Gone with the wind

First off, we weren't sure what to expect when Dyson offered us the chance to try out its new DC23 Turbinehead, billed as the latest in "Level 3 Root Cyclone" technology. But once we got going, we quickly realized that's exactly what this 19.5 lb. unit is: a cyclone.

The DC23 Turbinehead seemed a bit bulky when we removed it from the box, but once we put it together---in all of, oh, 30 seconds---it became apparent that this powerful puppy was on a mission to remove all of the dust, debris, pet hair and yucky stuff we didn't even know was ground into the family room carpet. Our black lab's stubborn hair was no match for the 220 air watts of relentless suction. Even though we were tempted to see if our 6-year-old's Star Wars Legos stood a chance, the kid's howls of anguish stopped us before we could suck 'em up.

In addition to the sheer power that the DC23 packs, we could appreciate the additional tools for vacuuming stairs, crevices (don't go there) and the brush tool.

Not easily swayed, this mom---who absolutely hates cleaning---put the Turbinehead to the ultimate test: cleaning the family Sequoia. The verdict? No more trips to the self-serve car wash where the vacuum cleaners never really get the job done. The Turbinehead performed wonders, handling everything from sticky candy bar wrappers and fast-food leftovers to taking out those fine, black rubber granules that come from playing football on a turf field. The tools were especially good at removing gunk sandwiched between seats and beneath the seat-belt receptacles.

The receptacle that holds all the dirt has us promising to do better---there's nothing like having all of that dirt and disgusting stuff trapped in a see-through canister.

If you're already a Dyson fan or consider yourself a household gadget geek, then this is just preaching to the choir. But for naysayers who wonder whether the $399 is worth it, here's the deal: Yes, it's a lot of money, but in an economy where most of us are trying to make the most of every dollar, the Dyson comes with a 5-year warranty, their technical support is terrific and you can't beat the cleaning job that a Dyson does. Hands down, Dyson makes the best. Period. Washing the filter (there are no bags) takes only a few minutes a month and for those of us whose kids often end up wheezing and carrying on as we dust and clean, the unit is certified asthma & allergy friendly™.

---Gail H. Towns

Sweet memories

Who says kids have to wait until Halloween to get their fill of sweet treats? Not the kid-friendly manufacturers behind the coolest USB flash drive we’ve ever seen. Back-to-school shoppers will get rush from the new Hershey’s Miniatures-inspired memory sticks that pack anywhere from 1GB to 4 GB of school projects, reports, research presentations, video, slideshows and so on. Depending on your kid’s personality---and sweet tooth---check out the USB drives that look like mini versions of milk chocolate bars, Krackel, and Mr. Goodbar. Twizzler and Bubble Yum look-alikes also are available. Priced from $14.99 to $29.99 at Best Buy.

Luxe look worth the price

News about the economy has many would-be shopaholics in a funk, but every now and then, we all come across an item or two that makes us wanna splurge. I'm all about saving money, cutting corners and putting cash away for (the next) rainy day. But no good girl should go unrewarded. So if you're doing due diligence by cutting back on your daily soy latte or finding 99 ways to reinvent chicken, then just maybe you'll enjoy Elspeth's luscious leather handbags without any guilt.

There are those among us who are constantly in search of the perfect purse and the soft, indulgent and stylish line from designer Elizabeth Phillips does not disappoint. In her own words: "I wanted to design a collection that transcends cultural fads,” says Elizabeth. “ELSPETH handbags are functional fashion; designed for the contemporary woman offering versatility and convenience with unmatched style.”

We couldn't have said it better. The company loaned us the roomy East Village Tote, which is available in magenta, dark teal, silver grey and chocolate. At $342 MSRP, it's definitely a purchase you'll want to think through. But it feels wonderful on the shoulder and is drop-dead gorgeous with its oxidized brass hardware on the outside, striking stitching and spacious interior pockets. Works well as a daily handbag or as an all-purpose piece that is perfect for work and casual outings. And did we say that it's indeed a head turner? The kind of bag that makes strange women dare to ask, "Where'd you get that? Who's it by?"

See for yourself at elspethnyc.com. The bag is available this August and pre-orders are being taken online.