Gardien Decorative Stepping Stones Review

Have you ever wanted to DIY a garden path or foot path in your yard? Yet the thought of bringing in stones seems ... like alot of work! Enter the resin Gardien stepping stones which are lightweight faux stepping stones attached to the ground with stakes. Yes, stakes! 

The stones are textured to resemble limestone and can be used as separately or spaced together depending upon the desired look or use.

Colors

 Gardien 15.5” Decorative Stepping Stones That Stake Into The GroundCheck Price

Light Beige Limestone and Slate Grey

Quantities

The stepping stones can be ordered in packs of 4, 8, 16 stones

Size

The size of each stone is 15.5" X 15.5"

The stones do require minor installation of the four stakes to adhere stone into the ground. The stakes are attached to the back of each stone. After the stakes are removed from the back of the stone the stakes need to be clipped into the back of each stone (that did require hand strength.)

Installation

The stones are very easy to install on soft ground, grass or mulch. Simply place the stone and stand on the stone to lower stone into the ground. The stones are easily detached also to move or realign.

I love this idea and the flexibility to DIY a space. The stones are not inexpensive especially if a large area is to be designed and work better on level land.

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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Why Put a Spring Wreath on Your Front Door?

I've always loved a seasonal wreath on a front door. There's just something about walking up to a house and being greeted by a cheerful wreath that feels warm and inviting. 

It's like the house itself is smiling at you. When spring rolls around, a bright, floral wreath is the perfect way to welcome the season of renewal right at your doorstep.

1. The Meaning Behind a Spring Wreath

Spring wreaths aren't just pretty; they carry symbolic meaning as well. Wreaths, in general, have long been symbols of growth, renewal, and the cycle of life, which makes them a perfect match for spring. 

Flowers represent the blooming of new beginnings, while greenery symbolizes life and vitality.

A spring wreath can be a quiet but meaningful reminder to embrace change, fresh starts, and the beauty of nature awakening around us.

Whether you choose a floral design, a greenery wreath, or something whimsical like one made with Easter eggs or butterflies, it's a lovely way to mark the season.

2. Decorative Impact That Elevates Your Curb Appeal

Let's be honest — a spring wreath just makes your home look good!

It's a simple yet powerful way to add color and personality to your front door. Even if your porch is basic, a vibrant wreath can instantly brighten things up.

I've found that a spring wreath can also tie together other decorative elements. 

If you enjoy putting out a welcome mat, potted plants, or seasonal decor on your porch, a wreath can pull the whole look together. The combination creates a cohesive and inviting entryway that leaves a lasting impression.

Check out this collection of spring wreaths for unique ideas on different wreath styles. Whether you prefer bold colors or soft pastels, there's something to suit various styles.

3. Practical Tips for Choosing and Hanging a Spring Wreath

If you're like me, you want a wreath that not only looks great but holds up well. Here are some quick tips I've learned over the years:

• Go Artificial for Longevity: While fresh flower wreaths are stunning, they don't last long. Artificial options can look just as beautiful and will stay vibrant all season.

• Choose Weather-Resistant Materials: If your front door is exposed to the elements, look for UV-protected or weather-resistant wreaths to prevent fading.

• Pick the Right Size: A wreath that's too small can get lost on the door, while one that's too big may overwhelm it. Aim for a size that fits comfortably within the door's center.

• Use a Sturdy Hanger: Over-the-door wreath hangers are easy to use, but adhesive hooks can work well if you'd rather avoid a visible hook on top. I prefer the over-the-door hanger, but that's just a personal thing. Check out both hanging devices and decide which works best for your door.

As a reminder, if you're ready to find the perfect wreath for your door, I've gathered some wonderful ideas in this spring wreath roundup. There's something for many tastes and styles.

Final Thoughts

Putting a spring wreath on your front door is such a simple way to celebrate the season and make your home feel warm and welcoming.

Whether you choose a floral masterpiece, a greenery-inspired design, or something playful and fun, it's a beautiful way to show off your style and greet guests with a smile before they even step inside.

Happy spring decorating!

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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National Alfred Hitchcock Day Reviewed

March 12 has been selected as the day we honor the Master of Suspense - Alfred Hitchcock.

Alfred Hitchcock Day is a holiday in the category of Arts & Entertainment. On March 12 we celebrate the life, times and work of this master filmmaker.

Presenting Alfred Hitchcock

Alfred Hitchcock (Wikipedia)

Hitchcock was an English film director who became one of the  most influential figures in the world of cinema.

In a career that spanned six decades, Hitchcock directed over 50 feature films, many of which are still watched and well known today.  Some of his most famous were Strangers on a Train,  Dial M for Murder, To Catch a Thief, Vertigo, North by Northwest, The Birds and Psycho. The actors in these, and other, Hitchcock films were some of the top names of the day, including Cary Grant, Jimmy Stewart, Grace Kelly and Ingrid Bergman.

Hitchcock became as well known as any of his actors due to his cameo appearances in most of his films, his many interviews, and his television series Alfred Hitchcock Presents. 

Born in Essex (near East London), Alfred Hitchcock grew up in a rather austere and strict environment without much joy. He had no real friends and developed many fears over the years. Perhaps his background helped bring out the suspenseful and fearful ideas he had for his many films.

Hitchcock's favorite subject was geography and he loved maps and timetables of trains, trams and buses. He had a particular interest in London trams and, fans of Hitchcock films will note, a large percentage of his films included rail or tram scenes. 

Alfred Hitchcock married Alma Reville, an English screenwriter, in 1926 and they had one daughter, Pat. Alma became his closest collaborator and wrote or co-wrote many of Hitchcock's films. 

One of Hitchcock’s most famous movies was Psycho. The violence (shower scene) and the early death of the heroine by a disturbed murderer became the hallmarks of a new horror-film genre and became very popular with audiences. 

Alfred Hitchcock’s films showed recurring themes and plot devices throughout his directing career. The "Hitchcockian" style included the use of "editing and camera movement to mimic a person's gaze, thereby turning viewers into voyeurs, and framing shots to maximise anxiety and fear."

Summary

Alfred Hitchcock received many awards for his work over the years, and frequent accolades.  Life magazine called him the "greatest master of melodrama in screen history". The holiday of National Alfred Hitchcock Day celebrates this outstanding Master of Suspense.

Related Reviews:

• Alfred Hitchcock Suspense Films Collection Reviewed by Sylvestermouse Cynthia

For more Holiday Reviews, Check out

ReviewThisReviews: Holidays

A Few of the Many Favorite & Most Well-Known Hitchcock Films:

The Birds [DVD]

Psycho (1960) - 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital [4K UHD]

North By Northwest (4K UHD + Digital)

Rear Window - 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital [4K UHD]

*Review of the Holiday ‘National Alfred Hitchcock Day’ was written by Wednesday Elf.

 

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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Pork Chops with Gravy Crock-Pot Recipe

I love cooking in my crock pot.  It is so nice to be able to start a meal in the morning and have it ready to serve at dinnertime without too much additional fuss.  I am constantly seeking new crock pot recipes that my family will enjoy.  

Not all of my new recipe experiments have been well received in our home.  Due to varying ingredient preferences, it is not unusual for one of us to like a particular meal while others simply do not care for it and start rutting in the refrigerator for last night's leftovers.  When I plan to try a new recipe, I make sure there is an alternative meal available.  I've learned that is a necessity.  

Due to my own childhood experiences with tomatoes, I've never required my children, or anyone, to eat a meal that did not appeal to them, simply because it was set before them.  Of course, I cook with tomatoes, but my personal preference is either tomato sauce or petite diced tomatoes.  I cannot eat a tomato alone or sliced on a hamburger like my parents, siblings & husband.  Therefore, I completely understand when someone doesn't like a specific ingredient or presentation.

A few years ago, my mother started cooking pork chops in her crock pot.  I have cooked pork loin in my crock pot for decades, but not the chops and I hesitated to try the pork chops in gravy.  However, Mom was kind enough to share one of her cooked pork chops with me and I loved them.  They are awesome!    

She gave me her recipe and with a few very simple changes based on my household preferences, I now cook pork chops in gravy for my family.  Everyone, except our vegans, love these chops.

 

Crock Pot Recipe for Pork Chops with Gravy

• 5 Pork Chops  (any size – I use the breakfast chops)
• 1 Campbell's Cream of Chicken Soup 
• 1 pkg of Pork Gravy Mix   (I use Pioneer Roasted Pork Gravy Mix)
• ½ Cup Water or Chicken Broth 
• ½ teaspoon Pepper 
• Butter 

Note: Can add a pkg of onion dip mix if desired (I don’t use this)

 

Directions

Mix together the soup, gravy mix, water and pepper. Pour into the crock pot. 

Layer the pork chops on top of the mixture. 

Lightly pepper and add a pat of butter on each pork chop. 

Cook for 7 ½ hours on low. 

Finishing sauce thickener after chops are cooked:  In a cup, stir together 2 Tablespoons Corn Starch & 2 Tablespoons Water to make a sauce thickener.  Temporarily remove pork chops and stir mixture into sauce in the crock pot.  Add the chops back to the crock pot and cook chops in the sauce for another 30 minutes. 

During that additional 30 of cooking in the crockpot, I prepare a box of Uncle Ben's Wild Rice and serve the cooked pork chops over the wild rice.

 

My Crock-Pot

I own two crock-pots.  My original crock pot is over 40 years old, but it still works like new.  However, during the holidays, I found I needed a second crock-pot to carry meals to my parent's home when my siblings and their families are in town.  I chose one that has latches on the top for easy transporting.

 Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Oval Manual Portable Slow Cooker, Red - SCCPVL600-RCheck Price

Check Out More Recipe Reviews at
ReviewThisRecipes.com

Pork Chops with Gravy Crock Pot Recipe Written by:

© 2024 Cynthia Sylvestermouse
 

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Using Affirmations - A Review

When I first started using affirmations, I was a novice. I had worked through a book and came up with ten affirmations that I would write down, and then read and recite daily.

I was floored when I noticed that some of them were coming true. I continued on a bit more, and became flabbergasted. I really started watching what I was saying; so much so, that I became very quiet. I didn't want to let words slip out that were not affirmative of what I wanted and or liked.

But then I also began to miss having conversations. I didn't know how to be discerning of what I watched on TV or listened to as background noise, etc.

Having been raised as a Christian, I also began to wonder if this what was God wanted me to do. I wrote about that in another blog, and will share a link to that at the bottom of this post.

My main point of writing about using affirmations, is that I have found and also developed some tips and tricks that have helped me out in my continuing journey.

As much as possible, I try to notice more of what I do like.

As much as possible, I try to see the good. If that didn't seem to be working, I would leave a certain situation, and continue to work on me.

If it is a situation I want to stay in and make the best of, I have tried to state more of what it is I want, and only sticking to that. Sometimes I might rephrase something in a more positive way. I have found that to be helpful.

When it comes to reading, I take the time to transform the word I, used by others to refer to themselves, to they, he, she, etc. I have become more conscientious of when I use the word I, so I don't want to take on that word when I am reading in regards to someone else's I. So yes, I book has to really sound good for me to want to read it. Or, if the writer is coming from a place that I would like to be, then I can be okay with reading their I as also my I. Hope that makes sense.

When it comes to singing, I have found that singing words, has actually created more energy for those words as I sing them. So when my favorite tunes come on and I want to sing, I either replace the words with more positive words that I can align to, or just think my replacement words in my head, or just repeat a string of syllables to go along with the tune. Like lots of la la la, do rah do, etc.

Yes, these are all things that I have done to help me in my journey of using affirmations, without having to resort to a very quiet life. I don't like the idea of becoming a monk or be monk like. Did you notice what I just did, I used the word like with a derivative of not. I read about someone else doing that, to get out of the habit of using less positive descriptions.

I have also done quiet self talk. Early on in my affirmation journey, when I was out in a restaurant and the person across from me had said something I didn't like and I wanted things to go better, I cupped my hand up over my mouth and would quietly say the affirmation that I was trying to foster. I knew that what they were saying was triggering my old beliefs, so it was nothing I had to try and get them to change in that moment. This was my own personal way of working on me. I learned later that I could also say to myself, I dissolve this energy, and would mentally just think it to the area that I was feeling it in my body.

Another thing I have decided to do, is when I am with others who may not be talking very affirmatively, I have asked them, "What is it that you do want to happen?" Sometimes I have responded with what I may like to have happen, to give them an idea of what I mean. Sometimes, this has proven helpful.

I have found that I like various ways of doing affirmations. Sometimes I just like to chill and listen to them as background. Other times I follow along and repeat what I am listening to. If there is enough time, I repeat each one out loud and then again silently to myself.

I also like saying affirmations while doing physical activity. An example is saying that "I am strong," while exercising. I can find that quite invigorating. Physical activity can also be beneficial by itself.

You may not equate massage with affirmations, however our bodies can store energy of our beliefs. Massage from another or even one's self can help to release that stored energy through massage. It doesn't have to be a whole body massage, it can be as simple as massaging one's hands or feet. When I do that, sometimes I feel like I just need to take a deeper breath and let it go. I find it very helpful. Physical exercise can also loosen up stored energy.

Those are some of the things that I have done to improve my self well-being. I am glad that I pursued this journey of affirmations. I hope that you have found some help here, either with new tools that you may find helpful, and also that if you are going through anything similar, that you know you are with others who are on a path of transformation as well.

If you would like to read more about my transitioning went as far as me wondering what God wanted to me do, you can check that out here. It's my blog on Proverbs as Affirmations.

If you'd like some books that foster a more affirmative life, check these out. They are on Amazon.

Proverbs as Affirmations: An Affirmation Journal for Self Transformation This is especially good for those who want to experience the lessons in Proverbs said in a kind manner.

Positive Affirmation Coloring Book Coloring while focusing on an affirmation can be a relaxing and calm way to incorporate affirmations.

Proverbs as Affirmations Coloring Book: Words to Live By

May you have a great and blessed day.

Do you have an affirmation tip to share? Please do.

Cheryl Paton

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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