This Shake ‘N Take personal-size blender is perfect for people who want to eat healthy while on the go. The 16-oz. bottle fits the cup holders of almost any vehicle, plus features a spill-proof sports bottle lid. For easier cleaning, use a double-ended bottle brush.

You’ve seen Blendtec machines in coffee shops, juice bars, and restaurants around the world. The Total Blender is an all-in-one appliance that promises to replace all of (or nearly all) the appliances in your kitchen. Imagine having one appliance that will make smoothies, ice cream, soups, breads, etc. Its engine has 1500 Watts of power which will crush your ice into snow for a splendid margarita . . . or an iPod into granules. What will these crazy marketers come up with next?

The problem many people have when trying to make their own margaritas is achieving the fine, smooth consistency that is well known in restaurants. With home made margaritas, I’ve come to expect an ice chip or two, and there is always a grainy texture that no blender can get rid of.

The Margaritaville Frozen Concoction Maker was designed to shave ice into powderlike flakes. Like the traditional blender, it has several different speeds you can use, which gives you the option of making your drink as coarse or as fine as you’d like. Its drainer will keep melted ice from mixing into your drinks and diluting the flavor.

The only drawbacks are the quantity of drinks you can make at a time and the price. You can make up to three drinks at a time, which is fine if you’re making frozen drinks for you and your kids. If you have a house full of guests, that could be a problem.

Then there is the price, which runs at $299. If you entertain often or make smoothies for your family on a daily basis, the Margaritaville is worth the investment. Consider this the Cadillac of blenders.