FROM MY WRIST COLLECTION

I love a little wrist love and there's nothing better then having a number of stacks together to showcase your fabulous arms! I had to share some of my favorites that are in my personal collection across the top. From the left, Nagicia has a rich navy hued bracelet with a fabulous gold bead. This is a great go to piece for me to wear during the spring and summer no matter what look I am going for. During NYFW, I was gifted a super cute and very bold pink bracelet from Debbie Merle Designs which is comprised of striped agate (I am a huge fan of this stone) and crystal rondells. Right before NYFW, I was gifted from Beso Beso which is a fabulous rich dark greenish hued stone that has a bit of bling with its pave crystals. This was the perfect Valentine's Gift to receive and is begging to be layered with a number of pieces in my collection. The final winner in my collection comes from a designer that I have admired for years and can say that I love her friendship and her spirit which comes out in a number of her pieces. My large onyx ring that I wear comes from her collection and these bracelets which are 3 fabulous black beads with Swarovski Crystals, comes from none other than Ana Reign!

WHAT I'M LOOKING TO ADD TO MY WRISTS

As an Accessories Expert, I can never have enough pieces and I'm always looking at how to rotate in a number of different items to rock whatever I'm looking to wear. I fell in love with Punch and Judy a few seasons ago and love the hues within this yellow and green piece which is very much so on trend. Keeping it neutral while glisteny with this elongated stunning crystal is what you'll find in this Year of the Boar. Satya Jewelry takes the beaded bracelet to another level with its use of some of my fave materials Yellow Quartz Citrine! Continuing on with a pop of color, aqua is always a great piece to have in your wardrobe and this one by Sydney Evan which has a fabulous embellishment of a Crescent Moon which is very old world and creates an aged and storied quality to it. Finally, I love a beaded bracelet that brings a great amount of bling by combining a number of elements together. Tat2 Designs has Vintage Gold Brass and Dalmatian Jasper which will be the essential go to piece from Little White Dresses (LWD), paired with denim or any of your favorite boho chic combos!

While we're here battling frosty NYC, many came together in DC to party it up as the President and the First Lady made their rounds to a number of parties! Many wondered what Michelle Obama would wear and we all saw that last night she rocked a Jason Wu dress and as they danced to Al Green's "Let's Stay Together" regardless of party, how could you not enjoy the moment and see that the two of them love one another. As she serenaded the two with the song that we all heard Obama sing on the campaign trail, how could not love, Jennifer Hudson's (we talked about her fab style yesterday while she was in Sundance) glam look? She looked radiant in a simple black stunning dress that definitely showed her in all of her essence!

My early memories involve us bumping into one another at the tents of NY Fashion Week, tech events and anything glam and amazing. We would tell our life stories in a matter of minutes or maybe a few hours! To know her is to be drawn to her and recently I love that we have been able to hang out more! If you heard my radio interview with her earlier this year then you know that Shoshi (Yolanda Shoshana) is the Modern Day Courtesan and Luscious Lifestyle Diva! She teaches us how to still retain our natural sexiness and how to initiate it in a world where many times our focuses are all over the place. Bi weekly she will share her sexy insights with us and I'm so happy that she is on board! In keeping with her name, her segments are Keeping it Luscious! Last time she laid out how to lead a sensual life as we can't get caught up in our day to day! Today she shares the importance of the four letter word.

There is one little four letter word that can change a person's life for better or for worse. That magical word is love.

From the day we are born our parents begin their picture of what our love life will be. It's all so nice and neat, but in reality a love life is never as picture perfect as we would like it to be. Love can be magical, but also leave you with a few bumps and bruises. Sometimes you may even feel like the theme song for your love life is the classic hit, "Love is a Battlefield" by Pat Benatar.

Ever notice how the friends who always want to give you love advice are the ones in the worst relationships? They think they are Oprah or Dr. Phil when their relationships could be broadcast on Jerry Springer. So why would you listen to them when they tell you that you are too picky?

You already know that he's just not that into you, you now know how to think like a man, but act like a lady or better yet, you may still be practicing the rules. Every few years, a book for women comes out that tells us how men/ women think. Long story short, we take this advice for a period of time; get frustrated only to wait till the next self help relationship book is out. It is a vicious cycle, only if you let it become one.

Let's face it, we all know at least one woman like this: she has a dream job, makes good money, owns her own property, but as soon as she starts talking about her love life, she become a mess! She talks about how she is getting cheated on or how she is dating a married man. Basically she may look well put together, but has more drama in her life than anyone else you know. If you don't know this woman, it could in fact be you.

I am not saying that we all have not been in a relationship that was not the best, after all that is how we learn our best lessons. Within all the circumstances, variables, environments, drama, etc. there is one love that rises above all love. That love is, self love.

Self love is the one love that gets put on the back burner. Self love is the one love that can and will help you with your best life. Until you truly love yourself, no one else will be able to love you. It sounds so simple, yet there are so many women who find it hard to do. Your degree of self love determines how your other relationships play out.

By loving yourself, you say "no" to dysfunctional relationships, to being a jump off; stop telling yourself this is as good as it gets, stop dumbing yourself down on dates, etc. Realize how fabulous you are and stop settling for "okay" or "good enough."

You are the Queen of your own destiny. That means you can have the relationship you want, how you want it, and on your own terms. It can be hard sometimes when you make the decision to not settle. In the long run you will be much happier and you will have the luscious life you deserve.

In your quest to stay on point with self love there are two fun things that you can do to keep you feeling luscious:

Next time you are walking by a mirror take a good look at yourself and say, "I look good. Really, really good." Seriously do this for yourself and remember how it feels. It is that feeling which makes all the difference in your heart, mind, and soul. Say it loud and say it proud. It will give you such a radiant feeling.

The other thing you can do is next time somebody asks how you are, instead if saying "Fine," say, "Sassy," "Sexy," "Fabulous," or any other wonderful word that comes to your mind. It will put a spring in your step and a sparkle in your eye. When you say it as an affirmation you will embody it.

Determine your own definition of love and do not apologize for it. In reality nobody can ensure your happiness but you.

Yolanda Shoshana “Shoshi” is a media personality, courtesan coach, sensualist, speaker, writer living in New York City known as the Luscious Lifestyle Diva. Self growth and following her bliss has always been a key part of her life. Shoshi followed her entrepreneur spirit by starting a lifestyle company that engages the senses to help people live lusciously. The services include: courtesan coaching™,workshops/classes, pleasure planning, image consulting, empowerment through media, wedding officiating, etc. She is the founder of the School of Courtisane Moderne, a modern day courtesan school which teaches women the art of seduction. She also is the creatrix and sensualist of luscious creams, potions, etc. that helps women unleash their inner courtesan!

My early memories involve us bumping into one another at the tents of NY Fashion Week, tech events and anything glam and amazing. We would tell our life stories in a matter of minutes or maybe a few hours! To know her is to be drawn to her and recently I love that we have been able to hang out more! If you heard my radio interview with her earlier this year then you know that Shoshi (Yolanda Shoshana) is the Modern Day Courtesan and Luscious Lifestyle Diva! She teaches us how to still retain our natural sexiness and how to initiate it in a world where many times our focuses are all over the place. Bi weekly she will share her sexy insights with us and I'm so happy that she is on board! In keeping with her name, her segments are Keeping it Luscious! If you want to know more, check her out here where you'll be linked into her videos, workshops she's doing and events! Today she tackles Sex and the City. Yes the movie just came out but what are the messages that surround it?

Sex And The City 2 - UK Premiere - Red Carpet Arrivals

Once it was announced there would be a Sex and the City 2 women began the countdown on their calendars, the fabulous foursome would be back! The movie has finally arrived this summer, women were thrilled, and men became frightened (at least according to their comments on Twitter).

I confess that I have a love/hate relationship with Sex and the City I was not jumping up and down for the film for many reasons. I rolled my eyes every time I saw an article where the headline alluded to all the love tips to be learned from Sex and the City. Being a modern courtesan who loves the art of courtesans, it is hard for me to cosign with some of the message about relationships that Sex and the City has offered us ladies. Don't get me wrong, I love a fluff and fun look at
relationships, sex, and love cause it helps us laugh to keep from crying. However, what is important to remember is that after awhile we simply start to believe the messages we are told. Really think about Carrie's relationship with Big: he was cruel to her, damaged her self esteem consistantly, had an affair with her, the list goes on. She should not have ended up with him, but in the end Carrie got her guy which had women thrilled for days after the show finale. How very Hollywood, cause real life does not necessarily work that way. I say whatever. Interesting enough in the two movies, Big is actually a likeable guy and Carrie is the one screwing things up. Now that Carrie has the man of her dreams she is sending him mixed messages. Does sending mixed messages in a relationship work out? Most of the time it doesn't simply, because men take the lead from us.

Maybe that is why so many identify with Carrie , because we all have been a hot mess at one time or another when it comes to love and relationships. The only problem is Carrie seems to stay a hot mess. As I sat watching Sex and the City 2, quite surprised it is not the worst movie of the year as it has been deemed, I finally found something that I have learned from the ladies after all. My Sex and the City "aha moment" is learning, self love.

Out of the four ladies my teacher is Samantha. I thank for her for wisdom and chutzpah on the self love message. She lives her life the way she wants and how she wants. She is okay with saying that she is "fifty effin two" and still gonna rock that dress. She broke up with Smith, in the first movie because she needed and wanted more. She continously went for what or who she wanted. There is a long list of moments for Samantha, which reflects a consistant message of self love. Cheers to her for teaching me!

Coming to grips with who you are and what you want is the only way you will have a successful relationship with anyone else as well as yourself. Whether is it Sex and the City 2 or another chick flick, look deeper into the message that is before you, question it, explore it, and dwell in it.

Yolanda Shoshana “Shoshi” is a media personality, courtesan coach, sensualist, speaker, writer living in New York City known as the Luscious Lifestyle Diva. Self growth and following her bliss has always been a key part of her life. Shoshi followed her entrepreneur spirit by starting a lifestyle company that engages the senses to help people live lusciously. The services include: courtesan coaching™,workshops/classes, pleasure planning, image consulting, empowerment through media, wedding officiating, etc. She is the founder of the School of Courtisane Moderne, a modern day courtesan school which teaches women the art of seduction. She also is the creatrix and sensualist of luscious creams, potions, etc. that helps women unleash their inner courtesan!

Love is in the air. Not only because Valentine's Day is around the corner but also because we tend to think about things that what we would love to have or do. So this year, we bring you the perfect gifts for Valentine's Day whether you're into something slinky, chocolately, shimmery or you're into places to go and fun gadgets that are definitely going to be loved over the next year.

The Love Guide runs from Jan 15th - Feb 15th. I'm super excited about our sponsor this month! Mind Games is currently available via Amazon and can be read on the go through your Kindle! It's a tale that starts in NYC and takes you to Japan. Find out how far someone will go to find love and how far person fights this love. Dorian Smith spins this story sprinkling in her love for fashion, Japan and more! Take some time to check out the site to read a bit of the excerpt and to get to know the characters. If you have a gift or an event that you would like to include, contact us to find out additional information as we will make updates over the next few days.

If you see me out and about, you know that I'm wearing something from Ted Rossi! He's known for creating gorgeous python pieces whether it's a cuff, ring, clutch or hobo bag! If you're looking for great accessories that will keep everyone chatting you up all night, then these pieces will work perfectly for day and night! Take some time to check out his site and to see who is wearing his pieces!

When it comes to the ultimate in Boho Preppy, Tory Burch definitely knows how to achieve this fab look that is absolute timeless. What I love most about this fun collection is that it has the fab red and pink tones that are perfect for Valentine's Day; however, I love that the tote is perfect for a day at the beach when you need to get around the spring. When it comes to packing away your favorite eyeshadows, this is the cutest little lip case and adds a pop of color wherever it goes!

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Here in NYC, it's always a little chilly so when it's time to go out on the special day with your girls or your significant other, these super cute chunky scarves by Spratters & Jayne! These scarves come in various styles whether you like the double button or the single one. Of course this looks super cute with a pair of leggings, a tunic top, a pair of heels and a chunky scarf that's in an array of colors. In addition to the overall look, I love the buttons which are a fab accessory and will leave people asking where you got this great addition to your look.

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A little after Thanksgiving I introduced you to Lavina Firenze, an Italian lingerier brand that I fell in love with from the second that I saw it! I knew that it would be the perfect fit for this guide as this is definitely what you would want to wear on Valentine's Day or any other day that you feel the need to slip into something luxe! In addition to cute little sets they also have fabulous bras and bottoms. This is definitely splurge worthy!

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You never know where you're going to meet your Luvah but I can guarantee one of the prime places is your fab purse! First they brought us fab lipglosses with Huge Lips, Skinny Hips and now Purple Lab has brought Luvah with your choice between Mama's Boy and Rich Jerk. Either way, we've all been with one or the other but at least this choice will make you look fabulous! Take some time to check out the site and see what's going on in the world of Purple Lab as they get ready for their HSN debut!

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"Stay Luscious" is not only a fab phrase but one that you will hear if you listen to the Modern Courtesan! She's all about keeping these feminine and sexy in a world where we can be so focused on rising above glass ceilings and competing, that we lose sight of our essence. She takes us back to another portion of ourselves that is super important - that as women we have other elements that make us unique and we can be powerhouses in the boardroom while also being mystifying creatures. This is more than something to remember on Valentine's Day but somehow this time of year is yet another way to reclaim these thoughts as a second chance to get a move on other types of resolutions! I'm all about beauty products that smell amazing and keep my skin fab so Modern Courtesan by YS is a must! Her lotions and perfumes are yummie and are perfect for whatever mood you're in when using them. In addition, you'll love knowing that the Modern Courtesan or Luscious Lifestyle Diva is a speaker, teacher and more so check her out as well!

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The temperatures are falling and then sometimes it fools us but this is the time of year when winter has definitely settled in and we need to work on our projects to have a productive spring. With that said, we also need to make sure that our bodies are taken care of via good exercise, nutrition and supplements! Functionalab keeps us healthy whether we're taking an entire system of vitamins or we feel the need to pinpoint various elements.

With so many things going on from work, going out to a number of functions and also taking time to research, I loved knowing that by taking the Focus drops within my water, not only did I have a nice minty flavor but I'm also ensuring that I have the focus to finish my projects and to continue to run at full speed! A focused approach also ensures that you don't forget key dates for you and your honey and that you'll remember that they enjoy one restaurant over another! If you're looking to take better care of yourself and those around you, take a moment to check out what Functionalab has available for you!

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This past holiday season on Kitten Lounge, you saw gorgeous agate jewelry from Cynthia Rybakoff! This has been one of my favorite jewelry pieces that I have included within this site and I love the natural elements that she presents along with the pops of color. Valentine's day is more than a focus on red, it also incorporates pink, rich plum tones and of course pops of blue! From earrings, necklaces to bracelets, she has you covered and with a new site ready to launch soon, at her main site, this designer is one that I definitely want to wear from running out on errands to red carpet functions as well! Take some time to give love and to keep a little love for yourself with these fab finds!

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What are your plans for Valentine's Day? Whether you have hunny or you don't Valentine's Day is about passion and Sex on a Plate brings all of this together at the Roger Smith Hotel. If you haven't purchased your ticket, then now is the time do so before it's all sold out! The picture is courtesy of Kelly Cline and a huge shoutout to @emilyspearl and @foodphilosophy for putting on this event!

What does your inside voice say when you taste something sublime?

Mine says "Sex on a Plate."

It's high time we got out of the digital realm of talking food and
sensuality to bring the experience to life, so if you're in NYC for
Valentine's Day, I hope you'll join us for a very special evening.

WHAT IT IS: We’ll spend the evening exploring the sensual pleasures of food
through small plates composed of sultry flavors, textures and colors.
We'll work to envelop each and every one of your senses and push your
palate to the limit.

Beer, wine and special cocktails will be available. Our guests will
leave with gift bags full of goodies. There's also a special discount
on hotel stays for those that want to continue their evening of
pleasure.

While much of the evening will bring you mouth-to-mouth with the
unexpected, here's some of what you can look forward to:

6:30 - 7 PM Passed hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails

7 - 10 PM Small plates and open bar

Throughout the evening, special guest Yolanda Shoshana, the Luscious
Lifestyle Diva, will be sharing some of her delicious expertise. I'll
also be available with some special guests to share more about the
connection between food and sensuality.

MENU: (Subject to change depending on seasonal ingredients)

* Avocado mousse with pickled ginger and orange zest on spicy tortilla crisp

* Truffled oysters

* Frisee with bacon, St. André cheese, hazelnuts, fig jelly and
honey vinaigrette

* Beef with celery root puree, garlic foam and a spiced port reduction

* Cardamom-dusted grilled lamb chop

* Selection of artisan cheeses

* Chocolate liquid love cake with lavender whipped cream

Beer, wine and cocktails - Featuring Hahn SLH Estate Syrah Santa Lucia
Highlands 2007

Goodie bags (Value: $40+)

WHO THIS EXPERIENCE IS FOR:

Singles, couples and groups of friends who want to explore and delight
in the sensual pleasures of food. This event is for everyone,
regardless of status or sexual preference, so long as you have an
adventurous palate.

DETAILS:

February 14, 2010

6:30 - 10:00 PM

Roger Smith Hotel, Penthouse Solarium

EARLY-BIRD TICKET PRICES THROUGH 1/31/10

$100 pp

$90 pp for groups of 2 or more

TICKET PRICE INCLUDES GOODIE BAG VALUED AT $40+

Space is limited. 21 and over. Tickets are non-refundable.

Note: Due to the nature of this tasting event, we will unfortunately
not be able to accommodate food allergy restrictions. Menu may contain
shellfish, nuts and other allergens.

HOTEL SPECIAL

The Roger Smith Hotel is offering a special “Take Monday Off” rate on
Valentine’s Day for this event. Please contact Brian Simpson at
brian@rogersmith.com or @Bsimi on Twitter to book.

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As many of you know, I have a jewelry line, Kitten Couture which was created on one of my visits to South Beach. The idea of having natural stones and seashells that were on a lariat and could be styled in whichever way was inspiring to me. I love this line and the fact that it is handmade. Beaches and resort towns allow me to feel refreshed. When it comes to one of my loves it's traveling to a beach so hearing about Haiti (that was my first trip outside of the country when I was 9 in Labadee and interestingly enough, I was in the Dominican last March for an amazing trip) was hard wrenching. In this time of love, it's also about the love for others and doing whatever you can. Tatiana is one of my favorite pieces in my collection and this piece which can be worn in whatever way you can imagine it and has coral, snail shell and more will have have of its proceeds going to the Red Cross to assist them in their efforts. Tatiana retails for $120 and your support is definitely appreciated. This piece will be at this price and will be representative of Kitten Couture and Kitten Lounge's assistance as they will need continual aid. I hope that the vibrant colors reflect the will of the people and our need to give a hand when we can as there is such a thing as just having love for your neighbor regardless of where they are! Find out my feelings about Haiti and its importance to me within this post!

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Vanessa Boulton has a fun approach to handbags, clutches and even cosmetic cases! I love that she's not afraid to use color and that she has such a whimsical style! These are the perfect gifts to give others and yourself when you're out and about whether it's for brunch or just a fun night out with the girls! With the pops of color, whimsy and willingness to push the envelope, this is a brand to consider when you're in the shopping mood!

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I'm team TMB all the way. If you don't know then you definitely have to check out Tasty Moresels Bakery who has amazing cookies and right now they have a fab way that you could satisy your sweet tooth and your sweetie. So many fab brands/individuals such as Robert Verdi, DKNY, Purple Lab NYC and Chloe - so why not you! To enter for a free box of goodies, you must be located in the US and follow @Tasty_Morsels on Twitter. Send a tweet to them starting out with the phrase of "My idea of the perfect dessert would be..." by midnight of February 12th (one tweet a person) and a winner will be chosen at random.

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We can't forget to spread a little love to our four legged babies that keep is smiling and in good spirits regardless of whether we're having a good day or not! You know that I'm a huge fan of Sugar Chic Couture and when I have my puppy, I love the idea of providing a super cute collar with a little bling, having a cookie that is made just for him and of course having a little nightly isn't such a bad idea either! Sugar Chic Couture is your daily lifestyle boutique that ensures that your little baby has everything that he needs! Take some time to check it out and think of all the gifting that you'll be able to do!

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One of the things that I love within the top 5 of Food Editor and boyfriend, Paul Belobritsky, is the fact that he enjoys cooking! Since I can't cook it was nice to have amazing meals made for me. Then one day, he said that I should help him and I have been a sous chef for the past two years. Having someone cook for you is definitely romantic and I love that it turns into a team work situation that allows you to talk and just get into a whole other kind of groove.

I think author Eric S Lee, knows exactly what I mean with his amazing book, Sweeping Her Off Her Feet With Food. Let's face it, we all love having the amazing dinners and dates but when you have hit the level that he cooks for you and you get to see his space, the intimacy level just kicked up a notch. The idea of a dinner being made for you makes you think of your sweetie in a whole new way! Eric shows guys (and girls can do this too as the way to a man is through his stomach) how to cook regardless of your level. In fact, he even tells you helpful tidbits like how to fold a napkin in various ways, what type of barware should be used for beverages, cooking utensils and so much more. This is such an essential and the pictures are amazing! Eric has an easy style and being a chef that owns his own restaurant, you feel that he definitely knows what he's talking about. This book is about getting romantic and keeping it alive as it's more than a homage to Valentine's Day! Take some time to check it out and get your own copy!

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Celebrate Valentine's Day at Kyotofu Join us for a Special 3 Course Dessert Pairing!

Date: Sunday, February 14th

Time: 5:30pm - 1:30am Seatings

What: 3 Courses of Kyotofu Desserts prepared especially for Valentine's Day. Paired with Champagne and Sparkling Sake. Plus Take home Treats!

Where: 705 Ninth Avenue (Btwn 48th & 49th Sts)

Event Details: $35 (excl. tax and tip)

To Reserve: Call 212-974-6012. Seats are limited!

Valentine's Day Menu

Strawberry Sweet Tofu with Fresh Strawberry Sauce & Lemon Shortbread Cookie
Paired with Champagne

Warm Cherry Mochi Chocolate Cake with Fresh Cherry Ice Cream & Cherry Blossom Yokan
Paired with Hou Hou Shu Pink Sparkling Sake infused with Rosehip & Hibiscus

Strawberry & Valrhona Nama Chocolates (Japanese Fudge), Yuzu Linzer Cookies, House made Marshmallows

Take-home Gifts

Chocolate Souffle Cupcakes ~ Awarded "New York's Best Cupcake" by New York Magazine

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St. Zipang

4 parts Zipang Sparkling Sake (sure to keep the romance from falling flat)

1 part St. Germaine Elderflower liqueur

Raspberry Garnish

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The Cygalle Healing Spa Give Love Kit is the perfect item to give yourself and to gift! This is a must to relax whether you're traveling, at home or whatever reason you have to use the amazing products within this package! In addition to the personal benefit, know that 10% of the proceeds of this purchase will go to the Haiti devastation relief fund. You can cleanse, hydrate and create a radiant glow without having an oily residue when you use either the Licorice Spice Face Wash or Honey Oatmeal Cleansing Creme. I have definitely loves cranberry within my daily regimine so the Cranberry Antioxidant Toner not only has cranberry juice but biocomplex vitamin C which enhances the feel and appearance of your skin! To ensure that your skin is red carpet ready, use Sea Pearl Elixir which seals moisture within your skin in order to have that glow that looks like you practically live within a spa!

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Love makes the world go round and of course on Valentine's Day there seems to be more of a focus. If we can take the time that we focus on it for one day and spread it around, I think that that is even better! This set of bracelets from Alex & Ani is the perfect accessory no matter the season! Check out their site as they have a fabulous collection as well as this particular bracelet is being given away to our readers if you read the Valentine's Day post! To enter, all you have to do it let Kitten Lounge know what you love in terms of accessories and at midnight on the Day of Love, there will be one winner that will rock luck and love for years to come!