Showing posts sorted by date for query dog. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query dog. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Friday, April 24, 2026

Back Seat Extender for Dogs - Large Hard Bottom Dog Car Seat Reviewed

back seat extender for dogs
Prior to adopting our puppy, Watson, it had been many years since we needed a back seat "container" for a dog.  Our senior dogs were perfectly content to lay down on their car beds and ride comfortably.  Watson, on the other hand, is a very active puppy.  Laying down in the car, or sitting in someone's lap, is absolutely out of the question for our baby dog.  Therefore, we went in search of a solution.  

We wanted something that would keep him in the back seat, but allow him to move around.  Because we have captain seats in one of our SUV's, we need something that would hold his weight in between the seats even when he is full grown.  

The back seat extender we selected crosses both seats, covering the gap between them.  That allows Watson to lay down, walk from window to window, or stand in the center.  The front flap of the extender, covers the back of both front seats and has a restrainer section in the center that he can see through, but not walk through.  That keeps him safely contained in the back seats of the car.

This back seat extender is perfect for us and our puppy dog, Watson!

 

puppy on back seat extender

 

Back Seat Car Seat for Dogs Specifications

 Upgraded Back Seat Extender for Dogs - Large Hard Bottom Dog Car Seat CoverCheck PriceWhen fully expended, this back seat car seat covers both captain seats (and space between seats) or a bench seat.  It also covers the space between the front and back seats to keep your pet from falling between the seats.  It will fold in half if you want only one seat covered allowing a person to sit in the other seat.  

It is held in place by using the straps on the seat cover placed around the head rests on all seats.  There are also side straps to place on the coat hooks just inside each door.  

The side panels will keep your dog from falling out when the car door is opened.  Each side panel has zippers that are used to lower the panel so you can easily lift your puppy out of the car. 

We purchased the medium size seat extender and it fit perfectly.  

  • Holds up to 550 lbs
  • Large enough for 2 dogs
  • Rigid bottom for safety & stability 
  • Padded bottom for comfort 
  • Center mesh panel between front seats for air flow and so dog can see you
  •  Pocket on either side of the mesh panel for dog toys or supplies
  • Waterproof material 
  • Available in two sizes

 

More Reviews for Puppies and Dogs by Contributors Who Love Their Dogs!

National Puppy Day

Best Gifts for Puppies

Kong Wubba Toys for Puppies 

Everlasting Treat BentoBall for Puppy 

Milk-Bone Holiday Biscuit Treats

Easter Milk-Bones for Dogs 

Backseat Barker Dog Bed for SUV or Jeep 

Ortho Sleeper Comfort Couch for Dogs 

Dog Agility  

Recommended Summer Reading for Dog Lovers 

How to Speak Dog Book Review 

 

 

Read More Product Reviews On
ReviewThisProducts.com

Or

Pet Related Reviews

 

 




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.”


Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Reviewing How A Good Torch Is A Great Safety Item

Torch on blue background

A good torch is a great practical item that makes life safer and easier. We have a really good torch we bought for blackouts, power cuts, and emergencies at home and on the road.

After a few unexpected power cuts, a power failure at home and a car breakdown, we realised how valuable a dependable, well designed torch can be for us.

Now my husband is severe sight impaired blind, I am responsible for his safety in all situations and so I feel safer and more in control now that I have a handy and powerful torch. The Fire Brigade visited us to advise and recommended we have at least one torch and we actually bought four, one for the  bedroom, the hall downstairs, the car and one I keep in my handbag.

Why We Invested in a Good Torch

Like many people, I had relied on the torch built into my phone. It is handy, but on my phone at least, is not bright enough for real emergencies and it is only one light source. After a couple of situations where we needed a stronger light, we decided it was time to buy a good dedicated torch.

Important Torch Features To Consider

  • Bright enough to light up a large room and when outside so a good strong beam of light is necessary.
  • Lightweight so it can be carried easily and durable
  • Rechargeable, or easy to find batteries for convenience.
  • Small enough to keep in a pocket, handbag and the car. I know from experience that I wont carry a big torch around with me. 
  • Handle or loop handle to hang over the wrist, so I don't drop it and so that it is easy to handle when carrying other things or guiding my husband. 
  • Equipped with multiple light modes, such as low or soft  light, bright light and flashing alert mode for emergencies so that it is versatile whatever situation we are in.
  • A small compact size to fit in a pocket or handbag, you can see in the photograph below how our torch is only the similar length to a mobile phone. 

Torch size same as average mobile phone size


How It Helps During Power Cuts and Blackouts

Power cuts, although most disruptive during the long dark nights of winter  can and do happen at any time of year. Storms bringing down cables, electrical faults, trips, outages or even planned maintenance can leave us suddenly in the dark. Now we are so used to having electricity in our homes and light at the flick of a switch, this can become a little worrying when we are in darkness. 

A good torch makes a huge difference to us in relation to safety and security. It is very reassuring knowing we have torches that will work whenever we need light.

  • We can safely move around the house without tripping up over things or having to rummage to find things in the dark. This is especially important if you have children, are a carer for someone, are older or have a disability.  
  • A torch should be powerful enough to light up the stairs, hallway, and areas outside the house like the drive, garden and garage for when we need to go out after dark. 
  • It gives us instant, bright light without draining our phone that may well be needed to make calls.
  • It makes checking the ECU (Electrical Consumer Unit) under our stairs for tripped lights so much easier as we now have a very bright directional light. 
  • A good torch with regularly checked batteries should have a good long battery life. Or even better if easily rechargeable. 
  • The very bright flashing emergency mode can be used to signal for help if needed.

Car Safety

We also keep a torch in the car, and it’s been invaluable more than once. We used it to check a tyre after a pot hole encounter and trying to find something we lost in the boot where we do not have a bright light. 

There is the comfort of knowing that if we break down, we have a good torch and so a light source which is always comforting in the dark.

The emergency flashing mode is especially useful if we ever need to alert that we have broken down and it is reassuring to have it. It is good to be visible on a dark road. I also feel better knowing that, although I have my mobile phone to call for help, if I need to wait in the dark, I have a source of light and if there are occasions I cannot get a phone signal I could use it to signal for help. 


More General Uses For A Torch 

  • Walking the dog at dusk or even letting the dog out for the final toilet in the garden. We looked after a dog once who was afraid of the dark and we needed to use a torch so he would go toilet! 
  • Checking the garden or shed is locked after dark.
  • Going out after dark to seek out caterpillars or snails on my plants (I don't kill them but I do move them to other less important plants !) 
  • Taking the bins out after dark, I always forget to do it in the daylight especially in winter! 
  • Night time safety when travelling whether its in the car or on public transport.
  • Walking back to car parks when its dusk or dark. I especially prefer to have a light source with me when doing this. 
  • Keys in the door when returning home in the dark. 
  • Power cuts or outages at home or work
  • Camping in the countryside or simply outdoor evenings in the garden.

Close up of black torch on yellow background

Here are some torch options available at Amazon 

 NEXTORCH E51D Rechargeable Flashlight High Lumen, 2100 Lumen Tactical Flashlight with 3 Mode & StrobeCheck Price Small Powerful Flashlight Rechargeable High Lumens 3Packs-800L Pocket Bright Flash Light with 12H Long LifeCheck Price Lepro LED Mini Flashlight High Lumens with Clip, Waterproof, Energy Saving, Portable, AA BatteriesCheck Price


Peace Of Mind With A Torch

A simple torch has brought us peace of mind. It’s not the most exciting item to buy, but it is very practical, reliable, and extremely useful. I would also buy it as a gift.  

I keep a torch in my handbag, the car, our bedroom and hung in the hallway. It’s one of those items that gives me peace of mind wherever I am and it makes my husband and I feel much better prepared for those unexpected, yet very possible events that happen.


As I say bye for a while, it has been a pleasure writing here. Thank you for reading my articles and being a part of my journey. I truly appreciate it. Raintree Annie xxx 


Read More Reviews By Raintree Annie 

Read More Product Reviews on ReviewThisProducts.com


 Reviewing How A Good Torch Is A Great Safety Item by Raintree Annie




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.”


Thursday, April 2, 2026

Overview of CherylsArt on Zazzle

apple magnet
This is the first of a seven part series of my various stores on Zazzle.

Zazzle is a print on demand company. They print, ship, and handle the orders and any returns. Artists and designers open stores on Zazzle and upload their designs to various products. My first store that I'll be giving an overview of is CherylsArt.

CherylsArt is my general overall store and my first store on Zazzle. You'll find a lot of different design types and product types there.

The current main categories are:

+ Affirmations

My most popular item in my Affirmations section is the Proverbs 25:11 verse featuring an apple of gold on a background of silver, on magnets. There are a lot of different affirmations, on various products, to choose from in this store.




You will find quite a few affirmations here on a variety of products. Sometimes we all can use a reminder to feel good and or to refocus.

+ Apparel and Fashion Accessories

The apparel part includes leggings, tank tops, and tshirts. The accessories part include belt buckles, belts, hair ties, hats, head bands, nail art, necklaces, pin on buttons, scarves, and watches.

Although I designed this apple watch back in 2013; it didn't start selling until Christmas of 2025! I think it finally became the right time for it; people were ready for a bit of humor I believe.


+ Art and Wall Decor

Art and Wall Decor includes canvas prints, drawings on faux wrapped canvas, drawings on wrapped canvas, posters, wall decals, wall panels, and wall tapestry. The drawings categories have their own categories so that the ones that can be painted in can easily be found. They make fun activity options.

+ Baby

The Baby category includes, adoption, announce baby, baby bags, baby bibs, baby blankets, baby shirts, baby shower, binders for photos, burp cloths, clocks for the nursery, dry erase boards, and pillows for nursery.

These cloud themed dry erase boards are a great way to share messages about the baby. They come in a choice of pink and blue. This is especially great for new and busy parents who need a way to communicate what's up.




+ Celebrations

The Celebration category is about all things that can be celebrated. This category includes birthday, candle parties, graduation, neighbor get together, party hats, retirement, ribbon, rubber stamps, stickers, tissue paper, and wrapping paper. This category pretty much covers what isn't a birthday or wedding themed.

+ Elections

The Elections category includes products for my preferred candidates, as well as informational items on helping all votes to count.

+ Holidays

The Holidays category includes Christmas in July, Christmas/Winter (which also includes other winter holidays), Easter, Father's Day, Halloween, Independence Day, Mother's Day, New Years, Saint Patrick's Day, Thanksgiving, and Valentine's Day.

+ Home, Pets, Sewing, and Car

The Home, Pets, Sewing, and Car category includes sub-categories for each of the mentioned categories.

The car category includes bumper stickers, car mats, license plates and frames. The home category includes accessories for the home, bathroom, bedroom, calendars, clocks, doormats, dry erase boards, hand sanitizer, kitchen and dining, light switch covers, moving, ornaments - that aren't holiday, and tiles. The Pets category includes dog beds, pet bowls, and pet tags. Sewing and Crafts includes fabric. There are sub-categories under fabric to make browsing easier.

A popular item in my Home category, is this Moving postcard, in the Moving sub-category. The truck painting proved to be a very popular choice for awhile. As with any item in CherylsArt, if the item includes artwork, the artwork is created by me. With the truck image, I saw a truck that I thought was awesome, and got permission from the driver to include my artwork of it on products. He said it was fine as long as I included his name in my description. Here is a shout out to Dan Hyde. p.s. The color choices are mine.




+ New Products

You will not normally find any products in this category. Usually I choose the category right after designing the new item.

+ Office and School

The Office and School category has a lot of sub-categories. They range from alphabet rulers to yard signs, and pretty much anything you can think off, in between.

+ Sports, Toys, and Games

The Sports, Toys, and Games category includes games, guitar picks, sports, and toys.

No, these aren't throw pillows. They are actually game bags for cornhole games. So you will find these in the Sports, Toys, and Games Category, under the sub-category of Games.




+ Stationery

The Stationery category includes pretty much anything stationery related, that isn't birthday, graduation, or wedding related. Items include address labels, cards, envelopes, letterhead, notepads, photo cards, postcards, rubber stamps, stationery, and stickers.

+ Travel

The Travel category includes luggage, luggage handle wraps, luggage tags, travel mugs and tumblers.

+ Weddings and Anniversary

The Weddings and Anniversary category includes a long list going from Anniversary, to all types of items wedding related. I don't know how it works for customers searching in individual stores on Zazzle, for wedding, but for me when I search for a wedding item in my store, I need to include the item type to get any search results. I guess it may be because there are so many wedding items.

These address labels are in the Wedding category, as I designed them for with a couple in mind, though anyone else can use them. There are also matching wedding invitations, etc. for this design, in Weddings. If you're not sure about which category to begin your search, go towards the top of the page, below the header, and do a Search this store search; i.e. fern address labels.




And there you have it. I have changed my store layout a number of times over the years. At one time I based it on the designs, but that got to be way to many. Then I sorted the categories by product type only. That was too much of a mix match. So I currently decided on general themes, and then did further breakdowns into sub-categories. You will find more sub-categories in my CherylsArt store, once you explore on any category that has a lot of items in it. If you know the item type and theme that you are looking for, you can also fill in the Search this Store box that is located below my store header.

Hope this helps for when you're shopping at CherylsArt on Zazzle.

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.”


Friday, March 27, 2026

Easter Milk-Bones for Dogs - The Perfect Puppy Easter Treat Reviewed

Milk-Bone Peeps
I discovered holiday Milk-Bones last Christmas while shopping for a special treat for our puppy.  I was thrilled to find treats as a special gift for our baby dog.  With Easter approaching, I searched for Easter Milk-Bones and was elated to find an adorable box of Easter Peeps!  I immediately purchased a box.  When they arrived, I couldn't make myself wait to give our baby dog his new treats.  

I opened the box and the smell was so wonderful it made me want to start munching on them.  Watson, our puppy, came running!  He was quite tempted by the smell too and immediately stuffed his little "big nose" in the box.  

Like the Christmas Milk-Bones, he has a preferred shape.  The Easter Peeps have bunnies, chicks, and bone shaped Milk-Bones.  Watson prefers the bunnies, which I think is hilarious.  I just don't know why the bunnies (which are long shapes) instead of the round-ish chicks, appeal to him.  Now, whenever he minds me, he immediately sits down by his Easter Peeps awaiting his reward.

Now, please don't tell Watson, but I have already purchased two more pails of Easter treats for him to get on Easter.  I plan to have a Easter Milk-Bone hunt.  I am sure my little active companion will love a fun hunt for Milk-Bone Easter Peeps.

 

Milk-Bone Easter Peeps

 Milk-Bone Peeps Artificially Marshmallow
Flavored Dog Treats, 22 Oz. Pail
Check Price

Milk-Bones Easter Peeps

The Easter Peeps come in a pail with an adorable picture on the front, which appeals to the humans.  Our puppy loves the taste and the smell of his marshmallow flavored biscuits.

The pail is durable enough that it could be refilled and used for original Milk-Bone biscuits.  It is lightweight and has easier hand access than the standard Milk-Bone rectangle box packaging.  It also has a handle for carrying which would make it very convenient when traveling. 

Needless to say, the Milk-Bone Easter Peeps and their box are a hit with both parents and their babies.  Oops, I mean doggies.

Milk-Bone Bunny Peep

    

 

Read More Product Reviews On
ReviewThisProducts.com

Or

Pet Related Reviews

 

 




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.”


Friday, March 20, 2026

National Puppy Day Reviewed - March 23

National Puppy Day Review
I don't review national holidays very often.  I normally leave those special day reviews to Wednesday Elf, who loves celebrating individual days set aside for unique events.  However, when I noted that March 23 is National Puppy Day, I could not resist!  After all, we brought home a sweet puppy a few months ago and discovered the true meaning of unconditional love once again.

Watson, our baby dog, loves everyone in the household.  He doesn't know how to withhold affection.  Even when he teethes on our hands or wrists, he does so lovingly.  Of course, we immediately seek out a nonliving object for him to transfer that particular show of love.  He really can't help it.  He is a teething baby and those little bites are just a big part of his puppy day and play.  Almost daily, someone in our home will remark that one day we will miss the teething terror.

Our baby Watson loves company in the backyard.  He runs, and jumps, leaps and runs some more.  His favorite games are fetching the balls his daddy tosses for him and chasing the birds.  He has never harmed a bird, he just likes making them fly.  

 

Fun Times with a Puppy 

puppy dog
The buffalo was a Christmas gift from his 
sister & brother-in-law in Buffalo, NY
There is nothing more beautiful than opening the back door and watching Watson run as fast as the wind toward his daddy.  Our baby dog doesn't realize that at 5 months old, his is no longer the 15 lb baby we brought home.  Actually, neither Watson, nor his daddy, realize that he weighs almost 70 lbs now.  I don't know the exact calculation (since I have never gauged his running speed), but I do know 70 lbs flying straight at you has increased force when it hits.  Definitely enough to knock an unprepared recipient to the ground.  Fortunately, his daddy is always prepared for his greetings of love.

It really doesn't matter how long one of us is away, whether it is 5 minutes or 5 hours, Watson is there with a welcoming jump, lick, nip, and game-time call.  If he could speak, I have no doubt his favorite words would be "play ball!"  

Dinnertime is also a great joy for Watson.  That baby loves to eat!  He is the perfect addition to our household.  We all love to eat and we all enjoy giving him treats.  

We chose to adopt a Labrador Retriever because we have had such great success with them in the past.  The are almost completely housebroken by the time they are weaned from their mothers.  Wetting accidents are extremely rare for Labs.  Those accidents can be attributed to the humans slow response time because the puppy lets you know the minute he needs out.  Too bad if you need time to dress before you throw open your back door.  

The key to having a happy puppy, even a very active Labrador Retriever, is to be active and loving yourself.  Any puppy of any breed requires patience and love, but they are always worth it!

Remember, puppy = baby.  They are learning at that stage, but they will grow up to be a fabulous companion.

 

Celebrate National Puppy Day on March 23!

The end of March is the perfect time to adopt a puppy.  You have the entire spring, summer, and fall ahead to work with them outdoors.  By the following winter, you and your puppy will be almost fully trained to behave properly. 

 

The picture in the introduction is a picture of Watson when he was 11 weeks old.  This is his picture at 5 months old.  What a difference a few months makes!  In our opinion, he is still the most adorable, lovable puppy ever!

 

Happy National Puppy Day, Baby Dog! 

Labrador Retriever

 




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.”


Thursday, March 19, 2026

Imagine Love; what would you imagine

painting


Sometimes we have hot air balloon days where we'll see hot air balloons flying overhead through various parts of town. I have always admired them and one day got the idea to paint a special balloon, with Imagine Love written on it. I also included a large eye. Some people use their third eye, the space in the center slightly above the eyebrows, to imagine their desires.

That is why I included the third eye, though one does not have to use the third eye in order to imagine.

But onward. When I originally created this painting, I imagined just the general feeling of love. But this morning when I pondered what to write about, I began thinking about various ways to imagine Love. I was watching fun pet videos on YouTube and thought that Love could be a basket of adorable puppies. It could be a momma dog nursing her pups along with a kitten in the lineup.

It could be a bright golden light filled with loving energy, coming from above.

As I was taking my shower, I thought of the water coming down from the shower, as being a shower of blessings.

As you can see, one can imagine Love in a variety of ways. How might you imagine Love?

Anyone can do this at any time. It can help lift one's mood. It can help change one's perspective for their next thought to being more of a feel good thought. One can do this with just the intention of doing so. If you have trouble imagining, an option is to find an image the depicts what you would like to imagine. YouTube can be a great resource for this.

If anyone would like a reminder to imagine what they love on a more regular basis, I have made a collection of Imagine Love products that you can view in my CherylsArt store on Zazzle. I have placed this design on nine products so far, and will be glad to accommodate your request for it to be placed on any other product that Zazzle offers.



May you have a feel good, Imagine Love, day.


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.”


Monday, March 16, 2026

Reviewing the Everlasting Treat BentoBall for My Puppy and other Heavy Chewers

Puppies and active adult dogs require physical and mental exercise in order to help avoid developing bad habits; such as chewing your furniture, shoes, and other items. The type of chew toy depends on your dog and their needs. My current pup is the heaviest chewer and most destructive pup I've ever had despite being a total of 3 pounds. Part of the problem is that my lifestyle isn't as active as it had been when puppies had previously come into the home. Another part of the problem is that some of my go-to and preferred brands of dog toys aren't working as well for this pup.  However, the Everlasting Treat BentoBall seems to be a big hit.

photo and text about BENTOBALL dog treat toy

BentoBall by Starmark

The Everlasting Treat BentoBall is both a dispenser of whatever kibble or small treats that you have on hand as well a holder of a BentoBall brand treat that fits into the ball. For this to happen, the ball has two different compartments. One cutout that holds the large chew treat that is made specifically for the BentoBall. The other cutout has a smaller opening, in which kibble can be inserted. 

Everlasting Treat Bento Ball Packaging Information:

  • provides hours of interactive chewing challenge
  • virtually indestructible
  • chewing action helps clean teeth
  • dishwasher safe
  • "Helps Prevent Destructive Boredom Behaviors"

Treat Refill Packaging Information:

  • "Delicious, Edible, Dental Chews"
  • "chews like a real bone"  - unique shape of the treat that dogs can lick, chew, or gnaw
  • special ridges helps to clean teeth and remove tarter
  • refills fit into 6 different BentoBall toys; Treat Ball, Wheeler, Sprocket, Donut, Everlasting Ball, and Groovy Ball.
  • flavors include chicken, bacon, liver

I was skeptical when purchasing the Everlasting Treat BentoBall. I assumed the treat that was made for the ball would last less than an hour or two. But I made the purchase, choosing the medium size, since I could still use the ball for kibble. However, all three of my dogs loved the BentoBall unique treat so much that I have purchased a 2nd ball and BentoBall treat refills

I was astounded when the first BentoBall and treat kept the puppy entertained for days

My only complaint is more of a personal, operator error problem than a problem with the item. I have very weak hand strength. That makes refilling the BentoBall with the original brand treat difficult for me. It takes a bit of time, and a flat head screwdriver to help pull the sides of the ball up around the edges of the treat since I do not have the strength to push the treat down properly. But it is likely that many dog owners will not struggle with this issue. 

 

Related Links

I have always leaned toward Kong and JW dog toy brands. This pup cannot destroy those toys. Rather, he somehow empties the treats from them very quickly then goes on to chew my belongings. I believe he uses his paws as hands and can very quickly learn how to empty the treats. 

Contributors review their recommendations as follows:

The Savvy Age reviews the JW HOLee Roller Ball.  I agree. I have multiple JW Roller Balls and they are excellent dog toys (for everyone except my "Mr. MonkeyPaws"). 

Cynthia reviews the Best Gifts for Puppies. She includes some of our favorites: the Kong Wubba and Milk Bones. 

The Starmark Amazon store has a variety of toys, treats and training aids for dogs. 





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.”


Thursday, February 26, 2026

AI and Photography

 

Photo of author with hobbies
AI generated image from original photograph

AI has come a long way since I last wrote a review on it two years ago.  You now hear a lot of negatives (mainly when people try to pass an AI feature off as their own) but I believe there are many useful purposes for AI in photography and editing.  I also believe it is important when a creation has added AI features that you represent it as such.

In the image above I started with a photograph of myself, as you see in the center of the collage.  I then went into ChatGPT and asked it to create a collage with my favorite pastimes: photography, Bible class, Book club, photographing lighthouses, and bird watching.



Caricatures using ChatGPT

Another fun thing to do in ChatGPT is to make caricatures.  These are very easy to make and ChatGPT allows you to make up to 4 images a day for free.  If you want to do more in a day then you would need to upgrade to their paid version.  I have made several of these caricatures and always enjoy the outcomes.  Here are the steps I take to make the images.
  • Enter ChatGPT in your browser.
  • Sign in to ChatGPT
  • On the left side of the screen you will see images as a choice-hit that
  • Now a box will come up asking you to describe image here
  • This is where you list your activities that you would like to show in your caricature.
  • Now to the left of the box you will see a plus sign and this is where you add your photograph
  • When all is added you just click on the button to start and it will create your image.  This will take a few minutes.
Below you see a caricature I made of my dog Dixie.  I put her activites as running in park and chasing squirrels.


Dog Caricature
Dog Caricature created on ChatGPT



For my brothers-in-law birthday, I wanted to create a special card so I put a photo I had of him on ChatGPT and listed his favorite pastimes: the theatre, chess, visiting Branson MO and cigars.  I asked for a caricature and here is the resulting image which I then put on the front of his birthday card.
Man with his favorite pass times
Caricature Created by ChatGPT from Photograph


 Generative Fill in Photoshop

Another great way to use AI is a fun feature in Photoshop called "Generative Fill".  In this feature you use a photograph that you had taken and add something to it.  You can do this by circling the area where you want to add something and then selecting generative fill in the Edit drop down menu.  You will have a box pop up where you can describe what you want to add.  Here is an example.
This is a photo I created an image for a challenge group I am in called" Monthly Artistic Playtime". They provided the hearts and lettering, and we were challenged to create an image using that.  I added a photo I had taken of the Northern Lights for the background and then with generative fill I added the two Cardinal lovebirds.
Hearts, Love and Birds
Valentine Greeting

Creating Images in Meta AI

In this one I had a photo that I took of my backyard when it was snowing, and I wanted to use it for Christmas.  I used Meta AI to add the wreath with the red bow, the twinkling lights and the greeting.  Meta AI is found on Facebook and is very easy to use.  You can find it on your home Facebook page in the lefthand column


Christmas Scene
Christmas Decor edited with Meta AI

2023 Review on AI and Photography

In 2023 I first wrote a review on fun ways to use AI and creativity with photographs. AI has come a long way in the past two years, but I thought you might like to see what I wrote two years ago.  Here is a link to that review.

Zazzle Card from my Designs

Valentine Card





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.”


Monday, January 26, 2026

JW Pet HOLee Roller Ball Review

If you have a puppy, you know! Finding a ball should seem like an easy purchase, but each ball and each puppy are indeed unique. The challenge to find a ball the puppy likes, cannot destroy and keeps the puppy busy for more than a few seconds is real!

JW pet holee roller ball


After a few purchases that were fails. And fails mostly because this little puppy is also a tough little chewer; who knew such teeny tiny teeth could pierce even rubber toys advertised as tough enough!

A Winner

This ball fits the assignment for this puppy! Light enough for the puppy to toss, roll, bounce and play with or without a person. The ball is very gentle on hard floors and bouncing off furniture.  While advertised as a puzzle ball which could contain treats, the holes are fairly big so the treats would need to be hole sized. We found success by putting a smelly treat in a wad of crumpled paper and leaving the paper in the ball.

The treat did fall out, but the Holee Roller ball now has a sound with the crumpled paper which the puppy loves also.

Sizes

The puzzle ball comes in three sizes:

Small 3.0 inch diameter

Medium 4.5 inch diameter

Large 5.5 inch diameter

Assorted Colors

Including Blue, Pink, Black, Green

Price Point

When dealing with the chaos of puppy management I suspect most owners will gladly pay for a toy that amuses their puppy/adolescent/dog. The balls are not inexpensive, but average priced.

There is an extreme version made of tougher rubber for the more aggressive pup when playing. As always, supervision is required and the roller balls are not for land sharks of the puppy kingdom.






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.”


Friday, January 16, 2026

Easy Recipes by Sylvestermouse Reviewed

easy recipes
I enjoy cooking for my family.  Like most of us, I prefer recipes that are fast and easy.  Fortunately, I am surrounded by people who appreciate my effort, my recipes and seem to sincerely like the meals placed before them. 

I readily admit that I play in the kitchen.  I play with recipes by changing the ingredients to suit my families tastes.  I play with cupcakes, cookies, desserts, etc, because I enjoy decorating the food.  I mess around with it until I get the desired effect.  

I also enjoy the company of other family members in the kitchen. So much so, that I consider us playing in the kitchen. Since I began writing articles online, I have been periodically sharing highlights of our kitchen adventures so you and your family can be encouraged to "play" in the kitchen. In this article, I will provide links to the different easy recipes and fun articles that I have published. 

I consider that my Recipe for Making Memories in the Kitchen. So, without further ado, let the games begin!   

 

My Own Personal Roast Recipe

This recipe is the result of trial and error.  I just kept playing with different ideas until I found a tasty, tender way to cook a roast in the oven. 

It has become a family favorite and I have allowed it to be published in several charity cookbooks over the last 40 years, but it is still my own original recipe.  Although I was very young when I developed this recipe, I still cook my roast the same way today.

roast recipe
Published on Cooking for the Holidays

 

Having Fun in the Kitchen

I started cooking when I was a child and still living at home with my parents. My sister and I both helped in the kitchen and it was not unusual for us to have real, honest to goodness food fights with the leftovers. We frequently made mashed potato balls and hurled them through the air at each other or any unsuspecting individual who entered the kitchen. We flung spaghetti noodles against the wall and said we were testing it to see if it was done. By dinnertime, there would be 10 or 12 noodles hanging from the wall on spaghetti night.

While I still enjoy throwing pasta noodles against the wall, I have found that test does not work with pasta shells. No matter how many pasta shells I have thrown against the wall, none have ever stuck. Perhaps someday one will stick. I'll just have to keep testing them.

This easy pasta recipe is also shared on Cooking for the Holidays and, if you click it, the link will take you to that website. 

cooking pasta
Easy Pasta Recipe - A Family Favorite for Dinner or Side Dish

 

More Easy Dinner Recipes featured on CookingForTheHolidays.com

Photos are Linked to Recipes

 Easy Salmon Loaf Patties Recipe How to Bake Potatoes Chicken Enchiladas Recipe How to Bake a Turkey Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Instant Pot Recipe Homemade Barbeque Recipe for the Best BBQ Sandwiches

 

Click Here for More Dinner Recipes

 

Playing with Ingredients

halloween pizza
Working in the kitchen with my sister was fun. We occasionally experimented with the food. Sometimes we would put a little extra pepper in one of our brothers' bowls of stew or add a little something extra to spice up their lives and the dinner table. Oddly enough, the boys consumed whatever we fed them and much to our distress, rarely noticed a difference. I only remember one brother gagging on hot barbecue sauce and believe it or not, we were not responsible.

Of course, there are the recipes from my mother and grandmother that I have never played with, never changed and never shared except on websites I own. My motto for this group of recipes is "you can't improve on perfection, so why try!" 

Directions for making the pizza pictured on right, can be found at Halloween Haven

 

Playing with Your Food Recipes 

These are some of my favorite recipes. They are really step by step instructions on decorating, so I call it playing with my food. Sometimes making these special treats can be messy, but they are always fun as you create your own original work of food art. 

Don't just make these treats alone to serve to your family. Grab your child, your husband, your sister, your mother or even your father and make these treats with your family!  

To see some of my favorite fun food articles, simply click the source link below each photo. That will take you directly to the recipe and tutorials for creating your own fun food.

Photos are Linked to Recipes

 How to Decorate Panda Cupcakes How to Decorate a Snake Cake How to Make Marshmallow Flower Cupcakes 4th of July Party Flag Cake Recipe How to Decorate Snowman Cupcakes How to Make a Chocolate Halloween Ghost Castle Cake How to Make a Chocolate Halloween Ghost Train Cake How to Make a Cupcake Pumpkin Cake

 

Teaching an Old Dog, New Tricks

I am happy to say that I married a man who enjoys messing around in the kitchen too! The Breakfast Buddy featured below is his delicious creation and when I wanted to learn how to grill, I asked him to teach me. He has always made the most incredible steaks! In the article below, I share his secrets as I take you step by step through my own "grilling" education.

Photos are Linked to Recipes

 Breakfast "Buddy" Sandwich How to Grill the Perfect Steaks Cooking Hamburgers on an Indoor Grill

 

Special Treat and Finger Food Recipes

My family loves fruit and chocolate so it only seems natural for me to dip fruit in chocolate. Once I started dipping fruit, it was impossible to stop! I think I dipped every type of fruit we had in the house, then ran to the grocery store for more. Of course, then I wrote an article about each one.

Here is my collection of dipped fruit recipes. Be very careful though. Chocolate dipped fruit can be very addictive!

Photo Linked to Recipe

 Chocolate Covered Fruit DIY Recipes

Taking Care of the Cook 

Over the years, I have learned many things about cooking, about family and about fun. The most important thing I have learned, is that the three things go together. Have fun cooking with your family. 

I watched my grandmother and my mother work in the kitchen during every holiday for decades. Too often, they missed out on the fun simply because the party was happening in another room. 

I believe in bringing the party to the kitchen, enlisting help and taking care of the cook. Perhaps, I see it more clearly because now I am the cook, but I love to share ideas with others about how to have more fun with your family, instead of working alone in the kitchen. Believe me, you can create your own load of memories in the kitchen by simply letting others help in the kitchen. 

table set with party food

 

A Lot of Good Food and A Load of Memories 

I think it is because of my experiences and our experiments in the kitchen when I was a child, that I approach the kitchen with humor now. I still cook the old standards passed down from my great grandmother, grandmother and mother, but I enjoy creating new treats for my family too and it is even better when I get "help." 

Over the years, a lot of good food and a load of memories have been made in our kitchen! 

 

Easy Dessert Recipes 

Photos are Linked to Recipes

 Easy Strawberry Trifle Easy Blackberry Cobbler

 

Candy Recipe 

I am not going to tell you this recipe is extremely easy. It seems easy to me because I have been making it for 40+ years, but making candy takes a bit of practice to perfect. 

While I try to walk viewers through the process with photos, I know this is something that is simply learned by trial and error because the outcome when making candy depends so much on the climate of the day, as well as the altitude of a region. 

Here is my mother's Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe. I could never improve on this recipe.  It really is delicious! 

Photo Linked to Recipe

 Peanut Butter Fudge

 

Easy Beverage Recipes

Take time to relax!  While the food is in the oven, or after all of the work is done,  sit back with your loved ones and enjoy a cup of tea, hot chocolate or perhaps a cool glass of lemonade.  These are the moments you will want to capture and hold for as long as you can.

Photos are Linked to Recipes

 Spice Tea Recipe Homemade Lemonade Recipe Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe

 Chocolate Hot Cocoa Bombs Recipe

 

For a Complete List of All of my Published Recipes
 Click Here to Visit the House of Sylvestermouse Recipes

Check Out More Recipe Reviews at
ReviewThisRecipes.com




Easy Recipes by Sylvestermouse Reviewed Written by:
House of Sylvestermouse



 

 

This recipe article was originally published by me in 2011 on a different site that no longer exists.
Unless otherwise noted with the individual photo, all Photos are mine and should not be used without written permission.

© Sylvestermouse 




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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