Go-Go Gadget Grad…

Gadgets Galore for Your Grad…by Christabelle

In order to graduate from the University of Rhode Island, I needed to finish a 25 page term paper…the topic escapes me now (since it was 100 years ago)…but what happened to me at 3 AM will stick with me for life.  Sitting in my sorority chapter room,  I typed the final few sentences on my word processor (am I dating myself?) feeling accomplished, preparing smugly for my “A”, when I kicked the plug out of the wall.  No auto save…no nothing. My paper was LOST.  As I cried my eyes out…pulled out a few hairs…and downed a bottle of tequila – I prayed there was some sort of back-up system on my WP – needless to say – there was not.  Arm and protect your favorite college bound graduate with some fabulous new gadgets that will not only SAVE their work (and lives), but enhance their presentations and keep their systems running smooth as butter.  I smell a 4.0…

Baby got back…or at least baby got backed up with Segate Replica Complete PC Backup Systems.  No more stacks of disks, flash drives and CD’ s cluttering their desk, book bag and shelves!  The Replica by Seagate continuously stores up-to-date copies of EVERYTHING on your PC.  Your graduate will never have an issue with lost papers, photos, music, or videos, but will also NEVER have to worry about computer crashes, hardware failure, accidental file deletion and evil viruses. Seagate Replica copies it all (including your operating system, programs and other software). If you have an issue you can simply restore your entire PC to a previous point in time when your computer was error-free, without having to spend countless hours of reconfiguring settings and applying applications that are confusing and time consuming. Just connect your Replica via USB cable and click a few buttons. It is truly that simple and is the life preserver for anyone who owns a computer. With a SRP of $130 – The Seagate Replica Complete PC Backup (250 GB) can be the difference between keeping your sanity and being committed to a padded cell – well worth the money for sure. They even have a multi PC (500 GB) version that comes with a docking station.

Now that their information is vaulted - protect the actual laptop and keep it cool!  iHome’s Laptop Cooling Pad is a must have gadget that houses 2 built-in fans to keep your laptop from overheating.  Powered directly from your notebook’s USB port (so no batteries, plug ins etc needed), the iHome’s Laptop Cooling Pad provides continuous air flow under your notebook that gives your machine maximum performance while keeping it chilled.  Sort of like a compact air conditioner, but for your PC.  Completely portable and lightweight, the compartment underneath the cooling pad stows the USB cable for convenient packing and traveling. With a suggested retail price of $29.99 – this adjustable cooling pad can fit any size laptop with a secure fit and a promise of cooling circulation…a grad gotta-have-it!

Late night study groups always have one thing in common – CAFFEINE. Whether it is a bottom-less mug of java or a beloved Red Bull - these tasty jolting treats have a high risk of spillage (especially into the wee hours of the night).  Forget the pages of your textbook being stuck together – what about your mouse and keyboard! In most cases – this would be a “fried” nightmare. But not if your accessories are made by Unotron! Waterproof – Spillseal Technology and Germ Proof – Unotron is keeping students happy on campuses across the nation. Unotron’s latest washable keyboard even has an antimicrobial additive in the plastic to protect the product. The GermStopper SpillSeal® Washable corded keyboard is washable by design encouraging to wipe, wash and sterilize their keyboards to help “stop germs”.  SpillSeal®  keyboards feature a hermetically sealed casings that prevent solid matter and fluids from entering the keyboard where they cannot be flushed out. The Scroll Seal Washable Optical Mouse has all of the functions of a regular mouse, but has a sealed structure that lets you wash and sterlize it. It can even withstand being immersed in antibacterial solutions and rinsed under your kitchen sink! WOW…no more germs spread from your dirty roommate’s paws…SRP $45.99 (keyboard); $69.99 (mouse) at UnitronOnline.com

Class presentations ain’t what they used to be…long gone are the posterboard presentations and zerox copied handouts.  Presentations have become more and more technologically competitive, so arm your grad with tools that will help to not only impress the crowd, but also help to create a concise and thorough demonstation of work. Canson’s PAPERSHOW is a revolutionary Plug&Play solution which makes it possible to project one’s handwritten notes directly on a screen! VERY COOL TO SAY THE LEAST!  The PAPERSHOW solution contains the special interactive paper, the digital pen and the USB key which contains the software for an easy way to WOW your audience. With just a few short steps your grad can be well on their way to communication in the 21st Century by using a Bluetooth connection embedded right into the pen and USB key!  Transmitting up to 6 meters away, PaperShow can be used for a small classroom presentation and a large auditorium sized audience.  Standing or facing the audience, you write on the PAPERSHOW interactive paper and instantaneously your notes are displayed on a large screen – so Copperfield! Want to share your presentation and/or meeting notes with a group? Easy as pie with the command ”e-mail” automatically creates a message with your document as an attachment. All you have to do is insert the names of the recipients…talk about blowing your professor out the door. Know a recent college graduate? Won’t their new employer be impressed in their first marketing meeting, when PAPERSHOW gets whipped out…an “A” and schmoozing your new boss seem well worth the $199 price tag at Staples.com

If you are looking for a sleeker way to make a more traditional demonstration, iHome makes a powerful 2.4 GHz Wireless Presenter (available in black and white).  Simply, insert the mini USB receiver into your  notebook’s USB port and you’re ready go without synching the presenter and the receiver. 2.4 GHz frequency provides an instant and secure connection without interference from other electronic devices up to 30ft. That means you can dance around the room all you want as you give  your power point  presentation.  Including commands like next/previous slide, black screen and more, iHome gives  you a powerful and professional way to get your message out there, all at your fingertips. BONUS:  The built-in laser point allows you to point at specific information in your presentation enabling the audience to easily see in a dark environment.  With a suggested retail price of $70, it is a small price to pay to have the whole world (or at least your whole presentation) at your fingertips from across the room! Available at Walmart.com

5-Step Father’s Day Makeover

For the Fatherly Fashion-Impaired…by Christabelle

I do love my dad…with all my heart. He is kind, warm, funny, generous, loving and most of all, well – MY dad . Amongst the endless list of attributes my dad owns (both good and bad), one of the most prevalent is fashion-retarded.  Yes, I said it out loud. The man can’t put an outfit together to savehis life and would spend the rest of his days on Earth very happily wearing one of two outfits if the ladies of the household would let him. This father’s day – give your dad a head to toe makeover like I am! Transform your already AMAZING dad into a GQ Model (I mean…he can’t be too far off…he just needs a fashionable finger or two to help).  With 5 easy steps…take your pop to a ‘whole notha level’!

Step One: Sh*t, Shower & Shave
Now he does probably conquers the three S’s  quite well on his own…but with some of my up-to-the minute beauty products in hand, he is sure to love the indulgence of bathroom time even more.

First order of business – the Poo. Ah, yes…the morning ritual that sends many a running when it is all said and done can quickly be a faint memory (thank goodness). Poo-Pourri is a must have product for anyone with the ability to create – well – stank (comon’ now…don’t be shy – even Angelina Jolie poops)!  Simply spritz the bowl before you go and no on else will ever know. Poo-Pourri is a blend of all natural essential oils that virtually eliminate (not mask) – ELIMINATE bathroom odors. Can I order a case of these pups for every bathroom in my home? The original citrus blend of lemongrass, bergamot, grapefruit and other oils can be purchased at PooPourri.com for $9.95 (2 oz. bottle) ; $14.95 (4 oz. bottle).  Other formulas available include No.2, HeavenScent, Royal Flush, Pooch-Pourri and Poo-Pourri Jr.

Changing the way men get clean, the new Pert Plus Men’s 3-1 (Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash IN ONE) was an obvious choice for my dad.  He likes to be as efficient as possible…doesn’t like too many steps to accomplish one end result and quite frankly doesn’t always think he needs all of the “bells and whistles” as he calls them.  Pert Plus for Men 3-1 not only got him squeaky clean from head to toe with just one bottle to squeeze from, but also provided a fast easy way to look and smell great. Available at Drugstore.com for $3.99 per bottle.

With Greek roots, you can imagine the roots his hair folicles keep.  My dad often resembles Fred Flintstone with his perma-5-O’Clock shadow.  That is why I was thrilled to find a fast, easy, affordable and portable classic shaving kit from Every Man Jack.  The EMJ Signature Shave Kitincludes a Pre-Shave Face Wash (coconut-derived surfactants to cleanse, chamomile extract to soothe and glycerineto hydrate and soften those pesky whiskers); Hydrating Formula ShaveCream (rich, low-foam cream softens and preps your beard for a more comfortable shave with the help of squalane, chamomile and aloe);  and Post Shave Lotion (deeply hydrates and helps to heal that razor irritated and nicked skin). The best part? All the EMJ products  fit neatly into a masculine designed dopp kit…perfect for stowing into luggage or into the medicine cabinet.  Available for purchase at target.com for an SRP of $9.99.

Step Two: No More Tightie Whities
He is clean, he is shaven and he is towel dried…the next step in the dad makeover is new undies! If your dad is anything like mine, his affection for tightie whities  must be stopped.  Give him the option to look cool and feel cool under his clothing with one of  Jockey’s newest underwear styles called Euro Sport CoolMax® Midway® Brief. Equipped with this underwear, he’ll be ready to take on any adventure. The high-tech Coolmax® fabric is lightweight and quick drying; helping to keep him cool while on-the-go. This style offers a lower rise at the waist with leg openings extending to mid-thigh to help reduce chafing. The plush backed waistband eliminates irritation as he moves. The contoured pouch provides support while the contrasting green piping adds a touch of style. We likey! Available for sale at Jockey.com for a $16.00 each.

Step Three: Dad Jeans Be Gone
You have all seen them…at times they are almost as bad as “mom jeans”…they are straight leg, pegged at the ankles, sometimes even bearing the name of a company that is no longer in existence! They are his proverbial “woobie” …you know what I am talking about. His butt is imprinted in them – as is his wallet impression. My dad actually does NOT have this particular problem, as he DOES NOT OWN A PAIR OF JEANS. That is all changing this Father’s Day…since I came across a new jean company that is both hip, trendy, well made and reasonably priced for luxurious, high-end denim.  Enter Cult of Individuality jeans.
Cult of Individuality prides itself on jeans that remind men of their favorite old pair (you get where I am going with this?).   They’re weathered, worn, and personal (wink*wink).  Inspired by classic cuts and vintage washes, incorporating Japanese denim, Cult of Individuality jeans are designed to look and fit like you’ve had them for years (i.e. throw out the old and insert the “new” but feels like old). Now dad CAN be comfortable and be in-style – he will never know what hit him . Available for sale at Tobi.com for $135
Top this pair of  jeans with a smart looking shirt from ChristabellesCloset.com (such as this tan split vent THEORY shirt, $40) and the look is almost complete!

Step Four: Hip to the Toes
Dad’s need it all – comfort while he is on his feet, style and sense of individuality. Two words…Auri Footwear. Out of Laguna Beach, CA (which in itself makes it uber-cool),  Auri is an exclusiveve line of footwear designed especially for men. Auri shoes will keep dad’s feet happy whether he is walking, working or even climbing a mountain.

Auri artfully mastered the shoe design that is truly comfortable all day. The Auri footwear collection will keep feet comfortable from the first second they’re on, until he slides them off at the end of the day. With Auri’s stylish collection, there’s no need to change into or out of work shoes or going out shoes ever again: One pair of Auri’s will carry you throughout the entire day. This collection is not only stylish, it’s smart. With moisture wicking, antimicrobial attributes, and temperature regulation, Auri surpasses competitors by a landslide. Forward thinking, Auri worked with NASA (yes, we said NASA) to develop this state of the art shoe technology. These stylin’ kicks are shock absorbent with arch support, not to mention lightweight. The speed of life won’t wait for anyone, so wherever the day takes him, your dad will be able to count on his Auri’s. Our favorite style for dad? The Auri Gigolo in Burnished Tan (see photo), available for sale at AuriFootwear.com for $200.

Step Five: A Toast to Dad
Now that he has his new look, toast the transformation! Introduce your dad into a new world of liqueur with TY KU Premium Liqueur. The perfect blend of traditional Asian spirits with delicious superfruits and teas.  Clean and crisp with refreshing citrus flavor profile,TY KU combines premium natural ingredients including: yuzu (vitamin C), mangosteen (antioxidants), Tibetan goji berry (18 amino acids & vitamins), honeydew (potassium & vitamin C), green tea (antioxidants) and ginseng, all harmoniously blended with soju, alow calorie, low carb and low sugar liqueur that is delicious chilled straight, on the rocks or combined with a myriad of other spirits! Your dad will be in good company when he takes a sip of  TY KU as celebrity fans of this five-star liqueur include Jay-Z, Gisele Bundchen, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jessica Biel, Jeremy Piven, John Mayer, Jessica Simpson, Terri Hatcher and Jennifer Garner.  While dad pours himself a glass of TY KU (SRP $35) premium “booze with benefits” (only 72 calories, 3.6 carbs and 0 fat per serving)…the illuminating bottle (the only one of its kind) will be sure to take him by surprise - the finale in the father’s day makeover extravaganza!

The metamorphosis is complete – did your dad survive his 5-steps to Father’s Day Fabulous? Let us know!

Take Me Out to the Ballgame…

For your Home Run Hitting Dad…by Carlibelle

Some of the best memories of me and my dad were hitting Yankee Stadium for an afternoon weekend game of baseball and daddy/daughter bonding.  I, in my over-sized baseball cap and hot dog bigger than my head and dad, sporting his Yankee jersey, throwing popcorn on me whenever someone scored a run. With busy work and home life schedules, dad I and don’t get to watch the games much anymore, but the passion for the sport still lives strong. That is why I preserved our love of the game this year with a personalized bat from Louisville Slugger.

Now, Louisville Slugger can put anyone’s name (or even their actual signature) on a bat, along with a line or two of a personal message (Father of the Year Award, #1 DAD, Slug it Out, etc.).  What sports fanatic wouldn’t love to see their name engraved in a genuine, full size, wooden, hand crafted baseball bat…include their favorite team logo and you are sure to have a HOME RUN present on your hands. Louisville Slugger Major League Logo Bats make great gifts for not only Father’s Day, but for groomsmen, birthdays, anniversaries, coaches, team awards, or celebrations of any kind. Available in the same finishes the Major Leaguers use, and in full sizes, youth, tee ball, and mini bat versions. Get this one…they even have a “Baby’s First Bat” (available in pink and blue!)  – what a PERFECT shower gift for your bun-in-the-oven friend.

Available for purchase at www.sluggergifts.com - priced from $62 – $82 depending on personalization.

And as an added bonus, sprinkle your Louisville Slugger with a bit of baseball nostalgia with an exact replica, vintage baseball glove from Akademapro.com.  As part of their Hoboken Glove series, you can now own a remake of the 1929 Babe Ruth RFO Reach snap back mitt. Play ball like ‘the babe’ – the old school game with an old school glove. What a great add to your sports collection in your home or office! Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and is available in right or left hand throw.  Available for purchase at Akademapro.com for $80. Also available in Yogi Berra, Lou Gehrig, Dazzy Vance and Bob Feller.

Batter up this Father’s Day with Louisville Sluger and Akadama Professional!

HUB-A-LICIOUS

For your Scratch ‘N’ Sniff Hubby…by AliBelle

There is truly nothing sexier than the scent of my man after he puts on his cologne.  It wafts through the house, making it feel like he is still here, even hours after he has left for the office. His scent continues to warm my nose, ever so faintly, reminding me of him all day and creating quite a desire for him to return. My choice for father’s day gifts for him this year?  You guessed it…a little splash of fragrance to keep him smelling divine and me smiling from ear to ear!

Put a little swagger in his step this Father’s Day with Sean “Diddy” Combs’ latest fragrance I Am King.   The handsome Father’s Day gift set includes the I Am King Fragrance and an Aftershave Balm. Defined by unique masculine freshness, sparkling fruits, and sensual woods, Sean John’s I Am King creates a new signature for modern men. The power begins with an explosion of exotic intensity. Handcrafted notes of tangerine zest, juicy orange, and succulent cranberry blend with exclusive Imperial French Berry, instantly creating magnetic attraction and an element of surprise. A decadent center of the finest Kir Royal cocktail exudes European sophistication with its layers of crème de cassis and premium champagne. Cooling Mediterranean water accord channels the crystal blue sea of the Côte d’Azur. Layers of key lime pie and lemon crème mix into an unexpected background of juxtaposed light and dark elements. An embrace of rich precious woods and powdery undertones convey an air of elegance and smooth, skin-like warmth.

The gift set retail for $75.00 ($128 VALUE) and is available at department stores nationwide or online at www.shopseanjohnfragrances.com.

The Cereus Fragrance Collection is a series of high-end men’s (Pour Homme) fragrances appealing to its customers’ modern perspective, viewed through a lens steeped in tradition. Each unique scent ($125) in the series of fragrances (differentiated by a number and corresponding color) appeals to a different type of man and is contained in a clean, glass bottle with a natural wooden cap. Cereus #11 is my personal favorite – pure luxury and rare, refined elements combine to evoke a modern masculinity that strikes the perfect balance of crisp freshness and sensual depth. The arresting chill of iced anise creates a distinctive signature. followed by fresh notes of gimlet, brisk juniper berry and cracked black pepper. A whisper of pure platinum musk echoes through a forest of rare, gentle woods to evoke a timeless sophistication. Can we say delicious? Yes, we can.

The entire Cereus Fragrance Collection is available exclusively at Barneys New York – BarneysNewYork.com

Pop-O-Bama

For your White House Bound Pop…by Christabelle

Do you think your dad would be the greatest President to run this country? Me too. But before you step onto your soap box and start campaigning for the 2012 election…check THIS out first – the ULTIMATE gift for dad this year. The Jorg Gray 6500, the watch worn by President Obama himself! That might be as close you get to the white house (at least in time for Father’s Day).

Obama received the Jorg Gray 6500 watch as a gift from his Secret Service detail on his 46th birthday, and hasn’t taken it off since.  He has been photographed wearing the watch on such historic occasions as his presidential election victory speech, the inaugural swearing-in ceremony and inaugural balls, and the signing of his first Presidential Proclamation.  To memorialize the historic inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States, Jorg Gray created a commemorative edition of the watch

This sophisticated time piece has fast become a highly sought after and valuable collector’s item. With its sleek design, luxurious fit and feel – it is no wonder the President has chosen the Jorg Gray 6500 as his timepiece of choice. And now your father can wear the exact one!

The Jorg Gray JG6500 watch is case cut from solid steel and features a matte black dial, Italian buffalo leather strap, high precision Japanese chronograph movement, scratch-resistant mineral crystal, date display, and is water resistant to 100 meters. Each commemorative Edition watch comes with the following inscriptions laser engraved on the back case and an individual serial number “The 44th President of the United States –  Barack H. Obama – January 20th 2009 – Commemorative Edition”.

This is a gift for dad will be one he appreciates for decades to come and one that will hold a historic and sentimental place in his heart forever.  Available at JorgGray.com in silver $325 (shown in photos) and rose gold $395.

Luke…I Am Your Flash Drive

The Sith Lords Arrive in YOUR Port…by Elizabelle

My husband thinks he is Luke Skywalker…light saber and all. My sons think they are Clone Troopers. I think my dog Hitchcock might even believe he is a 4-legged Chewy.  As the only female in my household…I have a choice to either roll my eyes and quietly ponder how THIS DEEP SEATED LOVE my mate has for Star Wars was conveniently hidden during our courting period…or I can embrace it and ‘let the force be with me’.

I pick the latter of the two. I am surprising my “men” this year for Father’s Day and for End-of-School Graduation with STAR WARS™ MIMOBOT Series 4collection of designer USB flash drives (featuring Darth Maul, multiple Darth Vaders and Clone Captain Rex – which I hear, through the grapevine…is pretty damn cool)!

Mimoco’s STAR WARS MIMOBOT line of designer flash drives will explore the dark side with an all-new collection, featuring fan favorite Sith Lords and new versions of classic designs. In addition to the previously announced Darth Maul design, the fourth installment of the popular USB devices will also include a re-imagining of the original MIMOBOT series’ centerpiece – Darth Vader. The new Darth Vader Unmasked MIMOBOT features a removable helmet, underneath which lurks the scarred countenance of Anakin Skywalker, as played by Hayden Christensen. For added excitement, one in six Darth Vader MIMOBOT drives will unveil “chase” variants of Anakin’s face from Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi – older, paler and at peace, having come to terms with his estranged son Luke.

Rounding out STAR WARS MIMOBOT Series 4is one of the stand-outs from Lucasfilm Animation’s Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated television series. Clone Captain Rex – leader of the 501st Clone Trooper Legion’s Torrent Company and Anakin Skywalker’s right-hand officer – has quickly become a fan favorite due to his prominence in the series, which airs on Cartoon Network. When removed, Rex’s MIMOBOT trooper helmet reveals the gruff but good-natured Captain’s scowling face beneath.

MIMOBOT designer USB flash drives are available in 1GB to 16GB memory capacities and are bundled with preloaded digital extras to enrich one’s personal desktop experience. STAR WARS MIMOBOT Series 4includes exclusive STAR WARS-themed wallpapers, screensavers, icons, and avatars. MimoByte™ sound software rounds out the desktop suite and plays character-specific STAR WARS sound clips from the film’s master audio tracks.

Bring a Mimobot home to your galaxy…mimobot.com, starting at $19.95

Beach Bound with a Boombox!

Beat Boxin’ on the Beach…by Christabelle

When I was a teenager, carrying music around was not as easy as it is now (am I dating myself)? If we wanted tunes in at the beach, we needed to carry a not-so-slim “boom-box” to play our mixed tapes and “ca-singles” on 10 D batteries.  Yes, I did just say the word “ca-single”.   Well, lucky for all of us, things are a little bit easier now and with the help of our friends at IHOME…we have a plethora of options to stow some tunes to the sand, sun and surf – in a colorful and compact way.

What you need to have with YOU this summer at the pool, beach, lake and even SHOWER:

IH2OW Shower to Shore Water-Resistant Speaker for iPod - $69.99

This portable water-resistant speaker system for your iPod is a must have. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or enjoying a shower, this portable speaker will keep your iPod or MP3 player safe and sound. Hanging loop and shower hook makes it easy to mount in any shower. AC adapter included for charging your iPod.

Features:

Listen to and control your iPod in the shower

Headphone jack for private listening

Holds, protects and plays most MP3 players

Water-resistant case and controls

Operates on AC adaptor or batteries

Line in jack for other MP3/CD players

Inserts to fit 5G, nano, photo, mini and 4G iPod models

Charges iPod when connected to AC wall outlet

Portable water resistant stereo speaker system for iPod or MP3 player

IHM8BL Portable Speakers for MP3 Players with Fashion Covers $29.99

Completely portable and highly fashionable, the iHM8 allows you to decorate your own stereo speaker system with a reversible color fashion cover. The iHM8 features four dynamic speakers (2 active, 2 passive) with SRS TruBass sound enhancement for bigger, badder sound so you can share your music anywhere with confidence. See-through vinyl window allows you to watch videos and access the iPod controls without sacrificing protection. This sleek contemporary solution lets you take your music on the go in style.

Features:

Take your iPod or other MP3 player anywhere in our sturdy lightweight protective case

Great stereo sound

Comes with 2 stylish covers, Black and Blue

Portable low-profile design that goes anywhere your active life does: beach, gym, etc.

IHM6P Colortunes Protective Speaker Pouch for MP3 Players $29.99

This trendy portable splash-proof speaker case fits into your lifestyle without a fuss. The colorful iHM6 is a lightweight zippered stereo case that keeps your iPod safe so taking it with you to the beach, a picnic, poolside or a party is a breeze. The iHM6 comes complete with carrying strap, stereo speakers and a see-through vinyl window that allows you to watch videos and access the iPod controls without sacrificing protection.

Take your iPhone, iPod or MP3 player anywhere in our protective case with convenient carry strap

Great stereo sound in a lightweight case

Portable low-profile design that goes anywhere your active life does: beach, gym, etc.

Control and view your iPod without opening the case

 

Available for sale at iHome.com from $29.99-$69.99

Triple Play for his Special Day…

Why Let Mom Have All The Fun?…by Christabelle

For Father’s Day, this year send him the gift of flowers! Imagine how pleasantly suprised he will be when he opens the front door and sees this lovely “man-bouquet” of flowers specially delivered TO HIM. And imagine how good he will feel, when he knows that your purchase for him helps to support a cause that is close to his heart?  Sounds like a homerun to me!

Teleflora is teaming up with the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) to help raise awareness for prostate cancer and raise funds for research with Teleflora’s new baseball-themed bouquets, Big Hit and Play Ball (a portion of proceeds will be donated to the PCF!).  The arrangements arrive in oversize ceramic baseball mugs with either red carnations or a combination of carnations, delphinium, lilies, and chrysanthemums. A triple-play winner for Dad, this bright bouquet gives him fresh flowers in an oversized baseball mug AND the chance to win a 3-day all-expense paid trip and other great baseball prizes.

Your ballgame loving dad will LOVE this realistically detailed, oversized ceramic baseball mug…he will be drinking coffee from it for years to come – thinking of you with every sip of morning java. 

Bouquet is approximately 11 1/4” W X 14 1/2” H and is available at TeleFlora.com  for $46.95 (for a few bucks more – you can send along a balloon and some chocolate to pops too)!

Clean Clothes…the way Mother Nature Intended

Get clothes clean while staying green…by Elizabelle

My boys can certainly create a TON of laundry for me – sport-sweat saturated laundry! Though they are not college bound, yet, I have a sneaking suspicion I might still wind up doing their laundry when they do (i.e. 18 loads when they come home for Thanksgiving break…I mean, I did it to my mom!). If this sounds like your current life – teach them well and arm your grad with an environmentally friendly detergent!

WIN Green is a new eco-friendly sport detergent that is completely biodegradable, in that all of the ingredients used are sourced from natural, renewable sources that break down and decompose into by-products of nature in a short amount of time.  This formula contains no brighteners, which are commonly added to laundry detergents to make the clothes appear cleaner, yet have been known to cause allergic skin reactions.  There are no phosphates used, which create algal blooms in groundwater that can leak toxins into drinking water and harm ecosystems.  WIN Green also is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, dye-free and the bottle is made from recycled plastic. 

WIN Green directly targets the sweat molecules embedded in moisture-wicking fabrics that cause bacterial odors, which traditional detergents leave behind.  Simultaneously, these same ingredients react with soil and materials causing them to either decolorize or disintegrate.  Once in a soluble form after oxidation, dirt and odors easily wash away.  WIN is formulated to be safe and gentle on all colors and fabrics and works in traditional and high-efficiency laundry machines.

So bring on the sweaty, baseball uniforms and your musty gym clothing  – this lil green machine ain’t scared!

WIN and WIN Green are available at www.sweatlifter.com, www.amazon.com and leading sport specialty retailers for $6.99 for a 21 oz. (yields approx. 14 loads).

You Sunk My Battleship!

Pretty Sneaky Sis…by Anabelle

Remember family night when you were little?  Everyone sat around the table and played board games over a pizza. Ahhh…those were certainly the days. Give dad the gift of time travel (or at least a simulated one!) and flood him with favorite family past-times with Hasbro!

This year, skip the tie and give your dad a gift that he, and your entire family, can enjoy all year long! Whether he would like to test his strategic thinking with Risk, try to sink ships with Battleship or go head-to-head to get 4 in a row with Connect 4, Hasbro offers several great gift options for any father this season:
 
RISK gets a new look and feel this year with an updated map, new rules and faster action. Planning and executing strategic military campaigns has never been more intense as modernized rules streamline playing time to a fast and furious 90-minutes. RISK is recommended for 3-5 players ages 12 and up, and is available for an approximate retail price of $27.99.
 
The classic tactical combat game, BATTLESHIP, has been redesigned for 2009 to add more adventure and excitement to the ship-sinking game. Naval warriors plot their coordinates and mark hits and misses on a double-sided grid as they try to defeat their enemy’s fleet and rescue their crew. BATTLESHIP is recommended for 2 players ages 7 and up for an approximate retail price of $19.99.
 
CONNECT 4, the original four-in-a-row game, has gotten a makeover with new red and yellow checkers and three ways to play in 2009. This update to the classic game gives players more competition and more fun with the option to play the traditional game, as well as “Pop Out” and “Pop 10” which involve popping checkers out of the grid instead of dropping them into the top of the game board. CONNECT 4 is recommended for 2 players ages 6 and up for an approximate retail price of $14.99.

These games and more are available for purchase at TOYSRUS.COM and other mass retailers.

Get His Dancing Shoes ON and Pay Less…

Don’t Kick off These Kicks Pop…by Christabelle

It took my a good ten years to explain high-end shoes to my dad. He just didn’t get it…nor did he understand the price tags that go along with gorgeous stillettos, until the day I showed him Manolo Blahniks. Though the concept of a heel that costs over $500 (on a good day) still perplexes him, the fact that it shares the same first name with him (Manolo) he know explains in joy when he sees any shoe “MANOLO?”  Yes, it is possibly the cutest thing on the planet to hear him endulge in my passion for designer footwear…this father’s day I am going to endulge him in something that not only makes sense to his wallet, but also speaks to the many facets of his life. Payless is just the place for him and for all hipster (or trying to be!) dads this June.

With a HUGE selection of men’s shoes now available at Payless Shoe Source, it was hard to figure out just what to get him. Designer brands creating budget conscious styles (a plus in this recession)…I was able to narrow down a few great selections for not only my “Manolo” , but for all of yours too…

FOR DAD AT THE OFFICE:
Payless State Street Circadian Slide-On, $34.99
Dress to impress with this sleek slip-on. It features a wrinkled faux leather upper with braided accents, a stylish square toe and hidden elastic for easy on/off. Padded insole for comfort with a 1″ heel – this shoe is great for dad’s that don’t want to lace, buckle or do any work in dressing themselves. The shoe has fashion flare, but still works well for the more conservative pop. No one will ever know that these aren’t a high-end brand with cutting edge curves and bulls-eye style.

FOR SITTIN’ ON THE DOCK OF THE BAY DAD:
Dexter for Payless Nantucket Boat Shoe, $44.99
Designed for the way you live, this handcrafted suede and mesh boat shoe features a classic nautical design and a lightweight and flexible outsole. Made with a mix of leather and manmade materials, your special man will be the talk of the docks in these stylish boat shoes. Whether he is heading to Gosman’s inMontauk, spending a day in Merry Old England in Atlanta, or checking out San Antonio’s ‘The Alamo’, he will be in high style and cushioned comfort!

FOR THE BEACH-BOUND DAD:
American Eagle™ by Payless® Varsity II Leather Slide, $29.99
Theory men’s board shorts tied, check. Dead Men Tell No Tales Skull beach towel in hand, check. American Eagle by Payless Varsity II leather slides, slid-ON. Get laidback style with this quality shoe, featuring a sturdy canvas and rich tumbled leather upper (with a convenient Velcro closure). He will be the talk of any beach when he struts his stuff in these lightweight, flexible shoes. From the Jersey Shore to Arizona’s Lake Powell, your man will be this summer’s fashionable father!

These styles and more available at Payless Shoe Source stores nationwide and Payless.com

Rub My Meat…

Eat Animal Like an Animal…by LaniBelle
**vegetarians BEWARE**

DennyMike’s ‘Cue Stuff can make a ‘cue chef out of anyone—his sauces and rubs work their magic on fish, chicken, beef and pork as well as veggies and sides.  And with names like Chick Magnet, Cow Bell Hell and Mesquit-O-Madness, what man wouldn’t be inspired? Well, it inspired my husband to pull out all the stops this weekend and cook up a swine feast. I had to SHOWER after dinner, because I ate like such an animal – not-so-lady-like, but oh-so-delicious!

Maine-made in small batches with premium, all-natural ingredients, including natural sea salt, clover honey and Barbados molasses, DennyMike is earning rave reviews and awards for his rubs and sauces in Texas, the heart of barbecue country!  Priced at just $5.95-$7 (suggested retail price), they are perfect as a collection or as additions to any Father’s Day gift basket.  DennyMike’s also offers a fabulous Full BBQ Gift Set that includes all 5 rubs and 4 sauces for just $49.95.

Try Chick Magnet on the BBQ, smoker or even oven roasting for your poultry, beef, pork and even veggies!

Sprinkle Sublime Swine on shoulders and tushys (the pork – NOT your own). Perfection in the crock pot or smoker this rub promises to bring your roast to a “whole ‘nutha level”!

Don’t be bashful using Cow Bell Hell on all types of domestic meat and wild game…even sausage, burgers and meatloaf!

Fintastic is a curiously piquant blend with just a hint of citrus. Pair it with the most fresh and saltwater fish…totally tasty on scallops and shrimp too!

 Pixie Dust ain’t for fairies…use this rub generously whether grilling, roasting, broiling or BBQing beef, pork, poultry, fish or game. Toss a pinch into chilli, stews and beans too for a YUM-O side dish!

Get your grilling in the groove with DennyMike’s rubs and sauces at locally at :

Maine Made Shop
93 Main Street
Waterville, ME 04901
or online at: www.dennymikes.com 

Drink Clean and Go Green…

Quench that thirst CLEAN…by Anabelle

If your dad is looking to reduce his carbon footprint, likes the outdoors, etc. – why not give him a gift that will keep his pockets “green” while helping to “green”  the environment. Clear2Go by Clear2O is a reusable, portable water bottler with replaceable filter. It filters up to 100 gallons of water, can be used at any tap water source and one filter is the equivalent of 757 disposable plastic water bottles.

Great for anyone on the go, this innovative product offers these valuable benefits:
Cleaner Water: Clear2Go™ eliminates 99% of microbial cysts found in tap water
Ease of Use: Clear2Go™ can be filled from any tap water source
Long Lasting: Clear2Go™ has its own replaceable filter that filters up to 100 gallons of water. This is about the same amount as 757 water bottles
Cost Efficient: The average American currently spends $1,400 a year on bottled water.

Buy your eco-friendly dad this on-the-go filtration system – even a great gift for your HS grad on the way to college to filter our nasty dorm room or water fountain at the quad water (we all know how “tasty” those can be)!   For a mere $16.99, this hand-held water bottle will pay for itself in less than 10 fills! Purchase yours at CLEAR2O!

My Laptop has Swine Flu…

Cough-Cough…My Laptop Has a Cold by Elizabelle

I am a nurse…my job is to take care of and cure sick people. Wish my degree also taught me how to care for my laptop when it catches ill…I think it has swine flu and I am beyond concerned. Blinking lights, warning signs and a sounds that sounded oddly like a whoopie cushion being sat upon..my laptop has now been quarantined. We are not sure it is going to make it. This all happened after I opened an unassuming e-mail…that had a virus…that spread through my computer and made it sick – VERY SICK. I am not sure why in this day and age, I wasn’t using the proper protection. Had I installed Norton 360 from Symantec on my computer when my husband told me to, I would not be in this predicament.

Let’s face it – few things are as frustrating as a virus-infected computer crashing. Yet, a lot of folks don’t like to use antivirus because they feel it bogs down their computer. Well, Norton 360 has won several editor’s choice awards for being the fastest and lightest security product on the market. It uses very few system resources and installs in under one minute. Can we say user friendly?  Yes, we can.

Additionally, Norton 360 comes equipped with a free subscription to online storage. Now, all of your priceless photos of little league, graduations, vacations and birthday-candle-fiascos, as well as an iTunes library full of precious music are automatically stored safely online in a virtual vault.

Finally, Norton 360 also has PC-tune capabilities, which help “put the new car smell” back into a haggard computer like mine – making it run as fast and smooth as new. So what more do you need to know…Protection, back-up, peace of mind, smooth sailing – buy yourself a copy of Norton 360…then buy one for your favorite dad and grad.

It protects against viruses, worms, hackers, and botnets, safeguards against online identity theft, protects important files, and keeps your PC tuned and running at peak performance. Completely automated and easy to use, Norton 360 works quietly in the background, with virtually no impact on PC performance, to provide comprehensive protection for everything computer users care about. When the pesky virus’ come knocking on your computer’s front door – you can trust your Norton bodyguard will watch over and protect you.

Purchase your copy today by clicking HERE:  Norton 360, SRP $80

Seeing RED…

Sometimes Seeing Red is A Good Thing…by TeenieBelle

My husband is very conscious of the world around him and takes great pride in trying to make a difference in the lives of others. That is why this year, the kids and I are giving him the gift of RED for Father’s Day.

(RED), the brand designed to engage business and consumer power to help eliminate AIDS in Africa, has new products from partners including Dell, Gap, and Emporio Armani that will be sure to please dad in a variety of ways. For every (PRODUCT)^RED item sold, up to 50% of profits will go to the Global Fund to benefit HIV and AIDS programs in Africa with a focus on the health of women and children. Since its launch in 2006, more than $130 million has been generated by (RED) partners and events for the Global Fund.  (RED) money is already at work in Swaziland, Rwanda, Ghana and Lesotho.              

For the Traveler: (DELL)^RED  

DELLhas just launched the ultimate travel companion, the Inspiron Mini 10.  Weighing in at less than 3lbs, the portable netbook combines highly mobile and robust design with leading edge wireless and entertainment features that keep Dad connected to home, even when he’s miles away.

For the Business Man: (EMPORIO ARMANI)^RED 

Emporio Armani’s (RED) heart cufflinks are ideal for the hard-working dad in your family.  They are available for $175 in Emporio Armani stores, worldwide.   

For the Fashionable Father: (GAP)^RED 

Gap provides perfect laid back summer style for Dad with a collection of colorful and chic men’s  (PRODUCT)^REDgraphic Ts designed by emerging artists.  The shirts are available Gap stores and online at www.Gap.com/red for $28.

You can also learn more about (RED) at www.joinred.com

Who Needs an Ipod?

The Easiest Music You Will Ever Hear…by SandiBelle

Sometimes we just aren’t as computer saavy or literate for this day and age. I think about what my parent’s can’t understand and scoff, but then I look at myself and realize I DON’T UNDERSTAND A THING my 16 year old nephew tells me and then he scoffs.  Lesson learned…don’t throw stones at glass houses.

So when I came across the SanDisk slotRadio Player, I thought this would be the perfect gift for my dad for father’s day (one, mom can for sure borrow as well!).  An instant load music player bundled with a 1,000 song slotRadio™ Mix card. No downloads, no PCs and no work involved. Simply pop the card in the player and enjoy a near-endless supply of full-length tracks. It’s great music, made effortless and with little to no confusion on how to upload/download/import from iTunes etc.

It is an easy, PC-free experience for digital music with songs featuring artists from Billboard®’s charts preloaded onto a tiny microSD card with handcrafted playlists that include hundreds of handpicked artists. Like FM radio, songs are played in sequence. From Country to Modern Rock and everything in between, there’s a slotRadio™ card to match your mood or activity. Simply insert a slotRadio™ card into the slotRadio player and feast your ears. Digital music has never been easier, thanks to the SanDisk slotRadio Player. And when you want more music…you just purchase another pre-loaded card from SanDisk. EASY and AFFORDABLE – now I like that!

SanDisk slotRadio Player, SRP $99 includes music player and one pre-loaded card full of over 1,000 songs. Available at www.slotRadio.org and in Radio Shack stores.