Kitchen Items I got for Christmas 2010

I have been looking at this for a bit and actually tried the seltzer at a store in Pleasanton on Main St. They were having a special so part of me thinks I should have purchased it then but the other whimsical side of me really likes the penguin and the green side of me likes the glass bottles.  Problem is I don't know if this is really worth $100 and after typing this my answer is NO.

This one is from Williams Sonoma, Item#23-7313240 for $199.95.  You can purchase additional crafts for $23.95, Item# 23-1577956.  Isn't it CUTE! but $100 worth of cute, probably not....unless you get it as a gift.  And I love it.  It makes me feel so green, no more purchasing canned or bottled soda water.

UPDATE:  I received the penguin seltzer maker as a gift and I love it.  I no longer purchase soda water so I'm saving money along with doing my part for the environment.  Best of all it tastes great, I make it fresh each time I want a drink but if there is leftover it does last for a few days in the fridge.  LOVE IT!

Here is another one I found, although I did end up with the penguin.

iSi Twist n Sparkle: A direct carbonation system adds bubbly carbonation to almost any beverage from Williams Sonoma. Try it with everything from lemonade and pulp free fruit juices to your favorite cocktails (cocktails is what hooked me). Includes one plastic bottle, one want and three single use CO2 chargers. Item# 27-2963411 for $49.95. Additional chargers available Item# 27-2963320 for $19.95/24

Since I need two crock pots it's time for me to get a new one. My first crock pot is a bit worn out (non stick coating no longer sticking to the pan) which means I must be eating it so it's time for it to go. I believe I am going to get this crock pot because I want one with a locking lid so it will travel well and not spill.  Lock and Go 6qt. Stainless Steel Crock Pot, by CrockPot from JCP. Now on sale for $29.99.  See my post for the one I want

The last two times I made a pie I used dry beans but I don't like storing the used beans and since you can't cook them after you have baked them it is a waste. So this year I want some pie beads. They come in a chain but I've also seen ceramic ones that indicate no steel taste. I definitely don't want a metal taste in my crust even thought I like that it's a chain, so I'm moving towards the ceramic ones. Also f you are making a smaller pie you don't need to use them all.  Pie Chain, 10':  Stainless steel chain coils into the bottom of your crust, #6459, $16.95 at KingArthurFlour.  The ceramic weights from Chefs Catalog, Item# 24461 for $5.99 says it won't impart metal taste which is better and it's also cheaper!  BONUS

Stainless Steel Skimmer: I have the bamboo model but I would like to upgrade to this one. You can find this one at Chefs Catalog, Item # 24746, $17.95 for the 14 inch or $24.95 for the 17 inch. You can also find it at many other kitchen gaget stores like Sur La Table, William Sonoma or Crate and Barrell.