Review This Reviews!

Friday, July 5, 2024

Pouring Chute Accessory for Stand Mixer Mixing Bowl Reviewed

I love my Hamilton Beach Stand Mixer! It was a gift many years ago from my daughter and her husband. Prior to that time, I had never owned a stand mixer and I was most grateful to receive the gift. It is a real workhorse. I've only had one issue with it and I suspect it is a common issue for any stand mixer. It is hard to slowly add flour, eggs, milk, etc to batter when the mixer is mixing.

Because the "planetary mixing action rotates the beaters" around the stainless steel bowl instead of only mixing in the center of the bowl, I found myself waiting for the beater to get to the back of the bowl before I added ingredients while mixing. It was perfect when my timing was right, but would splatter me if I missed that optimum moment.

I went in search of a solution and found a universal chute accessory that fits my standard size 3.5 quart stainless steel mixing bowl. It works like magic! I can easily add ingredients at any time during the mixer rotation without having flour, eggs, or milk tossed back at me.

Sometimes, the simplest things are just so cool and exactly what is needed!

Stand Mixer Mixing Bowl Chute

New Metro Design Pouring Chute Accessory, Fits Most Metal Stand Mixer Bowls, Baking is a Work of Heart

The chute that I found years ago was made of a hard plastic and works great, but I am always afraid it will break at the cut-out slot where it fits onto the bowl. That is the only reason I have not recommended it in the past. However, I recently discovered a stainless steel mixing bowl chute and was thrilled to get this inexpensive upgrade. Plus, I love the baking quote options engraved on the side.

I opted for the engraved quote: Baking is a work of Love. The word love is not there. It is replaced with two hearts as you can see in the photo. That slogan expresses what I have always believed. Baking and cooking for my family is definitely a work of love. I've even commented many times that my grandmother's or my mother's special ingredient in a recipe was love. Without the love, the food just doesn't taste as good.

I have noted that many of the newer stand mixer models include a pouring chute, but those don't have the sentimental slogan. Therefore, I think a new pouring chute would make a lovely gift for the baker in your life too.

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Hepburn's Necklace: Jan Moran's Beautiful, Enthralling Romantic Saga

My husband and I recently listened to the audiobook of Hepburn’s Necklace by bestselling author Jan Moran. It is a 20th-century historical romance novel that weaves together a captivating, multigenerational story of love lost and found. It effortlessly blends history, mystery, the glamour of old Hollywood, the hardships of rural Texas farming life, and the gorgeous, scenic Italian coast. We loved every minute of it, so much that I also purchased the Kindle version. Here is my book review.

Escape to the shores of beautiful Lake Como in Italy for this multigenerational historical romance
that combines the magic of the Italian coast with the glamour of Hollywood in its heyday

When costume designer Ariana Ricci discovers that her controlling bridegroom has been unfaithful, she leaves him at the altar. Her rigid, ambitious, and workaholic mother, Mari, refused to take time off to attend the wedding. Fortunately, the desolate bride finds solace with her great-aunt, glamorous Hollywood legend Ruby Raines, who whisks Ariana away from the church and off to Italy for some much-needed healing time.

Ruby has strong emotional ties to Italy, where she traveled as a teenager to work as an extra in the 1952 film Roman Holiday starring Audrey Hepburn. It’s also where she fell deeply and irrevocably in love with Niccolò, an Italian extra in the iconic movie, and was befriended by Hepburn who gifted her with the necklace that gives this novel its name. Ruby and Niccolò had pledged themselves to each other faithfully, but his sudden silence soon after Ariana’s forced return to Hollywood remains a mystery. Ruby can only assume that he must have died, the only reason she can accept that would have kept him from her. During the filming of Roman Holiday, she and Niccolò had spent a magical few days on beautiful Lago di Como (Lake Como). Now, roughly half a century later, Ruby decides to purchase Villa Fiori, a rundown but historic villa there. Lago di Como holds precious memories for the aging Ruby, and she engages Ariana’s design expertise to refurbish the villa and restore it to its former glory.

As Ariana is looking for fabrics for Villa Fiori’s makeover, she is introduced to Alesandro, the handsome, savvy, and charming owner of the silk factory that provides textiles for all the top designer fashion houses, such as Versace, Missoni, Armani, Prada, and Ferragamo. Ruby encourages her grand-niece to accept Alessandro’s invitation to go out socially. However, Ariana is a bit gun-shy after her recent, narrow escape from her untrustworthy fiancé. While redecorating the villa, as Ariana combs through some of her famous great-aunt’s keepsakes she comes across some old letters with Italian postmarks from the 1950s. However, the famous and normally effusive Ruby is surprisingly closed-mouthed when asked about their contents, and we slowly learn more of her long-held secrets as the book progresses.

The relationship between Ariana and Alessandro gradually blooms, and Ruby relives her romantic past vicariously through them, musing on the secret love of her youth and the betrayal of a trusted relative that dramatically transformed the trajectory of her life.

The more we learn about Hollywood legend Ruby Raines as the book unfolds, the more questions we have.

What happened to the letter in Ruby’s empty envelope that Ariana found?
What were Ruby’s sister’s dying wishes?
What is behind the estrangement between Mari and Ariana?
Why do Ruby and her great-niece have such a special bond?
Why was Ruby’s aunt Vivienne jealous of her?
What really happened to Ruby’s beloved Niccolò?
Will Ariana, Ruby, or both get a second chance at love and, if so, will they have the courage to take it?

Jan Moran’s writing is elegant and immersive, characterized by detailed descriptions and a keen sense of pacing. The dual timelines are seamlessly integrated, allowing us to move fluidly between Ruby’s present-day experiences and the historical context of her teenage and subsequent years in Hollywood. The Italian coast is depicted with lush, evocative descriptions that transport readers to the sun-drenched landscapes and quaint villages. The setting serves as a perfect backdrop for the romantic and historical elements of the story.

Hepburn’s Necklace is a beautifully crafted novel that blends romance, history, and self-discovery into a compelling narrative. Jan Moran’s ability to evoke the magic of old Hollywood and the charm of the Italian coast makes this book a standout in contemporary romance.

This novel takes us on a long (356 pages) and winding journey that is well worth the trip. My husband and I loved it and, despite the satisfying conclusion, we were sorry to see it end. I highly recommend the audiobook, which provides nearly 13 hours of listening pleasure and is skillfully narrated by Erin Bennett. I also purchased the Kindle version as I look forward to rereading it.

The formats listed below are (in order) Kindle, audiobook, and paperback. Enjoy the ride!

Hepburn's Necklace: A Novel (Heartwarming Family Sagas - Stand-Alone Fiction)

Hepburn's Necklace

Hepburn's Necklace: A Novel (Heartwarming Family Sagas - Stand-Alone Fiction)

Hepburn's Necklace: Jan Moran's Beautiful, Enthralling Romantic Saga by Margaret Schindel

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Celebrate with a Festive Patriotic Trifle

Summer is here, and that means it's time for barbecues, picnics, and all things outdoors. Whether you're celebrating the 4th of July, Memorial Day, or just feeling extra patriotic this festive trifle is the perfect dessert to add to your picnic. It's not only delicious but very easy to make.

Festive Patriotic Trifle - Reviewed

Every year for our 4th of July celebration our daughter Jamie, and grandson, Tyler make this festive dessert. This is so easy to assemble, no need for baking skills. Just layer and go. With the vibrant colors and fresh fruit flavors, it's a real crowd-pleaser. You can customize it with your favorite fruits and flavors making this so versatile.

Ingredients for a Festive Patriotic Trifle:

1-angle food cake or pound cake (cut into cubes)
2 cups strawberries, sliced
2 cups blueberries
1 cup raspberries
2 cups vanilla pudding
2 cups whipped cream

Assemble the Trifle:

In a large trifle bowl or glass dish, start with a layer of cubed cake.
Add a layer of vanilla pudding, spreading it evenly over the cake.
Add a layer of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries).
Add a layer of whipped cream.
Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and berries.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

I hope you enjoy this festive dessert at your next picnic. The delightful combination of fruit, pudding, and whipped cream is sure to impress your guests.

Find more recipes and desserts on ReviewThis here:

ReviewThisRecipes.com

If you need a Trifle Bowl why not buy one named after me.

Anchor Hocking Monaco Glass Trifle Bowl, 104 oz

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Monday, July 1, 2024

Book Review: Damaging Secrets (Rachel Ryder Book 1) by Carolyn Ridder Aspenson

Rachel Ryder is a gutsy, sarcastic, emotionally damaged and extremely talented Detective who relocated from Chicago to small town Hamby, Georgia after the murder of her husband. Her life was turned upside in Chicago and she's hoping for a new start in Hamby. Besides, she has promises to keep.

Damaging Secrets (Rachel Ryder Book 1) opens with a call of a "suspicious person" at a questionable hotel. When Detective Ryder arrives, she learns that it is actually a deceased person. A deceased person who happens to be a city councilman. That is her first taste of the politics in this small town. You see, if you are a politician and you want your town to be rated as "safe", you'll avoid using certain terminology, such as murder and suicide, in order to keep the crime rate at less than one tenth of a percentage. In Chicago, there was plenty of political corruption to go around, but Detective Ryder struggles with this new small town status quo. And she struggles with the fact that they quickly decide the manner of death is suicide when it is clear to her, and should be clear to all of them, that it was murder.

Rachel Ryder's husband, Tommy, was murdered on a street in Chicago in front of her very eyes due to his part of addressing political corruption and crime. His death was why she moved to a small town; to leave the memories attached to Chicago and to live their dream. That dream included living in a rural area.

"Years ago, I promised Tommy I'd learn to care for and ride horses before we bought an acreage. He didn't want me walking blindly into that lifestyle. I intend to keep that promise..."

Detective Ryder's rough approach doesn't win her any fans as she tries to prove that the death was a murder. She also has a great deal of difficulty making friends. Rachel isn't concerned about making friends but she should be concerned about making enemies as she tries to figure out what the town is hiding at this seedy hotel. Was the councilman killed by a prostitute? An angry wife? A political opponent? With everyone who matters in town insisting that it was a suicide, she may never learn the truth.

Why I Chose This Book by Bestselling Author Carolyn Ridder Aspenson

I am not sure I've ever heard of this author previously. I only happened upon this series when searching for a book that would hold my attention during my staycation. While I had many plans for my staycation, I wasn't feeling 100% and decided to spend much of my time reading and relaxing.

Have you ever been in one of those moods that it is hard to choose a book? When all of the books sound like been-there-done-that, boring, and the same plot just recycled. I just wasn't in the mood to choose a book. My Amazon search brought me to Damaging Secrets a thriller by Aspenson and the first in the series. I thought I'd give it a try and frankly, I was just tired of trying to choose a book.

I enjoyed the "scrappy" detective so much. She was brilliant and experienced but her approach created barriers time and time again.

As someone who has moved from a rural area, to a metro area, and back again so many parts of the book rang true. Each area has it's own unspoken rules, terminology, and customs. Aspenson's writing hit the nail on the head for me with some of these items and helped the story to come alive for me.

I enjoyed book 1 so much that I'm already halfway through book 2. It is no wonder that Aspenson is a best selling author.

Read more reviews of Damaging Secrets (Rachel Ryder Book 1) by Carolyn Ridder Aspenson here.

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Sunday, June 30, 2024

A Review of How The Weather Can Affect Our Mood

How Weather Can Influence Our Mood (If We Let It)

Have you ever noticed how a sunny day can instantly lift your spirits, while a gloomy, rainy day might make you feel a bit down?

I've often mentioned to my family not to allow the weather to dictate their feelings, thoughts, or outlook. I understand how challenging that can be for some people. However, after immersing myself in the profound teachings of Michael Singer, a New York Times Best Seller, I've learned that letting go of even simple things we cannot control, like "the weather" can significantly contribute to a more peaceful existence - and according to Mr. Singer, it's good practice for letting go of those bigger issues.

A Poem Inspired by Embracing Positivity Despite Gray Skies

The other morning, I woke up reflecting on this topic and penned these thoughts. It's not unusual for me to have "words" come from nowhere (lol), as I've been writing poems since I was eight years old.

Let's explore how different types of weather can influence how we feel.

Sunny Days and Happiness

There's something about a bright, sunny day that just makes us feel good. Apparently, one reason behind this is that sunshine increases the production of serotonin in our brains. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate our mood; higher levels are associated with happiness and well-being. So, when the sun is shining, we tend to feel more energetic, upbeat, and motivated.

Rainy Days and Melancholy

Conversely, cloudy and rainy days can sometimes make us sad or sluggish. This is partly because the lack of sunlight can lead to lower serotonin levels. Additionally, the gray skies and the sound of rain can create a more subdued and reflective atmosphere, affecting our mood. For some people, this might mean feeling cozy and relaxed, while it could lead to a sense of melancholy for others.

Cold Weather and Comfort

Cold weather can have a mixed impact on our mood. For some, the chilly air and shorter days can bring about a sense of gloom, especially if you're not a fan of winter. However, cold weather can also make us appreciate the warmth and comfort of our homes more. Cozying up with a blanket, a hot drink, and a good book can create a comforting and pleasant mood.

Warm Weather and Activity

When the temperature rises, it often brings a sense of excitement and energy. Warm weather encourages outdoor activities, socializing, and vacations. Being active and spending time outside can boost our mood and overall well-being. However, extremely hot weather can sometimes lead to discomfort and irritability, so it's all about finding the right balance.

Seasonal Changes and Mood Disorders

For some people, the change of seasons can profoundly impact their mood. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at certain times of the year, typically in the winter when there's less sunlight. People with SAD may experience symptoms like low energy, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of sadness. Light therapy and other treatments can help manage these symptoms. However, checking in with your medical professional is wise to determine the best approach.

Finding Your Weather Sweet Spot

Everyone is different, and our preferences for certain types of weather can vary widely. Some people thrive in the heat of summer, while others feel they are at their best in crisp, cool autumn air (that's me!).

It's important to consider how weather conditions affect your mood and find ways to make the most of them. Whether planning activities that match the weather or finding ways to stay positive during less favorable conditions, understanding the connection between weather and mood can help you navigate the ups and downs.

In conclusion, the weather may impact our mood, from the uplifting effects of sunshine to the reflective nature of rainy days.

Knowing how weather patterns affect us can help us to better manage our moods and make the most of each day, no matter the forecast.

I'm a big fan of the changing seasons, and I especially love Autumn; how about you?

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The Caray Family of Baseball Broadcasters - A Sports Review

Those who know me know that I am a huge baseball fan. But I’m not just a fan of the players and the teams. I also love to listen to the team announcers calling the games. This probably comes from my love of broadcasting and having married a radio broadcaster.

There have been many well-known and famous baseball broadcasters for Major League Baseball over the years, such as Vin Scully of the Dodgers, Jack Buck with the St. Louis Cardinals and Bob Uecker of the Milwaukee Brewers. But to have four generations of one family all become baseball broadcasters, as the Harry Caray family did, is unique indeed.

The Caray MLB Broadcasters

Harry Christopher Caray

Harry Caray was the eldest of four generations of MLB sportscasters, both in radio and for television. He was most well known for first working for the St. Louis Cardinals, then his 11 years with the Chicago White Sox before spending his last 16 years as the announcer for the Chicago Cubs. He became a Chicago legend for his special announcing style and his hilarious storytelling.

While announcing for the White Sox, Caray began the practice of leading the home crowd in singing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the seventh inning stretch. Fans came to love this practice so much that when Harry left the White Sox to become the play-by-play announcer for the Chicago Cubs, it became a regular ritual which continues to this day.

Harry Caray also became famous for his frequently exclaimed catchphrase "Holy cow!" when his team hit a home run.

Harry Christopher “Skip” Caray Jr.

Harry Caray’s son ‘Skip’ Caray followed his dad into the broadcast booth as a baseball broadcaster with the Atlanta Braves. Skip worked for the Braves for more than 30 years, before his death in 2008. Skip Caray’s son ‘Chip’ has extended the Caray broadcasting legacy to the third generation.

Harry Caray once said that one of his proudest moments was when he worked some innings in the same broadcast booth with his son Skip and grandson Chip during a Cubs/Braves game on May 13, 1991.

Harry Christopher ‘Chip’ Caray III

After working for several years on other sports, Chip Caray began working baseball games for the Seattle Mariners from 1993 to 1995. In 1998, he was hired to work alongside his grandfather as broadcaster for the Chicago Cubs. When Harry Caray died in February 1998, Chip stayed with the team and took his grandfather's place as "the Voice of the Cubs”. Chip served as the Cubs announcer for seven seasons before leaving at the end of the 2004 season to work alongside his father, Skip, broadcasting games for the Atlanta Braves. After his dad died, Chip became the Braves regular play-by-play announcer.

In 2023, Chip Caray accepted the position of the play-by-play announcer for the St. Louis Cardinals, where his grandfather had begun his career as the voice of the Cardinals.

Harry Christopher “Chris” Caray IV

And now we come to Chris Caray, son of Chip, grandson of Skip and great-grandson of Harry Caray. Chris, along with his identical twin brother Stefan Caray, continue the legacy of the broasting Carays.

The twins began their baseball announcing while still in college, calling games for college games before working together as sportscasters. In 2021, Chris and Stefan broadcast for the Cotuit Kettleers of the Cape Cod Baseball League. In 2022, they joined the Amarillo Sod Poodles of the Texas League as their broadcasters.

In 2024, Chris (Harry Christopher Caray IV), was hired to be a play-by-play announcer for Oakland Athletics telecasts.

Summary

Four generations of Harry Christopher Caray broadcasters is a unique accomplishment. For more information about this famous family and their baseball announcing legacy, click here.

*Image sources of the Caray family for this article are from Wikipedia. The Intro image is from Pixabay.

*A review of the Harry Caray family of baseball broadcasters written by Wednesday Elf, the ReviewThis! Baseball contributor.

The Legendary Harry Caray: Baseball's Greatest Salesman

Holy Cow!

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Friday, June 28, 2024

Swiffer Wetjet Floor Mop Reviewed

I've been a Swiffer fan for many years now. I use several of the Swiffer products that make house cleaning so much easier. I love being able to throw away the used Swiffer product along with the dust and dirt.

I have used the Swiffer Sweeper for decades on my hardwood floors, but I put off buying the Swiffer Wetjet floor mop when I first saw it, thinking I would not use it on the hardwood. Then the realization struck me that we do have tile in our bathrooms and in the entries, so when I decided to buy the Wetjet mop, it was primarily for the tile floors. However, because the box says it is safe for hardwood floors, I started using it occasionally on my hardwood floors, and I love it.

It is so much easier to mop with the Swiffer Wetjet mop! Because it sprays the cleaning solution in front of the mop, I don't have to carry a bucket or spray bottle and I can control the amount of liquid on the floor. Therefore, I am able to just damp mop the hardwood. I am concerned about using any chemicals on my hardwood floors so I only use it when necessary to kill germs and bacteria. It does seem to dry pretty quickly which makes me feel more comfortable using it on the hardwood. As for the tile, I do use more spray and get it really wet. The active ingredients in the solution are Didecyldimethylammonium Chloride (0.0399%) which is a disinfectant and Chlorhexidine Diacetate (0.0133%) which is used to sterilize surgical instruments.

We walk on floors and lots of stuff is tracked in from outside. Frankly, who knows what gets tracked onto the floors. We do have lots of birds, squirrels and wild bunnies in our backyard. Those creatures just seem to do foul (or fowl) things and act like animals without concern for keeping an area sanitary. No doubt, we walk right through "used" areas without even realizing it and track it inside.

When I used the Swiffer Wetjet last week on the kitchen hardwood floor, I had to laugh when my husband came in and commented on how clean everything smelled.

The Swiffer Wetjet Floor Mop

Swiffer WetJet Hardwood and Floor Spray Mop, All-in-One Mopping Cleaner Starter Kit, Includes: 1 WetJet, 10 Pads, Cleaning Solution & Batteries 16 Piece Set, Purple

Now that I have been using the Swiffer Wetjet mop for a while, I am comfortable recommending it. I have had absolutely no problems with the mop or the solution bottles which are turned upside down and inserted in the bottle holder on the mop. I don't take the bottle off until it is empty and store my Wetjet mop ready to use immediately when needed.

The sprayer is battery operated. The initial start-up kit includes batteries, the mop, a bottle of the cleaning solution, and some mopping pads to get you started.

You do have to put the mop handle together after unboxing it. There is a cable running through it that connects the button on the handle to the sprayers in the mop. It is very obvious how the two pieces of the handle connect to each other.

This video shows just how easy it is to get started. I'm not sure why her Wetjet mop didn't have the pre-installed wire running through the handle, but otherwise, it is a great demo video.

Swiffer WetJet Hardwood and Floor Spray Mop, All-in-One Mopping Cleaner Starter Kit, Includes: 1 WetJet, 10 Pads, Cleaning Solution & Batteries 16 Piece Set, Purple

Thursday, June 27, 2024

Reviewing The Secret Book of Flora Lea

Just when I think I've read my fill of World War II historical fiction,

our book club picks another one for our May meeting. After reading just a few pages I was totally engrossed in the story and happy to read another WWII historical fiction.

The Secret Book of Flora Lea is based on Operation Pied Piper, a true event during WWII. In this plan the British Government is looking for a way to keep the children of London safe during the bombing. They find people willing to take care of the children until the war is over, these people are located in far off lands like Australia and America and many of them are sent to the English countryside.

Brief Summary of the Book

In this book the author, Patti Callahan Henry, tells the story of two young girls, Hazel age 14 and Flora age 5 who are sent to the English countryside. The story begins with the girls boarding a train that takes them to towns in the countryside where people choose from the children to see who they want to stay in their home.

The girls are fortunate to be placed in a lovely cottage near a small English town and the river Thames. Here they live with Bridie and her son Henry. They are very kind and good to the girls.

The girls spend their times going on walks and playing games, which include a wonderful fairy tale that Hazel makes up to entertain Flora and distract her from missing her mother. In this story the girls escape to a magical land with a cast of delightful characters. The secret place they escape to is called Whisper Woods. All is going well until one day Flora goes missing and everyone searches for her but are unable to find her. The police believe she fell into the river and drowned.

We next meet Hazel 20 years later when she is working in a rare book store. She is doing well but still misses her sister and feels guilty that she took her eyes off her a few minutes and Flora went missing. While sorting through a batch of new books that came to the book store, Hazel finds one with the title Whisper Woods. When she looks through the book she finds many similarities to the story she made up for Flora. The story that they hadn't told to anyone.

After this, Hazel is on a quest to find her lost sister. Along the way she meets some Americans who have had the book published and also an English journalist who writes articles about the lost children.

I will leave the rest of the story for you to discover as you read the book. I highly recommend this book.

Purchase the Book on Amazon

You can find the book at your local library, or you may purchase it both in paperback, hardback or electronic formats on Amazon. Here is a link to the book on Amazon. The Secret Life of Flora Lea

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Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Chartres Cathedral Seen in the Best Light!.....~ A Book Review

While travelling I love to learn all about what I have seen and what really impressed me! To that end, I found out that there was a difference between a Maze and a Labyrinth. It was something that I had never thought of before. That is until I saw the Labyrinth in the Chartres Cathedral in France. Google defines a maze as " a network of paths and hedges designed as a puzzle. The goal is to find your way out or to a central "prize".

So the difference for all of those like me who have never ever thought about it is, a Maze is a place where tall walls of greenery send you down a path with many different directions in which you can go. They are made so that you can get lost in them and take a lot of time to find your way out. In North America Mazes are a fun aspect to the Halloween holidays. Corn mazes spring up in the country side just waiting for people to try and find their way out! It's a lot of fun for people of all ages.

A Labyrinth on the other hand, is also a path that twists and turns but has no sides to make you feel isolated and you can easily see where you should go next. A labyrinth in the 1200's was a geometric pattern on the floor that was used mainly for meditation. The idea is to walk the path slowly, meditating on whatever is pressing on your mind, walking the path until you reach the center. At that point you just may have found the solution to whatever it was that was on your mind.

Today, Mazes and Labyrinths mean pretty much the same thing.

This past spring My other half and I made a trip to Portugal, Spain and France. We are particularly interested in old churches, the art, architecture, artistry and history of the churches.

Chartres Cathedral was amazing but when you are on a tour, your time in that place is limited. So what do you do? You take lots of pictures, hoping to capture the beauty, the space, the art and statues, stained glass windows, doors and floors and so much more.

After you come home you realize that your pictures just don't do justice to the beauty that filled you with awe! So you go looking for something that will help you to remember the beauty.

The Hubby found a most beautiful book with pictures that really do make you re-live the time you were there. When you consider that this church was built in 1260, it certainly has aged well and the history within it's walls is truly amazing.

I love books that will tell me all about how it was built, Who commissioned it and how long it took to complete and all the history that happened since the time it was built.

This book is the finishing touch to a trip that had us both spellbound and wondering how on earth the workers could build something so beautiful, mathematically precise and long lasting without all the tools that modern day builders have today. It truly is mind boggling.

When you travel and enjoy the sights, sometime a great book is the best gift you give yourself to remember the beauty that you had a chance to see up close and personal. Usually the pictures in these books are also clearer. The day you visit might be rainy or windy making your pictures less than perfect. With a well done book, everything that is pictured was taken at the right time and conditions. Now you can revisit whenever you want and share the beauty with your friends too. Chartres Cathedral is a place that you should put on your bucket list. We continue to enjoy it even after the suitcases are put away.

The pictures shown in this review are taken from the book which we continue to enjoy.

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Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Play-Doh's Campfire Picnic Playset Review

Play-Doh's Campfire Picnic playset. Children who love camping will love it!

Play-Doh's Campfire Picnic: Children who love camping will love this playset!

Love camping with your family? Play-Doh's Campfire Picnic playset will let you and your children recreate the fun of camping even when you cannot be at the campground. What follows is a brief review of this set.

Released in 2015 as a limited edition playset at Toys R Us, it is now retired and no longer readily available at the store. However, it is available new and used on eBay. Recommended for children aged 3 and up, I think this set represents a whole lot of fun camping-themed play.

It includes a play mat, a campfire with brown logs and gray stones, a frying pan and utensils, five containers of Play-Doh and more. Rustle up some pretend chow for breakfast, lunch or supper. Great fun for a child who enjoys Play-Doh, camping and cooking. I can see your little ones cooking up a fun treat with this set.

Find Play-Doh's Campfire Picnic here on eBay.

See you at the toy store!

Brenda
Treasures By Brenda
MORE PLAY-DOH

The World of Play-Doh.
Play-Doh's Rex the Chomper Dinosaur Set.
Retired, new, used and vintage Play-Doh sets in my eBay store.
Discover the Play-Doh party bag.

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