Monday, October 20, 2025

Reviewing My Turned Wood Crochet Hook by A Couple 2 Tree

My son recently gave to me a handmade, beautiful and thoughtful gift. He had purchased a handmade wood crochet hook with a metal tip. Exactly the type of crochet hook I have grown to love.  This crochet hook was made by A Couple 2 Tree and my son found them at a booth during the Connecticut Renaissance Faire 2025.

photo of text and crochet hook

Turned Wood Crochet Hooks

The crochet hook my son chose for me is a combination wood and epoxy handle with a commercial made metal tip.  The wood is light colored. The epoxy appeared only white to me initially. But I quickly discovered that it has a very subtle glimmer. A glimmer that reminds me of the Aurora Borealis or the Milky Way. All of you who know me, know that I do not gravitate  toward big bling or neon bright colors. But I love a subtle sparkle, like the sheen of a peacock's chest feathers and dragon fly wings. 

With this thicker epoxy and wooden handle, it is easier for me to use for longer periods of time. This would make a great gift for folks with grip difficulties such as arthritis.  The epoxy and wood are smooth and silky, but not slippery. I am currently using this hook for a project and find it to be very comfortable. 

In addition to wood-handled crochet hooks, A Couple 2 Tree also offers other great gift items:

  • Bottle Openers
  • Ice Cream Scoops
  • Coffee Scoops
  • Charcuterie boards
  • Decorative Items and Fidgets: Eggs and Mushrooms
  • Bowls 

The combinations of wood, metal, epoxy, and fractal burning make unique, one-of-a-kind items that are unique gifts.


Supporting Small Businesses

This small business, according to social media and website information, has been a small, part time hobby/passion for years and has just begun to turn toward full time. I celebrate that leap of faith and following a passion. A Couple 2 Tree appears to have offered the majority of their items during fairs and festivals. They do have a website and an Instagram page. If you don't see a large selection, or the item you would like, on the website I encourage you to leave a message.  When I had left a message, I received a response that same day (despite it being during the time they were at the Renaissance Faire)

One Wish - Maybe

There is only one thing that I might (or might not) like added to my next A couple 2 Tree crochet hook. Because of the handmade handle, the spot where the metal crochet hook size is usually displayed is covered. Perhaps, if the size of the hook (for example, a US hook size is "G") could somehow be stamped into the flat end of the handle, it would be useful and wouldn't mar the beautiful aesthetics of the rest of the handle.  But perhaps, it would mar the appearance of the handle.  Or make a roughness that would snag my yarn. I am not familiar with epoxy so I'm not sure if the size could be place there discreetly or not.  However, unlike very experienced crocheters I cannot determine the size of the hook by sight alone. I have to hold it up to other crochet hooks for comparison in order to remember which size this is.

Fortunately, my son reported that he spoke with the helpful folks with A Couple 2 Tree, who helped determine which sizes of yarn I most often use (worsted) and the size hook that I most use. 

For more information:

Check out the A Couple 2 Tree website for https://amzn.to/47wsiepmore information.

I am very hopeful that you will support this small business owner with his wood shop business. However, I realize that some folks prefer using Amazon.  In that case, there are many Wood Crochet Hooks to choose from.




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.”


Sunday, October 19, 2025

The Ultimate 1970s Riddles Playlist – Free, Fun, and Perfect for Parties!

 

The Ultimate 1970s Riddles Playlist – Free, Fun, and Perfect for Parties!

Take a Trip Back to the 1970s with My Riddle Playlist

If you’re planning a retro-themed party, celebrating a birthday for someone who grew up in the 1970s—or even the late 1960s—I’ve got a little something that can add some fun and laughter to the mix.

I created a special 1970s Riddles playlist on YouTube, and it’s the perfect, uncomplicated game to keep your guests entertained while maintaining a light, family-friendly, and just a touch nostalgic vibe.

Short, Fun Riddles That Anyone Can Play

The playlist is made up of 14 short-form Riddle videos (soon to be 15), each one inspired by the 1970s. What’s great about these Riddles is that they’re super quick—you won’t get bogged down with long explanations. 

And to keep it fun, the answers aren’t shown on the Riddle itself; instead, I post them in the first comment. This way, everyone can guess first, then pause or peek at the answer when they’re ready. 

It’s simple, interactive, and perfect for sparking a little friendly competition at your party.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a retro birthday bash, a casual family get-together, or even a holiday party over Christmas or New Year’s, these Riddles are a playful way to bring a little 1970s flair into the room. 

Seniors and older adults especially seem to enjoy the nostalgic references, but honestly, anyone can have fun trying to solve them.

It’s one of those games that doesn’t require any preparation, props, or complicated rules—just laughter and a willingness to play along.

How to Enjoy the Playlist

Watching is easy. 

You can go directly to the playlist on YouTube from your TV if it has the YouTube app. 

Or, if you’re like me and want to control it from your phone, you can screen it to your TV—so you can pause, rewind, or skip around as needed. 

Either way, it’s a smooth, low-effort way to add a little interactive fun to your party setup.




And because these Riddles are short, you can sprinkle them in between songs, serve snacks, or even use them as a light-hearted icebreaker. 

Each Riddle takes just seconds to watch and guess, but it’s enough to get people chatting, laughing, and reminiscing about the good old days.

Why I Made This Playlist

As the creator of these Riddles, I wanted something that would combine my love for clever wordplay with a bit of nostalgia. 

The 1970s had such a vibrant, unique culture—music, fashion, movies, and trends that still bring a smile today. 

I thought, why not create a playlist that’s more than just music —a little game that taps into that decade and lets people connect over memories, laughs, and fun challenges?

Ready to Play?

If you’re curious or want to bring some retro fun to your next party, check out the 1970s Riddles playlist on YouTube. With 14 (soon to be 15) short videos, each with answers conveniently in the comments, it’s a ready-to-go party game that works for families, friends, and guests of any age.

It’s a light, playful way to get people talking, laughing, and maybe even singing along to some memories from the era. And even if your party isn’t specifically retro-themed, the Riddles are still a fun little brain teaser for anyone who enjoys a clever twist on nostalgia.

So grab your snacks, cue up the playlist, and get ready for some 1970s Riddle fun—you might just discover that retro game nights aren’t just for kids anymore!

Hosting a Halloween Party? Here's my Halloween Riddle Book on Amazon, Where Available - Featuring original riddles! Ideal for party gifts & prizes!





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.”


Saturday, October 18, 2025

Book Review of Decoy Saves Opening Day

Decoy Saves Opening Day Book Cover

This new book, due to be released on February 3, 2026, is already, in its pre-order listing on Amazon, proving to be a very popular book in the Children’s Baseball Books category, as well as Children’s Dog Books. A darling story for children ages 4 to 8 who love both baseball and dogs.

Synopsis


A new baseball season is about to begin. To Decoy, a Dutch Kooikerhondje breed known as a duck decoy dog, the baseball stadium has everything a dog loves ~ hot dogs, the biggest back yard ever, and thousands of human friends. Decoy knows he is going to have the best day ever! He’s been chosen to throw out the first pitch on this baseball Opening Day and make his ‘dog dad’ (famous baseball star Shohei Ohtani) proud. 


Oh No! Decoy forgot and left his lucky baseball at home. How is he going to throw out the first pitch without it?  Can he run back home, get his ball and get back to the stadium in time? 


Author of Decoy Saves Opening Day


Shohei Ohtani, Baseball Player with the L.A. Dodgers

This adorable debut story is written by Shohei Ohtani, MLB LA Dodger all-star, and stars his real-life pup, Decoy. Ohtani wrote this story with Michael Blank and the book was illustrated by Fanny Liem. 


Summary


The well-known Japanese baseball star, Shohei Ohtani, along with his dog, Decoy, support animal rescue organizations. They hope to use the profits of their debut story to help dogs find their forever homes. Shohei and Decoy are working to help real-life animals in need. 


You can pre-order “Decoy Saves Opening Day” here on Amazon. 


Note: Decoy actually DID throw out the first pitch. As the first dog to ever do so, Decoy delivered the ceremonial first pitch to Ohtani on their shared Bobblehead night on 8/28/2024. This is no doubt the cutest pitch you will ever see. Decoy definitely steals the show! Watch the YouTube Video below: 





*Book Review of "Decoy Saves Opening Day" is 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.”


Friday, October 17, 2025

Halloween Pencils & Straws Reviewed

Halloween pencils and straws
Whether you are planning a Halloween party, or simply want to send a special treat in your child's school lunchbox or backpack, Halloween straws and pencils make fun surprises.

When my children were in school, I always sought out fun and unique surprises to include in their lunchboxes.  Halloween straws were an absolute must and a fun way to celebrate Halloween all month long.  I normally sent disposable straws to school so they didn't need to keep up with them, but we also had specialty washable  & reusable straws at home for after school.  I still have Halloween straws in my kitchen drawer and pull them out to use just for fun.  Our favorites were always the pumpkins or bats, but I know my family would love the little ghosts or black cats too.

In addition to straws in their lunchboxes, I loved giving them Halloween pencils to use during the month of October.  Of course, I always made sure to purchase #2 pencils in accordance with classroom requirements.  It has been many years since they were in elementary school, but I still have a few orange pencils in the school supply drawer in our home.  Now they are mementos, but in years past, they were a fun and unique surprise during school days.  

 

Halloween Pencils & Straws

Here are a few examples of fun Halloween #2 pencils for school and disposable straws, or reusable straws, for a child's lunchbox or after school.

 Halloween Themed 16 Pencils with 16 Giant Eraser Toppers in Assorted DesignsCheck Price MEAXUR 24pcs Halloween Party Favor Castle Bat Pumpkin Ghost Cat Witch Spider Pattern Reusable Straight StrawsCheck Price HANSGO Halloween Paper Straws, 180PCS Paper Drinking StrawsCheck Price




Check Out More Halloween Fun Reviews at
Halloween on Review This Reviews!

 

 Halloween Pencils & Straws Reviewed Written by:

House of Sylvestermouse





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.”


Thursday, October 16, 2025

Pretty Christmas Ornament Suite for the Holidays

Christmas Card
This pretty Christmas ornament design is my painting of three Christmas ornaments on a wispy look background using lighter shades of the same colors.

The design on the Christmas ornaments is a resemblance of a paint pour. I'll describe that below, under Tips for making paint pour ornaments.

Here it is printed on a greeting card. The greeting card can be purchased as physical cards and or as a downloadable.





I have purchased cards from Zazzle before and have been pleased with my purchases. The colors come out great and card materials are nice quality. There are different materials to choose from for the card stock when you place your order.

A collection of current products is shown below. The link will take you to my CherylsArt store on Zazzle.



Tips for making paint pour ornaments:

I began this painting, using oval shapes, to design three Christmas ornaments. I was inspired to make a similar design that me and my family had created one Christmas. I had purchased clear plastic, see through Christmas balls from a craft store. I already had a variety of acrylic paint that was labeled for all surfaces, on hand. It is the acrylic paint that is made for crafting. I usually buy the Americana brand, but have been known to purchase whatever is available at the time.

We already had a portable clothes drying rack to hang the ornaments from while they dried.

The technique we used was to pour paint over the ornaments, in various colors, and let the paint flow and drip down onto the floor. I had covered the floor with newspaper ahead of time to catch the drippings.

Then you wait and let them dry. You can use regular hooks for hanging ornaments, or you can tie ribbons through the holes for hanging. I would wait until the paint as dried if you want to use ribbons.

I liked that we used a variety of colors that weren't necessarily traditional Christmas colors; which made this activity all the more fun and creative for me and my family.

Will you be making this fun activity part of your holiday activities? If so, do let me know in a comment below.

If you like this pretty paint pour design that I painted, you can check out the items already available in my collection. More items will be added as I design them, and if you have a request for it to be on a particular product that you want to purchase, do let me know that too. I'll be sure to design it and add it to the collection.

May all of your holidays be creative and have happiness in them too.

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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