Rare Bird Finds

Sticky, Chewy, Messy, Gooey: Desserts for the Serious Sweet Tooth

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Zombies: A Book of Zombie Christmas Carols

The Curious World Of Christmas

Lost in Austen: Create Your Own Jane Austen Adventure

Handmade Hellos Book

Because the art of hand-written letters is dying, I fully support people who fight to keep it alive.  This adorable book has 25 different easy, fun ways to make greeting cards that people pay big bucks for in those chi-chi stationary stores. $20.95 at Fred Flare.

WIN THIS! Glamourpuss: The Enchanting World of Kitty Wigs

Julie Jackson, the very cool author of Glamourpuss: The Enchanting World of Kitty Wigs, saw our post on RBF, and she, along with Chronicle Books, have offered to do a giveaway of this super hilarious book to TWO Rare Bird Finds readers - woo hoo!

ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

To enter, 1) become a fan of the Kitty Wigs! Facebook page and 2) leave a comment in this blog post (on the Rare Bird Finds website) with your name and mailing address (in case you win!).  ALL COMMENTS WILL REMAIN UNPUBLISHED - so no one will see your addy.  Two winners who have done both steps will be randomly picked.  U.S. and Canadian readers only.  Contest ends Friday, Nov. 20, 2009.

Good luck! 

Glamourpuss: The Enchanting World of Kitty Wigs Book

I was at the bookstore yesterday and stumbled upon Glamourpuss: The Enchanting World of Kitty Wigs by Julie Jackson who I know is a Rare Bird Finds reader (hiii, Julie!).  The book is flippin' funny.  I couldn't stop giggling.  The book features 60 stylish cats, each with hilarious sayings that will get you rollin'.  $10.17 at Amazon 

The Curious Garden

One of the favorite books of the summer in my house has definitely been one of Peter Brown's latest . Full of whimsical pictures and a main character that follows his heart by bringing a little bit of happiness to his surroundings, this sweet little book will bring the same to yours. $11.55 at Amazon

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

Remember having to read Pride and Prejudice in school?  It's one of my favorite books, but now it's even better - with zombies!  Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: The Classic Regency Romance - Now with Ultraviolent Zombie Mayhem! looks like a fun parody. $7.77 at Amazon

Rare Bird Finds News - Please Read

Hello Birdie Friends!

With a heavy heart, I must sadly announce that Sharla will no longer be a regular contributor for Rare Bird Finds.  Sharla and I made our first Rare Bird Finds post in March of 2006, and it's been a fun ride!  I always looked forward to seeing what finds she discovered and cursing her name for helping to empty out my wallet :)  All of us will greatly miss Sharla's eye for the beautiful and the unusual, but more so, her warm spirit and enthusiasm.  However, she is moving on her journey to take care of her two beautiful toddlers and tending to her jewelry shop (which you really must visit, if you haven't!)

But this isn't the end of Rare Bird Finds!

We will be taking a break in July to clear our heads and come up with some fresh ideas.  If you're signed up for our email digest, you will get an email letting you know when our posts have returned - so please sign up, if you haven't already (the subscription box is on the left column).  But if not, be sure to return Monday, August 3, ok?!

To all of you have been faithful readers these past few years, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.  Every day when we post, we post knowing that you're looking forward to our finds.  This blog wouldn't be possible without you.  You keep us motivated, and we love your emails and comments - so keep them coming!

Warmly,

Mei-Lynn

Call for Fresh Ideas!

As a reader of Rare Bird Finds, we welcome any ideas you may offer to help improve our blog.  We're open to suggestions!  Just leave us a comment below or if you prefer, you can email us at rarebirdfinds@yahoo.com.

Call for Writers!

We're looking to add more regular contributors.  If you feel you can spot shopping finds that are a good match for our blog, send us an email along with a sample of 3 - 5 finds with blurbs.  Show us what you got!  Also, send along a bio about yourself (please include if you're a shop owner or if you have your own blog), what category you'd like to post in, and why you think you'd be a good pick! 

Book Talk Bookmark

This neat word bubble bookmark is re-writable and adds a bit of personality to your latest read.  $6 at Gama-Go

Gnome Bookmark

I love to read.  I love gnomes.  This is the perfect bookmark for me!  $9 at Hmodine. This shop has a ton of bookmark styles to choose from - check it out!

brilliance: uncommon women inspirational quote book

It's a new year and it's time for a new you.  I don't know about you, but I definitely need some inspiration!  This book showcases the brilliant insights of women.  $14.50 at Catching Fireflies.

Gifts under $20: The Ultimate Bar Book

The Ultimate Bar Book: The Comprehensive Guide to over 1,000 Cocktails $15.96

Gifts Under $20: Klingon and Vulcan Greetings Bookmark

Klingon and Vulcan Greetings Bookmark $3

One-year Subscription of Stashmedia

There is a whole world of commercials, game cinematics, music videos, short films, promos, and virals that we never get to see here in the states. This one-year subscription to stashmedia is chock full of the latest in 2D animation, 3D animation, claymation, paper cut outs, and more. As an added bonus they also feature the behind-the-scenes movie magic that goes into making these delectable tidbits. $249 at Stashmedia.

Meat Sport Flip Book

Nothing beats watching two men battle it out with large pieces of meat.  $10 at Lookability

Creepy Cute Crochet

 

Unfortunately I am terrible at crocheting. If I could make something other than a tangled mess I would make these creepy yet cute creatures. Zombies, Ninjas, Robots, and more! Oh My! $14.95 at Needle Noodles

Burning Bookmark

Don't lose your place with this burning bookmark.  $5.99 at Perpetual Kid

Celebrate Green!

By now, we all know we're supposed to be taking steps to clean up our act when it comes to helping the environment, but let's face it: sometimes all the work of going green can get a little overwhelming. I recently had the chance to preview Celebrate Green: Creating Eco-Savvy Holidays, Celebrations, and Traditions for the Whole Family by mom and daughter team Corey Colwell-Lipson and Lynn Colwell, and was relieved to find a "green guide" that provides simple, clever ways to make your parties and celebrations more earth-friendly - without making them less fun.

The book is about so much more than just eco-friendly entertaining, though. It's a practical, accessible, and encouraging reference guide for anyone looking to make some simple lifestyle changes in hopes of cleaning up our environment. There's a great section on the basic "how to's" of reducing, reusing, and recycling, along with tips on decoding labels and shopping for products that are truly beneficial for both people and the planet.  The book isn't preachy, either, so whether you're an environmentalist from way back or you're just getting started, you'll be able to find helpful tips you can put into action right away.

The guide also has tasty recipes, craft ideas, and lists of resources for further reading, shopping, and charitable giving. It's a refreshing approach to caring for the planet by weaving thoughtful, environmentally responsible practices into our celebrations and everyday lives. $17.95 at Celebrate Green

Note to Self: On Keeping a Journal and Other Dangerous Pursuits

When I read Note to Self: On Keeping a Journal and Other Dangerous Pursuits by Samara O'shea, the book did something wonderful - it made me want to journal again after years of thinking of myself as a "journaling failure."  Being a private person, I was often afraid of someone discovering my journal.  Now, because of this book, I've come to realize the beauty of opening yourself up onto the page, and how utterly therapeutic it can be.

The exercises and advice in the book gently nudge and guide you through various exercises that will help you delve deeper into your emotions and ultimately help you to understand yourself better.  The book also features excerpts from the author's own journals and well-knowns such Anne Frank, Sylvia Plath, Joyce Carol Oates and others.

The book is funny, tender and honest - Samara O'shea opened herself up (and her journal) to help us become better writers who are able to put on paper the heart of who we are.  Terrific book for anyone who wants to journal, and even those who have been journaling. Hardcover.  $13.57 at Amazon

Library Cards

As a writer and avid reader, I loooove these authentic library cards and pockets.  Use them to host a holiday gift exchange themed around books--create your invitations on library cards. Then have each guest bring his or her favorite book, gift wrapped, for a a grab-bag. Have an author trivia game, with prizes (like bookmarks, magazine subscriptions, or gift certificates to Barnes and Noble). Research some famous author's favorite foods, and feature these on the menu. $12.75 for 50 sets at School Locker.

Picked by Victoria Sprow, Guest Editor of Fab 5 Friday

Lettuce Journal

Lettuce write down our thoughts. $7.50 at edesse designs.

Hoorah for the Bra Pop-Up Book

I'm feeling a wee bit sensitive about My Girls lately.  My Dr. scheduled me for a mammogram because of some problems I have been having. Here's to hoping it is not the "big C"!  On a happier note, this book gave me the giggles when I saw it. Bras, undergarments, and pop ups..Oh my! $13.57 at Amazon.

Victorian Dress-up DOG- Mixed Media Collage Blank Journal

What a pretty Victorian lady...or err..Victorian dog? This journal is $12.00 at Snaps and Scraps.

Practically Posh

I absolutely love the book Practically Posh by Robyn Moreno.  It's such a wonderful book but it's hard to describe.  The book offers great tips & tricks on how to live well and enjoy life on a budget.  The book is broken into chapters ranging from topics such as Nesting, Hip Hosting, Budget Beauty, and more. 

The book is eclectic and touches upon all aspects of a woman's life - from the kitchen to work to dating to entertaining to traveling.  The book contains a great DIY project (how to turn an unfinished Ikea dresser into an Asian-inspired armoire), recipes (like, chicken saltimbocca over linguine - a dish she recommends if you want to  "wow a dude"), instructions on how to pull off affordable parties or score clothing deals when you shop, advice on how to behave when meeting your boyfriend's parents for the first time, and tips that range from how to save while traveling to when to buy organic while grocery shopping.  There's even advice for the working girl (like, how to fire someone - ack!).  The book is just so chock full of good advice and tips (with lots of photos and colorful, patterned pages) that you'll find this book to be a little treasure to add to your arsenal.

A highly recommended book!  $12.89 at Amazon

Win Daily and Weekly Prizes!

Rare Bird Finds has partnered with T-Mobile to offer SIXTEEN amazing prizes exclusively for Rare Bird Finds readers, including $100 gift cards to Crate & Barrel and T-mobile!  WOOHOO! All you have to do to enter is respond to the question posed below and enter your contact info.  Then you're automatically entered for a chance to be randomly picked for daily prizes and weekly prizes.  Contest runs for two weeks starting TODAY! 

Don't be greedy - tell your friends!

T-Mobile is hosting this giveaway to draw awareness to the T-Mobile Ultimate Home giveaway - where you get a chance to win a home!  Learn more about the T-Mobile Ultimate Home giveaway.

5 Year Diary

I think this 5 Year Diary is such a neat idea.  Every page is dedicated to one day of the year for five years and, according to the site, "it's subdivided into five sections-so that as time goes by, past entries can be read as new ones are written."  The back includes a section for you to keep track of the books you've read and the places you've traveled.  $24.95 at MOMA

Elvis and T. Rex Flipbooks

Omg, so awesome.  The Elvis flipbook lets you see Elvis' fantastic hip gyrations over and over.  Here's a video of what the book looks like when it's flipping. Also pretty awesome is the T. Rex Lives flip book which looks like a giant T. Rex is gonna bite your head off - rawr!  $4.99 at Boys to Men

The Perfect Scoop: Ice Creams, Sorbets, Granitas, and Sweet Accompaniments

I whipped up a feast of homemade ice cream for the Fourth of July last year, thanks to this fantastic book. It's full of fresh and seasonal flavors with the practical, detailed instructions I crave in my cookbooks. The author - pastry chef David Lebovitz - also hands out plenty of helpful hints for selecting high-quality ingredients. Check them out alongside his dozens of recipes for whirls, twirls and candy chunks that can be mixed into your homemade ice cream to make hundreds of new combinations! $24.95 at Ten Speed Press.

Picked by Katherine Knighten, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday

Soft Suede Journals

Gorgeous hand bound journals that are both pretty and soft to the touch.  They feature tea stained pages that are hand torn and hand sewn into the journal. Imagine the creativity they will spark in you!  Available in a variety of colors and designs.  $43 - $44 at Kreativlink

Paperback Swap

Paperback Swap is the coolest - you can swap books (not just paperbacks) with people across the United States and the most it'll cost you is the cost of shipping.  Basically, you post books you're willing to swap and if someone requests one of your books, you mail it to the person.  In return, when you request someone else's book, they pay the shipping to mail it to you.  I can't wait to try it! 

Hide-a-Book Book Covers

When I was in grad school I had to read a book by Mario Vargas Llosa called In Praise of the Stepmother.  The newer cover for this novella blocks out the risque bit of the cover artwork, but back in the day when it was all exposed, I was so embarrassed to read it on the bus.  Boy, do I wish I had one of these vinyl Hide-a-Book book covers.  They are a pretty way to hide the covers of small or large paperbacks.  They'll also protect your books and they each come with a built-in ribbon bookmark - genius!  $9.95 - $11.95 at Hide-A-Book.  Comes in a variety of designs.

Personalized Pulp Hard-Boiled or Scifi Novel

   

This is such a unique gift idea! Personalize a detective or sci-fi novel for your recipient. Descriptions of choices:
REUNION WITH DEATH
A hard-boiled private dick and a beautiful dame team up to investigate the death of her sister. In this treacherous whodunit, the question of suicide or murder plunges an exclamation point into the heart of every breathless pulse!
THE STARS ARE SCREAMING
A famous Mars Ranger and an exotic beauty from the planet V'Rshu (along with a cast of colorful characters, some human...some not) join forces to prevent the universe from falling into the hands of the evil Eobna! Includes addition of a pet of your choice (dog or cat).
$50 at pulpstar

Mr. Toast at the Circus book

I love Mr. Toast (and friends!). This comic book consists of vignettes and sight gags with pretty much no plot whatsoever, which makes it all the more endearing.  $4.00 at MrToastStore on etsy.

Picked by Carla Dellavedova, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday

Urawaza: Secret Everyday Tips and Tricks from Japan

I'm all about learning tips and tricks to make life easier.  That's why I'm fascinated by the paperback Urawaza: Secret Everyday Tips and Tricks from Japan because it's filled with 100 Japanese secrets like using scallions to clear a stuffy nose, using a diaper to water plants while you're on vacation or using toothpaste to clear scratches off a CD.  Neat-o stuff!  $10.46 at Amazon. 

WIN IT! Gorgeously Green: 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life

I was super excited when I got a copy of Gorgeously Green: 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life by Sophie Uliano to review. Being a bit of a beauty fiend who is also trying to be more "green", I couldn't wait to read this book.  I'm so glad that I did!  The author provides an 8-step program to begin living more earth friendly.  The best thing is that you don't have to do all 8 steps.  You can just take one step at a time.  Every little bit helps!

In Step 1, you learn what it means to be green and gorgeous.  As Uliano writes, "I used to think it was all about wearing hemp and eating organic tofu.  I thought I would have to turn into one of those zealous do-gooders with unshaven armpits.  Trust me, this is not what the Gorgeously Green program is about.  Far from it." Step 1 also asks you questions about the knowledge you may or may not have ("Do you know the ingredients in your cosmetics?") and then the book moves to empower you.

Step 2 is about being green in your beauty regimen and cosmetics.  You learn tips on how to weed the "bad stuff" out of your beauty routine, and what products to look for that don't have harmful chemicals.  Step 3 is completely devoted to your body, teaching you fitness tips like yoga. 

Step 4 teaches you how to be eco-stylish and how to shop fair trade and organic.  Step 5 teaches you how to have a more eco-friendly home (throw out that chlorine bleach!).  Step 6 is about eating healthier and includes recipes.  It even includes eco-kitchen tips like "Pour water you have used to cook pasta or veggies into a bucket.  When it's cool, use it to water your yard."   Brilliant!

Step 7 is about getting green with doing fun activities like throwing a dinner party, going to the movies, traveling, etc.  Step 8, the last step, is how to be an activist for a better, greener planet. 

Great easy-to-read paperback for those of us who want to be "green" but were afraid it meant we'd have to become "crunchy."  Highly recommended!  $11.53 at Amazon.

Yep, one lucky Rare Bird Finds reader will score a copy of Gorgeously Green: 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life .   All you have to do to enter is leave a comment to this post telling us one thing you do to make your life eco-friendly. One winner will be selected at random and notified.  Make sure you put your email address on the line for email address.  Although we publish comments your email address will not be shown. You have until 11:00 p.m. PST tonight (5/22/08) to enter.  Must be a resident of U.S. or Canda.

Congrats to Becky S. from Atlanta, GA!

WIN IT! Sephora: The Ultimate Guide to Makeup, Skin, and Hair

I had the pleasure to recently receive a comp copy of the hardcover Sephora: The Ultimate Guide to Makeup, Skin, and Hair from the Beauty Authority published by HarperCollins.  I'm a total Sephora fiend - I can spend hours in that store playing with make-up, but sometimes a store full of beauty products can be so overwhelming in determining what products work best for me. 

The book is a great mix of make-up advice from beauty experts on techniques like shaping your eyebrows, blow drying your hair to get a salon-style blowout, applying fake lashes, fixing mascara mishaps, perfecting smoky eyes, and so much more!  Best of all, after each advice and tips & tricks, the book names products that will help and why. 

Here are some of my favorite tips from the book:

• "If you have a bad breakout, don't wear red lipstick, because you'll be repeating and bringing out the color of the blemishes.  Wear a soft brown or neutral color instead."
• "A great way to find your perfect lip shade is by looking at the inside of your cheek and find a color that's two shades darker.  That color is the most natural match for your lips."
• "Dab a luminizer on the cupid's bow of the mouth and lips will look instantly plumper."
• If you have a break out, "put some Visine on a spoon, pop it in the freezer for a bit, and then place it on the pimple.  It eliminates redness and reduces swelling like magic!"

Terrific book - really!  If you love beauty magazines, this is like all the great tips and products squeezed into one handy, beautifully photographed book.  If you're learning about make-up, then this is definitely a must-have.  $18.45 at Amazon.

Yep, one lucky Rare Bird Finds reader will score a copy of Sephora: The Ultimate Guide to Makeup, Skin, and Hair from the Beauty Authority.  All you have to do to enter is leave a comment to this post telling us your own personal favorite beauty tip. One winner will be selected at random and notified.  Make sure you put your email address on the line for email address.  Although we publish comments your email address will not be shown. You have until 11:59 p.m. PST tonight (5/20/08) to enter.  Must be a resident of U.S. or Canda. 

Congrats to Devon T. from Comox, B.C.!

Special Discount for Birdie Readers!

Many of you commented that you would love to have some of these Between Me and You journals and now you have no excuses!!!  Between today and May 3rd take advantage of a 10% discount on orders of 2 or more Between Me And You journals.  Just type “Rare Bird Finds” in the comments section of the secure online order form.

Get over there and order some!

Frog Prince Bookends

These little frog princes crack me up.  Perfect for the reader in your life who loves a fairytale.  $23.95 at Shakespeare's Den.

Seriously Bad Baby Names Book

April showers bring May...baby announcements? I'm thrilled for my pregnant friends, and I'm pretty sure they'd get a kick out of this book of seriously bad baby names. Let's just hope they haven't already chosen any of the names in the book for their new babies! $5.95 at Patina.

Picked by Janet Daly, Guest Editor for Fab 5 Friday

Drawing From Life: The Journal as Art

When I think of journaling, I think of lines and lines of text on a white page.  So, when I stumbled upon Drawing From Life: The Journal as Art, it was so inspirational - it was like seeing outside the box.  The book delves into and explores the visual journals of painters, filmakers, engineers, designers, and other visual thinkers.  It totally made me want to start a visual journal of my own.  Definitely take a peek inside.  $16.50 at Amazon.

Martha Stewart's Cookies

A friend got this book, Martha Stewart's Cookies, and shared with me two treats she made from the recipes: walnut/banana/chocolate chip cookies and peanut butter brownies.  OMG.  So good!  Seriously.  It made me want to buy this book immediately.  If you like to bake and are looking for some recipes to impress friends and familly, this is a great recipe book to add to your collection.  175 recipes with a colored photo for each.  $13.72 at Amazon.

Darkside Zodiac

Usually astrology books want to focus on the positive and the negative.  Darkside Zodiac focuses deliciously on the negative.  If you're into astrology, this is a fun way to discover people's dark side in a humorous, and according to some, "accurate" way.  $13.57 at Amazon

The Year of the Rat Book

Whee - according to Chinese Astrology, this year is for the rats!  The illustrated children's book The Year of the Rat by Oliver Chin is super cute about a little rat who gets into trouble with the family of humans he lives with because he gnaws a little too much and hoardes items he shouldn't be hoarding.  Bright, colorful illustrations, a cute cast of characters and a lesson that sometimes we need to be true to ourselves made this a delightful read.  $15.95 at immedium.

Non-Planner Datebook

Non-Planner Datebook looks like a datebook for creative types like me who think regular datebooks are boooring!  $18 at Fred Flare.

Etsy Saturday!

Some Etsy Hints for the Etsy newbies:  If the item shown here is sold out browse around their shop.  There may be the same or similar items for sale. (If all else fails, convo them and ask) If you don't have an Etsy acount you will need one but it is super easy to sign up.  Most sellers take paypal.  You can use your paypal account or pay with a credit card through paypal.  Easy! (It works a lot like Ebay, except it is not auctions).  Remember to read feedback when in doubt!

Handmade Cat Wallet $23

AquaMan Mohawk Hat $30

Velvet Love Necklace $65

Valentines Day Commitment Love Braille Ring $85

Handmade Floral Book $30

Design Your Own Candy Thief Funky Felt Collar $45

The Bakers recipe card- Set of 12 $6.50

The Man in the Moon Necklace $26   

Shhh, Reading Door Hanger

For you Austen fans out there, this "Shh, Reading" door hanger features Jane Austen on an Italian marble tile.  Great way to let the folks in your home know that you can't be disturbed...you're reading!  $24.95 at Signals.

Everything You Pretend to Know..Book

Everything You Pretend to Know And Are Afraid Someone Will Ask looks like it's not only fun but informative.  Comes packed with information for things you hear about but may have been afraid to ask what they were or what they meant.  Some of the info you might already know, and others might be news to you.  Like, what's the "D" in D-Day stand for?  Why are liberals on the "left" and conservatives on the "right"?  My favorite:  what exactly are capers?  $9.60 at Amazon.

Between Me And You™ Journals

I am not a super sappy or sentimental person but I just love these Between You and Me journals.  They are hard bound spiral journals with a series of questions in them that the recipient fills out and gives back to you.  When I leanred about the journals I had just gotten back from a trip where I saw my Grandma who has had Alzheimer's for years.  I wish I had a journal like this full of her memories that I could read.

I received a journal to give to my mom.  I thumbed through it and I love it.  There is a question every page or so and they are divided into 5 categories: When you were a Kid, Your Youth, My Dad, What About Me, You, Now.  There is also a big blank section entitled "Other Stuff" for content not addressed in the questions.  The questions are just the kinds of questions that you want to ask but never seem to find the time for.  Not sappy at all.  I can't wait to see what my mom writes.  We are very close but as I thumbed through the journal I saw lots of questions I don't know the answer to.  Plus, it's a wonderful keepsake that my girls can read when they are older.

I think the one for your honey (already filled out) would make a unique and meaningful Valentines gift.  Maybe one filled out and one for them to fill out for you.

The journals are for a wide variety of recipients.  You can see the whole range here.  You can also see sample questions from each journal.  I plan to get one for each of my family members. $14.95 at Sand Dune Books