Reviews by west757

west757 says "Easy to use product when you need both shampoo and conditioner." about Pantene 2 in 1 shampoo & conditioner

west757 — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 21:06:29 GMT

Pantene Pro-V 2 in 1 shampoo and conditioner is a good product for those of us who need good products but don't always have the time to spend with two products. I like Pantene 2 in 1 especially when traveling. It's easy to pack and provides a good product for all family members. Hotels do give out small bottles for their guests but most of the time there just isn't enough for all of the family to take showers, wash our hair and get on to the next activity. The shampoo is gentle enough for color enhanced hair as well as my husband's hair. It has a great smell, not too flowery or sweet, so everyone is comfortable using it.

The only problem I have with the shampoo personally, is the amount of conditioner. I find it to be too heavy to use daily. That's why I only use it for a short time and then go back to another shampoo without conditioner. I have found that most shampoo/conditioner combos have the same effect on my hair. It would be nice if the manufacturers dialed down the conditioner...

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west757 says "Winster is fun and prizes are great too!" about Winster

west757 — Sun, 10 May 2009 01:39:56 GMT

I recently was hooked up with the site "Winster" an online gaming community with a difference. You can join Winster for free and earn points by playing games for points. Once you get enough points you are awarded a prse you pre-selected. But here's the twist, Winster players cooperate with each other to win prizes instead of competing. It's a great way to meet people and win prizes in a relaxed environment. Sometimes there is a moderator in the room to help newbies. They are players just like you with a little more experience.

There are no fees associated with Winster, however, if you want to rack up points quickly, they have three levels of Club Winster Membership: Basic ($4.99/month); Silver ($7.49/month) and Gold (9.99/month). As a member you get bonus points each day. You can upgrade at any time, but if you just want to play, you can with the daily spins they provide for everyone, regardless whether you are a member or not.
There are lots of prizes to be had including gift certificates,...

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west757 says "Growing herbs is easy to do." about AeroGrow AeroGarden - Pro 100 Stainless Unit - w/Gourmet Herb Kit

west757 — Wed, 06 May 2009 21:31:07 GMT

The AeroGrow AeroGarden Pro 100 with Gourmet Herb Kit is a nice addition to my green thumb and cooking repertroie. I purchased the unit about four weeks ago from Amazon.com and have been impressed with the rapid growth of the herbs. My AeroGarden has seven slots for the pre-seeded Seed Pods which include italian basil, thyme (substituted for cilantro), mint, dill, parsley, chives and purple basil.

Assemblying the AeroGarden was super simple. The instructions advise you through the seven steps from unpacking to moving it to its permanent position. I had no problem putting it together or understanding the limitations of the garden. I was advised to keep it on a sturdy water tolerant surface, in a space that allows a 22" clearancre, near an electrical outlet and in an environment that ranges from 60-75° F. I am fortunate to have a small attached green space in my home so I put the unit there. I diligently followed all the directions for planting the garden including placing the small bio...

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west757 says "Dyson vacuums work like magic." about Dyson Ball Vacuum

west757 — Wed, 06 May 2009 01:12:21 GMT

I bought this Dyson vacuum to use in a house with three dogs. It is very easy to operate and cleans extremely well. I love the ease of use. It picks up everything. I especially like to use the retractable hose for cleaning the upholstery. With the dogs, even though they are small terriers, I find the debris and hair they leave behind. I also have dust allergies and the Dyson does a great job of keeping that at bay. I use it on both hardwood and carpets with ease. My son borrowed it the other day and could not believe the amount of dirt, dust, etc that came out of his carpets. He said they were never cleaner!

Unlike other Dyson's the DC24 Ball is lightweight and extremely portable. I can store it away in a small closet in my kitchen so it is always at the ready for use. The container is easy to empty and clean. The only drawback I had was figuring out how to maneuver it. I am used to vacuums that go back and forth and the Dyson has the ball which moves any way you want it to go. Once I...

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west757 says "Miele washers can't be beat." about Miele Touchtronic W1213 Front Load Washer

west757 — Wed, 06 May 2009 00:46:56 GMT

I am a great believer of products from Miele. Here is another example of an outstanding product. The Miele Touchtronic W1213 Front Load Washer is amazing. My family uses it almost daily with great results. Our house has a septic tank, so we typically wash our clothes with the energy saving, water miser features. Since all Miele products originated in Europe, they have these features as standard features. The front loader uses even less water than a typical top loader because of its efficient design. I have found several of our dogs, specifically a Westie and a Cairn terrier, staring at the glass front door watching the gentle washing action of the machine. I must admit it can be mesmerizing even for humans!

This Miele product is a slim (24") super capacity front loader designed to be placed under a counter. It has a stainless steel honeycomb drum and seven different wash temperatures and spin speeds. There is a child lock feature that parents will welcome. Of course it also has the obnoxious...

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west757 says "Cuisinart makes the grade for dough." about Cuisinart CBK-200 Bread Machine

west757 — Wed, 06 May 2009 00:27:43 GMT

Here's the bread machine you've been waiting for. I purchased this one after my old machine started to smoke. Yes, I use it a lot, especially for doughs. We make focaccia, pizzas, soft pretzels and such. I also use it to prepare specialty breads like Polish Babka for the holidays. The Cuisinart Breead Machine saves me a ton of time and effort. I like to hand shape my breads so having the option to have perfect dough at the ready is great for me.

You will certainly enjoy the auto features of this machine. There are options for every conceivable bread/dough type from white, wheat, french, italian to sweet breads, just to mention a few. It also has a special setting for gluten free and low-carb breads. Great for people who have those needs. I counted 16 different menu cycles for 1 LB 1.5 LB or 2 LB loaves.

The machine has audible tones that are especially helpful if you want to bake your bread in the machine but don't care for the little paddle sticking to the middle. When you hear the tone,...

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west757 says "The Closer on DVD, Seasons 1-3. Exceptional tv." about The Closer

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 20:56:47 GMT

The Closer- Complete First Season (also available in a Season 1 & 2 pack)

The next time you are at a store buy this. What a great series. The show is about an Atlanta investigator/profiler who takes a new job with the LA Police Department. She encounters a cast of characters who initially are suspicious of her because she is an outsider and a woman. But once they see her in action, they find even more ways to dislike her. She finds herself in competition with the head of Robbery and Homicide, played by Robert Gossett. Kyra Sedgwick plays Brenda Johnson, a CIA trained ace interrogator who is known for "closing" difficult cases. Her tough attitude irritates the locals and antagonizes her co-workers. They secretly refer to her as "Scarlett O'Hara" and "Miss Atlanta". However, in the end she elicits great loyalty from her team and that further infuriates Gossett's character.
The first story of the season deals with a dead, eccentric computer genus who is murdered at home. The clues are almost...

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west757 says "Kitchen Aid makes great mixers." about KitchenAid Kitchen Aid Pro 6 qt. Mixer

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 20:35:32 GMT

I use this Kitchen Aid mixer for almost everything. The machine is extremely durable and hard working. It can whip eggs for meringues in minutes using the whisk while still taking on the challenge of a speciality pasta dough using the paddle or hook. I love the red color and the attachments that came with it. I have also added a sausage stuffer and pasta roller. Both are extremely easy to attach, versatile and as durable as the mixer.

Personally, I also like the KitchenAid mixer because it is heavy. It does not move around the counter like some other mixers I have had in the past. Anyone who has tried to knead doughs knows exactly what I am talking about. I do know some people find the weight disconcerting, but to me it is one the best benefits. The mixer is also taller than other models. It stands about 14" tall. So when I put it away in my cabinet I leave it in the raised position so that it fits in the cabinet nicely.

Another great feature is how the bowl lifts up into the mixer attachments...

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west757 says "U-Line is the perfect compliment to a fine wine." about U-Line Échelon™ Series Wine Captain® 2175WC Wine Cooler

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 20:07:11 GMT

What would a fine kitchen be without easy accessibility to fine wines to accompany your meal? During our recent kitchen remodel, we added the U-Line Échelon™ Series Wine Captain to supplement a larger wine cellar we have in our basement. This 24" under the counter wine captain has a 43-bottle capacity and features temperature controls in each zone that can be set independently between 40°f and 60°f. It is perfect for both red and white wines and the occasional sparkler. The unit offers a stable, vibration proof environment for longer term storage and a glass see-through front. In our house though, we don't worry about the long term storage issue as much since we drink our wines fairly fast.

For me, having perfectly chilled red or white wines to serve guests or even yourself right in the kitchen is the ultimate luxury. I try to keep a good variety of wines in our wine captain to accommodate any dinner entree or guest request. The unit is well built, sturdy and dependably right on target...

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west757 says "Versatility in a stick." about Braun hand blender - MR400WH

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 19:28:07 GMT

I purchased the Braun hand blender after attending a fund raiser for our local school district. We live near Philadelphia and had the opportunity to participate in a demonstration of cooking techniques with Bernard Perrier, brother of Georges Perrier of Le Bec Fin fame.

Bernard was demonstrating a variety of items for us and he came to a sauce he wanted to lighten. He pulled out his hand blender which he affectionately referred to as his "whiz whiz". Immediately his sauce started to lighten up and double in volume. We were all amazed and fascinated not only with his cooking skills but his marvelous gadgets.
I have personally used my hand blender to make super, creamy hot chocolates in the winter, buzzed a pot full of potato and leek soup to perfection and used Bernard's technique to lighten many sauces for a holiday dinners and everyday affairs. I have successfully used it in a variety of situations both hot and cold with equal success.

The Braun hand blender is lightweight, efficient and...

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west757 says "Love the lavender, hate the price!" about L'Occitane Skincare Products

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:54:20 GMT

I have to admit I love lavender. It is one of my favorite scents. So when I received a bottle of L'Occitane Lavender Foaming Bath as a present I was delighted to give it a go in my shower and bath. It truly smells divine. Just like lavender should smell. Not too sweet like some other products. Plus it does make a lot of bubbles especially if you use it with a spa tub. I had to turn off the spa so I could see my feet!

I went online to purchase another bottle, but found the price was too prohibitive to even consider buying. L'Occitane products are truly luxurious but super expensive. I am sure they are priced like they are because they use the real scents, not chemically produced ones. I just wish they could bring the prices down a little. In today's economy it just doesn't make any sense to purchase something so expensive.

So, if you find yourself feeling flush and I mean flush, you might want to check it out especially if you can get free shipping or other gifts with it. Maybe a Mother's...

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west757 says "Simple, beautiful melodies and lyrics." about Colbie Caillat - Coco

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:42:33 GMT

I first heard the song "Bubbly" by Colbie Caillat on iTunes as one of their free new songs. After downloading that track, I was immediately hooked with her vocal style...mellow and light in the vein of Norah Jones. She has a unique and distinctive singing style. The album's music is more like a coffee house setting instead of a studio sound. Her music is truly delightful. It is a simple down-to-earth style with songs about life and love. She delivers it all with a casual charm that feels just right for her. My favorite songs from the album, "Coco", are "Oxygen", "One Fine Wire" and "The Little Things". "Bubbly" remains at the very top though!

Caillat is a singer-songwriter who plays the guitar and piano. She is a California girl, which may explain her "beach" style. On the album she is aided by Mikal Blue and Jason Reeves on acoustic guitar, Tim Fagan, guitar; Jaco Caraco, electric guitar; Stevie Blacke, cello; Brian Carr, piano; Dylan Charbeneau, Mark Levang, Fender Rhodes piano; Dave Marotta,...

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west757 says "Caution: you may not get any work done once you start playing!" about Bejeweled 2 for Windows

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:37:27 GMT

The Bejeweled games are my absolute favorite. In addition to this one I also have the version downloaded to my ITouch so I can play while waiting for appointments, kids, whatever. The game is very addictive especially when you start piling up the gems. This newest version of Bejeweled (just released in the US in late March) contains four great ways to play. Each version of the game has beautiful backdrops, crystal-like gems and explosive features. I also like the fact there are different levels and four ways to play since that keeps the game from becoming boring.

You can find the Bejeweled games everywhere. A lot of the online sites are fun, however if you like to play without interruptions, or commercials and such, this version is for you. I have played the game on a PC and on my Mac. For me this game is one of the best ever.

I like playing the game whenever I need to be on the phone for a long time. It certainly helps to pass time and I even play it when I am corresponding by email for...

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west757 says "Lovely, feminine scent." about Issey Miyake L'eau D'issey Perfume

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:27:49 GMT

This perfume is my all time favorite. Every time I wear it, I get compliments. Issey Miyake L'Eau D'Issey Femme Eau de Toilete Spray is soft and floral with a subtle smell that lingers. I have had women follow me in the mall and the supermarket to find out what I am wearing. A lot of people I know don't know about this one, but it is fantastic. Truly lovely!

As always, you may not find that the perfume is right for you, but I would recommend seeking it out to try. You might find it to be the perfect one for you.

I always find myself looking at perfumes with similar smells. I have tried Burberry, Estee Lauder, Chanel, and others but I always find myself coming back to Miyake's L'Eau D'Issey. I have also tried the lighter summer version, but that one was way too subtle for me.

I have converted my new daughter in law as well my husband (with the men's fragrance, of course) to be L'Eau D'Issey fans as well!

The packaging is beautiful and elegant. It looks stunning on my dressing table. This is...

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west757 says "A remote for all situations." about Logitech Harmony 880 LCD Remote Control

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:18:38 GMT

Here's another good remote from Logitech. All of their remotes are computer compatible and are very easy to set up. Logitech has a good reputation for a solid product and it shows in this remote. I purchased the Logitech Harmony 880 LCD Remote Control to help my family with "control clutter", in particular all of the numerous remotes for the electronic stuff we have. There's a remote for the tv, dvd, vcr, (yes, we still have one of those), tuner, cd player and satellite controller.

The set up is simple and intuitive. It is truly seamless if you have the serial numbers for each of your products, unfortunately I didn't have all the serial numbers I needed but I was still able to determine the ones I did have with the help of Logitech's programming on the computer. Every time I set up one of these "universals" I am always amazed that one small remote can be used for all of my products, and that it works. The Harmony's screen is very helpful for all the tv watchers in our family, since there...

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west757 says "How far would you go to get home again?" about Rabbit-Proof Fence

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:05:19 GMT

Rabbit-Proof Fence was released by Buena Vista Home Entertainment in 2005. It is set in Australia in 1913 during a period when the government intervened in the lives of the native people. The movie is based on the book "Follow the Rabbit-Proof Fence" by Doris Pikington Garimara. Originally released in Australia in 2002, the film tells the story of three young half-caste girls (born of Aboriginal mothers and white fathers) who are taken from their native families in an effort to integrate them into Australian society by training them to be domestic workers at a Christian camp. This true story follows the escape and subsequent journey of 14-year old Molly Craig, her sister, Daisy and cousin, Gracie, from the government's training facility where they were forcibly taken. The three young girls demonstrate unparalleled human courage and spiritual reliance on family as they overcome a dangerous journey of 1500 miles along the rabbit-proof fence that bisects the continent and eventually leads...

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west757 says "I am Sheba." about Michael Clayton

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 17:34:16 GMT

I absolutely love this movie. My daughter, a first year college student, originally told me about it. She has probably seen more movies than anyone I know and her recommendations are always spot on. First released in October 2007 and now available on DVD and occasionally on premium movie channels, Michael Clayton is a movie for the ages.

At the first viewing I was immediately hooked. First off it stars George Clooney. What more can I say? I love his acting so of course he was the immediate draw for me. However, it was the story line that kept me interested and riveted. The movie, Michael Clayton, has a strong ensemble of amazing actors portraying the many levels people will work to protect an interest, whether good or bad. As the movie tagline says "The Truth Can be Adjusted".

Clooney, in his role, is the title character, Michael Clayton, a lawyer who is relegated to cleaning up the messes others leave behind. A former district attorney he now finds himself in another role that he hasn't...

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west757 says "Tassimo is coffee the way I like it." about Braun Tassimo

west757 — Tue, 05 May 2009 16:27:03 GMT

This is the machine for all of you who can't decide what to drink in the morning, afternoon or night. We bought this machine so all of us could have the drink we wanted when we wanted it. It is great in the morning when you need a "cup of joe". I have had Braun model it for almost two years now and have never had a problem with it. Bosch has taken over the production of the line and friends who have bought that model are just as pleased as me.

The Tassimo is super simple to use and doesn't take hardly any time to set up. The system uses T-discs that contain a measured amount of coffee, expresso, tea, or chocolate to make beverages for everyone. No longer do you have to make a full pot of coffee if you only a few people will drink it. Preparing made to order drinks including cappucino, lattes or green tea is a snap. Each cup is freshly brewed and gives you the taste you desire, every time.

Purchasing the T-discs to use with the machine is simple. They offer an online service which you can...

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west757 says "Star light, star bright equals enchantment." about Stardust

west757 — Mon, 04 May 2009 20:07:29 GMT

I discovered the movie Stardust accidently the other day as I was flipping through Showtime channels. I caught the movie in the middle and watched it till the end and then started looking for it so I could see the movie from the beginning. The story is enchanting and has a great cast who bring this story to life.

THE STORY LINE: Neil Gaiman's novel of the same name, is brought to life in this fantasy film by director Matthew Vaughn. The story revolves around Tristan Thorne (Charlie Cox), a resident of a sleepy English village of Wall. Wall just happens to have a stone wall that separates it from a magical realm called Stormhold. Tristan is in love with a beautiful village girl named Victoria (Sienna Miller), however she prefers another suitor, Humphrey (Henry Cavill). Humphrey is seen as a better suitor to Victoria because he has traveled to Ipswich to buy her an engagement ring. Tristan and Victoria see a falling star and he immediately tries to impress her with the promise of retrieving...

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west757 says "The most efficient way to water." about Capresso Electric Kettle

west757 — Mon, 04 May 2009 20:03:19 GMT

I purchased my Capresso tea kettle for the convenience it offered me as a stand alone unit. I didn't expect to fall in love with it though! It is everything they say about it. Convenient with a great design and thoughtful safety features. I especially like the fact that the 1 1/2 quart capacity carafe is heat tempered glass, since the area we live in has hard water. No more calcium build up that is hidden.

The carafe is easy to maintain and fill. It is cordless so it easily slips on and off the stand. The water is "tea ready" in mere minutes. My family uses it on a daily basis for tea, hot soup packs, ramen, instant hot cereals and as a convenient way to fill a baking dish when you need to use a bain marie (water bath). It has a cool touch handle and pours drip free.

It has a safety auto shut off so if you get busy and walk away for a phone call, child emergency or doorbell you won't have to worry about it overheating. The base is also designed for both lefties and righties depending on...

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