Father’s Day 2009: Fogless Shower Mirror from Vat 19

Every other day, my husband gets up, shaves, and then takes a shower.  It’s the same routine and I’ve noticed that it takes one extra step and a few extra minutes on the days he shaves. In fact, he sets his alarm earlier those mornings to ensure he has enough time.  I for one cannot imagine NOT shaving in the shower.  In fact, if I had to shave outside of the shower, well, let’s just say I’d be like the Europeans…or a grizzly bear.  Now if you’re a guy, then you know that shaving without a mirror is next to impossible and a little dangerous.  So…would you men like the convenience and time-saving benefits of shaving in the shower?

Vat19, “purveyors of curiously awesome products,” offer a Fogless Shower Mirror (among many other unique product offerings) to make shaving in the shower quick, easy, and doable.  The mirror claims to be fog-free, and indeed it is.  It also claims to be break resistant although I have to admit that I haven’t tried to “break” it yet!  It’s got a phenomenal zoom magnification (I like taking it out of the shower and putting make up on with it) and the LED light that’s built in is handy for close shaves (and flawlessly applied makeup).  The mirror also has a place to store a razor so it doesn’t end up face down in the corner of the shower, growing bugs!  The mirror comes with a digital clock (so he’s not late for work) and uses 3 AA batteries.

Overall, I think this is a great product for men who’d like to save some time by shaving (safely and effectively) in the shower.  Check out Vat19 for wide variety of unique, off-the-beaten path gifts for dad this Father’s Day.

Father’s Day 2009: Duck Bill Money Clip

I don’t know if anyone is as paranoid as I am, but I worry just a tiny bit about my husband losing things.  Before you think I’m completely neurotic, I have good reason to worry.  You see, my husband has in fact lost things…important things.  I love my husband and this post is in no way meant to criticize him.  We all have our weaknesses…I can’t cook and my husband tends to “misplace” things.  So I thought that one of the things he could benefit from was a money clip.  Now…you’re probably wondering…what in the world is a money clip?  Basically, it’s an alternative to carrying a wallet and used to store money and credit cards compactly.  You’re now probably wondering why use a money clip if these items can be stored in a wallet?  Well, my husband likes to place credit cards and money in his pocket (despite the fact that he has a wallet).

So, I decided that it might be a good idea for my husband to have a money clip.  Profuse thanks to Bill at Duckbill Design, who was gracious enough to send my husband a personalized one to review.  Both hubby and I have never had any experiences with money clips, but apparently they’re not alike in quality.  Here is a little more information about why the Duckbill Money Clip actually works (kind of important, right?):

Nothing works like the patented Duck Bill Money Clip. With its revolutionary Quad Bend Bite, the Duck Bill Money Clip is engineered in the U.S.A. to keep your cash, plastic and “stuff” securely gathered. Simply, we think it’s the best designed, best functioning, most durable money clip out there.  Your Duck Bill Money Clip arrives in an embossed, steel, collectible box, nested in protective EVA foam.

The first thing we noticed about the money clip is that it’s durable and made from quality metal.  I like the slim, lightweight design and it’s sleek, shiny look.  The actual clip is very strong (meaning, I can’t imagine money or credit cards “escaping” from it).  And despite the fact that it looks rather small, it can hold 60 folded bills or any combination of cash and plastic.  I’m laughing because my husband doesn’t carry that much cash or credit around.

The company does a really nice job of engraving the money clip (which I highly recommend, particularly if it’s a gift).  It’s available in a matte or polished finish and retails for $36 (without engravement) or $46 (engraved with up to 24 characters).  It also comes packaged in an embossed steel gift box (which means I don’t have to wrap it!).

Father’s Day 2009: Golf & Wine Legends

One of my favorite memories from our 8 months overseas was a trip we took with my in-laws to visit the famous golf course at St. Andrews.  I remember my father-in-law’s excitement as he stood where legends like Jack Nicklaus stood.  To be honest, being that I’m not a golfer, it was a little hard for me to relate.  But one thing was certain…the place was beautiful and my husband and father-in-law, proud to have visited such a place.

Many of you have husbands, fathers or grandfathers who are avid golfers.  If my husband were to truly take up one sport, I think I’d like it to be golf.  It’s such a calm sport, requiring much skill.  If you have such a “father,” why not consider the Golf & Wine Legends available at Wine.com.  The set includes “three premium wines from legendary golfers and wine enthusiasts Arnold Palmer, Ernie Els and Nick Faldo paired with a sleeve of three golf balls.”  I have to admit that because I’m not a wine drinker, I’m not super savvy on what a “good” wine is.  But, I’ve been told that these three are truly excellent wines!  While not as common here in the states, it’s actually very common in Europe to have a glass of wine with a meal.  My husband, being the culinary master he is (hehe) loves using the red wine in Italian meals.

If you don’t have a golfer in the family but you’re interested in wine gifts, you may consider Wine.com.  The site has numerous “dad” themed baskets he’s sure to love. Save 10% now through the 20th with the code “DADSDAY.”

Father’s Day 2009: Flip Ultra

My husband and I love taking pictures and shooting videos of our little boy.  In fact, most days while we’re out, you’ll find me with both my camera and my video camera, waiting to capture one of our toddler’s quirky, funny, and otherwise adorable moments.  I have to admit that while having a camcorder is a nice luxury, I don’t find it highly practical for every day moments.  Father’s don’t carry bags or purses so a recording device would have to fit in a pocket for it to be practical.

We recently had an opportunity to test out the newly updated Flip Ultra.  For $150.00, you can get dad a quality, portable camcorder that he’ll actually want to use.  Now, I never reviewed or even used the original Flip so I have nothing to compare it to, but hubby and I were truly impressed with how easy it is to record, upload, and share videos.  Plus, it fits in my husband’s pocket!  I know this because he toted it all over Disneyland last week.  Here is a little bit more about the camera from the site:

Now available in both high-definition and standard-resolution models, the new line offers everyday consumers the easiest and most affordable way to capture and share high-quality video. The new Flip Ultra and Flip UltraHD feature two hours of recording time, a large high-resolution two-inch screen, and convenient battery recharging through the built-in USB arm.

I have not seen the HD version of this camera, but we were highly satisfied with the quality and resolution of the picture the camera provided. It has a conveniently simple interface, a speaker above the screen for playback, and a generous 4 GB built-in memory (2 hours of recording time).  Some cameras utilize rechargeable batteries.  The Flip, however, comes with 2 double AA batteries but you can purchase a rechargeable battery pack for an additional cost (which I highly recommend).  I wouldn’t want to run out of battery time while trying to capture an important moment.  The only thing I wish this camera had was a light for nighttime shooting.

I was able to upload videos from my MAC without a problem (it was so easy!).  Check out this video from Disneyland last week:

The camera is available in 4 fun colors (black, white, yellow, and pink).  This would make a great gift for Father’s Day.  I think every new dad should tote one into the delivery room (just be sure to get the wife’s permission!).  You can also purchase the HD version for $199.99.

Father’s Day 2009: Insignia GPS Personal Navigation Device

My husband has lived in Southern California for six years, yet there are times when I think he knows his way around better than I do.  It seems ironic that he’d need a GPS (hint hint hubby), but with the amount of travel he does for work (both in and out of California), it’s actually a perfect gift for him. Previously, we owned a first generation GPS, purchased when units were a hot commodity.  I remember how we stood in line waiting to get our hands on one.  Fortunately, there are a variety of models available today loaded with features that include voice-activated navigation and internet connectivity.

Whenever my husband and I are looking to purchase electronics, we visit our local Best Buy to check out the latest products.  I like the ability to get “hands on” with products before purchasing them.  We recently had an opportunity to review Insignia’s Internet-Connected GPS system, courtesy of Best Buy.  The unit we previously owned did not have internet connectivity, so this is one feature we were really impressed with upon using it.  The unit “uses a built-in cellular modem to connect to the Internet so you can use Google Local search or send an address from Google Maps to your GPS device.”  If you’ve ever owned a GPS unit, then you know that the software quickly becomes out of date.  I’ve had to look up locations with my smart phone on more than one occasion since locations change or become non-existent.  Internet connectivity allows us more accurate information on locations.  I really like the ability to search for a location via Google (I actually prefer it over the “browse” function).  We live in an area that gets horrible cellular reception so sometimes we have to wait until we’re out of our complex for the unit to recognize where we are. But other than the area around our home, we haven’t experienced difficulties with signal.

The other feature that we both absolutely love is the real-time traffic updates provided.  When you’ve typed in a destination, the unit will give you a couple different routes with the amount of time it’s going to take in minutes.  I’ve not seen this feature in a GPS unit and I think it’s very helpful, particularly in Southern California, known for having some of the worst traffic in the nation.  The system calculates routes with information provided by traffic.com so that the quickest route is determined based on how fast (or slow) traffic is moving. I think the unit was made for Southern Californians!

With the price of gas skyrocketing, one other feature we’re very happy about is the real-time gas prices.  The system uses gasbuddy.com to provide up-to-the-minute gas prices.  We haven’t actually used this feature yet, but I’d be curious to know how accurate it is (once we test it out I’ll update ya!).  I don’t typically get gas so I’ll have to ask hubby to fill us in!

Here is a little video I did with the unit while driving to Disneyland this week:

The unit is lightweight and compact (much more so than our older model).  I like the touchscreen but I prefer to use the stylus because it’s actually very sensitive.  Here are some of the other features you may be interested in, courtesy of Best Buy:

• Google Local Search
  Get up-to-date information using Google Local Search on your Insignia GPS device. Type in any key word and Google will give you back the results.
• Map Updates
  Map Updates offered quarterly at all Best Buy stores at the Geek Squad bench. This service is free for the first year.
• Preloaded base maps of the United States
  Up to 2 million points of interest guide you toward interesting and useful destinations. (Includes 1 year of map updates.)
• Backlit 3.5″ color LCD screen
  Easily navigate settings and functions day or night on the large, bright display.
• WAAS-enabled GPS receiver
  Enhances performance in heavy cloud cover, wooded areas and canyons so you don’t have to worry about losing the satellite link. WAAS is Wide Area Augmentation System.
• Automatic rerouting
  Provides alternate travel directions in the event of a deviation from the directions given.
• Text-to-speech and turn-by-turn voice prompts
  Allow you to keep your eyes on the road while navigating with convenient voice guidance.
• Route planning
  Automatically provides multiple routes to your destination, including the shortest route.
• Built-in lithium-ion battery
  With up to 2 hours of battery life.

One thing I should mention is that the unit comes with 1 year of data connectivity service (you’ll have to renew after that time).  You can also go into the store to update your map with Geek Squad during the first year.  The unit retails for $299.99 and is available for purchase at Best Buy.

This review was sponsored by Best Buy.

Father’s Day 2009: The Happy Dad Bundle (Plus a Giveaway)

This giveaway is now closed.  Thanks for stopping by.  The winner is Jayne.  Congrats!

My husband and I have been married for 4 years, and there are times when I throw my hands up in the air because I’m completely stumped as to what I should buy him for that next occasion.  If you’re looking for something “off the beaten path,” be sure to check out the witty stationery products from Knock Knock.

The company was founded with “the mission of creating interesting, smart, well-designed gift and stationery products.”  We received the Happy Dad Bundle which is a fun AND functional assortment of stationery products.  Included are the following:

Things to Do Around the House Pad: Helps your dad dole out home-improvement chores to the whole household, or keep track of his personal projects in one place

Great Ideas Pocket Notes: The place to record “dadisms” on the go

Family Vouchers: Helps express familial sentiment in refreshingly nonmaterial ways—it’s the gift that gives twenty times

The products are masculine and items that guys will use.  I really like the Things to Do Around the House Pad (hehe).  There are so many times when I ask my husband to do something and he forgets because it’s not written down.  This pad has a magnet so it can stay put on the fridge (a highly frequented place!).  There is even a a place for a shopping list (although I’m not certain how much THAT will get used!).  The vouchers are my husband’s favorite, because things like sleeping in and household chores are gifts my husband really appreciates.

Be sure to check out the entire assortment of stationery products available on the site.  The Happy Dad Bundle retails for $17.85.

Win It! One of you will win a Happy Dad Bundle.  Simply head on over to the site and take a look around.  Come back and leave me a comment with another product you’d like to give “dad.”  Comments will close on June 21, 2009 at 10 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

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Father’s Day 2009: ScanPan

I sincerely hope that each one of you has a husband or father that enjoys cooking on some level.  I am so blessed to have a father who cooked for me growing up, and a husband who now does the same.  Anyone who cooks knows how important the kitchen “gear” is.  My husband has to use just the right pots, pans, and knives when he is cooking up a meal. Many of the dishes are cooked on the stove because it’s much quicker than using the oven.  The downside is that most non-stick pans are made of Teflon, a known carcinogen.  The alternative is steel or cast iron pans which can be difficult to clean.

He We recently had an opportunity to test out the Scanpan Professional Nonstick Square Grill Pan. I love grilled chicken, vegetables, and turkey burgers but we don’t own a barbecue (on purpose) and we don’t own a grill.  The pan is perfect for grilling these foods and more.  It’s made from ceramic titanium and recycled aluminum and 100 percent PFOA-free (a carcinogen).  We both appreciate the fact that it’s nonstick.  We have many stainless steel pans that are impossible to clean thoroughly without scratching them.  The coating on the pan (which can’t be damaged by metal utensils) actually allows for browning, searing, and deglazing and doesn’t require a lot of oil or fat to cook on it.

My husband grilled chicken on the pan over the weekend and turkey burgers earlier this week.  Both dishes came out really well and I didn’t find either to be greasy.  Of course I ended up with clean up duty!  We don’t usually wash our nice pans in the dishwasher (despite the fact that this pan is dishwasher safe) and I was a little concerned it would be difficult to hand wash.  I didn’t have to soak or scrub to get the pan clean.  It literally just came off like a non-stick pan!  So how does it work?  I thought the information on the pan’s nonstick coating was interesting:

The Green Tek nonstick surface is created by firing a ceramic-titanium compound into the pan. A specially formulated nonstick compound is then embedded in the surface. Its pressure cast aluminum construction is denser than most aluminum cookware, allowing for superior heat retention and quick distribution for reduced energy use.

It didn’t take long for my husband to grill the chicken and turkey burgers and they cooked evenly without being overdone.  I am not a fan of overcooked meat and I felt like the pan proved that it can cook quickly but thoroughly.  My husband was definitely impressed and we’d love to add to our collection over time.

If you’re looking for a culinary gift for “dad” this Father’s Day, check out the entire ScanPan collection at Sur La Table (which is an incredible store!!).  The Square Grill Pan I reviewed retails for $139.95 and it’s a pan you’ll have forever (it comes with a lifetime guarantee!).

Father’s Day Giveaway: Camping Survival Kit

This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by.  The winner is Maggie M.  Congrats!

As an only child, my parents often took me on short vacation getaways, many of which included camping at various lakes in Southern California.  My husband and I still enjoy camping, although I prefer to “camp” in a tent close to shower facilities. Camping is an affordable family activity that allows for outdoor exploration and appreciation.  You may not know this, but many National Parks offer camping rates for $10 a night.

The National Park Foundation has partnered with Benadryl to encourage families to pledge to spend more time enjoying the outdoors. As part of the campaign, Discovery Channel’s Josh Bernstein offers some tips for helping families enjoy the outdoors while staying safe.

1.  Select the Perfect Campground:  Whether it’s a national park or your own backyard, choose a fun and unique location that suits your needs, budget, and skill level

2.  Know Your Surroundings:  Where you set up camp could make or break your experience.  Make sure your tent is on elevated ground in case of rain.  Check whether there is a nearby water source and find an adequate cooking spot.

3.  Pack Essentials:  Don’t forget necessities such as water and a flashlight, as well as a first aid kit and any medication you may need.  If you have allergies, this probably means an allergy medication that can help relieve symptoms of an unexpected allergy attack.  Just as you would at home, keep all medicines and first aid supplies out of kids’ reach.

4.  Test Gear:  If it’s your first time camping or if you’ve bought new equipment, be sure to test it before your trip.  You don’t want to arrive at the campsite only to find your lantern doesn’t work or realize you’re missing a tent pole.

5.  Clean Up:  We all love the outdoors and we want to make sure that these places remain vital in our lifetime and for our children and grandchildren.  A good rule of thumb is to leave trails and campsites better than when you found them by collecting and properly disposing of your trash and any trash you find along the way.

Benadryl and the National Park Foundation (NPF) are working together to protect moments outdoors.  Benadryl is donating $200,000 to the NPF.  Additionally, a $1 donation will be made every time someone visits the site and enters a unique promotion code found on specially marked packages of Benadryl.  You can also visit the site to pledge to enjoy a moment outdoors.

Win It! One of you will win a camping survival kit valued at $50 which will include a portable cooler to keep snacks cold, a Bendadryl-branded water bottle to quench thirsts, a compass to keep familes on the right track, and a lantern flashlight to help light the way.   Just leave me a comment with something you learned or found useful on the site.  Comments will close on June 21, 2009 at 10 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

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Father’s Day Giveaway: Kodak Gallery Photo Book

This giveaway is now closed.  Thanks for stopping by.  The winner is Rachael.  Congrats!

My husband and I share a love for photography.  In fact, he is actually more skilled and artistic than I am.  Many of the pictures you see on my blog are his work (which I need to credit more often!).  He took some photography classes in school and while a hobby, it’s still a passion for him.

If that special father cherishes photographic art and memories, you may consider a photo book from Kodak.  My husband and I have created many photo books of our travels and our son.  Kodak Gallery offers simple, stylish, and affordable options for creating photobooks.  Here is a little more information about Kodak’s Personalized Cover Photo Books:

Our high-quality, hardcover Personalized Cover Photo Books feature your own photos and captions with our professional designs and layouts. Cover size measures 10.25 x 9″ and the base price includes 20 double-sided pages (10 sheets of paper).  The professional quality pages allow your photos and memories to leap to life in vibrant color!  And with the ability to add captions and design the layout, you can add inside jokes that will spark memories each time you look through the pages.

Photobooks range in price from $6.99 to $69.99 and are available in a variety of sizes.

Win It! One of you will win a Personalized Cover Photo Book.  Simply head on over to the site and take a look around.  Come back here and leave me a comment with the type of book you’d create for that dad in your life.  Comments will close on June 21, 2009 at 10 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

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Father’s Day Giveaway: Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox

This giveaway is now closed.  Thanks for stopping by.  The winner is Mollie.  Congrats!

My husband and I are just starting to get our minds around the fact that we are going to have another baby.  We’re so excited about what a new baby means for all three of us. Being a mother is one of the most exciting, challenging, rewarding, sacrificing experiences in my life.  Much attention is paid to moms, particularly first-time moms, and understandably so.  There are physical and hormonal changes that a father does not have to go through.  However, a father’s role, adjustments, and experiences are just as important.  I would not be the wife, mother, or woman that I am today without my husband.  He compliments me in so many ways, making up for where I’m weak.  In the next couple of weeks, my goal is to focus on fathers and the special and vital role they play in the life of families.

I have several giveaways and reviews lined up which will focus on the different “types” of dads in our lives. I hope you’ll find that perfect gift idea to celebrate how important he is!

Earlier this year, I told you about a fun and lighthearted gift for new dads called the Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox.  If you missed my review, you’ll definitely want to check it out here.  New dads are sometimes awkward and nervous with their little babies (which also makes them adorable).  Diaper changes are one of those often dreaded moments.  Founder Chris Hartfield wanted to celebrate fatherhood with a little humor and product that dads could actually use.  New to the Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox are the “Real Men Change Diapers” bumper stickers which retail for $2.00.

Win It! One of you will win a Daddy Diaper Changing Toolbox!  Simply head on over to the site or check out my past review and then leave a comment with the item you think that dad in your life will find most useful.  Comments will close on June 21, 2009 at 10 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

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