The Little Fairy and Her Imagination Review

The Little Fairy and Her Imagination is a children's story about using one's imagination. The Little Fairy likes playing with her imagination and daydreams about all kinds of things that she likes.

But one day she desires for her friend to have a special home and starts imagining what that home would look like. She so much wanted her friend to have this special home, that she took the time to daydream about it on multiple occasions. Then one day, it seemed that her day dream came true, or at least was beginning to come true.

Did her imagination have anything to do with what seemed to have appeared?

Those are questions that can be raised and talked about when reading this book.

The story goes on, and the Little Fairy tries focused imagining even more. Read the story to find out what happens.

Do you believe in using your imagination in imaginative ways? As a child and a teenager, I imagined things. Nothing came true right away, yet sometimes things did come true further down the road. Hmmmm. Could it be that our imagination can or may have an affect?

This story really doesn't provide the answers, but it does help in getting the discussion started.

I do kind of have my own views. I wanted to convey some of that in the story, without telling but showing what could be possible.

This story, of course is fiction. However, it was inspired by true events that happened in my life.

One day, I was in my home office and glanced out my window, and noticed that the neighbor's tree behind our yard, was being cut down. Oh no, I thought. Then I thought, maybe it's just a trim. But no, it was definitely more than a trim. The whole tree was cut down.

I was disheartened. That tree had provided afternoon shade to my office as the sun moved across the sky. There went my shady reprieve.

From time to time, I gave some thought to, if I was to plant a tree, where would I plant it. I kind of picked out a spot and did imagine where I wanted it to be from time to time. Then I actually thought better of it, and gave it no more thought.

I had wisteria plants that had been growing quite tall out there, that I didn't even know that a tree had sprouted right about where I had wanted it to be. By the time I noticed it, it was taller than me. I decided it was too close to the back wall, and sawed the top of it off. It was quite heavy when it fell.

I thought that was the end of it. Then later, there it was growing back again. I cut it down again and painted the stumps that were left. I had figured that should stop it from growing back. But nope, it grew back again.

And then it dawned on me, that is about where I had wanted one to grow. Then I figured, that if it was meant to be, who am I to now say no to it.

And now it grows in my back yard. It's not quite high enough to shade out the afternoon sun, but it is getting there.

There have been other times over the years that I have imagined some things, that also seemed to have happened out of the blue. So again, I ask you, do you ever play with your imagination?

If you would like to read a fun and simple story that would spark thinking along those lines, then I recommend reading - The Little Fairy and Her Imagination: A story about a thoughtful gift. It is available on Amazon.

The Little Fairy and Her Imagination: A story about a thoughtful gift.

If your answer is no, that is fine too.

Cheryl Paton

Energy Efficiency and Comfort at an Affordable Price ~ A Product Review

It may come as a surprise to you, but air movement in the home can make the surroundings so much more comfortable whether it's summer or winter. 

We have had ceiling fans in our home for years and are always amazed at how much they help keeping the cool air moving around in the summer time and the warm air moving in the winter. 

Cold air by it's nature is heavy and sits lower down in the room.  A ceiling fan helps to move that cooler air to the upper areas of the room making it feel cooler and the breeze brought on by the air movement is really nice.  For myself I love the air movement in the night, because you know, women and their hot flashes just seem to happen more often at night.  Just that little bit of air movement seems to help with that problem.

In winter time the warm air moves to the top of the room and your feet can become really cold.  Keep that air moving and the warm air will also move down to where your toes are at!

Now if you are not an electrician, installing a ceiling fan could cost you some serious cash, but what if I told you there was an alternative?

Hubby just found a lovely little ceiling fan for under $50.00 that does not require and electrician to install it.  You don't believe me?  Well here is the little beauty! It's made by Bell & Howell and you can see for yourself that it does what it says it will do!

This little wonder will turn any socket into a lovely ceiling fan that not only offers movement of the air around you, but also gives you three different light settings and three different speeds for the fan.  It's all controlled by a nice little remote. 

It is quiet, easy to install and will help you keep that air circulating whether it is warm air moving around or cooled air for the summer months.

All in all, this is one handy little fan that I'm sure you will find a use for in your home or apartment.  It is a Number 1 Best Seller on Amazon and I can see why!  

If you need a little "movement" in your life, this just might be the thing to get you going in the right direction!  We are enjoying ours and now you can have an easy to install new Light/Ceiling Fan combination in your home too!

Oh and for those in apartment buildings, you don't even need the super's help or permission to install this handly little item.  Just undo the light bulb and insert the ceiling fan into the base.  Done!  It can't get any easier than this!  

I hope you enjoy this neat little find and let me know how you like it in the comments. I love to hear from you!

The Secret of the Brighton House - A Book Review

I recently read Cathy Hayward's The Secret of the Brighton House as part of Amazon Prime's First Reads and I really enjoyed it, not putting it down until I had finished.

This book will be released on November 1st, 2024 and I thoroughly recommend grabbing it. It is a novel told from two timelines, in the first one we have Joanne who is 28 weeks pregnant when she discovers a photo of her mum holding her as a newborn. This doesn't sound strange until you find out that Joanne has been told her entire life that her mother died giving birth to her.

When she confronts her father about it he says well actually she died a few days later of a heart attack, but it was related to childbirth so it was just easier to say she died in childbirth. When Joanne looks further into it she finds her mother's death certificate and discovers that she actually died two years after Joanne was born. What happened during those two years and why will neither her father or stepmother give her any more information?

The other timeline in the book is that of Joanne's mother, Grace and this is told from Grace's POV from the 1970s as she prepares to give birth to her daughter. The description of Grace and her friend puffing away on a Silk Cut while being pregnant and her mother's horror at her making a rag rug for the nursery really does take you back in time.

The timelines go between Joanne's determination to find out what happened to her mother before she gives birth and Grace in the lead up to Joanne's birth and the following couple of years of her life.

I think the author does a great job with the characters, especially Grace. The book does deal with issues that can be very emotive such as miscarriage, IVF, traumatic births and outdated 1970s postnatal practices.

The book really resonated to me on how much women's health care has evolved in my lifetime. If you do get to read the book (and I hope you do) the part that really tugged at my emotions was when they opened Grace's suitcase.

I'm going to leave the review there as I don't want to ruin the 'secret' for you. I will definitely be adding Cathy Hayward's other book - The Girl in the Midnight Maze to my TBR list though.

Hefty And Amazon Lawn Leaf Bags Reviewed

Lawn, leaf, trash bags have become quite pricey for items that are taken by the trash contractor. Which bag is the strongest? Does less mean more with price? I've used three brands of lawn and leaf bags this year and have noticed the differences in quality and price.

Total Count In Box

Hefty: 38

Amazon: 40

Gallons

Hefty: 39

Amazon: 39

Cost Per Bag

Hefty: .43

Amazon: .34

Drawstring

Hefty:  Yes

Amazon: Yes

Strength

I found the Hefty to be the stronger bag overall. The seams were stronger for the Hefty than the Amazon whether the bags are used for trash or outside materials. The 'feel' of the Hefty was also stronger and felt thicker than the Amazon bag.

Recommendation

The Amazon bags were fine for light to medium weight leaves or branches. If  you have branches being broken down or put as cut in the bags than the Hefty is superior to prevent seams from splitting or branches poking through sides of the bag. I have also purchased the Ace Hardware brand of bags which I found similar to the Hefty in price and strength.

As always double check with your municipality as to the restrictions for disposal of leaves, plants, branches and trash. 

The YouTube Channel to Train Your Brain and Test Your Wits

Are you looking for a fun way to give your brain a workout? Or maybe you love a good challenge that makes you pause and think, then say, "Ah-ha!" If so, you're in for a treat.

Welcome to the StumpedRiddles YouTube Channel, where I share my collection of originally written riddles in video format. They are crafted to make you think, laugh, and sometimes scratch your head in wonder.

What You'll Find on StumpedRiddles YouTube Channel

On StumpedRiddles YouTube, you'll dive into a world of riddles in both long-form videos and bite-sized riddle shorts. Each riddle is unique, crafted with care, and designed to challenge your mind while bringing you a bit of joy. 

The Channel Gives You:

Longer Riddles that give you time to ponder and enjoy the clues

Riddle Shorts for quick, fun challenges on the go

Party Game Potential – Ideal for gatherings, parties and game nights

Every video is linked to a corresponding page on my website, StumpedRiddles.com, where you can see the answer, if it hasn't been provided in the video, and enjoy even more puzzle book fun.

A Mindful Escape and Mental Workout

In today's fast-paced world, taking a break from the constant flow of information is important. 

My channel gives you a place to do just that, offering a blend of mental exercise and distraction. Whether you're an experienced riddle-solver or just getting into the game, there's something here for everyone.

Try a Riddle - Solve This One:

Each riddle is crafted in the "what-am-I" format to be approachable but challenging and sometimes easy – no obscure words or overly complex phrasing, just a satisfying "aha" moment waiting to be discovered. The riddles provide great mental exercise, help build focus, and add a bit of fun to your day.

The Books Behind the Channel

My eight original riddle books, available on Amazon and other platforms, are also available for anyone looking to delve deeper into the riddle world. 

The books explore themes and riddles you won't find anywhere else, and they're great for gifting or enjoying on your own.

From Halloween-inspired riddles to everyday mind-benders, each book offers a fresh take on traditional riddling. If you enjoy what you see on the channel, check out the books – they're a great way to take the fun off-screen and into your hands!

Join the StumpedRiddles Community

If you're ready to give your brain a fun, refreshing challenge, subscribe to StumpedRiddles on YouTube. Not only will you stay updated on the latest riddles, but you'll also be part of a community of fellow riddle enthusiasts. 

Every riddle is a chance to test your wits, share with friends, or use as a clever icebreaker at your next gathering.

10 Riddles To Solve:

Head over to StumpedRiddles YouTube, hit that subscribe button, and get ready to be stumped or brag about your brainiac skills.

At the time of writing, I've added over 200 original riddles on the StumpedRiddles YouTube channel to keep you challenged and entertained. Turn the world off with a smile, and have some fun :)

The Purrfect Coffee Mug Gift Guide for People with Pets

Drink your coffee with your cute canine. Sip your tea with your favorite feline. Coffee mugs that remind you of your favorite furry friends are fun.

Need a great gift for a friend who has pets? This selection of pet-related coffee mugs will definitely please the pet owner who will appreciate your thoughtfulness and recognition of their love for their pets.

*All photos of cats and dogs on this page were taken by me (Wednesday-Elf), unless otherwise noted. They are family pets, past and present!

Dog Lovers

Dogs are considered 'Man's Best Friend'

The phrase "Man's Best Friend" has been around since the 18th century, referred to in many ways, as shown in this Wikipedia article. Basically, it refers to a dog's loyalty, and companionship to us humans. No matter which breed one chooses, we all love our dogs.

Perfect Gift for My Brother and Sister-in-Law - They Love Their 'Abbi Girl' Boston Terrier Puppy

Abbi's Favorite Mug

MUGBREW Boston Terrier Dog Lying Down Looking Up Ceramic Coffee Mug Tea Cup, 11 OZCheck Price

This design is printed on both sides with strong, vibrant and long lasting colors.

A darling gift for someone special or your favorite Boston Terrier owner. 

My brother & Sister-in-law, owners of Abbi, told me I needed to get them  this mug to keep their attention on her, where it belongs!  I agree!

A Kitten Named Stormy

I once spent 6 weeks 'fostering' this kitten until his "Forever Home" could be found.

Tuxedo Cats

As the name implies, a Tuxedo cat is named for the fact that it is bicolor - black and white - resembling 'formal wear', like a tuxedo.

The tuxedo cat has been very popular in cartoon form over the years, including Felix Cat, Tomcat from Tom & Jerry, and Sylvester (Puddy Tat) cat.

A tuxedo cat is also one of the three types of cats in the popular video game Minecraft.

Maine Coon Cat

Meet "Mister", the Maine Coon Cat

When Mister came to live with his owner as a kitten, she wanted to wait and observe him for a few days before deciding on a name. Sometimes a kitten's personality will suggest the perfect name. Well, several days went by and the kitten's 'antics' produced the following responses frequently from owner: "You better stop that now, Mister", "You better watch out, Mister, you're going to be in trouble".... :).

After a week or so, she realized that she was always using the word "Mister" in sentences to the kitten... and thus his name evolved! :)

MUGBREW Maine Coon Cat Vector Portrait Ceramic Coffee Mug Tea Cup, 11 OZCheck Price

 

What is a Tabby Cat?

A tabby (or gray tiger as they are sometimes known), is any domestic cat that has a coat featuring distinctive stripes, dots, lines or swirling patterns. A Tabby cat is not a breed, but instead is a color pattern.

Usually this coat pattern will appear together with a mark resembling an 'M' on its forehead. This type of cat includes the Maine Coon Cat, which we think 'Mister' is.

Summary

I love coffee mugs (have collected clever ones for years to use regularly for my morning coffee times). When it comes to pets, I'm primarily a cat person, but there are also several dogs sharing space with others in my family. 

What Kind of Pet Do You Live With?

• Cat
• Dog
• Both Cats & Dogs
• Multiple Pets
• Other Kind of Animal

Tell me in the comments below. :)

Grandsons and Their Pets

Grandson Tyler with Pepe the Poodle
Grandson Ryan with Missy the Cat

*Coffee Mug Gift Guide for People with Pets originally written by Wednesday Elf on 11/24/2012 on another site. 

Autumn at Apple Hill - Hallmark Movie Review

In true Hallmark style, Autumn at Apple Hill is a sweet story that takes place in a beautiful setting with an adorable couple that fall in love.  Even though the plot is predictable, the movie is fun to watch.

This movie reminds us how things change in spite of us longing to hold on to the past.  Familiar stores that we grew up shopping in, close down for a variety of reasons or change ownership and are no longer the same even if they carry the same name.  Businesses like restaurants, recreation areas, and locally owned motels are shuttered.  In some cases, our old high school buildings are left vacate as students and classrooms are moved to a new location.  Friends move away and others pass away.  It is the normal cycle of life.  

The yearning for things to stay the same often battles our own desires to move on and embrace the new, updated or improved.  But, as long as we have our minds, we have our memories of the beauty in the past.  The things we took for granted are the things we now appreciate.  When given the opportunity to recapture a part of a cherished memory, we latch on to that treasure.

That is what this movie was about to me.  Restoring the beauty of the past so the next generation has the opportunity to make their own memories there, while we sit back to enjoy just being there.

 

Autumn at Apple Hill Synopsis

 Autumn at Apple HillCheck Price After her grandparents die, Elise purchases the Inn at Apple Hill, which was their home and business for her entire life.  She wanted to ensure the magic of the place was maintained.  Unfortunately, it costs a lot of money to keep up the required practical maintenance of an inn, especially with previously deferred things like a roof that leaks, kitchen equipment that has stopped working, and electrical wiring that has already exceeded it's life expectancy.  She needs a loan from the bank to make repairs, but the bank will not give her a loan until she can show a 15% gross profit.  She can't make that kind of profit when she can't rent out all of the rooms because they need repairs. 

In New York, Luke is being forced to take a vacation by the CEO of his employer, who happens to be his mother.  He decides he will spend this mandatory vacation in his home town of Apple Hill, where he can visit with old friends and even stay in a very special place, Inn at Apple Hill.  When he arrives in Apple Hill, he is distressed to see places closed down, including his childhood favorite arcade.  He is temporarily relieved to find the Inn at Apple Hill is still open, but once he starts experiencing their new reality, he is not happy with the new owner.

Sparks of anger fly between Elise and Luke, but those sparks change to a different type as the two start creatively working together to save the Inn at Apple Hill.

Check Out More Movie Reviews at
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Autumn at Apple Hill by:

Comfort and Joy by Kristin Hannah

 

A Book Review

If you are looking for a delightful, feel-good book to read around the holiday season, I would like to suggest Comfort and Joy by Kristin Hannah.  Kristin Hannah is the award-winning author of more than 20 books, and I feel that you can never go wrong in picking one of her books to read.  Comfort and Joy was the hostesses pick for our October book club and everyone in our club loved the book.

 

Book Summary

Joy Candellaro has had a very rough year with a divorce and finding out her sister is marrying her ex-husband.  Christmas has always been her favorite time of year but this year she is feeling rather alone and not in the mood to celebrate.  She decides to take off by herself and boards a plane to head into the beautiful Pacific Northwest in Washington state.  A plane crash waylays her plans, and she finds herself walking alone into a small town and then out of town into the beautiful Olympic rainforest. 

 Her walk ends near a hunting lodge where she meets two people who will change her life. First, she meets young Bobby O'Shea who is getting ready to celebrate his first Christmas without his mom.  Bobby's dad, Daniel is very protective of his young son and is slow to warm up to Joy, but eventually they become close.  As Christmas is approaching Bobby and Joy surprise his dad with a tree and plans for the holidays.  They are all looking forward to a magical Christmas till Christmas Eve comes and Joy's world is ripped apart.  

This is a book you must read to find out if the magic of Christmas will reunite this delightful cast of characters.

Amazon Link to Book

Here is the link to where you can purchase the book on Amazon.

Comfort and Joy

Review This writers review Kristin Hannah books

Several of the writers for Review This Reviews have picked Kristin Hannah books.  Here are a few of the reviews:

These books were reviewed by Dawn Rae.

Book Review - The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah (reviewthisreviews.com)

Summer Island by Kristin Hannah - Book Review (reviewthisreviews.com)

Treasures by Brenda has reviewed these Kristin Hannah books.

Kristin Hannah’s Home Front Book Review (reviewthisreviews.com)

Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale Book Review (reviewthisreviews.com)

Renaissance Woman also reviewed a book by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah - Book Review (reviewthisreviews.com)

The Best Exfoliating Enzyme Mask for Brighter, Softer, Smoother Skin

I recently started using the DRMTLGY Pumpkin Enzyme Mask, a facial treatment designed to tackle multiple skincare concerns. As an experienced and discerning skincare enthusiast, I have been quite impressed by this facial mask and thought it deserved its own product review here on Review This Reviews.

Note: I am an Amazon Associates and a ShopMy affiliate partner. If you purchase anything through the product links in this review, I may earn a small commission.

What It Does

This 4-in-1 enzyme mask promises to reduce the appearance of large pores, deeply hydrate the skin, cleanse impurities, and provide gentle exfoliation for a smoother, more radiant complexion. It uses a combination of enzymatic and physical exfoliants to brighten dull skin and leave it feeling soft and silky!

Key Ingredients

This well formulated product is packed with jojoba oil beads, enzymes, minerals, and antioxidants from pumpkin to rejuvenate, brighten and refresh the skin. 

Pumpkin

A star ingredient, rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as powerful antioxidants that work to brighten the skin, improve texture, and diminish the appearance of fine lines. Pumpkin enzymes naturally exfoliate dead skin cells, making your skin appear fresher and more even-toned.

Jojoba Oil Beads

Tiny, eco-friendly, time-release exfoliating beads that provide physical exfoliation. They help to gently slough off dead skin cells without damaging or irritating the skin.

Mineral-Rich Kaolin Clay

Kaolin clay helps absorb excess oils and contains important minerals like zinc and copper to help regulate oil production, calm inflammation, and improve the overall balance of the skin.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) can help soften skin and prevent it from losing moisture.

Peptides

Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 are anti-aging peptides that can help repair visible skin damage, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve rough texture, minimize irritation and restore a firmer feel.

Ceramides

Ceramides help lock in moisture and keep skin soft and supple.

Enzymes

Natural fruit enzymes help to accelerate cell turnover by breaking down dead skin cells, promoting smoother and healthier-looking skin over time.

Colloidal Silver

Colloidal silver has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties that may lower levels of acne-causing bacteria that promote inflammation and blemishes.

Who Is It For?

This mask is suitable for normal, dry, oily, or combination skin types. It may not be suitable for very sensitive skin.

My Experience With the DRMTLGY Pumpkin Enzyme Mask

After using this mask once a week for a few months, I’ve noticed significant improvements in both the texture and appearance of my skin.

Here’s what stood out:

Texture & Consistency

The mask has a soft, creamy texture that feels luxurious and comfortable on the skin. Unlike many exfoliating masks that can feel gritty or abrasive, this one is smooth, making the application process enjoyable and relaxing.

Warming Sensation

Upon application, the mask has a self-warming effect, which I found to be incredibly relaxing. The warmth isn’t intense or uncomfortable but provides a soothing sensation that enhances the spa-like experience. This warming effect is said to improve blood flow, which may further enhance the skin’s radiance.

Exfoliation

One of the standout features is how effective the exfoliation is without being too harsh. The pumpkin enzymes and jojoba beads work together to provide both chemical and physical exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and leaving my skin feeling soft and smooth after each use. I noticed that my skin looked visibly brighter, and my makeup application was smoother due to the improved texture.

Hydration

Despite being an exfoliating mask, it didn’t strip my skin of moisture. In fact, it left my face feeling comfortably hydrated afterward. I didn’t experience any tightness or dryness, which is often a concern with masks that contain exfoliating ingredients.

Apparent Pore Size Reduction

Although nothing can actually make your pores smaller, there are ways to make them appear smaller. One of this mask's key claims is its ability to reduce the appearance of large pores. After regular use, I have noticed that my pores appeared smaller, especially around my nose and chin. This has been a pleasant surprise, as I often struggle with congestion in those areas.

Scent

For those who love the warm, comforting smell of pumpkin, this mask will be a treat. The scent is subtle but definitely reminiscent of a cozy fall day. It’s not too overpowering, which is great for sensitive noses.

How to Use This Enzyme Mask

1. After cleansing, apply a generous, even layer of the mask to clean, dry skin. You can apply it to just your face or to your face, neck, and décolletage.
2. Massage slowly and gently (don't scrub!), enjoying the warming sensation until it dissipates.
3. Leave the mask on for about 10 minutes.
4. Wet your hands and massage again, slowly and gently.
5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

After rinsing and patting dry with a clean face towel, my skin feels smoother, more refined, and better able to absorb the rest of the products in my skincare routine.

How Often to Use

You can use this exfoliating enzyme mask 1–3x/week. Since I also use other exfoliating products a couple of times a week, I use this mask only once a week. 

I recently did an at-home Jessner's chemical peel (the first in what will be a monthly series over 6–8 months. I used this DRMTLGY Pumpkin Enzyme Mask a week after I applied the chemical peeling solution to help remove the last small remnants of the flaking and peeling skin after most was gone. Here's how my 70-year-old skin looked immediately after using the DRMTLGY Pumpkin Enzyme Mask and applying my routine skincare (except my tinted mineral sunscreen, which I applied after taking the photo) on the seventh day after my Jessner's peel. 

Note: The even tone and smooth texture are a function of both the peel and the enzyme mask as well as my consistent commitment to an effective daily skincare routine tailored to my skin goals and concerns.

Face bare? Don't care (when my skin looks good!)

Overall Impression

I’m genuinely impressed with the DRMTLGY Pumpkin Enzyme Mask. It’s a great multi-functional product that truly delivers on its promises. The combination of pumpkin enzymes, jojoba beads, and nourishing minerals makes it a fantastic option for anyone looking to improve skin texture, reduce pore size, and achieve a brighter, smoother complexion. Additionally, the hydrating properties make it suitable for a wide range of skin types, even those prone to dryness or irritation. 

Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely. Whether you’re someone who’s just getting into skincare or a seasoned enthusiast, this mask can be a valuable addition to your routine. It’s gentle enough to use regularly but effective enough to deliver visible results. If you’re looking for a skincare product that leaves your skin feeling smoother, softer, and visibly clearer, the DRMTLGY Pumpkin Enzyme Mask is worth trying.

Have you given the DRMTLGY Pumpkin Enzyme Mask a go yet? Let me know your thoughts or share any tips you have for maximizing its benefits!

The DRMTLOGY Pumpkin Enzyme mask is not only an effective skincare treatment, for me it's also a lovely, relaxing, weekly self-care ritual. It also would make a terrific gift for someone who loves skincare or whose skin is looking a bit dull and could benefit from a bit of a boost.

The Best Exfoliating Enzyme Mask for Brighter, Softer, Smoother Skin by Margaret Schindel

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Gobble Up the Fun with Thanksgiving Inflatables

 When the leaves start falling and the weather begins to cool we all know it's time for Halloween. The decorations come out inside and out. Every year we decorate outside for Halloween. After all the kids have had fun and the candy is all gone the decorations are stored away until next year.

Reviewing our Thanksgiving Turkey

Every year when Halloween is over and the decorations are put away Fran would always say we don't have any Thanksgiving decorations for the yard. She solved that problem last year and bought this 6-foot inflatable for the yard. We now have a giant gobble of joy in our front yard to celebrate Thanksgiving.

From the moment we took it out of the box, the inflatable turkey's sheer size was inspiring and comical. He is an undeniable presence in our yard at 6 feet tall and with a goofy smile. All you have to do is secure him with the included strings and stakes.

Setting him up is as easy as pumpkin pie. Plug him in, and in a matter of seconds, you have a full-blown turkey with holiday cheer. The colors are bright and festive, with rich reds, oranges, and yellows that scream "fall". The material is thick and durable, and it is designed to handle some gusty fall winds and unpredictable autumn weather.

One more feature is he has a built-in LED light making it perfect to light up your yard at night. The soft internal glow makes it impossible to miss and ensures your holiday spirit shines even after dark.

So, should you get this inflatable turkey? Absolutely. If you want your home to be the talk of the neighborhood, if you want to make people smile as they walk by, and if you want to tell the world you're 100% ready for Thanksgiving, this is for you. We had so many people stop to admire him after we put him in the yard.

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VIVOHOME 6ft Height Happy Thanksgiving Inflatable LED Lighted Turkey Family Blow up Outdoor Lawn Yard Decoration

 

Introducing Shepherd's Wool Yarn by Stonehedge Fiber Mill

My first experience with hanks of Shepherd's Wool is that this yarn is extremely soft, beautifully colored, and easy to work up. I am thrilled about my choice of yarn color and the mill that spun it. I could not have made a better choice of my first handspun wools for my first crochet cardigan project. 

I recently went to my first Fiber Festival and purchased handspun yarns with the plan to crochet a sweater for myself. Previously, I hadn't had the confidence to attempt crocheting a sweater. Especially, with more expensive handspun fiber yarns. I've decided to jump right in. I researched an easy cardigan crochet pattern and the various vendors that were going to be at the Shenandoah Valley Fiber Festival. I had chosen the yarns from two vendors and only  had to choose the yarn colors and weights while at the festival. 

I had recently reviewed the Companion Fiber yarn that I purchased during that adventure. Today, I will tell you about the Shepherd's Wool from Stonehedge Fiber Mill, Michigan. 

I had gone to the festival with a plan of purchasing yarn from two specific shops. I first bought the hand dyed yarns at Companion Fiber then made my way to the Stonehedge Fiber Mill booth to choose the neutral colors that will make up the majority of my cardigan.

The Yarn: Shepherd's Wool

This yarn is so luxurious that I find myself touching the skein just to give it an extra squeeze. 

• Sport weight (2 weight)
• 2.5 ozs - 230 yards 
• Worsted Spun Fine Wool ("merino top")
• Hand Wash - do not agitate
• colors - granite and black

The website speaks more about "merino top" and that the way this yarn has been spun creates a yarn that is smooth, almost shiny in appearance, and creates wonderful stitch definition in your projects. I do not yet understand the different levels of yarn and what type of spinning creates what quality of yarn, but I have experiences that this yarn has a gorgeous look and does great a wonderful stitch definition. The way the yarn is spun, it looks like two different colored strands to me, it gives a depth of color in my project that I don't get with many other yarns. 

I purchased the neutral colors of yarn (black and grey) from Stonehedge Fiber Mill. 

The Mill: Stonehedge Fiber Mill, Michigan USA

This family owned and operated mill provides services such as carding, fiber spinning, and fiber evaluation (Please check their site for updates on the availability of these services. The site currently states that they are not accepting new items for services due to their backlog.)

They also offer handmade yarns, batting, and roving from their own flock. 

The Stonehedge Fiber Mill booth was filled with their yarns in various weights, a gorgeous colorful skein that is called Stonehedge Crazy yarn, T-shirts, and the most gorgeous handmade stuffed sheep, alpaca, and other animals. Deb had made the wonderful stuffed animals. Even though she had many customers, she took the time to help me make decisions about the best color and weight of yarn to work with the yarn I had purchased at Companion Fiber. 

The Stonehedge Fiber Mill is located in the northern portion of lower Michigan (on the Traverse City and Petosky side of the state). If you are not local to that area, and are not able to visit the mill shop in person, they do online orders. 

A Fabulous Character Driven Movie - Elsewhere, 5 Stars

 

The Storyline – What "Elsewhere" is About 

"Elsewhere" is a touching and thoughtful film about Bruno (Aden Young), a man devastated by the sudden loss of his wife. 

As he struggles to come to terms with her passing, he faces an unexpected dilemma—his late wife's family is trying to force him out of the beautiful home they once shared.

Desperate to hold on to the place that holds so many memories, Bruno concocts a plan to secretly stay in the house. While doing so, he navigates life's hardships, meets new people, and redefines what it means to move forward when it feels like everything is slipping away.

The plot is driven by Bruno's internal battles, and you find yourself rooting for him as he wrestles with grief and the inevitable changes that follow. 

It's heartfelt and emotional and keeps you invested in his journey.

The Excellent Cast  

The performances in "Elsewhere" really make the story shine. 

Aden Young brings a quiet intensity to Bruno, portraying a man who is both deeply wounded by his loss and stubbornly holding on to hope. 

Parker Posey plays Marie, a quirky and energetic woman who befriends Bruno, offering a refreshing contrast to his solemn demeanor. Their chemistry feels natural and believable, adding a layer of warmth to the story. 

Ken Jeong, known for his comedic roles, steps into a more serious character here, and he does it convincingly. His role adds some much-needed lightness without taking away from the movie's emotional depth. 

Beau Bridges and Jacki Weaver play supporting roles that add complexity to the story, each bringing emotional weight to the film. 

Overall, the cast feels like real people, which makes the story even more engaging.

Why I Loved This Movie 

What truly touched me about "Elsewhere" is the depth of its characters and how it deals with real-life issues like loss, letting go, and the need to heal. 

Bruno's journey of grief and self-discovery felt authentic and moving, making you think about how we all cope with life's unexpected turns. 

I'm always drawn to character-driven movies, and "Elsewhere" nailed it with its focus on personal struggles rather than over-the-top drama. Watching Bruno face his challenges and come out stronger in the end was inspiring. 

The beautiful coastal setting also plays a huge role in the film—it almost feels like a character itself. The serene landscapes and calm surroundings create a sense of peace, making it easy to understand Bruno's heartache.

Every time the camera lingers on the countryside, you feel a sense of relaxation that adds to the film's emotional depth.

I give this one a five-star rating. Again, this one is for you if you enjoy character-driven movies featuring challenging life issues mixed with hope and growth.

National Nut Day Review

We celebrate National Nut Day each year on October 22. This is NOT a story about squirrels, or about your nutty neighbor. It is a food holiday about a healthy and nutritious snack.

How Did This Holiday Begin?

National Nut Day was begun in 2015 by the UK-based Liberation Foods Company, a collective of small nut farmers around the world.  The company started this holiday as a way to encourage a healthy eating lifestyle. 

Benefits of Nuts

Image of Mixed Nuts from Pixabay

Many kinds of nuts have been proven beneficial. Almonds, pecans and walnuts are at the top of the list of healthiest nuts you can eat.  Check out this link for the various benefits of almonds, walnuts, cashews, pistachios, peanuts, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, and pecans. It is nice to know that something that tastes so good, and comes in so many varieties, is also good FOR you.

Fun Facts About Nuts

Image of Walnuts via Pixabay

• The oldest nut is the Walnut
• The rarest nut is the Macademia
• The world’s most favorite nut is the Almond
• The nut which is in danger of becoming extinct is the Brazil Nut (as the Brazil Nut Tree is on the threatened species list due to deforestation)
• The softest nut is the Cashew
• The nut NOT a nut is the Peanut (it is actually a legume)

Other Nut Days We Celebrate

February 26 - National Pistachio Day

April 14 - National Pecan Day

May 17 - National Walnut Day

August 3 - National Grab Some Nuts Day

September 13 - National Peanut Day

November 23 - National Cashew Day

Related Reviews Featuring Nuts

National Pecan Day Review by Wednesday Elf

A Very Nutty Christmas Movie Review by Sylvestermouse

Honey Walnut Drops Cookie Recipe Review by Wednesday Elf

Summary

Peanuts image from Pixabay

So, this is where I ask you ~ what is your favorite NUT? Be sure and stock up on it - or grab a bowl of mixed nuts if you cannot decide on a favorite - and enjoy a healthy snack as you celebrate National Nut Day on October 22. 

*National Nut Day is a Holiday Review written by Wednesday Elf

 

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