2025

Saturday, July 5, 2025

National Macaroni Day - A July Food Holiday

This is a review of National Macaroni Day, which is celebrated each year on July 7th.

What is Macaroni?

Macaroni is a variety of pasta which gets its name, not from its shape, but from the type of dough used to make the noodles. Made with durum wheat, the flour is made from a type of ground semolina, resulting in a softer dough that works best for use with a pasta maker.

After the noodles are made, they are then formed into shells, spirals, straights, and other shapes. The elbow macaroni is the most common form found in the United States.

Macaroni Uses

Macaroni is used in a wide variety of dishes, including casseroles, soups and salads. It is used in both hot dishes and cold dishes. It works equally as well in cheese dishes and meat dishes, perfect for both meat lovers and vegetarians.

Macaroni’s usefulness works especially well for dishes for a large group of people, or simply as a dish to make ahead, making mealtimes easier. A general favorite is the simple Macaroni and Cheese, as there are so many delicious recipes for this family favorite.

My personal very favorite macaroni and cheese dish is one I have had several times at and from Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, a delightful and delicious restaurant found in the historic district of Savannah, Georgia.

*Personal Story about macaroni involves the kid-favorite Kraft Macaroni & Cheese. I have never been very fond of cheese and ever since my teens I have eaten this Mac & Cheese prepared with simply milk and butter ~ no cheese. My family thinks this is very weird, but it is what I prefer. For homemade macaroni & cheese, I like the way Mrs. Wilkes makes their tasty dish seem less ‘cheesy’ then most. It is truly delicious and the only one that really appeals to me ~ cheese-wise!

My very favorite cold macaroni salad is my family’s favorite ‘Shrimp Macaroni Salad’. It is basically made with cooked (and chilled) elbow macaroni, shrimp, diced onions, and a sauce made with mayonnaise, mustard, spices and sour cream. There are several recipe variations, but it is really quite simple to make and very delicious to eat. Traditionally, our family always requests it for several summer holidays, such as Memorial Day and the 4th of July!

Outside the Kitchen!

Macaroni has more uses than just food. It can also be used for fun craft projects for kids. Let the kids play with a box of dry uncooked macaroni for arts and crafts projects. Create such things as necklaces and bracelets, suncatchers, and DIY art projects. Here’s a list of ideas online to get you started. Some call these arts & crafts projects “Pasta Art”.

A Delicious List of Pasta-Related Celebrations

National Spaghetti Day: January 4
National Fettuccine Alfredo Day: February 7
National Tortellini Day: February 13
National Ravioli Day: March 20
National Carbonara Day: April 6
National Macaroni Day: July 7
National Mac & Cheese Day: July 14
National Lasagna Day: July 29
National Noodle Day | October 6
National Pasta Day: October 17
World Pasta Day: October 25
National Parmigiano Reggiano Day: October 27
National Noodle Ring Day: December 11
National Pasta Month | October

To Sum Up this Fun Food Holiday.....

So, on July 7th, choose your favorite macaroni dish and enjoy a delicious meal on this pasta holiday. As you can see by the list above, there are many pasta days throughout the year to enjoy each dish you like best.

+All images in this review are compliments of Pixabay

*National Macaroni Day Review is written by Wednesday Elf

Macaroni Cookbooks:

Melt: The Art of Macaroni and Cheese

Mac & Cheese Cookbook: 100+ Simple Recipes from Homeroom, America's Favorite Mac and Cheese Restaurant

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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Friday, July 4, 2025

TURN: Washington's Spies (TV Series) Reviewed

The weather doesn’t always cooperate with our plans for the fourth of July. As often as not, our parties and community fireworks are cancelled due to rain, but we still seek a way to celebrate the 4th of July. This year, we will be watching Turn: Washington's Spies for the second time. It is a mini-series I can highly recommend to anyone who has an interest in American history and it is a great way to spend a rainy 4th of July.

Several years back, my husband and I watched the Turn series. I recently watched the pilot movie again so I could review it today. I was surprised by how much easier it was for me to follow the characters since I have previously seen the entire series. This is clearly a series worthy of watching more than once.

I will warn you in advance, it is about the Revolutionary War and does have some graphic war scenes and content. Any realistic war movie is not viewed so much for pleasure as it is for historical value. The Turn series has been deemed very accurate and is quite a lesson on the American War for Independence.

There are some things that happen in any war that you might not have ever considered. For instance, what does it look like to be the temporary "home" for the invading army? How it really changes everything: what you say, what you do, where you go. And, what about the "occupiers" lodging and food? They take over your homes, your restaurants or taverns, your churches, your work places and dictate what is acceptable for your daily lives. Your very life is always at risk by their whim.

TURN: Washington's SpiesWatch on Amazon Prime

TURN: Washington's Spies Series - Pilot Episode Synopsis

From the very first scenes of the pilot movie, you are introduced to the main characters and given very important information about their history with one another. The bonds that were formed in childhood affect their choices throughout the series.

The people of Setauket, a hamlet in Long Island, New York which in fact was the base of the Culper Spy Ring, found themselves entrenched in the Revolutionary War whether they wanted to be or not. As a matter of fact, the main character of the series didn't want to be involved, and he certainly did not wish to become a spy. However, he was forced to choose a loyalty, risking everything for himself and those he holds most dear.

_________

As you watch the pilot movie and the series, keep in mind they are based on the actions and decisions of real people. Those people changed history.

Turn: Washington's Spies Season 1Check Price Turn: Washington's Spies - Season 2 [DVD]Check Price Turn: Washington's Spies Season 3 [DVD]Check Price

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Thursday, July 3, 2025

Hand Weights Dumbbells Review

When I purchased my first set of hand weights, quite a few years ago, I had no idea of how many I would come to own, or that I would develop any kind of preference.

My first two dumbbell set were one pound each. Today, I would recommend, if you got some full water bottles around, go with them. See if you like them and if it is something you want to keep doing.

However, one pound weights can come in handy if you want something light weight to carry, to burn some extra calories, when out for a walk.

Other than that, I would say that two pound weights would be a good place for beginners to start. At least, that is my preference, your starting place will depend on what works for you and where you are in your fitness journey.

The other preference that I developed, is the texture of the dumbbells. My first ones were coated with a smooth type surface. I really didn't mind that. But as I advanced to wanting heavier weights, I purchased ones with a rougher type coating, which are rated as non-slip. I felt I had a better grip with those.

I never was inclined to buy the dark gray or black weights, no matter their coating; so I can't speak for those. This girl likes colors and finds them more motivational.

When I purchased my first set of hand weights, I may have purchased just the one pounders; I'm not sure. A thing to consider is once one knows that they are going to go forward with lifting weights, is that different weights can be better for working different sets of muscle groups.

For instance, I can easily handle heavier weights when doing arm curls. (Lifting the weights from a down position, and bringing my hands upward, making a 90 degree angle with my elbows, or lifting them even higher from that position.) But when I work my forearm muscles, like when lifting the weights from a down position and forearms upward and out to the sides or upward to the front, I want a lighter weight. Some muscle groups will already tend to be stronger than other muscle groups, and different weights will be more appropriate for the muscle group that one is currently working on at that given time.

I currently own seven different weight sets, and would have never thought that I would fill a rack that would hold more than three sets. I'm glad that I didn't purchase a small rack early on. I simply found a place off to the side to place my weights, mainly near or on the lower part of the cat tree, lol!

I'm glad that I ended up getting a larger dumbbell rack, because it was something I knew that I was sticking with by then, and that I had become more educated on needing and wanting different weight sets, and on my preferences.

If you are considering purchasing a rack for weights, that has the option of coming with weights, be sure to consider the texture of the dumbbells that you want, and whether or not they come in the color(s) that you like. Also consider the weight spread in between the weights. Some weights in these multiple weight sets, may only be two pounds apart, and some three pounds or more. Consider your ability, and allow yourself to grow into your weights, and decide what will work best for you.

For me, a two pound difference is plenty enough, at least for now.

My husband did have an old type set of weights, many years ago. With those, one had to add or remove weights from the handles. If one is limited on space, this may be a space saver. However, I found the time of changing the weight ends rather annoying.

I do have some smaller weights with a space for your fingers to slide through; I prefer having the open space to easily put my fingers around. They might however serve better for other purposes. I saw that Pilates was mentioned for some of these styles.

One last thing to consider is the shape of the ends of the weight, whether they are round, or hexagon in shape. The round ones can roll. I like knowing that my hand weights will stay steady when I place them on the floor, etc. I've seen people do elevated planks, holding onto hand weights that were placed on the floor. One definitely needs a steady set for that.

There you have it. If you're ready to to check out hand weight options, here is the general link to them on Amazon. Hand weights on Amazon. I don't own any one certain brand, I just have my preferences on texture, end shape, and weight spread between the weights that I purchase.

On one final note, I have stayed more steady with using weights now that I am older than when I was younger. I find that my back is stronger and that I can do more things now than I could before. I also listen to my body, and move up to the next weight as I see fit.

Happy fitness journey to you.

If you're interested in the weight lifting exercises that I have been following, you can check out my blog on 8 Minutes in the Morning.https://www.reviewthisreviews.com/2025/05/8-minutes-in-morning-book-review.html

Update:

For those wondering what weight they should get, it will depend on a variety of factors. One thing to consider is the amount of weight one is already used to picking up and or carrying.

Many of us are already used to picking up a variety of different weight amounts when we shop for groceries, etc. However, when exercising, one will be doing repetitions. What I read as a recommendation, is that if one can easily do 12 repetitions in a row with a hand weight, that it is too light for your stronger muscles, but may be suitable for your smaller muscles.

According to Jorge Cruise, from 8 Minutes in the Morning, It's good to have three sets of weights. Cruise's recommendation for repetitions is 12. He has two different exercises that he shows for each day, that you alternate through for a total of four sets. Also, as your muscles get stronger, instead of increasing repetitions, it is better to increase the weight amount.

Cheryl Paton

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Wednesday, July 2, 2025

You Will Love These Moist, Delicious, Low Sugar Protein Brownies

A delicious brownie that treats your tastebuds and supports your wellness goals? Yes, please.

As someone who prioritizes health without sacrificing enjoyment, I’m always on the lookout for snacks and desserts that feel indulgent but support my body, especially my skin, joints, and energy. So when I came across Prime Bites Protein Brownies, I was intrigued. A brownie with 19 grams of protein, 5 grams of collagen, a moist, fudgy texture and fairly low in added sugars? That definitely caught my attention.

After trying several flavors and incorporating them into my daily routine, I’m ready to share my honest thoughts. Here's my product review.

The Best Moist, Delicious, Low Sugar Protein Brownies

What Are Prime Bites Protein Brownies?

Prime Bites are individually wrapped high-protein brownies created by Alpha Prime. Each brownie is:

Generously sized (my husband and I sometimes split one)
Packed with 19g of whey protein
Enriched with 5g of collagen
Low in added sugars, sweetened using a blend of erythritol and other sweeteners
Around 200–240 calories, depending on the flavor
Available in fun dessert-inspired flavors: As of this writing (July 2, 2025), the flavor choices are:

Peanut Butter Candy Crunch
Glazed Cinnamon Roll
Glazed Chocolate Donut
Chocolate Cookie Monster
Cookies & Cream Blondie
Banana Nut
Cookie Dough
Blueberry Cobbler
Birthday Cake Blondie
Red Velvet
PB&J
Variety Pack

Crafted in small batches in the company's Miami bakery for quality control
Absolutely delicious!

These aren’t dry, chalky protein bars pretending to be brownies. They’re surprisingly soft and satisfying.

What I Love About These Protein Brownies

Excellent Texture and Flavor

I was honestly surprised by how moist and rich these brownies are. (They're even better after a quick 10-second warm-up in the microwave.) The texture is soft and slightly dense, much like a traditional fudge brownie. My husband and I have enjoyed all the flavors we have tried so far: Glazed Chocolate Donut, Chocolate Cookie Monster, Banana Nut, Cookie Dough, and Red Velvet brownies. (The Banana Nut isn't quite as indulgent as the other flavors we've tried.)

These taste like indulgent bakery treats, minus the sugar crash. They’re especially good when you’re craving something comforting but want to stay on track.

Packed With Protein and Collagen

Getting enough protein, especially as we age and lose muscle, can be a challenge. The combination of whey protein and collagen makes these brownies more than just a snack; they’re also nutritionally beneficial. I love knowing that I’m supporting my skin, joints, and lean muscle while indulging in something that tastes like dessert.

For those of us over 50, this collagen boost is especially welcome, since natural collagen production declines with age and affects everything from skin firmness, hair health and nail health to bone health.

Portability and Convenience

Each brownie is individually wrapped, which makes it easy to throw one into a handbag, gym bag, or even your car’s center console for a mid-day boost. They don’t melt or crumble, and they are much more delicious and feel more satisfying than typical protein bars.

A Few Things to Consider

Flavor Preferences Vary

Some flavors lean sweeter than others, and a few have a noticeable sugar-alcohol aftertaste. If you're sensitive to erythritol or similar sweeteners, you might want to sample one or two before buying a full box.

Not Budget-Friendly

These come in boxes of 12 individually wrapped protein brownies. At around $3–$3.50 per brownie, these are on the pricier side, but you are paying for high-quality protein, added collagen, and convenience, as well as supporting a small business.

I try to wait for a promo code or sale and stock up on the flavors we love.

Four flavors of individually wrapped Prime Bites Protein Brownies

Nutrition Snapshot

Per brownie (approximate):

Calories: 200–240
Protein: 19g
Collagen: 5g
Added Sugar: ~4–11g
Net Carbs: 7–14g (varies by flavor)
Sweeteners: Erythritol, allulose, and others

Where to Buy

I find the best promos are usually directly from the brand's website, where you can also create a custom assortment box with four flavors of your choice. You can also order the Brownie Variety Pack that includes all the flavors for you to try.

I love these brownies (and the brand new muffins) so much that I became an affiliate partner. You can save 15% when you order Prime Bites Protein Brownies through my affiliate link.

Now through July 4, 2025, there's a Buy Two Boxes, Get One Box Free promo on the website!

If you prefer to order Prime Bites Protein Brownies on Amazon, you can. You can also sign up for a Subscribe & Save subscription on Amazon.

Prime Bites Protein Brownie from Alpha Prime Supplements | High Protein, Collagen Fortified Low Sugar Treat | Delicious Snack | 12 Bars per Box (Variety Pack)

Final Thoughts

I’ve tried dozens of high protein snacks and desserts over the years, and most have been too dry, too chalky, lacking in taste, texture, or both. But Prime Bites Protein Brownies stand out. They satisfy my sweet tooth, deliver meaningful nutrition, and support my healthy aging goals with that bonus dose of collagen.

If you're looking for a protein-rich treat that aligns with your skincare and wellness routine, these are absolutely worth trying—especially when you want a little indulgence without the guilt.

You Will Love These Moist, Delicious, Low Sugar Protein Brownies by Margaret Schindel

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

WHAT SOLD ON EBAY? MY BEST EBAY SALES OF 2024

The Best eBay Sales of 2024? Discover mine here!

This is the seventh in my series of What Sold on eBay posts, which reviews my best sales of 2024. It's written as 2025 is well underway but I believe it is interesting, nevertheless and, once again, I am defining best as the highest dollar value sales. If you are curious about what is valuable on eBay, these are the items that performed the best for me last year.

As I survey my list, it is noteworthy that four of the five items were toys and three of those toys were Lego and without further ado, here are the five best eBay sales from my eBay store in 2024.

LEGO CREATOR EXPERT MINI COOPER SET 10242

Cars have proven to be extremely popular Lego sets. They are interesting when they are released but continue to be of interest when they are retired. Who buys them, especially after they are retired? Anyone who owns or owned one of those cars or someone who collects Lego cars. This set, the Creator Expert Mini Cooper is set number 10242. It is a fairly large set, is recommended for individuals aged 16 and over and has 1077 pieces.

While mine was sold last year, you can still find Lego's Mini Cooper set here on eBay.

NORSCOT SKYJACK SCISSOR LIFT MODEL TOY

Norscot Skyjack Scissor Lift Model Construction Toy

Here's a toy I almost did not pick up but I am glad that I did. This piece likely appealed to someone who works with a scissor lift or with the company, Norscot. When I check eBay today, there are none available though I do see a couple that have sold in the recent past so they obviously become available from time to time. There are, however, plenty of other Norscot construction equipment model toys available on eBay by clicking here. If you are looking for this exact model, just add the words Scissor Lift when you arrive on eBay.

LEGO BATMAN MOVIE BATCAVE BREAK-IN SET 70909

Batman is eternally popular. As a matter of fact, in 2024 CBR.com said that "there have been 10 actors who have portrayed the Caped Crusader in both live-action films and on television, with many more voicing Batman in animated and video game works." No doubt, all those portrayals have contributed to Batman's enduring popularity with many different age groups.

The Batman Movie Batcave Break-in set, number 70909, is a retired set. It was released in 2017 and retired the next year. It contained 1047 pieces and was recommended for ages 8 to 14 though of course it would suit any fan who met the minimum age or who simply wants to display it.

Once again, my set is sold, but you can still find the Lego's Batcave Break-In Batman set here on eBay. If you only want to look at new sets, just add the word new to your search when you arrive on eBay.

BIRKS STERLING SILVER LONG-STEMMED ROSE

What Sold on eBay? Discover my best sales of 2024!

Next up is the only item that is not a toy though it could be argued that the scissor lift is a model and not a toy. Anyway, I was delighted by this find that was produced by the famous jeweler, Birks and crafted from sterling silver. The lady who purchased it was also delighted. She loved the idea of having a rose that was everlasting. It was a rare find and I see no other like it on eBay. However, I did find some other interesting Birks sterling silver floral items here.

LEGO STAR WARS WATTO BLUE MINIFIGURE

What Sold on eBay? Lego Star Wars Watto Minifigure

Yes, this is my fifth highest sale from 2024. It is another Lego item though this time a single minifigure rather than a complete set. Watto is from a 442-piece Star Wars-themed set from 2001 called Watto's Junkyard, set number 7186. If you don't already know, you might be interested to discover that some Lego minifigures are highly collectible and this definitely is one of them. Watto is so valuable that even bits and pieces of him sell for a good price. Visit this link to see what the Lego Star Wars' Watto minifigures are commanding right now on eBay.

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I hope you enjoyed this peek into my best sales of 2024. If you would like to see more, please check out my eBay store!

You never know
what I might have
in store for you!
Brenda

Treasures By Brenda

QUICK LINKS:

What Sold on eBay? The Best Sales of 2022.
This edition included an antique bear, a very expensive set of costume jewelry, an olympic poster, a Lego set and a mid-century modern Danish item.

What Sold on eBay Sixth Edition: Interesting Buyer Stories.

This edition included a collection of magazines, a specific coffee mug, a reproduction print, a Mexican greeting card and a Barbie toy.

What Sold on eBay, the Christmas Edition.

Fans of Christmas will enjoy seeing the Christmas items that sold from my eBay store.

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Monday, June 30, 2025

Stonewall Kitchen Cornbread Mix - Reviewed

We found some home-baked goodness with this box of Stonewall Kitchen Cornbread Mix.

We prefer to make cornbread from scratch, but sometimes a quick fix is necessary.

While on one of Fran and Jamie's Buffalo shopping trips, Fran picked up this box of cornbread mix, along with many other things.

Stonewall Kitchen Cornbread is inspired by classic New England recipes, baking up with a soft, fluffy texture and sweet corn flavor that pairs perfectly with barbecued meats, baked beans, spicy chili, or just as a snack.

A few weeks ago, Jamie made a big pot of her Award Winning Chili. Fran remembered she had bought this cornbread mix, and we gave it a try.

You will find the instructions on the box very easy, and it bakes up in about 25 minutes, making 8 to 12 servings.

The Stonewall Kitchen Cornbread mix did not disappoint; it was a perfect match with the chili. So, if you're looking for homemade goodness from a box, give this one a try.

If you like making cornbread from scratch, try my Cheddar Cheese Cornbread made in my cast iron skillet.

Stonewall Kitchen Cornbread Mix, 16 OuncesBuy Now

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Sunday, June 29, 2025

How to Create Free Picture-in-Picture Walkthrough Videos

Growing a YouTube channel comes with a learning curve. I'm sharing what I've figured out so far in case it helps make your journey a little easier. Last week, I discussed YouTube Playlists, and the week before, I covered how the YouTube Algorithm has changed.

Today's Lesson is about Simultaneous Screen and Camera Recording

Have you ever wanted to show your YouTube channel, walk someone through a tutorial, or create a quick how-to video, with your face in the corner—all without buying expensive software?

That was me just a few days ago. I wanted to create a basic video showing how people can use my YouTube riddle compilations as a free party or family game.

I didn't want anything fancy—just a simple way to screen record my laptop while I talked and scrolled, with my camera on so I could be in the corner of the video explaining everything.

That's when I discovered Microsoft Clipchamp, and the best part is that it's free and already on many Windows computers.

Why I Chose Microsoft Clipchamp

I conducted a basic search on my laptop for "screen and camera recording" tools, and Clipchamp appeared as a result. It was already installed, and it didn't require any sign-up hoops. That was a win.

Clipchamp allowed me to record my screen while showing my face in the corner, so I could explain how viewers could use my YouTube riddle playlist and compilation video as a fun, interactive game streamed on a big screen.

I wanted to walk people through my channel, show them the layout of my playlists, and highlight the video that features 70 riddles in a row—perfect for get-togethers.

Step-by-Step: How to Use Microsoft Clipchamp for Screen and Camera Recording

Here's the super simple, no-fuss tutorial for beginners (like me!).

1. Search and Open Clipchamp

On your Windows laptop, click the Start menu or use the search bar.
Type in "Clipchamp" and click to open it.
If it's not installed, search for it on the Microsoft Store—it's free.

2. Start a New Project

Click "Create a new video."
It will open a blank video editing workspace.

3. Get Your Screen Ready FIRST

✅ Important lesson I learned the hard way:
Before you start recording, make sure the webpage, app, or YouTube channel you want to show is already open in a browser window in the background.

I had to scroll through my YouTube channel to showcase my riddle compilations, and I realized after the fact that setting everything up first makes things go much smoother.

4. Click Record & Create

On the left sidebar, click "Record & Create."
Then select "Screen and camera."
You'll see options pop up. Choose your microphone and camera source.

5. Choose the Right Screen Window

After hitting "Record" (the big red round button at the bottom center), you'll be asked to choose what to share.
Important: Click "Window" instead of "Entire Screen."

“Entire Screen” didn’t work for me—nothing recorded properly when I used that option.
Select the specific window you want to show. In my case, I chose the YouTube window that was already open with my riddle playlist.
Ensure that you only have the one window open that you want to demonstrate—this keeps things clean and avoids distractions or showing stuff you didn't intend to.

6. Check Your Appearance (and Be Ready to Switch to Your Content Fast!)

🎥 Heads-up from my experience:
Once you hit record, the recording starts instantly. Your selected screen will take over and start showing. You won’t see yourself in the corner during the recording—only after it’s done.

So:

Be camera-ready: check your lighting, camera angle, and background before you hit record.
Have your content already open and ready to go in a browser window.
As soon as the recording starts, switch to your content. For me, that meant clicking over to my YouTube page immediately to start scrolling and explaining.

✅ Pro Tip: Keep all other tabs and windows closed to avoid distractions—and to protect your privacy (like open emails, bookmarks, or YouTube sidebar details).

7. Record Your Walkthrough

Start talking to your laptop like you're explaining it to a friend.
Scroll through your browser, demo what you're showing (in my case, my YouTube riddle playlist), and just keep it natural.

8. Finish & Review

When you're done, click "Stop recording."
Clipchamp will automatically insert the recording into your project timeline.

9. Basic Editing (What I Did)

You don't have to do major edits! But if you want to cut out a pause or mistake:

Use the "Split" function (scissors icon).
Click where you want to split, then trim out the part you don't need. There was a learning curve on that as well.

That's literally all I did.

10. Export Your Video

When you're ready, click the "Export" button at the top right.
Choose your video resolution (I picked 1080p).
It will save the video to your device.

Where I Used This Tool

I used this exact process to create a tutorial showing how people can stream my YouTube riddle compilations on their TV and use them for free family or party entertainment. No apps. No sign-ins. Just hit play and have fun together.

⬇️ Here's the Result of My FIRST Ever Screen and Camera Recording!

A Few Final Tips I Learned Along the Way

Clear your browser tabs at the top if you're recording a screen that shows them. It keeps things tidy (and private).
Close the sidebar on your YouTube channel if you don't want to display personal playlists, subscriptions, or navigation options.
Speak slowly and be yourself. You don't need to be perfect. Just helpful.

Want More Advanced Tools?

If Clipchamp isn't meeting your needs, there are more advanced programs available (such as OBS Studio, Camtasia, and ScreenFlow). Simply search for "advanced screen and camera recording software" to find the solution that best suits your needs.

However, if you're just starting out, Microsoft Clipchamp is more than enough for creating great, basic content.

Final Thoughts

It took me the better part of an afternoon to get my recording to a semi-decent state, and I still fumbled a bit. But I'm glad I stuck with it. Now I feel more confident using Clipchamp, and next time I'll likely be more natural and smooth on camera.

Hope this helps you get started. You've got this!

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Saturday, June 28, 2025

Life, Loss, and Puffins - Book Review

Review of a novel by Catherine Ryan Hyde

For two teenagers, their bucket list isn’t about dying. It’s about finally living.

Highlights of the Story

Life, Loss, and Puffins: A Novel

The two main characters in Life, Loss, and Puffins are teenagers Ru Evans and Gabriel.

Ru lives in California with her mother. She is freakishly smart. She taught herself euclidean geometry at age seven and has a photographic memory and total recall. As the story begins, Ru is about to enter college, and she is only thirteen years old.

The college is 150 miles from Ru’s home, so her mother arranges for her to board with a family near the college campus. This family consists of a mother and her seventeen year old son, Gabriel.

Gabriel is very much an outsider like Ru. They both have trouble making friends; Ru due to her intelligence, Gabriel because he has his own way of ‘being’, which includes wearing makeup on his eyelashes and nail polish on his fingers.

Ru and Gabriel, perhaps because they recognize the ‘uniqueness’ in each other, form a deep sibling-like bond. Being able to relate to someone else in their world that they can talk to is a first for each of them.

Originally, Ru’s mother planned to come pick up Ru each weekend, but the first few weeks she comes up with excuse after excuse why she cannot come. Finally Ru gets Gabriel (who drives her to the college campus every day and picks her up in the afternoons after his own college classes) to drive her home to see her mom. She discovers her mom’s sister is there and that her mother is terminally ill. She had tried to keep this from Ru. Quite soon, Ru’s mother dies and Ru is expected to go live in Kentucky with her miserable aunt, her only remaining relative and one she has never gotten along with.

The Trip of a Lifetime

Not able to bear the thought of life with her aunt without ever really having a normal life (wanting to go from being a smart person to just being a ‘person’), Ru tells Gabriel what she would like to do. Gabriel agrees to help her fulfil her ultimate dream. They set off from California and head for Canada. Ru’s bucket list includes seeing the aurora borealis and the Atlantic puffins in the wild.

Summary

Atlantic Puffin (Source: Pixabay)

Ru & Gabriel know that they will be in trouble when caught, but their special friendship, combined with help in unexpected places, combine to help them both see what it feels like to really ‘live’ as a normal person as they take life one beautiful and spontaneous day at a time.

This is a delightful feel-good, coming of age story about two young people you will really enjoy getting to know.