Homes'Kit and Homes'Appliances

Great, very easy to install. Very Quiet!!! : InSinkErator Evolution Compact 3/4 HP Household Food Waste Disposer

2011-09-22T23:43:00.000+07:00

InSinkErator Evolution Compact 3/4 HP Household Food Waste Disposer

"Evolution Compact®

Perfect for households with restricted cabinet space, the Evolution Compact® delivers the new standard in sound and grind performance in a compact size."

Product Description

InSinkErator Evolution Series Disposers
Evolution Series Disposers feature patented MultiGrind and SoundSeal technologies, which means they grind more with less noise. The Evolution Compact Food Waste Disposer is the ideal choice for small households or restricted cabinet space. With its compact design features, Evolution Compact features MultiGrind technology, to grind everything from artichokes to rib bones, and SoundSeal technology, to cut noise levels by at least 30% over standard disposers.

Evolution Technology: Grind More, Hear Less
For the past eight decades, InSinkErator has built more than 100 million food waste disposers. Now the company has put everything it has learned into a line of disposers that sets dramatic new standards for performance. Evolution Series& disposers feature innovative technologies--MultiGrind and SoundSeal--that address users' two most common requests: improved grinding ability and reduced noise.

Liquify Waste with MultiGrind Technology
With the Compact's MultiGrind feature, you can efficiently grind difficult food items, such as bones. This two-stage technology uses a GrindShear Ring that enables you to grind food waste significantly better than you could in any previous disposer.

With the Evolution Compact, celery, potato peels, artichokes, rib bones, and more are virtually liquefied to safely flow into your sewage system. You'll enjoy a cleaner food preparation area and less bagged garbage cluttering your home.

30% Less Noise with SoundSeal Technology
SoundSeal Technology utilizes an Anti-Vibration Mount, an Anti-Vibration Tailpipe Mount, and Quiet Collar Sink Baffle, so you can hold a conversation with elevated voices while the disposer is running. This technology also includes SoundLimiter insulation to reduce noise levels by at least 30% compared to standard disposers.

'Evolutionary' Disposer is Easy to Install
Designed with a 3/4-horsepower Dura-Drive Induction Motor, the EvolutionCompact is truly 'evolutionary'--giving you the horsepower you need to grindmore types of food waste than standard disposers.

The Evolution Compact food waste disposer is constructed with a stainless steelQuick Lock sink mount for easy installation. All InSinkErator food waste disposers are built with this feature, making replacement of older units a breeze--simply disconnect and replace your old disposer using the same sink mount.

Environmentally Friendly, Wallet-Friendly Choice
The Evolution Compact food waste disposer is a practical and environmentally responsible way to help reduce the 31 million tons of solid waste generated from food scraps in the U.S. each year.

Instead of throwing this food waste away, grinding it with the Evolution Compact sends it to your local municipal wastewater treatment plant, where it can be recycled to produce methane, a renewable source of power for the plant. Additionally, wastewater treatment plants can process food waste into biosolids to be used as fertilizer (check the plant in your area).

Food waste disposers average less than 50 cents a year in electricity to operate and account for less than one percent of a household's total water consumption. In fact, the Evolution Compact features an average water usage of one gallon per person per day and an average electrical usage of three to four kilowatt hours per year, making it among the least expensive installed kitchen appliances.

We Come To You Parts and Labor Warranty
The Evolution Compact is backed by an exclusive four-year We Come to You In-Home Service Warranty.This warranty from InSinkErator includes free house calls (including parts and labor) for the entire warranty period.

Which Evolution Series Food Waste Disposer is Right for You?
You can choose between five Evolution Series models, all featuring the patented MultiGrind and SoundSeal technologies. Each disposer is specifically made with a particular consumer in mind.

EvolutionEssential
The ideal choicefor a wide rangeof kitchens.

EvolutionCover Control
The extraassuranceof coveredoperation.

Evolution Excel
The ultimate inperformance.Nothing grindsmore with lessnoise.

EvolutionSeptic Assist
Created specifi callyfor homes withseptic systems.

EvolutionCompact
Perfect for smallhouseholds orrestricted cabinetspace.

Features

MultiGrind™Two grind stages let you quickly grind difficult food waste you wouldn't put in a standard disposer, like celery and potato peels.
SoundSeal® makes the Evolution Compact® at least 30% quieter than standard disposers.
34.6-Ounce Grind Chamber and Stainless Steel Grind Components handles more volume than standard disposers.
3/4 Horsepower Dura-Drive® Induction Motor gives you more horsepower than standard disposers.
Quiet Collar® Sink Baffle ensures quiet operation.

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Customer Reviews

Seems to be of good quality and works just fine. Install was easy; included directions are easy to follow. No complaints. - Timothy Acker

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Go to InSinkErator Evolution Compact Household Food Waste Disposer Store

Best Sippy cup EVER!!! : Thermos Funtainer Bottle, Minnie Mouse, 12 Ounce

2011-09-06T14:23:00.000+07:00

Thermos Funtainer Bottle, Minnie Mouse, 12 Ounce

"Since inventing the vacuum bottle more than 100 years ago, we have pioneered innovations that make it an essential part of American life. Whether you're at work, on a family outing or just relaxing, today's Thermos bottle is the most dependable way to keep your beverages hotter, colder and fresher for longer. BPA free and easy to clean, it's a great way to make sure lunches are as healthy and fresh as possible."

Product Description

Thermos® double-wall vacuum insulation for maximum cold temperature retention
Hygienic pushbutton lid with pop-up silicone straw is easy to open
Kid-proof design – unbreakable stainless-steel interior and exterior withstands daily wear and tearDishwasher safe
Exterior stays condensation free
Non-slip, scratch-resistant base

Specifications

Capacity: 12 oz.
Dimensions: 2.62" diameter x 7.38" H

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Customer Reviews

I am more than happy with it. Its not a big deal to reassemble it clean it out and than place all parts together. Are 2 and half year old daughter learned immediately how it works. No leaks anywhere anymore...except when she forget to close it. Very good product. - Rene

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Go to Thermos Funtainer Bottle, Minnie Mouse Store

Great picnic bento box : Lock & Lock Square Lunch Box 3-Piece Set with Insulated Purple Stripe Bag

2011-09-02T13:20:00.000+07:00

Lock & Lock Square Lunch Box 3-Piece Set with Insulated Purple Stripe Bag

"Feel Fresh and Happy
Brand new LOCK&LOCK Lunch Box series guarantee fresh and happy picnic.

New Color, New Function
Enjoy your lunch time with brand new LOCK&LOCK Lunch Box Series.

New Experience!
There is something special about LOCK&LOCK Lunch box series."

Most purified container we ever made. New color, new function. There is something special about Lock & Lock Lunch series. One of the world's leading food storage container manufactures. Supplying the highest quality products "Lock & Lock" airtight containers for food storage. The containers are scientifically designed for stacking both upward and sideways to save space on the shelf.

Carrying food on the go is ever easier with this lunch box! Attached a grip handle and featured a sturdy zip closure make transporting it easy and comfortable. Lock&Lock lunch box is offered in a variety of fun, colorful designs with eco-friendly food containers.

Features

1. Airtight Lockage
All passed the leakage tests by authoritative local and international institutes.4-side of locking system of lock and lock makes it possible to be airtight due to equal pressure to all 4 sides.Locks tightly with hollow-center silicone.Strong airtight lock with hollow-center silicone.Airtight seal with great elasticity power locks tightly with hollow-center silicon.
2. Durability
It has passed the KEMTI‘s bending test. The container and the wing were fixed to the bending test machine and bent.3,000,000 times 80 degrees left to right. If the container were to be used 10 times a day, it could be used for 821 years(semi-permanently).Durability of Lock and Lock is safe for change of temperature from -4°F to 210°F. It makes Lock and Lock available for use in the microwave, freezer and dishwasher.
3. Healthful living
Used superior raw material with durability and heat-resistant ability which is friendly to the human body.Passed the strict hygiene and safety tests of U.S. FDA and German SGS.
4. Space Saving Design
Stacking system aims to help space saving.The design of the containers enables excellent space saving in the refrigerator, freezer, cupboard and drawers.
Use & Care
* Wash before use.
* Top rack dishwasher safe.
* Do not use abrasive cleaners and scrubbers.
* Silicone seal can be removed for cleaning if necessary.
* Do not use a sharp object to remove.
Microwave Use & Care
* Unlock all four latches and loosen lid before use in microwave.
* The container base and lid are microwave safe for reheating purposes only.
* Do not use lid or base in oven, under browning elements or on stove top.
* Avoid overheating food high in oil, fat, sugar, or Tomato content to prevent permanent stains, pitting or other dangers associated with high temperature

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Customer Reviews

I bought two of these. I am vegan so I take food with me when we go places and this kit is great. It fits everything I need, doesn't leak and it's small enough that it doesn't take up a crazy amount of space. If my husband takes a lunch to work I can do a salad in one, a sandwich in another and sides of fruit or other snacks in the third. The price seems a little high on this but overall I'm satisfied. - BPAL Girl

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Go to Lock & Lock Square Lunch Box 3-Piece Set Store

Best Knives that Can Cut with Easy Effort : Zwilling J.A. Henckels Twin Signature 19-Piece Knife Set with Block

2011-08-24T13:41:00.002+07:00

Zwilling J.A. Henckels Twin Signature 19-Piece Knife Set with Block

"TWIN® Signature The perfect balance of style and technology can be found in the TWIN® Signtature series. The ergonomic handle, stamped one piece construction, and sharp blade make this series a true value."

The handles on Twin Signature cutlery feature the traditional three rivets and visible full tang, and are stylishly curved not only to feel good but look more contemporary. And, for a spot of color, the red Zwilling logo is permanently embedded in one side. Like all premium knives from Zwillings J.A. Henckels, the upscale partner of Henckels International, the Twin Signature blades are Friodur ice-hardened, made from high-carbon, no-stain steel, and are laser-sharpened for a durable edge. Stamped rather than forged, the knives do not feature bolsters, which makes them lighter than most.

This 19-piece set includes just about every knife a home chef could want, as well as a set of eight steak knives (non-serrated), a pair of kitchen shears, a nine-inch sharpening steel, and a solid hardwood block with a slot for every item. The knives consist of a 4-inch parer, 5-inch serrated utility, 5-1/2-inch boning, 6-inch utility, 7-inch hollow-edge santoku, 8-inch chef's, 8-inch serrated bread, and 8-inch carver. Made in Germany, the knives are covered by a lifetime warranty, and, while dishwasher-safe, Henckels recommends all fine knives should be washed and dried by hand immediately after use. --Ann Bieri

Features

Friodur Ice-hardened blade for maximum blade strength and long lasting sharpness
Hand-honed, high carbon stainless steel blade
Ergonomic handle design with a traditional 3 rivet handle.
Made in Germany
Dishwasher safe but handwashing always recommended for all fine cutlery.

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Customer Reviews

We love these knives so far, we researched for awhile. The only complaint, there are 2 empty slots in the block. One for a meat clever, and the other? Guess we will be buying more knives to fill it :) - Liz Braman

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Go to Zwilling J.A. Henckels Twin Signature 19-Piece Knife Set with Block Store

Home and Health Care: Make Your Home Friendly During a Migraine

2011-08-03T15:04:00.000+07:00

Make Your Home Friendly During a Migraine

by Teri Robert
It's bad enough that we have to deal with unfriendly environments when we're away from home. Our homes should be our refuge, the place that's safest and most comfortable for us. Let's take a look at ways to make our homes more friendly toward us when we have a Migraine or headache:
1) Reduce or eliminated perfumed and fragranced items in your home, especially if they're a trigger for you. If fragrance seems not to be a problem for you, or if it's a minor problem, limit yourself to a single fragrance rather than mixing fragrances. Consider candles, room fresheners, potpourri, etc.
Remember, fragrances can quickly gang up on us when we have a headache or Migraine. They can very quickly add to our nausea, making our home an unpleasant place for us. So, plan ahead, and reduce fragrances now.
2) Following the fragrance thought: If you're sensitive to fragrances, keep that in mind when you shop for cleaning products. Even if they don't contain fragrance, the smell of the chemicals in them can linger and either be a trigger or make you feel worse if you have a headache or Migraine. Even some of the products that make the bathroom bowl "sparkling blue" have fragrance, so read the labels.
3) Make a room your "comfort room" where you can retreat.

Choose a room that's in as quiet an area of your house as possible.
Install darkening shades on the windows so you can make it as dark as possible.
If you're more comfortable lying down when you have a headache or Migraine, be sure there's a comfortable place to lie down. If you need to sit or recline, try a nice recliner or comfortable chair.
Put a small lamp with a low wattage bulb in your room.
Be sure to have a box of tissues and a trash can.
Some people find that the fragrance of peppermint or peppermint candy can help with nausea. If you're one of those people, keep a peppermint candle or some peppermint candy in your room.
If you can tolerate soft sound, you may want to have a CD player with soft music CD's or a relaxation CD.
Check to see that other items of necessity and comfort are close.
This can also be a good place for your meds, as mentioned below.

4) Simplify household chores by making lists of tasks that need to be done on a daily basis and tasks that need to be done on particular days. Do this on the computer so you can change them easily and print copies as needed. If they're delegated to family members, make note of who is to do what. Keep copies of them in a place where everyone knows to look for them. Then, if you're unable to do or oversee chores, your home can still run smoothly and remain friendly to you instead of becoming a stressor.
5) Find a safe, special place in your home for your medications that's easy for you to access but where nobody else will find them, especially children. The bathroom is not a good place for medications because of the temperature changes from hot baths and showers. If available, a locking night stand drawer is an excellent location.
6) Make your kitchen more friendly by being ready for meals, snacks, and drinks.

If you can't eat when you have a headache or Migraine, it's still important to keep yourself hydrated. Be sure to talk to your doctor about antinausea meds.
Then be sure to keep your pantry stocked with what you like to drink. If you can't eat, think about nutrition when selecting drinks and consider juices and broths.
If you can eat, try to keep foods you'll eat at these times stocked. You can cook ahead and freeze to make things easier. "Comfort foods" tend to be good at these times, but don't compound things by forgetting and eating trigger foods.

7) Don't forget to prepare the bathroom!

Install a darkening window shade so you can make the bathroom dark.
Put a good nightlight in the bathroom. That's probably all the light you'll need, and possibly all you'll be able to tolerate at times.
Keep a roll of paper towels and some small trash bags in the cabinet. That way, if you have to clean up after yourself, it's all disposable.
If there's room, stash a small pillow in the bathroom. If you're sick, you may need to sit on it or even lie down for a few minutes.

The tiniest things can add to our discomfort and pain when we have a Migraine. By preparing in advance, we can be sure we have the quiet and comfort we need.

From: Healthcentral.com

Super cute, sturdy, and easy to assemble : Graco Pack 'N Play Playard with Bassinet

2011-08-01T22:24:00.000+07:00

Graco Pack 'N Play Playard with Bassinet

"The Pack 'n Play playard is a convenient, comfortable place for your baby to nap and play, at home and away. It's a snap to set up: just unfold, pull up the sides, and lock them into place. And with its easy, push-button fold, anyone can quickly close it. Wheels let you roll it from room to room, or even bring baby out on the porch with you for a fresh air nap. Store it in the handy carry bag, and there's nowhere you and your baby can't go. "

When your little one needs a place to nap or play right away, there’s no more convenient solution than our Pack n’ Play® Playard. Its durable frame makes it perfectly suited for travel. The signature Graco® push-button fold allows you to break it down in seconds, and the automatically folding feet and wheels make it amazingly compact when folded. At home or away, your young one will have sweet dreams and comfy surroundings.

Perfect for traveling, this mesh-sided Pack 'n Play playard sets up in less than a minute. We're sure that the Pack 'n Play playard will quickly become one of you and your baby's favorite Graco products. This Pack 'n Play playard comes with a full-size bassinet , a great place for infants up to 15 pounds to nap peacefully and toy bar to amuse them. The folding feet and wheels make this Pack 'n Play easy to carry as well as give it a more compact fold. A convenient travel bag is also included - just fold the Pack 'n Play playard, stow it in the bag, and you and your little one are off to see the world.

Features

Durable frame makes this playard ideal for travel
Automatically folding feet and wheels allow for a more compact fold
Signature Graco® push-button fold makes closing your playard quick and hassle-free
Handy wheels for added convenience
Airy mesh on all sides for maximum ventilation
Convenient carrying bag for no-fuss travel and storage

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Review

This crib is easy to put up and take down. It is solidly made. I use it for my grand baby and she is here frequently, so it gets lots of use. Can move it room to room pretty easily, too.

Reviewed by: shari16

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Go to Graco Pack 'N Play Playard with Bassinet Store

Entertaining, comfy for baby and fun baby item : Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo

2011-08-01T13:35:00.000+07:00

Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo

"Enhances Learning Through Discovery

Introduce baby to a place full of exciting sights and sounds and lots of safe jumping fun with the Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo. Designed for use by a child who is able to hold his or her head up unassisted, and who is not yet able to climb out or walk, this baby jumper delights baby with interactive play options and stimulating movement to help encourage healthy development."

A place full of wonderful sights and sounds…the Rainforest Jumperoo brings it all down to size for little explorers! Still tons of safe jumping fun (which will activate rainforest music and lights!), but now there are toys all around the rainforest—and overhead—with a spinning seat that helps baby explore them all. This baby jumper features a bobbing elephant, swinging monkey, spinning lizard and more that baby will just “go wild” for! Baby spins drum to activate lights and music (Mom can activate for four minutes of continuous play). The baby jumper's soft spring covers keep little fingers safe and three-position height adjustment ensures a custom fit for your child. Requires 3 "AA" batteries for toy tray (not included).

Promotes Comfort and Security
The Rainforest Jumperoo is a safe and comfortable place for baby to sit and play, whether he stays for just a moment or for several minutes. Two soft leaves extend from the frame to create an overhead canopy with soft toys that dangle down for fun bat-at play. It also features a rotating seat with soft spring covers that keep little fingers safe from pinching, and three-position height adjustment for a custom fit.

Stimulating Interactive Play
Everything your baby needs at play-time can be found in this Rainforest Jumperoo. Its newly designed frame both allows you to open it up from the top, and lets the seat rotate 360 degrees so baby can play and interact from any side. A fun seat and toys at five locations on the platform engage baby all the way around, and an electronic toy at the front has motion, music and lights that can be activated by baby spinning a drum. (Mom or Dad can also activate an option for four minutes of continuous play.)

The Jumperoo is a safe and comfortable place for children to sit and play.

Little explorers will also enjoy playing with the Jumperoo's many animals and toys, including a bobbling elephant, a monkey swinging from a vine, a parrot hanging from a bead bar, a clear spinning bead ball, a tiger that plays hide and seek, a spinning lizard that makes rattling sounds, a tethered chew toy, and a stack of chips with eye-catching graphics for baby to explore.

Encourages Healthy Development
The Rainforest Jumperoo is designed to help encourage healthy development. Moving, spinning, and jumping in a baby jumper enhances large motor skills. Secondly, the variety of textures integrated into the rainforest toys provide tactile stimulation, while the bright colors and fun music engage your child's visual and auditory senses. This educational system also enhances learning through discovery; baby's actions make things happen, helping him to understand cause and effect. Finally, reaching and grasping onto the baby jumper's toys fosters eye-hand coordination.

Easy to Use, Move, and Store
Parents will appreciate the quick take-down and portability of the Rainforest Jumperoo--the frame pivots to a nested position so it can be tucked away when not in use, and it simply folds so you can carry it from room to room. And no doorway is required to use this toy, making it a breeze to set it up anywhere.

The Rainforest Jumperoo includes a motion sensor that encourages kids by rewarding them with lights and sounds when they jump, has a weight capacity of 25 pounds and maximum height 32 inches, and requires three "AA" batteries (not included). It also measures 32.0 x 43.125 x 37 inches (WxHxD).

Features

Jumperoo’s comfortable rotating seat provides a safe place for baby to play
Moving, spinning and jumping in a baby jumper enhances large motor skills
Baby jumper's Colorful rainforest toys and fun music stimulate your child's visual and auditory senses
No doorway required with this baby jumper
Peace of mind safe jumping fun for baby

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Review

I'm so glad I bought this for my twin sons! They have since outgrown it (lost interest once they started crawling), but they became SO elated every time they were in this jumper! They can jump like crazy when they are full of energy, or stand and "inspect" everything on it when their mood is a bit calmer. A great item for kids who are getting bored with just sitting, but aren't quite mobile yet. Highly recommend this!

Reviewed by: A. Rumohr

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Great for Walkers : Bags on Board Bone Dispenser with 30 Refill Bags

2011-07-25T16:06:00.000+07:00

Bags on Board Bone Dispenser with 30 Refill Bags

"Stop Over - Poopulation!

Dog's Poop is no funny business! Take it seriously or it can seriously harm and your community! We've got a lot of useful information and fun solutions for you right here!"

Before taking Fido on a walk in the neighborhood, attach the Bags on Board Bone Dispenser to his leash. The sturdy Bone Dispenser holds up to 15 large cleanup bags that conveniently dispense 1 at a time. Attaches to any standard or retractable leash. The bags are leakproof and double-sealed for extra security. The compact, refillable Bone Dispenser comes with 30 bags.

Features

Fight Over-Poop-Ulation®
Quick, Clean & Easy! Attaches to Any leash!
The Cleanest way to pick up after your pet!
Strong & Durable
Leak Proof
Double Seal Construction

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Review

Love this for when I talk my dog for a walk. I attach it to my retractable leash. Not the greatest for when I run, it swings and hits my hand, so I just hold it, only inconvenience.

Reviewed by: Smilinbogie (Minnesota)

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Excellent cold-process organic soap : Oatmeal Almond 100% Pure & Natural Aromatherapy Herbal Soap by Plantlife

2011-07-25T14:46:00.002+07:00

Oatmeal Almond 100% Pure & Natural Aromatherapy Herbal Soap- 4 oz (113g)

"O ur original hand-and-body scrub, this soap is made with oatmeal to soothe and ground almonds to gently exfoliate. A good facial soap as it calms oily, dry or flaky skin."

Our soaps are made the old-fashioned way. They are hand-crafted using natural ingredients and include pure essential oils and organic botanicals. Known as Castile soap, our base is one of the gentlest and moisturizing of all soaps. We employ the "cold processing" method and do not add heat or chemicals to the soap pots. This process produces a bar full of natural glycerin, which is a by-product of the soap making process. Unlike most soaps on the market today, we do not remove this glycerin from our soap because it is a humectant, which helps attract moisture to the skin and can be gentle enough for even the driest and most sensitive of skin. Additionally, we do not add preservatives, colorants or fragrance oils to our products. Our soap is made with your skins well-being in mind - no harmful synthetics, just pure ingredients from nature. From Ambrosia to Vanilla Orange, there is something for everyone. Try one of our wonderful 27 types today!

Ingredients

Agua (Water), Saponified Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Saponified Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Saponified Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil, Saponified Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Proprietary Blend of 100% Pure Essential Oils, Avena Sativa (Organic Oat) Kernel Flour & Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel.

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Review

Love this soap and it leaves my face feeling extra clean and somehow also leaves it feeling soft. This product is excellent and I highly recommend this. I would like to have a bit more of the almond fragrance but then again I think that you can never have too much almond.

Reviewed by: Brian Johnson

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New life to an old razor : Philips Norelco HQ6 Quadra Action Tripleheader Replacement Heads

2011-07-23T21:36:00.000+07:00

Philips Norelco HQ6 Quadra Action Tripleheader Replacement Heads

Every year your blades travel the height of Mt. Everest... 49 times! After such a workout, even the best materials can lose their edge. Retain your razor's peak performance - replace heads every 12 months.

These three stainless-steel heads fit Norelco Quadra Action razors only. Blades in the heads shave in two stages, with slots for long hairs and holes for short hairs. Installing them is simple, and the package provides illustrated instructions. They adjust to individual facial contours for a smooth, effortless shave.

Comfortably close

Super Lift & Cut shaving technology with dual blade system

Dual blade system: first blade lifts, second blade cuts for a comfortable close shave.

Shaves even the shortest stubble

Precision Cutting System
Ultra thin heads with slots to shave long hairs and holes to shave the shortest stubble.

Product Features

Heads fit Norelco Quadra Action Razors only
Three stainless-steel heads in package needed for each change on razor
Blades shave in two stages: slots for long hairs, holes for short hairs
Simple installation
Combined, heads designed to adjust to individual facial contours

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Reviews

I have a super thick beard with very coarse hair. These new heads revolutionized my shaving experience. Shaving went from painful and subsequent razor bumps on my neck to super close, painless shave, and no more razor bumps.

The heads were easy to replace. This choice is an environmentally and fiscally responsible choice vs buying a new shaver.. --masterkevin

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The great sno-cone machine : Paragon The Cooler SnoCone Machine

2011-07-23T20:33:00.000+07:00

Paragon The Cooler SnoCone Machine

The market wanted a unique, smaller, more portable sno-cone machine – and we made it!

The Cooler is a unique, smaller, more portable sno-cone machine. The Cooler has wheels and is made from rugged roto-cast polyethylene so it’s lightweight and less expensive. It has the same heavy-duty motor and hard-wearing components as our metal models using tinted high-impact polycarbonate side panels making it safe, easy to clean and tinted blue to shade the ice from quick melt down.

Product Features

All Paragon sno cone maker models come equipped with a tough 1/3 horsepower
Sturdy stainless steel and aluminum construction
Slanted drain deck
Impact resistant polycarbonate panels
3-year manufacturer's warranty, approved as: ETL test to UL 763, CSA 22.2, NO.109, NSF-12, CE
1725-RPM motor that can shave more than 500 lbs. of cube or chunk ice per hour
Each snow cone machine motor also has a safety switch to prevent accidental start-up

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Reviews

I'm very involved in my kids' summer swim league. One of our sources for fundraising is selling SnoCones at practices and meets. I've used lots of different SnoCone machines and until now I've hated every one of them.

My two complaints about the SnoCone machines I've used in the past are:

* The glass/plexiglass sides are very fragile and easy to break. Whether you rent, borrow, or own, dealing with the repair is a huge drag.

* The metal frames holding the glass sides create really sharp corners. These things are pretty heavy and I almost always end up poking myself in the arm and/or belly when I carry the machine from place to place.

The design of this machine solves both of these problems. The plastic igloo shape has no sharp corners and only one sturdy see-through surface.

The igloo design is also really eye-catching. I usually have to do my circus barker routine to get kids to come buy a cone, but this machine looks like FUN and the kids were happy to stand in line. Don't be fooled by this fun design though: this is still a dangerous piece of machinery and must be operated by an adult.

The base has nice big rubber feet and won't slip at all. It also has wheels on one side to move it when you need to.

Not shown in the picture is the drain hose. The bottom fills with water and needs to drain somewhere. It's nice to be able to use the hose to channel the runoff away from your serving table.

The handle has a sturdy locking pin and a second hole position to store the pin when the machine is in use.

So what about the cones? Does it make a good product? Absolutely! The motor is strong and it grinds the ice quickly and makes great quality ice for the cones. The included scoop spoon forms the cones perfectly.

My one complaint is that they included the wrong hardware to attach the paper cone sleeve. The screws were mismatched, so only one of them fit. For $561, I would have expected better quality control than that. I'll have to run out to Home Depot and pick up another matching screw.

To summarize, renting a SnoCone machine costs us a fortune and is a horrible fundraiser. This machine is a great investment for our team. It's sturdy and well built. It makes a great product. We broke even on this purchase in one season. Next season will be all revenue and just the low cost of the ice & juice. --David Edmiston

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The Perfect Gas Grill : Weber 7371001 Summit E-670 Propane Gas Grill, Black

2011-07-22T15:07:00.000+07:00

Weber 7371001 Summit E-670 Propane Gas Grill, Black

Weber've packed all of their top features into this dramatic looking, six-burner gas grill.
It proudly boasts everything from a Sear Station, smoker box and burner, and side burner to an infrared rotisserie burner and Tuc-Away motor with separate fork and spit storage, LED tank scale, and enhanced lighted knobs.

This Weber gas grill Summit E-670 features an enclosed cart with corresponding painted steel doors with stainless steel trim and chrome plated cast aluminum handles. The cooking system, rated at 60,000 BTUs, includes 6 stainless steel gas burners and a Snap-Jet individual burner ignition system. Introducing new innovative lighted control knobs. The cooking grates are 9-1/2-millimeter diameter stainless steel rods. This Weber grill also features stainless steel Flavorizer bars. The primary cooking area measures 624-square-nches; the warming rack area measures 145-square-inches, giving a total cooking area of 769-square-inches. This Weber gas grill Summit E-670 also has a 12,000 BTU per hour input flush-mount side burner, 8,000 BTU per hour smoker burner and stainless steel smoker box, a 10,600 BTU-per-hour infrared rear mounted rotisserie burner and a 10,600 BTU-per-hour dedicated sear burner.

Grill Specifications

60,000 BTU-per-hour input
12,000 BTU-per-hour input flush-mounted side burner
6,800 BTU-per-hour smoker burner and stainless steel smoker box
10,600 BTU-per-hour input sear burner
10,600 BTU-per-hour infrared rear-mounted rotisserie burner
Tuck-Away™ rotisserie system with flip-up motor and separate spit and fork storage in the enclosed cart
Limited warranty
Owner’s guide and recipes
Warming rack area = 145 sq in
Total cooking area = 769 sq in
Primary cooking area = 624 sq in
Tank not included with LP models
Natural gas grill includes a 10-foot flexible hose
2 Grill Out® handle lights
6 Tool hooks
Lighted control knobs
Snap-Jet™ individual burner ignition system
3/8 inch or 9.5mm diameter stainless steel rod cooking grates
Stainless steel Flavorizer® bars

Grill Construction

2 Stainless steel work stations
Front-mount control panel with backlit LED tank scale display (LP models only)
Stainless steel side tables with accent-colored painted cast-aluminum end caps
Painted steel frame
2 Stainless steel work surfaces
Enclosed tank storage area and precision fuel gauge (LP models only)
2 Heavy-duty front locking swivel casters
2 Heavy-duty back swivel casters

Grill Dimensions

With the lid open:
Height: 57.1 inches
Width R-L: 74.1 inches
Depth: 30 inches

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Reviews

Fantastic grill - The delivery was excellent & the grill was delivered without any damage - The only difficulty we had was getting it up onto our deck - This grill is very very heavy, so four people were needed to lift it - It's a beautiful grill which cooks great & has everything you would want on your barbeque. --Janis E Bernstein

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Great multi bike tool : Crank Brothers Multi Bicycle Tool (19-Function)

2011-07-22T13:41:00.000+07:00

Crank Brothers Multi Bicycle Tool (19-Function)

CrankBrothers Multi-19 Tool comes complete with 19 tools for common road and trail-side repairs. The Multi 19 has seven hex wrenches, four spoke wrench sizes, small and large Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, a t-25 Torx driver for disc brakes, and a universal chain tool to tackle any task short of building a bike from loose parts. Lest we forget, there are also 8 and 10mm open wrenches, and to top it off, the whole deal comes packed in a neat, lightweight, durable aluminum hard case that slips inside your pack or toolbox with ease.

Feature

weight 175g w/o tool flask
length 3.5" / 89mm
frame 6061-T6 aluminum
tools 6150 high tensile steel
chain tool 8/9/10 speed compatible
spoke wrench #1, 2, 3, 4
hex wrenches #2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8
screwdrivers 2-phillips, 1-flat
open wrench 8mm, 10mm
torx t-25, t10
carrying case stainless and polymer
warranty lifetime

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Reviews

I have had this for a couple of years now and it has never failed me on the road. The chain tool in particular is easier to use than with most multi-tools. It cleans up pretty good also after getting covered in grease. --H. S. Gray (Exeter, UK)

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Beautiful and Heavy : Prodyne TW-9-W Pewter Tablecloth Weights - Garden Dwellers

2011-07-19T13:33:00.000+07:00

Prodyne TW-9-W Pewter Tablecloth Weights, Garden Dwellers , Set of 4

"Garden Dwellers Pewter Tablecloth Weights
Our attractive and functional tablecloth weights are a must for all outdoor entertaining."

Decorative and functional, these tablecloth weights are a must for all outdoor entertaining. Their detail design will add a special touch to any table setting. Made from solid heavyweight pewter, simply clip to the bottom of your tablecloth to keep it from blowing in the wind. Set of 4 in attractive open window box.

Product Features

Set of 4 tablecloth weights
Made of solid heavyweight pewter
Keeps the wind from blowing your tablecloth off
A must for outdoor dining
Includes 1 bumble bee, dragonfly, butterfly and ladybug tablecloth weight

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Review

I use these cute tablecloth weights on my table at the beach club where it is constantly buffeted around by the offshore breeze and storms and rained on too. I leave these on 24/7. They are heavy enough to keep the tablecloth down and hold on tight. It's been one month and they still look good, not rusting. (Everything else I tried either flew away or rusted after a couple of weeks and fell off.) I'll let u know if they make it to the end of the summer.

Reviewed by: john d'angelo

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Great item for healthy living : Prodyne Fruit Infusion 93-Ounce Natural Fruit Flavor Pitcher

2011-07-18T14:57:00.000+07:00

Prodyne Fruit Infusion 93-Ounce Natural Fruit Flavor Pitcher

"FRUIT INFUSION™
Natural Fruit Flavor Pitcher
ENJOY REFRESHING LEMON WATER, RASPBERRY ICED TEA AND MORE"

Enjoy flavor-infused beverages made naturally at home with the Prodyne Fruit Infusion Pitcher. The body-friendly BPA-free acrylic pitcher is designed with a removable hollow rod that can be filled with fruits, citrus wedges, herbs, or savories and put back into the center of the pitcher. Open slots in the rod allow its contents to naturally combine with the liquid in the pitcher. The rod screws into the lid, so it stays securely in place. The crystal-clear acrylic allows for an enticing view and allows the pitcher to look great on a well-set table. The pitcher may be continually refilled without having to replace the fruit and holds up to 92 ounces. A great gift idea, the pitcher requires hand washing for care.

Product Features

Enjoy flavor-infused beverages made naturally at home with the Prodyne Fruit Infusion Pitcher
BPA-free acrylic pitcher has removable hollow rod that can be filled with fruits, citrus wedges, herbs, or savories
Open slots in rod allow contents to naturally combine with liquid; rod screws into lid, so it stays securely in place
Clear acrylic allows for enticing view; pitcher looks great on a well-set table; may be continually refilled without replacing fruit
Holds up to 93 ounces; requires hand washing for care

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Review

We have stopped buying soda for company, and could not figure out what to serve for company at dinner.
I was buying Juice that did not have sugar added, but it still full of sugar and its prossessed.

This fits our needs perfect, plus No BPA, and looks like Glass.Its also big, but fits on the top shelve on my frig.

It looks nice on the table, taste great, and everyone is loving it. Even my teenage grandkids, which where not happy about not having soda with dinner are drinking this and not complaining.

I used frozen strawberries, which was ok, but we like the Lemons.Going to add oranges to it also.
When its time to throw the lemons out and start with new fresh ones, I notice the lid will
start to tilt off while pouring. As the lemons have gotten too soggy.
I think I put a new lemon in every 2 to 3 days. I just use one lemon cut up, then in half again.
I also squeese the cut off lemon juice ends in the water.
I only use our water from our Osmoses system.

The slits in the tube does not let the lemon seeds get in the water, only the flavors.
The water looks crystal clear.
I'm going to try other fruit that others have mentioned here.
If you do not like Frig water cause its too cold, you can pour a 1/2 glass then add
regular water to it.

This pitcher would be great for ice tea, although I have not used it yet.

I hand wash it, and do NOT use HOT water to wash it, just soap.

My Husband mentioned, order another pitcher this taste so good.

Once lemons enter the body they are not a acid food, they become Alkaline, which is heathy.

Reviewed by: Great Cook (Santa Monica, California)

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Great buy, fantastic performance cookware : Cuisinart MCP-12 MultiClad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

2011-07-15T11:43:00.000+07:00

Cuisinart MCP-12 MultiClad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

"The kitchens of France were the inspiration behind the elegant Cuisinart® MultiClad Pro Stainless Cookware collection. Cuisinart has included everything you need in this spectacular 12-piece set to perfectly perform all the basic cooking tasks, large or small. From reheating a single portion of soup to preparing appetizers, entrées and side dishes for the entire family, you?ll find every tool you need in this deluxe set. "

Elegant and contemporary, the Multiclad Pro line from Cuisinart consists of deluxe cookware for the professional home chef. The exteriors of the 18/10 stainless steel pots and pans feature a handsome brushed finish, while the interiors are mirror-polished for non-reactive, quick release of foods. The tri-ply Heat Surround technology sandwiches an aluminum core in the base and side walls for superior, even heating. You'll also find solid cast stainless-steel handles that stay cool on the stovetop, tight-fitting stainless-steel lids, and drip-free pouring rims. Each piece is oven-safe to 500 degrees F, and the pans are safe for broiler-use, too.

This fabulous set consists of basics and more. The 1-1/2- and 3-quart saucepans with lids take care of everything from oatmeal to béchamel sauce, and the veggie steamer insert with its own lid fits the larger saucepan. Also included are 8- and 10-inch open skillets that turn out perfect grilled cheese, hamburgers, and crepes; 3-1/2-quart covered sauté pan with a helper handle, great for braising meats and cooking fish fillets; and an 8-quart covered stockpot for stews and soups. Dishwasher-safe, this set has no coatings to flake off or plastic to melt, and will surely be passed down to the next generation. Cuisinart covers the Multiclad Pro set with a lifetime limited warranty against defects.

Product Features

Stainless steel for professional results - stainless cooking surface does not discolor, react with food, or alter flavors
Cool Grip™ Handle Solid stainless steel riveted handle
Drip-Free Pouring Rim
Tightfitting cover seals in moisture and nutrients for healthier, more flavorful results, every time you cook
Dishwasher safe
lifetime warranty
Suitable for use with induction cook tops

MCP-12 Twelve Piece Set includes the following:
MCP19-16 1.5 Qt. saucepan with cover
MCP193-18 3 Qt. saucepan with cover
MCP33-24H 3.5 Qt. sauté pan with helper handle and cover
MCP66-24 8 Qt. stockpot with cover
MCP22-20 8" skillet
MCP22-24 10" skillet
MCP1163-20 20 cm steamer insert with cover (fits 3 Qt. saucepan)

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Review

I bought this set with the intention to gradually phase out all my nonstick cookware, replace some hard anodized pieces that I don't enjoy using and also to have a complete stainless steel set instead of a bunch of random pieces. Since the Cuisinart MultiClad pans arrived, I haven't touched anything else! (Well, other than my cast iron skillet and griddle--there's no substitute for those.)

I have always used stainless steel cookware, including a variety of high-end brands (just about everything but All-Clad), and many of the pans have been tri-ply pieces. This cookware blows them all away.

My first thought was to upgrade to All-Clad this time around, but I just could not justify the price. (The fact that this entire set cost the same as about 2 All-Clad pans is incredible!) After researching like crazy for weeks I settled on this set and could not be happier. My current stove is complete crap and it was always a struggle to regulate temperature, even with other expensive cookware. This set has improved cooking performance dramatically! I can regulate temp much better, despite my terrible stovetop. (I can even use the burner we refer to as the "infinity burner" because the temp just never stops rising.) I can cook eggs perfectly on these skillets with a beautiful release (for those not used to stainless, you just have to be careful the temp doesn't get too high). Water reaches a boil faster in these pans. I can only imagine how great they will be whenever we can manage to invest in a really nice gas stove.

Like another reviewer mentioned, I am lazy and put them in the dishwasher with no problem whatsoever. If anything does stick on or discolor the pan, a quick de-glazing, boiling water, or a quick scrub with Bar Keepers Friend easily does the trick and the pan looks new again.

I'm not sure what some of the other reviewers' big concerns are about stainless steel products made in China. It seems that almost all SS products are now manufactured there, including the gazillion brands of SS water bottles flooding the market so that people can supposedly avoid the chemicals present in plastic bottles.

But anyway, I don't hesitate to recommend this set to anyone. It's fantastic, especially because it's such a great buy.

Reviewed by: avidreader

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Great safe non-stick pan : The 12" Green Earth Frying Pan by Ozeri

2011-07-14T15:10:00.000+07:00

The 12" Green Earth Frying Pan by Ozeri, with Textured Ceramic Non-Stick Coating from Germany (100% PTFE and PFOA Free) -- On Sale

"Utilizing GREBLON -- a natural ceramic coating from Germany, the Green Earth Pan by Ozeri is one of the world's first frying pans to achieve non-stick perfection while remaining absolutely free of PTFE, PFOA and other harmful chemicals."

This version of the Green Earth Pan features a textured ceramic cooking surface designed to prevent food bonding for superior non-stick performance.
The elevations of the textured cooking surface also create air pockets which distribute heat underneath food to enhance cooking performance.
Conventional non-stick cookware is achieved through a coating of PTFE (PolyTetraFluoroEthylene), a synthetic substance that has waxy properties.
At very high temperatures, PTFE begins to decompose and release fumes which are documented to be lethal to birds and small pets, and which can be harmful to humans.

In addition, traditional pans incorporating PTFE are manufactured with the aid of PFOA (PerFluoroOctanoic Acid), which the EPA has classified as a 'persistent pollutant of the environment'.
With the Green Earth Pan's GREBLON ceramic from Germany, even under high temperatures, no harmful toxic fumes are ever released into the environment.
This is because the Green Earth Pan utilizes a 100% ceramic coating derived from nature - not from a laboratory.
The Green Earth Pan's ceramic coating is completely free of PTFE and PFOA.
The Green Earth Pan's natural ceramic coating is also far more durable and scratch-resistant than other non-stick surfaces.

With better non-stick properties, the Green Earth Pan allows you to cook with as little as half the amount of oil normally used, and it makes cleaning a breeze.
The Green Earth Pan by Ozeri is made of the highest quality anodized aluminum that allows for even cooking and fantastic browning without the risk of hot spots.
It boasts a magnetized bottom for rapid heat transfer on induction stoves, and a heat resistant silicone coated handle. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.

Product Features

Utilizes GREBLON ceramic - an ultra-safe ceramic coating from Germany which is 100% PTFE and PFOA free (no heavy metals or chemicals).
Innovative textured pan surface delivers unprecedented non-stick performance without releasing harmful fumes or toxins at high temperatures.
Features a scratch-resistant 100 percent ceramic coating that is super easy to clean.
Made out of durable heavy-gauge pure aluminum with no heavy metals or harmful chemicals.
Boasts a comfortable heat resistant silicon coated handle, and a magnetized induction stove safe base for rapid head transfer.

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Review

I've had this pan for almost a year and just ordered 2 more for gifts. The first time I cooked chicken in it we were amazed how juicy and flavorful the meat was. Food doesn't stick, it's easy to clean and the coating is non-toxic. Perfect! Love this pan and recommend it to everyone.

Reviewed by: Cookie22

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Beautiful and stylish espresso glasses! : Bodum Pavina Double-Wall Thermo Glasses, Set of 2

2011-07-14T13:51:00.000+07:00

Bodum Pavina Double-Wall Thermo Glasses, Set of 2

"At last, a glass that won't burn or freeze your hand. Two walls of clear glass with an air layer in-between not only keep drinks cold--or hot--but prevent condensation from forming on the outside. So, an ice-cold shot of vodka or a steamy espresso feels just right, no matter the temperature. And coasters won't be needed, either.

Winner of the prestigious European iF Design Award, the mouth-blown Pavina glass exhibits Bodum's flair for the modern. Each two-ounce glass curves beguilingly and fits the palm just right. Mouth-blown of borosilicate glass, which is quite a bit thinner yet much more durable than regular glass, the two Pavina glasses in this set are safe for both the microwave and dishwasher, resist temperature swings, and resist scratching and dulling. Care should be taken when placing ice cubes in an empty glass, and metal spoons for stirring are discouraged. --Ann Bieri"

The Bodum Pavina Double Wall Shot Glass is 2.5 ounces in size and can be used for cold or warm beverages.
Its unique design is appealing to the eye when filled with your favorite beverage.
With its double layer of borosilicate glass it appears as though the liquid is 'floating' within the glass.
They will not sweat when filled with a cold beverage, so you will not have to use a coaster.
The double wall creates a thermal effect, helping to keep your cold drinks cold and your hot drinks hot for longer periods of time.
These mouth blown glasses are an exciting product for any home, restaurant, or cafe and they are a definite conversation piece.

Bodum’s insulated glassware is made from durable Borosilicate glass.
Borosilicate glass is a strong heat-resistant glass traditionally used to make scientific lab glass.
Stronger than traditional “soda-lime” glass, borosilicate can be used for everything from drinkware to cookware.
Borosilicate glass substitutes boron oxide in place of the soda and lime used in everyday glassware.
The boron oxide acts as the glue holding the silicate together.

Due to small size of boron particles, the glass is held together tighter, resulting in a stronger, lighter glass. Borosilicate glass doesn’t need to be as thick as traditional glass to be just as strong due to the bonding capability boron oxide.

Borosilicate is simply a different type of glass that is resistant to temperature swings and scratching.
Because the particles are held together so tightly, borosilicate glass is resistant to temperature swings.

In addition to being dishwasher safe borosilicate will not become cloudy over time; you can rest assured that after 1,000 cycles, the glass will be as clear as the day you bought it.

Product Feature

Set of 2 Bodum Pavina 2.5-ounce espresso glasses
Mouth-blown of 2 layers of lightweight, durable borosilicate glass
Keeps drinks insulated; won't form condensation on outside
Winner of the prestigious European iF Design Award
Scratch-resistant; dishwasher- and microwave-safe

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Review

I bought one set of Bodum glasses several months ago and love them so much that we just ordered another set. The double walled glass keeps beverages warm (or presumably cold though we use these only for coffee, etc), and the visual appeal is great. We make lattes at home and guests are always wow'ed - the outer wall doesn't feel at all hot to the touch, and you get the cool visual of seeing the coffee/milk/foam layers.

They are dishwasher safe (we wash ours often without incident). However, the glasses are relatively lightweight - if you have active children around these probably aren't the glasses for you. We love them though!

Reviewed by: "Laura M" (New York, NY)

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Amazingly Fresh! : Nootie-Shampoo & Daily Spritz Combo Bottle - Japanese Cherry Blossom

2011-07-12T14:05:00.001+07:00

Nootie-Shampoo & Daily Spritz Combo Bottle,Pet Shampoo & Conditioning Spray in one Package, 1 Unit ,12oz/4oz, Japanese Cherry Blossom

"Shampoo & Daily Spritz in one convenient bottle.
Now you can wash your pet and keep them smelling fresh & clean."

Exhilarating - The exotic scent of Japanese Cherry Blossom combined with Rosemary stimulates the senses while promoting a healthy soft coat. Rosemary stimulates the hair follicles, resulting in a strong healthy coat.

The top portion of the bottle contains 12 oz's of our Exhilarating Japanese Cherry Blossom Shampoo. The bottom bottle contains 4 oz's of our Daily Spritz in the same long lasting fragrance which conditions and freshens your pet's coat.

- Long lasting fragrance
- Made with natural ingredients
- Soap & paraben free
- No sulfates or harsh chemicals
- Safe to use along with topical flea & tick products

Ingredients
Shampoo - Purified Water, Decyl Glucoside, Coco Betaine, Glycerin, Polyquat 7 (Conditioner), Rosemary Extract, infused with essence of Japanese Cherry Blossom, Preservative

Daily Spritz - Purified Water, SDA 40 Alcohol, Nonoxynol 9, Polyquat 7, Glycerin, infused with essence of Japanese Cherry Blossom, Preservative

12 oz Shampoo & 4 oz Daily Spritz

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Review

In my 50 years of being a dog owner Nootie Shampoo and Spritz keep my dogs smelling fresher than ever. My favorite fragrance is cucumber melon. It's worth giving it a try.

Reviewed by: Captain Mike

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Great gardening book for all gardeners : Backyard Harvest: A year-round guide to growing fruit and vegetables by Jo Whittingham

2011-06-24T15:37:00.000+07:00

Backyard Harvest: A year-round guide to growing fruit and vegetables [Paperback]
By
Jo Whittingham

"From sowing and planting to growing and harvesting, Backyard Harvest covers storing, freezing, and preserving tips so that you can enjoy your garden’s bounty into the winter months and throughout the early-spring gap when little is ready to harvest."

Backyard Harvest is written for the gardener who has limited space and money to spend on gardening as well as those who wish to maximize the garden space they already have. Maximizing the garden space to grow food they can enjoy everyday all year round whether preserved, fresh or out of storage in the major focus of this book. Using colored photographs and multiple design ideas the chapters lay out simple yet detailed instructions to help the gardener find just the right method for them. Right from the start Backyard Harvest begins the reader with a very strong message, "Be realistic in your gardening". The idea is to explain common mistakes a gardener may make, from planting to much of one crop, trying crops that may not do well in their area, crops they may not enjoy eating, and going crazy with too many crops for the space they have. The message is laid out in simple features on how to maximize space, select crop varieties and prolonging the growing season for each. Information can be found on the pros and con of renting a space, using containers in a window, raised beds. There is even a special place that highlights gardening for those who love flowers. This section tells of the benefits of vegetables grown right in with flowers, from the array of foliage, beautiful blooms, colored harvest crops and pest control, each brings a unique design to the location.

Throughout the pages select areas give details on the selection of plants and crops. Many of these pages feature colored photographs of actual products along with descriptions that include where it grows best, taste, storage options and many other details. They serve to introduce the reader to many wonderful varieties of common crops such as strawberries, tomatoes and potatoes to name a few. However, some of the drawbacks are that some of the varieties previewed are not readily available, well know or do not grow well in some areas.

The twelve chapters that begin the month to month garden plans are packed full of many useful ideas. The first thing the reader will see is a two page layout diagram that gives an at glance view of what can be used from storage, or harvested that month. Each chapter includes three main ideas, what needs to be done, what to sow and what to harvest. In what needs to be done, helps the gardener with each area including how to fertilize, prepare for planting and selecting what to plant. What to sow begins the gardener on which crops to seed whether indoors, in a green house or directly in the area to be raised. What to harvest, details what crops should be ready to harvest, and how to make each crop yield longer. Another section that helps the reader is what to do. This section details pruning, composting, training crops, transplanting seedlings, and additional space preparations.

As the book advances into the year more features are added including growing bean sprouts, making pickles and cordials, drying fruit, saving seeds and training trees or vines. Additional information within the chapters includes building cold frames, raised beds, container gardens and compost stations. Many of these instructions include colored photographs and special ideas for using what you have on hand. There are also highlights on knowing and testing soil, fertilizing, water, tools and their use and even recipes.

The book ends with sections that give detail photographs and clear descriptions of problems, diseases, common pest that can affect gardens along with solutions on how to handle each are included. An alphabetical listing of crops and their best time for planting and harvesting is listed in planner form in the back; along with a list of places a gardener may find crops and supplies for their garden.

The entire book is linked together in a well designed and easily understood text. Simple explanations, real photographs and how problems are addressed make this a valuable reference for every gardener. Easy to follow table of contents, chapters and index make checking on any of the covered material fast. This book, although for the vegetable garden, would also lend well someone planning a flower garden or orchard.

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Review

Are you a beginning gardener or have you been using your green thumb successfully for decades? No matter, this superb gardening book. //Backyard Harvest// is an excellent addition to your reference library. It is undoubtedly among the best gardening books on the market. Although the author is British, this book was written mainly for the North American market with a list of useful websites and American addresses. Organization is great and small color photo illustrations are profuse, eight to ten on every page.

The book is organized around each month (though because of regional variations this is not accurate) on what to eat, what to do, and what to plant. For each month, the author also integrates last year's stored and preserved products. The book goes into home mushroom growing, patio and greenhouse gardening. A well-illustrated section deals with pest control. Scores of useful tips are scattered as sidebars. Illustrated varieties of common fruits and vegetables worth growing are equally valuable. Sections also deal with preservation -- storing, canning, freezing, drying, and pickling -- all nicely illustrated. The index is also very good. This is an outstanding gardening book.

Reviewed by: George Erdosh

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About the author

Jo Whittingham, a gardener and gardening writer who has written for a range of gardening magazines, is the author of DK's Simple Steps to Success: Vegetable Gardening, and served as consultant on The Kitchen Garden and Grow Fruit.

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Best practical book for gardeners: The Pruning Book: Completely Revised and Updated

2011-06-21T14:34:00.000+07:00

The Pruning Book: Completely Revised and Updated

It sounds simple enough, but pruning can confound even the most competent gardener. This new edition of Taunton’s award-winning reference book on pruning explains the do’s and don’ts of cutting back.

With expert advice on the latest techniques and valuable insights on new plants, this updated version of The Pruning Book deserves a prominent place in your gardening library.

From humble houseplants to the most amazing exotics, author Lee Reich explains all the dos and don'ts of cutting back. So you'll always make the right cut the first time -- every time.

Reich demystifies even the most complex pruning strategies by providing the precise timing and exact techniques you'll need to guarantee healthy growth and beautiful form.

In great detail, he walks you through the process of pruning everything from ornamental trees and bushes to topiaries and bonsai. And all his insights are delivered with clear, straightforward prose and supported by 250 colorful photos and 135 drawings.

Whether you're a professional gardener, a landscape veteran -- or pruning for the very first time -- this essential reference gives you everything you need to master the subtle art of pruning.

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Review

Very professional advice covering all types of plants and trees.The only book on Pruning you will ever need.
I am an certified Arborist and am impressed with the comprehensive information that is well diagrammed too.
Great work!Also the price was well below other sources. - P. V. Beagle

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Best grill cover with quality material: Classic® Veranda Cart BBQ Cover

2011-06-03T14:39:00.000+07:00

Classic Accessories 73912 Veranda Cart-Style Barbecue Cover, Medium, 58 Inch

Heavy-duty fabric cover keeps cart barbecues clean, dry and ready to use. Large zippered front pocket for storage.

Designed to fit cart-style barbecues up to 58 inches wide, this heavy-duty cover keeps the grill clean, dry, and looking like new by reducing its exposure to outdoor elements like wind, rain, snow, dust, and dirt.

Its Gardelle protective fabric system features an elegant fabric top specially treated to prevent cracking in cold weather, a water-repellent and water-resistant PVC under-coating, and a splash-guard skirt for all-over protection from top to bottom.

Equipped with padded handles for easy fitting and removal, the unit's click-close straps snap over the barbecue legs to keep the cover securely in place, even on windy days, while its adjustable elastic hem cord with a toggle ensures a tight, custom fit.

Even more, helpful air vents lessen ballooning in the wind and reduce condensation inside, minimizing the chance of mold and mildew buildup.

Other highlights include durable interlocking seams that add strength, a stylish appearance that fits in well with any outdoor decor, and a large zippered front pocket, which provides space for storing grilling accessories.

The medium-size barbecue cover measures 24 by 58 inches and carries a three-year warranty.

Feature

Gardelle™ protective fabric system features an elegant fabric top with a water repellent and resistant PVC under-coating and a protective splash guard skirt
Tough interlocking seams add strength and durability
Special treatments ensure fabric won’t crack in cold weather
Click-close straps snap over legs to secure cover on windy days
Air vents reduce inside condensation and wind lofting
Padded handles for easy fitting and removal
Elastic hem cord with a toggle allows adjustment for a tight and custom fit
Large zippered front pocket for storage
Three year warranty

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Review

I bought the medium sized cover and it fits my Weber E-310 perfectly. I live in MN and this cover has survived three winters so far without any cracks or excessive wear. I do a fair bit of winter grilling and the fabric cover never stiffens or seems to be brittle. This cover has everything going for it; durability for an incredible price. - Ryan Marotz (Eden Prairie, MN United States)

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Lightweight and easy to start: Black & Decker LST220 12-Inch 20-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless GrassHog Trimmer/Edger

2011-06-01T12:17:00.000+07:00

Black & Decker LST220 12-Inch 20-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless GrassHog Trimmer/Edger

Offering Black & Decker's exclusive PowerDrive Transmission, the 12-Inch cordless GrassHog LST220 trimmer and edger delivers more power from the motor to the cutting string so you can get the job done faster. You'll be able to trim grass in hard-to-reach areas where mowers cannot cut while also maintaining a neat edging along hard surfaces.

It's powered by a 20-volt Max lithium-ion battery that offers a longer lifespan and retains its charge 5x longer than Black & Decker's 18-volt NiCad batteries--and this package includes two batteries so you can keep one charged while using the other. The battery is also designed with 50 percent less battery weight, and the unit weighs a total of 5.2 pounds with battery installed.

It features a Groom'N'Edge head that can be rotated 180-degrees for quick switches between cutting and edging tasks along with Black & Decker's Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) system, which uses centrifugal force to dispense more line whenever you need it for added predictability and dependability--no bumping required. Other features include a telescoping pole that easily adjusts to your preferred height, flip-down edge guide, 7500 RPM motor, and 0.065 line diameter.

The included Energy Star-qualified charger will charge a fully depleted battery in about 8 hours. You can also swap the battery among your other Black & Decker cordless lawn tools that are compatible with 20-volt Max lithium-ion batteries. It's backed by a two-year limited warranty.

The harman kardon® SoundSticks III - At a Glance.

The PowerDrive Transmission™ delivers more power from the motor to the cutting string so you can get the job done faster.
The Automatic Feed Spool™ ensures continuous work without bumping and having to stop to adjust the spool.
Easily converts from trimmer to edger with a quick turn of the shaft.
It is quiet and easy to start, delivering great cutting results without the mess and hassles of gas powered trimmers.
The adjustable height and pivoting handle positions provide maximum comfort and control.

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Review

There were only a few parts to assemble and is very easy to operate. Light weight and easy to handle, being female this was a bit of a concern but no worries once I used it.

Primarily used the product as a trimmer and it works great. Used it as an edger for the first time this past weekend and was very happy with its performance. I do not think that a yard looks "finished" unless the edging is done and this trimmer/edger did a fantastic job, the yard looks great. - D. S. ROGERS (Newark, DE)

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Quiet and Powerful Air Pump : Dual Diaphragm Air Pump

2011-05-18T13:26:00.000+07:00

Dual Diaphragm Air Pump

The Dual Diaphragm Air Pump is extremely quiet and powerful pump designed specifically to work in hydroponic systems.This pump moves up to 340 gallons per hour and features four connection ports so it can handle multiple hydroponic units. Instead of using several different pumps, try this quiet, powerful pump for your hydro units. In addition, growers who use our Dual Diaphragm air pump can count on it to reliably oxygenate their reservoir with air stones.

Feature

Model: GH2716
Four Valve High Output Air Pump
Quietly
Powerful
Hydroponic growing systems
Free shipping

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Reviews

This is a nice air pump. It seems like it is built to last, and I think I even saw there are replacement parts for it. It pumps a nice volume of air, but it's not something to write home about. It is pretty quiet and vibration is semi-minimal. It will move around on a smooth surface. --Brian Menke "Brian" (San Jose, CA USA)

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A great way to start your seeds : Hydrofarm Seedling Heat Mat

2011-05-18T12:26:00.001+07:00

Hydrofarm Seedling Heat Mat

Get a jump start on plantings and speed germination with this heat mat from Hydrofarm. Re-engineered for better performance and greater durability! The new, stronger heating wire, and thicker multi-layer construction offer more uniform heating and the durability to withstand rugged greenhouse environments. The mat provides even heat distribution with its intricate pattern of fine wire throughout its waterproof, fray-proof material. The unit fits under one common seed flat to warm the rooting area 10 to 20 degrees over ambient temperature. Waterproof construction means optimal safety from electrical shock. The purchase includes the 17-watt mat, instructions printed on the mat. UL listed, the kit also comes complete with a 6-foot power cord.

Feature

Increases success of seedlings and cuttings
Warms root area 10-20˚F over ambient temperature to improve germination
Light, watering and planting information on mat
Waterproof construction
6 foot power cord
The only UL Listed seedling heat mats on the market!
50% thicker construction

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Reviews

I bought two of these mats to germinate some tomato seeds, which require over 70F soil temperature to germinate. I bought the matching digital temperature control to set the soil temperature at the recommended 80F. Works well and consumes a relatively low amount of power. --Chris Kitze (San Francisco, CA USA)

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Great Garden Decoration: Moonrays Solar Powered Turtles on a Log with Glowing Shells

2011-04-24T14:05:00.000+07:00

Moonrays 91515 Solar Powered Turtles on a Log with Glowing Shells

These turtles are adorable! At night they give off a beautiful glow. Easy to use, just turn on and put it somewhere outside and enjoy it each night.
3 turtles rest on log - shells glow amber at night
Durable polyresin construction
3 Amber LED's
Rechargeable battery (included)
Solar fixture charges by day in the sunlight
Made of durable Polynesian

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Reviews

These turtles are adorable! At night they give off a beautiful glow. Good product and a must have for any garden! --shopoholicgirl

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Eye-catching, Crystalized Sound!: Harman Kardon Soundsticks III

2011-03-30T13:12:00.000+07:00

Harman Kardon Soundsticks III

A 6-inch, 20-watt downward-firing powered subwoofer. Eight 1-inch full-range transducers. Plug-and-play compatibility with virtually any multimedia device. And stunning industrial design that perfectly matches the clarity of the sound. The Harman Kardon SoundSticks III desktop sound system brings a new level of excitement to music, games and movies with a minimum of wiring and looks spectacular doing it.

The harman kardon® SoundSticks III - At a Glance.
Four, 1" full-range transducers per channel powered by a 10-watt amplifier for room-filling sound
One, 6" low-frequency transducer powered by a 20-watt amplifier for outstanding bass performance
Compatible with all devices with a stereo mini-jack output
Touch volume and mute controls
Subwoofer volume control
Angle-adjustable satellites
Incredible industrial design
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Review

I've had a chance to listen to this system for a couple of days now. Fantastic sound quality for the price! I am used to pretty good sound with a Denon component and Mission speaker home system, and wanted a nice quality speaker set for my new computer system and 24" monitor. I figured if I was going to have a nice large monitor to listen to music and video's, I should have a nice speaker system. The Harman/Kardon Soundsticks have perfectly fit bill. As my set up is in a small, carpeted room - they sound great. In fact, I have found that I like the sound best with the subwoofer sitting on the desk that my computer and speakers are on. Some told me it would probably end up on the floor, but my desk is solid maple wood, so I think a get a different sound than you would get from other computer desks. And as the subwoofer has such a beautiful look, I'm glad to have it sharing desk space. Another great buy from Amazon. - That Girl "Loves The Classics" (Redondo Beach, CA)

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Absolute Beautiful: Rising Sun - Interconnected Celtic Knot Tree and Roots of Life Sterling Silver Pendant

2011-03-17T16:07:00.000+07:00

Rising Sun - Interconnected Celtic Knot Tree and Roots of Life Sterling Silver Pendant

This pendant is medium in size and sturdy, crafted of solid sterling silver. Glorious sun rising and shining down through the heavens.

With its branches reaching into the sky, and roots deep in the earth, the Tree of Life dwells in three worlds - linking heaven, the earth and the underworld, uniting above and below. Sacred life and spirit to the early Celts - sacred life and spirit to us still today.

Product Features
1.5" High and 1" Wide (3x5mm Bail)
Designed by Courtney Davis
Weight is 8.5 Grams
Nickel Free Silver
Marked 925

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Review

The picture doesn't do this justice. This is now my wife's favorite every-day piece. Solid silver and very well made. Intricate detail and well cast. - Merddyn "merddyn" (Houston, Tx United States)

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High power Black and Decker hand held vacuums: Black & Decker CHV1510 Dustbuster Hand Vacuum

2011-03-14T13:45:00.000+07:00

Black & Decker 15.6V Cordless Hand Vacuum Cleaner - White

This is a great small vacuum cleaner. It picks up everything and will get all the corners and small areas to the cleanest.

It is very powerful, easy to store and was a great price.

Product Features
Rotating, slim nozzle targets dirt in tight spaces
50% more reach than the previous Dustbuster design for less bending and better accessibility
Brush and crevice tool accessories are located on-board so there are no loose items to misplace
Wide mouth design means this vac can effortlessly scoop up large debris
Cyclonic action spins dust and debris away from the filter so suction power stays strong
Translucent, bagless dirt bowl makes it easy to see dirt and easy to empty
Removable, washable dirt bowl and filters allow for a thorough, hygienic cleaning
3 stage filtration means less clogging and cleaner air exhaust
3 versatile ways to store: horizontally, vertically, or mount on a wall
Charging indicator light allows you to always know you have a good connection
Lightweight and portable for quick clean-ups
Energy star approved charging system saves energy and helps protect batteries

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Review

An excessive compulsive clean-freak woman had to have had her hand in designing this vac. On a scale of 1-10 it's an 11! Thank you Black and Decker for coming out with the 1st cordless hand vac with the power of a corded one. It is so darn handy yet gets the job done. Need I say more? Yes, I do. The fact that all I have to do to get into my deep crevices or to use the brush is pull out the tools (instead of hunt for them in my closet) right on the nozzle is absolutely ingenious! Oh and that vented, hard plastic sleeve that goes over the washable filter - well, it's just clever. No more crud sticking to the filter to clog things up. t just slides right off!!!! You people at Black and Decker that designed this one deserve a huge raise! Finally, a GREAT hand vac! I love, love, love it! It's perfect. You thought of EVERYTHING. Well, almost everything. Now if you could just put it on automatic pilot to seek out the dust and crud ... Oh, well, you can't have everything. You get the idea. - S. Karppala "Mommywithsix" (
(Gettysburg, PA)

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Margaritaville G1000 Ride-Behind Tailgating Propane Grill: Grill on the Go!

2011-03-05T00:19:00.000+07:00
Cooking foods with a gas grill has exploded in popularity over the years. 60%-80% of all grilling is done over a gas grill. This is due in part because there are so many advantages in cooking with a gas grill over using a charcoal grill. Let's take a closer look at why the gas grill is so popular with the backyard chef.

1. Gas grills are very convenient to use. Most all of them use propane to heat with and they are very simple to start. It's as easy as turning on the propane and pushing the starter button on the grill. This is probably the single biggest convenience of all in cooking with a gas grill.

With charcoal grilling you have to dump in a bag of charcoal, pour lighter fluid all over it and then light them. You will need to constantly check to see if they are burning and it will take 20-30 minutes before the grill is even ready to begin cooking.

2. Gas grills have built in thermometers to assist you in cooking your foods properly. You will know exactly how hot your flame is. Most all charcoal grills lack this important feature.

3. With a gas grill you can cook several different types of food at various temperatures, all at the same time. This is because most every gas grill has separate burner controls so one side of the grill can be hotter than the other side. That makes cooking meats and vegetables so convenient. Some gas grills even have a pot warmer that you can use to heat foods in a pan, such as baked beans, or soup.

4. Another huge advantage of cooking with a gas grill is the weather. You can literally cook with a gas grill year round, even in cold weather climates with snow outside.

5. Gas grills are also much easier to clean than charcoal grills. There are no messy charcoal ashes to dispose of. A gas grill will cool off much faster than charcoal. It will allow you to be able to clean after you are finished eating your meal. You can simply remove a grill section after cooking and scrub it down. It's very quick and easy, with very little mess.

6. One big safety point to keep in mind is that propane is highly flammable. You must follow all the safety instructions when handling propane tanks. Be sure to always inspect the fuel lines and look for any cracks, or leaks. A cracked line or leak could possibly lead to a fire, or even an explosion.

Gas grills are very safe to use as long as you use common sense and follow the precautions. If you see any potential problems, check them out and get them fixed. Be sure to only use propane tanks that are approved for grilling use. Never try to use a homemade tank.

Barbecuing with a gas grill is fun and easy. It's so convenient and the foods that are cooked on a gas grill taste great! It's no wonder they are so popular with homeowners everywhere.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Cooking

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Margaritaville G1000 Ride-Behind Tailgating Propane Grill

This grill goes everywhere except inside your vehicle! Bring along a Margaritaville Tailgating Grill and your party will go on and on. Everything you need is right at your fingertips and a breeze to operate, so let the good times roll--in any direction. In each box, you will receive a full size gas grill and heavy duty steel swing arm to hold the grill during travel and the arm swivels out for grilling. Yes, you heard it correctly--the grill never goes inside your vehicle.

The grill system includes a full-size propane grill and heavy duty steel swing arm. The swing arm system fits into a standard receiving hitch. The grill locks onto the swing arm, which holds in place during transportation. The swing arm swivels out once you arrive at your location and you can be grilling in less than 3 minutes. There are 352 square inches of cooking space, a porcelain cooking grate and 20,000 BTU burner, electronic ignition for easy start up, side tables, condiment tray, and grill utensil hooks.

Product Features
Patented swing out travel arm mounts to any vehicle with a standard 2-inch hitch receiver.
Rugged outdoor design houses sturdy cast aluminum hood and powder coated surfaces for durability.
Inside the grill is a heavy gauge porcelain coated steel cooking grate for easy cleaning.
Full-sized 352 square inches of cooking surfaces and 20,000 BTUs to heat up those cheeseburgers fast!
Fold-out side tables built in for handy serving and fold-down condiment tray keeping everything at your fingertips.
Comes with 2 side tables, fold-down tray, tool hooks, and integrated legs so it can be used as a tabletop grill.
Push-button electronic ignition makes for quick starting.
uses 1-pound propane tank (not included).
Measures 21-2/5 by 29-1/2 by 21-2/5 inches.
3-year limited warranty.
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Review

Truely an amazing grill. It is huge (fits 15 big Costco Filets on it without a problem). I can easily hook it up to my large propane tank to with the included stainless steel hose. - Ronald Lewis (Florida)

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Home Hydroponics & The balanced, high quality nutrition for plants: Fox Farm Hydroponic Nutrient Trio - Quarts

2011-02-14T14:50:00.000+07:00
Last entry I've posted about How to make an Indor Hydroponic Garden, today I've found more information from Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Tech, and Virginia State University as follow;

Home Hydroponics
Author: Ruth Sorenson, Extension Technician, and Diane Relf, Extension Specialist, Horticulture, Virginia Tech

Introduction

Hydroponics is often defined as "the cultivation of plants in water." Research has since determined that many different aggregates or media will support plant growth; therefore, the definition of hydroponics has been broadened to read "the cultivation of plants without soil."

Growers all over the world are using hydroponic techniques due to the lack of a large water supply or fertile farmland. Home gardeners have used hydroponics on a smaller scale to grow fresh vegetables year round and to grow plants in smaller spaces, such as an apartment or balcony. Greenhouses and nurseries grow their plants in a soilless, peat- or bark-based growing mix. The nutrients then are applied to the growing mix through the water supply. Therefore, this is also a type of hydroponics.

Soilless gardening offers many advantages to the home gardener. Since a sterile medium is used, there are no weeds to remove, and soil-borne pests and diseases are minimized, if not eliminated completely. Properly grown hydroponic plants also are healthier and more vigorous because all of the necessary growth elements are readily available. The plants can mature faster, yielding an earlier harvest of vegetable and flower crops. Hydroponic gardens use less space since the roots do not have to spread out in search of food and water. This small space requirement makes hydroponics ideal for home gardeners, and it makes better use of greenhouse space. The big advantage to hydroponics is the ability to automate the entire system with a timer. Automation reduces the actual time it takes to maintain plant growth requirements. Automation also provides flexibility to the gardener as one can be gone for long periods of time without having to worry about watering the plants.

Hydroponics offers many advantages for commercial agriculture. Cultivating plants without soil eliminates the need for vast farmland and allows crops to be produced in greenhouses or even in the desert sands. Hydroponic techniques also allow for precise water and nutrient application directly to the roots of each plant. Water is reused in these systems and less is lost through evaporation and run-off. Therefore, arid lands, such as deserts, can be transformed into productive lands using limited amounts of water. Growing plants hydroponically is not difficult if one understands the basic principles. As long as plant growth requirements are met, there are numerous hydroponic systems that can be used.

Plant Requirements

Growth Requirements

Whether a plant is grown in soil or a soilless medium, there are many factors affecting plant growth and productivity. All plants require nutrients, water, light, and air to grow. A plant grown in soil obtains nutrients and water from the soil, when available. With hydroponics, because water and nutrients are always available, the plant is never stressed. Sunlight and air are readily available in an outdoor hydroponic system. However, for an indoor system, one must provide an adequate light source and good air circulation. Metal halide lamps, sodium vapor lamps, gro-lights, or fluorescent lights used in conjunction with incandescent light bulbs provide adequate light. Plant roots must have oxygen available to keep them alive. Healthy roots (which are white in color) are responsible for the uptake of all nutrients for the plant. If the roots die, it is impossible for the plant to survive, even if the plant growth requirements are met. Air circulation around leaves is important since it mixes the air and allows the plant to draw out the carbon dioxide necessary to carry on photosynthesis. Air circulation also helps prevent fungal diseases caused by moist, stagnant conditions. Indoor units often have a small fan to circulate the surrounding air.

Nutrient Solution

The nutrient solution is the most important factor in the success or failure of a hydroponic system. Most fertilizers commonly available in garden centers do not contain all of the 13 elements necessary for plant growth because the growing media usually provides many of them. Hydroponic plants receive nutrients from a different source; so it is necessary to use a fertilizer formulated for hydroponic systems. Hydroponic fertilizers are available from many mail order companies and a few specialty garden centers. It is important to follow the dilution rate recommended on the label and to test the solution to be sure that the pH is between 5 and 6. Simple pH test kits and pH modifiers are available wherever fish supplies are sold.

Depending on the stage of plant development, some elements in the nutrient solution will be depleted more quickly than others. Because of this, it is important to change the nutrient solution every two weeks. The old solution can be used to water other houseplants or outdoor plants. Also, make sure that the nutrient solution is kept at the original volume. As water evaporates from the nutrient solution, the fertilizer becomes more concentrated and can burn plant roots. Add water only and not more fertilizer to raise the nutrient solution back to its original volume.

Types of Systems

Water Culture Systems

Water culture systems include the nutrient film technique, aeroponics, and the aeration method.

Figure 1. Nutrient Film Technique
The nutrient film technique (Figure 1) uses a plastic trough or tube as the container through which a constant, thin film of nutrient solution flows. Plants are suspended through holes in the top of the trough. The trough is gently sloped so gravity pulls the solution back to the nutrient reservoir. There are many variations of this system, making it the most popular for the home gardener.

Figure 2. Aeroponics
Aeroponics (Figure 2) is the growing of plants in a container in which the roots are suspended in a nutrient mist rather than in a solution. The most popular container for aeroponics is an enclosed A-frame constructed of styrofoam boards. The plants are placed in holes along the sloped sides of the frame. The nutrient mist is delivered to the roots by a vaporizer or by special attachments available with drip irrigation kits. The mist clings to the roots. Any excess runs down the inside of the frame, is collected at the bottom, and is recycled back to the nutrient reservoir.

Figure 3. Aeration Method
The aeration method (Figure 3), one of the first systems to be developed, uses an aquarium air pump to bubble oxygen to the roots of plants immersed in the nutrient solution. Plants are suspended 1 inch above the solution by a 2-inch-deep mesh tray that is set into the container by placing the lip of the tray over the container's edge. A layer of inert material, such as gravel, clay pebbles, or vermiculite, is placed in the tray to provide stability for the plants while allowing the roots to grow down into the nutrient solution.

Aggregate Systems

Aggregate systems use some form of inert material to support and surround plant roots. The most common materials used are rockwool, clay pebbles, gravel, perlite, vermiculite, sand, or foam chips. The media provides plant support, allows good oxygen penetration to the roots, yet retains a thin layer of nutrients and water around the roots. One of the most common systems using an aggregate media is the flood and drain method (Figure 4). A water-holding container, such as a plastic dish pan, is filled with the aggregate and plants. The container is flooded periodically with the nutrient solution. The solution is drained back into the nutrient reservoir by opening a valve at the bottom of the container. During each cycle, the roots should be submerged in the solution for no more than 20 to 30 minutes.

Figure 4. Flood and Drain Method
Another common aggregate system is the trickle feed method (Figure 5). The nutrient solution is continuously pumped from the reservoir through a 1/2-inch irrigation tube that branches into a number of 1/8-inch tubes. These smaller tubes deliver the solution to the containers. Any excess solution is collected at the base of each container and returned to the nutrient reservoir.

Figure 5. Trickle Feed Method
A modification of the trickle feed method is called tube culture (Figure 6). A 4- to 6-inch plastic tube or bag is filled with a lightweight aggregate. Holes are made on all sides of the container for the plants. The tube is hung vertically, and an irrigation tube is positioned at the top of the container. The nutrient solution seeps through the container and may or may not be recycled when it reaches the bottom.

Figure 6. Tube Culture
Summary

Several developments in the past few years have made hydroponic gardening easier for the home gardener. Newer systems are simpler to set up and operate. An increase in suppliers of hydroponic products means equipment and special fertilizers are more easily obtained by the home gardener. The use of lightweight plastics in the newer systems makes hydroponics less expensive and a better investment than older systems that used heavy, concrete benches.

Hydroponic systems are available in a variety of sizes and prices. Kits are available from many suppliers, and some hydroponic systems can be built easily at home from materials found at hardware stores and fish supply stores. Numerous hydroponic and soilless gardening books can be found in local libraries and bookstores. Information also is available through the Hydroponic Society of America, Contact; Bill Graham, 569 E Evelyn Ave. Mountain View, CA 94041, 1-(650) 968-4070.

Nutrient Deficiencies
Symptoms Deficiency
Entire plant is light green in color; lower leaves are yellow; growth is stunted Nitrogen
Entire plant is bluish-green, often developing a red or purplish cast; lower leaves may be yellow, drying to a greenish-brown to black color; growth may be stunted Phosphorous
Leaves have a papery appearance; dead areas along the edges of the leaves; growth is stunted Potassium
Lower leaves turn yellow along the tips and margin and between the veins; the lower leaves wilt Magnesium
Young stems and new leaves die Calcium
Leaf tissue between the veins is lighter in color; yellowed; papery in appearance Zinc
Leaf tissue appears yellow, while the veins remain green Iron
Leaf edges appear dark green or blue; leaf edges curl upward; young leaves permanently wilt Copper
Young leaves turn pale green, while the older leaves remain green; plant is stunted and spindly Sulfur
Growth is stunted; lower leaves have a checkered pattern of yellow and green Manganese
Leaves are stunted, pale green, and malformed Molybdenum
Young leaves are scorched at tips and margins Boron
Occasionally, the nutrients in a hydroponic system are used up faster than they can be replaced, and the plants will show a nutrient deficiency. A quick fix for most of the deficiencies is to spray the leaves with an all-purpose, foliar fertilizer, although this will not completely solve the problem. The best remedy is to change the nutrient solution every week instead of every two weeks. In some cases, it may be necessary to switch to a different type of hydroponic fertilizer, if the same deficiencies persist. There are several books on hydroponics that give other remedies for a nutrient deficiency problem.

From: http://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/426/426-084/426-084.html

Fox Farm Hydroponic Nutrient Trio - Quarts

Product Description

Fox Farm is definitely a good fertilizer manufacturer. Their Light Warrior and Ocean Forest soils are excellent products. That being said, when you compare their nutrient trio base line to other manufacturers similar products, there is much to be desired.

You will appreciate denser vegetative growth, bigger blooms, and tastier fruits and vegetables, and they'll love getting Fox Farm's Big Bloom, Grow Big, and Tiger Bloom in one convenient package. This trio of fast-acting fertilizers will provide balanced, high quality nutrition for plants in hydroponic gardens. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Hydro for Hunger initiative.

Product Features
Contains 1 Quart Grow Big for Hydroponics
Contains 1 Quart Big Bloom for Hydroponics
Contains 1 Quart Tiger Bloom for Hydroponics
Easy to use

Review

I used this set of nutrients for my most recent hydroponic grow with very good results. I grew my plants in a mix of coco coir and perlite, then fed my plants the Fox Farms Hydroponic nutrients by following the included instructions exactly. My plants have responded very well to the regimen and are green, bushy, and producing lots of flowers. --- by Nebula Haze (U.S.)

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Functional and Affordable: Hydrofarm MGSYS Hydroponic Megagarden System

2011-02-12T16:04:00.004+07:00

How to Make an Indoor Hydroponic Garden
Author: Bailey Shoemaker Richards, eHow Contributor

An indoor hydroponic garden is a great way to grow vegetables such as tomatoes and lettuce or flowers like roses or orchids throughout the year. A hydroponic growing system is inexpensive to make and maintain, and plants can be grown very successfully using a hydroponic system. Indoor gardening is a great solution for gardeners who want to increase the number of plants they grow, and for people who have limited gardening space. Hydroponic growing is easy and fun for gardeners of all ages.

Instructions
Choose a location for your hydroponic system. Hydroponically grown plants require sunlight to grow well; place a hydroponic tank near a window if possible. Use grow lights to supplement sunlight if no windows are available for the hydroponic system.
Fill the hydroponic tank about three quarters full with water, or fill it according to the manufacturer instructions. Use clean, distilled water; hard water and water with too many minerals can damage or kill plants, especially seedlings.
Install the air pump in the hydroponic tank and turn it on. The air pump keeps oxygen and nutrients circulating throughout the water, leading to an even growth pattern for all of the plants. The movement of water and nutrients is what allows hydroponic plants to be grown without soil.
Check the pH of your hydroponic water before installing the nutrient pump, and once a week during the growing cycle. Hydroponic plants grow best in water with a pH between 5 and 6, according to the Virginia Cooperative Extension.
Install the nutrient pump and turn it on. This will provide your hydroponic plants with the nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other nutrients required for successful growth. Plants absorb nutrients at different rates; change the nutrient pack in the filter about every two weeks to ensure that plants receive enough nutrients.
Cut small circles out of the polystyrene sheet to hold your plants. Each hole should be around a half-inch in diameter; space the holes about 5 inches apart. This will allow you to plant many items in the polystyrene sheet. Enlarge the holes as your plants grow.
Place one plant in each hole in the polystyrene sheet. Ensure that the hole is not too big for the plant; plants that fall completely in the water will drown.
Place the polystyrene sheet on top of the water in the hydroponics tank. This will begin the hydroponic garden's growing process.
From: How to Make an Indoor Hydroponic Garden | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_6959519_make-indoor-hydroponic-garden.html#ixzz1DjMMtxyq

Hydrofarm MGSYS Hydroponic Megagarden System

Product Description

Whether you’re a new urban farmer or an old-school green thumb, raising your own plants is easier, faster, and more fun than ever with this hydroponic gardening system. Hydrofarm Megagarden Hydroponic Gardening System features a 4-square-foot garden space that produces 5 times the yields of a standard garden its size. That’s right. This 10-inch-tall garden system grows lettuce, herbs, vegetables, orchids and more, indoors or out--5 times faster than the standard garden--and does it without using soil.

The Megagarden works great indoors, or outside in hobby greenhouses when illuminated with a Hydrofarm Sunburst Series grow light (not included), or any grow light. At the heart of the Megagarden is a super efficient flood-and-drain pump irrigation system that ensures optimal moisture control for healthy roots. The system works by pumping nutrient solution up from a reservoir to a water tray where water levels are precisely controlled. Plants are watered uniformly on a timed cycle for optimal moisture control and healthier roots.

The soilless Megagarden’s removable grow tray measures 23 inches by 23 inches square and holds fifteen 5-inch, plastic grow pots filled with, not soil, but either the included fired-clay or pebble grow media. The system comes complete a 7-1/2-gallon reservoir, submersible pump, timer (capable of up to 12 flood settings per day), rock-wool starter cubes, 16 ounces of Hydrofarm All-Purpose Nutrient, a pH test kit, and complete instructions.

Product Features
Hydroponic garden system with 15 plastic grow pots
Includes fired-clay and pebble grow media; 7-1/2-gallon reservoir, water level indicator
Submersible pump and timer for automatic flood and drain irrigation
Also features seed starter cubes, nutrients and a pH test kit
Illustrated instructions ensure growing success

Review

I've used one of these for more than two years and I'm very pleased with the quality of the materials and how it has worked. I use mine to raise habanero chiles in my basement, and it's done everything I could have expected.

Chile plants are fairly large, so I can't use all 15 pots at once, but I don't need that many plants to keep me eating fresh habaneros all year around. Currently I have four plants - one in each corner and one in the middle. One of the plants is two and a half years old and has been an outstanding producer.

I have some other Hydrofarm equipment and I have come to trust the brand. --- by ptrillium "a reviewer"

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Functional and Affordable: Garelick 89416 16-Foot Aluminum Snow Roof Rake With 7-Inch by 24-Inch Blade

2011-02-08T15:12:00.000+07:00

Ice Dams & Roof Damage in Metrowest Boston
Author: Stephen Hall

Ice dams occur when ice builds up along the eaves of your roof. Ice dams form when snow and ice melt off the main part of your roof and refreeze when they reach the eaves. This happens because the eaves (the overhangs at the edge of your roof) tend to be colder than the rest of the roof. If the ice dam grows large enough, it may prevent water from draining off the roof. The water can then back up underneath the roof shingles and make its way inside your home.
You can take immediate steps to help prevent damage from ice dams:
Clearing snow and ice off the roof before it melts is the best way to keep ice dams from forming. If your roof is accessible from the ground, a roof rake can be a safe and effective way to remove snow from the edges of the roof where ice dams occur.
If your roof is not accessible from the ground, a contractor may be able to help.
If you cannot safely access your roof from the ground, it is best not to try. Never attempt to climb on a snowy or icy roof, and never place a ladder on snowy or icy ground. Also, keep in mind that chipping the ice with a mechanical device can be dangerous and may result in damage to the roof.
Make sure to shovel around downspouts so that your gutters can drain freely. This will help prevent ice buildups in gutters.
Properly insulating and ventilating your attic will help reduce the chances of snow melting on the roof and refreezing at the eaves.
If you suspect damage has occurred from an ice dam, contact us as soon as possible. Our claim professionals can provide tips for mitigating further damage and help you get started on the recovery process. The good news is that while ice dams can cause water leakage inside your home, they do not typically damage the roof itself.
If you have already contacted a licensed and insured contractor to help with emergency repairs, be sure to document any expenses so they can be considered for reimbursement.
http://ellisinsurance.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/insurance-articles/ice-dams-roof-damage-in-metrowest-boston-4163021.html
About the Author

@netometry

Garelick 89416 16-Foot Aluminum Snow Roof Rake With 7-Inch by 24-Inch Blade

Product Description

The Garelick 24-inch lightweight aluminum roof rake removes snow from your roof while you are at ground level. This rake prevents eave damage due to heavy snow loads and ice dams from forming. It also lets you remove the snow without climbing or damaging your shingles. The rake features a 3-piece snap pin handle that can reach up to 16 feet and a 24-inch blade with poly roller glides. The Garelick 24-inch roof rake is made in the USA.

Product Features
Size: 42-inch
Won't damage shingles
16-Foot reach using 3 easy Snap together sections
Prevents Ice dams from forming
Removes weight from snow from your roof to prevent eave damage
Blade measures 24-Inch by 7-Inch and made in USA

Review

We just had a 4 inch followed by a 13 inch snowfall within 48 hours. This is the 1st time I was really able to use it since my purchase. Lightweight, appears rugged and I heaved some large amounts of snow off my home with it. We average around 74 inches of snow per year so I look forward to using this item consistently. Easily assembled and breaks down into fairly small sections so your neighbors can borrow it without difficulty :D --- by R. Reinert "RonR" (United States)

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Great quality, great design, GREAT PRICE Crib: Graco Victoria Non Drop Side 5 In 1 Convertible Crib

2010-12-25T16:57:00.001+07:00

Graco Victoria Non Drop Side 5 In 1 Convertible Crib

List Price: $~~289.99~~
Price: $259.97
You Save: $30.02 (10%)

Product Description

Classic and elegant styling make the Graco White Victoria 5 in 1 crib an ideal choice for just about any décor. The perfect choice for safety and budget minded parents, this beautiful crib with elegant resin detailing transitions easily to a toddler bed, day bed and then a full size bed with footboard. Constructed of durable pine and top-quality hardware.

Product Features
JPMA, ASTM & CPSC safety certified
Crib converts to a toddler bed (no guard rail needed for conversion), day bed and then a full size headboard and footboard
5 year limited warranty against manufacturer's defects
3 position mattress height adjustment
Stationary drop side allows for mom to easily access baby without having to raise or lower a drop side

Review

What a beautiful Day bed. My Toddler never had a crib and I was debating if I should buy her a regular toddler bed or a multifunction crib. I am so very happy I decided on this crib, not only is it beautiful but it is not flimzy or cheap looking. It is a practical beautiful piece and worth every dime...I ACTUALLY FELT LIKE I GOT A STEAL! No one can believe I paid what I paid for it and what is so great is that it will transition to her full size bed as well and she will be able to use it in the future for her child...Boy am I getting ahead of myself! My daughter loves her own bed and feels like a Princess. Another great feature is that it is easy o put together in under an hour you will have a steardy georgeous piece. A must buy, you wont regret it! -A Happy Mama & Princess -- by NaturO

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Perfect Versatile TV Stand For The Money: Walker Edison Regal 4-in-1 TV Stand with Mount - Wood

2010-12-13T16:05:00.000+07:00

Walker Edison Regal 4-in-1 TV Stand with Mount - Wood

List Price: $~~509.00~~
Price: $248.50
You Save: $260.50 (51%)

Product Description

Display a flat-panel plasma or LCD television on this versatile 4-in-1 TV stand with mount from Walker Edison. With four different display options, the stand adapts to the specifications of the designated viewing space and the TV in question. The TV can be mounted directly to the stand, mounted to the wall, placed on the stand, or placed on the stand while a second TV is mounted to another room’s wall. The 42-inch stand boasts a 250-pound weight capacity and best suits televisions with a 42-inch screen or smaller for on-stand placement. When wall mounting, however, the stand’s removable universal wall mount accommodates screens as large as 52 inches and up to 150 pounds. The wall mount provides several different height settings, and allows tilting the screen up and down 15 degrees. To obtain the best angle for viewing, the mount swivels left to right.

The TV stand’s frame and mount feature strong steel construction with black powder coat finish, while a solid hardwood front adds style. For holding DVD players, video game systems, stereo components, and more, the TV stand provides three shelves, crafted in 8mm beveled tempered safety glass. The TV stand benefits from concealed cable management. The TV stand requires home assembly and comes with thorough instructions and necessary hardware. The TV stand measures 42 inches wide by 18 inches deep, with a 20-inch height without the mount and a 51-inch maximum height with the mount. Assembled, the TV stand weighs 80 pounds.

Product Features
Size: 42-inch
Sturdy TV stand with mount provides 4 different display modes; 3 storage shelves
Sturdy metal construction with black powder coat finish; solid hardwood front
Thick 8mm beveled tempered safety glass shelves with black silk-screened coating; swivel and tilt functions
Equipped with universal hardware wall mount for home assembly; stand supports up to 250 pounds
Stand measures 42 inches wide by 20 inches deep by 20 inches high without mount; 51-inch maximum mount height

Review

Extremely happy with this stand/mount. It was pretty easy to put together and it comes with extra screws, etc. Our tv is a 40" LED and it fit perfectly on this size stand with all our boxes and gaming systems on the shelves. I love the fact that if we move again, we can use the mount on the wall and still utilize the shelves. Very happy with this purchase! -- by mj

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Best Buy Handy Purse Hook: Color Bling Foldable Purse Hanger with Velvet Pouch and Gift Box

2010-12-06T15:23:00.000+07:00

Color Bling Foldable Purse Hanger with Velvet Pouch and Gift Box - Various Color and Mirror Designs

Price: ~~$29.95~~
Sale: $25.95 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping. Details
You Save: $4.00 (13%)

Product Description
Protect your purse from dirty floors and thieves by hanging it right next to you on the table... but most importantly, these Foldable Purse Hangers "look COOL and FABULOUS" with subtle bling effect. Our beautiful, trendy and lightweight purse hangers offer peace of mind and a nice companion accessory to your purses no matter where you go. They are engineered to support up to 15 pounds so that they can hold purses and handbags for all occasion. Each purse hanger comes with a velvet pouch which is stored behind the holding tray inside a beautiful gift box. It will certainly make a great gift!

Reviews

Purse Hanger - "This product arrived in a timely manner and in good condition. The item was pretty and packaged nicely and looked like it would work quite well." - Donnell D. Mcauliffe "ddm" (cheyenne, wy), August 15, 2010.

Extremely handy! - "This purse hangar is indispensable! I use it all the time and am continually being complimented on it. It is sturdy, beautiful (I have the ruby), and so useful. I love that I do not have to put my purse on the floor anymore. This hangar fits almost all tables unless they are really thick. It is small enough and light enough to fit nicely in a purse, even a small one, and is pretty enough that you can use it in formal settings too." - Nicole Piehl (Eugene, Oregon USA), July 9, 2010.

Read Color Bling Foldable Purse Hanger with Velvet Pouch and Gift Box more...>>>

Homes'Kit and Homes'Appliances: Hand Blender Bestseller: Cuisinart CSB-76BC SmartStick 200-Watt Immersion Hand Blender, Brushed Chrome

2010-10-27T15:35:00.001+07:00

Cuisinart CSB-76 Smart Stick Hand Blender

List Price: $55.00

Price: $25.52 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping. Details

You Save: $29.48 (54%)

Equipped with a powerful 200-watt motor, this immersion handheld blender quickly purees soups, blends batters, mixes beverages, and more. The unit's unique blade provides extremely smooth and even blending, while its protective blade guard helps prevent splattering. The blender offers one-handed operation with its lightweight design, easy-to-grip ergonomic handle, and simple push-button controls. In addition, its long shape reaches into pots, pitchers, and bowls to extend blending options, eliminating the need to dirty extra dishes. For quick clean-up, the blender’s stainless-steel shaft can go in the dishwasher and the smooth surface of the blender body wipes clean. A 2-cup plastic beaker comes included. This handheld blender measures approximately 3 by 3 by 14-1/8 inches and carries a three-year limited warranty.

Product Features
Color: Brushed Chrome
Immersion hand blender equipped with powerful 200-watt motor

Blade provides smooth blending; protective guard helps prevent splattering

Simple push-button controls and lightweight design for one-handed operation

Dishwasher-safe stainless-steel blending shaft; 2-cup plastic beaker included

Measures approximately 3 by 3 by 14-1/8 inches; 3-year limited warranty

Great kitchen tool!, October 19, 2010

By cpintx

I purchased this hand blender to make a cream of carrot soup that I had seen in a recent issue of my Southern Living magazine. My husband said that a regular mixer/blender would not give me the results I would want and that I needed one of these blenders. I compared several of these products and settled on this version because of the Cuisinart name and the great pricing. It arrived sooner than expected and a couple days later I used it in making the soup. The product directions and tips were great, and my soup turned out perfectly and delicious! The texture was amazing. I just made the soup again over the weekend while my in-laws were in town, and my mother-in-law loved the soup and asked about the blender. So, I think I will be ordering another one as a gift for her. The only thing about the blender is cleaning it. It comes apart very easily so you can wash it; however, I recommend rinsing very well right after using so you don't get any dried particles up under the blade area where it is hard to reach. Otherwise, I absolutely love this blender and can't wait to find other recipes in which to use it!

Read Cuisinart CSB-76BC SmartStick 200-Watt Immersion Hand Blender, Brushed Chrome more...>>>
Buy Best Price at Homekits

via homekits.blogspot.com

The product works as well as other blenders. The stainless head is a nice cleaning feature.

Hand Blender Bestseller: Cuisinart CSB-76BC SmartStick 200-Watt Immersion Hand Blender, Brushed Chrome

2010-10-27T15:11:00.000+07:00

Cuisinart CSB-76 Smart Stick Hand Blender

List Price: $55.00
Price: $25.52 & this item ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping. Details
You Save: $29.48 (54%)

Equipped with a powerful 200-watt motor, this immersion handheld blender quickly purees soups, blends batters, mixes beverages, and more. The unit's unique blade provides extremely smooth and even blending, while its protective blade guard helps prevent splattering. The blender offers one-handed operation with its lightweight design, easy-to-grip ergonomic handle, and simple push-button controls. In addition, its long shape reaches into pots, pitchers, and bowls to extend blending options, eliminating the need to dirty extra dishes. For quick clean-up, the blender’s stainless-steel shaft can go in the dishwasher and the smooth surface of the blender body wipes clean. A 2-cup plastic beaker comes included. This handheld blender measures approximately 3 by 3 by 14-1/8 inches and carries a three-year limited warranty.

Product Features
Color: Brushed Chrome
Immersion hand blender equipped with powerful 200-watt motor
Blade provides smooth blending; protective guard helps prevent splattering
Simple push-button controls and lightweight design for one-handed operation
Dishwasher-safe stainless-steel blending shaft; 2-cup plastic beaker included
Measures approximately 3 by 3 by 14-1/8 inches; 3-year limited warranty

Great kitchen tool!, October 19, 2010
By cpintx

I purchased this hand blender to make a cream of carrot soup that I had seen in a recent issue of my Southern Living magazine. My husband said that a regular mixer/blender would not give me the results I would want and that I needed one of these blenders. I compared several of these products and settled on this version because of the Cuisinart name and the great pricing. It arrived sooner than expected and a couple days later I used it in making the soup. The product directions and tips were great, and my soup turned out perfectly and delicious! The texture was amazing. I just made the soup again over the weekend while my in-laws were in town, and my mother-in-law loved the soup and asked about the blender. So, I think I will be ordering another one as a gift for her. The only thing about the blender is cleaning it. It comes apart very easily so you can wash it; however, I recommend rinsing very well right after using so you don't get any dried particles up under the blade area where it is hard to reach. Otherwise, I absolutely love this blender and can't wait to find other recipes in which to use it!

Read Cuisinart CSB-76BC SmartStick 200-Watt Immersion Hand Blender, Brushed Chrome more...>>>

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Kitchen Remodeling Help: How to save money on your kitchen remodeling project

2010-10-20T13:53:00.000+07:00

"Discover How I Saved Over $10,000on My Kitchen Remodeling ProjectUsing Ikea Kitchen Cabinets and You Can Too!..."

Plus Get Insider Tips to Help You Plan, Design, Organize, and Install Your Ikea Kitchen Project Like a Professional - Even If You're a Complete Remodeling Rookie with No Skills and Have Never Swung a Hammer

Discover the Secret Weapon To Getting Your
Ikea Kitchen Remodeling Project Completed
On Time, On Budget and With No Mistakes!

The Ikea Kitchen Secrets Manual is jam-packed with over 155 pages of hard hitting information including...

step by step picture tutorials that clearly explain how to take your project through the entire remodeling process - from designing the perfect layout, through cabinet installation and every step in between
money saving tips and advice that will help you complete your project on time and on budget with beautiful results you will be proud of for years to come
Over 300 close-up candid pictures of every step of the entire remodeling process that will show you exactly what to do, and how to do it...

Click Here!

Halloween Costumes: DIY Halloween Costumes to Make With Leotards or Sweats

2010-10-19T15:53:00.000+07:00
Feeling the dollar pinch this Halloween season? Skip the pricey costumes that your kids will only wear once and get creative with what you already have. A leotard, leggings or sweatsuit is all it takes to form the foundation of these awesome, easy―and completely affordable―kid costumes.

Bunch of Grapes

For a fun, frugal, and fruity costume that you can pull together while watching an episode of Project Runway, dress your little kid as a bunch of grapes.

Start with: Purple or green sweatsuit or leotard, green or purple balloons, brown tights or leggings

Add on: It's really this easy: Blow up small purple or green balloons and carefully pin the ends of them to your kid's sweatsuit or leotard, and you’re all set.

Robot

Moving boxes and aluminum foil come in handy for a quick robot costume.

Start with: Monochromatic leotard or close-fitting, gray sweatsuit

Add on: Attach shoulder straps to a box using two pieces of string and then wrap the box in aluminum foil. Continue molding the foil around your kid’s arms, legs and upper chest until his clothes are covered. For the robot's hat, cut a face hole into a small box, then place a paper plate on the top and cover it entirely with foil. Mold some aluminum in your hands for the robot's antennae and fasten them onto the hat.

Mummy

You know those old white sheets you've been meaning to trash? Turn them into strips for a perfect mummy costume.

Start with: White leotard or close-fitting white sweatsuit

Add on: Rip old white sheets into strips and wrap them haphazardly around your kid. Some white face makeup and some stiff-legged walking will complete the look.

From: ivillage.com

LIFE it isn't for the faint of heart by Cynthia Occelli

2010-09-17T14:19:00.000+07:00

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Success: A Daily Choice

As I meet more people through this blog, I repeatedly encounter the same question, "How did you turn your life around?" At first, I felt as though it would require a seven volume treatise to answer this question, but on reflection, it isn't so. The answer, like most of life's most powerful concepts, is brilliantly simple.

Creating your version of success is a daily, sometimes moment to moment, decision. It begins with a dream, one potent enough to capture your soul, that's the fun part. Bridging the distance between you and your goal is a matter of commitment, perseverance and trust that the universe will help you when you help yourself.

Small steps taken consistently over time produce massive results.

At first, it isn't easy and it will never be automatic. Each day is a blank canvas to be colored with your intention, attention and action. Too often, we live by default and stumble into the day waiting for something to react to. This muddled focus produces muddled results.

Sometimes we enter the day feeling irritated, angry or lousy. Left unchecked we will create more negativity and at a minimum waste a days worth of advancement. If the weight of current burdens is so heavy that maintaining focus isn't possible, you may lay your goal down for a moment as you grapple with matters at hand. However, know that you stand on the precipice of ruin, for so many who are knocked down by life's blows choose never to get back up. Ultimately, it is always a choice. Choose you.

Pay attention when a curve ball strikes you. Acknowledge your feelings and respond accordingly, but don't linger in unnecessary upset. You've got a life to create. Don't let minutiae take you off task. The overwhelming majority of irritations are insignificant and irrelevant in the greater scheme. Don't waste your time.

Each day, ideally before your feet hit the floor, remind yourself of what is important to you, who your best self is, and where you intend to go in the broader picture. Commit to feeding your goal with your imagination and action; both are critical. When the mind is sent to ruminate about your desires, countless subtle changes occur. Soon, pieces of your goal begin to seep into material reality. Opportunities, ideas, synchronistic events and meetings occur. That's when the gift of action is required.

It all starts with a daily decision to be your best self, as defined by you.

Choose wisely.

***************************************************************
Note:

For readers who wanted to know specifically what I do (and did) to create my best life, I endeavor to (I'm not always successful, but I am far more often than not):

1) Affirm the quality that I choose to live from: Today, I live in Love. I call it forward to be the guide in all that I do. (Yes, I still get cranky, bitchy or mopey sometimes - I am human - but the second I can redirect back to Love, I'm there).

2) I remind myself of my 5 current life goals (I don't share them until they fully manifest see: Dreaming Big & Keeping Secrets). I see myself living my version of success and commit to taking at least one step toward each of my goals today.

3) I surrender everything to the highest good in my life. For me this is key because it takes the pressure, competition and ego out of what I do. I come to this blog, my work and life completely detached from whether my actions appear successful. I know I am walking the sacred path of my life. I don't need any other endorsement.

I very clearly remember laying on my bed in the freezing garage I lived in, staring at the nails protruding from the rafters and beaming with intense joy while picturing myself living in a grand home, with my every need met, my child receiving the best education, being surrounded by people who loved me and (this one drew so much ridicule) having a maid.

I don't want to mislead here and leave the impression that I walked around spouting sunshine and rainbows all the time. Far from it, I frequently cried myself to sleep. But that is the whole point, most mornings, I decided AGAIN to succeed.

I've lived my "irrational fantasy" out for many many years.

From: http://cynthiaoccelli.blogspot.com/2010/09/success-daily-choice.html#comment-form

Unitasking Kitchen Equipment: Which Items Stay or Go?

2010-08-29T15:40:00.002+07:00
Alton Brown -- a kitchen genius in my eyes -- has strong feelings against non-useful unitaskers, those kitchen items that perform a single task. Usefulness is obviously in the eyes of the beholder and what may be a timesaving tool for you is merely clutter for me. He suggests clearing out a drawer or cabinet in your kitchen and placing all your utensils and gadgets in a separate space. As you use one, you move it into the drawer or cabinet, and you will soon see which items get enough use to warrant their existence in your home, and which ones are simply taking up space.

Er ... except what do you do when you suddenly remember those leftover items several years into the experiment, which is what happened to us when we gutted the storage room this summer. We found a treasure trove of old wedding gifts that we had been Altonizing -- an ice cream machine and crepe maker and a rice cooker that took up an entire shelf. A bread machine that Josh brought into our marriage. A box of canning equipment (side note: I made strawberry jam. Once.) Three dozen small gadgets such as the onion chopper (which is different from the Cuisinart prep; which, by the way, is different from our large Cuisinart).

Alton Brown has his own list of unitaskers that should make the cut, but our list keeps in mind a small kitchen with two working parents and two young kids. This is what we kept and why, as well as what we gave away (and how my list differs from Alton's):

Keepers

Ice cream maker: we're actually on our second ice cream maker at this point and having a bit of a homemade ice cream renaissance. Buying a carton of Breyers is ten times easier and tastes good too, but ice cream making is one of those places where kids can participate and get creative. Our kids think up flavour combinations they wish they could find in the freezer section. And it's one of those things that make dessert feel special, but you can make the batter ahead of time and then set the machine running during the meal when you're having a dinner party. In other words, it gets a big "wow" from the table without a lot of work on your end.

Crepe maker: this is one of those items that didn't leave the box for probably 8 years, but is now being used so frequently that I rarely put it away. Here's the thing with crepes -- the batter is best if made ahead of time. So I pull together a double batch when I have time and then leave it in the refrigerator. A few minutes before dinner needs to be served, I pour a few spoonfuls into a pyrex pie dish, dip the crepe wand into the batter, and toss off 12 crepes in under 10 minutes. I keep dinner exciting by changing the filling. It's much faster than pancakes and easier to clean up. Therefore, for a family with young kids, this unitasker becomes a lifesaver.

Cuisinart: it's a pain to clean, so I only use it if I'm shredding a large amount of ingredients (if I have to grate one potato, I do it by hand. If I have to grate 10, I'm using the Cuisinart). But during those times, it saves an enormous amount of time. There are recipes I'd probably never bother making if not for the Cuisinart. Best use of the Cuisinart -- to make Morning Glory muffins. Just pop in the apple and carrot for a quick shred.

Kitchenaid: this is the one gift we got for our wedding that never made it into the basement. It's just too damn useful. I make bread several times a week using the kneading hook. I throw together cookies and cake batters. I love that you can dump the ingredients in and walk away from the machine while it does the bulk of the work for you.

Indoor grill: It was dormant for a long period of time, but I'm now using it as both a back-up plan when the weather won't cooperate outside, and as our winter grill. I know it's merely an electronic pan and not an actual grill, but the food ends up tasting as if it has been grilled. Sort of. Can I just chalk it up to the fact that everyone needs a back-up plan when their main method of cooking is at the whim of the weather?

Dumpers

Rice cooker: this didn't make the cut, and it's probably more a testament to how often we eat rice vs. the tool's usefulness. You need to be eating an enormous amount of rice to warrant a tool this large in your kitchen, and we're eating a positively minuscule amount in the rice cooker world: about 3 cups per week. Instead, we use a 2:1 ratio of water to rice, get the water to a rolling boil, dump in the rice, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. 20 minutes later, we have perfect rice and all we've used is a multitasking pot.

Breadmaker: this is another machine that was given away. Josh brought it into the marriage and while others swear by it, I feel like it removes everything I love about breadmaking. No matter how much time it saves me, I don't want a machine taking away the moments I find therapeutic, namely, the kneading. Plus, the smell that comes off the bowl when you remove the towel to punch down the loaf after the first proof.

Wish List Items
Of course, there are unitaskers I've coveted for years, but have so far managed to tune out their siren song (and the fact that I've lived without it for this long probably should tell me that I don't need it).

Waffle maker: like the crepe maker, except without the flexibility of the crepe (waffles feel like a one-note food, whereas crepes can be filled with thousands of things).
Stick blender: I'd love to be able to blend the soup in the pot without transferring it to the blender.
Blender: and on that note, I'd love a new blender. One that can crush ice. Our current blender is too wimpy to make mixed drinks.
Cherry pitter: I don't eat enough cherries to warrant getting one, but damn, if I had one, I'd probably start making tons of pies.

What unitaskers get heavy use in your kitchen? Which ones are languishing in a cupboard somewhere? Which ones do you wish, wish, wish that you had?

From: http://www.blogher.com/unitasking-kitchen-equipment-which-items-stay-or-go

August 25, 2010 4:00 am by Melissa Ford in Food

Petsumer Report™ "It's about time somebody told me!"

2010-06-18T14:15:00.000+07:00

Would you give your pet a food that contained
ingredients from China?

Would you give your pet a food that contained
chemicals linked to cancer?

Would you feed your pet meat from diseased,
drugged animals?

You might be right now and not even know it.

The truth...

Pet Food labels are legally allowed to lie to you. Regulations allow a pet food to make "unqualified claims, either directly or indirectly" on pet food labels. 'Healthy Weight' or 'Extend Your Pet's Life' might be an "unqualified claim".
Although tainted Chinese imported ingredients were responsible for killing thousands of dogs and cats in 2007, although China continues to struggle with quality control, many pet food manufacturers continue to purchase cheap ingredients from China.
Modern science has linked many common pet food ingredients to cancer and serious illness. Despite the option of healthier choices (costlier choices), many pet food manufacturers continue to use cheap, risky ingredients.
The FDA, despite Federal law prohibiting it, allows pet food manufacturers to utilize sick, diseased, drugged and even euthanized animals as common pet food ingredients; camouflaged under less offensive sounding ingredient names.

Petsumer Report tells you what the Pet Food label does not!

For a limited time...
A full one year subscription of Petsumer Report™ Online will cost you less than $1.50 per month. That's less than the cost of one premium cup of coffee a month - (as of March 2010 there are over 1,700 pet foods and treats reviewed).

$17.95 for a one year online subscription.
Click Here to Order Petsumer Report™ Online

7 Simple Tips for Healthy Holidays

2009-12-24T15:35:00.001+07:00

Healthy Child Healthy World

Sometimes the stress from holidays can result in big headaches. But, a lot of other things about the holidays can impact your health as well. Follow these simple steps to make this year's holidays your healthiest ever.
Indulge in the only the best food by going organic. Special occasions call for scrumptious goodies. But indulging doesn't have to mean sacrificing your family's health. This year, strive for very special holiday meals made of the freshest organic foods. Today, you can find organic ingredients for every type of celebratory food, from free-range turkey to a mouth-watering apple pie. Look for the USDA Organic seal to be sure that you are buying foods produced without synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, growth hormones, genetic engineering, irradiation and petroleum- or sewage sludge-based fertilizers.
Watch out for those brightly colored foods and candy! Holiday treats like candy canes and other goodies can be hard to resist. But many of our favorite sweet treats are full of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives, some of which have questionable safety records. Saccharin, for example, is known to cause cancer in laboratory animals. Serve your child a well-balanced diet of whole foods and let your child indulge in moderate amounts of candy and other holiday treats. Read "Limit Your Child's Intake of Food Additives" for a list of potentially dangerous food additives that should definitely be avoided.
To perfume the air with a holiday fragrance, simmer spices such as cinnamon sticks and whole cloves. Special scents create a festive holiday mood. However, scented candles, incense, air fresheners and other fragrance products are filled with chemical cocktails that can pollute indoor air, causing headaches, fatigue and other symptoms. Scented candles tend to produce more black soot than nonscented candles. And some candles-particularly those made in foreign countries-are made with stiff, metal wicks, which often contain lead. When lit, these candles release lead dust. Both soot and lead can be inhaled or ingested by small children, which may lead to health problems. Soot contains suspected carcinogens and lead causes brain damage. Learn more about non-toxic holiday aromas.
Raid your kitchen pantry to make your house sparkle for holiday guests. Cleaning your house in preparation for guests is one holiday tradition no one cherishes. To make it less unpleasant to all concerned, use mild, nontoxic cleaners. Most cleaning can be accomplished with a few nontoxic items from your kitchen pantry such as baking soda, washing soda and vinegar (to name a few). These ingredients can even be used to polish the silver! Learn more Recipes for Safer Cleaners.
Be aware that holiday lights may contain lead. In many electronic products, wires and cords are coated with PVC plastic, which is where the lead is found. Lead is used in PVC wires and cords to make it more flexible and reduce the risk of fire. Lead is also used in many PVC products to stabilize the color. The amount of lead in the lights and other consumer products may vary considerably and it is not clear if the amount of lead that is released poses a risk to human health. Some tests show that lead could come off in the hands. It's best not to let children handle the lights. The adult that does handle them should wash his or her hands immediately afterwards.
Retire that old, plastic tree. Plastic Christmas trees may appear to make environmental sense, because they can be used for many years. And about 20 million households put up a tree that is 9 years old or older. But old Christmas trees, which are made of PVC, are a potential health threat to children. PVC has been dubbed the most toxic plastic. One reason is that PVC contains significant amounts of lead as a stabilizer. In 2002, Foundation E.A.R.T.H. discovered that as these plastic trees age, they release lead dust, which collects on tree branches and the floor beneath the tree. Most of the plastic trees come from China and they exceed U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommendations for lead levels in consumer products. Lead is an extremely toxic heavy metal capable of producing long-term behavioral and brain damage, even at low doses. To be extra safe, don't let your children touch or handle a plastic tree or crawl underneath it. Don't keep presents underneath it either, as they will collect any lead dust that falls. Better yet, purchase a fresh, organic tree this year - it's a renewable resource that can be recycled!
This holiday season, burn a safer fire. As you cozy up to the fireplace this winter, remember that particles and gases from fires can make breathing difficult, especially for asthmatics. Make sure you ventilate well. Dry wood burns hotter and cleaner than "green" wood and hardwoods are better than coniferous trees, or evergreens. (That includes your Christmas tree, which is better off recycled.) For more tips, see How To Build a Safer Fire. Note: Fires also emit carcinogens, so keep fires to a minimum.

From: WebMD Blogs on Wednesday, November 18, 2009

How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others; Inner Architect: How to Build the Life You Were Designed to Live (Paperback)

2009-11-20T13:15:00.000+07:00
How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

We are all different yet we have a tendency to compare ourselves to others. Why? Because the marketing business makes money, because others compare us to themselves or other people, because some people get a boost out of putting us down, and from all these experiences we start feeling not good enough. Comparing yourself to others is unhealthy and unnecessary. Here's how to stop.

Steps
Recognize that comparing yourself to others is a bad habit. Culture often projects flawless skin, big eyes, full lips, small nose, pure white teeth, smooth and shiny hair, curvy body, and designer clothes for women and they portray them as being happy. They portray tall men with flawless skin, six packs, and designer clothes with lots of women, and they define that that is what makes a man happy. Culture is extremely successful in being able to brainwash people into believing they should look a certain way, act a certain way, be a certain someone, when in reality every single one of us is different. What culture does is categorize people and they want you to believe that you have fewer rights to be happy because you do not fit an idealistic lifestyle. That's why lots of men and women resort to plastic surgery, hide away from society, and grow up thinking that there's something wrong with them. Comparing yourself to others, especially celebrities, is a fine way to throw your self-esteem down the drain as there will always be those who are 'better' than you, and those who are 'worse' than you. In the end you will most likely end up wishing you were different with thoughts of worthlessness. It takes you nowhere, wastes a lot of time, and puts you in a psychologically terrible place.
Realize that everybody is different, because we are. People are born to be different; no two of us are the same. We have different mindsets, we interpret things differently, we have different experiences, we feel different emotions. Even identical twins are different from each other. We all will always have room for improvement; nobody is flawless, whether it is on the outside or on the inside. As much as some people may want to believe otherwise, nobody is perfect.It would be wise to stop letting people get to you, and be open-minded and aware of what you are doing to others. Something you can do is start thinking how different they are from you.
Stop being afraid to be yourself. Whatever size, color, religion, gender, race, or sexual orientation, don't be afraid to be yourself. Nobody but you has the right to dictate what you do, what you think, and what you believe in. There is only one you; nobody has more rights over another person to live. Everybody comes into the world the same way; we all age, feel, analyze, and eventually die, so nobody is more special than another. We are all different. If you've forgotten who you are, find yourself again.
Forgive and learn. Learn to recognize that holding a grudge only ties you down from what you really want out of life. Untie the knot and set yourself free. Better yet, analyze and learn what actually hurt you, and prevent it from happening again in the future.
Understand that not everything is possible. You might have heard the saying, 'nothing is impossible'. In reality that's only denialism and false hope. You can't fly, change the weather, time-travel, change the past, live forever, make someone else change unless they are willing to, fit in with everybody, or be somebody else. There are many more things that cannot happen in reality. Be yourself and appreciate where you are now.
Learn to deal with change and embrace it.

Whatever makes you happy, whatever floats your boat. If you feel you need self-improvement and have set yourself an attainable goal, go for it. If you believe that you really need change, do it now. Be sure that you're doing it because it will make you happier, rather than impressing somebody else. For example, stop swearing if it makes you feel better. Learn to meditate. Start helping others. Learn a new skill. Improve your reading speed. Learn how to write poetically, work towards a better grade, be nicer to someone, try to be more outgoing, train yourself to run faster, learn how to wear makeup better, find clothes that will fit your frame, be a better wikiHow contributor, work harder towards that promotion, learn to better manage your time, change your habit of being a perfectionist, etc. Do it because you feel good about it, not because you feel bad about yourself. This is your life.
From: wikihow.com

Inner Architect: How to Build the Life You Were Designed to Live (Paperback)
by
Susan Hanshaw

The only how-to guide to creating a life you love leads you through six phases of creating change in your life. Highlights include:

Phase 1: Considering Change
Recognize your choices
How your values validate your unhappiness
How to use prior experience as a model for change

Phase 2: Designing a Job You Love
How to claim your right to love your job
How to believe your potential is unlimited
How to discover your passions and purpose

Phase 3: Breaking Through Fear
How to eliminate your fear of money
How to strengthen your belief in yourself
How to trust your heart and instincts

Phase 4: Creating Your Plan
The importance of a plan and how to create one

Phase 5: Building from the Inside Out
How your thoughts and words influence your outcomes
How to use visualization to build your new life
How to develop habits that consciously create what you want

Phase 6: Moving into Your New Life
The importance of claiming your new life and how to do it
How to break through the insecurities of being new
How to break through barriers to success

Inner Architect is a proven recipe for building a new life. Key components include:
1. Steps: Providing the foundation for growth in the format of how-to s, tips and steps.
2. Exercises: Enabling you to get clarity on your obstacles, ideas, visions and necessary steps for moving forward.
3. Keys to Evaluate: Provided at the end of every step for checking in on doubts and deeper obstacles.

About the Author

Author Susan Hanshaw abandoned a thriving 20-year corporate career, culminating with a position as Vice President and second-in-command of her firm, to create a life with greater passion and purpose. Her journey away from the corporate world provides the substance for Inner Architect, and the workshops, keynote speaking and one-on-one coaching she does to promote this work.

Susan holds a BS degree in Business Management from Keene State College, NH, an AA in Psychology from Skyline College, CA and Ordained Ministerial Counselor certification from Pathways of Light Spiritual College, Kiel, WI.

Organic Backyard Gardening

2009-11-12T15:34:00.001+07:00
Organic Backyard Gardening

5 Easy Tips for Beginners

There's nothing like picking your own vegetables and eating them straight from the garden. Start an organic garden in your own backyard with tips from Ann Thrupp, director of sustainability at Fetzer Vineyards in California.

What's organic gardening, exactly? Growing organically means eliminating synthetic chemicals (commonly used for pest control and soil nutrition), as well as encouraging biological diversity by planting a mix of species and rotating plants over time.

Note that if you plan to sell your produce, you must follow specific rules as defined by federal law in order to claim that the produce is organic. The term "organic" is defined by the National Organic Standards; details can be found here.

Tip #1: Start with Compost

Having good, healthy soil is crucial to a healthy organic garden, and one way to start improving soil quality is to mix compost into your soil. You can make compost from your own yard trimmings, grass clippings and food waste (such as peels from fruits and vegetables, and even egg shells). Once the mixture is composted, which usually takes a few months, that rich compost can be incorporated in the soil, adding valuable nutrients and biological activity. If you can't wait to make your own, you can purchase compost at most garden centers or nurseries.

Tip #2: Choose Carefully

When you begin planting, usually in the spring, choose vegetables or other plant species that are well-suited to your climate and that tend to be resistant to pests and diseases. Check with your local nursery or university extension service to find out which plants are best suited to your climate.

I tried growing broccoli in my garden, but it really didn't work in the soil that I have: The broccoli was stunted, and the leaves yellowed. I found out later that the soil had too much clay, did not drain well, and needed more nitrogen. I could have fostered nitrogen by adding more compost and manure, or by planting soy beans as a cover crop before planting the broccoli. The lessons to me were: Grow plants that are suited to your environment and soil, and ensure your soil is healthy and well-prepared.

Tip #3: Mix Things Up

Planting a diversity of flowers or other plants in a garden is known as "interplanting" (or sometimes "companion planting"), an approach that helps to protect crops against insect pests. It's wise to interplant flowers or herbs between or around vegetables in order to attract beneficial insects and encourage natural pest control.

You can use small plant "starts" that can also be purchased locally. If you start with seeds, it's helpful to put seeds into little pots or a flat tray first, and then transplant them when they are a few inches tall.

Tip #4: Repel Pests Naturally

Plant marigolds, chrysanthemums, dahlias or clematis vines in and around your garden. These aromatic flowers are natural bug repellents because they have strong scents, called olfactory inhibitors, which may confuse or repel insect pests looking for crops to feed on. These flowers also may act as "trap" plants that entice pests away from crops: Nasturtium flowers, for example, act as a trap crop for aphids. In addition, these flowers attract certain types of beneficial insects (such as lacewings, hoverflies, ladybugs and pirate bugs), which help control insect pests that feed on vegetables.

Tip #5: Grow Easy

Your organic garden should be a source of pleasure, not frustration. The best plants to grow organically vary depending on where you live, but squash, cucumber, watermelon, tomatoes, peppers, greens, green beans and herbs, as well as all the "natural insect repellent" flowers I mentioned earlier, are relatively easy to grow organically in many climates.

From: iVillage.com

Green Grocery Shopping on a Budget

2009-11-11T14:47:00.002+07:00
Green Grocery Shopping on a Budget

by Erin Walsh

Want to green your grocery cart, but think organic foods are out of your price range? Think again. If you pick and choose your spots and know how to shop smart, you can make healthy purchases that are good for you and your wallet.

Sally Fallon, author of the best-selling cookbook Nourishing Traditions and founding president of the Weston A. Price Foundation, shares some easy, budget-friendly tips on where to shop, how to navigate the aisles, and what's important to buy organic (and what's not).

Where to Shop

As organic goes mainstream, organic foods are starting to show up everywhere—not just in specialty stores and high-end chains like Whole Foods. Fallon suggests checking out these trusty (and probably less expensive) alternatives:

Farmers' markets: Although "local" doesn't necessarily mean "organic" (be sure to ask!), farmers' markets are generally great places to find organic fruits and vegetables.

CSAs: Consider joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). These groups purchase vegetables directly from organic farmers and have them delivered to central drop-off locations in nearby cities.

Supermarkets: That's right—if you're willing to do a little extra legwork, you can usually find good organic alternatives at your regular neighborhood supermarket.

The Staples

If you're just starting to make the transition to organic, the smartest plan of attack is to prioritize your grocery list—i.e. invest in a bottle of good olive oil before splurging on organic chocolate. Fallon recommends getting started with these staples (which, even if you can't find organic, are still a good way to start improving your diet):

Proteins: Eggs; chicken; luncheon meats

Fats: Butter; olive oil; coconut oil

Dairy: Cheese; full-fat plain yogurt; cream

Carbohydrates: Potatoes; oatmeal; brown rice; sourdough bread

Beverages: Sparkling water; freshly squeezed juices; herbal teas

Condiments: Sauerkraut; kim chee; mustard; ketchup

Avoid At All Costs

Just as important as knowing what to buy is knowing what not to buy. As a general rule, Fallon advises steering clear of the following items and ingredients:

Proteins: Commercial chicken; highly processed luncheon meats

Fats: Commercial cooking oils, margarines and spreads; anything "partially hydrogenated"

Dairy: Low-fat dairy products; anything ultra-pasteurized

Carbohydrates: White bread; white rice

Beverages: Soda; anything containing high-fructose corn syrup; anything containing synthetic vitamin D2, which can have toxic effects

Condiments: Anything containing high-fructose corn syrup; anything with lots of additives and colorings

Pick Your Battles

It doesn't have to be all or nothing. Even if you can't buy 100% of your food organic, it's still worth your while to splurge on key items. The secret, explains Fallon, is buying organic where it counts. Since chicken and pork are usually grown in total confinement, for example, it's probably worth it to pay extra for the organic versions; beef and lamb, on the other hand, are still grown at least partially on pasture—so they are good conventional choices for shoppers trying to keep costs down.

When it comes to fruits and vegetables, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a great resource. The nonprofit research organization publishes a list of fruits and vegetables with the most and least pesticides, so you'll know which ones to buy organic, and which conventionally grown ones are okay when the organic version is cost-prohibitive or not available.

Best fruits (least pesticides):

Avocados
Pineapples
Mangoes
Kiwi
Bananas
Papaya
Worst fruits (most pesticides):
Peaches
Apples
Nectarines
Strawberries
Cherries
Grapes (imported)
Pears
Vegetables

Best vegetables (least pesticides):

Onions
Sweet corn
Sweet peas
Asparagus
Cabbage
Broccoli
Worst vegetables (most pesticides):
Sweet bell peppers
Celery
Lettuce
Spinach
Potatoes
Carrots

Shopping Tips

Fallon shares a few last words of advice before sending you off to greener pastures:
Go easy on yourself. Don't be obsessive about going organic!
Make the transition slowly. Don't throw out everything in your fridge and start from scratch; just buy a few new items each time you go to the store.
Join a CSA. Getting fresh vegetables from a farm will encourage you to try new foods for your family. To find a CSA near you, contact your nearest chapter of the Weston A. Price Foundation.
Shop the "edges" of the supermarket. Make whole foods from scratch rather than spend a lot of money on organic processed foods.
Strive for real, whole food, not just organic food. A plain old baked potato with conventional butter is always better than a frozen organic potato mixed with additives or fried in oil.

Foot Baths - Heated foot bath, Feel the Rhythm of Your Feet

2009-10-27T15:39:00.002+07:00

Foot Baths - Heated foot bath

Product Description

Treat yourself to a stress-relieving foot massage with the revolutionary Aqua-Jet Foot Massage Spa exclusively from Brookstone! With two powerful motors, two rotating hydro jets and soothing heat source, the Aqua-Jet Foot Massage Spa relieves tightness and relaxes your tired feet in a matter of minutes.

This Brookstone foot massager will leave your feet feeling completely rested and invigorated. Order today. Indulge in a soothing 115 degree portable foot whirlpool bath for your feet. Aqua-Jet's dual hydro jet nodes massage foot arches and stimulate important reflexology zones to provide optimal foot relaxation.

Built-in heating quickly raises water temperature up to 115 degrees and maintains the temperature for the duration of your massage. Its cordless remote control lets you control both water temperature and water speeds without having to reach down to press buttons. Also includes a removable pumice stone that you simply add to the warm water to exfoliate your rough and dry skin during your massage. Large basin accommodates up to size 13, male foot.

Auto shut-off if basin is without water. Available only at Brookstone, the Aqua-Jet heated whirlpool foot spa is a wonderful way to relieve tension at the end of a busy day. It's also the perfect stress-reducing gift for a loved one in your life.

Order yours today! Important: Any individual who may be pregnant, has a pacemaker, suffers from diabetes, phlebitis, and/or thrombosis, or is at an increased risk of developing blood clots due to recent surgery, or who has pins/screws or anything mechanical in their legs, ankles, or feet should consult with a physician before using a massaging device designed for home use.

Product Features
Large basin accommodates up to size 13, male foot
Splash cover keeps the water in the basin
Shuts off automatically if basin is without water
Cordless remote
Two therapeutic rolling nodes

Feel the Rhythm of Your Feet

by Cyndi Freiman, Reader Digest (September 2009)

Get back to basics and make regular walking a joyful experience, suggests Cyndi Freiman.
Whether you stroll, saunter, amble or stride, walking is good for you.

From a health perspective, walking is the key to managing weight, controlling blood pressure, and reducing the risk of a stroke, breast cancer, diabetes and myriad other ailments. A brisk daily walk lengthens your life, decreases the risk of depression and elevates your mood and sense of wellbeing. According to Harvard teaching hospital Beth Israel Medical Center, walking lowers total cholesterol and increases high-density lipoproteins (HDL) or the ''good cholesterol.''

From a psychological viewpoint, walking offers an opportunity to clarify thoughts, to solve problems and to reduce stress. If you establish a rhythm that is relaxing and peaceful, walking can also become a form of meditation. Walking regularly with someone else enables a friendship to blossom as the pair of you exercise. My husband and I enjoy our regular walk ''dates'' and use the time to discuss issues without distractions.

Also, the best way to explore some of the world's great cities is on foot. Walking stimulates the senses and enables you to enjoy a rich engagement with life around you. The poet William Wordsworth is said to have circumnavigated the world seven times during his lifetime. He reputedly delighted in the simple truth that ''going for a walk is an invitation for surprise.''

Here are some tips to get going:
Get a walking buddy and commit to meet each week at a set time.
Get a dog and you'll have a constant walking companion.
Choose a location that is picturesque but accessible.
Start with a moderate walk, then increase the pace and distance.
Include some hills and stairs.

Nutrient Deficiencies
Symptoms	Deficiency
Entire plant is light green in color; lower leaves are yellow; growth is stunted	Nitrogen
Entire plant is bluish-green, often developing a red or purplish cast; lower leaves may be yellow, drying to a greenish-brown to black color; growth may be stunted	Phosphorous
Leaves have a papery appearance; dead areas along the edges of the leaves; growth is stunted	Potassium
Lower leaves turn yellow along the tips and margin and between the veins; the lower leaves wilt	Magnesium
Young stems and new leaves die	Calcium
Leaf tissue between the veins is lighter in color; yellowed; papery in appearance	Zinc
Leaf tissue appears yellow, while the veins remain green	Iron
Leaf edges appear dark green or blue; leaf edges curl upward; young leaves permanently wilt	Copper
Young leaves turn pale green, while the older leaves remain green; plant is stunted and spindly	Sulfur
Growth is stunted; lower leaves have a checkered pattern of yellow and green	Manganese
Leaves are stunted, pale green, and malformed	Molybdenum
Young leaves are scorched at tips and margins	Boron

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Product Features

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Product Features

Kitchen Remodeling Help: How to save money on your kitchen remodeling project

"Discover How I Saved Over $10,000on My Kitchen Remodeling ProjectUsing Ikea Kitchen Cabinets and You Can Too!..."

Plus Get Insider Tips to Help You Plan, Design, Organize, and Install Your Ikea Kitchen Project Like a Professional - Even If You're a Complete Remodeling Rookie with No Skills and Have Never Swung a Hammer

Discover the Secret Weapon To Getting YourIkea Kitchen Remodeling Project CompletedOn Time, On Budget and With No Mistakes!

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LIFE it isn't for the faint of heart by Cynthia Occelli

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7 Simple Tips for Healthy Holidays

How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others; Inner Architect: How to Build the Life You Were Designed to Live (Paperback)

Susan Hanshaw

Organic Backyard Gardening

Green Grocery Shopping on a Budget

Foot Baths - Heated foot bath, Feel the Rhythm of Your Feet

Product Description

Product Features

Feel the Rhythm of Your Feet

Discover the Secret Weapon To Getting Your
Ikea Kitchen Remodeling Project Completed
On Time, On Budget and With No Mistakes!