Thursday, May 15, 2025

Tshirt from Zazzle, Review

I was going to write about a different shirt that I have from Zazzle, but found out that it is no longer available. Zazzle does change their brands of tshirts from time to time. Instead of writing about the two that I have had for years, I am writing about a recent purchase, but I do expect the same quality performance.

tshirt


The one thing about ordering shirts from Zazzle, is that they don't really have a teen section, sizes go from kids to adults, and some of their shirts are marked as slim. If I was ordering a shirt from Zazzle, I would go a size or two larger when wanting it to be sized for adults. I would definitely go two sizes larger if the description says Slim, so be sure to read the description before ordering.

Other than the sizing thing, I am quite pleased with my tshirt. I already knew to order a larger size. I also wanted a soft fabric, so I got a cotton tri-blend.

All of the apparel items that I have purchased from Zazzle have been printed well. I have learned to order the white or pastel colors when ordering printed tshirts. That way the coloring is printed into the fabric, giving it a soft look and feel.

To get a truer color on dark colored shirts, one would usually have to order with a white underbase printed under the design. This gives the design a brighter and more vibrant look, but also has a rougher and more solid texture to the actual design area. Some people are okay with this, so this is a matter of preference. Some, somewhat darker colored shirts are offered without the white underbase. Customers can click on the various options to see which type of print they prefer.

I have also ordered a hooded sweatshirt from Zazzle, and have had that for many years. It has held up through numerous washings.

My experience with washing instructions have been pretty routine, i.e. washing in cool water, only use non-chlorine bleach, tumble dry low, and don't dry clean.

You can check out the shirt that I'm wearing above, by using this link that goes to my CherylsArt store on Zazzle. This one is for the cotton tri-blend.

This is a bigger picture link, and it is for a Slim style, not the one I'm wearing in the above picture.




Whichever link you use, you can look around at other options from the various menus on Zazzle.

Cheryl Paton



Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Wednesday, May 14, 2025

The Spinster's Resolve ~ A Book Review

spinsters resolve
The Spinster's Resolve, by Lateefa Harris, is a wonderful work of fiction that you can read, enjoy and see yourself in if you use your imagination!  

Set in the 1800's England, life was full of many rules and protocols that spanned all the classes.  There were "rules" that just never were broken or you ended up being the gossip of the next "ton" event.

Grace Skye might just be breaking some of those rules.  

When her mother died, she was thrust into the role of keeping the household in order.  That meant looking after her father and her younger sister.  Grace's thoughts of marriage and a family of her own were put on hold.  An then the unthinkable happened!  Her father passed away after suffering a stroke!  Now what was going to happen with the estate and her role in running it?  She has 6 months to figure something out.  Her sister is only 16 and has not yet had a "coming out".  Wherever will she be able to meet an eligible bachelor to wed?  Are they both doomed to spinsterhood?  

The Spinsters Resolve


Grace is preparing to meet Lord Bainbridge, who being the next closest relative will now inherit the estate and make all the decisions.  Grace and Heather (her sister) will be at the whiles of an uncle that really doesn't want to deal with them.  He's just interested in the estate and how much profits he can make to feather his coffers, getting Grace and her sister married off and then doing as he pleased.  But his plans are not going to be realized so easily. 

 Grace has other ideas and is using all her wiles to figure out a way forward without marrying a man she has no interest in.

This book is a really good read and I enjoyed the history lesson that Lateefa Harris gives us both at the start of the novel ans more tidbits at the end as well.  I was thoroughly taken in by this book and enjoyed turning page after page right to the very end.

If you are looking for an interesting read, with a great story line, this one just might fit your bill. Filled with Historical romance and some mystery to keep you guessing, this book is really enjoyable.   The Spinster's Resolve is Ranked in the Top 10 Best Sellers in Historical Mysteries I know you will enjoy it too!

Well done Lateefa Harris, I look forward to reading more!   Hope you enjoy this book too!  Available on Kindle!




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Tuesday, May 13, 2025

Reviewing Benefits And Features Of Talking Clocks

 .Black and white colour contrast talking clock


Since my husband was diagnosed as severe sight impaired -blind, we have been exploring technology and devices that may help him. One of these we were advised to look into is a talking clock. 

This simple device is designed to audibly announce the time, and the date. For the model we have you simply press the top once for the time and keep it held down for the date to be announced as well.

It is of course very useful for anyone who has sight loss. However we have found it is also useful for me when I quickly want to know the time and date and through learning more about them I realised they can be very beneficial for many other people as well.

In this article we will be using the terms severe sight impaired, blind, low vision, partially sighted and sight loss as these are the current acceptable terms in my country for people with sight loss. This may change over time and be different in different countries. No offence is intended by any of these terms.

Empowering People With Sight Loss

For people who experience sight loss whether they are severe sight impaired or have low vision, checking the time can be a significant challenge and not being able to tell the time by yourself can be a real curb on independence. 

Prior to getting the talking clock my husband had to ask me the time whenever he wanted to know. This immediately made him feel less independent and for me it was not always convenient. For my husband it was a constant reminder of his sight loss that he had to ask a sighted person whenever he needed or wanted to know the time. 

Traditional clocks rely on us being able to read the numbers or roman numerals often at a distance. Some are very difficult to see if they have patterns or pictures and different colours. People with any degree of sight loss will have different needs and preferences.

My husband needs very clear bold black numbers on a white background with zero distractions and it needs to be very large. The clock would also need to be free from sunlight or glare hitting it, yet bright enough so he can make out the numbers. This is not always possible and we quickly realised it would be difficult to site such a large clock and give it the correct site to make it possible for him to read it. 

The talking clock eliminates this barrier completely by providing a clear, spoken announcement of the time with the press of a button or depending on the clock also the date or even via scheduled verbal alerts.

A talking clock can really help towards independence, allowing people with sight loss of varying degrees  to manage their daily routines without needing assistance from a sighted person.

You can choose a basic talking clock that can help you by simply telling the time and knowing the correct date, or more advanced models. Either way a talking clock gives a much higher level of independence.


 Extra Large Talking Button Clock - for The Blind, Elderly or Visually impairedCheck Price


Some talking clocks do not have any readable indicators while others may have a digital reading of date, time etc in large text. It all depends on what you personally need and find useful. 

The advanced models can do many tasks and have different features. I have listed some features here to give you an idea of what can be available. 

  • Tell the time
  • Tell the date.
  • Set alarms
  • Organise appointment and social dates
  • Birthday and special day reminders
  • Chime on the hour
  • Reminders to take medication
  • Different levels of brightness on the display 
  • Customisable themes.
  • Customisable language
  • Lighting differentiates time zones during the day/night
  • Temperature readouts
  • Activated by voice controlled commands.
  • Some with no visual display, others with large size and contrasting visual displays


Talking Clock showing large black button on white contrast
Black and white contrast talking clock showing large button to activate


 Who Else Could Benefit From A Talking Clock? 

Clearly a talking clock can assist people with a visual impairment. However it does not stop there.

It got me thinking who else may benefit from a talking clock and I believe it may help older people who might have difficulty reading clock faces from a distance, perhaps even young children who need to know the time and have not yet reliably learned to read a clock face or digital clocks.

They would be a useful aid for people who cannot learn to tell the time on a clock, or for people who through various illnesses, learning difficulties, disabilities, who have memory issues, or dementia find reading a standard clock more challenging.

Additionally, talking clocks might benefit elderly people who may struggle with small text on standard clocks, and the advanced models might assist professionals who need to keep track of their schedule.

Talking clocks simplify timekeeping, and if technology is for anything surely it should be to make our lives a little easier. 


【Upgraded】Digtal Clock with Voice-Talking Day and Date for Seniors, 19 Alarms & Custom Reminders, 10-Level Auto Dimmer, Auto DST, 8 Colors Display Clock for Elderly Dementia Alzheimers, with Remote【Upgraded】Digtal Clock with Voice-Talking Day and Date for Seniors, 19 Alarms & Custom Reminders, 10-Level Auto Dimmer, Auto DST, 8 Colors Display Clock for Elderly Dementia Alzheimers, with RemoteCheck Price


Talking Clocks Are Convenient

Clearly talking clocks are a useful aid for a person with sight loss. However as we have found they can also be really beneficial to those with out sight loss. We now have several talking clocks around the house in places we regularly walk past and I now find my self using the talking clock much more than the sighted clock!

It is very unobtrusive, ours is a simple black and white device  certainly small enough to carry and light. It manages to both blend into the decor and yet be noticeable enough so my husband knows where it is.

Other clocks may have different colours such as blue, red or yellow and be smaller or larger. Many can be placed on a surface and some can be wall mounted. It all depends on what the person prefers. 

I especially use it for knowing the date especially if I don't have the computer or TV on. I often don't have the right glasses on to see our wall clocks and it is so convenient to punch the talking clock as I walk past and get the time and date so easily. 

You can buy talking clocks that are very simple and so easy to use with just the time and date or you can get advanced ones with a multitude of features and tasks. 

It has become a normal way to tell the time in our house. We didn't plan it this way but it does make my husband feel better that we just use his talking clock as a normal device, rather than just his special device to tell the time. 


 ORKA Talking Clock. Voice Recordable Ex Large Medication Pill Reminder. Talking Alarm Clock for Dementia, Hearing, Visually impaired Seniors-Digital Day Clock with Multiple Customized Alarms WhiteCheck Price



Aspects Of Talking Clocks To Be Aware About.

While I think generally they are a huge benefit, there are a few things to be aware of. 

Talking clocks can be run on batteries or plugged into electricity points, both have their good and bad points. We have the ones run on batteries and felt these were more portable, so that they can be taken into different rooms and taken with us on holiday. Clearly we need to make sure we always have a stock of replacement batteries either single use or ideally rechargeable.

If we had an electric model it could be plugged in around the house without the need or worry to keep a stock of batteries handy.  However, there is always the risk that in the event of a power cut or power outage it of course would not work. It is important if buying an electrical one to ensure that the features and time automatically reset after a power cut or outage is over. 

The solution is probably to have one of each, some of the electric models seem to carry more features, yet the battery ones are simpler, easy to use and more portable.  

By the very fact the talking clock is a fairly loud announcement of the time, it is impossible to privately check the time! So for example if you just wanted to check the time to see if guests ought to be leaving or a meeting has gone on too long, it is really a public announcement. They are not ideal in situations where discretion is required!

A talking clock can take a little time to get used to. At first my husband did keep asking me the time and I reminded him to use the talking clock, after a few days or weeks it is just a normal habit.

The fact it is an audible time check can be disturbing if there are others in the house having quiet time or sleeping.

It may be more disruptive if there are several people in the house, who may not want to know the time in this way and might find it disturbing.  

While it is loud enough, if the environment was noisy or lots of people were talking or music playing it might be more difficult to clearly hear it. 

You need to choose the clock voice that works best for you. It all depends on the model if you can customise the voice and some of the voices might not suit you. Some voices are clearer and more calm than others. So it is worth checking which voice the model uses and if you are able to customise it.


 GOLOZA 7'' Digital Calendar Clock, Talking Clock with 10 Volumes, 6 Display with 10 Color Modes, Auto Dimmable, Alarms & Birthday & Holiday Reminders, 3 Pill Reminders Clocks for Kids Adults SeniorsCheck Price


We both feel the positives far outweigh any negatives and now would not be without it. We agreed at the outset of my husbands diagnosis of severe sight impaired that we would do everything possible to maintain his personal autonomy and independence. This little device of a talking clock has certainly been very helpful in this respect. 


Advancements in Talking Clock Technology

Our talking clocks are models that tell the time and date and can be used to set an alarm. At the present we are happy with these features but there are models that can do much more. 

There are a range of talking clocks now from the basic time and date clock to ones which integrate with smart devices and use Artificial Intelligence. 

Some have customised features or a choice of features and languages. As mentioned previously there are talking clocks which also set date reminders, medicine reminders and alarms. 

Of course there are also talking watches which is on our wish list for something else to help my husband. 

Technology is advancing and if it can assist in keeping people more independent for as long as possible that is a positive. 


I think a talking clock would make a very thoughtful gift for anyone who is finding it difficult to see or read a standard clock. 

It might seem a small thing, many of us take for granted until we cannot do it,  but being able to tell the time and date by yourself is a huge deal for self esteem and independence.  

As the talking clock technology evolves I think it will become increasingly useful and versatile, not only for people who are sight impaired, but for many people. 


Read More Product Reviews on ReviewThisProducts.com 






Reviewing Benefits And Features Of Talking Clocks by Raintree Annie





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Monday, May 12, 2025

EZ Straw Seeding With Tack Review

Time to plant grass! Along with the topsoil and fresh seed is what I have termed my secret weapon to ensure the grass seed does not wander and to help the grass seeds thrive. EZ Straw Seeding With Tack is a necessity in this yard to give grass seeds the best chance at sprouting!


ez straw


Birds and wind are the enemies when attempting to grow grass! I will add torrential downpours to the list as well. There is nothing more frustrating to put down grass seed only to see a flock of birds descend for fresh treats! Or a gale force wind descends to blow around the seed! And my favorite is when the weather forecast is incorrect and the sprinkles of rain are actually a downpour and watch your grass seed turn into mud puddles.

The above scenarios are where the EZ Straw Seeding excels to help your grass seed stay put! The straw with the tack adds a layer of protection over the seed as well as helping protect the seed and keep the seed moist under the straw. 

Spring And Fall Grass Growing

In the north we have two short windows to grow grass or actually three (see below.) The easiest months to grow grass are in Spring And Fall. Summer is possible of course, but high temps and sun require much more frequent watering and maintenance. I usually use one layer of EZ Straw after the initial grass seed planting and then a second lighter layer of of seed and straw about 10 days later. to refresh areas where hay has degraded or grass seed has failed.  If all has gone well after a week to 10 days I will see grass sprouting! 

Dormant Seeding

I will add this method of growing grass as the third window of opportunity; however, the actual timing of putting down the seed varies per locale. In my area this time tends to be mid to late October which is before the ground is frozen and before the first snow. 

Seed and hay are laid right before the first snow as in the weather is watched and if snow is predicted the time is the day prior to lay the seed and hay. If all goes well you are rewarded with early grass sprouts the next Spring! I have succeeded with this method which gives the area a nice head start come Spring before the weather cooperates to lay new seed and hay.

Delivers As Promised

Always nice to have a product deliver as promised. The packaging of the hay is in a compressed square  is not reflective of  the amount in the square once the package is opened. Chances are for overseeding and spot repair there will be more than enough to last for two seasons.





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Sunday, May 11, 2025

A Little Luck: A Fun Look at Lucky (and Unlucky) Numbers

A Little Luck: A Fun Look at Lucky (and Unlucky) Numbers


Have you ever had a favorite number you swore brought you luck? Maybe it was your birthday, your jersey number in high school, or just a number that "felt right." 

Well, you're not alone. It turns out humans have been assigning luck (and bad vibes) to numbers for centuries. From ancient cultures to modern-day lotteries, numbers have carried weight far beyond their mathematical value. 

So let's dive into the surprisingly quirky world of lucky numbers and their infamous unlucky cousins.


Where Did Lucky Numbers Come From, Anyway?

There's no official "history of lucky numbers" carved in stone, but lucky digits have been floating around since ancient times. 

Early civilizations believed in numerology, where each number had a specific meaning or vibration. 

The Greeks, Chinese, Egyptians, and Babylonians all had their take on which numbers could bring good fortune (or doom). Fast-forward to today, and we still hold some of those beliefs. 

It turns out old superstitions die hard—especially when they're tied to money, love, or fate!


So, What Are the "Luckiest" Numbers?

You'll notice some numbers keep popping up across cultures, and they've gained a reputation for bringing good vibes. Here are a few that take the top spots:

7 – The Universal Lucky Charm

If you ask people their lucky number, seven wins by a landslide. It's a spiritual number, connected to perfection and completion. Think: seven days in a week, seven wonders of the world, and even lucky 7s on a slot machine. It's practically the Beyoncé of lucky numbers.

8 – Wealth in the East

In Chinese culture, eight is considered extremely lucky because it sounds like the word for prosperity and wealth

It's so revered that people pay extra to have it in phone numbers, license plates, and even addresses. 

Want to sell your house faster in China or anywhere else? Make sure the address has an 8.

3 – Harmony and Good Things in Threes

The number three represents balance and harmony. Think of the saying, "third time's a charm." In storytelling, things often happen in threes—three little pigs, three wishes, three musketeers. Coincidence? I think not.

9 – Power and Magic

Nine is often associated with wisdom and experience. In Norse mythology, there are nine realms. In numerology, 9 is the number of the humanitarian and spiritualist. It's also the last single digit, which gives it a sense of completion and power.

11 – Intuition and Inspiration

Though not always labeled as "lucky," eleven has a certain magical, intuitive vibe. Many people make wishes when they see 11:11 on the clock. I know I do! It's a number that's thought to open a spiritual gateway (or at least a wish-granting moment).



A Few Numbers That Didn't Make the Lucky List

Let's not forget the dark side of digits—those numbers we avoid like stepping on cracks in the sidewalk.

13 – The OG Bad Luck Number

Ah, thirteen. So misunderstood. In Western culture, it's considered super unlucky. 

Hotels skip it. Airplanes skip it. Heck, Friday the 13th even has its own horror franchise.

The roots are fuzzy, but it's often linked to bad omens and betrayal (looking at you, Judas Iscariot, the 13th guest at the Last Supper).

4 – The Death Number (Literally)

In many East Asian cultures, especially Chinese and Japanese, four is avoided like the plague because it sounds like the word for death. Some buildings even skip the 4th floor entirely. So if you're giving someone flowers in Japan, don't send four!

But believers can take charge with these home tips on how to ward off evil spirits!


Famous Numbers in History

Beyond superstition, some numbers have simply earned their legendary status thanks to history:

  • 1066 – The Battle of Hastings, which changed England forever.

  • 1492 – Columbus sailed the ocean blue. Love him or not, that number sticks in your head.

  • 1776 – Independence Day in the U.S. Enough said.

  • 911 – Not lucky, but certainly significant, especially in North America.

  • 666 – The "Number of the Beast." If you've ever looked at a receipt total and gone "nope," you've felt its power.


But Here's the Wildest Part…

Now for the twist—ready? 

I personally know ten people who have won the lottery. Yes, actual winners. Not the "my cousin's neighbor's dog-walker" kind of story, but real people in my life. And some didn't just win pocket change—we're talking millions

A few were instant ticket winners, others hit it big in traditional draws. It always shocks people when I tell them I personally know big lottery winners! And yep, we won a luxury vehicle in 2001! That was amazing! It's since been sold, but wow, what a day that was when I received the call that we won the early-bird prize for that draw.


Final Thoughts: Numbers, Luck, and a Little Magic

Whether you believe in lucky numbers or not, they make life a little more fun. 

They add meaning, spark tradition, and—let's be honest—fuel our dreams when we buy that one lottery ticket "just in case." I'm not saying numbers can change your fate… but hey, if you've got a number that feels lucky, go ahead and play it. You never know what magic it might bring.

What's your lucky number? Do you have one or more than one?




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Saturday, May 10, 2025

Black Bear Diner Review

My favorite style of restaurant can best be described as ‘simple and plentiful’. In other words, just home-style comfort foods. I do not care for spicy or fancy or exotic. Just give me simple plain food in a family friendly atmosphere. My family calls me ‘Plain Jane’ due to my boring food preferences. 🙂


Because of my food likes and dislikes, finding restaurants I enjoy is not always easy. But last week I found the perfect one and after two visits in less than a week, it has now become my ‘go-to’ favorite. 


In case you are thinking you would not be able to enjoy my new favorite restaurant, you will be pleased to know that it is part of a franchise which includes 161 diners in 13 states…. And growing.  It’s called the Black Bear Diner.


Black Bear Diner


The Black Bear Diner Celebrates Thirty Years 


The first Black Bear Diner opened in September 1995 in Mt. Shasta, California. The owners, Bruce Dean and Bob Manley, believed in a welcoming place where friends and families could gather for abundant portions of quality food at a fair price. 


Each Black Bear Diner has a bear-themed, cabin-like cozy environment. They believe in serving large portions of favorite homestyle meals of good old-fashioned comfort food such as homemade meatloaf, chicken fried steak, chicken pot pie, pot roast and fish & chips. Naturally, there are also hamburgers and chicken fingers and specialty sandwiches, soups and salads on the menu. Plus, they also serve fantastic breakfast meals and breakfast is available all day! 


A favorite line from the Black Bear Diner advertising says:

If your big bear-sized dinner just didn’t quite fill you up, don’t forget to check out their amazing display of desserts for just $5-6  


Check out a sample menu at Black Bear Diner - Menus.  


Personal Opinion


Black Bear Diner Coffee Mug
My first visit with my family was for brunch on Easter Sunday where I had a platter of delicious french toast made with sourdough bread. Yum! 

Later that week, we returned to our local Black Bear Diner for dinner. I had the Fish & Chips served with French fries, homemade coleslaw and homemade tartar sauce. The tarter sauce was fantastic and the lightly battered and fried Cod fillets were the best I’ve ever had. 


Each of the meal choices of the rest of my family (son, daughter-in-law, and two grandsons) were just as well received and definitely thoroughly enjoyed, even though their food preferences include a much wider range of foods than mine do. :) And, because of the very generous portions served, we each brought home leftover takeaways! 


Summary


The 160+ chain of Black Bear Diners are currently serving the Western side of the United States. Since the chain began in California, the largest number (over 60) can be found there, particularly in the northern part of the state. Quite a few Black Bear Diners are found in Arizona, Colorado, Washington State, Utah and Oregon. 


Another large grouping of these diners are now found in Texas, with a smaller number in Nevada, Idaho and Oklahoma. At last count, we discovered there are two Black Bear Diners each in Kansas and Missouri. 


*It is interesting to me to note that the two Kansas diners are in the two Kansas towns I have lived in (Garden City where the hubs was from and where two of our children were born, and Olathe ~ a suburb of Kansas City ~ where I currently live). 


The Black Bear Diner concept states that they are always growing and continuing to expand east with a goal of being coast-to-coast.  Meanwhile, if you live in or are traveling to one of the western states which have Black Bear Diners, I highly recommend them. 


  • Click here for a list of Black Bear Diner locations. 


Black Bear Merchandise


*Black Bear Diner Restaurant Review was written by Wednesday Elf

 




Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Friday, May 9, 2025

Review of A Reckless Courtship: A Chronicle of Misadventures by Martha Keyes

A Reckless Courtship book review
I must admit, I was rather sad when I finished reading the third book in the series, "A Chronicle of Misadventures".  I thoroughly enjoyed all of the misadventures of the brothers.  I felt a bit lost and wondered what could I possibly read next that would even come close to this series.  Suffice it to say, even though I am always reading a book, they are not all as captivating as this series.

We met the Yorke brothers in the first book, "Reputation at Risk".  An underlying concern for the family in all of the books, is Silas Yorke's situation.  He has been accused of murder and subsequently left England to hide out in France.  His time in France was quite difficult.  He had to find a way to survive in a foreign country without any friends or family, plus he suffered illness. Unfortunately, most of his family believed he must be guilty since an esteemed member of Parliament claims to have witnessed the murder.  It takes time for the family to conclude that Silas was falsely accused.  

We follow Silas's plight through each book.  We can almost feel his desperation to prove his innocence and return to his normal life, home and family.  When he sneaks back to England in the second book and hides in his brother, William's guest house, we come to adore this impetuous and somewhat mischievous character. 

Book 3 is all about Silas and his misadventures incognito in London. 

 

Synopsis of A Reckless Courtship

 A Reckless Courtship: A Regency Romance (A Chronicle of Misadventures Book 3)Check PriceSilas Yorke is determined to find someone who will help him prove his innocence.  His accuser, Lord Drayton, would rather see him hanged or stay excelled in France, than to see him free.  

Silas has been told that Sir Walter Bence has fallen out with Lord Drayton over a failed joint business venture.  Silas assumed a false name and returned to London with his youngest brother, Frederick, who plans to introduce him to Bence in the hopes that they can join together against Drayton.  

As luck would have it, there is a masquerade in Vauxhall Gardens.  The brothers believe Silas can go into the crowd and not be recognized by anyone, especially since he will be wearing a domino (a long hooded cloak with a mask).  It would be the perfect opportunity for Frederick to innocently chance upon Sir Bence and introduce him to Silas.  Plus, they have two friends that will also be attending the party, so Silas should be able to blend in without a problem.  One of the friends is even meeting his aunt, cousin and her friend there.  The group should give Silas plenty of cover.  

When the group gets separated momentarily, Silas is late for the introductions to the women, but that matters not.  He is there for only one reason.  However, when one of the young women gets her costume caught in a bush and inadvertently left behind, Silas steps forward to help her.  She is rightfully leery of any stranger and insists she can manage for herself.  She does manage to get untangled and Silas simply says, "when I see Fairchild, I shall inform him his cousin is safe" which informs her that she really would have been safe to accept his aid, but he has already disappeared.  Now, Arabella realizes she must find her group which had moved on ahead.  When she is approached by two inebriated men, she is quite frightened and runs, headlong into Silas's arms.  She smacks his arm and states "what sort of gentleman leaves his wife in a maze such as this?"  Silas willingly plays along, the men apologize and take off in the opposite direction.

 

________________

And, that is how A Reckless Courtship begins, but their odd meeting is not the only thing reckless about Silas continuing to pursue Arabella!     


  

 





House of Sylvestermouse





Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Thursday, May 8, 2025

Book Review- Peaches and Peril

 

Book Peaches and Peril
                                                 Peaches and Peril by Karen C Whalen

I just finished another delightful book by Karen Whalen.  This one is part of her Dinner Club series of mysteries.  It features Jane Marsh and a cast of interesting characters. This book had me guessing who the murderer was till almost the end of the book.  It was a great page-turner.

Book Synopsis

This book begins when Jane Marsh and some of her fellow dinner club members went for a weekend to enjoy the Peach Festival in a small Colorado town and look to finalize preparations for Jane's upcoming wedding.  In the beginning we find the characters at a Murder Mystery game  at the B&B where they are staying.  Each of the attendees is in costume for their character in the "Murder Mystery Game" and they all have notes about their characters.  Jane messes up early on by mistakenly revealing that she is the killer.  This pretty much brings the mystery to a halt and the participants end up calling it an early evening.  Now the real mystery will begin when Jane comes across a dead body in the B&B.

The police are called and everyone that has attended or worked at the B&B, including the members of the Diner Club, become suspects.  The book continues with Jane trying to figure out the killer.  There is much at stake including the reputation of the B&B and the small town election for mayor.  This is a small town where everyone knows everyone, and everyone seems to have an opinion.  

If you are looking for a cozy mystery with lots of characters and possible suspects this is the book for you.  I didn't guess the killer till almost the end and it was fun to follow Jane's logic on who might be the culprit.

Here is a link to the book on Amazon.

More Book Reviews by Karen Whalen   

      Karen has written three different series of cozy mysteries.  The are: A Tow Truck Murder Mystery, A Dinner Club Murder Mystery and A Sea Oaks Beach Murder Mystery.  I have written reviews on several of the books.  Here are links to my reviews.



Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


Wednesday, May 7, 2025

This Back Massager With Heat Makes a Fantastic Gift

The self-heating mug I reviewed recently isn’t the only thoughtful gift my husband got me for my birthday last month. He also gave me a wonderful shiatsu-style electric back massager with heat to help with my chronic stiff neck and back pain. It really helps work out the knots in minutes!

I haven't stopped using this heated back massager since I received it, so I am anxious to share my product review with others who might benefit from it or who might want to give one as a gift.

Boriwat Back Massager With Heat

The Boriwat Back Massager with Heat

The Boriwat Back Massager with Heat is a versatile, affordable aid designed to deliver relief from muscle tension, pain, and stress. Combining deep-tissue shiatsu-like kneading with soothing heat and customizable settings, this massager offers a convenient solution for anyone seeking relaxation at home, at work, or on the go. I love that it can be used to massage not only my upper and lower back (depending on which way I orient it) but also my neck, where I also carry a lot of tension, by lying down on it.

Boriwat back massager with heat
I use my back massager with heat in bed, at my desk, in my living room, and in the car. I can lay against it or on top of it, depending on the position that best suits my needs.

Key Features & Specifications

  • Dual Heating Zones and Heat Levels: This device features two built-in heating zones for warmth on both the back and the neck (the two places I carry my stress). It also offers two adjustable heat levels, low (104°F) and high (113°F), to help loosen tight muscles and improve blood circulation.
  • Heat Can Be Turned Off: While I love the heat for soothing sore muscles and knots, it's nice that it can be turned off during warmer weather.
  • 3D Shiatsu Massage Nodes: Four rotating, bi-directional massage nodes mimic the sensation of a real massage therapist’s hands, delivering a deep-kneading experience that targets tight or sore areas.

    Helpful tip: The nodes are quite firm, and if my muscles are really tight and sore, I sometimes put a sheet of 1/2-inch open cell upholstery foam (I bought mine at a fabric store) in between my back or neck and the massager.
  • Adjustable Intensity: With three levels of intensity (low, medium, and high), you can tailor the massage to match your individual comfort and pain relief needs.
  • Ergonomic Design: Larger than most standard massage pillows, this massager measures approximately 15" x 13", providing better coverage and a more ergonomic fit for the back, neck, shoulders, and even thighs.
  • Remote Control Operation: A simple wired remote lets you switch the heat and massage settings easily just by pressing each button repeatedly to rotate through the settings without having to reposition the massager.
  • Safety Features: It includes a 15-minute auto shut-off timer.
  • Portable and Travel-Friendly: Comes with both an AC wall adapter and a car adapter, making it ideal for use while commuting or traveling.
Boriwat back massager with heat remote control
The remote control is simple and intuitive

Pros

  • Effective Pain Relief: I have found that this heated massager provides significant relief from chronic back and neck pain thanks to the combination of strong kneading pressure and heat therapy.
  • Multi-Purpose: Its shape and flexibility make it suitable not just for the back, but also for the neck, shoulders, thighs, and calves.
  • Easy to Use: The intuitive controls and included adapters make it easy to use and incorporate into a daily routine, if desired.
  • Affordable: Compared to other massage devices with similar features, the Boriwat massager is competitively priced. At the time of this review's publication, it was on a terrific limited-time deal that brought the price down from $89.99 to just $39.99 — a 56% savings! A fantastic time to buy one.

Cons

  • Potential Longevity Issues: As with many electronic devices, there are occasional reports of the unit wearing out or malfunctioning after several months of frequent use. I have not owned mine long enough yet to comment on its longevity, but the many 5-star reviews suggest that this is not a common issue.

Makes a Great Gift

The Boriwat Back Massager with Heat can be a worthwhile addition to your wellness routine, whether you're dealing with tension after a long day or managing chronic discomfort. It's an excellent value for the price and provides effective relief for sore, tight muscles. It is easy to use, and can be taken almost anywhere, thanks to its included car travel adapter that fits into your car's cigarette lighter socket. It would make a much appreciated gift for anyone looking to relax and relieve pain from the comfort of their home or while traveling. If you can grab one for just $39.99 during the limited-time deal, you'll be getting a terrific bargain!



This Back Massager With Heat Makes a Fantastic Gift by Margaret Schindel


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Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


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