Today's Kool Idea: Mandolin Slicer

Cooking is an obsession for us at The Daily Kool. We love deliciously simple dishes, especially ones made with fresh vegetables from our local farmer's market. We have found that the thinner veggies are sliced, the better. However, as much as we love our food processor, it's too cumbersome to bring out for smaller jobs that feed a family of four.

Enter the mandolin slicer, one of our most-used kitchen gadgets. This product makes quick work of small jobs that require sliced, grated or julienne foods. There are so many options (and price ranges) when it comes to choosing a mandolin slicer; it's up to you to decide which would best suit your individual needs. We use the Progressive International Multi Slicer in our home. It cost us around $10, and we love it for the value it has provided us. We have also heard great things about Kyocera's Double Edged Mandolin Slicer...this model sells for about $23.

Mandolin slicers are definitely an effective tool for any kitchen. They are small enough to use in any kitchen, and most are top-rack dishwasher safe. They are absolutely excellent when you want to achieve perfectly uniform slices for even cooking or beautiful presentation. Be very careful though...the blades are incredibly sharp! Make sure to pay close attention when you are using a mandolin slicer, or you can easily slice off the tip of your finger. Though all come with safety grips to protect your fingers, we have found them extremely ineffective. We feel that investing in cut-resistant gloves to be well worth it, and not just for your mandolin slicer. Come back to The Daily Kool next week (or subscribe to our email newsletter) to see this featured product. In the meantime, please enjoy our very simple recipe for grilled zucchini and eggplant below:

Ingredients:

• 4 Japanese eggplants
• 4 medium zucchini
• a few tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
• freshly ground sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat your indoor grill or outdoor barbecue to high.
2. Use your mandolin's slicer blade to slice the eggplant and zucchini lengthwise paper-thin (1.5mm-2mm).
3. Place the slices on a hot grill and brush with a small amount of olive oil.
4. Turn quickly when charred.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and arrange on a platter, alternating the veggies for a lovely presentation.
6. Serve immediately.

Please note: The small amount of olive oil really brings out the taste of the vegetables. Remember that the thinner you slice your vegetables, the faster the cooking time. Do not leave your grill unattended. Be sure to try this delicious and healthy recipe with grilled or barbecued chicken this weekend. Enjoy!

Today's Kool Idea: MindWare Coloring Books

It is almost impossible to live without any stress. We admit that sometimes stress can make life more exciting. In fact, Americans actually seem to have become addicted to the kind of over-scheduled, hurried and tense lifestyle that is so common amongst us. However, if we allow stress to get out of control, it can harm our relationships, enjoyment of life, and especially our health.

Unfortunately, we are passing our stress-addictions onto our children. How many of our kids are over-scheduled with after-school activities and obscene amounts of homework? What ever happened to the days of lazy summers, and simple neighborhood play? We overheard a child in our son's elementary school complain the other day that he just wanted to go to sleep early that night...no doubt about it, our children are as stressed out as we are.

It is important for us to teach our children the necessity of taking a time out for rest and relaxation...and no, we don't mean sticking them in front of the television. Odds are, with the shows that our kids watch, they still won't be able to wind down from their day. Would you believe that good old-fashioned coloring is a proven stress reliever?

Our older son came home from school today upset about a science quiz he took today. To be honest, it was a tough day at work for us parents also. So, after dinner, we sat down at the table with our two children and some Mindware Coloring Books. We have to tell you...these books are amazing! What a terrific outlet for creative expression, and it worked well for the whole family. Yes, the designs are pretty intricate for younger ones, but we were able to pick a simpler one even our four-year-old could do. We had so much fun; this was a perfect opportunity to keep us relaxed while sharing the more difficult parts of our days. Mindware Coloring Books are definitely addictive (our children didn't want to stop), and we all felt better as we admired each other's artwork. Colored pencils and thin magic markers were the tools of choice for our artwork (as opposed to crayons and thicker markers).

It is our jobs as parents to set a good example for our children. A relaxed family is a happier one...you and your children deserve to take some time for more calming and pleasurable activities. We at The Daily Kool think this is so important, we will continue to feature family activities that encourage conversation, relaxation and just plain togetherness. Mindware Coloring Books are equally "kool" for adults and children.

Here's an idea: If your Mindware Coloring Books are too complex for your younger one, make a simplified design just for him. We took a regular piece of construction paper (light color) and several objects around the house. For example, for a circle motif, just take a cup (Dixie or other), and trace slightly overlapping circles on the paper. Get as creative as you want (Lego's for rectangles, post-it pads for squares). Your younger child will love the feeling that comes with doing the same project as the rest of the family!

Today's Kool Idea: Kindle 2

We at the DailyKool love to read all kinds of books, from romance to classics, science-fiction thrillers to autobiographies. Books can stimulate our imaginations and intellect, and is (in our opinion), the healthiest addiction to have and to instill in our children. Unfortunately, with technological advancements, there are so many other exciting and thrilling options available for entertainment, resulting in a loss of skill and passion for reading that is worth mourning.

Most of us have heard of Amazon's, commitment to bridge the gap between reading and technology with their innovative e-book reader called the Kindle. Launched in November of 2007, the Kindle sold out in its initial offering in 5 1/2 hours, and remained out of stock until April 2008. As of yesterday, Amazon's latest upgrade, the Kindle 2 is available nationwide to us voracious readers. Kindle 2 features improved battery life, 20% faster page-refreshing, an audio option for those of us who like our books read to us, and enough disk space to hold an estimated 1,500 books. Incredibly thin and lightweight, the Kindle 2 comes with over 240,000 books available for download. Amazon boasts many incredible features with this product, including a high-resolution electronic ink screen, adjustable text size, newspaper and magazine downloads, bookmark and annotation capacity, etc. With all these features and more, the Kindle 2 is arguably the best e-reader on the planet.

That said, the DailyKool must confess that we will probably not be purchasing this product just yet. Sure, we are impressed with the state of the art technology that Amazon has brought its customers...we are just unwilling to pay the hefty $359 (plus $9.99 per book) price tag for it. Though it is not a worthy investment for us, we can absolutely see its value for those with different lifestyles from ours, especially for the frequent business (or recreational) traveler. As Joseph Addison once said, "Reading is to the mind as exercise is to the body." The Kindle 2 is undoubtedly a really "kool" idea, and we applaud Amazon's continued efforts to keep us reading.

Today's Kool Idea: VisorTag Handicap Placard Holder

Today, a follower of the DailyKool showed us one of those "why didn't we think of that" products. After having to replace her 5-year handicap placard several times due to weather damage, our DailyKool friend found a simple, yet effective sleeve for her hang tag. We at the DailyKool can commiserate with the annoyance of our parking permits cracking, warping, chipping, and peeling. However, as impressed as we were with the recommendation, we think that we've found something even better...the VisorTag.

The VisorTag, by JL Safety, is not just any parking permit placard holder designed to hold and protect your handicapped or disabled parking permit tag. This ingenious little gizmo is guaranteed to take away the frustration of hanging, removing, replacing, losing or misplacing any parking ID permit for good. Available in two sizes, the VisorTag is not only for the disabled; it is also ideal for other parking ID permits and hang tags used at universities, hospitals, businesses, condos, etc. Even permits for for season passes, media/press, special events and delivery vehicles can benefit from this "kool" product. Simply clip your VisorTag to the passenger sun visor, pull the permit holder down when you park, and swing it back toward the visor before you drive. It will magnetically latch into a position out of your sight. Your parking placard is protected, and you no longer need to touch it. You can even transfer your tag to another car with ease.

We at the DailyKool think the VisorTag is a great product for anyone who wants to keep his/her parking permit easy to locate, display and remove. Reasonably priced (about $21, including shipping)and ultra-convenient...our only complaint is that we didn't think of it first!

Today's Kool Idea: Skineez Dog Toys

Pepper (our pampered pooch) is crazy about soft plush toys.  Unfortunately, a new toy will maybe last an hour or so before the stuffing is all over the house.  Sound familiar?  A follower of the DailyKool told us that he keeps a collection of fluff toys in the basement to indulge his canine's compulsion.  It's an expensive and messy outlet for our dogs, but they have so much fun conquering these toys, we hate to deprive them.

Meet Skineez...a fluff-free (yes, you heard us correctly) dog toy that is specially designed for dogs who love stuffed toys and the parents who don't.  They are about 24" long, and come in three different animal designs:  the fox, raccoon and skunk.  We have both the fox and raccoon; our dog, Pepper is particularly attached to the raccoon.  The flattened shape will bring out your dog's prey instinct, and each comes with two squeakers (one in the head, the other in the tail).  Even without the stuffing, these Skineez dog toys are silky soft, yet much more durable than we expected.  The long and floppy body makes it easy for any size dog to grab, hold and carry.

We at the DailyKool love Pepper.  We pamper him with the best food, daily exercise and lots of loving.  He even has a series of "PoodlePicks" videos and blog writings for sports and other events (check them out and become a fan on Facebook).  And boy, does he love to play with his Skineez raccoon...and we love to see him happy (even when the squeaking wakes us up at 2am).  Check out this "kool" dog toy...not only will your dog be thrilled, but so will you.

 

Today's Kool Idea: Seaora Sea Salt Scrub

Do you feel that no matter how much moisturizer you apply your skin remains dry and flaky? Is the winter season winning in your battle for soft supple skin? Well, then check out this "kool" Sea Salt Body Scrub from Seaora.

Many of us have heard of the legendary benefits of the minerals from the Dead Sea. People travel from all over the world to experience the "biggest natural spa on earth." The Dead Sea's heavy mineral concentration of over 21 different minerals is believed to help with skin problems, like eczema and psoriasis, plus aching joints and even fluid retention. Although most of us cannot travel all the way to the Dead Sea, there is a wonderful way to experience the spa benefits in the comfort of your own home.

We at The Daily Kool are obsessed with the Dead Sea products and have tried them from several companies over the years. Therefore, we will probably be featuring some individual favorites several times on this blog site. Our absolute, all-time favorite product is by far Seaora's Sea Salt Body Scrub. The scrub combines dead sea salt and minerals with natural oils for silky smooth skin. The salt acts as a natural exfoliate, removing dead skin cells and opening pores to gently soften, stimulate and cleanse the skin. The scrub comes in a few different fragrances and also unscented...the Lavender scent is our favorite.

This scrub truly feels marvelous all over the body. As with most high-quality products, the scrub is a little pricey (it is less than a trip to the spa), but we have to say that a little truly goes a long way. We use the scrub in the shower/bath for an all over body treatment 1-2 times per week. However, we absolutely recommend using it once a day on your hands...you won't believe the difference after just one use. A great product and a great value.

VERY IMPORTANT WARNING: Watch out for cuts and scraps on your body (from shaving, etc.) when using this product...remember, it's a "salt" scrub!

Today's Kool Idea: Deni Meat Tenderizer, aka The Blade Machine

With today's food prices skyrocketing, more and more of us are forced to buy less expensive cuts of meat to feed our families. These cuts of meat, such as a flank steak (london broil) or top round, also tend to be a bit on the healthier side...less marbling from fat makes a leaner steak. Okay, so we've saved some money, and taken a step towards a healthier lifestyle...now what do we do about the rough, chewy texture that goes hand-in-hand with these cuts? Come on...fat is good, right? How can we possibly get a moist, flavorful steak without it?

Your answer? A meat tenderizer, of course! Wait a minute...do we mean one of those mallets that look like a hammer with rows of small pyramid spikes on the ends? Nah...those things are pretty ineffective, at least in our experience...good for pounding out some frustrations, though. But, if you want a steak that doesn't look like it came out the loser in a street fight, check out this unbelievable meat tenderizer from Deni, aptly referred to as The Blade Machine . Not only does this product improve the flavor and texture of beef, but also on gamier meats such as venison or pheasant. Plus, it hastens the cooking and marinating times of your meat, whether you are preparing beef, poultry, or even fish. Finally, it reduces shrinkage during cooking, so your meat will retain most of it's original pre-cooked size.

There are two versions of The Blade Machine...one with 16, razor-sharp, stainless-steel prongs, and one with 48. This is one solidly made, serious "must-have" tool for every kitchen. Use it to tenderize food for any cooking method...works equally well whether you're baking, grilling, broiling, braising or roasting. You can even use this tenderizer to pierce whole roasts, chickens or turkeys. For safe storage, the product comes with a plastic cover to contain the super-sharp blades. The Blade Machine is dishwasher safe; however, The Daily Kool recommends hand-washing to ensure that all meat particles are removed from the blades before the next use.

The Blade Machine meat tenderizer by Deni makes our steaks delicious even when simply broiled with some low-sodium soy sauce poured on top. However, for those of you who prefer to marinade your beef, we have given you a simple recipe to try. We at The Daily Kool prefer our chicken marinaded, so we have provided you with a recipe for that as well. Remember, though...you don't have to marinade more than an hour or two to get robust flavor when you use this product. Enjoy!

Simple Steak Marinade
1/4 cup steak sauce
2 Tbsp. brown sugar (packed)
2 Tbsp. lime juice
1/4 tsp. ground red pepper

Combine all ingredients and mix well. Marinade in refrigerator, turning once or twice.

Chicken Marinade
1 cup oil
1/2 cup vinegar
2 tablespoons mayo (or Miracle Whip)
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon each of salt, pepper
2 cloves minced garlic
2 tablespoons thyme (or poultry seasoning, depending on your preference)

Whisk ingredients together in a small bowl. Combine with chicken and marinade in refrigerator for 15 minutes to 1/2 hour. This makes a lot of marinade, depending on how much chicken you're making...feel free to take half and freeze it for another time.

Today's Kool Idea: Comfy Cozy

When a friend asked us to give a recommendation for an extra-special newborn gift, we at The Daily Kool knew a product review was on its way. Check out the very first (and still the best) cuddly friend our oldest child received...the Comfy Cozy Lamb. Shhh...don't tell anyone...but he's now seven and still sneaks it for comfort sometimes when he thinks no one else is looking. Our younger son likes to teas his big brother about it...while holding his own "Doggie" Comfy Cozy of course...he's four.

Baby Gund is a 106-year-old company known worldwide for its award-winning, top quality, soft and huggable plush designs. They definitely don't disappoint with this wonderful product. The Comfy Cozy features fabulous textures and satin paws that babies love to rub. So incredibly soft, yet amazingly sturdy. They claim to be surface washable, but who are we kidding? If your children are as attached to them as ours are, you will definitely have to put them into a washing machine (delicate cycle) at some point. We have, several times, and all of our Comfy Cozies (we own five of them) have held up remarkably well. These items are a bit expensive, but you are definitely getting value for your money.

Although our children have their preferences, there are several different animals to choose from, each more adorable than the next. All of our Comfy Cozies are about 24", just the perfect size for little ones to carry around with them. Some places will offer personalization options, if you prefer. We at The Daily Kool never recommend putting a child's name on anything that may leave the home for safety reasons, but it is available. This product is such a beautiful nursery accent and a great item for the crib, rocker or bed. You definitely "Gotta Getta Gund!"

Today's Kool Idea: OtterBox Waterproof IPOD Case

Okay, we at The Daily Kool love to swim...it's a challenging, effective and no-impact workout that feels wonderful. If only it weren't so boring!

Enter the waterproof IPOD case. Our friends recommended that we check out a company called OtterBox. We bought a bundle kit for our IPOD classic that included the case, waterproof headphones and an armband for around $100. Perhaps a little pricey, but oh so worth it! Heavy-duty plastic case that hooks onto your armband, giving you complete mobility for swimming laps. Just a quick note: Last time we checked, the set was on back order from OtterBox directly...check out Amazon though...they seem to have the individual components in stock.

Sure...we were nervous too...trusting OtterBox to protect our precious IPODs from drowning is pretty scary stuff. No worries! The seal is perfect, and the music clarity underwater definitely exceeded our expectations. Though we are not big fans of ear buds in general, these were actually pretty comfortable.

The best part? Using the Otterbox definitely increased our stamina and helped us keep our focus and rhythm. Our only challenge...remembering not to open our mouths to sing underwater--gulp!

Today's Kool Idea: Olivio Spreadable Butter

Is there some kind of self-help group for those of us addicted to bread? Warm, freshly baked bread with a crispy crust and soft, chewy inside...yum! Forget about cookies, cakes, ice cream and even chocolate. Give us a roll slathered with butter and we're in heaven.

We admit it though. Our bread of choice is the almighty bagel. Okay, we realize that the marriage of bagels and cream cheese should not necessarily be messed with, but sometimes our palates are just begging us to treat it with butter instead. What? Blasphemy you say? Well, if we were referring to the rock hard blocks of butter that tear apart our bakery works of art, we would agree with you completely. Lucky for us, we were introduced to Olivio Spreadable Butter at a breakfast gathering with friends. Trust us...it's absolutely delicious.

Started by the famous Lee Iacocca (and son-in-law), and developed by genius chefs (well, at least in our opinion), Olivio Spreadable Butter is a blend of cream, canola and extra light olive oils...perfect for spreading (yes, even cold) and cooking. This product has half the calories of butter and 1/3 the cholesterol. Rich with 400mg of ALA Omega 3s and not hydrogenate or trans fats, Olivio Spreadable Butter is a great alternative to the traditional stuff. The company also claims that this spread is great for baking, but be aware...it is salted, so we recommend only trying it out on savory (not sweet) baking and to modify your salt ingredients accordingly. Don't worry, though, this product is definitely not too salty...just a perfect blend, in our opinion.

Straight out of the refrigerator, Olivio Spreadable Butter covered our coveted fresh bagel completely and effortlessly. We've tested it spread on all kinds of breads, including biscuits and muffins. We've also used it to enhance steamed veggies and to make the perfect grilled cheese sandwich (just spread a little on each slice of bread before cooking). The best part? We found it in our local supermarket at a reasonable price. Go ahead...we challenge you to take a slice of regular bread out of your fridge and test this delicious product for yourselves. You will definitely agree that Olivio Spreadable Butter is one "kool" idea!

Today's Kool Idea: The Daily Soup Cookbook

Aahhh...there is nothing better than a hot cup of soup on a cold winter's night. Sure, you can get those condensed soups in a can from your local supermarket, but why? Nothing...and we mean nothing beats the taste of homemade when it comes to soup. Making a fresh pot of soup may seem as intimidating as it is tempting, but we at The Daily Kool have found the perfect cookbook to ease your way into it.

The Daily Soup, a Manhattan chain with four locations (that we know of) came out with a fabulous cookbook called The Daily Soup Cookbook. Sure, it came out about ten years ago, but this book will become a staple in your home like it is in ours (we're on our second copy after over-using the first one). The recipes are straightforward and are organized by primary ingredient. This book will guide you through techniques, and make you smile with clever sidebars. The recipes include old favorites like Chicken Matzoh Ball and French Onion, as well as unique creations to please every palate. There are so many wonderful soups to choose from (200, to be exact), you'll be tempted to try a different one every week.

There is even a final section on stock preparation. We make a fresh batch of the vegetable stock every month. We simply double the recipe, freeze the stock in ice-cube trays, then place the cubes in a freezer bag for storage. This way, whether we are making soup for two or ten, we can simply take out just the amount of stock we need. Trust us...a rich, full-bodied stock yields a soup like no other, and is surprisingly easy and affordable to make. Don't jut take our word for it...here is a simple recipe for veggie stock for you to try at home, courtesy of The Daily Soup Cookbook:

Ingredients:

• 1 large Spanish onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 4 celery stalks with leaves, chopped
• 2 whole tomatoes, chopped (we used a 14.5 oz. can, to reduce time and cost)
• 1 leek, chopped
• 1/2 head garlic (we actually use McCormick's jarred chopped garlic, 2-1/2 tablespoons, because we always have it in the fridge)
• 1/3 cup white wine
• 12 cups mineral or filtered water
• 1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon whole peppercorns
• 1 Bouquet Garni (3 fresh Italian parsley sprigs, 1 fresh thyme sprig, 1 bay leaf...put in a piece of cheesecloth, if desired and tie with a piece of string - we actually don't do this...too much work for us, so we just throw it all into the pot together)

What To Do:

1. Put all the ingredients in a large stockpot. We like to use a steam basket to put all of the ingredients in...makes it easier to discard the solids later.
   
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, partially cover and simmer (very small bubbles) for 1 hour.
4. Strain the stock and discard the solids.

Use this easy, versatile stock instead of water whenever you make soup...thank you for this terrific book, Daily Soup!


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Today's Kool Idea: Dad's Root Beer Throat Drops

Flu season is definitely still in force, and with the groundhog seeing his shadow last week (six more weeks of winter...sigh), who knows when it's really going to end. Let's face it...when our kids get sick, and many of them are, we're just a few days away from catching it ourselves (again). That's right...stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, fever, chills etc...this is one virus that shows no mercy.

We at The Daily Kool can empathize, especially those of us with that nasty cough. You know the one we're talking about. That dry, hacking cough that just seems to go on for weeks, keeping us up all night, hindering our activities during the day. What's a person to do? Most cough drops taste...well, like cough drops. We wanted to find something that tastes and works great.

We found the solution at our local Walgreens. Dad's Old Fashioned Root Beer Throat Drops taste amazing, and have those soothing menthol vapors our poor throats need. Seriously, you will hardly know you're taking medicine...they are that delicious. And, at the more than reasonable price of 2/$3, Dad's is just what the doctor (and pocketbook) ordered. We challenge you to find a better tasting drop. Our only complaint is that it is exclusive to Walgreens. The good news, though, is that there is likely to be a Walgreens close by wherever you are. Aaaahhh...what a relief!

Today's Kool Idea: Romantic Fondue Meal

Okay, if you haven't already made restaurant reservations for Valentine's Day, it's probably too late now, unless you have friends in high places of course. For those of us with only friends in low places, we have to do something quickly about this problem or we'll be right there with them. The Daily Kool has a very romantic, yet doable solution for you...fondue at home.

We at the Daily Kool love The Melting Pot...okay, we admit to even being members of the Melting Pot Club. Fondue is really that delicious. Our two favorite course are the yummy cheese appetizer and the decadent chocolate dessert...why not make a meal out of them? Here are two great recipes, courtesy of our favorite fondue restaurant:

Melting Pot Swiss Cheddar Fondue:
12 ounces beer
8 ounces Swiss cheese, shredded (we like Emmentaler and/or Gruyere)
4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup of flour
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 teaspoon mustard powder
1/4 teaspoon pepper
chunks of french, Italian and/or pumpernickel bread for dipping
chunks of red, green and/or yellow apples for dipping
cut up carrots, cauliflower and celery (or any veggies of your choosing) for dipping

1. Mix cheese with flour....this is very important for a smooth consistency!
2. Heat beer in fondue pot until steaming.
3. Add Worcestershire, garlic, mustard and pepper; mix well.
4. Add cheese, a little at a time, stirring until melted before adding more, until you have a smooth, dippable cheese fondue.

If you don't have a fondue pot, don't panic! This recipe works just as well if you make it in a pot on the stove top over low heat. You can then transfer it to a crock pot (set on low) to keep it warm while eating. Okay, here's a chocolate fondue recipe:

The Melting Pot Restaurant Flaming Turtle Fondue

2 ounces melted milk chocolate
2 ounces caramel syrup
1 ounce chopped pecans
1/3 ounce 151 rum (may substitute with other flambe liquor

assorted fruits, marshmallows, cheesecake, brownies, etc. for dipping

1. Using a double boiler fondue pot, heat mixture of chocolate and caramel to a temperature no greater than 135 degrees F.
2. Stir frequently. (For thinner chocolate, slowly add whole milk while stirring until desired consistency is reached.).
3. Slowly pour rum into fondue pot.
4. Ignite liquor by touching lighted match to edge of pot.* After flame burns, sprinkle nuts over chocolate mixture.

*Please note: Cooking or flambeing with an open flame should be done with great care and adult supervision.

To make this a truly memorable meal, prepare to eat this picnic style on the floor. Surround the area with beautiful flowers, candles (flameless ones, if you can get them) and soft music in the background. Arrange some throw pillows for added comfort, and snuggle with your Valentine in front of the pot while you enjoy a meal that's guaranteed to impress!

Today's Kool Idea: FireJewel Illuminated Jewelry

What a unique and beautiful way to remind her how much she sets your heart afire! Firejewel has partnered with world-famous Swarovski to create truly stunning jewelry that defies darkness. Patented LED technology is surrounded by the diamond-like crystals for a subtle illumination from the inside out. These extraordinary pieces are powered by a small, replaceable watch battery in the clasp, making them investments to last.

There are several designs to choose from, and each is offered with white/clear, pink or blue light. We loved the sugar cube designs for a truly unique look, but the bicone was a shape that we couldn't resist. FireJewel is a wonderful gift option to give the light of your life.

P.S. It looks like the company will be coming out with a Disney line for girls...keep that in mind for your little girl's birthday or other special event. Also makes a nice wedding jewlery accessory. Check out the video on this product for the blushing bride.

Today's Kool Idea: My Teddy Bare

Give your honey that wink, nod and nudge for Valentine's Day with this romantic, unique and sexy gift. My Teddy Bare features an adorable, plush bear. His wink and smile hint at the seductive secret gift he's hiding in the red satin pouch behind his back. Our gift choice for Valentine's Day was the couple's matching sets, with boxers for him and a sexy teddy for her.

We love that the lingerie was available in sizes to fit all ladies - no "one size fits most" (yeah right) here. Also includes a removable key chain on the back zipper, a plush satin heart to keep in the pouch and a gift card to write your own personal message. A sweet way to add a touch of naughty to your nice.

Today's DailyKool: Lock and Lock

Got these nifty household containers for the holidays from some QVC addicts.  All we can say is this...goodbye Tupperware, hello Lock and Lock!  We cannot say enough great things about this product!  It's lightweight, microwave safe, freezer safe, dishwasher safe, and such a snap (yes, pun intended...sorry) to open and close.  

Many of the sets come in bright colors that are still transparent enough to display contents clearly.  Of course, we had to take one, fill it with tomato sauce and drop it on the white-tiled floor to test the "leak-proof" seal...fabulous.  As an extra bonus, the tomato sauce did not stain the high grade, polypropylene plastic container.  

Other fans told us a story about Lock and Lock keeping lettuce fresh and crisp for weeks...we don't really recommend keeping produce that long, but it's still good to know!  These guys have really locked out (sorry, again) the competition with this "kool" idea!

Today's Kool Idea: Esphera Puzzles

For those of us who love to experience life in all its 3-D glory, traditional puzzles might leave you feeling a little flat.  Esphera has brought us a collection of 360-degree puzzles with curved plastic pieces that fit together to form a freestanding sphere.  Esphera puzzles come in a variety of images, sizes and piece counts, so you can find one appropriate for kids as young as 6-years old.

Fun to do (especially with the kids), Esphera puzzles make a vibrant and impressive display when complete.  A unique challenge for puzzle aficionados, but for the less talented (okay, okay, we confess), each piece is numbered on the back for easier assembly.  A little pricey, but what a "kool" idea!