Holiday Gift Guide: D-Link MovieNite Plus

A little box that does so many big things. Want to watch a movie? Share YouTube videos with your family? Listen to music? This little box does that and much more. You'll have versatility with your television with the D-Link MovieNite Plus. And it works hand in hand with my D-Link Cloud Camera.

The product: Liven up your night with D-Link MovieNite Plus (DSM-312). Rent and stream new movie releases the same day they come out on DVD with VUDU. MovieNite Plus provides you with the perfect home entertainment content with over 130 apps and channels including: VUDU, Netflix, YouTube, Pandora, Rhapsody, Picasa, Twitter and mydlink. Experience a stunning home theater experience with full 1080p HD video quality.

• Steam new movie releases the same day they come out on DVD with VUDU - VUDU gives you instant access to the latest movie and TV show releases and you only pay for what you watch (no subscription or late fees).
• Enjoy a home theater experience in stunning 1080p clarity - Get the best HD resolution possible with a 1080p HD experience at an affordable price (HDMI connection required).
• Easy setup will have you watching in minutes, on almost any TV - Built-in wireless, easy onscreen menu and HDMI and composite video/audio connections make MovieNite Plus the perfect media player for any user.
• Instantly watch as many TV episodes and movies as you want with Netflix - Choose and watch as much high quality video as you want over the Internet (Netflix subscription required).
• Enjoy personalized and free Internet radio on your TV with Pandora - Create "stations" based on your favorite artists or songs and Pandora will play their music and more music like it.
• Access billions of videos from YouTube - With the click of a remote you gain access to hours of endless entertainment from YouTube.
• Over 130 apps and channels - Expand your entertainment options with over 13- channels and apps available to enjoy. Access Picasa, Flickr, Facebook, Twitter, Crackle and more from the library of content in MovieNite Plus Apps.

Tech Details

• Up to 1080p HD with HDMI 1.4 output (5.1 audio with Dolby Digital + support)
• Analog Video/Audio (Composite) connection - ability to connect to older TVs
• VUDU movie streaming service
• mydlink - Live viewing of mydlink-enabled Network Cameras
• Multiple connectivity options - Built-in 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi and 10/100 Ethernet

What we thought: We have been using the MovieNite Plus for a while now in our house. This little thing packs a punch. It has made watching movies and more so much fun. We can access our Netflix account right on this and get a much better quality picture than we did when we used our Wii to view it. I also enjoy being able to use Pandora on it to play music in the house.

This system is able to do so many things. And it has many apps and channels available that your family can use. It's fun to watch YouTube videos of old cartoons with my son. He has his own Pandora station with children's music that he enjoys. This is a great product that my family uses a lot! I think you will enjoy it too.

Gift ideas: This makes a great gift for the tech-lover or movie-lover in your life. It something that everyone in the family can use. It's very versatile and easy to set up and use too.

Where to buy: You can find the D-Link MovieNite Plus at various retailers and online. (Amazon has a great deal on one right now...just in time for a last minute holiday order.)




*Disclaimer: I received this product for review. All opinions are my own.*

Holiday Gift Guide: Novica's Unique Gift Finder #Giveaway

Novica is a great place to shop for unique gift items. This year you can take advantage of their new Gift Finder. I looked up Unique Gifts for Her - Earrings and found these pretty Amethyst dangle earrings "Wisteria Garland".

For the eco-minded person in your life, how about this Soda-pop-top handbag "Twin Power"?

If you've never checked out Novica before, this is the perfect time. They have great gifts for everyone. Their store is full of items that were handmade by people all over the world. They not only make a great Christmas gift, but they make a very unique gift. You can be sure your loved one won't get this present twice.

Where to buy: Go to http://unique-gifts.novica.com/ to find your perfect gifts. Many items will ship in time for Christmas if ordered in the next week.

Prize: Novica is providing two $40 gift codes for you to try the Gift Finder for yourself. (I was going to use one code for myself, but since I'm pretty much done shopping I thought I'd pass it along to you dear readers!)

Giveaway: This giveaway is open until 12:01am EST on 12/14. It is open to US residents only. Please enter in the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway




*Disclaimer: Novica provided the gift codes. I received nothing in exchange for this review.*

Holiday Gift Guide: "Christmas Stories" by Max Lucado

In the mystery of Christmas  we find its majesty. The mystery of how God became flesh, why he chose to come, and how much he must love his people.

Such mysteries can never be solved, just as love can never be diagrammed. Christmas is best pondered, not with logic, but imagination.

-Max Lucado

The Christmas season is upon us. I can't believe how quickly it's already going. It is fun to get into the season by participating in fun activities. Setting up the Christmas tree. Decorating the house. Baking sugar cookies and gingerbread men. Making fudge. Wrapping presents. The list goes on. One of my newest things is finding holiday books to get me into the Christmas spirit too. I usually come across one or two good ones each year that I can enjoy. This year I stumbled upon the book "Christmas Stories: Heartwarming Classics of Angels, a Manger, and the Birth of Hope" by Max Lucado.

The product: "Christmas Stories: Heartwarming Classics of Angels, a Manger, and the Birth of Hope" by Max Lucado

A heartwarming collection of Christmas stories and reflections from Max Lucado 

These stories—like your favorite Christmas ornaments—come in all shapes and sizes. They unfold in a variety of settings, from ancient Bethlehem to rural England. From a small Texas town to the heavenly realms. Some are short. Others many chapters long. Some offer reflections. Others imagine Christmas through the eyes of a burnt-out candle maker, a lonely business man, or heavenly angels. 

Yet all are vintage Lucado, and all resonate with the wonder of the season. 

"In the mystery of Christmas," Max writes, "we find its majesty. The mystery of how God became flesh, why he chose to come, and how much he must love his people. Such mysteries can never be solved, just as love can never be diagrammed. Christmas is best pondered, not with logic, but imagination." 

That's what each of these unique Christmas stories help us do. In the midst of the bustle and hurry that often distracts us this time of year, these stories free us to explore the ways in which Christ's coming has forever changed history—and us.

What I thought: Max Lucado is a wonderful writer. He has books that tell stories and books that uplift and inspire. I have read several from him. One of my favorites are his children's' books. My son has "You are Special" and we have enjoyed reading this story together for years. It's fantastic and teaches children about how special they are...just the way they are. (This is definitely one you want to add to your child's bookshelf.)

Christmas Stories is a great book with short stories about the Christmas season. Angels appearing and changing the mood of a whole village, miracles, hope and more. I enjoyed these Christmas stories. They are feel-good stories that put you in the mood for Christmas. And I can relate to the people in the stories. This is a must read this Christmas season.

Holiday Gift Ideas: The Christmas Stories by Max Lucado book is a great stocking stuffer or gift for anyone in your life. The inspiring stories are sure to touch the heart of the person you give it to. It might be a good choice for a person who is hard to buy for or maybe just a last minute addition to round out a gift for your special loved one. It's perfect for anyone this holiday season.

Where to buy: You can find Christmas Stories by Max Lucado in stores and online now- also available in ebook format.




*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”*

Holiday Gift Guide: Philips Norelco

You know who the hardest people on my Christmas Shopping list are? Men! My husband, my brothers-in-law, my father-in-law, and my dad. Difficult...every one of them. (Although, I have to admit that my husband was a little more helpful this year than in the past.) I usually default to necessities like underwear, basic t-shirts or socks. If all else falls, a restaurant gift certificate will usually work as a last minute option.

But...I would rather find something good for these men in my life. Something nice that they will use is best. Once in a while I stumble across those gifts that will fit just right for one of them, and it's great. This year I have just the thing for one special guy in my life...my father-in-law.

The product: The Vacuum Stubble & Beard Trimmer Pro is the product for me sporting a signature facial hair style. Whether designer stubble or a simple 'stache, this product makes upkeep simple and quick. And, the vacuum feature captures hair for a mess-free trimming.

Some features:

• Contour following comb for a precise and even trim
• Maintenance free blades
• Multi-functional display
• Travel lock
• Vacuum system captures cut hair for mess-free trimming
• 18 secured length settings
• Corded and cordless use for maximum power and freedom
• Strong lithium-ion battery
• Turbo power boost button

Holiday Gift Ideas: Like I mentioned before, this is a great gift for one of the hard-to-buy-for men on your shopping list this year. My father-in-law has had a beard for as long as I have known him (18 years). He keeps a nicely, trimmed beard and it's just part of his look. The Vacuum Stubble & Beard Trimmer Pro is going to be perfect for him. It's something that is practical that he'll use. Plus I love all the features of this trimmer. It's not a cheap one, it has lots of things that will be handy for every day use. 

Where to buy: The Vacuum Stubble & Beard Trimmer Pro is available in stores and online now.

Deals: Right now you can get coupons here to save money. Save $20 on Philips Norelco SensoTouch 3D. Save $10 on Philips Norelco SensoTouch 2D, and Save $5 on Norelco PowerTouch, PowerTouch with Aquatec, 6945, Replacement Heads, Bodygroom, QT4019, QT4022, QT4070, QC3270, and QS6140.

How to connect: Stay tuned for details on upcoming Twitter sweepstakes @ShaveExperts.



*Disclaimer: I received this product for review. All opinions are my own.*

Holiday Gift Guide: Stomp, Stomp, Stomp STOMPEEZ! #Giveaway (CLOSED)

This giveaway is now closed. Congrats to the winner listed below!

Stomp, Stomp, Stomp STOMPEEZ! I'm sure you've seen the commercial. If not, your kids can probably tell you about it. Stompeez are the latest craze in children's slippers. You see them on television, you see them in stores, and at Christmas you'll probably see them on your kids' feet.

The product:

Stompeez Begins Christmas Stampede Early

Now under new management, maker of soft, animated character slippers steps up production efforts to meet this year’s holiday demand

Springville, Utah (PRWEB) October 10, 2012

Stompeez™ animated slippers skyrocketed in popularity last year during the holidays, thanks to the soft, playful characters kids wear on their feet for stomping fun. And while popularity is a good thing, it also overwhelmed the brand, which at that time was new. Now under new management, Stompeez has stepped up its production and distribution efforts to ensure it will be able to meet this year’s holiday demand with ease. The company works hard to create, promote and sell products that children and parents will love.

Changes have been made throughout the company and its processes to ensure customer satisfaction and on-time order fulfillment. Stompeez has also made physical improvements to the brand, with quality upgrades to ensure that each fluffy slipper is made with durable stitching and superior material.

As a way to further build consumer confidence, a new 60-day money-back guarantee backs up the quality and value of each pair sold. To learn more about the new and improved Stompeez, read “Stompeez Slippers Makes a Comeback” in the Carlsbad Patch.

Stompeez Theme Song & Commercial Rev Up Consumer Excitement

One factor behind the Stompeez popularity explosion has been its award-winning infomercial, created by Infomercials, Inc. The video showcases the animated slippers and the engaging playtime experience they provide.

“We’ve worked hard to maintain our reputation of promoting exceptional products and we are proud of our collaboration with Stompeez,” said Gary Sandberg, DRTV Campaign Management Director at Infomercials, Inc. “Stompeez is dedicated to meeting consumer demand by providing durable slippers, excellent customer service and on-time delivery.”

About Stompeez & Holiday Shipping
Stompeez™ stuffs fun and imagination into ordinary slippers for kids. These cute, soft, comfy slippers are a hit at slumber parties, as well as for just romping around the house. Stompeez are available in eight colorful animal characters that pop to life with each step. They come in sizes to fit kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens. With the holidays approaching, Stompeez are affordable and unique gifts at $19.95 plus shipping and handling. Stompeez slippers are ready to ship with a guaranteed delivery date, including in time for the holidays. A new 60-day money-back guarantee also backs up the quality and value of each pair sold. Want to buy more than one pair of Stompeez? Customers who order two or more pairs at StompeezClub.com enjoy free same-location shipping on the additional pairs.

# # #

What we thought: My son was so exited to pick out his very own pair of Stompeez. He, of course, has seen the commercial on TV and has already asked for these several times. They come in 8 different styles: All Blue Puppy, Unusual Unicorn, Growlin' Dragon, Perky Puppy, Be-Bop Bunny, Playful Puppy, Peek-a-Boo Kitty, and Sir One-Eyed Monster. And they all are made in Small, Medium and Large. The small will fit most children under 5 years old (size 5-11). The medium is size 11.5-4 and large is 5-9. There are varieties that both boys and girls will enjoy.

Zachariah chose the All Blue Puppy slippers. He wears a size 1 shoe, and we got them in medium. They fit very nicely with some room to grow too. He really likes the Stompeez. It's cute to watch him walk through the house with the little puppy ears flopping up and down while he walks.

Holiday Gift Ideas: Kids of all ages will adore these under the tree this year. Stompeez are a fun, practical gift. We often get our son slippers for Christmas, so he can use them all winter. And by the next year he's outgrown those. I think these will last a few years too. And your kids will be excited to open this gift!

Where to buy: You can find Stompeez on their website- http://www.stompeezclub.com. They are also available in stores and online.

How to connect: Learn more about Stompeez on their website. They are also on Facebook and Twitter.

Prize: One of you will win your own pair of Stompeez. Just in time for Christmas too!

Giveaway: This giveaway is open until 12:01am EST on 12/10. It is open to US residents only. Please enter in the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway



*Disclaimer: I received this product to review. All opinions are my own.*

Holiday Gift Guide: Caboodles

Caboodles...do you remember them? The little cases that carried all our makeup and such? I had one (or more now that I think about it) growing up. It was a fun thing to have to keep all my "getting ready" things in one place. Well, they are back, and just in time for the holidays. Check out all the fun ones they have now, including a vintage looking one!

The product: Caboodles have been around for 25 years now. What is a Caboodle, some of you might be asking? Well, it's a cute, little box that carries all your necessities in one place. You can use it for make-up, toiletries, and more. It helps keep everything in one handy place. As you can see in the picture above, Caboodles come in several varieties to suit your needs. From big to small, they have a little of everything. And they have a new case, My First Love, that pays homage to the original pink case from the 80's.

What I thought: I was excited to see that this company is still around and still making great products. I had a little Caboodle when I was a young girl. I don't know what all I kept in it, because it was probably before I wore make-up, but I think I kept my hairspray, brush, lotion, perfume, stuff like that in it. It worked well for be, because we didn't have storage space in our tiny bathroom. I would just keep my bathroom things in my Caboodle in my room and bring it with me to the bathroom each morning to get ready. I loved it then and I still think they're great now.

Holiday Gift Idea: This year I'm taking a Caboodle and filling it with makeup, lip gloss, and other such things for my sister-in-law. I think it will be a great Christmas gift for her. I'm never sure what to get her, so some fun makeup things in a cute storage box will be just the thing. I think she'll really like it.

Caboodles are great for women and girls in your life. Whether you fill it up for them or not, it's something that all women can use. It's a great case to hold makeup, jewelry and more.

Where to buy: Many of these Caboodles can be found at Walmart, Target and a few other stores.

How to connect: See more Caboodles at http://www.caboodles.com. And keep in touch with them on Facebook.



*Disclaimer: I received this product for review. All opinions are my own.*

Holiday Gift Guide

This year I am featuring a Holiday Gift Guide in December  I have some great products I will review, and even a few nice giveaways. I hope that you enjoy.