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Not all Halloween Treats are Equal

2016-10-24T20:00:00.000-04:00

For years, our kids loved to sort candy after a night of Trick-or-Treating.

But not all candy are created equal. Especially now that Dova has braces.

According to Great Expressions Dental Centers, here are facts and simple tips to make your Halloween a safe and healthy one.

FACT: Sticky candies, such as caramel and taffy, increase the chances of broken brackets the day after Halloween.
TIP: To prevent this from happening to your child, or a neighbor, pass out individually-wrapped stringed cheese instead! Cheese is tasty and its calcium and phosphates help neutralize plaque acid, and ultimately reduces cavities. It will also play nice with brackets.

FACT: 73% of kids ages 2 -5 will eat candy on Halloween. The highest consumption rate, however, is among 6 – 8 year olds, 87% of which eat candy on Halloween.
TIP: Avoid letting your trick-or-treaters fill up on sweets. Before sending your little vampire out to trick-or-treat, let them snack on fruits and vegetables. Jack-o Lantern oranges and carrot fingers are fun and festive snacks for your appetizer table.

FACT: Sweets that are chewy and sticky can get stuck between teeth, leading to tooth decay.
TIP: Be sure to run from gummy candy, sour candies, and taffy. Instead pass out sugar-free lollipops and hard candies, sugar-free gum, and dark chocolate.

Happy Halloween everyone!

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Great Expressions Dental Centers for promotional movie passes and dental kits.

Giveaway - Harbor Sweets Gather Chocolates

2016-09-06T16:35:00.000-04:00

What's better than hand-crafted chocolates? Harbor Sweets is working with Pollinator Partnership to aid in their efforts to preserve and protect honeybee pollinators. Now you can indulge in gourmet chocolate delicacies and help raise awareness of the plight of the honeybee. A portion of the sales from Gather (2.5%) will be donated to the Pollinator Partnership.

In each "flight" of Gather Chocolate (similar to how you sample beer or wine), there are six varieties of honey-infused dark chocolate. A six-piece box is $12.50 and 12-piece box is $18.50.

Caramelized Honey
Pomegranate Molasses
Sesame Crunch
Cashew Caramel
Coconut Cluster
Sour Cherry

We split the chocolates amongst my family members and each of us enjoyed them, even the milk chocolate lover. Each chocolate has a rich and distinct flavor, without being too sweet. Harbor Sweets is located locally in Salem, Massachusetts and sold in high-end grocers, gift shops and online. Check out the story behind Gather.

*** If you'd like to win a six piece box of Harbor Sweets Gather Chocolate, check out the easy entry methods in Rafflecopter below (click read more if necessary) . The giveaway ends on September 22th at 12:00am and is open to residents of US and Canada. All entries are verified, good luck! ***

I received samples of the Gather chocolates for this review and giveaway. Yum!

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Review - Brookstone uSqueez App Foot and Calf Massager

2013-03-20T23:12:00.001-04:00

If you don't have a personal masseuse at home to massage your legs and feet after a long day, then you would best be rejuvenated by the OSIM uSqueez App-Controlled Foot and Calf Massager offered by Brookstone.

Since this version of the uSqueez Massager is app-controlled, you can connect wirelessly with an iOS device and control your massage. What a great way to spend some quality me time, with an iPad and massage!

The uSqueez comes with preset programs which you can run, my favorite was "Pulse".

The preset programs are also available through buttons on the side of the uSqueez so you don't have to use an iPad or iPhone to control it. Through the app, you can also customize a manual massage.

Or you can peruse the app to find interesting facts about massage.

Since I'm not much of a manual reader, I also learned that you can change the angle of the uSqueez with a flip out bar.

The only problem is keeping the rest of the family out of the uSqueez! The one complaint we had was that it was a little tight for people with athletic calves. Once you squeeze yourself in, the massage is strong and effective!

Special thanks to Brookstone for loaning an OSIM uSqueez App-Controlled Foot and Calf Massager to review.

The Harlem Globetrotters at the DCU Center, March 17th, 2pm

2013-02-19T20:49:00.001-05:00

Looking for an awesome event the whole family will enjoy? Get your tickets to the Harlem Globetrotters brand new "You Write the Rules" tour. Your family's smiles will start before you even get to the game as the Globetrotters take kid participation to a whole NEW level. Your family can vote at harlemglobetrotters.com and decide rules for the game that could affect the final outcome. With rules like double the points for every basket, and two balls in play at the same time, there's an exciting rule that every kid will enjoy. After the game, Globetrotter stars will stay on court to sign autographs and take photographs with your kids. The only thing better than finding an awesome event for the whole family, is getting a great deal on it. Use the promo code "USFAMILY" when you buy tickets for your family to save $7 on each ticket purchased at http://www.harlemglobetrotters.com/tickets*. Get ready to experience the show your family will remember for a lifetime!

Here's a video we took of the Harlem Globetrotters at TD Garden in Boston last year.

You can get your tickets here http://www.harlemglobetrotters.com/tickets and don't forget to use the promo code USFAMILY to save $7 on every ticket!
*Discount available on select seating levels "

Special thanks to US Family Guide for providing two tickets for this event!

Giveaway - The Great Race from Barefoot Books

2013-01-29T13:15:00.002-05:00

Ever wonder about the story behind the animals of the Chinese zodiac? The Great Race from Barefoot Books retells this story with vibrant illustrations. It also provides intriguing notes about the Chinese calendar, annual festivals, and character traits of the animals that rule different years. I am a horse, which are popular, independent and fun. But of course!

My nine year old daughter enjoyed the book as well, although she felt that the cat was cheated by the rat. Hint, have you heard of the Year of the Cat? It doesn't exist! Celebrate the year of the Snake this Chinese New Year on February 10th with your own copy of The Great Race. Xin nian kuai le!

To learn more about Barefoot Books, check out their history, blog, and podcast.

*** If you'd like to win your own copy of The Great Race or another title from Barefoot Books, head to their site and provide your favorite title (other than The Great Race) in the comments. Please add your entry to Rafflecopter (click read more if necessary) and check out the easy ways to earn more entries. The giveaway ends on February 14th at 12:00am and is open to residents of US and Canada (no PO boxes please). ***

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Giveaway - Brookstone Shiatsu Bed Lounger

2013-01-09T22:52:00.000-05:00

After my work day is done and the family is fed, I always head to the bedroom for some quality time with my iPad®. OK, this really means that I do a few rounds of Bejeweled Blitz and enter the Cubis Creatures tournament, but nonetheless, it's finally me time! With the Brookstone Shiatsu Bed Lounger, I have the added benefit of Shiatsu massage for my lower back as well as a spot to charge my iPad.

The massage action of the Brookstone Shiatsu Bed Lounger is quite effective with four kneading nodules. If you'd rather just lounge, a padded cover folds over the massage nodes. The best part of the Brookstone Shiatsu Bed Lounger is that the foam is firm and durable, and doesn't loose its shape like the old "husband" pillows of yesteryear.

These days, my kids have abducted my lounger for sitting on the floor in living room. Who needs a couch when you can get a massage watching TV or playing video games?

*** If you'd like to win your own Brookstone Shiatsu Bed Lounger, head to their site, answer an easy peasy questions in Rafflecopter below (click read more if necessary) and check out the easy ways to earn more entries. The giveaway ends on January 25th at 12:00am and is open to residents of US and Canada. ***

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Special thanks to Brookstone for providing the Shiatsu Bed Lounger for review and the giveaway.

iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Giveaway - Brookstone eComfort Tablet Pillow and Dustin Touchscreen Cleaner

2012-12-03T22:02:00.001-05:00

The Brookstone eComfort Tablet Pillow is finally the answer to using an iPad® in bed. I've always enjoyed using laptops and now my iPad in bed, but there's always the problem of cold hands after holding the device too long. The eComfort Tablet Pillow beats traditional case stands by securely holding an iPad upright on a soft surface completely hands free. With the rotation lock feature of the iPad, I can even lie sideways in bed and enjoy an iBook.

The eComfort Tablet Pillow can hold 10" tablets as well as 7" tablets including the Kindle® Fire. I would recommend removing the case while using the eComfort Tablet Pillow, as the X-stand tends to squish most cases. I've switched to using a thin Smart Cover as they are easy to remove for the eComfort Tablet Pillow.

If you're an avid tablet gamer or have kids that use tablet devices, the Brookstone Dustin 2-in-1 Touchscreen Cleaning Cloth is a must have accessory. We are constantly cleaning our screens and absolutely love this handy device. They come two in a package, so we don't even have to fight over them.

*** If you'd like to win your own Brookstone eComfort Tablet Pillow and Dustin Touchscreen Cleaner, head to their site and answer a few easy peasy questions in Rafflecopter below (click read more if necessary) and check out the easy ways to earn more entries. The giveaway ends on December 16th at 12:00am and is open to residents of US and Canada. ***

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Special thanks to Brookstone for providing the eComfort Tablet pillow and Dustin for review and the giveaway.

iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Kindle is a registered trademark of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates in the United States and/or other countries.

Giveaway - Acorn Crosslander Mule Shoes

2012-11-06T14:06:00.000-05:00

It's autumn and time to put away the flip flops and put on some cozy footwear! These Acorn Crosslander Mule Shoes are the perfect companion to crisp cool days. They are extremely comfortable, well constructed and super stylish.

I bought my first pair of Acorn slippers in 1996 and have always been impressed with their comfort and quality. Acorn has since branched out to shoes, boots, socks and more. It's obvious from their selection that they are still committed to quality materials, super sharp casual styles and ultimate comfort.

Acorn is sponsoring a Facebook "Love You" contest with $5000 worth of prizes, plus the chance to become product testers or even "star" in an Acorn footwear ad campaign. Just create an Acorn self portrait describing "what makes you, you?" on their Facebook page application.

*** If you'd like to win your own pair of Acorn Crosslander Mule shoes, head to their site and tell me your favorite Acorn footwear product and choice of color for the Crosslander Mule in Rafflecopter below (click read more if necessary) and check out the easy ways to earn more entries. The giveaway ends on November 24th at 12:01am and is open to US residents. ***

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Special thanks to Acorn for providing the Crosslander Mule shoes for review and the giveaway. No other compensation was received.

Giveaway - Brookstone Rover 2.0 Wireless Spy Tank

2012-10-31T06:47:00.002-04:00

Brookstone has come back again this year with a faster, cooler Rover 2.0 Wireless Spy Tank. In sleek black, the Rover 2.0 is faster, and now records video as well as still photos. As soon as I hooked it up the iPad to its wireless network, my kids once again took the controls intuitively.

Now we can capture the true chaos that is my kids on video.

You don't need to trust super sleek product photo, it is really that cool looking, especially with the controllable headlights.

And there's no escaping the Rover's all knowing eye!

*** If you'd like to win your own Rover 2.0 Wireless Spy Tank, head to their site and tell me what your favorite feature is in Rafflecopter below (click read more if necessary) and check out the easy ways to earn more entries. The giveaway ends on November 16th at 12:01am and is open to residents of US and Canada. ***

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Special thanks to Brookstone for providing the Rover 2.0 Wireless Spy Tank for review and the giveaway.

Giveaway - Brookstone iConvert Scanner

2012-06-07T22:52:00.000-04:00

The Brookstone iConvert Scanner is every digital hoarder's dream! I purchased my first digital camera in 2000, one month before my first child was born. So all my son's and then my daughter's photos were digital, but there are so many documents and photos that aren't. In the past, I used my printer/fax/scanner machine to scan photos but it was a tedious process. I scanned artwork and portraits from school and other items such as birthday cards to save digitally. Now it is even easier with the iConvert Scanner.

The iConvert scanner works perfectly with my new iPad 3 as well as older iPad models. You simply plug it in and the app will automatically come up in the iTunes app store. It comes with a power adapter but it also works from a powered USB hub with a standard USB cable (not included - it was just easier to power it this way on my desk).

One of the really cool features of the iConvert scanner is that it will scan any size paper from a business card to a full 8.5x11" sheet. The scan will be automatically cropped to the proper size. Check out my cool new business card, it even has a QR code (the square barcode... Also I crossed out the phone number - you didn't want that anyway).

Being the resident software test engineer person as well software developer at my job, I like to test things to their fullest. So I threw a variety of things at the scanner. One of them was this note that Dova wrote on a napkin.

Dear Mom, I can't stand another minute with Adam. Please don't let him annoy me! He threw me on the couch and I hit my head on the wood. He has been bothering me so much. Love, Dova.

Yup, it scans napkins. And artwork. Check out these cozy kittens on a rug.

Last but not least, it scans photos. Here's the artist of these creations.

The scanner is extra handy compared to the old-fashioned kind and we are always thinking of new things to scan. The quality has been outstanding as you would expect from all Brookstone products.

*** If you'd like to win your own Brookstone iConvert Scanner, tell me what device you'd use the speaker with in Rafflecopter below (click read more if necessary) and check out the easy ways to earn more entries. The giveaway ends on June 24th at 12:01am and is open to residents of US and Canada. ***

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Review - Spot It by Blue Orange Games

2012-05-12T23:16:00.001-04:00

Looking for a great family game that's hours of fun and super easy to learn? Spot It from Blue Orange Games has taken a favorite "spot" in our family. The premise is simple. On any two cards, there is always one and only one matching symbol. Spot it and you win. Sounds easy, but with different size images, it can sometimes take a sharp eye. Sometimes you can get on a roll with the same image, which makes the game fast and exciting.

My engineering mind marvels at the fact that only one image matches between any two cards. With 22 different images and eight images on each card, you would think it would be impossible, but sure enough, it works every time.

Spot It is for ages 7 to adult and my 8-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son love it. For younger kids, Blue Orange also offers Spot It Jr. for kids ages 4 and up. Check out Spot It on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter and buy it on Amazon.

Special thanks to Blue Orange Games for providing the Spot It game for review. No other compensation was received.

Giveaway - Brookstone Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard Pro for iPad

2012-04-30T07:39:00.000-04:00

When considering a Bluetooth keyboard for your iPad, have you considered the ability to remove the keyboard to type more comfortably (although not necessarily poolside in a turquoise bikini as shown above)? How about premium supple leather (in my favorite leather color)?

The Brookstone Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard Pro is the must have accessory for the everyday user to the executive looking for the very best in iPad accessories. The keyboard has excellent tactile feedback and is super easy to pair to your iPad or even a smartphone through the wireless Bluetooth connection.

With the iPad and the keyboard, you can do some serious work editing documents, writing emails and even blog posts (you can bet this one was written using it!). With the keyboard, your iPad screen is no longer half-filled with the graphic keyboard which makes creating content much easier and rewarding.

The leather case extremely high quality and stylish. The iPad sleeve and bezel fit well and all the iPad controls are readily available. But you know what? You can use the volume controls right on the keyboard, as well music controls, brightness, home screen and locking the screen.

The iPad is secure in the leather case and well protected against accidental drops. The removable keyboard is held in place magnetically and the integrated stand hold the iPad at the perfect angle. All together, the combination of the iPad, case and keyboard is a bit heavy and bulky, but it's a small concession to make considering the huge jump in productivity.

I absolutely love my Brookstone Bluetooth Keyboard! It makes my iPad as useful as a laptop with a keyboard. The Bluetooth Keyboard Pro is available from Brookstone online or in stores for $149. You can also check out the Bluetooth Keyboard with Tech-Grip Case and the original Bluetooth iPad Keyboard Case for $99 each.

*** If you'd like to win your own Brookstone Bluetooth Keyboard Pro, tell me what device you'd use the keyboard with in Rafflecopter below (click read more if necessary) and check out the easy ways to earn more entries. The giveaway ends on May 16th at 12:01am and is open to residents of US and Canada. ***

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Review - Kidz Bop Ultimate Hits

2012-04-16T21:23:00.000-04:00

On May 8th, Kidz Bop will be releasing their Ultimate Hits CD featuring the most popular releases from their hugely successful line of Kidz Bob CDs, "sung by kids for kids". As I heard about it,

I Gotta Feeling May 8th is going to be Dynamite! We’re going to Party In The USA with the release of KIDZ BOP Ultimate Hits! The California Gurls will be dancing to all 13 hits this Fire Burning summer! You don’t need to be a Billionaire to get a copy, its only $13.98!

As well as these hits, the Ultimate Hits CD contains, Tik Tok, Break Your Heart, Hey Soul Sister, DG Got us Falling in Love, You Belong with Me, Single Ladies and Fireflies. The songs are excellently produced and even contain kid-friendly lyrics (I want to be a Billionaire, so very bad).

My 8-year-old daughter immediately began singing along with the songs. She knew all but two of them already and within two playings, she was singing along with those catchy tunes as well. She gives it a two huge thumbs up and a huge smile!

Special thanks to Kidz Bop for providing a review copy of the CD. No other compensation was received.

Giveaway - Disney On Ice Presents Mickey & Minnie's Magical Journey

2012-03-22T23:23:00.001-04:00

Disney On Ice is back in town for April vacation in Massachusetts! Our plans to visit Walt Disney World in April were squashed when DirectAir went under, but we are still planning to enjoy the Disney's magic locally. The last Disney On Ice show we attended was spectacular in every sense, and everyone is looking forward to this latest installment. Disney On Ice presents Mickey & Minnie's Magical Journey runs from Thursday, April 19 to Sunday April 22 at the DCU Center in Worcester. Here's the show description:

Make imagination your destination! Join Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on a journey into the magical worlds of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Peter Pan and Lilo & Stitch. Discover Ariel and Sebastian’s enchanting undersea kingdom; visit the Pride Lands with Simba and Nala; soar through starry skies with Peter Pan and his sassy fairy friend Tinker Bell; and say “aloha” to fun with Lilo and Stitch. You'll be captivated by the music, beauty and laughter in a journey so magical, you’ll never want to go home.

We cannot wait until school vacation for this event! Check out the YouTube video and ticket information.

*** If you'd like to win a family four pack of tickets to Disney On Ice presents Mickey & Minnie's Magical Journey on April 19 at 7pm, tell me your favorite Disney character in Rafflecopter below (click read more if necessary) and check out the easy ways to earn more entries. The giveaway ends on April 9th at 12:01 am and is open to anyone who can attend the Worcester show. ***

April 11, 2012 - If you didn't win tickets and are still interested in attending, check out these offers for the Friday and Saturday night performances (4/20 and 4/21):

Offer: Kids Tickets $10 – Friday Night
Offer: Kids Tickets $10 – Saturday Night

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISNEY ON ICE is a trademark and service mark of Disney.
Disney images and characters ©Disney. All Rights Reserved.

Special thanks to Feld Entertainment for providing the family 4 pack of tickets for the giveaway and for my family.

Giveaway - Brookstone Big Blue Live Wireless Bluetooth Speaker

2012-02-21T23:31:00.001-05:00

If there's one thing that is inconvenient about the iPhone, it is getting quality sound without having to plug it in or dock it. As a musician, I routinely dock my iPhone in Bose SoundDocks around my home when I am learning fiddle pieces or for accompaniment. I am serious about my sound! But what about the times where I just want to listen to music casually? I either have to don the earbuds, plug in speakers or deal with the tinny speakers on the phone itself.

Thankfully, Brookstone has come through with the answer to my problems! The Big Blue Live Wireless Bluetooth Speaker packs a great sound in a small package. It plays music in your library as well as from apps like Pandora. In fact, my son especially loves to listen to music while playing Bejeweled so he came time the explosions to the music. Whenever we hang out in my bedroom, my kids always ask to listen to "Big Blue". The sound is surprisingly full range, with big bass. It is not as clear as high end speakers, but perfectly fine for casual listening.

Big Blue Live is truly wireless in that it has a rechargeable battery so you can easily take your sound with you for about 4 hours. It was easy to pair to my iPhone (very similar to pairing a Bluetooth headset) and syncs up quickly when turned on. There are controls for volume as well as skipping tracks and fast forward/reverse. It even has a built-in microphone so you can use it as a wireless speakerphone.

*** If you'd like to win your own Brookstone Big Blue Live Wireless Speaker, tell me what device you'd use the speaker with in Rafflecopter below (click read more if necessary) and check out the easy ways to earn more entries. The giveaway ends on March 4th at 12:01am and is open to residents of US and Canada. ***

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Special thanks to Brookstone for providing the Big Blue Live speaker for review and the giveaway.

Giveaway - Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream in Boston

2012-01-18T23:51:00.000-05:00

Looking for a spectacular entertainment during February school vacation? Get ready to watch Rapunzel's ride of a lifetime as Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream featuring characters from Tangled. The show is runs from Friday, February 17 to Sunday February 26 at TD Garden in Boston. Here's the show description:

Get tangled up in the newest thrilling show to hit the ice, Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream. Experience Disney’s hilarious hair-raising escapade, Tangled; as Rapunzel, her unlikely companion, Flynn, and Maximus, embark on an uproarious journey that takes adventure to new lengths! Boogie to the beat of the bayou with Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen in a magical, musical journey that all begins with a fateful kiss. And fanciful dreams become reality as Cinderella meets her Prince Charming, with a glass slipper fit for an unforgettable fantasy come true. All your favorite princesses take to the ice in a spectacular finale at the ultimate Disney Princess event of a lifetime! Experience the beauty, sparkle, and spirit when Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream comes to your hometown!

We cannot wait to start our school vacation with this event! Check out the YouTube video and ticket information.

*** If you'd like to win a family four pack of tickets to Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream on February 17 at 7pm, tell me your favorite Disney character in Rafflecopter below and check out the easy ways to earn more entries. The giveaway ends on February 3rd at 12:01am and is open to anyone who can attend the Boston show. ***

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISNEY ON ICE is a trademark and service mark of Disney.
Disney images and characters ©Disney. All Rights Reserved.

Special thanks to Feld Entertainment for providing the family 4 pack of tickets for the giveaway and for my family. I will be writing a fair and honest review after the show and no other compensation will be received.

Review - Tribe Hummus

2012-01-17T23:52:00.000-05:00

February is American Heart Health Month and a great time to think about eating healthier. Tribe Hummus offers a way to lower the risk of heart disease with all natural ingredients and none of the bad stuff like artificial flavors, preservatives, hydrogenates oils or high-fructose corn syrup.

And hummus doesn't have to be boring, Tribe Hummus offers flavors like Spicy Red Pepper and Olive Tapenade. We tried the Zesty Spice and Garlic and were thrilled with the flavor. Living in Massachusetts, we also like to support local companies and was happy to learn that Tribe Hummus is based in Taunton, MA.

So if one of your New Year's resolution is to eat healthier, or if you are concerned about heart disease, Tribe Hummus is a tasty way to address both.

Special thanks to Tribe Hummus for providing samples for review. No other compensation was given.

Review - Brookstone Rover Spy Tank

2011-11-18T00:14:00.001-05:00

Here's a cool iPhone/iPad controlled device that's sure to please kids of all ages. I always had my eye on the AR.Drone Quadricopter, but really, who can afford a RC helicopter? The Brookstone Rover Spy Tank is the next best land-based option. Check out the fun my kids had with it.

Adam loved to get up close and personal to it.

Yup, that close. The wi-fi connection to my iPhone was super easy to set up and the Rover was super easy to control, even by 7yo Dova. The streaming video was great for giggles and the snapshot button was well used. Over and over.

Wait, did the Rover spy mom jumping in the kitchen? This super shot was taken by Dova the controls. See? Super easy to use.

In addition to the all important snapshot button, the Rover's movements are easily controlled by using the touchscreen arrows or by G-drive which uses the iPhone or iPad accelerometer. It also has a night vision mode which lights the way in the dark to sense ghosts, or in this case, ghostly kids.

After playing with the Rover, I had a little trouble hooking back up to my home wi-fi, but after a quick reset of my router, it was smooth sailing. For a fun family toy for the holidays, you can get the Rover Spy Tank at Brookstone for $99.99.

Special thanks to Brookstone for providing the Rover Spy Tank for review as part of the Brookstone Review Crew.

Try It On at GlassesUSA

2011-10-26T00:00:00.000-04:00

I've been a long time online shopper of inexpensive prescription eyeglasses for my kids and myself. The kids still go through glasses every 4 to 6 months and at buying glasses at a tenth of retail is a no-brainer. But my own eyeglass prescription is very strong, requiring significantly more expensive high index lenses. The last time I purchased glasses online, I went for some fashionable rectangular lenses, forgetting the fact that a wide frame make high prescription lenses extremely thick on the edges. Plus the wide lenses gave my face the "smashed in" look on the sides. If I had the opportunity to try these frames in a store, I may have realized that the frames would not have worked on my face with my prescription.

When I had the opportunity to review glasses from GlassesUSA.com, I was glad to search for some smaller frames. The one thing that I really liked about GlassesUSA was their virtual mirror. Other sites also allow you to upload a photo, but you can never really tell the scale of the glasses in relationship to your face. GlassesUSA provides a pupillary distance ruler so you can scale your photo to match the size of the frames. See how exact it is?

You can also compare eyeglasses easily and send photos to friends to check out. Yes, those are the real prices for the frames and basic lenses at $38!

I received my glasses within a week and was extremely pleased with the quality of the frames and workmanship. With my new smaller frames, the high index lenses were the thinnest on the edges that I've ever seen. When I wore my new glasses to work, my co-workers complimented me, saying that my face no longer looked "smashed in" and that I didn't look extremely near-sighted anymore. Wow!

Next time you are looking to buy glasses, check out GlassesUSA.com. They are high quality, inexpensive and delivered lightning fast. Also check out these coupon codes!

Buy one pair of glasses and get any other pair for FREE! Use code: BOGOUSA
Take 10% off any order. Code: Blog10

Disclaimer: GlassesUSA provided a gift certificate to cover most of the cost of my glasses for review. No other compensation was provided.

Review - Brookstone Rechargeable iPod and iPhone Battery Backup

2011-09-16T00:32:00.001-04:00

Brookstone Rechargeable iPhone Battery Backup

If there's one thing the iPhone lacks, it's a long battery life. I charge my phone every night, but if I forget, I am in trouble the next day. Or if I'm traveling and my main connection to the world is through my phone, it will drain down long before the day is done.

That's where Brookstone Rechargeable iPhone Battery Backup comes in. It's small enough to carry in my handbag and in a pinch, it provides many more hours of charge depending on what I'm doing. With the handy retractable USB cord, you can charge both the battery and the phone at the same time. I've found that battery provides enough power to operate your iPod or iPhone, but doesn't really charge it. Once my phone was completely dead, and it didn't turn on after several minutes on the battery alone. But once I plugged the phone into an A/C outlet for a few seconds to revive it, I was able to unplug it from the wall operate on just the battery.

If you're like me and can't live without your iPhone or iPod working at all times, the Brookstone Rechargeable iPhone Battery Backup will definitely come to the rescue.

I'm reviewing the Brookstone Rechargeable iPod and iPhone Battery Backup as part of the Brookstone Review Crew, but I actually purchased it on my own. Well worth it!!

Review - LELO Personal Massagers from Brookstone

2011-09-16T00:29:00.002-04:00

LELO Alia Personal Massager from Brookstone

If you're looking for the regular family fare review, you can skip this post. But if you're looking for a something a bit more spicy yet classy, look no further than this line of LELO personal massagers from Brookstone. After all, Brookstone has all the gadgets to make every man in your life happy, why not reciprocate for the women?

The first question that I had was, "Why would I want to spend over $100 for a vibrator?" First of all, Brookstone sells personal massagers, not vibrators. And the fact that I can post these photos of the LELO line of personal massagers is a testament to their beautiful Swedish designs. Simply holding a device that is beautiful rather than grotesque or vulgar one sets you up for classy experience instead of a embarrassing one.

The LELO Alia Personal Massager is rechargeable and waterproof. It looks nothing like a personal massager, but works wonders with its six adjustable vibration modes (especially the random pulse one). The lowest setting teases and purrs and the highest setting is plenty powerful yet amazingly quiet. The hole in the middle is perfect for holding on to; it simply won't slip out of your hands. Plus, it's fun for men and women alike.

The aptly named LELO Gigi Personal Massager is shaped to for those who prefer G-spot stimulation. The five adjustable modes (unfortunately it doesn't have Alia's random pulse) also range from a slow purr to a powerful yet quiet roar. The rechargeable battery and body-safe, phthalate-free silicone are testament to LELO's thorough design process.

So do the LELO personal massagers deliver a $100 "experience"? Considering that of all the free products I've gotten from BlogHer have all been left in the dust, absolutely. It satisfies and is definitely worth the money.

LELO Gigi Personal Massager from Brookstone

Special thanks to Brookstone for providing the LELO Gigi personal massager for review as part of the Brookstone Review Crew. I loved it so much that I purchased the LELO Alia personal massager myself.

Review - Vinturi Wine Aerator from Brookstone

2011-09-12T22:44:00.001-04:00

Vinturi® Wine Aerator from Brookstone

I’ve always known that you need to let wine “breathe” before you pour and drink, but I never had to patience to wait before indulging. Now with the Vinturi Wine Aerator from Brookstone, I can finally taste what I’ve been missing.

In a side-by-side taste tests, the Vinturi consistently makes red wine taste smoother and more flavorful. From bottles of fine wine to less expensive “box” wines, it works with everything. It does require two hands to pour and hold the aerator, which can be challenging with box wines (where you have to hold the glass as well). Otherwise, it is well worth using and takes no extra time to produce better tasting wine.

One drawback is that you really wish to have it while dining out. Thankfully, Vinturi now makes a travel wine aerator, so you can be a wine snob wherever you go.

Vinturi Travel Wine Aerator from Brookstone

For the geeks, the name Vinturi is a brilliant play on words between “vin” (wine in French) and venturi, the reduction in fluid pressure that results when a fluid flows through a constricted section of pipe.

Special thanks to Brookstone for providing the Vinturi Wine Aerator for review as part of the Brookstone Review Crew.

Review - Brookstone Universal Phone Holder

2011-08-24T00:31:00.001-04:00

Brookstone Universal Phone Holder

Normally, I carry my huge hobo handbag which has a pocket for my iPhone as well as a slew of other items including... Wait! A women doesn't disclose what's in her handbag! But sometimes I just want to travel light. The Brookstone Universal Phone Holder is the perfect solution. I can take my phone, my license, and my credit card and go without the extra weight of every store card from my area, hand sanitizer, dental floss (I'll stop here).

The description on the Brookstone site states that the Universal Phone Holder fits the BlackBerry® smartphone and Android™-based phone. But I can tell you that it fits my iPhone perfectly, even with a thin hard shell case. There is a slick pull tab on the backside to pop the phone out quickly. It is made with quality leather and is minimalist yet stylish.

If you're looking for the perfect gift for a gadget-obsessed mate or friend, the Brookstone Universal Phone Holder will not disappoint.

Special thanks to Brookstone for providing the Universal Phone Holder for review as part of the Brookstone Review Crew.

Review - Brookstone Compact Rolling Traveler Suitcase

2011-08-24T00:02:00.001-04:00

Brookstone Compact Rolling Traveler with Removable Laptop Sleeve

Having to travel a fair amount for work, I have settled on a routine using a rolling carry-on suitcase for my clothes and shoes and a large backpack for everything else. The backpack contained my laptop, separated liquids and gels, books and magazines, iPod, noise cancelling headphones, sweater, food, water, and anything else I needed for the flight. The rolling suitcase went in the overhead bin and the backpack went under the seat in front of me. I was an expert at looking the part of the hip professional traveler. Little did I know there was a much better way.

When I first received the Brookstone Rolling Traveler, I was apprehensive about having to pull two rolling suitcases. But it turned out to be much easier than I thought. In fact, my back and shoulders were suddenly liberated from the often crushing weight of my backpack. Sure, I could piggyback my backpack onto my rolling suitcase, but that often made the suitcase tippy and I was always wary of dragging it through puddles. Now with two rolling suitcases, I was able to whiz through airports and parking lots with ease.

The size of this compact rolling suitcase is designed so that it can fit under an airline seat. It fit even on a small commuter jet with plenty of foot room. The suitcase held everything that my backpack used to hold, but with much more flair. There is a perfectly sized magazine pocket in the back and the side zip pockets are great for accessing smaller items. The front top pocket is perfect for holding essential items such as your wallet, passport, cell phone and boarding pass. It is a bit tight to pull out the whole suitcase in the middle of a flight (especially if you're in the middle seat), but it is doable and all items are fairly accessible.

The laptop sleeve worked well for pulling out and replacing the laptop quickly during the security scan. On my outgoing flight I put the laptop sleeve in the back of the suitcase, which left some dead room around the retractable handle, and on the return flight I put the laptop sleeve in the front of the suitcase. Leaving the laptop in the front left much more usable room in the suitcase as whole, but it did make reaching the items behind it more difficult during the flight.

The construction of the suitcase is top notch and has survived a cross country flight as well as an overnight stay without a scratch. Now this hip traveler has finally graduated from the backpack to this Brookstone Compact Rolling Traveler. Hooray!

Special thanks to Brookstone for providing the rolling travel suitcase for review as part of the Brookstone Review Crew.

Giveaway - Propel Zero Gift Pack (10 Winners)

2011-03-31T00:31:00.001-04:00

Through April 24th, Propel is giving away more than 3 million samples of the new Propel Zero at participating Walmart stores. Propel Zero has no calories while keeping the same great, natural fruit flavor. Propel Zero offers a great way for active women and men to replenish (vitamins C & E), energize (B vitamins) and protect (antioxidants) their bodies.

Propel Zero is also holding an online sweepstakes where one lucky winner and their referring blogger will each win a year’s supply of Propel Zero. The winner will be selected at random from their Facebook page.

Here is what you need to do to enter their sweepstakes:

Find Walmart sampling locations and dates here
Snap a photo of yourself with your favorite Propel Zero flavor at a sampling event (or wherever you happen to be)
“Like” Propel Zero on Facebook
Upload your photo to the Propel Zero Facebook wall and answer the question: “I stay active by… ” (running, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, taking my dog for a walk, etc.)
Tell us the name of the blogger you heard about the sampling from – (in this case “Stretching a Buck”)
Check back on April 29 for the lucky winner

In the meantime, I have 10 Propel Zero gift packs to give away! The gift packs consist of:

Two 20 oz bottles of Propel Zero
A Propel Zero t-shirt
Three coupons for a free single-serve Propel Zero
All in a drawstring backpack.

*** If you'd like win one of the 10 Propel Zero Gift Packs, like Propel and mommy bytes on Facebook and leave a comment below. Please include your email address in your comment. ***

For extra entries, promote this contest by tweet (using @mommybytes and #propelzero), Facebook, StumbleUpon, or other social media and leave a separate comment for each with the URL or username. Up to five entries per person.

This giveaway ends April 15, 2011 at 11pm EST and is open to US residents.

Special thanks to Propel Zero for sponsoring this contest.