Can someone tell me where the year went? It’s almost December and that means it’s just about time to kiss this year good-bye. Now we have to start concentrating on our holiday shopping and New Year’s resolutions. Luckily, there are sample sales all over the city that’ll help us all out.

Carmen Marc Valvo is having a one day sample sale – TODAY! Sizes range from two to plus; dresses, gowns, suits, accessories and separates, all up to 75% off. Cash and credit cards accepted. 530 7th Avenue, (between 38th & 39th St), 23rd Floor. From 10 AM- 5 PM, 212-944-7370

Frette Linens is having a wonderful sale, with up to 70% off their deliciously soft bedding. It’s going on until December 3rd. Hours Tues thru Thursday 9 AM – 6:30 PM, Friday 9 AM – 5 PM. 560 7th Avenue at 40th Street, second floor.

The holidays are a perfect time to give someone cashmere and they don’t have to know that you bought it at the Autumn Cashmere sale. At this sale you can even buy dog sweaters for up to 75% off! It’s going on until Friday, December 3rd at 231 West 39th Street, (between 7th and 8th Avenues), suite 1006. Hours are 9 AM – 6 PM. 212-398-2244

Tonight at 8 PM, the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting ceremony starts. There’s going to be performances by Jessica Simpson, Nick Lachey and Clay Aiken. Need more information, go to http://www.rockefellercenter.com

Muhammad Ali and his daughter Hanna Ali will be at the Hue-Man bookstore, signing copies of his book, The Soul of the Butterfly: A Memoir at Noon today. It’s a free event, but seating is limited to 200. The Hue-Man Bookstore is located at 2319 Fredrick Douglass Blvd., (at 125th Street & 8th Avenue) 212-665-7400. If you can’t make that appearance, Muhammad Ali will also be appearing at Barnes & Noble, 1972 Broadway (at 66th Street), December 2nd at Noon 212-595-6859.

Looking for something a bit avant guard? Check out Joemca and Poets at The Mercury Lounge, 217 E. Houston Street (corner of Avenue A & Houston) Wednesday, December 8th at 8 PM. Joemca is classically trained in violin and piano. He recently composed and conducted an original score for an ancient Chinese opera that was chosen and ran in this past summer’s Fringe Festival. His music combines strings, guitars and electro beats. Also on the bill are Jeff Klein at 7 PM, Elizabeth Harper at 9 PM, and David Garza at 10 PM.

How about something deliciously naughty and free to boot? I’m talking gossip about everyone and everything delivered every Thursday in your inbox. Go to http://www.popbitch.com, sign up and you’ll get the most interesting news from both sides of the Atlantic. Not only will Pop Bitch give you the latest dirt, you’ll get links to some weird sites and really bad jokes too.

We love parties, good information and goodie bags! It’s even nicer when there’s an event that combines all three. Marta Kagan of Lifeline Coaching and style consultant, Bridgette Reas of Bridgette Raes Style Group are having their New Year, New You Party, on December 13th. The party will feature 15 health, beauty and lifestyle experts who will give advice, provide free consultations, mini makeovers and everyone will be helping to raise fund for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, while sipping drinks, munching on hors d’oeuvres at the same time.

The party is being held at the Lovella Salon, 68th and 2nd Avenue. The party starts at 7 PM with live jazz and complimentary cocktails. Lovella stylists will be offering blow-outs and hairstyle consultations for the first hour and the first 50 guests will receive goody bags worth over $100. At 8 PM, Ms. Kagan will deliver a brief address. Throughout the night, guests will be able to speak one on one with a variety of experts, including an astrologer, nutritionist, make up artist, financial planner and more.

Tickets to the event are $5.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door. Each ticket grants the holder an entry to the party as well as entry to the Extreme Life Makeover Contest. The winner of the contest will receive over $5,000 in prizes, including a complete makeover and wardrobe.

For advance tickets and additional information please go to http://www.lifecoaching.com/newyouparty.php or call April Daniels at 212-432-7225

More information about Lifeline Coaching please go to www.lifelinecoaching.com

For more information about The Bridgette Raes Style Group, please go to http://www.bridgetteraes.com

How was your holiday weekend? Were you brave and strong and hit the stores on Black Friday? Or were you like me, and just stayed in bed? Actually, I met up with a friend at the Borders on 32nd and 2nd Avenue. It has to be the nicest Borders in the city, with their huge glass windows. Those windows make the place feel light and airy. People inside weren’t crazed at all; most of them were sitting and reading. I can’t say the same about 34th Street. I had to walk down that, and I felt like a pinball. I was bouncing and zooming around people to the left and right of me. Why can’t we have a slow walker’s lane? What is up with people who MUST walk slower than a snail, and of course they have to do it in the middle of the sidewalk? You try to pass them, and they won’t let you? ARGH!!!

Today I have one of those good news, bad news pieces. Bad news, the chain Parade of Shoes is going out of business. The good news is that they are having a huge blow out sale, to run over and stock up before your size is gone.

Can someone please explain to me why jeans designers insist on an inseam of 34″ or more for women’s jeans? We don’t really need all that excess material, and if you try to roll them up, you’ll be rolling for a good 15 minutes and look goofy. So, the only alternative is to hem them. If you’re short like me, almost everything has to be hemmed and that can get expensive when you start adding things up. I found a wonderful tailor who only charges $6 to hem your jeans. His other alterations aren’t that pricey either. I collect vintage clothing and have this fabulous cashmere skirt that’s too big for me. He charged me $12.50 to taper the skirt and adjust the waistband. Did I mention the dry cleaning is the best bargain in the city? $6.00 to dry clean a suit! And they deliver! Yes, they take credit cards. Toffy’s Dry Cleaners is a boon to the Upper West Side. They’re located at 150 Manhattan Avenue, between 105th and 106th Street, just one block up from Central Park West. They’re open from 7AM -7 PM Monday thru Saturday, 10AM – 2 PM Sundays. They’re so worth the trip. Don’t forget to tell them PJ sent you.

Need to escape the holiday madness? Then go to the Andy Borowitz Show: Let The Healing Begin! Tuesday, November 30th at the Marquee located at 356 Bowery (between Great Jones and E 4th St.)

Comedian Andy Borowitz has performed on CNN’s American Morning and NPR’s Weekend Edition. Check out his website http://www.borowitzreport.com His guests include Mike Birbiglia (Comedy Central’s Premium Blend, Letterman) and Todd Levin (host of the literary comedy show How To Kick People, http://www.tremble.com)

The election is over; it’s time to laugh again. Showtime is 8 PM, doors open at 7:30 PM and it’s only $5.00! More information call 212-664-2957.

Good lord, if Thanksgiving isn’t a good enough excuse to eat like a pig, I don’t know what would suffice. I don’t know about you, but I quit half ways through my thirds, took a break, then dove into dessert. Yes, my T-Day was just full of food. It’s not my fault. Ivan’s girlfriend Roxanne is an amazing cook and her favorite holiday of all time (next to Halloween) is Thanksgiving. She made two turkeys and everything else you could name. When the food was brought to the table, we fell on it like ravened animals. Unfortunately, everything was wonderful and I don’t plan to eat for a few weeks. I’m just going to live off what I ate last night. Oh, we did do some exercise after dinner. We all crawled (very slowly) into the living room, argued about politics (I think that burns calories), then did “jazz hands” while listening to the soundtrack to “All That Jazz.” Um, we tried to do “jazz hands” but we laughed too hard to get any exercise out of that. Wait a minute, doesn’t laughing burn calories?

If you’re looking to get rid of some of the poundage you packed on yesterday, check out the O.A. R and Virginia Coalition show at the Hammerstein Ballroom, Saturday, November 27th.

The Washington Post claimed they are the best band in DC. The Philadelphia Daily News said, “Dexterous rockers Virginia Coalition have fun juggling rock n’ soul and R&B with bluegrass, hip-hop and hippie on “OK to Go (Blue Hammock), with good tunes throughout to steady the course.”

They play over 200 shows a year, giving their audiences straight up high-energy, intense and exuberant performances. Their latest release, “OK to Go” (Blue Hammock) was produced by Matt Wallace. He also produced Maroon 5, Blues Traveler and Faith No More.

Now, if you’re looking for something harder, check out punk band The Matches Monday, November 29th at The Knitting Factory. They’re touring to support their release, “E. Von Dahl Killed The Locals” (Epitaph). They’ve gotten rave reviews from Rolling Stone, Revolver, Zero Magazine and absolutepunk.net. CMJ New Music Report claims, “…a debut as dangerously full of pride, grit and rebellious spite as one could ultimately hope for.

Their music is loud, vibrant and filled with clever hooks. You’ll definitely loose a pound or two trying to keep up to the beats.

Or…check out Blues Explosion at Irving Plaza Tuesday, November 30th. John Spencer, Judah Bauer and Russell Simins are touring to support their latest release, “Damage” (Blues Explosion/Sanctuary Records). You like funk? You like amazing guitar work? You like to hear music that hits you in the head and the pelvis? Just go and get yourself a ticket.

And now for some weird news…it seemed not too long ago, that everyone was getting their own chat show and being stars for 15 minutes. Then TV quieted down again. Not everyone wants to see a chat show devoted to plumbing. Well, guess who has a chat show debuting December 9th at 11 PM? John Mayer. Yup, it’s called, “John Mayer has a TV Show.” It’s a talk show on the road. Part documentary, part “behind the scenes” and part comedy. This is a half hour special that has him dressing up in a bear suit and other things. For more information go to http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/john_mayer_has_a_tv_show/series.jhtml

Have you ever wanted to play DJ and do a remix or two? Now you can, slide on over to The Depeche Mode Sound Toy, play with their online sequencer and sampler and you too can remix any of their songs. I haven’t tried it yet, so if you do, please send me an email and tell me how it went.
http://click.be3a.com/click_uk.html?ADVD=492016.1956381.6.0408889

Have a fabulous weekend. Next week I’ll have as usual, more goodies and news for you to enjoy. This weekend I’m hunting for the perfect heel, wish me luck.

Will someone please explain to me why stores start playing Christmas music before Halloween? It’s very confusing when you walk into a shop in September and you see tree decorations for sale. I don’t know about you, but the more stores try to shove Christmas in July at me, the more I want to hide until it’s over. Don’t get me wrong, I love prezzies. It’s fun buying them, especially if you prescribe to the philosophy of buying one present for them and another present for yourself – after all, it’s all about balance, isn’t it?

But if you’re ready to run screaming into the night, or if you think your dog has it right and you may join her under the bed, I’ve got a few stress busters I want to share with you.

I’m pulling out the cliché, “laughter is the best medicine” right now for two reasons – reason #1 – good transition and reason #2 – laughter kicks stress out the door. So, if you’re looking for some relief, check out the Midnight Pajama Jam at the Marquee (356 Bowery, between Great Jones and E. 4th St). Hosted by Jon Benjamin (Dr. Katz) and Jon Glaser (Late Night with Conan O’Brien). It’s alterna-comedy with an over sensitive octopus, dare-taking politicos, and more. Guests include; Sean Conroy (Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Comedy Central’s Premium Blend and Crossballs!) Doors open at 7:30 PM, show’s at 8 PM and it’s only $5.00 More information call 212-664-2957

When you’re body needs a little pampering, try Haven Spa’s yummy cocktail inspired manicures and pedicures. There’s the Spiked Cider, Hot Buttered Rum, Candy Cane Schnapps Shot and Irish Coffee manicures and pedicures. Each treatment smells terrific and has an element from a cocktail. Haven’s Spike Cider has Macintosh apple body butter to soften your skin; the Hot Buttered Rum has a buttery sugar cube scrub to buff away dead skin; The Candy Cane Schnapps Shot uses a peppermint soak and the Irish Coffee uses an invigorating java bath. Oh the many ways you can pamper yourself! Each Haven holiday spa pedicure has a “sole softener” treatment that exfoliates hard to get rid of calluses, so your feet will look wonderful in holiday sandals. Manicures last 45 minutes and is $30.00. Pedicures last 60 minutes and is $60.00

And right now Haven Spa has a few holiday specials that you can use. From now until November 30th, you get a free $10 gift card with the purchase of $100 in gift cards. December 1st through the 15th, you receive a free haven signature box with every purchase of $200 in gift cards.

Haven Spa is located at 150 Mercer Street, 212-343-3515. More information give them a call or visit their website http://www.havensoho.com

SSS Sample Sales is having the final three days of the Ben Sherman and Evisu sale. Evisu tees, shirts, jeans and more are $30 – $100, Ben Sherman jeans, pants, shirts, sweaters, shoes, and sneakers $29, four for $100, and Ben Sherman blazers and unlined jackets $35, lined $60. There’s also lots of holiday gifts and 7 gauge cashmere cocoon, cashmere ponchos and capelets. B.x2 picture frames, Inhabit cashmere, Free People tops and bottoms and more

SSS Sample Sales at 261 W36th St (between 7th & 8th avenue) 2nd Floor. Today, 10 AM – 7 PM and Wednesday 10 AM – 6 PM. More information http://www.clothingline.com

And finally a holiday event that happens when it’s supposed to, I’m talking about the Tree Lighting Ceremony at Rockefeller Center on November 30th. Every year, celebs perform and the prettiest lights in the city come on and twinkle. Get there early, because it gets crowded very quickly.

How many times have you fallen in love with a lipstick, gone back to the cosmetic counter where you bought it, only to find out that they’ve discontinued it? I mean, does that break your heart or what? You find yourself rationing that itty bit that’s left in the bottom of the tube, or crawling through the ‘net late at night, just hoping that someone somewhere has a tube for sale. Now you can stop freaking out because Three Custom Color Specialists can copy your fav lipstick, blush, or whatever it is that makes your heart go pitty pat! Yup, they’ve archived over 7,500 discontinued shades for eyes, lips, cheeks and face. All you have to do is give them the brand name and shade, and in just a few days, you can have it in your hot little hands.

You can either make an appointment at their studio, located at 54 West 22nd Street, 3rd floor, New York City and bring in your sample or just mail it in.

You can also make an appointment with a Three Custom Color Specialist to make your bridal party ravishing looking that special day or if you want to have a really fun party, invite a Three Custom Color Specialist to give you and your friends makeovers and up to the minute makeup tips.

How do you feel about lip gloss? No, it’s not a loaded question. I love the look, and shine, but hate the goopy feel on my lips. I tried their lip gloss in Warm Peach and fell in love with it. It feels light on my lips, no yucky taste, and looked great. It was slightly sheer, but with enough color to not only define my lips, but make them kinda sexy looking. This is good stuff, okay! I also tried their pressed powder and loved that too. It gives you a nice matte look and sets your makeup. You’ll look just as fresh at 7 P.M. as you did at 7 A.M. Their lipstick lasts through coffee…all of their products are top notch and feel so nice next to your skin. When you’re in the market for some scrumptious stuff, you should check out their ready to wear line.

You can check them out on the web, http://www.truecolor.com or visit their studio Three Custom Color Specialists, 54 West 22nd Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 888-262-7714 for an appointment or more information

Running around the city, you can sometimes stumble on or into a pleasant surprise. Friday night as I was walking up 42nd Street, I saw a sign that read, “Sample Sale” The windows were swathed in color and I saw an earring or three that I coveted, so I walked in. Whoa! The prices were so amazing that I automatically started holiday shopping, you know one present for them, one present for me. Prices started at $2.00 for Lucite rings and costume jewelry, the highest priced items were velvet purses and some of the silver jewelry. I picked up sterling silver earrings with semi-precious stones for $7.00. There’s scarves, bags, gloves and all sorts of goodies that will fit nicely under a tree or next to a menorah. Some of the designers’ goods that were showcased that day were Lila Rowe, Alexa Crawford, and Christian Livingston. Designers and goods change daily due to supply, so you never know what delicious item you might find there.

Sample Sale at 501 5th Avenue and 42nd Street, open daily 11 AM – 8 PM, open Thanksgiving Day, closed Christmas Day. Now until December 31st

Dusty turned me on to her secret, but it’s so good that I had to tell you about it as well. If you’re looking for a phenomenal pedicure or a manicure that can even make short nails look hot, you’ve got to go to May’s Nails at 202 West 14th Street, 1 FL. Walk up the short flight of stairs, you’ll find yourself in a salon that has a no frills look, but they don’t stint on professionalism. David did my pedicure, he took an hour on my poor toes and I don’t think my feet have looked this good since the summer, before the evil 5 “shoe incident. He has the most amazing hands and my calves got the best massage ever. Patty took my tattered nails, (can we say breakage?) and turned them into short elegant and glamorous ones. The price for the manicure/pedicure? $18.99, no I am not kidding. You can have a 30 minute foot reflexology session for $25.00. A full set of nails start at $20.00.

To make an appointment, call 212-929-3384 Hours Monday through Saturday 9:30 AM – 8 PM, Sunday 11 AM – 6 PM

It’s Friday, November 19th, seven days before Black Friday, the biggest most frightening shopping day of the year. Have you been working out preparing yourself to take down the competition when the doors spring open at your fav store that day? Have you been saving your pennies, thinking about all the deals you’ll buy? If you’ve gotten yourself into some deep physical and psychological training to shop, shop, shop that day, don’t read this column, ’cause it’s all about where you can have fun, listen to some good music and enjoy yourself.

If you’re broke or watching your budget (who isn’t these days?) catch a band or three at The Luna Lounge in the Lower East Side. No cover, cheap drinks and a pool table. It’s also a great place to people watch and see fashion before it becomes trendy. Luna even has its own Internet radio station.

Luna Lounge
171 Ludlow Street
212-260-2323
www.lunalounge.com

Irini Res teaches Ballet during the day and at night she sings jazz. You can catch her tonight at Cleopatra’s Needle, 92nd & Broadway from 8 PM – Midnight. Accompanying her is Ian MacDonald – piano, C. Francis Cross- percussion, Russel George – electric violin, Bob Kindred – tenor sax, and Ron McClure – bass. No cover, but there is a $10 drink minimum. I’ve had friends who dined at the Needle, and they loved the food, décor, the whole deal.
Irini Res
Cleopatra’s Needle
2485 Broadway (Broadway & 92nd)
Friday, Nov 19 8 PM – Midnight
212-769-6969

Ani DiFranco
Do I really need to explain?
Two nights at the Beacon Theater
Friday, November 19, Saturday, November 20th
Beacon Theater
2124 Broadway
212-496-7070

Jonesin’ for some house? Check out The Final Propaganda at the Sullivan Room, Saturday, November 20th. It’s going on from 10 PM – 5 AM. Sycophant Slags (Mr. C & Francis Harris), Dollz at Play (Xochitl West & Bea Diaz) $5 before 11 PM, $10 after

The Final Propaganda
Sycophant Slags
Dollz at Play
The Sullivan Room
218 Sullivan Street (bet. Bleecker & W. 3rd)
Saturday, November 20th 10 PM – 5 AM
212-252-2151

Minnie Driver was a singer before she became an actress. Yes, she had a recording contract waay before she hit Hollywood. Check her out at the Bowery Ballroom Sunday, November 21st

Minnie Driver
Bowery Ballroom
6 Delancey Street
212-533-2111

The Silk Road Mocha Café’s basement hosts “Really Hot Tea” it’s an open mic that’s got a bit of everything – hip hop and all sorts of music, poetry, comedy and well…who knows what or who will show up. The fun starts at 8 Pm and it’s free
Silk Road Mocha Café
30 Mott Street (basement)
http://www.teabagopenmic.com

New York City is a hive of bars where you can hear any type of music seven days a week. If you’re looking for rock music that harkens the next big wave, there are only two bars where you can find it. These two bars are the “taste makers” if you will, once a band plays there, both you and they know that their inches away from becoming the next big thing. So if a band plays Sine-e or Mercury Lounge watch them very carefully.

The Yesterdays is one of those bands to watch. They’ve done their time, played The Continental and small places around the metro New York area. But this Sunday, they’re hitting their marks at the Mercury. They go on at 7 PM, and the door is a bargain, $5.00. I’ve caught them live and aurally, they got me. The band is comprised of Dave Silverman – guitar, vocals, Adam Swiderski – guitar, vocals, Brian Bair – percussion, and Peter Niessen- bass. They’re guitar driven, and melodic. Their songs are well crafted with tight hooks, lyrical and tough. According to their website, “The Yesterdays are not garage, indie, emo, screamo, power-pop, slo-core, no-wave, nu-metal or alt-anything. They are a rock band. And that’s all you really need to know.” Call them whatever label that makes you comfortable, but do give them a listen. You can check the band out at http://www.theyesterdays.net or http://www.myspace.com/theyesterdays/ you’ll become addicted.

The Yesterdays
The Mercury Lounge
217 E. Houston Street (SW corner of Ave A and Houston)
Sunday, Nov 21 7 PM
212-260-4700

Electric Death was formed in the late 80′s. The hard rock and blues band, toured, got a following, and then took a break. Now, they’re back. The new lineup is Jorge Gonzalez – lead vocals, guitar, Tito Gonzalez – bass, and Carol Moon – drums/percussion. You can catch the re-formed band November 24th and December 15th, both shows are at 8:45 PM

Electric Death
Wednesday, November 24th 8:45 PM
Wednesday, December 15, 8:45 PM
The Continental
25 3rd Avenue
212-259-6924/212-358-1492

Now for some non-musical fun…

The Manhattan Mall’s Tree Lighting Ceremony is tonight from 5 PM – 7 PM, special guests include The Harlem Globetrotters. It’s at Broadway and 33rd Street. More information http://www.manhattanmallny.com

Friday nights are always free at the Asia Society’s Museum, so check out the exhibits from 6 -9 PM at 725 Park Avenue (at 70th Street) 212-288-6400 http://www.asiasociety.org

This Friday night and every Friday night MOMA is free from 4 PM – 8 PM. Yes, Saturday is the grand re-opening, but it would be nice to see it a day before without all those crowds, right? MOMA is at 11 West 53rd Street, more information http://www.moma.org

Saturday, November 20th at the Harlem Meer, a section of Central Park is having a free poetry reading. You can recite your favorite poem (yours or someone else’s) from 3 – 5 PM Call 212-860-1370 or http://www.centralparknyc.org for more information.

Sunday, November 21st, The Museum of The City of New York is celebrating its 80th birthday and the 80th birthday of Mayor Ed Koch by letting you in free from 1 PM – 5 PM. Music, refreshments and birthday cake! The museum is located at 1220 5th Avenue at 103rd Street. http://www.mcny.org for more information.

Grand Central is hosting a holiday laser light show at their grand terminal from November 23rd – December 31st. It will be shown from 11 AM – 9 PM daily, more information call 212-340-2210

If you’ve ever tried Joey New York’s Pure Pore Cleansing Gel with Vitamin C, you know the line rocks!

Joey New York has now created a new color line that is scrumptious looking, is fun to play with (you gotta try the pencils) and is good for you.

The Joey New York Collagen Boosting Lipsticks, Lip Glosses and Lip liners all contain Palmitoyl Oligopeptide – that’s a protein building ingredient, which helps promote collagen, to give you kissy lips. I road tested the lipstick, loved the way it felt; smooth, lightweight, shiny and glided on easily. The new Chiseled Cheeks Powder Blush has micro-crystal light deflectors that minimize any lines, pores or wrinkles. I especially liked that the compact, which fit into the palm of my hand, has a mirror. The blush is divided into two halves – one matte and one shimmer – you can mix them, or wear them separately. There’s also a Chiseled Cheeks Sheer Blush Gel if you prefer a sheer look.

Joey New York has unleashed great eye pencils. Their SoBe Smudgies take their name from the gorgeous women of South Beach. The pencils are glimmery eye shadows that glide on, and can easily be smudged or blended with a powder. Or you can use them as a liner. Each pencil comes with a sharpener.

Smooth Glide Eye Pencils come in four colors and can some zing to your eyes day or night.

You need to also check out Joey New York’s Eye Shading Powders, mascara and all of their hot and spicy line. You can purchase Joey New York at Barneys, Sephora, Bliss Spa, Brownes, Gadabout, The Ritz-Carlton, Four Season, http://www.sephora.com, http://www.joeynewyork.com

It’s getting colder outside; you’ve bought your new winter coat, but what about Muffy, Isa or Jake? Shouldn’t your pooch get a new winter wardrobe?

You may want to splurge on Coach collar or leash for them now or stick it under the tree (http://www.coach.com)

Or if you’d rather have your dog in a coat that is as special as her/his personality, check out Debbys Dog Coat Millennium Collection http://www.debbys.com.au Not only will you find classic tartan coats, but there’s also coats in leopard, zebra and cheetah prints.

What do you do when you have something you don’t need any more? Or you’re looking for a book, plant, computer or shoes and your budget is tight? Join Free Cycle http://groups.yahoo.com/group/freecyclenewyorkcity/

There are Free Cycles for almost every community across the country. It’s an online group where people post items they don’t want or need anymore and people can also post items that they’re looking for; matches and friends have been made through these groups. It’s free to join, free to give away items and free to pick things up. Once you post something, oh say you’re giving away your old duvet cover; you’ll get emails from interested parties who want it. It’s up to the both of you to decide how to do the handoff. What a great way to recycle and meet your neighbors.

How about some free chocolate? Drop by Coliseum books Today (Thursday) and meet David Lebovitz, author of “The Great Book of Chocolate” at 6 PM. He’ll sign copies of his book and you can sample chocolates by Scharffen Berger for free. Call 212-423-3337 for more information.

If you miss the Muppets go right now to http://www.muppets.com, check out “Diva’s Diary” it’s Miss Piggy’s own personal blog, The Studio Lounge has online games, photos of Beaker and other characters and yes, of course there’s Kermy. So, if you’ve got one of those long days at work, break it up by visiting the Muppets.

Puffy Ami Yumi Hi Hi Puffy AMIYUMI (epic) Fluffy and light like a bakery meringue. They’re a lightweight treat whose sounds bounce all over the road from ska to pop punk to electro and Indie rock. Puffy Amiyumi performed the theme from the Cartoon Network series, “Teen Titans. Musically, they’ve been compared to the Cardigans, Shonen Knife and Stereolab. I’d just like it if they stuck to one musical identity.

Pearl Jam Rearview Mirror (Greatest Hits 1991-2003) (epic) Pearl Jam was one of the seminal bands in the 90′s. They and Nirvana helped change the face of music, ushering in grunge, alternative and other genres into the mainstream. This CD captures all their music; singles, non- record tracks, hits and it captures them very well.

The Occasion The Occasion (Say Hey Records) How can something sound dirge-like, warm, spacey and multi-textural all at the same time? I have no idea, but the Occasion pulls it off masterfully. Sara Shaw’s tape loops and warm guitar work from Jordi Wheeler weave a musical fabric that allows the other members of the band; Brent Cordero (acoustic/electric piano), Charles Burst (drummer) and Marlon Sporer (bass) to float in and out warping and woofing the threads into a new musical direction. It’s a bit of the old Floyd, a touch of Jammy, a nod to garage and a whole new way of listening.

The Reason Ravenna (Smallman Records) Canadian band The Reason may sound angry, and you do hear an echo of Metallica (from their mid years) I their music, they go out on a limb combining Punk sensibilities with more melodic mainstream influences like dance, funk, throw it into a blender and it’s a tasty treat. Hard enough to propel you forward, catchy riffs that leap into your head and enough texture to make you want to replay a track to catch exactly what they did. More information on the band http://www.thereason.ca

Vixen Rev It Up and Vixen (EMI- Manhattan Records) Metal has always been a boys club. For every Doro or Angela Gossow (Arch Enemy), there’s a dozen more women clambering up the wall trying to be taken seriously as metal musicians. Back in the 80′s, there was a band called Vixen. They emerged out of LA’s club scene and scored a contract with EMI. Once described as “The female Bon Jovi, “they enjoyed brief success before becoming a musical footnote in the annals of glam metal. So, now E MI has just released their long out of print two CD’s and you know, if you throw them up against oh say Def Leppard or any other metalish band of that era, they rock just as hard. They’re just as fun and just as macho as the boys, in a good way

Catch Jamie Oliver at Barnes & Noble 33 E17th Street tonight at 7 PM. He’ll be signing copies of his new book, “Jamie’s Dinners” and talking about, what else, food! Call 212-253-0810 for more information

The Indietronica Morr Tour is tonight at The Mercury Lounge, 8 PM, $15 featuring Lali Puna, Styrofoam and The Go Find.

It’s hard waking up in the morning and when it gets colder, it’s that much harder to crawl out of that nice warm bed, right? I found something that does make the morning a bit easier to take and I wanted to pass it on to you.

G.M. Collin Skincare was created in France in 1957 by Dr, Eugenia Lapinet, a dermatologist and Monique Moreau, a very famous aesthetician. The line specializes in dermo-corrective formulas. This means that G.M. Collin Skincare line was created to replenish and nourish the skin. The line has great products to help retard aging and make blemishes run away.

They’ve just came out with Nutriance. It’s an all over body moisturizer that replicates the skin’s natural hydration mechanisms by using lamellar liquid crystals. It’s perfect for protecting and nourishing your skin in the winter. You can use it day or night. Best of all it has a very light citrus scent that wakes you up when you’re groggy in the AM. You can buy Nutriance from http://www.gmcollin.com it’s also available in upscale spas and salons throughout the city.

Hugh Dancy, the face of Burberry Brit for Men will be at Bloomies this Thursday, November 18th, 12:30 PM- 2:30 PM. Please use the 59th Street and 3rd Avenue entrance. Inspired by a young Mick Jagger, Burberry Brit for Men epitomizes the modern British male. The scent is a fresh oriental woody fragrance.

Hugh is the Oxford educated actor who has appeared in Black Hawk Down, Ella Enchanted and King Arthur. He’ll be signing bottles and photos and you can enter to bid on a custom-made Burberry “Art of the Trench” trench coat.

Now, I haven’t shopped here myself, but I’ve heard great things about the Find Outlet, 361 W 17thSt, between 8th & 9th Avenue, 212-243-3177. There’s everything from up and coming designers to merchandise you see at Barneys, Bendel’s and other sophisticated stores. I’ve heard they also have $5 – $20 bargain bins inside. This might be one of those shops where you take a friend and divide the store in half – shop for each other while you comb through the racks.

So how was your weekend? Mine; well let’s say I feel like I moved into the Mercury Lounge – I was there Saturday and Sunday night checking out bands.

Friday night, I and quite a few other souls braved the rain and wind to celebrate our esteemed Editor in Chief/publisher’s birthday. Miss Kimberly, of the movie star hair was turning 16 (I think) and we all gathered at this great dog friendly bar on the Upper East Side. It’s Bailey’s Pub on the corner of 85th and York, and any pooch is a welcome addition to the bar.

We had a blast. People were dancing, eating and laughing. The dogs overdosed on cheese. I had the hardest time debating which pooch I would try to make off with, all three were sweet natured, cute and two of the three pooches would have easily fit in my bag. At one point I looked over at a table and there were three people having a conversation, the fourth person in the party, was a dog, sitting quietly in a chair, looking at everyone and smiling.

Saturday day I found the Nine West Outlet at 282 Nicholas Avenue (by 125th Street) and they were having more than one sale going on. There was the buy one pair of shoes, get the second pair 50% off sale; the 30% off boot sale, the back wall 50% off lowest price sale; and an outerwear sale. They’re open Monday through Saturday, 10 AM – 7 PM and Sunday 11AM – 6 PM. Call 212-665-1022 for directions.

I found another dangerous place to shop, Price Mart at 210 West 125th Street. They’re a closeout shop; wander through the racks and you’ll never know what you’ll find – gasoline jeans for under $12.00, sexy tops from Express for $8.00 and shoes! They’ve got great copies of high end shoes for sickeningly cheap prices. I walked out with two pair of shoes, one cute pair of round toe flats in the hot Japanese style and a pair of black stilettos for $7.98. Both pairs of shoes were $3.99 each. And the way I change clothes, I can go funky to posh in a flash now.

Saturday night I grabbed a friend and went to see Your Code Name is Milo. I love the name of the band; it’s funky and subversive. The sound is very hardcore, sorta like early Metallica meets Suicidal Tendencies. Loud, and I couldn’t find a melodic line anywhere. It was the same three chords played at 11 on every tune. I like some hardcore, I love aggro; this just didn’t do much for me. They sounded as flat as my chest, and by flat, I mean no depth in any of the tunes I heard

Sunday night, I caught the end of Exit Clov, an Indie five piece from DC. The band is fronted by Emily and Susan Hsu, twins whose vocal harmonies are ethereal swoops of unified sound. You haven’t seen anything like it when they twins pull out their violins and perform a duet amidst a warm, funky, slightly jazzified and jammy backdrop created by the other members. The music is melodic, dark yet deeply colored power pop with a sharp edge. To learn more about them go to www.exitclov.com.

Next on stage was Mark Mallman. He’s a singer/songwriter out of Minnesota who’ll mesmerize you when he hits the stage. Whether he’s slithering about, climbing on or straddling the piano, you can’t keep your eyes off of him. He combines the energy of a young Roger Daltrey with the vocal pyrotechnics of Meatloaf that’s skewed into his own view of the world. It’s highly melodic, combined with grab you by your throat showmanship and he’s as electric as an eel. He’s frenetic and amazing. Mallman’s brilliant piano playing, strong lyrics and excellent delivery will keep you entranced song after song. Piano rock has never been so alive! Check out www.mallman.com or www.badmanrecordingco.com.

Tomorrow, the 16th is the Sample Sale and Cocktails Party that’s being held at Star Bar, 4 West 22nd Street, between 5th and 6th Avenues. Free admission and you’ll get to buy goodies from Double Happiness Jewelry, Lorelei handbags, Lili low rise panties, Bella Oro Jewelry, Nigel Hamill Knitwear, Sarah Yu Clothing, Julie Brown Clothing, Laura Waldusky Jewels, Rachel Leah Accessories, Lia K Jewelry, Meredith Strauss Clothing, Manadarin Square Accessories, Divine Tribe Leather Goods, Ritual Skincare and may more vendors. It’s on from 5-9 PM.

TRAINS: NR to 23rd St. 6 train to 23rd. More information contact: 917 742 1687 www.cocktailsandsamplesales.com and it’s sponsored by Tarte Cosmetics, Cohoete Rum and Citinaries.

Some really yummy sample sales are happening this Week! And why, not? Today is my birthday and I think a lingerie sale is a better way to kick off a week, don’t you?

La Perla Lingerie, Sleepwear and Swimwear Sale La Perla’s sample sale features its lingerie and sleepwear 50 to 70 percent below retail. Mostly sample sizes will be available–bra sizes 34-38, bathing suits 6-8. Cover-ups start at $50-$75, originally $195-$295; bathing suits are now $65, originally $145-$295; sleepwear is now $50-$95, originally $150-$300. Nov 15-21; Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 11am-7pm
260 5th Ave (Between 28th and 29th Sts)

Anbar Shoes Fall/Winter Clearance Sale Shop more than 12,000 pairs of shoes and boots reduced up to 50 percent. Friends of mine have gone there, and they tell me it’s insane. In a very good way. Shoes are $20-$73, retailing up to $350. Boots are $27-$196, retailing up to $700. Find Blay, Audley, BCBG, Bebe, Nando Muzi, Prevata, Sacha London, Coup d’Etat, Mark Schwartz, D. Pliner, B. Feldman and Nine West. Sizes 5-12 are available, not all sizes in all styles.
Nov 15-27; Mon-Fri 9am-6:20pm, Sat 11am-5:45pm
60 Reade St (Between Broadway and Church St)

Fresh Warehouse Sale It’s a rare warehouse sale; they’re all 50 to 90 percent off retail. Prices start at $2 and go up to $20, so stock up on bath, body, fragrances and makeup favorites,
Nov 18-20; Thu 12pm-6pm, Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 10am-4pm
215 W 40th St, 7th Fl (Between 7th and 8th Aves)
(212) 354-8050