NUTS FOR COCONUTS!

I recently returned from a weekend away in Florida. It was everything I expected it to be and more — the weather was hot and steamy, I visited family and sat poolside under a striped umbrella sipping delicious, icy cocktails. I ate my fair share of freshly caught seafood and deli (hello corned beef on rye with brown mustard and a half-sour pickle on the side!). I took long walks on the beach and experienced the trendy South Beach area as well as the more refined Williams Island and Bal Harbour. Regardless of where I was and what I was doing, everywhere I looked I was surrounded by the most gorgeous coconut palm trees…and to me nothing says Florida more than that!
Which brings
FORGET THE MARSHMELLOWS: ENJOY CALORIE-FREE COCOA

It’s National Cocoa Day today, December 13, and time to celebrate the yummy cold weather treat’s beauty benefits as well as soul warming flavor. Derived from the cocoa bean, cocoa butter is rich in antioxidants and moisturizing benefits, and has been used for years to prevent stretch marks.
While the verdict is still out on its effectiveness in fighting stretch marks, cocoa butter is supremely moisturizing and soothing, especially on winter chapped lips and skin. Here are a few new and classic cocoa products to help keep your skin soft and hydrated.
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil for the Face (ARV $12.99): The granddaddy of all cocoa butter lines, Palmer
STICK IT UP – PORTABLE BEAUTY FROM CONCEALERS TO SHIMMER IN CONVENIENT STICKS
Photo Credit: narscosmetics.com
Creams smear and liquids spill, so what’s a girl to do? Stick it! That’s right. Use sticks for everything from blemish concealers to lipstick, bronzer and eye coolers. Here’s a roundup of products that are guaranteed to make your life simple and keep your purse clean. Plus, they’re great for traveling!
THE BIG “Oâ€
Yes, the name’s a little strange, but the versatile and original The Multiple in Orgasm by NARS creates the perfect glowing complexion and it’s conveniently designed for fail- proof application.
BEAUTY AND THE BUMP – PREGNANCY SKINCARE
Photo Credit: mustelausa.com
Pregnancy is one of the most wonderful and amazing times in a woman’s life. It’s also a time to be safe about what products you use, since many things you put on your skin can be absorbed into the bloodstream. For example, you should check with your doctor about using tanning creams and hair dye. However, there are plenty of products that you can use without concern.
Dr. Sandra Lee Upland, a board-certified dermatologist from California, urges pregnant women to use sun screen to avoid discolorations, which are common. “Estrogen tends to rev up our skin an