It’s that time again fellas: Movember is upon us. And you know what that means. Moustaches for everyone – even if your main squeeze, girlfriend, wife, sister or daughter says you look like a 70s porn star. Why? Because Movember is prostate cancer awareness month, and by adorning your upper lip with some serious fur you are making your fellow men as well as their women aware of the fact that although less talked about, prostate cancer is actually more common than breast cancer!

Dabbler has been on hiatus for some time. Both Angela and myself have taken on some major projects that make it impossible to stay on top of this site as well. But since Movember is such a good cause we felt the least we could do was repost the video to get everyone in the mood for some mo-growin’.

For more information and to sign up go to Movember.com, then send your friends or loved ones who think you’ve gone insane here or to YouTube to watch the video. And while you’re at it you can read the original article after the jump.

A little action in the bedroom is good but did you know it’s also good FOR you?

If your man is using this as a reason for gettin’ a little somethin’ somethin,’ it ain’t no ordinary line ladies. He’s actually right! Such a release is good for his prostate and if you knew how common it is for men to develop cancer in this gland, you wouldn’t take his request so lightly.

Even though the subject is brought up every once in a while, people (generally of the male variety) are usually quick to change it or simply tune it out because it’s an uncomfortable issue. But why? We hear about breast cancer on a daily basis now it seems, and you can buy pretty much anything in pink these days so why is there this great imbalance?

Well, for one thing, just as you’d rather see bare breasts than full frontal male nudity, women just have a prettier package and pretty things are easier to talk about. The fact that breast cancer surgery is a lot more traumatic also warrants the attention. Consider that women can actually lose a whole breast, something that is more physically and psychologically damaging than losing an organ that you can’t see or touch. That’s why I think prostate cancer never gets the spotlight…until now!

And it’s about time! Did you know that prostate cancer is actually more common than breast cancer?! The numbers are staggering. Just this week alone, 429 Canadian men will have been diagnosed with prostate cancer and according to the Canadian Cancer Society, 1 in 27 will die from it. That’s why early detection is so critical. Like any other cancer, doctors the world over are still hard at work finding a cure so if a cancer is left to grow, it could not only be debilitating, but fatal. Prostate cancer develops very slowly so by the time you experience any symptoms, it may already be too late. However, if you are diligent about your annual checkups, early detection will ensure that you receive the right treatment so you can continue to live your life to the fullest. It is strongly recommended that men 40 and over be examined regularly but men in their mid-30s are now beginning to do so as well. Can’t hurt right? Well…maybe a little…

Granted, a physical examination of your prostate is more than unpleasant, but consider the repercussions if you ignore such a serious condition. Mad Morten’s grandfather discovered a tumor that eventually spread to his back, paralyzing him during his latter years of life and only through sheer stubbornness did he still live a relatively long one. The cancer can engulf any part of your body, not just your back as in this case. You guys out there will be happy to know that there is an alternative to being poked and prodded. As Alan explains in the video, there is a blood test called the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test that is less invasive and which produces the same results, so please consult your family physician, ask lots of questions, and learn more about it.

All this education is where Movember comes into play. Now that you’re armed with potentially life-saving info, it’s time to spread something of the good kind…awareness. And how will you do that? By sporting a MO (an Aussie slang for mustache) and becoming a Mo Bro! Unless you’re Magnum P.I., these facial accents are a rarity. That’s why when you wear one yourself, you’ll naturally attract attention and as people begin to ask you why you’re wearing such a pimpin’ look, you can enlighten them about a worthy cause. Women may be challenged in the facial hair department, but they have a part to play as well, by becoming Mo Sistas and supporting and recruiting Mo Men. This is one of the most creative ways of approaching a delicate subject and you’re encouraged to have fun with it. Conduct Mo-offs at your office! The teachers at Midland Secondary School in Ontario are raising money by selling ballots to vote on which teacher will don which ridiculous-looking mustache for the remainder of the month. All the money raised will fund each participating country’s leading prostate cancer research foundation so all the money raised in Canada will stay IN Canada. Our country’s beneficiary partner is the Prostate Cancer Research Foundation of Canada so sign up at Movember.com, start your own competition, and at the end of the month, celebrate with all your Vancouver Mo Bros and Sistas at a Gala Parté on November 29th at Caprice Night Club (check Movember.com for listings in other cities).

Knowledge is power babeh!

Red Bull Soapbox Vancouver is accepting applications now through July 4, 2008 (you’ve got exactly one week!). Drivers and their three crew members ready to hit the raceway can enter their ideas at www.redbullsoapbox.ca. Those selected to race will receive confirmation on or before July 10, 2008. The grand prize is pretty sweet y’all, so click on to find out what it is!

Rev Up Your Creativity

The road is wide open for imagination and creativity in this race. Previous entries have included everything from King Kong and a giant chicken to the Tooth Fairy and a Viking Ship. Teams are judged on three criteria: speed, creativity and showmanship. So while good tires, aerodynamics and a solid construction can get you to the startling line, you might not make it to the podium – the more outrageous your soapbox, the better!

Here are some tips from a soapbox expert to get you started:

1. When building a soapbox, make sure you use strong rubber for the tires. This allows for better traction and of course, speed!

2. Weight distribution, in terms of maneuverability is important to consider when building. One participant for instance, had all the weight in the back of the car and this caused him to crash when taking a turn. Be sure to make the weighting equal – not one part heavier than the rest.

3. Think outside of the box when it comes to design. The crazier and more creative, the more you will get noticed and the more likely you will get chosen to participate (as only 60 teams are selected based on their sketches)

4. Be creative overall. The race is not about just who gets to the finish line first but also about costume and the skit

The Specs

And now, the rules of the road! All driving machines must be entirely human-powered – no stored power or external energy sources allowed. Secondly, all vehicles must be less than 1.82 m wide, under 6.1 m in length and no more than 2.13 m from the ground. And finally, all crafts must weigh no more than 79.83 kg (not including the driver!). All drivers must be at least 19 years of age, but engineers of all ages are welcome to help craft the speed machines.

The Reward for a Perfect Driving Record

Grand prize: An unforgettable Formula One experience including flight and hotel for all four team members

Second prize: The ultimate driving day/weekend at one of the most challenging courses in the country

Third prize: A day of go-kart racing for the entire team

“People’s Choice” award: Will evolve right up to the date of the event. Stay tuned!

Although this treadmarks the event’s first time in Canada, Red Bull has produced more than 35 Soapbox Races around the world – from Australia to South Africa, Helsinki to St. Louis, and Jamaica to Italy, with the first edition in Brussels in 2000.

Gone are the days of second rate Science Fair projects. In grade five I did mine on “Domes and Arches.” It was crap. I had a lacklustre experiment that followed a less than enthusiastic presentation, all backed by a really ugly Bristol board.

BC has developed its Science Fair program to become one of the top ones in Canada. With over 60,000 students from more than 800 schools participating every year, these Fairs have reached epic proportions. And companies are taking notice, investing in events like the Science Fair Fun Run to gather funds that support students in their scientific endeavours. On May 10th, 71 BC kids were flown to our nation’s capital to compete against more than 400 other students in the Canada Wide Science Fair, something that would not have been possible without these funds.

With project titles like “Is Pomegranate Juice the Cure?” and “The Mechanics of Bioplastics,” kids these days are coming up with incredible ideas for their projects, and putting a ton of work into them. Prep for my experiment involved cutting egg shells in half and seeing how many text books I could pile on top before one of the shells cracked (27 for those who are interested). Somehow this pales in comparison to “examining the cell viability, proliferation and morphology of breast carcinoma cells” like our pomegranate juice friend did. Ok, you win the white lab coat.

Events like the Science Fair Fun Run are crucial in developing science programs in our schools, and motivating our youth to aspire to reach their full potential. Learning outside the book is the key to reinforcing concepts taught in class and generating kids’ interest in science. Why do you think everyone gets excited when it’s lab day and cringes when it comes time to read the chapter on combustion?

Breast cancer, blindness, Alzheimers. There are tons of worthy causes out there, but in my mind, the Dr. Michael Smith Science Fair Endowment Fund is really one of the most noble. It’s a true investment in the future and offers kids the opportunity to experience, not just read about science. Besides, who do you think is going to cure cancer anyways?

Join me at the PMC-Sierra Science Fair Fun Run on Sunday May 25th. You can bet that I’ll be taking some time and checking out the kids’ projects afterwards to see exactly who I’m investing in. That and I really do want to know what the deal is with pomegranate juice!

To register an Individual, click here.
To register a Corporate Team, click here.
To register a School Team, click here.
To register for Mini Fun Run, click here.
To register for Mini Fun Run (no shirt), click here.

You can also download your registration form and mail to:

PMC-Sierra Science Fair Fun Run
c/o TELUS World of Science
1455 Quebec St.
Vancouver BC
V6A 3Z7

Note: Entry fee does not include the processing fee. To view processing fees, click here.

Race Kit Pickup:

May 24th 12 pm to 5 pm
Broadway Running Room
1578 W Broadway, Vancouver

Race Day Race Kit and Timing Chip Pickup:

May 25th 7:30 am to 8:30 am
TELUS World of Science
455 Quebec Street, Vancouver

Team packages will be delivered to team captains prior to Race Day.
Please note that baggage check is available on Race Day.

The Race Day: Sunday May 25, 2008

7:30 – 8:30 am

* Race package and timing chip pickup
* On-site registration
* Mini Fun Run sign-up

8:30 – 9:00 am: Welcome and race warm-up conducted by Fitness World

9:00 am: Start of PMC-Sierra 5k Science Fair Fun Run

9:05 am: Start of Mini Fun Run

10:00 am – noon

* Awards Ceremony
* Entertainment
* Post-Race Refreshments

11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Free Admission to TELUS World of Science for Registered Runners!

An editor once told me “if you’re going to write a biased review, don’t write it at all.” So let me be clear. This is not a review but a recommendation.

If you are in Vancouver this weekend, take a trip down to the Vancouver International Film Centre and catch one of the screenings of the movie Heima. If you know the band Sigur Rós, I don’t need to explain why. If you don’t, I promise you it will change your perception of what music can be. How often can you say you went to a concert movie and saw people crying openly during the screening, not because they were upset, but because the music invoked such strong emotions?

I can say with certainty that Sigur Rós does something no other band can. They perform musical alchemy, transforming simple harmonies into real life manifestations of pure emotion. Those who have experienced it describe it as an almost religious revelation – a spiritual awakening. I have yet to find a person who does not on some level feel drawn to their music. And you’ve probably heard it, though you may not have been aware of it. Did you ever see the trailer for the movie Children of Men? The one with the haunting music in the background that drew you in? Their music is used everywhere, you just don’t know who they are. Well, now you will.

An amazing performance of the song “Von” from the movie after the jump.

Heima (“home” in Icelandic) is a film that lives on the fringe of the definition of live concert feature. Following on the heels of their successful 2006 world tour, it tells the story of the band’s journey across Iceland as they play free unannounced concerts in the most unusual places for the people who have supported them throughout their career. It was their way of giving back to the country that birthed them and giving people a reason to come together with no strings attached. All the concerts were filmed with the intention of compiling them into a concert movie, but for various reasons it would take almost two years for it to make it to the big screen. In the end, it was Canadian director Dean DeBlois who weaved the story and made what could have been a standard live video into a work of art.

The movie features stellar live performances of the band’s most loved and haunting tracks, all recorded in different locations, all performed with the utmost skill and a complete lack of pretense. We see the band in the cellar of an abandoned fish factory, on the site of a demonstration against a dam project, in an old assembly hall with a stage that barely fits, in an open field – all places that in their own way shed light on where the band comes from and gives new meaning to their music as it is woven into a rich history and culture. Masterfully cut into and in between the performances are candid conversations with the band members, giving us the first true glimpse into the minds of these musical virtuosi. Sigur Rós members have become notorious for refusing to do interviews or press of any kind and when they do, little material of use is produced. I guess in a world saturated with celebrity gossip it can be hard to understand, but the culture they come from (the culture I grew up in) is one where self promotion is frowned upon and you are expected to keep a low profile no matter how famous you become. The band lives this philosophy to the fullest and refuses to let anything but the music speak for them, which is why the sound bites are so special, both for fans and fans to be – they give a new understanding of where the band comes from and what they are about.

It is hard for me to put into words why you should watch this movie and why after watching it you will buy their albums. Sigur Rós has a special place in the hearts of Angela and myself – in some ways their music is the reason we are together. But it goes beyond that. Like I said before, they are musical alchemists. They don’t simply make music; they create emotion. There are songs they play that make people cry, not out of pain or awe or anything like that. They cry because the songs do something to them – help them access deeply rooted emotions that need an outlet; carry them over to a different level of consciousness. It’s not astrology or anything like that. They just happen to have found the perfect tune, and they keep finding it again and again in different permutations. It transcends description.

So like I said, if you have some time this weekend, go to the Vancouver International Film Centre and treat yourself to this musical and filmatic masterpiece. Bring your husband, your wife, your teenage rebellious kid or your sibling. Share the experience with those you love and they will love you for it.

Who’d say no to an invite like that! With hooch boots, halter tops and jagerbombs making up what would typically be someone’s ‘night on the town’ these days, an event like the Sinatra-inspired soirée I attended tonight is an exhilarating break from the monotony of everyday life. Thanks to our gracious host, Warner Bros., I got to spend a totally boss night with my main squeeze and we took a trip back to the fifties, when an evening out meant fancy dress, martinis, a little gambling, and all in good company.

Gone are the days when elbow-length gloves and tuxedos were the norm, but while I’d consider it a chore to have to primp like that just for a regular night out with friends, dolling myself up for this one time was an absolute treat (so concurs the Mister). Gotta admit though, that as we made our way down to Ginger 62 on Granville, I felt a bit ridiculous in my little black cocktail dress and my Bardot-esque updo. But that all changed when I stepped inside.

Were I not trying to hide my geekyness, I would have said it was like walking into a holodeck programmed for ’1953 Casino.’ Ever wonder what it’s like to flaunt money? I think I got a little taste. It was refreshing to feel so classy for once rather than making a beeline for the bar, and with WB money in hand, we couldn’t wait to try out the blackjack and roulette tables. With the distinct croon of Sinatra setting the tone for the evening, a good time was had by all and I quickly felt at ease in my uncharacteristically formal attire. Ah, the high life…I think everyone should experience it every now and again. But since those mortgage payments and hydro bills have a tendency of putting a damper on things, there is a more vicarious way of peeking into this old lifestyle:

Tonight’s shindig was a reminder of the many times Frank Sinatra graced the big screen with classics like Ocean’s Eleven (the original) and On The Town. To celebrate its 85th anniversary, Warner Bros. Studios restored more than 50 of the industry’s most celebrated films and is releasing them in chunks every four months (or ‘quarters’). Tonight was all about the second quarter or Q2 – Sinatra and Dirty Harry, with a tribute to a man who has made a mark in entertainment history like no other.

I had a blast living the life that once was, and I don’t think I’m alone in that sentiment. There lies a certain fascination with this particular era and I think it’s because we associate it with such classiness and extravagance. Looking at the images that filled the lounge just made me want to jump in and be a part of it. For one night I did though, so there are no complaints here!

While a few people ended up pretty sauced, I don’t think Frankie would have had it any other way. “Alcohol may be man’s worst enemy, but the bible says love your enemy,” he once said.

Rentin’ a few gaming tables and offering an open bar may be a tad outside your entertainment budget, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have just as much fun. Pick up a Frank Sinatra Collection, round up the gang, make it a black tie and after your own at-home screening, shake up some drinks and chill to some of ol’ blue eyes’ tunes. You won’t regret it.

The Warner Bros. Q2 Release:

2 New-To-DVD Frank Sinatra Box Sets: The Golden Years & The Early Years (in stores May 13)
* The Man with Golden Arm
* None But the Brave
* Some Came Running
* The Tender Trap
* Marriage on the Rocks
* Double Dynamite, Step Lively
* It Happened In Brooklyn
* The Kissing Bandit

New WHV 3-Film Box Set: Sinatra & Kelly Collection (in stores May 13)
* Take Me Out to the Ball Game
* On the Town
* Anchor’s Aweigh

New Rat Pack Ultimate Collector’s Edition (in stores May 13) with exclusive “first-run” stamps, a music CD, and rare collectibles
* Ocean’s Eleven
* 4 for Texas
* Robin and the 7 Hoods
* Sergeants 3

All five Dirty Harry films in an Ultimate Collector’s Edition (in stores June 3)
* Dirty Harry 2-Disc Special Edition (1971)
* Magnum Force Deluxe Edition (1973)
* The Enforcer Deluxe Edition (1976)
* Sudden Impact Deluxe Edition (1983)
* Dead Pool Deluxe Edition (1988)
* Bonus Disc Clint Eastwood: Out of the Shadows

“Last year, 7 people I know were affected by cancer,” says Kristen. “My host mom in New Zealand died of stomach cancer, my ex-boyfriend’s mom has breast cancer, my uncle died from stage four esophagus cancer, and my great aunt developed a cancer of the abdominal lining and passed away at the end of December.”

Honey Dew staffers have been affected by cancer, too, with a worker’s mom passing away from intestinal cancer and the beloved massage therapist, Tori, coming to grips with her mother’s diagnosis of melanoma.

“My grandpa is constantly battling skin cancer from years of working on the railroads,” said Kristen. “And because Honey Dew Day Spa is a skin centre, I thought a fundraiser for skin cancer was a good fit.”

So take a trip down to The New Bohemian Restaurant & Social Lounge next Wednesday for a great evening. There will be a raffle for some fabulous gift baskets, goodie bags, hand massages by donation and models showing off some of the season’s hottest fashions. You will also be able to stock up on your summer SPF and sunless tanner knowing that the proceeds will be going to The Skin Care Centre. And get there early cause free appies will be served from 6 to 7 PM.

Tickets available at: Honey Dew Day Spa & Ridge Hairstyling, The New Bohemian, HotBox & Riot.

Honey Dew will also be running a Sun Awareness Week from April 7 – 12 where 10% of all sunless tanner sessions and sunscreen sales will go to The Skin Care Centre. Donations will also be collected during this week, with tax receipts available for donations over $25.

A few months ago, I received a phone call from a dad who’s girl was going through cancer for the second time. She had just turned 15 and was put on heavier medications to try to get rid of the cancer. As a result, she lost her hair and her will to live. She quit school, would not see any of her friends, cancelled a planned family vacation, and wouldn’t even leave the house. At one point she told her mom and dad that she was going to quit the chemotherapy and she didn’t care if she died. Absolutely distraught, her parents went to speak to Dan Mornar at B.C. Children’s Hospital. Dan told them of the Wigs for Kids program and they convinced their daughter to go down to Eva & Co. Wigs and see about getting a wig. The great people at Eva’s showed her different styles and textures and colours of hair and they came up with something she was pleased with. Eva’s told her that they would rush the making of the wig and she would have it within the week. Her dad said from that point on she was a different girl. She went back to school, went out with friends and even attended our last Wigs for Kids event. He just wanted to call and tell us that of all the wonderful things that B.C. Children’s Hospital did for his daughter, the wig had the greatest impact on her life.” - Bev Friesen

This true story shows just how important small things are in a child’s life. On March 29th, 2008, Bev Friesen and her friends will be hosting the 3rd annual Wigs for Kids silent auction at the Steveston Community Centre. Thanks to the generosity of many individuals and businesses, $70,000 was raised last year for the program which benefits kids from all over the province who have lost their hair to cancer or other serious illnesses. This year, they are looking for more donations to further this worthy cause. To find out how you or your business can help make a tremendous difference in a child’s life, please read on…

BC Children’s Hospital is the primary treatment centre for all childhood diseases in our province. In 2006, more than 170,000 children and their families visited BCCH on an in-patient or out-patient basis. One of the more challenging childhood diseases they treat is cancer. Last year they saw more than 150 new cases of pediatric cancer from more than 200 communities across our province. Along with the newly diagnosed children, they have more than 350 children in active treatment and over 1,200 in long term follow-up treatment.

It is very encouraging for children, families and health care professionals when people like Bev Friesen and her friends decide they are going to make a difference. Because their raised funds exist, it is possible for physicians, nurses, social workers and other health care professionals to obtain a wig for every child undergoing cancer treatment who needs one. Whether or not hair loss will occur in patients receiving chemotherapy depends on the drugs and dosage given. Since drastic changes in children’s and teenagers’ appearance can undermine their self-image and hinder their self-esteem, wigs go a long way in helping to boost their confidence, allowing them to experience life with fun and dignity.

Thank you in advance for any support you might be able to offer Bev Friesen and her friends as they strive to brighten the lives of seriously ill children.

Some examples of the items that people have been donating for the silent auction:

• Hotel packages
• Golf packages
• Spa packages
• Restaurant packages
• New clothing
• Sports memorabilia
• Home furnishings
• Electronics

Receipts are available upon request. Donations will be accepted until March 28.

If you would like to offer a monetary or an auction item donation, or simply have a question about Wigs for Kids, please contact Bev Friesen or Barb Bakke:

Bev Friesen: 604.271.8422 or 604.340.5489
Barb Bakke: 604.272.5544

Women are all about the details fellas. We notice the small tear that you’re trying to hide by rolling up your sleeves, whether you’ve starched that shirt or bothered to iron it, a bad shave or haircut, even when you’ve let your fingernails grow out past that acceptable length! We’re not saying that you need to get regular mani/pedi’s, but a little extra effort goes a long way, especially if you’re in search of that perfect someone.

Needless to say, most men could use a tip or two in the wooing department, which is why My Girlfriend and It’s Just Lunch teamed up for The Bachelor Makeover Contest, offering Vancouver bachelors the chance to win a potentially life-changing grand prize worth over $4,000 that includes a ‘home run’ makeover and a dream date for Valentine’s Day.

Well, West Vancouver’s Peter Weddigen was that deserving bachelor, seen here after the surprise announcement.

Unbeknownst to Peter, he was nominated by friend Len Chasten, along with his entire swim team! It’s Just Lunch’s Jacquie Brownridge and My Girlfriend’s Jill Hannan received no less than nine testimonials which attested to Peter’s rightful place as the bachelor of the year.

Peter is a total Tom Hanks,” said Len, “a solid citizen, nice guy, decent looking, totally responsible…[but] while every woman would love to marry Tom Hanks, they really want to date George Clooney, or Brad Pitt.”

Fellow swimmer Carole McClean wrote, “Peter is always ready to go out while the rest of the swim team are busy with family obligations. He needs obligations of his own!”

To see Peter’s full transformation, read on!

Included in Peter’s basket of goodies is a one-year membership to It’s Just Lunch, a professional dating service for busy Vancouver singles, as well as a ‘home run’ makeover by My Girlfriend Bachelor Stylist Jill Hannan. This meant a crash course on among many things, fashion and grooming. Dabbler tagged along for the lesson and here are the highlights from Peter’s makeover, along with tips that every man can benefit from. This will be followed by an assessment from dating expert Jacquie Brownridge, who has matched Peter with a very promising date for Valentine’s Day.

First Stop: Vancouver Spa – Spruce Body Lab (in Yaletown), a gender neutral and luxurious environment that integrates the best of therapeutic treatment clinics and indulgent day spas into an experience that leaves you rejuvenated and refreshed. We checked Peter in for a customized facial and brow wax, but click here for info on the many other services offered at Spruce.

“Incorporate a great day and night skin care routine! Go for a facial and skin analysis at Spruce, where a dedicated team of skin care professionals is on hand to provide you with a customized treatment. Based on in-depth Face Mapping (a Dermalogica exclusive), they can target your skin’s individual needs to give you unsurpassed results.”

“Also make sure to buy brands designed specifically for men. Such products are formulated especially for you so why not reap their benefits! Need more reason than to look younger?! All skin types need moisture and sunscreen. As skin ages, you need to incorporate anti-aging products into your everyday routine. You’ll soon see (and feel) why. Women appreciate good skin!”

Here are some specific examples, courtesy of Masc, a shop in Yaletown that offers men of all ages the tools and information necessary to maintain a healthy and well-groomed appearance in a simple no-fuss manner. Considering Peter’s very active and busy lifestyle, these suggestions can help return what years of outdoor sports has stripped away:

MD Skincare All-In-One Cleansing Foam: Use this face wash in place of soap for a deep-pore cleanse that won’t strip your skin of its natural moisture. The built-in toner will also balance your skin’s moisture levels as you wash. Use it in the morning while you shower, and in the evening before bed.

Malin+Goetz Vitamin E Face Moisturizer: This oil-free, residue-free moisturizer scientifically synthesizes natural vitamins E and B5 and soothing chamomile with absorbent fatty acids. It gently and effectively hydrates and ph balances all skin types, unlike traditionally greasy pore-clogging oils, for an intensely nourishing treatment, reducing epidermal irritation for the most sensitive of skin. After cleansing, apply a small amount of concentrated, absorbent moisturizer onto face. Use in the AM and PM.

Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm: Enriched with superior skin conditioners and antioxidants, this emollient balm soothes and relieves dry, chapped, irritated lips. Unlike waxy sticks, it penetrates quickly to provide instant relief. Offers broad-spectrum sun protection with an SPF of 25; also guards against windburn and temperature extremes. Contains natural mint to help freshen breath. Apply to lips whenever they feel dry or chapped. Use 30 minutes before going out in the sun to protect against damaging UVA and UVB rays. Winner of the 2007 Esquire Magazine Grooming Awards.

Next Stop: Headspace Hair Salon in Yaletown

Yes yes dear readers, we’re not blind to the obvious. Peter’s hair is much too short for anything drastically different. That being said, it doesn’t hurt to do some touch-ups to finesse the ends for an extra tidy look.

“For those men out there with particularly fine or thinning hair, you may want to consider shaving it off or cutting it extremely short, just as stylist Hieu from Headspace has done for Peter. There’s no point in hanging on to a few hairs; this is not attractive. Besides, women love bald heads…we think they’re sexy, so go for it! You can grow facial hair instead, such as a well-kept goatee.

And before you reach for that bottle of hair colouring, consider this: Salt and pepper hair is sexy and women love it. If you’re going grey, leave the Grecian Formula behind!

To enjoy a fuller head of hair, try the Bumble and Bumble Density Therapy line instead. These unique, synergistic formulas deliver nutrients to the scalp, reduce irritation, strengthens the root system, stimulates cellular energy and create a fertile environment for healthy growth.”

The Must Stop: Winners for all the fashion essentials, where you can shop countless name brands (such as Diesel, Calvin Klein, G-Star, Cole Haan, Kenneth Cole, Dolce & Gabbana to name a few) without paying name brand prices. We scoured the Park Royal Winners in West Vancouver, but do visit different locations as they each receive new (and different) shipments every week.

“Peter’s wardrobe was very outdated and old-fashioned. He was dating himself at least ten years with some of the items that we found in his closet! So guys, if you want to show women that you’re hip, in-the-know and care enough to look your best for them, keep an eye out for what the current fashions are!”

Check out what a great difference a few simple fashion upgrades can do for Peter’s appearance with this before and after comparison. They certainly give off very different first impressions, don’t they? Follow Jill’s advise on all the do’s and don’ts for him, or any man out there:

Jeans: Update them! Rid your closet of overly faded and baggy (specially around the derrière) blue jeans with a high waist, tapered legs and thin belt loops. Instead, buy a current style straight leg or boot-cut pair in a darker wash with subtle fading and wide belt loops. Tapered pant legs give you an upside down pear shape whereas a straight leg or a slight flare will balance you out from top to bottom…i.e. with your shoulders.

Pants: Stay away from pleats! Chances are they are tapered in the leg and high wasted – not a flattering look for anyone. Buy pants that are flat front with a straight leg. To find out if they are straight legged, simply fold the bottom of the pant to meet the knee. If it is narrower than the width of the knee, then it is tapered and not straight.

Black or Chocolate Brown Belt: Now that you have updated your jeans, you will need to update your belt. Chances are that if your jeans are outdated, so are the belt loops, which mean you’re wearing a thin dress belt to hold them up – again, not a good look. Neither is the one seen here. You need to buy a chunkier belt to fit the belt loops in your new jeans. Black or chocolate brown with a silver buckle will never go out of style and will be versatile with black or brown shoes.

Unbeatable Value: Peter’s Cole Haan black leather belt, which retails at $100, was purchased for $16 at Winners!

The All-Essential and Versatile White Dress Shirt: Every man needs a fabulous white dress shirt that fits his body. The rule here is that you shouldn’t be able to grab more than a hand-full of fabric at the back of any shirt (the “One Fist Rule”). Designer dress shirts are your best bet as they fit slimmer through the waist, giving you a more defined shape. Remember that they typically fit one size smaller, so don’t be afraid to go up a size. Wear it over a nice cotton T with a crew neck, buttoned up or unbuttoned with the sleeves rolled up for a more casual look, tucked in with a tie and sport coat or untucked.

Unbeatable Value: Normally tagged at $150, Peter’s G-Star white Oxford was nabbed for $44!

Polo Shirt: A thin-striped or plain coloured polo shirt in mercerized cotton is a great casual, weekend look. You want to make sure it is a slimmer fit through the body, once again using the One Fist Rule; you don’t want the shirt to be wider in the body than it is long. Wear this with your new jeans and a pair of trainers for kicking around on the weekend and out on coffee dates.

White Crew Neck T-Shirt: Every man needs a few white cotton crew neck T’s for underneath dress shirts and sweaters. Make sure that it hugs your body, without being too tight; you don’t want a lot of extra fabric here because you are going to be layering and don’t want the extra bulk, especially if you’re tucking in a shirt for a more formal look. They’re great under Oxford shirts for a more casual look and also to hide chest hair. You should have a few in your wardrobe and make sure to toss them when the armpits appear yellow.

Tie: Every man should have a spiffy blue 100% silk tie to wear with jeans and a white dress shirt. This adds a sophisticated look and takes you from day to night in a snap. Throw on a sport coat and/or sweater for another great look. Ties should be sophisticated and subtle – no loud or juvenile prints…Mickey Mouse and Wiley Coyote are out! Thinner stripes, small polka dots or a small pattern are fine.

Now that Peter’s ready for his date, let’s find out what his personal dating assistant, Jacquie Brownridge, managing partner at It’s Just Lunch has to say about our bachelor:

Symptoms: Peter has been busy building his career as a treasury consultant, which included a lot of travel up until recently. Whenever he wasn’t working or travelling, he was involved in numerous sports from hockey, to swimming, to snowboarding in the winter, and windsurfing in the summer. Throw in a few family excursions to a dude ranch, and there isn’t much time left for meeting eligible singles. Add to that the fact that most of his buddies are married or male, and that he’s not the type of guy that hangs out at a bar and you can through opportunity out the window as well. Peter is typical of a number of our clients. The reason he is still single at 43 is not due to any one “flaw” that can be pinpointed; he doesn’t have some weird quirky behaviour that has scared away all the eligible bachelorettes. Peter is a busy guy and that truly is the root cause of his bachelor status. He is extremely well-rounded and his interests range from gardening to dabbling in the arts and painting with acrylics. He is a member of the art gallery, is well versed in politics, and knows a bit about fine wine. His last serious relationship was with a long-distance love.

Dating Prescription: We looked into matching Peter with someone who is sporty, personable, intelligent, and looking forward to getting married and starting a family. Plus she has traditional values that match Peter’s.

We’ve selected someone who could be perfect for Peter. She’s super sporty and loves the water, which is a must where Peter is concerned. She also runs marathons, so she can keep up with Peter! She’s never been married, but looks forward to having a family some day. And the bonus: They both love dabbling with acrylics and both love dogs – and both note no cats on their profile. What are the chances of that?! Their first date is a romantic dinner tonight!

Potential Side Effects: A second date!

Best Taken With: An open mind, a smile and some fun! Peter will get the most out of his new approach to dating with IJL if he’s open to meeting lots of different people. We so often hear love stories from clients about how their best match was the one they least expected and totally against type. It’s all about attitude! She might not be the “one” but may introduce you to the “one.”

GOOD LUCK PETER!

It’s Just Lunch offers a fun, proactive approach to dating. The first date specialists, IJL arranges lunch dates and drinks after work for busy professionals in a discreet, no-pressure setting. Founded in 1991, the company now has locations all over the world, thousands of clients, and countless success stories. Everything is confidential; no photos or personal information goes online. Every client is met face to face by their personal dating assistant, who coordinates clients’ schedules and makes the reservations.

Contact Details:

It’s Just Lunch Directors for Vancouver, Whistler, Victoria, and the Fraser Valley:

Jacquie Brownridge
Karren Day
Christine Morela
Candace Neskar
t: 604.633.9980

Services also available in Calgary, Edmonton, and Toronto. For international contact info, visit www.ItsJustLunch.com.

My Girlfriend is the girlfriend behind every bachelor who hopes to ask a woman out, bring her home and have her spend the night rather than send her running. Founded by Jill Hannan, My Girlfriend’s mission is to reinvent men, one bachelor at a time. She targets the single, straight male who needs the help of a woman he trusts to bring him up to speed in terms of fashion, grooming, home décor and comforts, culture, food and wine. From flowers, a bottle of wine, and fresh ingredients in the fridge, to music, clean sheets, and a sparkling clean shower with all the right products, My Girlfriend advises Bachelors on the behind-the-scene details that truly matter.

Contact Details:

Jill Hannan t: 604.616.0197
Elise Craig t: 778.837.1950

For anyone who’s ever wanted to, but have been embarrassed to attend one of these trade shows, you can rest assured that it’s neither intimidating, nor obscene or dirty. Like the operation of any other business out there, all the exhibitors are nothing but friendly and professional. You won’t feel pressured to buy anything and if you do make a purchase, you won’t feel like you have to hide it. The atmosphere is fun and relaxed, and the stage shows are always a draw. There are open seminars and workshops that teach you anything from how to to avoid dating disasters to how to find that elusive G-spot. It’s definitely not just about sex toys – There are booths for energy drinks, protein shakes, “clothing optional holidays,” skin care products, tattooes on the spot, anti-snoring solutions, aromatherapy, bed sheets, and even cancan dancers…and that’s just naming a few. There are contests and giveaways galore and raffle ticket sales for worthy causes like Aids Vancouver.

But let’s be frank here. What we all want to know about is what the latest sex toys are, right? Well, if that’s what you want, that’s what you’ll get! Click on the link below for the pleasure trove of goodies that we found at the Sex Show and keep an eye out for the fantastic giveaway that we’ve got for one lucky viewer, courtesy of our friends at the Little Shop of Pleasures!

When it comes to sex toys, you’ll find that most of the stores on exhibit carry pretty much the same assortment of products. Except for perhaps the different deals that you can get depending on which one you choose to buy from, there’s not a heck of a lot that sets them apart.

There IS one store in particular though, that I found exceptionally helpful and informative, so if I were to recommend one place for you to get all your products from, it would be the Little Shop of Pleasures (Alberta’s best adult store on Mission Road and Macleod Trail South). Co-owner Don Wilhelm, and “Pleasure Experts” Sarah and Nathan were on hand with a mind-boggling assortment of options and were able to answer every question I had about each of them. Their upbeat and easy-going attitudes made all the difference. None of the other booths I visited (and there were many) were as forthcoming as they were and so here is what they had to say about the latest and the greatest:

Liberator Bedroom Adventure Gear: Have you ever struggled to shift your partner to that magic position that hits all the pleasure spots? Well, this is probably what you need. Featured here is the Ramp shape, which offers support with a deep slope elevation that strategically lifts your partner’s hips to an altitude of 12 inches, which gives you access to angles that accentuate sensitivity. You can avoid falling forward, slipping, sore elbows and wrists when you’re in a doggie-style position and the ramp also offers you an “unbeatable girl-on-top ride.”

Approximate Retail Price: $140

Fun Factory LAYAspot: This European designed “nesting toy” is submergible, has a locking mechanism for uninterrupted pleasure, runs on 2 AAA batteries, offers three vibration patterns in seven speeds, and fits ergonomically into your hand. It is the only device that allows vaginal insertion AND allows you to do it underwater. This little gadget provides not only clitoral stimulation, but also gives you the option of two sizes (one at each end) for vaginal stimulation (one for the G-spot). Men can also use it for scrotum stimulation. For the most bang for your buck, Sarah says this one’s it.

Approximate Retail Price: $80 Cdn

Ultra 10 Remote Control Bullet: There are a lot of bullet toys in the market (so named for their shape), but what sets this one apart is the fact that it is submergible (as long as it’s tightly closed) and has a wireless remote control that offers 10 pulsating variations (option 8 being the most popular one). Use it yourself or give your partner the control. For clitoral stimulation, slide on the ribbed silicone sleeve for a heightened internal sexual experience.

Approximate Retail Price: $99 Cdn

Lelo Gigi: Quite the best-seller, this stylish Swedish designed silicone device is a very popular one in the Lelo line of sophisticated sex products. It offers high/low options for seven pulsating functions in a frequency that’s slightly lower than the Ultra 10 Bullet. No batteries are required as it is rechargeable, and it has a unique lock that prevents accidental ‘turn-ons OR offs!’ (you just simultaneously hold down the two side arrows until the light turns on/off). The distinctive tip is for “the discerning G-spot connoisseur.”

Approximate Retail Price: $165 Cdn

Lelo Nea: Also from the Lelo series, this is the subtlest vibrator I have ever seen. Glancing at it, you might think it’s a pager or a pet rock. Beautifully designed with floral graphic accents, it’ll save you from a potentially embarrassing situation when your mom accidentally stumbles upon it. This is also rechargeable and has a higher rpm for those that prefer stronger clitoral stimulation.

Approximate Retail Price: $120 Cdn

Lelo Liv: Except for the shape of its silicone tip, this is exactly the same as the Gigi. But instead of a bulbous end, this one is straight and smooth. Some women don’t think that they can achieve a G-spot orgasm and opt for this model instead. It is also rechargeable.

Approximate Retail Price: $165 Cdn

If the prices are a little out of your budget (shop around online because you can get pretty varied prices, very often with great discounts), you can always stick to the cheaper vibrators that are readily available. You can get a pretty good one for $25 Cdn, like the Technobeat. You won’t really be sacrificing much BUT you do have to settle for its obvious and unattractive appearance. There’s no mistaking what it is if your niece finds it in your bedside table!

Another very affordable option is this silicone cock ring (made by the same people who brought you the very popular Dolphin and Rabbit). This little device operates on watch batteries inside a motor which you can remove so you can wash the silicone exterior. It provides simultaneous stimulation for both the man and woman during sex and costs $30 Cdn.

Jelly vs. Silicone: Choosing which material you want is of course up to you, but if you opt for a jelly product, make sure that you steer away from a material called “phthalate.” This is the magic ingredient that gives certain products that really soft, bendable and squishy texture that imitates the real thing. The medical findings are not conclusive, but prolonged exposure to the material has been linked to kidney failure, so I would opt out of it just to be on the safe side.

Silicone Taffy Tickler: Don’t let the look of this one scare you off. It’s quite deceptive because it’s actually very soft. You’ll need quite a bit of lubrication and it’s a bit harder to clean, but it IS made of silicone so it’s still pretty easy. Just leave it on while your rinse it under warm water.

Approximate Retail Price: $45 Cdn

Hegar Uterine Dilators: Originally designed as a medical instrument, you lube the stick, position it to enter the urethra of a stimulated penis, and just let gravity pull it down and into the organ. No pushing is required, which is why it’s probably not as painful as you are imagining it to be. It doesn’t go all the way down of course and stops at the hilt (at about the instrument’s half-way point). Once in, you apply vibrations to the stick with a vibrator and as Sarah describes it, by doing this, a man can “recycle the same orgasm for 10 – 30 minutes!” You can work your way up to the larger rods but keep in mind that if used too frequently, it CAN stretch your urethra, but as Don puts it, “it’ll save you time when you taking a pee!”

Approximate Retail Price: $140 Cdn (not sold separately)

Cupping Set: Unlike the ones used in Chinese medicine, these don’t employ the use of flames. The principle behind them is that the sucking action draws the blood to the area being sucked and as a result, makes the applied area super sensitive to the touch. The small cup is used for the nipples and the other one in the picture is large enough for the vulva. Some do call it a “genital torture device” so use it at your own risk! It IS a kink toy.

Approximate Retail Price: $130 Cdn per set of about 10 cups of varying sizes

Fukuoku Glove: This is operated with 3 AAA batteries and surprisingly is waterproof too! There are two levels of vibration (“high and high”). I’ll let you imagine its multiple uses, but don’t forget that it also has therapeutic benefits. Sarah sold one to a dog owner who was looking for something like this to massage an aging dog that was suffering from arthritis, for which vibrations are beneficial.

Approximate Retail Price: $95 Cdn

DABBLER CONTEST! For your chance to win a Fukuoku Glove, courtesy of Little Shop of Pleasures, email us with your best excuse for why you need one! Contest ends Thursday, January 31st, 2008!

As Nathan points out, keep in mind that sex toys are NOT regulated, so do your research. He would recommend silicone instead of jelly products, and if you purchase a metal instrument, be sure to look for the classification “medical grade surgical steel.” The quality can’t be beat (even if it’s stainless steel, it CAN still rust), and you can boil it for sanitation purposes after use. He adds that for similar reasons, glass toys are also a great option. And on a final note, he is quick to remind that your toy should not include ANY porous materials (such as cloth) because it can never be fully cleaned and sanitized. Anal balls for instance, used to be connected by a cloth string but as you can imagine, considering where it is going, the bacteria and fungi that remains in the cloth is not good for you. That’s why anal toys like this one in the picture below have the dividers between the balls, which were made to circumvent this hygienic problem.

Kegel Balls: What are these used for? Building the muscles of your “pelvic floor.” You simply insert one or more into your vagina (don’t worry, they can’t get stuck in there. There’s nowhere to go! If you stand up and relax, they will naturally fall out) and try to hold it in place. If they fall out, simply rinse them and place them back in. Practice 30 minutes a day until you can hold it for 15 – 20 minutes and your partner will definitely feel the difference during vaginal sex. And an added bonus? By the time you’re in your 60s, your pelvic floor will be strong enough that it will help you control incontinence. It’ll even diminish some discomfort in pregnancy.

Approximate Retail Price: $25 – 30 Cdn. There are also magnetic ones and apparently, the magnetic properties are good for your health as well.

If you want to splurge, you can get these fancier surgical grade kegel toys from njoy for $160 – 165 Cdn.

Sue from O!Behave (in Delta, BC) suggests the Pleasure Commander. It’s similar to the Ultra 10 in that it has a separate control unit, but the difference is that it’s not cordless. It takes 3 AAs and if used daily, Sue claims the batteries last for about 2 months. She should know – Sue encourages woman to change the way they think about these products. Because orgasms release endorphins and “takes your mind to a quite place,” Sue attributes her optimism and energy to frequent use of her Pleasure Commander. She says it definitely helps to “stabilize her moods.”

Pleasure Chest Parties: If you’re not comfortable going to an adult store for any of these products, you do have the option of hosting an event in the privacy of your own home to learn about them. We spoke to the owner of Pleasure Chest Parties, a 100% independent BC-based company about such parties, and what happens is that someone will come to your home (or wherever you want to hold your party) to demo the products and afterwards set up shop in a separate room (like the bedroom) where buyers can enter one at a time to make their discreet purchases. Such parties typically last for about three hours and are FREE. How they can afford to do this is by putting a markup on the items being sold and offering the host or the hostess a percentage of the sales. There’s no minimum purchase and you don’t have to have a certain number of people at your party.

Here are a couple of other companies that offer similar services: North Vancouver’s Lovenest Home Parties, and Regina-based (with consultants in Edmonton and Vancouver as well) Industrial Luv Products Inc (look for Jen to book parties in BC).

Terminal City Roller Girls: Now this has nothing to do with sex, but it’s sure sexy! Founded in January 2006 by a group of women who discovered a great new way to combine athleticism and creativity, The Terminal City Roller Girls is Vancouver’s first female roller derby league. If you’d like to join, the only requirements are that you must be female (sorry guys! It’s a great spectator sport though!), and that you need to be a medium to intermediate skater. Membership is $20 a month and this includes two practice sessions a week. If you wanna know what they’re all about, come out to one of their events. They’ll be competing monthly from April to August so check them out! If you can’t wait that long, there’s an Open Scrimmage on February 1st, 7 PM, at the UBC Osborne Centre – Unit 2.

Lace Embrace Atelier Corsets & Lingerie: Known for making beautiful steel reproductions of antique Victorian corsets since 1997, owner and corsetière Melanie Talkington builds regular corsets, corset dresses, and also bridal gowns that incorporate a prominent corset. Prices vary greatly depending on what style you’re after and what materials you prefer (cotton/silk), but an average corset could cost around $195 Cdn. When asked why she makes a product that used to conform women to a certain image, she said it did a lot more than shape a woman’s body back in the day. It also helped to support her breasts before bras were invented, and also ensured good posture and provided great support of the back. Men used to wear them as well, she says, although slightly modified (it was more of a wide belt). The inspiration for this business? Dolly Parton’s The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas!

Wild West Cancan Dancers: I had no idea that there was a Port Moody Cancan league that dates back 30 years! Wild West Cancan Dancers is actually a spin-off troop from the original. You can learn to Cancan once a week and it’ll only cost you $10 a year because they want you to be able to spend the money on costumes and supplies instead. There are no pre-requisites for joining. As long as you have the spirit and just wanna lift your skirt, you’re in!

For those unfamiliar with this dance genre, Cancan is a saloon dance that originated in France in the 1830s and was brought to North America during the gold rush. At the time, the railway was also being built in Canada and to commemorate its completion, the last “Golden Spike” was struck, followed by a celebration that included performances by Cancan dancers who were brought in to entertain the workers. What I found intriguing was that despite their outward appearance, Cancan dancers actually wore a heck of a lot more clothes than the average person! They all start off with skin-coloured tights (so all the girls’ legs have the same skin tone), the fishnet stockings go on top of that, followed by a bodysuit, a vest, another pair of knickers (this one decorative for show), the dress with petticoat, and finally the corset! Quite the work to look sexy eh?

Earlier we glossed over the option of glass adult toys. If this is an option you’d like to explore, you can start by browsing through the dizzying assortment of glass designs at Love Style Adult Toys just to get a taste of what’s out there. Going glass has a lot of benefits. It:

Is made of medical/pharmaceutical grade pyrex
Is strong and durable – lasts forever
Is completely hypoallergenic
Is super easy to clean
Is non-porous – no odours or discolouration ever
Can be warmed or cooled for bedroom excitement
Is the smoothest and thickest toy available

And what’s a sex show without hooker heels eh! These are Devious Shoes and can be found at Barbies Shop. The average price for shoes is $80, knee highs for $120, and thigh highs for $160.

Need a Burlesque performer? This is Andra, the Diamond Minx, who looked stunning in her Swarovski crystals-laden red corset dress, and whom we later found in stilts!

Casanova Wear Pleasure Wrap: Created by a man who used to use his bedsheets every time he wanted to bind his partner during sex (but who grew tired of messing up his bed every time), this is a little bondage fun for a newbie to this form of pleasure. Cleverly and elegantly designed, it would take one who owns one to know what it’s really used for. It is slightly padded for comfort and will enhance any sexual position. There are leather lashes on either end of the Pleasure Wrap for a little tickle or a little whipping action, and you can very easily and quickly bind (and just as quickly unbind) your partner by tying her hands or legs, or use it to spread them apart for access. Valued at $60, this sensuous satin wrap comes in 10 different Asian print colours. You can purchase it here or here.

For something a little more hard core, there’s also the Casanova Wear ConstrictHer (which serves the same function as the Wrap, but in a kinkier fashion), available here, and here.

Masks are sexy AND mysterious. For a beautiful hand-sculpted piece of wearable leather art, you can find masks like this one at Erota Leather for anywhere from $12 to ornate ones for $500. Averaging $30 – 60 for a regular mask, the one featured on our model here retails at $80.

Lubricants: Ok, here’s the lowdown on the different lubes out there in the market. You’ll have the option of three different types: 1) Water-based, 2) Silicone-based, or 3) Oil-based lubes. With water-based lubes, you’ll need to re-apply more frequently BUT it is safe to use with toys made of any material. Silicone-based lubes are thicker and therefore last longer BUT they will destroy any silicone toys that come into contact with it so don’t make that mistake! (they’re great when used on their own during regular sex or hand stimulation). Now, for the most important tip: Do NOT mix oil-based lubricants with condoms as this type of lube WILL destroy the only protection you might have against unplanned parenthood (and STDs)!

A relatively new lube product at Little Sister’s Bookstore, this Pink Silicone Personal Lube retails at $12.95 Cdn and the water-based one at $8.95 Cdn.

Also a best-seller at Little Sisters Bookstore is this book The Ethical Slut: A Guide to Infinite Sexual Possibilities, which was literally flying off the shelves when we were there. This paperback is co-authored by Dossie Easton and Catherine A. Liszt, a couple in a polygamous relationship. A semi-autobiographical publication, this book describes the lifestyles of people that choose to have multiple sexual partners and educates those of the same persuasion on how to do it in a safe and ethical way.

OhMiBod: This device redefines the term “plug ‘n play!” For all you Mac lovers out there, this is the toy for YOU. Simply plug OhMiBod into your iPod or (or any music player really) and it automatically vibrates to the rhythm and intensity of the music that you select to play. Bet you really wanna get down with your favourite tunes now!

Approximate Retail Price: $69
OhMiBod Garter for iPod Mini (an accessory)

Nadia’s Naughty Chocolates: Inspired to take action after a dear friend died of ovarian cancer in 2005, Chef Pâtissière and Chocolatière Nadia Dürig began to make provocatively-molded chocolate pieces like this penis-shaped one to help raise money for cancer research. We chose to feature this particular item in her collection because it’s fun and will definitely make whoever you purchase it for turn a deep shade of red, especially if opened in a party setting! It even rattles when shaken because it’s stuffed with mini chocolate penises! It retails at $15 Cdn and you can order it either through Nadia via her website, or from Chocolate Tofino.

To some, souped-up cars and bikes are the definition of sexy, and both were on hand at the show. This killer chopper however, served as more than mere eye candy. Custom built by Vancouver Chopper, these wheels are part of a contest to raise money for AIDS Vancouver. Each time you make a donation ($20 for one entry, $50 for four entries, $100 for nine entries), you get the chance to win a chick magnet that’s valued at $95,000! This is a 9-month contest that ends in October, so make your donation today either online or by calling the toll free number 1.877.512.3321 and help spread the word for a worthy cause.

And as our adventure through the Naughty But Nice Sex Show came to an end, we stumbled upon Eden – A fantasy night club for couples, where co-owners “Adam” and “Eve” explained how this isn’t your old-fashioned salacious swing club. Fully licensed for its purposes, this members-only club operates out of a two-story residential space in Delta, BC where for three Saturdays out of every month, exclusive parties are held for its subscribers. You can dance the night away in a downstairs night club environment, or head to the “playrooms” upstairs for a little intimate fun with one, two, three or more partners if you’d like (sex IS allowed on the premises and all safe sex supplies are provided). If you’re looking for something a bit more on the kinkier side, stay upstairs, but continue down the hallway to an open room where you can enjoy the company of a larger group of people and just watch the action or join in. Note that the premises can’t sell or serve you alcohol so if you plan to drink, remember to bring your own spirits. On hand will be nibblies served by women in sexy French maid costumes. The target market is young professionals aged 25 – 39 years old and with over 2,000 members so far, you’re bound to meet someone new every time. Here are the membership options:

Silver Membership: $49.95 but limits you to just the invites to the sexy parties (Example: Sinsations Parties, where everyone changes to lingerie (or less) at 10 PM).
Gold Membership: $74.95 and includes online benefits in addition to the party invites.
Platinum Membership: $125 per couple and includes all benefits.

Once a member, it costs $90 per couple at the door and it’s all inclusive. Forty couples is the maximum capacity so reservations are necessary.

And that in a nutshell, was the Vancouver Taboo Naughty But Nice Sex Show! Hope you enjoyed the ride!

To view all our photos from the show (relax, they are all (relatively) safe for work) visit our Flickr gallery.

If running down to the corner store to pick up a Durex 12-pack is your idea of prepping for a date that you hope will turn into a sleepover, then you are in dire need of Jill Hannan and Jacquie Brownridge’s expert advice. Click on the video above for a crash course on how to impress your dream date the first time you bring her home.

And just in time for Valentine’s Day, My Girlfriend and It’s Just Lunch have partnered to present The Bachelor Makeover Contest. One deserving bachelor will be getting the full treatment from My Girlfriend à la Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, PLUS a one year membership to It’s Just Lunch, complete with dating tips to help him find the woman of his dreams.

So here’s the official callout for all busy professional men who haven’t been actively dating in a long time but want to. Do you know a great guy who keeps getting overlooked by the women he wants to date because of his appearance and outdated style; plus he lives in a typical bachelor pad with a bathroom that screams ‘enter at your own risk’? Then nominate him (or yourself) today! (Deadline: January 18, 2008).

For some bonus dating tips, read on!

It’s Just Lunch Dating Etiquette:

1. Never ask someone out on a first date by email, instant messenger or text message. A phone call is always in order.

2. Emails relating to dating should be brief, upbeat and fun.

3. It’s ok to correspond using email regarding your plans for a date, where you will go, time etc., but always confirm the date by phone – it’s much more personal.

4. It’s always nice to hear from someone after a date. If you plan to see them again, a phone call and email is nice. If you are not planning another date, a short, nice email is appropriate.

5. Never discuss your personal life by email. Remember, emails can be forwarded or read by others (8% of singles have read their dates’ personal emails).

6. Don’t discuss friends you might have in common via email – especially anything negative.

7. If you’ve gone out with someone and they are not returning your emails, consider that person not interested. Don’t push and understand that he/she is probably not interested. Move on.

8. Don’t recap details about your date on email with your friends (22% of singles send personal emails on their work email account…remember your boss can read that).

9. If you are not interested in seeing someone again, don’t give out your email. Be straight forward at the end of the date and tell them there is no chemistry, but it was great meeting them.

10. Don’t give out a phony email address – that just isn’t a nice thing to do.

About It’s Just Lunch

Since It’s Just Lunch was founded in 1991, the company has arranged millions of fun, first date lunches or drinks after work – an atmosphere where singles can feel comfortable with the process of meeting a new person. With over 100 locations worldwide, IJL arranges hundreds of first dates each day at over 1,100 restaurants. With many introductions leading to second dates, It’s Just Lunch is the world’s leading first date authority.

Contact Details:

It’s Just Lunch Directors for Vancouver, Whistler, Victoria, and the Fraser Valley:

Jacquie Brownridge
Karren Day
Lindsay Northcott
Christine Morela
t: 604.633.9980

Services also available in Calgary, Edmonton, and Toronto. For international contact info, visit www.ItsJustLunch.com.

About My Girlfriend

My Girlfriend is the girlfriend behind every bachelor who hopes to ask a woman out, bring her home and have her spend the night rather than send her running. Founded by Jill Hannan, My Girlfriend’s mission is to reinvent men, one bachelor at a time. She targets the single, straight male who needs the help of a woman he trusts to bring him up to speed in terms of fashion, grooming, home décor and comforts, culture, food and wine. From flowers, a bottle of wine, and fresh ingredients in the fridge, to music, clean sheets, and a sparkling clean shower with all the right products, My Girlfriend advises Bachelors on the behind-the-scene details that truly matter.

Contact Details:

Jill Hannan
t: 604.616.0197

Elise Craig
t: 778.837.1950