Chance to #Win JayBird Sport State of The Art Headphones {Giveaway}

As a gym enthusiast, I'm always looking for the latest and greatest technical gear to accommodate my workout. Fortunate for me, I came across what looks like an amazing, comfortable and bluetooth enabled headphone. It makes me long for my own personal pair {le sigh}.


About Jaybird Sport

JaybirdSport, founded in 2006 with headquarters based in Utah, the "State of Sport" is in the ideal setting to develop the greatest premium active/sport lifestyle products for our customers. Our products enhance the athletic experience, inspiring you to be active and empowering you to improve your life. Power Your Passion.

JaybirdSport offers a wide selection of various sophisticated and technologically advanced headphones to fit a each sports enthusiast's needs. For example, I am especially intrigued by the BlueBuds X. They are the smallest Bluetooth headphones available, yet they pack an 
incredible 8 hours of play time, double that which has previously been possible 
from a product this small. A user can enjoy a full day of music and calls, or work out an hour 
a day for an entire week on a single charge. Now, that's my kind of headphones!

A feature that I absolutely LOVE, IS THE the ability to
 lift the cord off your neck... talk about GENIUS... and of course, LIBERATING! JayBird’s patent pending X-Fit™
allows for the headphones to be used either in the 
traditional under-ear wearing style for music & calls, 
or over-ear, designed for those wanting a great sports 
music experience, free of anything on your neck. AGAIN... genius!

To further enhance Jaybird’s Lifetime Warranty Against Sweat,
BlueBuds X feature Liquipel Sweat Repellant Nano Technology.
 A super hydrophobic process that provides the BlueBuds X with 
added protection from exposure to sweat and the elements.

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Buy It

Just Can't Wait... Purchase JayBird Headphones Today!

No worries, purchase your very own state of the art headphone on their site HERE.

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Win It 

How to Enter:

A form will pop up on this page on the lower right hand corner of the screen. Just click to connect immediately Facebook.

Fill out the form and BOOM... you're entered. Easy, I know!

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[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free from the manufacturer of a PR Agency. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.]
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AT&T Mobile Safety School {$50 Visa Gift Card Giveaway}

Most days, I absolutely LOVE and appreciate technology. But with the advancements of technology also comes some concerns where my children become more and more involved with these electronics. Sadly, the kids today face several issues especially when it comes to mobile phone usage such as bullying, privacy, over-usage, texting while driving and more.

AT&T has created a program called AT&T Mobile Safety School to provide education, resources and tools to help families better manage mobile safety and are committed to being a leader in this cause. If you are interested in learning more, AT&T is offering the opportunity to one of my readers to attend a virtual Mobile Safety School session – along with a $50 VISA gift card. 

The virtual Mobile Safety School schedule is as follows:

Oct. 23 at 1p ET – mobile safety for kids 8-11
Oct. 24 at 1p ET – mobile safety for kids 12-14
Oct. 25 at 1p ET – mobile safety for kids 15-17

Easily enter this giveaway on the Rafflecopter widget below. Please let me know in the comments section which session you would like to attend. I will choose a winner by Saturday, Oct. 20.

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2012 Spring Fling Guide: jill-e designs *Everywear Gadget* Bag {Review}

Featured Sponsor

If I could have my way, I certainly would LOVE to be a professional photographer. Me and my Nikon SLR are like best buddies. Of course, when I use it, I like to have ALL my {stuff} in one convenient place. In addition to having easy access to all of my stuff, I wanted a place that would also protect my camera gear as well. jill-e designs gear does just that and much more!


About jill-e designs
(source: jill-e.com)


jill-e designs® – established by and for women – believes every woman deserves to carry her work tools and lifestyle essentials in a stylish, secure, affordable, high-quality bag. Beginning in 2007, they became an advocate for the female photographer who tolerated the male-oriented look and feel of professional camera bags. “Function on the inside, fashion on the outside” was a quick way to convey their goal.

Since then, jill-e designs has evolved as women’s needs have evolved. Today they are a leader in fashionable, functional, protective carry bags for today’s tech-dependent, on-the-go lifestyle.

ace and friends thoughts

First, what I loved about jill-e designs was that wide selection of gadget gear. They offer many different styles, types, pattern and designs to suit a variety of needs. The styles were unique, fun and definitely different. Three important qualities I look for in products.

Recently, I was introduced to the Everywear Gadget Bag. Can you say, clever? What I immediately noticed about this bag was that is was made very well and appeared to be super durable. The bag overall has several compartment to hold all sorts of important stuff. The interior is well padded to protect your camera, lenses as well as your other tech gadgets. Also included with this bag is a removable padded case to protect your iPad, Kindle or similar e-reading device. 

The exterior of the bag is made of weather resistant nylon that keep your camera and equipment dry. There are three exterior pockets - two in the front and one zipper pocket in the back. The front two pockets can easily hold your smart phone, key and other small items. 

The Everywear Gadget Bag is relatively perfect at anytime to carry your essential tech gear to - (including but, of course not limited to) work, travel, or even sporting events. The interior has specifically made pockets to hold your credit cards, pens, glasses and more. 

Product Features 

• Stylish, weather-resistant nylon exterior
• Durable, top-grain leather trim
• Padded exterior walls and interior dividers protect your gear
• Removable sleeve to protect iPad, e-reader or tablet device
• Top zipper to secure camera, electronics and essentials
• Inside and outside zippered pockets for personal items
• Interior pouches for smart phone, accessories, pens and glasses
• Comfortable leather carry handles with 9.5” drop
• Dimensions (L x W x H) 12”L x 7”W x 10”H

Know a mom who has a passion for photography or technology...  a jill-e designs products might just make the perfect Mother's Day gift?!!

connect with jill-e :

Like them on Facebook

Follow them on Twitter

Need more, follow their Blog

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Buy It

The Everywear Gadget Bag (ARV $109.99)
and other jill-e designs products are available on their SITE.


GET A 20% COUPON: 
To Get your 20% off coupon for the Everywear Gadget Bag - Follow Jill-e on Facebook, leave a comment that ace and friends sent you and then email them at info@jill-e.com to request the coupon code.
They will reply direct with your discount code.

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[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free from the manufacturer of a PR Agency. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.] Pin It

Roku 2 XD Streaming Player 1080p {Review}

We've been in the market for another streaming player for an additional room in our home and were on the verge of purchasing one when we were introduced to Roku. If you are like us, our first thought was... what's a Roku? What I wasn't ready for was something more impressive than I could have ever imagined. 


About Roku

Roku is a small device that streams movies, TV shows, music, and other entertainment to your TV via the Internet. Since Roku streams (rather than downloads) video, you get instant access to a huge library of entertainment without having to store any video files on your computer or hard drive.

Once you set up Roku, you do not need a PC to use it. Roku connects directly to your TV and your high-speed Internet service home using your wireless home network. It then lets you access the streaming entertainment channels that you sign up for (like Netflix) right from your TV, using a handy remote. 


What's Included

• IR remote
• 2 x AAA batteries
• A/V cable
• A/C Power adapter
• Getting Started guide
• 30-day money back guarantee
• 90-day hardware warranty

ace and friends thoughts

For the purpose of the this review, we were supplied the Roku 2 XD. Upon it's arrival, admittedly I was extremely skeptical. We have a competitive device in the house (Apple TV) and I wasn't sure how well this new streaming player would live up to our current device. We love the ability to wirelessly stream movies, television shows and more throughout our home. 

Right off the bat, we were immediately impressed with many of the Roku 2 XD's technical abilities. First, it gives you access to Netflix, Hulu Plus as well as other pay-for-type of shows/movies through other providers. You can also stream Pandora (which I absolutely LOVE), Disney, HBO, even Facebook, as well as hundreds of other channels, practically free. Some channels charge a very small fee for additional premium features.

If you store movies on your computer and want to access them via your Roku, there is the ability to add your OWN channels. Although it takes a little internet research and tech savvy, it's possible and not really very difficult. Installing the PLEX media server on your computer, then adding the PLEX channel to Roku makes accessing your files super simple.

Pros:

• Quick performance speed
• Great wireless range
• Amazing picture quality
• Easy to install and operate
• Great interface, colorful menus
• 300+ channels

Cons:

• HDMI cable not included
• Takes about 20 second seconds to load a show via Netflix
• Also takes another 20 seconds for the picture to fully come clear on the screen
• Show actually froze while on pause and had to unplug to reboot

Roku offers four different products in a variety of prices, but nothing super expensive (and less than it's competitors). The entry level model is just $49.99 and they offer FREE Shipping. The high end model Roku 2 XS features a Bluetooth remote with sensors for motion-based game play, as well as game-ready buttons. Popular games available include the Angry Birds series, PAC-MAN Championship Edition, Galaga, and Storm in a Teacup. In addition, they are continuously improving and growing their game collection. 

I have had the opportunity to watch several movies and TV shows as well as listened to music using my Roku 2 XD box and playback has been more than impressive. It always started quickly (less than 30 seconds) and only encountered one small glitch with freezing and had to reboot. Works well with all the channels I have added as well as the channel I have added on my own. The included remote works well to control the box. You can also add an App to your smart device to control the box. I added the Roku App to my iPhone/iPad and device control was even better than with the included remote.

Overall, I'm super pleased with the performance of the Roku 2 XD. This little unit works great. Simple to set up and operate. Picks up my wireless signal with no issues (upstairs and furthest room away). I would recommend this to anyone looking for a streaming player 1080p HD.

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Buy It

Roku products are available on their site or

  visit HERE, to find a retailer near you.

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[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free from the manufacturer of a PR Agency. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.]

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2011 Holiday Gift Guide: {mod} camera straps {Review & $50 Gift Card Giveaway}

Featured Sponsor

If I could have my way, I certainly would LOVE to be a professional photographer. Me and my Nikon SLR are like best buddies. Of course, when I use it, I like to have it strapped to my neck, for fear of dropping it... I'm clumsy like that... Unfortunately, the actual Nikon strap that was included with my camera at purchase is not very comfortable for long periods of time. What I didn't realize, was that I actually have alternative options... and SUPER cute ones at that, from mod.

About mod.

mod. is a mother and daughter owned business created by Jeannie Cheatham and Amber Clay. Amber, an avid photo enthusiast was in the market for a new camera strap. Unfortunately, all she found were low quality straps in limited basic styles and colors. She set out to create her own strap cover using her existing strap as the base. In their quest, Jeannie and Amber realized that the product photographers wanted was not simply a camera strap cover but a high quality, durable, and stylish camera strap. The response was tremendous and the demand grew quickly.

Today, mod. straps are sold all over the world along with their camera bags and other creative and stylish accessories.

ace and friends thoughts

First, what I loved about mod. straps was that each one had it's own unique print. The prints were vibrant, fun and definitely different. Three important qualities I look for in products. Installation (if that's what you call it) was very easy. A quick loop here, slide through there... and wah-lah.... beautiful new strap on and ready for use. The strap itself is lined with Minky Cuddle Plush fabric which I found to be extremely comfortable and super soft. The decorative portion of the strap is 34" while the total length generally averages 44" - 58". On each end of the strap there is a quick release if you want to easily remove the strap for storage.

Product Features 

genuine leather ends & durable webbing throughout 

quick release ends 

tested to withstand up to 70 lbs. 

lined with Minky Cuddle Plush fabric for ultimate comfort 

decorative portion of the strap is 33" & the total adjustable length is approximately 42" - 48", width is approximately 1.75"

The Turquoise Flower Premium Camera Strap is not only functional, but quite stylish. Check out the floral detail on the strap. love.

Have you ever been a victim of a lost camera cap cover? Right here, guilty. I have definitely misplaced my camera cap on several occasions, but thanks to mod., that problem no longer exists. They have a camera cap saver collection that is genius (and fun too)! They retail for only $15.50... and are well worth the investment!

They also offer other matching accessories including bags, which are a great way to store your other lenses.

Have a photographer on your holiday list? Don't you think mod. products would make the ideal holiday gift?! 

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Buy It

mod. products are available on their site as well as
  in specialty stores, visit HERE, to find a retailer near you.

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Win It

Thanks to the mod. one LUCKY ace and friends reader will win
a $50 Gift Certificate to spend on their newly designed site!

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2011 Holiday Gift Guide: DXG Luxe Collection 1080p HD Camcorder {Review & Giveaway}

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In my pre-kid days, my parents would say to me, time really flies by, and I really didn't understand it until I had a family of my own. Now that we have three kids, there are have been many instances in which I thought, I wish I had a camcorder to capture this memory because before I know it, they will be all grown up. I've caught myself thinking, boy, time does REALLY fly by fast and I don't want to forget these moments.

This holiday season (and beyond), I will be able to capture these memories thanks to my new DXG Luxe Collection HD Camcorder. This High Definition camcorder is less than one inch thick, with a 3-inch LCD touch screen, light weight and can fit right in my pocket. 

ace and friends thoughts

Upon opening the box, I was delighted to see an impressively packaged product. Inside the useful storage box was not only the DXG Luxe Camcorder, but a Li-ion Battery NP-40, a universal USB Cable, charger and power cord, adorable carrying/storage case and the user's guides/manuals. 

To get started all that is needed, is to charge the battery (about 120 minutes to fully charge), insert an SD card (not included) and you are ready to begin filming or taking photos. 

So, you may be asking was it simple to operate and was the picture quality up to par?

First, I will address the ease of use. As soon as the battery was fully charged, I was able to immediately capture video and take photos. The touch screen is a nice feature and makes operation of this camcorder super simple. The DXG Luxe Camcorder records HD videos and also includes a light for evening photo shots as well as video recordings. The tilt LCD screen makes viewing your recording easy to see.

As far as quality, take a look for yourself. Here are a couple of photos that I took indoors without using the included light.

I was really impressed at how well these pictures turned out. Although not as clear as my SLR camera, it serves it purpose and would capture a moment if I were without my other camera.

Capturing a video was just as easy. I took this video indoors, check out the clarity.

Additional Product Details
(source: dxgusa.com)

The DXG Luxe 1080p Slim HD Camcorder (shown in Monaco Pink) combines HD technology and style in one device that's hip, hot and haute. It features a classic design that is inspired by the latest trends in fashion and will complement anyone's taste and personal style. This camcorder records real 1080p high definition video and captures still pictures up to 12 megapixels. It also boasts a 3" touchscreen display and an HDMI interface so it can easily be connected to your HDTV. This camcorder comes with everything you need to start recording your precious memories right away.

-HD video: 1080p, 720p at 30 fps
-Connect to your PC via USB 2.0 interface
-Upload videos to the Internet
-SDHC compatible

 
If you have a special person on your gift giving list that loves to capture every moment on video, then look no further than the DXG Luxe Collection. They offer a variety of different styles and colors that I know that he/she will appreciate and enjoy!

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Buy It 

Get your own DXG Luxe Collection Camcorder (MSRP $199.99)

 on their site HERE. 

COUPON (just for ace and friends readers): Use ACEDXG,

at checkout to receive 20% off of your purchase!

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Win It 

Thanks to DXG, one LUCKY ace and friends reader will win

a Luxe Collection Camcorder in Monaco Pink (MSRP $199.99).

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ONE DAY {Giveaway}: chicboom Keychain Speaker Ball by chicBuds

 

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Win It
{ONE DAY ONLY GIVEAWAY}

Thanks to the chicBuds, ONE LUCKY ace and friends reader will win a chicBuids chicboom Keychain Speaker Ball (MSRP $29.99)!

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Read my REVIEW of chicBuds chicboom Keychain Speaker Ball  and to find out more information about this product and other visit www.chicbuds.com
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chicboom Keychain Speaker Ball by chicBuds {Review & Upcoming Giveaway}

 

I LOVE music, so when I came across this super fun and unique product, I had to share. The chicboom Keychain Speaker Ball from chicBuds is the perfect gift for the music lover in your life.  This amazingly cute device is compatible with iPods, iPhones, MP3 Player, Walkmen, Computers, Airplane Connectors... basically any listening device! 

The keychain itself is pretty small, but surprisingly, it plays the music quite loud. Louder than I definitely expected. What I really liked was that there is a built in rechargeable battery that you plug into your computer to recharge it's power. It claims to give you fours house of play time. I haven't tested it four hours straight, but I've been using it often and still haven't had to recharge it yet.

Here are some additional product details:

• Built-in lithium-ion rechargeable battery
• Plays for up to 4 hours on a single charge
• Connects to any device with a standard 3.5mm stereo jack
• Power and battery life indicator
• Clarity, incredible volume and clear distortion-free sound

Find out more information about this product and other at www.chicbuds.com

I will be hosting a ONE-DAY GIVEAWAY tomorrow, November 1st - one lucky reader (US only) will win the chicBuds chicboom Keychain Speaker Ball.  Make sure to return back to enter!

[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free from the manufacturer of a PR Agency. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.]

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