Reviewing iLIDS - Mason Jar Lids (Not for Canning Use)

I  have used iLIDS for Mason Jars for several years now and have noticed that when I go to the cupboard for a drink container, I am reaching for a glass jar and an iLID the vast majority of the time.  I find that making my drinks in a jar is cost-saving, environmentally friendlier, and visually pleasing.

 

 

iLIDS Mason Jar Drink Lids

Mason jars are a glass jar that are most known for canning. Households over the generations have depended on these jars for food storage. The jars are durable and withstand boiling temperatures in the canner, are dishwasher safe, and store food in the refrigerator after opening. While I have not tried it myself, I am aware that some people use their jars in the freezer. 

Many kitchens, including mine, have a supply of these jars. So it is not a stretch to begin using jars for drinks and the storage of drinks. I began making teas and ice coffee in the jars, then pouring the drinks into a glass. Before too long, I discovered iLIDS drink lids and began drinking right from the jar.  Insulated steel tumblers have many benefits, but I have found that I prefer the versatility of canning jars with iLIDS.

iLIDS drinking lids come in many colors. The underside has a gasket which creates a good seal when screwed on to the jar and helps prevent the lid from becoming hard to unscrew. The drinking lid has a sliding closure to protect your drink from unwanted items. When the slider is opened, you can drink directly from the lid or insert a straw. 

Note: the slider is not sealed and will allow a small spill when the jar is knocked over. It is not leak-proof.

While quart jars are large and bulky, I find that my liquid intake is higher when using a quart jar. I can visually see how much (or how little) I've drank.  Glass jars are not insulated. But I find that I enjoy the visual aspect of infused waters or iced coffee. 

Quart jars and iLIDS are perfect for making sun tea. When finished steeping, the jar and lid can move to the refrigerator and be used for storing and pouring out one glass at a time. Or, once chilled, insert a straw and voila a super-sized ice tea for those hot days.

iLIDS come in wide mouth and regular mouth sizes. I prefer the wide mouth because it's so much easier to drop in ice cubes or fruit. I have also found that these lids fit on many of the spaghetti jars that can be purchased at the grocery. The taller, thinner Classico jars are a great size for drink jars. 

While preparing to write this review, I have learned that in addition to the drink lids with the sliding opening, iLIDS offer storage lids and sports drink lids! 

I began using jars for drinks around the time I began making my own iced coffee to reduce the cost of buying my daily ice coffee at a drive-thru. I also prefer to reduce trash waste by avoiding the use of single-serving items (such as Kcups) when I can.

To recap:

downside of iLIDS and Mason Jars for drinks

• not insulated
• bulky; they don't fit in car cup carriers
• glass is breakable (although I've not broken one yet)

upside of iLIDS and Mason Jars for drinks

• easy to screw on and off jars
• wide mouth and regular mouth size
• visually pleasing; for iced drinks, fruit-infused drinks, and coffees
• monitor liquid intake; can see how much you've drank (or still need to drink)
• making sun tea
• resistant to staining (I'm not sure how but my oldest iLIDS have zero tea, coffee, or berry juice stains)
• reduces costs of buying drinks outside the home and reducing waste of single serving drinks
• many colors to choose from
• different styles of iLIDS to choose from (drink, storage, and sports drink)

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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Dorm Room Essentials: 15 Must-Have Items for Your Home Away from Home

So you're getting ready to step into the world of dorm living – an adventure full of new experiences, late-night study sessions, and lasting friendships. 

Creating your own little haven within those four walls is both exciting and a bit challenging. My personal situation was a bit different; my roommate and I shared an apartment. However, much of what's listed here was included and necessary in my own list of essentials.

To help you get started on the right foot, I've put together a list of the top 15 items that can make your dorm room feel like your own cozy slice of home.

15 Must-Have Dorm Essentials to Consider:

1. Bedding: Your bed isn't just a place to crash; it's your refuge. Trust me, investing in soft sheets that feel like a cloud, a comforter that wraps you up in warmth, and pillows that perfectly hug your head can make all the difference after a long day. Another item that is available today that wasn't used back in my day is a privacy tent for beds. If you're sharing your space with someone else, you can check them out here.

2. Storage Solutions: Dorm rooms? Yeah, they're cozy. And by cozy, I mean limited in space. You'll want to become best friends with under-bed storage containers, wall shelves, and clever organizers. They magically expand your room, creating space you didn't even know you had. Think vertically, think under the bed!

   Oh, and you have to check out this nifty item! It's a bed-skirt organizer, so cool!

3. Mini Fridge and Microwave: Late-night snacks or impromptu tea parties, a mini fridge, and a microwave combo have your back. It's a savior when your stomach rumbles and your study partner needs that ramen fix.

4. Desk Essentials: Your desk is where academic magic happens. Having a good desk lamp for late-night study sessions is a game-changer. Organizers for your pens, pencils, and highlighters keep chaos at bay.

5. Technology: Let's face it – you'll practically be living on your laptop. Make sure it's your trusty sidekick. Chargers and power strips are your lifelines in this digital age.

6. Decorative Items: Pictures, posters, and wall art turn your dorm from "generic space" to "your space." These personal touches are like visual hugs from home.

7. Personal Care Items: A shower caddy is your shower-time superhero, corralling your shampoo and soap. And shower shoes? They're your feet's best friends.

8. Laundry Supplies: Laundromat adventures are a rite of passage. A laundry basket that doesn't double as an arm workout is essential. Don't forget the detergent and a stash of quarters (if needed) - it may just be a card you have to fill up with money online - maybe Mom and Dad will be doing that for you?

9. Cooking Essentials: If you're feeling culinary, some basic cooking gear can be a game-changer. A simple stir-fry or microwave-friendly recipes are sanity savers when cafeteria food just won't cut it.

10. Clothing and Closet Organizers: A closet can turn into Narnia with the right hangers and organizers. Keep your wardrobe tidy and accessible. No more digging through a mountain of clothes!

11. Study and Lounge Seating: Not every study session happens at your desk. A bean bag or floor cushion can be your "chill spot" for those group discussions or solo reading escapes.

12. Rugs: Let's admit it – dorm floors can be cold. A rug not only warms up the room but also adds a splash of color to your space. Choose one that matches your vibe.

13. Fan or Space Heater: Depending on your dorm's climate (and quirks), a fan or heater can be your climate control buddy. They're like roommates that actually listen to your temperature preferences.

14. Trash and Recycling Bins: Keeping things neat is easier when you've got designated spots for trash and recycling. It's a small touch that makes a big difference. Here's a compact garbage/recycle bin that works for smaller spaces.

15. Whiteboard or Corkboard: Organize your life with a whiteboard or corkboard. Pin up reminders, motivational quotes, and pictures of your pals. It's your personal command center.

There you have it! Have a successful, fun, and productive school year! Enjoy every moment; I'm sure you've heard it a thousand times, but it goes by fast.

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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Summertime Toys for Tots

 

A Toy Review of Summer-themed Toys

From observation of children at play, it is easy to see that kids love to imitate the grown-ups in their lives. Thus, it is easy to see why toy manufacturers create toys that replicate a small version of the full-sized items adults use in their daily lives. 

In the summer, two of the things parents and other adults plan and do are picnics and backyard grilling. To that end, I thought it would be fun to find some mini versions of these summer-themed items. 

My Little Picnic Playset

For the tiniest of tots, this 5-piece playset in plush is perfect for babies and small children. The fun and friendly play food, including buttered toast, soft toy cherries, a rattling avocado and a toy grape juice that makes a sound,  fit inside a cute soft picnic basket that baby can carry around. 

Manufactured by Baby Gund, a leader in excellent children's toys, this play set will keep baby engaged in sensory play while encouraging exploration and helping develop their dexterity. 

So when mom & dad are setting up the picnic table for a family picnic, the youngest family member can enjoy being included with their very own soft picnic playset.

My Little Picnic Playset is available on Amazon right here. 

BBQ Grill Playset

One of the cutest toys I've seen in years, this BBQ Grill for kid's play is perfect for 'little cooks' who want to copy dad doing his backyard or camping grilling. 

This particular BBQ grill is interactive, bringing realistic features to a child's grilling experience. There is realistic smoke and sound functions for fun pretend play. This 18-piece set comes with grilling utensils and plates, plus a variety of food items. To add to the realistic look, the food changes color as it switches from 'raw' to 'cooked'. 

A fun toy grill that sparks a love for cooking and outdoor fun for a complete pretend play experience. 

BBQ Grill Playset by Play-Act is available here on Amazon

Summary

So, for a fun summertime playtime for your children, check out these picnic and BBQ grill playsets. Children really enjoy doing just what the adults around them do. It's more than playtime; it's a learning experience.

For more Toy Reviews, check out
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*Summertime Toys for Tots Review written by Wednesday Elf

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Marmaduke (2010) Movie Review

At the end of an especially grueling day recently, I went in search of a movie that would offer the much needed dose of levity.  Passing right over my normally preferred romantic comedy section, I moved on to the kids movies and came across Marmaduke.  

I can't say that I ever really thought about a dog looking quirky before, but that is exactly the word that came to mind when I spotted Marmaduke.

As I started watching this lanky, socially awkward, kind canine with exaggerated facial expressions and floppy ears, I felt the stress of the day start to evaporate.

Marmaduke is a beautiful Great Dane whose large size might make him look dominate in the world of dogs, but his sweet and easy going disposition actually makes him unprepared for bullies.  However, unprepared or inexperienced does not mean incapable, which is a reminder we all need to hear.

Oh, and perhaps I should tell you, in the movie "Marmaduke" all dogs talk and are quite animated! 

Marmaduke - Movie Synopsis

 Marmaduke [Blu-ray]Check PriceWhen Marmaduke hears that they are moving from Kansas to California, he isn't too thrilled to leave his yard full of buried bones. But, he will be with his family and his only animal friend, Carlos the cat, so he goes along without fuss. Little does Marmaduke know, the world of ocean waves, unfamiliar neighborhoods and the "pedigrees" await him.

Upon arrival, he loves the new house, especially the big doggie door and his new "bathroom".  Plus, his new friends; Maisie, Raisin and Guiseppe, are adorable. I had to laugh when Guiseppe states that he is afraid of pumas aka mountain lions.  That is a reasonable fear for anyone, but he is so cute with his constant reminders about them throughout the show.

I laughed  until I cried watching the Great Dane surf!  I totally forgot that I was having a bad day and enjoyed the movie.  I think you will too!

Where to Watch Marmaduke

I cut the cable years ago.  As a prime member on Amazon, I watch a lot of movies for free, but I also subscribe to a few streaming services.  I watched Marmaduke on Peacock.  It is also available to rent or buy on Amazon.

Now that I am finished sharing this fun movie, I think I go watch it again.  See you there!

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Marmaduke (2010) Movie Review by:

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The Best Reusable Microfiber Facial Cleansing Sponges for Better Skin

Receiving several compliments on my skin recently was a delightful surprise, something I never expected at age 69! I have been blessed with good genes and have invested in medical-grade skincare products for the past several years, which have made a big difference. But I also have noticed a big improvement in the appearance of my skin over the past few months since I changed the way I cleanse my face, using an enzyme-based facial cleanser and a microfiber facial cleansing sponge.

I purchased my first one at Sephora, but when I went back to purchase a second so I could have one in use and one in the laundry, I was dismayed to discover that Sephora no longer carries it. Fortunately, I found a nearly-identical microfiber plush-covered face-washing puffs on Amazon in a smaller size that I like even better.

Here's my product review of the Vtrem Reusable Makeup Remover Pads Soft Facial Cleaning Puffs I chose.

The Importance of Proper Face Washing for Beautiful Skin

A few years ago, when my formerly peaches-and-cream complexion was showing its age, I decided to upgrade my drugstore and Sephora skincare products and invest in medical-grade skincare products with high concentrations of active ingredients delivering clinically proven superior effectiveness. I have been amazed at the difference these products have made in my complexion.

Until this year, however, I didn't realize how much of a difference simply cleansing the face properly would make in the health and appearance of my skin. If I was working on the computer until the wee hours or came home very late after an evening out, I confess that sometimes I would just swipe my face with makeup remover or micellar water on a cotton pad, brush my teeth and go to bed. But not anymore! 

What does "cleansing the face properly" mean? Removing makeup and/or sunscreen thoroughly, washing the face by massaging with a good, gentle facial cleanser and lukewarm water for a full 30 seconds, and then rinsing thoroughly, both morning and night. This is especially important if you use a mineral-based sunscreen*, as I do.

My skin is clearer and my pores are much less visible since I started washing my face properly a.m. and p.m., no matter how tired I am. Honestly, the difference has been remarkable!

Using a Microfiber Facial Cleansing Sponge vs. a Wash Cloth

An equally surprising discovery was the difference it made when I switched from using a washcloth to a soft, microfiber plush-covered face-washing puff.

Like many people, I grew up using a cotton terrycloth facecloth to wash my face. A few years ago, when I was upgrading my skincare products, I switched to a bamboo terry facecloth. The terrycloth texture was supposed to provide light exfoliation, and the bamboo fiber was softer than cotton.

Instead of massaging in my facial cleanser with my wet hands for 30 seconds, as recommended by dermatologists and estheticians, I was putting the cleanser on the wet washcloth and using that. Unfortunately, I finally realized that even using the bamboo terrycloth cloth gently was irritating my skin and that what I had been mistaking as a healthy flush was actually low-level inflammation.

There are much better — and safer — ways to exfoliate the face, and over-exfoliation can cause significant problems on delicate facial skin! So, when I saw the microfiber plush-covered facial cleansing sponges on Sephora, I decided to trade in my bamboo facial washcloth for a plush microfiber face washing puff and use my hands to massage my face with cleanser and water for 30 seconds before removing the lather with the wet microfiber puff and doing a final rinse.

It took only a few days for me to start noticing a difference! My skin looked smoother, I had fewer tiny breakouts and my complexion was more even-toned. I never dreamed that cleansing my face correctly — i.e., thoroughly but gently — twice a day would result in such a noticeable improvement!

How I Use Microfiber Facial Cleansing Sponges

I wear broadband mineral sunscreen every day, rain or shine, indoors and outdoors to protect from UVA and UVA rays as well as "blue light" from my mobile phone, laptop, TV, and other electronic devices. Sometimes I also wear makeup.

Many people do a "double cleanse," a first cleanse with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve and remove sunscreen and makeup and then a second cleanse with a water-based cleanser to cleanse the skin and pores thoroughly. But I find that using a good micellar water cleanser as the first step works just as well and allows me to get off all my makeup and mineral sunscreen so I can clean my pores gently and thoroughly afterward with just a single cleanse with an enzyme-based facial cleanser and water.

Here's my facial cleansing routine, which I do after pulling back my hair with a comfortable terrycloth spa headband and putting on my favorite microfiber face washing spa wristbands (you can read my detailed product review) to keep my arms dry:

1. Use ISDIN Micellar Solution, 4 in 1 on a couple of cotton pads to remove makeup, if I am wearing any, as well as sunscreen. It is far and away the most gentle and effective micellar water cleanser I have used, including my former favorite, Bioderma Sensibio. It removes even mineral sunscreens easily and is suitable even for sensitive skin.
   
2. Wet the face and neck area as well as the hands.
3. Dispense a small amount of a gentle yet effective facial cleanser onto one palm, then rub the palms together to create a lather and massage it over the wet face (including the eyes) and neck for at least 30 seconds. Then use a silicone facial cleansing brush to work the cleanser into the pores. (Read my detailed silicone facial cleansing brush product review to learn more about this helpful and inexpensive skincare tool.)
   Note: Currently, I use either Osmosis Purify Enzyme Cleanser or Revision Skincare Enzyme Cleanser, which are expensive but worth trying if you have enlarged pores and sensitive skin.
4. Saturate the microfiber face washing puff thoroughly with water and wipe/rinse off any remaining lather, then do a final rinse by splashing your face and neck with water.

Features and Benefits of My Favorite Microfiber Face Washing Puffs

The Vtrem Reusable Makeup Remover Pads Soft Facial Cleaning Puffs (Set of 4 Colors) are:

• Soft and gentle on your skin. As I learned from my experiment with bamboo terrycloth facial cleansing cloths, it's important to be very gentle with your skin, especially your facial skin. These hypoallergenic makeup remover pads / facial cleansing sponges are covered with soft, silky microfiber plush fabric that is gentle enough for even sensitive skin.
• Gentle but effective. Even though these face washing puffs are gentle on your skin, they are also effective, allowing the cleanser to get deep into the pores for a thorough cleanse.
• Reusable and hygienic. Because they are reusable, like washcloths, they are environmentally friendly. And because they come in a set of four, you can wash them frequently and still have a fresh one ready to use, so they are also hygienic.
• Well made, durable, and affordable. These facial cleansing sponges will last through 200 washes apiece and come in a set of four, so they will last you for several years. They come in a set of four for just $11.99 at the time of this product review's publication, less than $3 apiece.

Note: The Amazon product image shows a black drawstring pouch for these face washing puffs, but mine did not come with one. However, each facial cleansing sponge in the set of four does arrive in its own clear cellophane envelope.

A Thoughtful, Affordable Gift for a Beauty and Skincare Lover

I think any woman who enjoys makeup or skincare would love to receive a set of these plush microfiber face washing puffs as a gift, either alone or with the microfiber spa wristbands and terry spa headband I mentioned previously. You could even splurge and add a VOLO Hero premium microfiber hair towel / turban (see my product review).

Vtrem 4 Colors Reusable Soft Facial Cleaning Puffs

8 Pcs Microfiber Face Washing Spa Wristbands

Set of 2 Terry Cloth Spa Headbands for Washing Face

VOLO Hero Premium Microfiber Hair Towel

* An Important Note About Wearing Sunscreen

A good face cleansing routine is especially important if you wear and reapply sunscreen every day. As any dermatologist or esthetician will tell you, wearing an effective broadband sunscreen is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine.

A broadband sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 and preferably with filters that block "blue light" should be worn every day, rain or shine, 365 days a year and reapplied every 2 hours or after swimming. Even though UVB rays (the ones that cause sunburn) don't penetrate through car or window glass, UVA rays (the ones that are skin-aging and cause fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, etc.) do pass through. And our electronic devices expose us to blue light that also causes photo-aging!

Please read my review of two of my favorite mineral sunscreen brands to learn more about this important topic: Review of EltaMD® and Colorescience® Mineral-Based Physical Sunscreens.

The Best Reusable Microfiber Facial Cleansing Sponges for Better Skin by Margaret Schindel

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