For years families have enjoyed the Elf on the Shelf book and Elf himself. This little fellow always managed to move to a different location during the night. When kids woke up they had the task of locating where in the world – or in the house – the little Elf rested. Year after year families would be entertained by the Elf on the Shelf, making it a tradition to look forward to every December. Now there are new and more ways to enjoy the happy little guys from the North Pole.

First came the Scout Elf with his or her storybook. Now there is a cute and cuddly Plushee Pal, in a girl or a boy. The face on this little plush Elf is adorable. If it doesn’t put a smile on your face then nothing will. He/she is so sweet and like the original Scout Elf, the Plushee Pal Elf can sit on shelves, tables, chairs, and because they are so soft, they make great sleeping pals. The Plushee Pals are somewhat larger than the Scout Elves, and easier for tiny hands to hold.

Not only are the Plushee Pals a new way to enjoy the fellows from up North, but there are now new ways to enjoy the Scout Elves as well. Yes, not only do the Scout Elves sit on shelves and magically change locations during the night (thanks moms and dads), but also they can now be dressed in various outfits for decorating or just playing with in a new way. There are several outfits for these elves so whether you have a boy or a girl, there is some cute attire that will add to their enjoyment.

For instance, by attaching plastic legs and dressing the Elf in an apron and hat, and securing the tray to his/her body, the Scout Elf now becomes a chef who holds a tray of cocoa and treats. With no small children in your house, you can use this adorable item to decorate your kitchen. The Elf adds a touch of whimsy to any kitchen while at the same time bringing some festivity to the house

 

And to add to these new clothing options for the Elf, are some cute Insta-Moment Pop-Up backgrounds so creating special settings for your Elf is also an option. And yes, there is more. The Elves now have Elf Pets. A reindeer, a fox, a St. Bernard are other ways to add to the Elf fun.

It never ends, and just using the Elf at holiday time is now a thing of the past. These little guys are now all-year items that bring the quaintness and enjoyment of the holiday tradition to the family the entire year. Your Elf can now enjoy the sun and sand of a beach weekend. Or he/she can spend time at a salon or camping out in the mountains.

With the various outfits and scenarios available for the Elf, he will be a beloved addition to any child’s toy chest. Imaginations will run rampant with the fun of these little fellows.

 

So now, it’s time to decide which Elf is right for your family: Plushee boy, Plushee girl, Scout boy, Scout girl, what color skin, what outfit(s) and Pop-Ups, which animal friend, etc. Choices, choices, choices. Why not choose several? This is truly a fun product (and something I personally highly recommend).

 

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. Follow her on Twitter.

If you’re looking for something unique, fun, and useful, look no further. The Banana Phone fits the bill. Plus, when you purchase one you will also be helping to conserver the gorilla population. I kid you not. This is an inventive little gadget that really works.

The folks at Banana Phone have come up with the perfect gift for the holidays, birthdays, or just because. So, what exactly is a Banana Phone? It’s simply an adjunct to your cell phone. Once charged, this device can link up via Bluetooth on you cell phone. Then it’s ready to use.

The plastic banana has a speaker, a microphone, a micro USB port for charging, a multifunction button, and a volume up and a volume down button. How simple is that?

To pair the Banana Phone to your smart phone, simply charge the banana and then open the Bluetooth menu on your smart phone. Click on Banana Phone option on your cell phone and instantly the banana is synched to your smart phone. When you want to make a call, double click the multifunction button and say, “call Fred” (or anyone else you want to call). The Banana Phone calls Fred (or anyone else you asked it to call). It’s simple. It’s useful. And it’s fun.

With the voice activation you can easily send and receive messages just like you would on your smart phone without the screen. The messages are vocalized in the same way. It’s simply an extension of your smart phone. And, if you want to check the weather in Miami, simply double click the Multifunction button and ask Siri (or your voice connection) about it. Anything your voice activation can do on your smart phone, the Banana Phone can do.

And, to answer a call, click the Multifunction button once and you’re connected. Also, if you don’t want to talk to the caller, all you have to do is hold down the Multifunction button and you won’t be disturbed.

This Banana Phone is a great conversation starter. Imagine having it in your bag (along with your smart phone) when you are at a party. Then pull it out and call a friend. You’ll have everyone staring at you, and smiling. This is a fun little phone that is useful as well as brings some happy to those who use it. And another fun aspect is the Multifunction button also plays music.

Now, the second reason to purchase this fun little item, besides the reasons mentioned above, is the conservation aspect. I adore monkeys and gorillas of all kinds. Just look at my plush animals collection!

The company has joined with Gearing up for Gorillas to help save the gorilla population. The company donates 1% of their sales to gorilla conservation.

The three founders of the company originally began with a crowdfunding campaign in 2017 and it immediately caught the attention of people around the world. And if this sounds familiar, yes, they did take the Banana Phone to Shark Tank.

The goal of the company is to inspire people to talk more, smile more, and save the gorillas.

The Banana Phone is rechargeable. Talk time is about 20 hours and idle time is approximately 120 hours.

I was sent this little unit to test for review. When I opened the box and pulled out the Banana Phone, I immediately thought it was a cool device. Then when I started using it, I was hooked. It’s fun and makes a great gift. And don’t we all need a little more fun in our lives?

Do I like the Banana Phone? Absolutely. Do I recommend it? Absolutely.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists,  is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. Follow her on Twitter.

 

It’s the time of year when everyone is shopping for holiday gifts. Let’s face it, the holidays are centered on children with all the fun and festivities. So after the house is decorated, the gifts are wrapped, and parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc., are worn out, why not celebrate with some delicious bubbly? We deserve it.

Pommery wines are the product of Madame Pommery. Her 1874 Brut was highly respected. The current creations are deserving of the great name. Founded in 1857 this winery has continued to produce some fine wines.

Champagne Pommery’s new world collection: the Mandala Boxes, Cuvée Louise 2005 ($224.99), or Cuvée Louise Brut Nature 2006 ($244.99).

In various traditions, Mandalas are employed as a guidance tool, and these in particular are inspired by the universe and serve as an aid to meditation. Unlock your spiritual path and discover the journey of the creation of Pommery Champagne with the stunning Mandala Gift Boxes available in Brut Royal ($51.99), Brut Rosé Royal ($64.99), Blanc de Blancs ($65.99), and Grand Cru Royal Millésimé 2009 ($74.99).  

Cuvée Louise was inspired by the personality of its founder, Madame Jeanne-Alexandrine Louise Pommery. It begins in a specially reserved vineyard and is a blend of three Grand Crus, the majority of which is Chardonnay. It is then placed in the cellars where it is allowed to age and develop, slowly and naturally. The result is elegant champagne with a velvety, creamy texture with a delicate flavor with incredible harmony and minerality.

Cuvée Louise Brut Nature is the purest and most authentic expression of the great terroirs it derives from. It is reserved for the most exceptional vintages which permit a refined vision of Louise with their richness and perfect harmony. With its minerality and incomparable flavors, Cuvée Louise Nature 2006 is a confidential cuvée created with the absence of dosage.

Having tested one sample, I can say that the Pommery Brut Royal Rose is wonderful. It’s full of essence and a light yet full flavored juicy Rose.

So, why not celebrate the holidays with something new? And for a last-minute gift, these might fit the bill.

Also, remember that New Year’s is coming soon. Is it 2023 already? Where do the years go?

So pop a cork and celebrate.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw  has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County.  Follow her on Twitter.

If you are looking for an alternate ring to wear on a cruise, to a ballgame, or just to enjoy without worrying about it being lost or stolen, look no further. Starlette Galleria has some great stand-ins for your expensive rings.

 

Founded by Olivia Starling, these hypoallergenic rings are great for engagements, weddings, and everyday. I have no compunction about replacing my wedding ring with a CZ alternative when traveling, and this one I just received is sparkling and beautiful.

Yes, I did receive this complimentary ring from the company to review should I feel it is worthy of my readers purchasing. And yes, I do love it.

 

The rings feature simulated diamonds (AAA CZ) set in 925 Sterling Silver and plated in either rhodium or 14k gold. This means they look more expensive that they are and they won’t tarnish. It bothers me when I want to wear a ring and it is tarnished. Who wants to polish their jewelry all the time? Plus, the rings won’t turn your finger green.

Losing one of these Starlette rings won’t bring on a lot of regret, although I still would not want to lose it. The jewelry is only a tiny fraction of the price compared to high end jewelry.

With the price of gold these days, it is out-of-reach for many people. Even if you can afford that beautiful ring you have had your eye on for the past year, the Starlette rings will add some sparkle to your jewelry collection. And switching off from one design to another is fun and affordable.

 

Out of the group of complimentary rings I was offered, I selected the Eliza. It is a dainty yet substantial two-piece set. The center stone is not too large. I wanted something believable. And the set can be worn either as one single ring or a double, with a thin band nesting into the main ring.

 

There are many selections as well as price points. Maybe the kids would like to pull their money and order a sparkling ring for Mother’s Day,  a birthday, or the holidays. Wow. What an amazing present to open.

It is worth checking out the line of rings from Starlette Galleria. They have other jewelry too.

 

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. Follow her on Twitter.

 

 

 

Bluejay E-bikes has just introduced their second model – Bluejay Sport to go along with the Premier Edition model. These bikes are comfortable and very attractive.

The company invited me on a media ride to get acquainted with these bikes and I did enjoy the ride. I rode the Premier Edition with is a step-through model making it easier for those of us with, let’s just say knee problems. The new Sport model was designed for more off-road rides, although it is still a good city bike.

The battery on these bikes supplies a good push even when it is set to the lowest level. When the level is increased (which I did when going up a hill) the motor makes uphill peddling a breeze. The motor kicks in as soon as the pedal is engaged, so there is no awkward starting point. As they explained to me before I began my ride, it’s like having someone giving the bike a little assist – similar to when you learned to ride. I remember those days. My dad would run alongside my bike holding on until he thought I was capable of riding by myself. It worked, and the motor on the Bluejay works too, to make that takeoff and ride fun and easy.

The seat was very comfortable as were the handle grips. The information is displayed on an easy-to-read screen, and with the 75-mile battery life, this is one bike that can easily go several days when out for little jaunts.

 

Okay, let’s get down to the best part – the colors! Haha.  The colors are beautiful. The Sport model has some attractive matte colors and the Premier model has shiny paint. No matter which color you like, these are the best looking e-bikes I have ever seen.

Families will enjoy the easy-to-attach child seat as well as the comfy child buggy. These are not made specifically by Bluejay but are available for these bikes. You can even double up with a child seat on the rear of the bike and tow the buggy. Taking your family out for a ride in the park, by the beach, or just around the neighborhood is easier now with E-bikes. And for those peddling, well, let’s just say the ride got a lot smoother and less demanding.

 

I could get into more specifics about the Bluejay but it’s better if you check them out for yourself. To find a retailer near you to get detailed information, purchase or test drive, check here.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. Follow her on Twitter.

Oral hygiene is important. If you’re like me you usually have a toothbrush with you when you’re going to be out all day. But when it comes down to it, are the travel toothbrushes safe and clean? Doctor Plotka’s is an all-in-one foldable toothbrush that easily fits into a pocket, gym bag, purse, or backpack.

These foldable toothbrushes (invented by a dentist) are infused with silver to eliminate 99% of bacteria on the bristles, according to the website. The bristles are also positioned to clean at the gums and between teeth. They’re not floss but they do clean well. The bristles are thin to reach between teeth and into crevices. The company sent me some samples and I like the fact that they are antimicrobial.

If you work in an office and drink coffee, tea, soda, or snack at your desk, it is a good idea to keep a toothbrush handy. Brushing after drinking helps with oral hygiene. And it’s always a good idea to brush after lunch. This handy little toothbrush easily stores in a desk drawer without having to keep a separate pouch for it.

And teens in school definitely need to have a toothbrush in their lockers. For students with braces it is a must. When your mouth is fresh and clean you feel fresh and clean.

Long plane rides are another time when this foldable toothbrush comes in handy. With the tiny travel size toothpastes, the two items take up almost no space.

For travel, work, school, or whenever, this is a handy item. It’s never too young to start an oral hygiene habit. Keeping teeth clean and healthy is much easier – and way less expensive – than dealing with oral problems later in life.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. Follow her on Twitter.

When I was sent a package from Eat Me Guilt Free, the high protein low carb products, I was a bit skeptical.  I received the following:

1 loaf of protein bread

1 chocolate cake mix

1 package of protein tortillas

1 box of assorted low carb brownies

Of course I ripped open the brownies immediately. Not knowing what to expect – they looked delicious – I took a bite. It was a little dry however it tasted good. So I put the remainder of the box in the refrigerator and the next day when I tasted a couple of the flavors, they were not as dry as my original bite. I do not know why this made a difference, but it did. I tasted several flavors that were included: 2 of each PB Bliss, Tuxedo, Red Velvet, Chocolate, Galaxy, and Birthday Cake. All I can say is “Yummy.” My favorite is the Birthday Cake. It is not chocolate yet it is really delicious. The chocolate flavors are good too, however do not expect Hershey’s super sweet chocolate. These are wonderful replacements for anyone who is watching their calories and/or carbs and boosting their protein intake (which is what my doctor advised me to do!) and still want something sweet.

The package of tortillas was a little different experience. Normally I love to eat a flour tortilla by itself or heated with butter and salsa, but for this test I tried the tortilla alone. The flavor was a little bland. Heating it in the microwave and spreading salsa on it helped. And knowing it is low-carb with zero sugar is a bonus.

The chocolate cake mix was easy to make, although I chose to make 12 cupcakes instead of one large cake. And it does not come with frosting so I added some along with sprinkles. By adding the frosting I did add a bit more calories and carbs but not too much. The cake itself without frosting is tasty but with the frosting no one could tell it was a low carb high protein cupcake. And I gave them to several people for honest opinions. Here is what these women said: “It’s delicious.” “It’s a bit dry but very good.” “It’s delicious and not too sweet.” “I would make it.”  “Dry, but OK.” So in the end, the cake (cupcakes) was a hit. When they learned the cupcakes were low carb and high protein they were amazed. This was especially important to those who were watching their sugar intake too.

 

The bread, on the other hand, was not my favorite because I do not like textured bread and this bread is nutty and requires biting a lot. I spread some butter on the top and it tasted good, yet I was still not happy with the texture. People who are used to grainy bread probably won’t mind this, and knowing it is high in protein and low in carbs will help.

Parents will undoubtedly gravitate to these products for the health of their children. High carbohydrates are not healthy and neither are foods high in sugars. Also, adding protein to a child’s diet is always encouraged.

 

In these days when everyone is watching their carbs and even going Keto, with the Eat Me Guilt Free products as replacements for grocery shelf items, it is easy to stay on low carb high protein regimen. Without giving up flavor you can still have cake (or cupcakes), brownies, bread, and tortillas. And like it says in the name, they are guilt free.

 

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. Follow her on Twitter.

With so many devices these days we are constantly recharging them. Sometimes it is frustrating to wait for an iPhone to charge completely before unplugging it and leaving the house. And a fully charged phone or tablet or MacBook is important. Who wants to be in the middle of something only to have the battery die?

 

The mophie speedport 67 is the fastest way to charge an iPhone, iPad, and MacBook Pro, and it is small, lightweight, and easy to put in a purse, backpack, or pocket. With prongs that fold into the unit, there nothing sticking out to snag on anything. It is just a little larger than an airpod charger.

Mophie uses the Gallium Nitride Technology. This GaN technology provides faster charging. This unit, the speedport 67, delivers 67W of power. There is also a speedport 30 which lists for $44.95 and is just a bit slower, but still very fast charging. The unit itself is also smaller, if that is a consideration for you.

 

Simply plug the unit into a wall outlet and connect it to your device. In a short time you will have a fully charged phone, tablet, or MacBook and you’re ready to get back to work (or playing your favorite game).

 

The mophie speedport 67 is designed for USB-C Devices, MacBook Air (2020), iPad, iPhone, and Apple Devices. It does not work with lightning cables so check your device to make sure it is USB-C compatible. ($69.95)  Yes, I did test it and yes, it is quite a bit faster than my old way of charging.

 

The mophie wireless charging hub is another handy little unit. It’s compact and has the ability to wireless charge one device while at the same time charging three additional devices via the power ports. Say goodbye to all those separate charging units. With this hub you can easily connect four devices at one time. And the speed is fast at 20W for the USB-C port and up to 10W on the wireless surface.

Having one port on my desk that quickly charges several devices at once is a bonus when it comes to the world of technology. We all have several devices that always need charging and usually at the most inconvenient time, and also at the same time. How many times have you been somewhere and had to wait for one device to charge before charging your second device? It has happened to me more times than I can count. ($69.95)

Check with the website for compatibility.

Security professionals have warned against charging your devices on public ports. With these two units it is easy to take your personal charging units with you to keep your private information safe and less likely to be stolen. And that is another great advantage of these chargers from mophie.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. Follow her on Twitter.