Review This Reviews!

Showing posts with label Product Reviews. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

The Protein Advantage Cookbook — A Delicious, Healthy New Cookbook

The Protein Advantage Cookbook is a collection of 100 high-protein, low-carb recipes and tips from bestselling author Carolyn Ketchum, the deservedly popular recipe developer and blogger behind All Day I Dream About Food. Ketchum’s newest cookbook blends quick weeknight meals with make-ahead basics and treats, wrapped in her pragmatic, low-carb approach, this time with a focus on high-protein recipes.

Its official launch date was yesterday, August 12, 2025, but I was lucky enough to get an advance review copy courtesy of the author and the publisher, Fair Winds Press (an imprint of Quarto). It’s a terrific cookbook for anyone interested in increasing their protein intake, and I’m delighted to share my review.

The Protein Advantage Cookbook by Carolyn Ketchum

Who It's For

This low carb, high protein cookbook is for anyone looking to improve their health through “weight loss, blood sugar management, building lean muscle mass, or simply having more energy for daily life” while eating delicious, easy to prepare, wholesome food.

Ketchum’s stance of prioritizing protein aligns with the current science: increasing protein intake can improve satiety and support lean mass, especially alongside resistance training. And for adults 40+, adequate protein becomes increasingly important.

What's Inside

Ketchum opens with a concise science and strategy overview, including what “protein-forward, low-carb” means, why prioritizing protein matters from a health perspective, and how to stock a high-protein, low-carb pantry with healthy, tasty ingredients.

True to its name, of course, the majority of The Protein Advantage Cookbook is devoted to the recipes. I was delighted to see Ketchum's signature format: clear, easy to follow, step-by-step instructions, lots of full-color photos (although not every recipe has a photo), and practical tips, such as for swapping ingredients or scaling portions.

The 100 recipes are organized into chapters with straightforward labels:

Breakfast
Breads and Muffins
Appetizers and Snacks
Soups and Salads
Main Dishes
Desserts

The Breakfast chapter includes 22 tasty recipes, such as Loaded Breakfast Casserole (29.5g of protein), Chocolate Protein Pancakes (19.7g of protein), Hot Maple Cereal (29.7g of protein), and Everything Bagel Smoked Salmon Toast (26.5g of protein).

Loaded Breakfast Casserole recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

The Breads and Muffins chapter has 10 yummy high-protein recipes including Easy Protein Bagels (13.3g of protein), Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread (11g protein), Cheddar Jalapeño Biscuits (12.9g protein), and even Chocolate-Glazed Donuts (10g protein)!

The Appetizers and Snacks chapter caters to both savory and sweet cravings, including 17 recipes such as Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms (12.8g protein), Taco Bites (18.7g protein), Frozen Hot Chocolate (17.6g protein) and Chocolate Hazelnut Spread (9.8g protein).

Asian Chicken Noodle Soup recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

The Soups and Salads chapter features 13 simple yet satisfying recipes such as Asian Chicken Noodle Soup (31.1g protein), Chicken Chile Verde (35.3g protein), Turkey Club Salad (29.1g protein) and Old Bay Shrimp Salad (23.3g protein).

Easy Steak Fajitas recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

The Main Dishes chapter contains 22 terrific recipes to suit a wide range of tastes, such as Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs (33.3g protein), Easy Steak Fajitas (25.2g protein), Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce (33.4g protein), and Teriyaki Salmon (30.2g protein).

If you have a sweet tooth, never fear! Carolyn Ketchum is also the author of The Ultimate Guide to Keto Baking, and The Protein Advantage Cookbook includes 16 luscious desserts with a high-protein twist, such as Deep Dish Brownies (16g of protein), Lemon Cheesecake Bars (12.3g of protein), Coconut Candy Bars reminiscent of Mounds bars (10.4g of protein), and Strawberry Lemonade Ice Pops (10.1g of protein).

There's also a chapter called "A Day in the Life" which chronicles what Ketchum ate over the course of a few typical days, along with the workouts she did on those days. As a very active, extremely fit woman, her calorie limits are much higher than mine, but it was still helpful to see how she incorporates the cookbook recipes into her daily meal plans.

Why It Deserves a Place in Your Kitchen

The Protein Advantage Cookbook delivers exactly what it promises: approachable, protein-centric low-carb recipes anchored in sensible nutrition guidance. For those of us who want to feel more satiated, lift heavier weights, or simply be stronger as we age, while eating delicious, nutritious food and without spending all day in the kitchen, this book will be an excellent, much-used addition to our cookbook collections.

The Protein Advantage Cookbook: High-Protein, Low-Carb Recipes That Burn Fat, Build Muscle, and Restore Metabolism

Monday, August 11, 2025

Jim Henson Muppet Monster Cereal by General Mills

Discover Jim Henson's Muppet-themed Monster Cereal boxes by General Mills.

Fans of The Muppets and Jim Henson, of Halloween and of General Mills’ Monster Cereals are going to love this review of this limited-edition, monster-themed cereal. It’s a collaboration between the two companies. That is, The Jim Henson Company and the General Mills Company and it shares new artwork with the popular monster cereal characters of Count Chocula, Boo Berry and Franken Berry as Muppet-style puppets.

General Mills says the boxes are tactile and ‘soft-touch fuzzy’ though I have not had the opportunity to actually touch one and I have seen mixed messages about when it is supposed to be released. One article said October and another said August but I see that some boxes with this artwork are already on store shelves and on eBay as I write this post on August 11, 2025. It does make me wonder if there is a non-fuzzy and a fuzzy version. If you know, be sure to let us know!

The back of the boxes feature more Muppet pictures and celebrates 70 years of “A Monstrous Legacy.” The box is collector worthy whether you collect Muppet, Halloween or cereal-themed items and is supposed to retail for $7.70 per box at Walmart. Of course, being a limited edition, that price will not last once the supply is sold out. If you don't find the box or boxes on the cereal shelf, you will likely have to pay more to obtain the boxes when they are retired.

General Mills says, “Whether you're reliving fond Halloween memories or making new ones, Monsters Cereal promises a season of frightful fun, fuzzy feels, and puppet-powered nostalgia.” Though not a particular fan of this cereal myself, I agree.

Note that more merchandise and collectibles are available here on Jim Henson’s website featuring the Monster Cereals. Eventually, I am sure, they will arrive on eBay, too.

Click here to see what Jim Henson Muppet-themed Monster Cereal merchandise is available now on eBay.

Happy Halloween!

Brenda

Treasures By Brenda

MORE READING

Find General Mills and The Muppets in my eBay store.

The Muppets Exclusive Deluxe Plush Toys.

I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story.

Haunt Your House With Lego's Haunted Mansion set.

FOLLOW US ON:

Sunday, August 10, 2025

The Secret to Uniform Sized Homemade Burgers - Use This Must-Have Gadget!

The Handy Little Burger Gadget My Husband Swears By

Let me tell you about a simple kitchen gadget that's made a big difference in our house—especially for my husband, who's the one doing all the burger grilling around here.

Shaping Burgers Has Never Been Easier!

We make a large number of burgers at once, especially during the summer, and we typically freeze a batch for later use. However, shaping them by hand was becoming frustrating—none of the patties came out the same, and they always had a little lump in the middle that made them cook unevenly. Some were too thick, some too thin, and it just became a pain.

One day, after another round of lopsided burgers, my husband went digging through Amazon and found a burger press that looked like it might do the trick. He asked me to place the order—and I'm so glad he did.

A Simple, Affordable Gadget That Does the Work For You

This little gadget has completely changed the way we make burgers. The patties come out perfectly shaped—uniform in thickness and size—and they actually look like something you'd get at a restaurant. Best of all, they cook evenly, which means no more guessing which one needs more time on the grill. And when you place them between the buns? Chef's kiss. They fit just right.

Easy To Use, Clean and Store - It's Not Big!

It's easy to use, easy to clean, and doesn't take up much space. It's a compact little unit. I actually keep ours on top of the bread box—not because it's big, but because our kitchen drawers aren't very deep and I don't want it to get caught when we open and close them. But if you have deeper drawers, it'll fit nicely inside. Either way, it's small and simple to store.

Here Are Some of the Particulars For This Must-Have Burger Press Gadget:

Made from food-grade aluminum that's BPA-free and SGS certified, so it's safe and built to last.
Features a premium non-stick coating and comes with 50 pieces of wax paper to keep patties from sticking—plus, it's dishwasher safe.
The built-in grooves give the burgers that classic, professional look.
Comes with a detachable non-slip handle, great for taking along to barbecues, picnics, or camping trips.
Compact size: 4.6 inches wide, 0.7 inches deep, and 3.7 inches tall.

Final Thought

If you're making burgers at home—especially in batches like we do—you really should try this gadget.

It's affordable, easy to use, and just makes the whole process smoother. My husband's been using it ever since it arrived, and we're both impressed. Sometimes, it's really the little things that make the biggest difference.

FOLLOW US ON:

Fabulous Hiking, Water-Resistant Cargo Pants for Women Reviewed

For those of us who hate carrying a purse, tote, or even a backpack, these cargo pants for women are awesome!

I get tired of having to keep up with any type of bag, especially if I am getting in and out of my car several times in one trip. I also enjoy walking trails or in the woods with my camera. Additional "baggage" is unwanted. I have lamented several times how I wish they made lightweight cargo pants for women. I admit, I have been rather covetous of my husband's cargo pants, but they are way to heavy to be comfortable for me to wear.

It has been really hot in our area this summer, which makes carrying anything extra more laborious. Out of desperation, I went in search of lightweight cargo pants for women, truly expecting to find nothing. Imagine my surprise when I found these fabulous hiking, water-resistant cargo pants. I quickly ordered my first pair. Yes, I did say first! Now that I have experienced wearing them, I have ordered more in additional colors. I doubt I will ever go back to wearing jeans and carrying a backpack for daily errands, walking, hiking, fishing, boating, or even in my own backyard. Being able to put my cellphone, keys, ID, sunglasses, an extra camera battery, etc, in pockets on the side of my legs is like discovering a whole new way of living. The are comfortable enough to wear indoors too, even when sitting at a desk or behind a computer. They allow me to keep my cellphone on me at all times.

These pants might not be the height of fashion, but the are certainly the height of desirable clothing.

Outdoor Sports Cargo Pants for Women

This lightweight pair of water-resistant cargo pants for women is such a fantastic find. There are so many reasons why these pants should be in every women's wardrobe, especially if they ever go outside. The pockets side pockets with either a zipper or velcro closure, allow us to keep what we need close at hand.

One note, there are belt loops if you wish to wear a belt. For me, the elastic waist band has been enough to hold my pants up, even when the pockets are fully loaded.

Women's Hiking Pants Water Resistant Lightweight UV Protection Work Cargo PantsCheck Price6 pockets - 2 traditional slant hand pockets, 2 velcro fastened flap back pockets, 1 zipper side leg expandable pocket & 1 velcro fastened side leg expandable pocket
Lightweight
Water Resistant
Moisture Wicking & Quick Dry
UPF 50+ Material for Sun Protection
4 way Stretch Fabric
Zipper & Button Fly Front Closure
Machine Washable, Hang Dry
Available in Several Colors

Note: The linked listing states 5 pockets (1 back pocket instead of 2), but my pants have 6 pockets and this is the listing I used when purchasing my cargo pants.

There are several sellers that offer the Outdoor Sports Cargo Pants for Women - Be sure to look for the Outdoor Sports brand logo on the side pocket flap

Rdruko Women's Waterproof Hiking Pants Lightweight Quick Dry Cargo Travel Pants with Pockets - Purple
(This is the seller link I used)Check Price YSENTO Women's Cargo Pants Lightweight Stretch Quick Drying UPF 50 - 6 Pockets BlackCheck Price TBMPOY Women's Hiking Cargo Pants Lightweight Water Resistant Quick Dry 6 Pockets - Army GreenCheck Price

Monday, August 4, 2025

Reviewing Vicks VapoShower

A few years ago I came across how to make shower steamers and I thought that sounds interesting, down a rabbit hole I went looking at shower steamers and imagining creating a lovely spa experience in my own bathroom with some - I just had to decide which ones.

Vicks VapoShower Shower Tablets

Imagine my surprise a few weeks later when I had a bad cold so my husband did a grocery shop and came home asking me if I had ever seen these tablet things that you put in a shower, I was so excited to see what he'd got me. I'm not going to lie when he showed me the box of Vicks VapoShower that he'd got I wasn't overly impressed as I had been thinking citrus or floral scents!

His heart was in the right place though as a Vicks VapoShower with it's Eucalyptus, Menthol and Camphor scents was certainly a good idea to clear my sinuses. Now I think it's important to talk about Vicks and both mine and my husband's history with the brand before I review the shower steamers. I'll also let you know how easy they are to use.

My husband used to always have Vicks VapoRub on his chest when he was younger and feeling sick and he loved it, I remember when we hadn't been married long and he had a bit of a cold he came to bed with some on his chest - I couldn't sleep with the smell as I found it way too strong. I have never been able to use the Chest Rub however I did used to use the Vicks nasal inhaler both when I was blocked up and also when I was flying. Vicks is actually really good, I just can't handle the smell for too long.

When it comes to using these Shower Tablets (aka shower steamers), once you open the box you'll see all of the tablets individually wrapped. Simply cut off the top of the plastic wrapping and push the tablet out onto the floor of the shower (I choose to do this without touching them, personal preference). Once you turn the shower on the tablet with start to dissolve from the heat of the water and the fragrance will be released.

So let's get back to reviewing the Vicks VapoShower tablets. The first time I tried them I got in the shower and couldn't smell anything, by the end of my shower I could smell it faintly and I found that it had definitely helped to clear my sinuses. A big yes from me, until my second time of using these.

My second time of using Vicks VapoShower tablets I had a bad cold/flu, but it was more chest congestion and a bad cough - my sinuses weren't too bad. When I stepped in the shower I could smell the Vicks straightaway, I did cough a lot during my shower and it helped to break up the phlegm, but the smell was too overwhelming for me personally and I felt quite sick by the time my shower had finished. Did the Vicks help with breaking up the phlegm as I coughed or would that have happened with a hot shower alone? I don't know.

In conclusion, for me I only use the Vicks VapoShower if I have very blocked sinuses and for this it works really well.

Let's now talk about my husband - he loves Vicks VapoShower and does not find the smell overwhelming at all. If he has a cold or is feeling a little sniffly he will use one whether he's congested in his chest or sinuses and he swears it helps.

I would definitely recommend them for anyone who finds Vicks VaporRub helpful. If you generally find Vicks VaporRub a little too over stimulating then try a Eucalyptus & Lavender or Tea Tree & Lemon shower steamer as they will still help but the smell won't be quite as over powering.

FOLLOW US ON:

Sunday, August 3, 2025

Tired Eyes? These Two Affordable Concealers Are My Secret Weapons

Another Affordable & Effective Under-Eye Concealer I’ve Recently Tried

I’ve always been a fan of E.L.F. makeup products—they’re affordable, reliable, and get the job done without any fuss. A few years back, I even wrote about their Under Eye Concealer and Highlighter, which I still think is a fantastic little product.

To be honest, I’m not a big makeup person. My daily routine is simple: a touch of under-eye concealer, a hint of blush, lip gloss occasionally, mascara, and eyeshadow on special occasions. That’s pretty much it. I don’t wear foundation, and I rarely go on makeup shopping sprees. I’ll use the same few products until they’re finished, then restock only when necessary.
Recently, it was time to replace my concealer, and I decided to try something new: the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer. Since it’s budget-friendly, I figured I might as well give it a try.

Why I Still Love the E.L.F. Concealer

The E.L.F. under-eye concealer is a go-to for a reason. It’s light, easy to apply, and it doesn’t sit heavy on the skin. It brightens up tired eyes, smooths things out a bit, and gives a nice, clean look without being overdone. If you’re like me and prefer a natural, minimal makeup vibe, it’s perfect.

My Recent Find: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind

Now, about this Maybelline Concealer—I was genuinely impressed. It features a soft, cushiony sponge tip that makes application super easy.

You just twist the top, and the product flows into the sponge. Dab it under your eyes, around the corners, or even on your lids if needed. It blends well, doesn’t settle into creases, and has a smooth finish.

For someone who sticks to just a few products and likes things to be quick and effortless, this one fits right in. It’s affordable, effective, and doesn’t feel like you’re wearing a layer of product.

Both Products Are Worth Having

Now I have two favorite under-eye concealers—and I’m not usually someone who keeps multiple options on hand. Both the E.L.F. and Maybelline concealers are budget-friendly, easy to use, and deliver real results.

If you’re in the market for a new concealer or just want to try something different without breaking the bank, give the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind a shot.

It may become one of your everyday go-to products, like it has for me.

FOLLOW US ON:

My Favorite Ruler, Review

My favorite ruler for all of my artistic projects is a sewing ruler. The particular one that I own measures 2" by 18" and is see through. I can see my design under the ruler, making it so much easier to know right where I want to place my next mark, and or where I need to measure from.

My canvases can vary, from regular canvas, paper, to my computer screen. Yes, you read that right. I don't know if my current upgrade of my artist software has a grid pattern that I can use or not; I have never bothered to find out. It is so natural for me to reach for my see through ruler.

I can hold it up to the computer screen, shift it this way or that, and I have figured out what I need to know. It is also flexible; it has just enough flex to it that I can maneuver it across my computer screen without any issues.

This is one gal that does not want a touch screen on my monitor. I want to be able to use my see through ruler.

Some people may refer to this as a seamstress ruler, quilter's ruler, etc. But it is so much more versatile to use than just for sewing. But if you're looking for one in the art section, you may need to go over to sewing to find one.

Not just any see through ruler will do. This sewing ruler is smooth on both sides and on the edges too. That is another criteria for my ruler. Some of the see through rulers for school have raised ridges to designate the different measurements.

If you are looking for something that gives you the option for straight lines, that has a decent length to it, (They do come in other sizes though.), is smooth on both sides and edges too, then I recommend a sewing ruler for your creative needs.

The two or three that I own, are all from Artist's Loft. You can find them at Michael's and also on Amazon.

Artist's Loft See Through Ruler Check for price.

Happy creating!

Cheryl Paton

FOLLOW US ON:

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

The Best Affordable UPF 50+ Sun Protection Gloves Product Review

Most of us are pretty good about putting sunscreen on our faces and necks before we head outside. But if you’re like I used to be, you might not give much thought to your hands. The truth is, they’re one of the first areas to show sun damage—age spots, thinning skin, and those little freckles that pop up over the years. And, of course, unprotected hands are just as vulnerable to skin cancer as the rest of your body.

My sister, who’s a physician, has urged me to take sun protection seriously for decades, and as I've gotten older I have become a bit obsessive about wearing high SPF sunscreen and UV protective clothing. Our dad developed skin cancer after his time in the Navy, and that was a turning point for both of us. We learned firsthand that protecting your skin isn’t just about looks—it’s about health. She was actually the one who convinced me to start wearing UPF 50+ gloves, not just outside, but even in the car. I don’t drive myself, but UV rays easily penetrate car windows, and the exposure really adds up over time.

My sister's recommendation is how I discovered the Coolibar UPF 50+ UV Gloves. Coolibar was the first sun-protective clothing company to receive the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, and it’s a brand I’ve come to trust.

The Best Affordable UPF 50+ Sun Protection Gloves

Coolibar UPF 50+ UV Gloves Review: My Go-To Sun Protection for Hands

Even though I have been diligent about applying sunscreen to my face, neck and chest for many years, I have been less diligent about protecting the skin on the rest of my body. Sunscreen lasts only so long, and it is more difficult to reapply it to the body than to the face when you're on the go. About five or six years ago I really started noticing some of the sun damage incurred during my twenties and thirties, when I was not diligent about sun protection or sunscreen use. I have succeeded in reversing a lot of the sun damage on my face, neck and chest with diligent use of well designed, high-quality AM and PM skincare routines, but again, I haven't been as careful with the skin on my arms and legs.

Fortunately, using Coolibar UPF 50+ UV Gloves to protect the skin on my hands has really helped, especially when I'm in the car, running errands, or at an outdoor event for longer than two hours. Although my hands obviously show signs of age, they're fairly youthful for 71-year-old hands, with minimal wrinkles and only a few, small age spots, thanks in part to the Coolibar Unisex UV Gloves with UPF 50+ UV protection.

(Not sure what the strange reflection is!)

Why I Love These Sun Protection Gloves

The first pair of these gloves that I purchased two years ago were the Coolibar UPF 50+ Unisex Gannet UV Gloves (sun protection isn't just for women!) in the color Beige. I wear a woman's size 7 glove and the size Small fit me perfectly. The Gannet style comes just over the wrist.

The first thing I noticed was how soft and feather-light they felt. They’re made from Coolibar’s UCmax™ fabric, a blend of 87% polyester and 13% spandex with breathable micro-mesh and four-way stretch. They fit snugly but not tight, and they don’t make my hands sweaty. In fact, the Cooltect® technology wicks away moisture and keeps my hands feeling cool, even on hot days.

And the best part is that they block 98% of UVA and UVB rays, giving UPF 50+ protection without having to slather on sunscreen that washes off or needs reapplying every hour or two. Honestly, I almost forget that I’m wearing them because they’re so comfortable.

Wearing gloves and demonstrating touchscreen tips with mobile phone

Touchscreen-Friendly (So I Don't Need to Remove Them to Use My Phone)

One feature I use constantly is the touchscreen-compatible thumb and pointer fingertips. I can grab my phone, scroll, or send a quick text without peeling the gloves off and exposing my skin. It’s such a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in how practical they are for daily use.

Coolibar Gannet UPF 50+ sun protection UV gloves with zippered pouch

Perfect for the Car, Walks, Everyday Errands and Outdoor Events

I keep my UV gloves in my purse so I can easily slip them on whenever I go out. I love that they come with a zippered pouch to keep them clean and neat when not in use.

Since I don’t drive, I’m usually in the passenger seat and I like knowing my hands are protected from UV rays coming through the side windows. I wear these gloves while I'm walking, shopping, or sitting outside with a book. They’re just an easy habit now, like sunglasses or sunscreen on my face.

Coolibar UPF 50+ UV gloves in zippered pouch with tags

Need More Coverage? Try the Longer Version

When I looked at the sun damage on my arms recently, I decided to buy a pair of the Coolibar UPF 50+ Unisex Culebra UV Long Gloves as well. They use the same UCmax™ fabric and the same touchscreen-compatible thumb and pointer fingertips as the wrist-length Gannet style, but they extend well past your elbow. I reach for these when I’m wearing short sleeves or sleeveless tops or spending more time outdoors. It’s that extra layer of peace of mind against sun damage, especially at the beach.

Coolibar Culebra UPF 50+ sun protection long UV gloves with zippered pouch

A Great Gift for Gardeners and Outdoor Enthusiasts

Men or women who work outdoors or enjoy gardening, driving, spending time at the beach, walking for exercise or pleasure, and anyone else who spends time exposed to the sun (directly or indirectly) for extended periods of time could benefit from either style of these Coolibar UPF 50+ UV gloves. I think they would make a great gift, especially since they come nicely packaged in a matching zippered storage pouch.

Final Thoughts

Sun protection is a big deal for me, and not just because I want the skin on my hands and arms to look good as I get older. After seeing what skin cancer did to my dad, I take sun protection very seriously. The Coolibar Gannet UV Gloves make it effortless. They’re light, comfortable, easy to wash, and practical enough to wear every day. Plus, they save me from constantly reapplying sunscreen to my hands.

If you want even more coverage, the Culebra UV Long Gloves are just as good with added length for your forearms and part of your upper arms.

Both styles give you top-notch protection from a brand that’s trusted by dermatologists and recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. For me, they’ve become a non-negotiable part of my daily routine, and the skin on my hands and arms is showing visible improvement. At the time of this post's publication, both styles were available on Amazon for $39. That's a small price to pay for protection against skin cancer and other types of unsightly damage from the sun's harmful UV rays.

Coolibar UPF 50+ Men's Women's Gannett UV Gloves - Sun Protective (X-Large- Beige)

Coolibar UPF 50+ Men's Women's Culebra UV Long Sun Gloves - Sun Protective (Small- Beige)

Monday, July 28, 2025

Lifelong Original Office Chair Wheels Reviewed

Have you ever taken a chance on a DIY idea only to discover... What took me so long to do it! This simple DIY has changed the scenario 100 percent for an office with hardwood floors.

Hardwood Floors

The great feature of hardwood floors is the ability to have office furniture with wheels. So handy, so useful, so worrisome if the wheels are not high quality and the hardwood floors are in jeopardy. The one sound you do not want to hear is a rolling piece of furniture scraaaatcccching the hardwood floor.

Wheels and More Wheels

What I have added Lifelong wheels to in the office with hardwood floors:

Rolling shelves

Rolling printer stand

Office Chair

Stool

Shredder

Through the years this old office chair became THAT chair. The chair which is so comfy and broken in and you do not want to let it go when age reigns on its' parts. One of the wheels was not working properly and was showing signs of scratching the floor as well as the floor protector. One of the bonus features of replacing the wheels was the ability to leave the plastic floor protector in the trash.

One word of caution! The wheels are fast! Like rollerblade wheels, so the chair which was barely rolling is now a lean mean rolling machine !

The one measurement needed is the stem size. The old wheels pop off and the new are easily put on, but the stem size is necessary for proper fit. Lifelong comes in different color combinations and brakes are an option. For the printer stand on wheels I chose the style with brakes.

Brands

As noted I have replaced a few wheels and have found the brands I used all were more than adequate. The installation took minutes! No tools needed.

My favorite brand was Lifelong and it was slightly more expensive than other brands. the one cavaet is the wheels are advertised to fit 98 percent, but NOT Ikea furniture.

FOLLOW US ON:

Friday, July 18, 2025

Book Covers for Textbooks or Books Reviewed

I remember the first time our daughter brought home textbooks with an assignment to have them covered before school the next day. For parents who are prepared, that is not a big deal. However, since she was our oldest child and our first experience with having a child in school, I had no clue such a thing would be required.

I didn't, and still do not, keep paper grocery bags around. I had always heard they would draw bugs and I had no desire to invite them into our home. I had to think fast! I grabbed some wrapping paper and went to work. The books had to be recovered within days because wrapping paper is not durable enough to be pulled in and out of a backpack without tearing. By then though, I had gone to the grocery store and had the desired heavy paper bags.

The heavy paper bags didn't last long, but at least they survived the first few months. That was long enough for me to find and buy some fabric covers made specifically for covering textbooks and the daily use required.

After that first year, I was always prepared with a variety of book covers for our children.

Pretty Book Covers for Any Student

6 Pack Stretchable Book Covers, Jumbo Book Sleeves for Hardcover Books Textbooks up to 9 x 11 InchesCheck PriceBased on our experience, schools and teachers request students cover their books. Some books are provided by the schools and will need to be turned in at the end of the year. Therefore, the school wants their books to remain in excellent, or at least good, condition for the student that will get the book the following year.

As our children got older, they had textbooks that we were required to purchase. I found them much easier to resell if they were in good condition.

I like the book covers featured on the right because they would be easy to select a different pattern for each subject book. That is much better than having them all covered alike. For instance, I would choose the planet cover for a science book, the Legos for a math book, the map for geography or history, and save the panda for my favorite class. The other two covers are super cool and would be awesome for English or Spanish classroom textbooks.

The covers are stretchable, tear resistant, and washable!

7 Pack Stretchable Book Covers, Jumbo Book Sleeves for TextbooksCheck Price 7 Pcs Stretchable Book Cover with Bookmarks Reusable JumboCheck Price

How to Cover a Book with a Paper Bag

If you find yourself in a bind, like I did, here is a video that shows you how to cover your textbook with a grocery bag.

More Back to School Reviews

Insulated Lunch Boxes for School Children Reviewed by Sylvestermouse

3 Items to Help Get the Kids Moving Faster in the Morning written by BarbRad

Back Packs or Rolling Totes! written by Olivia Morris

Thursday, July 17, 2025

Address Labels Printed, Review

I ordered address labels from Zazzle, some years ago. It's not something I use a lot of anymore, but I do appreciate them when I need them.

The return address labels come in quantities of five sheets per order, with 30 individual address labels per sheet for the return address label size. The larger address labels also come in quantities of five sheets per order, with 18 individual address labels per sheet. There is also an option of shipping labels, which comes with eight labels per sheet. The size choice is up to the customer.

Sizes:
Address labels: 2.375" L x 1.25" H
Return address labels: 2.25" L x 0.75" H
Shipping labels: 3.75" L x 2" H
The full sheet is 8.5" L x 11" H.

I do like the address labels that I purchased from Zazzle, I recommend them, and I will purchase them again. The sheets that I received were sent in a cardboard type envelope that kept the labels flat.

Being an artist and having a store on Zazzle, I have a variety of designs to choose from.

My most popular design is the beach scene with gentle waves.

Sand Beach Ocean Waves Scene Address Labels
by CherylsArt

I also provide a variety of occasion address labels including birthday, graduation, and wedding; and holiday address labels too. You can browse all available address labels in my CherylsArt store on Zazzle here: https://www.zazzle.com/store/CherylsArt/address+labels.

Also, desired are my plain and simple address labels, sans design. The text is all the design there is, which comes in handy for more business type mailings, and or when you just want plain and simple.

Plain and Simple Black on White Address Labels
by CherylsArt

Cheryl Paton

FOLLOW US ON:

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Clevr Blends Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte: Delightful Hot or Cold

I’ve never been a big fan of matcha. The distinctive grassy flavor reminds me a little too much of freshly mown lawn clippings. So, when I tried Clevr Blends’ Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte after it was highly recommended by a friend, it was more out of curiosity than optimistic expectation. But this blend surprised me—in the best way.

Smooth, subtly nutty, and lightly sweet, it’s easily the most enjoyable matcha I’ve tried. In fact, I liked it so much I’ve started keeping a pouch on hand for both cozy mornings and refreshing cold pick-me-ups.

Here’s my honest review, including how I like to prepare it as both hot and iced matcha lattes.

The Most Delicious Honey Pistachio Matcha Latte with Superfoods

A Delicious, Indulgent-Tasting Treat

The taste of this matcha latte is surprisingly delicious. The matcha is smooth and mellow, not grassy or bitter. The honey and pistachio notes shine through, adding warmth and a slightly nutty sweetness. The added honey and milk make it even more comforting and balanced. It feels like an indulgent treat. The added superfoods and antioxidants are a bonus!

The iced version is light, smooth, and refreshing, with just the right amount of sweetness. The pistachio flavor seems to come forward more when iced, which I love, and the honey note lingers without being too sweet. It’s the kind of drink I could sip all summer long: satisfying but not heavy.

The bright green color was a bit startling at first, but it's much prettier in person than on the screen!

The Superfoods Bonus

The Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte from Clevr Blends isn’t your typical matcha drink. It’s a creamy, plant-based latte mix that blends:

Organic Japanese matcha (ceremonial grade, but without the overpowering grassy bite)
Oat and pistachio milk powders for creaminess
Real honey for natural sweetness
Ashwagandha, lion’s mane, and reishi for focus and calm
L-theanine to smooth out energy without jitters (this honey pistachio matcha latte with superfoods has 45 mg of caffeine, about half the amount you would find in a cup of coffee)

It’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free, with functional ingredients that support focus, mood, and a sense of balance. And while it's definitely not keto, it's fairly low carb.

But you don't have to drink it for the superfoods benefits. You can just drink it because it's flat-out delicious!

Making Hot Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte

I add 3 tablespoons of the powder to 6–8 ounces of hot water (not boiling). Then I stir in a small squirt of honey (I use monk fruit-sweetened sugar-free honey), add a splash of unsweetened macadamia or almond milk, and froth it all together until smooth and frothy.

Ingredients for Iced Clevr Blends Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte

Making Iced Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte

I use an electric frother to dissolve 3 tablespoons of the powder in 4 ounces of warm water with a squirt of honey (or monk fruit honey) and a splash of unsweetened macadamia or almond milk until the mixture is very frothy. Then I pour it over a tall (16-ounce) glass filled with ice cubes.

By the way, the best frother I have ever tried is the one in these photos, the Nahida Coffee Milk Frother Wand, which is powerful, has three speeds, dedicated buttons for each speed, and holds a charge longer than any other frother my husband and I have tried.

Why I Keep Reaching for It

As someone who’s never cared for matcha, Clevr Blends Honey Pistachio Matcha SuperLatte really changed my mind. It gives me a gentle, steady lift without the crash I sometimes get from coffee. And I love that it includes adaptogens like ashwagandha and lion’s mane for added stress support and focus. It feels like a small act of self-care, easy to make, enjoyable to sip, and supportive from the inside out.

Pros & Considerations

Pros:

Smooth, mellow matcha flavor (even for matcha skeptics!)
Honey and pistachio notes are well-balanced and comforting
Easy to prepare hot or iced
Adaptogens and L-theanine support focus and calm
Dairy-free and refined sugar-free

Considerations:

A bit pricey per serving (but worth it for the quality)
Some may want to add extra sweetener or milk to customize the flavor, as I do

Final Thoughts

If you’ve avoided matcha because of its grassy flavor, this SuperLatte might just change your mind. The Honey Pistachio Matcha from Clevr Blends is smooth, lightly sweet, and surprisingly crave-worthy. With its clean ingredients and nourishing benefits, it’s become a go-to in my kitchen.

Not a matcha lover? Neither was I. But this superfoods-infused Clevr Blends matcha latte made me a believer.