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Sunday, August 27, 2023

The Basics of Meditation and How It Has Helped Me - Is It Right For You?

Let me start by saying that I'm not a meditation guru!

Although I've read mountains on the subject, I didn't start actively practicing meditation in a committed way until March of this year (2023)

What I've learned about meditating is .... it takes practice, and consistency is key.

I've actually progressed into learning more and more about the power of the mind ... and I'm loving every second of it!

Are You Ready to Dive into the Wonderful World of Meditation?

I know – when you hear "meditation," it might conjure images of monks perched atop misty mountaintops, but trust me, it's not all incense and pretzel-like poses.

Meditation is like a soothing balm for your mind, and today, I'll explore how it basically works its magic and why it's becoming more popular than cat videos on the internet!

Life is a non-stop rollercoaster with ups, downs, and loop-de-loops that make your head spin faster than a ball rolling down a hill! That's where meditation struts in wearing a superhero cape.

At its core, meditation is like a mini-vacation for your brain – a chance to give your mind a breather from the constant barrage of thoughts, worries, and to-do lists that make your mental landscape look like Times Square on New Year's Eve.

Now, I get it – sitting still and quieting your thoughts might sound about as easy as juggling flamingos. I can tell you I still suck at it! But I keep going and am getting much better!

Meditation isn't about turning your brain into an empty void (I haven't been close to achieving that!). It's more like a gym session for your gray matter, training it to focus, de-stress, and especially kick out the negativity that overstays its welcome.

The Basics

Start by finding a cozy corner where you won't be interrupted (a.k.a. no one bursting in asking if you've seen their left sock) and get comfy.

You don't need fancy gear or a backdrop of crashing waves – just you and your willingness to give it a shot - and a guided meditation video if you need help getting started. I've featured the one below that I love and use daily.

As you settle in, you'll discover that meditation comes in various flavors, like a buffet of mindfulness.

Here are Two Popular Choices for Meditation:

Focused Attention Meditation

Imagine your mind as a hyperactive puppy – In this meditation, you gently bring your wandering pup back to its designated spot whenever it goes on a wild adventure. Usually, that spot is your breath. Breathe in, breathe out – it's like the rhythm of life that's always there, waiting to be your anchor in those endless sea of thoughts.

Loving-Kindness Meditation

I practice this one daily. I meditate for a half an hour in the morning, and it's turning out to be the best half-hour of my day.

This one's all about dishing out warm fuzzies, not unlike sharing virtual hugs with the universe.

You start by sending good vibes to yourself (because you're awesome, duh!), and then gradually extend those vibes to friends, family, and even that grumpy neighbor who scowls like it's their day job. It's like watering the garden of your heart and watching kindness bloom.

"My personal meditation involves seeing each of my children, with their families, in their homes, happy, healthy, and financially at peace. I visualize hubby and I visting each of them. The photos in my mind about my kids and my own life have become so real to me, that now I look forward to meditating so I can visit that wonderful manifestation and play with my future grandchildren"

How Meditation Has Helped Me:

I sucked at it at first, but with persistence, I'm now finding it to be my favorite time of the day. I look forward to it!
It's something that is completely mine - it doesn't involve anyone else, I own it and control it
With visualization, I get to see each of my family members where I want them to be in their lives and it feels real while meditating!
Since it involves deeper breathing, it's a good form of exercise for my lungs
I find I'm in a calmer state, able to release things much more effectively
I remember to approach tough life issues with love
I'm learning to keep my mouth shut a little better (lol)
The future feels bright when I visualize what I see as real outcomes for my family and myself
I feel differently inside - in a good way - I can't put that into words?
I've learned to control my thoughts, and negative thoughts that try to creep into my head pretty much get their butts kicked to the door now! They do not control me.

My Personal Favorite Guided Meditation Video:

I use this video daily, along with a few others, from time to time. However, so far, this one ranks top for me. The meditation guide has a lovely soothing voice, and I love the way she uses a train ride to get into the life you want.

(Here's the video on YouTube if you're having problems seeing the video below.)

Some of the Basic Benefits:

Now, let's talk benefits – because who doesn't want a slice of mental and emotional awesome sauce?

Scientifically speaking, meditation has been found to reduce stress, boost focus and creativity (hello, productivity guru), and even improve your relationship with Mr. Sandman for those sweet ZZZs.

Think of meditation as a gym for your mind, minus the sweaty workout gear. With regular practice – and trust me, consistency is key here – you'll start noticing changes.

Maybe you'll handle that traffic jam without turning into the Hulk. Perhaps you'll catch yourself before a thought spiral drags you down. And just maybe, you'll find a sense of calm that feels like a warm cup of cocoa for your soul.

So, there you have it, intrepid explorers of the inner world – meditation demystified and made as approachable as a lazy Sunday morning. Remember, it's not about doing it "perfectly" but showing up and giving your mind a little love. Whether you're a zen master in training or a meditation newbie, the path to a more centered you are just a few deep breaths away.

"NOTE: A key insight I've gained about visualization is the importance of truly immersing yourself in the experience. It's not just about thinking of what you're manifesting; it's about embracing it as if it's already woven into the fabric of your reality. It's like stepping into the vibrant new world you've meticulously crafted and feeling its existence all around you"

Once my meditation session is over, I add a four-minute "prayer for others. The day is ALWAYS better when I meditate.

A Good Book and Place to Start

I'll leave you with a quote by the best-selling author Dr. Joe Dispenza, from his book "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One"

“Meditating is also a means for you to move beyond your analytical mind so that you can access your subconscious mind. That’s crucial, since the subconscious is where all your bad habits and behaviors that you want to change reside.”

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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Saturday, August 26, 2023

Voice of Fear by Heather Graham

Book Review of a new Krewe of Hunters Novel

This reviewer previously gave you book reviews of Heather Graham's Krewe of Hunters series, along with her Harrison Investigations series and the Bone Island Trilogy.

Readers of these reviews may remember that the Krewe of Hunters are a group of unusual FBI agents who are called upon when something complex (and usually paranormal) is going on. In that series, Graham was up to book #37. Voice of Fear is the latest, Number 38, in the series that involves a murder mystery, a ghost story, a history lesson, and a love story.

Synopsis of Voice of Fear

This novel takes place in Washington, DC (headquarters of the Krewe of Hunters) and surrounding Virginia countryside. It involves one of the newer members of the Krewe team, FBI Agent Jordan Wallace. Jordan is close to solving a human trafficking case she has been working on undercover. She somehow makes a rookie mistake, letting her guard down, and the mission is almost botched. Then, Patrick Law, criminal psychologist, rescues her and several collage girls about to be abducted, but most of the kidnappers get away.

Jordan feels she couldn't have made a worst first impression, especially when she is then partnered with Patrick as the case moves forward.

Patrick Law has the ability to get inside a criminal's head and has been an asset for the Krewe of Hunters team, even though he is not an FBI agent. Patrick is one of triplets. One sister works for the Krewe of Hunters team. The other one is a book editor who also has the ability to decipher the criminal mind through words and 'consults' with this special team. All three have the same strange ability to 'see' and 'talk to' ghosts.

One of the girls who had been abducted by this group of criminals who kidnap, then sell to the highest bidder, gorgeous girls, is a girl named Susie whom Law Enforcement officer 'Alfie' had been helping. Alfie is killed in the line of duty while on a previous raid before Susie can be found. Now a ghost, and friends with several Krewe members who can see and talk to him, Alfie helps with solving this human trafficking ring while also searching for Susie.

We find several scenes in the book taking place in and around cemeteries, including the one where Alfie is buried; a cemetery specific for law enforcement personnel killed in the line of duty. An interesting factoid in the story tells us the difference between a graveyard and a cemetery. A graveyard grows up around a church and a cemetery is freestanding, a place specifically for the dead.

Summary

It is quite obvious that the 'love story' part of this book will occur between Jordan and Patrick as they are partnered together to solve the case. And the 'ghost' part with Alfie is fun and fascinating. It makes you wish you too could be friends with ghosts.

I liked all the characters in Voice of Fear, many of whom will be familiar to previous readers of this book series. As the newest book in the Krewe of Hunters series, it was a fun book to read and I highly recommend it to readers of this genre.

Links to Previous Reviews of Books by Heather Graham:

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*Book Review of Voice of Fear written by

~Wednesday Elf

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Friday, August 25, 2023

Book Review of A Forgiving Heart (Seasons of Change Book 2)

Seasons of Change is a historical Christian romance book series that is written by multiple authors. The books do not share the same characters. They simply share the same theme.

A Forgiving Heart by Kasey Stockton could easily be read as a stand alone book and is one I would recommend even if you do not wish to commit to the entire series. The main character is quite believable. She does, indeed, possess a forgiving heart, but not in a way that seems beyond reason. While she has forgiven childhood mistreatment by other children, it is clear she still struggles with the memories of the selfish adult who was filled with anger and took it out on her.

This is a book that has stayed with me for days. I realize it is fiction, but the injustices are all too real. Children can be cruel, and people who should be looking out for you, often take advantage of their power. Even if our own lives have been easy, comparatively speaking, I think we all need the opportunity to consider how others may well have very painful pasts. Just telling someone they need to forgive someone seems trite and unsympathetic. Giving them time and room to work through something step by step is a more thoughtfully considered response. That is the reminder this book offered me, while also entertaining me with a romantic story.

I will warn you in advance. This is not a light reading romance. There is a pervasive evil throughout the story, starting with the uncle and continuing with someone viewed as a friend. Perhaps, that is another life lesson we should all be reminded of. People are not always who or what they seem.

A Forgiving Heart Synopsis

A Forgiving Heart
(Seasons of Change Series)Check PriceKate Kingston is now an adult, content with her life as a teacher. When an attorney arrives one day at the school to inform her of her uncle's death and her inheritance, she is thrown back into her past. A past she would prefer to leave behind.

When she was 4, her parents were killed. Her uncle moved into the ancestral home in Larkfield and sent her to live with strangers. When she returned to Split Tree Manor at the age of 9, he treated her as a house servant and would not let her go outside. When she was not working in the house, she had to remain in a room with a hired woman. The one day she did manage to slip out, she was assaulted by two male neighbors while trying to defend a smaller boy. When she returned home, she was switched by her uncle for disobedience. Finally, at 12, she was sent off to school, which turned out to be a much needed reprieve.

Kate returns to Split Tree Manor, where her only real memories are dominated by her cruel uncle. She was simply too young when her parents died to remember Split Tree Manor as anything other than an unhappy place. But, this was her father's home. As the older brother, her father had inherited Split Tree Manor. Unbeknownst to her, Uncle Bartholomew was only managing her inheritance until she reached the age of 20. She had been 20 for six months, yet her uncle did not contact her or inform her of her inheritance. Had he not died, she would not have known that she was the rightful heir of Split Tree Manor in Larkfield.

Kate doesn't return alone. She takes an ally with her. Alice James, the cook from the school, is thrilled with the opportunity to become Larkfield's cook. She is also joined by another married friend, Emily Nielsen, whose husband is away at war. Her hope is that these two friends can help her establish a home and re-enter society, a place where she belonged by birth, but was previously denied.

Shortly after her arrival, she meets Martin Evans who reveals that he is the younger boy from that day long ago and how he has always remembered her as his valiant defender. He wishes to repay her kindness, but he also expresses his interest in courting her.

One afternoon, when Emily doesn't return home from horseback riding, Kate and the house staff set out to find her. Kate is not the only person who finds Emily unconscious. Sir Peter Evans is there and he is carrying Emily to his own horse. Kate does not recognize Peter as one of the boys from years ago, nor does she realize he is the owner of Evanslea, but she had seen him several times recently. She acquiesces to his plans and allows him to carry Emily away while she tends to Emily's horse.

As the days pass, Kate finds unexpected friendship with one of the brothers and isn't quite sure why she is hesitant to get too close to the other one. There is something there that she doesn't quite understand or trust.

Once I started reading this book, I could not put it down. I stayed up late into the night reading. After a few hours sleep, I awoke ready to start reading again, forgetting any work I was supposed to do that day. It is an excellent book that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a combination of romance and mystery.

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Thursday, August 24, 2023

Reviewing Quail Ridge Park - Visit Missouri

Gazebo at Quail Ridge Park

I love exploring new parks and the St. Charles County Park system has a lot to offer. On a beautiful day in mid-August, I was able to explore Quail Ridge Park with a photography group. We had a great time exploring the park and taking a lot of nature photography.

Quail Ridge Park

Quail Ridge Park is located in Wentzville Missouri at 560 Interstate Drive. Although it is only about 20 minutes from my house it is a park I had never visited before. This park has many trails that can be used to explore the park. There are over seven miles of both paved and natural trails throughout the park.

The park features fishing lakes, ponds, playgrounds and shelters. It also has a wonderful dog park where you can unleash your dog and let them run. The park has an eighteen-hole disc golf course and is also home to the National Horseshoe Pitchers Hall of Fame.

Lodge and Gazebo

My group met in the parking lot of the lodge and then proceeded down the paved path for a walk around one of the lakes.

Lodge at Quail Ridge

The lodge, pictured above, is a rustic cedar banquet facility that is often used for weddings and other events. It will hold 180 people. The gazebo, which is pictured in the opening photo is the first stop on the path leading down from the lodge. One of the photographers that was with our group said it is a popular place for the bride and groom to have their photo taken for the wedding.

Walking the Paved Trail

From the lodge there is a paved trail that curves around past the gazebo, and then around the lake. It was a beautiful day, and we took a leisurely stroll along this path stopping to take photos along the way. Here are some of the photos I took.

Path Around Lake

Fishing Lake

Blossoms, Butterflies and Moths

As we walked along the path, we stopped to photograph the wildflowers and butterflies that made their homes in the woods around the lake. I also captured a moth on a wildflower across the path from the lake.

Missouri Wildflower

Lavender Wildflower

Swallowtail Butterflies

Butterflies

Flower on Edge of Prairie

Moth on Blossom

Purple Wildflower

Learn More About Missouri Butterflies and Wildflowers

Here are a couple of books where you can learn more about butterflies and wildflowers.

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Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Summertime and the Reading is Easy ~ A Book Review

Summertime is a great time to catch up on reading material that has been stacking up and this past week I found myself in need of an easy read while waiting for x-rays to be done in the hospital waiting room.

As luck would have it I happened to download a book called The Waiting Room by Joan S. Peck, that I was waiting to read. I did not quite expect to be reading it while I was doing my own waiting in the Waiting Room, but that is exactly what happened.

As I am writing this review for you, I am nursing a broken shoulder! That is making my life a little more difficult than Allison's, Bella's and Marianne's.

These three women met while undergoing their yearly Mammograms. Every woman knows how wonderful these tests are (not) and how they can bring you to your lowest common denominator! But it's a great way for three very diffferent women to meet. Allison the most outgoing of the three asks the other two if they would like to go out for a coffee after their mammograms are done.

Bella and Marianne had not made any other plans for that day, so going out for a nice brew after a stressful test seemed like a great idea.

For the first little while these three are testing the waters of friendship. They are learning a little bit about each other and after a few awkward moments, laughter is sounding around the table.

Each of these women knew that they had found something that they needed from each other. Nothing was more important than having someone to share life's moments (good ones and bad) with. Someone who understood what life was like from a woman's perspective. Who knows, this could be the start of a great friendship.

After that first girl's coffee date, they all decide that they will do this again in a weeks time. After all, they would be meeting back at the Waiting Room to get the results of their mammograms.

The Waiting Room is a lovely book that I'm sure many women could immediately relate to. There are crazy things happening in each of their lives and a good observation from an outside party is sometimes what is needed so badly. These three become sounding boards for each other and yes, they become the best of friends.

I really enjoyed this book as a summertime read, it's not heavy in details that you need to remember to make sense of the story line, but there are details in there that I'm sure most women could understand and have an opinion about.

Sit back, grab a good cup of coffee or lemonade and open this book. You will find yourself transported to another time in your life when you wish you had a really great friend to share your problems with, while finding solutions that work for everyone.

I'm sure you won't be disappointed!

HAPPY SUMMERTIME READING

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Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Reviewing The Myrtlewood Mysteries Omnibus

After her grandmother passed away a series of events led Rosemary Thorn and her teenage daughter Athena to the delightful village of Myrtlewood in Cornwall. As things started happening they ended up being unable to leave the town under police orders. By the time they were allowed to leave, they had both realised that Myrtlewood was home.

Now Myrtlewood is no ordinary West Country village, its inhabitants are magical from members of the Fae world to witches, vampires, shapeshifters and even a werewolf. It seems that Rosemary's bad memory is in part due to the fact that her late grandmother bound her magic and now that she's deceased it's time for Rosemary to both learn to grow and master her magical abilities as a powerful witch.

Reviewing Myrtlewood Mystereis Omnibus by Iris Beaglehole

Image by Lou16 using Canva

They also discover that her daughter Athena is part witch and part Fae through her deadbeat dad (who ends up being something completely different).

I really enjoyed the humour with a dollop of magic in this book and the idea of a self-cleaning house and a refrigerator that re-stocks itself is one that has me putting my hands up to move to Myrtewood and become a witch!

I don't want to give away too much but I decided to read book 1 (I didn't know there was an omnibus so I got the books separately but as I have Kindle Unlimited (KU) I wasn't worried, if you don't have KU then you really should purchase as an omnibus), four days later and I am part way through the fourth book in the series.

If you're unsure whether you want to read a paranormal/supernatural book then let me assure you the biggest thing about this book is the characters. It's a lovely cast of people and the author herself wrote it as a Gilmore Girls style of book with a magical bent. Instead of all of the festivities that Stars Hollow celebrated in the Gilmore Girls you get introduced to a lot of old English festivities. There's also a character (his name is Ferg and I think he's great) who refers to Saturday as Saturn's Day as he doesn't want to disrespect the gods by using the short version!

There's some romance, but the books are G-rated. This is refreshing as I have delved into a couple of series in this genre and they both have had a lot of sexual content which didn't add to the storylines at all.

Each book in this omnibus is based on a different festival and they each pick up where the other one finished.

The first book, Accidental Magic, is based on the Imbolc festival. You may have heard of this by the name of Saint Brigid's Day, Saint Brigid is actually Myrtlewood's saint and does make an appearance in the third book to talk to her grandfather Belenus.

The second book, Experimental Magic, is based on Ostara otherwise known as the Spring Equinox. This is a time when the veil between worlds is the thinnest which is why we also get a peek into the Fae realm.

The third book, Combustible Magic, is based on the Beltane festival complete with fire sprites and the god Belenus making an appearance.

Have you read any of these books by Iris Bealehole and if so what did you think of them?

Enjoy a cup of tea while you read the delightful Myrtlewood Mysteries

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Monday, August 21, 2023

Reviewing iLIDS - Mason Jar Lids (Not for Canning Use)

I have used iLIDS for Mason Jars for several years now and have noticed that when I go to the cupboard for a drink container, I am reaching for a glass jar and an iLID the vast majority of the time. I find that making my drinks in a jar is cost-saving, environmentally friendlier, and visually pleasing.

iLIDS Mason Jar Drink Lids

Mason jars are a glass jar that are most known for canning. Households over the generations have depended on these jars for food storage. The jars are durable and withstand boiling temperatures in the canner, are dishwasher safe, and store food in the refrigerator after opening. While I have not tried it myself, I am aware that some people use their jars in the freezer.

Many kitchens, including mine, have a supply of these jars. So it is not a stretch to begin using jars for drinks and the storage of drinks. I began making teas and ice coffee in the jars, then pouring the drinks into a glass. Before too long, I discovered iLIDS drink lids and began drinking right from the jar. Insulated steel tumblers have many benefits, but I have found that I prefer the versatility of canning jars with iLIDS.

iLIDS drinking lids come in many colors. The underside has a gasket which creates a good seal when screwed on to the jar and helps prevent the lid from becoming hard to unscrew. The drinking lid has a sliding closure to protect your drink from unwanted items. When the slider is opened, you can drink directly from the lid or insert a straw.

Note: the slider is not sealed and will allow a small spill when the jar is knocked over. It is not leak-proof.

While quart jars are large and bulky, I find that my liquid intake is higher when using a quart jar. I can visually see how much (or how little) I've drank. Glass jars are not insulated. But I find that I enjoy the visual aspect of infused waters or iced coffee.

Quart jars and iLIDS are perfect for making sun tea. When finished steeping, the jar and lid can move to the refrigerator and be used for storing and pouring out one glass at a time. Or, once chilled, insert a straw and voila a super-sized ice tea for those hot days.

iLIDS come in wide mouth and regular mouth sizes. I prefer the wide mouth because it's so much easier to drop in ice cubes or fruit. I have also found that these lids fit on many of the spaghetti jars that can be purchased at the grocery. The taller, thinner Classico jars are a great size for drink jars.

While preparing to write this review, I have learned that in addition to the drink lids with the sliding opening, iLIDS offer storage lids and sports drink lids!

I began using jars for drinks around the time I began making my own iced coffee to reduce the cost of buying my daily ice coffee at a drive-thru. I also prefer to reduce trash waste by avoiding the use of single-serving items (such as Kcups) when I can.

To recap:

downside of iLIDS and Mason Jars for drinks

not insulated
bulky; they don't fit in car cup carriers
glass is breakable (although I've not broken one yet)

upside of iLIDS and Mason Jars for drinks

easy to screw on and off jars
wide mouth and regular mouth size
visually pleasing; for iced drinks, fruit-infused drinks, and coffees
monitor liquid intake; can see how much you've drank (or still need to drink)
making sun tea
resistant to staining (I'm not sure how but my oldest iLIDS have zero tea, coffee, or berry juice stains)
reduces costs of buying drinks outside the home and reducing waste of single serving drinks
many colors to choose from
different styles of iLIDS to choose from (drink, storage, and sports drink)

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Sunday, August 20, 2023

Dorm Room Essentials: 15 Must-Have Items for Your Home Away from Home

So you're getting ready to step into the world of dorm living – an adventure full of new experiences, late-night study sessions, and lasting friendships.

Creating your own little haven within those four walls is both exciting and a bit challenging. My personal situation was a bit different; my roommate and I shared an apartment. However, much of what's listed here was included and necessary in my own list of essentials.

To help you get started on the right foot, I've put together a list of the top 15 items that can make your dorm room feel like your own cozy slice of home.

15 Must-Have Dorm Essentials to Consider:

Bedding: Your bed isn't just a place to crash; it's your refuge. Trust me, investing in soft sheets that feel like a cloud, a comforter that wraps you up in warmth, and pillows that perfectly hug your head can make all the difference after a long day. Another item that is available today that wasn't used back in my day is a privacy tent for beds. If you're sharing your space with someone else, you can check them out here.
Storage Solutions: Dorm rooms? Yeah, they're cozy. And by cozy, I mean limited in space. You'll want to become best friends with under-bed storage containers, wall shelves, and clever organizers. They magically expand your room, creating space you didn't even know you had. Think vertically, think under the bed!
Oh, and you have to check out this nifty item! It's a bed-skirt organizer, so cool!
Mini Fridge and Microwave: Late-night snacks or impromptu tea parties, a mini fridge, and a microwave combo have your back. It's a savior when your stomach rumbles and your study partner needs that ramen fix.
Desk Essentials: Your desk is where academic magic happens. Having a good desk lamp for late-night study sessions is a game-changer. Organizers for your pens, pencils, and highlighters keep chaos at bay.
Technology: Let's face it – you'll practically be living on your laptop. Make sure it's your trusty sidekick. Chargers and power strips are your lifelines in this digital age.
Decorative Items: Pictures, posters, and wall art turn your dorm from "generic space" to "your space." These personal touches are like visual hugs from home.
Personal Care Items: A shower caddy is your shower-time superhero, corralling your shampoo and soap. And shower shoes? They're your feet's best friends.
Laundry Supplies: Laundromat adventures are a rite of passage. A laundry basket that doesn't double as an arm workout is essential. Don't forget the detergent and a stash of quarters (if needed) - it may just be a card you have to fill up with money online - maybe Mom and Dad will be doing that for you?
Cooking Essentials: If you're feeling culinary, some basic cooking gear can be a game-changer. A simple stir-fry or microwave-friendly recipes are sanity savers when cafeteria food just won't cut it.
Clothing and Closet Organizers: A closet can turn into Narnia with the right hangers and organizers. Keep your wardrobe tidy and accessible. No more digging through a mountain of clothes!
Study and Lounge Seating: Not every study session happens at your desk. A bean bag or floor cushion can be your "chill spot" for those group discussions or solo reading escapes.
Rugs: Let's admit it – dorm floors can be cold. A rug not only warms up the room but also adds a splash of color to your space. Choose one that matches your vibe.
Fan or Space Heater: Depending on your dorm's climate (and quirks), a fan or heater can be your climate control buddy. They're like roommates that actually listen to your temperature preferences.
Trash and Recycling Bins: Keeping things neat is easier when you've got designated spots for trash and recycling. It's a small touch that makes a big difference. Here's a compact garbage/recycle bin that works for smaller spaces.
Whiteboard or Corkboard: Organize your life with a whiteboard or corkboard. Pin up reminders, motivational quotes, and pictures of your pals. It's your personal command center.

There you have it! Have a successful, fun, and productive school year! Enjoy every moment; I'm sure you've heard it a thousand times, but it goes by fast.

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Saturday, August 19, 2023

Summertime Toys for Tots

A Toy Review of Summer-themed Toys

Little boy playing with toys in a sandbox

From observation of children at play, it is easy to see that kids love to imitate the grown-ups in their lives. Thus, it is easy to see why toy manufacturers create toys that replicate a small version of the full-sized items adults use in their daily lives.

In the summer, two of the things parents and other adults plan and do are picnics and backyard grilling. To that end, I thought it would be fun to find some mini versions of these summer-themed items.

My Little Picnic Playset

For the tiniest of tots, this 5-piece playset in plush is perfect for babies and small children. The fun and friendly play food, including buttered toast, soft toy cherries, a rattling avocado and a toy grape juice that makes a sound, fit inside a cute soft picnic basket that baby can carry around.

Manufactured by Baby Gund, a leader in excellent children's toys, this play set will keep baby engaged in sensory play while encouraging exploration and helping develop their dexterity.

So when mom & dad are setting up the picnic table for a family picnic, the youngest family member can enjoy being included with their very own soft picnic playset.

My Little Picnic Playset is available on Amazon right here.

BBQ Grill Playset

One of the cutest toys I've seen in years, this BBQ Grill for kid's play is perfect for 'little cooks' who want to copy dad doing his backyard or camping grilling.

This particular BBQ grill is interactive, bringing realistic features to a child's grilling experience. There is realistic smoke and sound functions for fun pretend play. This 18-piece set comes with grilling utensils and plates, plus a variety of food items. To add to the realistic look, the food changes color as it switches from 'raw' to 'cooked'.

A fun toy grill that sparks a love for cooking and outdoor fun for a complete pretend play experience.

BBQ Grill Playset by Play-Act is available here on Amazon

Summary

So, for a fun summertime playtime for your children, check out these picnic and BBQ grill playsets. Children really enjoy doing just what the adults around them do. It's more than playtime; it's a learning experience.

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*Summertime Toys for Tots Review written by Wednesday Elf

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Friday, August 18, 2023

Marmaduke (2010) Movie Review

At the end of an especially grueling day recently, I went in search of a movie that would offer the much needed dose of levity. Passing right over my normally preferred romantic comedy section, I moved on to the kids movies and came across Marmaduke.

I can't say that I ever really thought about a dog looking quirky before, but that is exactly the word that came to mind when I spotted Marmaduke.

As I started watching this lanky, socially awkward, kind canine with exaggerated facial expressions and floppy ears, I felt the stress of the day start to evaporate.

Marmaduke is a beautiful Great Dane whose large size might make him look dominate in the world of dogs, but his sweet and easy going disposition actually makes him unprepared for bullies. However, unprepared or inexperienced does not mean incapable, which is a reminder we all need to hear.

Oh, and perhaps I should tell you, in the movie "Marmaduke" all dogs talk and are quite animated!

Marmaduke - Movie Synopsis

Marmaduke [Blu-ray]Check PriceWhen Marmaduke hears that they are moving from Kansas to California, he isn't too thrilled to leave his yard full of buried bones. But, he will be with his family and his only animal friend, Carlos the cat, so he goes along without fuss. Little does Marmaduke know, the world of ocean waves, unfamiliar neighborhoods and the "pedigrees" await him.

Upon arrival, he loves the new house, especially the big doggie door and his new "bathroom". Plus, his new friends; Maisie, Raisin and Guiseppe, are adorable. I had to laugh when Guiseppe states that he is afraid of pumas aka mountain lions. That is a reasonable fear for anyone, but he is so cute with his constant reminders about them throughout the show.

I laughed until I cried watching the Great Dane surf! I totally forgot that I was having a bad day and enjoyed the movie. I think you will too!

Where to Watch Marmaduke

I cut the cable years ago. As a prime member on Amazon, I watch a lot of movies for free, but I also subscribe to a few streaming services. I watched Marmaduke on Peacock. It is also available to rent or buy on Amazon.

Now that I am finished sharing this fun movie, I think I go watch it again. See you there!