I’ve recently started working out with a trainer. I’m finally serious about getting into the kind of shape I’ve always wanted to be in. I haven’t worn a bikini in public since I was in elementary school (no joke!).

My trainer was telling me about how they’re putting one of their clients through this Jillian Michaels program. And she (the client) looks fantastic. But she also eats right. This book has recipes and advice on how to eat. Eating right (sadly for me, the queso-aholic) is a huge step in getting and maintaining the kind of physique you’re hoping for.

Making the Cut is basically a 30-day diet and workout plan that kicks your butt and gets you into peak physical shape.

You may have seen Jillian Michaels on The Biggest Loser. She’s a tough non-nonsense type who makes people work hard and doesn’t listen to a lot of whining and complaining. Her book has great reviews on Amazon. See what you think…

Making the Cut: The 30-day Diet and Fitness Plan for the Strongest, Sexiest You $10.17

This cute little lego looking thing is an amplifier for your iPod. It plugs directly into the base of the iPod and provides clear, high-quality stereo sound.

You don’t need batteries…it’s powered by the iPod battery.

How cool is this? It’s great for travel or if you have downloaded something for your kids to watch and they need it a little louder (the volume is adjustable).

Works with all iPods (except the shuffle).

Mini Doc Amplifier $19.99

Kind of different looking, but in a good way. It’s functional and pretty at the same time.

This jewelry holder from Umbra is made from die-cast aluminum and has a felt covered base to protect your furniture. It’ll hold rings on the angled posts and you can store bracelets or earrings in the base.

It’s perfect for storing the earrings and watch or bracelet you wear every day. Mine usually sit on the counter. This would look way nicer, huh?

Ringling Jewelry Holder $7.99

These are great for a night out. Shimmery body powder in three scents…amber romance, love spell or pure seduction. And they’re the perfect size to fit in your evening bag for touch ups.

You’ve probably already guessed they’re from Victoria’s Secret. These Secret Garden shimmer body powders are limited edition, so get yours now while you can.

Victoria’s Secret Limited Edition Secret Garden Shimmer Body Powder $19.00

This could possibly need an explanation. I use these little keychain lights to check my kids’ throats when they’re complaining of a sore throat. They work perfectly. The light is the bright white light you need when you’re looking for throat gore.

The cool thing about this light is it’s solar…no batteries…yes, and double yes!!

Um, since the light is on a keychain it’s also great for finding your way down your friend’s driveway at night when they forget to leave the porch light on!! Or, for finding something at the bottom of your deep, dark purse.

Rubber Solar Light from The Container Store $7.99

Skinny belts are everywhere lately. You’ll see them over cardigans or with skinny jeans. Basically, they’re the hip, new accessory.

This metallic leather belt from J Crew has extra length so you can wear it with low-rise waistbands. It also comes in four other shiny colors so you can add a little sparkle to whatever you’re wearing.

J Crew Metallic Foil Skinny Belt $38.00

Inspired by sitting by the fire, toasting marshmallows and sipping hot chocolate. Well that makes it a slam dunk for me right there!

First you get double rich hot cocoa scented shampoo, shower gel and bubble bath. Then there’s melting marshmallow creme body souffle. Finally, finish it all off with ooey gooey s’mores flavored lip shine.

My biggest challenge will be stopping myself from trying to eat the stuff instead of shower with it! Speaking of it smelling good enough to eat, check out Cookie Exchange…cookie scented shower gel…mmmm, cookies.

Philosophy Warm By the Fire Ultra Decadent Bath and Body Gift Set $25.00

Philosophy Cookie Exchange Cookie Scented Shower Gel Set $30.00

They’re calling this a ‘date’ top. Makes sense to me.

Pair it with a pair of slim pants and you’ll have a great ‘night out’ look.

This camisole is from Rebecca Taylor. It’s tiered, with raw edges and a rose appliqué.

It would look great with one of the  jewel toned velvet jackets that are being featured now. Check out this one from JCrew.

Rebecca Taylor Tiered Cotton Camisole $150.00

JCrew Velvet Jacket $125.00

So I’ve recently noticed some of my friends (and my husband) are unable to read things like menus and such without holding them REALLY FAR away from their faces.

There comes a point (my husband has reached it) when your arms just aren’t long enough. Enter Pocket Peepers, a credit card sized reading lens…not just a common magnifier. They’re good for things like reading a map, grocery list, golf scorecard thingie and more.

They come in prints and solids so if there’s a guy in your life who could use one, you can get a non-feminine version.

Save yourself the embarrassment of holding the menu from the other side of the table so your friend, husband, relative, etc. can read it. Get them a Pocket Peeper for their wallet for God’s sake!

Pocket Peepers Reading Lens $12.95

Won’t these T-strap sandals look great with your LBD? These are from Martinez Valero.

They come in black, silver (pearl) or gold. Leather sole, satin upper with jeweled accents and 3 1/4″ heel. High, but not painful.

Martin Valero Desiree T-Strap Sandal $127.90