The Best Facial Toners for More Beautiful, Younger Looking Skin

Facial toners and mists are a crucial, yet sometimes overlooked, part of an effective skincare routine. Far from just a secondary cleansing step, the right toner or mist can address a wide range of skin concerns—hydration, inflammation, redness, acne, and more—by delivering active ingredients that prepare the skin for serums and moisturizers.

With proper use, toners and mists can balance the skin’s pH levels, tighten pores, and enhance the absorption of subsequent skincare products. In this review, I will explore how toners can target specific skin concerns and recommend products that can help treat each issue as part of an at-home anti-aging skincare routine.

I have chosen effective, clinical-grade products that can be ordered online easily without requiring an expensive trip to a dermatologist's or esthetician's office or clinic. As of this post's publication, most cost between $18 and $35, which is a great price range for professional-grade skincare with proven clinical results.

Using Facial Toners and Mists to Target Specific Skin Issues and Goals: A Detailed Guide

The Role of Toners in Skincare

In skincare, toners act as a bridge between cleansing and moisturizing, ensuring the skin is properly prepped for active treatments, and mists help serums penetrate and keep skin hydrated. 

While traditional toners were mainly alcohol-based and often stripping, modern formulas focus on hydration, balancing, and enhancing the skin barrier. Today, dermatologists and estheticians recommend toners and mists with carefully selected active ingredients to address specific skin needs. Let’s dive into the most common skin issues and goals, and how specific toners can help you achieve glowing, healthy skin.

Toners for Hydrating, Firming, and Reducing the Appearance of Fine Lines

As we age, our skin loses its natural moisture and elasticity, leading to dryness and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Peptides, marine algae, and botanical extracts are excellent ingredients to look for in toners, as they help to firm the skin, stimulate collagen production, and deeply hydrate.

How They Work:

• Peptides: Short chains of amino acids that act as building blocks of proteins like collagen and elastin, essential for skin firmness. Studies show peptides improve skin barrier function and reduce wrinkles by promoting collagen synthesis.

• Marine Algae: Known for its rich nutrient content, marine algae is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help to hydrate and firm the skin, as well as protect against environmental damage.

• Botanical Extracts: Plants like chamomile, green tea, and ginseng have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe the skin and promote repair.

Product Recommendation: Le Mieux Essence Toner

This peptide-packed toner is formulated with marine algae and botanical extracts, offering a combination of hydration, firming, and anti-aging benefits. It provides essential moisture and nutrients to the skin, helping to improve elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Regular use results in a more youthful, plump complexion, making this an excellent choice for women over 50 looking to combat visible signs of aging.

Soothing and Calming Toners: Relief for Inflammation, Irritation, Redness, and Rosacea

Sensitive skin conditions such as rosacea, inflammation, or redness require toners that can calm and soothe the skin without causing further irritation. Ingredients such as rose water, hyaluronic acid, and advanced recovery solutions are vital for reducing redness, hydrating the skin, and promoting healing.

How They Work:

• Hyaluronic Acid: A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it essential for soothing and hydrating inflamed skin. According to clinical studies, hyaluronic acid also aids in skin repair by improving hydration and reducing trans-epidermal water loss.

• Rose Water: Known for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties, rose water helps to reduce redness and irritation. It also balances the skin’s pH levels, making it ideal for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.

Product Recommendations:

Le Mieux Iso-Cell Recovery Solution

Perfect for sensitive and irritated skin, this recovery solution offers immediate relief for inflammation and redness. It’s designed to soothe rosacea-prone skin, calm irritation, and provide hydration—making it an ideal choice for those with reactive skin. In fact, it's often used in clinical settings to treat sensitive or compromised skin.

Le Mieux Iso-Rose Hydrating Mist

This hydrating mist offers the calming benefits of rose water while delivering a refreshing burst of hydration. Perfect for post-sun exposure or irritated skin, it cools and calms the skin, reducing redness and promoting healing. It’s gentle enough for daily use and can be applied throughout the day for a cooling effect. It's the perfect partner to the Le Mieux Iso-Cell Recovery Solution.

Exfoliating, Pore-Minimizing, and Brightening Toners

Exfoliating toners are excellent for those dealing with dull skin, large pores, or uneven texture. By removing dead skin cells, these toners reveal brighter, smoother skin. Active ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), and probiotics can help resurface the skin, minimize the appearance of pores, and improve overall skin tone.

How They Work:

• AHAs and BHAs: AHAs, like glycolic and lactic acid, exfoliate the surface of the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells, improve skin texture, and brighten the complexion. BHAs, such as salicylic acid, penetrate deeper into the pores, helping to reduce oiliness and treat acne.

• Probiotics: Known for their skin-balancing properties, probiotics help to maintain a healthy skin microbiome, which can reduce inflammation and protect against environmental stressors.

Product Recommendations: 

Glowbiotics MD Probiotic Brightening + Refining Layering Solution

This multi-functional toner combines probiotics with exfoliating ingredients to help brighten, refine, and even out skin tone. Its layered formulation gently exfoliates while supporting a healthy skin barrier. It’s a fantastic choice for mature skin that needs regular exfoliation without irritation.

Replenix Soothing Antioxidant Mist

Great for all skin types and formulated with witch hazel, chamomile extract, and green and white tea, this soothing antioxidant mist helps refine pores, control excess oil, and brighten tired, dull skin. Its powerful antioxidant formula makes it perfect for those looking to boost radiance while minimizing pores and excess shine.

Clarifying and Balancing Toners for Oily Skin

For those with oily skin, using a toner that balances oil production while providing hydration is key. Look for ingredients that clarify the skin without stripping it of essential moisture, such as witch hazel, niacinamide, or salicylic acid.

How They Work:

• Witch Hazel: A natural astringent, witch hazel helps to reduce excess oil, tighten pores, and clarify the skin. Unlike alcohol-based toners, witch hazel soothes while controlling oil production.

• Niacinamide: Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is praised for its ability to reduce excess oil production, improve the skin barrier, and minimize pores.

Product Recommendation: Epionce Balancing Toner

Formulated with balancing ingredients, this toner is designed to control oil production while hydrating the skin. It clarifies the complexion, reduces excess shine, and leaves the skin feeling refreshed without the drying effect of harsh toners. It’s ideal for those with oily or combination skin.

Clarifying and Hydrating Toners for Blemish-Prone Skin

Acne-prone skin often needs a delicate balance of clarifying and hydrating ingredients. Harsh toners can over-strip the skin, leading to more oil production and breakouts, so it’s crucial to find a formula that fights acne without causing dryness.

How They Work:

• Salicylic Acid: This BHA is a well-known acne-fighter, helping to clear clogged pores and reduce acne. Its oil-soluble nature allows it to penetrate deeply into pores, dissolving oil and dead skin cells.

• Aloe Vera: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera helps to soothe irritated or inflamed skin while providing light hydration, making it perfect for blemish-prone skin.

Product Recommendation: Epionce Purifying Toner

This purifying toner is designed for blemish-prone skin, helping to clarify clogged pores and reduce breakouts. It provides hydration while keeping acne at bay, making it ideal for those who need both purification and soothing in their skincare routine.

An Underrated Step in Any Skincare Routine

Facial toners are an essential, often underrated part of an effective skincare routine. Whether you’re targeting hydration, brightening, pore-minimizing, or calming irritated skin, there’s a toner specifically designed to address your skin’s needs. By incorporating the right toner into your routine, you can enhance the effectiveness of your other skincare products and enjoy healthier, more radiant skin.

With clinical backing and the right active ingredients, toners like those from Le Mieux, Glowbiotics, Replenix, and Epionce can offer profound benefits for mature, sensitive, or blemish-prone skin. Don’t underestimate the power of these versatile skincare heroes in your routine!

Le Mieux Essence Toner - Serum-Infused Moisturizing Facial Toner Spray with Peptides, Enzymes & Marine Algae, Hyaluronic Face Spray for Sensitive Skin (6 oz / 180 ml)

Le Mieux Iso-Cell Recovery Solution Facial Toner - Soothing Face Mist, Hydrating Amino Acid & Mineral Spray to Help Calm Post-Treatment Skin, No Parabens or Sulfates (6 oz / 180 ml)

Le Mieux Skincare Iso Rose Hydrating Mist - Hydrating Face Mist with Minerals & Bulgarian Rose Water - Soothing Facial Spray for Calming & Hydrating Irritated, Dry Skin (4 oz / 120 ml)

Glowbiotics Probiotic Brightening + Refining Layering Solution: Advanced Tone Correction, Enhances Natural Collagen, With Hyaluronic, Azelaic & Lactic Acids, 3.3 Fl Oz

Replenix Soothing Antioxidant Mist, Calming Facial Spray, Dermatologist Developed for All Skin Types, Oil Free, Paraban Free, Non-comedogenic (2.7 oz)

Epionce Balancing Toner - Facial Toner, Dirt & Makeup Remover Toner for Face, Gentle Face Cleanser, Hydrating Toner, Body & Face Mist, Facial Spray

Epionce Purifying Toner - Facial Toner, Dirt & Makeup Remover Toner for Face, Gentle Face Cleanser, Hydrating Toner, Body & Face Mist, Facial Spray

Have you used a clinical-grade facial toner yet? If so, what skin issues are you targeting and what differences have you seen? Let me know your experience in the comments below.

The Best Facial Toners for More Beautiful, Younger Looking Skin by Margaret Schindel

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A Review of Sock It To Me Cake

 

I was looking through recipes over the weekend and I saw a recipe that brought back some great memories from when I was a teenager.

Sock It To Me Cake

Back in the 70's, (yes, I was a teenager in the 70's!) Bundt cakes were a huge thing....you remember the round cakes with a hole in the middle? The pans were pretty funny looking:

Bundt Pan

Back then, my Mom used to make this really delicious Bundt cake that she called a "Sock It To Me Cake."  I used to laugh at the name, she said she got the recipe out of a magazine and decided to try it because my dad was a fan of cinnamon and nutmeg.  It quickly became one of my father's favorite desserts.

This cake doesn't have the consistency of most Bundt cakes.  It is more coarse and heavy, but still moist and soft.  It also had a different flavor than most cakes, the sour cream and brown sugar, along with the spices just makes it different.  It doesn't taste like any other cake I've ever had.  It also makes great coffee cake!

This cake is made from scratch, no cake mix here, and it has a lot of ingredients.  It is not inexpensive to make but the good news is, most of the ingredients are things you probably already have in your kitchen.  

Cake Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature

2 cups sugar

6 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 8-ounce container full fat sour cream

1 1/2 cup chopped, toasted pecans

3 tablespoons packed light or dark brown sugar

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Glaze Ingredients

2 cups powdered sugar

3 tablespoons whole milk

2 tablespoons maple syrup

Instructions

1.  Preheat the oven to 325° F. 

2. Grease and flour a Bundt cake pan 

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda and salt. Whisk to combine. 

4. Cream butter and sugar - to do this put your softened butter in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat on medium for one minute.  Slowly pour in the sugar and continue to beat for 6 to 7 minutes or until the combination is light and fluffy.

5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat on medium until just combined.

6.  Reduce the speed to the lowest setting. Add the flour mixture, alternating with the sour cream, in three additions. Mix until just combined, DO NOT overmix.

7. Remove the bowl from the stand mixer, and pour half of the batter into the Bundt pan.

8. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of the chopped pecans, the brown sugar, nutmeg and cinnamon. Stir to combine. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar and nuts evenly over the cake batter.

9. Pour the remaining cake batter over the nuts and brown sugar. Smooth the top.

10. Bake for 60-70 minutes, until a butter knife stuck deep into the center of the cake comes out clean.

11. Remove the cake from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.

12. Use a butter knife or small spatula to go around the edges of the pan. Then, invert the pan so that the cake comes out. Let the cake cool to room temperature.

13. In a clean bowl whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and maple syrup until creamy. Drizzle the glaze over the cake before topping with the remaining ¼ cup chopped pecans. 

14. You can leave Sock It To Me Cake unrefrigerated on the counter for several days as long as it is in an air tight cake cover.  If you need to store it for more time, place in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to six months.

This is what it looks like on the inside from putting the pecans and brown sugar in the middle.

This cake is pretty special to me, it always reminds me of my Mom, and eating with my family.  Those were happy times.  Why not try making this cake and creating some special times with your family?  It's also a great cake to take to holiday gatherings that will be coming up before you know it.  When they ask you why you made a Bundt cake.....just tell them it's "that 70's cake!"

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Portable Tire Inflator - Reviewed

 

Whether you're on a road trip or just want peace of mind for daily commuting, this compact portable tire inflator is designed to provide reliability and ease of use.

 We were on a road trip a couple of times and our tire pressure light came on indicating low tire pressure.

Both times we had to exit the highway to find a gas station with an air pump. Then, when you find one, you must pay for the air. It's not the cost it is just the total inconvenience of it all.

I began to search for a portable tire inflator and found this ZGZUXO portable tire inflator on Amazon. It's affordable, compact, convenient, and capable.

Portable Tire Inflator Features:

• Compact and lightweight: Easy to store in the glove compartment or the trunk.
• Digital Display and auto-shutoff: Prevent over-inflation to ensure accuracy.
• Multi-use attachments: For cars, bicycles, sports equipment, and more.
• LED light for night use: Handy for emergencies in low-light conditions.
• Affordable: Great value for the price.
• Everything fits into a soft cloth bag for easy storage.

It will inflate a car tire from 0 to 35 PSI in under 5 minutes. This tire inflator is not recommended for heavy-duty vehicles. It does need to be powered through your car's 12V outlet. But not to worry it comes with a 15-foot cord for this. You can find rechargeable tire inflators but, they are much more expensive. This little tire inflator is more than capable, and affordable. I'm delighted with my purchase.

ZGZUXO Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor, DC 12V Small Air Pump for Car Tires, 150PSI Electric Tire Pump, Auto Portable Tire Inflator for Car with Digital Pressure Gauge, LED Light

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The Word Search Gift of Wisdom from Grandparents for Older Grandkids

Why I Created The Gift of Wisdom from Grandparents For Older Grandkids

As a grandparent to younger grandkids and no longer in my youthful years, I wanted to create something meaningful for them when they're older or for my older grandkids, who may not have the opportunity to see me as often. 

I created this word search book, Word Search Life Messages For My Grandchildren, so they could always have a piece of grandma or grandpa's advice at their fingertips. 

This book is designed to be a comforting reminder of the love and wisdom we wish to impart, especially when we can't be there physically or, sadly, after passing.

This book covers sixty life topics and offers a unique way for grandkids to reflect on their grandparents' timeless advice, ensuring that the bond between generations remains strong and meaningful.

A Unique Treasure of Grandparent Wisdom

This word search message book is not just any activity book; it's a carefully crafted tool that allows grandparents to share their life wisdom with their grandchildren. 

The book is thoughtfully tailored to bridge the gap between generations, providing grandkids with words of wisdom they can carry throughout their lives. 

It's more than just a word search book—it's a treasured keepsake that will guide and support your grandchildren in their journey through life.

Crafted with Love and Care

Every word search puzzle in this book is designed from a grandparent's perspective, filled with words and phrases that convey deep, meaningful lessons about life. 

These are not just words on a page; they are messages infused with love and experience, designed to be discovered and pondered by your grandkids. 

Each puzzle offers an opportunity to reflect on life's essential values and principles, making this book a gift that truly keeps on giving.

A Sneak Peek at the Wisdom Inside

The book features a wide range of topics that cover essential life lessons. Here's a preview of some of the puzzle titles your grandchild will discover:

• Honesty Matters: "Honesty builds trust and stronger relationships."
• Authenticity: "Get to know and understand who you are and what matters to you."
• Challenge Yourself: "Stretch your comfort zone bit by bit so you expand your horizons."
• Own Your Words: "Our words have the power to create, so choose them wisely."
• Persistence Pays: "If it's worth it, don't give up; keep going."
• Choose Your Battles: "Avoid unnecessary stress and conflict."
• Happiness Comes from Within: "Look for it inside of yourself."
• Live a Balanced Life: "Why staying centered in life is key."
• How to Handle Life When It Becomes Difficult: Strategies for overcoming tough times.
• Generous Acts: "Ways to be generous that don't involve money."

A Collection of 60 Unique Word Search Puzzles

This book has 60 unique word search puzzles, each containing 24 related word phrases clustered together. Solve the clustered wisdom tip, then find it in the puzzle. 

With 1,440 words and phrases to discover, your grandchild will have plenty of wisdom to reflect upon. 

Each puzzle goes beyond just finding words; it involves uncovering insightful messages encouraging reflection and growth. The clusters of words and phrases are like hidden gems, waiting to be discovered and appreciated for their deeper meanings.

Make It a Fun Challenge

For those who enjoy a bit of competition, the book includes a space to record each puzzle's start and finish times. 

This turns the activity into a fun, timed game that can be enjoyed with family and friends. Challenge your grandkids to see who can complete the puzzles the fastest, making this gift meaningful but also interactive and engaging.

A Heartfelt Letter and Personal Touch

The front of the book includes a pre-written letter explaining why this gift is so special and what your grandchild means to you.

There's also space to add your personal message, allowing you to share your thoughts, love, and fond memories directly with your grandchild. 

This personal area is meant to make the book even more special, turning it into a keepsake that will be treasured for years.

Designed for Easy Reading and Enjoyment

Each puzzle is presented on its own page, making it easy to read and solve. The answers are included at the back of the book, providing the satisfaction of completing each puzzle. 

I Created This Gift to Give to Grandkids for All Grandparents - (not just mine) - It's Available on Amazon.

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A Review of Oktoberfest

A Cultural Folk Festival Holiday Review

What is Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a festival held each year in Munich, Germany. The origin of the festival began on October 12, 1810, to celebrate the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria (later known as King Louis I) to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

Why is it called Oktoberfest when it is in September?

Because the weather in October in Germany is already getting colder, with the days being shorter, the festival coordinators elected to have the festival begin on the first Saturday after September 15 and last until the first Sunday in October. Thus, for this year, 2024, Oktoberfest begins Saturday, September 21 and ends on Sunday, October 6. 

This two centuries long event has become best known for featuring beer, pretzels, and German food. The fest includes a parade, music, and a traveling carnival. 

Costumes

The traditional costumes for Oktoberfest are:

• For men - Lederhosen with suspenders. The lederhosen are the part-pants, part-shorts combination that are held up by suspenders.

• For women - the costumes include the Trachtenblouse - a distinct blouse style due to the lace trim on the sleeves and neckline and a Dirndl skirt, which is characterized by its laced straps and circular cut, which starts at the waist and falls below the knee. A matching pinafore (or apron) is worn over the dirndl. 

*Important Note: The knot on the pinafore indicates your relationship status. If the knot is on your right side, that means you are taken. If you tie the knot on the left side, it means you are single. 

Oktoberfest Around the World

A number of U.S. cities, particularly those with large German American populations, hold Oktoberfests modeled on the original Munich festival. These popular celebrations, which feature beer and German food, are an attempt to reproduce the Bavarian sense of gemütlichkeit—cordiality.

Many of the U.S. Oktoberfests are shorter in length than the two weeks normally set aside for the Munich festival. For instance, the Kansas City Oktoberfest in 2024 is just a two-day event held on the final weekend of October 4-5, 2024. 

The German town of Hermann, Missouri celebrates the town’s German heritage every weekend in October by hosting Oktoberfest. The backdrop of Missouri fall colors this time of year also pays tribute to the Autumn season. What better way to celebrate than with good food, wine, beer and music. 

Summary

Whether you dress up in traditional costume or wear just regular clothes, the fun and happiness of this Fall Celebration will be a fun time of traditioning into the holiday season. 

Find an Oktoberfest near you ~ and enjoy. 

*Oktoberfest Holiday is review by Wednesday Elf

 

Dirndl Oktoberfest Outfit Women Dress Bavarian Fancy Costume Halloween 3 Pieces Set Carnival Traditional

BAVARIA TRACHTEN Oktoberfest Lederhosen Men - Real Leather - The Original Men's Lederhosen from Germany - Authentic German Octoberfest Outfit Dark Brown - Short

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Just My Type Hallmark Movie Review

This Hallmark movie caught my attention as I was scrolling down the list of movie titles available to watch. 

We have all heard the phrase "just my type" in reference to characteristics an individual possesses that appeal to us. However, in this case, for some reason the word "type" grabbed by attention and made me think of typing and typewriters.  

I must have seen a trailer in the past for this movie because the main characters are writers.  As a matter of fact, Martin Clayborne (the published author in the movie) writes all of his books on his old faithful typewriter.  Somewhere in my mind, I must have recalled that tidbit of information.

The movie title, Just My Type, is a cute play on words for both reasons: the typewriter element and the attraction element.

One more thing, it never hurts to bring a beautiful puppy along to melt our hearts.  Ernie (Briar, the golden retriever) is just my type! 

 

Just My Type Movie Synopsis   

Just My Type - DVD or Prime Video

Vanessa Sills (Bethany Joy Lenz) is a magazine writer in NYC.  She is up for a promotion to senior lifestyle editor for the magazine, but she has heavy competition.  Her next article is ready so she decides she has time for a short weekend break with her friend.  When she recognizes the reclusive mystery writer, Martin Clayborne, in a small town gas station, she reconsiders her next article.  Perhaps, she should replace it with an interview with Clayborne.  After all, he hasn't given an interview in 5 years.  Getting that interview might be just what she needs to further her career.  

Martin Clayborne (Brett Dalton) is enjoying his solitude in a small town that respects everyone's anonymity and privacy.  Marty is very active in the town activities.  Even when he is mistaken for a gas station attendant, he jumps right in to pump gas.  When Vanessa recognizes him as her favorite mystery writer, he avoids admitting his true identity by saying he "gets that all of the time".  Of course, his dog, Ernie, who is featured on his book cover, is lying on the ground not too far away.  In spite of his denial, it is pretty obvious to Vanessa that he is Martin Clayborne. 

This is where the real fun begins!  Vanessa starts finding ways to "bump" into Martin in hopes of convincing him to give her an interview, which he really does not want to do.  

Perhaps, she is just the type to get him to open up and give that long awaited interview!

 

 

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Just My Type Hallmark Movie Review by:

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Signs of Autumn Coloring Book for Adults Review

I had been looking through coloring books that had relaxation somewhere on the cover. So many of them had intricate designs, many with no real rhyme or reason to them, that filled the page. If I were to describe what I saw, I would say that they were too busy for my taste.

When I think of relaxation, as far as coloring goes, I like at least somewhat recognizable designs, that have larger shapes for the most part. Being an artist and designer, I decided to design a coloring book that I would like.

I chose autumn as the theme; therefore, I could choose a variety of designs that could cover a variety of things that represented autumn. I could have autumn leaves, Halloween, apple pie, and more; all in the same book.

Yes, I do like the themed designs. I chose to make the coloring pages single sided, so each coloring page could come out cleaner. There would be little to no bleed through should the coloring artists choose markers.

Provided in the back of the book are pages to test out various coloring mediums. Below is an image of the different mediums that I checked out. I used mediums that I had on hand, to give you an idea of how well they and the paper performs.

Results of testing of mediums:

Bleed through:
There wasn't any bleed through from any of the colored pencils that I used.

There was bleed through from both types of markers that I used. The bleed through showed on the back of the page I colored on, but did not show up on the next consecutive page. Heavier pressure and or different brands could render different results.

There was some bleed through of the Prismacolor water-soluble colored pencils, once I added water to the color that I had already applied on the page.

There wasn't any bleed through from the watercolors that I premixed with water and paint on the brush, with very little water.

Pressure lines:

Pressure lines showed up through the back side of the page when I used the PaperMate Ink Joy Gel Pen. It was a size 0.7. The pressure lines also went through to the next page.

Pressure lines also showed up on the back side of the page when I used the Office Depot Gel Pen, but they weren't as noticeable as the pressure lines from the PaperMate gel pen.

On with the review:

Each design page has a dark gray border around the perimeter of the drawing, should anyone want to frame and or hang individual pages. The frame type border also provides a nice finished edge.

The paper has a good weight to it. It has a smoothness to it that is not overly smooth; it is not type writer paper. It has a bit of texture to it, as to grab and hold the color from colored pencils, etc.

My recommendations:

If you or you know someone who likes coloring larger images and or autumn themed coloring books, then I recommend this book.

If you prefer using gel pens in your coloring book, and you like this book, then I recommend placing a sheet of thin smooth cardboard under the page that you are coloring and or outlining with gel pens.

My preferred coloring medium for this project is the Koh-I-Noor Polycolor Coloured Pencils. I used the twelve pack, but would very much like to have the 24 pack, as they have a variety of landscape colors which would be great for coloring leaves and such.

This coloring book is ready for purchase on Amazon.

Signs of Autumn Coloring Book for Adults on Amazon

You can find more coloring books by Cheryl Paton on this blog: Coloring Books by Cheryl Paton.

Cheryl Paton

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Aging and Safety in the Home ~ A Product Review

Aging gracefully is much easier if you have the tools to make aging easier.  There is no doubt that we age quietly and sometimes don't notice the changes until an accident happens.  Then we shake our heads and wonder what the heck happened and how it happened so quickly.

Now if you've been looking after an aging relative for a while you might notice those changes in them quicker than you realize those changes are also happening to you too!  Your focus is different when there is an elderly person in your own home.

Somehow we focus all our efforts on making them comfortable and safe.  We forget about making ourselves comfortable and safe too!

When my mother was living with us, we invested in night lights so that she would be able to get to the washroom and back to her bedroom without any troubles.  They worked great and we were very happy that it solved a problem that we had not thought of before.  She loved that they stayed on all the time as well.  So long as she was happy we were happy too!

Now, my mother is no longer living with us(she is in long term care), we are the ones that seem to be aging quicker.  Or it could be that we are noticing the changes when we don't have anyone else to concentrate our efforts on.  

The point is that we are in need of extra help in the night time now as well.  Our needs are a little different than my mother's were.  Our aging journey seems to be more focused on extra mobility needs.  So while we still have the night lights in place, we needed some light that would actually illuminate the surrounding area so that we could get our bearings easier.  

My husband has a problem with balance and waking in the middle of the night for a potty break was very difficult for him.  Putting his feet on the floor was not enough.  Balance can be helped with visual aids.  Hence we were on the look out for something that would illuminate without waking the partner still sleeping.  It had to illuminate enough so that walls and other obstacles would be clear and yet not such a glaring light to interrupt his sleep pattern either.  

We found a night light that is rechargeable, motion detecting, and cordless!  Recharging is done with a USB cable and each time it's charged it last a few weeks (3-4) depending on how often it is needed through the night. 

We bought a two pack of these motion detecting lights, but I see now that they are available in a 3 pack as well.  For less than $20.00 you are able to give yourself and your other half some well needed peace of mind and a clear path to that washroom.  I love that the light only stays on for a few minutes and then goes off.  Unlike nightlights that are plugged into the wall that stay on all the time.  

Peace of mind when you are aging is priceless and there are many tools to make the transition easier.  This in my books is one of them!  

The picture shows you what the light looks like off and on.  We have them mounted on the wall above the doorway to the washroom so that both the floor in front and the floor of the bathroom are well illuminated when needed.  The light is not so glaring that it wakes your brain up.  So a quick trip the loo and back into bed, close your eyes and continue sleeping.  It is working very well for us and I'm sure it would work for you too.

Pleasant dreams everyone and may you never trip on your way to the loo at night.

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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What Sold on eBay? Sixth Edition: Interesting Buyer Stories

Next up in my What Sold on eBay series, is a review of five interesting sales that I have had this year, 2024. This time, they are from the perspective of the buyer. They are not high-dollar value sales but rather sales that were particularly interesting for one reason or another for the buyer. If you are curious about what type of items have a personal connection with a buyer or if you are simply curious about what people are buying and selling on eBay, you will enjoy my review of these sales.

PAST ISSUES OF FINE COOKING MAGAZINE

I was lucky to find a collection of  past copies of Fine Cooking magazine. As a cook, I tried a few of the recipes and found that they were often elaborate but always delicious. Of course, I am not the only one who knows that Fine Cooking recipes are really, really good. 

One buyer who recently purchased multiple copies from me said: “Fine cooking is my favorite food magazine and I am happy to be able to purchase the individual issues that I was missing.” I was happy to help her fill out her collection. 

Find your Fine Cooking magazines here on eBay.

ROY KIRHAM PLEASE SHUT THE GATE MUG

Another buyer purchased a somewhat hard-to-find pig-themed fine bone china mug by Roy Kirkham titled “Please Shut the Gate.”  

She said “This mug is great. It makes me smile first thing in the morning and arrived quickly and in perfect condition.” It is one in a series that also includes fun illustrations of sheep and cattle and comes in a variety of styles including the one shown here, a teacup and saucer and even a teapot. Perfect for fans of farms and farm animals. 

Find your Roy Kirkham Please Shut the Gate piece here on eBay.

RENOIR'S LITTLE GIRL WITH THE BLUE RIBBON PRINT

Yet another buyer reached out and purchased a reproduction 20-inch picture printed on sturdy cardboard. It featured a portrait painting from 1880 by Pierre-Auguste Renoir. The subject of the print is Irène Cahen d'Anvers and the image is known by both her name and by the title, Little Girl with the Blue Ribbon or Little Irene. 

The buyer said, “When I was a little girl my parents hung this picture on my bedroom wall. Little did I know the artist or anything about it. I grew up and in my teenage years I figured I was way too old and cool for that silly picture (and so she gave it away). I so regret giving that picture away but I am SO thrilled to be getting another just like it. I grew up in Markham, Ontario so it figures that it's coming from Ontario. Who knows but what it could have been the same one of mine from years ago?” 

I love that the buyer can remember the artwork that hung in her room as a child and that she is able to once again own that image as a reminder of her childhood.

Find your print of Renoir's Little Girl with the Blue Ribbon here on eBay.

GUSTAVE BAUMANN NEW MEXICO GREETING CARD

I sold this greeting card that features an image by artist Gustave Baumann. However, this sale came not because someone collects pieces by that particular artist but rather because someone has an ancestral connection to the Talpa Chapel in New Mexico. 

The buyer said, “This chapel was my ancestors private chapel on their ranch in Talpa, New Mexico. It’s called the Duran Chapel or Chapel of our lady of Talpa. The picture by Gustave here is actually transposed. The original view was mirror image.” 

How wonderful that someone has a connection like this with the chapel and how interesting that the picture is transposed. I do wonder how that happened but expect it was an error in printing.

Check out all of the Gustave Baumann pieces here on eBay. If you want greeting cards in particular, you should add the word card to your search.

BARBIE SISTERS' CRUISE SHIP

Finally, I have helped a couple of individuals complete their Barbie cruise ships. In particular, the Barbie Sisters’ Cruise ship, model number X3209, that was released in 2011. Believe it or not, one of those people was working on completing multiple ships! They all have been very pleased to find the replacement pieces and parts they have needed in my shop on eBay. These particular pieces were difficult to find because the ship is no longer made but were a little bit rarer because they were all new pieces.

Find your Barbie Sisters' Cruise ship parts or a ship in its entirety here, on eBay.

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I hope you enjoyed these eBay stories. If you would like to read more about what sells on eBay, just follow the links shown below.

You never know
what I might have
in store for you!
Brenda

QUICK LINKS:

Discover my eBay store!

What Sold on eBay Fourth Edition.

What Sold on eBay the Best of 2022.

What Sold on eBay: The Christmas Edition.

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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Introducing Joe Pickett, Season 1

Joe Pickett is the new, unassuming game warden in a remote area of Wyoming. He is a quiet man and not your typical hero. Joe is publically introduced to his neighbors in Saddle String as a push-over after a poacher holds him at gunpoint - with Joe's gun. The "bad guys" consider him to be easy-to-manage and believe he'll fall in line with the how-it's-done-here mentality of the town and surrounding public lands. But Joe is a game warden who follows the rules, and expects everyone else to follow the rules too, even if he has to give his life to protect the wildlife. In this review, I will tell you a bit more about Joe and the characters of Saddle String.

Photo Credit: By Bob Wick of the Bureau of Land Management
(public domain) 

Joe Pickett, Season 1

As a young boy, Joe decides he wants to become a game warden. The outdoors is his sanctuary and he has a caring spirit.  

Joe Pickett season 1, episode 1 opens almost immediately with a life or death situation during Joe's normal game warden business. Ote Keeley is a local outfitter and hunting guide. He needs his hunting license to make a living and support his family be he's also a poacher and Joe catches him in the act. During the confrontation, Ote taunts Joe for having arrested the Governor for fishing without a license. 

"I didn't know he was the Governor".  Joe responded. But it wouldn't have made a difference if he had known. Rules are rules. And unlike Joe's predecessor, Vern, Joe doesn't cut deals or do favors. He doesn't follow Vern's suggestion to focus on ticketing the tourists and looking the other way for the residents. 

During the confrontation, Ote takes Joe's sidearm and holds him at gun point. Even at gunpoint, Joe doesn't back down from his plan to write him up for poaching. Fortunately, they come to a sort of truce and no one dies. Not on that day.

Later, Ote's body is found, shot dead with an arrow, in Joe's yard. Joe is trying to figure out why Ote would have come to his home on horseback, with an arrow in him. While law enforcement immediately arrests a suspect - surprisingly, they don't arrest Joe for the murder - Joe begins researching the crime from the game warden perspective. Ote was killed with an illegal arrow tip. 

As the murder count increases, people seem to be falsely accused, evidence disappears, and Joe knows he's missing a piece of the puzzle. But will he, his wife, and children live through the investigation or should he give up his job and turn a blind eye to it all?

This story is a modern western murder mystery in a gorgeous mountainous setting. There were so many characters who were unlikeable in this one small town that I couldn't guess who was exactly at fault. 

Characters:

Joe Pickett (Michael Dorman) and his wife, Marybeth (Julianna Guill) are trying to raise their children in a peaceful and safe setting. Marybeth was a lawyer until she made the conscious decision to stay home and raise her children - rather than be the stressed, absent parent that busy lawyers often are.  Her mother Missy (Sharon Lawrence) frequently berates Marybeth for this choice, for being a game warden's wife, and for choosing a simple life.  Interesting that Missy feels like she's in the position to judge anyone about their life choices.

Ote Keeley (Benjamin Hollingsworth) is the "degenerate" married to April Keeley (Vivienne Guynn) and they have children. Even though Ote died at the very beginning of the series, we think about him alot. And April incites both disgust and empathy.

Nate Romanowski (Mustafa Speaks) is the prepper/recluse who is immediately arrested for the murder of Ote based solely on one incident they had in the past (Ote killed one of Nate's birds of prey) and because Nate owns a bow. Nate comes across as frightening and perhaps manipulative. He asks Joe to find the truth and Marybeth ends up being his lawyer for the murder trial.

There is a huge cast. And far too many to list. There are the rich folks, poor folks, law-abiding folks, schemers, very strange-but-harmless folks, and the killers.  Most all of law enforcement and politicians are questionable and either lazy/inept or trying to redirect. 

I enjoyed Joe Pickett, Season 1 so much that I binge-watched it one weekend. I immediately began recommending it to others. I love thriller/mysteries that are set in amazing settings. The elk, bison, and mountains are all peaceful eye-candy. The clash between the good guys, bad guys, and flawed guys is the cherry on top. 

The Joe Pickett series written by C.J. Box

This tv series is based on the books written by C.J. Box. I have book 1 in my kindle and haven't read it yet only because I've been so engrossed in several of W. Michael Gear's historical fiction series. After discovering the Joe Pickett tv series by accident, you can know that I will begin reading the C.J. Box books next.  Especially since there are many books in the written series and only 1 and 2 and the television series. 

Related Links

Joe Pickett, season 1 on Amazon Prime Video or DVD

Author C.J. Box on Amazon:   Open Season (A Joe Pickett Novel Book 1)

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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