Rarely do I ever read a magazine cover to cover but I just bought the September issue of Real Simple and it's REAL-ly good.  It features...

The most flattering styles for fall, the color of the season, trends worth trying, modern manners, FAST beauty tips, speed cleaning, and eight easy-to-copy ways to adorn your walls, just to name a few!  Grab a copy and enjoy!

Childhood migraines are more common than you think.  If your child has been complaining of headaches read this article from the New York Times to help determine how you can help your child make necessary changes in his daily routine like exercise, drinking more water, getting adequate sleep and not missing meals.

Dehydration is one of the number one causes for headaches. Most schools encourage children to keep a water bottle at their desk.  Not a bad idea.

-deborah

Ashley, our designated Book Work is our go-to source for great book picks, but who is hers?

"Indiebound is a great resource for book lovers.  Each month independent booksellers create a list of their "inspired recommendations"--this is called the "indie next list"--books you might not find on the front shelves of Borders or Barnes and Noble, you can also see the bestsellers from independent book stores.  I have never gotten a bad recommendation from here and many of my favorite books have come from this site."

Thanks Ashley!

All summer long we've had butterflies and hummingbirds fluttering around.  We see them everyday and all of the activity centers around a Glossy Abelia (Abelia Grandiflora) planted outside our bay window.  This low maintenance plant grows large and It's small white clusters of trumpet shaped flowers continuously bloom from early summer through fall.  It does great in part shade to full sun.  All we recommend is to plant it close to the house for protection from winter winds and maximum viewing pleasure.  Fall is the season for planting trees, shrubs and annuals so late summer is a great time to take inventory and decide which plants are staying, going, or relocating.  If you can make a space for a Glossy Abelia you will not be disappointed- especially by the presence of the hummingbirds and butterflies.  They are drawn to this plant, creating a Nat Geo special right outside your window!

One last summer read before it's back to school.

This heartwarming tale is told by Enzo, the family dog.  Whether or not you are a dog lover, you will love Enzo and his simple but pure perspective on family, friendship, love, loss, and life.  Stock up on tissues and dog treats!

Chloe, a college student from St. Louis, buzzes about her awesome birthday gift. 

"This little blast from the past was a present I received for my upcoming nineteenth birthday. Although record players were popular before I was born, they are coming back as the ultra cool new trend. the Crosley Archive Turntable is portable with just enough modern appeal to fit into any space. Comes with a  USB cable and downloading program, so that all of your old and recently bought records can now be put onto your computer and then your ipod. With this music machine you aren't sacrificing the use of today's technology or the retro icon you grew up with and loved. Bring those dusty records from your adolescence out, and have a listen."

VERY cool gift, thanks for sharing, and Happy Birthday Chloe!

Need a little alone time with your girlfriends after running the kids around all summer. Schedule a spa day with your girlfriends after you ship the kids off to school. Choose a luxury hotel in your home town and invite your girlfriends to join you for a "school" day full of fun. Indulge yourself with all the amenities the hotel has to offer. Start off with a lite workout followed by your choice of spa service and wrap up the "school" day with lunch by the pool. Back in time before the bell rings.  

If in the St. Louis area we recommend the foot reflexology at the Four Seasons (request Kamren and tell him The Milk N Honey sent you!!)