Rick Mercer Road Years Book Review

In my review of Rick Mercer’s first book, Talking to Canadians, I said “…anyone who is familiar with Rick's television programs and comedic abilities will love this book. If you know his work, you will particularly enjoy learning about his background.” In his latest book, The Road Years: A Memoir, Continued…, I came away feeling that it was a bit less memoir and a bit more the story of his second television program, the Rick Mercer Report (RMR), which spanned fifteen very successful television seasons.

Nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoyed the second book in which you are privileged to join Rick's journey to discover what a Canadian is. Whilst on that journey, you will discover what happens behind-the-scenes of his encounters with Canadians that have included the likes of the (much younger then) current Prime Minister Justin Trudeau; the former Prime Minister Jean Chretien; the world renown members of the rock band Rush including Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart; the guitarist, singer and songwriter Randy Bachman of the Guess Who and Bachman Tuner Overdrive; and, the singer, songwriter, author and comedian Jann Arden. Not all of the spots are about famous Canadians. Instead, they might be about Canadian things and places including animals, cities and famous destinations.

A bonus with this book is that after you read about one of the episodes, you can google the Rick Mercer Report and the relevant individual or item and watch the original television spot.

RICK MERCER REPORT VIDEOS

TAGGING BEARS IN ALGONQUIN PARK   

You can read about and then watch Rick’s spotlight on Algonquin Park in which he is invited to help the bear experts tag wild bears:

WALKING AROUND THE OUTSIDE OF THE CN TOWER WITH JANN ARDEN

Or you can read about and then watch Rick and Jann Arden outside on the ledge of the tallest freestanding structure in the western hemisphere, Toronto’s CN Tower.

TAKING DRUM LESSONS WITH RUSH'S NEIL PEART

Finally, you can read about and then watch the episode that included the iconic musician and Rush’s drummer, Neil Peart. According to Wikipedia, Peart was known for his extreme “technical proficiency and the exacting nature and stamina of his live performances” and  was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1983. Watch here:

Anyway, these videos will give you an idea of who Rick Mercer the comedian is and will reveal some of the contents of the book in which Rick celebrates our beloved Canada and shares how the Rick Mercer Report show was made.

WHO SHOULD READ THE ROAD YEARS: A MEMOIR, CONTINUED...

Once again, I highly recommend this book for anyone with a Canadian connection, who watched the Rick Mercer Report and/or who simply enjoys Rick’s comic talent.

CBC Books says, this book "tells the story of the success of The Rick Mercer Report and all the great encounters and other adventures that making the show allowed Rick Mercer to experience. It's a celebration of happy moments told in Mercer's trademark positivism and humour.” I agree.

I highly recommend you set out on this road trip with Rick or that you gift it to a family manner. It is an easy and very entertaining read especially for anyone who was a regular watcher of the very popular television program.

Find your copy of Rick Mercer’s The Road Years: A Memoir, Continued… here, on Amazon.

See you
at the book store!
Brenda
Treasures By Brenda

MORE READING:

Discover my review of Rick Mercer's Talking to Canadians.

Discover Mercer’s account of the time Rick Mercer and Justin Trudeau bumped into each other at Bill Clinton’s Toronto birthday blowout.

Meet the Canada Reads 2024 contenders CBC’s Annual Battle of the Books

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Reviewing Fast, Easy, and Beautiful Crochet Hats with Premier Puzzle Yarn

I have always thought Premier Puzzle Yarn was a beautiful yarn and I have used it occasionally to crochet throws. Premier Puzzle is a 5 weight yarn. I typically prefer 4 weight yarns for crocheted hats. But I recently gave this chunkier yarn a try with a Bag-O-Day crochet hat pattern and I couldn't be more thrilled. If you are looking to make an easy crocheted hat, in a beautiful colorway, this pattern and yarn combination might be exactly what you are looking for.

Premier Puzzle Yarn

Premier Puzzle yarn is advertised on the Premier Website as: "soft, washable, bulky weight acrylic in spectacular colors...  Each ball is made with 4 coordinating colors that combine in ever-changing, softly blended stripes".

• It comes in 35 colors (at this time)
• 100% Acrylic
• 200g/7 oz - 300m/328yds
• #5 bulky weight
• machine washable (cold-permanent press, tumble dry with low heat)

While looking up the specifications for the familiar Premier Puzzle gradient yarns, I only just learned that they also now make Puzzle "Solids" and Puzzle "Shimmers". Such exciting news !!! 

Bag-O-Day Crochet Pattern

Bag-O-Day is one of my favorite crochet tutorial YouTube channels. She goes slowly, is easy to follow, and she is always reassuring. During the tutorials, she often gives tips about making things larger or smaller, which I find to be very helpful. Even if she says something such as "to make this hat smaller, leave off this last increase row and continue with 50 stitches instead of 60".  Okay, that quote was loosely paraphrased. But it is similar to many of the tips she gives.

I chose this particular hat pattern, Easy Crochet - Bag O Day Crochet Tutorial #686, because I had found my Premier Puzzle chunky yarn and needed a pattern made for chunky yarn. Once I started the pattern, I realized that the pattern and yarn were perfect for each other.

This Easy Crochet #686 pattern is a continuous round pattern. Meaning, each row does NOT have the slip stitch join on each row - which often leaves a visible seam. In this pattern, you continue crocheting around until you have the length you want.

This pattern is also a half-double crochet stitch (HDC). I love using HDC because it builds the piece more quickly than rows of single crochet (SC) and is more tightly woven (small gaps for cold air to move through) than double crochet (DC). I understand, if you don't crochet, this all sounds like gibberish. But hopefully, it will make sense to those who do crochet.

And, for those who are beginning crochet, I think this is a very easy hat pattern for beginners to create. 

Personal Thoughts

Personally, I think a lot of chunky yarns produce hats that just look too bulky. This is only my opinion of course. And I'm not really a person who wears hats to begin with; unless the brutal cold forces me too. Recently, I've been attempting to make a pile of hats in children's and adult sizes, to offer to the children at work.  But I am a slow crocheter. And I didn't have anywhere near the 45 hats that I wanted. So I thought I'd try a chunky yarn (5 weight) pattern - which would take less time to complete. I just happened to have 2 different colors of Premier Puzzle in storage.  I dug those out of storage. I ended up whipping up one hat in just a couple of hours for me (blazingly fast for my normal speed). And the blue and red stripes that occurred were perfect! Because of the gradient, I should be able to make several hats from one skein and each hat should be striped differently.

Easy Adjustments

The first two hats I made are for large adult heads. Or people, like me, who have large heads and thick hair. By the way, did you know that most teenagers and older children have adult-sized heads when it comes to hats? So many of the hats I'm creating are considered adult-sized. To make some of these Premier Puzzle yarn hats for the smaller children, I'm simply leaving off the last row of increases. That will make a hat that fits a little tighter and should fit most of our younger students.

Thinking Ahead for Next Year

When I found my Premier Puzzle yarn in storage totes (untouched following my last move), I also found two skeins of "velvet" yarn.  I found a green Premier Parfait yarn and a silver Bernat Crushed Velvet yarn.  I made a hat using those two yarns with this Bag-O-Day pattern. I created the most luxurious hat.  The resulting size is too larger. I'll have to remember to downsize it. BUT, using greens, reds, and whites will make PERFECT holiday hats for the kids next year! 

Where I Find My Yarns

I often buy my yarns from JoAnn, Amazon.  Also, for in-person touch tests and color selections, I always am able to find 2 to 3 colors of Premier Puzzle at my local WalMart. 

The Premier Yarns Shop on Amazon 

JoAnn.com 

Easy Crochet - Bag O Day Crochet Tutorial #686

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The Best Cotton-Rich, Athlete-Approved, Comfortable Padded Sport Socks

I'm certainly no athlete, but I do enjoy walking with my husband. Unfortunately, as I've gotten older, walking has become a bit harder on my feet. I have purchased padded socks in the past, but they were too thick to fit comfortably inside my sneakers. My feet are inherently quite wide and I need all the room I can get.

Fortunately, the CS CELERSPORT 6 Pairs Ankle Athletic Running Socks Low Cut Sports Tab Socks for Men and Women I purchased a few months ago on Amazon have nicely cushioned soles without being so thick that they take up unnecessary room inside my sneakers or walking shoes. I also love that they have arch support. Here's my detailed product review.

My friend who enjoys daily hikes for exercise and has three athletic sons highly recommended the CS CELERSPORT Ankle Athletic Running Socks to me for my walks. Her sons, who play lots of sports, love them, and so does she for her daily hikes. In fact, these have replaced the ultra popular and much more expensive Bombas socks in their household!

With their enthusiastic stamp of approval, I decided to take her excellent recommendation to order a set of 6 pairs. I'm so glad I did!

These cushioned socks are designed for active men and women seeking comfort, durability, and performance during various activities such as running, gym workouts, hiking, and casual wear. These low-cut socks feature a tab design to prevent slipping, a cushioned sole for shock absorption, and moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry.

Key Features

Comfortable Fabric Blend

Made from a blend of 88.3% combed cotton, 10.7% polyester and 1% spandex, these cotton-rich socks are soft, stretchy, and breathable. The blend offers a snug fit without being restrictive, ensuring all-day comfort during walks, workouts or casual wear.

Arch Support

Integrated arch support enhances stability and reduces foot fatigue, making these socks ideal for high-impact activities like running or weightlifting as well as lower-impact activities like walking or hiking. I've definitely noticed a difference in how my feet feel after our walks or even after a day of running errands.

Cushioned Sole

The padding on the sole provides extra comfort and shock absorption. This reduces strain on the feet, especially during long runs or high-intensity workouts, but also making walks and daily activities more comfortable.

Moisture-Wicking Technology

Designed with moisture-wicking fibers, these cotton-rich socks help keep your feet dry by wicking away sweat, reducing the risk of blisters and minimizing foot odor.

Tab Design

The low-cut style features a back tab to prevent the socks from slipping into your shoes. This small addition ensures a secure fit and adds protection against chafing.

Durability

Reinforced heels and toes increase the socks' longevity, even with frequent washing and wear. They have held up extremely well so far and still look like new after a few months of frequent wear.

Unisex Design

Available in multiple sizes and colors, these versatile socks are suitable for both men and women. I ordered a set of two white, two grey and two black pairs, but you can choose from all white, all grey, all black, and several other color options.

The set of 6 pairs of cushioned sport socks comes nicely boxed for gift-giving. The box slides open for easy access to the socks inside.

Pros

• Versatile: Ideal for running, sports, and casual use.
• Stay-Put Fit: Tab design prevents slipping and enhances comfort.
• Affordable: You get a nicely boxed set of six pairs in your choice of colors at an excellent price.
• Odor Control: Breathable fabric minimizes sweat buildup.
• Durability: Reinforced stress points ensure long-term use.

Cons

• Thickness: While the cushioning is great for comfort, those who prefer thinner socks might find them a bit bulky for tighter shoes. However, even though I have wide feet and need as much room inside my footwear as I can get, I did not find this to be as much of an issue with these socks as I have with other brands of cushioned cotton sport socks.

CS CELERSPORT Ankle Athletic Running Socks Low Cut Sports Tab Socks for Men and Women (6 Pairs), Medium, Multicolor

Who Are They Good For?

The CS CELERSPORT 6 Pairs Ankle Athletic Running Socks are perfect for individuals who prioritize comfort, durability, and moisture control in their activewear.

Whether you're a runner, gym enthusiast, a casual walker, or someone who appreciates comfortable, high-quality socks for daily use, these socks deliver exceptional value.

A Thoughtful, Affordable Gift

If you know someone who enjoys walking, running, or playing any type of sports, these cushioned sport socks would be a welcome gift.

I love that they come nicely boxed and ready for gift-giving.

The Best Cotton-Rich, Athlete-Approved, Comfortable Padded Sport Socks by Margaret Schindel

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Atmoko Hair Clippers Review

I did it! I gave myself a full haircut using Atmoko hair clippers for men and women.

I have given myself partial haircuts using hair clippers over the last couple of years or so. But I had done the top part of my hair using scissors. This time I took the plunge. I did the all over cut using clippers!

Here is the before photo. This haircut was mostly done by a salon person in a beauty shop. I had since trimmed my bangs and the back. Believe me when I tell you that the trim in the back was straighter by me than it was done by the stylist. Anyway.... Also, my hair does have some wave to it; that left side usually has a mind of its own, lol.

Before photo.

The process:

I combed my hair. I left my hair dry as per the instructions for using the clippers, and also added oil to the cutting part; I use sewing machine oil.

Then I gathered my supplies. My plan is to use four comb attachments that came with the Atmoko clippers. Ten actually come with the set, but I chose four of the ten. The largest one is for one inch. I used the one inch, the 3/4 inch, the 1/2 inch, and the 3/8 inch.

I placed rows of paper towels over the bathroom sink. With the clippers in hand, with the one inch comb attachment, a cut my hair, combing it in an upward direction. I also cut it with the same one inch comb attachment, combing my hair in a horizontal direction, going one way and then the opposite way.

I then pinned the upper part of my hair up on top of my head, so that I would accidentally cut off any more from the top than what I had already cut.

Then I used the 3/4 inch attachment on the clippers and followed pretty much the same cutting pattern; up and also horizontally. As I come up with the clippers (with attachment attached), I comb away as I get to the top part of cutting upward.

Then I repeated the previous step with the 1/2 inch comb attachment, but not going up quite as far as I did in the previous step.

Then I only did the process with the 3/8 inch comb attachment on the lower back part of my hair.

I combed it with a regular comb, trimmed the neck with scissors, and gave myself a neck shave.

Here are the results.

After photo.

I am pretty pleased. 

Here are the clipper supplies that I used.

Having used most of these supplies before, I do recommend them. They give a good cut, and I like that I can do various hair lengths on the back of my head, without always having to have someone else do it.

Other supplies that I used:

(Updated.) I forgot to mention before, that it is recommended to oil the cutting blades each time before using the clippers. I use Singer All Purpose Machine Oil. You can find that on Amazon: Singer Oil.

Also needed are scissors; I used them to trim around my ears and to cut the line across at the back of my neck.

Styling clips, to hold the top part of my hair out of the way; these are so much better than bobby pins. This is a link for the brand that I used. https://amzn.to/3YZNHaF

And an Olay five blade razor. I like that these have the lotion strips on them and that the five blades gives a closer shave than ones with three or less blades. Here is the link for that. https://amzn.to/3OjgxxE I hold the razor in one hand, a small mirror in the other hand, while I sit in front of a large mirror.

And the star of this hair cutting venture, is the Atmoko Hair Clippers. It is relatively quiet, the attachments are easy to put on, and it is pretty easy to use. They are sold on Amazon.

This looks to have some different combs for over the ears than the ones that came in my set. The ones below look longer. They are the angled ones.

Atmoko Hair Clippers for Men and Women


One BIG tip that I give you, is to lay out your comb attachments that you plan to use, in plain sight, before you start clipping! I didn't do this step one time, and I gave myself a really short haircut! I didn't reach the top of my head, so I was pleased about that. My daughter thought it was cool, but I wasn't a big fan. So yes, do lay those little comb attachments out in plain sight before you start.

Happy hair cutting.

Update:

It has been approximately two months since I gave myself the hair cut that is shown above. I have since trimmed my bangs, and also the hair in the back at the bottom. I did that with scissors and did any neck shaving as I noticed. But after two months, I decided to do the haircut, as described above, again. I felt more confident with what I was doing; it looks very similar to the above photo. Two things I purposely did different was to not trim around my ears as much, and to cut off less in the back at the bottom; thereby not having as much neck to shave. I like it and will continue with these self hair cuts with clippers.

If you are interested in learning how I give a straight haircut at home, check out this blog: How to give a straight haircut at home.

Cheryl Paton

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Lightweight Warm Fleece Wrap Shawl Reviewed

I have several wraps and blankets that have been given to me over the years because everyone in our family knows how I tend to stay cold.  I was surprised when my daughter sent me another blanket wrap for my birthday this year, but as the weather has turned cold, it has quickly become my favorite.  

This wrap shawl is so lightweight that I can walk around with it around my shoulders without feeling weighted down by a heavy blanket, but it is still very warm.  It is the softest wrap I have ever owned.  It has buttons if I wish to button it closed, which is a huge positive and something unique to this specific shawl.

It also has two large pockets which is really awesome!  I frequently drop my cell phone in my pocket so I can keep it with me.  

The shawl is on single flat piece that will stretch across the back of a couch like a throw blanket.  I especially like this feature because I don't need to hang this shawl in a closet for storage.

The Fleece Wrap Shawl with Buttons & Pockets

Fleece Wearable Blanket - Lightweight Warm Wrap Shawl

There are several attributes of this wrap shawl that I love.  Because it can lay flat, as shown in my picture above, it doubles as a lap blanket.  It is long enough that I can wrap it around my shoulders, cover my chest and the top of my legs when sitting down.  

Since it is a flat piece and not a jacket with sleeves, it can be folded flat and smooth for storage during the summer months if desired.

As I mentioned in the introduction, I especially like being able to button it if I want to walk to the mailbox or open the front door to visitors.  That coverage keeps me warm without having to put on a coat.

The pockets provide warmth for my hands as well as a place to carry my cell phone.

Machine Wash and Tumble Dry Low - Additional colors are available

________________

For More Ways to Keep Warm & Cozy, be sure to visit Raintree Annie's article: Gifts to Keep Loved Ones Warm in the Winter

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Lightweight Warm Fleece Wrap Shawl Reviewed by:

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Holiday Themed Gifts for Newborn Babies

 As the holidays approach, we may find a new name or two added to our shopping lists this year in the form of family/friends' newborn babies. 

This gift guide may be helpful in deciding on the perfect gift for a new baby.

Genius Baby Toys The Original My Baby's First Thanksgiving Playset with Turkey, Teddy Bear, Pumpkin Pie, Native American Girl

First Thanksgiving Sensory Toy by Genius Baby

A cute developmental toy for the new baby to enjoy, My Baby's First Thanksgiving Playset comes with a Tom Turkey who has jingle sounds, a Pilgrim Teddy Bear who squeaks, and a crinkly Pumpkin Pie toy. The Native American Girl is also a rattle. These soft plush interactive toys fit inside a tote bag hand-embroidered with a  turkey applique and the words “My 1st Thanksgiving”. 

My First Thanksgiving Bib

inktastic My First Thanksgiving with Turkey and Leaves Baby Bib

What would be more appropriate for a newborn for this holiday mealtime than the gift of a darling baby bib with a sweet baby turkey and the words “My First Thanksgiving” printed on it. This soft cotton bib would make a really cute holiday baby gift.

First Christmas Tree Ornament

Since my daughter was born just one week before Christmas, I know what it’s like to have a newborn at holiday time.

Baby's First Christmas Tree  Ornament

A very appropriate newborn gift for an infant’s first Christmas would be a personalized ‘first’ ornament. 

This one especially appeals to me with an image of a reindeer and a sleigh filled with a Christmas Tree, along with 1st and baby’s name and the year. 

This ceramic ornament is lovingly handmade by the Etsy Store called NorthPoleGiftsUS. 

First Christmas Outfit

Personalized Newborn Romper With Hat

First Christmas Outfit

One of the cutest and most clever personalized baby outfits I’ve come across is this absolutely adorable “Sorry Santa, I drank the milk” newborn romper.  

The sleeves have the fold over mitts and a fold over foot cuff for a footed romper option. The bottom snaps open to make easy access for the quick diaper changes. 

The outfit comes with a knotted beanie hat that will be personalized with the baby's name in the same font and colors as the romper.

This outfit and a wide variety of other 1sts are available in the Etsy Shop called Qatasta.

Summary

Happy Holidays to all, and an especially warm holiday welcome to the newest babies.

Related Reviews:

• Gift Review for Baby’s First Halloween
• For More Gift Guides, Check out ReviewThisGifts.com

*Holiday Gift Guide written by Wednesday Elf

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The Best Affordable Gel Ice Globes for Skincare and Muscle Relaxation

Today I am reviewing the newest tool in my skincare and body care arsenal, an affordable set of two 360° rotating, thermal gel-filled, stainless steel ice rollers that can be used not only chilled for facial tightening, lymphatic drainage and depuffing, but also either cold or warm for easing sore muscles after a workout, strain, or injury.

I have been lucky enough to find an extremely knowledgeable and experienced licensed esthetician and spa & salon owner whose product recommendations have transformed my skin remarkably over the past four or five years (even though we have never met in person). I trust her recommendations wholeheartedly and she has never steered me wrong. She also doesn't believe in recommending anything that doesn't have clinically proven results. So, when she shares a skincare recommendation, I'm all ears.

One of the tools she recommends is a set of gel-filled stainless steel ice globes that can be chilled and used on the face for a lifting and tightening effect and lymphatic drainage massage to depuff the face, especially the undereye area. The ones she sells rotate 360° so they glide over the skin without dragging against it and are filled with a gel that helps maintain the cold temperature for a long time. There is no question they are a high-quality product. Unfortunately, at $225 at the time of this post's publication, they are also way out of my budget.

I decided to research less expensive alternatives with similar features and was able to find a set of two 360° rotating, thermal gel-filled, stainless steel ice rollers — with two added benefits over the more expensive set — for less than $25 (at the time of this post's publication). I have been extremely pleased with them!

Ice Globes by Eli with Love — 360° Rotating, Unbreakable Steel Ice Globes with Carry Case

If you’re on the lookout for an affordable skincare and body care tool that combines high quality, functionality, and durability, the Ice Globes by Eli with Love are a fantastic choice. Made with unbreakable stainless steel and featuring a 360-degree rotating design, these globes are designed to enhance your skincare and relaxation routines, whether you’re looking to lift and depuff your skin, improve circulation, or simply unwind with a soothing facial or body massage.

Design & Quality

These Eli with Love Ice Globes are crafted from high-quality stainless steel, making them not only sleek but, more importantly, extremely durable. Unlike some other ice rollers made from glass or plastic, they’re designed to be unbreakable, which makes them a smarter investment. The 360-degree rotation feature allows for fluid, continuous motion so the globes glide seamlessly across the face and over facial contours, rather than dragging against the delicate facial skin (something we always want to avoid!). This rotating function also enhances the effectiveness of each stroke, making it easier to apply consistent pressure and achieve optimal results without straining your hand. The handles are also very comfortable.

I love the fact that, unlike the much more expensive ice globes I looked at originally, this set can be used either chilled or warm, making it much more versatile. I also love that, unlike the costlier set, this one comes in a sturdy, latched, fitted case for storage and travel.

Skincare Benefits

• Lifting and Firming: The ice globes work wonders when chilled, as the cool temperature helps firm the skin, reduce puffiness, and provide a lifting effect. Regular use over time can support the skin’s elasticity and improve facial contours, which is especially beneficial for mature adults looking to maintain a youthful appearance.
• Reducing Puffiness: The cooling sensation of the ice globes is perfect for reducing puffiness, particularly in the under-eye area. In just a few minutes each morning, the globes can depuff and brighten the delicate eye area, leaving you looking refreshed and ready for the day.
• Calming Inflammation: These globes are perfect for anyone dealing with redness or irritation. The cooling effect helps calm the skin, making them ideal for post-treatment relief (like after microneedling or exfoliating treatments) and for those with sensitive skin.
• Enhancing Product Absorption: After applying your favorite serums or creams, the globes can be used to gently press the products deeper into the skin, improving absorption and boosting the efficacy of your skincare products. You can also use these over a serum-infused facial sheet mask to enhance its benefits.
• Lymphatic Drainage: The rotating feature is particularly effective for lymphatic drainage. When used with gentle pressure along the jawline, neck, and cheeks, these globes help stimulate lymph flow, flushing out toxins and promoting a more radiant, healthy-looking complexion.

Eli with Love Ice Globes directions and uses insert card

Body Care & Muscle Relaxation

The Eli with Love Ice Globes can also be used for body care and wellness. They are particularly effective when applied to sore muscles, offering soothing warmth or cooling relief to areas that feel tight or tired.

Whether you use them for a quick neck massage after a long day or on your temples for stress relief, these globes bring a sense of calm and relaxation. They're a lovely tool to help you start or enhance a self-care routine.

I love the hard plastic storage case with sturdy latch that keeps these ice globes clean and organized in between uses and for travel (especially since I store mine in the refrigerator)

Fitted Case for Storage & Travel

One standout feature of the Eli with Love Ice Globes set is the included carry case. The case is compact, fairly sturdy (for hard plastic) and stylish, making it easy to keep your ice globes clean in between uses and when they are stored in the refrigerator (where I keep mine). 

This clean, hygienic storage case has a sturdy latch and is great for travel, too, allowing you to enjoy a spa-quality facial massage or a soothing body massage wherever you are.

Usage Tips

Chill in the Fridge: For optimal cooling without making them too cold, store the globes in their case in the refrigerator rather than the freezer. This keeps them at a comfortable temperature that’s effective yet gentle on the skin. If you desire a more penetrating cold, for example, to calm inflamed muscles, you may chill them in the freezer inside their storage case, but I wouldn't use them frozen on the face.

Easy Warm-Up: To use the globes warm, simply place them in warm water for 10 minutes. This option is excellent for soothing sore muscles and relieving tension. If they cool off too quickly or you desire more warmth, try warming them in slightly hotter water for a longer time.

Go Slowly and Gently: When using the globes, apply gentle pressure, especially around sensitive areas like the eyes. Take your time with each stroke to fully benefit from the massage and cooling effects.

Who Would Love These?

This set of two Ice Globes by Eli with Love with Carry Case is perfect for skincare enthusiasts, especially women over 50 who want an effective yet gentle tool for boosting skin radiance, reducing puffiness, and enhancing relaxation. Their durability, ergonomic design, and versatile use make them ideal for anyone who wants to add a professional-quality tool to their beauty routine without the worry of breakage or complex care instructions.

These would also make a great, affordable gift under $25 for anyone (man or woman) who works out regularly, has chronic muscle aches, or suffers from "tech neck" neckaches.

Ice Globes for Facials by Eli with Love - 360 Rotating Unbreakable Steel Ice Globes with Carry Case - Professional Esthetician Supplies - Ice Roller for Face and Eyes - Ideal Skincare Tool (White)

Final Verdict

The Ice Globes for Facials by Eli with Love are an excellent addition to any skincare routine. The unbreakable stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the 360-degree rotation offers a smooth, enjoyable massage experience that targets every curve of your face and body. With benefits ranging from skincare-enhancing product absorption to muscle relaxation and soreness relief, these ice globes are an excellent value. The included carry case is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to keep them safe, clean, and ready for travel.

Overall, these globes are a versatile, high-quality tool for achieving professional spa-like results from the comfort of home. They make a fantastic investment for anyone committed to skincare and wellness, delivering both immediate, soothing relaxation and long-term beauty benefits.

The Best Affordable Gel Ice Globes for Skincare and Muscle Relaxation by Margaret Schindel

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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

Personalized Boston Terrier Dog Mug, Boston Terrier Coffee Mug Custom With Name For Dog Lover, Funny Boston Terrier Ceramic Mug Gifts For Dog Mom Dog Dad, Boston Terrier Coffee Cup 11oz 15oz

I'm 'Auntie Pat' to my brother's Boston Terrier rescue pup, Abbi. She 'adores' me - really! :) Abbi told me I needed to get her 'people' each one of this personalized mug with an image of a Boston Terrier on it ~ just to keep the focus on her, the 'most important' creature in the house! I agree with you, Abbi. :)

Clever Cat Cups

Calico is a Color...

Did you know that the Calico Cat is not a breed? It's a 'color pattern' that is mostly white, with patches of two other colors, most often in the range of the orange tabby and black. And, as an interesting bit of 'trivia', most calico cats are female! :-)

A Persian is just one of the breeds that can end up with Calico coloring. Others can include the Manx, the American and British Shorthair, and the Japanese Bobtail.

Custom Coffee Mug 11 Ounces Dogs Have Owners Cats Staff A Pets Ceramic Tea Cup Design Only

Clever for Cat Owners...

If you are the resident human of a pet cat, you will appreciate this coffee cup message! Any cat-person knows this to be true! :)

DOGS HAVE OWNERS CATS HAVE STAFF

 

A Kitten Named Stormy

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

Tuxedo Cats

MUGBREW Tuxedo Cat Kitten Ceramic Coffee Mug Tea Cup, 11 OZ

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! :)

My Heart Belongs Maine Coon Cat White All Over Coffee Mug

 

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. 

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

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