As the technology of photography develops, so does the style of the photography accessories. The fashion-forward camera straps from Capturing Couture are an example of how everything we do can be done prettier than ten years ago.

I have the pictured strap (hibiscus sun) from the Hibiscus collection and it’s gorgeous. My one complaint is that it still feels like regular camera strap and I’d prefer a lining or edging of minky or some other cushy fabric that wouldn’t dig into my neck on long walks.

There’s a large selection available from their website for $25-$49. At the lower end that’s fairly standard. At the higher end I’d expect them to be lined in the way I mentioned previously.

I haven’t posted much about my OpenSky shop – partly because I’m ridiculously busy but mostly because I am just not a salesperson. I love to share the coolest of cool things with you but I don’t necessarily want to sell them myself. There are a few things, though, that I’m willling to toss into the shop to share with you because they’re just that good. Good enough for me to attach my name to.

The most recent addition is the Curiosity Cards set from Rebecca Plants. Rebecca Plants is a company dedicated to reminding us that happiness is just beyond our doorstep. Rebecca P. Cohen founded her company to develop simple, yet brilliant products and ideas that inspire all people – families in particular – to spend more time outside.

This set of 50 circular cards adds so much fun to family time & friendly get togethers and is a great portable pack to toss in your pocket when you’re headed out on a walk with your children. Flip open the deck and ask a question that will get you and your littles exploring and enjoying each other in the great outdoors.

Click here to buy it now for just $15. It makes a great stocking stuffer!

Win it! We’ve got one to give away to one randomly selected T.O.P. reader. Simply comment on this post before noon mst on December 1, 2010.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

I am all for creative and open ended toys and activities. I am also an early years educator whose daily life focuses around literacy, so it goes without saying that I am THRILLED with Picture It Picture Books – the one and only book series that children illustrate themselves. Ontario authors Alicia Belvedere and Leanne Melich write the stories and leave out the illustrations, giving children a chance to set their imaginations free. The books focus on the environment, social responsibility, positive human interaction and creativity.

The most important part about Picture It Picture Books is that they don’t have any pictures, giving young readers the opportunity to illustrate their very own books. By visualizing the images to a story as it unfolds and then committing those images to paper, readers engage with our texts in a meaningful, physical way. This increases reading comprehension and encourages readers to apply what they’ve learned to their own lives.

These are some awesome books, and ones that – once completed – would be such special keepsakes. Imagine reading your grandchildren a book which was illustrated by their father when he was their age and the awesome memories that experience would bring to mind. I’m excited just thinking about it!

Picture It Picture books sell for $8 each and are available from Indigo.ca.

Win it! We’re giving away a copy of each of the Picture It Picture Books – one winner will receive all six pictured books! To enter, comment below before noon mst on December 1, 2010.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED