Jun 182015
 
**This post contains affiliate links and an FCS team member may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through the links.

Are you someone who likes to craft, explore your creativity, and share your creations with others?  Cricut created their line of personal electronic cutting machines just so that you can do that.

So, what is Cricut?

Cricut is actually a family of electronic cutting machines that make it possible for you to easily create amazing do-it-yourself (DIY) projects. Well, not totally DIY because Cricut’s incredible machine’s do a LOT of the heavy lifting. 

The two machines that Cricut offers are:

To give you loads of creative freedom and versatility, Cricut developed the Cricut Design Space™, a cloud-based software that works seamlessly with the Cricut Explore® family of machines. 

Design Space gives you access to all of your images and projects from any compatible computer or iPad, so you can design just about anything, anytime, and anywhere. 

Once you’ve uploaded your design (or pre-designed image) to your Cricut Explore cutting machine, you can sit back and watch it magically bring your design to life. 

There are so many interesting things you can make and do with Cricut – which we’ll be sure to cover in a future post. But before we get too ahead of ourselves, it’s best to go over each of Cricut’s machines, what they do, and how they are different.

A little known fact about Cricut is that they’ve actually been in business for over 50 years, and their primary purpose has been to develop tools that inspire creativity in people.

Now, I just need to find the time where I can use one of these beauties!  Are you a Cricut user?  What is your favorite thing to craft?

Jun 122015
 

Summer is upon us – give the gift of structure to your kids where they can learn and have fun at the same time.

digital media academy

About Digital Media Academy

Founded at Stanford University, Digital Media Academy is ranked as one of the ten best summer camps in the world.

Kids and teens learn computer programming, app development, 3D modeling, robotics, graphic design, filmmaking, and much more. DMA summer camps are one or multiple week experiences taught by industry experts and tech professionals. Campers get hands-on experience creating projects using the latest hardware and software from Apple, Canon, Adobe, and more.

Digital Media Academy is also proud to introduce Made by Girls, a new program dedicated to empowering girls and closing the gender gap in the tech industry.

Give your teen a pre-collegiate experience or build a child’s confidence through project-based learning. Learn at some of the most prestigious colleges and universities throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Save this Summer

Save $75 off summer camps at Digital Media Academy with code TECHSUMMER at www.DigitalMediaAcademy.org. Sign up for multiple weeks and save big! Campers save $125 for each additional course they register for. Register by June 30th to #CreateTheNext best-selling app this summer.

Questions? Call 1(866)656-3342 to speak with a Guest Service Representative or email info@digitalmediaacademy.org and mention the US Family Guide Special Offer

#CreateTheNext this summer at Digital Media Academy and save at the same time!

Jun 122015
 
***The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free

GoPro HERO+ LCD HD Waterproof Action Camera

Available @BestBuy

gopro hero+ LCD HD Waterproof Action camera

Best Buy has always been known as the to-go to source for the latest cameras and camcorders.  And now, just in time for Father’s Day – they have launched the GoPro HERO+ LCD HD Waterproof Action Camera.  Isn’t she just a beauty?!

Seriously, what a beauty this camera truly is.  This Father’s Day, help Dad capture his adventures and relive them on the spot with the new GoPro HERO+ LCD camera.

The GoPro HERO+ LCD HD Waterproof Action Camera is a totally versatile camera that allows you to capture images and videos whether you’re in water, out of water, under the water, in the sun, in the dark, at an amusement park, snorkeling, and more.  You need to see the video clip to see how stunning the images truly are.

Take a look at it’s features:

  • 1080p60 video
  • 8MP photos
  • Ultrawide-angle glass lens
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • The convenience of a touch display
  • Waterproof to the depth of 131 feet
  • Time-lapse mode
  • Burst photo mode

PLUS

  • Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth® connect to the GoPro App for shot preview
  • Total camera control
  • Easy content sharing to Instagram, Facebook, and more

There’s nothing like having the controls at your fingertips.  This camera has just that – an LCD touch display!

gopro hero+ LCD HD Waterproof Action camera

If I am going to have a camera – I want it to take fabulous shots without the hassle of having to adjust this or that, add this or that.  I’m sure Dad would appreciate the hassle-free features of this camera as well.  With the GoPro HERO+ LCD HD Waterproof Action Camera, you’ll capture those photos/videos with ease.

Take a look at these still photos:

gopro hero+ LCD HD Waterproof Action camera

gopro hero+ LCD HD Waterproof Action camera

Stunning, aren’t they?

Actions shots can be captured so easily with the GoPro HERO+ LCD HD Waterproof Action Camera.  All your photos can be stored on an SD Card, on your computer, or turned into beautiful prints.  The camera holds a Micro SD Card up to 64 GB – that’s a lot of image taking.

Father’s Day Savings

Save this Father’s Day at Best Buy when you purchase the GoPro HERO+ LCD HD Waterproof Action Camera.

  •  HERO+ LCD (Sku 6954009) with free 32GB Extreme Plus memory card (Sku 9387066). Valid 6/14-6/20

#2 – That not the camera for you?  How about the GoPro HERO4?  That has a special offer attached to it too!

  • Free $50 Best Buy Gift Card with purchase of the GoPro HERO4 Silver (Sku 8374096) or GoPro HERO4 Black (Sku 8374078). Valid 6/7-6/20

With these savings you’ll feel good about giving either of these cameras to the Dad’s in your life.  There’s nothing like having memories to look back at for many years to come.  You’ll find all you need to know at Best Buy.

Jun 052015
 
**This post contains affiliate links and an FCS team member may be compensated after clicking on a link.

Stop the Spread of #unprotectedtext

‘It’s all about Cracked Screens’

Pre-Owned is Still Pretty Awesome!

Have you ever used a phone with a cracked screen? Be honest here.  If your answer is yes, then you’ve engaged in unprotected text, a very risky activity.

Unprotected text is plaguing smartphone users everywhere. Even though they have a cracked screen, many users are still using their smartphone. This behavior exposes them to all kinds of risks, including germs and injuries.

As a part of their Stop the Spread of #unprotectedtext campaign, Gazelle is giving you the opportunity to bare your soul on their Facebook page!  Share your story for a chance to win.

How to Enter

When you post, you’ll be automatically entered to win a Gazelle Certified pre-owned iPhone or iPad.

Now is your opportunity to help stop this epidemic from spreading!  We’ll be looking forward to seeing what you’ve shared 🙂

Jun 032015
 

auto accident

You’ve gotten in an accident – what’s next?  Well, one thing that should never be done is to leave the scene of an accident. Leaving the scene of an accident, at the very least, could get you a fine.  In some cases, leaving the scene of an accident can set you up for facing a felony charge.

So you ask – what to do after an auto accident?  The steps below are guidelines as to what you should do.  Not every step may apply for all accident types.

1.  First and foremost – stay calm

2.  Check to see if anyone is injured.

3.  Move the car out of the way of traffic if you can safely do so

4.  Call the police – do not cave into not filing a police report

5.  Don’t admit guilt

6.  Exchange information (name, address, insurance info, phone numbers)

7. Take photos of the vehicles

8. Take notes & photos of injuries

9. Stay with the vehicle until all information is documented by the police

10. File an insurance claim

11. Seek medical help if need be and if it wasn’t needed at the scene.  Be sure to keep track of all your medical visits/tests/expenses etc.

12. Don’t engage in conversation with the other party.  Let the insurance companies handle the issues.  If you’re uninsured – it may be best that you involve an attorney.

13. Seek an attorney should you need help with the insurance claim.  If you’ve been hurt – it would be to your benefit to seek out a personal injury attorney.

14. Do not sign release forms or checks until you’re ready to settle the claim.  This may need the assistance of an attorney if you’re feeling intimidated in doing so.

Again, not all the steps above may pertain to your situation.  These are general guidelines of what to do after an auto accident.  That said, be as safe as you can be.  Stay alert while driving with all ears and eyes on the road.   And please – don’t text and drive.  The two don’t mix well just as drinking and driving don’t mix.

Jun 022015
 

Lymphedema

What is Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a disorder that affects the lymphatic system. This condition can have some serious consequences, but unfortunately the diagnosis of these problems is highly subjective. There is no standardized test and every case is different. Usually a doctor must collect a body of evidence and weigh each variable before coming to a conclusion.

Below are the most common means in which lymphedema is identified.

Size Increase of Body Parts

A common trait associated with this illness is the swelling and enlargement of body parts. Normally doctors look for about a 10% volume increase. An arm or a leg that increases in diameter by two or more centimeters is suspicious. While this may seem straight forward, taking accurate measurements of body parts is problematic. Torsos, abdomens, hands, and feet all have irregular shapes. To complicate matters, it can be impossible to determine what the normal size should even be. Without a precise measurement of original dimensions, it cannot be determined that there is any true swelling at all.

Symptoms Survey

In addition to the swelling and size increase associated with this illness, skin color may change around the affected area. It may become sore or sensitive. Patients may experience tenderness and decreased range of motion. In some instances, it can feel warmer to the touch. While some of these symptoms are acute in certain cases, they don’t all have to be present. In fact, symptoms may be so mild that the patient does not even recognize the problem. There are products developed by many companies to help those suffering with the symptoms of Lymphedema.

Bio Impedance

Some doctors will measure the fluid levels in the surrounding tissues to balance their analysis. Higher levels of fluid indicate a problem with the lymphatic system. While this method helps to clarify the conditions, it is not actually FDA approved. Doctors must consider all factors in each case and rely on their best judgment and expertise.

Lymphoscintigraphy

This imaging system can map out and reveal much about a patient’s lymphatic system. The information obtained using this procedure can do more than just spot areas suspected of lymphedema. This equipment is complicated and requires special training to analyze results accurately. If more basic tests have not led to a conclusive diagnosis, the use of one of these devices may become necessary to clarify the matter.

Do you or someone you know live with lymphedema?  What has your/their experience been like?

May 202015
 
**This post contains affiliate links and should you click on a link in the post & purchase, an FCS team member may receive a small commission.
madison reed STYLE and TAME products

 

There are certain times of the year where I experience frizziness with my hair.  Most generally my hair acts up when my perm is beginning to fade and when there’s not enough humidity in the air.  Then there are other times when my hair just displays a dull sheen.

I know that there are products out there that I can use for those hair troubles – I just don’t bother.  But for those who find the need to bother – there are two more products to add to that list – STYLE and TAME products by Madison Reed.

What is STYLE? 

STYLE is a lightweight styling cream that provides frizz-fighting hold, while conditioning and protecting hair.

What is TAME?

TAME is a lightweight smoothing emulsion that makes hair more manageable and adds shine before and after styling

Both products are designed to nourish hair with natural hydrating oils and create both smooth waves and sleek straight styles.

Madison Reed makes it easy for you to purchase.  You can make a one-time purchase or schedule convenient deliveries (cancel anytime).

View the Style and Tame set

Do you use products like these?  What works best for you?

May 192015
 
Disclaimer: The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free

SWASH™ 10-Minute Clothing Care System

Save Time – Save Money

Extend the Life of Clothing/Fabrics

 

SWASH

 

I don’t know about you, but I do way too much laundry.  And quite often, it’s not that all the laundry I wash really needs to go through a wash cycle, but rather I insist that our clothes smell fresh and washing has been proven to be the easiest way to get that “freshness” back into the fabrics, for me.

That being said, there’s a new way to get that freshness back into fabrics that will save you time, money, and the fabrics of your beloved belongings.  That system is the SWASH™ System – a 10 Minute clothing care system.

About the SWASH™ System

The SWASH™ System is the only in-home 10-minute clothing care system designed to fit your life. The SWASH System will De-wrinkle, Refresh, Restore and Preserve your clothes so you can say goodbye to excessive washing, drying, steaming, ironing, and dry-cleaning, and say hello to living life unhampered.

How the SWASH™ System Saves

Money – Cut your dry cleaning bill by 50%.  If you use dry cleaning as a method of laundering at least once a month, you spend about $758.  Over time, that adds up to a lot of money.  If you have to drive there – that’s an extra expense you’ll save on.  You’ll be saving the wear and tear on your vehicle as well.

Time – In as little as 10 minutes, garments can look their best.  You’ll be saying goodbye to excessive washing, drying, ironing, and dry cleaning.  Not to mention the time you’ll reap from visiting the dry cleaner’s.

Clothes – You’ll save by extending the life of your clothing.  The SWASH™ system is gentle and doesn’t wash away dyes or cause pilling or fading.

SWASH

How the SWASH™ System Works – Products & Features

  • Intuitive Light System – A series of white, blue, and orange lights count down cycle lengths and completions, and signals when an error has occurred.
  • Adjustable Hanger – The adjustable hanger expands and contracts, making it easy to hang items, no matter the size or clothing type.
  • Smoothing Clips – Experiment using Smoothing Clips with each item of clothing to provide the right amount of tension for maximum wrinkle release.
  • Fits Anywhere, Easily – Its quiet operation means the SWASH system can be placed almost anywhere in your home. Place it in close proximity to your clothes, like in a walk-in closet or bedroom. It comes in two colors, shadow and linen, to match the décor of almost any space.
  • Quick and Simple Setup – Installation is as easy as plugging the unit into a 120-volt standard wall outlet. No water, plumbing, pipes, vents, professional installation or special hookups are required.

Only available @ Best Buy

  • Extra adjustable hanger, so you can refresh two garments at once
  • Extra pocket smoother to use on dress shirts

SWASH Pods available for sensitive skin

Not everyone is able to use regular cleaning agents for laundering.  So for those who need that extra touch due to sensitivity issues, Sensitive SWASH Pods (sold separately), are available for sensitive skin are sold at Best Buy.

Save on the SWASH™ System two ways at Best Buy!

Best Buy has two wonderful ways of being able to obtain the SWASH™ System.

  1.  5/17-6/6 – Buy any Whirlpool laundry pair, get $150 off Swash clothing care system
  2.  6/7-6/20 – $75 Best Buy Gift Card when you buy a SWASH™ System

View SWASH™ in Action

Head on over to Best Buy’s site to see a video of the SWASH™ System in action.  Be sure to watch both videos.

SWASH lifestyle man

It’s important to note that the SWASH™ System isn’t designed to replace ALL washing or dry cleaning.

What a concept the SWASH™ System is, don’t you think?  Can you see how it would save you time?  Money? Your fabrics?  Share your thoughts.

 

Apr 242015
 
**This post contains affiliate links and an FCS Team Member may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on the links

Up to 50% off sale items at Reebok.com

Now’s the time to take advantage of sale items at Reebok.com.  We just love these sales!

Valid: Friday, April 24 – Sunday, April 26
Code: EXTRA20
Go to the Reebok’s End Of Season Sale – Up To 50% Off Already Reduced Items
Exclusions: Offer only applies to Reebok.com sale items

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