Wednesday, October 9, 2024

The Best Affordable Carboxytherapy Mask for Glowing, Youthful Skin

As a skincare enthusiast who looks much younger than her age and is focused on helping mature women achieve radiant, youthful skin, I'm always on the lookout for innovative products that deliver real results. One such product I recently discovered is the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask, which offers a unique approach to revitalizing and oxygenating the skin.

Let’s dive into my detailed review of this terrific mask that is going viral on social media for good reason.

The best affordable carboxy gel mask for smoother, brighter, firmer skin

What Is Carboxytherapy AKA Carboxy Therapy?

Carboxytherapy is a non-surgical cosmetic dermatology treatment that uses either injections or transdermal application to infuse carbon dioxide into the subcutaneous tissue. It can be done as an in-office treatment, or a topical carboxy therapy gel mask can be used at home. Best of all, this treatment involves no downtime and can even be done on a lunch break.

Carboxytherapy oxygenates the area to which it has been applied, improving circulation and lifting, tightening and regenerating the skin for a firmer, more even-toned, more youthful glow.

Carboxytherapy Gel Treatment Masks

I first learned about topical carboxy gel treatment masks from the award-winning licensed aesthetician from whom I buy the professional-grade skincare products in my routine. She has helped transform my skin since I started working with her five years ago and she carries only products with proven clinical studies to back up their claims.

A pilot study found that a carbon dioxide transdermal gel delivered improved microcirculation comparable to that of a subcutaneous carbon dioxide subcutaneous injection.

An in-office carboxytherapy treatment can run around $100–$200 per treatment, way too expensive as an add-on to my skincare routine. The brand of CO2 therapy masks my aesthetician carries costs more than $100 per treatment, also too expensive as an add-on to fit my skincare budget.

So, when a fellow skincare enthusiast highly recommended the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks, which are 1/5 the price of the brand my esthetician carries, I was immediately intrigued.

What Is the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask?

Dr. Medion, a leading Japanese skincare brand, is known for its science-backed approach to skin rejuvenation. The Spaoxy Gel Mask is an oxygen-infusing treatment that promises to give the skin an immediate boost of hydration, brightness, and plumpness. The mask involves mixing a rose-scented gel base with crystals that, when mixed, release oxygen bubbles onto the skin, delivering oxygen deep into the pores.

Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel carboxy gel mask kit

Key Ingredients

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid that penetrates deeply into the skin and is more effective than high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, plumping the skin by significantly increasing moisture content.

Royal Jelly Extract that helps promote collagen and elastin production for firmness and elasticity.

Coix Lacryma-jobi Ma-yuen Seed Extract to soothe skin, suppress excess oil production, even skin tone and improve texture.

Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract that has antioxidant and skin-soothing properties.

Key Features and Benefits

Oxygen facials have long been popular in high-end spas, and this at-home treatment offers similar benefits at a more accessible price.

Oxygenation and Blood Circulation: The unique feature of this mask is its ability to deliver oxygen to the skin. The oxygenation process is vital for promoting healthy skin cell turnover and boosting circulation. This process helps with faster skin healing, reduces inflammation, and creates a glowing, even-toned complexion.

Hydration Boost: For those with mature skin, hydration is key to maintaining a youthful appearance. The Spaoxy Gel Mask is packed with hydrating ingredients like low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, which attracts and retains moisture and leaves skin plumper and smoother.

Brightening and Anti-Aging: Along with oxygen, the mask infuses the skin with antioxidants and brightening agents, helping to even out skin tone and diminish dark spots. The results are especially noticeable in skin that’s dull or sun-damaged.

Firming and Lifting Effect: Over time, the mask helps firm and tone the skin, giving a subtle lifting effect. This is one of the most sought-after benefits for aging skin, as the mask promotes collagen production, which leads to firmer skin and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Gentle and Soothing: Even though it provides an intense treatment, the mask is gentle enough for sensitive or mature skin. The soothing ingredients help calm redness and irritation, making it suitable for all skin types, including those prone to rosacea or sensitivity.

How to Use the Spaoxy Gel Mask

Using the Spaoxy Gel Mask is simple and straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Start with freshly and thoroughly cleansed skin. I highly recommend the Colorescience Barrier Pro 1-Step Cleanser that removes makeup and even mineral sunscreen gently yet thoroughly without the need for a two-step cleanse. It's a bit spendy, but it does a lot. It eliminates the need for a second cleanse, is fragrance-free, strengthens the skin's protective barrier, supports and balances its microbiome, is gentle enough for even sensitive skin, and leaves your skin feeling smooth and hydrated.

Step 2: Squeeze the contents of the Spaoxy Gel Base packet into the mixing cup that comes with the kit. Pour the contents of the packet of Spaoxy Gel Powder over the gel and stir to mix thoroughly with the spatula provided until white and frothy. This creates the gel mask.

Step 3: Spread the mixture in a thick, even layer over your face (including the neck and chest, if desired). You can also apply the gel carefully to your lips, eyelids and undereye area, if desired, but avoid getting the gel in your eyes.

Step 4: Leave the mask on for 15–30 minutes. (I always leave mine on for 30 minutes.) You’ll notice small bubbles forming as part of the oxygenation process. These bubbles are crucial in delivering oxygen to your skin.

Step 5: Use the spatula to gently remove most of the gel mask, then use a warm, wet wash cloth to remove any residue and rinse well with lukewarm water. Pat your face dry and apply your normal skincare routine.

When to Use This Mask

For the most noticeable results, start with a series of six masks used on consecutive nights, and then use the mask once a week as part of your anti-aging skincare regimen.

You can also use the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask to prepare for a special occasion when you want to look your best and give your skin a fresh, youthful glow.

My Personal Experience

I decided to participate in the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel 6-day challenge and used the mask on six consecutive evenings. Here is my “before” photo:

My skin before using Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks

Here is the “after” photo of my "70-years-young" skin taken on the sixth evening after using the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks for six consecutive nights:

My skin after using Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks for six consecutive nights

The results are far more obvious in person (even my husband noticed the improvements to my skin!), but even in the photos you can see a noticeable difference.

Even after just one use of the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask on the first night, I noticed an immediate improvement in my skin’s texture and hydration levels. The mask has a cooling, soothing effect, which makes it a pleasure to use. My complexion appeared brighter, and my skin felt soft and plump to the touch. With continued use over six consecutive nights, I saw a subtle improvement in firmness, especially around my jawline, and a more even skin tone.

The oxygen bubbles feel like a gentle tingling sensation on the skin, which is a sign that the product is working its magic. I also appreciate how hydrating it is, as dry skin is a common concern for mature women. The mask leaves no residue once it’s washed off, and my skin feels soft, smooth, and refreshed without any tightness or irritation.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Easy to use.
Comes with everything you need: the gel base, activating powder, mixing cup, spatula, and directions for use.
Immediate hydration and brightening results.
Oxygenation technology boosts blood circulation and skin health.
Gentle enough for sensitive and mature skin.
Noticeable firming effect with continued use.
Much more affordable than the leading brand or an in-office treatment.

Cons:

One-time-use packaging isn’t the most eco-friendly.

Who Should Use This Mask?

The Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask is perfect for:

Anyone looking for an effective anti-aging treatment that is well priced for the benefits it delivers.

Anyone with dull, dry, or tired-looking skin in need of a quick pick-me-up.

Anyone dealing with uneven skin tone or fine lines.

Anyone looking to replicate a spa-like experience at home.

Final Verdict

If you’re seeking a luxurious, results-driven mask that offers immediate hydration, brightening, and firming effects, the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask is an excellent investment. It's surprisingly affordable for what you get. Although the price may be a bit steep for some people, the results can be well worth it, especially if you’re focused on maintaining youthful, radiant skin. Even if you don’t use it weekly, it can be a worthwhile splurge before a special night out or vacation when you want to look your best.

Best of all, if you use my affiliate link at Shiko Beauty Collective, you can also use my exclusive discount code MARGARET15 to get 15% off your entire purchase, which brings the cost per mask (at the time of this post's publication) down from $20 per mask to just $17 per mask when you buy a box of three, and even less if you buy a box of six.

For those who enjoy indulging in an at-home spa experience or are looking for a way to supercharge their skincare routine, the Spaoxy Gel Mask is a winner. It’s the perfect product for a quick skin refresh before a special occasion, or as part of a weekly self-care ritual to boost skin health over time. And it makes a wonderful gift for someone who loves skincare or just needs a treat of some self-care.

The Best Affordable Carboxytherapy Mask for More Glowing, Youthful Skin by Margaret Schindel

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

A Review of the Movie The Wild Robot

The Wild Robot opened in theaters this past weekend and my husband and I went to go see it. Yes, I know it is a kids movie, but we have noticed that these days, kid's movies are some of the best to be seen......and we were right when it came to The Wild Robot. It was a fun romp which also taught good lessons and sweetly showed the power of love and friendship in the face of adversity.

The movie starts with a crate smashed on a beach. A family of otters, their cute heads sticking up out of the water see the crate and run to investigate. One of them, while running around inside the crate, hit a button and bright blue eyes light up, and the life of ROZZUM unit 7134 begins.

The only thing that this poor robot wants is someone to help and a task to perform. Unfortunately, all of the animals are terrified of her and run away the minute they see her. She tries very hard to make friends but has no success at all until an accident leaves the robot in custody of a goose egg which she saves from a fox and then it hatches. Roz, being the first thing the gosling sees, imprints on her as his mother and insists on following her wherever she goes.

Over time the two form a bond, which happens to include the grumpy fox that tried to eat the egg earlier, (voice of Pedro Pascal) and a friendly mother opossum with a large group of babies who likes to give out parenting advice.

All the other animals on the island still think of Roz as "the monster" and don't want anything to do with her. The gosling tries to make friends with other geese, but they all make fun of him and run when see who he considers his mother. Due to this, Roz decides to teach him how to fly herself. Some pretty funny shenanigans result from this plan that are very fun to watch. To see the bond of the tiny gosling and the big robot grow is truly heartwarming. As the gosling, now known as Brightbill, grows up, both he and Roz learn many things about the world, and about trust, compassion and love.

Before you know it, it is time for migration. Roz and Brightbill have made friends with an old goose named Longneck, who asks Bright Bill to fly with him on the migration. They all take off and head south and Roz is left with nothing to do but activate her homing beacon and go back to the factory. She starts the beacon, but changes her mind, deciding to stay on the island and wait for Bright Bill to return. Winter comes and it is much harsher than usual and the animals on the island are in danger of freezing to death. Wanting to save them, Roz forces her friend the fox (Fink) to go out in the snow storm and sniff out all the animals so she can save them by bringing them to the house that she built for her and the gosling.

Placing all the animals in the same one room house turned out to not be the best idea, as some were predators and some prey. Somehow Roz and Fink talk them all into being friends as long as they are in this house. These scenes were truly humorous and lovely, some of the best of the movie

Unfortunately, though Brightbill does come back to the island, so do the people from the Factory that Roz came from. They are looking for her to take her back. Thus begins another adventure for Brightbill and his animal friends to save Roz.

I don't want to give away the whole movie, you really need to see it for yourself. It was really beautiful and one you will walk from feeling warm and fuzzy. I highly recommend this movie for both adults and children. I believe people will love it regardless of their age.

All photo credits: The Wild Robot/Universal Pictures

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Monday, October 7, 2024

Reviewing Beginner Rock Tumbling Supplies

I have always loved interesting stones and fossils. I always thought polished rocks are gorgeous. But I have never tried polishing (or tumbling) rocks at home, until now. My first batch of tumbled rocks have gone through the cycles and while they aren't as shiny and smooth as the polished rocks found at souvenir shops, they are very pretty. And it was a fun adventure. Had I known that it was this easy, I would have begun long ago.

I had recently begun fossil and rock hunting again because my grandson was sending me photos of interesting rocks. Geodes were my favorite to find as a child in the Midwest. But it doesn't seem that geodes occur naturally where I live now in West Virginia. In my research about local rocks, I was seeing gorgeous photos of polished rocks that people in the rock hounding groups were sharing. I decided to purchase a rock tumbler.

Coincidentally, I learned that a child at work also has a great interest in rocks. I told him that we could learn how to polish rocks together. He is delighted with finding rocks, giving them to me, then having them returned clean and shiny.

I've done this first two batches of polished rocks with a tumbler and with a set of polishing grit. Of course, there are many more products that could be purchased. But I had fun results with just this small amount of items. We are learning that some rocks polish and some do not. Some stay approximately the same size and become shiny and others quickly wear away to nothing or crumble apart. Beginning to identify rocks is becoming a part of this process.

Rock Tumbler

I chose the Central Machine rock tumbler from Harbor Freight Tools. I knew NOTHING about rock tumblers when I went shopping that day. But it turns out that I'm very pleased with my purchase.

Central Machine tumbler from Harbor Freight:

dual drum, 6 lb capacity
low speed and quiet
barrels are rubberized to reduce noise
fan-cooled, V-belt driven
can be used with all types of polish media (ceramic, glass, resins, and nut shells)

You can find rock tumblers on Amazon. There are unknown brands and brands from companies such as National Geographic rock tumblers and kits for children. There are also rock polishers that work by using vibration. I would recommend the National Geographic tumbler and kit for kids, even thought it is a smaller, single tumbler because it comes with everything needed to try tumbling once; including some rough stones. Great for a one-time adventure in a classroom or with a person who isn't sure they are very interested in tumbling rocks. You can find that National Geographic kit here.

One of the reasons that I'm happy about my Central Machine purchase is the dual drums. Tumbling rocks takes a long time; weeks or more. With dual drums I am able to run two sets of rocks at different stages of polishing at the same time.

If you do not have a Harbor Freight store near you, there are many rock tumblers available on Amazon.

Polishing Grit

I chose the grit set because I saw the labels on one of the rock polishing channels that was most helpful to me on youtube.

Polly Plastics rock tumbling kit was the brand she was using so it was the brand I ordered from Amazon. The kit came with 5 separate containers. They included:

Step 1 Coarse grit
Step 2 Medium grit
Step 3 Pre-polish fine grit
Step 4 Final Polish (Aluminum Oxide)
container of 1 1/2 lbs of Ceramic Media (used to cushion and protect the rocks during tumbling at different stages).

While I had watched a variety of tutorials on rock tumbling, and everyone seems to have slightly different preferences, the Polly Plastics kit also comes with step-by-step instructions for their set.

If you have ever wondered about tumbling rocks I hope you give it a try. I wish I would have started my rock tumbling adventures years ago.

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Sunday, October 6, 2024

Finding Strength in Struggles: Everything Must Go – A Five Star Movie Review

The Storyline of "Everything Must Go"

"Everything Must Go" tells the story of Nick Halsey, a man whose life falls apart. He loses his job, his wife leaves him, and she locks him out of their house, throwing all his belongings onto the front lawn.

Instead of picking himself up right away, Nick chooses to live on the lawn and starts selling everything he owns in a yard sale.

As the days pass, he learns important life lessons about himself and what's truly valuable.

The movie is about hitting rock bottom, facing harsh realities, and figuring out how to rebuild when life takes a hard turn.

It's a simple yet impactful story that hits home for many who have faced unspeakable challenges.

An Excellent Cast

Will Ferrell plays Nick Halsey, and it's not the usual comedy role you'd expect from him.

I was surprised by how serious and believable he was in this part. I got so drawn into the story that I stopped seeing him as Will Ferrell, the comedian. He became Nick, a guy struggling with his life falling apart, and it was easy to forget his other famous roles.

Another standout in the movie is Rebecca Hall, who plays Samantha, Nick's new neighbor. She brings warmth and depth to her character and helps push Nick toward figuring out what he wants and maybe needs.

Christopher Jordan Wallace plays Kenny, a young kid who helps Nick with his yard sale, and I really enjoyed his performance. He was so effective in his role, and his character was a nice reminder that friendships can form in unexpected ways.

Lastly, I've always liked Laura Dern. Her small role as Nick's high school friend added believability and heart to the movie. Her presence brought extra star power, making her character feel real and relatable.

Why I Enjoyed This Movie

What I liked most about "Everything Must Go" was how, unfortunately, it would be relatable to some.

This character-driven movie delivers some important messages about life—sometimes, everything falls apart, and we must figure out how to rebuild.

It resonated with me because it shows that even when life hits hard, there's always a way forward, even if it takes time to see it.

Will Ferrell's performance was a huge surprise. I didn't expect him to be so convincing in a serious role, but he made me forget I was watching the same actor from all those comedies.

I also really enjoyed Christopher Jordan Wallace as the young boy Kenny. He brought a lot of heart to the story, and his character was more than just a sidekick—he was a big part of Nick's journey.

Oh, and the movie does offer an unexpected twist - I didn't see that coming!

The Tone of the Movie

The tone of Everything Must Go is a mix of raw realism and subtle hope.

It shows life's harsh realities—flaws, failures, and the messes we make—but it also leaves you feeling like there's a way forward, even when things seem broken.

The movie doesn't sugarcoat the struggles, yet it sprinkles in moments of light, reminding us that no matter how flawed we are, we can find a path toward rebuilding if we're willing.

It's a reflective, grounded story that feels real yet offers small glimmers of hope.

If you're into a serious movie about life lessons that doesn't leave you feeling like there's absolutely no hope, this is your movie. Despite the struggles of the main character, some light shines through.

Check out the trailer:

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Old Bay Seasoning Review

A delicious seasoning for seafood, poultry, salads and meats.

Old Bay Seasoning History

Old Bay is a blend of 18 spices, with the main ingredients celery salt, paprika, red & black pepper, and mustard seed. It was invented by a German Jewish refugee, a spicemaker who specialized in making blends for sausages. He invented Old Bay in 1940 after immigrating to Maryland and it became a very popular spice in the Maryland and Chesapeake Bay area.

Brunn founded the Baltimore Spice Company and produced the “Delicious Brand Shrimp and Crab Seasoning” which was later renamed ‘Old Bay’ after a ship line of the Chesapeake Bay. McCormick obtained the rights to this seasoning in 1990.

Old Bay Seasoning Uses

If you are wondering what Old Bay Seasoning is used for, the answer is ‘on anything’.

Image Source: Wikipedia

I was first introduced to Old Bay in the 1990s after moving to Coastal Georgia and discovering the iconic southern dish - the Low Country Boil. This southern treat consists of shrimp, corn-on-the-cob, potatoes and sausage all cooked together and seasoned with Old Bay Seasoning.

When Old Bay Seasoning first came out, in Maryland where it was invented, it was a popular addition to many shrimp and crab dishes.

More than 80 years later, it still has the same great taste and is tasty sprinkled over your favorite seafood dishes, plus poultry dishes, roasted potatoes, burgers, and even French fries.

How Much To Use

As with any spice addition, the amount used is according to individual taste. But for some examples, it is recommended you use approximately 2 tablespoons of Old Bay Seasoning for one pound of shrimp, and ½ cup for a dozen crabs. A typical Low Country Boil also calls for ½ cup of Old Bay. Check out the suggested recipes for steamed shrimp or crabs, or for crab cakes, printed on the can of Old Bay Seasoning, or find many delicious uses for Old Bay in online recipes and on the McCormick Old Bay Recipes site.

Summary

So, for your next seafood dish, or any dish, give Old Bay Seasoning a try and see if you agree that it is the perfect addition that brings a distinctly unique taste experience.

Old Bay Seasoning Related Reviews:

Check out Dawn Rae’s recipe review of Drunken Mussels using Old Bay Seasoning.
Old Bay is one of the seasonings suggested by Sam Monaco for his Air Fryer Tater Tots recipe and also for his Easy Air Fryer Corn on the Cob recipe.

*Old Bay Seasoning Review written by Wednesday Elf

OLD BAY Seasoning, 6 oz

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Friday, October 4, 2024

Love's Portrait - Hallmark Movie Review

It seems some faces are just meant to be painted, photographed and filmed. That is certainly true for the Love's Portrait star, Aubrey Reynolds.

In the movie, Reynolds portrays a young woman who is still grieving the death of her husband, even though it has been 3 years since he died in a car accident. Hallmark picked the right actress for this movie. She comes across as being very gentle, kind and considerate, as well as content, but some of her facial expressions convey sorrow.

She is truly the portrait of a sweet soul with an aching heart.

In the first few minutes of the movie, you are introduced to Lily Young (Aubrey Reynolds) and her co-workers who adore her. We find out about Lily's life, what she does and does not want now or in her future. The movie moves forward quickly when a stunning portrait arrives at the museum where she works and plans are quickly made for travel.

Love's Portrait Movie Synopsis

Love's Portrait

Lily's boss, Michelle, is determined to help Lily find someone to date. She has even gone so far as to add a profile to a dating app on Lily's behalf. However, Lily isn't ready to start dating again and refuses to play along. She is happy with her job as the museum curator and is content to focus on that.

When a new portrait arrives at the museum, everyone is immediately interested in it because it appears to be a portrait of Lily. However, there is no packing slip in the box and the painting is not signed. Thus, they all want to find out the identity of the artist. Michelle is certain the artist is Lily's destiny and she is determined to find out the origin of the painting. She sends her assistant to the deliveryman's home and he finds the packing slip in his truck.

It turns out that the painting was shipped from a small town in Ireland. Before Lily even has time to process it all, Michelle hands her a ticket to Ireland and tells her she must go! Somewhat reluctantly, Lily agrees because she really is intrigued by the painting and would like to solve the mystery of the artist's identity, plus why he painted her.

And, this is where the fun begins .......

This really is a delightful movie. All of the people in Ireland are awesome and fun, starting with the postmistress who clearly has her own interest in the painting as well as Lily's mission to find the artist.

Be sure to check this movie out on a day when you are seeking a bit of romance and mystery together.

Check Out More Movie Reviews at
ReviewThisMovies.com

Love's Portrait - Hallmark Movie Review by:

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Thursday, October 3, 2024

Plant Based Ice Cream Review

I had been trying to eat more plant based and began a journey of trying out different types of plant based ice cream. My first attempts on this journey left more to be desired. It just seemed like something was missing, but mostly, the types I tried were rather sweet to me.

I'll give you some background on that. I had been switching my preference for ice tea from sweet to fifty percent sweet, and then to three quarters unsweet and only 1/4 sweet. So I was becoming less inclined to go for anything overly sweet.

For the most part, dairy based ice cream did not seem overly sweet to me. Perhaps that was due to the ratio of fat to sweet. Since there wasn't much if any fat in the plant based ice creams, that might have been part of the reason for the extra taste of sweetness.

The types of the plant based ice creams that I tried, (ones I purchased from grocery stores), had a base of either soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk, and cashew milk. The first three plant based milks I tasted seemed very sweet, and they were from different brands. I was about to give up, and then I happened upon cashew milk based ice cream. It was the best. It had good ice cream flavor and wasn't overly sweet.

There weren't many flavors of the cashew milk based ice cream to choose from, but it did do in a pinch. I highly recommend the ones made with cashew milk. Perhaps the fat content in the cashews also helped with the flavor.

On with my ice cream journey:

I was also exploring various vegan type recipes on YouTube and found quite a few on making your own ice cream. I took the basics from what I learned from various recipes and decided just to give a go with the basics only. This is the recipe that I came up with.

Basic Plant Based Ice Cream Recipe

1 part frozen sliced bananas, 1 part fresh or frozen desired fruit, and 1/2 to 3/4 parts of plant based milk

Put all three ingredients in a good performance blender and blend.

It will come out more like soft serve ice cream. If you want it softer, add more of the plant based milk, and less if you want it firmer.

I used my Ninja Auto IQ Kitchen System blender when I am making enough ice cream for two or two plus. Sometimes the portions are larger, lol.

Here are some tips on using the Ninja Auto IQ Kitchen System:

+Plug the unit in once the base is secure on your counter, table. (It has suction feet.)
+Add the ingredients and attach the lid. +Push in the power button. The almost full circle with a vertical line at the top of the circle.
+Then selected the Smoothie button.
+The machine blends and pauses according to it's built in program. It will count down the seconds until it is completely done blending. (I love this part!)
+Almost done. Remove the lid then carefully lift out the blending blade unit. The blades are very sharp. Use a spatula to slide any ice cream into the blender and transport the blending blade to the sink.
+Rinse and then use a bottle brush, I use foam dishwashing liquid to spray it with, and proceed to clean using the bottle brush and the foam cleaner. Do Not Touch the Blades.
+I clean these blades off at this part so that everything comes off more easily. Then it's a breeze. The blender container and the blade assembly can also be washed in the dishwasher. I do it the way I previously described, so that water doesn't set in any of the insides. It's also pretty quick.
+Then, if the mixture is thick enough for ice cream, use a spatula to scrape out the goodness into your bowls or pour the liquid into your cups.

This particular batch turned out to be a milkshake batch! Yum!

The ice cream is fresh and tasty, and not overly sweet unless you add additional sweetener of some kind.

If you want to freeze this ice cream, it will come out really firm. You will need to let it defrost at room temperature for 20-30 minutes or more, depending on how much ice cream you are trying to thaw. I really do prefer enjoying it freshly made.

This link will take you to the Ninja Auto IQ Kitchen System on Amazon. https://amzn.to/4eNBs7n

This is the link, if you're a one serving kind of person, for the NutriBullet blender. This one has 1200 watts, which is a good one to use for blending frozen items. https://amzn.to/4042pzB

Does it matter which plant based milk to use?

I have used almond milk or oat milk. Those are my main go to's that I have on hand. I occasionally buy cashew milk if I know I am making mashed potatoes. There is only one store here that carries the cashew milk, so I make it with whatever I happen to have on hand. Any of the plant based milks that I have used have turned out well.

If you are interested in checking out the plant based Butterless Pecan Ice Cream that I came up with, you can check out the recipe post card in my CherylsArt store on Zazzle:

Cheryl's Butterless Pecan Ice Cream Recipe
by CherylsArt

It is scrumptious!

If you're wanting to do paper crafting or scrapbooking with ice cream designs, check out my Ice Cream Scrapbook Paper, paperback on Amazon. It includes copies of my basic plant based ice cream recipe.

Have you had and or made plant based ice cream yet? What did you think? Will you try making your own batch of plant based ice cream?

Cheryl Paton

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Wednesday, October 2, 2024

All the Broken Angels ~ A Book Review

Sometimes a title grabs you and doesn't let you go. That's what happened to me with this Book Title and I'm so happy that it did in fact grab me!

As part of the Netgalley.com community, there are books offered to members for their honest and true reviews.

Pat Black-Gould and Steve Hardiman have hit all the right notes with All the Broken Angels! It is a Finalist in the upcoming 2024 Royal Palm Literary Awards!.

If you grew up in the 1950's, 60's and 70's you will be able to place yourself into this book without any trouble at all.

These decades were the decades of many changes! I'm talking about big changes! There were changes in the church, changes in the schools, changes in our collective feelings about war, peace, space, family and our own roles in society!

These were the decades of Peace Walks and Talks, Vietnam, distrust in organized religions, protest marches, army drafts, women working to break the barriers in the job markets, and mother's who wanted more out of life than just raising a family.

It was a time of great upheaval in the family and society as a whole.

All The Broken Angels hits on many of the "hot" topics of the day and brings many painful memories and some of our broken innocence or naive notions to light.

Cousins Cate and Albie are in the center of all this turmoil. They are best friends, go to school together, play together and are being raised by mom's who still care for their immigrant parents. They are "old school" and "new school" at the same time. Falling back into what worked for their grandparents when they first arrived in the country they chose to call their new home, many old fashioned notions needed to change. That change did not come easily for the elders as many stuck to their customs brought to this new land from their old countries.

Cate and Albie are close and yet so far apart in their thinking. Cate is a bit of a rebel and Albie is very much focused on being just like his dad ( a World War II vet). Cate tries to challenge many things she sees as "unbelievable" and "wrong", while Albie knows when to keep his mouth shut and ride whatever wave they are travelling on. Parochial schools with their hard edge on religion and beliefs did not sit well with Cate and try as she might, she really was trying to understand. Albie was much more easy going and let all these things ride without too much personal comments. Needless to say Cate and Albie's school life was not what we look back on with good humor. School could be very distressing to some young minds.

This novel had me laughing and crying, admitting that many of these things were happening around me at that time and by the end of the novel I was totally a part of the world as seen through their eyes. Oh the memories that this book brought to light. Things I hadn't thought of in a long, long time.

All of life has a way of working out and Cate does find her way in this new world with all of it's possibilities. She is able to make peace with many things that caused her numerous sleepless nights. Heartwarming and true to life is this story of All the Broken Angels.

Indies Today writes about All The Broken Angels: "Younger audiences will appreciate the richness of Americana, and older audiences will be kissed by nostalgia!

In my humble opinion this novel rates 5 Stars! I don't give those out easily, but this book really deserves it and I do hope that you will find it and read it. I'd love to hear if you reacted the same way!

Congratulations to the Authors Pat Black-Gould and Steve Hardiman!

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Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Reviewing Gifts To Keep Loved Ones Warm In Winter.

With cold weather fast approaching and along with it rising energy costs many people are concerned how to pay for their energy bills to heat their homes and keep warm. Many people may well be thinking of not putting the heating on so high or so much this winter.

This may especially apply to older people who can feel the cold more, or maybe less able to keep moving around to keep warm. The very old and the very young and those who have conditions or are on medications that make them feel the cold more will be the most affected in the colder weather.

So I was thinking how to help people in this situation who perhaps will not accept money to help with bills, but who would consider it normal to receive a winter birthday gift or Christmas gift.

While it is important that the heating is on for some part of the day to keep the home free from damp, it might be thoughtful to give a gift of something that will help to keep them warm and cosy this winter. This thoughtfulness may also extend to yourself.

Depending on your budget, some of these suggestions are affordable, others more considered purchases and perhaps the more expensive ones could be purchased by a family or friends clubbing together for a present. Or you may like to purchase these as a treat for yourself, as we did.

So gifts that are lovely, cosy, warm and beautiful like these can be a lovely thoughtful present for any person to help them keep warmer and more relaxed in the colder months of the year.

Heated Throw

The first gift idea and one that we have found very useful is a heated throw. These are blankets or throws that you put on over yourself to keep warm and have a timer facility so you can choose the temperature the throw warms up to and the length of time you have it on.

The best ones have a cut off function once the time is reached so I consider this a vital function, especially for elderly people or anyone just busy, so it cannot over heat or be left on all night.

We have a couple of these throws for use in the living room when watching TV and for one to go over the bed which we put on an hour before bed to warm up the bed and the room. We find that these do heat us up very well and also put some heat into the room which is useful in winter.

One is a Faux Fur heated blanket and one is a Sherpa Fleece Blue heated blanket. They are deliciously cosy! We have used the heating far less since we got these blankets and so saved on our heating bills, while still keeping nice and warm.

Read more about my personal experience of using these in my article Reviewing Benefits And Considerations Of Heated Throws

SEALY Electric Throw Blanket, Flannel & Sherpa Heated Throw with 6 Heating LevelsCheck Price

Warm Wearable Hooded Fleece Blankets.

We have two each of these warm wearable hooded fleece blankets and we really appreciate them in the autumn and winter. Wearing them can certainly delay us needing to put the heating on.

They are great during the day when at home as you can move around freely wearing them, yet you are warm and certainly cosy! However you still feel Ok answering the door to people which I would not be Ok with if I was in a dressing gown! In the evening they are just wonderful and snuggly and so warm.

Wearable Blanket Hoodie for AdultCheck Price

We especially like to wear them first thing in the morning when getting breakfast and once we settle down for the evening. I also like to wear mine when doing computer work and we both wear them watching TV or playing games in the evenings.

Read More about how we enjoy wearing these in my article Reviewing Warm Wearable Oversized Hooded Blankets

Warm oversized Hooded Fleece Blanket in purple and white

Warm Bedding

In the autumn we start switching out our bedding to warmer fleece and blankets to go with our duvets. It makes more of a difference than you might think and is an easy switch.

As long as you know the persons bed size, a warm bedding set would be a lovely thoughtful gift. I love this Microsoft Sheet Set with a flat sheet, fitted sheet and two pillowcases for its warm, cosy and beautiful look on the bed. This set is available in a wide choice of beautiful colours to suit any person and any bedroom decor. It has deep pocket fitting on the fitted sheet and is machine washable on cold, tumble dry low so easy care

Even if you are not sure of the bed size, then a comforter to go over the bed would be a great gift and less dependant on size especially if you size up so you can be sure it covers the bed.

My friend and contributor Barbara wrote this useful article about her personal experience of owning this Warm Sherpas Comforter Set.

Microsoft Sheet SetCheck Price

Warm Cosy Bed Socks

I don't know about you but if my feet are cold I am cold. So it is vital to keep feet warm and cosy. There are many choices of lovely bed socks for everyone in different colours . So if you know the persons shoe size a special cosy pair of socks can be a thoughtful gift.

I especially like these Non Skid Gripper Fleece Socks as in addition to being warm and cosy, they have grippers on the soles so are more non slip that most socks and so safer if you forget to put on slippers when you first get out of bed or go to get a drink in the night.

My friend and contributor Olivia writes in her review about how bed socks and the subsequent warm feet can equal a happy marriage ! How Bedsocks Can Equal A Happy Marriage

Non Skid Gripper Fleece SocksCheck Price

Shoulder Wrap Heating Pad

This is a great gift idea especially if you know the person has any shoulder issues or feels the cold around their shoulders.

I know if my shoulders are cold I find it hard to warm up. I carry any tension in my shoulders and a warm wrap does help to relax the muscles. A definite benefit is that you do not need to hold this wrap against your neck, it stays put there by itself!

My friend and contributor Sylvestermouse reviews her personal experience in her article about the Sunbeam Shoulder Wrap Heating Pad.

So a few well chosen gift ideas that we here have found lovely and beneficial can really be a beautiful and warm, lovely present for a loved one who may feel the cold this winter.

Whether it is a Fall/Autumn Birthday present or a Christmas gift or just because you love them, any of these items will help towards keeping you and your loved ones warm and comfortable this winter.

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