Thursday, 26 August 2010
Calphalon - nonstick, calphalon
This is a very nice product. The only complaint is that the cups that hold the eggs are molded into the pan. Our last poacher had removable cups with a little tab-like handle. This made it much easier to remove the eggs. Norpro 9.5 Inch Nonstick Egg Poacher Skillet Set with Removable 4 Egg Poacher
I've tried other egg poachers, but none of them are as good as this. It is well made, sturdy and gives perfect results every time I use it ...which is often. I purchased the Nordic Non-stick 10" egg poacher. A huge mistake, it began losing the non-stick coating after the first use. It became unusable after using it a few times. The eggs cooked unevenly and stuck to the surface even when I used Pam spray or butter. Get this product instead and you will be pleased. I hope this helps.
This poacher works very well and is far superior to any microwave poacher. However, I have noticed after only a couple months use that the bottom of the pot is starting to rust. Does not affect the functionality, but wonder about its durability/lasting.
As devotees of poached eggs, we have tried a number of poachers. This is the best ever. We use a bit of sprayed oil and have never had trouble with with sticking eggs or clean up. The egg holding tray is up a bit higher above the bottom of the pan than most poachers, which we like. While we were not especially interested in having to buy a whole pan, etc., in this case, we are very glad we did! Enjoy!
I've had this pan just over 3 months and have only used it a few times. Already the finish is coming off the bottom of the skillet. It is coated with a very thin layer of nonstick coating, which is not durable at all and not high quality. I have always washed it by hand, not in the dishwasher, so it hasn't been exposed to harsh conditions, other than boiling water on the stovetop. Other than that, the poachers work well, don't stick, and so far are not starting to peel.
Package shipped in good shape, came on time, we like the product the eggs come right out with a little butter smeared in the bottom of each cup for the eggs. We liked it so much we bought one for our daughters family.
I like this, but I wish it was not quite so "clunky." Love the way the eggs just slide out and like the convenience of another good small saute pan, but the big handle in the middle of the poacher part is a bit clunky and makes it more difficult to store. I would still recommend it, however. - Egg Poacher - Calphalon - Nonstick - Norpro'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
Computer - accessories, computer
I decided to purchase this unit to cool my over-clocked Sandy Bridge(4.4Ghz) i5 2500k processor. Previously I had installed a Cooler Master 212+, and was fairly impressed by that "air cooled" unit (all temperatures were well within the acceptable range, below 60C). So, this was not an upgrade based on necessity, rather I wanted to keep my CPU as cool as possible for longevity purposes. Also, I like the low-profile look of these water units better than the huge metal structures offered by many of the air coolers. After the installation I was very pleased with the units performance, and can say that it really is an incredible bang for the buck! Read on for more details..
----------------------
Out of the Box:
One of the first things you'll notice when un-boxing the Antec Kuhler H20 620 is that the unit is very light-weight. This facet is something I prefer as I feel it puts less stress on the CPU and motherboard when compared to previous units I've used. The look of the unit is fairly standard and if you are familiar with the Corsair H50 and H70, you'll find that the head unit is identical to the one employed by the Corsair H70 and the radiator is that of the Corsair H50. The reason for this pseudo-phenomenon is that all three units are manufactured by the same company, Asetek. Perhaps the only noticeable difference is the more flexible tubing in use on the Antec cooler. Asetek, the manufacturer of the unit, says that the Antec model uses the latest(3rd-generation) copper cold plate (head unit) and less flow restrictive tubing. The other discerning element between the Corsair series and the Antec is that the fan/radiator setup on the Antec exhausts the warm air out of the case rather than inside(again my preference).
---------------------
Ease of Installation:
While the box says "quick installation" this will take a seasoned PC builder about 10 minutes to install. Though it is certainly not a difficult task for a complete novice, either. In summary, you install a backplate, a front bracket and finally push the unit down and turn to lock it in place. After the unit is secured you plug the fan and pump into the motherboard. All-in-all, a fairly simple process.
---------------------
Cooling:
Keep in mind, cooling numbers of my machine and yours will certainly vary due to differences in ambient temperature, cases, fans etc.. Therefore, rather than only giving you my current temperatures I will provide the approximate difference from the previous well-performing Cooler Master 212+ and Intel stock cooler and let you decide its efficacy. My testing is by no means scientific, as I didn't know the ambient temperature of the room at the time of each test. So consider these numbers mere estimates.
Intel Stock Cooler
Idle: 37c Full Sustained Load: 71
Cooler Master 212+
Idle: 33c Full Sustained Load: 60c
Antec Kuhler 620 H20
Idle: 31c Full Sustained Load: 54c
------------------------------------
Noise Level:
The Antec Kulher 620 H20 is VERY quiet. This is one of my favorite features, though typically I favor performance over noise reduction, I do like the new peaceful hum.
------------------------------------
Conclusion:
I build computers fairly frequently and really like this unit in comparison to some other cooling setups I have used in various systems. This unit performs very well, installs easily, and is rather quiet. The unit also has a fan which regulates its speed by the motherboard and will make adjustments as needed. It's not going to replace a true custom water cooling setup, but it holds its own against everything in its price range while being quiet and easy to work with. It's hard to ask for anything more at this price point and physical size. If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment and I will do my best to answer ASAP.
PRO's
-Great Cooling Performance
-Easy Installation
-3 year warranty
-Great Value
-Quiet
-Estimated 50,000 hour pump lifespan
Con's
- Some giant air coolers at this price are equal-to or slightly/barely better in terms of cooling (but not quieter)
------------------------------------
My System:
CPU: Sandy Bridge Core i5 2500k, Overclocked to 4.4ghz, Antec Kuhler 620 H2O CPU cooler.
Motherboard: Asus Sabertooth P67
Hard Disks: Corsair F60 SSD (boot device), WD-Velociraptor 150gb , WD Blue 1TB
GPU: 2 x SLI -MSI N560GTX-TI Twin Frozr II/OC GeForce GTX 560 Ti (Fermi) 1GB 256-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready SLI Support Video Card
MEMORY: G-Skillz 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory (overclocked)
PSU: Antec True Power 750W Modular Power Supply
CASE: Silverstone Raven-02EW Antec KUHLER H2O 620 CPU Cooler
I use this on my I7 920@4.2ghz. It cools about the same as a high end air cooler, 28C idle and 55C load. The big difference for me is a cooler case and cooler room. The N and S bridge are each 5C cooler now, the motherboard 3C cooler and my office is 5F cooler since installing this in my system.
Installation took about 20 minutes and was not complicated but the instructions could be better. It's a great all in one water cooler that is compact and quiet and does a great job.
Back in the day, water-cooling meant putting together a collection of parts at a premium price and hoping for no leaks! Scary to say the least! Antec (working with Asestech) has put together a great CPU watercooling system for a low, low price. Quality components come together to make a cool cooler.
I installed this in my PC running an Intel Core2Quad Q9400(2.53GHz stock overclocked to 3.2GHz I'm still working on the overclock!) stock cooler allowed it to get up to 80°C under full load using Prime95, the 620 stays at 40°C! I need to work on voltages and such to overclock farther but I'm super impressed with the way the 620 sheds heat!
The only issue I had was with the radiator itself, I measured the case fan on the back to insure that the 620 would fit and upon attempting to install it I found that I needed to rotate the 620 90° so that the tubing is near the motherboard. - Computer - Liquid Cooling - Antec - Accessories'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
Computer - accessories, computer liquid cooling Computer - accessories, computer
Dysfunctional Family - coming of age, dysfunctional family
I saw "A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints" at the 2006 Sundance festival and I was blown away. If it's rough and imperfect, it's successfully so; its quirks complement the youthfully wild and tragic themes of this artfully presented memoir. Part of what made the film for me was Dito Montiel's apparent sense of humor in dealing with his past. "AGTRYS" is an infusion of sex, tragedy, violence, and uplifting spirit. I left the theatre feeling great and I've been searching desperately for the DVD ever since. Try it! A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints
This well-made film has galvanizing performances by a young, energetic cast and some wonderful turns by veteran performers, Dianne Wiest and Chazz Palminteri (plus a cameo by Eric Roberts). The cinematography and editing create a constantly kinetic and agitated style of storytelling. The viewer is propelled between past and present, as the central character, Dito, lives and relives the experience of being a teenager 25 years ago on the mean streets of Queens. Based on the memoir of Dito Montiel (who also wrote and directed), the film covers ground we have seen in many other films: coming of age in a working class Italian-American neighborhood, where street talk is rough, violence is everywhere (both in and out of the home), and just getting through childhood alive is a major achievement.
Some viewers may wonder whether Robert Downey, Jr., is the right fit for the role he plays, but if you're a fan, you won't mind his portrayal of a perplexed and troubled man thrust into the position of making amends with a dying father who seems to have loved another man's son more deeply than his own. The DVD has a commentary by the director, an informative making-of featurette including interviews with cast members and the director, plus other material.
Let me start by saying I didn't have any trouble with the coarse language or the incessant contentiousness of the characters. Nor did I have many problems with the sound-delayed presentation of the overlapping lines of dialog, or the "artsy" closed caption-style graphics, or the blacked out scenes or any of the bold, impressionistic choices that director Dito Montiel makes in this allegedly (but not really) autobiographical tale. After all, Dito comes from the hardcore/punk scene, so it's no surprise that he chooses to push the envelope and intentionally agitate his viewers. And I prefer directors to take chances and fail rather than take no chances at all.
The main gripe I have about the film is, though it was very well acted, the writing and the story never make it clear just what Dito's father Monty (Chazz Palminteri) or Dito himself (Shia LaBeouf) see in the troubled and abrasive Antonio (Channing Tatum) character. I understand that Dito might have been just looking up to an older peer, regardless of how unruly or unpleasant he was (or the reasons behind his unpleasantness), but I just couldn't figure out why Monty would in many ways seem to choose Antonio over his own son, Dito. And since these relationships are at the heart of the film, this is a rather major flaw, in my eyes.
The film does make a great case as to why they SHOULDN'T hold Antonio in any esteem, however. Dianne Wiest (in a superb performance as Flori, Dito's mom) is constantly advocating a cautionary approach to Antonio. And when Scottish pal Mike O'Shea (played by the excellent Martin Compston - check out his standout performance in "Sweet Sixteen" if you like him here) says of Antonio, "The guy's a f---in' dick, Dito. It's because of him you're f---ed up," well - I couldn't agree more!
Anyway, I listened to the entire commentary, done by writer/director Montiel himself along with his editor, searching for clues about this character dynamic. And all I really got from the commentary about the story was that Dito (the director) has one thesis statement for this film: "This is a whole movie about people saying nothing, going nowhere." Oh, and he and the editor purposely edited out all the funny parts. Plus Dito admits that the young actors look nothing like the actors who are playing their older selves. Great - thanks for enhancing my viewing experience.
In addition, I think this movie gets too much credit/slack for being an autobiography, when in fact there is a lot of truth-bending (if not breaking) going on here. I don't want to reveal too much, but the fates of both Antonio and his brother Giuseppe are greatly exaggerated in the film. And Nerf takes a completely different course in real life. Which would be fine in a work of fiction, but I think too much value is placed on this film being a true-life memoir, when in fact it is constantly veering into James Frey territory.
To summarize, though the acting is terrific (Dianne Wiest and Rosario Dawson are especially entrancing) and the directing is somewhat fresh and innovative, the story itself ultimately left me cold. And the fact that it's not even truly autobiographical makes it even less remarkable. I'd like to give this film 2.5 stars (an average rating, not a negative one), but the Amazonian star system demands whole integers, so I'll round up to three because I admire Dito's moxie as much as I do his movie.
The DVD itself has some pretty good features: there's a 20 minute "making of" featurette consisting of many interviews with the cast and producer Trudy Styler (aka Mrs. Sting). There's one alternate opening and four alternate endings (both with and without commentary) and a bunch of deleted scenes (again, with or without commentary). There's also the 6 minute "rooftop scene," made by Dito whilst training at Sundance Labs. But if you don't like the movie itself, odds are you won't have too much interest in the features. I say, despite its high Amazon rating, approach this film with caution and maybe rent before you decide to buy.
[...] - Dysfunctional Family - Coming Of Age - Channing Tatum - Shia Labeouf'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
Dysfunctional Family - coming of age, dysfunctional family dysfunctional family Dysfunctional Family - coming of age, dysfunctional family
N1 Vision - belkin router, 80211n
I suspect most of the people with issues or complaints have version 1000 and / or old firmware.
Additionally one needs to use this in conjunction with 802.11n wireless adapters (preferably Draft 2.0 for future upgradeability / compatibility) in order to obtain the maximum benefit out of the router, at least from a wireless performance perspective.
I recently purchased version 2000 of the N1 Vision (check the sticker on the bottom of the box). I have it mated with two PC's with 802.11n Draft 2.0 (2T2R - 2 Transmit 2 Receive) wireless USB adapters (each with just an internal, but high quality, antenna).
I was up and running in no time.
I also had no problems using VPN to connect to my office network.
I am using WPA2 with AES encryption.
For extra security I have it set up with (broadcast SSID set to 'off' and have specifically only allowed my two wireless adapters by entering their MAC addresses in the 'MAC address control' of the router's setup utility).
Upstairs (one room away from the N1 Vision I get 95 - 100% signal quality and 90+ signal strength with a pretty consistent connection speed of 270 Mbps! (not the full 300 maximum but certainly close enough for me). :)
Downstairs (one floor down and all the way on the other side of the house relative to the router), I get something like 45 - 75% signal strength depending where I am in the room. The speed varies between 45 Mbps, at worst (will have to verify this tonight as I only used it one night and believe this minimum can be improved upon), to a more typical 170 or 210 Mbps (wide range, I know, but I only tested it one night and haven't tweaked settings or placement yet via the flexible silver mini extension cable).
The display is useful in that you can see who connected to your network in the past 24 hours (if an unexpected visitor enters your wireless network, at least you will have a way of knowing it).
I am pleased with the Vision N1's speed, range and overall performance, other than the disconnect issue for which there is an easy enough workaround until they fix it permanently, hopefully, via a firmware upgrade for the 2000 model).
Keep in mind my testing was done using Draft 2.0 802.11n wireless USB adapters. Wireless G adapters won't have the same performance or even close to it.
The one thing to note is that there is a known issue where the N1 Vision disconnects every two hours (wireless or all around). This occurs when the router software connects to the time server to get the time (check the router setup page's security log and you can see the entries every two hours).
There is a firmware fix for this for version 1000 but ironically NOT for the newer version 2000.
The N1 Vision 1000 hardware has other issues (reported overheating etc.) though, so I still much prefer version 2000.
For version 2000 there is a workaround to stop it from disconnecting every 2 hours (search the net for it as it requires accessing a "hidden" page).
The workaround works very well and is only required to be performed once after a reboot of the router.
I haven't had to do so in a long time.
I gave it 4 stars due to the issue with it disconnecting every 2 hours and the fact that version 2000 does NOT have a firmware fix for this, even though the older version does.
This should have been caught during pre-release testing. If not, at worst, a firmware fix should have been created for version 2000 very early on. Belkin N1 Vision Wireless Router (F5D8232-4)
Doesn't seem to do transparent ipsec tunneling over UDP either with Cisco Windows Vista Client or Cisco WinXP client. Switching back to a Linksys router, I get a VPN connection no sweat. Belkin tech support says I have to create a virtual server with an open port to match my work VPN server (IT says no go - it's security violation to reveal the ports they use). Belkin says opening the ports will create some security risk so I should close them whenever I'm not using VPN - what a drag compared to transparent VPN connections with my old Linksys router. A Google search shows that other people complain about VPN problems with Belkin routers.
The product did setup easily out of the box - but don't run the Setup Wizard unless you need it. Running the Setup Wizard screwed my settings and I had to manually undo the damage.
So I am going to make this brief for those of you who don't want to read a lengthy review. This router is pretty, lots of bells and whistles ont he outside and has a real nice display for easy setup, and on the wired side it does connect at 1Gig, but it does not sustain wireless connections for more than 6 hours, the gig speed really isn't gig. On the G and N bandwiths it has roughly half the range of other routers. Finally, tech support (India) was useless and pretty much kept asking me to reboot the laptop that would not connect, turned out that 20 feet away from the router was too far and hence the problem. Bottom line but a Dlink or Linksys, you'kk sepnd less money and have a more reliable product, just no pretty pictures.
I purchased this product to replace a Belking "Pre-N" router (which is Belkin's way of saying it's a wireless-G just like everyone else has) that was no longer functioning well.
This unit comes with instructions to plug in the unit, type in an address in your browser's address bar and then follow the instructions to set it up. I followed the instructions in detail and they didn't work. When I attempted to follow the automated setup the router would freeze up, restart, close the internet connection and so forth. Each time it would freeze or close the internet connection either it would re-start the setup procedures or it would simply close the internet connection (thus forcing me to restart the setup procedures manually). Finally, I skipped the auto setup, typed in the IP address of the router in the address field and manually set it up.
I wanted to use WPA security instead of WEP due to the increased security. I have five computers and they all support bot security types. All but one of the computers didn't connect to the router consistently with the WPA security. Most would connect, then restart the connection repeatedly. It became apparent that the router had an issue communicating, or that there was some sort ofa compatibility issue
Belkin advertises that this unit connects at up to 300 Mbps. I have a brand new Dell laptop with a Wireless-N card and it would only connect to the router at a maximum speed of 164 Mbps (this is good compared to 54 Mbps, which is hat my Wireless-G router gave me, but it's still not 300). After a few hours though I began connecting at only 48 Mbps or even lower, despite not having made any changes to the router. I tried several locations in my home, restarted the router several times and nothing helped. I contacted Belkin tech support and their only response was to change the channel (which had previously been on Auto). I tried every channel and each had similirly poor results.
I checked the router's pre-loaded firmware and found that it was not up to date. Apparently, according to Belkin's website, the firmware is two or three years old. I was very surprised they are sending out new equpiment with such old firmware. There have been two firmware updates and neither has been loaded into their routers. I downloaded new firmware and the router's "upload" and "browse" buttons on the update firmware page were disabled, giving me no way to update the firmware. I followed the update firmware instructions three times and got the same result so I know I was doing it right. I contacted tech support and got no response.
Belkin advertises this as having a range of up to 1600 feet with ideal conditions. I can't comment on the range except to say that we had full signal from our master bedroom, which only had about 3 bars out of 5 with our Wireless-G router. That's abut the only good thing and I can't verify it. My suspicion is that this is range was probably obtained in an open field or something with no walls and with perfect weather and atmospheric conditions. I'm sure the stars were aligned and the Belkin techs consuled their palm reader to verify the location and time of day.
I did find the router's external display to be unique and nice looking. Some reviewers have found this useful. Unfortunately, my router is usually in an office, closet or someplace out of the way so the display isn't very practical for me. The buttons on the display are also hard to push. I also got relatively clear audio with Skype, which wasn't possible with my Wireless-G router.
Overall, this router doesn't meet my expectations or what I understood from the advertisement for speed, security, connectivity, compatibility or utility. - Belkin - 80211n - Router - Belkin Router'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
N1 Vision - belkin router, 80211n belkin router N1 Vision - belkin router, 80211n
Sterling Silver Earrings - stud, junk
I purchased these for my wife and was highly disappointed. They arrived in a velvet bag with some sort of sappy/sticky substance all over them which caused the "hair" from the velvet to stick to them. It took almost 30 minutes to clean these properly. Once they were clean, it was clear that these are very low quality pearls. The luster is so poor that they look like costume jewelry. The post on one of them was bent fairly severely when they arrived. No serious woman would be proud to wear these out of the house except for a Halloween party. Don't waste your money on these. 12mm Round Shell Pearl Stud Earrings in Sterling Silver
They were bigger then I expected. They arrived with both studs bent. The quality of the pearls appears to be what you would find in a dime store for your kids. Not happy with them. I gave them away. Would not recommend these even if they were free.
I ordered these earrings to go with bridesmaids dresses as a gift to all the bridesmaids and the Moms. They are perfect because they really show up (love the size!), with either short or long hair and everyone can wear them with outfits to work as well as gowns for weddings and parties. I got a pair for myself too since I like the look of jeans and a silky top with an amazing pair of earrings. The shell pearls just gleam and I like the sterling part, so I don't have to worry about my ears being healthy like you do with the fake stuff from the mall stores. The price was the best, which is why I always look on superjeweler when I am in the mood for a new piece of jewelry.
I purchased these for my Wife, and need I say that they were probably one of the nicest pair of earrings I have given her. They not only look beautiful but are true value for the money. These pearls earrings can complement any evening gown or even a casual outfit. A definite yes....
I had my doubts about this one and I'm sorry I bought it. The pearls are scratched, the studs are flimsy and poorly attached, and bottom line, my wife won't wear 'em. A waste of money unless I can get my money back.
The ones I received were no better than I would expect to get from a 50 cent bubble gum machine in a plastic 'egg'. I have cheap costume jewelry pearls that look (and feel) far more like my real pearls than these do. Is "shell pearl" code for plastic beads in shiny paint? I can't tell what they are actually made out of, but they are sort of grayish and very light weight for their size. I really wonder about the reviewer who said they were 'heavy'. They are junk, garbage, worth less than 50 cents to be frank. This is the WORST buying experience I have ever had from Amazon. I wish some Amazon employee had looked at them before putting them in the Gold Box Special and wasting my time. The 9.95 price that day was about 20 times their value.
Oh look! That 9.95 is STILL the price. So much for a Gold Box special. I guess I'm not the only one who got my money back from Amazon on this 'deal'. Whatever 'shell pearl' is, I know to avoid it in future since this item is still here, and is definitely NOT any kind of pearl I've ever seen before (except vaguely 'pearl' in color).
The color and quality of these pearl earrings was great. The problem was I didn't realize how HUGE they would be until I tried them on. They honestly were so big that they pulled my earlobe down and wouldn't lay flat against my ear. - Pearl - Stud - Silver - Junk'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
Sterling Silver Earrings - stud, junk pearl Sterling Silver Earrings - stud, junk
9v Battery - duracell, alkaline batteries
I bought these in August 2009. They had an expiration date of Dec 2009. I ended up discarding half of them because by the time I got around to using them they were essentially dead. They would power a smoke detector for less than a week. Rayovac AL9V-8 UltraPRO Alkaline 9V Batteries, 8-Pack
Pro: The price is right; I haven't found a better deal on 9V batteries
Con: The performance is light. I had these in smoke detectors for about 6-8 months and all went dead within a few weeks of each other.
Bottom Line: If you want a cheap, marginal performance 9V battery, this is the battery for you. I used these in smoke detectors which are wired for power, but require a 9V battery backup -- when the battery is low, the alarm "chirps", and then I replace it. Works fine for this purpose.
If you want long life and performance, you're gonna need to pay more for a better battery.
I have been so disappointed with these batteries. I change my smoke detector batteries every December 31st and never have an issue with them lasting a year but here we are April 12th and I have now replaced 3 with low power, mid you these are devices that have little current draw and should easily last a year. The last battery I took out even allowed some acid to flow out it did not hurt anything but it was trash. So I give these a VERY LOW RATING>
I have been pleased with these so far - they have been used to replace the batteries that came with our smoke detectors when setting up a new system. A little on the expensive side compared to generics, but that is what going brand tends to be.
They're batteries all right. They come in a nice little box and work just as well as any other brands. But for only about $13 for 8? That's an incredible steal. The store down the street sells 9v's for about $5 EACH. Next time I need 9v batteries I will just buy another pack of these. Or perhaps several packs.
These 9V Rayovac batteries work just fine for me. I haven't had any problems with them dying prematurely. I've bought other Rayovac batteries and have always had good luck with them. If I have problems down the line, I'll come back to update.
Otherwise, love the plastic pack they come in. They are neat and easy to store. I don't have to worry about the batteries falling out or some unsightly package. It's the little things that make life easier. - Duracell - 9v - Alkaline Batteries - Energizer'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
9v Battery - duracell, alkaline batteries energizer 9v Battery - duracell, alkaline batteries
Briefs - briefs, fruit of the loom
We bought these briefs because we wanted a "regular" cut breif. All the ones today seem to be low-rise, which my husband finds uncomfortable. While the cut is fine, the quality is very poor, The fabric is a coarse cotton the feels really rough, and the assembly of the briefs is shoddy. Several pairs have mis-matched ealstic at the back. One even makes my husband feel that it is "cutting" him in the back. We were disappointed because we remember Fruit of the Loom quality from years ago. Well, it isn't that great any more. Fruit of the Loom Men's Brief 3 Pack, White, Medium
My husband is a "Fruit of the Loom" fanatic...we tried others, but they just didn't hold up! We received our order within 4 days, and it was a holiday weekend...who could ask for more? Will gladly buy here again.
In my misguided youth I only bought underwear that was on sale at discount stores. From Haynes to Calvin Klein, I must have bought them all.
When I've bought cheap boxer briefs, they limited movement or the legs on them crept up during the day. No matter boxers or jockeys, the front fly has often presented issues requiring adjustments during the day. It's estimated that most men don't even bother trying to use the front fly to avoid navigation hassles. I've had underwear shrink.
This Fruit of the Loom set of 3 briefs is different. They're comfortable and didn't shrink too much. They're so good that I got rid of all the others and bought more. Now I only wear this one.
Nice briefs. The waist band is snug without being too tight. The small, soft tag in the back doesn't dig in to your skin.
These briefs hold there shape well, and for a long time. No sagging or ripping at the seams.
These are full rise briefs, but unlike others, they don't come up too high, something that always drives me crazy. The waist band is about even with the waist band on your pants.
Half the price of designer briefs, and the quality is as good, if not better. - Fruit Of The Loom - Briefs'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
Briefs - briefs, fruit of the loom briefs Briefs - briefs, fruit of the loom
Fishing
for the price i don't think you can better assortment of panfish lures and jigs. if one color or style isn't working, you have something different to put on at your fingertips. it gives you a wide source of colors. Ready 2 Fish Panfish Kit
A useful, cost-effective set of jigs and lures in a nice assortment of colors. As advertised ('panfish'), these lures are scaled for fish around 6-12" in length. My son used some of these with his ultralight rod and caught a small bass his first morning on the lake, so this set gets his enthusiastic thumbs-up.
Many kits such as this contain items that don't catch any fish. However, I caught a number of bluegill in a relatively short time by using the green colored ones. The bonus is that I also caught several smallmouth bass using the same one. So I was quite happy and would recommend this kit to a pan fisherman or a smallmouth bass fisherman.'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
Fishing Fishing Fishing
Starfish - beaded jewelry leather jewelry, boy
It's hard to pick things out on line because sometimes the item just doesn't live up to what you thought, or hoped. Nothing against the seller but I'm just a little leery at times and try not to get my hopes up. Well, this time, my hopes were pleasantly rewarded. The leather zen bracelet is good looking, made out of darker leather giving it a more rugged look and fits really nicely when I tighten it onto my wrist. I've bought a few others that no matter how tight you try to get it, it was still too large and was obviously intended for a male wrist. Not this one, fits my female wrist just right. My order came quickly. Leather Zen Bracelet, Fits 6 to 8 Inch Wrists, For Men, Women, Teens, Girls and Boys, Gift Box
What a pleasant surprise! Not that I wasn't expecting to like it, since I wouldn't have ordered it if I didn't, but I was still surprised by just how much I like this bracelet.
I have a small wrist, so I rarely wear bracelets because they are very distracting when they move up and down my arm. This is adjustable, and the tightest 'setting' (which involves a simple sliding knot) fits my wrist perfectly and the hardware then sits exactly where it's supposed to. It looks and feels great!
The little rosette accents at the ends of the leather slip knot are adorable and swing around in an eye-catching -- but not distracting -- way. It's my best 'fun' purchase in ages...
a very 'zen' bracelet to be sure! I'm partial to leather and silver combos, and this filled the bill. The only negative is after getting in on, it's almost impossible to adjust without using your teeth to hold one end of the pull. Once adjusted, though, it works fine! It is high quality.
I received the Zen bracelet for my birthday as a gift from my sister. Even though it arrived early and in a lovely box, I didn't open it until my birthday.
I loved it the moment I put it on, it was so pretty, the cute little flowers at the end of the ties are a lovely touch and the turquoise accent color is perfect. I also love the fact that it's handmade too, I'm a huge supporter of handmade goods. I received so many compliments on it, it looks exactly like the picture and fits comfortably.
Unfortunately after only a couple of uses, one of the ties unravelled and it was unwearable... I contacted Beautiful Silver Jewelry and explained what had happened and sent a couple of pictures. They replied after only a few hours, apologising for any inconvenience that this may have caused me. They were so kind and generous by offering to replace the bracelet and also to send me a complimentary one for my trouble. I was not only over the moon but shocked by how helpful and swiftly they dealt with the issue. Today I received my bracelet and it's as gorgeous as the first one I received and the complimentary gift is absolutely outstanding too. SUPER happy customer and would shop here again a thousand times!! Thank you Beautiful Silver Jewelry :) - Bracelet - Boy - Beaded Jewelry Leather Jewelry - Beaded Bracelet'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
Starfish - beaded jewelry leather jewelry, boy boy Starfish - beaded jewelry leather jewelry, boy
Schwinn Recumbent Exercise Bike - stationary indoor bike, schwinn
CHOICE: I was looking for an indoor exercise machine that I would love to use on a daily basis, while taking in a show or read. Many reviewers of the upright Schwinn bike complained about discomfort, and owning a top-shelf Cycleops fluid trainer I know what that means, so the upright bike was not an option to me. I also passed on an elliptical machine because the bobbing would probably make it strenuous to watch TV and interfere with my motivation. So, having decided on wanting a recumbent bike, I picked this model even though there were no reviews at the time. I believe the #213 bike Schwinn 213 Recumbent Exercise Bike to be the older model of this (even though Schwinn ships both models currently), and it has gotten mostly good reviews.
SHIPPING: a lot of people had major problems when they ordered the #213 bike via Amazon (read the reviews, sort by lowest). I took the plunge anyway, hoping that my Amazon Prime membership would kick in (faster shipping often means less damage). The system gave me odd and changing dates all over the place (will ship in 2 days out, expected arrival one week out, ..) and there was only 1 shipping option (Standard). However, the bike was delivered via UPS within two days like I had hoped. The box was a bit "roughed up", held together with straps and it even had a small hole on one corner. Also, on the inside, some styrofam was broken; obviously the thing was dropped at least once. I wouldn't call it damaged though, and all parts ended up ok. Incidentally, I live in a non-elevator building, and to get the bike to my 5th floor apartment, I took it apart in the lobby, then walked up the stairs about five times with the parts. That worked fine, except for the fact that the bottom- piece was really heavy, but hey, it's about exercise :)
ASSEMBLY: in short, this was painless. There is a small booklet which explains everything step-by-step. Some pages look complicated because of the exploded parts illustration, but they're not - just read the simple instructions instead of focusing on the picture. All the tools and screws were included in a blister pack, and labeled correctly. The only small mistake I made was to forcibly connect the computer cable the wrong way (hint: the plugs are NOT the same on both ends, even though they look alike). I think it took me a leisurely 60-90 minutes to assemble the bike; if you have help or you mean it, you could do it in less.
BUILD: first of all, the bike looks better than I expected. More futuristic than industrial, and not all that ugly in my living room. Some parts feel a little cheap to the touch; for example, the front flywheel is housed in plastic which chips and cracks easily, the bike computer weighs nothing and has these foil buttons, and the "bio-whatever seat with lumbar" is entirely made out of foam, and nothing is adjustable on it either. I guess "lumbar" is not the same as "lumbar control", as in a car seat.
WORKOUT: this bike is *silent*. I couldn't believe it, coming from the Cycleops trainer, but the only sound I hear is my workout pants swishing- absolutely great to watch TV. When I pedal, the bike wobbles a little, which at higher intensities makes it more difficult to read a book that you put in front of the bike computer (there is a bracket to do just that). However, I must admit that the seat really is comfy, and it would be no problem to actually hold a book while working out. The bike computer has a few programs as expected (ride in the park, interval, plateau, etc.) plus manual mode and a somewhat useless BMI calculator. It retains the weight, age, and time you entered last time which is a convenient plus over gym machines. The range of resistance is great, from virtually none to definitely hard to push. The heart rate sensors, as I expected from reading the reviews on the 213 model, don't work very well: it takes about 40 seconds to display a realistic number once you touch the sensors. This is something that my Polar wrist watch does much faster (not to mention wirelessly and pc-downloadable, but of course at a price), so I use the Polar.
NITPICKS AND RECOMMENDATION: It would have been fantastic if the bike computer had a Polar telemetry option like most of the machines in gyms now do. Also, it would be great if the front tube could be folded back when not in use, because then I could hide the machine behind the sofa. But all in all, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase and would recommend this bike to others. I use it every day. Schwinn 230 Recumbent Exercise Bike
This recumbent bike does not have all the bells and whistles, but is a solidly built product at a great price. The computer that came with it had enough functions to make my workouts interesting enough, and this bike really excels at providing a very smooth and almost inaudibly quiet ride. Perfect for watching television or movies.
Assembly was straightforward and well documented with the exception of having to understand an insert that amended how a cable was threaded.
One caveat that prevented me from giving this product five stars is that the minimum distance setting between the seat and the pedals is still too large, and riders who are 5'4" and under will have trouble pedaling this bike.
I love this bike. It's well built, has an amazing range of programming for varied rides and is incredibly quiet. I've had mine for about three weeks and I've never used an exercise product as willingly as I ride this bike. I might actually get into shape. This is definitely not just another dust-collecting sweater rack for the TV room.
If I have any complaints, they are that the display doesn't have a backlight and the bike needs to be assembled when it arrives which took me about two hours. As a note: assemble the entire display stand (the front "handlebars" part) BEFORE you attach it to the base. The instructions say the other way around and it's a pain fishing the wires up through the tube and out the top.
My complaints are minor, my rating for the bike as a whole is five out of five. - Stationary Indoor Bike - Exercise Bike - Schwinn - Recumbent Bike'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
Schwinn Recumbent Exercise Bike - stationary indoor bike, schwinn stationary indoor bike Schwinn Recumbent Exercise Bike - stationary indoor bike, schwinn
Water Pumps
So that any prospective buyers do not make the same mistake I made - the picture of the DuroMax shows the water pump with some cheesy fittings that come as accesories. What you need to know and the description and picture do not tell you is that both the pump inlet and outlet are 2" male threads. Also, the manual says the motor takes .6 liter of "SE 15-40" oil but the sticker on the pump says "30wt" AND it only holds about .4 liters. I have yet to use the pump as I bought the fittings to mate up with my cam-lock snowmaker hoses and I bought male threads instead of female. I'll update after using it and add or subtract stars accordingly. DuroMax XP652WP 2-Inch Intake 7 HP OHV 4-Cycle 158-Gallon-Per-Minute Gas-Powered Portable Water Pump (CARB Compliant)
this is a very reliable pump, i purchased this one online and was very appreciative of its performance, i have used this pump sometimes running it a week at a time, it survived alot of elements, in its two years,, but just startin have a lil trouble, i bought a second identical one and for its price,, it was well worth the purchase ,, i would recommend this to anyone needin a good cheap running pump,, and at this time just purchasin a third one to replace the one giving me trouble, hope this helps in ya decision,
Pros: This pump worked very well when it did work.
Problems ( My Experience): Unreliable starting, lack of online information (manuals)and parts support. My recoil starter assembly failed and I am still looking for parts.
Cheap Chinese knock-off of Honda engine. Plastic fittings had to be replaced, hose connections poorly designed, requiring additional hardware to replace flimsy plastic stuff that breaks. Cage obstructs access to air cleaner/carb. Unreliable starting.
Well you do get what you pay for THATS for sure with this pump.Worked for 1 day and would not start after that 1 day.I paid a someone to look at and oooooooooooooooo boy he said something I would not repet other then get your money back well I'm still trying to get my money back plus my shipping of $150.00 (STAY A WAY FROM THIS PUMP)AND ANYTHING Blastwholesale sells.Ordered 3/2010 its now 10/17/2010
Al wcb'
Detail Products
Detail Reviews
Click here for more information
Water Pumps Water Pumps Water Pumps
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)