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: Method Le Scrub Soft Abrasive Cleaner

Today is the day for cleaning the bathrooms in The Daily Kool household. The master bath is usually not a big deal, but the kids' bathroom? Oh, my goodness gracious! After only one week, the fumes are enough to make us gag, our eyes water and, quite frankly, almost knock us over in a dead faint. But then again, we have boys...and they stand up when using the toilet...and they love to play with their favorite appendage...enough said? All the air fresheners in the world can't compete with that stench. What's a parent to do?

Go in with a mask and gloves, and hope for the best, that's what. Well, being armed with an amazing cleanser certainly doesn't hurt, either. Method Le Scrub soft abrasive cleanser really does the trick. Ever since one of our beloved followers suggested we try out the fabulous Method Best in Glass cleaner (see previous post), we have become huge fans of this fabulous company...and our windows have never been cleaner! One by one, we have gone away from the traditional cleansers that we grew up with, and have been replacing them with Method's non-toxic, vegan and environmentally friendly home cleaning solutions. Method Le Scrub is no exception.

Method Le Scrub is a eucalyptus mint scented, mildly abrasive cleanser for deep cleaning the bathroom...deep cleaning is definitely the way to go in our home! It uses finely milled marble with naturally-derived, biodegradable ingredients to remove tough stains. Grime, soap scum, hard water deposits and mildew are no match for this gentle, yet powerful cleanser. Seriously folks, this works just as well as (if not better than) the stuff Mom used. And, ahhhhh....the smell is just plain wonderful! Method Le Scrub makes even our kids' bathroom smell like a spa!

Sure, you can always make your own at-home natural soft scrub cleaner (we've put the recipe below), but when you have a cruelty-free company that does it so well for you, why bother? Method Le Scrub soft abrasive cleanser is pretty cost-effective (a little goes a long way) has amazingly "kool" packaging (check out the sponge holder at the top!) and is readily available for purchase at our local Target store. Plus, we feel good about letting our kids help out cleaning with it...for more reasons than one. What more could we ask for? Well , maybe a girl next time!

Homemade Soft Abrasive Cleanser (if you are so inclined)

• 1 2/3 cups baking soda, sifted
  
• 1/2 cup liquid castille soap
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• a couple of drops of tea tree oil, optional (works as a disinfectant)
• an empty ketchup, or other squeeze-type bottle
  

Directions:

1. Stir liquid soap into sifted baking soda.
2. Add the water, and stir until smooth.
3. Add vinegar and stir some more.
4. Add essential tea tree oil, if using.
   
5. Pour into empty bottle.

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Today's Kool Idea: Dog and Cat Staple-Free Staplers

Yesterday, The Daily Kool took a family trip to shop for school supplies. Trust us, that was not easy, even at Staples...no matter how often we pressed that darned button. Anyway, a whopping $80 later (no joke), we still had to go online to get a couple of things the stores didn't seem to carry. One was a staple-free stapler. Call us dopey (that's okay...many people have), but we didn't know that staple-free staplers even existed. Apparently, this requirement is just one of many "earth friendly" solutions that our son's Pre-K teacher is trying to bring awareness to. That's what we get for putting him in private school, we guess. Don't get us wrong...we are big supporters of going green. It would have been nice though, if we had been given a clue as to where to get a staple-free stapler...it's only Pre-K for goodness sake! So, naturally we went online to continue our search.

Okay, once we saw these adorable dog and cat staple-free staplers, can you blame us for getting them? Thank goodness our four year old son doesn't have a macho image to maintain. After we did some reading, staple-free stapling is actually a very interesting concept. Simply put, these dog and cat staple-free staplers cut out tiny strips of paper and use them to stitch and collate up to five pieces of paper together. Staples are a thing of the past, at least for the smaller jobs...we'll stick to our traditional Slimline for the big ones. For children, the dog and cat staple-free staplers are not only environmentally friendly, but safe as well.

The dog and cat staple-free staplers are not just for kids, though. What a great gift they'd make for any environmentally conscious pet lover! Our son is going to be the "koolest" kid in his Pre-K class when he brings in these whimsical little guys. Okay, now where's our Sharpie? We are definitely going to put his name on them in permanent ink.

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Today's Kool Idea: SKLZ Sport-Brella Portable Sun and Weather Umbrella Shelter

The Daily Kool had a great Fourth of July holiday this past weekend. We went to our parents, had an amazing barbecue lunch (courtesy of Dad and Weber's Way to Grill), enjoyed Mom's famous pasta salad and spent the early afternoon playing games with the kids. Ah, family togetherness...you gotta love it. Okay, who are we kidding? Fourth of July is all about the fireworks. Our city park has a spectacular concert and fireworks event every year, and the kids spend all afternoon, anxiously waiting for it to be time to go to the show. Unfortunately, the sun is still brutally strong when the show begins, and by the time it gets dark, the evening rains inevitably come out to put a damper (couldn't resist the pun) on our fireworks fun. Sure, we have a beach umbrella that we use to ward off the elements, but it's cumbersome and doesn't provide nearly enough coverage for our family of four.

We recently came across the SKLZ Sport-Brella portable sun and weather umbrella shelter during our online research for a better solution to our problem. Okay, we really have to get a hold of one of these! The SKLZ Sport-Brella is a unique combination of a beach umbrella and sun tent that offers instant portable protection from the sun, rain and wind. The YouTube demo shows how this super-size umbrella opens in just seconds...folks, if you can open an umbrella, you can open the SKLZ Sport-Brella. Press the red button to open, stake the main pole into the ground and stake the two side flaps (stowed with a hook) for a completely angled shell and dome-effect shelter. We love the great air flow ventilation that the SKLZ Sport-Brella boasts...simply unzip the side flaps to display the meshed window. Plus, there is extra ventilation on the top for extra stability, preventing lift off the ground with any incoming breeze. The best part? This smart, heavy-duty polyester shelter is lined with a metallic undercoating, providing seven-feet of UPF 50+...the ultimate in sun protection.

The SKLZ Sport-Brella portable sun and weather umbrella shelter certainly seems like an ideal solution for any family who spends time outdoors. Perfect on the sidelines at sporting events, picnics or by the shore, this "kool" idea goes way beyond a traditional beach umbrella...though it certainly can be used as one of those. It's light, easy to set up and is large enough to provide maximum shade from harmful UVA & UVB rays for up to four children or two adults. And yes, it would have been perfect at the park for our Fourth of July fireworks show...who knew? We can't wait to get the SKLZ Sport-Brella home...then, we're headed straight for the beach!

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Today's Kool Idea: Windshield Wonder, As Seen On TV

The Daily Kool family does a lot of driving. In fact, between work, school and enrichment activities for the kids, it often seems as if we practically live in our car. By the end of the week, our poor Saturn looks like a bomb has hit it...snacks, juice boxes, papers and toys are strewn all over the place. We've seen people recoil from the shock, shake their heads in wonder or, if they're parents, simply nod in commiseration at the mess of our car....yep, it can be pretty embarrassing! So, Fridays have now become the official "car cleaning" day in our household, and everyone has a job. No one ever complains...except whoever is responsible for window cleaning. The fingerprints and dog snot (Pepper loves taking rides in the car) are not such a big deal. The windshield, however, is another matter altogether. Our car has a pretty deep slope in the front, requiring us to drum up our best contortionist skills to clean it deep down. We admit it, our flexibility is quite pathetic...thus, so are our windshields.

We came across the As Seen on TV Windshield Wonder in our local Walgreens a couple of weeks ago...somehow we missed the infomercial for this one. This is by no means a complicated product, and since we admit to being a little more simple-minded than most, it seemed perfect for our windshield cleaning needs. Why oh why didn't we think of this first? The Windshield Wonder boasts a combination of a microfiber cleaning cloth, long ergonomic handle and pivoting head to make windshield cleaning fast and easy. We have to admit, Telebrands has a winner with this one. The Windshield Wonder's 16" handle really helps reach all the way down to the dash, all while sitting comfortably in the front seat. It even folds for easy storage in the glove compartment (though we keep ours in the front door pocket). The curvature of the unique pivoting head is similar to the windshield, providing even pressure across surfaces for a streak and smudge-free clean every time. Plus, the microfiber cloth/bonnet is uniquely suited for cleaning windows and other glass surfaces, with fibers that open up to grab particles of dirt and dust. Yes, yes, yes...we know that the supposed benefit of a microfiber cloth is the ability to use plain tap water for outstanding results. Call us inept (and trust us, many people have), but plain water just doesn't work for us. So, we simply put our Method Best in Glass cleaner in the little spray bottle that came with our Windshield Wonder...perfect!

Since we don't have to strain from the driver seat to use the As Seen on TV Windshield Wonder, it has been terrific for handling the fogginess that hinders our vision when driving in the rain. We simply wait until we're at a red light and give our windshield a couple of quick swipes to clear the glass right up...no straining, and no flexibility necessary. We even bought an extra Windshield Wonder to keep inside the house. It works wonders (no pun intended) on the high glass mirrors in the bathrooms...have we mentioned that we are vertically challenged? Yes, that means short! The bottom line is that the As Seen on TV Windshield Wonder by Telebrands is one of those products that does exactly what it says for a price that won't break the bank...we love it when that happens. Plus, it's easy enough for the kids to use...we especially love that! Definitely a "kool" idea.

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Today's Kool Idea: Energizer Light on Demand Motion Activated Light

Our younger son is very afraid of the dark. In fact, his anxiety is so great, he insists on being carried into the house whenever we come home at night. The lack of street lighting in our neighborhood doesn't help...neither does the fact that our kid's going through another growth spurt and is definitely not a lightweight these days. We also tend to forget to turn on the outside light, especially when we leave the house earlier in the day when the sun is still shining. This is a particular sore point with our son, especially since the darkness makes it tough to see the keyhole on the front door and get us in the house quickly.

We came across a practical product on QVC yesterday that just might make our lives a bit easier, the Energizer Light on Demand motion activated light. Gotta love the bunny...by the way, it's his 20th birthday this year. Anyway, the Energizer Light on Demand motion activated light features a removable LED light stick, equipped with internal, rechargeable batteries. The light stick can function in its specific product, or is detachable to serve as an area light and/or flashlight. We love that the Energizer Light on Demand motion activated light is weatherproof with a 15 foot sensor for convenient use indoors and out. This feature is a particular selling point with us...we can put it right by the front door outside.

Okay we admit it, we might just get a tiny bit nervous ourselves when we have to walk Pepper (our pooch) at night...did we mention that our neighborhood doesn't have enough street lights? Think about the dual convenience of a motion activated light at the front door, with a removable LED flashlight to keep our path illuminated during Pepper's nightly stroll. Plus, the Energizer Light on Demand motion activated light is affordable enough for us to get an extra one (or three) for inside the house. The product boasts continual, emergency lighting whenever the power goes out with its rechargeable backup battery pack. Hey, hurricane season has just begun, and we've already lost electricity several times from thunderstorms this summer. As much as we appreciate the long, five-hour run time we'll get with the Energizer Light on Demand motion activated light when it's fully charged, it's nice to know we have the option of using three AAA batteries to get a continuous 12 hours in case of emergency.

We're in agreement with QVC host Lisa Robertson on this one...we can't imagine anyone who couldn't benefit from the Energizer Light on Demand motion activated light. Easy to install and energy efficient, this product is ideal for mounting anywhere you need some extra light. Perfect in a garage, closet, attic, stairway and yes, by the front door, Energizer is definitely on the right track with this modular lighting system. Seriously folks, there's no reason to come home at night to a dark door. We do confess that we wish function met a little more with fashion in this case...it's kind of an ugly looking unit. Regardless, we think the Energizer Light on Demand motion activated light is a "kool" and practical idea for every household...definitely worth checking out on your own.

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Today's Kool Idea: BirdieBall Limited Distance Golf Practice Ball

Golf is one of those sports that has earned much respect in The Daily Kool household over the years. There is just something about the mental and physical challenge, combined with getting out in the fresh air on a beautiful grassy course, that is both relaxing and stimulating. We admit it, though...our original motives for playing golf were not entirely pure. Yep, we used golf as a front to establish potential (and often profitable) business connections...we're so ashamed! There was only one problem...we didn't account for how hard it is to stick to the green. Oh, that darn Tiger Woods...he makes it look so easy!

We received a BirdieBall limited distance golf practice ball at a marketing convention we attended last year. We were intrigued by the idea of a limited flight (about 40 yards) practice golf ball with a long hang time, true-feel trajectory. Okay, we know it looks weird...but honestly, the BirdieBall is the best golf training aid we have ever owned. Because of the limited distance, we can create an impromptu driving range in our backyard or even at the park without worry. BirdieBalls are much safer than hitting real golf balls, with far better performance than you would ever get from a perforated practice ball or wiffleball. We love how the BirdieBall spins and flies exactly like a regular golf ball...just far enough to show ball flight, but short enough that you can hit and retrieve it with minimal effort. Plus, there is nothing quite as satisfying as the turbine hum that results from a perfectly executed swing.

The BirdieBall limited distance golf practice ball really performs just like a regular golf ball...hook, slice, chip and yes, even a worm burner (sigh). Regardless of whether your are giving a full swing or are in the chipping realm, you can count on the BirdieBall to behave appropriately. Experiencing the "true feel" and seeing the "true flight" of the amazing BirdieBall has dramatically improved our ability to control a real golf ball with only 15 minutes of practice per day. Not that the practice is a hardship anyway...BirdieBalls are amazingly addicting and have never failed to offer us a pleasurable, challenging and rewarding experience. Regardless of handicap or experience, this is quite possibly the "koolest" gift for any golf lover.

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Today's Kool Idea: Miracle Blanket - Baby Swaddling Blanket

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, July is the most popular month to have a baby. Surprised? We're certainly not. It seems that everyone we know is pregnant these days...yep, we at The Daily Kool have been getting some major baby fever. This month has been filled with baby showers galore, and we have had the arduous task of trying to find that "perfect" gift that everyone will love. What do new parents need most? Well, sleep of course, but let's face it...we can't package sleep and wrap it in a pretty bow no matter how much we'd like to. Or can we?

Introducing the Miracle Blanket baby swaddling blanket. What is swaddling, you ask? Well, it's a way to wrap your newborn securely in a blanket, creating a slight pressure to give them a sense of security. Many experts suggest that swaddling in the first several months eases babies through the shock of suddenly being out of the womb by duplicating many of the same sensations. Many babies do not handle this transition well, and some recent research suggests that this may be the main cause of fussiness. Swaddling actually helps limit movement so the baby can relax and calm down.

Swaddling a baby properly has almost become an art form, and is often difficult to do. Most blankets do not provide for a secure swaddle, allowing the baby to squirm loose. The Miracle Blanket makes baby swaddling incredibly easy and, most importantly, fool-proof. The Miracle Blanket is made of a breathable, cozy fabric that babies love, and because it doesn't use velcro, knots, buttons, straps, snaps or zippers, it will leave your baby in scratch-free comfort. The Miracle Blanket is endorsed by pediatricians and other baby experts everywhere, and has even earned the "thumbs up" from the Good Housekeeping Institute.

For many babies, the secret to a longer, more restful sleep is swaddling. A proper swaddling will help a baby sleep on his back to reduce SIDS concerns, and can often eliminate colic symptoms. We have yet to find a baby swaddling blanket that works quite as well as the Miracle Blanket. Though it is a bit expensive, The Daily Kool would readily argue that the extra sleep it will give baby and parents is well worth every penny! Just be careful...there are many knock-offs available out there that are not made quite as well as the original. The Miracle Blanket is definitely a "kool" gift idea that every parent will appreciate.

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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: As Seen on TV Tool Band-It

The Daily Kool family is very proud of our home. While it may not seem like much to some people, we have spent countless hours decorating every nook and cranny to create a warm, livable environment. We love it and it's all ours...well, ours and the bank's, anyway. The only problem with home ownership is that there is always something that needs to be fixed, refurbished or just maintained. We learned quickly to expect the unexpected and by necessity, we've become quite savvy and adept at many do-it-yourself home repair projects.

We came across an advertisement for the As Seen on TV Tool Band-It the other day...this is definitely another one of those "why oh why didn't we think of this first" products. The Billy Mays endorsed Tool Band-It is a lightweight, flexible armband with enough magnetic power to keep up to 25lbs worth of tools and other work pieces practically right at your fingertips. This is a great idea for all those minor household projects which typically require an extra person just to manage the tools. Now, we no longer have to say those magical words, "Can you hand me that, honey?" We actually laughed when the infomercial showed a woman holding nails in her mouth for easier access...we do that all the time. We particularly like that it can hook onto a regular pants belt as an alternative to the arm. The Tool Band-It really seems like one of those rare As Seen on TV products that actually does exactly what it says.

We love the versatility of possible uses for the Tool Band-It. From gardening to auto maintenance, crafting to household repair, we can envision many, many ways that the Tool Band-It will keep us more organized and productive. We've actually come across two different offers for the Tool Band-It. The buy one and get a second one offer can be found on the official website and also includes 10 Hercules Hooks...an favorite of ours, and a previously featured "kool" idea (click here to read). The As Seen on TV website offer includes one armband plus a free bonus headlamp for better visibility in darker areas. Both offers are the same price (which is actually pretty reasonable at around $20), so it just comes down to your preference. We will be taking advantage of the buy one get one free Tool Band-It offer...this way, we can keep one for our home and give one to Dad for Father's Day.

The Tool Band-It has given us another reason to justify our addiction to As Seen on TV products. A simple, effective gizmo that will likely become a staple in The Daily Kool household...a handy helper, particularly in more confined areas such as the attic or under the sink. Plus, the Tool Band-It definitely makes a great gift idea. We can't wait to see Dad's reaction on Father's Day...perhaps it will inspire him to move forward on the countless projects our mother needs done around the house. Hey, you never know!

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Today's Kool Idea: American Red Cross Eton Microlink for Hurricane Preparedness

Today (June 1st) marks the beginning of hurricane season, which typically lasts through November 30th. Having lived in Florida for three decades, particularly through the record-breaking 2005 season, The Daily Kool family recognizes how nerve-racking this time of year can be. Anyone who has experienced the devastation from category 5 hurricanes like Andrew (1992), Katrina (2005) and Ike (2008) can attest to the importance of preparation this time of year.

Hurricane Wilma (2005) left our home without power for two full weeks...we really could have used a product like the American Red Cross Eton Microlink. This solar-powered, self-powered AM/FM/Weatherband portable radio with flashlight and cell phone charger is an incredibly versatile little device, especially considering its low cost (around $30). Plugs and wires aren't required, making the American Red Cross Eton Microlink a welcome addition to any emergency preparedness kit. This little guy can charge in about two minutes with the hand crank, or place it outside for a solar charge. There is also a USB port...the cord is not included, but it is available almost anywhere...of course, this is useless if you're stuck without power. The illumination from the LED flashlight is better than we expected for such a small product, and though it is certainly not Bose quality, the AM/FM radio provided more than adequate reception for us. Keep in mind, though, that you may have to fiddle a bit to tune in properly to the NOAA weatherband stations on the American Red Cross Eton Microlink...could be frustrating, but merely requires practice and patience to get it right. Keep in mind that the cell phone charger may not accommodate some of the more current models...we actually charge our cell phone up in the car, so it isn't really an issue for us.

Although it's quite the value, the American Red Cross Eton Microlink might be a little too basic for some of us. If you're looking for a more souped-up model, you might want to check out the more modern Eton Solarlink model. The Eton Solarlink offers a digital radio for the analog-phobics among us, but also includes S.A.M.E. (specific area message encoding) for location-based weather alerts. Other added features include a flashing beacon, emergency siren and an alarm clock. Plus, the Eton Solarlink has a full sized USB port, designed to accommodate an MP3 player for convenient charging. As "kool" as these upgrades are, the Eton Solarlink does have a much heftier price tag (around $80)...but, you are definitely getting a lot for the investment.

Regardless of whether you choose the American Red Cross Eton Microlink or the Eton Solarlink, either model will help keep you informed in the event of an emergency. Please take the time to adequately prepare a family disaster plan...it can save the lives of you and your children. Check out the NOAA website for more specific guidelines on hurricane preparation. Nothing is "kooler" than ensuring the protection of your family whenever possible.

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Today's Kool Idea: Master Lock TSA Approved Luggage/Baggage Lock

Last week, there was a breaking news story about one of the larger baggage theft rings ever seen at Oregon's Portland International Airport. Baggage handlers literally stole hundreds of items from travelers' checked luggage...one of them even sold some of the property on eBay. Think about how easy it is to gain access to someone's luggage...you don't even have to be an airline passenger to go to the baggage claim. With crime in general escalating in today's tougher economic times, it's no wonder that baggage theft is on the rise as well...it's certainly one of the easier crimes of opportunity.

The Daily Kool family travels often by airplane. Although we would always prefer to carry on our luggage, we have to face the reality of traveling with young children. We need to be as unencumbered as possible, so that we can focus on keeping our most precious assets (our kids, of course) safe in the chaos of the airport. That said, we are often left with no choice but to check some valuable items, particularly for trips lasting longer than a few days. Locks are a great theft deterrent, but a waste...since 9/11, TSA agents can (and likely will) cut them right off your bags risking damage to luggage. We cannot count the number of times our baggage was selected for inspection by the TSA.

Thank goodness for our Master Lock TSA approved luggage/baggage locks. We never travel without them. Master Lock joined with TSA and Travel Sentry™ to use the special Travel Sentry symbol on luggage locks that meet the requirements of the TSA. Airline check-in staff are trained to recognize the Travel Sentry™ mark so they understand that baggage with this special mark is permitted to remain locked. The TSA agents have access to special tools that allow them to open TSA-accepted locks in the event that your bags must be opened for inspection. If necessary, TSA will simply open your locks, inspect, and re-lock your bags.

We love that the Master Lock TSA approved luggage/baggage locks are affordable (we paid around $12 for the set pictured) and dependable. Master Lock is well known for their quality, and they don't disappoint here. We also like the variety of options that Master Lock makes available for their customers. Be aware, though...we have heard the occasional complaint of TSA agents removing even Master Lock TSA approved luggage/baggage locks and neglecting to replace them. We have never personally experienced this problem, and feel that the minor risk is well worth the extra effort to protect our valuables.

Remember, even the slightest deterrent can make a thief think twice about taking a bag. Though, we absolutely recommend keeping your most valuable and/or irreplaceable items in your carry on bag, a Master Lock TSA approved luggage/baggage lock is definitely a great way to stay "kool" if you have to check your luggage at the airport. Now, the only thing to do is sit back, relax and concentrate on entertaining the kids for the next several hours. Did we say relax? Oops. Oh, never mind...enjoy your flight anyway!

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Today's Kool Idea: Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer

Every Saturday, we take our youngest child to a gymnastics class with a group of five friends that he's been with since his four-month old Mommy and Me class. This past weekend, three of them canceled because of influenza concerns, particularly the swine flu. Sure, a children's gymnasium is indeed a breeding ground for germs...after all, we are constantly telling our own children to keep their hands out of their mouths and nose (picky, picky). But unless you are willing to put your child in a bubble, he or she is undoubtedly going to be exposed to germs. As parents, the best thing we can do regarding the swine flu and other influenzas is to make sure that we take reasonable precautions to prevent infection, and call our pediatrician at the first signs of illness.

The primary modes of transmission of infection are the mouth, nose and eyes. Therefore, parents should constantly enforce good personal hygiene habits in their children...particularly frequent hand washing with soap and water, especially after being out in public. Who are we kidding, though? There are many, MANY times that hand washing with soap and water is just not feasible. In these cases, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is an extremely effective alternative. Major health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have recommended the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available and hands are not visibly dirty. CDC recommends that children in school may use alcohol-based hand rubs as an alternative to hand washing.

Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer is the one The Daily Kool family uses. It is also the hand sanitizer of choice at our kids' schools. With its unique formulation of 65% alcohol (anything lower than 60% isn't enough, according to clinical studies), Purell breaks down the germs' cell walls, causing them to die. Though we always recommend supervising children when using the Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer, it's also nice to know that according to the APIC, "alcohols applied to the skin are among the safest known antiseptics."

Though we realize that alcohol is a safe antiseptic, we still feel better knowing that once hands are rubbed dry, the alcohol in the Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer evaporates completely in seconds, leaving no harmful residue. Our kids love using it, particularly the foam formula, so there is never an argument when we take it out. They have several handy versions, including these cute, portable ones. Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer works great, smells decent and doesn't dry out our hands. We also like the way our hands feel after using it...Purell really leaves them clean and refreshed.

While nothing beats washing with soap and water (get them to wash through an entire rendition of the ABCs or Happy Birthday), Purell Instant Hand Sanitizer is a very convenient and inexpensive alternative when a sink isn't available. Hey, check out the Purell sanitizing hand wipes also...they are a particular favorite of ours, especially at restaurants or the park...hands down (no pun intended) the best wipes around! With so many wonderful products, Purell is definitely a "kool" way to help prevent infection from the swine flu and other influenza viruses.

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Today's Kool Idea: Flameless Candles for Mother's Day

We at The Daily Kool love candles...they create a welcoming, relaxing environment and are a beautiful edition to any home decor. What could be a more perfect Mother's Day gift? Whoa...wait a minute. Candles? With kids in the house? Are we crazy?

Perhaps, but not in this case. Now, every mom can have it all with flameless candles for Mother's Day. We came across the most amazing selection of fashionable candles from CandleImpressions on QVC (gotta love them!) and ordered a set of three paisley flameless ones for our mother last year. We liked this particular set because of the color selections (the blue one went perfectly in our mother's home) and dual timer modes (5 or 10 hour automatic shut off options). Imagine enjoying the sight and scent (depending on your preference) of real candles without the hazardous flame or messy wax. No open flame, no soot...total safety. We were particularly amazed at how the flameless candles recreated the flicker and glow of real ones. Seriously, folks...each candle is made from wax and is so realistic, you can hardly tell the difference. There is a patented embedded LED light that flickers randomly and the batteries are hidden for a lifelike look.

Imagine the decorating possibilities that flameless candles can help you create. You can display them near curtains, next to the bed and around the pool...all without worry. Place one in the center of a floral arrangement for a stunning centerpiece. Line an outdoor stairway with flameless votive candles in glass holders. Best of all, they're safe enough to keep around kids and pets. And with each candle lasting for at least 350 hours, flameless candles last much longer than traditional ones. Beauty, safety and value...what more could mom want for Mother's Day?

Though the set of three paisley flameless candles were our choice, we want to let you know that these particular candles are on a wait list, unless you choose the white ones (shown above). But there are so many gorgeous options, you are bound to find several that will absolutely thrill mom on Mother's Day. The set of two dried flower flameless candles (vanilla scented) are particularly pretty. There is also an 8" tubular flameless mosaic candle that looks spectacular. We can't say enough about flameless candles...what a great alternative to traditional candles. Definitely one of the "koolest" Mother's Day gifts of the year!

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