Today's Kool Idea: TykeLight Portable GloMate by Mobi

When our youngest son turned three, he suddenly developed a huge fear of the dark. And we mean huge! He was nervous driving in a dark car at night, insisted on being carried at night (the moon was scary, also), and refused to go into any room that didn't already have a light on. He has always shared a room with his big brother...this helped him feel a bit more secure at bedtime, at least. Unfortunately, if he had to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, he would become hysterical crying when big brother refused to wake up to take him (our oldest is a very sound sleeper). Our poor son was having a very difficult time maintaining his typical independence and we had to find some way to help him.

Much of our son's fear of the dark (yes, he still has it) is a result of his overactive imagination. We didn't have this challenge with the first child..he's very "black and white" by nature. But our youngest one has always been more creative, telling us fanciful stories of magical creatures and faraway places almost from the time he started speaking. He sees unicorns and dragons in the shapes of the clouds...our oldest tends to envision the state of Missouri (go figure). So, it's not hard to understand that our little boy sees all sorts of scary stuff lurking in the shadows of the dark.

The TykeLight Portable GloMate from Mobi has become a lifesaver for us and our now four year old son. They don't come much cuter than this little guy! This portable nightlight is a cuddly plaything with a friendly, silky feel that he can snuggle up with on a dark night. Mobi has really done a great job with this one...our son hardly ever puts it down, even during the day. The kid-friendly, grab-'n-go design make it really easy. The different color options have actually made our TykeLight Portable GloMate a four-in-one toy for our son. "Greenie" checks hallways and dark rooms to make sure they're safe to enter. "Tiki" (she's a girl, and the solid red mode) loves to play with stuffed animals, often disciplining them when they deserve a time out. "Bud" (blue mode) likes to hang out and watch TV, while "Mobi" stays on the nightstand to cycle through the rainbow of colors to help him fall asleep at night. Seriously, folks...we have to be the only family that has a GloMate with a split personality!

Future psychological bills aside, the TykeLight Portable GloMate nightlight has really helped our son overcome his fears. It stays on the charger base, where he can take it off whenever he wants to play with it. We love that it doesn't need batteries or power cords...plus, the safe and efficient LED's keep it completely cool to the touch. It gives off just enough light to keep the monsters away, but not so much that keeps him awake at bedtime. Our only complaint is that the 15 minute timer only works with the solid blue mode...we would have liked that options with all of the colors (particularly the rainbow one). Regardless, the adorable TykeLight Portable GloMate is kid-tough, works great and is perfectly safe for even young ones. What a great gift idea for a baby shower or anyone with smaller children. Ours is definitely a welcome addition to The Daily Kool family.

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Today's Kool Idea: Greenies Pill Pockets for Dogs and Cats

When we were kids, our older brother hated taking aspirin. Okay, perhaps we're really showing our age here, but these were the days before children's Tylenol liquid suspension and when Dimetapp cough syrup (we remember it as the yummy grape medicine) was by prescription only. Our poor mother could only get our brother to take a pill by crushing it in applesauce and spoon-feeding him. Considering the torture he put us through growing up, it was a great pleasure to have a reason to call big brother a "baby" at times...na nanny boo boo!

Our poor pets don't have it as easy as our brother did when it comes to taking medication. Whenever our dog Pepper has to take a pill, we literally pry his mouth open, shove it to the back of his throat, clamp his jaw shut and rub until he swallows. Don't get us wrong, Pepper's pretty good about taking them (certainly better than our brother was), but why should we have to struggle at all? Isn't there a way to let him think his medication is more reward than punishment?

Leave it to our mother...she found these Pill Pockets for dogs and cats by the Greenies company last year. As a foster parent for Poodle Rescue, our mother fell in love with and decided to keep an otherwise unadoptable dog who had a host of social and medical issues...sometimes, things are just meant to be. Poor Kasha took pills three times a day and somehow became very adept at hiding them in her mouth to later be spit out in Mom's potted plants...ah yes, Kasha was quite the clever pooch. Greenies Pill Pockets changed all of that.

Greenies Pill Pockets for dogs and cats are a nutritious treat that contain a built-in pocket, perfect for hiding a pill or supplement. This veterinarian designed and recommended solution is truly brilliant (why can't we think of these things?)! Seriously, folks...it doesn't get any easier than this. Just hold the Greenies Pill Pocket, insert the pill, squeeze the top half closed, then give as a treat. There are two sizes available for dogs; the smaller one is great for tablets, while the larger one is more suited for capsules. The one size for cats works well for either capsules or tablets. Dogs have their flavor choice of beef or chicken, while cats get either chicken or salmon. Pets love the taste so much, they won't even notice there's medicine inside.

Though we have been recommending Greenies Pill Pockets to all of our friends without complaint, remember that pets (like people) have different tastes...it is possible that yours won't like them. But, for around $8 per package, it's certainly worth taking the chance. We've also heard that some cats may be too smart to fall for the old "hide the pill in the pocket" trick and will chew around the pill...show offs! Our pooch Pepper tends to just swallow the whole darn thing, especially if we make him work (sit, shake, speak, etc.) to earn it. We love how pliable Greenies Pill Pockets for dogs and cats are...you can mush them around even really large pills. Plus, we can fit several smaller pills inside one of the larger pill pockets if we wanted to.

There has been some controversy surrounding the authenticity of some of the Greenies Pill Pocket distributors on Amazon, so we've referred you to our friends at 1-800-PetMeds (we used to work for the CEO at his previous company ten years ago and are big fans of his). Besides, the prices are reasonable and they have a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. The company doesn't seem to carry the salmon flavor for cat, though...we're not sure why. If you'd rather shop locally, we've found that Pet Supermarket tends to have a better price than PetSmart, and that many vets carry them as well.

Here's the bottom line...if you put medication inside something that pets actually like, then giving pills becomes a lot easier. Just like the applesauce trick worked with our brother. Greenies Pill Pockets for dogs and cats are a stress-free medication delivery treat and an absolute "kool" idea that every pet owner should try.

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Today's Kool Idea: Skechers Shape Ups Fitness Shoes

Okay, so we are quite a few weeks into summer vacation, and we've noticed that we're filling out our bathing suits much more than we expected. Somehow, our plans for getting into better shape have fallen by the wayside. What's going on here? Well, though we are not ones to make excuses (yeah, who are we kidding?), we do have several explanations. The kids are home, so we're finding ourselves parked at fast food restaurants more often than not (hey, we're on vacation too). It's been hotter than...well, you know. And, if we're not suffering in the blistering heat, we're getting drenched in the rain and chased by a flock of mosquitoes. Who wants to exercise outside in that? Of course, the heat naturally brings on our cravings for the sweet stuff, so the kids are eating ice cream almost every day...we can't let them eat alone now, can we? Wouldn't it be nice if we had a way to get into shape without the extra effort?

We've been hearing a lot the new Skechers Shape Ups fitness shoes and decided to check them out at our local mall. Skechers have been promoting their new line as a way of toning muscles and promoting weight loss, without setting a foot in a gym. Getting fit while walking, working and shopping? Sneakers that improve posture, strengthen the back and reduce stress on knee and ankle joints? Seriously, folks...who could resist these claims?

Here's the deal...every day, we typically walk on hard surfaces, placing stress on our knee joints and lower back. Skechers Shape Ups fitness shoes turn hard surfaces into more comfortable ground with a dynamic rolling bottom, soft foam insert under the heal and a dual-density mid-sole...all designed within the framework of the sneaker itself. The three elements work together to give the feeling of walking on a softer, uneven surface, simulating muscles that aren't usually used when walking on hard ground with standard walking shoes. Added benefits are increased circulation, blood flow and reduced impact on joints and lower back.

Okay, Skechers Shape Ups fitness shoes sound like a dream come true, but do they really work? In a word...yes! We've been wearing ours every day for about a week now. We don't have the back and joint pain that we typically feel after a day of running around with the kids. Plus, we absolutely feel the difference in our calves, thighs, buttocks and stomachs when we walk in them...provided we are doing it correctly. Because of the natural instability, we have to concentrate a little more on our steps or our ankles automatically roll inward. We have taken to chanting "sink (heel), roll, push (toes)" as we walk. Interestingly, the brisker we walk, the easier it is to keep our movements smooth and fluid. We wouldn't recommend running in these babies, though.

Our Skechers Shape Ups are honestly one of the most comfortable pairs of shoes we now own, and we feel great walking in them. We love that they come in a variety of styles and are available for both men and women. Though we haven't found the men's style online, they are in our local Sketchers store. The boat-like sole makes them all look fairly clunky, but the lift certainly makes us feel and look taller...we can use all the help we can get in that area anyway. The bigger soles are supposedly right in fashion...well, maybe for teenagers, but they look pretty silly on us. That's okay, though. The benefits are worth being a source of endless amusement to our friends.

Skechers Shape Ups fitness shoes have certainly changed the way we walk, and are one of the "koolest" investments we've made this summer. They are so comfortable, the fitness benefits are just an added bonus. Check out their video for more information. Skechers Shape Ups just may be the answer to getting in shape by simply standing and walking. Now, if we could just lay off the ice cream...

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Today's Kool Idea: Naterfish Best Pet Ramp.com

The Daily Kool's beloved pooch Pepper, has just turned 9 years old...wow, time is definitely flying by quickly. Though he still acts like a puppy much of the time, we have noticed that things are slowing down just a little bit for him. The vet has told us his hips are beginning to weaken, as is often common for a standard poodle of his age. Plus, we've seen the extra hesitation when he jumps in the car, on the couch, and especially on the bed...yep, it's definitely time to get Pepper a pet ramp.

Why a ramp and not stairs, you ask (yes, we heard you)? Though both stairs and ramps are great for reducing the impact and stress associated with jumping on or off higher surfaces, we feel that the smooth and virtually impact-free design of a ramp is a better option for most pets...well, at least for ours. Since Pepper is a larger dog (and admittedly quite clumsy at times), we want to make sure that we invest in a ramp that is sturdy enough to virtually guarantee he won't fall off of it. Plus, since the ramp will become a permanent fixture in our home, we'd like to have one that blends in nicely with our wood finished bedroom furniture. So, which pet ramp is the best? And safest?

Check out the Naterfish pet ramp at Best Pet Ramp.com. These have to be some of the most beautiful pet ramps we've seen on the market yet...and we've done our research! The company boasts the safest and strongest indoor pet ramps on the market...that's quite a claim. Custom hand-finished (not factory made) and able to accommodate weight in excess of 300lbs, these pet ramps certainly seem unlikely to slip, tip over or fall apart. Yet, they are light enough to easily move when necessary to clean or make the bed...if you're a stickler for that kind of thing. The quality of the Naterfish pet ramps at Best Pet Ramp.com certainly seems top of the line, and we love all of the customizable options they offer. Best Pet Ramp.com offers three different heights (3ft, 4ft and 5ft) as well as three different width options to accommodate pets of all sizes. With a choice of seven wood finishes, six carpet colors, this is one pet ramp that would be an attractive addition to any bedroom.

Some of the Naterfish pet ramps at Best Pet Ramp.com feature models that include a safety rail which helps prevent your dog or cat from accidentally stepping off the side of the bed ramp. We love, love love this idea, especially since the rail can be placed on either side of the ramp and changed anytime. The Daily Kool is very disappointed to note that the website is not offering the safety rail option at this time...hopefully, this is just temporary. We have to say that the safety rail was one of the biggest selling points for us, and what truly sets this company apart from the rest...at least in our humble opinions. We have to admit that we would never have missed the safety rail if Best Pet Ramp.com had taken the description off of its website when they stopped offering it. But now that the idea is permanently fixed in our minds, we just cannot let it go...we're strange like that.

Even without the safety rail, the Naterfish pet ramps at Best Pet Ramp.com are undoubtedly the "koolest" pet ramps that we have come across online. Like most pet owners, we want to make sure we keep our dog as healthy as possible...protecting his hips, joints and back from injuries is a major concern for us. Let's not forget how pet ramps benefit our own backs...hey, we're getting older too, and Pepper is not quite as easy lift as you might think! A Naterfish pet ramp at Best Pet Ramp.com is a great, worry-free solution to protecting Pepper and helping him retain mobility with age, and most definitely a "kool" idea.

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Today's Kool Idea: Bose QuietComfort 2 Acoustic Noise Canceling Headphones

Last week was a miserable time to fly to the west coast...trust us, we were there. The weather was severe enough to cause several flight redirects, delays and cancellations. There were babies crying, kids screaming and adults complaining everywhere we turned...at the airport and on the plane. And did we mention the turbulence? We were all shaking in our seats...literally. All in all, it was a frustrating, exhausting and noisy experience for those of us traveling.

Thank goodness for our Bose QuietComfort 2 acoustic noise canceling headphones...we give them complete credit for helping us keep our sanity. Bose really lives up to its legacy of acclaimed performance and total noise reduction with these headphones. Simply slip them on, and enjoy the peaceful reprieve as the noisy world around you fades softly into the background. In the airport, we used our Bose QuietComfort 2 headphones with our iPod, and plugged them into the in-flight entertainment system when on the airplane. The sound quality is superb...well balanced and detailed for superior audio. Of course, we wouldn't expect anything from this innovative and award winning company.

As if the sound quality and noise reduction of our Bose QuietComfort 2 headphones weren't enough, they are also incredibly comfortable to wear. The ear cups rest gently around the ear for an ergonomically crafted, cushioned fit. For those of you who prefer an "on the ear" fit, Bose also offers a QuietComfort3 model. It is reputed to have the same amazing quality as the Bose QuietComfort 2 with slightly different features, such as a lithium battery operation (instead of AAA) and slightly lighter weight.

We have read a few reviews complaining about the construction of the Bose QuietComfort 2 acoustic noise canceling headphones, particularly the earpiece rotators. However, we've had our set for a little over three years without a problem. Also, remember that no headphones will eliminate all noise...but, Bose does an admirable job of reducing distractions from engine, city and even office noise. Convenient to store in the slim carrying case, the Bose QuietComfort 2 headphones can be taken whenever you're on the move. Another interesting observation to consider is the impact our Bose QuietComfort 2 headphones have had in reducing motion sickness. Somehow (and we assume it's the noise cancellation feature) these headphones seem to balance out our inner ear, therefore significantly minimizing our nausea from flight turbulence. Go figure.

Whether we're traveling in a plane, working in an office drowning out our spouse or just want to relax and enjoy the type of sound quality that is arguably unsurpassed by Bose, the QuietComfort 2 acoustic noise canceling headphones have definitely been worth our investment. You might want to check them out..definitely a "kool" idea.

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Today's Kool Idea: Pour Thing 1 Gallon and 2 Liter Pouring Device

Sunday, our two boys decided to surprise us with a delicious breakfast in bed...a bowl of cereal is the extent of their culinary talents. As we were listening to them bustle about downstairs (yes, we know everything that goes on in our house), we had a debate as to who would spill milk all over the floor...yep, it was the seven year old! Poor things...they were so upset! Independence is always so important to little ones, but let's face it...those gallon jugs of milk are heavy! After we dried the kids tears and cleaned up the mess, we all sat down together for a family discussion...the thought was wonderful, but maybe next time they should surprise just one of us and recruit the other to help. Milk containers are just not designed with kids in mind.

Sometimes, life is full of strange coincidences. We were watching QVC later that afternoon (we love the kitchen shows), when they introduced the Pour Thing 1 gallon and 2 liter pouring device. What a "kool" idea! Simply place your 1 gallon jug of milk or juice in the container, take off the cap, and tilt it to dispense just the right amount of liquid...no strain, no spills and no more tears. Great for children, the elderly or adults with arthritis, Pour Thing's patented easy hinge swing design allows for perfect pours every time. The best part? It fits conveniently right on the shelf of the refrigerator...all pouring can be done right from there without any lifting. Just make sure you keep enough room to accommodate the swing as you pour.

We like that QVC offers both the 2 liter and 1 gallon pouring device in one package...plus, it's the best deal that we could find online. However, while watching the presentation, we couldn't help but coming up with a "wish list" for future versions of the Pour Thing. For example, 2 liter soda bottles are not used in The Daily Kool household, but we do have a preference for 64 ounce containers of juice. There should be a way to make the Pour Thing adjustable to accommodate a larger variety of containers, with perhaps a small bungee cord that hooks in the back to keep each one in place. What can we say? We prefer our products to be a little more adaptable.

Regardless, the Pour Thing is undoubtedly a "kool" idea and one we may well decide to get in our household. All this so our kids can succeed in their next attempt at breakfast in bed? Lightweight, durable and convenient, the Pour Thing will certainly help them gain the independence they so crave. It just might be worth it...we can always give the 2 liter device to our parents.

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Today's Kool Idea: No Stress Chess

Our four year old loves to play chess. Yes, you heard us right...four. Is he some kind of prodigy? Nope. Don't get us wrong...our son is definitely very bright, and we claim our bragging rights as often as we can (doesn't every parent?). But, we don't think that Mensa is quite ready to extend an invitation to him yet. We do, however, give the folks at Winning Moves complete credit for our son's love of the classic strategic game with their wonderful edition of No Stress Chess.

Researchers have been studying the benefits of chess on children's reading, math and general cognitive skills for the past 30+ years. Children who play chess consistently outperform others in critical thinking, memory retention and verbal reasoning. In fact, the benefits are so significant, nearly 30 countries (such as Russia and Iceland) incorporate chess as part of public school curricula. We at The Daily Kool certainly think it should be a requirement (not a mere enrichment) here in America. When we were searching for a chess program for our older son a year ago (his school didn't offer it), we had difficulty finding one that was convenient and affordable. So, we decided to try to teach him at home...enter the No Stress Chess game.


The 52 action cards make No Stress Chess a unique approach to an often intimidating game. These cards provide instruction to help players learn the pieces and how they move...a perfect way to help a beginner get comfortable with the powers of each piece. Players are required to move their pieces based upon which card they draw...this really changes the game, and winning is mostly about luck...at least at the first level. The next card playing variation has each player drawing three cards at a time, so they can begin incorporating more strategy into their game. After these two levels are mastered, you can create even more, increasing the number of cards drawn for each (we went as high as seven)...until, your children are ready to take on regular play. The illustrated two-sided board that comes with the No Stress Chess game is another great feature. The starter side instructs players on piece placement, while the other is a traditional board. The pieces are pretty sturdy...the fact that they have survived our children so far says a lot.

There are so many great things to say about No Stress Chess, and for the $15 price tag, it is definitely worth the purchase. The innovative approach to a traditional favorite has been able to hold our children's interest in this classic game more than we ever would have expected. We were amazed at how quickly both of our children were able to graduate to regular play...now, chess has become a staple in The Daily Kool household, and No Stress Chess a popular birthday gift idea for our children's friends.

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Today's Kool Idea: Seaora Dead Sea Bath Salts

Okay, today is Friday, and boy has it been a long and hectic week! We at The Daily Kool have all been complaining about our sore, tired feet and aching backs for the last couple of days. Every year that we have lived seems to be stamped into our bodies in the way of arthritis, muscle tension, spasms, and stiff muscles...boy, are we getting old!

Before we pass out tonight in sheer and utter exhaustion, we are going to take some time out for some much deserved pampering. Aahhhh...nothing could be more soothing than a long, hot soak in the bathtub. Seaora Dead Sea Bath Salts are an especially luxurious addition that we plan to indulge in. This is not the first time The Daily Kool has touted the benefits of these amazing Dead Sea products...check out our feature of Seaora's Sea Salt Scrub from a previous post.

We love that with over 70 scents, 13 colors and several sizes, Seaora Dead Sea Bath Salts are completely customizable to fit everyone's need. The ladies at The Daily Kool are partial to the lavender scent, while the men (hey, they deserve to smell good, too!) like the musky scent of sandalwood. We choose colors that complement our bathroom and keep them in decorative jars on the counter for visual appeal.

Yes, we love our Friday baths...but, we especially love the healing properties that Seaora Dead Sea Bath Salts have. Believe it or not, they offer many added benefits that you might not expect from so simple a product. Bath salts open the pores to purify the skin, cleansing away dirt, sweat and toxins. They can actually help improve your circulation and reduce tenderness. Salts aid in the healing of dry skin, making it softer and more supple. They can even help improve common irritations such as insect bits, minor rashes and calluses and more serious conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis. With the option of essential oils, Seaora Dead Sea Bath Salts offer the added benefit of aromatherapy to help induce calmness and promote relaxation.

For centuries, people have traveled great distances to bathe in the salt rich waters of The Dead Sea. Though nothing can truly compare to the actual experience of the Dead Sea (and we speak from experience), we can reduce pain, repair damaged skin and literally wash away stress with Seaora Dead Sea Bath Salts in our own bathtub. Perhaps it's the 20 all-natural essential minerals that infuse the skin, but there truly is a difference between this "kool" product and over-the-counter bath salt. And though you can usually find Dead Sea salts in your local shopping mall, we have found the best variety at the lowest cost online. Check it out...it's truly worth it. We want to wish everyone a wonderful holiday weekend...happy bathing!

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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!