Mr Lid Review – The Lid That Stays Attached
If you’re tired of messy kitchen cabinets where old bowls and lids are stashed because they have lost their mate, it might be time to rethink the way you store your food. More »
Derm Exclusive Kit Review – Anti-Aging Without Plastic Surgery
Aging is an inevitable part of life, but it doesn’t mean you have to look the part. Derm Exclusive is a revolutionary anti-aging skin care product line that is changing the way More »
GripGo Phone Mount Review – Does it Really Work?
The GripGo is an easy to use innovative device that securely holds your cell phone, tablet, or navigation device—and if your device is from the dinosaur ages, no need to worry. The More »
Hot Buns Hair Review – Easy Bouncy Curls?
If you’re anything like me (i.e. impatient and creatively challenged in the mornings) you know the value of anything that makes your daily routine easier. When I first heard of Hot Buns, More »
Perfect Pancake Review – No Spatula Required?
I’ll probably never admit it to my friends and family, but when it comes to making pancakes, I am a special kind of terrible. Whenever I get the guts to whip up More »
Ninja Cooking System Review
The Ninja Cooking System is a revolutionary product that combines several kitchen appliances into a single compact unit. It uses steam integration technology to cook for healthier foods that are more delicate More »
Ab Carver Pro Review – A New Workout Gadget from Perfect Fitness
The Ab Carver Pro is an abdominal workout device that puts a twist on floor exercises by adding resistance to workouts that would otherwise have no resistance. This auxiliary device uses a kinetic engine to determine the amount of force generated, so each individual’s strength determines the intensity of the workout.
Pros:
- Simple to use, but intense
- Anti-slip
- Ergonomic handles
- Kinetic Engine
- Easy on the back
Cons:
- Limited color options
- Puts pressure on the knees
I’ll be honest: I’m a sucker for defined abs and any workout product that claims to help maintain them. The minute any new product hits stores, I’m all over them (I have a growing collection of workout aid products at the bottom of my coat closet). The problem with me is that any routine I try gets boring after the third week (and third is kind of pushing it), so I’m always in the market for a new product that changes up the game.
The Ab Carver Pro is designed to target the same muscles that standard calisthenics exercises typically target and more, because it expands your range of motion and propels your body in the chosen direction, giving you the freedom to push yourself that much further. As much as I love the burn of accomplishment that results after a particularly intense session of side planks and twists, I have to say, the Ab Carver Pro certainly simplifies the process by eliminating the pain caused by too much twisting early on, so you have the strength to keep your workout going longer.
So, Why the Ab Carver Pro?
In the past, I’ve tried exercising oblique muscles by doing the whole forward-stretch thing with a weighted ball (for those who have never used one, is an extremely difficult workout tool to guide for any exercise among the gracefully challenged demographic). Needless to say, that worked out a little less desirably than I thought it would. The Ab Carver Pro significantly appealed to me because the construction is rugged enough to be used on any type of flooring (though, for the sake of my knees, will be restricted to gym floors unless there’s a yoga mat handy).
One of the more attractive features about this gadget (that sets it apart from weighted fitness balls) is that it has an internal carbon spring kinetic engine that helps intensify your workout while still offering you support. As you extend your body and roll the device forward, the kinetic engine kicks in and provide resistance against you, creating tension for a stronger workout (and keeping you from shooting forward. And possibly face-planting.), but when you reverse directions, the engine recoils and allows you to gently ease back into starting position, preventing excess muscle stress and saving your back from a painful aftermath.
I’m sure I’m not the only person who has had the experience of feeling like their muscles could take more lifting or more pushing, but have had to stop a workout due to uncomfortable handles. The handles of the Ab Carver Pro are ergonomically designed, so your hands stay comfortable for the duration of your workout. Plus, they enable you to guide the gadget to the left and right to work your oblique muscles for a highly effective workout.
The unit is durably constructed from heavy duty materials to withstand long periods of frequent usage. The exterior of the Ab Carver’s wheel is covered in a rubber shell, which helps to create additional resistance and also stabilize the unit as it supports your weight (a huge improvement from weighted balls that roll amok any way they want to). Shallow treads ensure that the Ab Carver Pro never loses traction no matter how fast you go.
Although this product requires you to put pressure on your knees for balance throughout your workout, the constant back and forth motions of your body help alleviate enough stress so that you’re not over-straining them to a painful point. The kit contains a pair of specially designed foam knee pads that absorb some of the shock from kneeling, making it easier for you to continue working out for longer amounts of time and reducing the susceptibility to calluses on your knees.
Although the Ab Carver Pro is designed to target and tone the abdominal muscles, the kinetic engine’s resistance also creates a workout for your arms, so you’ll tone your arms and abs simultaneously.
Final Thoughts
Of course, as anyone who has ever made a significant body transformation will tell you, working out is just half of the transformation and toning process. For that reason, the basic kit also includes a Digital Workout program filled with instructional videos and tips on healthy eating to get your workout started on the right track. The Ab Carver Pro can be used along with any workout program that focuses on abdominal toning, but as always, consult a doctor before beginning any strenuous workout program.
The Basic Ab Carver Pro package is available directly from the manufacturer for just $40.00 or two payment installments of $19.95, plus shipping and handling.
Callous Clear Review – Does This Callous Solution Work?
Callous Clear is a topical cosmetic product formulated to remove callouses efficiently without time consuming, extensive procedures and expensive products. Callous Clear is safe and easy to use and requires very little additional maintenance.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Removes callouses
- Softens skin
- Saves time and money
Cons:
- Messy
- Doesn’t protect against future callouses
If you’re one of those people who have tried home remedies for corns and callouses that didn’t work, it might seem futile to pursue any other options that don’t involve going to a spa. However, for the spa-phobic among us, that’s not always a viable option – germs running rampant among tools that aren’t thoroughly cleaned, foot baths that are only rinsed, not washed – the overall experience can just be uncomfortable, unpleasant, and sometimes traumatic. Callous clear is a home remedy that is proven to work on hard feet for a smoother, softer appearance.
As an athlete who never had time for pampering, I can say firsthand that the wonder of quick home remedies can never be overpraised. The secret behind its success is a special formula containing mild concentrations of thioglycolic acids that gently “eat” away at toughened skin to make it pliable and penetrates through layers of it to make it removable, so you can say good bye to painful callouses in just one application. Of course for larger, tougher callouses, more than one application may be necessary.
So, Why Callous Clear?
Callous Clear is very easy to use. Simply apply the ointment to one of the provided adhesive pads and apply it to the calloused area, being careful not to apply any to unaffected areas. Let sit for five to ten minutes and then remove the patch. It’s normal to feel a tingling sensation after the product is applied, but any pain or burning sensations should be investigated, and a doctor should be consulted immediately if any allergic reactions or rashes occur.
After removing the patch, the skin should peel away easily. Consumers can also use the included scraper file to agitate the area to remove any excess dead skin, and leave behind softer, moisturized skin. Tougher callouses may require more intense agitation (don’t be afraid to use a standard foot file!), and or more applications. In addition to it removing callouses, Callous Clear helps to remove corns and other foot imperfections, penetrating deep under dried, idle skin to revitalize the healthy skin trapped beneath.
Proper care and frequent moisturizing will optimize and prolong the results of Callous Clear. To encourage this, the ointment is currently available with a softening ointment formulated to further soften skin and keep it soft and moisturized after callouses are removed. For a limited amount of time, the manufacturer is also offering a soothing heel balm at no additional cost (a product you’ll definitely want if the callous-removing process involves vigorous scrubbing!). The soothing heel balm cools the area, reducing any temporary inflammation and neutralizes acids, alleviating any remaining tingling sensations caused by the callous removing formula. This three-step process ensures that your feet will remain ultra-soft with little to no maintenance for weeks to come.
Callous Clear ointment is surprisingly inexpensive in comparison to spa treatments that require repeated visits and/or charge a ridiculous labor fee. Callous clear yields results in just one application, in less than 20 minutes – a price in time and money that spa treatments just can’t beat. In addition to saving you money, this callous removing formula will save you from being embarrassed every time your shoes come off, so you can walk barefooted with confidence, knowing there are no unsightly skin defects plaguing your feet. While the formula doesn’t protect against future callouses (that would take completely redesigning how skin functions!), it’s so easy to use that keeping callouses at bay should never be a problem again.
Final Thoughts
As wonderful as Callous Clear is, the application process can get a little messy. The adhesive pads help to control the disaster zone, but I recommend taking your time with it and applying it slowly so that the ointment doesn’t get everywhere (it will harmlessly sting gentler skin, so be careful!). It helps to cover your work surface with newspaper or plastic bags to avoid damaging anything important (as the abrasive acids will damage things), and to thoroughly rinse anything that comes in contact with it after use, as well as properly dispose of the pads and any other materials.
Callous clear is available from the manufacturer for just $10.00 plus an additional $6.99 for shipping and handling (estimated between two and six weeks). Along with the Callous Clear callous-removing formula, you’ll receive a 4.2 ounce container of the softening ointment and 4.2 ounces of soothing heel balm. You’ll also receive four adhesive callous removing patches, and a two-in-one foot scraper and abrasive file to further soften your feet. For a limited amount of time the manufacturer is offering a second tube of callous removing cream for just the cost of shipping and handling. Plus, if you order soon, you’ll receive a complimentary $15 gift card towards any As-Seen-on-TV product purchase from telebrands.com.
Aqua Rug Review – A Look at the Shower/Bath Mat
The Aqua Rug is a sanitary alternative to standard shower mats that resists mold and mildew, while providing a more comfortable, anti-slip showering environment.
Pros:
- Sanitary and mildew resistant
- Doesn’t retain excess water
- Nonslip
- Stain resistant
- Provides a carpet-like texture to your shower
Cons:
- Only available in one color
- Raises questions about trapping hair
Do you ever get the feeling that some days you wake up feeling more morning-sensitive than others, and the simplest change, like going from carpeted flooring to something smooth underfoot is terribly unsettling? And as great as the shower mats made of the same plastic-y stuff as suction cups are, that’s an even more unsettling transition, because morning me has to make three morning texture transitions, instead of just the usual rug-to-cold-floor one, which is far more traumatic to a half-awake person than it sounds.
Well, enough of my mornings start off that way for me to say that textured shower flooring is a genius idea (a feeling that may or may not be influenced by my affinity to somehow always miss the floor and slip. I’ll never tell).
Aqua rug is just what it sounds like – a rug for water, or, in this case, your shower. The construction of the rug is pretty nifty, made of anti-microbial, compression proof fibers. You’ll never have to worry about fostering a community of bacteria on your shower floor or scrub mildew stains from an old mat. Better still, the compression proof fibers ensure that you’ll never lose the cushy, soft feeling that makes showering that much more enjoyable and relaxing. You don’t need to worry about tearing or wearing out the shower mat either; it’s durably constructed to last a lifetime.
So, Why the Aqua Rug?
The secret behind the wonder is a lattice-like, breathable design that allows water to past through the fibers, instead of pooling and lingering in crevices, where mold and mildew can develop and lead to gross (and sometimes dangerous) showering environments. The fibers also ensure that the soft beige color of the mat will never fade or yellow, no matter how many times it’s washed, stepped on, or even bleached.
If you’re big on eliminating germs like I am and feel the need to clean your shower mat anyway, the Aqua Mat is surprisingly easy to clean. All of the little gaps and spaces make it really easy to lather up and you can simply fold it over and scrub it with itself, but that’s next to unnecessary. A simple rinse to remove excess soap after showering is all it takes, and your Aqua Rug is squeaky clean for the next use.
The Aqua Rug shower mat lies flat without the use of suction cups that enable it to cling to the floor – a feature that some feel is necessary to prevent slipping. However, the Aqua Rug does an excellent job of staying put with its rubber-like bottom. One of the upsides to it not having suction cups is the whole mold and mildew thing again – it doesn’t serve as a breeding ground for germs, saving you the pain of scrubbing out each individual suction cup with an old toothbrush when it comes time to clean it.
Another benefit of its cushy, spongy fiberous design is that it serves as a loofa for your feet. Most of us don’t spend time scrubbing away at our feet while showering, but the Aqua Rug is basically just a large, flat loofa that will lather up and let you rub your feet across for a thorough scrub while your shower.
Another great thing about its affinity to absorb but not retain water is that the Aqua Rug shower mat can be placed anywhere in your shower, even over the drain. No more worrying about traditional plastic mats blocking drainage or anything of the sort; the mat will lay flat over the drain and still allow water to drain from your shower uninhibited. It also helps to filter out long pieces of hair from the drain. And yes, you’re probably thinking, won’t that result in a not-so-pleasant Aqua Rug? While the mat does catch bits of stuff, it’s surprisingly easy to clean and not prone to getting too many things tangled within it, just like any traditional loofa.
Final Thoughts
The Aqua Rug is the perfect size for most standard showers, at 29 ½ inches long by 17 ¼ inches wide. But, the use of this rug doesn’t need to be limited to showers – in fact, it makes an excellent replacement for any carpet or mat you’d use in place prone to moisture, such as mudrooms, door steps, pool sides, or even as a landing pad for damp shoes.
AquaRug can be purchased from the manufacturer’s official website for just $19.99 plus an additional $7.99 for shipping and handling. For a limited time, you can receive a second rug for just the cost of shipping and handling, an offer you probably don’t want to pass up if you have a multiple-shower home. All purchases are protected by a 10 year money back guarantee.
StoneDine Cookware Review – Is There Anything Special About This Set?
StoneDine cookware is a pot and pan product line that specializes in stone-coated pots and pans for more efficient, healthy cooking. The products feature unique magnetic technology and micro particles of stone to create a pan that evenly maintains heat.
Pros:
- Promotes healthier cooking
- Maintains even heat throughout cooking
- Unique magnetic bottom
- Easy to clean & Nonstick
Cons:
- Requires mild maintenance
- Only available in one color scheme
For as long as I can remember, my mother has refused to cook food on any pan that isn’t cast iron or stoneware because of their ability to healthily cook food. She gave me a stoneware pot in my favorite color as a housewarming gift for my first apartment, which I instantly fell in love with. The downside to this was that cast iron pots and pans are ridiculously heavy, and the stove top is ceramic. I dropped the lid of that pot on the stove top, which shattered the cook surface and resulted in the whole unit needing to be replaced. Needless to say, since then, I’ve been afraid to put anything half as heavy on the stove, but I’ve missed how stoneware evenly heats cooking surfaces.
I heard about StoneDine cookware from a friend who, to be polite, has little to no cooking skills, but swore by them anyway, saying that they make her a good cook. Knowing that it would take a miracle of sorts for her to be a good cook, I did check the pots out, and while they’re certainly not performing miracles, they do give you a run for the money. Like traditional stoneware and cast iron, StoneDine pots evenly distribute heat throughout the entire dish so that there’s no loss of heat, hot spots, or cold spots during the cooking process, so you get an evenly cooked meal every time.
So, Why the StoneDine Cookware?
The secret behind StoneDine’s even heating is thousands of micro-particles of stone that coat the surface of the pan, ensuring it conducts heat the same way a solid stone pot would. The pots and pans have a unique stainless steel and magnetic bottom that circulates heat around the bottom of the pot, allowing it to evenly migrate upwards, cooking by induction and letting the pot maintain even heat as you cook.
The even heat also reduces cooking time in comparison to standard aluminum and stainless steel pots. Instead of spending time rotating, shifting, and turning pieces of food, you can cook more efficiently knowing that the heat is doing its job and cooking your food thoroughly.
The stone covering also helps facilitate a completely non-stick surface, so you can reduce the amount of oil and fats you typically use to cook your food. As a result, you’ll end up with healthier food (less fat = healthier cooking), plus you’ll be able to truly taste your foods, because they won’t be drenched in unhealthy fats.
The surface of StoneDine pots and pans is scratch resistant, meaning that you won’t obtain scratches or worry about pieces of coating coming off and ending up in your food (a problem that many Teflon pots and pans face), even when your pan is hot. Of course, like with any proper cookware, proper care and usage will prolong the life of these pots. Keep in mind that these pots are coated, not solid, and if given enough abuse, will eventually tarnish. To keep them in top shape, do not clean with abrasive detergents, do not leave unattended on high heat for long periods, and do not expose to extreme temperatures.
These pots require moderate maintenance anyway, and it’s all due to their non-stick surface. Even if you’re melting cheese directly in the pot, these pans wipe clean with a damp sponge or paper towel (to prolong the life, do not place pots or pans in the dishwasher); no need to turn to scouring pads. In the event that something (like melted sugar) sticks to the pot, do not scrub vigorously. Instead gradually warm the pan up over low heat, wash with a gentle sponge and soap, and your pots will be good as new.
Final Thoughts
However, like many conventional cast iron and stone ware pots, these pans do require seasoning between uses – a simple process that doesn’t require much in the ways of time or effort. Simply work a teaspoon of oil into the pots surface, and warm over low heat. This will lower the pans susceptibility to rust and other damage, and also ensure that the pans don’t become porous over time and stick to foods.
The 8-piece StoneDine pots and pans set includes 1 cooking pot, 1 sauce pan, 1 stew pot, 1 frying pan, 1 roasting pan and comes with three glass lids to fit the pots. All products are covered by a 12 year warranty. When ordered from the manufacturer’s official website, the pots and pans are available for a 30-day test period for just $29.95, plus an additional $27.75 for shipping and handling. The complete set is available for $299.97, plus an additional shipping and handling cost of $27.75.
Table Mate Review – Does This TV Tray Work?
Table Mate is a lightweight, portable table that provides multi-functional use for just about anything you’d use a table for. The table adjusts to different heights and angles to suit any use – from children, to floor sitting, couch sitting, or kitchen use, this table is versatile enough to do it all.
Pros:
- Lightweight & Durable
- Adjustable height
- Easy to store
- Built in cup holder
Cons:
- No color options
- Non-adjustable feet
In the household I grew up in, there was never a shortage of a need for an extra table. There always seemed to be a new device in the house materializing overnight and not enough table space to go with. My mother’s idea of movie nights were watching documentaries, but because she didn’t believe in idle hands, they were always paired with projects of crocheting or bead-work or embroidery, and few things were more frustrating than finding a needle in the couch with a part of your body that wasn’t a pair of eyes. Not to mention, family dinners were always crowded, and our wheelchair-bound cousin was always left out of the bunch.
TV dinner tables were a viable solution, but more often than not, the cross-legs underneath led to more problems than the original problem. No room to place your feet, not enough leg clearance, and unsteady tops contributed to the unpleasant experience, and it just didn’t make sense that there wasn’t a more practical design available. Table Mate tables pair a much more sensible design with all of the great things about portable tables, making it an excellent solution.
So, Why the Table Mate?
The table features an extremely lightweight construction that doesn’t compromise quality. The legs of the unit are constructed of a lightweight-but-durable aluminum that supports the strong plastic table top, bringing the total weight of the unit to just 6 pounds. Plus, the table top is adjustable to three different angles, so it’s the perfect work surface for different applications, such as laptop use, writing, eating, and crafting. The edges of the table are slightly lipped, so things won’t slide off the surface while you’re using it. For 6 pounds, it’s surprisingly strong, capable of supporting weights up to 50 pounds.
One of the wonderful features about this table is that is that the design doesn’t forget the long-legged among us—I can’t count the amount of times I’ve upset food or my work-space because the table just didn’t leave room underneath to shift my legs. The legs of the Table Mate conveniently adjust to six different heights, no disassembling required. All it takes is depressing the buttons on each leg, and adjusting the leg poles accordingly. The legs of the table are L shaped, so they easily disappear under a couch when you need to pull your table closer.
The Table Mate table conveniently folds flat for easy storage, so you can easily slip it under or behind a couch, tuck it away in a closet, or hide it in plain sight behind a curtain. The slim design of the table makes it an excellent option for those with small living quarters, because it doesn’t consume unnecessary space by remaining full-sized all the time. The tables are also stack-able, so they won’t obstruct spaces if you have more than one.
The table features a built in cup holder that swivels out from the side of the table, so it will remain out of the way of your activities. It seems like a small detail, but its value can’t be underestimated when working on a laptop – you won’t have to worry about your movement accidentally upsetting your drink and ruining your computer as you work. Plus, the cup holder adjusts to different angles, so no matter what angle you have your tabletop at, your cup will always be upright.
Final Thoughts
The Table Mate table is very easy to assemble – simply remove the parts from the box, and snap them together (although I do recommend reading instructions for orientation; you don’t want to assemble it backwards!). The assembly requires no additional tools or fasteners.
One of the only downsides to the product is that it’s only available in white. Although many people don’t care too much about color preference, especially for a piece of furniture that won’t constantly be on display, other colors would be a nice feature to have. The other drawback is that the legs do not allow for re-positioning – an issue that is redeemed by the product’s excellent construction for its weight. However, it would be nice to have swiveling legs to allow for maneuverability in extremely cramped spaces.
The Table Mate table is available from the manufacturer for just $29.95 plus shipping and handling (estimated to be between 2 and 6 weeks) at $9.95. For a limited amount of time, the manufacturer is offering another Table Mate at just the cost of shipping and handling. All purchases are covered by a lifetime replacement guarantee that protects against any defective or damaged products, as well as a lifetime money back guarantee.
Bodylastics Resistance Bands Review – The D.G.S. Improved Workout System
Bodylastics bands are a series of exercise systems that feature bands of different tension weights that can be combined for more intense workouts. The systems are designed to be used independently or in conjunction with any video workout system of your choice.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Easy to Use
- Durable
- Made with anti-snap technology
- Perfect for All Skill Levels
Cons:
- Made with latex; not for those allergic to latex
I have a love-hate relationship with exercising and I’m sure I’m not alone in this. I love the benefits that come with it, especially the feeling of accomplishment after an intense session, but sometimes doing the same motions over and over feels of a chore and slowly becomes less enjoyable. When it comes to working out, I’ll take as much variety as I can get. The problem I have with variation is that sometimes the things just don’t add up for an intense enough workout.
I started using standard resistant bands a few years ago, and my initial reaction to them was “Meh, not that exciting.” Tugging on a stretchy string in different directions got boring really fast, so I just couldn’t understand the appeal and excitement behind the Bodylastics system until I gave it a closer look. Instead of just being a monotone do-it-all, all-in-one band that claimed to work out every imaginable muscle and then some in your body, it’s easy to see how this system targets even the hard-to-work muscles.
So, Why the Bodylastics Bands?
The bands come in a variety of different systems, each at a higher tension weight. The program starts out at Basic, with bands reaching up to 56 pounds of resistance, and moves onto Max at 96 pounds, Max LT at 142, Strong at 202, Strong XT at 262, MMA at 328, and Super Human Strength at 404 pounds.
If you’re anything like me, you’re probably paranoid about the possibility of snapping a band and injuring yourself in the process of working out. Bodylastics has designed their bands with Distance Governor Safety (D.G.S.) that works to prevent band mishaps by limiting the stretching range of the bands. The bands are fitted with a hidden high-tensile strength braided cord that prevents overstretching by restraining the cords from stretching too far. The braided cords is strong, but still stretchy, so your exercise won’t be compromised by uncooperative cords.
The fear of snapping elastics has always gone hand in hand with the fear of handles breaking during exercise and it doesn’t help that it’s happened to me before. The Bodylastics systems are equipped with a unique handle design that enables them to withstand constant frequent use without posing any dangers to the user. The elastics are equipped with heavy strength aluminium clasps that allow the bands to easy attach and detach from the assorted handles and ankle bands, which also help to create varied tensile strengths, depending on the system you purchase.
Another unpleasant experience of elastics bands I’ve encountered is what I like to call the jerky band syndrome. I suppose lack of proper storage or just improper usage or maybe even aging contribute to the poor condition of rubber bands found at the gyms I’ve been to (because a manufacturer would never be silly enough to release a product that’s not easy to use, right?). The bands just don’t stretch right – sometimes they stretch too far with no effort or require a few tugs to stretch at all and we’re not talking about high tension bands, either. We’re talking bad rubber.
Bodylastics has carefully chosen the best elastic tubing they could find for their system, and each band is made of continuously dipped Malaysian latex for durability. It’s surprisingly lightweight, especially for something that can generate up to 400+ pounds of resistance, and is easy to use, store, and take care of. The elastic tubing is an excellent choice for this system because it generates a workout that’s easy on joints, making it a good choice for everyone, including the weak-kneed, but still delivers an intense work out to all of the muscle groups.
All Bodylastics resistance band systems come with a free trial to their partner site, Liveexercise.com, which hosts a wide range of interactive workouts for all fitness types at any experience level. The Bodylastics bands can simulate over 140 workouts, including just about any muscle workout that gym equipment would provide, making them a perfect choice for anyone who enjoys working out even when they’re on vacation – simply throw the bands in your suitcase and access their website from any internet ready device, and you’ll have a gym with you wherever you go.
Final Thoughts
Of course, as with any exercise program, consult a physician before beginning any exercise program, especially if you’re considering starting a workout program with high-tension bands and/or aren’t used to resistance training.
The Bodylastics systems are available from the manufacturer’s official website, and prices range from $28.95 for the Basic System, to $144.95 for the Super Human Strength system. The kits contain Anti-Snap in varying colors and weights (depending on the system you order), heavy duty foam covered handles, heavy duty ankle straps, heavy duty door anchors, a workout DVD with digital user manual, a Free trial to Liveexercise (length varies depending on system) and a storage/travel bag. Each kit varies slightly, so be sure to review each system’s contents before placing your order.
DermaTend Review – All Natural Skin Tag Removal
DermaTend is a natural solution to skin tags and moles, designed to provide rapid, affordable relief to skin problems. This product provides a safer, more affordable alternative to expensive dermatology procedures that do not guarantee that the problem will not reoccur. If you’re interested in skin tag removal, you may also be interested in our Tag Away review.
Pros:
- All natural formula
- Safe and easy to se
- Affordable
- Quick acting formula
- Pain free
Cons:
- Not as effective on really severe moles
- Might be problematic for those allergic or sensitive to bloodroot
If you’ve had a mole or skin tag at any point in your life, you know how embarrassing it can be to live with it. You always feel inclined – no, obligated, to cover it up, because when people see it, they stare as if it’ll grow a head and start singing. Dermatologists visits are a viable option, but they’re costly, often even more embarrassing than the original situation, and require lengthy, frequent visits that you just don’t have time for.
So, Why the DermaTend Skin Tag Remover?
DermaTend is a topical all-natural solution to moles, skin tags, and other embarrassing skin blemishes. It provides real results in reasonable amounts of time, so you can kiss painful procedures and expensive surgeries good bye and still enjoy flawless skin. DermaTend’s powerful formula enables it to rapidly remove skin tags and moles while still being gentle enough for everyday use.
And it’s extremely easy to use, too. I’ve heard stories of people having to have operations done with tons of follow-up visits, essentially having to jump through hoops just to find a way to get rid of skin tags and moles. DermaTend just requires your commitment in applying the ointment for several days, after which, a scar will begin to form and soon fall off, leaving your skin mole and skin-tag free.
I shouldn’t have to say this, but I’m going to: resist your nagging urges to pick at it and speed up the process; it won’t work, and you’re just going to leave a blemish or scar mark in its place, which frankly, isn’t fun. When used properly and allowed to work its magic, DermaTend will leave no visible reminders of moles, skin tags, or scars behind.
Sound too good to be true? I thought so too, but DermaTend is made of Butter of Zinc, Sanguinaria Canadensis (common name, Bloodroot) and vegetable glycerin. Bloodroot has acidic properties that penetrate the top layer of your skin to reach down and target the cause of the problem. The zinc butter will then help dry the mole or skin tag from the inside out, causing it to scar and leave your skin looking refreshed.
Because DermaTend is made with only natural ingredients, it’s safe enough to use frequently on most parts of your body. Although generous applications are typically not necessary, it’s safe enough to use in higher concentrations for more problematic areas with multiple skin imperfections. The ointment is safe enough to use on children, too, but be sure to consult a doctor before use on children under six.
The instructions recommend agitating the surface of the mole or skin tag just before the initial application, just enough to allow for mild scarring to form on top to encourage the ointment to sink deeper into your skin. The deeper it sinks, the more effective the result. The acidity of bloodroot might cause your skin to sting or tingle, but is otherwise completely pain-free and safe to use. Rinse the affected area after application, and all that’s left to do is wait for DermaTend to do what it does best.
DermaTend is available in two formulas to better suit your needs. The original formula is ideal for minor skin imperfections, like newly developing warts and skin blemishes, and will begin to show results within 3-4 days from the initial application. It’s also available in an ultra-strength formula, with more potent concentrations of bloodroot to target more severe moles and skin tags. Results of the ultra-strength formula typically appear within 24-48 hours after application. DermaTend is available in two sizes; the normal size contains enough ointment to treat up to 30 moles or skin tags, and the small container contains enough to treat 15 skin imperfections.
Each order of DermaTend ultra-stregth comes with a complimentary half-ounce jar of quick-healing balm, which helps speed up the skin healing process by replenishing the skin with natural vitamins and minerals, while reducing the potential for lingering scars.
Final Thoughts
Of course, as with any product, consult a doctor immediately if you feel there is any excessive pain, allergic reactions, or rashes in response to application.
The original DermaTend formula is available from the manufacturer’s official website for just $39.95 plus shipping and handling. The Ultra-strength formula is available in two purchasing options; one tube for just $69.95, or two tubes for $99.95, both of which come with the complimentary healing balm. Your purchase is backed up with a 60 day money-back guaranteed to protect you in the event that this product is not right for you.
Here’s a consumer video review posted on YouTube:
EdenPure Heater Review – The Infrared Portable Heater
EdenPURE Heaters are cabinet heater units that feature a unique heating system with no exposed heating elements, providing a safe alternative to traditional space heaters and furnaces that pose a threat to pets and small children.
Pros:
- Safe for use around pets and children
- Saves you money on heating costs
- No fumes or harmful byproducts
- Preserves oxygen
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- May require more than one unit to heat large homes
- Electric; won’t hold up in the event of a power outage
When I was growing up, my parents were extremely frugal people when it came to things like home heating, putting off turning the furnace up until it we were at freezing point and they could no longer refrain. Living on the water didn’t help, either, because when the temperatures dropped and the edges of the ocean turned to ice, keeping the house warm was a battle that the even the joined forces of the furnace and space heaters couldn’t win. Needless to say, my parents haven’t changed much, so they’re constantly searching for alternative ways to heat their home.
The EdenPURE line of heaters seemed like an excellent option, especially considering they had never owned a cabinet heater before, and the exterior was extremely more appealing than any space heater they had ever had before. The half hour after setup (which was as simple as removing from the box and plugging the unit into the wall outlet) was a half hour of them standing baffled and confused about how the unit worked (and brought them to the conclusion of magic).
So, Why the EdenPURE Heater?
But the secret behind the EdenPURE line of heaters isn’t magic at all, it’s infrared technology. Infrared heating works by sending light waves that aren’t visible to the naked eye into the air, which warms up the surrounding area (think of how a ray of sunlight makes a spot warm, but shaded parts of the room aren’t as warm). It’s estimated that almost 22,000 residential fires per year are a result of improper usage of or neglect during the use of heating equipment. Infrared technology is a step towards safer home heating, because it eliminates the use of exposed heating elements that could catch on clothing or hair and start a fire.
The benefits don’t stop there, either. Using an infrared heater like one from the EdenPURE heater line is proven to improve air quality in your home, because they don’t damage oxygen or completely eliminate humidity from the air, so you can breathe easier – both literally and figuratively, especially knowing that your chances of airborne pollutants aren’t increased. Because EdenPURE heaters don’t rely on burning anything to provide heat, they reduce the risk of carbon monoxide and other poisonous gases floating around your home. You’ll sleep better knowing that there’s no risk of combustion from flammable gases and you’ll never have to deal with cleaning soot or encountering smoke in your home.
Using EdenPURE heaters is also an excellent way to cut back on your heating costs. Most heating companies encourage you to turn your thermostat back a few degrees – something the majority of us in colder, northern locations can’t afford to do. Instead, saving energy by heating only the spaces you need to use will save you a lot of money. Besides, EdenPURE heaters are surprisingly energy efficient, so you don’t have to worry about your electricity costs skyrocketing if you choose to make the switch.
EdenPURE heaters also feature quiet operation. That’s not to say that you won’t hear it operating at all, but in comparison to my latest space heater that sounded like a diesel engine idling, there’s just a gentle purr that will fade into background noise before you know it. Depending on the temperature that the thermostat is set at, the unit’s fan will cycle on and off to maintain a desired heat in the room, or just periodically move air over the internal thermometer for an accurate room temperature reading. Aside from that, the operation of the unit is completely silent.
The units have an appealing exterior, especially for a space heater, featuring a cabinet design with a wood finish decorative enough to function as a low table for a small vase or decorative, inflammable home accent. The units are set on four wheels, which make it really easy to move from room-to-room. It’s sturdily built, so that if children and pets climb up on it (or even if an adult sits on it; not recommended, but hey, it happens), the unit will not collapse or cave in. At the same time, EdenPURE heaters are surprisingly lightweight.
Final Thoughts
EdenPURE heaters vary in price range from around $150 to upwards of $400, and are available directly from the manufacturer or for purchase in select stores. The units vary in size and style for different sized homes and purposes. All units are covered by a three year manufacturer’s warranty which ensures replacement or repair of any damaged or defective product.
Side Socket Review – The Maneuverable Surge Protector
Side Socket is a 6-plug electrical hub that is designed for use in cramped spaces to help organize and protect electrical cords. This versatile unit allows rotation of sockets for easy access and puts an end to shifting heavy furniture for the sake of plugging in electronics.
Pros:
- Easy to Use
- Provides More Outlets
- Saves Space
- Safe; doesn’t pose any fire, child, or pet hazards
- Organizes space
Cons:
- More outlets means a higher risk of overloading your electric line
I’m sure I’m not the only person who’s experienced the frustration of replacing a device because the cord on the otherwise-in-perfect-condition gave up on doing what cords do best. I have lamps and laptop wires galore with cords that no longer power their respective units due to the constant bending just at the point where the plug meets the cord. And it’s not like the bending situation can be avoided – lots of rooms have haphazard outlet placement, so it’s sometimes not possible to position that tall dresser anywhere else in the room without blocking the window, closet, or doorway. The furniture just has to go there, and the cords suffer for it.
Side Socket is an creatively designed outlet adapter that not only puts the bending-cord issue to rest, but also maximizes your outlet’s potential. The surge protector features two swiveling rows of outlets that can rest at a 90 degree angle from the wall, enabling you to plug your cords, so that they run perpendicular to the wall, instead of sticking out and being pressed by unrelenting furniture. The outlet rows swivel so you can easily position them at lesser angles, such as a 45 degree angle, if your furniture is placed in a position that makes outlet access even more challenging.
So, Why the Side Socket Surge Protector?
The product combines the convenience of a power strip with the solution to bent cords and tangles. Regular power strips that lay horizontally on the floor invite cords to weave themselves together into piles of undetectable wires. The Side Socket has two vertical outlet strips that allow the cords to hang down instead of lying flat, eliminating jumbled wires. Plus, the device is low profile, so it only extends about 1.5 inches from the wall—small enough for you to place your furniture without too much space between the wall.
As someone who’s lived in tiny apartments with only two electrical outlets to the entire place, this contraption cannot be more highly valued. The dual outlet strips each pivot 90 degrees, so you have the freedom of maneuvering them to point in opposite directions, if needed. Plus, they expand your regular outlets from just two sockets to six – making it a must-have item for tiny apartments. Do be careful not to overload the Side Socket, especially if your electrical system can’t handle a lot of strain.
The Side Socket saves space, even if you’re not in a predicament that requires you to move furniture to plug in your electronics. The flat, wall mounted design enables you to get piles of cords off the floor, making it easier for you to tack the more permanent of those plugged-in wires to the wall to prevent people from tripping or pets getting tangled in the impromptu electric rope course.
Few things say organized like the state of your wires; the hanging wires help to give spaces a neater, more organized appeal, but in this case, neater is safer, too. Because yours cords will be out of the way (and not smashed behind heavy furniture!), you don’t have to worry about movement causing excessive wear and fraying of wires, which can lead to sparks, fires, and/or explosions, or worry about endangering someone in the proximity of your plug-in center.
Because the sides conveniently pivot, you can rotate them when you need to remove plugs or add a new electronic device. The Side Socket surge protector gives you the flexibility and convenience of a better-placed outlet, without threatening to be terribly conspicuous (of course, depending on where you place it). Not to toot the Side Socket’s horn or anything, but it’s nearly impossible to find any drawbacks in this product – the design of it is so well thought out, that it easily conforms to any living situation, and works great for any location – from living rooms, to garages, to the office – anywhere you need more sockets, this socket hub can do the job.
Final Thoughts
The Side Socket is covered by a 30 day money back guarantee (minus shipping costs) to protect your purchase. The product is covered by an additional lifetime warranty that guarantees repair or replacement of any defective or damaged units for as long as you have the product.
The Side Socket is currently available from the manufacturer for just $10.99 plus an additional $7.95 shipping and handling. For a limited time, you can receive a second Side Socket hub for just the cost of shipping and handling (a second one is always a good idea, especially considering that cords seem to multiply while you sleep). The product takes about 2-6 weeks for delivery.
Canada Green Grass Seed Review – An Easy Route for Lawn Care?
Canada Green Grass is a four-grass blend of hardy grasses resistant to temperature, weeds, insects, and frequent usage. It requires very low maintenance to maintain a lush, green appearance, making it an excellent choice for the lazy gardener.
Pros:
- Stays Green
- Easy to plant and maintain
- Insect repellent
- Weed resistant
- Self-replenishing, perennial
Cons:
- Will kill the remainder of your lawn work ethic
- Spreads (a good thing, and a bad thing, depending on where you plant)
My grandfather was a huge advocate of green grass, believing firmly that no lawn should ever have brown spots and went to extreme lengths to make sure that the majority, if not all, of the houses on his street maintained a well groomed patch of green throughout the year. He even went as far as tending the other lawns himself, getting up before sunrise and bribing dogs to make sure he could water the neighbors’ lawns without being yelled at.
Eventually, everyone gave in and found some way to enjoy the free lawn service, but I still don’t think anyone completely understood his obsession with green grass, me included. At any rate, his dedication to grass has lead me to appreciate green grass, but I just don’t have the patience or skill to maintain it.
So, Why Canada Green Grass?
I wish I had learned of Canada Green Grass sooner, because if I had, I probably could’ve saved my parents’ lawn from several summers of being the lone brown patch on the block. I never could find the medium between over watering and under watering a lawn (water is water, right? Shouldn’t plants have a hidden reservoir to store what they don’t use for later?) And the moment my grandfather told me that grass had to be watered and fed at certain times of the day, was the moment it all stopped making sense. Grass needing food was just preposterous.
Canada Green Grass is a blend of specially selected grass seeds that yields a hardy, lush lawn in a short amount of time. This grass blend was derived in Canada, where weather conditions are usually less than desirable, by choosing the most resistant types of grasses that withstand all sorts of freak Canada weather—drought, freezing, lots of rain and snow, etc.
The chosen grasses in this blend include creeping red fescue, perennial ryegrass, annual ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass. The mixture also has organic base fertilizer in it to encourage healthy, rapid growth, as well as Vermiculite, which helps to develop immunity against pesky little insects that think your lawn is snack heaven for them.
The grass blend has a surprisingly quick growing time, too. In less than two weeks, your lawn will be lush and green, at any point in the season, not just the first few weeks of spring when everything has to grow. Depending on climate and growing conditions, the grass may not even take that long to develop.
The combination of quick-growing hardy grasses makes for a grass clump that will grow pretty much anywhere, including on concrete. However, to ensure that your grass successfully takes root and lasts for many season to come, a little bit of elbow grease is a good idea. For new applications, till the soil 3 to four inches deep – damper soil is not just easier to till, but easier for roots to penetrate and take hold. Rake the loose soil to remove any debris and large rocks. Raking also creates little channels for the seeds to fall into, giving them a better chance of rooting and not being eaten by passing sparrows.
Distribute the seed across the raked ground, and gently rake them into the soil, being careful not to bury them too deep, or they won’t be able to grow. A quarter to a half inch deep is usually all it takes. And of course, the part I’m bound to forget: water the ground with a gentle shower spray to provide hydration to the seeds and encourage them to root, but not too much! Too much water will drown or wash the seeds away. The grass will take root and begin to sprout within 3-4 days, and a full lawn should be visible in about two weeks.
Final Thoughts
Remember to exercise care in the first few weeks following planting; too much trampling will damage the grass. Do not mow the lawn until the blades are at least three inches high. From then on, frequent but moderate watering is all it will take to maintain your lawn (but if you forget, chances are, it’ll still be green when you come back).
This type of grass is extremely resistant to changing weather conditions as well as frequent trampling from feet, making it the perfect turf choice for active families. In fact, this blend of grass is most commonly used on golf courses, where golf putts will tear at grass and golf carts will smush the blades. Not only is it bug resistant, it’s also weed resistant, so you’ll never have to worry about dandelions rearing their yellows heads in a parade across your lawn.
When it comes to Canada Green Grass, a little bit goes a surprisingly long way. A 3.3 pound bag is available from the official website for just $16.99, and will cover up to 1600 sq ft. If you need a larger quantity, an 8.8 pound bag is available for just $29.95 for a limited time.
