1. I’m not advocating playing at the kitchen table, but when I saw these light-up chopsticks on Amazon, they were too cool to pass up.
Even though the plastic is a bit slippery, my boys are determined to use these lightsaber-inspired kitchen utensils whenever they can. Activate the LED light with push of a button, $10 for one pair of $12.99 for two.
Also pictured: Mini bento, $6.28, from Musubi Cafe Iyasume at the Grand Lanai at Ala Moana Center.
— Donica Kaneshiro, Star-Advertiser
2. Hawaii has a relatively low amount of violent crime involving firearms but there are still enough incidents of unprovoked street violence to make anyone think twice about being out alone after dark. Even people who practice self-defense techniques can be taken by surprise when something happens outside the dojo.
The Sabre personal alarm (Security Equipment Corporation; $14.99 batteries included, sabrered.com) has a strong clamp that attaches to a backpack, handbag or article of clothing.
The weatherproof alarm’s safety light with three modes — on, slow flash and fast flash — increases visibility when walking or jogging after sunset. Its 120-decibel alarm can be activated with a single push of a button — loud enough that it might convince a troublemaker to move on while you make a break for it.
— John Berger, Star-Advertiser
3. Orange Glo actually makes cleaning enjoyable. It’s meant for polishing wood furniture, but I use it to clean my stainless-steel appliances, a task at which it excels. A few swipes and fingerprints, grime, even sticker residue disappear. The key ingredient is orange oil, as in the fruit. I don’t know why it works, so I’m going to say it’s magic.
I learned about Orange Glo from a nice man who installed my microwave — and noticed the not-so-pristine condition of my refrigerator. He was so adamant in his positivity that I immediately bought a 32-ounce bottle for about $7 at Home Depot (smaller bottles are carried at Walmart, but were out of stock).
Now I look forward to seeing fingerprints on the fridge, because I get to break out my spray bottle and clean. Instant gratification.
— Betty Shimabukuro, Star-Advertiser
4. I recently went to Victoria’s Secret at Ala Moana Center to pick up the Tease Eau de Parfum rollerball. While I was there I came across a card case with a zipper as well as a gold heart-shaped hook, which you can put your keys on.
I thought I could use it to put my office security cards in and hang the hook on a lanyard to wear for work. A salesclerk showed me a drawer full of card cases in all different designs.
The black Hot Tropic card case decorated with tropical leaves, which she said just came in, caught my eye. At just $14, I was sold. It’s also available in hot pink.
— Jenny Delos Santos, Star-Advertiser
“4 Things We Love” is a shortlist of newly discovered stuff you have got to see, hear, wear, use or eat. Please keep in mind that featured products may be in short supply and may not be available at all store locations; prices may vary. Tell us what you are loving by emailing features@staradvertiser.com.
