Thursday 30 September 2010

Poodle Grooming - dog grooming book, grooming


The Grooming book has gorgeous illustrations and the step-by-step instructions tell you exactly what equipment you need for each dog breed. It's exactly what I wanted. Oster tools are suggested for each clip and it tells you what blade to use. What I like about this is not that you have to use Oster, but at least it gives you a starting point. Now people can go and say, you know I have Andis clippers, so what blade would be comparable to an Oster #10. It gives you at least one example of what tool to use, and I needed specific information because I haven't been grooming long at all. I am just getting started. Each breed page gives step by step instructions and a sidebar of tools you will need. There are diagrams that show the direction to clip for each part of the body. There are also some general tips in the front of the book about dematting, what kind of table to use, and how to soak the dog well while bathing it. The spine lays flat due to a spiral binding underneath a flat binding so it can stay open as a reference while you groom. I am very pleased. All-Breed Dog Grooming: Step-By-Step Illustrated Instructions (Revised Edition)

A good looking dog can boost the confidence of the master, as well as leave the dog feeling happy themselves. "All-Breed Dog Grooming" is a comprehensive guide designed to help readers groom their own dog with many breeds to get them to the point of looking their very best. Composed by dog breeding experts, over a hundred and fifty different breeds are covered with tips and tricks for grooming them well and keeping the coats healthy. "All-Breed Dog Grooming" is a highly useful resource for anyone who wants a do it yourself approach to keeping their dog clean, groomed, and happy. - Dog Care - Grooming - Dog Grooming Book - Poodle Grooming'


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Cordless String Trimmer


Over the years I've used many Black & Decker products. Everything from power tools to lawn care equipment, most are as advertised and effectively do the job just as good as the higher priced competition. I haven't used a gas powered tool in over 12 years now. I've also gone the electric route as well. My eleven year old 18 volt B&D trimmer has more then proved itself and finally was put out to pasture. I'm still surprised that I got that much running time from the two 18 volt batteries that came with the unit. For quick and easy trimming, its been a capable tool. That said, I picked up the Black & Decker LST220 Grasshog Trimmer at my local hardware store last weekend.



After a quick inventory, I scanned over the brief instructions. Its pretty much cut and dry as to what's in the box. There's the trimmer, instructions, two batteries, cord, and a charger. The company also tags on a two year limited warranty. The instructions on Black & Decker tools are still amusing to say the least. It doesn't take a degree in rocket science to put a piece of their gear together. Knowing what I know about battery powered lawn tools, I knew I would need both batteries to complete the tasks in my large front and back yards. So I charged both of the 20 volt batteries for about 8 hours each.



Now the test. First off, the B&D LST220 Trimmer has a nice light feel to it. Like my older trimmer, the handle has a good ergonomic feel to it. It easily moves up and down and rotates a full 360 degrees. Adjustment is easy. It didn't take me long to find out about the line's new auto feed system. Its much nicer then the old bump and feed system. On average I found myself using about four of the 30' line spools a year. Only time will tell if that number drops with this new system.



The trimmer does seem faster. I don't doubt the advertised 7500 rpm a bit. The 12" trim path has not changed from my older model. The trigger configuration hasn't changed either. Its still has a nice feel. Trimming wise, this model operates smoothly without any hiccups. It does a great job of getting under bushes and around the fence line. Just like my older unit, I was not surprised that I had to utilize both batteries to get the front yard trimming done. I noticed a drop off in power at about 15 minutes. Good thing B&D includes two batteries. One battery doesn't come anywhere near getting the job done.



The metal guard for edging has stayed much the same design as the original model. Like my older B&D trimmers, the LST220 Trimmer is not capable of doing a great job of edging because of the steady drain on battery power. Even with two 20 volt batteries, its just not enough juice. I always have to break out my electric powered edger or hand tools to complete the task. Why Black & Decker even promotes its lineup of battery powered trimmers as edgers is a mystery to me.



Even though I am user of many Black & Decker products, I find the company's website limited on up to date product information. Product registration is available via the site. It seems that it took them ages to post a toll free number. Now depending on the product, there is a toll free number posted for each line. When I did contact customer service for other tools that I've owned, I've always received outstanding service. Signing up for the company newsletter via email is nothing more then receiving an occasion survey on products.



Even with its battery limitations, the Black & Decker LST220 Cordless Grass Hog Trimmer is a useful working tool in clearing out ground not accessible by a mower. When it comes to edging that's a different story. Personally I don't think there is any battery powered tool out there that certifies as a true edging tool. I know I've not seen or used one. Still, this Black & Decker tool covers the bases as a good gas free trimmer. Black & Decker LST220 12-Inch 20-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless GrassHog Trimmer/Edger

I bought this product from my local "bigbox" store a month ago so thought I would drop a review here anyway. The LST220 came with two 20volt lithium ion batteries, a charger, and a leaf blower. I am a slim petite woman who is not the least big mechanically inclined, but I put this wonder together in a few minutes. Guess I'm better than I thought. Batteries each take a full 8 hours to charge, which is a drawback for me, since they only gave me 20 minutes of weeding on each battery, and take 8 hours to charge each one. This unit's height can be adjusted with the quick easy turn of a collar, and the (.065) line is automatic--so no more bump & feed! It is so lightweight and easy to use for me, and I really do love the fact that I don't have to mess with pulling that nasty string a dozen times on a smelly gas-powered trimmer any more. With this model, all you do is push a button! The only cons would be that the battery lasts me 20 minutes of run time, so I get to do about 35-40 minutes total weed whacking using two batteries. Quite honestly, I can't stand doing much more than that anyway, but I called B&D to verify this, and was told that 20 minutes' run time is the best that I can expect to get for each battery. When I asked B&D why they don't make one with a longer battery life (an hour per battery would be good) I was told that it would make the unit much too heavy (huh??). An electric (corded) weed trimmer is not an option for me since I would have to have an 800ft. cord. I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 only because of the short battery use; a quicker charge time would be a plus. Otherwise, I really enjoy using it, so much so that I think I'm addicted. Haven't had to change the spool yet, but will update this when I do.



UPDATE: By the time I had used this 12-14 times, I was only getting 7-10 minutes' run time from each battery. With 16+ hours charge time, it would take me 3-4 days to complete one area. It's a shame really, as everything else about this machine is great. B&D told me not to expect more than 7 minutes of use from each battery. I ended up returning this weed whacker, and still looking for a good cordless. For those of you who claim to get 35+ minutes' continuous run time from each battery, I'd like to know how.'


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Hp Pavillion Ac Adapter - laptop power adapters, dv6000


This adapter comes in two pieces: (1) A simple three-prong cord that attaches to the wall; and (2) an AC adapter that accepts the wall cord and connects to the laptop.



The wall cord is pretty shoddy. The rubber is very stiff and doesn't bend easily. After using this adapter for only two weeks, the rubber wrapping the cord has come disconnected from the plug and there's about a 1/4-inch gap where I can see the underlying wired (themselves wrapped in rubber, so it's not a shock hazard). Also, because of the stiffness of this cord, it doesn't coil well. In fact, I'm pretty sure my twice-daily coiling of the cord is the reason it came apart like it did.



But I'm not really worried about the wall cord. It uses a standard PC connector to attach to the AC adapter, so it's functionally identical to all other PC power cords. I have a thousand of those cords lying around, so I'm not worried.



On the other hand, the AC adapter (with its own smaller cord for connecting to the laptop) is much better. It uses a softer, more flexible rubber, and I expect it to be much more durable.



-------------



EDIT:



Okay, it's been a few more weeks, and this power cord is really falling apart. After just one month of use, there are bare copper wires showing through the cracks. I'm going to have to order another replacement. How annoying. New Adapter for Hp Compatible with 402018-001 Dc359a Ppp09h 380467-003 Hp-0k065b13 Lf 65w Laptop Ac Power Adapter

Bought this product about 6 months ago, works fine but the cord going into the wall and into the power-pack falling apart. Wires exposed on both ends, poor construction/quality and now a safety hazard. No problems with the seller, shipping ect.. Just a poor Product.

Believe it, folks. This item stopped working after three months (almost to the day!). I use my computer every day but I do not abuse the cord. In fact, I took extra care with this cord because I wanted it to last longer than it did. I needed a quick, cheap fix when I bought it and this fit the bill. I would recommend you spend a little extra and get the real thing. If you end up replacing the cord more than once you'll spend the same amount anyway. You might as well start out right.

This cable started coming apart after 3 days of normal use. Now it does not work at all. I now wish that I would have purchased the somewhat higher priced HP name-brand cable. It's been a while since I've been this disappointed in a purchase.

just got this a couple days ago and so far it charges and does not catch fire. Good deal for the money including shipping. There were cheaper options but they looked sketchy or had bad reviews. Fast shipping.

The AC adapter for my laptop listed this exact part model replacement. I ordered it expedited 2 day shipping on a Monday- got it the following Friday. Plugged it into the wall, then into my laptop. It worked for about 1 minute, then my computer alerted me it was no longer charging. Smelled something burning, looked down, and the AC adapter was, I kid you not, melting on my floor. Usually with these cheap, temporary power supplies I have issues with the cord breaking down within a couple weeks. I have NEVER had a problem where the adapter literally burns out and melts. Got the same product from another vendor, and it is still working 2 months later. Maybe it was a faulty product, but I didn't want to risk any further damage (hello $200 professional carpet cleaner), especially not to my laptop.

I purchased the New Adapter for Hp Compatible with 402018-001 Dc359a Ppp09h 380467-003 Hp-0k065b13 Lf 65w Laptop Ac Power Adapter for my daughters HP Pavillion dv6700. She plugged it in and a loud "pop" sound was heard and then...no more laptop...fried, kaput, muerto...



Oh, but I did get a $10.90 refund for the adapter....yipeeeee!!!!!



So with money a little tight. We had to buy another laptop for our daughter for her second year in college. Thanks for your "client centered" customer service Amazon. - Hp Ac Adapter - Laptop Power Adapters - Laptop Accessories - Dv6000'


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Cordless Hedge Trimmer - battery packs, black and decker


These batteries only last one season with full charges, after that you will only get 20 minutes on a charge. I have four batteries each with a different longevity. Also, they do not hold a charge when on a shelf, you have to plan ahead and charge the one you will use that day. A second one will not be fully charged by the time thr first one dies. They work good when brand new but will grow weaker during the season. Black & Decker FSB18 FireStorm 18-Volt NiCad Slide Style Battery

Actually, these batteries work harder and longer than the batteries that came with the unit. Don't know why. Both sets of batteries are brand new, but the batteries from Amazon's distribution hold a charge longer. Very Pleased, in fact I may buy a few more from Amazon for those extra heavy duty use jobs.

Save yourself. It is too late for me. I am addicted to these batteries. I have several tools and some garden equipment that all use the same interchangeable batteries. I have been absolutely corrupted. If these animals are supposed to ware out it has not happened yet. I have not counted but I guess I have not reached the 500 Th charge. Mean time I also have not found my self waiting on the charger to complete a single project from refurbishing furniture to building a fence.

Battery used with tree limb pruning chain saw. Provides adequate power for 30-45 minutes. Cuts through thick branches. Recommend spare battery in case the battery used is partially discharged at time of use and to avoid delay of recharging.

I'm in the process of building a deck and had tons of screws to drive to hold down the deck boards. Well, things started off great but then went downhill fast. These batteries just aren't made for constant use. After a while I found myself sitting there waiting for the batteries to recharge. I was switching off between 2 of the 18v batteries and another B&D drill with 2 12v batteries. Ended up borrowing 2 more 18v batteries from a neighbor to get me going again while mine recharged. As an FYI, one of my 18v batrteries is the silver series which are supposed to be more powerful. Save your money, they're not not any better than the regular ones.

As one reviewer indicated the interchangeability of the batteries makes the entire Black and Decker 18 volt line very addictive. I find myself looking for tools that work with the batteries.



As for the batteries themselves the big positive is the interchangeability. There are two significant negatives. The first negative is that the charger that comes with the batteries and the tools is a dumb charger that does not tell you if it is complete or not. This is annoying. The second issue is the batteries are slightly anemic. Not bad since they are interchangeable but still a little more power and longevity would be nice. Don't worry though. Black and Decker has a silver series of the batteries that purports to be 40% longer life.



Overall a great system and one I am please with.

The firestorm version of this 18v battery is much better and lasts longer than the older version. You have to make sure though that you use the recommended charger and not the older Blacker & Decker chargers because you won't get the full charge. I have a pretty big backyard with lots of trimming and shrubs and one battery can last through trimming the entire yard where previously it took two!

I brought this battery to replace the original battery which came with the Black&Decker saw kit. The original lasted about 1 year. This battery didn't last a month of regular home use. Very disappointing. - Black And Decker - Trimmer - Battery Packs - Cordless'


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Cordless Hedge Trimmer - battery packs, black and decker trimmer Cordless Hedge Trimmer - battery packs, black and decker

Highlighter - fluorescent, highlighter


I'm an avid school supply shopper, mainly pens and highlighters, purely because I'm just this HUGE school supply geek. Usually, I use Pentel because I trust the brand so all of the pens and pencils I use are Pentel. However, one day I decided to branch out and use Bic. I use Bic pens sometimes so I decided "why not?" Plus, the brand is inexpensive so I wouldn't waste too much on it if I didn't like them.



So I bought these because I needed new highlighters. These highlighters certainly get the job done. They don't really bleed through but you CAN see the color on the other side of the paper so this wouldn't be great if you'd consider that a distraction. The design is very sleek so I liked that because it doesn't take up a lot of space. So, if you're not looking for anything special I suggest that you buy these. They're inexpensive and are all you really need to get the job done rather than any fancy highlighters.



However, the colors were not bright enough for me. I like highlighters that have color that just pop out in your face and sort of make you look at them. These highlighters don't do that for me. The pink is especially too pale for my taste. I did like the orange but it still isn't bright enough for me. Now, if bright bright bright highlighters give you a headache, then these are completely fine. I'm not saying anything is wrong with them but if you like bright highlighters, like myself, then I don't recommend them. Otherwise, I don't see why one shouldn't. BIC Brite Liner, Assorted Colors (5-Pack)

I bought these because of the design. Most highlighters are short and flat, but this one is more like a pen. I haven't had any problems with my green one because I don't use it very often. For being a highlighter, it is very dark and it usually soaks through the page.

Are highlighters old school? Maybe, but I like them. I've been using Sharpie Accents for years. I was attracted to the Brite Lighters because a) they have a nice selection of colors and b) I've always found Bic to be a solid, reputable brand. But these highlighters are terrible ! And I didn't just end up with a bad batch. The ink literally runs out within a week or two of use

and one is stuck with a dried up non-usable marker. I must admit I'm surprised, because Bic pens have always been fairly reliable-- but it's back to Sharpies for me.

I don't know where the negative reviews are coming from. Although I didn't buy these on Amazon, they are the same thing and the quality is great! I have had mine for a while and they have never dried out or leaked. I like the array of colors and the fact that I can use one color for each class, making my planner easier to read. I just bought another pack today to make sure I'm stocked. Affordable, good quality, and has ever let me down!

The yellow is fine, but the remaining colors are pretty cheap. The orange is a bit too dark to be called a highlighter, more like crossing something out with an orange pen. For the price I paid, I guess its OK. Sharpe highlighers are a bit higher quality.

I am constantly highlighting texts, both for school and personal use. I have tried various highlighters over the years, and the yellow Bic Brite Liner is far and above my favorite. In case you are a little confused by the various ways Bic Brite Liners are described on the many different options available from Amazon (I know I was), you will receive a total of 72 highlighters in two different boxes of six packs (36 highlighters per box) with this particular product. Since I recently spent around $5 dollars for a single six pack (like the ones inside each box), I can say that this is definitely a GREAT DEAL. Note: the price has close to doubled since I bought mine, but it is still a tremendous savings over retail.

The pens arrived in awesome time and they work just fine. But the construction, grip, and overall feel just isn't as good as it used to be. I see other folks have had poor longevity with this product. I will wait to see how these fare, but I can tell that they are not really well built. Oh well, they were like 2 bucks so I can live with that.

This is a great assortment of colors of highlighters. They are slim which I really like and very bright colors. They are cheaper here than in the store too. Perfect for highlighting notes and for using with word searches. - Highlighter - School Supplies - Fluorescent - Highlighters'


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Articulating Wall Mount - tv wall mount, lcd mount


We have installed (2) of these mounts. (1) on a 26" LCD and (1) on a 32" LCD. Both installations were easy, with the product meeting expectations. The second mount we installed was missing a couple of minor parts so I sent a quick e-mail to Cheetah mounts. An hour later, I had the 2nd day air tracking number for the remaining parts. While it was frustrating to be missing the parts, I was amazed by the quick response. Cheetah Mounts ALAMLB LCD TV Wall Mount Bracket with Full Motion Swing Out Tilt and Swivel Articulating Arm

I like this mount. It is strong and holds a 30" TV no problem. The extension is very nice and the tilt helps with the glare from the dome light in the ceiling. It can turn all the way to the side and lets the TV face the kitchen counter. Our TV used the inside holes which are VESA 100 but it has wider holes as well so we could use it for a larger TV in the future. A torpedo shaped level comes with it which is now a nice addition to the tool drawer. Basically really liked it. The only issue is the TV being level. The TV tilts just slightly to the right. Enough to bother me. Only annoyance on an otherwise good product.

Update: I called Cheetah about the TV not being level. It turns out the screw behind the TV which controls the tilt Also allows the TV to twist a little. Now our TV is level!

We just mounted a 26" LCD and this mount worked perfectly. Well constructed and super easy to install. Before purchasing I called the company to verify the TV would work with this mount, I was only on hold for a few seconds before speaking with a rep who was more than helpful. I highly recommend, especially at this sale price.

I was trying to save some money on a wall mount and came across Cheatah Mounts which sells mounts that look like the ones you see at a store but waay cheaper. I was excited and ordered. Once delivered, I installed the mount (I have experience installing 3 mounts previously for various TVs). THIS IS THE WORST MOUNT I have ever installed. Installation was easy, but the metal arm sags away from the mount badly, making anything you mount on it crooked. I was really disappointed in this mount. The return policy does not cover shipping, so BUYER BEWARE. CHEETAH MOUNTS LCD TV ARTICULATING ARM WALL MOUNT FOR 23-37" DISPLAYS BLACK



UPDATED: - The company cantacted me by phone expressing their concern about the RMA I requested. The representative was extremely helpful and wanted me to know that it was most likely a manufactuing defect. They sent me the RMA number and shipping label and are giving me a full refund. I was very impressed with their reponsiveness and would consider purchasing from them again as I know that they seem to stand behind their products and have excellent support.

I can't imagine why anyone would rate this poorly. Those that do, are doing everyone else a disservice. I almost passed this one up because the poor reviews and low price made me apprehensive. This mount is well built, well packaged, attractive, easy to install, and how can you beat the price? I can only imagine that those who rated it poorly don't know what they're doing with tools and/or can't or won't follow instructions. For those that complained of insecure and sagging mounts, they probably know nothing about wall construction and didn't bother reading the instructions. YOU MUST INSTALL TO A WALL STUD OR MASONRY!!! For the other mounting complaints, I can only repeat, these people either failed to read the instructions or with no offense intended, are not mechanically inclined. You only have yourself to blame, not the manufacturer. If I ever need another, I will definitely buy this one again.

good price for this mount and is a decent deal. desc says "single stud mount" but mine apparently arrived only with the docs and h/w for installation in a concrete wall....nevertheless with some deck screws we solidly installed it into a stud anyway. mounted a 37" Vizio tv with no difficulty whatsoever. this is definitely strong enough for a 37 lcd w/o prob. seems to be decently made w/good enough materials for this type installation anyway. satisfied enough.

Aside from the length of time it took to arrive it has surpassed my expectations and was worth the wait. This mount is very sturdy and was very easy to install. It mounts very easily on a single stud and came with with more than enough hardware to do it. Mine is holding an older (possibly heavier) Samsung 26in lcd and it doesn't sag. I paid almost $100 for a non-articulating mount at BestBuy that is already busted. This one at a 1/4 of the cost is far superior. Highly Recommended!

Bought this for a 42" LG 42LD450 LCD monitor.

[The original listing said it worked on monitors up to 42" however the details have been updated to now say '23" to 32" with some 42" monitors' with no further info on which larger ones... The box says 23" to 32" and nothing in the instructions indicated it is adaptable to larger monitors, but I took a chance since it had the VESA holes and appropriate weigh limits. Check with the manufacturer if you are looking to use it on a larger monitor.]



My LG weighs 30 lbs so it is well under the weight limitations, and it has the 200x200 VESA mounting holes. The mount weighs over 8 lbs. and seems very sturdy. It might even be overkill for a smaller TV; seems perfect for 30"-32" or even a larger one like ours.



I did notice some slight sag initially but was able to adjust that with the built in tilt adjustments and a tightening of the pivot nuts. The friction nuts on the pivots seems to work OK though I would not be confident if there was to be a lot of regular movement of the TV. (Swinging it out from the wall a lot might cause loosening of the pivots. While it makes it easier to move it also allows sag and even more loosening of those connections which would cause improper friction of the pivots and possible failure if too loose.) Just keep the two provided hex keys handy for regular fine tuning and tightening.



Easy installation. Nice build quality. Great price!

I am happy with this purchase and strongly recommend it over others based on price comparison and product quality (even though it is my first experience with wall mounting a monitor). - Tilting Wall Mount - Lcd Mount - Lcd Wall Mount - Tv Wall Mount'


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Articulating Wall Mount - tv wall mount, lcd mount tv wall mount Articulating Wall Mount - tv wall mount, lcd mount

Unlocked Cell Phones - unlocked cell phones


Ordered this phone here from geeks.com. It is white. I have had it for a few days now. It arrived in perfect condition. The phone is real cute. It is really unlocked, and recognised both of my sim cards immediately. The dual sim function works well. So far, so good. While researching this phone I saw it advertised somewhere with a handcrank charger included in the box; I did not expect it and it was not included.



So far, I love it! The lack of the 5th star is because it has not taken a fall yet for me to see if it still works! Maxwest BB-9 Unlocked Quad-Band GSM Dual SIM Wireless Handheld Device w/Camera Bluetooth FM Tuner QWERTY 2.2"LCD (White) - Unlocked Cell Phones'


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Step Platforms


The 6-inch step is perfect for just stepping up and down while watching tv or doing a few minutes of cardio in between weight sets, especially if you have a small space and need to stow your exercise equipment when not in use.



This step is made by the same company that makes the gym-version STEPs. I found the larger gym-version step a little too big and cumbersome (all those risers). The smaller hi-step version was way too small for step-ups. This in-between step was just the right size for a basic step-up/step-over workout. When used a single platform, I think it is the sturdiest of the bunch, with no shifting. It fits under a coffee table or bed when you're done using it. I was also surprised to open the box and find the product labelled "Proudly made in the USA." Bonus.



For those who need exact dimensions and other details, the step area on top is 22 x 11 1/2in. This seems like the perfect size for step-ups, with comfortable room on either side while stepping so you don't feel like you're going to slip off. The base of the step, which is a little larger than the stepping area itself, measures 26 x 15 1/2in. And I can confirm the height is 6 inches from floor to top. In the picture, the step looks almost navy blue, but in person, the color was a medium blue, like the top of the hi-step ([...]).



On carpet, it is stable and doesn't budge. It has two rubber feet at each corner, and grips nicely on flat surfaces, too. It's light, but very sturdy, and doesn't feel like it's bending or dipping when you step on it. Recommended maximum weight capacity is 250.



I bought this product through Amazon for under forty dollars with free shipping and received it within 3 days. Yes, most plastic things I buy are cheaper; but for a piece of exercise equipment that will last decades, won't break or require repairs, is of good quality, is made in the USA, and arrives on my doorstep with little effort on my part, it seemed reasonable and I am happy with the purchase. The Step Blue 6-Inch Fitness Step'


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