How To Find The Hallmark Channel Live Review

Some days you long for the old school way of watching television with one cable provider and the old school clicker to flip through channels and find your favorite programming. Streaming and cutting the cable has changed the scenario and your favorite channel or programs can be a bit more difficult to find and find for a price of course!

As a Hallmark fan the search is on to find the Hallmark channel especially during the holiday season. Finding Hallmark live is no longer a given either! A few options exist: Live Hallmark with on demand library, on demand library

Streaming Hallmark With Live 

• Live Hallmark
• Hulu With Live TV
• Frndly TV
• Philo 
• Fubo TV
• Sling

On Demand Hallmark

Hallmark Plus offers the entire suite of Hallmark; Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Mystery, Hallmark Family plus rewards program at Hallmark stores.

New series and movies will be available on demand one day after air. Hallmark Plus is offered with an annual or monthly membership. Details here >> membership. A free trial is also available.

Roku and Amazon Prime have movies in their libraries. The selection is not large and subscription fees apply.

Free Hallmark

A few free movies are offered for free on Freevee, Tubi.

The Cost

Costs differ per service and options change quickly. However what is consistent are the top tier subscriptions of streaming services are necessary if you'd like to view Hallmark live. The on demand libraries tend to be less expensive, but do require a subscription.

Monitor Hallmark.com as subscription specials are frequently offered. Currently I see a $3 for 3 months of Hallmark plus which is a tempting trial!

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2025 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

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Favorite Gadget Reviewed: Electric Pruning Shear

This years' favorite gadget purchase is a tie!  It was a close race between a few contenders, but the Kebtek Cordless Pruning Shear lands in the top two gadgets purchased this year. 

Which begs the question as to what product did the Electric Pruning Shear tie with ? The Cordless Leaf Blower which is another household favorite with the split vote of which product wins best purchase of the year.

Power

I found the shears very powerful. Powerful enough to cut through medium size tree branches with ease. The small size of the shears hide the amount of power generated.

Operation

One safety feature is the shears do not cut continuously without pushing the button to engage. So if a branch needs four cuts that would be four times the button must be pushed; mentioning for those with tender hands. 

Charging

One of the best features of the Kebtek Pruning Shear is the inclusion of two batteries and the very smartly designed charging unit. The convenience of having two batteries charged and ready to go really makes this unit a stand out. Competitors charge additional for a second battery. The batteries are 2ah rechargeable lithium.

Storage Case

A hard sided plastic storage case comes with shears for easy storage. The case has a handle for carrying and is slim so can quickly be stored in narrow spaces. 

Gift Idea

This is definitely on the list for the gift a homeowner didn't know they needed! But will love the gift and appreciate your kindness to make their gardening and DIY lawn maintenance so much easier and maybe more enjoyable too!

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The Let Them Theory Book Review

The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins has certainly made a run this year after its' publication in December 2024.

Many a media feed currently contains the author and nuggets from the book. From podcast to influencer to award winning author of The Five Second Rule and The High 5 Habit and life coach Mel Robbins is very visible.

The Heart Of The Book

What I found to be the heart of the book and an excellent reminder for everyday life, every minute, every hour is the reminder that one cannot control others. Let Them is not about changing others, but changing what you can control which is yourself. The Let Them is paired with Let Me which is the key as to how you deal with difficult people, difficult decisions, unfair situations etc. 

Sounds simple in theory, but reality can be much different. If you are an older adult, I suspect you will have 'heard' much of what is in this book. But it is is helpful to view as a compilation, a reminder, a coaching moment. 

The Numbers

According to Amazon where the book has over 30,000 reviews with a 4.5 star rating; the book has generated the following numbers (and is currently number 2 this week on  Amazon Charts.)

• "Over 7 Million Copies Sold ...

• #1 New York Times Bestseller

• #1 Sunday Times Bestseller

• #1 Audible Bestseller

• #1 Amazon Bestseller "

Impressive indeed!

Makes A Great Gift

Fans of books which self help, life coaching, problem solving for difficult people will particularly enjoy this book. Younger adult readers who are entering jobs may very well benefit from the anecdotes in this book as they encounter situations new to them. Same would hold true for college students seriously considering management as a career.  Great stocking stuffer gift or graduation gift.

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Review of Peacock TV And Figure Skating

It's here! The start of the Figure Skating season and watching could not be easier with its' broadcast on Peacock TV. If you are a fan of watching/streaming figure skating Peacock TV streaming service is the place to be to watch every event of the major competitions. 

Cost of Peacock

A subscription to Peacock TV with ads is currently $7.99 a month. The premium and premium plus are upgrades available for an upgraded cost of course. NBC is the supplier for Peacock TV so if a show is a product of NBC, the shows will be streamed or on demand replay.

Which Competitions Will Be Broadcast On Peacock?

All the major figure skating competitions will be televised and streamed. Over 300 hours of figure skating on NBC and Peacock will be broadcast.

The Grand Prix series which has competitions throughout the world, the European Championships, Four Continents, Worlds and Olympics will all be televised with on demand replay opportunities.

U.S. Figure Skating Championships

Mark January 6- 11th 2026 on your viewing calendar for the United States Figure Skating Championships in St. Louis. The top United States figure skaters will be competing and look for the announcement January 11th of the U.S. team for the quickly approaching Olympics.

2026 Olympics 

Yes! Peacock TV is the place to watch the Olympics being held in Milan, February 6 - 26, 2026.

World Championships

The Olympics do not conclude the figure skating season! The World Championships will be held March 25-29 in Prague and will be streamed on Peacock.

Recommendation

I highly recommend Peacock TV as a cost efficient manner to disengage from the monthly internet package in general, but if you are a niche figure skating fan then peacock is the place to be in an Olympic year.  Fans of NBC programming will enjoy all their favorites. Commercials are included on the basic package, but I did not find the breaks overly disruptive particularly when comparing the cost benefit of keeping the least expensive plan to higher level plans.

The app is mediocre and could be greatly improved, but functional on a basic level. Programming is sorted by tabs and is generally easy to find with a few clicks.

More Streaming Ideas

Kanopy with a library card

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Cook With Color Nesting Bowls Review

Cook With Color Nesting Bowls have been one of my favorite purchases this year. The bowls were used moments after they were unboxed and are used daily. The convenience of the matching lids has made kitchen prep and storage so much easier and quicker. 

Sizes

Bowl capacity 

0.32 QT, 0.74 QT, 1.37 QT, 3.69 QT and 5.8 QT.

Colors 

Over 30 color choices !

Lightweight

I love classic glass mixing bowls, but they are heavy! Great to mix but a little heavy to store food. These nesting bowls are light weight and work so well to store fruit, veggies, leftovers in the refrigerator with the matching lid.

Storage

The bowls and lids nest within the largest bowl; love this and necessary for small or downsized kitchens.

Dishwasher Safe

Top rack dishwasher safe

Microwave safe 

Freezer safe

Options

This brand has every type and color of lightweight bowls to make prepping, cooking and storing so easy ! These bowls make a great compliment to your kitchen tool set. Browse the collection here.

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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. 

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2025 Hallmark Christmas Movies Reviewed

Hallmark's Countdown to Christmas begins Friday, October 17th with a new Hallmark episode of the Mistletoe Murders. A Royal Montana Christmas new holiday movie premieres October 18th. This year Hallmark again brings over 30 new Christmas and holiday movies on the Hallmark channels including the Hallmark Mystery channel.

 

A few of the eagerly awaited anticipated 2025 Hallmark Christmas movies are:

Three Wisest Men

Yes a third installment of the very popular movies with Andrew Walker, Tyler Hynes and Paul Campbell. The best Hallmark Christmas movies continue! The first movie was Three Wise Men And A Baby, then Three Wiser Men And A Boy and the third premiering in November is Three Wisest men.  Reunited this trio takes on parenting with family challenges, family home selling  and all the chemistry we love with this cast. Margaret Colin also returns to the lovable chaos!

Holiday Touchdown A Bill's Love Story

Last year was Holiday Touchdown A Chief's Story which was Hallmark's number one movie. 

This year NFL returns with Holiday Touchdown: A Bill's Love Story premiering in November.                Last year had a very attractive cast with  Tyler Hynes, Hunter King and Ed Begley Jr.,Donna Kelce, Jenna Bush Hagar for the Chief's. 

This year's love story is using the home and stadium of the Bill's as a backdrop with participation b some of the Bill's organization. Buffalo Bills fans will be appreciative of any cameo's which may pop up!

Baked With Love

A holiday cooking contest show. Tamera Mowry will host this reality family oriented competition which premieres at the end of October.

Finding Mr. Christmas - Season 2

Season 2 begins the end of October. Jonathan Bennett hosts. Hallmark has entered the holiday reality area with competing actors for a starring Hallmark lead...  

A Christmas Quest

It is not Hallmark Christmas without Lacey Chabert. This year Lacey stars with Kristoffer Polaha in this holiday story featuring mystery, adventure, Iceland and treasure of the Yule Lads, premieres December 1. Filmed in Iceland.. enjoy!

A few favorites from seasons gone by to look for in the 2024 Season.

A Christmas Quest

Lacey Chabert stars with Kristoffer Polaha in this Iceland based holiday story featuring mystery, adventure. Always love a Lacey Chabert movie!

A Merry Scottish Christmas 2023

The number one movie of 2023 at Hallmark1 Party of Five fans showed up for this movie and the movie/reunion did not disappoint. Lacey Chabert and Scott Wolf play siblings on a family trip to Scotland during the holidays. Family reunions and family mysteries are in the air. Filmed in Ireland and Scotland and the Duns Castle Estate is featured in a movie full of gorgeous landscapes and castles.

Never Been Chris'd 2023

The A team Hallmark actor Tyler Hynes leads reunion as hometown friends reunite for Christmas Hallmark love triangle, the Hallmark way. As always  Hynes brings humor, wit and a few winks to this holiday movie.

Three Wise Men And A Baby And Three Wiser Men And A Boy

These two Hallmark movies (soon to be joined by a third) is the trifecta of quality holiday movies at Hallmark. All movies have the Hallmark A Team of  Andrew Walker, Tyler Hynes and Paul Campbell, Margaret Colin. The chemistry is above reproach which helps bring these two movies into the must look for to rewatch category every Christmas. 

Christmas Under Wraps and Sequel A Cozy Christmas Inn

Jodie Sweetin (Full House) and David O'Donnell star in the sequel of old loves reuniting. Candace Cameron Bure starred in the first. Garland Alaska takes the center stage with new and old loves. Both movies are charming and also on the rewatch list when Hallmark Christmas movies begin. 

Haul Out The Holly And Haul Out The Holly: Lit Up  Sequel 2022

Both movies feature are delightfully comic, slapstick, lovable characters and a sense of humor is required as a viewer. This is vintage Hallmark and we love it with Lacey Chabert  and Wes Brown. The characters with the battle their inner Grinches with the annual HOA competition for decorating to win the prize! The chemistry of the cast guides this romcom for a feel good double header of Hallmark Christmas.

More Hallmark Christmas Movies Reviews

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2024 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

Hallmark Christmas Moves 2023 Reviewed by The Savvy Age 

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2022 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2021 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

You, Me & The Christmas Trees by The Savvy Age

A New Year's Resolution by Cynthia 

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2020 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

Finding Father Christmas by Cynthia

Christmas Tree Lane by The Savvy Age

Broadcasting Christmas by Cynthia

Top Ten Hallmark Christmas Movies by The Savvy Age

Debbie Macomber's Mr. Miracle Hallmark Movie Review by Cynthia

Where To Find Hallmark Christmas Movies?

 Sling offers Hallmark as an add on in their Lifestyle category. 

Hallmark + is the rebranded  Hallmark Movies Now with a monthly fee. A seven day free trial is available.  Find information on pricing and the free trial here.

The cable streaming services frequently change their offerings, tiers, plans!

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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. 

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Outward Hound Treat Puzzle Level 2 Review

Always on the watch for helpful puppy products for enrichment! The Outward Hound Treat Puzzle level 2 came highly recommended and indeed has over 78 thousand reviews with a 4.5/5 star average in a very popular online store.

Three Levels In One

The Outward Hound is a three level puzzle depending upon how the components are arranged. I found this pup quickly learned how to find the food. Slightly disappointed the pup needed about 4 feeding times to conquer the puzzle. Three minutes and poof the food was gone! The food was one cup of puppy food which filled about 75 percent of the nooks and crannies of the puzzle. I would expect if the puzzle was 100 percent full the feeding would take longer.

 Durability And Chew Marks

I was surprised the components of the puzzle were not puppy proof. Indeed after one use the pup with teeny tiny teeth left its' mark.

The reviews did mention a concern with the chewability of the puzzle as a possible negative.

With a watchful eye I concur. Without purchasing and trying the product chewability is subjective to each dog. Apparently teeny tiny baby puppy teeth can and did leave chew marks on the puzzle. this puppy also lifted off the white bone covers as a toy and tore off a door... leaving me to not feel comfortable with this puzzle unsupervised closely.

Recommendation

I was hoping for a puzzle puppy feeder to keep the pup busy.  I liked so many of the features of this puzzle, but ultimately decided it was not a great fit for this pup due to the chewable components and need for very close supervision.

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Hallmark Christmas In July Review

Enjoy the air conditioning and summer treats as Hallmark unveils its' Christmas in July programming. Hallmark fans will love a peek at what will be coming their way when Hallmark premieres its' Christmas programming in October.

New Series!

Hallmark Christmas At Sea premieres July 7th.  Monday will be the night to view the new episodes of your favorite Hallmark stars and fans at sea. The very familiar and beloved Hallmark stars are cruising!

According to Hallmark : Merry Cruisemas  with its' stars: "Benjamin Ayres, Jonathan Bennett, Wes Brown, Erin Cahill, Paul Campbell, Taylor Cole, Nikki DeLoach, Sarah Drew, Tyler Hynes, Kimberley Sustad and Andrew Walker".

Unwrapping Series 

The Unwrapping series of Christmas movies first premiered last year on Hallmark plus. This year Hallmark is continuing their July theme of introducing new Christmas movies in July. The Unwrapping Christmas store is a gift wrapping store where four friends work and will take you on your next holiday adventure.

This year four new movies will air:

Unwrapping Christmas: Tina's Miracle

Starring Natalie Hall, Alec Santos on Saturday, July 5th. It's the battle of the Christmas gala for a gift wrapping store owner and a grumpy estate estate owner.

Unwrapping Christmas: Mia's Prince

Starring Nathan Witte and Kathryn Davis on Saturday, July 12th. 

Heirs, wealthy, fairy tales and of course romance intertwine.

Unwrapping Christmas: Lily's Destiny 

Saturday, July 19th.  Is the true match destiny? Come along this Hallmark journey of chemistry with a dash of destiny.

Unwrapping Christmas: Olivia's Reunion

Hallmark favorite Cindy Busby and Jake Epstein star on Saturday, July 26th in a very Hallmark storyline of past loves reuniting or not? under Hallmark circumstances. 

The Do Not Miss List of Hallmark Christmas Movies 

These are the Christmas movies that are tried and true Hallmark Christmas with the OG stars fans love so much! A few movies not to miss whether it be Christmas in July, October, November or December.

Three Wise Men And A Baby And Its' Sequel Three Wiser Men And A Baby

Fans adore this series with the A list actors: Paul Walker, Tyler Hynes and Paul Campbell.

Always a huge fan favorite! Great chemistry, fun storyline, A team actors and a plot which does have some similarities to Three Men And A Baby. 

Christmas Under Wraps And Sequel A Cozy Christmas Inn

Garland? No not that kind of garland, the city Garland. Oh yes! The secrets of Garland just might include Santa, elves, workshop and a very busy schedule in December. David O'Donnell and Candace Burr started in Christmas Under Wraps and years later a sequel A Cozy Christmas Inn was made with David O'Donnell and Jodie Sweetin plus the most of the original cast.

Very charming Christmas movies which will warm your heart and always worth watching and re watching.

Christmas At Pemberley Manor

Jessica Lowndes and Michael Rady star in holiday movie where the family estate (and maybe) its' heir could use a little Christmas magic. Lovely backdrop, comedy, chemistry and romance star.

Crown For Christmas

Always be on the lookout for a Crown For Christmas with Danica McKellar and Rupert Penry-Jones. This is one of the best Hallmark Christmas movies of all time in many Hallmarkies opinion. This royal palace romance is always include on best Hallmark movies list. 

A Gift To Remember

The holiday is a backdrop versus major played in this delightful and sometimes overlooked Hallmark movie. Bookstore fans can relate as the bookstore employee collides - literally- with a customer and amnesia begin the chase for his identity. Great chemistry and don't forget the sequel Cherished Memories.

Christmas Waltz

Starring Will Kemp and Lacey Chabert. Dancing, more dancing, chemistry, more chemistry with a little romance after one of the pair has an unexpected pre wedding split.

More Hallmark Christmas Movies Reviewed

Hallmark Christmas Movies Reviewed 2024 by The Savvy Age

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2023 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

A Cozy Christmas Inn Reviewed 2022  by The Savvy Age

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2022 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2021 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

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Paint Pouring Review

Love our local library for offering the Paint Pouring class! What a great activity for kids and adults for summer break (outside recommended!) The free class was full at an enrollment of 60 and a long waiting list. I can now see why!

What Is Paint Pouring?

Creating a painting using a fluid medium such as acrylic paint to create a design which is flowing and/or abstract and/or random. And there in is why it was such fun! Sixty participants equaled paintings which were undeniably unique with the only shared items amongst the painters were the paint colors and the stretched canvas. Acrylic paint is well suited as the consistency allows easy manipulation of the paint on the canvas. Watercolor and oil paint are not as forgiving.

Materials

We were provided a 5" by 7" stretched white canvas, choice of seven acrylic colors, four push pins and popsicle sticks. The push pins were inserted on the bottom of the stretched canvas in each corner to lift the canvas. The canvas could then be easily gripped or tilted once the paint was applied.

The paint is poured in any order or on any part of the canvas. Anything goes! 

The popsicle sticks were used as paint spreaders.  For my final design decision after a few wavers and wiggles I used the popsicle stick as a paint spreader for the background. The paint was applied then spread for coverage of the background. Acrylic dries superficially very quickly and then I added a few abstract stripes and dots which stayed on top of the background.

We were also provided an empty box to help transport the painting home to dry for 24-48 hours. As the workshop leaders learned after workshop number one at which a pouring rain greeted the painters as they ran for their cars with a freshly painted canvas. The box was great to safely transport the painting home and then to let the paint safely dry.

Summer Activity

Highly recommend paint pouring especially for those looking for a summer craft for their kids or grandkids. Also recommend paint pouring outside or in a craft room as the paint can wander.

Acrylic paint can be removed with soap and water, but the paint does unintentionally travel. We all enjoyed walking around the room to see what the workshop participants created and the variety was incredible. Variety of design, color, abstract to realist and all painted in an hour.

Amazing what participants could create in an hour with seven acrylic colors. 

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Roll Out Wooden Walkway Reviewed

Ever have THAT problem area of lawn? The part which turns into an unintended walkway from a maintained lawn view versus the reality of a lawn area that is being used as a walkway? Also known as the cut through patch of lawn that everyone has decided should be a path...

After a tough winter, the cut through needed help this spring. It is definitely not fun to walk through the cut through path after rain. Many options were discussed from pavers to cement to stones and all had merit, cost and labor. 

Last year I tried the rubber type artificial pavers? Those were expensive, labor intensive to assemble and install and were ultimately returned. I loved the idea because the pavers were very light and movable, but not realistic either in price or installation.

I have seen the rollout walkway online in many places. Different colors, different lengths, different treads and decided upon one to try on this cut through.

Which Brand?

Many reviews and many different price points for rollout walkways online. As this was a DIY test I decided upon the Yoopin 6 foot walkway. The prices of course increase with the length. This walkway was offered in six and eight feet and in two colors. I chose the brown color. 

Materials

The walkway is made of spruce and rolls up for convenience. The width is 17.5  inches wide and 1.5 cm thick. It is advertised as non slip and I may add a few pieces of reflective tape for night use.

Flexible! I loved that the walkway does not have to be rolled out in a straight line, it can be modified to fit the terrain. It can also be easily lifted and removed to mow the lawn. 

Recommendation

I was admittedly skeptical, but after rolling it out... I decided to purchase another and increase the length of the walkway. The area needs to be leveled with additional topsoil, but as a DIY goes, this was very simple and the purchase fit the problem.

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EZ Straw Seeding With Tack Review

Time to plant grass! Along with the topsoil and fresh seed is what I have termed my secret weapon to ensure the grass seed does not wander and to help the grass seeds thrive. EZ Straw Seeding With Tack is a necessity in this yard to give grass seeds the best chance at sprouting!

Birds and wind are the enemies when attempting to grow grass! I will add torrential downpours to the list as well. There is nothing more frustrating to put down grass seed only to see a flock of birds descend for fresh treats! Or a gale force wind descends to blow around the seed! And my favorite is when the weather forecast is incorrect and the sprinkles of rain are actually a downpour and watch your grass seed turn into mud puddles.

The above scenarios are where the EZ Straw Seeding excels to help your grass seed stay put! The straw with the tack adds a layer of protection over the seed as well as helping protect the seed and keep the seed moist under the straw. 

Spring And Fall Grass Growing

In the north we have two short windows to grow grass or actually three (see below.) The easiest months to grow grass are in Spring And Fall. Summer is possible of course, but high temps and sun require much more frequent watering and maintenance. I usually use one layer of EZ Straw after the initial grass seed planting and then a second lighter layer of of seed and straw about 10 days later. to refresh areas where hay has degraded or grass seed has failed.  If all has gone well after a week to 10 days I will see grass sprouting! 

Dormant Seeding

I will add this method of growing grass as the third window of opportunity; however, the actual timing of putting down the seed varies per locale. In my area this time tends to be mid to late October which is before the ground is frozen and before the first snow. 

Seed and hay are laid right before the first snow as in the weather is watched and if snow is predicted the time is the day prior to lay the seed and hay. If all goes well you are rewarded with early grass sprouts the next Spring! I have succeeded with this method which gives the area a nice head start come Spring before the weather cooperates to lay new seed and hay.

Delivers As Promised

Always nice to have a product deliver as promised. The packaging of the hay is in a compressed square  is not reflective of  the amount in the square once the package is opened. Chances are for overseeding and spot repair there will be more than enough to last for two seasons.

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Peacock Streaming Review

So many choices after the proverbial cutting of the cable! Rabbit ears or streaming or both? Chances are a combination of the above will be the answer to economical viewing of your favorite shows. For the past months I have been trying Peacock streaming and the results have been favorable for lower cost with a large variety of programming.

What Are Your Favorite Networks?

If the programming on Bravo, Hallmark, regular NBC line up, SNL, variety of sports, NBC news are on your streaming must list, Peacock may be a good fit. Peacock Originals are also offered as exclusive content.

Live Viewing

For breaking news and live viewing the Premium Peacock plan would probably be a better fit, but there is a work around. If you have Amazon Prime live channels are offered or Freevee has access to live news channels also. Rabbit ears in my area provide access to all major networks which is helpful for easy access to local channels and free viewing.

Sports

Lots to choose from (but... no ESPN, see below!)

Football fans will enjoy: NFL Sunday Night games, Big Ten football. Figure skating, French Open tennis, rugby, pickleball tournaments, soccer, all snow sports are a few of the sports specific channels within Peacock.

Sports fans will notice Peacock does not offer ESPN channels which may be a game changer if sports are a deal beaker. The work around for a fan of a few major sports events would be purchasing for a month a streaming service which offers ESPN, ESPN 2 coverage. Sling would an example of an easy to use, easy to set up, no contract service. Again, check for discounts.

Cost

Always search the internet for a discount code or promotion ! signing up for the email promotions will more than likely generate offers also. Prices are subject to change, expect to pay below 15$ a month for regular or Peacock Plus which has a few more bells and limited ads.

Recommendation

I used a promotion offer for a reduced monthly price and for ESPN or live news i used the work arounds. This has proved to be the most cost effective at the current pricing and so far has worked well. Using the work arounds is necessary to watch major sports live, but while adding another step has not been cumbersome.

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Prandom Foldable Storage Bins Reviewed

Certain times of the year signal the traditional seasonal time to reorganize: the New Year, Spring and snow days in my area. The Prandom foldable storage bins are a stylish and practical storage solution to home or office organization.

Easy To Assemble

The bins arrive flat with the bottom boards separate. Simply pop up the sides and insert the stabilizing bottom board. So quick, so easy. The bins are lightweight when empty but are stable. The outside of the bins are covered with durable fabric with handles on the side to carry easily.

Colors And Size

The bins come in seven color combos to complement your decor. They also come in three sizes: medium. large and jumbo in three or five packs. The size of the bins also easily fit wire shelving systems in the closet to turn a shelf of "stuff" into a neat and tidy shelf of bins.

Discount

Checking amazon online there is an additional 5% off coupon to make the bins even more affordable. Click Here to see the Prandom Foldable Storage Bins on Amazon.

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Legacy On Ice Memorial Tribute

The Legacy On Ice Memorial Tribute will be televised on Sunday, March 30 at 1 p.m. on NBC. Members and generations of the ice skating community gathered to honor and remember the athletes, families, coaches and mentors of their community who perished on Flight 5342 on January 29, 2025. 

Powerful, emotional, impactful viewing. As if the viewer has been invited into the close knit ice skating community to honor those lost and help support the community. 

The tribute was originally televised live and streamed on March 5th on Peacock. A Youtube tribute along with information for the family support fund is included below. 

Veterans of the skating community participated whether it be through hosting, introducing skaters or skating. Bookmark March 30th to view or record the tribute.

Participants as listed on the US Figure Skating Website

• Jeremy Abbott, 2014 Olympic Team Bronze Medalist
• Sofia Bezkorovainaya, 2024-25 Team USA
• Brian Boitano, 1988 Olympic Champion
• Emily Bratti and Ian Somerville, 2024 U.S. Bronze Medalists
• Jason Brown, 2014 Olympic Team Bronze Medalist
• Ashley Cain, Two-Time U.S. Pairs National Champion 
• Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko, Two-Time Four Continents Ice Dance Bronze Medalists 
• Kitty and Peter Carruthers, 1984 Olympic Pairs Silver Medalists 
• Molly Cesanek and Yehor Yehorov, 2020 U.S. Junior Pewter Medalists
• Nathan Chen, Two-Time Olympic Gold Medalist
• Madison Chock and Evan Bates, 2022 Olympic Team Gold Medalists
• Richard Dwyer, U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Famer 
• Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov, 2025 U.S. Pairs Champions 
• Sarah Everhardt, 2025 Four Continents Bronze Medalist
• Peggy Fleming, 1968 Olympic Champion 
• Amber Glenn, 2024 Grand Prix Final Champion
• Gracie Gold, 2014 Olympic Team Bronze Medalist 
• Scott Hamilton, 1984 Olympic Champion
• Nancy Kerrigan, 1994 Olympic Silver Medalist
• Ilia Kulik, 1998 Olympic Champion
• Isabeau Levito, 2024 World Silver Medalist 
• Alysa Liu, 2022 World Bronze Medalist
• Jimmy Ma, 2025 Four Continents Bronze Medalist 
• Ilia Malinin, 2024 World Champion
• Katie McBeath and Daniil Parkman, 2025 U.S. Pairs Silver Medalists 
• Yebin Mok, 1998-2008 Team USA
• Maxim Naumov, 2025 U.S. Pewter Medalist
• Camden Pulkinen, Two-Time U.S. Bronze Medalist
• Andrew Torgashev, 2025 U.S. Silver Medalist
• Michael Weiss, Two-Time World Bronze Medalist
• Johnny Weir, Three-Time U.S. Champion
• Paul Wylie, 1992 Olympic Silver Medalist

The Youtube tribute

U.S Figure Skating Family Support Fund

A fund has been established for the families of the athletes, coaches and families who perished on January 29, 2025. Online donations accepted here.

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Gardien Decorative Stepping Stones Review

Have you ever wanted to DIY a garden path or foot path in your yard? Yet the thought of bringing in stones seems ... like alot of work! Enter the resin Gardien stepping stones which are lightweight faux stepping stones attached to the ground with stakes. Yes, stakes! 

The stones are textured to resemble limestone and can be used as separately or spaced together depending upon the desired look or use.

Colors

 Gardien 15.5” Decorative Stepping Stones That Stake Into The GroundCheck Price

Light Beige Limestone and Slate Grey

Quantities

The stepping stones can be ordered in packs of 4, 8, 16 stones

Size

The size of each stone is 15.5" X 15.5"

The stones do require minor installation of the four stakes to adhere stone into the ground. The stakes are attached to the back of each stone. After the stakes are removed from the back of the stone the stakes need to be clipped into the back of each stone (that did require hand strength.)

Installation

The stones are very easy to install on soft ground, grass or mulch. Simply place the stone and stand on the stone to lower stone into the ground. The stones are easily detached also to move or realign.

I love this idea and the flexibility to DIY a space. The stones are not inexpensive especially if a large area is to be designed and work better on level land.

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Review Post Holiday Bark Recipe

Leftover Holiday Candy? Repurpose leftover holiday candy and nuts into yummy candy Bark with ease. So easy for any holiday or party any time of the year! Christmas, Halloween and Easter Holidays definitely produce a variety of candy (or sales to stock up!)

How To Make Holiday Candy Bark

Materials

Baking sheet

Parchment Paper

Glass bowl

Ingredients

Leftover Candy

Chocolate or White Chocolate melted, 1 bag of chips or 1-2 Bag of melts

Sprinkles optional.

How To Make

Prepare all the candy, nuts, decorations. Unwrap candy, chop nuts, chop candy if needed. 

Prepare the baking sheet with parchment paper. 

Melt the chips or melts in the microwave in a glass bowl or the bowl of your choice which is microwaveable. 

Microwave on high 1 minute and check. Use 30 second increments after the first minute. After each 30 sec check the chocolate and stir. Check if the chocolate is melted to a spreadable consistency.

With a spatula spread the chocolate mixture over the parchment paper. Thickness should be enough to cover the paper, about 1/4 inch thick.

Add the chopped or whole candy, nuts and sprinkles if desired. Randomly sprinkle over the chocolate mixture.

Freeze or put in refrigerator to set.

Break apart into triangles pieces. Store covered and can store in refrigerator if in danger of melting. 

Which Candy, Nuts, Raisins Work Well

There can be trial and error with choosing the best leftover candy. Chopping the candy into bite size pieces is helpful. Raisins, coconut and nuts can usually be used from the package. 

Leftover candy canes work well but should be chopped. 

Leftover Easter Bunnies work well but should be cut up into smaller pieces.

Chocolate can be testy when melted and each type of chocolate has its' own correct temp to melt. I have found using the microwave on high for 1 minute, check and stir, then in 30 second increments does work well.

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The Best Of Andy Williams Christmas Shows Review

Tis the holiday season and what are holidays without classic songs! And the perfect time to bring in a little holiday nostalgia courtesy of Andy Williams.

I happened upon this holiday gem while surfing Christmas shows that were streaming for free. What a find! The Andy Williams Christmas Shows were originally filmed from 1962-1974. This is a compilation from the Christmas shows, The Best Of Andy Williams Christmas Shows. 

The Voice

Smooth as silk as always, Andy Williams sings the classic and timeless holiday favorites. 

Songs included: Jingle Bells, I'll Be Home For Christmas, The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Happy Holidays, What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?, Ave Maria, Mary's Little Boy Child, Silver Bells,  The Christmas Song, Holy Night, You Meet the Nicest People at Christmas.

Also included are the Williams Brothers! Don, Dick and Bob and Andy began as a quartet and reunited during the Andy Williams Christmas specials. Special appearances by Andy Williams family also include his mom.

The Sets

By today standards of television sets and costumes the Christmas sets are charmingly simple. But simple in a very very good way as the emphasis on the song. It is fun to look at the styles as a trip of reminiscing down vintage clothing lane. Also noted is the color coordination and classic style which holds up through the years (and may be in a store near you currently!)

At Home With Andy

One viewer aptly noted watching Andy Williams and his special guests at Christmas is like watching home movies with Andy at the holidays. What a great way to describe the feeling generated by Andy and his guests as they seamlessly harmonize through the classics.

Where To Find Freevee? And Is It Free?

Yes, the shows on the Freevee app are free and yes, access to the Freevee app is free! The app is actually loaded already on many devices and smart televisions. The app may not be evident on your device, so a search for the app can be started to see if the Freevee app is pre installed.

Amazon has announced in November 2024 it will begin integrating Freevee into the Amazon Prime service; the content will remain free and it is not required to have an Amazon Prime membership to view the content.

More Free Streaming Services

Free is relative (as in access to your local library!) But library memberships can open up a variety of  streaming services included with your membership. The library is the middle party and contracts with the services and access is via your library membership /library website.

Kanopy offers free movies with an emphasis on Indie films and documentaries.

Hoopla offers free books, movies and television shows.

Freegal offers music of every genre.

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Three Wiser Men And A Boy Hallmark Movie Review

Hallmark's Three Wiser Men And A Boy is a sequel to Hallmark's very successful Three Wiser Men And A Baby in 2022. The original was the most watched Hallmark movie in 2022 and fans were eagerly awaiting the sequel.

Time fast forwards five years from the end of the original movie; hence, 'and a baby' becomes 'and a boy'.  In the original movie, three brothers with the help of their mother take on caring for an abandoned newborn during the holidays. Comedy prevails as the bachelor brothers accept their mission with limited skills. In the interim between original and sequel, the baby is a member of the family.

The school Christmas musical plays a pivotal role in the storyline as the brothers volunteer their talents to save the musical the Hallmark way!

The Hallmark A Team

Hallmark fans will immediately recognize the three stars: Andrew Walker, Paul Campbell and Tyler Hynes. Each are Hallmark favorite actors who are on the top of the list of popular Hallmark films. Hallmark star Kimberly Sustad makes a small cameo as her contribution to this film is as a writer.

Margaret Colin plays the mother of the three brothers and is a welcome addition with comedic flair and a seasoned pro of film and television.

The Chemistry

The chemistry between the three brothers and Colin as the mother definitely shines in this movie. Each brother has a definite and different personality lane, but it is the chemistry between all which helps ensure a successful Hallmark movie.  The storyline with the mothers' boyfriend and his interactions with the brothers and the musical was not particularly believable, but the great chemistry between the rest of the cast overshadows the minor boyfriend storyline.

The Writers

The same team which wrote Three Wiser Men And A Baby (who coincidentally happen to be on the Hallmark A team actor list) also wrote Three Wiser Men And A Boy. Paul Campbell stars in both movies and Kimberly Sustad has a supporting role in each movie also. Russell Hainline also cowrote the second movie. 

Which Movie Is Better?

That is the inevitable question! Which Do You Prefer? Does It Matter?

Both movies are very enjoyable and worth bookmarking for the holidays. The storylines are not apples to apples. The first movie does have the benefit of viewers tuning in not knowing what to expect and finding great chemistry between the actors. Hallmark fans report the original is a movie they will rewatch multiple times. The sequel has the benefit of viewers coming to watch because of the proven chemistry and success of the original.

Hallmark Christmas Movie Reviews

Hallmark Christmas Movie Reviews 2024

Hallmark Christmas Movie Reviews 2023

Hallmark Christmas Movie Reviews 2022

Hallmark Christmas Movie Reviews 2021

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