Time to announce the winners of my giveaways. Are you a winner? Read on for winners for the giveaways that ended between November 21, 2010 and November 25, 2010.

Winner has been selected and announced for the Oneida Dinnerware Collection that ended November 21, 2010.

Congratulations to.....

LilyBiscuit (#228) with the comment:

Following Oneida on Twitter.
dragonfly777
vac924 at gmail dot com
Thanks!!
Saturday, November 20, 2010 5:49:00 PM

---

Winner has been selected and announced for the Pamela's Products Review & Giveaway that ended November 25, 2010.

Congratulations to.....

Tiffany Christie (#50) with the comment:

I follow via Google Friend Connect - Tiffypixie - Tiffypoot @ (aol.com) 2
Saturday, November 13, 2010 8:02:00 AM

I have sent you all an email. You have 48 hours to respond. Thanks everyone for participating in my giveaway contests. Check out my other current giveaways.

Time to announce the winners for the giveaways. Are you a winner? Read on to find out.

Winner has been selected and announced for the Elmer's Craft Bond and X-ACTO Review & Giveaway that ended November 19, 2010.

Congratulations to.....

Klio0315 (#23) with the comment:

I registered for CraftIt Club
kliolessya at yahoo dot com

Wednesday, October 20, 2010 1:03:00 AM






I have sent you all an email. You have 48 hours to respond. Thanks everyone for participating in my giveaway contests. Check out my other current giveaways.

Jen's 2010 Holiday Gift Guide presents..Celsius Energy Drinks - Great stocking stuffer idea!


I was given the opportunity to try the Celsius Fruit Flavored Energy Drinks. I like that it isn't too sweet and that it contains no sugar nor aspartame. I recommend drinking it chilled. It tastes pretty good and I feel more awake. So far my favorite flavor is the Sparkling Wild Berry. Celsius is a healthier alternative to sports drinks and I'm getting my husband to try it when he goes out to play hockey. What I noticed is there are both carbonated and non-carbonated drinks. The cans with the blue pull tab helps distinguish that the drink is non-carbonated while the cans with the silver/non-colored pull tab contains the carbonated one. I think this is a great idea.

Multiple studies have shown that drinking Celsius may result in burning calories and providing lasting energy and when drinking a great tasting Celsius 15 minutes before exercise, Celsius reduces body fat, increases endurance and provides greater resistance to fatigue (increased energy).


Benefits:
* Burn Calories
* Reduce Body Fat
* Build Lean Muscle
* Lasting Energy
* Tastes Great
* Vitamin Enriched

Burn More Fat and Build More Lean Muscle during Every Workout with Celsius

It is the ultimate refreshing drink clinically shown to fire up metabolism, maximize exercise results and provide sustained energy with MetaPlus Formula, endorsed by fitness celebrity Mario Lopez. Designed to be enjoyed 15 minutes before exercise, Celsius provides the pre-exercise warm up fitness experts recommend to kick start metabolism for a more effective workout.








BUY IT
Celsius drinks can be purchased directly at their online store or find it at your nearest retailer.


WIN IT
Five (5) lucky readers will have a chance to win a Celsius cooler bag filled with Celsius drinks. Chosen winners will be selected via Random.org. Winners will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize. Make sure you leave your email so I can contact you.

This is a mandatory entry:
1) Simply tell me in the comments below who you would win this for.

For Additional Optional Entries (Post in a separate comment for each additional entry):

2) Follow me on Google Friend Connect (2 entries)
3) Follow me on one of my other 2 blogs via Google Friend Connect - listed below followers on the sidebar (1 entry each)
4) Follow me on Twitter @jennieyuen (1 entry)
5) Follow Celsius on Twitter @Celsiusofficial (1 entry)
6) LIKE my Facebook Page at Jen's Reviews and Giveaways (1 entry)
7) LIKE my OTHER Facebook Page at The Art of Jennie Yuen (1 entry)
8) LIKE Celsius on Facebook (1 entry)
9) Post about this giveaway on your blog with the URL in the comment. (3 entries)
10) Tweet about this giveaway by tweeting the following. (3 entries):  
Enter to win a FREE cooler bag with Celsius Energy Drinks @Celsiusofficial. 5 winners! Review & Giveaway @jennieyuen - http://bit.ly/dJP2FU
 

Contest is open to US & Canadian residents. Contest closes December 27, 2010 11:59pm (PST).



ENTER HERE



Disclosure: I received a complimentary cooler bag with various flavors of Celsius drinks at no charge in exchange for a review of my opinion. Thanks to SS|PR and Celsius. The opinions expressed are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.

What makes me smile? Knowing that my family (my husband and especially my little one) who's always there for me makes me smile each day. Sharing our stories and our laughters keeps me going in my life. It's also the things I cherish that makes me smile.

I'm excited to share with you and present the Snack Pack Share a Smile Campaign and hope to help them reach their goal of raising $20,000 for Food Banks Canada. You can help too, to reach their goal this holiday season. Each and every day adults and children alike go hungry and the holidays are no exception. That's why Snack Pack has teamed up with Food Banks Canada for their Share a Smile Campaign.

Here's how it works:
1) You can log onto your Facebook and "LIKE" Snack Pack Canada's Facebook page.
2) Click the "Smile" tab for details. Each and every time you share a smile with a friend, Snack Pack will donate $1 to Food Banks Canada.
3) You will also be entered to win a great weekly prize. Now that is something we can all smile about.  Simply, just fill out the form after you accepted the daily smile.





You will see a new idea for different ways to enjoy a smile with Snack Pack. Make a little promise to yourself to indulge in a little afternoon fun and accept the challenge. Knowing that you're helping to feed the hungry should bring a little extra smile to your day!

To find out more about Snack Pack products (including Juicy Gels and low-fat puddings), visit them at http://www.snackpackcanada.ca

What makes you smile? Let's help Snack Pack and Food Banks Canada reach their $20,000 goal! Feel free to spread the message on Twitter using the hashtag #SnackPackSmile


Disclosure: I am participating in the Snack Pack program by Mom Central on behalf of Conagra Foods Canada. I received a gift card as a thank-you for my participation. The opinions expressed are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.

Jen's 2010 Holiday Gift Guide presents...


This great little combination lock will make a great stocking stuffer for students, friends, colleagues, use at the gym, or for anyone who can use it for keeping their belongings secure.

The company’s revolutionary 1500iD Speed Dial combination lock was named a winner in the recent 2010 Chicago Innovation Awards. Master Lock was selected as one of only ten winners out of 322 nominees for forever altering the way combination locks function with the Speed Dial’s first-of-its-kind directional combination system.

The 1500iD opens on directional movements (up, down, left and right) instead of the standard rotary dial.  The 1500iD Speed Dial Lock is fast to open than traditional locks, saving users valuable time as they hurry to and from class or their workouts at the gym. It also features a customizable code and is resettable. You can create your own combo! Any combo! It includes adhesive stickers with numbers, letters, colors, shapes, and symbols and can be applied over the directional arrows, but it's optional.

I prefer the set-your-own combination locks because I can reset it and change it as often as I like. The directional combination makes it easy to open without the hassle. To reset, you simply open the lock, then flip the switch at the back and dial in your new combination and close the lock again.

BUY IT
  Master Lock Combination Locks are available for purchase at Amazon.com or from the listed retailers. Prices range from $6.99 to $8.99 at retail price.

WIN IT
One (1) lucky reader will have a chance to win a random color of the Master Lock 1500iD Speed Dial Combination Lock described. Chosen winner will be selected via Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize. Make sure you leave your email so I can contact you.

This is a mandatory entry:
1) Simply tell me in the comments below who you would win this for.

For Additional Optional Entries (Post in a separate comment for each additional entry):

2) Follow me on Google Friend Connect (2 entries)
3) Follow me on one of my other 2 blogs via Google Friend Connect - listed below followers on the sidebar (1 entry each)
4) Follow me on Twitter @jennieyuen (1 entry)
5) LIKE my Facebook Page at Jen's Reviews and Giveaways (1 entry)
6) LIKE my OTHER Facebook Page at The Art of Jennie Yuen (1 entry)
7) LIKE Master Lock on Facebook (1 entry)
8) Post about this giveaway on your blog with the URL in the comment. (3 entries)
9) Tweet about this giveaway by tweeting the following. (3 entries):  
Enter to win the award winning Master Lock 1500iD Speed Dial Combination Lock. Review & Giveaway @jennieyuen - http://bit.ly/fe9Dm6
 

Contest is open to US & Canadian residents. Contest closes December 23, 2010 11:59pm (PST).


ENTER HERE



Disclosure: I received the Speed Dial combination lock at no charge in exchange for a review of my opinion. Thanks to JSH&A and Master Lock. The opinions expressed are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.

Here is something I thought I've found interesting while reading the latest news online...

Huge Magnetic Plasma 'Snake' Spotted On the Sun

By SPACE.com Staff
SPACE.com


A huge snakelike tendril of magnetic plasma has appeared on the sun, extending hundreds of thousands of miles across the surface of our nearest star.

The solar filament was spotted Tuesday (Nov. 16) by cameras on NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory, which stares at the sun continuously in different wavelengths. It is a mind-boggling 600,000 kilometers (just over 372,800 miles) long, according to the website Spaceweather.com.
[Photo of the snakelike sun filament]

Solar filaments are long threads of plasma that rise up into the sun's ultra-hot outer atmosphere, called the corona. These filaments are much cooler than the corona and appear to be dark with the sun's disk in the background. They can form dazzling prominences when viewed along the sun's curving horizon, called the limb.

The sun's new filament is winding around the sun's southwestern limb and could ultimately erupt into a solar storm or slip back into the sun's surface, according to Spaceweather.com, which monitors space weather and skywatching events.

"The filament has several options: relaxing gently back into the sun, snapping explosively, or crashing down upon the stellar surface," Spaceweather.com's Tony Phillips wrote in a Nov. 17 update. "Although an eruption from the area would likely not be Earth-directed, it could be very photogenic as tendrils of hot plasma fly into the black space above the edge of the sun."

In recent months, the sun has entered an active period of its 11-year solar weather cycle after an extended lull in activity.

Several powerful flares have erupted from the sun's surface in recent weeks. The Solar Dynamics Observatory and several other spacecraft keep constant watch on the sun to track solar weather activity.

Kaspersky offers complete protection from known and emerging internet threats while utilizing minimal computer resources behind-the-scenes.

Premium PC Protection—Kaspersky Internet Security combines the essential security of our leading antivirus software with additional layers of defense against hackers, spam, identity theft, and complex Internet threats. Innovative technologies deliver real-time protection, monitor suspicious activity, and block dangerous actions before they can cause harm—all while working silently in the background.

Key Features:

· Desktop Security Gadget - This allows you to instantly see your protection status, drag-and-drop file scanning, and customizable one-click access to the reports and tools you use the most

· Parental Controls - You can do more than block your kids from inappropriate content coming in and prevent your family’s personal information from being sent out, by designating account numbers, addresses and more as “private.” You can also limit the amount of time your child can spend on the computer or online every day.

· Safe Run - Provides an added layer of protection for running suspicious or unknown programs and websites. The Safe Run environment is completely walled-off from your data and PC settings, so you can "test drive" programs with total confidence that no harm will come to your system.





These are the other benefits that I've learned with Kaspersky Internet Security 2011:

Core Protection

• Real-Time Protection against viruses, spyware, Trojans, worms, rootkits, botnets and more.
• Robust Anti-Spam protection
• Small Hourly Signature Updates
• Two-Way Firewall to block hacker attacks

Advanced Protection

• Safe Desktop (available on 32-bit operating systems) allows you to safely open any suspicious application, file, email or web site
• Safe Surf alerts you to potentially malicious web sites
• System Watcher proactively detects dangerous activity on your PC
• Application Control prevents dangerous applications from harming your system
• Vulnerability Detection seeks out compromised programs and recommends patches
• Advanced Parental Controls monitor, limit and block your kids' online activities

Identity Protection

• Anti-Phishing protects your digital identity
• Virtual Keyboard provides secure entry of online banking and shopping information

Performance

• iChecker/iSwift provide intelligent scanning for maximum performance
• Gamer Mode for an uninterrupted gaming experience

Additional Features

• Free Technical Support (Phone, Live Chat, E-mail, Knowledge Base)
• Works great with Netbooks
• Rescue CD restores your system if maliciously attacked

BUY IT
Kapersky Internet Security 2011 can be purchased directly through Kapersky Website or from local retailers such as Best Buy, Future Shop, Target, Walmart, etc.

 WIN IT
One (1) lucky reader will have a chance to win a copy of Kapersky Internet Security 2011 - a full year activation. Chosen winner will be selected via Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize.

This is a mandatory entry:
1) Visit http://www.kapersky.com and tell me in the comment below what other product(s) you would buy or try.

For Additional Optional Entries (Post in a separate comment for each additional entry.):

2) Follow me on Google Friend Connect (2 entries)
3) Follow me on one of my other 2 blogs via Google Friend Connect - listed below followers on the sidebar (1 entry each)
4) Subscribe to RepeaterStore's Blog RSS Feed (1 entry)
5) Follow me on Twitter @jennieyuen (1 entry)
6) Follow Kaspersky on Twitter @Kaspersky (1 entry)
7) LIKE my Facebook Page at Jen's Reviews and Giveaways (3 entries)
8) LIKE Kaspersky on Facebook (3 entries)
9) Post about this giveaway on your blog with the URL in the comment. (3 entries)
10) Tweet about this giveaway by tweeting the following. (3 entries):  
Protect your PC from harmful threats and viruses. Win a full year service @Kaspersky. Review & Giveaway @jennieyuen - http://bit.ly/eWBRVI
 

Contest is open to US and Canadian residents. Contest closes December 22, 2010 11:59pm (PST).


ENTER HERE



Disclosure: I received an activation code for the full year service from Kaspersky at no charge in exchange for a review of my opinion. The opinions expressed are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.

Jen's 2010 Holiday Gift Guide presents...
The Cell Ranger Stix Signal Booster from


The Cell Ranger STIX is the first device to feature a microprocessor, making it the next-generation of cell phone repeaters. The Cell Ranger series are driven by a microprocessor, which actively monitors the frequency and concentrates it's power where it is needed. This gives reliability and performance enhancements that you cannot get with traditional repeaters.

The Cell Ranger STIX is wireless, and so works with all cell phone and data card models – from the most basic handsets to the latest smartphones!. It is dual band, and so works with most carriers except Nextel.

Installing the Cell Ranger STIX is very easy. Just place the magnetic antenna on your car's roof or trunk, and plug the unit into your car's cigarette lighter. The cable from the antenna to the unit can be run through a door or trunk seal. Once plugged in, the Cell Ranger is up and running and improving your reception.

MY REVIEW

I was given the opportunity to try the Cell Ranger STIX Signal Booster for the vehicle. I don't get to use much because our law has this new restriction about using cell phones while on the road. I had a chance to use the signal booster while in the mall parking lot. I always lose signals there because of the underground parking. With the Cell Ranger STIX, it actually gave me 2 bars, which is good enough to make calls and even receive calls. Even with just 2 bars, the reception was clear. It might work better with other cell phones so it will vary. This product would make a great stocking stuffer for this year's holiday gift.

Features

• Dual Band: Improves all PCS 1900 MHz and Cellular 800 MHz sub bands.
• Revolutionary microprocessor provides superior signal improvement.
• For use with car/truck.
• No installation needed - just plug it in
• Supports both cell phones and data cards.

Repeaterstore.com also have the following models available that you can use for home, office, or on the road:
* For boosting cell phone signal at home or in a small office: WiEx Soho YX545
* For boosting cell phone signal in a large building/office (greater than 5,000 sq ft.): Wilson DB Pro 841262
* An alternative mobile signal booster for cars/truck: Wilson SignalBoost Pro  











BUY IT
The Cell Ranger STIX In-Car Kit (8811960A) can be purchased directly through RepeaterStore.

 WIN IT
One (1) lucky reader will have a chance to win the Cell Ranger STIX (MSRP $149) from RepeaterStore.com. Chosen winner will be selected via Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize.

This is a mandatory entry:
1) Visit http://www.repeaterstore.com and tell me in the comment below what other product(s) you would buy.

For Additional Optional Entries (Post in a separate comment for each additional entry.):

2) Follow me on Google Friend Connect (2 entries)
3) Follow me on one of my other 2 blogs via Google Friend Connect - listed below followers on the sidebar (1 entry each)
4) Subscribe to RepeaterStore's Blog RSS Feed (1 entry)
5) Follow me on Twitter @jennieyuen (1 entry)
6) Follow RepeaterStore on Twitter @RepeaterStore (1 entry)
7) LIKE my Facebook Page at Jen's Reviews and Giveaways (3 entries)
8) LIKE RepeaterStore on Facebook (3 entries)
9) Post about this giveaway on your blog with the URL in the comment. (3 entries)
10) Tweet about this giveaway by tweeting the following. (3 entries):  
Enter to win a Cell Ranger Stick Signal Booster from @Repeaterstore. Review & Giveaway @jennieyuen - http://bit.ly/9sY5fy
 

Contest is open to US and Canadian residents. Contest closes December 20, 2010 11:59pm (PST).


ENTER HERE


Disclosure: I received a Cell Ranger Stix Signal Booster from RepeaterStore at no charge in exchange for a review of my opinion. The opinions expressed are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.

Jen's 2010 Holiday Gift Guide presents...


Imagine wrapping yourself in the soothing embrace of a warm towel upon stepping from your shower or bath. Nothing adds luxury and comfort to your master bathroom like the soothing radiant heat of an electric towel warmer from WarmlyYours. Stylish, affordable and energy efficient...now you can capture the essence of a professional spa in your very own home with our towel rack warmers.





Description:
A warm, dry towel doesn’t have to be a luxury anymore. Now you can enjoy this creature comfort every day. Truly upscale, this Zen-like towel warmer from Warmly Yours is perfect for creating a tranquil spa environment right in your home bathroom. It features a brushed stainless steel finish with 10 sleek bars to hang towels or a bathrobe, while the plug-in unit installs easily and houses a hidden on/off switch at the base of the model. Plugs into a standard 120V outlet and comes with installation hardware.

When I received the package for the TW-F10BS-PL towel warmer, it was bigger than I expected. At first, I didn't know quite sure how I was going to install it because all our bathroom have tile walls all around. I was afraid that it would've crack if I drilled holes. Then I took the towel warmer and measured it on the wall where my existing bars were at. The screws were at the perfect position and that I can just replace over the existing ones. Installation was very easy.

Our outlet is on the adjacent wall, so I had to look for an extension outlet to connect to. Also, I wish there would be a timer that came with the towel warmer, but I was able to find one of those old fashion timers lying around the storage room and use that.





BUY IT
The Warmly Yours Infinity towel warmers can be purchased at local hardware stores or directly through the online store at http://www.warmlyyours.com. The above model #TW-F10BS-PL retails at $349.99.


Disclosure: I received the Infinity towel warmer at no charge in exchange for a review of my opinion. Thanks to SS | PR and Warmly Yours. The opinions expressed are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.

The Art of Jennie Yuen
Holiday Gift Guide presents...
World's Best Origami




Challenge yourself with the beauty of Origami! This is a great book and a great give for the upcoming holiday for any origami fans.

World's Best Origami is an amazing collection of more than 100 patterns. It was just recently published early November 2010 by Alpha Books, a member of Penguin Group Inc. The book is divided into categories by plants, animals, birds, people, and complexity. With practice, you can master them all.

Check out some of my origami projects that I have done in the past. I have a couple of tutorials up as well, so check it out.







Origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper-folding, is one of the most popular and enduring crafts in the world. Whether you've only folded simple paper airplanes or have tackled some basic (or not-so-basic) pieces, World's Best Origami gives you everything you need to know to join the fold of origami artists, regardless of your skill level.

In this remarkable collection of over 100 of the most unique and best-loved origami models ever created, renowned origami expert Nick Robinson takes you step by step through the art of paper-folding, from basic techniques to some of the most complicated and elegant models around. Inside the book, you'll find:

* Models for everything from boxes and containers to birds, animals, flowers, and more, for beginner origami artists through expert.

* Clear and simple folding instructions accompanied by move-by-move diagrams for a perfect outcome every time.

* Expert advice on how to choose the best paper for your piece, make basic folds, and perfect your creases.

* Traditional designs as well as works by several masters of the craft such as Kunihiko Kasahara and Thoki Yenn.

* A visual cheat sheet for understanding the origami symbols you'll encounter on folding diagrams.

About the Author

Nick Robinson is a professional origami artist and author who has been folding paper for 25 years. A member of the British Origami Society who edits their magazine and maintains their website, Nick has written more than two dozen books on origami, as well as numerous articles, and done several commercial and charitable origami commissions involving origami and paper art over the last 20 years. Nick has created several hundred original designs and teaches origami in schools, arts centers, and many other venues.




BUY IT
The book can be purchased directly from the online store at Penguin Group or on Amazon.com.

WIN IT
One (1) lucky reader will have a chance to win a copy of the World's Best Origami book. Chosen winner will be selected via Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize. Make sure you leave your email so I can contact you.

This is a mandatory entry:
1) Simply comment below who you would like to win this book for.

For Additional Optional Entries (Post in a separate comment for each additional entry):

2) Follow me on Google Friend Connect (2 entries)
3) Follow me on one of my other 2 blogs via Google Friend Connect - listed below followers on the sidebar (1 entry each)
4) Follow me on Twitter @jennieyuen (1 entry)
5) Follow Penguin Group on Twitter @penguinusa and @PenguinCanada (1 entry)
6) LIKE my Facebook Page at Jen's Reviews and Giveaways (1 entry)
7) LIKE my OTHER Facebook Page at The Art of Jennie Yuen (1 entry)
8) LIKE Penguin Group on Facebook: Penguin Group (USA) and Penguin Canada (1 entry)
9) Post about this giveaway on your blog with the URL in the comment. (3 entries)
10) Tweet about this giveaway by tweeting the following. (3 entries):  
Enter to win a copy of the new book "World's Best Origami" @penguinusa @PenguinCanada. Review & Giveaway @jennieyuen - http://bit.ly/drvGSm
 

Contest is open to US & Canada. Contest closes December 18, 2010 11:59pm (PST).


Disclosure: I received a copy of "World's Best Origami" book at no charge in exchange for a review of my opinion. Thanks to Wilks Communication and Penguin Group. The opinions expressed are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.

As the holiday season approaches, millions of individuals will be shopping online and getting back in touch with friends and family over social networks. Identity Finder, a global leader in identity theft prevention and information protection, has provided 10 tips to help people protect themselves against a variety of online threats.

About Identity Finder

The company's technology provides users the ability to prevent identity theft and data leakage by finding and protecting sensitive data. They have quickly grown to become a leader in identity protection and Data Loss Prevention (DLP) by helping millions of consumers, small businesses, and
enterprises across the world.

10 Tips for Safe Online Shopping:

1. Clean Personal Information from Social Networks: Whether it's info within your profile, tweeting, posting to your wall, or sharing with your network, never disclose personal information such as a date of birth, personal address, or maiden name because identity thieves friend as many people as possible and join networks solely for the purpose of harvesting information to use to commit identity theft.

2. Always Create Complex Passwords and Never Save Them Unsecured: When creating passwords for making purchases online this holiday, use upper and lower case characters and numbers. Use at least seven characters and don't choose a word from a dictionary. Only save them in your web  browser if your browser uses a master password to secure them (e.g., Firefox Master Password). Even social networking sites are becoming forms of our digital identity. A common scam is for hackers to log in to an unsecured account as you and post that you are in trouble and need money wired to a designated account.

3. Don't Download Just Any App: Smartphones are already very common, and will be a popular gift this season. Many apps and games can be downloaded and some have very compelling descriptions that sound fun and exciting. Read the comments posted by other users and ensure the app location is used by many people who think it is trustworthy. Review the application's permissions to determine if it accesses other parts of your phone or location-based data.

4. Regularly Update Your Computer's Software: Software companies update their software to protect you against known ways to hack into your computer. Before starting your online gift-purchasing  marathon, upgrade to the latest version of your Operating System (e.g., Windows or Mac, etc.), web browser (e.g., Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer, Safari, etc.), and multimedia apps such as Flash and Quicktime. These updates are free and easy to install.

5. Shop Securely: The "padlock" icon that you may have seen when shopping online identifies the connection as secure. Never enter personal information on a site that does not show up with a secure connection either in your address bar or the bottom right corner of your browser. Unsecured communication can be stolen on the way to its destination and also leaves behind an unsecured cache of the data transmission on your computer.

6. Avoid Phishing Attacks: Identity thieves spam year round, but especially during the holiday season. Users should be on the lookout for e-mails that look legitimate and purport to save you money or confirm a purchase. Never click links provided in e-mails. Copy the web address to your browser and check to make sure it is taking you to the company with which you intend to do business.

7. Never Give Personal Information to Customer Service over "Live Chat": You might have questions on gifts you want to buy or a potential post-holiday return. In any situation in which a company requests your personal information to continue a discussion, always request a contact number for phone communication. This sensitive data can be logged by the agents on the other end and used for malicious purposes.

8. Disable and Avoid Peer-to-Peer File Sharing: The FTC recently concluded a study that found over 100 companies shared personal information about their customers over peer-to-peer file networks and urged them to change their security policies to prohibit this type of behavior. You can further prevent these types of breaches by removing P2P software from your own computer. If you insist on using it, ensure that you are not sharing any of your folders, as hackers and malcontents can quickly make off with unassuming tax documents and chat logs that contain your sensitive data.

9. Do Not Trust "Scareware": This year has seen a large rise in the number of "fake" virus and spyware scanners that are in fact malware. Do not click on advertisements claiming you might be infected with a virus - these are tricks in order to get you to download trojan products. No popup will ever be able to actively scan your system without your explicit permission, so ignore them at all times and trust or upgrade your current security software.

10. Protect Your Identity Information: Do not keep unprotected copies of your identity information on your computer. Most people have typed their Credit Card number into an e-mail or web browser when purchasing gifts but forgot it was saved to their computer. Use Identity Finder Free or manually search your computer to find and protect anything that could be used to commit identity fraud.

See the video here of Todd Feinman, CEO of Identity Finder, addressing some of the key things people should look out for and do to remain safe online.

Jen's 2010 Holiday Gift Guide presents...


Jishaku is a great and a fun game for all ages not just for kids. It is a simple strategy game that can be learned quickly. The game made me jump and laugh every time the magnets jump out of place. It's entertaining and unpredictable.

Jishaku is a patent pending, portable strategy game like chess or checkers that can be played anywhere in the kitchen or in the beach. Unlike chess, there is an element of surprise when the magnets jump out of position, without warning. There is a surprise, then laughs, follow as two or more players try to beat force fields with strategic thinking plus careful and precise handling of the game’s magnetic stones. The unpredictability of Jishaku turns any get together into a party. While alternating turns with your opponents, the goal of the game is to place magnets onto the game base without letting any magnets connect. If any magnets connect on your turn, you must collect those magnets and add them to your pile. The first person to run out of magnets wins, but there is a twist. All magnets have north and south poles. Jishaku magnets do too. They just aren't marked. So as you carefully place your magnet in a hole you can feel the tug of magnets all around the board. Skilled players learn to use magnetic force in their favor repelling the magnets closest to them without forcing them into other magnets. At least that's the goal but the results can be quite surprising.

How the game was invented:

Steve Velte was playing with his two daughters one afternoon with some finely polished hematite magnetic stones. His oldest was putting the magnets onto a variety of surfaces and he began to notice how, depending on the surface, the magnets would interact.

Inspired, Steve came up with a simple game that afternoon where he and his daughters would
take turns putting magnets onto a surface and try to accomplish certain tasks with the magnets on that surface. Eventually, it became clear that trying to avoid having the magnets connect was challenging and the most fun. As the game progressed, some of the magnets flew together, and an “ah ha” moment occurred when Steve’s startled eight-year-old squealed in surprise. It happened again and again. Steve thought he had something, and after some major fine-tuning of the rustic beginnings, it became apparent that he did.

Jishaku, the game, was born. A unique game of skill and intrigue, Jishaku, the Japanese word for magnet, holds surprises at every turn. Unlike traditional board games where moving a piece is only risky if a player happens to land on a dangerous square of the board, Jishaku players can never be certain if their next move will secure them a win or cost them the game when their move causes pieces to jump across the board and connect. The game is fast paced and a new player can learn the basics of game play in thirty seconds though individual strategies emerge as a player becomes more skilled. When the magnets connect, and as few as two to a dozen can and will, the reactions can be hilarious.



See the Jishaku game in action:


BUY IT
Jishaku retails for $19.95US and can be purchased at over 1000 specialty retailers, Barnes & Noble stores, or online at www.playjishaku.com.

 WIN IT
Jishaku Magnetic Action Game Giveaway

One (1) lucky reader will have a chance to win a copy of the Jishaku Magnetic Action Game. Chosen winner will be selected via Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize.

This is a mandatory entry:
1) Simply tell me in the comment below who you would win this game for.

For Additional Optional Entries (Post in a separate comment for each additional entry.):

2) Follow me on Google Friend Connect (2 entries)
3) Follow me on one of my other 2 blogs via Google Friend Connect - listed below followers on the sidebar (1 entry each)
4) Follow me on Twitter @jennieyuen (1 entry)
5) LIKE my Facebook Page at Jen's Reviews and Giveaways (3 entries)
6) LIKE my OTHER Facebook Page at The Art of Jennie Yuen (3 entries)
7) Post about this giveaway on your blog with the URL in the comment. (3 entries)
8) Tweet about this giveaway by tweeting the following. (3 entries):  
Enter to win a copy of Jishaku Magnetic game and challenge your friends. Review & Giveaway @jennieyuen - http://bit.ly/dxgCs5
 

Contest is open to US and Canadian residents. Contest closes December 17, 2010 11:59pm (PST).


ENTER HERE



Disclosure: I received a copy of the game at no charge in exchange for a review of my opinion. Thanks to Asylum PR and Jishaku. The opinions expressed are my own personal and honest thoughts. No other compensation was given.

Just in time for the holidays, JoeShopping.com can help you find the perfect gifts at the best prices. In the comfort of your own home on your computer, this social shopping site can make your life a little easier and even save you time and money. Of course, we all want to buy items at the best prices and save.

JoeShopping.com launches as the premier social shopping website that combines the best parts of comparison shopping and social networking for consumers. They don't actually sell anything on their site. They just show you the best/cheapest places on the Web to find them and send you to those places. The site focuses on enhancing the experience of online shopping by helping users interact with like-minded consumers. Users will have the opportunity to earn points (called JoePoints) when submitting product reviews, updating their shopping status, writing posts and various other activities on the site. Users can also post photos of themselves with their newest outfits, add videos of themself, share their latest shopping adventure, etc. In short, it's a hefty social network themed around shopping. The developers of JoeShopping.com will have more features planned over the next few months, so this is just the beginning.

I was first introduced to the site, I signed up and discovered quite a unique experience. I like how it is almost like a community where we can make new friends, network with each other and learn about each other's experiences and opinions. There are categories that are organized for easy browsing. Currently, the Arts & Crafts shopping category is small, but I hope it will keep growing because I'm an artist/crafty person always looking for more stuff.

Another thing I think is interesting and fun is earning JoePoints. You simply earn them by updating your profile, make new friends, post a review, and lots more. It's like a bonus for keeping you active on Joeshopping.com. Redeem those points for monthly sweepstakes such as cash prizes. They are currently running 2 big promotions:

1) $5,000 Monthly Sweepstakes
Prize Details: * Grand Prize: $3,500; Second Prize: $1,000; Third Prize: $500

2) $5,000 Refer a Friend contest.
Prize Details: Grand Prize: $3,000; 20 Runners-Up: $100 (Ends Dec. 31, 2010)
Refer your friends to JoeShopping, and you'll earn points every time they do!




WANT TO WIN MORE PRIZES?
One (1) lucky reader will have a chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Certificate provided by JoeShopping. Chosen winner will be selected via Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize.

This is a mandatory entry:
1) Follow my blog via Google Friend Connect.

For Additional Optional Entries (Post in a separate comment for each additional entry.):

2) Follow me on my other 2 blogs via Google Friend Connect - links listed below followers on the sidebar (1 entry)
3) Follow me on Twitter @jennieyuen (1 entry)
4) Follow JoeShopping on @JoeShopping (1 entry)
5) LIKE my Facebook Page at Jen's Reviews and Giveaways (3 entries)
6) LIKE my OTHER Facebook Page at The Art of Jennie Yuen (3 entries)
7) LIKE JoeShopping on Facebook (3 entries)
8) Sign up an account on JoeShopping and add me as a friend (3 entries)
9) Blog about your review/giveaway and include a link to your giveaway AND include a link to www.joeshopping.com (3 entries)
10) Tweet about this giveaway by tweeting the following. (3 entries):  
Enter for a chance to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card from @JoeShopping. Review & Giveaway @jennieyuen - http://bit.ly/bsXHfa
 

Contest is open to US and Canadian residents. Contest closes December 13, 2010 11:59pm (PST).

The all new season of the TNT series, The Closer, will premiere on Monday, December 6. 

John Lennon once wrote, "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans." For three men entering the second act of their lives, those words are starting to hit home in TNT's newest original series, MEN OF A CERTAIN AGE. This wry drama stars Emmy® winner Ray Romano (Everybody Loves Raymond), Golden Globe® winner Scott Bakula (Quantum Leap, Star Trek: Enterprise) and Emmy winner Andre Braugher (Homicide: Life on the Street, TNT's Salem's Lot). It marks a return to series television for Romano, who created MEN OF A CERTAIN AGE with Everybody Loves Raymond Emmy winner Mike Royce. The two serve as executive producers, along with Rory Rosegarten and Cary Hoffman.


MEN OF A CERTAIN AGE explores the unique bonds of male friendship among three men experiencing the changes and challenges of mid-life. They have been best friends since college but now, in their 40s, are navigating through the second act of their lives. Joe (Romano) is a friendly, slightly neurotic, recently separated father of two who had dreams of being a professional golfer. Now he owns and runs a party store. Terry (Bakula) is a laid-back, handsome actor who seems to breeze through life (and women). Lately, he's spending more time working as a temp than as an actor. And Owen (Braugher) is an overstressed husband and father of three who endures constant criticism from his father, for whom he works as a car salesman.


These friends face very different challenges. Joe, who currently lives in a hotel, tries to connect with his kids and is dipping his toe in the dating pool, while also struggling with the gambling problem that may have ended his marriage. The unmarried Terry scoffs at domestic issues but sometimes wonders if his own single life is all it's cracked up to be. Owen does everything he can to climb the sales board at his father's car dealership and keep his cool over the seemingly endless renovation project in the home he can barely afford. Through it all, these men are there for each other when it counts.






GIVEAWAY CONTEST
One (1) lucky reader will have a chance to win a copy of Men of a Certain Age Season 1 DVD. Chosen winner will be selected via Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to claim their prize.

This is a mandatory entry:
1) Follow me on Google Friend Connect and comment below.

For Additional Optional Entries (Post in a separate comment for each additional entry.):

2) Follow one of my other 2 blogs via Google Friend Connect - listed below followers on the sidebar (1 entry)
3) Follow me on Twitter @jennieyuen (1 entry)
4) Follow TNT We Know Drama on Twitter @tntweknowdrama (1 entry)
5) LIKE my Facebook Page at Jen's Reviews and Giveaways (3 entries)
6) LIKE my OTHER Facebook Page at The Art of Jennie Yuen (3 entries)
7) LIKE Men of a Certain Age on Facebook (3 entries)
8) Post about this giveaway on your blog with the URL in the comment. (3 entries)
9) Tweet about this giveaway by tweeting the following (3 entries):  
New season of the TNT series, Men of a Certain Age, premieres December 6. View post @jennieyuen + win prizes - http://bit.ly/ctboUn
 

Contest is open to US and Canadian residents. Contest closes December 14, 2010 11:59pm (PST).


Disclosure: I have been entered to win an iPad in exchange for the review post. Thanks to YouCast Corporation and Turner Influence Network.