Review This Reviews!

Showing posts with label Sylvestermouse. Show all posts

Friday, May 7, 2021

Witness to Murder: A Darrow Mystery from Hallmark Movie Review

I think just about everyone enjoys a mystery, but we don't always desire to see the explicit crime scenes. The Darrow Mystery series from Hallmark provides mysteries without including sights that haunt us in our nightmares.

In 2019, I reviewed the Darrow & Darrow Hallmark series. At that time, the episode, Witness to Murder, had not yet been released. Therefore, I am reviewing it separately today.

Darrow & Darrow is a law firm originally started by Claire Darrow's parents. When Claire's father died, her mother took a position with a different law firm in New York. However, Joanna Darrow has now returned to Darrow & Darrow to work alongside her daughter.

In Witness to Murder, Miles Strasberg is the appointed prosecutor and Claire is the defense attorney in the case. Even though they have toyed with the idea of dating, they agree to set aside any romantic interest until the trial is over. With Mile's ex-girlfriend investigating the case and working closely with Miles, Claire finds herself questioning if Miles had ulterior motives for suggesting they place their personal relationship on hold.

Synopsis of Witness to Murder: A Darrow Mystery

When Cassie Piper shows up at Darrow & Darrow begging for help, Claire and Joanna are not certain they want to take Cassie's case. After all, Cassie was responsible for Joanna being fired from the New York law firm and Joanna has no desire to run to her rescue now that she needs legal representation.

Cassie maintains that Joanna's law firm would be the best defense law firm for her since Joanna worked with Brian Herriman, the man accusing Cassie of insider trading.

Joanna is still debating whether to take Cassie's case when Brian Herriman contacts her and requests a meeting. She can't resist the opportunity to see her former employer pleading for her assistance. What she doesn't expect is to be a witness to murder herself and the number one suspect is Cassie Piper.

If you are a Hallmark fan, or enjoy a cozy mystery with a touch of romance, then I am sure you will also love this movie!

Witness to Murder: A Darrow MysteryCheck Price Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Collection: Darrow & Darrow - 3 Film DVD BundleCheck Price

Currently, "Darrow & Darrow" is available on Amazon with a subscription to the Hallmark Channel.

More Great Movies Reviewed

Check Out More Movie Reviews at
ReviewThisMovies.com

Witness to Murder: A Darrow Mystery Reviewed by:

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.”

FOLLOW US ON:

Friday, April 30, 2021

Tennessee Travel: Natchez Trace State Park Review

There is much to explore in the Natchez Trace State Park, which is located off Interstate 40 (I-40) between Memphis and Nashville, TN.

It is a wonderful place for a day trip for hiking or exploring jeep trails, but it would also be an awesome vacation destination. With several lodging options, you get to choose what best suits your personal needs. Frankly, our most recent visit left me longing for a camper so we could easily spend the night.

Not only does the park offer RV camping facilities, they have cabin rental, a lodge with hotel rooms & dining, or you can pitch a tent. Each style has designated areas for a more enjoyable stay for all. Plus, there are playground areas, swimming, paddle boat, boat and canoe rental, picnicking areas, an equestrian facility, a firing range, and an archery range.

Since the park is spread out over 10,000 areas within a 48,000 acre forest, none of it seems to be sitting "on top of the other". I do recommend stopping at the visitor's center when you enter the park to get a map. Wandering aimlessly is fun, but if you have limited time, you might prefer to know where each facility, trail, picnic area, etc. is located. It is also where you can view the wildlife in rehab.

Day Trip in Natchez Trace State Park

We set out for the jeep trails, which we did explore, but ended up having to get out and walk some too. It was such a beautiful spring day! It would have been a shame to spend the entire time riding instead of walking. Needless to say, the sunlight and fresh air "pulled" me from the jeep seat to walk around the lake and across the bridge.

That is what I love most about Natchez Trace State Park. It is so much natural beauty in one place. Even the man-built cabins are nestled so beautifully within the trees that they don't distract from the peace and tranquility that permeates the park.

As we strolled through the beach area created for swimming, we encountered a search team with dogs in training. Of course, they all loved Merlin, but he questioned why those dogs needed training for what comes naturally to him.

From there, we ventured to the bridge that crosses the lake and provides a spectacular view of the surroundings.

Back to the jeep for another fun ride through the woods. While my husband enjoyed navigating the dirt trails designed for jeeps, I thrilled at being able to take photos of lots of spring blooming trees and wildflowers. The last time we were at Natchez Trace State Park, I concentrated on photographing birds, but this time, it was the flowers that fascinated me.

As the sun started to set, we unwillingly sought out the highway home. Oh, how I wish we had that camper! I could only imagine the sunrise in this beautiful place.

A Few of the Bird Photos I Took On Our Last Visit to Natchez Trace State Park

Points of Interest in Natchez Trace State Park

No Matter the Length of Stay or Accommodations,
We All Need the Convenience Store!

Group Lodge has 4 or 5 cottages, a bunkhouse, and
a Group Meeting Building with Kitchen

Pin Oak Lodge Offers Motel Style Rooms, a Restaurant
& Family Recreation Activities

Accommodations for a Special Event

If you are planning a special event, you might want to consider the Cub Lake Recreation Lodge, a very reasonably priced venue, which will accommodate up to 200 people. The lodge is a large, beautiful room for just the actual event. Those who wish to stay overnight could make arrangements for one of the other facilities mentioned above.

Travel Tennessee with Me

Previously Reviewed Tennessee Travel Destinations

Fall Hollow Waterfall on the Natchez Trace Parkway The Memphis Zoo Review Pictorial Tour of the Memphis Botanic Gardens Teton Trek at the Memphis Zoo Review

See More Travel Reviews & Recommendations On
Review This Travel!

Tennessee Travel: Natchez Trace State Park Review written by:

FOLLOW US ON:

Friday, April 23, 2021

Picture Perfect Mysteries: Newlywed and Dead Hallmark Movie Reviewed

In 2019, Hallmark released the first movie in their series, Picture Perfect Mysteries. You can probably guess by the title, Newlywed and Dead, the basis for the mystery, but you will be shocked by the killer's identity. As mysteries go, this one is pretty good since the ending is not predictable.

I also like the main characters and actors. The fact that one of the main characters is a photographer appeals to me. While I am not a professional photographer, I do enjoy taking pictures. I understand how photographers focus on something through the lens of a camera that we might otherwise overlook. Capturing just the right image, at that perfect moment, is important to any photographer, professional or amateur. In the case of murder, it is paramount.

In this Hallmark mystery series, Alexa PenaVega plays the part of the professional photographer, Allie Adams, and owns the studio, Picture Perfect Photography. In the movie, Newlywed and Dead, Allie is shooting her friends wedding reception when the groom is killed. Using the photos taken before & after the wedding, she strives to piece together what happened to discover who killed her friend's new husband.

Most Hallmark movies I select to watch and review are romantic movies. While Newlywed and Dead has a very small element of romance, it is primarily a murder mystery and is recommended as such.

Picture Perfect Mysteries: Newlywed and Dead

Allie Adams is happy to be photographing her best friend's wedding. As such, she has a "focus" on several views, interactions, and conversations before and after the wedding.

Weddings always appear to be the height of happiness, but often have underlying threads of tension. It is Allie's job to capture the pleasant moments and create that illusion of perfection which allows the memories of stress to fade over the years and the memory of love and beauty to prevail in hearts and minds. However, that is an impossible job when the groom is shot while dancing with his bride at their wedding reception. That will always be the image that replaces all others of that wedding day.

When Allie's brother is accused of committing the murder due to jealousy, Allie refuses to let her brother be railroaded because he is the likely suspect. A new detective in town, Sam Acosta (played by Carlos PenaVega) is investigating the groom's murder. With an unbiased perspective, he looks at evidence to determine who to charge with murder and Allie is determined to find evidence of her brother's innocence. That means she is seeking for other suspects and could easily put herself in harm's way.

Mystery lovers will enjoy the thrill of not knowing the killer's identity, while romantics will enjoy watching the beginning of a newly developing relationship. Newlywed and Dead sets the stage for what is sure to be a fun, Picture Perfect Mysteries series for all to watch.

Picture Perfect Mysteries: Newlywed and DeadCheck Price Picture Perfect Mysteries: Dead Over DiamondsCheck Price Picture Perfect Mysteries: Exit Stage DeathCheck Price

Currently, "Picture Perfect Mysteries: Newlywed and Dead" is available on Amazon with a subscription to the Hallmark Channel.

More Great Movies Reviewed

Check Out More Movie Reviews at
ReviewThisMovies.com

Picture Perfect Mysteries: Newlywed and Dead Hallmark Movie Reviewed by:

FOLLOW US ON:

Friday, April 16, 2021

CorningWare 20-ounce Pop-in Mug with Vented Plastic Cover Reviewed

There is nothing better for lunch than a cup of hot soup, especially on a cold or rainy day! These Corningware Pop-In Mugs make heating soup in the microwave fast, easy, and without any mess.

We received a set of the Pop-in Mugs several years ago as a gift. At the time, I had no idea how much I would end up enjoying these Corningware microwavable mugs. Not only are they microwavable, but they are dishwasher safe. Therefore, the entire meal from beginning to end is easier.

If I make a pot of soup or stew, I can fill and store the mugs in the refrigerator or freezer. When I am ready to reheat the soup, I simply pop the vent on the lid, stick it in the microwave, and heat. That plastic vented lid is the only cover needed to keep my microwave clean and clear of splatters or overflows.

At 20 ounces, it is also the perfect size for a can of soup. I enjoy Campbell's Tomato Soup. The mug would be large enough for the entire can contents as well as water. However, I don't add water to my tomato soup. I heat the soup in the microwave for 3 minutes and I'm ready to go. Because the mug handle is not hot, I can "drink" my tomato soup while continuing to work at my computer. I know it is best to take a real lunch break, but that is not always possible. It is nice to have a good hot lunch that I can easily eat/drink while working.

If I still worked outside of the home, it would be a very easy and practical way to carry soup, stew, chili, etc to work for lunch, ready for the microwave. The lid is tight enough that liquid will not spill, although I wouldn't test it by turning it upside down for a prolonged period of time.

CorningWare Colours Pop-Ins
20-oz Soup Mug with Lid - 2 Pack (Tomato)Check PriceFeatures of the Corningware Pop-in Mug

Comes with a vented lid for easy microwaving
20 Ounce size
Stoneware - Available in a variety of colors
Freezer Safe
Oven Safe
Dishwasher Safe

The only downside that I have found to these mugs is that my tomato soup has stained the inside of one of our lids. No big deal for me. I know it is clean, but I suspect that would bother some people. I have tried baking soda, vinegar, soaking, and several stain removal suggestions, but none have removed the tomato soup stain on the lid.

CorningWare Colours Pop-Ins 20-oz Soup Mug with Lid - 2 Pack (French White)Check Price Tomato Red Pop-Ins 20 oz. Mug with Vented Plastic CoverCheck Price CorningWare Microwaveable Soup/Meal/Beverage Mug w/Vented Plastic LidCheck Price Corningware Pop-Ins 20-OzMug w/ Blue Vented Plastic Cover, Blueberry (Pack of 2)Check Price

Old Versus New Corningware Designs

I am a huge fan of CorningWare!

The current day line of products are not always the same as the Corningware of 30 years ago. However, the items I have replaced with the newer version have been fine. I understand the new Pop-in Mugs have smaller handles than mine. Also, it seems manufacturing has moved to China. Mine were made in Thailand.
If you prefer the older versions, I recommend searching eBay for the older versions of CorningWare.

Friday, April 9, 2021

Bush Trimming Cleanup is Easier with Disposable Drop Cloths Reviewed

Trimming my Juniper bushes is the first thing I do in my backyard in early spring and it is the last thing I do before winter. Thanks to my small, yet sharp, Black & Decker Hedge Trimmer, the trimming part is easy. However, the cleanup used to be back-breaking and take hours. I dreaded the job as the work days approached. So many times I had to tell myself just get out there and get it done! Then one year I had an epiphany that made that job so much easier and faster.

I started laying out disposable drop clothes under the bushes. That way, as I trim, all of the debris and clippings fall directly on the drop cloth. When I am finished, I simply roll up the drop cloths and throw them away.

Now, instead of taking 2 or 3 days, wearing myself out and having to take Advil for my back pain, I can finish the entire job in about 4 hours.

Over the last few years, I have found that the lighter weight drop cloths are not a good choice. They tear, which defeats the purpose of using them.

The plastic drop cloths I prefer are heavy duty, 1 MIL, 9" x 12". Since I only use them one time and throw them away, this size and thickness are very easy to handle without being too thin to handle the weight of bush trimming.

I buy them in packages of 2 or 3. I use 3 drop cloths to surround the large bushes I have to trim and I lay them all out before I start trimming. That way, I don't end up trimming in an area of the bush that doesn't have the plastic underneath it to catch the clippings.

When I have finished trimming the entire bush, I fold the length side of each plastic drop cloth over the middle, covering all of the trimmings. Then, starting at one end, roll it up, put it in a big durable Contractor's trash bag, and throw it away.

Buying plastic drop cloths is a very inexpensive way to make a hard job much easier. Plus, I can enjoy my freshly trimmed bushes a lot sooner and call it a job well done.

Frost King P115R/3 Clear Polyethylene Drop Cloths (3 Pack), 9' x 12' x 1MilCheck Price Contractor's Choice 50-Count 42-Gallon Outdoor Construction Trash BagsCheck Price BLACK+DECKER Electric Hedge Trimmer, 17-Inch (BEHT150)Check Price SLARMOR Long-Gardening-Gloves Women/Men-Thorn Proof Rose Pruning Heavy Duty Gauntlet-SCheck Price

Friday, April 2, 2021

Frontline Flea & Tick Drops for Dogs and Cats Reviewed

frontline flea and tick drops for dogs and cats

Each spring I am reminded that there are a few things I really hate about the arrival of warmer weather. The main one is ticks. I absolutely abhor ticks!

I have always lived in the beautiful state of Tennessee. There is so much to love here. We have the benefit of experiencing all four seasons, we can grow beautiful flowers, trees and plants, plus we have a wide range of terrain that includes hills, mountains, woods and farm land. Unfortunately, ticks love our state too.

We enjoy walking in the woods, on trails, and exploring the world around us. We always take our dog with us and ticks love our dog as much as they love our state. Those mean critters hop on him with evil intentions, but he has a Frontline of defense that leaves them wishing they had chosen a different host.

I remember well the first time we armed our first dog with Frontline. After a day of frolicking in the woods with our daughter, he laid down on the entry tile to sleep. When he awoke, a pile of dead ticks were surrounding him. Ah, the perfect tick!

Since that day, all of our dogs have been protected by Frontline Plus, which also kills fleas.

How & When to Treat a Dog with Frontline Flea & Tick Drops

FRONTLINE Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs (Extra Large Dog, 89-132 Pounds, 6 Doses)Check Price When to treat you pets may vary by location. I suspect some lower southern states need to treat their pets year round. In Tennessee, we grab the Frontline as soon as the first warm day arrives. That is usually in late February or early March. Since ticks go dormant during the winter (days with temperatures of under 32°), our dogs get a break from the medicine between October and March. After that, the drops are applied once a month to keep them protected.

The word "drops" implies that there isn't much liquid applied, but that really isn't an accurate description. The vials contain the amount of medicine required based on the pets weight. For our Labrador retriever, his vials contain about a teaspoon of medicine.

The vial applicators are plastic and are vial shaped with a neck so you are able to apply the liquid all on one spot of skin between a dogs shoulder blades. You must separate his fur and apply the medicine to his skin (it is absorbed through the skin).

Once dry, the Frontline is waterproof and will continue to protect your swimming pups.

A few words of caution:

Wear disposable gloves when treating your pet with Frontline
Do not touch the liquid yourself. I found this out the hard way. I get a severe sore throat if I accidentally touch the spot, even if I wash my hands quickly.
Avoid petting the animal in the application area until it is completely dry (experience tells me that is about a day)
We apply it at bedtime which allows 8hrs before we are likely to accidentally touch the application spot
Do Not apply Frontline to young puppies less than 8 weeks old according to the package, but I recommend consulting your vet for the appropriate age recommendation. We have never used it on a puppy less than a year old.
Don't let other animals lick the treated spot
Do Not apply more often than once a month

Now, you may wonder, with all of these cautions, is it really worth it. Easy answer, yes! Ticks carry diseases that could not only kill your pet, but would also kill you should the tick or its offspring prefer you to the dog.

I've read the numbers of people who die annually from tick transmitted diseases. They seem low when reading, especially if you weigh that number against how many people hike regularly. However, I have personally known someone who died of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and it no longer seems as rare as one might think if you just read the statistics.

Having grown up in the south, I know ticks are common. Dogs and cats can't check themselves for ticks. Unless a human just happens to pet them when the tick is embedded and recognize the nasty "lump", a tick can live on a dog for weeks, months or even years based on the tick species and gender. One of the last things a pet owner wants is a tick infestation.

As with any medication, check with your pet's doctor before using Frontline. If the vet doesn't mention tick prevention to you, you now know to ask them.

FRONTLINE Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Large Dogs Up to 45 to 88 lbs., 3 TreatmentsCheck Price FRONTLINE Plus For Cats and Kittens Flea and Tick Treatment, 6 DosesCheck Price

Pet Related Reviews

Frontline Flea & Tick Drops for Dogs and Cats Reviewed by:

FOLLOW US ON:

Friday, March 26, 2021

Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe Reviewed

Carrot Cake Cupcakes are a delicious treat anytime!

My mother recently made 2 dozen carrot cake cupcakes using the recipe below. She was generous and thoughtful enough to share them with me and my household. I was beyond thrilled to receive this gift. I understand the time commitment and work behind making a few dozen cupcakes. Therefore, I can really appreciate receiving a dozen homemade cupcakes.

Cupcakes are a personal favorite since they are made in single serving portions. That saves serving preparation and clean-up. You can grab a cupcake, toss the paper liner, and eat it without needing to get out a plate or utensils. So fast & easy!

The carrot cake cupcakes are fabulous for breakfast, a special treat, or dessert. For 3 days straight, I was able to enjoy a carrot cake cupcake with my coffee for breakfast. I was rather sad when they were all gone. But, I have the recipe! And, I am willing to share it with you so you too can start your day with delicious carrot cake.

Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe - Yields 36 cupcakes

Cupcake Ingredients:

2 c. shredded julienne carrots
2 c. granulated sugar
1 c. canola oil
4 large eggs
1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
2 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon

Frosting Ingredients:

1/2 c. unsalted butter (softened)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
4 c. powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 c. chopped pecans

________________________________________

Instructions for Cupcakes

1. Grate carrots & chop pecans
2. Preheat oven to 350°
3. Line large cupcake pans with cupcake liners (3 pans of 12 each)
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, oil, and eggs. Beat until well-blended.
5. Add flour, baking soda, baking powder and cinnamon. Beat for about 2 to 3 minutes.
6. (Set aside your mixer) Stir in shredded carrots & pineapple.
7. Fill cupcake tins 3/4 full and bake for approximately 22 - 24 minutes (toothpick test)
8. Set cupcakes on cooking racks and allow to cool completely before frosting
9. While the cupcakes are cooling, set out the butter and cream cheese to soften (about 30 minutes)

Instructions for Frosting

1. Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Add vanilla and powdered sugar. Beat until well blended. (Approximately 4 minutes)
3. Stir in chopped pecans (or hold them to sprinkle on top of frosted cupcakes)
4. Frost the Cupcakes

Recipe Substitutions or Additions

I prefer pineapple, but Mom suggests substituting raisins if desired. You may also want to add 1 cup shredded coconut for a more authentic carrot cake consistency & taste.

Baking Notes

I have a double oven, one is a convection oven. My ovens allow me to bake 3 pans of cupcakes at one time. (2 in the convection oven & one in the lower regular oven).

Mom has one regular oven. Therefore, she makes larger cupcakes divided across two pans, which she bakes separately. Her yield is 24 larger cupcakes that take slightly longer to bake (approximately 26 - 28 minutes).

Because oven temperatures vary, the toothpick test is required to determine when they are completely baked.

What is the Toothpick Test?

Quickly stick a toothpick down into the center of a cupcake or cake and pull it right back out. If it comes out clean, the cake/cupcake is done. If it has batter on it, you need to bake a little longer. I usually test in 1 – 2 minute intervals.

Cupcake Baking Needs

There are a few kitchen tools that allow us to bake cupcakes with ease, starting with a large cupcake baking pan & cupcake liners. Cupcakes are also very hard to transport from place to place. If you do plan to take them elsewhere, I highly recommend the carrier featured below.

Wilton Non-Stick Bakeware Cupcake PanCheck Price Wilton Rainbow Bright Cupcake LinersCheck Price Snapware Snap 'N Stack Portable Storage CarrierCheck Price NORPRO Funnel Pitcher, 3.5-Cup, WhiteCheck Price