Cool new websites

I love discovering new websites. It's like a tour of a new destination for the lazy man (or woman). Just let your fingers do the walking over your keyboard and see what you find! In the past few weeks, I've come across some new sites...(or at least new to me) that are simply very cool, interesting and useful. Some of them have even placed on Time's 50 best new websites list from this past year.

WhatisMoissanite.com
As readers of my blog know, I'm definitely a fan of moissanite jewels. This brand new site is a great place to go to get the facts...and a comprehensive understanding of what moissanite actually is, and how it compares to other gemstones out there.

Chow.com
This (fairly) new site is like uncovering a virtual treasure chest for foodies! Complete with articles, tips, ideas, message boards, stories, and yes...recipes, I'm excited to really get to know this site. And the food suggestions on it ;)

LinkedIn.com
The most professional of networking sites, anyone in the PR/media realm should check this out! A great way to connect to old colleagues, classmates, friends, etc., you can also search for jobs, post industry-related questions and answers and more.

Etsy.com
All handmade goods for sale! Arranged in several different categories, this is the place to go to find one-of-a-kind stuff.

HelpaReporterOut.com
Don't know how long Peter's been at it, but one Mr. Peter Shankman is giving ProfNet a run for its money...literally, with a free listing of queries from media for PR/publicity professionals to answer. Two points to note: Subscribers will eventually get hooked on Peter's daily musings about his adventures (I did). Also, pitchers must be on-point, or else you get booted from the list. (Rightfully so...as a former editor, it is annoying to get misdirected pitches.)

TheseBootsAreMadeforStalking.com
A friend-of-a-friend began this blog a year or two ago. Unabashed Hollywood gossip with a Windy City angle! Who had the exclusive on the Jessica Simpson/Tony Romo spat? This site. No Hollywood source would be able to comment on Romo's whereabouts in Chicago...we may be the Second City, but we get the celebs too!