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February 1, 2009
Bella Jules Boutique
If you're tired of the stores at the mall, join the crowd. My mall, in particular, is especially yucky these days. If you're not between the ages of 14-19 or 65-100, then there's pretty much nothing there for you. I honestly don't know why I didn't make it into the Bella Jules Boutique before yesterday, but it is a trip well worthwhile if you're local in Eastern PA. And, even if you're not, you can purchase clothing and accessories directly through the web.
If you're sick of looking like everyone else, and if you like being a bit different, Bella Jules is the way to go. I started out finding a fabulous KMQ Collection handbag for only $39. Super stylish and priced right, I couldn't resist. Plus it was purchased for me as a birthday present. Bonus.
I was also able to find some great new clothes for 50% off. This top for only $39.50 is a steal when you go and realize how nicely it fits and how well it works with jeans or some nice black pants. From unique sweaters (this one is now happily residing in my closet), to jeans, to beautiful gowns, Bella Jules has it all for a girl who wants to be a bit different.
One of the nicest things about the boutique is that there are only a few of each style, so you know you're not going to have clones walking around.
My Mom and I also spent a good 20 minutes drooling in the gowns room. For a girl looking for a prom gown, Bella Jules is every girls dream! There are gowns with beautiful prints, unexpected designs and colors that will wow every time. Gowns have come a long way since I was shopping for prom!
Bella Jules also has a handful of unique accessories, like these "Blings" which are appropriately named. I got the pale yellow ones and they are extraordinary when the light hits them. I'm looking forward to blinding people with their beauty when I go out next weekend.
While the new merchandise may be a bit pricey for some, Bella Jules can't be beat for when you're looking for something unique and fun. The two rooms full of 50% off merchandise don't hurt either.
The Bella Jules Boutique is a gem of a store and I give it a. . .
January 28, 2009
Squishables
Alright. I'm stepping outside my box today. You may remember me from such tough guy reviews as Power Training and Black Belt Karate. Well today I'm here to help you in a different department – a much more adorable one.
Squishable.com is a website that provides a very specific service – they import fluffy, lovable stuffed animals into America from Hong Kong. Yes, it sounds like it should be illegal – but it isn't. The creators are crazy smart folk; they didn't jump onto a fade, they spearheaded one.
(In case you're wondering why squishables are getting so popular, have a peek:)
Statistically speaking, 88% of female viewers just erupted in 'awws' and 'that's so cute!' (and 14% of male viewers did too, but then went and lifted weights.) Which brings me to the main reason why I write this review – fellas, make it happen.
Over the course of the holidays I was searching for a fun gift for my sig-other. I was coming up a little blank when I remembered my sister telling me about these cute stuffed animals she saw at an anime convention in Baltimore. She sent me the website, and I realized almost instantly that this was a winner.
The sheer size of the squishables is what really makes them different. Consider this comparison:
This is only a slight exaggeration created through the magic of Microsoft paint. Real squishables are indeed large.
Another neat thing is the wide variety of animals they have to offer. The webpage contains dozens of different styles, and also some weird alternatives (think cupcakes and carrots).
After spending way too long agonizing over what creatures I wanted, I put in my order. Upon arrival, I was very pleased with the quality. These things were designed to absorb impromptu hugs from anyone who happens to be within arms length.
When I ultimately gave one to my girlfriend (it was a panda), she was very pleased. First at the unlikelihood of receiving an oversized stuffed animal, and second at the cuteness of it. I also secretly bought one for my sister (a raccoon) knowing she wouldn't expect it.
In addition to girlfriends or wives, there's one other demographic to consider – kids. Parents, aunts, uncles, etc. who need to find something fun for a small child should add squishable.com to their list of must-stops.
Squishables are an unexpected, outside-the-box gift for a price that's very reasonable. If you're stuck for a birthday, Valentine's Day, or any other Day, I'd say this might be your answer.
Ikigai108 gives Squishables…
January 21, 2009
Qlubb.com
Is one of your resolutions this year to get organized? Are you in charge of volunteers at your church, school, or even just the one who organizes the neighborhood playdates? Do you have a family schedule that is hectic at best and you want to make sure things run smoothly this year?
Look no further than Qlubb.com. Qlubb.com is a great place for getting organized and is a one-stop shop for sending out event emails, posting pictures of your event and getting volunteers. As I was reviewing the site, I couldn't help but think about the Home School Association at my daughter's school and what a valuable resource it would be for them!
Signing up is easy to do. Even if you just want to organize upcoming events for your own family, you can arrange for emails to go out with the click of a button. Delegating tasks to group members is really easy too and everything is conveniently all in one place.
Qlubb.com features online RSVP's, online sign-up sheets, and even sends out reminders about upcoming events to group members. I really should have used this for my birthday party invites!
BBM gives Qlubb.com. . .
January 19, 2009
Power Training by Morio Higaonna
I recently had the pleasure of watching "Power Training" by Morio Higaonna. It gave me a lot of food for thought when it comes to classical karate training.
"Power Training" is all about the different methods Higaonna uses to create strong and powerful karate practitioners. Higaonna himself is renowned worldwide as a skilled karateka and strong individual. Many people marvel at his archaic methods of training and wonder how he has achieved his famed abilities.
The video begins by exploring Higaonna's stretching methods. Although this sounds pretty mundane, it is interesting to see the the ways he integrates karate style breathing into his routine. Sometimes odd looking and sometimes a bit confusing, Higaonna's stretches leave you with something to add into your own workout.
Furthermore, Higaonna shows us how to do two man warmups and exercises.
This is probably just the westerner in me talking, but these drills are a little too up close and personal with your partner for me. Higaonna is practically climbing on top of his student half the time when helping him stretch. Personally, I prefer a little breathing room.
Next in the video is something for which Higaonna Sensei is famous – Hojo Undo. Hojo Undo is the usage of old style tools and methods in order to make the body tougher and stronger. Bells, rocks, and iron bars are just a few devices used to turn the body into a fighting weapon.
Shown here are ishi sashi, nagiri game, ch’ishi, and kongo ken.
This portion of the video was very interesting, and anyone who has dabbled with the idea of including Hojo Undo in their training would benefit from seeing Higaonna Sensei at work.
Shown next is kata and various two man drills. Higaonna and his assistant Tetsuji Nakamura show different ways of using pads to improve strikes, but also demonstrate ways of using body-to-body contact as yet another way to strengthen the body.
One drill I found particularly interesting was called Kakie. This is something I have trained a bit in the past, and Tai Chi practitioners would recognize it as quite similar to "push hands". This is an excellent drill to practice spontaneity and different strikes and joint locks.
Overall, I thought this video was very well produced and contained great information. Many martial arts dvds lack a certain production quality – "Power Training" does not follow that mold. Interesting, well edited, and insightful, I would watch this again to gain further insight into Higaonna's methods.
Ikigai108 gives "Power Training"…
January 17, 2009
Wii Fit
My daughter wanted Wii Fit for Christmas and I am so glad "Santa" was able to make one appear beneath that tree on Christmas morning. If you've been looking for a fun addicting way to get fit, look no further.
Wii Fit is divided into several different categories: strength training, balance games, yoga, and aerobic activities. Initially, you're able to unlock only a few exercises, but as you complete more activities, more open up for you.
The balance games are fun and feature things such as a ski jump that is an absolute blast, a ski slalom that will frustrate you so much that you'll find yourself playing for hours, heading soccer balls, and some other fun games where your balance on the board helps navigate you through the games. Be careful though, when heading soccer balls, as sometimes, they throw a shoe at you! Ouch.
Each participant is giving a fit test on your first day. The fit test evaluates your balance and strength. it weighs you and gives you feedback as far as whether or not you're "normal" or overweight. It also gives you your BMI and in addition to giving you this number, it also tracks it for you. Each time you log in and take the test, it places your progress on a chart so you can see your progress.
When you first start, your also given your choice of either a male or female trainer. The trainers push you and totally call you on it if you quit mid-exercise. They also offer fit tips and make sure you're using the correct form by evaluating your stance on the balance board. Do well on the strength training and you'll see higher reps unlock for you.
The yoga is also really cool and is along the same lines as the strength training. Yoga poses are demonstrated and each pose is broken down into how it works and what parts of your body each pose is targeting. I must say that yoga is a lot more challenging than I previously thought it would be. Holding those poses for as long as they make you, certainly tones and trains the body.
The best thing about Wii Fit is that it continually tracks your progress regarding exercises and weight and BMI. If you haven't played for a few days, it totally calls you out when you log in. Wii Fit also gives you your Wii Fit "age" based on how well you do on the fit tests. It can be a little scary, but it's super exciting as you awtch that age drop over time. Getting immediate feedback on how you did on the strength training is motivating and also eye-opening.
As someone recovering from an ACL reconstruction surgery, seeing the way my balance is distributed when I'm simply standing stationary was quite revealing. The Wii Fit teaches you how to have better posture, a stronger core, and it does it while having fun with you.
Another great thing about Wii Fit is that almost any age can play. Although my youngest daughter (age 3) is a little squirmy on the balance board, even she has fun trying out the yoga poses and doing jack knife sit-ups.
My only criticism is that I wish it was possible to have two players trade off and take turns doing the exercises and balance games. If two people want to take turns, it's necessary to go back to the main menu and change Mii's which can be a little annoying. Other than that though, the Wii Fit is pretty much flawless.
Wii Fit can be purchased any place that carries video games. Just be careful that you don't get ripped off. Wii Fit can be purchased for around $89 in stores. I would also recommend purchasing the Wii Starter kit that includes a silicone cover for the balance board and yoga mat. While most things can safely be purchased online, the Wii Fit is pretty much only offered in bundles online. It's best to take a drive and go to the store directly.
If you're looking for something to jumpstart your New Year's fitness resolutions or just want a fun way to get fit with your family, get the Wii Fit.
BBM gives the Wii Fit. . .
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