NEW PRODUCT: Mitchum Unscented Travel-Sized Deodorant

We've been getting a lot of requests for more choices in a travel-sized unscented deodorant, especially from campers. Thus, we have just launched the travel-sized unscented Mitchum brand deodorant. It is a travel-sized 0.7oz clear gel, and it sells for $1.38. For fun, here is a coupon for 5% for the next couple of weeks. Just use the code MITCHUM at checkout until 5-12-08.

Summer Road Trip - Get the Products You Need

We recently teamed up with the popular website The Bachelor Guy to create a series of kits. The first two in the series are the Road Trip Kit ($36.66) and the Ultimate Road Trip Kit ($83.15).

Not only do these kits supply all sorts of great items to have on hand for a road trip, they make excellent gifts / care packages for that family member or friend who is about to depart on a great adventure.

If you purchase one, let us know how it was used, and we'd love to report on it -- especially if there is a great story involved (road trips always have great stories).

NEW PRODUCT: Mineral Infused Pink Salt from the Himalayas

One of the things that Minimus does, beyond being a retailer and wholesaler of travel-sized and individual-sized products, is to manufacture private label travel-sized and individual-sized products for our customers. We were recently contacted by the people at Miracle Salt to create a sample one gram packet of their Himalayan Pink Salt. I had never heard of such a thing, so I did some quick online research and found that it is natural salt that occurs in the Himalayan mountains, and it gets its pink color from a variety of naturally occuring minerals that it absorbs (84 minerals, including calcium and magnesium). It seems that it is popular both as a gourmet table and cooking salt, but it is also used as a bath salt. It seemed so interesting that we decided to carry the product ourselves. Feel free to check it out for yourself. A packet sells for $.29.

Minimus Does Good

Sure, I realize the phrase 'Minimus Does Good' may not seem grammatically correct, but I'm hoping that I've grabbed your attention.

In this blog, I'm pleased to announce that Minimus.biz is now the exclusive U.S. distributor for Do Good, the manufacturer of a large line of quality travel-related products. These products range from complete travel kits (like the Flight Essentials Kit shown here) that include such things as inflatable neck pillows, eye covers, reflexology socks and ear plugs. Many of these items are also offered individually, and some are available in a choice of colors.

Additionally, they offer the Do Good Worldwide Travel Power Adaptor that enables you to use many of your portable electronic devices in other countries.

Minimus now carries a broad line of Do Good products. You can find them all by clicking on this link: Do Good Products at Minimus.biz.

We at Minimus are happy to carry the Do Good products, and we expect that you'll be equally happy to receive and use them.

Give an Impressive Welcome to your Out of Town (OOT) Guests

When guests come in from out of town, many thoughtful hosts have given them the Minimus Out of Towner Welcome Snacks. Although our basic kit was appreciated by the guests and their hosts, we knew that many of our customers wanted an even more special gift for their out of town guests.

So we created the Out Of Towner (OOT) Welcome Snacks Deluxe -- an even larger assortment of snack items, packaged in a glossy white box with an easily 'assembled' (pull the ends) gold bow. The Out of Towner (OOT) Welcome Snacks Deluxe includes a total of 25 items, including a plastic cutlery set. The items are listed below.

Whether it's a Sparrer Sliced Beef Salami sandwich on Ritz crackers that they make themselves, a Kellogg's® NutriGrain Apple Cinnamon Cereal Bar, or just a soothing cup of Land O Lakes Cocoa Classics® Supreme Chocolate, there are plenty of items in this deluxe kit that your guests will really enjoy.

If you're planning a wedding, the Out of Towner (OOT) Welcome Snacks Deluxe would be a great item to welcome your guests.

A few years ago, I used to attend an annual event in San Francisco, sponsored by a major electronics company. In addition to looking forward to the event itself, I also anticipated -- and appreciated -- the welcome snacks they delivered to my hotel room. Now, with the Out of Towner (OOT) Welcome Snacks Deluxe, it's easy for the planner of any event - big or small - to provide a memorable welcome gift.

The Out of Towner Welcome Snacks Deluxe contains:

• one Snyder's ® of Hanover Mini Pretzels


• one Kar's® Unsalted Trail Mix Original Blend


• one Nabisco® Mini Oreo Cookies


• one Welch's® Fruit Snacks


• one Justin's Natural Classic Almond Butter


• four Nabisco® Ritz Crackers - 2 packs.


• one Sparrer Sliced Beef Salami


• one Knott’s Berry Farm® Grape Jelly
  (jar)


• one Crystal Light® On the Go Raspberry Ice
  Drink Mix


• one Crystal Light® On the Go Iced Tea


• one Chex Mix®


• one Super Snax® Cinnamon Toast Bites


• one Keebler® Sugar Free Chocolate Chip Cookies


• One Lifesavers® 5 Flavor


• one Altoids® Peppermints Sugar-free Smalls


• one Wrigley's Doublemint® Chewing Gum


• one Heart of Wisconsin Cheddar Flavor
  Cheese


• One Kellogg’s® NutriGrain® Apple Cinnamon
  Cereal Bar


• one Nature Valley® Sweet & Salty
  Nut Granola Bar - Almond


• one Land O Lakes Cocoa Classics® Supreme
  Chocolate


• one Land O Lakes Cocoa Classics® Irish Creme
  & Chocolate


• One Generic Cutlery Set

Let your guests know how much you appreciate their visit. Give them an Out of Towner (OOT) Welcome Snacks Deluxe. Whether they're here for a wedding, bar or bat mitzvah, sweet sixteen or other event; or they've come for a business meeting, they're sure to appreciate the thoughfulness of an Out of Towner (OOT) Welcome Snacks Deluxe. And, remember, for this item, domestic shipping is free.

You Asked - We Listened. Travel Spray Starch Now Available

A few months ago, we asked our customers what product they would most like to see in a travel size. The answer was clear -- they wanted a travel-sized aerosol spray starch.

We asked our colleagues at Minimus Products to create a high quality aerosol travel starch, and they came up with a product that exceeded our expectations -- aMINIties Travel Starch. aMINIties Travel Starch, a 'Premium spray starch for the discerning traveler,' comes in a 2.0 ounce (56 gram) spray can - perfect for business or personal travel. Our price is $2.99.

Toss it in your suitcase or overnight bag, and give those wrinkled shirts, blouses or slacks a quick pressing in your hotel room.

As an occasional traveler myself, I certainly could have used this product many, many times.

It's a lot faster than a hotel's cleaning service, and a lot less expensive.

For wholesale/distributor inquiries, please see our wholesale page at: http://www.minimus.biz/wholesale.aspx

New to the Minimus Family

This post presents two news -- a new Marketing Manager, and an exciting new product for lovers

First:

I’m the new Marketing Manager at Minimus.biz, and I’ll be the person writing the blogs, creating the coupons, and keeping you up to date with Minimus.biz news. Please feel free to e-mail me your questions, comments, or suggestions. My address is mark@Minimus.biz.

My first blog introduces a product that would have been great when I got married years ago – but just may be what I need to take my wife on a nice, surprise weekend, one of these weeks….

And now the more exciting announcement:

Honeymoon in January?

Why not? I was married in June, but my wife and I were so busy, it took months until we took our honeymoon. So, regardless when you were married, our newly introduced Honeymoon Travel Kit will be just the thing to take along on your honeymoon. Or, if you’re giving it as a wedding present, it’ll be the one the bride and groom will remember long after the honeymoon is over.

The Honeymoon Travel Kit is really three kits in one – all packed in a handcrafted Lupis Gift box (from the abaca plant, which is indigenous to the Philippines). The first two kits, for him and her, come in the Minimus Carry-On Caddy™. The Carry-On Caddy™ is perfect for getting through airport security. The Carry-On Caddy™ attaches to your luggage. When you get to the airport security, simply open the Velcro at the top of the Carry-On Caddy™, remove the Ziploc® bag containing your travel-sized items, and put the bag on the X-Ray machine. It can’t be much simpler than this.

There’s a Carry-On Caddy™ for him, packed with items he’ll need at the honeymoon destination. For her, there’s a Carry-On Caddy™ packed with organic products, including Organic Lavender shampoo and conditioner, Lavender Body Lotion, and other essential items that she’ll appreciate having on her honeymoon.

And thirdly, just to make things even more interesting, there’s a Kama Sutra® Weekender Kit, containing Strawberry Love Oil, Strawberry Pleasure Balm, Strawberry Honey Dust, Sweet Almond Massage Oil, Love Liquid Sensual Lubricant and, if that’s not exciting enough, it also comes with a Love feather.

The Honeymoon Travel Kit is great for newlyweds, and also perfect for a second (or third or fourth or ??) honeymoon. It’s also great for a nice, romantic getaway. You don’t really need a reason, now, do you?

Even if it IS only January, the Honeymoon Travel Kit is perfect for those special weekends. And, guys, don’t forget – Valentine’s Day is just a few weeks away.

New Product Alert & Coupon Code!

It seems as though our family, friends, and coworkers have been giving each other more than just wrapped presents this holiday season - almost everyone I know has, or is getting over, some sort of bug.

One way to protect yourself from the cold and flu season is our brand-new product, Hands 2 Go® Instant Hand Sanitizer Spray. The 1 oz spray bottle is your portable anti-bacterial and is alcohol-free.

Try Hands 2 Go® Instant Hand Sanitizer Spray with 5% off - just enter HANDS5OFF at checkout (case sensitive). Offer expires Jan 10th, 2008.

Thanksgiving, Minimus Style

Thanksgiving is known for food, family, and day-after sales. Many are more excited for the leftovers than anything. Here at Minimus, we've put together a little list of the mini-must-haves to extend this year's leftovers with some travel-size condiments. We may be a little biased, but we hope you'll forgive us:

• Ocean Spray® Jellied Cranberry Sauce - this 1/2 ounce cup is too cute to resist! It's a little bit of tradition, only travel-sized!
• Kraft® Miracle Whip Dressing or Kraft® Miracle Whip Free ( Non Fat) Dressing - perfect for making turkey sandwiches with all the leftovers.
• Apple Cider - individual packets in various flavors.
• and, just for fun, the Aromatherapy Scent Inhaler - Appetite Control

And for those of you brave enough to hit the after-Thanksgiving sales, good luck! You mayfind yourself wishing you had our Aromatherapy Scent Inhaler - World Peace to deal with themasses & the long lines.

Happy Thanksgiving from everyone at Minimus.biz!

Get the 411

Are you always craving the latest news from Minimus.biz? Well, if you haven't already, sign up for our newsletters - you'll receive news about products on sale, new products, as well as product reviews and customer comments every month or so.

To sign up, click here: http://www.minimus.biz/CustSignIn.aspx. Or, to view the November newsletter, click: http://www.minimus.biz/Minimus_biz_Newsletter_November_19_2007.htm.

Travel-Sized Aftershaves

We recently expanded our offerings of travel size men’s aftershaves, and came across a very interesting line of products from the Master Well Comb company – Challenge, Bay Rum, and Ocean Blue after shave lotions. They are after shaves that are used in the barber industry. I took them home and tried them, and I have to say that if you are looking for the nostalgic barber shop feeling, these are for you. They definitely have a true manly scent about them, and they aren’t afraid to provide that nice sting of alcohol that tells you that it’s working. While there are other fancier after shave balms, gels, and lotions out there, these are true testosterone boosters.

Check out our other new after shave offerings:

Challenge After Shave Lotion
Bay Rum After Shave Lotion
Ocean Blue After Shave Lotion
Dunhill After Shave Lotion
Aramis Life After Shave Balm
Obsession for men after shave balm by Calvin Klein
Adidas Adrenaline After Shave Balm
Cool Water After Shave by Davidoff
Bowling Greene After Shave Lotion by Geoffrey Beene
Drakkar Noir After Shave Balm by Guy Laroche
Pierre Cardin® After Shave Lotion
Chaps After Shave Balm by Ralph Lauren
Jade East After Shave

The Carry-On Caddy from Minimus.biz for Stress-Free Travel

Minimus.biz has some exciting news! The Carry-On Caddy™ was recently launched on our website! The Caddy was designed by Minimus Co-Founder Paul Shrater while he was going through an airport security checkpoint after the 3-1-1 rules for carry-on liquids and gels were put in place. He saw a need for a new product that would hold fliers' TSA-required quart-sized zippered bags.

The Carry-On Caddy™ is perfectly sized to fit one quart-sized zippered bag, secured by a velcroed tab, and clips to other carry-on luggage for easy access. Just slip the zippered bag in and out of the Caddy to breeze through airport security.

On a recent trip to San Francisco, I tried out the Caddy myself. The black bag conveniently clipped onto my other carry-on bag and easily held my practically-overflowing quart-sized zippered bag of my shampoo, makeup, and other liquids and gels.

I arrived at the airport in a frantic rush to get to the gate before the plane left. When I got to the security checkpoint, I was able to get in and out quickly as I didn't have to dig for my bag of liquids and gels (TSA requires that bags of liquids and gels be screened separately). I simply pulled the plastic bag out of the velcroed pouch and slipped it back in once it was cleared.

I give the Carry-On Caddy™ two thumbs up for practicality, ease, and I was still flying in style. Get your own Caddy for just $4.99 or order yours pre-packed with products for men, women, and organic lovers (in citrus and lavender options).

Fun Facts & Coupon from Minimus.biz

Two hundred and fourteen years ago, one of the most important inventions was created. Any guesses?

Well, if you guessed the cotton gin, you're right! In October of 1793, Eli Whitney applied for a patent for his cotton gin, which allowed laborers to clean 50 pounds of cotton a day (as compared to just one a day without a cotton gin) by separating the fibers of the cotton from the seed and pod.

And, to celebrate such a great invention (call me biased, if you will), get 5% off on Q-Tips® Cotton Swabs - Purse Pack - just enter COTTON5OFF at checkout. Coupon expires 10/26/07.

Java Juice

I'm a tea drinker, but our newest product line - Java Juice - has got me pretty curious. The portable .5 oz packets allow coffee lovers to enjoy a cup of coffee while on the go. Just pour the packet of liquid coffee extract into 10-12 oz of hot or cold water to enjoy.

Java Juice is USDA certified organic, kosher, packed with antioxidants, sugar free, and fat free. Plus, since the Joes at Java Juice are "committed to equitable and sustainable coffee buying practices," your conscious can rest at ease as they support Fair Trade practices.

Have I got you curious too? Java Juice comes in four delicious flavors:

• Java Juice® Liquid Coffee Extract - Original
• Java Juice® Liquid Coffee Extract - French Vanilla
• Java Juice® Liquid Coffee Extract - Hazelnut
• Java Juice® Liquid Coffee Extract - Swiss Water Decaf

I'd love to hear what you think of our newest addition - email me at Whitney@Minimus.biz.

New Products Alert: Tom's of Maine

Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Minimus.biz has a TON of new products in, including products from Tom's of Maine®. Tom's, founded in 1970, is known for using all natural ingredients and nothing artificial.

From toothpaste to mouthwash, soaps to sprays, and even a body wash, Minimus.biz now offers:

• Tom's of Maine® Natural Anticavity Toothpaste - Spearmint
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Anticavity Toothpaste for Dry Mouth - Apricot
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Antiplaque TC&W Toothpaste - Peppermint
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Antiplaque TC&W Toothpaste - Apricot
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Whole Care TC&W Toothpaste - Spearmint
• Tom's of Maine® Anticavity Baking Soda Toothpaste - Peppermint
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Anticavity Toothpaste for Children
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Whole Care TC&W Gel Toothpaste - Spearmint
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Whole Care TC&W Gel Toothpaste - Cinnamon Clove
• Tom's of Maine® natural anticavity mouthwash - Peppermint
• Tom's of Maine® natural anticavity mouthwash - Spearmint
• Tom's of Maine® natural anticavity mouthwash - Cinnamint
• Tom's of Maine® natural anticavity mouthwash for Dry Mouth - Lemon-Lime
• Tom's of Maine® natural cleansing mouthwash - Spearmint
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Clear Body Bar - lavender
• Tom's of Maine® Natural moisturizing Body Bar - lemongrass
• Tom's of Maine® Natural moisturizing Body Bar - calendula
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Deodorant Stick - Unscented
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Deodorizing Body Spray - apricot
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Deodorizing Body Spray - calendula
• Tom's of Maine® Natural Moisturizing Body Wash - lavender

Phew! That's 21 new products and those are just Tom's! And, since we're crazy about travel-sizes, Minimus.biz is carrying the WHOLE line of Tom's travel-size products!

New Additions: Travel Toys & Games!

We are proud to announce that Minimus.biz now offers travel-sized toys and games:

• Ohio Art® Etch A Sketch® - Hot Pocket
• Ohio Art® Magna Doodle® - pocket size
• Sudoku - Traveler
• CandyLand® - travel
• Memory® Game - travel
• Hungry Hungry Hippos®
• Sorry® - travel
• Boggle® - travel
• Playing Cards - kid size twin pack
• Pop-O-Matic® Trouble Game® - travel
• Battleship® - travel
• Perfection® game - travel
• Yahtzee - coming soon!

Just in time for the holidays (and year-round), these toys are great for stocking-stuffers, car and plane trips, and fun for all ages! Check back soon for pre-packaged kits with the toys.

PB&J

I don't know what it is about gloomy weather that makes people want to curl up with a good book and a cup of hot cocoa. Call me strange, but for some reason, my cold-weather food is peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. To me, there's nothing better than Justin's Organic Classic Peanut Butter with sweet grape jelly on wheat bread.

What makes PB&J so great? Well, I did a little research and found that the concept of PB&J dates back to the 1940s, when American soldiers were given peanut butter instead of meat in their rations. Soldiers added jelly to make their sandwiches flavorful. And, just like a spoon-full of peanut butter on the roof of your mouth, the sandwich stuck!

Satisfy your PB&J cravings with a 5% off coupon off Kraft® Grape Jelly - just use GRAPE5OFF at checkout. Coupon expires 11/30/07.

Emergency Ponchos: Truck Drivers' Best-Kept Secret

Travel sizes are convenient, portable, and sometimes just too cute to resist. (I'm sure we all know at least someone who loves all things small.) So, when Darlene of our Customer Service department told me about her husband and his adventures with Minimus.biz products, I knew that I had to spread the word.

Darlene's husband Pete is a truck driver and while driving long distances, he sometimes gets caught off guard with unexpected weather. Darlene had bought him some of our Emergency Ponchos, for those "just in case" situations. Pete thanked his wife, but figured he'd never have to use them and threw them in the glove compartment.

Recently, while Pete was driving through Arizona, he got caught in a monsoon (a short, but often heavy rain and thunderstorm), but had to get out and check one of the tires. He was dreading getting drenched, but remembered his ponchos. The ponchos came in handy - so handy that he excitedly called Darlene to let her know how thankful he was to have them.

Have any stories about how Minimus.biz products kept you dry, clean, healthy, prepared, etc? Send them my way to Whitney@Minimus.biz - maybe your story will be posted next!

Guest Blogger: Bob Calvert, Host of TalkingWithHeroes Radio Show

Here at Minimus.biz, we have a lot of friends. One of our friends is the host of radio show TalkingWithHeroes, Bob Calvert. We met Bob via our work with Soldiers' Angels (http://www.soldiersangels.org/) - a non-profit that supports the troops, regardless of feelings on the war. We sent him a variety of toiletries to use on his latest trip to Iraq, where he conducted interviews for his radio show.

Here's what Bob had to say about the portability and convenience of Minimus.biz products:

"Bob Calvert here, host of the TalkingWithHeroes talk show program. Thank you for the items that you sent to me to take to Iraq on our third trip here. I especially like the small one time use packets of shampoo, conditioner and the sun screen. This is much better than a large bottle.
Also the hand wipes, lotion, chapstick... it is really hot here at high as 120 degrees. The chapstick is definitely good.

All of the items are very beneficial. I can say now from first hand usage that your packages are very beneficial to our troops. My understanding is that a lot or most of the SoldiersAngels.Org packages come from Minimus.biz.

I want to say a special thanks to Patti and SoldiersAngels.Org for making this third trip to Iraq possible. Also thanks to SoldiersAngels.Org and Beth for organizing the blog set up where I am sending updates as often as possible. People can access that by going to http://www.blogger.com/www.talkingwithheroes.com then clicking on the TalkingWithHeroes BLOG Link.

Thank you again for all that you do for our troops."

Bob Calvert, Host

Troops love travel sizes - and we've made it easy to send them care packages with our pre-made Military Care Packages, which were designed by the troops in Iraq via Soldiers' Angels.

Camping Must-Haves: Charmin® To Go Toilet Seat Covers and Bug Buttons

This past weekend, my friends and I went camping for an end-of-summer hurrah. I was excited to "road test" a couple of Minimus products, including Gearaid Mini Roll Duct Tape (2 roll pack), No Rinse® Shampoo, Bug Button, and Tapatio® Picante Hot Sauce packets.

The menu was planned, equipment coordinated, and we were ready to go. After a 2 hour drive up the beautiful California coast, we arrived.

Fortunately - our campsite was within walking distance to the beach.

Unfortunately - there were no showers or flushing toilets. Now, I'm not a glamper, nor am I a backpacker, but modern plumbing is a must.

After a long day at the beach, everyone was in need of a shower. Luckily, one of the guys had brought a portable shower and we all braved the cold water in hopes of feeling clean and refreshed. (I used my eco-friendly Kiss My Face® Whenever Shampoo Green Tea & Lime and Kiss My Face® Anti-stress Shower Gel & Foaming Bath.)

As the sun set and everyone started dousing themselves with bug spray, I simply put on my Bug Button - a pin-on insect-repelling button that's non-toxic and lasts up to 60 hours. I can happily report that I didn't get a single bug bite!

I was able to enjoy my weekend camping trip with friends thanks to the help and convenience of Minimus products.

Got a camping story? I'd love to hear what Minimus products you take on your camping or backpacking trips. Email me at Whitney@Minimus.biz.

Cutex® Essential Care Nail Polish Remover Pad

Last week, I had the pleasure of taking a mini-vacation (how fitting, huh?!). I spent a day at the beach and the other day at the spa. I'm not much of a girly-girl, but I decided what better excuse to get a manicure and pedicure than while on vacation?

Well, it's definitely back to reality and my nail polish was starting to chip. Since I don't usually wear nail polish (ever), I don't have nail polish remover at home. I got to work early this morning to do an on-air radio interview about glamping, and decided today was the day - the day to take off my nail polish.

At Minimus, we carry a couple Cutex products, including Cutex® Essential Care Nail Polish Remover Pad - Non-Acetone. I pulled a packet from the shelf and went back to my desk. I was surprised to find that there were 2 individual packets of the nail-polish-remover pads and accepted the fact that I'd probably have to use both to remove the 4 coats (base, 2 coats of color, and topcoat - FYI).

I started to take off my red nail polish and was amazed how easily it came off! After I got done with my first hand, I was secretly excited that I didn't have to open the second pack! Well, my nails are back to normal and I've become a believer in these handy little pads. Who knows, maybe I'll start wearing nail polish on a regular basis...

Want to try these handy pads for yourself? Use the code CUTEX5OFF (case sensitive) to get 5% off of Cutex® Essential Care Nail Polish Remover Pad - Non-Acetone (for natural & artificial nails) at checkout. Coupon expires August 31st, 2007.

New Product: Frank's Red Hot Cayenne Pepper Sauce

One of our newest additions at Minimus.biz is Frank's® Red Hot® Cayenne Pepper Sauce (bottle). We're excited to offer you yet another way to spice up your favorite foods. And, we're not going to lie, but the little bottle is just too cute to resist! It's a perfect size to take to your next picnic, tailgating party, or even just to have around the house.

Did you know that in 1964, "FRANK'S® Red Hot® Cayenne Pepper Sauce was used as the secret ingredient for the first ever Buffalo Wings in Buffalo, New York" (franksredhot.com)? It's OK - neither did I.

If you have a unique way of using your favorite hot sauce, I want to hear about it! Email me your most unique uses at Whitney@Minimus.biz and spice up my day!

Price: $.96

Minimus.biz' Toothpaste EXEMPT FROM RECALL

It seems that toothpaste made in China is in the news again due to contamination. We wanted to let our customers know that Minimus.biz does not carry any of the toothpastes that have been reported as having issues from being made in China.

Please contact our Customer Service department if you have any questions or concerns at CustomerService@Minimus.biz. Thank you.

Calling All Golfers!

I've recently joined the golf craze when I bought my own clubs (seriously, they're purple!). I've been to the driving range a total of 3 times in my entire life, but when I saw these women's clubs at a sporting goods store, I instantly fell in love. I've been looking for other ways to stay active besides going to the gym and thought golf would be a good activity.

Do you have a pair of golf clubs that may need some dusting off? Haven't gotten to the driving range in a while? There's no time like the present. And, August is PGA's National Golf Month, advocating family golf participation.

Need a bit more inspiration? Minimus has several golf-related products, including our Golf Wipes, Dry Hands® Gripping Solution, and our newest kit, The Foursome - Golf Accessories Kit.

Glamping: Camping in Style

Pitching tents and roasting hot dogs over the fire isn’t everyone’s definition of a vacation. A new phenomenon called “glamping,” or glamorous camping, is taking the world by storm.

Glamping: (glam-ping) verb
1. to camp glamorously
2. to camp in style
3. to camp without leaving certain comforts behind: John and I went glamping this weekend, equipped with our silk-lined tent and personal chef.

Recently, the blogging community has been writing about glamping, originally started across the pond in England, but quickly becoming the latest camping phenomenon here in the United States. Glamping celebrates the outdoors while enjoying all the comforts of home. Companies are rolling out their red-carpet-worthy camping products to this new market segment, mostly comprised of women. Tents, sleeping bags, folding chairs, and the like are being fashioned in fun, feminine, plush colors and materials.

Why stop at camping gear? Camping food has seen a huge upgrade with portable grills, stovetops, and refrigeration, making way for gourmet offerings in less-luxurious settings. Many glampers are taking things one step further and bringing along chefs to fulfill their every craving.

Minimus.biz maintains a large following of customers who are regular campers looking to lighten their loads with smaller sizes. While die-hard campers may cringe at the thought of glamping, for those that are looking to sample the new phenomenon, we've put together a Glamping Accessories Kit and Glamping Snacks Kit.

The Glamping Accessories Kit , which retails for $59.51, contains essential-oil-enriched shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, as well as sunscreen, bug spray, loofah, and more. The Glamping Snacks Kit retails for $15.19 and contains flavored cheeses and crackers, organic peanut butter and almond butter, as well as coffee, tea, cappuccino mix, and much more.


Planning a glamping trip? Tell me about it at Whitney@Minimus.biz.

Splinter Out: My New Favorite Minimus.biz Product

I'm not usually accident prone, but today I was rummaging around one of the drawers of my desk and got a splinter! I'm pretty susceptible to paper cuts, but a splinter?! I tried to get it out myself, but after several failed attempts, remembered that we carry an ingenious product - Splinter Out. I ran over to the shelf and grabbed the small packet. When I got back to my desk, I ripped it open to find a small metal "lancet" - a strip of metal with a small pointed tip. I was amazed at how painless and simple it was to remove the splinter. It may not be the most practical tool to keep in your purse or glove compartment, but it sure came in handy today!

Price: $.29

July is National Peach Month

Well, it's definitely summer and I'm clamoring for delicious, refreshing snacks. As I wandered down the produce isle at the grocery store, I was immediately drawn to the peaches. They're sweet, juicy, and are packed with vitamin C (and only 40 calories, for those of you who are counting). Did you know that in 1982, President Ronald Reagan declared July to be National Peach Month? Looking to celebrate the fruits of your labor? Try our Crystal Light® On the Go Peach Tea Drink Mix - we'll even give you 5% off. Use the code PEACH5OFF (case sensitive) to get 5% off of Crystal Light® On The Go Peach Tea Drink Mix at checkout. Coupon expires July 31st, 2007.

Organic Peanut Butter Packets (and Almond Butter too!)

I love peanut butter. So, when we were recently approached by Justin of Justin's Peanut Butter to carry his small packets of Organic Peanut Butter and Natural Almond Butter, I was anxious... hoping that it would be a tasty product. We received some samples to evaluate, and I was first amazed by the packaging -- very creative and fun. Next, I was excited by the different flavors -- versions with cinnamon, honey, or maple. The big test was yet to come... taste. I took one of each of the packets home and happily spent my evening sucking the peanut butter and almond butter right out of the packet while watching the evening's favorite shows (is it just me, or is Deadliest Catch on the Discovery Channel an amazing show?). Six packets later, I said, "we have to carry this." The next day we put in our order with Justin's, and we're happy to announce its launch on our website. Not only is it great for snacking, but it makes a great companion for traveling, camping, or virtually anywhere that you might need a quick dose of tasty goodness.

Eltron® Mini Shaver - Product Review

Here at Minimus.biz, we have hundreds of products, but the one that puzzled me the most was our Eltron® Mini Shaver. I often check out the new products as the come in. When I spotted the box of shavers, I never really thought twice about them. When I heard that Jeff, one of our employees, had bought the mini shaver, I told him I’d check in with him after a week and see what he thought about it. He seemed a little hesitant, but eventually agreed.

The week passed and it was time to weigh in with Jeff. He was very excited to tell me all about his experience with the mini shaver. My first question to him was why he bought it. He replied, “I bought it for travel and touching up during the day.” He even confessed that he had kept it in his glove compartment one day, but promised that he didn’t use it while driving. Previously, Jeff had been using a top name-brand shaver and admitted that Minimus’ shaver actually shaved better. He told me that the Eltron is “easy to clean and sounds just like a regular-sized shaver.” Was this too good to be true?

His only complaints were that because the shaver is small, it takes a little longer than his big one at home and that you can’t let your beard get too long. When I asked him if he would recommend the Eltron® Mini Shaver, he said “Of course. I’m even going to buy another one for my brother!” Guess that answers my question!

At the end of our discussion, he questioned whether the shaver would work on women’s legs… sounds like a challenge! I’ll keep you posted!

Price: $19.49

UPDATE: I just learned that the Eltron® Mini Shaver doesn’t seem to work well for women. One of our female customers filled us in. We appreciate the feedback!

Product Review: Earth Solutions Aromatherapy Inhalers

Here at Minimus, it seems like we get new products in every week. Some of our newest products are the Earth Solutions Aromatherapy Scent Inhalers. They come in scents such as Hangover Helper, Stay Alert, Breathe Easy, Smoke Less, Insomnia Relief, Appetite Control, Study Buddy, Lucid Dreams, World Peace, PMS Control, and Meno-pause, so there’s one for everybody. I was intrigued and decided to test them out.

As a belated Mother’s Day gift, I got my mom the menopause inhaler and crossed my fingers that she wouldn’t disown me. At first, she was a little insulted, but she figured it was worth trying out. She was surprised that she liked it and emailed me her feedback: “The scent is beautiful and the first time I tried it at my desk at work, I followed the directions, closed my eyes, inhaled slowly, and felt like I was floating over an ocean swell! Quite the sensation! It causes me to stop what I'm doing & slow down.”

I didn’t want the men to feel left out, so I asked my mom’s husband to try our World Peace inhaler and send me a review. Here’s what he had to say: “After receiving the World Peace aromatherapy inhaler, how could I not be a bit skeptical? One whiff and "POOF," world peace? I really put it to the test on Saturday after a marathon jaunt at the local home improvement store. Waiting for help in the louvered blinds department, waiting for someone, anyone to acknowledge your existence can test anyone’s patience. When I finally arrive home clutching tightly to the last bits of hair that I have, I gave the World Peace inhaler a chance. I skipped the chant that was conveniently printed on the back, but the scent was quite pleasant. A couple of more whiffs and I'm a million miles away from the scene I had experienced earlier.” Sounds like we have a believer!

Giving one of our inhalers a try? Send me your feedback to Whitney@Minimus.biz. I’d love to hear if they worked and what you think of them.

America’s Pastime

“We want a pitcher, not a belly-itcher!” America’s favorite pastime, baseball, was invented June 12, 1839, but the first World Series was played in 1903 between Pittsburgh and Boston - Boston won the series 5-3. And what’s a baseball game without peanuts? Take 5% off of Planters® Salted Peanuts -- use the code PLANTERS5OFF (case sensitive) at checkout. Coupon expires June 25th, 2007.

Travel Size Lysol 1oz To Go

It has been years in the making, but it is finally here... travel size Lysol 1oz To Go. A couple of years ago, noticing that this was a highly requested item from our customers, I put in some calls to the people at Lysol to implore them to create a travel size. Well, it is now a reality.

It is interesting to note some of the difficulties in producing such a product. Items that make disinfectant claims are covered by the EPA, thus they must be licensed, individually, in every state. And, they must carry a large assortment of information on the packaging (so much so that it often cannot fit on travel size containers, so the container must include additional packging). Also, the manufacturing of aerosols is not an inexpensive process (compared to other travel sizes). Thus, the ability to create a disinfectant spray in a travel size is not an easy, or inexpensive, process.

We're excited that the travel size Lysol 1oz To Go has finally hit the market, and that we are continually able to find ways to fill the needs of our customers.

May is Physical Fitness and Sports Month

When I was younger, it seemed like my family was out on the soccer fields every weekend. Despite the grass stains and sunburns, those are some of my favorite memories. May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, so get the family together for a game of t-ball, or even horseshoes. And, Be sure to stay hydrated with Gatorade® Instant Mix - Lemon Lime flavor. Whether you’re looking to become the best Team Mom, better athlete, or just quench your thirst, stock up with a 5% off coupon on Gatorade® Instant Mix - Lemon-Lime flavor -- use the code GATORADE5OFF (case sensitive) to get 5% off at checkout. Coupon expires May 31st, 2007.

Minimus Supports Our Troops

All of us here at Minimus.biz would like to take a moment to thank all of the brave and selfless individuals who have served in the military. May is National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM). “This very important month honors, remembers, recognizes and appreciates all military personnel; those men and women who have served throughout our history and all who now serve in uniform and their families as well as those Americans who have given their lives in defense of our freedoms we all enjoy today” according to the NMAM website. I’ve come up with a few simple ways you can support the military: send a care package, fly a flag, or send letters or emails to a military pen-pal. Check out Soldiers' Angels at http://www.soldiersangels.org/, a non-profit military support group that connects people with soldiers to adopt and send care packages to (they'll also help you to volunteer and donate anonymously).

Minimus Fans - Spice Up Your Life!

Bring out the cervezas y pinatas! Cinco de Mayo, which celebrates the Battle of Puebla between Mexico and France – not Mexico’s Independence Day, is quickly approaching. Are you ready for the fiesta? Spice up your day and stock up on Tapatio® Picante Hot Sauce. It’s great on popcorn, pizza, and anything else that needs spicing up. Use the code TAPATIO5OFF (case sensitive) to get 5% off at checkout. Coupon expires May 19th, 2007.

National Pretzel Day?!

Snacks, munchies, finger food – whatever you call them, you can never have too many in reserve. I always have a good stash in my desk drawer at the office, in my night stand at home, and even in the car. April 26th is National Pretzel Day. Pretzels have been around since 1213 and the average American consumes about 1.75 pounds per year! In honor of such a significant day, take 5% off Snyder’s® of Hanover Mini Pretzels -- use the code PRETZELS5OFF (case sensitive) at checkout. Coupon expires April 30th, 2007.

Donna's Diet Diary

Looking forward to swim suit season? Me neither! So when I received an email regarding a Minimus customer losing 40 pounds and 4 dress sizes, I had to know her secret! It inspired me and I hope it inspires you too! Here's her story:

“My husband and I planned a winter cruise. I was about 50 pounds or so heavier than I wanted to be and my husband was about 100 pounds over. Dared each other to lose 25 pounds before the cruise....

We talked with a physician. He advised us to make this a life change, not a diet. Diets never stick.... The physician said to work toward less than 30 grams of fat combined with less than 45 grams of sugar per day. Sounded pretty good to me. Start Date: November 1, 2006.

So we tried. It took hours to grocery shop, just for 2!! Then we realized, we eat out practically every day. And, I travel quite a bit with my work. What to do then? I jumped on the internet and found Minimus.biz.

All the individual servings are wonderful !!!! I discovered that it is much easier to just go ahead and eat out (and we all know that is a great feeling when trying to lose weight.) Ordering shis-ka-bobs, salad with grilled chicken, steamed veggies, just about anything we wanted. The magic was the packets I have been purchasing from you. They have allowed us to enjoy the flavor of anything.

I ALWAYS carry Kraft® Fat Free Ranch Dressing , Kraft® Fat Free Mayonnaise , A1® Steak Sauce ..... All "free" on the life change program. This is what has totally saved us. Yes, Minimus.biz is a lifesaver. We can eat almost what we want. Carrying your products with us allows that. Anything can be made good. Even steamed veggies...add a little Kraft Free Ranch, and good to go.

I have learned that, even when dining professionally or with friends, people really respect the fact that we are trying to lead a healthy lifestyle. Instead of laughing or scoffing, they want to know where we bought the individual packets! It is great!

Long story short, since 11-1-06, I have gone from size 14 to a 6 (size 4 in some jeans), down 40 pounds, and my husband has gone from size 44 to 38, down 50 pounds and almost off the high blood pressure medication. Thanks to you and your products, it has worked and it is really easy.

Try a baked potato with the ranch, steamed veggies with ranch, A-1 on chicken, salad with Kraft Free of your choice, add a grilled chicken breast, good to go! It works and is easy! (Even pretzels dipped in dressing for a snack is good.)

Just waiting for Kraft to put fat free tartar sauce in an individual packet!

Oh, the Kraft® Free Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing is really good! Being able to order small numbers of items is great. It will let you try different things.

It worked for me, and is a life change, not really a diet. I love weighing 137 (at 5'7" tall...)

Thanks to all of you at Minimus.biz!”

Have a sucess story you want to share? Email me at Whitney@minimus.biz - I'd love to hear from you!

Calling All Pet Parents

Do you consider your pet part of the family? Most people do. My Boston Terrier, Bruno, thinks he runs the house and even takes over the bed! The third week of April is Pet ID Week. Collars with tags are a reliable way to identify your pet in the event that they got lost. Your pet’s tag should include their name, your name and address, and a telephone number at the very least. If your pet has a medical problem requiring medication, you should include that on their tag also. In honor of such an important task for pet parents to do, take 5% off Herban Essentials Pet Towelette (for humans) -- use the code HERBANPET5OFF (case sensitive) at checkout. Coupon expires April 30th, 2007.

April is Foot Health Awareness Month

Did you know that April is Foot Health Awareness Month? According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, the average person takes between 8,000 and 10,000 steps every day! Phew, that makes me tired just thinking about all of those steps! Be sure to take even more care of your little piggies this month and gear up for sandal season, with 5% off Desenex® Foot Powder -- use the code DESENEX5OFF (case sensitive) at checkout. Coupon expires April 23rd, 2007.

Travel Size Items for the Sopranos Final Trip

A little over a week ago, The Sopranos production ordered several of the Wet Ones Singles Antibacterial Cleansing Wipes from us. I called and politely asked what they might be using them for. They let me know they were to be used on the show when "one of the char