open arms

For me, one of the most annoying things about going to the playground is having to carry a bag with your keys, cell phone and cash, or even worse, stuff them all into your pockets. Try pushing a swing or digging in a sandbox with your bag falling off your shoulder or your pockets bulging. That's why I LOVE these innovative, Hands-Free Bags ($49.99 + tax) from Jupiter Freedom. Founded by Genevieve Liboiron in Montreal, Canada. Far more cooler than traditional "fanny packs," the hands-free bags can be worn on your upper or lower arm, wrist or even thigh and holds your cell phone, lipstick, PDA, keys and even most pocket size digital cameras. They're made with quality materials and have amazing features--like an all-around zipper for both right- and left-handed moms, an adjustable elastic straps for the best fit, breathable mesh for comfort, a removable change purse, and more. So what if it was really invented by Liboiron so she could be hands-free when going clubbing? Moms can live vicariously through her as we jump around in Gymboree class! Choose from about a dozen styles at www.jupiterfreedom.com.

fight prostate cancer: with Anthony Logistics

When my dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer just before his 60th birthday, our family was devastated. Prostate cancer is the third most common form of death from cancer for men of all ages; one in six men in America are diagnosed with the disease. My dad opted for surgery and overcame it, but we continue to support prostate cancer research programs and studies to further prevention and treatment for the disease.

Anthony Logistics For Men shares our passion. Anthony Sosnick, the founder of Anthony Logistics, has made prostate cancer awareness his cause since launching the brand in 2000, and has become a vocal advocate, encouraging the men that he meets giving skincare consultations all over the country to get PSA tests.

This month, the company announces the launch of an oversized (32 oz) Sea Salt Body Scrub ($15) created to support the fight against Prostate Cancer during Prostate Cancer Month. The Sea Salt Body Scrub is an Anthony Logistics favorite – sea salt exfoliates, sea kelp extract nourishes, aloe vera gel soothes, nutmeg oil tones and vitamin C nourishes. The result: Smooth skin you're proud to show off. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this product will be donated to the Aureon Protocol Study at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City for its Prostate Cancer Research program.

To pick up a Sea Salt Body Scrub for the man in your life or learn more about the company, go to www.anthony.com.

book it!

You read to your kids every night before bed. But here's your chance to really celebrate books and create a positive vibe around reading. On Saturday, September 26th, the Library of Congress will host the 2009 National Book Festival. Held on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., between 7th and 14th streets from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, the festival will feature more than 70 authors and writers and is open to the public.

At the Teens and Children's pavilion, expect some of your kids' favorite writers. Children's authors include Mary Brigid Barrett, Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi, Kate DiCamillo, Shannon Hale, Nikki Grimes, Megan McDonald and Mo Willems. Teen and children authors include Judy Blume, Sharon Creech, Paula Deen, Liz Kessler, James Patterson, Rick Riordan, James > Swanson and Jacqueline Woodson, among others. The event is sponsored primarily by Target, in conjunction with other kid-friendly companies like PBS Kids Raising Readers, The Washington Post and Scholastic, Inc.

If you can't get to the DC area, get updates on the festival via the Library's new social media pages on Twitter, Facebook and iTunes, or through free podcasts featuring interviews with festival authors. Book lovers will also enjoy the launch of the website Read.gov, an accessible platform for readers of all ages.

Go to www.loc.gov/bookfest for more info on this amazing event, then get to the Mall to spend a very special day with your family.

in the clear

Going back to school is tough enough. Don't let your pre-teen or teen bring their acne breakouts with them. Check out Mario Badescu's newly launched Acne Resource Center. The renowned skincare specialist created this special area of their website to offer great advice, helpful solutions and award-winning products to those who need them. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion ($17), made with a blend of Calamine and Salicylic Acid helps clear up whiteheads and heal pimples quickly. The Acne Facial Cleanser ($15) is a deep exfoliating cleanser with acne-fighting salicylic acid as well as aloe vera and chamomile to soothe skin. The Drying Mask ($18) heals acne flareups, controls oily buildup and soothes irritated skin. The best part: Log onto www.mariobadescu.com to read answers to frequently asked acne-related questions or ask one of your own. MB experts will provide professional advice to suit your specific needs.

animal magnetism

Zucchini may be something your kids tend to leave on their plates when they're finished with dinner. But Zoocchini will likely make a more lasting impression. In addition to plush stuffed animals in friendly critter designs, the company offers decorative, dining and bath products in three adorable categories: choose from the Barnyard, Ocean and Safari collections. The animals, which come in colorful buckets, make a great brithday gift. The incredibly thick area rugs feature easy to clean designs that pop. And the Melamine Dinner Sets, which include plates, bowls, sippy cups with lids and utensils, are BPA- and Phthalate- free. All of the items are available in the three adorable collections so you can choose from a lovable lion, a quirky cow, a magical mermaid, and many others. When it comes to gift-giving, it sure beats another outfit from The Gap. And if you're buying for yourself or your kids, the rugs are my favorite. I just haven't splurged on one yet since they're all so cute, I can't decide which one to buy. Go to www.zoocchini.com to find a shop near you that carries these products, then stop by and choose your favorite friends.

wax poetic

When it comes to hair removal, I've tried it all: I've test-driven the latest razors, had my eyebrows threaded, and practically done acrobatics in the shower trying to rinse off the latest hair removal cream. So when I heard about Parissa Assorted Sizes Wax Strips (only $11.99), I had my doubts. The box says, "2 easy steps: 1. press on. 2. peel off." I didn't believe it till I tried it--but it's true. The trick is to remember to peel the strip off in the opposite direction of the hair growth. It even comes with a small vial of azulene oil to soothe skin afterward. And if I can do it, your teen or pre-teen daughter can manage too. It's a great ego-booster for starting a new school term. Whether she wants to eliminate underarm stubble, bikini strands or a fuzzy upper lip, Parissa makes it simple. Learn more about the product at www.parissa.com. Think of the benefits? You won't have to worry about her borrowing your razor. You may even be stealing a strip or two for yourself.

expert advice: back-to-school cool

Kids want to look cool for school but they also want to create their own unique style. Dominique MacPherson and Melinda Marinack have an eye for choosing modern designer clothes for mom, baby and child at up to 60% off at their members-only shopping site, www.theminisocial.com. So start your back to school shopping now. For the best value and cutting-edge style, Dominique and Melinda suggest layering a few key pieces over your favorite spring and summer staples. Throw a printed hoodie over a t-shirt, layer a long-sleeve thermal over a short-sleeve one. Add tights, leg warmers or a cardigan to a pretty dress and you're ready for the new season. Check out the royal ash gray hoody by Kingsley, the multi-stripe tunic and leggings set by Splendid, a button-down cardigan by Nest (shown here) and jelly bean baby leggings by BabyLegs. For more great looks, go to www.theminisocial.com.