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Saturday, February 3, 2024

Review of National Pizza Day

February 9 is National Pizza Day.

A Brief History of Pizza

The word “Pizza” is from the old Italian word meaning “A Point”. This popular dish began in Italy, but pizza's original American home is New York City.

Fun Facts About Pizza

Pizza is an American standard. The most popular pizza toppings are pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms, with Pepperoni Pizza topping the list of favorites.

A poll showed that people eat pizza on the average of three times a month. The most often times are Friday nights and Movie nights.

The days most popular for ordering pizza are:

Super Bowl Sunday
Halloween
Thanksgiving Eve
New Year's Eve and New Year's Day

Pizza Days

Other days throughout the year celebrate various kinds of pizzas.

February 9 – National Pizza Day
May 17 – National Pizza Party Day
September 5 – National Cheese Pizza Day ('Hold the Toppings')
September 20 – National Pepperoni Pizza Day
November 12 – National Pizza with the works, except anchovies Day

AND - October is known as National Pizza MONTH

Pizza Places

The top rated pizza fast-food places find Domino's Pizza in first place, followed in order by Pizza Hut, Papa Johns and Little Caesars.

Many pizza fans insist that their regional type is the best. Whether it's thin or thick crust, deep dish, kinds of cheeses, or sauce, or toppings, certain regions insist it is the only way to eat pizza! These include Buffalo, California, Chicago, Detroit, Greek, New York and St. Louis styles. For a complete list of these regional favorites, check out the Wikipedia article here on Pizza in the United States.

More About Pizza

Many of the writers on Review This Reviews have written reviews about pizza recipes, and the products and supplies, such as pizza pans, which aid in creating your favorite pizza. Click HERE for a list of reviews related to PIZZA.

Summary

So, enjoy your favorite pizza on National Pizza Day this February 9th, or on any of the other Pizza Days throughout the year. Actually, probably no one needs a special day to eat pizza; any day will do!

Happy Pizza Day!

*Review of National Pizza Day is written by Wednesday Elf

+All images in this review are from Pixabay

365 by Whole Foods Market, Pizza Rising Crust Uncured Pepperoni, 17.8 Ounce

365 By Whole Foods Market, Frozen, Pizza Cheese 2 Pack, 25 Ounce

365 by Whole Foods Market, Pizza Supreme, 14.5 Ounce

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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Friday, February 2, 2024

Groundhogs aka Woodchucks and Groundhog Day, February 2 Reviewed

Attribution: Anthony Quintano on
WikiMedia Commons CC By-SA 4.0 Deed

One of the most popular and recognized animals on earth is the famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil. He is the little creature we all turn to on Groundhog Day each year to get our weather forecast.

No one can deny this little fellow is adorable, especially when he declares spring is coming soon! Of course, we still love him when he sees his shadow and predicts 6 more weeks of winter, but he just seems so much sweeter when he doesn't see his shadow and promises an early spring.

In spite of the fact that groundhogs have a lifespan of 6 years, Punxsutawney Phil has been making his weather predictions since 1886. Yes, it is true (folklore)! As the story goes, Phil drinks "groundhog punch" aka his "elixir of life" at the picnic each year, therefore he has lived a lot longer than the average groundhog life expectancy.

The celebrated groundhog makes his appearance on Groundhog Day, February 2 each year, to give his prediction. He only speaks to the current president of the Groundhog Club. Then the president translates his "groundhogese" into English for the rest of us. Personally, I blame the club president for disturbing this old fellow and not Phil when he declares, "you will have 6 more weeks of winter!"

6 More Weeks of Winter for 2025
Early Spring Was Predicted by Punxsutawney Phil for 2024!

Anthony Quintano from Mount Laurel, United States, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Facts About Groundhogs

Baby Groundhog
Attribution: LadyCamera, CC BY-SA 4.0,
via Wikimedia Commons

Groundhogs are members of the rodent family and are considered the largest squirrels in North America. They have short legs and long, curved claws which allow them to burrow. They prefer woodland areas, hedges, or open areas with plenty of ground coverage. They can be found in the eastern parts of North America and southern Canada.

Groundhogs live alone. Even a mother groundhog will send her babies on the way after a few months and reclaim her burrow for single occupancy.

Groundhogs, also known as Woodchucks, eat twigs, bark, plant stems and leaves (not the seeds or blooms) and can live up to 6 years.

An adult woodchuck will grow to approximately 2 feet and will weight somewhere between 5 - 11 lbs.

Groundhogs are one of the few animals that are true hibernators. They sleep all winter long, relying completely on their reserves of fat to stay alive. Their metabolism slows down to a fraction of normal levels to ensure their survival. Most hibernators wake up to find food or urinate, but groundhogs don't even do that.

When threatened, groundhogs will make a shrill sound which is why they also have the nickname of whistlepigs.

Douglas Chuckwood Groundhog Plush Stuffed Animal

Groundhog Day Shirt Happy Groundhog Day Gifts

Douglas Mr G. Groundhog Plush Stuffed Animal

Visit AmazingWildAnimals.com

to Read about More Beautiful and Endangered Animals!

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Here on Review This Reviews!

Groundhogs aka Woodchucks and Groundhog Day, February 2 Review Written by:

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Thursday, February 1, 2024

Reviewing Prom Queen by Laura Wolfe

Prom Queen by Laura Wolfe

I'm not sure what made me want to read this book by Laura Wolfe, but I will definitely be diving into more of her books as I really enjoyed it.

The cover of the book says, 'We were all there 20 years ago....Only one of us killed her', that was enough of a hook for me!

This book runs in two timelines one is the present day and one is twenty years ago when the small town of Cove Haven's Prom Queen died.

The main character in the book is Brooke and she has returned to Cove Haven on the shore of Lake Michigan after her mother's death planning to renovate and sell the family home. While she's in the coffee shop she bumps into a woman who is wearing a silver locket around her neck that she instantly recognises. The necklace is one that she gave her long-time best friend for her 17th birthday and the last time she saw it was on the evening that her friend (the Prom Queen in the title) died.

The person in question was a true-crime podcaster who had decided to investigate the Prom Queen's death and she raised lots of questions as podcasters do. Bailey's death had been put down as a suicide, but her friends had often thought it could've been something more sinister. As the podcaster, Hannah probes more she and Brooke discover more things and the twists start coming.

I really enjoyed it even though I did suspect who the killer was before the end, I will confess to falling for a red herring for a few moments. I won't reveal more about that as I want you to ~~fall for it~~ enjoy the book with no preconceptions!

If you like thrillers and whodunnits then you should enjoy this book. There were a couple of cliched characters in the book, but the main cast was really good.

The only thing that I didn't really like was the epilogue. I enjoyed the ending with the reveal and think it could've ended there. When I read the epilogue I said to my husband, 'that's not a nice ending, I really don't like that ending' I think it was to set up for another book, but I just didn't like it. I would recommend not reading that part, but if you're like me curiosity will get the better of you.

For an entertaining read I do recommend it. It is marketed as a 'totally addictive and gripping psychological thriller with a heart-stopping twist' and that does sum it up although I would probably replace the psychological thriller with whodunnit as it wasn't as dark and suspenseful as a lot of psychological thrillers.

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Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Hypochlorous Acid: A Versatile, Innovative Health and Hygiene Solution

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in hypochlorous acid (HOCl) as a naturally occurring yet powerful solution with many applications ranging from promoting wound healing and skincare to household cleaning without toxic chemicals. This colorless, dilute acid solution is gaining recognition for its remarkable benefits and uses, making it a valuable tool in promoting health and maintaining a clean environment

In this review, I’ll share what I have learned about this safe, non-toxic, electrolyzed salt water solution and how I use it.

Hypochlorous Acid Spray for Skincare, Health & Hygiene

How I Discovered Hypochlorous Acid Spray

Last year, the esthetician from whom I buy my medical-grade skincare added a hypochlorous acid spray to the toners she carries. Since she only carries products from brands with meaningful clinical studies that validate the products' effectiveness, I knew that Hydrinity Hyacin Active Purifying Mist was a high-quality product. According to Hydrinity's Hyacin Active Purifying Mist product page, "Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) is a potent anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory agent that works overtime to treat blemishes, renew compromised skin, and deeply calm even the most stressed and sensitive skin types, including those prone to eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Used by dermatologists worldwide, this refreshing purifying mist is renowned for its wound-healing abilities, is free of all chemical irritants, and safe for all skin types."

I decided to order a bottle of the Hydrinity Hyacin Active Purifying Mist from my favorite medical-grade skincare supplier, SkinBEAUTIFUL RX. I have occasional breakouts and, as I have gotten older, tend to heal more slowly from cuts and scrapes, and the hypochlorous acid spray has really helped with both. It also is great for helping to soothe insect bites.

I was really impressed with the effectiveness and versatility of this product, and I also started seeing more ads for other brands of hypochlorous acid spray, such as Magic Molecule. So I did more research into different applications and different brands and discovered there was a lot more to learn.

Understanding the Science Behind Hypochlorous Acid

Hypochlorous acid, often referred to as nature's disinfectant, is a weak acid formed through the electrolysis of salt water. It mirrors the antimicrobial properties of the body's immune system, particularly in fighting bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This naturally occurring compound is colorless, and its ability to effectively combat pathogens makes it a promising candidate for many applications.

Health and Wellness

Skincare: In the realm of skincare, hypochlorous acid has found its place in combating various dermatological issues. From acne treatment to soothing irritated skin, it offers a natural alternative to traditional skincare ingredients, ensuring a healthy complexion without harsh side effects.
Wound Healing and Infection Prevention: The innate antimicrobial properties of hypochlorous acid can accelerate wound healing. By reducing the risk of infections, inflammation, and scarring, HOCl is becoming a key component in advanced wound care, offering a gentle yet effective approach to recovery.
Oral Health: The incorporation of HOCl into oral care products has shown promising results in reducing bacteria in the oral cavity. This not only contributes to improved oral health but also aids in preventing conditions such as gum disease and halitosis.

Household and Environmental Applications

Surface Disinfection: Hypochlorous acid is an effective disinfectant for surfaces within households and in public spaces. Whether it's countertops, kitchen utensils, or bathroom fixtures, HOCl provides a safe and efficient means of maintaining a hygienic living environment.
Air Purification: Hypochlorous acid's ability to neutralize airborne pathogens and allergens makes it a valuable tool to promote a healthier indoor atmosphere in enclosed spaces.
Fruit and Vegetable Wash: Concerns about pesticide residues and contaminants on fruits and vegetables have led to the adoption of hypochlorous acid as a natural wash. Rinsing produce with an HOCl solution helps eliminate potential threats, ensuring that our produce is not only delicious but also safe.
Laundry Disinfection: Adding hypochlorous acid to the laundry cycle enhances the disinfection of clothes, bedding, and towels. This extra layer of protection helps provide peace of mind in a world increasingly concerned with hygiene.

More Economical Hypochlorous Acid Options

Once I started to understand the many uses for this antimicrobial solution, I started thinking of other ways I could benefit from it, such as bringing a TSA-approved spray bottle with me when I travel to disinfect airplane tray tables, public phones, and other surfaces, such as gym equipment.

I wanted to keep a small spray bottle of it in my purse to sanitize my hands after using a public restroom and another bottle next to each bathroom sink, since HOCl is less drying than alcohol hand sanitizers. (I found this article on using hypochlorous acid as an antiseptic in caring for patients with a suspected COVID-19 infection very interesting.)

And, since I use it to help heal cuts and scrapes quicker, I also wanted to keep small spray bottles in the medicine cabinet and in my nightstand.

Since the Hydrinity Hyacin Active Purifying Spray was $60 for 3 fl. oz., I wanted a more economical version for these more widespread uses.

Hypochlorous Acid Spray - 1 L Refill – Acne Prone Skin – Eczema - Tattoo Aftercare – Piercing Aftercare – Saline Toner – Facial Cleanser – Lash Cleanser - All Natural Face and Skin Spray - e11ement

What I discovered is that there are several brands of hypochlorous acid, with more and more coming on the market as the popularity of this product grows.

Initially, I bought some small bottles of Magic Molecule brand hypochlorous acid spray to keep by my nightstand and in my purse. But even on sale, the price was more than I wanted to spend for using it as liberally and frequently as I wanted, for everything from washing my produce to healing and soothing scrapes, cuts, and insect bites and sanitizing my hands. So, I decided to look for a more affordable bulk option that I could use to refill my little spray bottles.

I ended up buying a 1L (32 fl. oz.) refill bottle of e11ement Hypochlorous Acid Face and Skin Spray for $27.50, enough to refill a whole bunch of smaller spray bottles many times over. The e11ement Hypochlorous Acid spray works beautifully, and now I don't have to think twice about how often I use it.

If you don't already have small mister bottles into which you can decant the contents of this quart-size refill bottle, I can recommend the following:

This set of two 2 oz. travel size spray bottles is perfect for your purse, your nightstand, your laptop bag, etc. Each TSA-approved size, leakproof bottle sprays a fine mist.
This larger, 10.1 oz. continuous mist spray bottle is great for keeping on your kitchen countertop to disinfect the counter, wash produce, etc.

Hypochlorous acid spray has been a great addition to our household. It's excellent to use after shaving (face or body) to soothe the skin. If you have teenagers or family members who are acne-prone, they will also benefit from using it as a facial toner after washing and drying their faces and then allowing the HOCl spray to dry before applying any other topical skincare products such as acne medication, moisturizer, sunscreen, etc.

Hypochlorous Acid: A Versatile, Innovative Health and Hygiene Solution by Margaret Schindel

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Batter Deep Fried Mushrooms

Mushrooms, people either love them or hate them. I happen to be someone who loves mushrooms. Mushrooms are one of the foods I love, no matter how they are prepared. I even love them raw and dipped in ranch dressing.

Today, I'm reviewing how I made our deep-fried mushrooms. These are a perfect side to any meal or delicious as a snack anytime.

Ingredients for Batter Deep Fried Mushrooms:

12 ounces of fresh white mushrooms ( I used medium size mushrooms)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup of water

2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs ( I used Panko)

Instructions:

Rinse the mushrooms in cold water and pat dry.
Mix, flour cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a medium size bowl.
Add the cup of water, and whisk together until you have a smooth batter.
Dip the mushrooms into the batter and let the excess drip off. You can use toothpicks or a fork.
Roll the mushrooms in the breadcrumbs until they are coated.
Deep fry until golden brown.
Place them on a plate lined with a paper towel.

After dipping the mushrooms in the batter, I rolled them in the breadcrumbs.

I coated several mushrooms at a time before placing them in the oil.

I don't have a deep fryer, so I used my 10-inch cast iron skillet. I filled the skillet a little over halfway with vegetable oil, and set the burner to medium heat. The oil needs to be between 325 to 375 degrees for frying.

I used my ThermoPro TP-18 instant-read thermometer to make sure I had the right temperature. I fried 6 or 7 mushrooms at a time until they were golden brown. I removed them with a slotted spoon and placed them on a plate lined with paper towels.

Using a deep fryer would be much easier for sure. Read my friend Cynthia's review here: of The Presto GranPappy Electric Deep Fryer. This would be the perfect kitchen tool for deep frying these mushrooms.

You can serve your mushrooms with cocktail sauce, or ranch dressing, or eat them plain.

If you like mushrooms here are some more of my favorite recipes:

Baked Stuffed Portobello Mushroom Caps Grilled Stacked Veggies Italian Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms