tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39677797792575515472024-02-21T02:02:08.168-08:00clyragoThis begins the journey of sharing. Sharing my favorite products' where, why and how much. Products related to kids, camping, small spaces, home and anything that proves itself useful in my life. Most items are chosen for function, not all are economical. The one constant is that it is something that I love and others have shown interest.cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-16973289825270070562011-02-23T23:18:00.000-08:002011-02-23T23:18:23.725-08:00let the sun shine in<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix0b2jgXV-bAKsL6O4J8AipBwvyMOI1XeMr6avBaTH1tBUk7ykcBCC6p2peLHe2_m4gpOhxJb0R2MdGi_5s06yDjHItWhA3I2GfgEYMWQIDmkqpq2tVVEEG7y1FRn0nezKUVbD0g1Ntq34/s1600/DSC_0220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix0b2jgXV-bAKsL6O4J8AipBwvyMOI1XeMr6avBaTH1tBUk7ykcBCC6p2peLHe2_m4gpOhxJb0R2MdGi_5s06yDjHItWhA3I2GfgEYMWQIDmkqpq2tVVEEG7y1FRn0nezKUVbD0g1Ntq34/s320/DSC_0220.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
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The desire to go solar is a noble one. I grew up with solar hot water and a chemical engineer as a father. Back then my earthly conscious was not developed. Now I am a mother of 4, living in the environmentally conscious Marin County. I'd really love to be 100% solar to spare the earth of our electric consumption. Plus it's pretty cool.<br />
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Problem, even with rebates and such, we can't afford to install a system to cover our high end electric costs. Plus, my dad advised that it would take too long for it to pay for itself. Solution, LEASING! There is a company (<a href="http://www.solarcity.com/">solar city</a>) that installs solar for the cost of a lease. It's a 10 year lease including maintenance. Now, I can't imagine that in 10 years that they would come take the panels off of my house, but 10 years of green power is 10 years of green power.<br />
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Solar City came out to my house to explain their process. They handle the calculations, system recommendations, engineering, rebates, installation, etc. The lease would net me potentially $20/month savings. Based on our family's consumption we spent approximately $90/month. Our lease would be $70/month and 2/3 of our power would be solar. It would replace our expensive power, leaving our less expensive power to come from PG/E. To replace all of our power, it would cost us more than we were paying a month. Looks like dad was right. To have solar power 100% cover our usage it would cost more than we were paying. Hmmmm.<br />
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We were able to capitalize on all of the rebates being offered and Solar City did all of the work. We just provided 12 months of power history and set up automatic withdraw.<br />
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20 months later, this is how I remember it. My main frustrations were that because we were a lease, we were less of a priority than their customers paying up front. There was also a lack of communication in between steps. The person who initially came to my house was no longer with their company. I was told it would be a minimum of 6 months before installation due to the economic downturn. But, I want it now! Well, luckily we didn't have to wait so long. It was kind of like Disneyland where they under promise and over deliver. My last issue was that they did not consult us on how they were going over our roof and we had to have them come back and paint the conduit black to blend in with the roof color. That's it.<br />
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Overages in power produced are put back into our numbers. We were moved to an annual payment and tracking plan. Our meter was converted to digital to enable it to work positive and negatively. We are sent monthly statements. In summer, sunny months, we have the ability to produce more power than we need. In the grayer months, we consume more power.<br />
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We've now got 1 year of history. Did we save $20/month? No. We did break even. We had no problems. We had a home system plugged in tracking our performance. We successfully replaced lots (a super technical term there) of our power with solar at no increased cost to us. Yes, we have panels on our house, but I think they are pretty cool. Oh, and dad originally agreed that this seemed to be a no lose proposition. Looks like Dad is always right.cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-49249264220740952342010-09-07T21:13:00.000-07:002010-09-07T21:13:35.298-07:00It's a Breeze-drying that is<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhKKnTnPIJ0JDrsQgBD7CJ6kwGeDKwAc2FlC1vhR8ZZq8l-gSG6klpPfQWvgSOvImQnXM3t3yuiwnYtxyaNVOtHlFHhF0ML-sF1n1KI-Z12I4tSfJZi-NUH342marMltbj3U6K4y7Pg7O/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhKKnTnPIJ0JDrsQgBD7CJ6kwGeDKwAc2FlC1vhR8ZZq8l-gSG6klpPfQWvgSOvImQnXM3t3yuiwnYtxyaNVOtHlFHhF0ML-sF1n1KI-Z12I4tSfJZi-NUH342marMltbj3U6K4y7Pg7O/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I have always wanted to have a clothesline to dry clothes on. It seems like such an environmental thing to do. Sure, lots of people compost, but how many do you know that dry their clothes on a line? How would a family of 6 accomplish this? In the foggy bay area? With my<a href="http://www.breezedryer.com/products/Extenda_4-456-2.html"> Extenda 4</a> retractable clothesline. <a href="http://www.breezedryer.com/index.htm">Breezedryer.com</a> is where I found this nifty item.<br />
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It is retractable, but I rarely retract it. It has 4 lines, so I can hang tons of clothes, etc on it. I have conveniently located mine 1/2 in the direct sun and 1/2 under a covered area. This is handy because I tend to leave my clothes hanging for a few days and they get re-damp if left in the open (fog and rain will do that). It has a crank to make it taut and can really hold weight. All summer long I hung out the kids' towels after swimming at the pool. I didn't want to rewash and dry them every day for 5 days in a row of lessons.<br />
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Some keys to my success with this is that it is conveniently located near my washer dryer area. As I said before, part of the area is covered. It does not take up a lot of space. Mine is mounted over and in front of some plants. It is really a pretty area to "have" to hang laundry in. Also, I can put sweaters on top of all 4 lines to dry them without hanging and stretching them.<br />
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My biggest issue is that the jasmine and trumpet vines that are planted on the fence behind it like to send their tendrils to the lines to grow. Also, my original one came broken, so I had to swap it out. Breeze was a breeze to deal with and I was up and drying in no time.<br />
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I got the wall mount system and had brackets made to extend it from my fence. Another option is to post mount it, of which they also sell the posts. You can get yours or eco-clothes-drying advice/items at Breezedryer.com. Mine was $108.75 + $16.95 for shipping. Now I want the <a href="http://www.breezedryer.com/products/Easifold_Laundry_Trolley-232-306.html">easifold laundry trolley</a> to shuttle my clothes out to the line.cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-86011836612936385582010-08-09T23:15:00.000-07:002010-08-09T23:15:01.946-07:00Two-Bushel Wheeled Hamper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Canvas wheeled basket - 2 bushel</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJI9eO70A4b6sU4XePHcCFfdnjKc0Xo2yx3HR4_GMo6iXZ1_quxXmgcDuSJYaanaCpp1fse3ImwB4AcZLxHO11vQjT8bGzimYzoZlfVeeU3WKoRhtkggFpw-1NaJ1xSsPp14fPugawwcWn/s1600/1125159116-fullpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJI9eO70A4b6sU4XePHcCFfdnjKc0Xo2yx3HR4_GMo6iXZ1_quxXmgcDuSJYaanaCpp1fse3ImwB4AcZLxHO11vQjT8bGzimYzoZlfVeeU3WKoRhtkggFpw-1NaJ1xSsPp14fPugawwcWn/s320/1125159116-fullpic.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love this item. It was originally a stuffed animal holder. It's next life was a skateboard/scooter holder. It's newest reincarnation is a laundry hamper. So much so, I am designing 2 of them into my kids' new bathroom. Problem...I purchased mine many many years ago at <a href="http://themut.com/zoomprod/product12/">The Museum of Useful Things</a>. They are currently out of stock in this lovely item. Remarkably, the price of $120 hasn't changed over the years. It has been written up in design blogs, maybe this is why it isn't available any more.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thorough searching led me to <a href="http://www.industrialhouse.com/Products/Steele-Canvas-Basket/SCB2BU185">industrialhouse.com</a> where they have the same looking cart for $182. I tried to sweet talk my brother into selling me his. He promptly found it on <a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220527875908&rvr_id=122467812856&crlp=1_263602_263622&UA=M*S%3F&GUID=7e48ae9a1280a040b1d51d25ff90e656&itemid=220527875908&ff4=263602_263622#ht_500wt_928">Ebay</a> for $100/+$20 shipping. I am going to try calling MUT to see if they have more coming in. I am a loyal customer and love their products. If they fail me here, Ebay, here I come.</div>cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-75875951535491564512010-08-09T22:41:00.000-07:002010-08-09T22:41:47.541-07:00clyrago: MBT - the anti-shoeUpdate...<a href="http://clyrago.blogspot.com/2010/02/mbt-anti-shoe.html#links">clyrago: MBT - the anti-shoe</a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><table border="0"><tbody><tr><td><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px; ">Even though our local summer isn't producing much heat, my shoes are running hot. I don't wear socks in the summer and the shoes have been getting sweaty. Well, really, it's my feet getting sweaty, but it doesn't help the shoes any. My solution was to look for these in sandals. Back to my local shoe shop, I tried the sandals on. Comfy, but again $250. Back to my resource of online shopping I went. Unfortunately the "cuter" versions were not as deeply discounted as the previous style I purchased. That's what I get for shopping with a need, in season. 3 weeks of vacation was upcoming the next week. Lots of heat and walking. I had to get these. I tried to use Orthosandals as a substitute, but they rubbed my feet on top and made owies. So, <a href="http://www.footwearetc.com/MBT/Shoes-MBT-Womens-Kisumu-2-Off-White-Leather.html" style="color: rgb(68, 136, 136); ">footwearetc.com</a> I went and in less than 2 days I had my sandals. $200 that I do not regret spending. I have worn them everyday since receiving them, walked miles and miles, drove miles and miles and so on. This is saying a lot because I don't have a lot of disposable income right now. They are worth every penny.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><table border="0"><tbody><tr><td><div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td class="vs_w-a"><div id="vv4-0"><div class="ic-w500 ic-cntr" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-collapse: collapse; display: block; height: 500px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; position: relative; width: 500px; "><div class="ic-w500 ic-m" id="vv4-0_idiv" style="display: table-cell; height: 500px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; vertical-align: middle; width: 500px; "><center><img alt="" id="i_vv4-0" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/12/!BzrsE!QEWk~$(KGrHqMOKj8E)Wdbf!YIBM(G,M5V,w~~0_1.JPG?set_id=880000500F" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(153, 187, 153); border-right-color: rgb(153, 187, 153); border-bottom-color: rgb(153, 187, 153); border-left-color: rgb(153, 187, 153); border-color: initial; border-style: initial; height: 169px; vertical-align: middle; width: 400px; " /></center></div></div></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div></td></tr></tbody></table></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></span></span></div>cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-731018845604335532010-05-12T10:17:00.000-07:002010-05-12T10:17:58.469-07:00The dry cleaning journey - SF Green Clean<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgePIpuRhfJujRYyQe7xBwxQjRPMDramKVKSBN9QrjDG5KaSi5L0Q7p9RGRGcJRx2isCDxG5VQ-QIrDnQaMm-RY5P6FFkRlB_bOJoYaLAtZR9T8NZ804m88mH3J7MDwxdQDdO9Rr9RI4GcZ/s1600/header_logo_m.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgePIpuRhfJujRYyQe7xBwxQjRPMDramKVKSBN9QrjDG5KaSi5L0Q7p9RGRGcJRx2isCDxG5VQ-QIrDnQaMm-RY5P6FFkRlB_bOJoYaLAtZR9T8NZ804m88mH3J7MDwxdQDdO9Rr9RI4GcZ/s320/header_logo_m.gif" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Yes, I love my products. I also love my services.... I want tell you about <a href="http://www.sfgreenclean.com/CUSTOMER/index.php">SF Green Clean</a>. I know that some of you are in an area that they service. If you aren't, you can use their resource pages to learn more about green dry cleaning.<br />
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I am as picky about our dry cleaners as I am a dentist or doctor. When we moved to Mill Valley, we could not find a local cleaner that pressed our shirts in a manner we liked. We traveled back to our old haunt for a couple of years. Lots of kids later, the time it took to drive for dry cleaning became frivolous. We then switched to a local company that delivered for "free". Their prices were higher, but delivery was free. I LOVED that convenience.<br />
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Then, somewhere I read about SF Green Clean. Yes, I know we don't live in SF anymore. It never hurts to inquire if they'll be opening a branch near you. It turns out, they were willing to deliver and pick-up to Southern Marin. Woohoo.<br />
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SF Green Clean drives Prius, uses wooden hangers and fabric garment bags. They are truly green with no PERC (see their site for technical explanations) and no home waste (no plastic bags or wire hangers). They do not bug us for their wooden hangers we've kept in our closet. We try to switch out to our own hangers, but don't have enough, so hang on to a few of theirs. They have an online clothes tracker. I think this would be helpful if you couldn't remember what you'd sent to the cleaners. I always had to do a count to make sure the proper amount of clothes were coming back to me. Now I can visit my clothes on-line to check on them. Not that I ever do this... I've become lax in my personal clothes tracking. They also e-mail to schedule delivery changes. This is so helpful because I always forget to change my deliveries when I am out of town. I never have my cleaners phone number with me, so e-mail works better for me. <br />
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Originally we had Ted doing our pick-up and deliveries. I think he was the owner or something. Now we have Christina. They both make us feel like we're special and matter. Shouldn't we feel this way about everywhere we spend our money? Speaking of money, I've recapped my last 2 years' of cleaning bills and our cost looks to have gone down a bit. How cool is that? I get to use a green business, have happy clothes delivered and picked up and save money? I'll take it, how about you?cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-1239054621549463962010-05-08T15:16:00.000-07:002010-05-08T15:16:24.624-07:00Rock and roll on - Nirve MP3 Stereo SpeakersYes, it has been a while. We had an appendix issue at the beginning of March and then general spring chaos took over. We are in the throws of it, but I couldn't wait to tell you about my new bike accessory. I saw it, searched it, ordered it and am loving it within 24 hours of first sight.<br />
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I should start by saying that since the weather is nicer, I've been trying to ride my FR8 around town more. We're running normal "car" errands on the bike now. A trip to the store can be 10-15 minutes each way. Some locations are up hills that I'm not very good at. Music is a huge motivator. When I am by myself, I can use my headphones. If #4 is riding along, I cannot. This is where the item below comes in...<br />
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The NY Times did a write up. <a href="http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9407EED91530F934A35752C0A9669D8B63">gear test</a> and I poked around and couldn't believe how inexpensive and resourceful MP3 speakers could be for a bike. The Nirve MP3 stereo speakers were well reviewed at most places I searched online.<br />
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These speakers are about the size of a padded sunglass case. They have 2 velcro attachments to go on a bike's handlebars. The case has a zipper opening and in the bottom section a band to hold your MP3 (or an iphone in my case) in place. There is a plug that goes into the headphone port of the MP3. In the top, there is an on/off switch. 4 AAA batteries. That's it. So simple, yet functional.<br />
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Now, can speakers the size of a sunglass case be heard? Yes they can. I have to make sure my music is not set too loud, because these speakers can project further than my local surroundings.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeFvtEzTS-j7cRLJHsbf_ZhwfL9UmePTsl0VK1nFCHtfTs-IYSXbJg1GOgzYLx8nTLLnREtUdZYRqfBn7mxfAqpIbMs-JeeQv5hcbnuk_s50wt8LD5NEAtiMLKYvSxpDVtAk4_LgC2eEX1/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeFvtEzTS-j7cRLJHsbf_ZhwfL9UmePTsl0VK1nFCHtfTs-IYSXbJg1GOgzYLx8nTLLnREtUdZYRqfBn7mxfAqpIbMs-JeeQv5hcbnuk_s50wt8LD5NEAtiMLKYvSxpDVtAk4_LgC2eEX1/s320/photo.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJJmckxZ5oSME1Z2F8MtcDSkO7wHAtI73Hk6lAEsPmGILqMYscfEx5Uz0aKnT8H6w8kCt9fmEojM-Itw_ZJ5gEe-kcwe7DGgfg8czP3hbAENUIsAQfJwsPAAnzNKpzph6Shg0pZSmWtM8/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJJmckxZ5oSME1Z2F8MtcDSkO7wHAtI73Hk6lAEsPmGILqMYscfEx5Uz0aKnT8H6w8kCt9fmEojM-Itw_ZJ5gEe-kcwe7DGgfg8czP3hbAENUIsAQfJwsPAAnzNKpzph6Shg0pZSmWtM8/s320/photo.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I found mine at <a href="http://www.artscyclery.com/">Art's Cyclery </a>. They were $24.99 with $5 shipping. They arrived the next day! Woohoo. Their price is pretty consistent at other online retailers. Shipping varies. The only issue I've had is that when I hit big bumps on the road, my iPhone skips to the next song. <br />
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Rock on....cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-85570177504287762982010-02-08T14:08:00.000-08:002010-08-09T22:35:57.053-07:00MBT - the anti-shoe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-Cmup1h7bxmrAN1ctHtqWEJFd4eIk9lquHjKUj4IAW-ODEMh2m1h2ISVXPEdhP4BnER6ieEoKgsbVCyJJLOicnXqEY7mD3wV6NemiMJUsYSiUbE4GFgYeD-CRZmw19YXOPPfiowjD_NB/s1600-h/WomensShoes-MBTMBTWomensLamiMaryJaneRedSuedeOnSale_medium_image1_32718.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-Cmup1h7bxmrAN1ctHtqWEJFd4eIk9lquHjKUj4IAW-ODEMh2m1h2ISVXPEdhP4BnER6ieEoKgsbVCyJJLOicnXqEY7mD3wV6NemiMJUsYSiUbE4GFgYeD-CRZmw19YXOPPfiowjD_NB/s200/WomensShoes-MBTMBTWomensLamiMaryJaneRedSuedeOnSale_medium_image1_32718.gif" width="200" /></a></div><br />
I've meant to watch a dvd that came with my MBTs before I told you about them. When I went to play it today, it didn't work. Oh well, on to the most asked about item I have (even more than my bike)!<br />
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I've been seeing <a href="http://us.mbt.com/Home/Benefits.aspx">MBTs</a> advertised in magazines for years. I am also out of shape and have had back problems due to lack of core strength (or 4 kids, not sure which came first). It took MBT coming out with a non-medical looking mary-jane style of shoe in red and it being in my local athletic store to consider buying them. "What?" "The style that I want is discontinued?" Well, that was my $aving grace (see below).<br />
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According to their website, and probably their DVD, MBTs help you have proper alignment when standing and walking. They engage your core to create more strength.<br />
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MBTs are comfortable. When my back has been tweaked, they make it easier for me to walk. The first week I wore them, muscles hurt that I didn't even know existed. Now, I don't notice aching. Does this mean they aren't working? I have no idea. I don't feel "more in shape" since I've been wearing them. What I do know is that they feel good when I run around doing what I do. They're not fancy, but as decent a look as any normal tennis shoe. Online they have some cuter styles. I guess if people saw cute in advertisements, they'd think the MBTs wouldn't work as well?<br />
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Footwear etc recommends that you order 1/2 size bigger. This was true for me. I also have a wide foot, and these are comfortable, even with socks. So, I'm not sure how you'd fare if you had a narrow foot. They are comfortable to stand in, in a way that my Danskos have never been. In fact, my Danskos have given me blisters and aches when worn for extended periods of time. My MBTs get a bit stinky when not worn with socks. It would be great if they could combine Geox's ability to breathe with these, but oh well for now.<br />
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What was $250 (yes, for a relatively non-cute pair of shoes) in my local store, was $99 on-line at <a href="http://shoes.footwearetc.com/asearch#p=Q&lbc=footwearetc&uid=873253916&ts=ajax&w=mbt&af=cat1:maryjanes+br:mbt+gen:womens&isort=score&method=and">footwear etc.</a> In looking them up today, they are up to $130, but it's better than $250. These came so fast. I ordered them in the afternoon one day and they came the next morning from their east-bay distribution center. Amazing service. No tax or shipping. Normally they don't take returns, but do for MBTs.<br />
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Update....<br />
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<div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Update: Even though our local summer isn't producing much heat, my shoes are running hot. I don't wear socks in the summer and the shoes have been getting sweaty. Well, really, it's my feet getting sweaty, but it doesn't help the shoes any. My solution was to look for these in sandals. Back to my local shoe shop, I tried the sandals on. Comfy, but again $250. Back to my resource of online shopping I went. Unfortunately the "cuter" versions were not as deeply discounted as the previous style I purchased. That's what I get for shopping with a need, in season. 3 weeks of vacation was upcoming the next week. Lots of heat and walking. I had to get these. I tried to use Orthosandals as a substitute, but they rubbed my feet on top and made owies. So, <a href="http://www.footwearetc.com/MBT/Shoes-MBT-Womens-Kisumu-2-Off-White-Leather.html">footwearetc.com</a> I went and in less than 2 days I had my sandals. $200 that I do not regret spending. I have worn them everyday since receiving them, walked miles and miles, drove miles and miles and so on. This is saying a lot because I don't have a lot of disposable income right now. They are worth every penny.</div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span></div>cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-38294602589645485102010-01-29T12:40:00.000-08:002010-01-29T12:40:16.940-08:00Monkeying around - Dabbawalla lunch bag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLkSbVJ2ebnpd2SPcry1BJTCsncrtsoXAdNnJR2t4RnKWnMGnf93sfOwcDhXySSJG3wwNdUOUWX3ijF-k-MWBNN6exghcHbhIrOg8S2_z6ZIJsbb6iBMUtT5BCLAZmQolOUaxsiP0FTUw/s1600-h/DAB_01_MON_D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLkSbVJ2ebnpd2SPcry1BJTCsncrtsoXAdNnJR2t4RnKWnMGnf93sfOwcDhXySSJG3wwNdUOUWX3ijF-k-MWBNN6exghcHbhIrOg8S2_z6ZIJsbb6iBMUtT5BCLAZmQolOUaxsiP0FTUw/s320/DAB_01_MON_D.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgagj5Np5KU5DIBj-OmwdIJkzBfVrnmj7BMN1UbNUN72wQ5sPizGSHxtezTRj27YNb1IrQ7WavSl0xldasjz_BSPLFt_J8OAZ-jUw6Zmfri60EWPZf6sCu3OsL9ryvEOHPzcx32-NmBUm_l/s1600-h/DAB_01_MON_Inside1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgagj5Np5KU5DIBj-OmwdIJkzBfVrnmj7BMN1UbNUN72wQ5sPizGSHxtezTRj27YNb1IrQ7WavSl0xldasjz_BSPLFt_J8OAZ-jUw6Zmfri60EWPZf6sCu3OsL9ryvEOHPzcx32-NmBUm_l/s320/DAB_01_MON_Inside1.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDYrrRoGqDNRvGcqsxoCt0acybRBQpLHw9xz0YHlmxQTyunQfsa4bJ-Y0EwZ65VE3nlp_AZTjZ_u17hwrLfbxvJEh0qtvqMbSE5kKgnNj3A8_5Wa7VBAO1lgP_1jk_p80Xr7LeDnDqVmEQ/s1600-h/DAB_01_MON.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDYrrRoGqDNRvGcqsxoCt0acybRBQpLHw9xz0YHlmxQTyunQfsa4bJ-Y0EwZ65VE3nlp_AZTjZ_u17hwrLfbxvJEh0qtvqMbSE5kKgnNj3A8_5Wa7VBAO1lgP_1jk_p80Xr7LeDnDqVmEQ/s320/DAB_01_MON.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I have many items in my brain that I want to tell you about, and haven't been very diligent. I got a link to <a href="http://reusablebags.com/">reusablebags.com</a> that had some new styles of lunch bags. Then I remembered that I wanted to tell you about #4's new lunch bag that she got for the holidays. It's by Dabbawalla and my little one picked the Monkey See Monkey Do style. There are 6 choices that are so adorable; ladybug, apple, chicken, watermelon and a cow. <a href="http://www.reusablebags.com/store/dabbawalla-c-132.html">http://www.reusablebags.com/store/dabbawalla-c-132.html</a><br />
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There are many things that makes this a great lunch bag for us. It's neoprene, so insulates well. The handle is easy for kids and parents to hold. There is a front and back pouch that can hold many things from papers to snacks. The style is adorable, it's easy to clean and it holds a lot. We use a small <a href="http://www.reusablebags.com/store/klean-kanteen-stainless-steel-reusable-bottle-p-1122.html">Klean Kanteen</a>, a sandwich in a <a href="http://www.reusablebags.com/store/wrapnmat%C2%AE-regular-p-2.html">Wrap-n-mat</a> and 2 metal containers from <a href="http://www.reusablebags.com/store/kids-konserve-stainless-steel-food-container-nesting-p-1989.html">Kids Konserve</a> and there's room to spare!<br />
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If my drawers and cupboards could speak they'd tell you about the assortment of lunch bags and items that we've collected over the years. I want function without sacrificing quality or style. These Dabbawalla bags do the trick. In the past I've done <a href="http://www.reusablebags.com/store/laptop-lunches-bento-case-p-1908.html">Laptop Lunches</a> (not so cute and the lunchbox broke), <a href="http://www.reusablebags.com/store/%C2%A0built%C2%AE-munchlers%E2%84%A2-insulated-medium-kids-lunch-bags-p-971.html">Built Munchlers</a> (super cute, but too small), <a href="http://www.herobags.com/lunchbags.html">Herobags</a> (great size, and style, but not insualted. #2 likes this one), and <a href="http://www.reusablebags.com/store/kids-konserve-wastefree-lunch-p-1416.html">Kids Konserve</a> (we love the metal containers and their customer service, but the bag doesn't hold up well to dirt or washing)<br />
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Have you found something you'd like to share? I'm always looking for more good ideas and products. Just ask my cupboards and kids :)<br />
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I paid $29.95 at <a href="http://reusablebags.com/">reusablebags.com</a>. Amazon has them for $37.95.cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-46116479482184943422010-01-09T21:58:00.000-08:002010-01-10T18:39:04.807-08:00A camping we will go - Camp Caddy Portable Organizer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUNf0vNt2ufkUmhbxKPyTtmiVYRvygC_8OCZS14on0WNeW7QD5klRy-CfU9aFyBwhhQEimMephc3Cpq9N85_9oTq-f4gVyjZ5mdfX3yamJNWFjiGN-wJiysUpYUAyTxTrVduX9QPjz5aQ/s1600-h/kamp-kadi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUNf0vNt2ufkUmhbxKPyTtmiVYRvygC_8OCZS14on0WNeW7QD5klRy-CfU9aFyBwhhQEimMephc3Cpq9N85_9oTq-f4gVyjZ5mdfX3yamJNWFjiGN-wJiysUpYUAyTxTrVduX9QPjz5aQ/s320/kamp-kadi.jpg" width="119" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">We are serious car campers! We try to add a couple of "cool" very useful items per year. We drive a big truck with packs on top and sometimes off the back. We added the Camp Caddy in 2004 and have been getting "oohs" and "aahs" ever since.</span><br />
<div><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';"><br />
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</div><div><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">In my opinion, the most useful thing the Camp Caddy does is hold a garbage bag. "What" you say? "Hold a garbage bag"? Well, if you've ever car camped and tried to hook your trash bag to a nail or a tree or a table without it falling over or ripping, you'll appreciate how useful this is. In addition to holding a trash bag, it holds paper towels, condiments AND a lantern.</span><br />
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</div><div><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">I know of two camping friends we've camped with that have added this to their repertoire of camping gear because they see it's value. This handy item can clamp to most picnic benches. If the bench happens to be too thick, it comes with a different bottom to pound into the ground. It's height is adjustable and compactly is put away into a nylon draw string bag.</span><br />
<div><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';"><br />
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</div><div><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">We originally purchased ours from Cabela's <a href="http://www.cabelas.com/">http://www.cabelas.com/</a> for $30. I do not believe they are still selling it. In doing a search, I came upon A Happy Camper <a href="http://www.ahappycamper.com/products/campfurniture/nebo/kamp-kadi.html">http://www.ahappycamper.com/products/campfurniture/nebo/kamp-kadi.html</a> who has it for $20 (not including shipping) and The Camping Station <a href="http://www.campingstation.com/nebo-sports-kamp-kadi-portable-organizer-p-3626.html">http://www.campingstation.com/nebo-sports-kamp-kadi-portable-organizer-p-3626.html</a> where it is currently $29 (again, no shipping included). Check it out, you won't be sorry.</span><br />
</div><div><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';"><br />
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</div><div><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">One note is if you need to use the ground stake to hold your Caddy up, pound it in <span style="text-decoration: underline;">before</span> you attach the other levels. If you pound it in when it is assembled, the pieces will stick together. Just ask my husband, he'll tell you it's a pain to separate them when this is done.</span><br />
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</div><div><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">Happy Camping.<br />
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</div></div></div>cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-80985637038686353612010-01-03T18:49:00.000-08:002010-02-08T22:42:55.097-08:00magnetizing - Magna Tiles set<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWoj-52EuqtyWUSSNwQj5pn7ftTIOrESYAonB4C0ZJGU6-69y6bZSrNl1S9bGR6xED1z2sc9fI8clMktMPZQkBlnpcBlwvbmDaVNCZo4765e2MXGKoDE350wAbr9RcEof2d3lMQfIRHfaG/s1600-h/100_9996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWoj-52EuqtyWUSSNwQj5pn7ftTIOrESYAonB4C0ZJGU6-69y6bZSrNl1S9bGR6xED1z2sc9fI8clMktMPZQkBlnpcBlwvbmDaVNCZo4765e2MXGKoDE350wAbr9RcEof2d3lMQfIRHfaG/s320/100_9996.JPG" /></a></div> These are by far one of the best, most versatile (age and creativity) toy I have EVER purchased. In the day and age of purging plastic, I will NEVER get rid of these. Our original set of Magna Tiles was purchased as a gift for my then 3, and 1 1/2 year old kids from their "new" (now 6) baby sister. We have since added another set to enable bigger structures and more kids playing at a time.<br />
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Magna-Tiles have internal magnets that connect the shapes together. They can stack, make 3-d shapes and so much more. Similar to the previously blogged Kapla blocks, my kids have built buildings, aircraft carriers, ships, animal houses and more. They are so durable that we have not broken a single piece in the 6 years we've owned and played with them (including crumbling towers).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfFMyw4RG3A0xj3u0ArWSHl24uHeDro2nRuHHu4_DUirjkBdqEEoL8jjRFQRKFYwNyWkL2Y0oDvAEapD-4dMC_jI6PIdeEfdbntrRgOMz086F0C9a78KKt7uGqgXfI3MlRe2f39yyXsEVE/s1600-h/100_0574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfFMyw4RG3A0xj3u0ArWSHl24uHeDro2nRuHHu4_DUirjkBdqEEoL8jjRFQRKFYwNyWkL2Y0oDvAEapD-4dMC_jI6PIdeEfdbntrRgOMz086F0C9a78KKt7uGqgXfI3MlRe2f39yyXsEVE/s200/100_0574.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>When you set out to purchase your Magna-Tiles, you should just jump right into the 100 piece set. It is much more cost effective and easier to build with and share than the 30 and 45 piece sets. Our original set was purchased online from Kaplan Toys (<a href="http://www.kaplanco.com/store/trans/productDetailForm.asp?CatID=3%7CMB1075%7C0&PID=47927">http://www.kaplanco.com/store/trans/productDetailForm.asp?CatID=3%7CMB1075%7C0&PID=47927</a>) where we paid $110 and are still listed as such. Our second set was from Edufuntoys (<a href="http://www.edufuntoys.com/2300.html">http://www.edufuntoys.com/2300.html</a>) for $99. I believe they are now $120.<br />
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These are great for preschool age on up. I now have a 9+ year old who still plays with them down to a 4 year old. They were great to have around when we had a baby because they aren't too small, are easy to handle and clean and also easy to clean up. The pictures shown are by the kids of their structures. We don't let them keep their creations up forever, so they take pictures and then destroy them. It's not just a normal clean-up, it's like Godzilla coming to town!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0rCNaxpHA2Ec9vy2Kd_T6nd7X-CdifJg5Zq-jUDHzGbSG9gAGi3m9fajai3tqYUZUunOShPwZD8Heqj5t-G8xPydvtIrsy6mUw97jJXTIv0MYpzIafR_XDpAxF0T0-1DsaRLW4cHA1iC/s1600-h/100_0115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0rCNaxpHA2Ec9vy2Kd_T6nd7X-CdifJg5Zq-jUDHzGbSG9gAGi3m9fajai3tqYUZUunOShPwZD8Heqj5t-G8xPydvtIrsy6mUw97jJXTIv0MYpzIafR_XDpAxF0T0-1DsaRLW4cHA1iC/s200/100_0115.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4vTxHmCXs13Bmy7VTcPjeuFxEhWb6NTXA66vi1DhbZ2EWAdUOIIaEPEownjSiM6nhANFvXGIlnHTbAHL4CMjS6Agy4Vs4tKBUjdAI8LRIBZ_ugJJ6KNehOfQ5DolQwDG5opJVhfuFzsm/s1600-h/000_0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4vTxHmCXs13Bmy7VTcPjeuFxEhWb6NTXA66vi1DhbZ2EWAdUOIIaEPEownjSiM6nhANFvXGIlnHTbAHL4CMjS6Agy4Vs4tKBUjdAI8LRIBZ_ugJJ6KNehOfQ5DolQwDG5opJVhfuFzsm/s200/000_0031.jpg" width="200" /></a>cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-47720256464937537132009-12-19T22:33:00.000-08:002009-12-19T22:35:59.590-08:00Charmed, I'm sure - square personalized necklace charmI have four kids and have done the names on charms thing necklace, just like most everyone else I know. I had admired many and finally got some of my own. Of course, once I made that purchase I saw a unique, silver, square, hand-stamped charm on a simple link chain. You see, with 4 kids, a square is the perfect shape to represent.<br />
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I hung my old, four separate named charm necklace with other necklaces from the past and moved on. I haven't looked back and haven't regretted it either. There is a slight issue. The shop that I originally purchased my necklace from, The Vintage Pearl (<a href="http://www.thevintagepearl.com/">http://www.thevintagepearl.com/</a>), isn't selling it anymore. I would think you could special order it from them. Mine was $55 + shipping.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHX6izn1ctjSbLyBuqpqkrazFYQcDPEcbI-fSnIY8InqS8-45TYJjveyyJboAT2BMsLKSQsROSgbyeq8FLjE6TMXLwtC0LcP3OG4q5DVAKuXq4xt-a5JPFB99gpbvdozbX8Be7hcBNHzjL/s1600-h/yhst-80204245038479_2083_210452343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHX6izn1ctjSbLyBuqpqkrazFYQcDPEcbI-fSnIY8InqS8-45TYJjveyyJboAT2BMsLKSQsROSgbyeq8FLjE6TMXLwtC0LcP3OG4q5DVAKuXq4xt-a5JPFB99gpbvdozbX8Be7hcBNHzjL/s200/yhst-80204245038479_2083_210452343.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>What I've found, that looks like what I have is from Bliss Living (<a href="http://www.blissliving.com/square-charm-necklace.html">http://www.blissliving.com/square-charm-necklace.html</a>) for $115. The picture is from their website and is not of my necklace. Don't worry, I haven't changed my kids' names.... Another option is RBH designs on ETSY (<a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33072834">http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33072834</a>) with a similar, less expensive, option at $33. It is hung different, on a different chain and comes with a pearl charm attached; but is square and hand-stamped.<br />
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One last issue is that sometimes if the necklace gets tugged, the rings attaching the charm pull open enough to separate the chain from the charm. It's easily remedied, but happens enough to mention here.cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-15389286459256852402009-12-01T13:20:00.000-08:002009-12-01T13:21:06.545-08:00No spill travel mug for on the go - ContigoContigo autoseal stainless steel travel mug (<a href="http://www.gocontigo.com/autoseal-stainless-steel-travel-mug.html">http://www.gocontigo.com/autoseal-stainless-steel-travel-mug.html</a>)<br />
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I am a travel bottle/mug collector. I didn't set out to be one, but I've always been in search of the perfect vehicle to tote my liquids to and fro. I've been down the Nalgene road, Sigg, Kleen Kanteen and so on. My friend, Chris, had a "no-spill" mug in plastic that she used for her kids' milk and such. Once I moved past Nalgene, I really haven't gone back to plastic, but I loved the no-spill idea.<br />
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On a semi-regular trip to Costco, I came upon a 16 oz. stainless steel no-spill travel mug. It was a 2-pack for $20. This is an amazing deal for an insulated travel mug and it said, "no spill"! I'm a sucker and decided to try it. Thank goodness I did, these were the same mugs my friend was using, but in stainless! Woo hoo. No more spilled tea in my bike or car or me for that matter.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDwTTKFxsyuVa5-zuRvn3pGX6sPvsPS3cwx_jeYGWtOWNYu5Z6GrK8TGJtx3SNG5f3iEECzs6pnGwb2CqLaFhLU8OXchhS-g95RvP0IS8IGxWFUAtlM1PUn6FKwzgFiUQN9cz8Hk3MatV/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDwTTKFxsyuVa5-zuRvn3pGX6sPvsPS3cwx_jeYGWtOWNYu5Z6GrK8TGJtx3SNG5f3iEECzs6pnGwb2CqLaFhLU8OXchhS-g95RvP0IS8IGxWFUAtlM1PUn6FKwzgFiUQN9cz8Hk3MatV/s320/photo.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>You might ask, do they really not spill? The answer is YES they do not leak or spill. My travel bottles often end up sideways. This is not my intention, but the reality of what happens. If Sigg tops aren't closed, they leak, same with Kleen Kanteen and so on. The Contigo closes automatically and at the same time is easy to drink from.<br />
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The insulated stainless steel keeps drinks cold or your hand from burning if hot drinks are your thing. The only issue I've had is that it keeps my hot drinks too hot. I'm used to paper cups or open mugs when I can drink within a few minutes. If left closed, it's at least a 1/2 hour before I can drink a sip. I now leave my mug open for a few minutes to let some of the hotness escape. My tea is then perfect to drink. <br />
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Lastly, these mugs are easy to clean. The mug has a 3" opening, so any brush can get down in there. I have 2 and am thinking of switching more of my collection out. They are a bit too big for my kids' lunches, so I'd love to see a kids stainless version. I just saw a notification that Kleen Kanteen has an insulated version now. Maybe I'll try it too, but I'm hesitant because these really keep me from wearing my beverage or making a mess. We'll see....<br />
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I'm not sure if Costco still has them. They were not available on-line, but at one time were in stores. It's worth checking. Target and many on line retailers have them for $17-$20 EACH.cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-6980985706890533932009-11-20T20:57:00.000-08:002010-02-08T22:41:40.626-08:00building with imagination - Kapla<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHb90QOSJm5nvMW2uSU9_lcdmoEzKiupLiX4WBefhnzLJEr2JFZadASWnqaDoXEyI5qkhHebWjNdWqXHK9SP7HTMKI4bUoL03ePrsv9v7B_n1EOTpFhVqci71eU96u2TsZREMrPLKGNCD/s1600/DSC_0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTHb90QOSJm5nvMW2uSU9_lcdmoEzKiupLiX4WBefhnzLJEr2JFZadASWnqaDoXEyI5qkhHebWjNdWqXHK9SP7HTMKI4bUoL03ePrsv9v7B_n1EOTpFhVqci71eU96u2TsZREMrPLKGNCD/s200/DSC_0064.JPG" width="133" /></a></div>Kapla blocks<br />
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3 years ago, on a 1st grade field trip to the Lawrence Hall of Science (in Berkeley), we stumbled upon a room with millions of these amazing planks. Okay, maybe I'm exaggerating, but really, there were tons of these pieces of wood. They are 100% wood and machine made to be identical. They are amazing for play from 1-100 years old. No two buildings will ever be the same<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha8DksRl2WiY3WQ_4t-WrDvlWZsmTqEWqnxNmxbnyUNz50Uh4ZSKQnDneMpaewF2Klp9JQE7cdIwIkziMcPz7c4b7dMwKqbuzWAEbG1fWebdEdGOLIps0A2OJ4KlT2ae54yjVIXB_J2RM7/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha8DksRl2WiY3WQ_4t-WrDvlWZsmTqEWqnxNmxbnyUNz50Uh4ZSKQnDneMpaewF2Klp9JQE7cdIwIkziMcPz7c4b7dMwKqbuzWAEbG1fWebdEdGOLIps0A2OJ4KlT2ae54yjVIXB_J2RM7/s200/DSC_0060.JPG" width="133" /></a><a href="http://www.kapla.com/accueil_en.html">http://www.kapla.com/accueil_en.html</a> is their website. <span style="font-family: inherit;"> They have some amazing photos of what their planks can build (a million times</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> more complicated than my family's work above). The website also has some fun information about the planks...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is an abbreviation of "Kabouter Plankjes" which means gnome planks in Dutch. With the KAPLA planks kids as well as adults can now build and create all kinds of different architectural constructions, animals, extraordinary creations..."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">At my house, they are primarily used for building aircraft carriers, ships and roads. Every now and again, we'll have a building or structure of some sort. We have a box of 1,000 planks that were gifted to us for #4's 2nd birthday by her grandparents. It was truly a gift for the whole family, a gift for a girl who needed nothing! Her nickname became "Godzilla" because she liked to wreck everyone's buildings. We instituted the rules that you cannot get mad at the baby for breaking your building, nor can you be upset when your building eventually collapses or tips over.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So, if you get a chance to visit the Lawrence Hall of Science, you can play in the Kapla room. They also sell the blocks and have a 10% discount in their gift shop for members. There are also tons of places to get them on line. Get enough so you don't have to hamper imagination because you ran out of planks.</span>cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-43182433403258974292009-11-11T10:39:00.000-08:002009-12-01T13:39:50.497-08:00A rolling we will go -Carry Cruiser market cartCarry Cruiser by Reisenthel<br />
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A couple of years ago I was in Paris with some friends. We noticed a trend of people shopping with stylish/rolling market carts. Being that I'm a farmers' market shopper, I was wondering how this could translate for my shopping at home. There really aren't a lot of stylish, yet functional market carts available. Then I saw the Carry Cruiser. I figured that since it is by Reisenthel, who many stores carry in the US, that I would be able to get one at home. I was wrong. I had to order from <a href="http://design-3000.de/">design-3000.de</a>, the German distributor for Reisenthel.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Tx7_iAwTsfZh0zi0A8F5guCCowFf3Vw7R3R8OwBSUQQV7XRQWGejWSa5hitjcWKq-gJvTThmM3zKl2YlUxuNAZCLT6lp1I2EMqbPz6w8DTtkhqi5wWKIpnamDM8QyMeGcpfeVmh05I1a/s1600-h/IMG_0247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Tx7_iAwTsfZh0zi0A8F5guCCowFf3Vw7R3R8OwBSUQQV7XRQWGejWSa5hitjcWKq-gJvTThmM3zKl2YlUxuNAZCLT6lp1I2EMqbPz6w8DTtkhqi5wWKIpnamDM8QyMeGcpfeVmh05I1a/s320/IMG_0247.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Now you know, I'm stubborn. Once I see a product that I know will work for me, I usually track it down. In this instance, I had to order it from Germany. Thank goodness the website had a British translation. But, once again, I was paying import fees and crazy shipping because I could not find the product in the US.<br />
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What makes this cart special? I got to pick from a nice selection of fabrics. The cart has sturdy wheels to tote it around. The handle telescopes, so I can put it easily into the car and store it at home. The handle is also tall enough for me to cart it comfortably. It also has a shoulder carry strap for helping carry the cart up stairs. The cart itself is wide enough to load in my farmers' market treasures without smashing everything like those tall carts. Lastly it has a fabric drawstring closure for the top, when I've bought so much it's overflowing.<br />
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Now, you don't have to go to Europe for one of these, or even order from Germany. Finally they are distributing them in the US. Just Google "Carry Cruiser Reisenthel" and pick from a number of sites. You might think I'm bummed that I had to buy my cart from overseas. It turns out to be a good thing I did. After 2 solid years of use, my handle broke off. It seemed to be an easy enough to replace, but there were no domestic places that had access to this part. Luckily <a href="http://design-3000.de/">design-3000.de</a> was as helpful as before and for a slight shipping fee, sent me 2 of the handles.<br />
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I paid 149 euros (including shipping). Today I saw it for $159 +s/h online<br />
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Happy shopping!cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-56947482731371673042009-11-05T21:12:00.000-08:002009-12-19T23:24:05.992-08:00FR8 -my pretty orange bikeFR8 by Workcycles<br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEy732N5KWMtrN_Nt6s9u2Jyog1hyk7MPuZQZH0aTFebbPiSQ0oun7g8jPSr5ReR7crlR4jVnhywn1Ouq4QYNJU5_b16asn3ndODPxkLQCI1ijDzKMjXvj8on0lcB1_lnLMD9TBC8uHBH/s1600-h/DSC_0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNEy732N5KWMtrN_Nt6s9u2Jyog1hyk7MPuZQZH0aTFebbPiSQ0oun7g8jPSr5ReR7crlR4jVnhywn1Ouq4QYNJU5_b16asn3ndODPxkLQCI1ijDzKMjXvj8on0lcB1_lnLMD9TBC8uHBH/s320/DSC_0036.jpg" /></a>This is my streamlined solution to transporting many kids and more stuff to school and around town. I was previously using a 3 wheeled version for this task. I found myself with more kids hanging on while riding on their ripsticks/skateboards than riding in my trike. This led me to my beautiful orange bike.<br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">FR8 stands for freight and this thing can haul. It has the Massive Rack on the front (with a tub to hold book bags, lunches and more). It's kickstand is an awesome drop down from the front stand (some people say it's has it's own bike rack). It has dynamo lighting, an axl lock and an extended back rack. The back rack has seating for 2 and there's one extra seat for a shorter rider in the front. My bike has coaster and front hand brakes, a Brooks saddle and 7 gears for slight inclines. Hills are not this bikes friend, but then it's a transport bike, not a mountain bike.<br />
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It took some getting used to, switching from 3 to 2 wheels. I hadn't had to balance on a bike for 5 years. I've figured out that the back passengers need to get on <span style="text-decoration: underline;">after</span> I do. Otherwise it is too heavy and I have a hard time holding the bike up and getting on at the same time. Someone with more coordination, or forearm strength could probably do better.<br />
<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXij6oazm2HRMg1dbZwjWenTNs1POVzENpfXRQMOjow8IeAE5eIHGrqaF5S7oYpGfJUuiHfUh7PV5wU7SxibvCuz_nclVHiwCVoX37Ctjw1hYhIn9H9JtysEpXUbxTDoFx3e2WKoABLvAD/s1600-h/seat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXij6oazm2HRMg1dbZwjWenTNs1POVzENpfXRQMOjow8IeAE5eIHGrqaF5S7oYpGfJUuiHfUh7PV5wU7SxibvCuz_nclVHiwCVoX37Ctjw1hYhIn9H9JtysEpXUbxTDoFx3e2WKoABLvAD/s200/seat.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><a href="http://www.mydutchbike.com/">http://www.mydutchbike.com/</a> is working with <a href="http://www.workcycles.com/workbike/">http://www.workcycles.com/workbike/</a> to bring these bikes and more to the Bay Area. This makes getting a quality utility bike so much easier. For my trike, I had to import it, with Henry's (of Workcycles) help. Now, My Dutch Bike can help you customize your bike to suit your style. It can come in almost any color and has a variety of configurations. A smaller front rack with a little middle kickstand is available, as well as opting out of the additional seating.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH-ov9JtbkU_E6zHzCNAEcFPvwrBPnvm2n4vqY2-WDGgcHcZvIqet_CTulQWK0a6eLFJzkFhCtdwOmIHZegyNJmnXtqZQ5AK6_YpxD9rYyaHAGG751wbPu1_4KTxbEKtd4xfgKbRz8RgCC/s1600-h/bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH-ov9JtbkU_E6zHzCNAEcFPvwrBPnvm2n4vqY2-WDGgcHcZvIqet_CTulQWK0a6eLFJzkFhCtdwOmIHZegyNJmnXtqZQ5AK6_YpxD9rYyaHAGG751wbPu1_4KTxbEKtd4xfgKbRz8RgCC/s200/bike.jpg" /></a><br />
I love my Dutch Post Office Orange FR8, Oscar and Soraya of My Dutch Bike and Henry of Workcycles. I thought I'd miss my trike, but it's found a lovely home on the peninsula with a mom of 3. This isn't a cheap solution to getting around, but to me, it's worth every penny.cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3967779779257551547.post-71891711742562800872009-11-03T23:11:00.000-08:002009-12-19T23:06:49.317-08:00iPhone transport - the Danglet<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Danglet by Collins America</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is an amazing item that enables me to carry my iPhone with me without using a purse or pockets. Yes, it holds the phone. It plugs into the charger/dock port on the bottom of the phone. I've used it on a 3G and 3Gs and it is sturdy. I'm really surprised the Apple stores aren't selling this. It's the only simple solution to pocket-free toting of your phone without bulky clips and covers.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-hhSqIqQfAeQbZRhpjql7wrh2wAWWAU6DHHc3qNqsiv3WZeHL2QJT7F01a9dGNLO5iOrvKWj8iydvc_8T6p9s2VUn7J6FNJFeOh5fLOPmHl3JEM2x8rwHDU19a9l1gBtb56vLWWtDeJ_/s1600-h/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-hhSqIqQfAeQbZRhpjql7wrh2wAWWAU6DHHc3qNqsiv3WZeHL2QJT7F01a9dGNLO5iOrvKWj8iydvc_8T6p9s2VUn7J6FNJFeOh5fLOPmHl3JEM2x8rwHDU19a9l1gBtb56vLWWtDeJ_/s320/photo.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I would be remiss if I didn't tell you that I have had a couple of problems. Once, the Danglet detached due to a flaw. It was in the car and my phone fell in my lap. Collins America replaced it with no problem and many apologies. My second issue is that the neck strap clip failed after a few months of use. This is not a big deal since I've put a sturdier and slightly more fashionable one on. These problems have not detracted me from using it. I truly believe it was a randomly defective piece and have had no problems since.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.collinsamerica.com/page4/page4.html"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://www.collinsamerica.com/page4/page4.html</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> is where you can find it. $14.99 + s/h</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Prior to the Danglet, I used the hangman. It is no longer available and I prefer the Danglet anyway</span>.cmomgohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742260160219404376noreply@blogger.com0