For Graduation She wants a REAL Designer Handbag

Whether she's into Yoga or an obvious Fashionista, decide the award your girly grad deserves and say "congrats" with an authentic designer handbag for the Class of 2008. You know she really wants a designer purse this year! And, she's all grown up and wants something special.

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All the girls are carrying a new purse to their new job. Your little graduate dreams about a new designer handbag. There are many styles and designs to select in price ranges from under $100 to more than $500. It's up to you. Whatever you pick will be a hit. Some of our favorites are Tano bags, Melie Bianco handbags, Elaine Turner handbags, Pietro Alessandro handbags, Gucci Bags, Prada bags, Fendi bags and many more. And, they are all on Sale! See the coupon codes below and start saving on your graduation gifts for that special gal in your life.

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Graduation is here! She wants a REAL Designer Handbag! Have fun shopping! Here's a series of Graduation Tid-Bits we found amusing and thought you might, too!

Bad Graduation Gift Ideas
by Andy

A Briefcase: Oh, thanks Uncle Frank. You getting me this briefcase ensures that I’m supposed to work the same 9-5 office job that you've worked for that last 25 years while complaining about it and cheating on my wife with my secretary. (Sorry Aunt Jane)

“Planet Earth” on DVD: Am I that hard to shop for? How long did it take you to pick this out at Wal-Mart? Do you think that all I do is get high and watch the Discovery Channel? Well guess what, I DO!

“Planet Earth” on VHS: What? There’s like 20 tapes. Get out of my sight Grandma.

Money: What am I supposed to do with this? It's only four dollars.

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All Sorts of Graduation Ideas
from My Expression

Graduation Party Ideas
The Traditions of Graduation Party -Traditions are the lifeblood of every college. Traditions connect the students to the past of the college while at the same time preparing them for the future. From the historic to the contemporary, traditions can express a spirit of unity and create a sense of community while providing for loads of fun.

Graduation Planning Checklist - Its Graduation time! You’re planning on hosting a graduation party and you want it to be unique and exciting. Planning any party can be overwhelming and many things can go wrong. So, to be on the safer side, you need to come up with a graduation planning checklist to keep things from bouncing out of control.

The Do’s and Don’ts in the Graduation Party - So, you’re graduating from high school or college and what better excuse to throw a party! Spring is that time of the year for graduation invitations, announcements and gifts. Etiquettes and manners form a very important part of our being social animals.

What To Wear on Your Graduation Day - For 12 (in some cases more) seemingly never-ending years, you obediently went through the schoolyard quarrels, your first boy-girl party, your first date, the Prom, and now finally what you’ve always been waiting for – your Graduation day! This time you’re going to be wearing an outfit that your parents will finally approve of – a gown and a cap ...

Decorating your Graduation Party - So, its graduation day and you’re all set to host a special theme party. Yes, theme parties are fun and a whole lot easier to decorate! Half the fun of hosting a graduation party is decorating the party. You can decorate your room, your lawn, you table, and even your guests! You can turn graduation caps upside down and fill them with balloons or flowers ...

Graduation Speeches Etiquette - The graduation ceremony confirms each student’s quest for knowledge. Traditionally, the ceremony will include a graduation speech that seeks to put each and every students hard work (in some cases, not so hard work) into the perspective of their future. Yes, most of us have heard one or more graduation speeches either as spectators or as graduates ourselves ...

Graduation Gift Ideas - The date is fixed, and the invitations and announcements have already been given out. So, the day has finally come for you students to cry and to cheer and to leave your school or college halls forever. Yes, graduation day is indeed one of the biggest days in everyone’s life. After years and years of hard work, your efforts have finally paid off. You’re happy but ...

Chance to Promote Your Business with Graduation Open House Invitations - Do you plan to host a graduation open house for yourself or one of your children? It may not seem like it could work, but you can actually promote your business when you have an open house. You can start the promotion with something as simple as mention that the open house is being hosted by your business. This will definitely ...

Graduation Announcement Tips, Wording, and Special Poems
Graduation Announcement Wording Tips - Graduation is an important time in life, and should be announced properly. Stationary with crayons and graduation caps on it is an appropriate means of announcing a child graduating from kindergarten. A photo announcement is a nice keepsake for loved ones who are being invited to the graduation ...

Graduation Announcements Wording Ideas - So, you’re graduating from high school or college and you’re busier than ever! Your last year of college is filled with thousands of events and activities that you have never even tried to attempt during your college years. From sending out resumes and applications to asking for letter of recommendation, you have loads ...

Do it yourself Graduation Announcements - A great substitute to printed graduation announcements are announcements that you print by yourself on your personal computer. Not only are these ‘Do-it-yourself’ graduation announcements a lot more economical, but they can also be equally colorful and creative. Start of by using plain white card stock or even plain white paper ...

Sending Graduation Announcements - So, its graduation day and its time to let everyone know that you are a proud graduate. Now that all those seemingly endless years of toil and hard work have finally paid off, it’s finally time to celebrate. First things first, start by sending out graduation invitations and announcements to all your near and dear ones. Most colleges and high schools ...

Graduation Invitations in General and the Etiquette
Graduation Party Invitations - Planning the Party - Everyone who has played a role in the life of the graduate should be sent an invitation to the graduation party. It is understood by most that tickets to commencement are limited, however an open house allows for everyone to congratulate the graduate. - Invitations - You can choose informal themes, such as a backyard ...

Graduation Invitations Etiquette - There is a very good reason why people call graduation ceremonies ‘commencement ceremonies’. This is because graduation does not mark the end; it marks the beginning. Graduation is the achievement of all goals, and rewarding the graduate for his or her hard work is a must. Graduation time is the time to invite friends and family together for an exclusive ...

Choosing Graduation Invitations Theme - Whether for you or a friend, Graduation day is one of the most joyous and welcomed occasions in any student’s life. It marks the end of your educational journey that can sometimes seem to be an endless and intolerable journey. Graduation is a once in a lifetime event, so give this event the honor and prestige that it truly deserves. The very first ...

The Traditions of Graduation Cap & Black Color in Your Invitations - When it comes to graduation invitations or stationary there are some traditions that are still observed by most people. In the majority of samples that you look at while shopping you will find that there are graduation caps in the majority of them. This is simply an obvious choice of décor since it is an invitation for a graduation ...

Graduation Invitations Theme
Casual Graduation Party Ideas - If you want to throw a wonderful party for that special high school or college graduate in your life, don’t assume you have to spend a fortune and put together some very elegant get together. After all, your graduate has already worked very hard to achieve this accomplishment and now just needs some time to relax and unwind. That’s why sometimes a more casual ...

Throwing a Cocktail Theme Graduation Party - Graduating from college is a major accomplishment and is definitely one of the best reasons to have a celebration. However, too many graduation parties are all the same. If you want to throw an amazing party, then you’ll want to take a creative approach with your graduation celebration. One idea is to celebrate with a cocktail theme ...

Throwing a Party for Valedictorians and Summa Cum Laude Graduates - Graduating from high school or college is a huge achievement, but if your student is graduating with honors then that achievement is even more deserving of a special celebration. No ordinary graduation is going to be sufficient. Background on Graduation Honors - If you’re not familiar with all of the “honors” terminology, then ...

Black, Red, and Green for Graduation Invitations - Graduations are one of those major milestones in life that deserve not only to be recognized but also to be celebrated. Whether the student in your life has just earned a high school diploma, a bachelor’s degree, or an even higher degree, you’ll want to find a way to show him or her just how proud you are of their hard work ...
Ideas for a Formal Graduation Party - When we think of graduation parties, sometimes we have the impression that all of them are just full of young people drinking too much and playing loud music. And sure some graduation parties would fit that description pretty well, but that isn’t your only option if you’re planning a celebration for a special student in your life ...

Feng Shui Graduation Party Ideas - Celebrating a graduation is a big deal. The family wants to show their pride at how well their student has succeeded. The student wants to know that he or she has done a good job by achieving this important life goal. When you’re planning something this special, then it only makes sense that you should take into consideration every possible way of ...

Creating Tassel as Embellishments For Your Invitations - If you want to create a graduation invitation that is sure to get the attention of those you invite you can do a lot of it yourself. It can be fun to add your own personal touch to it, even if you order the actual stationary and then create a tassel as an embellishment. Everyone associates a tassel with graduation, so this can be a fun addition! If you ...

Clip-Arts for Graduation Invitations - Do you want to add some fun and uniqueness to your graduation invitation but you aren’t sure what may or may not be appropriate? If so, you aren’t alone. The fact of the matter is that there are a lot of fun or original things that you can do; you simply need to infuse your own style into it and get creative. Anything that you can imagine can generally be created ...

Personalize Your Graduation Invitations with Special Inspirations - A graduation invitation can be just a graduation invite, but there are some great things that you can do to add your personal touch and make it interesting and even inspirational to those that you send them to. There is nothing better than sending out invites that have been infused with your own personal style, whatever that may be ...

Differentiating Masculine & Feminine Invitations Theme - Because both men and women graduate from high school as well as college there needs to be a way to differentiate between invitations that are more appropriate for men and those that are more appropriate for women. This is not to say that there aren’t invitations that are appropriate for both genders, but if you want something that ...

Seasonal Graduation Invitations
Show Your Patriotism with Patriotic Graduation Invitations Theme - Over the last couple years the patriotism in our country seems to have been renewed and this includes the young, the old, and everyone in between. If you are graduating from high school or college why not share your patriotism with others with a patriotic invitation theme? Why go drab when you can serve to inspire those that ...

Graduation Photo Christmas Cards - Are you graduating early? Many students that graduate early, graduate in the winter months, which is a great opportunity to do something different with your graduation invitation. You can not only send an invite to all those that you would like to attend your graduation ceremonies; you can send a Christmas greeting at the same time by enclosing a Christmas card with a photo ...

After The Graduation
Sending Graduation Thank You Cards - So, your graduation day has come and gone, the ceremonies were amazing, the graduation party was brilliant, and above all, the graduation gifts were super cool! The graduate is happy, the graduate’s guests are happy, everyone is happy. But, after the ceremony, party and gifts comes the most daunting part – sending out ...

Graduation Photo and your Scrapbooking Project - Honoring the graduate is one of the most important parts of the graduation ceremony. If you’ve organized your photo albums over the years, then everything should be up to date. But, if you are like most of us, then you’re family photos are probably piled up in boxes in the attic. Since you are going to be graduating pretty soon, now ...

Career Guide After Graduation - Transitioning out of college can be both, an exciting as well as a scary experience. There are newer and tougher challenges to face, unwritten laws to be followed, unexplored opportunities for progress – and humiliation – in every nook and cranny. While recent graduates and most other college students are preparing themselves to become experts ...

Reunion Graduate Party Planning - Once you graduate, you only get to see you friends every ten years at each reunion! So you want to have a fun reunion party this time and not a boring formal one? Planning for your reunion would mean coming up with a special plan or an idea for the party. From the decorations to the food and particularly the entertainment, your graduate reunion party ...

Designer Leather Handbags

Elaine Turner Charlie Pecan Drawstring Bag

By Matt Saunders

Leather has been around for so many years and is widely used for any type of fashion accessory. All products made up of leather like luggage or jacket has proven this material to be excellent and artistic creation. Leather types varies from suede, grain leather or nubuck, and because of this everyone have a wide choice of selection when it comes to what kind of leather will fit their requirement. Leather handbags are fantastic investments, for the material will last for a long time and the leather acquire more individuality as it age.

Anyone should be open minded about the reality that leather may not be as boring as others may think it is because there ere and attracting selection for this material which accessible in stores. Designers often utilize various kind of skin to incorporate in the creation of an extraordinary design for a leather handbags like the ostrich skin which encompasses a discrete quill follicles, crocodile skin is very unique, python skin has an exotic effect, lamb, goat, buffalo and every skin that is possible to add in various designs. The finishing that is employed in the skin is what creates a distinct appearance and texture to the product.

Many years back, the first skin color must be enough to distinguish the leather item, but today, there have been great changes to how the creation of the product will be made and the choice of colors that you wish to incorporate. Beige and brown hue will still be appreciated for these colors generally fit each outfit of the ladies that they keep in their cabinets. The most known skin color would definitely be black, and this classic color would always remain the most loved. When planning to purchase a designer leather handbag, think first about the color that would fit your personality, and you do not want your bag to be limited on the colors or type of outfit that you will wear.

These designer bags come in various designs like the fundamental clutch, tote, satchel, shoulder bag, duffel bag and many more. Before you purchase, think about first of what the bags can do for you, therefore, you would not encounter any hassle and be satisfied in the end. Designer leather handbags are always included in the hot trends as it is considered a fashionable accessory.

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If you are reading this blog than you probably already know how amazingly soft and durable Elaine Turner handbags are and that the leather is exquisite, so here are our favorite leather handbags from Elaine Turner:

ELAINE TURNER Hunter leather tote in saddle. Carry it over your shoulder across your body or on your arm. Versatile is an understatement for this beautiful leather Elaine Turner handbag. Measures about 13 x 14 x 5 inches. Elaine Turner signature crown logo hardware rivets. Custom link chain details on flap.

ELAINE TURNER Alexis distressed leather bucket bag in bone. Soft bone colored leather with chain draw string closure. Elaine Turner signature pink lining. Custom monogram hardware. Inside pockets. Measures about 11 x 15 x 4 inches. One single long shoulder strap. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

ELAINE TURNER Maya shoulder bag. Here is a perfect everyday bag you will never want to stop using. The Maya shoulder bag measures about 15 x 14.5 x 2 inches with double adjustable shoulder straps. Interior is fully lined in Elaine Turner signature pink. Custom hardware. Interior pockets. Exterior zip pockets. All leather construction. Guaranteed authentic. Comes with sleeper bag.

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The Little Black Bag - Elaine Turner Maya Shoulder Bag

You've heard about the little black dress, right? Well just as every girl needs one a little black dresses for every occasion, every wardrobe needs that little black purse. Of course the handbag doesn't have to be little, it can be big or medium...and you can definitely have more than one. The Elaine Turner Maya bag in black is our little black purse. Though not very little, this bag can go anywhere we need. Great for everyday, comfortable to carry and roomy enough for all we need, the little black dress has some competition. Elaine Turner handbag measures about 15 x 14.5 x 2 inches with double adjustable shoulder straps. Shop for authentic Elaine Turner handbags at up to 40% off now.

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The Look for Less - Elaine Turner Paige Python Satchel in Stone

One of the hottest styles from the ELAINE TURNER collection, the Elaine Turner Paige Python Satchel in stone was one of the reason's this brand has become so popular. Offering designer handbags with high end materials and details at affordable prices, the Paige satchel features python embossed leather that looks as sumptuous as the real thing but costs far less. It's very hard to emulate the look of real snakeskin accessories but Elaine Turner makes it possible and at accessible prices too. A stunning handbag, this satchel features a python embossed body made up of black, nude and stone hues, black leather trim, gold satin hardware and a classic shape. Elaine Turner purse measures about 9 x 15 x 6 inches. Shop for the Elaine Turner Paige Python Satchel at up to 40% off now.

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Elaine Turner American Fashion Designer Celebrates Memorial Day in Style

Use coupon code MDS08 for an extra 20% off. Click Here!

Celebrate Memorial Day in style and take an extra 20% off all the American Designers at eFashionHouse.com. We owe a lot to the European influence when it comes to fashion. Yet, the American Designers produce an image we call, "Home." People like Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, Tommy Hilfiger, Marc Jacobs, Melie Bianco and Elaine Turner pave the way for upcoming American fashion influence. Designers like Tano Bags, BCBG, Coach, Dooney & Bourke and Brighton bring a sense of American style and unique image to their collections. We honor all the American Designers this season and celebrate with them for Memorial Day 2008.

Whether you are looking for a new handbag, wallet, tote or leather shoulder bag, you can find a perfect American Designer Handbag for an unbeatable price. But don't lose sight of the true meaning of Memorial Day. We celebrate in honor of many people who have died in military service protecting our country. It's really about honoring our heros.

Yes, we are addicted to fashion, and we admire the creative design process. We are always seeking a bargain, and we shop online for the best deals we can find. So, get ready for Memorial Day with a celebration of American Designers at an additional 20% off, and remember our heros who lived their lives to make America our home.

MORE ABOUT Memorial Day
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday that is observed on the last Monday of May (observed in 2008 on May 26). It was formerly known as Decoration Day. This holiday commemorates U.S. men and women who have died in military service to their country. It began first to honor Union soldiers who died during the American Civil War. After World War I, it was expanded to include those who died in any war or military action. One of the longest standing traditions is the running of the Indianapolis 500, which has been held in conjunction with Memorial Day since 1911. It is also traditionally viewed as the beginning of summer by many, for many schools are dismissed around Memorial Day.

Many people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. US Eastern time. Another tradition is to fly the U.S. flag at half-staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunteers place a U.S. flag upon each gravesite located in a National Cemetery.

Many politicians and community leaders give speeches at community gatherings on Memorial Day.In addition to remembrance, Memorial Day is also a time for picnics, family gatherings, and sporting events. Some Americans also view Memorial Day as the unofficial beginning of summer and Labor Day as the unofficial end of the season. The national Click it or ticket campaign ramps up beginning Memorial Day weekend, noting the beginning of the most dangerous season for auto accidents and other safety related incidents. The USAF "101 Critical days of summer" begin on this day as well. Some Americans use Memorial Day to also honor any family members who have died, not just servicemen.

Flags flying at Fort Logan National Cemetery during Memorial Day 2006.Memorial Day formerly occurred on May 30, and some, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), advocate returning to this fixed date, although the significance of the date is tenuous. The VFW stated in a 2002 Memorial Day Address, "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed a lot to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."

Following the end of the Civil War, many communities set aside a day to mark the end of the war or as a memorial to those who had died. Some of the places creating an early memorial day include Charleston, South Carolina; Boalsburg, Pennsylvania; Richmond, Virginia; Carbondale, Illinois; Columbus, Mississippi; many communities in Vermont; and some two dozen other cities and towns. These observances eventually coalesced around Decoration Day, honoring the Union dead, and the several Confederate Memorial Days.

Decoration Day, c. 1900. "You bet I'm goin' to be a soldier, too, like my Uncle David, when I grow up."According to Professor David Blight of the Yale University History Department, the first memorial day was observed in 1865 by liberated slaves at the historic race track in Charleston. The site was a former Confederate prison camp as well as a mass grave for Union soldiers who had died while captive. A parade with thousands of freed blacks and Union soldiers was followed by patriotic singing and a picnic.

The official birthplace of Memorial Day is Waterloo, New York. The village was credited with being the birthplace because it observed the day on May 5, 1866, and each year thereafter, and because it is likely that the friendship of General John Murray, a distinguished citizen of Waterloo, and General John A. Logan, who led the call for the day to be observed each year and helped spread the event nationwide, was a key factor in its growth.

General Logan had been impressed by the way the South honored their dead with a special day and decided the Union needed a similar day. Reportedly, Logan said that it was most fitting; that the ancients, especially the Greeks, had honored their dead, particularly their heroes, by chaplets of laurel and flowers, and that he intended to issue an order designating a day for decorating the grave of every soldier in the land, and if he could he would have made it a holiday.

Logan had been the principal speaker in a citywide memorial observation on April 29, 1866, at a cemetery in Carbondale, Illinois, an event that likely gave him the idea to make it a national holiday. On May 5, 1868, in his capacity as commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, a veterans' organization, Logan issued a proclamation that "Decoration Day" be observed nationwide. It was observed for the first time on May 30 of the same year; the date was chosen because it was not the anniversary of a battle. The tombs of fallen Union soldiers were decorated in remembrance of this day.

Many of the states of the U.S. South refused to celebrate Decoration Day, due to lingering hostility towards the Union Army and also because there were very few veterans of the Union Army who lived in the South. A notable exception was Columbus, Mississippi, which on April 25, 1866 at its Decoration Day commemorated both the Union and Confederate casualties buried in its cemetery.

The alternative name of "Memorial Day" was first used in 1882, but did not become more common until after World War II, and was not declared the official name by Federal law until 1967 . On June 28, 1968, the United States Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill, which moved three holidays from their traditional dates to a specified Monday in order to create a convenient three-day weekend and for the first time recognized Columbus Day as a federal holiday. The holidays included Washington's Birthday (which evolved into Presidents' Day), Veterans Day, and Memorial Day. The change moved Memorial Day from its traditional May 30 date to the last Monday in May. The law took effect at the federal level in 1971 . After some initial confusion and unwillingness to comply at the state level, all fifty states adopted the measure within a few years, although Veterans Day was eventually changed back to its traditional date. Ironically, most corporate businesses no longer close on Columbus Day or Veterans Day, and an increasing number are staying open on President's Day as well. The holiday has endured as one where most businesses stay closed because it marks the beginning of the "summer vacation season" (similar to neighboring Canada's Victoria Day, which occurs on the prior Monday).

One Good Looking Purse - Elaine Turner Alex Shopper in Pecan

This gorgeous handbag from ELAINE TURNER might look like it is priced in the thousands but lucky for us it is a fraction of price. Featuring all of the high end details other designer handbags boast, like gold satin and custom hardware, soft lambskin leather and a unique style, Elaine Turner makes handbags for girls who appreciate the look of couture but not the price. One of our favorite styles from this year's collection, the Elaine Turner Alex tote is the type of handbag you'll love to carry day in and day out. Elaine Turner handbag measures about 11 x 16 x 6 inches. Shop for Elaine Turner handbags at up to 50% off retail.

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Astros’ ladies pose for pet charity in Chloe Dao clothes

Marcia Geary, Jessica Erstad, Dana Kohler, Lisa Brocail, Jill Borkowski and Brittany Towles, all Houston Astros wives and girlfriends, recently posed in the fashions of Chloe Dao, "Project Runway" winner to shoot a calendar benefiting the Spay and Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP).

By Kim Hogstrom
Greater Houston Weekly

Baseball royalty, magnificent fashions and … homeless dogs?

“They are all so beautiful,” Jill Borkowski exclaims as she gingerly bends down in her Chloe Dao gown and reaches through the bars of the cage. Candy Cane, a big brindle dog of no discernable breed, gently licks Jill’s fingers in gratitude for the attention.

The fashions are indeed beautiful, but Borkowski isn’t referring to the dresses. She’s referring to the strange array of dogs waiting patiently for their respective close-ups. Big dogs, little dogs, white dogs, black dogs, freckled dogs.

Borkowski is an animal activist and the wife of Houston Astros pitcher Dave Borkowski. Together, they are the "parents" of three adopted pets. Baseball royalty, magnificent fashions and … homeless dogs?

“They are all so beautiful,” Jill Borkowski exclaims as she gingerly bends down in her Chloe Dao gown and reaches through the bars of the cage. Candy Cane, a big brindle dog of no discernable breed, gently licks Jill’s fingers in gratitude for the attention.

The fashions are indeed beautiful, but Borkowski isn’t referring to the dresses. She’s referring to the strange array of dogs waiting patiently for their respective close-ups. Big dogs, little dogs, white dogs, black dogs, freckled dogs.

Borkowski is an animal activist and the wife of Houston Astros pitcher Dave Borkowski. Together, they are the "parents" of three adopted pets. Baseball royalty, magnificent fashions and … homeless dogs?

“They are all so beautiful,” Jill Borkowski exclaims as she gingerly bends down in her Chloe Dao gown and reaches through the bars of the cage. Candy Cane, a big brindle dog of no discernable breed, gently licks Jill’s fingers in gratitude for the attention.

The fashions are indeed beautiful, but Borkowski isn’t referring to the dresses. She’s referring to the strange array of dogs waiting patiently for their respective close-ups. Big dogs, little dogs, white dogs, black dogs, freckled dogs.

Borkowski is an animal activist and the wife of Houston Astros pitcher Dave Borkowski. Together, they are the "parents" of three adopted pets. On this spring evening, she and five other Astro wives are having their photographs taken wearing magnificent gowns and posing with some of Houston’s homeless dogs. Professional baseball players’ wives in designer fashions sitting for shots with unwanted dogs? It’s an odd combination. Or is it?

Late last month, Jill Borkowski, Jessica Erstad, Marcia Geary, Dana Kohler (Brandon Backe’s longtime girlfriend) Lisa Brocail and Brittany Towles sat for photographs taken by photographer Brett Chisolm in his chic Heights studio. Each woman was carrying a purse from Elaine Turner and wearing a stunning evening design by Houston’s own Chloe Dao.

As some will remember, Dao won first place on the nationally syndicated TV show, “Project Runway.” The now-famous designer graciously offered to use her creations in photos to be assembled into an 18-month calendar, the proceeds of which will help stop animal suffering in our community.

“It’s very simple why I chose to help,” Dao explains. “I love people who love animals. This was the perfect opportunity. “With what appears to be limitless patience, Chisholm works magic as dogs fidget under the studio lights.

“It’s exciting to have the Astros wives join us in spreading the word,” the photographer says, barely looking up from his camera. “Each of the ladies is helping to raise awareness about spay/neuter issues and the importance of adoption."

The calendar is a project launched by the Spay and Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP). This Houston-based agency has a very austere mission – to prevent the suffering and death of cats and dogs due to overpopulation, especially in low-income areas.

While the mission may be simple, the task is anything but. An estimated 125,000 cats and dogs are euthanized in this city annually. All the animals appearing in the photo shoot with the Houston Astros wives are homeless pets from the nonprofit agency, Friends For Life (FFL). “Friends For Life is honored to be working with SNAP on this and we look forward to lots of instances in which we can move toward a no-kill future together,” states Salice Shuttlesworth, Founder and Director of Friends for Life.

“There are multiple components to achieving no-kill: good, low cost spay neuter clinics, shelters that redefine “adoptable” including animals older than five or those needing rehabilitation… Notably, it will also include the creation of humane education programs for both children and adults to change the perception that companion animals are disposable.”

We respect Shuttlesworth for her dream, but can it realistically be achieved? “Taking us to the level of a no-kill city will require cooperation. It’ll require a new and larger vision in which ending the lives of many of the animals that go through shelters is no longer acceptable practice.

“Those who tell you it can’t happen, can’t be done, are dinosaurs. Other cities have done it. Debating it is like debating the existence of chocolate chip cookies - we know they exist, we know the recipe and we know that it can be achieved in communities from San Francisco to Tompkins County, New York,” Shuttlesworth concludes.

Borkowski chimes in. "Think about this: Brett is taking photos, we're wearing Chloe’s beautiful fashions, carrying Elaine’s handbags and the Astros wives are working with SNAP and Friends For Life. This calendar really is a group effort.

“We think the teamwork on this project is a good reflection of what it's going to take to strike-out pet overpopulation. If everyone does their small part - whether it's one individual neutering their pet, or groups working together – we’ll see a significant reeducation in unwanted, homeless animals in our lifetime," she said.

As Chisholm’s lights flash and the camera snaps photos of a beautiful gown worn by the equally beautiful Marcia Geary, we notice something previously unnoticed. The sweet, nondescript black puppies by Geary’s side in the photo are also striking. The animals’ big brown eyes are now evident, their shiny coats glisten and their wispy tails wag with delight. It’s a moment that gives pause. Borkowski is right. These animals are beautiful.

For more information about SNAP or to order a calendar, please go to www.SNAPus.org. For more information about Friends For Life or to adopt an animal, please go to www.nokill1.org. Calendars will be available in July at many animal-friendly businesses in Houston. The cost is $30. Call (713) 807-1565 for more information.

Leather Handbags - A Timeless Fashion

by Maxwell Sctott

When it comes to style, nothing speaks louder than Italian quality leather handbags.

Good leather handbags – think Italian
You can have the most stunning outfit, the perfect hair and fabulous shoes, but if you don’t team it up with a classic, fashionable or stylish leather handbag you can let the whole look down. The Italians are synonymous with style. A recent survey showed that the British simply don’t have the right ‘wiggle’ or walk for sex appeal. Walking confidently is down to how you feel, and clutching an expensive Italian leather handbag can make you feel like you’re one of the glitterati.

Timeless leather handbags
Whatever kind of handbags you choose to carry, it’s worth investing in high quality leather handbags that can not only last a lifetime but live through the ups and downs of fashion and its fleeting trends. Classic, stylish leather handbags work with any outfit, so even if it seems like a high price tag, remember that the price per wear means quality leather handbags soon become a good investment.

For a glamorous lifestyle
Many brands of leather handbags are touted by celebrities and fashion icons and good quality leather handbags are synonymous with a certain glamorous, stylish kind of lifestyle or aspiration. The power of handbags, like shoes, shouldn’t be underestimated. And if you want a bag badly enough you’ll convince yourself it will be worth the price tag. It’s hard to flick open a fashion magazine without in-depth analysis of the latest leather handbags and which celebrity is clutching what. Big designer names like Stella McCartney and big brands regularly feature in the glossies. The rumoured future Queen of England – Prince William’s girlfriend Kate Middleton is a fan of Maxwell Scott.

Gorgeous leather handbags
Good quality, well designed, gorgeous leather handbags will always have a timeless appeal. And it’s no wonder women invest so much in the handbags they buy – after all, women carry the most important things in their life in their handbags - from house keys to sentimental mementos and to that life saving piece of gum. So don’t just shove your things into an old saggy handbag. Your handbag is a reflection of you – investing in good quality leather handbags can help give you the style you need – than all you need to do is learn how to wiggle like the Italians and strut your stuff!

Only the very best for Mom - Elaine Turner Andie Shopper in Platinum

Happy Mother's Day to all you wonderful Moms out there! Since it's Mother's Day we couldn't think of featuring a more appropriate handbag than the Elaine Turner Andie leather tote in platinum. This bag is fit for a queen and since all moms are queens, we should honor them with fabulous accessories. Made from soft lambskin, this Elaine Turner handbag features distressed leather, silver custom hardware and is roomy enough for even the busiest mom. Plus you couldn't find a more stylish bag if you tried. Elaine Turner handbag measures about 11 x 17 x 5 inches. Shop for the Elaine Turner Andie purse at 24% off now.

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Elaine Turner Handbags: The World's Best Tote - Elaine Turner Hunter Saddle Leather Tote

Elaine Turner Handbags: The World's Best Tote - Elaine Turner Hunter Saddle Leather Tote <br>

The World's Best Tote - Elaine Turner Hunter Saddle Leather Tote

Okay we might have made a bold statement with calling this the "world's" best tote but, hey, we are entitled to our opinion and in our mind, the Elaine Turner Hunter saddle leather tote is handbag bliss. Made from gorgeous camel colored leather and adorned with gold tone hardware, you can't deny that the simplicity of this tote is what makes it so desirable. Elaine Turner handbag measures about 13 x 14 x 5 inches. Featuring the Elaine Turner signature crown logo hardware rivets and custom link chain details on flap. Shop for discount Elaine Turner handbags now.

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Fashion tips - Your Handbag

See all Elaine Turner Handbags

Do you love handbags, buy the latest trends and have lots of them in different sizes, colors and patterns or are they simply an essential item? Maybe you like handbags but don’t have the time or money to keep your closet stocked. Handbags are a great accessory and can spice up an outfit and also reflect your personality. Whether you change your handbag with every outfit or carry one for months I have a few suggestions that may make a difference in what you choose.

Invest in Quality
Before you buy make sure that your bag is well made. Check the stitching to make sure it is secure. Make sure the zipper works properly and in the case of cotton bag, that the zipper doesn’t get caught in the material. A good quality, classic purse will last for many seasons.

Is Your Bag the Right Size?
Your bag should be in proportion to your body. If you are a small, petite woman do not carry a huge bag because it will overwhelm you. Large, tall women should stick to larger bags. The key is keeping your bag in proportion to your to your size.

The Occasion
If you can find a bag that will take you from the beach to school, to an evening out that’s great but not likely. Different occasions require different bags. A straw bag is great for the beach, a knapsack style bag is great for school, and a clutch is great for an evening out. However, neither can be used for many other occasions. A black leather purse can be most versatile and can be used for many occasions. However, a black leather purse will probably not be enough you may still need a straw bag, knapsack or clutch depending on your lifestyle.

Your Bag Should Complement Your Outfit
If you dress in one color, spice it up by choosing a handbag that matches the accessories you’re wearing. If you’re wearing patterns or prints carry a handbag that is a solid color (choose one of the colors in the pattern). This is a season when there are lots of bags to choose from in different styles, colors and patterns. Handbags can be a great accessory, so, before you buy, keep in mind how often you will want to use it, where will it fit in and what it will match.

Good as Gold - Elaine Turner Charlie Gold Metallic Drawstring Handbag

Another one of the greats, the ELAINE TURNER Charlie light gold metallic handbag is stunning. Featuring embossed lizard skin leather, a metallic gold hue and satin gold hardware, if you are bold enough to sport gold everyday than this bag has your name on it. Or if you just want a designer handbag made from luxurious materials and featuring a striking design, than meet Elaine Turner handbags (if you haven't already). Elaine Turner Charlie handbag measures about 11 x 13 x 4 inches. Shop for Elaine Turner handbags at the best prices now.

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