Interesting tidbit I heard on the radio: Even though most of us gain weight between Thanksgiving and Christmas (only one to two pounds, not the seven as previously reported, but still), it is NOT okay to plan to diet.

It's the thought that counts...or is it? Sometimes the gift is so crappy you have to wonder if he thought about you at all.

The guys at our office begged us to create a three-item only gift guide. Apparently they really don't like shopping for us, obsessing over our personalities and mulling over the perfect gift...who knew?

Last night a group of my friends and I met at a spa for a pampering beauty party. We brought appetizers and wine and gifts for a swap (hel-

Fellas (yeah), fellas (yeah)
Has your girlfriend got the butt (hell yeah)
Well shake it, shake it, shake it, shake it, shake 
that healthy butt...Baby got back 

	from "Baby Got Back" by Sir Mix-A-Lot

You love your curves, of course, but with all that extra holiday baking your body is now, shall we say, doughy? But you still need to fit into something for the rest of the parties on your schedule. Never fear. My colleague asked me to investigate the latest body-slimming jeans out there, and I'm pleased to say, the selection is fantastic. Pair a pair (ha) with a lacy cami and some stilettos, and you're good to go...

Here's the lowdown:

Is it a coincidence that, just as Americans are getting fatter, jeans companies are inventing magic pants that make us appear slim, toned and shapely? As reported on Good Morning America, these magic pants have criss-cross fabric to flatten and tone your tummy, lift your buttt, slim your hips(!) and shape your curves. Some even come in different butt cup sizes (like bras). I haven't had the pleasure of trying these babies on yet, however, the technology sounds promising. Here are two to try. If you get to them before I do, let me know what you think...

"Tummy Tuck Jeans" by Not Your Daughter's Jeans. $88-$120, www.nordstrom.com. Patented criss-cross stitching creates a "corsetlike" effect to flatten your stomach, lift your butt and lean out your overall shape. Sounds good to me!

"Perfection" jeans by FRx Clothing. $125, www.urbandenimcompany.com. This pair features a patented design that lifts, separates and enhances your butt using a built-in nylon and Lycra insert that fits inside an O-shaped cutout. Oh...they also hide VPLs.

Order these...and go ahead, have an extra cookie. Cheers.