Summer 2025 ~ My Favorite Kitchen Gadget Reviewed

Okay, okay,  I have more than one favorite item in the kitchen, but for purposes of this review I'm sticking my neck out and picking my go-to item.

Now, just to be certain, coffee makers are not included here because that is my all time favorite kitchen gadget all year around.  Without my "rocket fuel" also known as coffee, this person would not be able to function.  Maybe that's because of my Brazilian roots, who knows for sure?

So back to the most favorite kitchen gadget for 2025 and beyond!  I'll fill you in on all the reasons why this great item made the top of my list. 

The WINNER in my books has got to be the INSTAPOT!

Did you guess this or is it a surprise?  There could have been many different items here, but this one tops my list.  The reasons are simple.

1. Even when it's hotter than Hades outside, you don't need to spend hours in a hot kitchen preparing something for dinner.
2. This past summer with temperatures up around 80+ and feeling like 100, you can still make dinner without melting right along with the butter.
3. It takes up little counter space when in use.
4. It's easy to clean up, one pot does it all!
5. It's great for chicken, pork. beef and just about anything else you want to make.
6. It's not just for dinner (although with us, that is it's major use)
7. There are recipes galore for you to try out.

The only thing I would not do in the Instapot is a great steak ( T-bone, porterhouse, sirloin, those IMHO should remain a staple for the grill).   

This particular Instapot can easily make dinner for one, two or more people.  Or you can make enough for two days, especially when the weather is super warm. If you have a small family you could get the 3 quart size and if you have a larger family there is even an 8 quart sized Instapot.  We have a 6 quart sized one and find that it is perfect even though there are only two of us in the household. It also seems that this is the favorite size as it is an Amazon Choice product.

So here are some of the features according to the Product Description.

1. It has 7 different functions, you can pressure cook, slow cook, saute, steam, ,make rice, yogurt or simple keep your meals warm. (all in the same pot, but not all at once)
2. Customizable programs, you can make everything from soup to desserts.
3. Safe and easy steam release 
4. Cooks up to 70% faster compared to slow cooking methods.
5. Pro-Grade cooking pot: stainless steel with a tri-ply bottom
6. Family sized capacity: the 6 quart is perfect for 6 servings and batch cooking
7. Quick Clean UP.  The lid and inner pot are dishwasher safe.

Now the added bonus that you don't hear about too often, is that it uses so much less energy than stove top cooking. 

Cleaning the Instapot is easy too, the face of the pot just needs a wipe down after use with warm soapy water.  Rinse and it's done!

So there you have it folks.  All my reasons why this has become my favorite Kitchen Gadget for 2025 and beyond!  

Of course my Coffee Maker will remain in top spot for beverages, but the Instapot is #1 for everything else!

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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Top Ornament Trends for 2025

Can you believe it's time to start thinking about your Christmas decor already? Our local shops already have Christmas decorations out even though we haven't had Halloween yet!

If you are wondering what is happening in the world of Christmas tree ornaments I thought I would share a few of this year's trends with you.

Christmas Color Trends for 2025

First let's look at the colors we'll be seeing more of this year:

Bold Monochrome is set to be big for people looking to make a dramatic themed tree - black and white is the main palette, but you could also do a red and white tree. This look also looks good if you combine another trend for 2025 - oversized ornaments - using a few on your tree will help create even more drama.

Mixed Metallics are also big - metallics have been on trend for a few years now, but in 2025 it's all about mixing them - gold, silver, copper and bronze (even adding in champagne - not a metallic, but a great color to add to them). Add a mix of shiny, matte and glitter finishes to add dimension to your tree. This is a very luxe tree theme.

Pastels & Playful Candy Colors are also back in 2025 for a whimsical Christmas tree. Think blush pink, lavender, mint and pale blue. Balance these ornaments out with white Christmas ornaments. You can add candy ornaments for a playful tree.

To see the full range of colors for 2025 check out The Christmas Ornament Color Trends Guide.

Ornament Trends for 2025

Layered Textures - in 2025 it's all about textures so think velvet ornaments, feathers, beaded ornaments and sequins. Layering lots of textures on the tree will add depth and richness which can result in a very glamorous looking tree.

Make sure you alternate textures so no two similar ornaments sit next to each other, adding sprays and feathers as well as your ornaments will really help to bring this tree together beautifully. This works very well with colors like emerald green and burgundy.

Transparent Glass Ornaments - glass ornaments filed with glitter, snow or tiny trinkets are very trendy in 2025 and are perfect for an elegant or minimalist Christmas tree. Buy your own fillable ornaments and add small trinkets that are personal to you or small models of something pertaining to a hobby or a place you've traveled to. This also makes the tree more personal to you and leans into another trend for 2025.

These ornaments are great as they reflect light around the tree so you can combine them with fairy lights and silver ornaments to help add an ethereal glow.

Handmade Touches are huge in Christmas ornaments this year as sustainability continues to influence Christmas decoration. If you're no good at making ornaments yourself you can find rustic wooden stars and felt animals to purchase and still stay on trend when you hang them on the tree!

These handmade or natural ornaments are perfect for a rustic or farmhouse themed tree. You can even get the kids involved and make paper chains or paper snowflakes to adorn your tree.

Check out the full list of 2025's Top Ornament Trends for Christmas.

Shop a Couple of the Trends

Here's a couple of sets that can help you shop the trends:

Pastel Christmas Ornament Set from Amazon

The set above hits one of the color trends of 2025 - pastels as well as also hitting the layered textures trend as well. A perfect set to add to your tree in order to update your look. 

Black & White Ornament Set from Amazon

The set above is all you need for the bold monotone themed tree - it even includes a tree topper.

I hope you've enjoyed looking at the top Christmas ornament trends for 2025, let me know if you'll be following any of these trends or not.

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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EWORK Cordless Leaf Blower Reviewed

Long, very long overdue was an upgrade to the leaf blower. I was looking for a cordless, lightweight leaf blower that would easily handle small yard projects like blowing leaves, sticks, tree "stuff" off the deck. I believe the EWORK Leaf Blower exceeded my expectations and could actually handle Fall leaf blowing fairly easily!

Specifications

Model 21V 200 MPH Mini Leaf Blower by EWORK

Batteries Blower comes with one, but I chose the option with 2 batteries. The cost was approximately $20 more than the one battery option.

Weight I found the unit lightweight with the battery attached. Very easy to manuever.  2.6 pounds

Colors The leaf blower options are green, black and yellow.

Accessories: The blower comes with a few accessories: 3 different size blow tubes and one extender tube which attaches very easily. The blower is actually powerful enough as is to blow the deck without adding the extender nozzle.

Easy To Use Click in the battery to the unit and ready to go. The one feature I do not love, but is for safety is the button has to be constantly depressed to engage the blower. 

Reviews I had not heard of this brand before and took a chance. The reviews were positive with just over 1,000. 

Recommendation

I am happy I took a chance on a new brand as this mini leaf blower promises as delivers and more! I do like having a second battery ready to go. I also envision using the blower for light snowfalls for the porch and walkways. 

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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Halloween Must-Have Decorations Review

 As spooky season approaches, this year is shaping up to be one of the most creative, expressive years yet for Halloween decor. As I walk or drive around the neighborhoods this year, I see some very creative decorations, from tech-enhanced animatronics to vintage charm and classics.

I'm most impressed with the large 12-foot skeletons and animatronics. Our neighbor, who lives around the corner from us, has a 12-foot animatronic witch. When you walk by, it lights up and screams at you.

These large decorations have instant curb appeal, and the kids love them. Keep in mind that if you purchase something this large, you will need a place to store it.

I also see a lot of the classics, such as inflatables in all shapes and sizes, ghosts, and pumpkins.

We decorate our yard with two inflatables, one 7-foot Grim Reaper and a 4-foot pumpkin. We line the walkway to the front porch with six lighted carved pumpkins, three per side. For a lighted ambiance, we wrap lights around both railings on the porch.

This is our front yard for Halloween. The witch in the cauldron has since been replaced with the Grim Reaper and Pumpkin inflatables.

Find all of your Halloween needs in my Amazon Storefront

All About Halloween

Find more Product Reviews on ReviewThis Here:

ReviewThisProductReviews.com

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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A Review of Boxed Photograph Organizers

One day I was trying to pull a shoebox off the top shelf of my closet, and I accidentally hit my stack of photo albums.  To my horror, they toppled off the shelf and hit the floor with a resounding THUD!  As it did, the photos went flying out of them like a mini blizzard.  They went flying on the bed, under the bed and into my closet.  I just stood there with my mouth open, I kept thinking "oh NO, they were all sorted!"  I had always kept my photos separated in albums by person or event.  Now they were anything but separated! 

After collecting all the pictures, I realized the pictures were not the only thing out of sorts.  I was too!  It was going to be a monumental task to sort all these photos back in the right album and put them in the right order.  I just sat there on the floor with my head in my hands.  There had to be a better way of dealing the photographs other than putting them in albums.  I stacked the albums in the corner and put the photos in a shoe box on top and I decided to check on Amazon to see if they had anything for photos.  

I typed in "photo organizers and storage" The first to pop up was a box with separate individual boxes inside.  It was plastic, with a handle and also water proof!  I thought "that could work!"  I looked further into the description.  It had snap tight closures and the large one could hold up to 1800 pictures!!  Wow!  The box was 14.25" x 10.6" x 4.72" and had 18 inner boxes, which held up to 100 4 x 6 photographs.  I was sold and I bought this one:

My Photo Box

If you wanted a smaller version for less photographs they also make 7 inner box and 9 inner box, however, they are almost the same price as the one I bought.  They look like this:

Smaller Photo Box

When it arrived, i liked it immediately.  It was very compact, and easy to store.  The interior boxes were sturdy and snapped closed.  They even included small stickers so you could label each small box as to what pictures were in it!  I was ready to start.  First I sorted the shoebox of photos into categories then each category into individual people or events.  I chose a box, put a label on it and then arranged the photos in order.  Since most events don't have 100 pictures, I clipped them with these, they were perfect because of all the sizes:

Clips

I was very pleased when all the boxes were full.  They were so neat and tidy!  All in their place, labeled with what was in them.  So much better than those bulky albums, especially when the stickiness wears off the pages due to age and the photos get loose, which is why mine went flying when they hit the floor.  There was only one spot of bad news......

I have more pictures!  They all did not fit in the one box!

So I ordered another one, of course!

I really cannot recommend these photo organizers highly enough.  They are so compact and make finding pictures so easy.  I will never use anything else for my photographs!

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 the Conbola Portable Cordless Fan with Lantern

The Conbola cordless fan was recommended to me by a friend who is an avid gardener and lives in a state that is farther south, with a warmer climate, than where I live. She used the fan while gardening on warm days. I may live farther north but I can't stand our humid and hot days. This fan made this summer's camping trips so much more comfortable. 

The Conbola Portable Cordless Fan

The Conbola Portable Cordless Fan is advertised as a durable, portable fan that can be used while camping, garages or jobsites, fishing, and in combination with beach umbrellas. This fan can also be used in kitchens, at desks, and in any area that you'd like just a bit of a personal breeze. It is a quiet fan. Our building at work is an older building with heating and cooling issues. I know that I will take this fan with me to work so that I can work at my desk in comfort when the building feels like a sauna. I am not exaggerating. Almost anyone who works in an old building 

• Portable; cordless
• Quiet Fan; four speeds
• LED light; 3 settings
• 270 degree rotation
• hooks for hanging
• 24 - 48 hours of operation
• USB-A port that can be used to charge your other devices
• rechargeable, USB C, 25400mAh Battery
• charging cord included

This fan comes in different styles. I choose the fan with the USB-C charging system. Before camping trips, I am able to fully charge the fan at home then pack it in with my camping gear. There is also a solar recharging version if you would prefer. 

Camping

I have never enjoyed hot and humid weather. But I love to go camping. I prefer primitive campsites which means in a tent, or a sleeping bag on the ground. Maybe in the back of the bed of the truck. Definitely, without water or electrical hook-ups for RVs. I'm older now, so I have an A-frame, pop-up camper which provides some conveniences but I still choose the secluded sites with no water or electric hook-ups. 

This summer I was thrilled to have a Conbola fan with me. On one particular camping weekend, the weather was hot and humid. Even while I was parked under a thick stand of shade trees, I had a hard time being comfortable. But I had the Conbola fan in the pop-up camper. This fan moves far more air than I had expected. And the battery lasted much longer than I had expected. Initially, I ran it for only short periods of time (an hour at a time) to try to ensure having a fan for the entire weekend. After that first day, I ran it for hours at a time, with confidence. 

Portable Cooling on the Homestead

I may decide to use this fan in the winter to better circulate the hot air from the woodstove. I had also thought that this little fan would be perfect if I still had rabbits. Rabbits have fur and are easy to keep comfortable in cold weather. But rabbits are like me in that they don't do as well during hot summer days. Rabbit owners are often sharing tips with each other to help keep their rabbits cool. This fan would easily hang on their cage and provide a cooling breeze (note: under roof or other protection. I do not believe these fans are water resistant).  I imagine that there may be other situations in which pets and animals would maybe require cooling. And, as my gardening friend demonstrated with her Conbola fan, some folks benefit from taking a fan with them while gardening. 

As a Gift

This fan would make a great gift! I'm thinking of dorm rooms, craft/art studios, attic bedrooms, folks who have booths at summer festivals, and people who like to be prepared for low or no power emergency situations. Or, do you know people who live in the same home and participate in "thermostat wars" because one person is too cold and one is too hot? This would make a great gift for the person who prefers to have a personal breeze blowing. I am positive that you are able to think of someone who would put a quiet, cordless fan to good use. 

Related Links

I found my Conbola Fan on Amazon during a time that the price was reduced. 

If you prefer to shop the Conbola website, you will also find a large variety of their fans, lighting, and energy storage.

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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Wednesday Addams American Girl Doll Review

Wednesday is a popular Netflix series based on Wednesday Addams of the Addams Family. The first season, which aired in 2022, saw Wednesday, who is played by Jenna Ortega, try to solve a murder at Nevermore Academy. 

The series received positive reviews from the critic with Wikipedia saying that it was "the second most watched English Netflix series." The second season was released in 2025 and the show has since been renewed for a third season.

DOLL DESCRIPTION

The show is popular enough to have created some interesting merchandise including the American Girl doll named Wednesday who appears here on this page. The Hollywood Reporter says that the American Girl doll company has “gone goth.” For this doll, American Girl partnered with Amazon MGM Studios.

Packed in a special collector box with a certificate of authenticity, she sold for $295 U.S. According to American Girl Fandom, she was released on July 21, 2025 and sold out six days later on July 27, 2025. The limited-edition doll, with a run of 6,000 individually numbered dolls, was available on both the American Girl and the Amazon websites. 

Wednesday is like many other Truly Me American Girl dolls, measuring 18-inches with opening and closing eyes, a vinyl head and limbs and a soft body. This doll, of course, looks like the Wednesday character that many love. She has black pigtails, bangs that are called ‘curtain bangs', painted eyelashes, feathered eyebrows and freckles. Her black velvet dress has a white sateen Peter Pan-style collar and long sleeves. The dress features an embroidered pattern that looks like a floral print and has interesting black buttons. She wears black tights and panties and shiny black patent kitten-heel Mary Jane-style shoes. Her accessories include a Thing figurine, two bags of piranhas and a fake silver-colored obsidian necklace.

Better Homes and Gardens predicts that, at least in part because of the popularity of Wednesday, this Halloween will see a trend to “dark academia, gothic, Victorian, and downright spooky style and decor.” I agree and think that this doll would make a great part of anyone's Halloween decor collection. Plus, because of the fact that it is a limited-edition doll, I believe that it will increase in value in the years to come. 

UNBOXING VIDEO

Here's a short video unboxing of Wednesday:

BUY WEDNESDAY

Since Wednesday is sold out, you will have to look to resellers to find her. Click here to find your Wednesday Addams American Girl doll on eBay. If you can get your hands on one of these dolls, you’ll be doing the Wednesday Dance for sure!

OTHER MERCHANDISE

Other Wednesday Addams toys have included a Monster High doll and a Fisher-Price Little People figurine set.  You will find thousands of new, used and vintage Wednesday Addams-themed merchandise on eBay by clicking here. I even saw a pair of Dr. Martens Wednesday themed boots!

Don't miss out on the Wednesday merchandise at Amazon, either! Click here to see the collection there. 

Happy Haunting!

Brenda

MORE HALLOWEEN & AMERICAN GIRL DOLL READING:

Play-Doh's Count Creepyhead Playset.

Discover Jim Henson's General Mills' Monsters Cereal.

What is Summerween?

American Girl Doll Items in my eBay store!

American Girl Doll Sewing Patterns.

A Locker for American Girl Dolls.

  

 

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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Cute Blue Owl Collection - From the Heart

My cute blue owl design is one of those designs when I just have a general thought in mind, which is one of my favorite ways to create.

I find it more freeing, and I am especially pleased when it turns out really well, i.e. to my liking. That is not always the case. But it did happen for the blue owl design.

I began with a general sketch of an owl and then continued using my paint brush. One side looked bigger than the other; no problem, I just made adjustments and continued with the flow. That is what is so great about it; designing this way, I get to go with the flow. And like I said, sometimes it turns out really well.

My first cutesy product that I made was general in nature, a Hello postcard was first.

Cute Abstract Owl Custom Postcards
by CherylsArt

Then I made three birthday products with my blue owl painting. Approximately two weeks after my creations, six of the Hello postcards were sold. Yay. I didn't give it much thought and went on to whatever else I had going on.

It wasn't until over a year later that a set of my blue owl birthday stickers sold. This time, it got my attention. 'I should see what kind of owl items are being purchased on Zazzle.' Wrapping paper was one of them, and I had already designed a blue owl product on tissue paper. Okay, that's it. I'll make a birthday suite featuring this cute, adorable, blue owl.

And sometimes, that is how it goes for me. I don't always have everything planned from the start. It just kind of unfolds in due time.

This is how my flow unfolded for this Cute Blue Owl Birthday suite. Hope you like it. The products include wrapping paper, tissue paper, paper napkins, paper plates, birthday invitations, and more.

Cute Blue Owl Birthday
by CherylsArt

If there is an additional product that you would like me to add it to, let me know in a comment below.

Cheryl Paton

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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Bread Slicing Made Easy ~ A Product Review

Alright everyone, just in case you didn't notice, it is now October and the seasons are a changing!  It means that the daylight hours are getting shorter and our habits are changing as well.  

When it's cooler in the morning, there is something magical about nice warm bread with your morning cup of tea or coffee.

When the seasons change we just change right along with them.  Baking seems to be the one thing that my other half just enjoys so much more in the cooler months.  I guess I can't blame him. Who would want to be in a hot kitchen when it's 80 or more outside?

So now that the temperature is dropping, the oven doesn't seem like the enemy any more.

So quite often I am awakened to the smell of fresh baking bread and like a zombie, I find my way into the kitchen to see what is going on.  The oven door is open and a fresh loaf of bread is cooling on the rack.  I think I have died and gone to heaven.

Now here is the problem, both of us have issues with slicing bread nicely.  When you want a sandwich, you want some bread and some filling.  We tend to get lots of bread and a little filling.  There is no consistency to how thick or thin the slices are.  

Well leave it up to him to find a solution.  Did you know that there are bread slicing guides that can make slicing bread easier?  Well there are and they are a great solution to our problem.  With this bread slicing guide, you can have uniform thin slices or you can still have thick ones too ( if that's your choice ).

Your fingers are never too close to the blade and the crumbs just drop within the slicer so that the mess on the table or counter is minimized.  And you get bread crumbs too!  It is a win-win situation.

It has lots of slots in it so that whatever type of bread you are trying to slice, your slicing guide is adjustable to fit the loaf or baguette or bagel that you choose to cut! It is adjustable to suit whatever size loaf you put in it.  

Some of the features of this slicer is:

• dishwasher safe
• durable, made of high quality plastic
• non slip base
• easy to assemble 

So far this little helper has been a life saver for us. Now we can have our bread in nice uniform slices without any stress or guessing.  Every time we have used it, it has proven itself a winner.

You can get yours here on Amazon or you can choose another style that will suit your needs. Just know that once you have one of these, you won't go back to eyeballing how thick or thin your bread slices will be!

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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One Click Butter Cutter Review

 On a recent trip to our son's house, Fran brought home a new kitchen gadget. She pulled it out of a bag and said Your son got this for you. Sometimes our son finds the craziest gadgets. 

My first thoughts were, is this a new handy kitchen gadget or a gimmick? Well, I couldn't wait to try it out. The instructions are easy: just pull the top off, shake out the pusher, slide in a stick of butter, replace the pusher and the top, and squeeze the trigger for a perfect pat of butter. 

I popped some bread in the toaster, pulled the trigger, and to my amazement, it really worked. The pats of butter are the perfect size for spreading on toast, melting over veggies, or topping a baked potato.

The cutter is lightweight and compact, making it easy to store in the fridge. Cleanup is fairly simple, just rinse it under warm water or place it in the dishwasher.

The One-Click Butter Cutter isn't a must-have gadget, but it is certainly a fun and handy addition to the kitchen.

For less than $20, it makes a clever little gift or conversation starter at the breakfast table. Is it essential? Probably not. But it does make buttering toast a bit more fun.

Butter Cutter,One-Click Butter Cutter Convenience,Butter Dispenser with Stainless Steel Blade and Storage Case, Butter for Making Bread, Cakes, Cookies (1PC)Buy Now

 

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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Magnetic Clasps and Closures

 Do you have trouble fastening your necklaces and bracelets?  I know I often struggle trying to put on my jewelry and this has become increasingly difficult as the years go by.  I recently received a new bracelet, and it came with a magnetic clasp.  It is so easy to attach that I find myself reaching for this bracelet all the time.  

My New Bracelet

My new bracelet is seen in the photo at the top of this article.  My sister took my Mom's silverware and had them made into various jewelry pieces for Mom's children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  I chose the bracelet, and it is now one of my favorite pieces of jewelry. Each time I wear the bracelet, I remember when I was young and before ever holiday meal, Mom would get out her good silver and it would be my job to polish it. It is attractive and so easy to put on and off with the magnetic clasp.

Adding Magnetic Clasps to Existing Jewelry

Magnetic clasps are a wonderful feature for anyone who has trouble using their hands, whether it be from arthritis, limited use of hands and/or fingers, a manicure, or like me just the effects of growing older.   These clasps are so easy to use.  You just need to lay out your necklace or bracelet to the right and left with the magnetic clasp in the middle.  You can then put the item around your neck or wrist and bring the two ends of the new clasps together and the magnets will attract to each and just like that in seconds you have on your jewelry.  I love having the frustration of trying to hook my jewelry together removed.  Now I'm able to wear items that have been left in my jewelry box because they were too hard to connect!

Amazon Magnetic Clasps

Here is a link to the clasps I purchased on Amazon.  Necklace Magnetic Clasps   As you look on Amazon you will find they have a wide variety of different packages of magnetic clasps and closures for you to choose from.  They come in different sizes and shapes to fit your needs.  Here are some of the features of the style I chose.

• Lightweight-.03oz
• Length .7 inch...this adds a bit of length to my jewelry item, but not too much.
• Made of strong silver, sturdy and solid
• Retains colors after long time use
• Allergy free-won't turn your skin green

I hope this solution to fastening your jewelry works for you or someone you know who has trouble with putting on their jewelry.

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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Faraday Bags for Personal Protection Against Theft & Tracking Reviewed

Faraday Bags Allow You to Block Tracking, Prevent Credit Card Data Theft & Key Fob Signal Theft

Electronics are great!  Many of us enjoy the convenience of email, online banking & shopping, reading books on electronic devices and even starting our cars with remote control.  However, with these fabulous conveniences come opportunities for theft.  

Thieves can use other electronic devices (rfid readers) to steal our credit card information without ever touching our wallets, or even the physical credit card.  There are other devices to transfer your car key fob's signal so they can unlock and start your car in order to steal it.  And, of course, we can all be tracked by our phones.  

Let's face it.  If we can electronically do anything, there is also a way for a thief to hack our devices and get entry to our information and property.  In order to protect our assets, we need Faraday bags to block their intrusion. 

I purchased a set of Faraday bags because I wasn't quite sure what size would be best for my needs or how I would want to use them daily.  It turns out, they are all needed.  I put the largest bag inside my backpack and use it as if it were a liner to the backpack.  I drop my keys & wallet in it and retrieve them (just as I would from the backpack) when I need them.  That keeps them from being exposed to thieves when I am simply carrying them while shopping, eating in a restaurant, or walking simply for exercise.  I gave the single key fob Faraday bag in the set to my son for his car key.  I can tell you from experience that it works!  We have since purchased several single key fob Faraday bags.

Keeping our electronic devises in a Faraday bag at home is also wise.  I recently read that thieves can stand outside your home windows and use devices to steal your data or signals while your wallets and key fobs are idly laying around your home.  I hate to say it, but that could also mean when you have workmen around your home.  

When my brother was flying and wanted to protect his laptop, we gave him a Faraday bag that was large enough to enclose his laptop.

Additional benefits of Faraday bags are that they are water and fire resistant.  Of course, that is limited protection against water or fire, but electronics could be saved by a Faraday bag if retrieved soon enough.

 

Set of Faraday Bags

IFENROL Faraday Bags EMP Proof - 4 Pack Faraday Pouch Anti-Tracking Key Fob Protector, Faraday Cage for Phones & Laptops & Tablets & Car Keys for Fireproof & WaterproofCheck Price There are 4 Faraday bags in varying sizes in the set that I initially purchased.  I have added to our collection of Faraday bags as needed for specific sized items.  I like having one in each of our vehicles to use when needed too.

Rest stops, restaurants, or a friend's driveway are examples of the kinds of places I might stop for a short period of time and not want to carry in my iPad or cellphone.  

Hotel rooms are also extremely venerable places.  If you usually set your cell phone, keys and/or wallet on the night stand in a hotel room while you sleep, a Faraday bag would be essential.

What's in the Set

• Large Faraday Bags (12.2 X 9.2 inch) - for Laptops & tablets
• Medium Faraday Pouch (10.63 X 6.8 inch) - for tablets
• Small Faraday Phone Pouch (7.87 X 4.72 inch) - for cell phones or passports
• Extra Small RFID pouch (5.9 X 3.15 inch) - for a key fob

Each bag has a top velco strip closure. Simply fold the top over to press the velco strips together for closure

 

These are the Faraday Bags I Purchased Separately for a Laptop and Additional Key Fobs

Faraday Bags 17'' x 15'', Large EMP Proof faradaybag Anti-theft Anti-Tracking for Laptops & Tablets & Phones & Car Keys, Fireproof & Waterproof RFID Signal Blocker Faraday Pouch

Faraday Pouch for Car Keys, Faraday Bag, Car RFID Signal Blocking Holder, Key Fob Protector, Key fob cage Block Signal Anti-Theft Fob Case (2 Pack)

 

 

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Faraday Bags for Personal Protection Against Theft & Tracking Reviewed  written by:

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Greenstalk Vertical Planter Review

I currently have two Greenstalk vertical planters. One is a taller unit with shorter planter tiers in it. My other one is a shorter unit, with deeper planter tiers in it.

I had the taller unit for approximately a year before purchasing the additional shorter unit with the deeper planting wells. The shorter wells are meant for plants that do not require the extra room for deeper roots.

What I have learned, is that based on my attention to watering, is that the deeper planting wells work best for me. They hold more water for longer, making the plants happier overall.

Although the units are made to drain excess water out the bottom, and through a hose attachment, they can be over watered. I did that early on. Then I went the other way and watered too little. When I purchased the shorter unit, I had much better success.

Both the shorter wells and the deeper wells have the same premise for working. They have a predrilled hole in each planting area that lines up with the tier below it, and the water drains down to the next tier and so on.

Each unit also comes with a water collection reservoir at the top, which is detachable, that can more quickly drain excess water down to the bottom and out, like when there is a heavy rain.

The planting tiers come as a set depending on which size planting wells you want and how many tiers you want to have.

I have found that I also prefer the shorter tiers, as the top is easier to reach for planting and watering.

There are accessories that can be ordered to help with the vertical gardening. The main one is the wheel base attachment with a spinner. The wheels can be locked in place to prevent the vertical planter from rolling on its own. The spinner allows you to easily turn the planter unit around without moving the wheels, to allow different plants to get more sun or shade as needed. You may need to go to Greenstalk.com to locate this specific accessory.

There are also other attachments to help with plant support. There are also accessories for frost protection and insect protection. I did purchase the accessory for frost protection, and felt more secure with my plants being protected on the predicted frosty mornings.

Pros:

More plants can be planted in a small square foot area, making it a great option for balcony and patio gardening.

The watering area is in a smaller square foot area.

Has optional accessories to make gardening easier.

Has a basic texture design or a weave pattern texture to choose from, and also various colors.

Cons:

Requires more regular watering, more so than raised beds and in ground gardening.

Would I order it again? Yes. Actually I already placed my order for an additional short tiered unit with the deeper planting wells. Whether my plants need the extra room for deeper roots or not, I will give them the extra space, and the shorter unit is easier for me to reach overall. I am 5'4".

Greenstalk Vertical Planter, 3 tiered unit. Check price.

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Cheryl Paton

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Check Out This Medical Grade Manuka Honey for Wound Care

When it comes to wound care, I've always kept it simple. Living in Canada, Polysporin has been my go-to for as long as I can remember—it's the first thing I reach for when there's a cut, scrape, or any other wound that needs healing. 

However, I recently discovered something worth considering for wound care: ActiVon Medical Grade Manuka Honey.

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I Used to Use Regular Honey… Until I Learned Why I Shouldn't!

A few years ago, I used to apply regular organic honey to minor wounds, thinking it was a natural and soothing solution. And truthfully, I never had any bad reactions to it. But earlier this year, I happened to do some reading—and wow, I had no idea that using non-medical honey on open wounds wasn't actually recommended.

Apparently, regular honey (even organic) can contain bacteria or spores that haven't been filtered out, which makes it unsafe for wound use. 

That discovery led me down a research rabbit hole, and it was there that I first came across medical-grade honey, specifically Manuka Honey from New Zealand.

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Discovering ActiVon

That research led me to a product called ActiVon Medical Grade Manuka Honey, and I decided to give it a try. 

Right away, I could tell this wasn't anything like using regular honey. ActiVon is sterilized, filtered, and formulated specifically for wound care. It's a 100% medical-grade Manuka honey gel—nothing added, no preservatives—and it's safe to apply directly to open skin.

It's designed to create a moist healing environment, which is actually better for wound recovery. The gel has a thick but smooth consistency, making it easy to apply, and it stays in place nicely.

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How I Personally Use It

This year, I had a wound that was healing well, but I still wanted to support the healing process and make sure everything stayed clean and healthy. I used a small amount of ActiVon directly on the area, and in my typical Canadian style, I paired it with a dab of Polysporin—that's just my habit.

Let me be clear: I'm not a doctor, and I don't recommend mixing products like that. I'm sharing what I personally did, and it worked well for me.

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What Makes ActiVon Stand Out

Here's what impressed me most about using ActiVon:

• It keeps the wound moist, which helps promote faster healing and reduces the likelihood of scarring.

• It creates an osmotic effect, which gently pulls out harmful tissue and debris from the wound bed.

• It reduces the risk of infection while eliminating odors—without masking anything artificially.

• It felt gentle, and even though I was nervous to apply honey to a healing wound, it felt soothing. It's a bit sticky, of course, but that's to be expected.

• It's 100% natural, and the fact that it doesn't absorb into the bloodstream makes it a safe option.

• It contains no added preservatives, only pure, medical-grade Manuka honey that has been filtered and sterilized.

• The packaging makes it easy to use, and I love that the tube size is perfect—not too big, not too small.

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A New Favorite in My First Aid Kit

This has now become a product I keep on hand. I've even purchased a second tube—just to have in case I need it again. It gave me peace of mind knowing I was using something natural yet medically designed for healing.

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Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely—but with the usual disclaimer: talk to your doctor first. 

I'm someone who tends to dive in and try things on my own (sometimes before asking anyone!), but not everyone should do that. 

If you're considering trying ActiVon for wound care, it's best to get professional guidance, especially if you're dealing with chronic or serious wounds.

That said, if your doctor gives you the green light, ActiVon Medical Grade Manuka Honey is 100% worth exploring.

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Disclaimer:
I'm not a medical professional. I'm sharing my personal experience using ActiVon. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any new product on wounds, especially if you have existing health conditions, Bee allergies, other allergies, or are treating serious injuries.

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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