Mele Kalikimaka 2010

A special wish for a warm holiday season, to family and friends, in Hawaii and the Mainland!

Playful Pylones (France)

I adore this French line of whimsical kitchen products > why not make the mundane fun? Whoever is on the creative team of this company, Pylones (pronounced Pee-Lonh), has a fun sense of play, color and humor to go with it. I also appreciate that they often represent Asians and people from around the world in their product designs. "Lighten up, no need to take life so seriously!"

Where it's at:

Honolulu: Red Pineapple (Ward Center, next to Borders)

New York boutiques: Greenwich Village, SoHo, Lexington, Central Station

Best Travel Saver - Portable Luggage Scale

At this past year's family Christmas white-elephant gift exchange, I found myself competing for a much coveted gift—a travel sized luggage scale. Having had the experience of frantically repacking items from my overweight suitcase into my carry-on bag at the airport counter in the French Riviera, I learned first hand how much a portable luggage scale will save you time, hassle, and unexpected airport fees.

Where to get it:
www.travelonbags.com (“Stop and Lock Luggage Scale with Tape Measure) $14.99
www.skymall.com (“Weigh To Go! Travel Scale”) $29.99