can't believe it's august? let this month's picks help you cope:


one with nature.
lavender candle, number pillow, you're whole entire living room? you name it, the folks at homenature probably sell it or do it. furnishings for every corner of your abode. that's where you're spending most of your time anyway. 6 main street. southampton. 631.287.6277. www.homenature.com


go-go gadget.
you haven't bought a gadget since memorial day. and the latest to have is the new t-mobile sidekick 3. just you, mischa barton, and eva longoria, listening to your mp3s, checking your texts, and this time 'round, taking pictures. stop by their vip tent at the polo matches to see for yourself.
www.sidekick.com


boxed in.
the theory-barefoot syndrome: you still expect blueberry muffins and walk out with a button down. snap out of it with new barefoot baking mixes. duncan hines has got nothing on ina's coconut cupcakes and outrageous brownies. www.barefootcontessa.com


pop to it.
snap and crackle never had it so good. especially now that the latest pop-up designer to hit the beach is alvin valley. may we suggest a pair of signature slacks or a ruffle blouse before it's too late (two weeks after labor day). 81 jobs lane. southampton. 631.283. 9383. www.alvinvalley.com

spinster.
yet to do your once-a-summer charity? you can sweat it out at an outside garden party. or sweat it out at zonehampton for their 4th annual spin for charity. (and we're talking biking not old records.) all proceeds benefit project A.L.S, and sweating will actually be considered a good thing. and for a good cause. saturday, august 5th. 11:30 to 1:30. 65 montauk highway. east hampton. 631.329.8622. www.projectals.org

corn again.
the corn season is upon us, and on every menu this side of 27. hit up turtle crossing for their char-grilled corn on the cob with cotija cheese and chili powder. just remember to bring floss. 221 pantigo road. east hampton. 631.324.7166. www.turtlecrossing.com

bug out.
you'd rather itch to high heaven then reek of off. try bug bam. it's a band, not a spray = no leaks, no mess, no crinkled magazines from dripping oils. and best of all it smells like the outdoors, so you'll blend, rather than offend. www.bugbam.com