2 Legit...

...yes, 2 Legit 2 Quit. I KNOW I consistently date myself with posts on this blog, but I just can't help what I find funny, can I? In the spirit of the '90's, check this totally radical video out.

First, a definition for those who are unfamiliar:

Definition: A flash mob is a group of strangers who organize themselves, using electronic media such as cell phones or the Internet, to gather together in a public place, behave in a predetermined manner for a predetermined amount of time, and then quickly disperse.

A successful flash mob event depends on the element of surprise. Participants, called mobsters, share news about the time and place for an upcoming event through postings on blogs, chain e-mail messages, SMS text messages and social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter.

The first flash mob is attributed to Bill Wasik of Harper's Magazine in 2003. This idea has morphed into similar "group events" like those of Improv Everywhere (see my January 19, 2009 post "No Pants!").

I have always thought about participating in or organizing a flash mob event, but never wanted to do so as much as I have after seeing this video. It helps if you have mad dancing skills. MC Hammer lives on!

It IS easy being green...

...and fashionable at the same time. For the stylish and eco-conscious, there are several accessories possibilities for re-using, recycling and the like.

Is your water healthy? My very environmentally-conscious Canadian bro-in-law told me months ago about the Canadian ban of Polycarbonate #7 bottles. Problems are especially linked to "throw-away" bottled water bottles AND hard, plastic "keeper" bottles like Lexan/Nalgene that leach chemicals (bisphenol A) into the water. To be certain that you are choosing a bottle that does not leach, check the recycling symbol on your bottle. If it is a #2 HDPE (high density polyethylene), or a #4 LDPE (low density polyethylene), or a #5 PP (polypropylene), your bottle is fine.

If you're not sure, best to toss 'em and use an aluminum or stainless steel bottle. I really like SIGG Bottles myself - they exceed FDA requirements and ensure 0% leaching. And they come in all sorts of cool designs and colors - bonus! Check out the SIGG Bones 20 oz. Kids Water Bottle above.

How about shopping bags? If you're anything like me, walking to the grocery store or stopping into a boutique "just to browse" are regular occurrences. However, so are the piles of flimsy plastic bags that build up in the pantry and the guilt you have throwing any of them in the trash. Introducing a way to take care of both problems - Envirosax!

My sister gave me the Envirosax Mikado Bag 5 as a gift last year and I've used it so many times, I've lost count. It's around $8, it can be collapsed and rolled up into a miniscule size and popped into a purse or tote bag to use at the drop of a hat. Really, I love it so much I might hug it today.

Check out both of these sites - they make excellent gifts!

Indie retail rocks my world...

Tired of the mall? Looking for something different? Need some extra flash from your little wad of cash? Look no further, dear local readers, the boutiques are de-stashing & it's time to pump up your shopping cred...

This Saturday, 02/21 from 9AM-4PM at Shorewood High School is the first-ever BOUTIQUE BLOWOUT! Several of the best, independent fashion boutiques around are banding together to provide Milwaukee fashionistas with what they crave - unique style at a discount. Lots of sample items, luxe brand names, 50-75% off sticker prices...sounds like a great way to spend the day with girlfriends, doesn't it?

Some of the shops that will be there are Lela, SHOP, Miss Ruby, Aala Reed, Shoo, EssElle (my personal fave which is going away 4evah, *sniff*), and more!

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

1) $5 admission (goes to charity)
2) Bring CASH - not sure if any CC's or checks will be accepted
3) Wear a strapless bra and stash some heels in your tote bag
4) Eat a good breakfast and have a shot of caffeine

I predict this will be a no-nonsense, power-shopping, possibly elbowing-other-women-out-of-the-way-for-the-last-one-in-your-size moment. BRING IT ON.