tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2007://1 2007-06-18T02:34:05Z Bring your home into the future with cool gadgets and technology that will make your life easier! Movable Type 3.31 tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2007://1.11 2007-05-03T14:29:31Z 2007-06-18T02:34:05Z

The must have feature with cell phones is Bluetooth, the technology that makes your wireless phone really wireless. Bluetooth links your mobile phone with a tiny wireless headset, allowing you to lose the wires and keep your hands free for...

Becca Here are our favorite mobile phone models, broken down by the carrier (most costs noted are based on an average with a 2-year contract). You'll need to also buy a Bluetooth headset to take advantage of this feature.]]> T-Mobile We like the Motorola V195 primarily because of the very affordable price of $30. It has good voice quality and is a great basic phone. At this low price though, it doesn't have extra features you may want, like a camera. We love the Nokia 6103, which is free with a 2 year contract at T-mobile.com. In addition to bluetooth capabilities, this phone has everything the connected woman wants:

• Camera and video capture/playback
• Send and receive instant messages with Yahoo, MSN, AOL or ICQ - I use this feature everyday!
• myFaves capable - unlimited anytime minutes with your myFaves network - T-mobile exclusive
• Caller ID pictures - a fun way to see who is calling and you can quickly decide to answer or not
• Predictive text input
• FM radio

Verizon Get the hottest new entertainment accessory - all packed into your phone! Not only is the LGVX9400 equipped with Bluetooth, so you can stay connected hands-free, it also has the powerful punch of Verizon's new Vcast Mobile TV service. The Bluetooth wireless supports profiles and allows to you listen to music stored on your phone using your Bluetooth headset, in addition to using it for calls. Using the phone's Bluetooth, you can also print pictures and send vCards! This phone is a little pricey, coming in at $149 with a 2-year contract. Some Verizon locations are now offering a $50 rebate, bringing this little technology wonder down to only $99! Check out the features below and you'll see why we think this is such an amazing deal!

• Bluetooth Support - with profiles, hands-free calling, stereo audio distribution, file transfer for basic printing and vCards
• 1.3 Megapixel Digital Camera & Camcorder - resolutions up to 1280x960 with features like night mode, self time, color effects and a video recorder that can take 15 sec for sending in a message or record up to 1 hour for storage. You can also set videos as your wallpaper!
• Data and text services, including VCAST Music Player, VCAST Video, Mobile Web 2.0
• Location based services - the VZ Navigator is a GPS service and offers you voice prompted turn-by-turn directions to your destination. This phone is also supports Verizon's Chaperone service, which enables you to locate your family member's phone from your handset or PC with just a touch of the button. If your family member enters or leaves the "Child Zone" you have set up on their phone, you are notified by text message.
• BroadbandAccess Connect capable for high-speed browsing
• VCAST Mobile TV capable - this service is currently available in 19 cities and offers high quality mobile television service with both network and cable television programming.

Sprint Now you can have tunes, talk and more for only $9 with the online special Sprint is running now on it's LG Fusic model. This is one of the best reasonably priced Bluetooth phones on the market for listening to music in stereo. Load up your new LG Fusic with music from the Sprint online music store, your MP3s or using the built-in FM receiver. The Fusic has a 1.3 megapixel camera that takes great pictures - really sharp images when you're in good light. You'll have to hold the camera very still if you're taking a photo in low light though. The camcorder takes decent video - perfect for snapping those video moments while on-the-go.]]> tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2006://1.10 2006-10-09T20:55:42Z 2006-10-10T22:58:30Z

The Gas Watch is an inexpensive utility item that definitely solves two problems most people have with their gas grill - how much gas is left in the tank and detecting a gas leak. We have a great Weber gas...

Becca We have a great Weber gas grill and it does have the lever system that holds the propane tank in place and is designed to measure the weight of the gas tank and display the fuel level. This system, however, has never worked for me. I am always trying to estimate how much gas is left in the tank based on how much grilling I've done. Totally not an accurate method, so much so that I've even found myself at the hardware store with a practically half-empty tank.]]> The gauge on the GasWatch will make certain you never run out of propane gas when you're barbequing again! The easy to read dial displays how much gas you have left so you can plan for your next refill. In addition to conveniently measuring the amount of gas left in your tank, the GasWatch more importantly has an emergency shut-off feature that immediately stops the propane flow to your grill immediately if it detects a leak. The GasWatch brass adapter easily connects between the tank and the regulator. GasWatch is available for $21.99 from SmartHome.com. tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2006://1.9 2006-10-02T16:34:01Z 2006-10-02T18:03:25Z

How many times have you had that sinking feeling that you've just lost your lens cap! While it sounds trivial, this is one of my favorite features about the Canon Elura. Now I can safely tuck it away in my...

Becca The Elura is small and lightweight - the perfect companion camcorder when you don't want to bring along your big camera. It has a clear and bright 2.7 inch LCD screen that displays in true widescreen. The camcorder shoots in 16:9 widescreen mode, and the video will fill the entire LCD screen, so you can see exactly what you're shooting. You can also shoot in the traditional 4:3 mode with just the touch of a button.]]> There are trade-offs to the Elura, like image quality that is pretty good but can have a tendency to wash out bright colors or have trouble distinguishing color differences in low light. However, the image is vastly superior to that of a cell phone. For me, that makes this camcorder perfect for the moments when I don't have my big camera, but the kids are doing something crazy and it'd be so great to catch it on video to send to Grandma. When the Elura is tucked in my purse, I can catch the shot and not be thinking "I really wish I'd brought my camera"! The battery life is amazing - a fully charged battery can last about 148 minutes, which means it can stay in your purse for a week or two of nonchalant filming before having to recharge. Technical Specs and Details The Canon Elura 100 has a 1.33 Megapixel CCD for brilliant digital photographs. The camera can take still photos at the same time you're shooting video. The camera also has Motor Drive Mode, which is great for action or sports pictures, when you want to take a series of still images. It has a Firewire connection, so you can connect your Elura directly to your PC or Mac for virtually lossless transfer of your recorded material. You can also record movie clips directly to the camcorder's memory card, and transfer it to your computer for quick and easy emailing or uploading to the web. tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2006://1.8 2006-10-02T14:41:08Z 2006-10-02T15:12:04Z

Make authentic espresso at home whenever the mood strikes you! This beautifully sleek stainless steel appliance will easily fit on your countertop. The removeable 1.3 quart water tank is much larger than most other consumer models and an external water...

Becca Breville has made this espresso machine very easy to use, and you can use it to create amazing cappuccino, lattes and machiattos for all of your friends and family!]]> The Breville Espresso Machine is very similar to much more expensive machines, however at a much lower price tag. It's available for $249 from Crate and Barrel. It even includes a warming plate to prevent up to six espresso shots from cooling to quickly. You'll love the chrome froth enhancer, which produces continuous dry steam for milk and froth, perfect for creating delicious latte's and cappuccinos. And the machine also comes with a frothing jug and a stainless steel espresso cup set. And in terms of performance, this little espresso maker packs a punch with the 15-bar Thermoblock pump which forces water through coffee grounds at the ideal pressure to create rich, thick espresso shots. It also produces a wonderful crema, the light brown liquid that sits on top of your espresso, via the dual-wall filter system. The filters work with the heated and pressurized water, delivering a perfectly flavored crema. The froth enhancer for flavorful lattés and cappuccinos, and a removable drip tray and grid for easier cleanup. As a bonus, the machine also comes with a stainless-steel espresso cup set and a frothing jug. Breville is a European leader in small appliances, and has been making great dependable products like this for over 50 years. tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2006://1.7 2006-10-02T06:46:02Z 2006-10-02T14:34:01Z

It's refreshing to step outside into the brisk fall air, but if you're loving your deck or patio still, prolong your time outdoors with one of the many propane patio heaters available for home use. Prices can range from $100...

Becca ]]> Commercial-Grade Propane Heater from Frontgate (pictured above) is used by eateries around the world to heat their outdoor dining areas. There is a ceramic cone inside the dome helps distribute heat evenly and reduces heat loss through the center. A 20-lb. propane tank is hidden inside the base of the unit and the heater has a safety feature that automatically shuts off gas flow when the heater is tilted or the burner is extinguished. The 40,000 BTU stainless burner will not rust and operates silently. The controls are easy to use, with an electronic pilot ignition and adjustable heat settings. It's available from Frontgate for $499. This tabletop patio heater is the ultimate outdoor heater for picnics, camping trips, patios, porches and backyard BBQs. It's radiant heat will cover a 6 to 10 foot circle, and operate for 2 hours from a single 16 oz propane cylinder when it's on the low setting. It's available now from The Heater Shop for only $99.]]> tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2006://1.6 2006-10-02T06:29:50Z 2006-10-09T20:55:33Z

We just love how stunningly simple this pendant lamp is and it's the perfect lighting fixture to complement a crisp clean decor. And it's on sale now for only $66 at Chiasso....

Becca And it's on sale now for only $66 at Chiasso. ]]> The texture and dimension of coiled steel creates a unique modern lighting fixture. It uses one 60-watt bulb, which is not included. 40" cord. The light fixture must be hardwired, so it's a little more complicated and the manufacturer recommends professional installation. Mounting hardware included. Find more exclusive pendant lamps, floor lamps and table lamps with clean design lines perfect for modern home decor at Chiasso. tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2006://1.5 2006-10-02T05:11:49Z 2006-10-02T06:04:15Z

If you've tried every one of the Baby Einstein videos in your new boxset, the baby is fussy and you're desparate for just 15 minutes to get dinner started, check out this soothing new DVD. Featuring a series of cloud...

Becca ]]> You can find the ColorCalm DVD at Chiasso for $28. ]]> tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2006://1.4 2006-10-02T03:40:30Z 2006-10-02T04:56:51Z

Accent the walkway to your front door or illuminate the garden with a set of these totally modern design solar lights from Chiasso are simply elegant in stainless steel....

Becca from Chiasso are simply elegant in stainless steel. ]]> Available for $38 each at Chiasso.]]> tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2006://1.3 2006-10-02T00:52:17Z 2006-10-02T01:07:47Z

Now you see it, now you don't with the Reversica Media Center - the middle compartment swivels like the classic hidden doors. One side is equipped with shelves and displays a nice, tidy looking bookshelf when your media center is...

Becca ]]> This is one of my most favorite media centers yet! Within seconds, your home theater is transformed into a lovely library. The thinness of plasma and LCD tvs are starting to unleash design possibilities with furniture designers, giving us many more options for hiding the televisions in our living rooms when they're not in use. The lower compartment has three doors behind which your home theater equipment can be installed. There's pleny of room for all of your components and three outlets in the back allow for easy wiring. Order your very own from Frontgate (allow 4 weeks for shipping and delivery) for $7,000. tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2006://1.2 2006-10-02T00:25:41Z 2006-10-02T01:13:58Z

This fantastic blender will be the life of your next party - it shaves ice and blends up to 32 ounces of your favorite frozen beverage, all automatically! All you have to do is program in how many drinks to...

Becca ]]> We found our new favorite party accessory for only $299 at Frontgate. Other highlights include simple controls for automatic and manual cycles, brushed stainless steel accents, powerful dual motors for shaving ice and blending it with your favorite ingredients, and a generous handle and drip-free spout on the glass jar for graceful serving. The machine does all the work – while you take all the credit. Before you know it, you'll be basking in a whole new latitude. No passport required! For healthy morning afters, this little blender also powers through whole fruit to create the most delicious smoothies this side of a Smoothie store! Take the party with you when you add the custom designed canvas carry case - only $39 from Frontgage) Here are some of our favorite Margarita and cocktail recipes (gracias to Jimmy Buffett) that we've made with our mixer. They incorporate his Margaritaville drink mixes and are easily blended using the Margaritaville Frozen Concoction Maker, just scale up the recipe for the number of friends indulging! THE PERFECT MARGARITA 1 oz Margaritaville® Gold Tequila .5 oz Margaritaville Silver Tequila .5 oz Triple Sec .5 oz Orange Curacao .5 oz Lime juice 2 Lime Wedges Rim margarita glass with salt. Combine ingredients in a shaker filled with ice. Squeeze limes and add to tin. Shake vigorously and pour into a margarita glass. “WHO’S TO BLAME?” MARGARITA 1.5 oz Margaritaville® Gold Tequila .5 oz Triple Sec 4 oz Margaritaville® Margarita Mix Rim margarita glass with salt. Combine ingredients in a shaker. Shake and pour into a margarita glass with ice. ISLAND SUNRISE .75 oz.Margaritaville Calypso Coconut™ Tequila .75 oz. Margaritaville Last Mango™ Tequila 1 oz. Orange juice 1 oz. Pineapple juice Combine ingredients in a shaker. Shake and pour into a margarita glass with ice. STRANDED ON A SANDBAR 1.5 oz Margaritaville Paradise Passion Fruit™ Tequila .5 oz Peach Schnapps 2 oz Orange juice 2 oz Cranberry juice Combine ingredients in a shaker. Shake and pour into a tall glass with ice. MARGARITAVILLE® BLOODY MARIA 1.5 oz Margaritaville® Silver Tequila 4 oz tomato juice 2 Lime Wedges 1 quick shot Worcestershire Sauce 7 dashes Tabasco Sauce Salt and Pepper to taste Squeeze lime juice into a 16-ounce tumbler filled with ice. Add other ingredients and stir vigorously. PINK CADILLAC MARGARITA 1.5 oz. Margaritaville Last Mango™ Tequila .5 oz. Cointreau® 3.5 oz. Margaritaville® Margarita Mix Splash of cranberry juice Combine ingredients in a shaker. Shake and pour into a margarita glass with ice. CALYPSO MARGARITA 1 oz. Margaritaville Calypso Coconut™ Tequila .5 oz. Peach Schnapps .5 oz Melon Liqueur 3.5 oz. Margaritaville® Margarita Mix Splash of pineapple juice Combine ingredients in a shaker. Shake and pour into a margarita glass with ice. ]]> tag:www.wiredhomes.com,2006://1.1 2006-09-30T16:42:25Z 2006-09-30T17:04:23Z

There are so many classic moments captured on YouTube! If you're like us, how great would it be if you could take clips posted on YouTube and share them with all of your friends when you're out and about. Instead...

Becca There are so many classic moments captured on YouTube! If you're like us, how great would it be if you could take clips posted on YouTube and share them with all of your friends when you're out and about. Instead of trying to describe the latest clip and act out that super funny moment that you really love but can never quite get it right, now you can take it with you on your iPod or PSP and be the total life of the party! At just $15, this is definitely our new favorite software! It's so easy and will automatically convert the YouTube Flash video to the appropriate file format, bitrate and naming convention for your device. TubeSock can also playback the videos on your Mac (yes, it's Mac only at this time), so you can keep a copy on your computer for later. TubeSock is integrated with Safari and Firefox, and with it's bookmark script, when you browse to a YouTube video you like, just hit the bookmark button and the video will instantly appear in TubeSock!