August 2009 Archives

My iPhone is always on. Whether I'm talking on the phone or listening to Pandora while I work, a good headset is such a integrated part of my daily experience.

I've tried thinking of the best way to describe how much I love the new V-Moda Vibe II earbuds and microphone. It seems crazy, but when you are tethered as much as I am, having a good, crisp, sharp sound means the world to me. Not only that, since it's an "always on" device, having a headset that looks sleek, is such an appreciated and coveted bonus.

I have not been impressed with the iPhone standard headphones and have been searching for what I feel is the perfect headset (headphones + mic for taking calls).

All about the Vibe II
I can now say, I love my iPhone and Vibe II. V-Moda did everything right. They made this headset just as fashionable and "on the go" functional as the iPhone itself.

Putting these earbuds through the ringer the past couple of weeks, I really feel V-Moda went the extra mile to make the perfect headset (and mic).

Here's what appeals most to me:

• The earbuds deliver great sound quality.
• The mic delivers really clear pitch and voice sound.
  
• Noise reduction from the outside world is such a treat, especially when I am trying to write.
  
• The fit was perfect for me right out of the box, but the set also comes with three other sizes, which I think is a total necessity.
• The sport earhooks make running "fuss free." For runners, you'll know what I mean.
  
• The external ear bud looks really cool. It has a really nice sophisticated design - almost jewel-like in a high-tech geek chic kind of way.

Best of all, the unexpected, yet absolutely favorite feature of V-Moda's Vibe II outside of the style and sound (form and function) is the fabric cabling from the ear bud to the iPhone. I never realized how tangled and knotted the iPhone rubbery cords ended up - always causing me grief and a couple missed calls. The V-Moda's durable black fabric cabling makes wearing the headset more flexible and less restrictive. It's a nice and long cable and feather-light, so it feels like your not wearing a headset at all.

I wanted to write this post all about the great music experiences I have had with V-Moda, but I have to admit this extension of my iPhone appeals to me on such a functional, day-to-day level. Music is always in the background, but V-Moda's "performance" is totally in the foreground for me.

Love it. Love it. Love it.
If you have an iPhone and you are fed up with the rubbery tangled mess of wires, you gotta consider V-Moda. They totally got it right!

Website | Where to Buy

We're always telling the kids not to write or put stickers on the wall, but what if mom wants to?

Camilla Slattery, owner and creative director of the DUMBO based stickers by dvider, announced some fresh new designs, in particular a new line called "eclectic."

I thought for all those moms out there wanting to do something new and fresh for their kids room, this is a great way to give a room personality and style. Check out a bunch of the new designs in action on Camilla's site - stickers by dvider.

Also check out their gallery to get some great ideas for a great nursery, playroom or "tweenie" looking for a "big girl" room.

To see other decals we've featured by dvider, check out Transform Your Space Simply with dVider.

Website | Where to Buy

I'm kinda fickle when it comes to beauty products. I'll use a product half way and then get bored of it. My salon though encouraged me to try Green Science - a face cream that my skin just drinks up! I'm on my third container, so I figure at this point, I'm smitten.

If you like a light, yet emollient face cream, this one is delicious for your skin!

If you are in the Sacramento area, check out Salon B. They are running product specials in September, so don't miss out.

Aveda is recognized for their sustainable practices and beauty products
Aveda received the Gold Standard of Cradle to Cradle (C2C) product certifications for sustainability in beauty products. C2C certification and endorsement are the culmination of 30 years of socially and environmentally responsible business practices.

Website | Where to Buy

So a friend and Extraordinique reader has been encouraging me to post about this great gift she got from her dad. Knowing his daughter loves Pelligrino, he bought the family their own "Soda Stream." She loves it and last weekend I saw it in action. Quick, simple, easy and bubbly!!!

I love the idea of reducing all of the plastic we buy weekly for our spring and sparkling water. Now, with Soda Stream, you can turn your water or any types of flavored water into sparkling water or your favorite soda. (That is if you have the keys to the Pepsi recipe vault.)

Website | Where to Buy

So, admittedly I am remiss for not posting in a while. Due to some back surgery, my writing took a back burner to my recovery, but it doesn't mean I haven't been keeping my eye out for all things, extraordinique! Oddly enough, while in the surgery center, I noticed all of the nurses had an interesting gait while they scurried from one patient to the next. They rolled when they walked. Trying to catch a glimpse of their shoes, I was surprised to see some really funky footwear. These shoes struck me as odd, but the more I asked the nurses about them, the more I thought maybe I would research them and perhaps even give them a try to help my back. The nurses, who are on their feet all day, loved them.

MBT has an interesting premise, "the human body is simply not built to walk or stand on hard, flat surfaces." MBT has started a crusade to create footwear that's intended to "continuously stimulate the postural and stabilizing muscles of the whole body." Their mantra: "anti-shoe, pro-body."

Check out their video and to understand their philosophy and product design more.


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I don't know how many times I've said, when are they going to make a drink that is the antithesis of all these "heart-attacks-in-a-can." Well, apparently there is now one on our shelves, Slow Cow - a relaxation session in every can. I love it!

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I am loving Vessel's Luau Rechargeable Lantern. This is just such a gorgeous, dimmable lantern that you can move where ever the festivities take you! This beautiful incandescent light creates amazing ambiance and fun "on the go."

Check more out at Vessel and become a Fan on Facebook. We did!

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Ok, I couldn't resist!
Girls, how much do you love this ring? "It's my bling ring, bitch!" Artist, Ben Blanc, nailed it with this one. It's a must have for those special occasions.

Website | Where to Buy

If you have been looking for the perfect case for your iPhone (and when are we not?), another reader suggested we check out "more."

Twinelite

Twinelite looks really sophisticated and unique. Makes the iPhone even more of an accessory with one of these dressings.

Vintage

The Vintage series is really handsome. I could see this leather breaking in beautifully and look awesome in the back pocket of some G-Star.

Noel
Lastly, for those attracted to the slick and shiny, the Noel collection is hot.

I can't decide! Dare I say, I want "more."

Website | Where to Buy

Have you ever craved a unique ingredient in your favorite cereal or love mixing different ones together? One of our Extraordinique readers just turned me on to MojaMix as a result of reading this week's SF Bay edition of the Thrillist.

Looking in to this more, I think this idea is amazing and fun! Create your own favorite cereal in three easy steps. Choose your cereal, add dried fruits, add nuts and seeds and voila!, you have the the perfect hearty and healthy mix.

I love the "Runner's Fuel" recipe and "Happy Camper" too.

What will your mix be? Check out MojaMix on Facebook and Twitter too!

Website | Where to Buy