Shopping Cart Confidential - MSN Shopping

Most Popular Watches for Under $100

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

Let's face it, not many of us have P. Diddy's $1 million watch budget. Most of us prefer to save our millions for something like, oh I don't know, a roof over our heads. We've dropped a few zeros (four to be exact) off your timepiece tab and found some of the most popular men's and women's watches for under $100. If that doesn't narrow down your search enough, maybe discovering your watch personality will do the trick. As I'm writing this post, I Don't Wanna Know with Enya and P. Diddy has just come on the radio. As I live and breathe, I never would have put these two together, but I like it. Maybe Enya is looking to increase her watch budget?

Incredible Spring Savings on Jewelry and Watches at Ice.com

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

I just got off the phone with Lewise Hiltz, marketing manager at Ice.com, and she passed along a special coupon code that will get you 20% off any regular priced jewelry or watches until April 15. Just type in IBWFH at the checkout to redeem the discount. Ice.com is also holding an incredible spring clearance sale where you can save up to 80% off retail prices on selected items. A cultured pearl and red aventurine necklace, regularly $150 is now only $37.50. A 3/8 carat yellow sapphire14 K white gold star pendant with chain which retails for $1,000 can be picked up for $195. A gold over leather bracelet with sterling silver and freshwater pearls, regularly $475 is now only $100. Happy saving!

In Search of the Perfect Digital Frame for Grandma

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping

My grandma turns 75 this week and just recently took the intimidating plunge into the online world. At first I was getting one line emails from her until she figured out that you could hit the enter button and get a new line. Now she's addicted to Solitaire, surfing for dinner recipes and commenting on the many digital photos she receives from her grandkids. I figured getting her a digital frame for her milestone birthday would be the next logical step in her foray into the digital age. I don't own a digital frame myself, so I had no clue what I should be looking for. After doing some research, here are some key points I found were important to consider when buying a digital frame:

Screen size: You need to decide how big you want the screen, whether it's a traditional 8X10 or 11X14 or the latest generation wide-screen ratio where 7-9 inch frames are most popular. Some frames also have matting which is factored into the screen size so your actual picture may be smaller. If your frame is going to be on a table or wall then you might want to go a little bigger than if it's going to be sitting on a desk.

Matte or glass finish: Glossy finishes seem to be the most popular as they tend to have better colour quality than matte. Digital frames are now in their fourth generation using LCD technology which renders images a lot brighter and crisper than when the digital frames first came out.

Price/Memory Size: The digital frames I looked at ranged from $69.99 to about $300. Picture quality drastically increased when you entered the $150 range and the higher-end price point allowed for much more memory (1GB of storage space) and the ability to play larger video files.

The debate: I'm now trying to decide between Sony's 7" wide aspect ratio frame with 512MB, remote control, digital calendar and alarm clock (not sure if Grams needs all these bells and whistles) for $199 or the Kodak 7" EASYSHARE frame for just over $100 which boasts more easy-to-use features. The top 3 most popular digital frames on our Shopping site also have my interest.

Would you recommend your digital frame? Any advice for me? There may be a home-cooked meal from Grandma in it for you!

Gym memberships: Are they worth it?

By Jeffrey Baynes Sympatico / MSN Shopping Editor

Many of us make the decision to join a gym, whether it's to tone up, gain muscle mass, lose weight or to get into better shape. Reasons may also derive from New Year's resolution loyalties, fresh breakups and/or dating opportunities. Whatever your reason may be, are you getting the most out of a gym membership? Are they worth it?

The benefits: Some say that they are more apt to go as they know they are actually paying for it, as opposed to working out at home or in their condo gym rooms. Many are also attracted to the variation that a gym offers. Not only can you find every piece of equipment under the sun, but also on some occasions, sports courts, pools, and studios for different classes. Higher-end gyms also offer tanning, massage and physiotherapy. Gyms also offer guidance and professional help. If you are highly unmotivated, unfamiliarar with equipment, or don't know the slightest thing about working out, trainers are available to assist you in any way they can.

The downside: Gyms can be pricey. Depending on what your gym has to offer as far as services and equipment, most memberships range from 25 to 100 dollars, on top of an initial sign-up fee. Gyms can also be very crowded, especially in peak hours of the day. For some they are intimidating. Many people feel that they are being judged or criticized in the gym environment.

Most gyms will allow you to test them out before signing to see if you are comfortable in the atmosphere and they have all that you need. But if working out at the gym is not for you, you could always set up your own gym at home. Make sure your home gym has some sort of cardio equipment. Many people are also practicing yoga at home as well to stay in shape these days. Also check out our collection of quality running shoes  for your workout on Sympatico / MSN Shopping.

What do you think are reasonable gym fees? Or, would you rather work out at home?

 

Sun Protection Clothing Blocks 98% of Harmful Rays

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

I recently returned from a trip to the Mayan Riviera for a friend's wedding where I received a nasty heat rash/burn combo courtesy of the blazing Mexican sun. If only I had known about L.L. Bean's SunSmart line of UV protection clothing, I could have saved my friend the embarrassment of having a freak show for a bridesmaid. Using technology like tightly-woven fabrics and UV absorbent treatments, the SunSmart apparel manages to block 98% of UVB and UVA rays. (By contrast, a standard cotton t-shirt lets about 20% of the rays pass through to your skin.) Unlike the days of old when sun-resistant clothing came in heavier, thicker fabrics, the SunSmart line is made with light-weight, breathable fabrics. Many of the items (including hats, jackets, shirts and pants) are on sale right now so it's a great time to stock up for summer. L.L. Bean is also offering a $10 gift card when you spend $50 or more.

*** Edited to add: Commenter Sam Taylor testifies to the usefulness of UV-absorbent clothing.

Seriously Justin, Tequila?

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

Justin Timberlake has always held a special place in my heart - until this morning when I woke up to find he's selling out as a tequila salesman. Dude, aren't you rich enough already? I was willing to go along with his new 'entrepreneurial' chapter which includes restaurants (not such a bad idea) and the William Rast clothing line (a friend recently bought a pair of the jeans and says that Justin has officially touched her butt) but the tequila launch takes it into a whole new arena. Even I can't excuse this. Here's a piece of advice JT: stick to the music. And the occassional cameo on SNL is okay too. But don't insult us by trying to get us drunk while your bank account swells. And while you're at it, go buy a ticket to one of Britney's concerts. You wouldn't be anywhere without her!

Calling All Chick Lit Addicts!

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

I can't even tell you the number of times I've set out to read a thought-provoking non-fiction book or one of the great classics in literature, only to be seduced by a shiny new chick lit novel instead. I'm certainly not proud of the fact that I recently brushed off Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell in favour of This Charming Man by Marian Keyes. I've promised myself that I'll get to Orwell's classic, but only after I devour my latest fix: Celebutantes. The New York Times bestseller has been described by Publisher's Weekly as "Gawker.com meets Glamour in this insider's look at Oscar Week penned by L.A. junior royalty." Deeeeeeeeeeelish! If you are battling the same addiction as me, then you are probably already scrounging around for your next fix. Let me enable you with my list of must-have chick lit. I expect some suggestions in return!

While Running Around With Spring Fever, Watch the Mud

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

Spring fever is definitely in the air. If my neighbour's wild St. Patrick's Day party was any indication (I could hear them belting 'Hey Jude' at 4 p.m.) then people are definitely ready to come out of hibernation and kick winter to the curb. When the temperature begins to drop and the sun begins to shine, it's like we've all just been released from prison and are seeing the world again for the first time. Unfortunately, it's one step forward and two steps back (into the mud, that is.) For those of you who like to walk your dogs to the park or take your little ones out on a playground adventure, you've probably already ruined a few pairs of shoes this season. If the mud doesn't get you, the murky puddles will, and then you cart it all back into your nice clean home. That's where L.L. Bean's Waterhog mat comes in. It's made from rugged, recycled materials that lock in dirt and water. The top-rated product (which can be used in your car or home) even inspired one customer to write the company and ask: "Is it really wrong to love a doormat?"

Buying an HDTV: Go Big or Go Home

By Jeffrey Baynes, MSN Shopping editor

I would stare at my clunky 32" TV every night and wonder why I had not taken the plunge yet. Yes, the TV was in fine working order, and I could still get my LOST fix every week just fine... but something was missing. I wanted more… and in this case, I did find that bigger is better. Are you ready to treat yourself to an HDTV?

There are a few things to take into consideration. How big do you want to go? I have a moderate sized apartment, and I found 42” to be perfect. Some argue that this is even too large for my space, but I think they are just jealous. It’s just the right size to watch a movie and not have to shift your head around too much in order to see everything. I don’t recommend going any larger than this unless you have a good sized living space. The plus side; although larger in screen size, I am actually saving space in my living room now that I have a flat-screen , as the 32” was much heavier and space consuming (remember when everyone had massive computer monitors that would take up all the space on a desk?).

What resolution should I look for?        

If you aren't planning on buying a Blu-ray DVD player, or if you're buying a TV with a screen smaller than 40 inches, get a 720p/1080i set. The image won't match the crisp detail of a 1080p set, but the difference is less noticeable on a smaller TV screen. And since cable, satellite, and over-the-air HD video is currently broadcast at only 720p or 1080i (depending on your provider), the programming won't take full advantage of a 1080p set. If you are going to watch Blu-ray DVD movies, I recommend looking for 1080p resolution. A 1080p HDTV picture features 1,080 progressive lines of vertical resolution every frame to give you a better picture.  But be warned, in order to get the quality that everyone is bragging about, You must also purchase an HDMI cable. HDMI is a data superhighway for digital video and audio. This is one of the "hidden" costs that we aren't aware of when making the move towards a better TV experience. The cables range from $6.99 to $300.00--depending on speed. If a poor quality HDMI cable is used, there is a potential to have a loss of color quality, streaks or dropped pixels. With an HDMI cable bandwidth of greater than 4.95 Gbps, you'll know you're maximizing the performance of your 1080p HDTV and Blu-ray player. While it is true that most current cable TV programming does not offer HD quality, those who are movie buffs will notice a difference in viewing their favourite films.

What about sound quality?

Just as your MP3s sound better than your old cassettes, HDTV's digital audio signal sounds better than standard television's analog sound.

What about the refresh rates?

Refresh rates are measured in hertz (Hz) A high refresh rate translates into less on-screen blurring. An HDTV with a 120-Hz refresh rate should handle fast-moving action and is great for NASCAR races and fast moving video games.

Throw a 'Recession Party'

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

I was on my weekly Sunday afternoon call with my mom yesterday when the topic turned to my son's second birthday in June. (I know it's still miles away, but we're anal planners.) I was debating whether or not a big blowout with friends and family is really worth it when all he would want is a spoon full of jam and an episode of Bob the Builder. She suggested throwing a 'recession birthday party' where guests bring a new stuffed toy for a child in need, whether at home or in another part of the world. I was instantly sold. I started looking around and found that Miss Teen Canada International runs a Teddy Bears of Hope campaign that in the past has helped tsunami victims' families as well as children in Afghanistan (where they collected 54,000 bears) and is currently on a mission to help needy kids in Uganda, Africa. Helping children closer to home whose families have been hit hard financially would also be a great way to give the party a purpose. If you're thinking of doing the same, you can easily drop off toys/food that you've collected from guests to the local Salvation Army, food bank or homeless shelter.

'80s Earrings Are Back Again For Spring!

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

I have a love-hate relationship with earrings. The first time I got my ears pierced as a little girl in the eighties, I had to leave the shop with a dot on one ear because I couldn't bear the pain of getting another shot through my second earlobe. Add to that a couple of infections that required an army of family members on Operation: Earring Extraction and I decided it was time to throw in the towel.

But that was years ago and now with news that '80s style earrings are back for spring - I just couldn't resist the urge to come out of my self-imposed earring retirement. When I realized the holes in my ears hadn't yet grown over, I took it as a sign to buy some new dangly faux-crystal doozies and well, hello lover! How much I have missed you! Lucky for us, designers have thrown a bone to those who have trimmed down their fashion budgets. Now an old outfit can be given a whole new look just by sporting some in-your-face earrings, whether it be uber-feminine chandeliers or hoops with charms, chains or feathers. Angelina Jolie obviously got the memo as seen with those gorgeous emerald drops she flaunted on Oscar night. So what are you waiting for?

High Praise for Panasonic Point-and-Shoot

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

I'm the kind of girl who takes so many pictures that it begins to tick people off. There's even a photo of my fed-up husband on our honeymoon in Venice giving me the finger with the Grand Canal in the background. I like to make sure I capture every important moment in life right down to the very first day my son consumed applesauce with a spoon (peas is a whole different series). So you can appreciate why it's so important for me to have a top-notch point-and-shoot camera. Enter brother-in-law's brother who has worked at a camera shop for the past 12 years. I told him I needed something that didn't require me to spend an hour setting up the shot (patience isn't one of my virtues) but that still managed to capture crystal clear photos. He recommended the Panasonic Lumix 10X Optical Zoom which he said was a favourite of his friends and family. Let's just say, it's the best $300 I've ever spent (or at least a close second to my electric breast pump). The first time I brought my new camera to the zoo, I fancied myself a National Geographic photographer the images were so crisp. A friend who ended up buying the same camera has become equally obsessed with its greatness.

We'll Always Need Movies

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

While the rest of the world is reeling from the pain of the recent economic bloodshed, the film industry is enjoying one of its most profitable quarters in years. Rather than deal with the harsh reality of every day life which quite often means job losses and missed mortgage payments, people are opting to emerse themsleves in the world of vigilante superheros while washing down their despair with $5 pop. (The Watchman raked in $55 million at the box during its opening weekend in March.) There's no denying people will always need an escape, even in the best of times, and that's why movies are a staple in our lives. We even associate our favourite movies with certain pivotal points in our lives. My favourite of all time has to be Ferris Bueller's Day Off with Matthew Broderick and Jennifer Gray. When I was seven yeas old, I lined up to see it at the historic Roxy Theatre in downtown Owen Sound and have since seen it too many times to count. ("Ed! You sounded like Dirty Harry just then!") I've owned it on VHS, DVD and will soon be getting my Blu-Ray version of course. What's your favourite movie of all time?

Halle Berry Latest Celeb to Jump on Perfume Bandwagon

By Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

Everyone knows babies are expensive, but new-mom Halle Berry must really be feeling the pinch. She's joined the throngs of other celebrities to try their hand at a perfume line/generate more cash flow. Here's what the Oscar winner has to say about "Halle," her new scent: "I wanted to find a scent that not only appeals to me but also appeals to women who search for a kind of beauty that reflects confidence and strength. I want women's partners to think they smell beautiful."

I have no doubt there will be plenty of takers when this fragrance launches in April. If there's even the slightest chance that women believe smelling like Halle will a) increase their chances of winning an Oscar, b) land them a hot Canadian model/baby-daddy or c) look that good in a bikini, then suppliers had better be full stocked. Plus, anything is better than smelling like Donald Trump, who also has his own perfume line. For real. See which celebrities have been most succesful moonlighting as perfume designers.

Don't be Afraid to Show Your Animal Side

By: Jackie Burns Sympatico/MSN Shopping Contributor

I met my friend for a quick walk through the mall this morning (she can’t do coffee breaks anymore since she’s six months pregnant) and no sooner did we hug hello that she was proudly showing off her new cat necklace (just wait till she has her baby!). I gave her props for having kept up with the latest trends despite the aforementioned pregnancy but she just gave me a blank look. I explained that animal-inspired jewelry is all the rage for spring, news that left her glowing even without the help of her raging hormones. I received the fashion-forward tip from MyJewelryBox.com CEO David Mamane yesterday after chatting with him about spring jewelry trends for 2009. He told me personalized jewelry is ‘very very hot’ especially anything with animal accents.

Are you feeling the call of the wild? If that’s a yes, choose from jewelry with butterflies, frogs, dogs, bees and more.