Category: Gift guide

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - MUST HAVES - V Tech VSmile Cyber Pocket

vtech cyber pocket

CJ is 10 but developmentally he’s much younger. It can be very hard to shop for toys for him because usually he’s either got it or it’s just not a good fit for him. One thing he enjoys tremendously is playing video games. His old VSmile has seen much better days. V Tech now makes a newer model, the VSmile Cyber Pocket.

About the VSmile Cyber Pocket

Kid-smart video gaming goes anywhere with V.Smile Cyber Pocket – featuring a flip top high resolution screen and easy touch writing pad, V.Smile Cyber Pocket even adjust to both right and left-handed players.

V.Smile Cyber Pocket users can also access a secure website using V.Link to show kids how their game scores stack up as well as provide them with bonus games to reward their progress. It’s easy to use and encourages them to keep up the good work!

Best of all, V.Smile Cyber Pocket toys play all of the Smartridges in the V.Smile Library. So as kids’ skills grow, you can keep supplying them with new challenges.

CJ adjusted to playing with the new VSmile Cyber Pocket quickly. There’s a lot of things I like about this game. It improves eye to hand coordination. It helps both fine and gross motor skills. It encourages concentration. The game skills have educational value while remaining fun and interesting. The game system itself fits well in his hands and isn’t too big or too small, making it the ideal toy for both home and long car rides. It’s great that all of the VSmile cartridges work in it, so games from the other systems like the VMotion can be used. The VSmile Cyber Pocket operates on 4 AA batteries. I have found the battery life to be quite reasonable but for those concerned there is an AC adapter available for about $10.  We give this system six thumbs up - 2 from me, 2 from RB and 2 from CJ. The model we received did not have the capability to connect to a television but I believe the current model in stores does. That’s a feature we definitely would enjoy.

The V Tech VSmile Cyber Pocket sells for $49.99. It’s available for purchase online and in stores nationwide.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - MUST HAVES - Belkin Flythru Laptop Case

belkin flythru case

belkin flythru case pocket

GIFT IDEA -BELKIN FLYTHRU LAPTOP CASE

Anyone that hasn’t traveled with my Mom doesn’t know the exquisite pleasure of almost missing a flight because everyone’s bags were being painstakingly gone through looking for drugs. A baggie of laundry detergent can look a lot like drugs I guess. Any luggage or bags that would end the humiliation inspection more quickly is a must have in my opinion, which is why the Belkin Flythru Laptop Case is a must have.

About the Belkin Flythru Laptop Case

Things are getting easier at the airport-with Belkin’s FlyThru, you no longer need to take your laptop out of the bag in the security line. This revolutionary new bag isolates your laptop on one side, and the clear window makes it easy for TSA agents to identify it. Just unzip the bag and lay it flat. Keep your other personal belongings away from the laptop and you should get the all clear. Enjoy your flight!

Mom was flying out to the West Coast this morning with my brother.  She was bringing her laptop. Mom travels with a scooter and can’t juggle things well. It somehow comforted me knowing that she’d have less to juggle and take apart because she was traveling with her laptop in this case. The bag unzips in half to reveal a clear window over the laptop so that compartment can easily go through the xray scanner. The case has a lifetime warranty and will accommodate most standard and widescreen laptops up to 15.6″. I would like to see the case available in a size that could accommodate a 17″ laptop.

The Belkin FlyThru Laptop Case retails for $59.99 and can be purchased online and in select retail locations nationwide.

WIN IT!

ONE winner will receive a Belkin Flythru Laptop Case.

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

To enter check out some of the other Belkin laptop accessories leave me a comment on this post telling me another product that you’d like to have and why.

BONUS ENTRIES

1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (at top of sidebar)
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed. (at top of page)
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name here. (at top of page)
1 - Tweet this giveaway.
1 - Friend me on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/valmg
1 - Fave this blog at Technorati AND leave your Technorati name here.
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog. (in sidebar)
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.

Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please. This contest will end on Saturday 01/02/09 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - MUST HAVES - Belkin CushTop - With Giveaway

belkin cushtop

GIFT IDEA - BELKIN CUSHTOP

My friend’s cousin once burnt his hoo-ha because he didn’t realize how hot a laptop can get and used it on his lap without benefit of protection (or clothing, LOL). The Belkin CushTop is a must have item for anyone with a laptop.

About the Belkin CushTop

  • Provides increased padded comfort when you use your laptop on your couch, bed, or floor.
  • Features a convenient storage pocket to keep your power adapter and mouse tucked away.
  • Flips over to accommodate smaller or larger laptops, whichever you need.

I tried the Belkin CushTop. I thought it might be awkward having it on my lap but it was soft and comfortable and actually gave me a more comfortable angle for typing. I didn’t feel any heat coming from the laptop when I used it. I’d love to see a wider version that allowed for use of a mouse as well.

The Belkin CushTop retails for $34.99 and is available to purchase online and in select stores nationwide.

WIN IT!

ONE winner will receive a Belkin CushTop.

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

To enter leave me a comment on this post telling me what you currently put under your laptop to protect you from heat when using it.

BONUS ENTRIES

1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (at top of sidebar)
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed. (at top of page)
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name here. (at top of page)
1 - Tweet this giveaway.
1 - Friend me on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/valmg
1 - Fave this blog at Technorati AND leave your Technorati name here.
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog. (in sidebar)
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.

Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please. This contest will end on Saturday 01/02/09 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - The Must Have Items

Just because Christmas is over doesn’t mean the Gift Guide is finished. Not quite. Watch for posts labeled Must Haves for some more great items and some of my favorite things. It’ll help those of you doing some after Christmas shopping for folks you forgot or haven’t seen yet, or for those of you wondering what to get with the gift cards and cash that you got.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - BJ’s Wholesale Club - With Giveaway

bjs banner

I recently received a free trial membership to BJ’s Wholesale Club. I went out on Christmas Eve to take care of some last minute errands and shopping.  My goal was to get the breakfast treats for Christmas morning and find a couple of last minute gifts.

In case you’ve never been there,  BJ’s carries just about everything - food beauty products, baby care products, household cleaning products, office products, automotive products (like tires) and more. They even accept manufacturers coupons.

There is an entire food department as well as a bakery. In the bakery I found all sorts of yummy looking treats. I snagged a Boston Cream Cake, a Ghirardelli Chocolate Cake, Blueberry muffins, coffee cake muffins, a package of eclairs and a package of apple turnovers. The eclairs were $6.49 for ten. I usually pay about $3.99 for a box of much smaller ones from Entenmanns, if I can find them in the store.

bjs cakes

bjs turnovers eclairs

I like to keep Coke in the house when my Dad is coming over, it’s his favorite. Usually soda is almost $4 for a 12 pack in the grocery store. I found a 32 pack for $9.49. That’s a great deal.

bjs coke sign

I also found a great deal on bottled water, which my son TJ loves. It was $3.39 for 32 bottles. Usually I pay $2.99 - $3.99 for a 24 pack in the grocery store if it’s on sale.

bjs water sign

I’d wanted to get the Fisher Price Sports game for CJ but really didn’t have the money. I found it on sale for $19.99, about $20 less than I’d seen it in other stores in the area. I grabbed that immediately.

bjs smart sports

TJ loves video games and skateboarding. I found the Tony Hawk Ride game on sale for $109.99. I didn’t get it because I was out of money but was pleased to see that BJ’s carried it since I hadn’t seen it in most other stores in the area.

bjs tony hawk ride

For folks looking for other items, there was a huge selection of gifts in every category. They had a deal on a Mr. Coffee 12-Cup programmable coffeemaker for only $29.99. They also had BOSE around-ear headphones bundle on sale for $139.99. I saw a gorgeous triple crockpot for $79.99 that I’d love to have.

I was so pleased with the prices and selection at BJ’s that I’ve decided I’ll be upgrading to a full membership when the trial one is over. The savings is worth it. Members are even able to buy many products online at the same fantastic prices they’d find in the store.

The free 60 day trial membership is currently available to anyone that has never been a member. There is currently an offer for new members to join for $45. That price includes a 14 month membership (2 cards - 1 for you and 1 for another member of your household), a member savings book full of coupons and rebates and “Sign up and Save” coupons worth $117 in savings. There is a 100% money back guarantee on the fee if you are not satisfied. Use the BJ’s store locator to find the club nearest you.

WIN IT!

ONE winner will receive a $25 BJ’s gift card.

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

To enter check out the BJ’s site and then leave me a comment on this post telling me something you saw on their site that you liked.

BONUS ENTRIES

1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (at top of sidebar)
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed. (at top of page)
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name here. (at top of page)
1 - Tweet this giveaway.
1 - Friend me on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/valmg
1 - Fave this blog at Technorati AND leave your Technorati name here.
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog. (in sidebar)
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.

Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please. This contest will end on Saturday 01/02/09 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

A $25 BJ’s Wholesale Club gift card was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - The Game Of Things

hasbro the game of things contents

GIFT IDEA - THE GAME OF THINGS

About The Game Of Things

You won’t believe the hilarious, creative, outrageous and unforgettable THINGS your friends will say during this provocative party game! Draw a topic card and read it out loud. “THINGS a chimp thinks about when he sees you at the zoo.” Then the other players write down their own responses: “You think I’m weird looking?” “What are you looking at?” or perhaps “Are you my mommy?” Then try to figure out who said what! Remember, you can write anything that comes to mind… so be as fun as you want!

I received a sample of The Game Of Things. It’s an easy to play party game that’s a lot of fun. One person is the reader, the other players each receive a piece of paper and pencil. The reader gives a topic (question) and the players all write down their answer. Then the reader reads off the answers and everyone has to guess who wrote what answer. No worries, everyone has to take a turn as the reader. We tried this game with four people and it was a lot of fun. This is definitely one of those games that keeps you laughing! It’s a great party game and I think it’d be hysterical as a couples  game. I can see possible expansion cards in the future if they came out with theme decks.

The game comes with 300 topic cards, 1 response pad, 1 score pad, 10 pencils and instructions.

The Game Of Things is for four or more adult players. It retails for $26.99 and is available for purchase in stores nationwide and online.

hasbro the game of things

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - Monopoly City

monopoly city board

GIFT IDEA - MONOPOLY CITY

About Monopoly City

Monopoly City allows players to build their own 3-D city in this new twist on the classic game! For the first time ever players can build from the start, creating their own metropolis in the center of the board. The game includes 80 3-D buildings, including industrial blocks, skyscrapers, and even parks. But life as a real estate tycoon isn’t always easy - opponents can sabotage your plans. If they build a sewage plant on your land, your rent value will plummet!

We love Monopoly in our house. The reason we don’t play it more often is we don’t always want to sit around for an hour just moving around the board buying property. That’s what makes Monopoly City neat - you cut right to the action. Right from the start you can start negotiating and making deals. What I like best is that it’s easy to be a little sneaky and set your opponent up. Three of us played for almost two hours and had a blast. It was cool to play with the new 3D pieces.

Monopoly City is for two to six players and is recommended for age 8 and up. It retails for $34.99 and is available for purchase in stores nationwide and online.

monopoly city box

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - Logitech Webcam Pro 9000

logitech webcam pro 9000

More and more people are getting online every day. It’s an affordable, fun and easy way to stay in touch with loved ones no matter where they are. I remember when my brother was deployed how much a few minutes of video chat meant when we were lucky enough to get them. One of my friends has a chat with her daughter and grandson just about every night because of the distance between them. The amount of joy it brings her is amazing.

My webcam is quite old. It works but because of it’s age the quality leaves a little to be desired. When I was first offered the chance to review this product I almost turned it down, because I have a webcam. Boy am I glad that I didn’t do that. The difference between my old webcam and the Logitech My webcam is quite old. It works but because of it’s age the quality leaves a little to be desired. When I was first offered the chance to review this product I almost turned it down, because I have a webcam. Boy am I glad that I didn’t do that. The difference between my old webcam and the Logitech Webcam Pro 9000 is astounding! is astounding!

About the Logitech Webcam Pro 9000

Look sharp. Logitech® QuickCam Pro 9000 uses Carl Zeiss® optics with autofocus and 8-megapixel images to capture every detail—even in the most extreme close-ups.

Features include:

  • Carl Zeiss® optics with autofocus
  • Native 2-MP HD sensor
  • High-definition video (up to 1600 X 1200*)
  • 720p widescreen mode with recommended system
  • Up to 8-megapixel photos (enhanced from native 2 MP sensor)
  • Microphone with Logitech® RightSound™ technology
  • Up to 30-frames-per-second video
  • Hi-Speed USB 2.0 certified
  • Logitech® webcam software (including Logitech® Video Effects™: fun filters, avatars, video masks, and face accessories)
  • Logitech Vid™
  • Universal clip fits notebooks, LCD or CRT monitors

The Logitech Webcam Pro 9000 was easy to get up and running. I had a minor problem getting it perched on my monitor but got it worked out. (Same thing happened with the last one, fyi.) Once I was up and running I was able to play with my new toy. The quality of the picture and sound is amazing - it’s like night and day compared to the camera I had made several years ago. We’ve had a lot of fun playing with the fun video effects too - putting things on people and making avatars. Turns out this upgrade made a big difference for us.

The Logitech Webcam Pro 9000 retails for $99.99 and can be purchased online and in select stores.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - Logitech Digital Video Security Camera

logitech outdoor security camera

GIFT IDEA - LOGITECH DIGITAL VIDEO SECURITY CAMERA

This looks like a great gift idea for folks that want to keep track of people and things in and around their home.

About Logitech Digital Video Security Cameras

A Different Approach: Logitech Digital Video Security Systems
Using innovative technology, Logitech digital video security products provide home and small business owners a surveillance solution with an easy, 15-minute installation, and flexible options for viewing footage on any PC or Windows Mobile® cell phone.


Logitech offers three types of video security cameras – Indoor, Outdoor and Clock Cameras. All of the company’s video security cameras capture full-color video and transmit the live feed over your existing electrical wires to your PC using HomePlug technology, an innovative type of powerline networking.

Setting up a Logitech video security system takes only three simple steps:

1. Install the Logitech® Command Center software
2. Plug the HomePlug® adaptor into the wall and connect it to your PC (via USB)
3. Plug in your camera to any available wall outlet


Logitech video security products are not only easy to setup, they also make it easy to enjoy peace of mind when you’re out and about. Logitech Command Center software alerts you when there’s motion at your home, or, when expected motion (such as your children coming home from school) doesn’t happen. You can even use your Windows Mobile cell phone to check on your home when you’re away. Many other options (including a Platinum Service plan that includes additional alerts and online storage space) are available to help design the video security system that works best for you and your family – all for a fraction of the cost of traditional video security systems. Don’t leave the security of your home or small business to chance.

Logitech® Indoor Digital Video Security System

The WiLife Indoor Video Security System is an affordable, PC-based camera that can monitor homes and small businesses. Load the software and plug in the cameras in just minutes – no new wires needed. Your PC instantly becomes a security center, providing you with live monitoring, hard-drive recording, remote viewing via the Internet and cell-phone alerts.

Includes an option to mount cameras tp a window, desktop stand or wall mount Starter kit: $299.99

Add-on camera: $229.99

Logitech® Outdoor Digital Video Security System

Monitor entrances and driveways with the Logitech® Outdoor Video Security Master System, the video surveillance system you can install in 15 minutes. Easy setup gets you up and running fast for immediate viewing – no new wires to run, no network configuration. The weatherproof, waterproof design ensures year-round use – even under harsh conditions. Flexible PC-viewing options let you see live footage or store it on your hard drive for later replay. Motion-activated cell-phone and e-mail alerts quickly update you when you’re on the go. Free remote viewing via the Internet allows you to log into a secure, Web-based account to view live video online – anywhere, anytime.

Starter kit: $299.99

Add-on camera: $229.99

Logitech® Spy Digital Video Security System

Discreetly monitor your home or business with the Logitech® Spy Video Security Master System, the video security system you can install in 15 minutes. Easy setup gets you up and running fast for immediate viewing – no new wires to run, no network configuration. And the flexible PC-viewing options let you see live footage or store it on your hard drive for later replay.

Starter kit: $329.99

Add-on camera: $249.99

Learn more about these products or purchase them online from Logitech.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - iHome IP41 Rotating Alarm Clock For iPod And iPhone

ihome ip41

Recently we got an iPod Touch in our house. We had always charged our old iPod on a clock radio. We loved that something we had in the bedroom, an alarm clock, could be come so functional and enjoyable. Sadly, we learned that the clock radio unit we had was not compatible with the new iPod Touch. Fortunately we learned about the iHome IP41.

It’s terrific to be able to wake up to music (or movies) you know you like rather than a radio station playing songs you may or may not like. Anyone with wall outlets in hard to reach places like I have would appreciate not having to plug and unplug an ac adapter all the time - you just leave the unit plugged in and you have a stylish looking iPod or iPhone alarm clock and a place to charge it. The dock is universal and will play and charge most iPhones and most docking iPod models (docking connectors included). One really cool thing about this unit is that it turns sideways, to allow you to view video in widescreen while charging. The best thing about this unit is the sound - it rocks! The sound quality is fantastic for something so small. The EXB Expanded Bass and Reson8 speaker chamber technology make for a really full and rich sound. I was pleased to find it’s not too deep or tinny and the volume can get up there. We love the unit and are so happy we can once again use our iPod all the time.

The iHome iP41 Rotating Alarm Clock For iPod and iPhone retails for $99.00.

ihome ip41 side

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - V-Moda Faze Earphones

vmoda faze

GIFT IDEA -V-MODA FAZE EARPHONES

I love music. I have an iPod and a Sirius Stiletto 2. Both of those come with a pair of standard inexpensive ear buds - the kid that doesn’t quite fit right in my ear and fits so poorly that other sound gets in with the music. The V-Moda Faze addresses this problem nicely.

About V-Moda Faze

Great sound meets hands-free convenience and ideal ergonomics with V-MODA’s Faze metal headphone with microphone. With V-MODA’s fundamentals of precise engineering, quality materials and fashion-forward design at its core, the Faze headphone offers its user the finest in sound and style.

The V-Moda Faze earphones are made of aluminum so they’re actually pretty light - I found them no heavier than standard ear buds. They have a longer narrower shape with three different size fittings that fits right into the ear canal. The sound that results is full and clear and no outside noise makes it’s way in.The Kevlar reinforced cable is much more stylish looking than the plastic cable on standard earbuds.

TJ has learned that now he has to tap me on the shoulder when I’m rocking out on the computer, before he used to be able to just say something and I’d hear him. I enjoy them tremendously and recommend them highly over any standard ear bud.

The V-Moda Faze headphones also has a hands-free microphone and call/music control button. They are compatible with the iPhone, iPod and Blackberry Smartphone as well as many MP3, CD and DVD players as well as computers.

The V-Moda Faze earphones are available exclusively at Best Buy for $50.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - Casio Waveceptor Watch For Women

casio waveceptor watch women

GIFT IDEA - CASIO WAVECEPTOR WATCH FOR WOMEN

About the Casio Waveceptor Watch For Women

For the fashionable woman on your list still looking for a tough-enough watch, the Waveceptor women’s watch is shock and water resistant, also offers atomic timekeeping and tough solar power, and has a daily alarm, stopwatch, and world time capabilities.

  • Multi-Band Atomic Timekeeping (US, UK, Germany, Japan)
  • Receives time calibration radio signals which keep the displayed time accurate
  • Auto receive function (up to 6 times per day)
  • Manual receive function
  • Signal: US WWVB, UK MSF, Germany DCF77, Japan JJY40/JJY60
  • Frequency: US 60kHz, UK 60kHz, Germany 77.5kHz, Japan 40/60kHz
  • Tough Solar Power
  • Shock Resistant
  • 100M Water Resistant
  • LED Light with Afterglow
  • World Time
  • 29 time zones (48 cities), city code display, daylight saving on/off
  • Countdown Timer
  • 1/100 second stopwatch
  • Daily alarm
  • Hourly time signal
  • Battery Power Indicator
  • Power Saving Function
  • Full auto-calendar (pre-programmed until the year 2099)
  • 12/24 Hour Formats
  • Accuracy: +/- 30 seconds per month
  • Storage Battery: Solar Rechargeable Battery
  • size of case/total weight - BGA1000B 43.6 x 38.9 x 13.1mm / 40g

I love the look of the face on the  Casio Waveceptor 4739 Watch For Women. It’s simple and elegant. I think it’s fascinating how the watch winds itself and I think the solar power is awesome. I think that a different band would really make a statement. Also, I am heavy and the existing band didn’t fit my wrist. The watch would make a gift for an active woman.

The Casio Waveceptor 4739 Watch For Women retails for $110 and is available for purchase online and in stores.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - Casio Waveceptor Watch For Men

casio waveceptor watch men

GIFT IDEA - CASIO WAVECEPTOR WATCH

I love that this watch needs no winding! It would make a great gift for any active and busy man. It’s attractive and masculine looking and quite sturdy.

About the Casio Waveceptor Watch For Men

The Waveceptor watch suits an intelligent man who balances his busy schedule with some extracurricular activities like playing sports, going for a jog or hitting the gym. When he is not working hard, he enjoys an active lifestyle and needs a watch to keep up with his busy social calendar. Waveceptor is a great gift for the man who is looking for a stylish watch with useful features that makes his life easier.

Muti-band 2 Atomic Timekeeping (US, JAP)

Atomic Timekeeping, offering pinpoint accuracy, allows the watch to automatically receive time calibration signal updates on a daily basis from transmitters based on the user’s home city setting. This feature can be utilized in the US and Japan which allows for convenient timekeeping globally, and allows for synchronizing during Daylight Saving Time.

Solar Power

Solar Power technology features a unique power saving function and allows Waveceptor timepieces to energize themselves through even the lowest level of illumination; natural, solar or artificial light.

Specs: WVA470 / WVQ400

  • Multi-band 2 Atomic Timekeeping (US, JAP)
  • Solar Powered
  • 100M Water Resistant
  • Bi-lingual Day of Week Display (ENG, JPN)
  • LED Light w/Afterglow / Auto LED Light w/Afterglow
  • World Time (30 cities)
  • 1/100 Sec. Stopwatch
  • 3 Daily Alarms / Daily Alarm
  • Hourly Time Signal
  • Power Save Function
  • 12/24 Hr. Formats

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - Plantronics Discovery 975 Bluetooth Headset

plantronics discovery 975

GIFT IDEA - PLANTRONICS DISCOVERY 975

About the Plantronics Discovery 975 Bluetooth Headset

The ingeniously simple Discovery 975 offers a custom blend of elegance and advanced technologies to keep you connected clearly, comfortably, and easily. A striking, minimalist design offers the simplicity of one-touch controls, while dual-mic AudioIQ² and WindSmart technologies keep your conversations clear, even in harsh conditions.

* Dual-mic AudioIQ² technology simultaneously captures your voice and cancels background noise for superb call clarity
* WindSmart technology provides three layers of protection against wind noise
* Carrying case recharges the earpiece and triples talk and standby time
* Patented gel ear tips offer a secure and comfortable fit
* Up to five hours of talk time and one week of standby, from a single charge
* QuickPair technology for easy pairing with virtually any Bluetooth-enabled phone
* One-year limited warranty


I liked that the Plantronics Discovery 975 was very easy to use - basically it’s either on or off. Windsmart technology again ensured that the sound quality on my end as well as the end of the person I was speaking to was clear.  The headset comes with three size ear tips - S, M and L. The soft gel ear tips aren’t uncomfortable but I prefer an over the ear style. What I loved about this headset is that the carrying case recharges it so you get up to fifteen hours of talk time.

The Discovery 975 retails for $129.99 and is available online and in stores like Best Buys, Radio Shack, Apple, AT&T, and Sprint. The MSR is $129.99.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - Plantronics Voyager Pro Bluetooth Headset

plantronics voyager pro

GIFT IDEA - PLANTRONICS VOYAGER PRO

It’s the law here in Jersey that you be hands free if you’re using a cell phone while driving. I was looking for a new Bluetooth headset so the offer to review this one couldn’t have come at a better time.

About the Plantronics Voyager Pro

Pushing the limits of headset technology, the Voyager Pro is the most advanced noise-canceling Bluetooth headset available. Two noise-canceling mics on a boom, AudioIQ² technology with its adaptive 20-band equalizer, and three layers of WindSmart technology ensure that you hear every word and that your voice is heard clearly despite the noise around you. This extremely comfortable, behind-the-ear headset is further proof of Plantronics’ 40-plus years of commitment to headset engineering excellence.

Features include:

  • Always-on dual-mic AudioIQ² technology cancels noise while retaining the unique, natural sound of your voice
  • Three layers of WindSmart technology–stainless steel mic screens, acoustic fabrics, and an electronic filter–block intrusive wind noise
  • Pivoting mic boom lets you wear headset on either ear and optimize the position of the two microphones
  • Automatic voice prompts alert battery and mute status
  • Up to six hours of continuous talk time, five days of standby from single charge

I really like the Plantronics Voyager Pro. The headset was flexible enough that I was able to wear it comfortably. I like that it sits over the ear and has a pivoting mic boom. Thanks to the Windsmart technology the sound was good - I was able to hear the other end well and they were able to hear me while I was speaking on it. Having up to six hours of talk time means even on a long car ride you can still talk safely. This headset comes with an A/C charger, three soft gel eartips, foam eartip covers, and a user’s guide.

The Voyager Pro was voted Editor’s Choice by CNET in April for its three layers of wind protection.

The Voyager Pro retails for $99.99 and is available to purchase online from the manufacturer at www.plantronics.com. It can also be found in major stores nationwide including Walmart, Best Buy, Radio Shack, Costco, Fry’s, Staples, Office Depot, Office Max, and Target.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

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