With many of us now working from home or visiting friends and relatives via ZOOM, FaceTime, or other formats, we try to look our best. The Workrobe is a useful item that will come in handy for all those video chats and video work conferences.

Usually for video conferences and chats we are seen from the waist up. There are a few instances when people have been caught accidentally revealing their underwear, whether it’s because they adjust their posture or a mirror is in the picture.

After our online visits, whether they are social or business, we go back to our regular routines. Many times these are simply lounging around or doing chores. This is where the Workrobe comes in handy.

There are three different designs and several color options. The robe is comfortable and stylish, and provides wearers with a camera-ready upper body that goes lower than a sweater or shirt. And when the camera is turned off, it is a soft robe to wear around the house. It’s even appropriate to wear when going out for the mail.

The Workrobe is available in three styles. The Blouse Robe comes in black or white. It hits approximately mid thigh in the front with a lower back, and includes pockets, a sash as well as rolled sleeves.

The Button Down Robe is just that. The top has buttons to look more business-like. A belt is included and the collar is useful if you want to put a cardigan over the robe to make it look more like an oxford shirt while on camera. The robe hits approximately at the knee and is available in black or white.

The Cowl Neck Robe is stylish with a belt, and hits around the knee. There is a button to keep the cowl neck from popping open. This is available in gray or black.

All of these robes are also great for a spa or salon. They are stylish while at the same time very comfortable. Plus they serve two purposes. They provide appropriate upper body styling for any video conferences and they are stylish everyday robes to lounge in at home.

Let’s face it, once in awhile we will be surprised by a FaceTime call from a friend or family member. This usually happens when we least expect it and might even be cozy in our pajamas – especially on cold winter afternoons and evenings. In this case, just grab your robe and in two seconds you look presentable and stylish. The only thing this doesn’t do is put on your makeup. But it can’t do everything!

Looking good on camera is what we all strive for. And now there is no need to worry about how you look for your next ZOOM call. Dress the robe up with some jewelry and you’re dressed for the office – from the thighs/knees up. No one needs to know you are wearing slippers and no slacks!

The robes come in two sizes: S/M and L/XL.

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.

Are they toys? Are they art? They are both. The CMY Cubes are beautiful cubes coated with bright colors that provide a relaxing change of pace while working at your desk or just pondering a situation.

These cubes are coated with cyan, magenta, and yellow colors and when the cubes are turned around, more colors appear. They are like holding a rainbow in your hand. And they are mesmerizing.

Art students will definitely be entranced by the cubes, as well as business executives who can place them on their desks for a colorful addition to the business world. There is something soothing about looking at the colors and handling the cubes. Mixing the colors by turning the cubes in different direction is a break from work.

Do you remember the old magnetic pendulum balls that would clink together when moved and we were transfixed by the pairing options? That is old school. The CMY Cubes are much more entertaining and definitely more colorful.

There are different sizes and even different shapes. They all have a relaxing element. Don’t try to figure out how they change colors, just enjoy the beauty of the cubes. 

They can be purchased individually or in packs. And a clear stand is available as a separate purchase.

The CMY Cubes make great stocking stuffers or office gifts. Or treat yourself to one. With the stress of today’s world and more people working from their homes, it is necessary to escape the pressures, deadlines, and workloads. And parents can explore the different colors with their kids for an interesting learning experience about the world of colors.

Besides the CMY (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow) combination cubes there are also options for clear cubes and individual color cubes. They all have a variety of colors built in so even if you get the magenta cube, there will be a variety of pink colors within the cube.

Check out their website for the variety of CMY Cubes, prices, and packages.

Click on the image below to see how the cubes change colors.

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.

With all the stress in the world these days, kids need positive messages. The new For Keeps dolls are designed to do just that while at the same time sparking imaginations and adding some fun and fashion enjoyment.

Each of the seven dolls come with a special message plus several additional items besides the cute little dolls. They are about five inches tall and each one has a cute – and in most cases colorful – hairstyle and they all have smiles that are pretty much addicting. Just looking at them brings out a spark of joy.

The dolls are dressed in colorful outfits and there is a special surprise t-shirt included in the package. There are accessories (some dolls come with their own pets) as well as plastic stands on which to display the girls. Included in the package is a little cupcake that opens and can hold a small keepsake or a message of love and inspiration. Inspirational stickers and headbands also come in the packages. So, not only is there a doll that will become a child’s good friend, there are also many additions that can be interchanged with the others in the collection.

The founder of the company The Loyal Subjects, Jonathan Cathey said, “For Keeps is truly the first positive affirmation- and message-driven Fashion Doll – still filled with a ton of fashion play, but better!” The idea is to promote self-awareness and inspire kids with the idea of keeping them away from those pesky screens that have devoured hours of time. Playing with the dolls lets imaginations soar.

Each doll has a powerful message – “You Are Brave,” “You Are Love,” “You Can Do It,” “You Are Beautiful,” and “You Are Awesome.”

Each girl is unique. Mia is a Veterinarian, Ella is a Music Producer, Emma is a Filmmaker, Bella is a Journalist, Sophia is a Choreographer, and London and Paris are creative twins. Combine them for hours of playtime bringing out imagination and inspiration in kids.

These dolls are easy to transport so keeping them in a handbag is not a problem. Think about purchasing a few different dolls and hanging onto them for a time when your child needs a little extra bit of encouragement. They also make great stocking stuffers for the holiday season.

The For Keeps line of dolls is a new way to not only inspire youngsters but also promote positivity. After all, they have a lifetime ahead of them for all the stress and negativity that comes with life in this modern world. Childhood is the time for fun, love, and joy.

The For Keeps dolls are available at Target and Amazon.

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.

Last year the folks at ZURU had some really fun toys. This year they have even more for the holidays and the following are designed for ages 3+.

Rainbocorns Fairycorn Surprises are large plastic eggs, each filled with a unique plush character along with several additional surprises. There can be hair ornaments, jewelry, scented items, and more.

RainBocorns Talkin’ Jelly Shake Surprise is a colorful plastic “egg” that resembles an ice cream sundae. Now you’re talking my language! The plush animals are adorable plus they talk and sing.(Click that link to see and hear them sing.)  They are colorful, have fun faces, and when their hand is pressed they sing and talk. (Make sure they are turned on first. The switch is located in the Velcro pocket under the animal.) They are sure to brighten even the gloomiest winter days and put a smile on everyone’s faces. Besides the talking plush animals, each container is filled with plenty of additional fun pieces.

The RainBocorns Epic Golden Egg is the cream of the crop for girls. This golden egg glitters with plenty of golden sparkles and sequins. And inside there is a plush animal along with some fun hair accessories as well as several small plastic figures. With over 25 surprises inside this great golden egg, the fun keeps coming. Think of these as one big item with many additional items inside, along with the very large plush. How they get everything in these eggs is a mystery. And exactly what is inside is a mystery. Unfortunately, parents will most likely be pressured by their kids into buying several of these surprising products. Also, think about getting some now and putting them away for Easter. Click this link to watch and hear what this little fellow can do.

The ZURU Pets Alive series of moving fluffy animals now has an adorable little Pug – Poppy. Poppy will be a fun addition to your family. She has big, expressive eyes, a floppy tongue, soft fur, and – wait for it – she barks and moves. When her button is pressed (4 AA batteries are included), Poppy will swing her head, shake, and even manage to spin around in a circle. And her little tail and backside shake to show she is having a great time. What a great way to add a new pet to any household – especially one that gives so much fun but doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. All she needs is love.

Calling all Paw Patrol fans! The Bubble Wow Paw Patrol gloves make bath time more fun than ever. Simply put on one of the gloves (they have all the pups) and there will instantly be bubbles everywhere. If you have a child who hates washing up, this is your answer. Paw Patrol and bubbles together make bath time fun time.

For more information about all the fun new products this season, check out their website. While there, check out the online games and activities.

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.

The newest collection from the folks at shopDisney is the Designer Collection. Kicking off this limited series is Jasmine.

The Disney Designer Collection is proud to introduce the Ultimate Princess Celebration, a limited edition series of dolls carefully crafted by artists across The Walt Disney Company. As inspiration for our Jasmine doll, Mark Monterroso uses the rich scenery of the Sultan’s Palace to present her as a modern, radiant jewel of a collector’s wish come true!

This 14” doll features amazing intricate detailing and bold colors from head to toe. The doll will be available for $129.99 and comes in a collector’s box fit for royalty. Keep an eye out for a new doll launching each month as part of the Disney Designer collection which will include 15 beloved heroines dressed in the most elegant and fashionable designs.

One Fun™ Company creates playful personal care products for kids designed to turn ordinary tasks into extraordinary experiences, building healthy habits and spontaneous giggles as they work.

Cofounded in 2017 by an entrepreneurial designer (mom) and two Harvard/MIT scientists (dads), their products are formulated with natural, biodegradable ingredients, made in the USA, and use reusable packaging.

While SPLATZ™, the patent-pending flagship product by One Fun Company, was conceived before COVID-19 was even imaginable, the introduction couldn’t be more timely. As the global pandemic persists throughout our cities and schools, the simple act of washing one’s hands has taken on new importance.

With a gentle squeeze and an awesome SPLAT!, each SPLATZ soap bubble turns this essential (but tedious) task into good clean fun.

SPLATZ™ are bursting bubbles of pure hand soap that literally SPLAT! These irresistible balls of fun change the way kids think about washing their hands.

– Natural, biodegradable ingredients
– Light citrus scent
– Reusable packaging
– Promotes healthy habits
– Developed by a mom and two Harvard/MIT scientists
– Made in the USA
– 8 oz. bottle = 60+ SPLATZ = 60 washes

Available online and at: OneFun.com – Amazon.com – Walmart.com – Etsy.com – Jane.com – UncommonGoods.com – Hobby Town – 50+ Speciality Toy and Gift Shops

How do you get your child away from an electronic device while still challenging their senses and their mind? Educating AMY has created some quiet books for kids. They are easy to carry, lightweight, and come in a variety of topics. They are also designed for different age groups: baby, 1-3, and 3-6.

According to the company, “Experts at the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization recommend refraining from screens until babies are 18 months old and limiting screen time to less than an hour until kids are at least five years old.” So how do parents engage their kids without the help of TV or tablets? First, they can read to them, which they should do as a daily routine. And now with these interactive quiet books, children have the additional challenge of doing something with items in the books and engaging many skills: motor skills, problem-solving skills, social skills, and more.

By unplugging, kids get a new experience that engages them in a positive way. These are wonderful to take in the car to keep kids occupied while on the road. Also, they are compact and quiet so taking them to the office or an appointment is a good way to keep your child occupied and engaged while not creating a lot of noise, except the “oohs” and “aahs” and chuckles coming from your child.

Kids learn that if they do not get the soft little pieces back in their correct place, they can try again until they learn where they go. Brain building is a benefit of these books, while also entertaining children at the same time.

They are hand-sewn, sturdy snaps and Velcro, practically indestructible, colorful, filled with plenty of items in each book, and provide great educational and entertaining time for children.

Think of these for birthday gifts (there are the age divisions), baby shower gifts, new baby gifts, and just additional fun for any little child from baby to six years old. The activities build skills and confidence in children so anyone who gives a book can be happy that they are helping a child gain abilities, dexterity, and enjoy learning while they are doing so.

By purchasing a book, you are doing more than simply helping one child gain skills.

From the company:

For every book that we sell we send a girl in rural India to school. We know we can’t end poverty by ourselves, but we know that the girls whom we enable through education can end the cycle for their families and their communities. As more and more girls are enabled, more and more communities will emerge out of poverty. When you buy a Book, we set a portion of the revenue aside to provide education to a girl for a month. However, to ensure a girl’s education is not uncertain each month, we work with our partner Organizations to open schools that house 30 girls for a full year. We will continue to support each school that we open for its life and we commit to opening more and more of such schools.

Current options for Babies:

Little Zebra Mini Quiet Book
The Original Indestructible Peekaboo Quiet Book
Sensory Baby Mini Quiet Book
The Diaper Bag Companion

Current options for Ages 1-3:

Dapper Puppy Mini Quiet Book
Little Mechanic Creative Play Quiet Book
The Superthings Cognitive Quiet Book
Little Medic Creative Play Quiet Book
The Buzzy Quiet Book
Little Safari Cognitive Skills Quiet Book
The Original Indestructible Peekaboo Quiet Book
Little Farm Numeracy Quiet Book
Little Bee Mini Quiet Book
Bestselling Creative Play Quiet Book
Creative Play Quiet Book – Mini
Toddler Numeracy Quiet Book
Toddler Colour Quiet Book
The Diaper Bag Companion

Current options for ages 3-6:

Little Farm Numeracy Quiet Book
Little Medic Creative Play Quiet Book
Little Mechanic Creative Play Quiet Book
Creative Play Quiet Book – Mini
Bestselling Creative Play Quiet Book
Dapper Puppy Mini Quiet Book
Little Bee Mini Quiet Book

For more information and to order, go to their website.

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.