to sweats, jackets to peacoats, and everything in between. I am in love with this casual yet chic soft cotton French terry hoodie. It has subtle details with a “smock-like” back, and a great silhouette. It comes in 2 colors – black (shown below) or grey,  and is priced at $49:

Since the military look is in full force this fall, Torrid has a comfy French Terry Olive Zip Front Military Hoodie. I really like the band ribbing around the cuff and bottom, and of course olive is a must-have fall neutral color. Wear it with chocolate brown cargos, black leggings, or a pair of jeans- it goes with just about anything:

And leave it to Kohl‘s to have an Eyelash French Terry Military Vest that is oozing day to night. Throw on a turtleneck for day, pair it with a white tank, bold necklace, jeans, and fun boot for evening. Priced at $36, it’s definitely worth every penny:

I happen to love this sunkist coral color of the French Knit Hoodie at Junonia. It brightens my day just looking at it, yet it doesn’t feel like a “resort” color. And, seeing the photo on the beach on a crisp day just resonates with me. I love the feel of cold sand and a cozy hoodie. What’s even better, is this comes in 8 colors and is on major sale marked down from $59.95, now priced at just $9.99:

And, I’d love to hear from you. What are some of your favorite fall styles? What would you like to see more of on this blog? We are all here to share, learn from, and teach each other…

A Comment Inspired Me to Find 5 More French Terry Jackets… is a post from: Inspired Girl* by Jennifer Tuma-Young

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1. go for a walk around the neighborhood with my kids in the wagon

2. jump in a big pile of crunchy leaves

3. cuddle with my husband on a blanket in the grass

4. sit on my porch or somewhere in nature and read a book that gets me lost

5. curl up on the chaise with the fire going

First off, French terry is a little different than regular terry cloth, mainly because it is smooth on one side and has a comfy stretch in the fabric. French terry is also soft and warm- perfect post bath or shower.

This fall, there are lots of warm, comfy French terry jackets to choose from, at every price point. Here are some that I drool over…

So, leave it to Anthropologie to combine comfort, ease, and style in one beautiful every day lounging jacket. This Ashtanga Cardigan in dusty pink is flowing in the front yet has a form fitting silhouette, and feels like a little bit of luxury. To top it off, it’s on sale for just $39.95 and all sizes are still available:

I’m really into the deconstructed yet structured look of comfortable clothing. It adds style to the traditional “sweat suit”, so when you’re hanging home or running errands you can still be both comfortable and cute. Kohl’s has an adorable Ruffled Front French Terry Hoodie by Hang Ten. It is smooth and soft to the touch, and priced at just $16…

For a more traditional yet modern line, try this army colored KRISA Funnel Field French Terry Jacket on Revolve Clothing. It is feminine and functional with fine detailing in the decorative sleeve tabs, the brass buttons, and back drawstring to cinch in the waist. Priced at $180, this splurge can easily go from day-to-night:

And, for an afternoon casual date, I came across this French terry wrap jacket by Juicy Couture in heather lead gray. It oozes comfortable chic, and can be worn so many ways. I happen to love it with these tailored snap ankle leggings. You can find this French terry jacket for $228 in Neiman Marcus (and if you think about it, that’s just 75 cups of Starbucks coffee)…

So, now that fall is in full swing, get outside and enjoy the cool air. Be inspired to take in all the season has to offer in a relaxed French terry jacket!

Fall Style: Inspired by French Terry Jackets is a post from: Inspired Girl* by Jennifer Tuma-Young

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