I love love love Christmas time. Maybe it is because I am a big kid and adore being able to shop for the little ones and then help them try out their new toys. I love sitting back and getting to read new books, color pictures, and the decorating is always a blast! Of course being the wonderful person that I am, I thought it would be nice of me to share some of the great companies and products out there that I find for the Holiday season. Some will be products I am sent to review, some will be products we come across and I think would make a great addition. Not only will you find gift ideas, but you will find Holiday recipes, decorating ideas, craft projects, and any other fun holiday stuff I am let in on! If you know of a great product, craft, recipe, or decorating tip please let me know by emailing me at fivemonkiesreview@gmail.com (please include Gift Guide in the subject line).
Showing posts with label women. Show all posts
Showing posts with label women. Show all posts

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Orient Automatic Watches


Top of the line watches in a relatively affordable price bracket is hard to find. If you are looking for that one gift that will get an oh and ah out of your favorite person on your list, then check out the Orient Watch Company. You can find everything from Elegant watches to Diver watches. Just check out this Mako watch CEM65004M. Gorgeous watch.
Widely cherished in Asia, Europe, and South America, Japan’s largest producer of automatic watches
is finally available in the United States.

With more than 50 years of history and an annual production of over 2 million timepieces, Orient could quite possibly be the largest watch company you never knew existed.

With beautiful watches to choose from for both men and women, and with the added benefit of a 1 year warranty on your watch, you can shop through for an Orient and be happy with your decision. There are only certain places you can purchase an Orient brand watch and be sure that you are getting the real thing. You can find a list of all the stores that sell Orient automatic watches on the site.

One of the most classic watch styles on the site is the CEV09002W-Orient Classic.Price points on the Orient Automatic Watches are form $130 to well over $1,000. Orient has been highlighted in The New York Times, Men's Fitness, People, and more, and guess what...

Monday, November 22, 2010

shabby apple


We all want to look pretty for the holiday parties we inevitably get invited to. Right? Well, how would you like to were a gorgeous dress made from Crepe de Chine Silk? With Shabby Apple you can find a gorgeous dress that will fit beautifully, and will not leave you feeling like you are falling out of your dress in any spot! I took a peek at the newest line they have, the Silk Road line, which is all made from Crepe de Chine silk, and let me tell you, these dresses are beautiful. I just wish they offered them in a plus size. Cuz until I lose this weight, I am stuck. Not to badly though since they off some gorgeous plus size dresses as well!

The Shabby Apple clothing is a very "boutiquey" feeling wardrobe, with a higher price than I normally spend. But they are definitely worth taking a look at. Especially for any upcoming special occasions you might have coming up. Whether it be a wedding, a party, or a date night with the spouse.

Shabby Apple also has offerings for kids and preteens, handbags and accessories, and oh yes, even shoes!

Follow Shabby Apple on Twitter to stay up to date on the sales, new styles, and contests they might have going on!


Check out the full line of Silk Road dresses:

Paul McCartney and Wings: Band on the Run


Oh yes the legend is back. With Christmas right around the corner, we are looking for that perfect gift for our dads. I know mine would love love love this new re-release of the original Band on the Run. Featuring

1.  Band on the Run                                                                     
2.  Jet                                                                               
3.  Bluebird                                                                      
4.  Mrs Vandebilt                                                              
5.  Let Me Roll It                                                               
6.  Mamunia                                                                      
7.  No Words                                                                    
8.  Picasso’s Last Words (Drink to Me)                                          
9.  Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five        

And Bonus Tracks:
1. Helen Wheels
2. Country Dreamer
3. Bluebird [from One Hand Clapping]
4. Jet [from One Hand Clapping]
5. Let Me Roll It [from One Hand Clapping]
6. Band on the Run [from One Hand Clapping]
7. Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five [from One Hand Clapping]
8. Country Dreamer [from One Hand Clapping]
9. Zoo Gang 

All the songs digitally re-mastered and brought to the best that they could possibly be. I am not a huge Paul McCartney fan, but even I can't help signing along with Band on the Run. LOL Seeing the kids faces as I am bebopping around the living room to the Band on the Run CD was priceless. 
 



The musical achievement of Band on the Run is nearly matched by the amazing story behind its creation. Intrigued with recording abroad in the summer of 1973, McCartney searched for a list of studios around the world.  Spotting one in the remote location of Lagos, Nigeria, he became enthralled with the idea of recording in Africa. Days before departure, lead guitarist Henry McCullough and drummer Denny Seiwell quit the band leaving the entire project to the three core members, Paul, his wife Linda McCartney and band-member Denny Laine (along with recording engineer Geoff Emerick). Recorded in August and September of 1973 (with further work done at AIR Studios in London in October 1973), they persevered through a tumultuous, yet creatively invigorating 2 month recording process battling difficult studio conditions, oppressive heat and a dangerous mugging at knife point. The thieves made off with the demo tapes (among other valuables), forcing the band to record the entire album from memory. 
Band on the Run triumphed both critically and commercially.  The album topped the US album chart 3 separate times, won a Grammy and went on to sell more than 7 million copies.  Upon the release of Band on the Run, then Rolling Stone reviewer Jon Landau famously gushed, “The finest record yet released by any of the four musicians who were once called The Beatles.” 
Paul is currently playing five songs from the album on his ‘Up and Coming Tour’.  Live favorites over the last 8 years of touring have included “Jet”, “Band on the Run” and “Let Me Roll It”.  In 2008 when Paul played a free outdoor show to over 500,000 people in Kiev, a Ukrainian poll listed “Mrs Vandebilt” as their all time favorite Paul McCartney song. It’s been included in the set ever since.  At the start of this tour Paul added “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five” to the set. 
Band on the Run marks the first release from the Paul McCartney Archive Collection, an ambitious reissue program that encompasses 40 years of cherished, classic material from the most successful songwriter and recording artist in music history. It’s also the initial physical release of the recently announced agreement between McCartney’s MPL and Concord Music Group to globally market and distribute McCartney’s venerated solo and Wings catalog.
Band on the Run can be purchased for as little as $8.99 (digital only) up to $89.99 (Deluxe Edition with 4 discs and digital).

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Affordable Scarves


You know before I moved to the North, I always thought scarves were pretty, but we didn't have a use for them in Florida. It never really got cold enough to warrant scarves. But since moving up here, I have indulged in my new found love of scarves. Well, I wouldn't say new found. When we lived in Alaska, I had like 25 scarves. LOL Now I only have like 6. But I am still finding new ones. It helps, maybe Donnie wouldn't agree, to have a site like Affordable Scarves to be able to find really pretty, useful scarves on.

One great thing about a scarf is that you can really show your personality with a great scarf. If you are wild at heart, take a peek at their animal print scarves. If you are a gardener, or shopping for one, then try the floral scarves. Me personally, I love the infinity scarves!

With rock bottom prices on amazingly sturdy products, you will be a repeat customer again and again. Kinda like me. There are a couple that I am eyeballing to wrap from Santa to myself. I did receive a gorgeous scarf to review from Affordable Scarves. It is a really long wrap style scarf called the Lyn Floral Wrap. I received it in black. The girls are trying to steal it from me constantly. The reason I choose a wrap instead of a regular scarf was because I wanted something that I could sit at the computer at, and be comfy and warm at the same time. It is so pretty that I have even worn it outside of the house. LOL It has a cute ruffled edge, and a barely noticeable rose pattern on it. The fabric is so soft that you will want to stay curled up in it. When I was sick last weekend, I did just that. I was running a fever so I wrapped up in my wrap, and then curled up in bed with more covers. The cost for this gorgeous wrap is only $42.46. If that is more than you want to spend, don't worry! Products at Affordable Scarves start at less than $20!

I can't close this without mentioning the Scarves.net site that is associated with Affordable Scarves. It is a site dedicated to showing you all the different ways to tie a scarf! So if you are a newbie or want to learn a new trick or two, then be sure to check out Scarves.net. You can follow Affordable Scarves on Twitter, or Like on Facebook, to keep up with sales, new styles, and contests for you to win. And for even more fun, check out the Affordable Scarves blog!

disclosure: I have a material connection because I received a gift or sample of a product for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was/am not expected to return this item or gift after my review period.

Eden Fantasy's


If you are more on the adventurous side or want to just surprise your significant other with a really special gift, then you might want to check out Eden Fantasy's. They offer a wide range of products for the more intimate side of life. They offer everything from romantic mood setting items to sex toys.

If you are looking for something to wrap yourself up in, then check out their selection of negligee's. Maybe you are looking for something that has the promise of a deep tissue massage, then check out their selection of oils and massage creams.

Eden Fantasy's is a great alternative to the normal Christmas gifts, and is a great way to show the person you are spending your nights with that you still find them attractive. And if you have a more adventurous friend on your list, then grab a gift card. This is not the gift for everyone, but there are a few who would see the fun in a gift card from Eden Fantasy's.

Friday, November 19, 2010

Playmobil Advent Calendar


The PLAYMOBIL Advent Calendar is an innovative and inexpensive way to build excitement during the 24 days leading up to Christmas, and allows children ages four and up to continue playing with their new playsets long after the holiday season comes to an end (each day reveals a new toy and by Christmas the child has a complete playset).

New for 2010 are PLAYMOBIL Advent Calendars with Pony Ranch and Dragon’s Land themes. With a total of five different play worlds in all, each advent calendar is as unique as the imagination of the child who plays with it.  Please click on the following link to see all of the 2010 themes: http://bit.ly/dbv7iP

Advent Calendars from PLAYMOBIL retail for $18.99 and are available at specialty retailers nationwide.  


We were sent one of the Playmobil Advent Calendars to review, and I was really happy with the surprise package on my doorstep. I had seriously wanted to do an advent calendar this year, and this is a great way to introduce the kidlets to one.  Unlike the traditional advent calendar, where you get a piece of candy or a little trinket from the opened window, you get a little Playmobil piece to go with the city scape. The one we were sent was the Advent Calendar "Police". Each spot contains a little person, pieces for the person, pieces for the city (like a toilet!), and when you have all your pieces are out, you can open up the cityscape and play! I foresee a lot of fun opening this advent calendar during the holidays.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Gourmet Gift Baskets


If you are looking for a gift for a teacher, a neighbor, a friend, well, anyone, then one of the best things to get is a gift basket. You can get one that is sure to please even the pickiest person! One of the places I know of that has really great gift baskets is Gourmet Gift Baskets. They offer a wide selection of baskets for every occasion. And Christmas is no exception. Holiday gift baskets vary in taste, size, and price. You can go all out with an Executive Suite Christmas Gift Basket that costs $249, or you can go smaller with a Mini Christmas Gift Basket for $29. Either way you will receive quality products perfect for the situation needed.

Not only does Gourmet Gift Baskets offer Holiday baskets for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but they have the perfect basket for that new mom, graduation, Easter, or even just because. If your intended recipient isn't a chocolate lover, then you can go with a fruit and nut basket, or maybe a wine and cheese, or how bout a Around the World Beer Bucket.

Gourmet Gift Baskets has sales often on different baskets and you can keep up with all the happenings by following them on Facebook or Twitter. You can also keep up with them through the Blog Basket.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Scandle: Shimmering Lotion Candle


When you think of candles you don't usually think of lotion or moisturizer at the same time. With the Scandle you will think just that.

This unique candle burns at just 2 degrees above body temp to produce the shimmering moisturizing lotion to apply to your body. I was sent a Scandle to review and when I lit, I was a little apprehensive. I was expected the normal cake and peel off candle wax to be left on my skin. Boy was I pleasantly surprised to find that instead, I got a soft oil type mixture on my skin that easily rubbed in and left my hands really really soft. The light shimmer that you get is better than any body bronzer I have ever tried!

The scent that it leaves behind is almost like a warm sugar cookie. A hint of vanilla and spice. But that was just mine! There are a ton of different fragrances to choose from!  This would be a perfect gift for that special someone in your life. Maybe she has a stressful job and you want to give her the best back rub she has ever had. Foot massage anyone? At $22.99 for a refillable cermanic canister, or $13.95 for a travel size, you will definitely not be breaking the bank or the budget for this gift idea!

Connect with Scandle on Twitter and Facebook to stay up to date on sales and promotions.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Beauty and the Beast Diamond Edition

I will readily admit that my FAVORITE movie is Beauty and the Beast. I always loved how Belle could look past the way Beast looked, and see his heart. I remember seeing the movie many many years ago and falling in love with Disney right then and there. While I loved all the princess movies when I was little, Beauty and the Beast resonated with me. And now at 30 years old I am still enchanted with the dancing tea pot and cups. I could listen to the clock and candlestick bicker all day. And I still gasp when the last petal of the rose falls. I am thrilled that now I have two daughters of my own that I can share the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast with. And with the new Diamond Anniversary addition, I can enjoy it with the girls in a few new ways.

Did you know that Beauty and the Beast is only one of two animated movies ever nominated for an Academy Award? Or how bout the fact that it was the first Disney movie to inspire a Broadway stage play by the same name?

Disney’s most requested film, Beauty and the Beast, arrives for the first time on Blu-ray Hi-Def as the second installment to the company’s new Diamond Collection. The Blu-ray transformation reveals the magic, music and majesty of the film as never before experienced with state-of-the-art picture restoration, pristine 7.1 Digital Surround Sound and hours of additional viewing experiences that include behind the scenes features, deleted scenes, enhanced music tracks, immersive games and more.

I know we will spend a lot of time munching popcorn and watching this movie. You can purchase Beauty and the Beast where ever you like to get your movies at. 

This would make one little girl smile a bright smile if she pulled it out of her stocking or unwrapped it from under the tree. I know, cuz I'd be smiling just as wide!

SodaStream


If you have a soda lover in your house, and you are tired of paying the prices to purchase all their favorite flavors, how about making it at home. Only want your kiddos to have soda on special occasions or as a special treat, make it at home. That's right. Make your own favorite flavors of soda at home. Thanks to SodaStream you can do just that.

SodaStream offers you a convenient alternative to purchasing the soda from the grocery store. Thanks to their small easy to store fountains, all you need extra is the flavor mixes and the carbonator bottle. Really simple to make. You just twist the CO2 canister onto the fountain, add water to the bottle, attach the bottle to the machine and then add your carbon. Then just add your flavors. We have been using a SodaStream Fountain Jet for a year now, and have just run out of carbonation in our bottle. Time for a refill. And that part is easy as well. You order your new CO2 canister and return the old one. Easy peasy.

At SodaStream you will find a variety of flavors for your sodas. From Grapefruit to Diet, Energy to flavored water. They have all your bases covered. Including the diet flavors. Our kids loved the Orange and the Root Beer flavors the best, and I personally think that the Diet tasted pretty darn close to the name brand ones I buy from the grocery store. Prices start at $99.95 for a Fountain Jet, which is your basic model and perfectly fine, and goes up to $299.95 for the Penguin Value Kit, which is really cool looking!

Not only are saving a bundle but you can feel good about being a little eco-conscience as well. You won't be throwing out those pesky plastic bottles or aluminum cans. You simply re-use the bottles you get with the Soda Stream. You can also purchase extra bottles for $14.99.

You can make all your SodaStream purchases directly from their website. Connect with SodaStream on Twitter and Facebook to keep up with the latest news. You can also check out their YouTube channel.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Okabashi


If you have someone you know that really loves comfy easy to slide on shoes, then you will want to add Okabashi to your Christmas Shopping List! Okabashi is a company that makes 100% recyclable shoes. They offer spa quality sandals as well as great clogs. They also have a boutique brand for those who want an eco-friendly shoe with style written all over it.

I was sent a pair of the Okabashi clogs to review, and instantly fell in love. I have had the shoes for about two weeks now and I can honestly say that I wear them EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Whether it is just around the house or running quick errands, these shoes stay right out in the living room. The only problem I have had with them is I tried to wear socks with them, but they were to tight on my feet for me with socks.

The Okabashi shoe line is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, and why you may ask. Well, because insole of every sandal is carefully crafted with arch support and massage beads. The placement is based on the study of reflexology, to encourage better circulation to the foot and vital organs. Your feet will thank you for wearing these shoes. I know mine do.

And unlike the other well known brand of clogs out there, these shoes won't cost you an arm and a leg. Okabashi costs just $14.99 and up! Yep, AHH-some! The Okabashi clogs would be a perfect gift for a nurse you know and love, a gardener that plants you beautiful flowers, or even for someone you know that just loves comfy shoes. They have men's as well as children's sizes available as well. Be sure to check out the sizing guide to make sure you order the right size for you.

You can connect with Okabashi via Facebook to keep up with sales, contests, and news concerning the brand.

EO Products

I am loving this company. Really and truly loving. EO Products was a sponsor for Blogmania and gave one winner a Lavender Spa Gift Basket, and I was sent a few products to try out from their Holiday collection. I have said before how lavender is my absolutely favorite scent in the world. I could smell it all day long. So when I opened the box from EO Products and discovered lavender bath salts and lavender bubble bath, can I just say I was in my own version of heaven?! Needless to say the bubble bath is all gone and I am missing my lavender, and have added it to my own personal pretty please for Christmas list. Along with the Canon Rebel, iPad, Borders bookstore all expenses paid shopping excursion I have outlined for the honey. LOL

The reason I loved this lavender bubble bath was because it contained the perfect amount of scent. I do mean perfect amount. It envelopes you when you pour it under the hot water, and leaves your skin feeling wonderfully soothed. As well as the rest of you.

I was also sent two bottles of EO Products hand wash. One in Meyer Lemon & Sage, and the other in Mandarin Spice. I placed one in the kitchen and one in the bathroom. My fav is the Meyer Lemon & Sage. Reasons...well because it smells so yummy. It is in the kitchen and when you wash your hands with it, it leaves a light fragrance behind. And your hands smell good enough to lick. Even though I wouldn't advice it. It might smell heavenly, but it tastes like soap!

All of EO Products are natural products that enhance your skin and well being. Boy I sure agree with that mission statement! EO Products does not label their products as organic, even though they use certified organic materials to make them. I thought that was odd, but after reading a little further into it, I walked away knowing that I am dealing with a company that really cares about the image they put out there and do not want any confusion. You can read their story HERE and see what I mean.

EO Products offers a wide selection of personal care products that will fit every budget, and every need. From single products to gift baskets you are sure to be able to find the perfect gift for that spa lover on your Holiday Shopping list!

You can connect more with EO Products on Facebook and on Twitter. You will be privy to sales and discount codes when you follow on either site. You will also be able to stay on top of what new things they are up to!

Kameleon Jewelry


When you think about a chameleon, you think of an animal that can blend in with whatever situation it comes across. It has the ability to change it's color, change it's look so to speak, and transform into whatever the occasion calls for. As women we could really use that ability with a lot of things. LOL. I know I wish some days that my stove was really a chef in disguise.

Wouldn't it be nice if our jewelry had the ability to change into something different, but be able to retain the same base? Well, guess what! I have found a company who offers just that option. Kameleon Jewelry specializes in interchangeable jewelry pieces.

You can purchase either a necklace, ring, sunglasses, bracelet, and much more as your base. Then you get individual "jewel pops" that pop in and out of the base piece. The JewelPops come in a huge variety of pieces. You can get ones that are more elegant looking all the way to the other end of the spectrum where you have fun pops.


From the website:
JewelPops are available in a rainbow of colors and materials and being the same size, are able to migrate amongst the entire Kameleon Jewelry collection. Some are set with semi-precious stones, Swarovski Crystal, lab Opals or sparkling cubics and sport outrageous names like “Strawberry Shortcake” (Rhodochrosite) and “Midnight at the Oasis” (Blue Sunstone), adding a real element of fun to the Collection.


Kameleon Jewelry resonates with what today’s consumers are seeking – beautiful jewelry that is flexible, versatile and reflects a sense of individualism and style. Investing in Kameleon sterling silver comes with the added value of infinite possibilities tailored for every mood and wardrobe change.

Changing out your JewelPops are easy. You just push gently on the back of the pop to remove it, then gently push on the front to replace it. They have quite a snug fit and you will not have to worry about losing the pieces when you are out. I think that JewelPops would make a great gift for just about anyone. Especially teens who want that individuality most of all. With prices starting at $19.99 for a solid round pendant, and JewelPops costing from $24, you or your gift recipient will be able to have a lot of fun and a lot of "new" jewelry without the expensive price tag! With the simplicity in some of the designs and the ease of use, I would say that this would be a great gift for your tween to your your oldest recipient!

Connect now with Kameleon via Facebook or Twitter.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Unique gifts from Novica


Yes I am totally aware of the fact that awesomeness is probably not a word. But you know what, when there isn't a word that will work, you make one up! I am thrilled to be still talking about the sponsors I was fortunate to have for Blogmania. One of the big sponsors was Novica. They gave away a $100 gift certificate in the Enjoy and Indulge prize pack.

When I was approached about working with Novica on a promotion I had never heard of them. Have you? Well, now I am really glad I know about them. Novica is partnered up with National Geographic, and they work hard to give artisans from around the world a spot where they can get their art seen and sold. You will find everything from home goods to jewelry at Novica.

When it comes to decorating your home with one of a kind beautiful pieces, you will find it on the home decor side of Novica. You will also be pleasantly surprised to know that you will not have to break the bank to get a beautiful piece. Paintings, bowls, and even decorative dolls are found on the site. Prices start under $50 and do go up. You can find that one accent or find a splurge item to make a statement. I am telling you, Novica has it all! Talk about Christmas gift smorgasboard!

Not only does Novica offer some gorgeous home decor accessories but they also have some absolutely stunning jewelry! You can find everything from bridal jewelry to mens jewelry. All made by some pretty extraordinary artists. The jewelry offers you a wide price point to work with. From well under $50 to well over $100.

Novica offers you so many reasons to like them. I don't know if you recall, but last year I wrote a post about ways to lend money to help others. I talked about Microloans. Well Novica is involved with offering artists loans to help them get their passion out there and seen. It is a great way to give back and know EXACTLY who and where your money is going.

When it comes time to shop for some of your favorite people (or even just people you want to impress) be sure to check out Novica. Anyone lucky enough to receive a gift from Novica will be thinking that you are one generous individual and that you have exceptional taste. Of course shopping through Novica does make you both of those! LOL

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Thirty-One gifts


My name is Heather Bjorklund and I am a stay at home and home-school mom of three girls. I started selling Thirty-One because first of all I wanted everything. I went to a Thirty-One party that I had never heard of just to get out and that night I knew I just had to join the company. I get to go out and socialize and have fun helping reward women for their hard work. And my reward is new friends with the bonus of a paycheck. My husband lost his job and this is my way of helping my family as well as all the other  moms....

Our products are a must have. Sure you can go to any big chain store or boutique and buy the stuff you need but this is so much more....You are helping moms help their families. You will hear stories and see lives change from Thirty-One. Our motto is Celebrate,Encourage, Reward

Thirty-One was started by Cindy Monroe who wanted more time with here family and boutique products without the price. And seven years later she has helped to change the lives of so many families. The name Thirty-One was derived from Proverbs 31 which describes a virtuous woman who exhibits hard work, wisdom and encouragement and care for others. Because of these qualities she is worthy of reward, honor and praise. This is all of us moms!Grandmas!Great Grandmas.

The products speak for themselves they have helped me to look stylish while organizing my life and home. What more could you ask for!!! Call me today to book a show and I will help you find products to organize your life for free. Check out the catalog online at my website.

 I know you will love Thirty-One  


Heather is a homeschooling mom like myself! If you can't book a party through her, you can still purchase products directly from the website, or find a consultant in your area by visiting HERE.