Quick and Easy Pizza Dough

 If you're looking to make a quick pizza for dinner or just a snack, this quick and easy pizza dough is perfect. This is perfect for one pizza and so easy to prepare.

Easy pizza dough reviewed

In the photo is a Fresh Tomato and Spanish Pizza I made using this quick and easy pizza dough recipe.

Ingredients:

• 2-1/2 cups of flour
• 1 cup water (I always use warm water)
• 1 package of yeast (Fleischmann's Rapid Rise Instant)
• 1 teaspoos salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, add the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix together with a fork.
2. Add the olive oil and water, and mix until a dough forms. I always use my KitchenAid Stand mixer for this.
3. We are using Rapid Rise Instant yeast, so there is no need to proof it in water; just add it to the dry ingredients.
4. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for about 30 minutes. You only need to let the dough rise once, and you are ready to make pizza.

For a thinner pizza, I use a greased 10-inch-by-15-inch square pan. For a little thicker pizza, I will use a 12-inch round pan.

If you're looking to make pizza for a crowd, check my Easy All-Purpose Dough Recipe. This recipe will make three 10" x 15" pizzas. You can also use the rapid-rise yeast in this recipe.

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Fleischmann's Rapid Rise Yeast, 0.25 Ounce (3 Count)Buy NowWilton Silver Non Stick 12 in. Pizza Pan, Stainless Steel Bakeware, Made without PFASBuy NowOXO Steel 4Buy Now

 

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Fluffy Fleece Loungewear Pajamas for Women Reviewed

My mother has pretty much everything she needs or wants.  Buying a gift for her is rather challenging.  I spent some time searching Amazon products before Christmas, asking myself questions about each thing I considered and then rejecting it.  That is, until I found this really cute fleece loungewear outfit.

Mom and I are both always cold.  Seriously!  It can be 70° outside, but with the air conditioner on inside, we get cold.  It seems an odd dance.  We love air conditioning, but we also like to be warm.  This fleece loungewear will most likely be a year round part of our wardrobe.  

Oh, yes!  I did say "our" wardrobe.  I had put the outfit on my wishlist so I could go back and buy it for Mom once I decided on a color and size.  It was on the wishlist for less than 48 hrs, but that was clearly an important 48 hours.  During that time, my son checked out my wishlist to select a gift for me for Christmas.  Obviously, he liked the loungewear because he purchased it for me.

Christmas morning was rather humorous when Mom opened her gift first and he thought the wrong gift went to her.  She loved it so much, he was not about to open his mouth and say anything though.  It would be easy to mix up gifts when handing them out since I call Mom, "Mom" and my son calls me "Mom", but there was no mix-up.  When I opened my gift, he was greatly relieved to see me pull out the same fluffy blue outfit.  The rest of us were confused at why he was laughing, but a brief conversation between us revealed what had happened.  Turns out, the gift was perfect for both of us!

Since Christmas morning, we have run around looking like 2 blue polar bears.  Mom and I both wear the loungeware over our pajamas.  We even wear the jackets when going back and forth to each other's homes.  

The listing says they are pajamas.  I have not worn the outfit as pajamas, but Mom has.  She loves how warm and lightweight they are even when sleeping. 

If you can't stand the cold, I highly recommend this fluffy fleece loungewear, day or night!

 

Bedsure Fleece Women's Pajamas 

 Bedsure Fleece Womens Pajama SetsCheck PriceThe Bedsure fleece loungewear pajamas are 100% polyester and extremely soft.  Plus, they are very lightweight.  I love the pockets in the jacket!  They are perfect for my cellphone, keys, Kleenex, hair clips, etc.  

Mom and I are both short.  The ribbed cuffs at the wrists and ankles are great.  The ribbing keeps the fabric the right length without having tight elastic or requiring alterations.    

It is also machine wash and dry, which mean we don't have to be parted from our blue bear suits for long.  I have washed mine several times and it still looks as good as the day I opened the package.

• Very Soft
• Warm 
• Comfortable 
• Jacket and Pants included
• Button front Jacket
• 2 Pockets
• Currently available in several colors. 

 

 

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Refreshing Purple Cabbage Salad Recipe

I saw a video on YouTube praising the benefits of purple cabbage. I thought wow, I'll have to check that out. According to the AI results when I did a search on Google, purple cabbage supports heart health, bone health, digestive health, reduces inflammation, improves immunity, and even has cancer prevention properties.

Purple cabbage has Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, folate, and minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Sounds like a winner on multiple accounts.

I later saw a video where the person used purple cabbage in a salad. I was inspired by their recipe, but did not make their recipe.

Even when I looked for it in my browsing history, I couldn't find it. So I ad-libbed and made my own. Here is my version, which I call Refreshing Purple Cabbage Salad, because I thought it tasted refreshing when I ate it.

All measurements are approximate, as I just eye balled it for the total overall equality of the amounts.

1/2 of a purple cabbage, cut into slices and then sliced those pieces crosswise.

Around a dozen mini carrots - sliced lengthwise in half, and then slice each half into skinny strips, then cut the strips into halves.

One apple with peel on, sliced into slices, and then slice the slices into stripes, and then cut strips into thirds.

A couple of small boxes of organic raisins.

Around a half of cup of chopped walnuts, that I further chopped into smaller pieces.

Toss the above ingredients together.

I stirred in several Tablespoons of Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing and Marinade. This was dressing that I bought at the grocery store in the refrigerated section near produce, the Panera brand. I chose Panera brand as they are pretty good about keeping their ingredients on the healthier side.

If you want to make your own dressing, I would recommend a mix of the mayonnaise of your preference, with around a third amount of raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar, with a bit of honey to taste. Stir or whisk together. Adjust any amounts to your preferred taste.

With this type of salad, I prefer to store any leftovers in a glass bowl that has a lid to fit. Pyrex is my choice for this. I actually found an individual Pyrex bowl like the green one, in my local Kroger grocery store. The set is available on Amazon.

Set of glass Pyrex Bowls: Check price.

I stored my leftovers in the green glass bowl that I mentioned above. The salad tasted just as good the second day.

Have you used purple cabbage in a salad before?

Here's to your good health.

Cheryl Paton

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Fisher-Price Poppity Pop Musical Dinosaur Review

With Fisher-Price's Go Baby Go! Poppity Pop Musical Dinosaur, your baby will be learning about the cause and effect of his actions and he will be having fun while doing so. Read on to find this toy reviewed in a bit more detail.

The Poppity Pop Dino is a brightly colored dinosaur-themed toy that comes with six balls in various colors. To use it, your baby hits a roller or drops a ball into the dinosaur's tail or onto his back and the action, in the form of popping and music, starts up.  The balls hop inside and outside of the toy and, as a result, your baby chases after them again and again. If a ball does pop out, your baby is on the move retrieving it. Balls don't go far on a carpeted floor, which is perfect for the less mobile baby and, as baby gets a bit older, moving the toy onto a hard floor allows the balls to travel farther. While all of this action is happening, one of eight songs and additional sound effects will play. 

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Tagline: Prehistoric Poppin' Pal.

Age Recommendation: Children 6 months and up
Size: 17 x 7 inches
Batteries: Requires three C batteries.
Model Number: W1392
UPC: 7445047323379
Release Date: 2011
Current Status: Available
Instruction Manual: Available on Mattel's website here.

ORIGINAL VIDEO ADVERTISEMENT

   

SUMMARY

This is another entertaining Fisher-Price toy that is functional and durable for very young children. Older children, however, often wind up sitting on the toy and ultimately breaking it since it was not constructed to hold their weight. It is therefore recommended you buy it to encourage your baby to move and know that it will not be a great toy for an older child.

WHERE TO BUY YOUR POPPITY POP DINOSAUR

This toy is still available at retail and yes, you can still find a Poppity Pop Dinosaur here, on Amazon.

See you
at the toy store!

MORE FISHER-PRICE TOYS:

Retired Fisher-Price Toys in my eBay Store.

Fisher-Price Zoo Talkers Review.

Fisher-Price Discovery Cottage Reviewed.

Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Puppy Reviewed.

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A Review of the Best Peanut Brittle Recipe

Mom's Peanut Brittle Recipe

I always look forward to making peanut brittle, no matter the time of year!  I have what I believe is the best recipe for peanut brittle in the world!  Unfortunately, I cannot claim the fame, because I got this recipe from my Mom.....who is the best cook I have ever known.  I used to love when she made it, the brittle was so delicious, it just melts in your mouth.  

Since Mom has been gone for over 10 years, I make it myself now.    I can't make it too often, as the hubby is diabetic and he can't resist it.  It really isn't that hard to make, it gets easier each time you make it.

Ingredients

2 cups of sugar

1 1/2 cups Karo syrup (can use corn syrup but Mom always used Karo)

1/2 cup water

2 1/2 cups of raw, unsalted peanuts

1 tablespoon butter

2 teaspoons vanilla

2 rounded teaspoons baking soda

Instructions

Boil sugar, syrup, and water until it threads, then reduces heat.

Add raw, unsalted peanuts and stir until mixed.

Continue to stir until the mixture is golden brown.

Add butter, vanilla, and baking soda and stir quickly.  Do not over cook!

As soon as it is mixed, pour the mixture into a greased pan and let cool.

Break into pieces.

This peanut brittle makes a great gift, just break into small pieces and put it in a pretty metal tin, or a cute mason jar.  If you like, you could even attach a card with the recipe!  Almost everyone loves peanut brittle!  

 Lion Tin Cute Mason Jar

I love to share my family recipes, people are always so appreciative.  I hope you will share this post with your friends and family so they can make this great treat for the ones they love!

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JW Pet HOLee Roller Ball Review

If you have a puppy, you know! Finding a ball should seem like an easy purchase, but each ball and each puppy are indeed unique. The challenge to find a ball the puppy likes, cannot destroy and keeps the puppy busy for more than a few seconds is real!

After a few purchases that were fails. And fails mostly because this little puppy is also a tough little chewer; who knew such teeny tiny teeth could pierce even rubber toys advertised as tough enough!

A Winner

This ball fits the assignment for this puppy! Light enough for the puppy to toss, roll, bounce and play with or without a person. The ball is very gentle on hard floors and bouncing off furniture.  While advertised as a puzzle ball which could contain treats, the holes are fairly big so the treats would need to be hole sized. We found success by putting a smelly treat in a wad of crumpled paper and leaving the paper in the ball.

The treat did fall out, but the Holee Roller ball now has a sound with the crumpled paper which the puppy loves also.

Sizes

The puzzle ball comes in three sizes:

Small 3.0 inch diameter

Medium 4.5 inch diameter

Large 5.5 inch diameter

Assorted Colors

Including Blue, Pink, Black, Green

Price Point

When dealing with the chaos of puppy management I suspect most owners will gladly pay for a toy that amuses their puppy/adolescent/dog. The balls are not inexpensive, but average priced.

There is an extreme version made of tougher rubber for the more aggressive pup when playing. As always, supervision is required and the roller balls are not for land sharks of the puppy kingdom.

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Chasing Butterflies - My Story Behind the Lyrics From Childhood to Being a Grandparent

I wrote the lyrics to Chasing Butterflies on January 16th, 2026.

I didn’t sit down planning to write lyrics that day. Lately, my thoughts have been drifting back to my childhood. I turned ten in 1970, and those years keep returning to me in small flashes. 

One of my favorite things in the world back then was riding my 10-speed around town with my friend. We’d be gone most of the day, riding from one end of town to the other — from my house to hers, and back again, over to our school, and anywhere else our bikes took us.

There was no plan. We just rode, talked, laughed, and filled the day. If we ended up at her house and her mom was making dinner, I’d call home to let my mom know I was eating there. If she were at my place, she’d do the same. And when the streetlights came on, that was our signal to head home. It was just life, a fun life.

Some Things You Only Understand Later

Thinking about those years always brings me back to my parents. I miss them. That never really goes away. Back then, I had no idea how much they were shaping me, or how much strength they were quietly giving me just by being there. I only understand that now, looking back. That part of my life, having them in it, became a foundation for everything that came after.

Somewhere in all of that remembering, the idea of butterflies came to me.

When you’re a child, you chase butterflies without thinking. You don’t question it. You imagine, pretend, make up stories, and let your imagination lead the way. You play with dolls and trucks, create worlds, and believe in them completely. When you’re that young, imagination isn’t something you try to access — it’s just there, guiding you.

We Don’t Know Who We’re Becoming

Life changes us. It has to. A caterpillar doesn’t know it will one day become a butterfly, and we don’t know who we’re becoming either. When I picture myself at ten years old, riding my bike and chasing butterflies, I had no idea who I would be later in life. Writing this now at 65, I can see how much life transformed me — through love, loss, time, and all the things that shape us along the way.

Life also teaches you about moments. About how important it is to really be present with the people in front of you. About letting everything else fall away without trying, simply because the moment matters more than anything else.

That’s where this song brought me in the end — back to where I am now, as a grandmother.

When I’m with my grandchildren, playing with them, laughing, sharing small moments, it feels like a gift. An honor. In those moments, nothing else exists. I’m not thinking about the past or the future. I’m just there. Fully present. And without even realizing it at first, I’m chasing butterflies again.

*******************

50 Years of My Poems and Lyrics are on Amazon, Where Available.

SUBSCRIBE to DragedaPoemsLyrics on YouTube

************************

🎵 ©DragedaPoemsLyrics (B.T.C) - Original Lyrics. | Licensed Digital Composition (Commercial Rights Held) for Music and Vocals

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Heart and Steel Book Review

I grew up in Western Pennsylvania and am a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan. My daughter and grandsons got me this book for Christmas. 

Heart and Steel: Inside the Steelers Dynasty is more than a football book. It's a deep, personal look at leadership, resilience, and what it truly takes to build a championship culture. Written by Hall of Fame coach Bill Cowher with veteran sports journalist Michael Holley.

The book follows Cowher's journey from his roots in Crafton, Pennsylvania, just minutes from the stadium he would eventually call home. The book traces his path from a linebacker at North Carolina State to an NFL player and, finally, to an amazing coaching career.

The book gave me the chance to relive those glorious 15 years of Cowher's coaching and the team that I love. From the heartbreak of narrow playoff losses to the decision-making involving stars like Ben Roethlisberger.

While Steeler fans will love this book and the stories, the most moving chapters aren't about football at all; they focus on Cowher's life after the whistle. This book made me both laugh and cry. Cowher addresses doubts, criticism, and the sacrifices required to succeed at the highest level, along with their impact on his family life. 

Heart and Steel is an engaging and thoughtful read that captures the spirit of Steeler football and offers insights into Bill Cowher's leadership and determination.

From the very first chapter, I could not put this book down. You can find Bill Cowher today as the cohost of CBS's NFL Today.

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Crafts in the House of Sylvestermouse Reviewed

Have Fun and Craft On!

Let's Play, Create and Make A Lifetime of Treasures 

I love handmade gifts and crafts! I guess I have been crafting all of my life. I honestly cannot remember a time that I did not have a hook or needle of some kind in my hand or a project in some phase of construction. 

One of the most frustrating problems a crafter or needlework enthusiasts faces, is getting patterns, ideas, or instructions without spending a lot of money. The supplies alone will often deplete any crafting budget. 

Because I understand the real desire to make original treasures, I am sharing some of my own personal ideas and instructions for making unique heirlooms. I have also written several articles that teach basic skills for beginners. 

 

Cross Stitch Memories

My favorite needlework is cross stitch. It is certainly one of the easiest forms of needlework and there are tons of patterns and kits readily available. 

I started cross stitching when I was in jr. high school (It is called middle school today). One of my earliest projects is still one of my favorites. I cross stitched the flowers in the photo for my grandmother. I made one for my mother as well. My mom helped me make them into pillows. 

After my grandmother died, my step grandfather put a lot of her personal treasures in boxes. He later gave some of them to my mother. She discovered the pillow among those items and brought it back to me. The pillow was stained and the cross stitch cloth was "aged." I cut the cross stitch design off of the pillow and carefully cleaned it with Woolite in my kitchen sink. This cross stitch heirloom now resides in my bible. A world of memories right there in that one little square. 

Tutorial:  Visit How to Cross Stitch on Crafters Kingdom 

 

Beaded Ornaments ~ A Gift to Cherish from Year to Year

Another one of my favorite craft projects is beaded ornaments. They are fairly easy and require very little talent. They do, however, demand patience since they entail working with small beads and pins. 

Not only do I enjoy making these ornaments for our family tree, I like making them to give a gifts. The ornament in the photo was a gift I made for my son. I bet you can guess his favorite color. 

In just a few hours, I made a lovely treasure, a precious gift and a lasting tradition. 

Tutorial:  Visit How to Make Beaded Ornaments

 

Crochet With Love

When it comes to home décor, there is nothing prettier than the lacy effect of a crocheted doily or tablecloth. 

I enjoy browsing in antique stores and it never fails to bring tears to my eyes when I see a beautiful crocheted afghan or tablecloth in one of the display cabinets. I know from experience how many hours are lovingly stitched in these beautiful heirlooms. I simply can not imagine selling one of these family treasures. I am always tempted to buy them, take them home and give back the love they deserve. 

Tutorial:  Visit Beginner Crochet  

 

 

Beaded Easter Eggs

If you are really looking for something original, this craft project is for you! 

Out of sheer determination to find a new, unique gift for my children one Easter, I dreamed up these eggs. They are really very easy and require a minimal investment for the supplies. I actually made the first few with beads and glue I already had in my craft supplies. 

They make a great surprise or grand prize in the traditional Easter egg hunt. 

Tutorial: Visit How to Make Beaded Easter Eggs

 

Let's Party ~ Mad Hatter Style

I made this Mad Hatter's Hat for my son right before the debut of the new Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland movie. 

Yes, he actually wore it to the movie on opening day! Can you imagine how much fun he had with his group of college friends when they donned their "Alice" attire and stormed the theater doors? I wish I could have been there. I would have at least like to have had a picture, but you know kids, they don't worry about such things. 

Tutorial: Visit How to Make a Mad Hatter's Hat 
like Johnny Depp's in Tim Burtons Alice in Wonderland Movie

 

My Decoupaged Purse

One of my most treasured gifts is the decoupaged wooden purse that my grandmother decoupaged for me when I was a young girl. 

I love all of the photos on the purse, but the photo on the right shows my favorite picture.  I have always loved giraffes and I always had long, blonde hair.

I loved it when she originally gave it to me back in the 70's. I carried it everywhere I went and actually used it as my everyday purse. My grandmother died several years ago and I treasure the gifts she so lovingly and painstakingly made for me. I can't touch this purse without thinking of how her hands touched it so many times as she turned a wooded box into a beautiful work of art just for me. 

Tutorial: Visit How to Make a Decoupaged Wooded Purse

 

A Very Special Valentine

I love the stories behind the original sailor's valentines! 

I can assure you, the sailor's valentines that I have made reflects a greater depth of love than those 19th century sailors felt for their valentines. 

In the tutorial linked below, I have told about the origin of the Sailor's Valentine and given instructions to make your own. There really isn't a prettier way to express your love. 

 

Tutorial:  Click here for - How to Make a Sailor's Valentine

 

Beaded Cross Stitch Pin 

Embellishing cross stitch with shining beads is simply a joy! 

I love adding beads to my cross stitch. The beads add another dimension to cross stitch. 

I use the beads to highlight and accentuate focus areas of my cross stitch work. I love the way the little beads will pick up and reflect light and color. 

I made the beaded cross stitch pin for my son for Halloween. As I was making it, I took the time to take lots of pictures to show in an article. 

Here is my Tutorial:  How to Make a Beaded Cross Stitch Pin 

 

Halloween Ghost 

I made the original ghost over a decade ago for my son who just loves ghosts and anything Halloween. 

This is my own pattern with step by step instructions and photos, which I have shared exclusively on Crafters Kingdom. 

I hope you enjoy my friendly ghost!  I am certain he will enjoy being with you.

 

Tutorial: How to Make a Halloween Ghost with Fleece 

 

A Unique and Impressive Holiday Centerpiece 

During the holidays, we decorate our homes with glitter and sparkle that reflects the beauty of the lights on our trees and in our hearts. 

I originally made this centerpiece with beaded fruit for autumn and Thanksgiving, but when it was time to decorate for Christmas, I changed the floral picks to gold and red berries. 

Since I was changing it out anyway, I photographed the process and wrote an article describing the steps to make a sleigh centerpiece. Regardless of the holder or vase, the steps in the article below will show you exactly how to make you own original arrangement. 

Tutorial: How to Make a Christmas Sleigh Centerpiece 

 

Some Things Really Are Just Too Easy 

These ornaments are probably the easiest crafting project I have ever made. 

You will be surprised and thrilled to find out just had simple these ornaments are to assemble. 

We had a bit of an unplanned craft party one year when our family was gathered during the holidays. I had just purchased some glass ornaments and I had a wild idea for all of us to make something and exchange them with each other. 

These ornaments are the results of our afternoon of antics and fun. A wonderful memory! 

They smell good too! 

Tutorial: How to Make Quick & Easy Glass Ornaments 

 

Just Playing Around - Making a Pincushion 

As a seamstress, I can really appreciate a large pincushion. If it is pretty, that makes it even better. 

I was inspired by a pattern book that gave some basic instructions on how to construct a felt pincushion. 

Intrigued, I gathered my supplies, called my mother and we went to work creating our own pincushions. I also created the article below. I have given step by step instructions with lots of photos so you, too, can create a felt pincushion. 

This really is a very easy project. The hardest part is choosing the supplies. 

I will never again look at my pincushion without thinking of the day my mother and I were just playing around! 

Tutorial: How to Make Felt Cupcake Pincushions 

 

Mosaic Picture 

Mosaic pictures are rather impressive when complete, but they don't have to be hard to make. 

Several years ago, I made the raccoon mosaic picture for my father for his birthday and he loves it. 

Making the mosaic was not hard since I used a kit, but I do have several tips and suggestions for making the craft easier. 

This is a craft that does take a good bit of time, so organization and taking your time is key to successfully creating a beautiful mosaic picture. 

 

Tutorial: How to Make a Mosaic Picture

 

__________________

This tutorial directory page was originally published on a website that is not longer in existence and All Photos are the Exclusive Property of Sylvestermouse.  

© 2010 Cynthia Sylvestermouse 

 

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Review of We Were The Lucky Ones

The author, Georgia Hunter, did meticulous research on this book that is based on her grandfather's family.  Even though this is a book of historical fiction her careful research really brings to life the struggles of the Kurc family during World War II.  The story, which was largely left untold until Georgia discovers the stories during a family reunion, is one of struggles, hardship, love and the endurance of the human spirit.  

Book Summary

The book begins in 1939 as the Kurc family gathers for the Passover in their home in Radom, Poland.  There are three generations gathered, and they are only missing Addy who is working in France.  

At first the issues of the world seem remote, and they struggle to lead normal lives even as the threat of war looms.  The dinner conversation consists of talks of babies and romance and everyday life.

The peace that they knew will soon be destroyed and the family will be forced to come to grips with the reality of the coming war.  The family will be sent to the far ends of the world and be divided so that the main struggle and conversations will be their desire to stay alive and someday all be together again.

The author does a wonderful job of making you feel a part of each of the family members struggles and wanting to read on to find out how they will survive.  There are members of the Kurc family sent to labor camps in Siberia and ghettos in their hometown when their beautiful home is taken from them.  Other family members pose as Gentiles to survive, and one is able to escape the continent and travels to Brazil.

With the title of the book leading us to believe they all survive, I was always wondering how each one would survive the terrible struggles they endured.

This book was based on the actual lives of the authors ancestors which made it even more compelling.  I highly recommend this New York Times bestselling book.  It is a true testament to the human spirit that can survive and thrive.

Miniseries made from Book

The book has been made into a miniseries. It premiered on Hulu in 2024.  It stars Joey Kirs and Logan Lerman.

Book on Amazon

The book is available on Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audio book.   We were the Lucky Ones

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Being Gentle With Yourself ~ From the Heart~ A Product Review

Somewhere in this New Year I thought  2026 was going to be a little different.  Why?  Well, for starters my mind was telling me I should be making a plan for a New Year's Resolution, but my body was telling me a whole different story.

I've been told for ages that aging is not for sissies and while I was younger, I would laugh and think that's a crazy thing to say.  But now that I am in that "older" category, I'm beginning to understand what everyone was talking about!!

We get glimpses of what will happen when and if we are/were lucky enough to look after our aging parents.  We learn to help them do those little tasks that they find difficult.  What we don't see is that one day (God willing)  it will be us who are in need of that help.

Thank goodness there are so many "tools" out there, that benefit us as we are aging.  Let's look at just a couple of these tools.

My first most important tool, is a really good pair of walking shoes.  Shoes that fit nice, are easy to put on and take off, and give my feet the support they need.  After all just because we are getting older doesn't mean that we should just sit down and not move.  As a matter of fact, walking is the best exercise you can get for all ages, but especially as you are aging.  So for me, those walking shoes are the " Skechers Slip In shoes".  They are great shoes and I have one pair for walking and another pair for more dressy occasions. I have given up wearing dresses for the ease and comfort of trousers, so there is no need for me to wear high heels at any time. anymore.  A small price to pay for comfort! But just for added convenience, they are so light on your feet that I know you will love them.

The Second tool that I would highly recommend for anyone who loves walking, but has just a little fear of falling, would be my Walking Poles. I have written about these poles before, but I must mention them again.  These poles are wonderful for giving you that extra little bit of help with balance.  While we are aging our sense of balance and our vision seem to deteriorate.  These walking poles are amazing for help with easing that small difficulty.  Once you start using them, you will find that you just don't want to go out without them.  If you want to read more check out my "older" story here! Formally called Nordic Walking Poles, they are a must have in our home and our life.

My third tool for today is a Grabber, Reacher Tool!   Just last year, I took a tumble and broke my shoulder.  Yes, I did do that.  It wasn't fun and the aftereffects were not a whole bunch of fun either.  But the good news is that my shoulder still works.  So I'm thankful for that.  But the bad news is that my reach isn't what it used to be.  So I find that many times I need just that little bit of extra help to get things into and out of the cupboard.  Enter my new friend in the kitchen, the Grabber/Reacher tool!  So no more excuses for leaving things on the counter for someone else to put away,  grab the tool and put it to use.

All of these tools are good for younger people as well, they aren't made just for seniors.  But if you have a senior in your life and they don't have some of these tools, they would make a great gift!

I have decided that the most important thing for me in 2026 is to be gentle with myself.  Realize that aging is a gift that many don't get!  It will take me a little longer to do the things that I used to do with ease.  But, I'm still here to do them.  Even if I do them a little slower and with some added help.

Aging is a process and each day a new challenge can and possibly will arise, so be ready and make it easier on yourself by using the tools that are out there!

Every day is a gift and we need and should be gentle with ourselves as we open our eyes to all kinds of new possibilities!

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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Reviewing Understanding Bumpons or Bump Dots for People With Sight Loss

 

As some of you may know my husband was diagnosed severe sight impaired blind a while ago. We are still learning together how best to manage this huge life change and how to maintain his independence and dignity.  Since then we have looked into and been guided towards tools and gadgets that may be helpful. 

When we think about what is helpful for people who are severe sight impaired or partially sighted we often think of the big things like specialist softwear or high tech gadgets, guide dogs and canes. It can all actually be quite overwhelming. 

However there is a very simple inexpensive tool that is actually very useful and helpful and can make a huge difference in someone’s independence.

In this article we will be using the terms 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.

What Are Bumpons Or Bump Dots?

An odd name i thought at first, but Bumpons as they are known in UK or Bump dots in US and also called tactile markers, are brightly coloured, raised rubber, plastic or silicone small sticky pads. They are commonly used by people who are blind, partially sighted or have low vision and many senior people find them useful too.  

They are available in different sizes, colours, shapes and textures and they’re designed to be felt easily with the tip of your finger. You can normally buy them in sheets and they are very inexpensive and versatile.

 Despite being bright colours they are discrete and seem to become background furniture very quickly. Most visitors to our home do not even notice them, but they make a world of difference to my husband. 

The Benefits Of Bumpons Or Bump Dots

There is no training required and using them becomes natural and  intuitive very quickly. There is thankfully no technology to learn or be trained in and no short or long courses to go on which is a big bonus. 

We can buy Bump dots in different colours, shapes and textures for unique purposes which again helps to differentiate objects, settings etc 

They do not appear to so far at least have damaged objects or technology or in our experience upvc or appliances. I wouldn't stick them to wallpaper, photos or fragile surfaces though.  We are careful when removing them from appliances and doors but so far have not experienced any damage. 

How Do Bump Dots Or Bumpons Help A Person With Sight Loss?

They are easily stuck on to most surfaces, we simply peel off the sheet and stick on, you don't need glue or anything else.

 Once firmly in place Bump dots act as a cue to a person who can feel for it with their fingertip.

We can stick them onto most objects and they are very helpful to identify settings, buttons or positions on appliances and other things.

These bumpons help my husband to navigate our home more safely and do more things for himself that he would otherwise need to ask me to do. At first they seem strange but we quickly learned and gained confidence.

Bump dots rely on tactile memory. This is the ability to recognise shapes and textures by touch. When a person experiences sight loss, whether it is gradual or sudden, touch often becomes a very important way of navigating the world. Bump dots make this process a little easier. 

Once we set up the bumpons we kept them the same type of bumpon in the same place, so that my husband could learn and remember them. 

 BLEWAY BUMP DOTSCheck Price

How We Use  Bumpons or Bump Dots  At Home.

I have to admit when we were faced with this sheet or orange round bumpons, our first ones, we were a little unsure where to put them! However once you start its hard to stop. 

Bear in mind to be flexible, some surfaces may not take a bump dot as easily and some may drop off some surfaces, so it is in our experience a bit of trial and error, but not too much and we quickly found what worked for us.  Make sure the surface is clean and dry first. 

Also be very careful if your household has small children or pets. These are very small dots of material and could be easily swallowed so just apply a common sense attitude and keep out of reach.  

So here is a list of just a few examples. 

• Marking the front and back doors keyhole. This was actually the first thing we did. This is crucial in the event of a fire, but also very useful for everyday. To be honest this is useful for both of us in the event smoke or fire obscures the vision of where the keyhole is and could be lifesaving if the keys are not in the door at the time.  

• Identifying the front door key on a keyring- also very important as a safety and security measure and saves the annoyance, embarrassment  or panic if you cannot find the correct key for the door. Also I am finding it very useful in the dark. 

• Marking key buttons on a remote control. This while not a safety feature, can make life a little easier and more independent. 

• Marking the on/off button on a microwave. We have found digital microwaves to be tricky to manage with his sight loss but a bumpon the on /off switch is at least useful. 

• Identifying the common temperature settings on an oven dial. My husband loves to cook, so we are still learning tips how to make this a continued safe and enjoyable life skill and hobby. We adopt the attitude not that  he can't do it , but how can he do it safely. We are avoiding all digital cookers as they are not user friendly for him. 

•  Locating the power button on the blender. Our blender is new to both of us so we chose one that would be simpler for sight loss and it is working very well.

• Identifying the boiler heat and water settings. We stick a bumpon on the dial to the temperature we use most for the heating and the water. We currently do change this in winter ad summer but we are thinking of getting a different  size bump on to differentiate between winter and summer settings. 

• Highlighting the preferred cycle on a washing machine, as we have two we use a lot i put one bumpon for the delicate cycle and two bumpons for the easy care cycle. However, ours is not the easiest machine for my husband as it is mainly digital, so we have found this more difficult to manage. We are learning as we go and when we come to change machines will bear his sight loss needs in mind.  

• Labelling shampoo and conditioner bottles, ours look so similar in the bottles we have one for shampoo and two for conditioners. I have noticed they can drop off from time to time if they get too wet on our bottles, or pulled off accidentally, but are easily replaced and this removes the frustration of accidentally washing with conditioner!  

 MULTIPLE SIZES ,COLOURS BUMP DOTCheck Price

Our 8 Top Tips for Using Bumpons or Bump Dots.

If you are sighted and trying to assist always be directed and led by the person who has low vision or sight loss.

A sighted person may place the dots, or a person with low vision may place the dots, whichever suits your situation.  

1. Think where the bumpons would be most useful. It really is best not to assume. A walk though of the home is very useful or if that is too overwhelming one room at a time or just one appliance at a time. 
2. Find the place where you naturally place your finger to find controls or watch where the person with sight loss naturally places their finger to find the control or keyhole or whatever and place the dot there, not where you think it ought to be placed. 
3. Try it out a few times to check it actually is in the correct place and useful in that position. 
4. If there is some vision or can see colours, choose bright colours dots to contrast with the surface they are to be placed on for example red or orange dots on a white background appliance do show up really well for some people. 
5. If you buy Bump dots with different shapes or different levels of raised parts they are useful to differentiate between opposite functions for example on a remote control. 
6. With a mobile phone it can be useful to place a dot on the emergency call button if there is a manual/tactile one. Likewise with a landline if it has buttons to place a bump dot on the 9 button for emergency 999 calls if in UK or  the 9 and 1 buttons for 911 calls if in US, or which ever countries code you use for emergency calls. 
7. Always keep an extra sheet of bump dots in the house as inevitably they will wear out in time and will need to be replaced immediately once the person has got used to them, in order to retain independence. 
8. If you travel it is useful to take a sheet with you to use temporarily while in a hotel for example on the remote or the door. Just check with the manager if its ok to place them  and carefully remove before you leave. 

 RED BUMP DOTSCheck Price

So for a little dot these bumpons or bump dots do a very important job and are actually more empowering and independence giving than I first thought. When my husband first became blind we were introduced to a lot of high tech, very expensive items, much of which are still in the wish list. However, in fact these little bumpons have probably been one of the most useful items of everything we got for sight loss in our home. If you are dealing with sight loss or know some one who is, they may be well worth considering. 

More Useful Reviews To Read 

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Reviewing Understanding Bumpons or Bump Dots for People With Sight Loss 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.”

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