Gadget Gifts, Gift Reviews, Health and Beauty, Homeware Reviews, Leisure Gifts
Christmas Gifts for Dad 2014.
Personally, the most difficult person I buy for at Christmas is none other than my no.1 man – my Dad!
Dad truly has everything and I really mean that. He is almost 70 yrs and acts like he is still in his 40′s. Although he continues to work, he takes time out frequently to take mum on weekends away and he also enjoys the odd ‘shooting’ trip to Scotland. Dad’s gift is usually a meal voucher but over the years this has become predictable and therefore somewhat boring!
I risk sounding uninspiring and traditional recommending gift sets but this year there are some super gift sets for men and no Old Spice in sight!!
One of my favorite and definitely top of the list has to be the Baldwins Men’s Range Gift Box.
Anyone who follows this blog will know I absolutely love natural products and those with a low carbon footprint. Earth looks after us by providing a fruits, vegetables, water, not to mention stunning natural scenery and beautiful landscapes so we must not take this for granted and recognize our impact is not always positive on this great planet.
Baldwins have been supplying natural products from 1844. The products are not tested on animals, are ethically made and the company has certification from the soil association. This is no easy task as this way of producing and selling is not the cheapest way – yet it is by far the most eco friendly. The packaging used is also made from recycled materials and Baldwins try and re-use the packing they have from stock deliveries. I am ultimately impressed with Baldwins and this means I will continue to check out their blog and keep up to date with their products – you see, it pays to run a company like this as customers prefer eco friendly!
The Baldwins Men’s Range Gift Box arrived and I was so impressed with the presentation. I couldn’t wait to open the box. The box itself can be recycled as its cardboard but there is no way this is going into my blue bin! It is so attractive it will take pride of place on my dressing table. I untied the Baldwins ribbon and loved what I found inside – I really fell for the smell as well – wow, if using these products means my hubby will smell like this there is no way I will wait till 25th December to present him with it!
The box contents:
‘Our Men’s Range Gift Box contains a collection of Green Tea and Frankincense dedicated products whose combination of essential oils with frankincense and green tea (which are known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties) can help to improve the appearance and condition of your skin.
• Natural Cotton Flannel
• Green Tea & Frankincense Refreshing Facial Wash – combining the revitalising effects of cucumber with cool aloe vera and toning extracts of seaweed, helps to remove everyday grime and pollutants.
• Green Tea & Frankincense Exfoliating Facial Scrub – a deep, toning facial scrub whose use of finely milled bamboo particles with moisturising candellia wax beads and birch bark extract helps you to achieve smooth, polished skin.
• Green Tea & Frankincense Smoothing Shaving Oil- we have blended the nutritious, lubricating and non greasy oils of argan, shea and marula for a non-irritating and smooth skin-conditioning shave.
• Green Tea & Frankincense Hydrating Skin Lotion – Chickweed and Jojoba oils are blended with Ginseng (rich in ginsenoside) to improve skin tone and offer you a healthy complexion.’ (Baldwins)
I have tried the products and love them, especially the facial scrub.
This was perfect for my skin. The particles were not too ‘harsh’ so as to leave my skin red but just perfect to actually feel like I had used a ‘scrub’. I must have tried millions of facial scrubs and had yet to find the ‘right’ constancy. Some have ‘micro-particles’ and this feels just like a facial wash – so why do they call it a ‘scrub’? The Baldwins Green Tea & Frankincense Exfoliating Facial Scrub will leave your skin smooth, clean and fabulously fresh feeling – I am so pleased with this product I may slip it from the box and onto my dressing table – hubby will never miss it if he doesn’t know it was there!
The other goodies were just as highly rated.
I couldn’t resist trying the ‘Green Tea & Frankincense Smoothing Shaving Oil’ on my legs – something I do not usually do. Its ‘hello winter goodbye razors’ for me – why shave legs which are hidden away under tights and boots? – I go right back to the stone age and by spring it takes about 6 attempts to achieve that smooth look to compliment by summer dresses! Ladies and gentleman, whether you are shaving your legs, face, armpits or elsewhere trust me, your skin will not be traumatised – it will feel soft, smooth and left smelling delicious!
Dad’s, boyfriends and brothers will be delighted with this gift box for Christmas. It has been well and truly tested and I rate it 11 out of 10! Have a look online. The website is very well laid out with interesting information about the company, the environment and a delightful blog to follow. With several gift sets to choose from and many other natural products available I am sure Baldwins will be a firm favorite.
Baldwins Men’s Range Gift Box RRP £33.99
www.baldwins.co.uk/baldwins-mens-range-gift-box
For a selection of gift sets available for dad’s this Christmas have a look at Boots online or pop into the store. I have sifted through the gifts on offer and have rested with none other than Ted Baker.
Ted Baker gift sets speak for themselves, they are very well presented with ultra modern packaging. I love the set that includes a wash bag – now this is something my dad would make use of. The toiletries vary depending on the gift set you select but they all smell of ‘gorgeous man’. Prices are very reasonable and the products definitely look a great deal more than they cost – which is a bonus.
Ted Baker Ted’s Tool Kit washbag RRP £15
For further information visit www.boots.com
Photobox.
Photographs, if the house was on fire my photos would be one of the first things I would grab on the way out the door – after the kids of course!
Photos are precious, a unique moment frozen in time to savour and remember forever. I have some fab photos of the kids and love admitting most of my framed photos are very unconventional and none were ‘staged’. I like to capture the kids in action and having fun, not posing on the sofa with their fake smiled painted on.
This is one of my favourites:
Such a spontaneous photo, capturing my daughter preparing herself to take a blow!!
My dad loves photos and we have a few oldies dotted around the house which I just adore.
For Christmas 2014 why not give your dad or mum a gift of a special memory captured on camera, or even a few ‘funny’ or sentimental photos on a canvas or in a photo book?
I have a few collage canvas prints and these are a fantastic way of displaying photos from a special event or holiday. I choose Photobox online to order from over and over again and they have never disappointed.
If you have more then a few photos to develop photobooks are excellent and not much more expensive than having the individual photos developed.
I have a wonderful photobook I made with the photos from our last holiday which the kids love to look at again and again.
Photobox is one of the best websites I have came across. The choices and discounts are easily displayed and laying out and selecting your photos couldn’t be easier. Online ‘live’ chat is available and I have used this twice. I love this as its almost ‘instant’ help – the most I have had to wait on a reply is 3 minutes!
I will finish with my favourite and most precious photo – taken by my brother-in-law when my sisters and I were at a family birthday party. This wasn’t planned, someone said the word photo and that was that!
This is the best photo on my wall and one which I will treasure forever. I have had this printed on canvas as a gift to mum and dad this Christmas and I know they will both be delighted.
For further information visit www.photobox.co.uk
Braun CoolTec and WaterFlex electric shavers.
The reputation of Braun electric shavers is excellent, with men claiming these are the best shavers available on the market. My hubby was the guinea pig, as I volunteered him to try out the 2 latest models from Braun. He is quite critical so I couldn’t wait to hear what his conclusions were.
Hubby always wet shaved, well, in the 15 years I have known him. He says he used to own an electric razor many years ago, but found the wet shave gave a better cut with less irritation.
He was honestly impressed, so well done Braun, he is a tough cookie to please (typical man)! He particularly liked that these shavers could be used in the shower and this saved him time in the mornings. To clean, he rinsed them under the tap and they were ready to shave again.
With regards to skin comfort and irritation, he experienced none. The shavers were comfortable, gave an excellent close shave and left no skin irritation.
Now, which one is best? Hubby couldn’t pick out a better shaver. They were both different and both excellent. I will explain the main differences as I know it is confusing when presented with 2 items which ultimately do the same job but are differently priced.
The Braun CoolTec
‘The Braun °CoolTec is the world’s first and only electric shaver engineered with pioneering Active Cooling Technology to combine a great shaving performance with a special cooling treatment especially suitable for men with sensitive skin. The new °CoolTec White edition visually reinforces the cooling performance of this device – Braun’s only shaver that cools and calms skin to minimize shaving irritation at the push of a button’ (Braun)
This would indicate that if your man has sensitive skin of any form he would be better off with this razor. My hubby would have sensitive skin and neither of the shavers lead to irritation although with any degree of sensitivity I suppose this would be the one I would recommend.
I have to mention that the CoolTec was £229.99 and is now £114.99 in Boots – a really amazing offer coming up to Christmas.
Braun WaterFlex.
‘Waterproof to 5m, the Braun WaterFlex is specifically designed to inspire men to unlock a whole new world of shaving, and to feel the unbeatably smooth skin feeling of a shave with water, foam or gel. Specially designed for use with water, foam or gel, WaterFlex transforms electric shaving into gliding, leaving men’s skin feeling perfectly refreshed’ (Braun)
My husband did mention how he loved the swivel head on this shaver – the shaving head swivels 33 degrees so giving a smooth shave on all contours. Between this and the 3 cutting elements you are guaranteed a close shave with 100% hair removal.
The WaterFlex would therefore be recommended as the perfect shaver for those who like the feeling of a wet shave with water and there are no underlying skin problems. The price was £159.99 and is now down to £79.99 also at Boots. Thats a difference of £35 between the shavers which is not that much. I would go for the CoolTec! Similar technology with that little bit extra ensuring comfort.
If you select Braun this Christmas you can be guaranteed quality, endurance and the latest leading technology in its field. For further information visit www.braun.com
Products can be bought from Boots.
MICRO Pedi Man Gift Set.
Another gift set worth a mention is the MICRO Pedi Man. This set was £49.99 and is reduced to £29.99 from the 15th of October – so snap it up if this is something you are interested in.
This set contains all your man needs to look after his feet and its presented nicely in a gift box. The contents are shown above so you can see there is quite a lot in the set.
My husband has this set from last Christmas and he has found it great. I must admit I have used it myself as well! Its perfect for buffing those heels into shape for the flip-flop season. The roller buffs away hard dry skin super fast and leaves feet soft and smooth.
Also included are 2 replacement rollers, nail clippers and a pouch to keep the gift set in. An excellent value set, especially if you purchase it for £29.99.
Available to purchase from www.micropedi.co.uk
Scholl Compact Manicure Set.
We have taken care of feet, now on to the hands! The new Compact Manicure Set from Scholl is quite the gift! Presented nicely in a handy travel case, this little set may be small and compact but it will definitely impress.
Scholl launched this in September this year, just in time to solve your ‘male related’ shopping dilemmas. The attachments are plentiful so this set will suit a wide range of nail types from the thinnest to thick and it can be used on the feet as well as the hands. The course shaping disc is perfect for toenails which are stronger and thicker than fingernails. I also found this got the job done super fast – I had to stay bent over for only a few minutes, great for people with backache like me!
With regards to results, I can vouch for that. 5 different speeds allow you to set one which is comfortable yet still effective. Shaping and buffing is easy and very fast so in no time at all you can have rather glam salon ‘perfect nails’. This could be one of these ‘men gifts’ you swipe for yourself in the new year!
A huge bonus is that this set is travel friendly. Charging allows for up to 90 minutes of use and it can also be charged worldwide if necessary. Compact enough to take up minimal room in your luggage this set would make a great gift for those who like to look polished on the go with minimal fuss.
Available from selected retailers and online RRP £34.90
iFit 3-in-1 Active Band.
Oh my goodness – this is amazing! At last, the ultimate weight loss product. I was so impressed with the iFit tracker. This clever little band actually totts up your calorie intake, compares these figures with your daily activities and tells you if you are losing weight.
In my opinion, this is the ultimate weight loss tool as the motivation is clearly displayed and I can easily spot when I should put down the crisps!
The iFit tracker works day and night always displaying accurate information and you can have an individual workout prescribed as well simply by downloading the iFit app available on android and apple. My own personal workout can only be described as ‘kind’ but I like that I was able to set my own goals therefore I am not disappointed if/when I fail. I also was impressed with the battery life – up to 7 days!!
As for my diet, there is no motivator greater than knowing you have taken on board enough calories to remain fit and healthy yet still loose weight.
‘the iFit Active 3-in-1 Fitness band enables users have the ability to wirelessly sync indoor workoutsfrom iFit enabled home and club fitness equipment. This way, fitness enthusiasts can match the enjoyment of exercising outdoors and enhance the experience of an indoor workout with the latest exciting technology’ (iFit)
The iFit is waterproof and can be worn as a band and even clipped onto your clothing.
If you are shopping for either men or women this Christmas and this is something you think they would appreciate visit www.nordictrack.co.uk/ifit for further information. RRP £99
RAF Leather iPad Case.
This is another item that is a ‘must’ for men this Christmas. The RAF leather iPad case is a stunning case and perfectly suited to this years gift guide for dads.
Made from Hunter leather and with WW2 images on the inside, this is a piece of history itself. The smell of real leather is hard to beat and this case smells and exudes quality from the first glance.
I love the RAF logo wings on the front. Aside from looks, this is one mighty case with many protective factors for your iPad to keep it safe and secure while on the go.
Suitable for generations 2, 3, 4 and 5. This looks every penny the £50 it is priced at – one of the most impressive gifts I have added to the guide.
For further information visit www.rafmuseumshop.com
Voombox Travel and Outdoor Speakers from Divoom.
These are really great and although in the Gift Guide for dads, they would also be fab for anyone who loves music on the go.
There are some qualities I look for in a speaker. It must be portable and wireless and obviously it has to have Bluetooth! The Voombox travel (RRP £49.99) and outdoor speakers (RRP £99) from Divoom have all these qualities and more.
My hubby works outside and as a family we spend a lot of time out and about as well. I have the Voombox travel speaker. This little speaker is sturdy – it has lasted the trial of my family for the last month and thats no easy feat. The sound quality is fab – even over the squeals of children! The water resistant properties come in handy when it is accidentally left outside clipped to some randon piece of gardening equipment!
The built in microphone lets you take calls without having to run inside and wash your hands first, it can simply be used with minimal fuss.
We have this speaker outside all the time and it has never let us down. Aside from the quality, it also looks really trendy. I would recommend this as a Christmas gift to anyone and I can guarantee they will not be disappointed.
There are several colours available to suit all tastes and styles.
For further information visit www.boots.com
GAME GOLF.
For the dad’s who enjoy a round of golf I have the ultimate recommendation – GAME GOLF !
What man (or woman) wouldn’t want this for Christmas when it has been spotted on none other than the no.1 man Barack Obama !
‘The world’s most powerful man was spotted using the GAME GOLF tracking device at Farm Neck Golf Club, on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, just off Cape Cod. The PGA and R&A approved device was spotted on President Obama, who has been using the GAME GOLF tracking device to analyse and improve his game, and lower his reported 17 handicap.’ (Game Golf)
This handy little device is like your best friend – better than your best friend in fact. You just carry on as usual with your game and GAME GOLF will monitor your performance and report back as to how/if your game can be improved. Track your round, your trends and your statistics and share this with your friends – or even share on facebook or twitter if you prefer!
‘Used by professionals Lee Westwood, Graeme McDowell and Jim Furyk, GAME GOLF’s Digital Tracking System brings golf into the 21st century and helps golfers to reach their full potential.’ (GAME GOLF)
Despite the cutting edge technology GAME GOLF retails at only £159.95.
Available from Mailordergolf.com and Golfonline.co.uk
For more information please visit GAMEGOLF.com, follow on Twitter@GAMEGOLF or like on Facebook Facebook.com/GAMEGOLF”
Dunlop NZ9 Putter.
If GAME Golf is a little out of your budget why not treat your man to a new golf club. Dunlop have a fab online store for all your golfing needs. In particular I want to mention the Dunlop NZ9 Putter which I have recently had the opportunity of having a swing with!
Impressed? I certainly was, with every aspect of this putter.
I am not going to lie and make out I am a golfing pro. I enjoy nothing more than playing a round with my friends but I am in no way an expert. However, I believe with the right equipment I do play better and I find this putter to be comfortable to use and accurate – even in my hands!
The handle is super easy to grip thanks to GEKO-TAC which reduces slipping. The stainless steel head is finished in matt black to reduce glare from the sun and this looks rather well – a clever touch from Dunlop.
This handy putter retails at £54.99 and is now reduced to £29.99 – just in time for December’s shopping frenzy.
For further information visit www.storedunlopsport.com
Piper Home Security System.
If toiletries really do not appeal to you and you are ‘stuck’ on what to buy for the man in your life I have something very useful and, I think, won’t be replicated by another family member.
Piper provides you with the ultimate in home security. New on the market, Piper takes alarms and home monitoring to another level by keeping you informed of potential threats to your home and sending this information to your mobile phone.
‘The new and award-winning all-in-one home security, monitoring and automation device enables you to stay connected to your home when you’re away. Whether on holiday or at work, Piper sends you an alert when something out of the ordinary happens and a 105 decibel siren will sound if an intrusion is detected’ (Piper)
I know my husband would be delighted with a Piper this Christmas. The device works with numerous smartphones or tablets and is rather straightforward to set up and begin using. While testing this device I must admit we have had a lot of fun as well. The children were keen to participate and had ‘role play break ins’ with their antics recorded and watched on their tablets. Aside from the fun factor, this function would be very reassuring if you were away and wanted the piece of mind knowing exactly what was going on at home.
An added bonus, and very useful as well, is the capability to switch on your lights. I work shifts and in the winter I am usually coming home in the dark. This function will come welcomed as I can programme the Piper to turn the lights on as I arrive to the door – brilliant!
I found the Piper simple to use with minimal setting up required and I would recommend it to Every household. Despite the advanced technology and multiple functions the Piper is available for £119. Available to order from the link below.
Have a look at the video on site, I really enjoyed it and its a great way of understanding just how useful Piper can be.
SUGRU – I have saved the best till last!!
Wow, this has to be the invention of the century? I love Sugru and it is now present in some shape or form in every room in my house. I am recommending this as a brilliant gift for dads this Christmas although it would make a great gift for absolutely anyone.
‘Sugru is the world’s first mouldable glue that turns into rubber.
Look how easy it is to make a simple kitchen hook!
Sugru can literally be used in every room in the house and on almost everything. I have added a door stop to my new bathroom as my hubby didn’t want to drill the new tiles – and I didn’t really want him to drill them either with his track record for DIY!
Worried the kids may smash your precious iPad, iPhone or camera? Why not add Sugru to the edges and ‘ta da’ – you have immediate protection.
For Christmas 2014 Sugru have some festive new colours which I really love. 2 new tins are available for a limited time only one being a very useful silver grey which is perfect for DIY on various gadgets as the colour will match perfectly.
The other tin has a brilliant selection of colours – awesome orange, silver grey, woody brown, mossy green and panther pink. These will inspire creativity as soon as you open the box.
Despite the multiple functions, the Sugru festive tins are very reasonably priced at £9.99.
For further information or to buy Sugru visit www.sugru.com
Hardwall Takker.
In keeping with DIY Christmas gift suggestions I am proposing the Hardwall Takker. I am not sure this would solely be a great gift for dads as I would love one myself!
Completely affordable, this nifty little tool will make DIY a doddle even for the most clumsy of dads.
No longer will hanging a picture be a chore – I know my hubby can put this job off for months and there is nothing as frustrating as having a new picture or photo of the kids sitting on the floor waiting to be hung!
Gadget Gifts, Gift Reviews, Homeware Reviews
Simplehuman gifts for Christmas 2014 – The Magnifying Sensor Mirror and Touch-bar Recycler Bin.
Simplehuman have got to be the most iconic makers of top quality household equipment from the beginning of time. I have a few of their products from a pet food bin, a household bin and my latest addition is the new and fabulous magnifying sensor mirror!
In my honest opinion there is no better bin on the market than the one I am using – thank you for that simplehuman!
Simplehuman works by simply ‘keeping it simple’ – excuse the pun! The products are not airy fairy and just do exactly as their purpose intends – but do they do this well? Yes, exceptionally well!
The classic, might I add, finger-proof resistant, stainless steel household bin has been a much needed addition to my kitchen. Not only does this bin look fab, it is fab.
Their are 2 compartments, one for general non-recyclable waste and the other for tins, cardboard etc. The depth is perfect – just the right height to hold enough rubbish yet not needing emptied every day. The size of both compartments is also well thought out. This will easily admit a cereal box folded in half, a 2l milk carton and most household recyclable waste.
Now on to the lid! This was definitely the most impressive factor for me. The lid has a trim – a little rim that ruins the length of the lid. Just touch this gently or, as, I do – nudge it with your hip and you have an automatic lid that opens with the slightest touch. This is mega important when I am rushing to the bin with both my hands full and I give it a bump with my hip and ta da !! Open sesame with the unique touch-bar technology – I love it!
I am sure you can tell how much I love this bin – how can I get so excited by a bin? Well let me tell you. The no. 1 product I use in the kitchen would definitely be the bin so why can’t I have the best on the market? I do all the cooking and cleaning – (my husband is a lucky man in that department and I do remind him of this!).
The fingerproof resistant stainless steel function is just fab! I had great fun trying this out as this was the first product I would have had in the kitchen with this ‘technology’. My kettle and toaster are also steel but they are definitely not finger-proof resistant – I am constantly wiping finger prints from them. No matter how much touching the bin gets – the fingerprints vanish under my very eyes.
Now on to the price. How much would you pay for a bin of this quality? Well with the ten year guarantee I would be more than happy to recommend this bin as an ‘absolute must’ addition to any kitchen. Simplehuman price it at £149.99 and I totally agree with this. If you have not got the cash at the minute but are so intrigued by my review – write the bin from simplehuman on your Christmas wish list – I guarantee you will not be disappointed!
For further information visit www.simplehuman.com/uk and have a look at the wide selection of bins to suit all styles and decors.
Simplehuman Magnifying Sensor Mirror.
Something a little different now from a bin – I want to tell you about another revolutionary product from simplehuman.
The Magnifying Sensor Mirror is fairly new on the market but boy, is it growing in popularity! My friend has recently started a make-up course and hopes to go into business. This was the make-up mirror she was raving about! I was delighted to have the chance to try this for myself and put forward my own views. I already had a similar mirror which also magnified – a TK Maxx purchase for the grand old price of £39.99 and I was keen to discover if the light up function was a worthwhile addition.
Needless to say my old mirror was moved swiftly into my daughters room – I was definitely hanging onto the sensor Simplehuman mirror!
Firstly, the mirror has a very secure base. My previous mirror would have been easily tipped over with all the clutter I have accumulated on my dressing table but the clutter can gather and gather, the simplehuman mirror stays put.
The height is perfect and the size allows for my entire face to be seen. Now on to the revolutionary technology – this mirror is called a sensor mirror for a reason – it actually detects your face moving close and automatically lights up the ‘tru-lex’ LED ring.
The light is as close to natural light as you can possibly get so when applying my make-up I found I was able to achieve a really natural look and when I moved around the house and looked in other mirrors I thought to myself – not a bad job Joan! So many times I have applied my make up and when checking in another mirror the look was completely unnatural. My make up was far too heavy and I had classic ‘white neck syndrome!’
The simplehuman magnifying sensor mirror can also be adjusted to the correct position to suit the best view – this is also a welcome addition and one that my previous mirror did not have – (although I am sure my daughter will get on fine with that one!)
My new sensor mirror is definitely here to stay – I absolutely love it and it adds instant glam to my dressing table. I feel like a movie star, of sorts, when I am sitting in front of it – my little bit of posh in the bedroom, along with my husband of course!
Batteries I hear you ask? Well never, not in this day and age. This mirror can easily be charged with its very own USB port just like all the other gadgets you cannot live without.
Need I say more? I don’t think so. If you are at all curious, I urge you to try this and see for yourself how useful it is! Available from several outlets and online stores. RRP £149.99
For further information visit www.simplehuman.com/uk
For The Garden, Gadget Gifts, Gift Reviews, Homeware Reviews, Leisure Gifts
Karrimor X-Lite Comfort Self Inflating Mattress and Gelert Quickpitch Tent.
Camping as a child I recall the fun our family had and I consider this a ‘rite of passage’ to growing up – every child must have at least one week camping with their family!
Personally I am all for bringing the kitchen sink literally. Why rough it when there are so many various camping accessories out there to make this activity as much fun as possible – and as comfortable.
Starting with the tent, our camping experience is easy peasy. We have a Gelert 4 man tent and this tent actually has the words – quickpitch on the label – this is so true for you will have this tent both up and down super quick – it basically pops up!
Gadget Gifts, Health and Beauty
Socialite Zero Electronic Cigarettes.
A few samples of Socialites Zero (electronic cigarettes) arrived on my doorstep for review a few weeks ago and I shipped them out to a few reliable friends who I know smoked but wished they didn’t! The feedback was impressive from all 3 friends/testers.
I myself am a non-smoker but I am all too aware of the grasp something can have on our bodies and how difficult it is to break a habit. Although my addiction is not with cigarettes, I have an addiction to chocolate and other junk foods! Breaking the habit is ‘key’ and this is where Socialites work so well.
‘.. vision is to create an electric cigarette that will satisfy a smoker enough for them never to light up a tobacco cigarette again, therefore to save a fortune and to limit the risk of bad health due to the 4000 chemicals and 60 known carcinogens’ in a Tobacco cigarette’ (Socialites)
The ritual of smoking need not be broken with an electronic cigarette thus greatly increasing the chances of quitting cigarette smoking completely.
My friends found it very easy to ‘switch’ to an electronic cigarette. The taste and smell was reported very similar and the satisfaction of having a ‘fag’ after a meal was just as intense with a Socialite electronic cigarette. This would imply that the habit of smoking was as important as the actual effect of the cigarette.
‘Socialites Zero offer five traditional tobacco flavours with four levels of strengths. We also offer an unlimited variety of novelty flavours known as Shisha’ (Socialites)
The aim was to have a similar electronic cigarette to the top 5 brands of cigarette smoked in the UK and Socialites achieved this! My friends found the taste incredibly similar to their usual brands.
I was really impressed with the feedback and have no doubt that Socialite Zero has had a major part in reducing the number of smokers in our country – think of the positive impact this will have on our already stretched Health Service!
Socialites can be purchased from the link below and there are a variety of options to choose from including a great value starter kit.
www.socialiteszero.com/electric-cigarette-starter-kits.html
Gadget Gifts, Gift Reviews, Health and Beauty, Homeware Reviews, Toy Reviews
‘Back to School’ Sept 2014
It is hard to believe the summer is half over! We have had a great time over the holidays although it has been very busy as well. The kids are almost set for going back to school and I am proud to say I do feel I am very well organised this year!
BioCare ‘NutriFruits’
My kids will be ‘fighting fit’ this September. I am determined to give them the best possible start and hope to avoid as many colds, flu and various ‘bugs’ as possible. Vitamin supplements are a must with so much recent research claiming we should have children on supplements and that it is increasingly difficult to obtain all the necessary nutrients from foods. I have tried several of these concoctions and have rested with one from BioCare.
BioCare’s super new product, NutriFruits, was voted highly commended in the Best New Product category by Health Food Business Magazine. I love that the technology uses freeze dried fruits and vegetables to deliver the nutrients – this ‘reads’ very well and my kids have no problem taking this solution.
Vitamins C, E Beta Carotene and Bilberry are important for a healthy immune system and these will help fight off the various bugs children so often pick up at school, especially coming into the winter.
NutriFruits are suitable for children over one year of age. RRP £23.65
For further information visit www.revital.co.uk
Post-It study aids from 3M
My eldest daughter has a tough few months ahead of her this September, she is taking the ‘Transfer Test’ and has been working very hard over the summer.
She is like her mum in that she believes organisation is the key to success and her favourite school bag essentials are her Post-It notes. The new range of study aids for ‘Back to School’ this year are excellent. Jenny has quite a selection of the various notes and she loves the new additions.
Post-It Index Study Flags are a ‘must’ when you have a load of paperwork you need to frequently refer to. They make it super quite to find a particular page and they stay put. The bright colours leave it easy to organise your work. These are great value for £2.99
The new lined notes are perfect for making longer and more detailed notes. The pages are neon so making it super quick to locate various pages and notes made. These notes stick to just about anything – I have seen Jenny stick these to water bottles and they stay on all day! Very keenly priced at £3.26
My favourite ‘must-have’ has got to be the Index Flags and Arrows very neatly combined in a ruler type format. This clips into a file or organiser and your Post-it sticky pointers are on hand any time you need them. I have been using this for the last few weeks and my daughter has insisted I buy her another one for her school work. A really fab product that will keep even the very un-organised students notes well referenced, neat and tidy. RRP £7.20
iLearn from Jumbo.
With the older kids back at school I have the perfect puzzle for younger pre-school children – the iLearn from Jumbo! This will keep your little ones entertained and its both fun and educational.
Aside from the fun factor, the iLearn will expertly prepare your children for school. Learning through play is by far the best way to learn as the skill is learned without any real effort or realization of any ‘work’ been done at all!
Essential skills including reading, counting and writing are all encompassed within this super game. Children learn not only about animals and their young but also where they live. The cards themselves are sturdy – my children have been playing this for a few weeks now and it has stood the test of time well. This is no surprise as Jumbo have proved time and time again that their games are high quality and made to last. An excellent game suitable for children from the ages of 2-4 yrs.
Available from Amazon and very reasonable at £8.99
But what about mum? What would I recommend for all the mums who have given their all to the kids over the summer? September is sometimes long awaited by mums as it is their time to reclaim some much needed ‘me time’.
I have a suggestion I rate as the best possible ‘me time’ you will ever have – New You Boot Camp! Wow, the reports I have heard from this camp are so amazing. My good friend had a week at one of these camps last year and she has reported it was a positive life-changing experience and the most fun she has ever had.
Read her review here and do honestly consider this as your ‘reward’ for surviving the summer!! I have the New You Boot Camp on my wish list and maybe before the end of 2014 I will have a report on this camp myself!
Gadget Gifts, Gift Reviews, Homeware Reviews
Sainsbury’s for Father’s Day 2014
Where can you buy Dad a great Father’s Day gift at this late stage? Most of the shops are closed, online shopping is out of the question, Father’s Day is TOMORROW!!
Never worry, I have just the solution and it has worked for me on numerous occasions – Sainsburys!
Sainsburys is more than a brilliant supermarket. The clothes are absolutely fab and the gift range extensive. As with all occasions, Sainsburys has topped the lot again. Their Father’s Day range of gifts are really great. They range from adorable teddies none other than the famous ‘Boofle’ to socks. Socks – who wants socks? Well, my Dad will be getting socks this year from the ‘Dads Army’ range at Sainsburys RRP £3.
Dad loves this show and I remember him watching it when I was a small child. I know he will be thrilled with the socks and with my thoughtful little piece of nostalgia! Dad will also be receiving a matching flash RRP £10. He is a shooting man and has went through so many flasks. If he doesn’t break it, he leaves it behind in a field where he has had his lunch! I love this flash in particular as it has a neat cover which gives added protection and it looks fab too of course!
I also the chocolate in particular and would hope Dad shares this with his daughter!
For further information on these gifts and more visit: www.sainsburys.co.uk
Gadget Gifts, Gift Reviews, Toy Reviews
Tobar for Father’s Day 2014.
‘Founded in 1973, TOBAR celebrates over 40 years dedicated solely to finding innovative toys, gifts and gadgets. TOBAR is continuously searching worldwide to bring exciting; desirable and fun products which will have mass market appeal’ (TOBAR)
I have had a look at some of the gifts Tobar are marketing for Father’s day this year. The gifts surely are original and rather iconic so you are sure to find something for your dad or partner. I have selected a few of the gifts that would appeal to me.
Volkawagen Van.
I have been dreaming of owning one of these for years and I am still living in hope. This iconic van has spanned decades and has been a hit with every generation. The Samba diecast model is pretty much a smaller version of the real thing. The familiar two tone colouring, opening hatch style boot, volkswagen logo etc all add to the appeal. I would love this to take pride of place in a windowsill for all to see and admire but I know it would end up in my toyroom! This is an excellent gift for the volkawagen loving dad and very reasonable at £15.
Haynes Construction Books.
For the construction loving dad Tobar have some brilliant Haynes construction books from only £10. I would select the Thunderbird 2 Aircraft book for my dad as he loves their programmes and would be delighted with this book. The book is different from any usual construction book in that the actual model to build is included in the book, so very exciting for the receiver. The books have over 30 pages with relevant trivia regarding the subject and easy to follow instructions to follow. Father and son would both get pleasure out of this book with both the information and the model building.
Planet Kinetic Mobile.
For dads who are into their science and physics, Tobar have 2 different moving models, planets and atoms. Both move in a kinetic motion and either of them would look great for a desk top or workbench. I was fascinated with these types of models when I was a child and still am. The gravity defying motion always amazes me. These are only priced at £15 which is absolutely brilliant value.
Have a look at the website. I have found several items to put on my wish list including the Sweet Art Cupcakes – wow, these are gorgeous. Tobar – definitely worth a visit.
For further information visit www.tobar.co.uk
Gadget Gifts, Gift Reviews, Homeware Reviews
Wilkinson Sword Hydro 5 and Power Select Razors.
If you are looking for a useful but inexpensive Father’s Day gift this year have a look at the new razors from Wilkinson Sword. These will definitely impress and they won’t ‘break the bank’. Priced from £8.99 for the Hydro 5 and £12.99 for the Hydro 5 Power Select you have 2 great razors to choose from.
The main difference is that the Power Select has 3 vibration settings which aim for an even smoother shave while not compromising on comfort. The shave itself feels lovely. Wilkinson have a new revolutionary Hydro technology, a hydrating gel reservoir which assists the razor to glide over the skin giving an incredibly close smooth shave.
I would prefer the vibrating razor to the non-vibrating although this is just my opinion. I had never used a vibrating razor and found it gave an exceptionally good shave. This is the only razor of its kind on the market. The battery indicator was a useful touch and the trimmer makes this quite the gadget for only £12.99!
The Wilkinson Sword range is available from Boots and leading retailers nationwide.
*Price is at the sole discretion of the retailers
Gadget Gifts, Gift Reviews, Homeware Reviews, Teenage Gifts
Lifeproof Phone Cover and Accessories for Father’s Day.
There is no accessory worn as often as our phones! Think about it – we may have a favorite necklace, even a favored ring but we don’t carry this with us every minute of every day. My phone is never far away. I do not leave the house without it, at work it stays close by in my pocket and when in the car it connects to my hands free. At night I even take it to bed (Lucky phone)!
I choose Lifeproof as my phone protection and that’s simply what it is! Protection from the trials of being carried everywhere with me.
Lifeproof is kid proof (I have this theory well and truly tested!) water proof and ‘me’ proof. My cover is almost on my iPhone one year and it has stood the test of time well.
My son threw it out of the car window (I was parked at the time), it has been splashed with apple juice and submerged in water! It has been outside to my children’s outdoor ‘restaurant’ – basically a mud pile with lots of old kitchen equipment and plates on an old table. It came in and had a wash – as good as new.
So, you are guaranteed this cover was tested well. I think it would be a fantastic gift for Father’s Day. I am convinced there is no phone cover on the market anywhere near as good or reliable as a Lifeproof cover.
The LifeProof case is available for iPhone 5, iPhone 4, iPad and iPad mini. There are a range of accessories, including a LifeJacket which makes it completely buoyant. A perfect gift for men who spend a lot of time beside or on the water.
This is so fab! I enjoy boating in the summer months and have a real fear of my car keys or phone falling overboard. With Lifeproof I cannot guarantee the safety of my keys but my phone will not only be safe from the water, it will float! The Lifeproof Lifejacket is pure genius and the invention of the year to me! I can relax and enjoy my days out on the water, my precious iPhone 4 tucked snug in its very own little jacket.
A Lifeproof cover for an iPhone 4 retails at £ 56.25 from Amazon and the Lifejacket for £29.95.
For further information visit www.lifeproof.com
Gadget Gifts, Gift Reviews, Teenage Gifts
Tech 21 Impact Mesh.
I adore my iPad Mini. I inherited it from my sister and treasure it almost to the point of obsession. I have broken so many tablets in the past, the record being 18 days from receipt of a new one. Yes, such a short time but I have an excuse! My beloved tablet was on the kitchen bench and my daughter opened a cupboard above it and something crashed down on top, shattering the screen – obviously not my fault! This will not happen my iPad thanks to Tech 21. These geniuses have developed Impact Mesh and I recommend you check it out for your own phones and devices.
‘In 2005 we started making protective accessories for mobile devices and became the first brand to use scientifically tested, shock-absorbing polymers in our products. – See more at: http://www.tech21.com‘
Tech21 pride themselves on their ability to design innovative Impactology™ cases which provide unrivalled protection to mobile devices thanks to the use of scientifically proven materials such as D3O® and FlexShock, combined with ingenious, slim fitting design.
(Tech 21)
A HUGE plus for me is that the experience of having an iPad is not at all affected negatively by the impact mesh cover. The design is thin, not cumbersome and all the ports are clear and remain easy to access.
Impact Mesh looks good as well as offering unbelievable protection for your phone or tablet. What protection is offered? The sides and back of your device will be basically impregnable! (Impact covers are also available for the screen)
The mesh is available in a variety of colours – I have a blue one and it looks really well. Impact mesh is different to other covers available as the style and effect of the tablet or phone is maintained. The mesh adds to the appearance instead of covering it up. This was important to me as I love the style and look of my iPad Mini.
I am recommending the Impact Mesh as the perfect Father’s Day gift this year. The price is pretty low considering the level of protection offered and I have tried and tested mine to the limit without incident. My 5 year old son would regularly use my tablet and has broken its predecessor so if impact mesh can survive him, it can survive anything!
For further information visit www.tech21.com
RRP £29.95 for iPad Mini.