I want to wish all my readers a very Merry Christmas today! Have a wonderful day and a happy New Year!
Friday, December 25, 2009
Merry Christmas!
I want to wish all my readers a very Merry Christmas today! Have a wonderful day and a happy New Year!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: "Wrapping" Things Up
Well, Contest Corner's very first Holiday Gift Guide is coming to a close today. I want to thank everyone for making this event so much fun! There are still a few giveaways going on, so be sure to enter for you chance to win a cupcake keychain, MyClyns, and Softlips - the winners will be drawn in January, so there's something to look forward to after the post-holiday letdown! And if you're scrambling to finish your shopping today and are running out of ideas for those loved ones that are hard to shop for, don't fret; you can still browse the gift guide recommendations for inspiration!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Softlips Organic Review & Giveaway
Earlier in the gift guide, I recommended Softlips Winter Flavors as a great stocking stuffer for tween girls. But don't leave mom out of the fun! Softlips have an organic line called PURE that would be a perfect stocking stuffer for the grown-ups on your list. And one lucky Contest Corner reader will win a set of Softlips PURE lip balms, so read on!
About Softlips PURE:
Here's a little info on the new line that Softlips forwarded me:
"Softlips PURE, the line of premium organic lip conditioners, has launched four new flavors- now available in new Peppermint, Acai Berry, Papaya and Chai Tea. The newest Softlips® PURE flavors, which are 100%-natural and USDA-certified organic, are formulated with the same quality moisturizing ingredients as the original organic flavors –Pomegranate and Honeydew – to condition the lips, helping to keep them soft and healthy naturally.
Softlips PURE is free of synthetic chemicals and harmful ingredients, utilizing only all-natural emollients and conditioners, including organic oils, beeswax, shea butter and vitamin E that are USDA-certified organic. The product line also contains no animal by-products and is not tested on animals. The product is mounted on recyclable packaging that is printed with vegetable-based ink.
Softlips PURE lip conditioners in pomegranate and honeydew are available in mass retail, supermarket and drug stores nationwide for the suggested retail price of $2.99. Look for the newest flavors – Peppermint, Acai Berry, Papaya and Chai Tea – on display in the natural beauty section of select Target stores."
I love these lip balms - they go on smooth as silk, and the flavor is awesome. I love Chai tea, so I am in love with the Chai lip balm! As you make your rounds and pick up the last few bits and pieces for Christmas, you might want to swing by Target and get a few of these as a last-minute stocking stuffer.
Win It!
One lucky Contest Corner reader will win a set of the Softlips PURE flavors - Peppermint, Acai Berry, Papaya, Pomegranate and Chai Tea! Giveaway ends January 7th. Here's how to enter:
1. For your first entry, click here to check out makeup tips from Softlips. Then come back here and let me know which tip you like the best!
This step is required to qualify for the drawing. Be sure to leave an email address with your comment, so that I may notify you in the event that you are the lucky winner!
Want extra entries? Do any of the following, and leave a separate comment for each one:
2. Write a post on your blog linking to this giveaway and Softlips. Then come back here and leave me the link!
3. Write about this on Twitter, then come back and leave me the link to your tweet! One Twitter entry per person.
4. Subscribe to my blog updates by entering your email into the "Subscribe" box in the sidebar. Then come back and leave me the email you subscribed with!
5. Become a follower of my blog by clicking the "Follow" button in my sidebar! Then come back here and let me know in a separate comment!
6. Grab the Holiday Gift Guide badge and put it on your website's sidebar or links page - just copy and paste the following code, and let me know where you put it:
7. Post my regular button on your website's sidebar or links page - just copy and paste the following code, and let me know where you put it:
Rules, regulations, and other important stuff: Giveaway ends on January 7th at 11:59 PM, PST. Winner will be chosen the following day via Random.org. Winner has 48 hours to respond to my notification email, or a new winner will be chosen in their place. Giveaway is open to US residents.
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Gotta Catch Santa Claus Review
I love watching Christmas specials whenever they come on; it always brings back that magic of the holidays from my childhood. We all know the traditional favorites - Peanuts, Rudolph, and so on - but every once in a while a new cartoon comes out that is special. Gotta Catch Santa Claus is a fun filled classic in the making, sure to be enjoyed by children.
William Shatner stars as the voice of Jolly Old St. Nick himself, making a few tongue-in-cheek references to Star Trek as he gives orders to his elves. Santa is being chased by a little boy named Trevor, who is on a mission to find Kris Kringle and prove to his disbelieving friend that Christmas magic really does exist. This was a cute movie, and it was funny watching Trevor's skeptical friend Veronica listing all the scientific reasons why Santa couldn't possibly exist. Gotta Find Santa Claus is packed with fun songs, lighthearted humor, and plenty of Christmas magic.
Catch Santa yourself wherever DVDs are sold, or on Amazon for $16.49
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Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Do What You Want, Be What You Are: The Music of Daryl Hall & John Oates Review
I love Hall and Oates, so this is my Christmas present to myself! Their music makes me happy because it's so infectious and upbeat, and makes me feel warm and nostalgic. I was delighted to review this box set, because it is such a comprehensive collection. All of our favorite hits are on here - "Private Eyes", "Maneater", "I Can't Go For That (No Can Do)", "Out of Touch", and so much more - but there is also a treasure trove of material that I was unfamiliar with, as well as 16 previously unreleased songs. This four-disc set covers their entire career from 1966 to the present day, and also includes a booklet packed with glossy photos and little known facts. It was fascinating to read their commentary on writing and recording the songs - I loved the story about the making of "Method of Modern Love", where John Oates explains how they got a percussion sound by banging a water canteen with a mallet and putting it through a Synclavier. If you or someone on your gift list is a Hall & Oates fan, I'm sure you'll enjoy this as much as I do!
Do What You Want, Be What You Are: The Music of Daryl Hall & John Oates is available wherever music is sold, and can also be found on Amazon for $44.98.
Track Listing:
Disc: 1
1. Girl I Love You - The Temptones
2. I Need Your Love - The Masters,
3. Say These Words of Love - The Temptones
4. Perkiomen
5. I'm Sorry
6. Fall in Philadelphia
7. Waterwheel
8. Lilly (Are You Happy)
9. Had I Known You Better Then
10. Vegas Turnaround
11. She's Gone
12. You're Much Too Soon
13. Is It a Star
14. It's Uncanny
15. Love You Like a Brother
16. Lady Rain [Live][Previously unreleased]
17. Beanie G. and the Rose Tattoo [Live][Previously unreleased]
18. Better Watch Your Back [Live][Previously unreleased]
19. Abandoned Luncheonette [Live][Previously unreleased]
20. When the Morning Comes [Live][Previously unreleased]
Disc: 2
1. Camellia
2. Sara Smile
3. Alone Too Long
4. Gino (The Manager) [2009 Remix][Previously unreleased]
5. Ennui on the Mountain
6. Out of Me, Out of You
7. Back Together Again
8. Rich Girl
9. Crazy Eyes
10. Have I Been Away Too Long
11. August Day
12. It's a Laugh
13. I Don't Wanna Lose You [7" Remix]
14. Wait for Me
15. Time's Up (Alone Tonight)
16. Woman Comes and Goes
17. How Does It Feel to Be Back
18. You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling
19. Kiss on My List
20. Everytime You Go Away [Live][Previously unreleased]
Disc: 3
1. You Make My Dreams
2. Private Eyes
3. Head Above Water
4. Did It in a Minute
5. Your Imagination
6. I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)
7. Don't Go Out [Previously unreleased]
8. Maneater
9. Family Man
10. One on One
11. Go Solo
12. Say It Isn't So
13. Adult Education
14. Out of Touch [7" Version]
15. Method of Modern Love
16. Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid
17. Possession Obsession
18. The Way You Do the Things You Do/My Girl
Disc: 4
1. Everything Your Heart Desires [Video Mix]
2. Missed Opportunity
3. Keep on Pushin' Love
4. Storm Warning [Previously unreleased]
5. Change of Season
6. Starting All Over Again [Live][Previously unreleased]
7. So Close [Live][Previously unreleased]
8. Do It for Love
9. Forever for You
10. Heartbreak Time
11. All the Way from Philadelphia [Previously unreleased]
12. Have You Ever Been in Love [Previously unreleased][Demo Version]
13. Me and Mrs. Jones [Live]
14. I Want Someone [Live from Daryl's House]
15. Do What You Want Be What You Are [Live 2007][Previously unreleased]
16. Dreamer ['72-'09 Redux, Previously unreleased]
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Acu-Life Thera Pod Review
I am the queen of heat wraps. I have an assortment of electric heating pads that I use to treat aches and pains; I love Thermacare wraps; and I have a heat therapy keyboard rest plugged in all day long. So when FuelMyBlog asked if I would like to review Acu-Life Thera Pod thermal relief, naturally I said yes! This wrap comes with a gel pack that can be heated or frozen for both moist heat and cold therapy treatments.
The Thera Pod has an adjustable strap, which makes it extremely versatile: you can wrap it around your back, over your shoulder, around your wrist - wherever you experience pain. The strap affixes with velcro and stays put. I love the fact that I can use it wherever I have discomfort, and don't have to have a separate product for each ache; I also don't have to fumble with cords like I do with my electric heating pads. The trade off, of course, is that this isn't a continuous source of heat like electric pads are, so it will cool off after a while.
This is especially great as a soothing therapy for the RSI pains in my wrist - I've used disposable hand warming therapy patches before and they feel great, but I don't want to spend $5 a day on them. I was wishing there was something reusable - and now there is! The only point of concern that I encountered with the Thera Pod was when I heated the gel pad in the microwave. I followed the instructions and set the microwave for 1 minute and 30 seconds, but I heard a pop about a minute into it and saw that the gel pack had inflated like a blimp. I quickly turned the microwave off and feared that the pack had burst, especially since the microwave smelt of melting plastic, but after inspecting it I saw that there hadn't been any leaks, so fortunately I was still able to use it. My microwave is pretty powerful, and I realized that the time was suggested for a lower wattage than what I have - so just be careful of this if you also have a powerful microwave!
I love the bean bag feel of the pad, but my only wish is that it wasn't so thick - the heat is very subtle because of all the padding, and I prefer a really intense, direct heat. However, they have to design it that way for safety reasons, because it's very easy to get burns from these type of products; I just happen to be extremely tolerant to heat pads.
I really like this product and I can tell that it is something I will be using a lot. This fills in some of the blanks in my heat therapy routines, so I'm very pleased to have been introduced to it!
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Honestech Software
For Kids:
Claymation Studio 2.0
$49.99
"Capture images using a digital camera, webcam or DV camcorder and add background images, audio, and music to create your own stop-motion movies. With honestech Claymation Studio, you can easily create stop motion video."
This software is so much fun! I used this to create a video entry into a contest last week, and I had a blast doing it. Here's my silly video:
I would have loved to have something like this when I was a kid, so I think it would make for an awesome gift!
For The Family Historian:
VHS to DVD™ 4.0 Deluxe
$79.99
"Transfer Video Tape to DVD! - Unlock your memories trapped in old media such as VHS tape, 8MM tape, and Mini-DV from camcorders and VCR by using a smart VHS to DVD™ all-in-one solution.
The Deluxe version of VHS to DVD™ includes the VIDBOX™, a USB 2.0 video capture device for preserving your irreplaceable home videos. No external power needed, making the VIDBOX especially suitable for laptop users."
This program couldn't be simpler to use and gives you great results. If you've got a dusty box full of family video tapes hanging around, this tool will help you easily preserve them.
For The Budding Film Student:
Easy Video Editor 3.0
$39.99
"The intuitive user interface makes cutting and merging clips possible with only a few clicks. honestech Easy Video Editor™ 3.0 is a video editing application that allows even novice users to edit video. You can also add intro/ending credits and add various transitions and special effects using the templates."
If you're giving someone a camcorder this year, this software would be a great companion piece. Or perhaps your teen is developing an interest in filmmaking? This software will help new users learn how to edit their movies.
For Scrapbookers:
FOTOBOX Plus
$79.95
"With just a few clicks, you can create spectacular photo slideshows from your digital photos.
Simply insert your SD memory card into the FOTOBOX™ and plug the FOTOBOX™ into the USB port on your PC. The FOTOBOX™ user interface appears on your computer screen to easily create a spectacular slideshow."
Want to create something special with those treasured photos? Or perhaps make a slideshow for a special event? Then check this out!
For Music Lovers:
Audio Recorder 2.0 Deluxe
$79.99
"With just a few clicks, convert your analog music into digital formats including MP3s and audio CDs.
Convert all of your music, including cassettes, LPs and 8-track tapes, into MP3s, WAV files, audio CDs or MP3 CDs, and listen to them on your home and portable music players."
Would you like a simple way to load your vinyl collection onto your iPod? Then Audio Recorder 2.0 might be for you.
Honestech products are available at retailers across the US, from Target to JC Penny - just in time for last-minute shopping! Click here for a full list of stores. You can also purchase these titles online. And be sure to check back, as we have detailed reviews of each of these programs coming soon!
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: MyClyns Review & Giveaway
As we count down to Christmas, you probably still have one or two little stocking stuffers to pick up. For the germ-conscious adults on your list, check out this practical present: MyClyns germ protection spray. And one lucky Contest Corner will win a MyClyns pen of their own, so read on!
MyClyns is the next generation of hand sanitizer - a unique pen that you can spritz not only on your hands, but on your face as well. The packaging states that it contains a 510(k) medical device solution cleared by the FDA as a wound cleaner; in addition, they state that independent laboratory tests have shown that the solution in MyClyns demonstrates a 99.99% reduction in more than 60 potentially dangerous pathogens. I gave this a whirl last night, and sprayed it directly in my face - and personally, I wouldn't spritz it in my face again unless I had a really good reason to; it just feels unpleasant to me. However, this could be very useful for other instances when you need to clean up - for example, if a big dog slobbers all over my legs, I'll try to wipe it with hand sanitizer or soap, but it's all a bit awkward. Having a spray like this is the perfect solution for those situations!
Its portable size would make it handy to tote around, and I would definitely use it to sanitize my hands and also if I got a little cut or scrape while out and about; my only concern would be that it might leak in my bag.
If someone on your list works in a industry where they're exposed to a lot of germs (Hospitals, schools, etc.), or if they just use a lot of hand sanitizer, MyClyns is a unique stocking stuffer idea that will be used throughout the year - click here to find a location near you and pick it up as a last-minute gift. You can also keep up to date on the latest from MyClyns by fanning them on Facebook.
Win It!
One lucky Contest Corner reader will win the new MyClyns! This giveaway ends January 5th. Here's how to enter:
1. For your first entry, check out MyGermSpray.com. Then come back here and leave a comment telling me something that you learned!
This step is required to qualify for the drawing. Be sure to leave an email address with your comment, so that I may notify you in the event that you are the lucky winner!
Want extra entries? Do any of the following, and leave a separate comment for each one:
2. Write a post on your blog linking to this giveaway and MyGermSpray.com. Then come back here and leave me the link!
3. Write about this on Twitter, then come back and leave me the link to your tweet! One Twitter entry per person.
4. Subscribe to my blog updates by entering your email into the "Subscribe" box in the sidebar. Then come back and leave me the email you subscribed with!
5. Become a follower of my blog by clicking the "Follow" button in my sidebar! Then come back here and let me know in a separate comment!
6. Grab the Holiday Gift Guide badge and put it on your website's sidebar or links page - just copy and paste the following code, and let me know where you put it:
7. Post my regular button on your website's sidebar or links page - just copy and paste the following code, and let me know where you put it:
Rules, regulations, and other important stuff: Giveaway ends on January 5th at 11:59 PM, PST. Winner will be chosen the following day via Random.org. Winner has 48 hours to respond to my notification email, or a new winner will be chosen in their place. Giveaway is open to US residents.
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: SpongeBob SquarePants: Season 6, Volume 1 DVD Review
I may have this listed under "Gifts For Kids", but I'll be the first one to tell you that I'm a big SpongeBob fan myself. In fact, I even have a Santa SpongeBob ornament hanging on my Christmas tree! I've been watching it since it first came on the air, and I've always loved its quirky sense of humor - it's one of those cartoons that people of all ages genuinely enjoy. My current cable package doesn't include Nickelodeon (sniffle), so it's been a while since I've caught any new episodes of SpongeBob. Now that the show is in its sixth season, I wondered if the little yellow sea sponge might have "Jumped the shark" by now. But I am very happy to report that this is most definitely not the case!
SpongeBob SquarePants is still funny, endearing, and a highly entertaining watch - and if I say that, I'm sure your kids will not be disappointed, either. This 2-disc set features 24 episodes along with bonus special features. Season 6 has all the same offbeat humor and charm that we've come to know and love. One of my favorite episodes was "House Fancy", where Squidward tries to keep up with the Jonses and ends up with his house ransacked by a well-meaning SpongeBob's unhelpful attempts to "re-decorate". Although Squidward endures his usual indignities, I noticed that he actually had a few happy endings in this season - awww!
Not only will this make a fabulous gift for any SpongeBob-loving child, it would also make a good present for the immature-at-heart like myself. SpongeBob Squarepants: Season 6, Volume 1 is available on Amazon for $22.99.
Episodes Include:
Disc 1:
Spongicus
Suction Cup Symphony
House Fancy
Krabby Road
Penny Foolish
Nautical Novice
Not Normal
Gone
SpongeBob SquarePants vs. The Big One
A Life in a Day
Sun Bleached
Giant Squidward
No Nose Knows
Patty Caper
Disc 2:
Plankton's Regular
To SquarePants or Not to SquarePants
Squid's Visit
The Splinter
Slide Whistle Stooges
Boating Buddies
The Krabby Kronicle
The Slumber Party
Grooming Gary
Truth or Square
Special Features:
The SpongeBob History Song
7 Shorts
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: SlimPerfect & Tom Petty Winners
It's time to don my Santa hat again and pick two more lucky winners!
The winner of the $50 SlimPerfect gift certificate is...
Comment number 83, Kerrie, who said: "I would get the SlimCapri". Congratulations!
SlimPerfect has a ton of great clearance deals going on right now, so be sure to check it out!
The winner of the Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Superhighway Tour Giveaway is...
Comment number 12, pippirose, who said: "I'd love to win it...for ME. I LOVE Tom Petty! :o)" Congratulations!
If you need a last-minute gift for a music fan, you can buy a virtual ticket to the Superhighway website for $24.98.
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone is one of the best-known language programs available. I've tried their Irish language software before, and Jai has also used the program in the past. I'll be doing a review of their online portal soon, but in the meantime, I wanted to share some of these gift ideas that Rosetta Stone passed on to me - this could be just the thing for that tricky person on your list who "has everything".
From Rosetta Stone's press release:
"For Families & Children: Offering 31 different language courses, Rosetta Stone Version 3 recreates any learners instinctive language-learning experience and is ideal for ages 6 and up. The computer-based program is set up similarly to a computer game and is completely interactive, immersive and voice-driven. The Rosetta Stone Audio Companion even gives families the opportunity to practice their language skills while on the road.
For Teens, Techies and Travel-istas (Ages 16 and Up): Launched in July 2009, TOTALe promises to completely change the language learning experience. By leveraging the award-winning Rosetta Stone Version 3 solution and offering online studio classes and interactive games, teens, techies, travel-istas and cooking connoisseurs alike will pick up key phrases quickly and instinctually."
Rosetta Stone Version 3 and TOTALe are both available to purchase on The Rosetta Stone Website. Right now, they're offering a holiday sale where you can save up to $125, plus get free US Next Day shipping for delivery by December 24th (TOTALe system not included).
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Funky Kidz Review
"Funky Kidz" is an excellent album, with its rich sound and fun-loving approach. Nothing about this record has been "Dumbed down", and I think parents will love it just as much as their kids do. And it's good music for a good cause: A portion of the proceeds will go to fostering music education in classrooms in New Orleans and throughout the country.
Click here to listen to an MP3 of "Zip a Dee Doo Dah". Funky Kidz is available on Amazon for $16.98.
Track Listing:
1. “You’ve Got A Friend In Me” – Bonerama (2006 Comic Relief house band)
2. “Hokey Pokey” – Big Sam’s Funky Nation (toured with Elvis Costello)
3. “Zip A Dee Doo Dah” – Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk
4. “Yellow Submarine” – Papa Grows Funk
5. “If I Only Had a Brain” – Paul Sanchez, formerly of Cowboy Mouth
6. “He’s Got the Whole World In His Hands” – George Porter Jr. of The Meters
7. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” – Theresa Andersson
8. “Froggy Went a Courtin” – The Radiators
9. “This Land is Your Land” – Walter Wolfman Washington
10.“When I See an Elephant Fly” – Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes
11. “This Little Light of Mine” – Ingrid Lucia
12. “The Garden Song” – Amanda Shaw
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Rodney Carrington "Make It Christmas" Album Review
You might be surprised to see Rodney Carrington listed under "Gifts For The Whole Family" - but this outrageous country comedian has shown his softer side with a brand new holiday album, Make It Christmas. "People hear my funny songs and always say that I have a great voice," Carrington explains. "They ask me why I don’t do some serious music. So, this record ain't got a funny song on it. It's a big-band, Frank Sinatra-type Christmas record; something I've always wanted to do." I was certainly surprised to such smooth music from this well-known jokester! I had no idea that he has such a versatile voice - I have to say, I'm impressed that this bawdy comedian can croon so sweetly.
I like the big-band interpretation of the Christmas standards on this album, because it reminds me of the Christmas records that we always listened to when I was growing up. In addition to the traditional standbys, there are also several contemporary tracks on here, including covers of "Grown Up Christmas List", and "Mary Did You Know". Carrington also brings us some original tracks, including the lighthearted "The Presents Under The Tree (Better Be For Me)" and "Camouflage and Christmas Lights", dedicated to troops serving overseas during the holidays. The album does hop genres a bit, from the Rat Pack-styled classic carols to the traditional country arrangements of the newer material - but overall, this is a warm and pleasant album to listen to while trimming the tree and wrapping presents.
Click here to listen to a stream of "Camouflage and Christmas Lights". You can purchase Make It Christmas wherever music is sold and also on Amazon for $10.99
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Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Rachel Millman "If I Believe" EP Review
If you want to get a hip gift for your tween this year, why not pick up a cool new CD for them? Rachel Millman is an up-and-coming pop artist with an engaging voice and a roster of radio-friendly songs. If your tween listens to artists like Jason Mraz, Kelly Clarkson, or Colbie Callait, they might enjoy this.
Millman's debut EP, If I Believe, features five solid power pop tracks. "Throwin' Rocks at the Moon", her first single, is a wistful piece that highlights her impressive vocal skills; an acoustic mix of this song is also included in the EP. "If I Believe" and "Waiting For Someday" are upbeat, fun tracks that will get your toes tapping, while "Hold On To Me" is a piano-driven ballad. If I Believe is an infectious slice of pure pop - I think we'll be hearing more from this rising star soon. Look for a cut from Millman in the upcoming feature film, "Secret at Arrow Lake".
Click here to watch a video of "Throwin' Rocks at the Moon". If you like what you hear, you can find the EP on CD Baby and iTunes.
Thai Kitchen Winners, Anti Monkey Butt Re-Draw
I have several winners to announce this morning!
First up, we have a re-draw. I never heard back from the original winner of the Anti Monkey Butt Powder, so I am forced to choose another winner:
The winner of the re-draw is comment number 14, Sheila P, who said: "I think the cartoon monkey is funny with his bright red butt cheeks!" Congrats!
And the winners of the Thai Kitchen Cookbook giveaway are...
Winner #1 is comment number 61, Moni, who said: "I would like to try the Coconut Sticky Rice with Mango. Thanks!" There was no email listed for Moni, so I left a comment on her blog- hopefully she will see it! She just emailed me to claim her prize!
Winner #2 is comment number 80, Jennifer T., who said: "I follow through Google Friend Connect." Congratulations!
Be sure to check out Real Asian Made Simple for more great recipes!
First up, we have a re-draw. I never heard back from the original winner of the Anti Monkey Butt Powder, so I am forced to choose another winner:
The winner of the re-draw is comment number 14, Sheila P, who said: "I think the cartoon monkey is funny with his bright red butt cheeks!" Congrats!
And the winners of the Thai Kitchen Cookbook giveaway are...
Winner #1 is comment number 61, Moni, who said: "I would like to try the Coconut Sticky Rice with Mango. Thanks!" There was no email listed for Moni, so I left a comment on her blog
Winner #2 is comment number 80, Jennifer T., who said: "I follow through Google Friend Connect." Congratulations!
Be sure to check out Real Asian Made Simple for more great recipes!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Dolly Parton "Dolly" Box Set Review
Every gift in my guide is something that I would personally give as a present - and a great deal of the things listed here are being given to people on my list this year! I'll have to ban my family and friends from reading my blog until Christmas...
Dolly is one of the items that I'll be gifting this holiday. This set contains 4 CDs with a whopping 99 tracks, as well as a full-color booklet with never before seen photos. Many of the songs on here are rarities, 7 of which are previously unreleased; and of course, the set also contains her most-loved hits. If there's a Dolly Parton fan on your list, they need this box set!
Each CD spans a different era in Parton's career, and you can hear her musical evolution with each one. Disc 1 - my personal favorite - showcases songs from the very beginning, with fun cuts like "Dumb Blonde" and "Nobody But You". I wasn't familiar with a lot of this material, and I really enjoyed hearing it. Disc 2 chronicles Parton's rise to stardom with her first top 10 hits, "Mule Skinner Blues" and "Joshua". Disc 3 hosts more classics from the 1970s, such as the timeless "I Will Always Love You". Disc 4 takes us from the 80s through the 90s with a plethora of tracks, such as "9 to 5", "Single Women" and "Romeo".
Dolly is available wherever fine music is sold and can also be purchased for $36.49 on Amazon.
Track Listing:
Disc: 1
1. Puppy Love
2. Girl Left Alone
3. Gonna Hurry (As Slow as I Can) [Demo Version, Previously Unreleased]
4. It's Sure Gonna Hurt - Dolly Parton, Merry Melody Singers, Dolly Parton
5. Love You Gave - Dolly Parton, Merry Melody Singers, Dolly Parton
6. Nobody But You [Previously Unreleased]
7. Busy Signal [Single Version]
8. Don't Drop Out [Single Version]
9. I've Known You All My Life [Previously Unreleased]
10. Put It off Until Tomorrow - Dolly Parton, Bill Phillips
11. Dumb Blonde
12. Something Fishy
13. I Couldn't Wait Forever
14. I'm Not Worth the Tears
15. Last Thing on My Mind - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
16. False Eyelashes
17. Bridge
18. Just Because I'm a Woman
19. Holding on to Nothin' - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
20. We'll Get Ahead Someday - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
21. Jeannie's Afraid of the Dark - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
22. In the Good Old Days (When Times Were Bad)
23. Daddy
24. Evening Shade
25. Gypsy, Joe and Me
26. My Blue Ridge Mountain Boy
Disc: 2
1. Just the Way I Am
2. Down from Dover
3. Everything Is Beautiful (In Its Own Way) [Previously Unreleased]
4. Daddy Come and Get Me
5. Just Someone That I Used to Know - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
6. Tomorrow Is Forever - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
7. Daddy Was an Old Time Preacher Man - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
8. Comin' for to Carry Me Home
9. Golden Streets of Glory
10. Mule Skinner Blues (Blue Yodel No. 8)
11. Joshua
12. Daddy's Moonshine Still
13. Last One to Touch Me - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
14. Better Move It on Home - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
15. Coat of Many Colors
16. Traveling Man
17. My Blue Tears
18. Here I Am
19. God's Coloring Book [Previously Unreleased]
20. Will He Be Waiting
21. Touch Your Woman
22. Together Always - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
23. Lost Forever in Your Kiss - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
24. My Tennessee Mountain Home
25. Eugene Oregon [Previously Unreleased]
26. What Will Baby Be [Previously Unreleased]
Disc: 3
1. Jolene
2. Early Morning Breeze
3. I Will Always Love You
4. Please Don't Stop Loving Me - Dolly Parton, Porter Wagoner
5. Love Is Like a Butterfly
6. Sacred Memories
7. Bargain Store
8. On My Mind Again
9. Kentucky Gambler
10. Seeker [New Edit]
11. We Used To
12. All I Can Do
13. Light of a Clear Blue Morning
14. You Are
15. Applejack
16. It's All Wrong, But It's All Right
17. Here You Come Again
18. Two Doors Down
19. Me and Little Andy
20. Heartbreaker
21. I Really Got the Feeling
22. Baby I'm Burnin'
23. You're the Only One
24. Sweet Summer Lovin'
25. Starting Over Again
Disc: 4
1. Old Flames Can't Hold a Candle to You
2. 9 to 5
3. But You Know I Love You
4. Single Women
5. Heartbreak Express
6. Do I Ever Cross Your Mind
7. Potential New Boyfriend
8. Islands in the Stream - Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers
9. Save the Last Dance for Me
10. Tennessee Homesick Blues
11. God Won't Get You
12. What a Heartache
13. Don't Call It Love
14. Think About Love
15. Why'd You Come in Here Lookin' Like That
16. Yellow Roses
17. Time for Me to Fly
18. He's Alive
19. Rockin' Years - Dolly Parton, Ricky Van Shelton
20. Eagle When She Flies
21. Silver and Gold
22. Romeo
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: American Heroes #3 Review
Many parents are concerned with finding gifts for their children that are both entertaining and educational. If that sounds like you, then check out this children's album from Jonathan Sprout called American Heroes #3. It'll get your toes tapping while you learn all about important figures in American history!
About American Heroes #3:
Here's a little info from the album's press release:
"Have you ever wondered who invented the Hershey chocolate bar? Or who discovered the polio vaccine? Or who found hundreds of uses for the peanut? Singer-songwriter Jonathan Sprout has, and on American Heroes #3 he commemorates the lives of ten exceptional Americans. American Heroes #3 is the third in a series of recordings for children that highlights the accomplishments of some of America’s best and brightest citizens.
Using musical styles from folk to pop to rock, Jonathan Sprout has created original songs about Milton Hershey (chocolate king/philanthropist), John Muir (conservationist), Elizabeth Blackwell (first U.S. female doctor), Dr. Jonas Salk (polio vaccine), Jane Addams (Nobel Peace Prize), George Washington Carver (agricultural scientist), Wilma Rudolph (Olympic gold medallist), Thomas Jefferson (third president), Pocahontas (peacemaker) and Cesar Chavez (civil rights activist)."
My Take:
I was sent a copy of this CD to review, and after having a listen, I think it would make for a unique gift that would get kids talking about history. If you want to give an educational present that isn't boring, then you might want to check this out. With its catchy, kid-friendly tunes, American Heroes #3 explores the lives of various historical figures, and I can see how it would serve as a springboard for further learning. History is such a fascinating subject, but dry textbooks often fail to get kids excited about it. Hearing the stories of Pocahontas, Thomas Jefferson, and others re-told in a compelling song might inspire your kids to ask questions and want to know more. And adults will likely learn something new along with their child! The liner notes also include full lyrics and a short biography of all the individuals featured.
Click here to listen to an MP3 of "Chocolate King", a song about Milton Hershey. American Heroes 3 is available on Amazon for 12.99
, but please note that it is not available for immediate shipping.
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Cuisinart CleanWater® 2-Gallon Countertop Filtration System Review
About Cuisinart CleanWater:
Here are the full product specs on the Cuisinart CleanWater Countertop Water Filtration System from their website:
"The most convenient way to enjoy cleaner, fresher water anytime you want it – chilled, hot or room temperature. The Cuisinart® CleanWater® Countertop Filtration System dispenses refreshing filtered water right from the kitchen countertop, and eliminates the need for costly bottled water alternatives. It’s healthier, smart, and simple – CleanWater® is the future of drinking water!
Product Features
* 2.0 gallon tank capacity
* Dispenses hot (194°F), cold (44°F) and room-temperature filtered water
* Blue/red LED lights indicate when water is ready
* Energy Saver reduces energy usage by more than 50%
* Green LED lights up when Energy Saver feature is activated (hot water is off)
* Brushed stainless steel housing
* Removable water tank
* 2 spigots
* Fast water flow
* Filter included
* GF-80 filter reduces contaminants including (for pH level 6.5):
– Lead 98.7%
– Chlorine (taste and odor) 97.5%
– Mercury 92.8%
– Benzene 84.1%
– Cadmium 96.6%
– Copper 85.0%
– Tetrachloroethylene 92.5%
– Toluene 89.8%
* Filter life is 3 months' average household use (up to 48 gallons)"
My Take:
I never drink enough water. I often set a goal of drinking 8 8-oz glasses a day, but it doesn't last long. I don't like the taste of tap water, and I don't want to buy bottled water all the time. I recently decided that I should get some sort of water filtration system, because I thought it might help motivate me to drink more H20. So the timing could not have been better when Cuisinart sent me one of their CleanWater units to review!
You know those water coolers that most offices have? Picture a miniature version of that which you can keep on your counter. The Cuisinart CleanWater system has a 2-gallon tank and outputs water in three options - cold, hot, and room temperature. This appliance exceeded my expectations and has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. One of the prime benefits is that I am drinking much more water since setting up the CleanWater system. It's definitely going to help me in my goal to be more hydrated, and it's great to have pure, ice-cold water on hand to drink after my workouts. It's also reduced my temptation to buy other beverages - one night, we got takeout, and I didn't order a soda because we had filtered water at home. I used to hate drinking water, so for me to pass up another drink in favor of water is amazing to me.
I can also see that this will come in very handy when I have guests. People often ask me if I have bottled water, but I don't buy it unless I have coupons because it's such a waste of money (not to mention resources). Now, I can offer my friends cold, clean water straight from the Cuisinart water cooler! The hot water option will also be useful during parties, because it will make it a little quicker to prepare tea or cocoa. The maximum output temperature is 194 degrees Fahrenheit - not quite boiling, but can still be used for hot drinks. Purists will probably prefer a brew from the kettle, but I have to say that I was impressed with how well it did; it's great for making hot drinks in a hurry.
I think this would make a fantastic present - it's a practical item that I think a lot of people would be thrilled to have. Also, this could be especially useful for people who have a home water delivery service. I don't know what the cost of a subscription like that is, but it would be interesting to compare and see if this is cheaper.
Cuisinart CleanWater® 2-Gallon Countertop Filtration System is available on Amazon for 129.00
, and there's still time to get it for the holidays: Today, Monday the 21st, is the last day to order with standard shipping for Christmas arrival. After that, you can order through the 23rd with two-day and overnight shipping - click here for a list of all holiday shipping options.
The Cuisinart CleanWater system can also be found at brick and mortar outlets like Bed, Bath & Beyond and Macy's - click here for a full list of retailers.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Skin Free Nutritional and Anti-Oxidant Synergy Cream
As the days count down to Christmas, we've been talking about various beauty stocking stuffers for the lady on your list. I've already mentioned a couple of great items from Skin Free Skincare, and today I'm going to tell you about one of my very favorites - their Nutritional and Anti-Oxidant Synergy cream.
I'm a bit obsessed with moisturizers, and having a good night cream is important to me. I seem to buy a new brand each time, because I'm always looking for the next best thing. I've been using Skin Free's Nutritional and Anti-Oxidant Synergy for Face since the summer, and I really like it. It's very soothing and has been completely gentle to my sensitive skin - no bad reactions, which is vital, since I've shared my horror stories of developing rashes when a product doesn't agree with my skin. I also love how easily it smooths across my face; my fingers glide gently over delicate skin without tugging or pulling. This is another thing I look for in moisturizers, since I think it defeats the point if you're tugging and jerking at tender skin, especially under the eyes. If your mom, daughter, sister, or friend are even half as obsessed with moisturizers and creams as I am, then I think they would enjoy finding one of these at the bottom of their sock this Christmas!
Nutritional and Anti-Oxidant Synergy for Face is available on Skin Free's website for $45.00.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Sweepstakes Saturday!
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