Complete Traveler 3-Piece Weekend Bag *GIVEAWAY*
After our review “Organize You Jewelry with Style” on the MAH-VA-LOUS Lori Greiner jewelry cabinet that I am still totally loving, the company has offered a wonderful giveaway!
The Lori Greiner Complete Traveler 3-piece Weekend Bag can be found on Lori’s site or on QVC where so many of her cool organizing products can be bought at amazing prices. With the new year beginning, now is the best time to invest in some organization and Lori has figured out what women need! The Travel Bag is currently selling for $55 on QVC, with a retail value of $103.
The description reads:
Now you’re going places. Show up in style with this convenient, three-piece weekend bag. Great for short trips and overnight stays, it’s spacious enough for a weekend’s worth of outfits and offers plenty of room for those little extras you can’t do without. From Lori Greiner.
- Includes weekend bag, detachable toiletry roll, and removable cosmetic case
- Bag exterior: jacquard logo weave shell; PVC trim; rigid bottom frame; corner-mounted wheels; button-lock, telescoping handle; three zip pockets with dividers; U-shaped opening
- Bag interior: vinyl front half-wall with zippered and slide pockets, zip pocket
- Toiletry roll: three clear pouches, metal hook-and-strap/snap closure
- Cosmetic case: vinyl zip pouch, 10 elastic loops, strap/snap closure
- Approximate bag measurements: Closed 15″H x 19″W x 12″D; Main compartment 12″H x 16-1/2″W x 11″D; Extended telescoping handle 37-12″H
- Toiletry case: measures approximately 16″H x 12″W x 1-1/2″D
- Cosmetic case: measures approximately 12″L x 10″W x 1-1/2″D
- Lining 100% nylon; trim 100% PVC Tan/Pink/Light Blue shell: 99% polyester/1% other fibers
- Black shell: 50% cotton/50% polyester
- Made in China
NOW, for the rules:
1) Visit the Lori Greiner website and comment back here on your favorite item sold by Lori.
2) You must have a mailing address within the continental U. S. or Canada.
3) OPTIONAL: You can get a second entry for twittering the contest. Just be sure to leave a second comment so you get your second entry.
4) OPTIONAL: If you aren’t yet subscribed, you can get a 3rd entry by subscribing to Reviewsings. Again, just leave a separate comment telling us you did so. We have several fab giveaways every week, and you KNOW you don’t want to miss one!
That’s it folks. The contest will end on January 16th.
More giveaways are in the works so keep checking back!
Enjoy the fun!
Flip Ultra
A while back when I was covering the Huggies event in Philadelphia, I discovered the glory that is the Flip Video Ultra. Emily had one, and I used it to interview some of the moms who were making their videos for the Generation Huggies ad campaign. It was love at first sight with this little gadget. Unlike the bulky video camera we have at home, there was no battery to charge (it runs on AA) and no cords to connect or CDs to fool with (it has a little USB that flips out of the side of the camcorder and plugs right into your computer) and no bulky camera to carry around (it’s as small as most compact cameras).
And if that’s not enough, it comes in cute colors like orange and pink and lime! Need I say more?
Well, of course I do. First, here is what they say about it:
Simple to Use
The Flip Video Ultra Series’ simple, one-touch recording and compact size make it the ideal choice for shooting video on the go. Capture memories as they happen - no fiddling around with memory cards, chargers or tapes, With four buttons, it’s incredibly simple to record, zoom, playback instantly or delete your videos. Flip Video’s internal flash memory holds up to 60 minutes of high-quality video.
Quality
The new Flip Video Ultra Series line produces video that rivals that of more expensive camcorders. With 2GB of memory, a high-quality microphone and no-glare display, now anyone can make impressive videos.
Built-in FlipShare Software
Flip Ultra comes equipped with FlipShare–Flip Video’s new video-sharing solution.
Technical Details
- Simple to use, pocket-sized camcorder with one-touch recording and digital zoom
- Holds 60 minutes of full VGA-quality video on 2GB of built-in memory; no tapes or additional memory cards required
- Convenient USB arm plugs directly into your computer for easy viewing and sharing
- Built-in software lets you easily e-mail videos, upload to YouTube and AOL, and capture still photos from video
- Watch videos instantly on TV with included cable
Here is what I say about it:
I love my Flip Camera for convenience and ease of use. I mean, seriously, it couldn’t be any simpler to operate. And I’m pleased with the quality. You may have seen some of the videos I’ve done on it. Like this one of me making my famous and delicious Peanut Butter Balls and this one where I demonstrated Blush Application for Chic Critique. It doesn’t record in high definition (you need the Flip Mino HD for that) but for the price point ($129 at Amazon.com) it’s well worth the investment.
We had all but stopped taking videos of the kids because it was such an ordeal to haul out our dinosaur of a video camera (it wasn’t even digital - I KNOW!) but now I am capturing my kids on film regularly and I’m so pleased to have this record of their lives. Plus it’s a great tool for vlogging.
In the interest of full disclosure, the record button has been a bit finicky for me. Sometimes I have to depress it several times before it turns on, although that problem seems to have resolved. But the other night when I was recording, it froze up on me, and I was scared it was gone for good. We took the batteries out and reinserted them and held our breath, and it started up again. This wouldn’t stop me from buying another. I’ve got a feeling these problems are unusual as I can’t find any mention of similar problems on the ‘net.
The bottom line is if you are looking for an affordable, easy-to-use camcorder, try the Flip Ultra (or the Mino if you want HD quality). It doesn’t get any easier, and it’s cute besides!
Fast Track by John DeDakisD
Untitled from sarah peppel on Vimeo.
Fast Track is available on Amazon for $27.99 in hardback.
My Amazon book review reads:
When I met John DeDakis in a Barnes & Noble bookstore, I bought the book expecting a story about a hardcore, investigative MALE journalist with years of experience. Instead we get the refreshingly young and troubled Lark Chadwick, new to the journalist scene with personal tragedy to overcome as she investigates the secrets behind her mother and father’s death in a train accident which she was fortunate to survive in her infancy. The tension and engaging content kept me reading quickly to the end. Lark’s mentorship with the older journalist gave such practical tips, I would recommend it to all journalism students and investigative writers alike. I look forward to more work by John DeDakis.
I have more books to review so keep checking in! There are tons of giveaways (not just books) coming too so stay tuned!
Learn to Read with WordWorld™
If you’re a PBS fan, you may have seen the WordWorld™ TV show. But did you know that WordWorld™ is actually a multimedia platform comprised of an Emmy-winning PBS television series, award-winning toys, and an interactive website??
We received for review a 3-letter WordWorld Word-Friend™ Magnetic Plush toy ($9.99) and two DVDs.
Here is what they say about it:
WordWorld™ has been carefully crafted in response to the National Reading Panel report, which set the standards for early literacy instruction. The WordWorld platform has been developed in collaboration with top literacy experts from around the United States. The curriculum specifically targets areas identified as most critical for supporting reading success.
And not only that, but this information is just in from a U.S. Department of Education funded study:
WordWorld™, an Emmy® winning PBS KIDS series, significantly strengthens early literacy skills in preschoolers, providing the building blocks essential for learning how to read. The study is part of the Ready To Learn Initiative that examines the effectiveness of various technologies being used to enhance the literacy skills of young children. The initial findings conclude that regular exposure to WordWorld™ resulted in children experiencing significant increases in oral vocabulary, reading and recognition of words featured in the show. WordWorld™ brings words to life through a patent-pending methodology that embeds words into the objects they represent, crystallizing the connection between letters, sounds and words.
Pretty cool, huh?
Here is what I say about it:
My kids are having so much fun with this toy. It is appropriate for both my 3-year-old and my 6-year-old. My 6-year-old is just on the brink of learning to read. She is trying so hard. She’s always sounding out words and trying to write them down, but it hasn’t quite clicked yet. She knows how spell BUG, though! My 3-year-old just thinks it’s a fun toy to take apart and put back together, but my guess is she’ll be sounding out letters in no time.
We were already a fan of the show. As my almost-6-year-old daughter said to me the other day, “Mom, it teaches you how to spell words!” So there you have it.
Stay tuned for a WordWorld™ giveaway on Musings in a few weeks!
Organize Your Jewelry With Style
Until this week, I had jewelry in boxes, bags and drawers. I always wanted a jewelry chest but knew my woodworking husband would swear he could make it himself. Then, I would NEVER see the one I really wanted with fancy little hooks and cloth lined drawers and pockets.
So, I, of course, jumped up and down screaming when Samantha Bryant of Margie Korshak, Inc. said she would send a Gold & Silver Dressing Mirror Jewelry Cabinet by Lori Greiner! The cabinet is one of many organizing items Lori sells on QVC and one of her higher priced pieces, retailing currently at $145. This one was a floor model but wall mounted ones are available too. I would have picked the cherry wood version since it matched my bedroom furniture but I’m not complaining since I am excited to be organized FINALLY (at least in the jewelry department).
Easy to assemble, the black painted wood cabinet seemed too large to ever fill with my humble jewelry collection. As you can see, I was surprised with just how much came out of my various hiding places. I think I need more rings though. I’ll have to talk my husband about that! Or, then again . . . . anyone want rings reviewed? diamonds? emeralds? — just kidding, kinda.
Features include the following:
- 24 necklace hooks, 12 bracelet hooks, one bracelet rod, seven lined shelves
- Holds at least 90 pairs of earrings and 91 rings
- Silver Safekeeper(R) anti-tarnish lining; helps keep jewelry tarnish-free for 25 to 40 years
- Mirror front
- Tilting/adjusting design
- Locks with a key
- Solid wood and veneers construction
- Some assembly required
- Measures 56-1/2″H x 16″W x 3-1/2″D
- Made in China
It’s time to get decluttered and organized for the new year. If you get some extra Christmas money and want to check out all the cool stuff Lori sells, see her website HERE!
CellKeeper™ *GIVEAWAY*
This giveaway is closed. The winning number is 17 — Congratulations Susan!!!
When I was in the diaper stages of motherhood (I still can’t believe I am no longer in the diaper stages! WOOT!) I traded in my cute handbags for a generic black diaper bag. I couldn’t see carrying two bags, so I’d just throw my wallet and keys and cell phone in a pocket of the diaper bag, and I was good to go. If I’d had an inkling about the CellKeeper™ back then, I’d have been in heaven.
The CellKeeper™ is the answer to today’s fashionistas wanting more accessory options for their technology devices and everyday essentials, while keeping their cell phones close and protected. It measures 2-5/8″W x 3-7/8″H x 7/8″D and will accommodate a Razor phone, a Blackberry®, Palm® or Treo™ device, an iPod® or any thin digital camera. In addition to your electronic device of choice, it also has space for your I.D., a few credit cards, and some cash, as well as a clip for your keys. Take a look.
Open:
Closed:
As you can see, it also comes with a removable strap in case you want to carry it alone.
There are several collections. These photos and the one I was sent are from the Professional collection. It’s an attractive faux alligator — this one, to be exact — that would appeal to men and women alike, and it retails for $29.95.
The newest collection, the Sara Simmons collection, is gorgeous — all leather and so stylish. There is a red alligator, a cheetah print, a zebra print, and many more. These retail for $69.95. I’m told they can hardly keep them stocked at the moment, that’s how popular they are.
I opened my review sample to look it over, but as much as I like it, I don’t see myself using it very often. So I am offering it to one lucky winner! I’ll select a random winner on Monday. I can ship anywhere in the continental U.S. Sorry, Canadians, you know I love you! Leave a single comment to enter, anything except “great giveaway” or “pick me”. *GRIN*
Crocs — More than just a plastic clog.
Until very recently, I was unaware that Crocs made anything besides their trademark plastic garden clog. (And if you are over the age of 10, I do hope that you refrain from wearing your plastic Crocs anywhere but in the garden. Ahem.)
But then I was perusing Blissful Style and I came across these boots by You By Crocs. I did a double take. Crocs makes boots? Boots that don’t consist of the same material that comprises the tires on my car? So of course I started perusing the website. And as it turns out, Crocs not only makes boots, they make a whole line of shoes and boots for women that don’t remotely resemble a garden clog. Hunh. Who knew?
Fast forward a couple of weeks, and LOOK what arrived on my doorstep!
Are you drooling yet? Well let me whet your appetite. I opened the box to find each shoe encased in its very own cloth shoe bag. When I took the first shoe out of its bag, they were everything I was hoping for. I still had my doubts before I laid eyes on them. Can Crocs really make a luxury shoe? Well, I’m here to tell you, yes ma’am they can. And they do.
I was immediately impressed by the quality of the leather — soft and supple and the perfect shade of red aptly named Chili. The details of the seaming and the comfortable padding on the heel make them extra special. I could see the padding in the sole, and I couldn’t wait to try them on so I immediately kicked off my boots and socks and tried them on. My feet SUNK into the padding in the soles. I’m serious, I have never felt such a luxurious shoe. And I have a pair of Stuart Weitzman pumps. Not even Stuart makes a pump as comfortable as Crocs. And the Crocs retail for half what the Stuart Weitzman pumps retailed for.
My fairy tale was short-lived, however, as I took my first step and walked right out of the shoe. I took a peek at my heel, and the shoes are clearly a half size too large. I was bummed. I just knew they were too good to be true!
But I wasted no time getting online to find out how I could exchange them, and I have been thoroughly impressed with the customer service at Crocs. I have the name and phone number of the customer service rep I am dealing with sitting on my desk, and she has been extremely accessible as we’ve worked out the details. I am anxiously awaiting my size 7.5 pumps to arrive. I hope and pray they fit!
I think it’s safe to say that I’m a huge fan of the new You By Crocs line of shoes. In fact, I daresay I am a customer for life! These are clearly not Payless prices, but for their comfort and quality, they are a STEAL. Check them out because right now their fall and winter shoes and boots are marked 25%-75% off. In fact, spring and summer shoes are marked 50%. You’ll be glad you did!
Flora2000.com
I’m sure you’ve heard of FTD and ProFlowers.com. Well, now there’s a new online floral service in town called Flora2000.com. I have placed two orders with them, and I was pleased with both. The first order was a live wreath for my front door. I just adore live greenery. It’s fresh and lovely and came all decorated for the holidays.
I also ordered a floral arrangement for a friend, and when I visited her, I saw that it was not exactly like the one pictured online, but it was very nice. The website is very up-front with the fact that the arrangements may differ slightly from those pictured, based on what local florists have in stock.
The florist who delivered my wreath was wonderful to work with. They actually called me several times on the day of delivery to confirm a time and to let me know when they were running late, which really humored me. I certainly didn’t have a timeline I had to meet, but it was nice to know that customer service that goes above and beyond the call of duty still exists somewhere.
Flora2000 is the only same-day flower delivery service to 150 countries (including domestic shipment within the U.S.) and they promise to refund and replace an order if the customer is dissatisfied. If you aren’t sure what you want, they also offer expert floral advice. I was quite impressed.
Children’s Place *GIVEAWAY*
This giveaway is closed. The winning numbers are numbers 81 and 15! So that’s Carolyn and Jean@workingmomma247. Congrats, ladies! And mega thanks to The Children’s Place for sponsoring this giveaway!
With three kids, I’m always looking for affordable, well-made, not to mention cute children’s clothing. The Children’s Place fulfills all three of those criterion. I’ve been shopping there for nine years.
Last week, thanks to Mom Select, I received in the mail a box from The Children’s Place with their Guitar Rock PJ Set for my 9-year-old son to try out. Even though I often bought pajamas at The Children’s Place for my babies, I never tried any in their toddler and children’s sizes. These Guitar Rock pajamas are cute without being babyish. I appreciate that there are no skulls and crossbones or any of that gruesome nonsense. I expect my son will love them. Well, as much as any boy likes clothes. (I set them aside for Christmas after I took them out of the packaging and looked them over.)
And that’s not all that was in the box! They also sent two $30 gift cards — one for me and one for one of my lucky readers to enjoy The Children’s Place shopping experience. And it gets better, my new Reviewsings partner, Sarah, also got a box from The Children’s Place with pajamas for one of her little girls and two $30 gift cards. You can read her review here. So this week we are giving away TWO $30 gift cards to The Children’s Place.
WIN IT! To be eligible to win $30 to spend at The Children’s Place, just leave a comment on this post and tell us what you’ll buy with your $30. That’s it. We will select two winners at random on Saturday, December 20. Good luck!
PhotoHand.com
Have you ever worked for hours to capture the PERFECT Christmas card picture, only to look through your pictures and discover that there is something wrong with every single one? Either it’s an ugly shadow or bad lighting or a nasty blemish or whatever. The list goes on. Have you ever wished you knew how to use Photoshop in such a way that you can make an okay picture look gorgeous, but you just don’t have the time or patience to learn?
Well what if you could find someone to do it FOR you? Someone who would take your mediocre picture and turn it into something of studio quality for a nominal fee? Wouldn’t you do it?
I so would. And I did. Take a look at this.
We took about 50 shots, but they all had those hideous shadows. So I sent this one to Photohand.com and look at us now!
The shadows are gone, and the color and contrast is much improved. They even put a smile on my daughter’s face. I was TOTALLY kidding when I asked if they could get her to smile. Now, this kind of retouching was considered Complex because of the shadow removal and it cost $11.95. But Simple level retouching covers all general cosmetic touch-ups as blemishes, double chins, color/lighting correction, etc. for only $3.50. THREE-STINKING-FIFTY for studio quality retouching. You just can’t beat that.
They take orders online and deliver them through their site where you can review the results and request changes if needed. It’s totally fast and easy. See for yourself at PhotoHand.com!
And right now PhotoHand is running a 20% off holiday special. So if you, like me, have been procrastinating about getting those Christmas cards out, get thee on over to PhotoHand and turn your mediocre photo into a work of art. And get those Christmas cards out the door before they are New Years cards, m’kay?
