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Wednesday, June 14, 2023

June 14, An Auspicious Day on the Holiday Calendar ~ A Holiday Review

People love to know what kind of "Holidays" or "Special Events Days", are out there because there are just so many! If you want to be in the KNOW, sign up for Days of the Year, you will find out that there are holidays and days of remembrance for just about everything and anything!

Today June 14th is Flag Day and I must admit that it comes just at the right time. In a couple of weeks the two largest countries on the North American continent will be celebrating holidays where their own country's flag plays an important role. But don't let that stop you from showing your Flag pride today! Show us where you are now and where you have come from! There are flags for every country available, just remember if you are flying more than one flag, your new home's flag is on top! For Americans it's the stars and stripes and for Canadians it's that lovely maple leaf!

Now if you live in either Canada or the USA, you will know that Canada Day on July 1st and Independence Day on July 4th are 2 very important holidays and both our countries celebrate them with lots of festivities, pride and the waving of our flags.

Most important for us all is the displaying and flying of our flags, signalling our pride in our homeland!

It is a good two weeks before these great holidays and a wonderful time for us to look at our flags and make sure that they are in proper condition for the trooping of the colors.

There is nothing sadder than seeing a flag that is torn, ragged or tattered from use being flown on such an important holiday. So might I suggest that today is a good day, no, it's a great day to take down your flag temporarily and check it over for wear and tear.

American Flag 4x6 for Outdoor Use | Made in USACheck Price If your flag is in any other shape than perfect, it's time to get a new flag!

Being Patriotic means more than just flying a flag. It means that you will not fly a flag that is tattered and torn or worn out. Doing that, (for me anyways) is a sign of disrespect for the country that I love.

A beautiful pristine flag is what I will be flying so that everyone will know that I love my country and am proud to fly it's flag. A perfect flag that sets a smile on my face and gratitude in my heart.

While this particular flag is not the least expensive one, it is made in the USA and it has the highest customer satisfaction rating. That says a lot to me, but you make up your own mind. Just make sure that you have a beautiful flag to fly high!

Double Sided Canada Flag 3x5 FT Outdoor- UV Fade ResistantCheck Price

For Canadians who might be reading this review, you are NOT left out! July 1st is coming quickly and that beautiful red and white flag needs to be as spotless and fresh looking as any flag can be. So now there is no excuse for you to be flying a flag that would rather not be seen.

Be wonderful, be patriotic and be proud! We do live in two of the greatest countries in the world and we have every reason to be proud! Happy Flag Day and I know now that you will be ready for the next two big holidays as well!

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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Tuesday, June 13, 2023

If Only They Could Talk By James Herriot - A Book Review

If Only They Could Talk, was Alf Wight's first book published in 1970 under the author name of James Herriot. It was also his first book that I read, and as a young child, I was completely and utterly enthralled. My copy is now very old and looks a little time-worn. This book has been with me on trains, and holidays and moved with me to every home I have lived in and I still love it.

Surprisingly, knowing now just how popular his books and the series that followed, James Herriot was turned down by publishing houses when he first presented his book. I imagine given his subsequent success and place in many people's hearts, that the publishers who turned him down bitterly regretted their decision! I am very glad that Alf White did not take rejection to heart and persevered to get his first book published.

Alf Wight could not publish under his own name as that would have been seen as advertising, which was professionally frowned upon by the veterinary profession. He chose the pen name James Herriot from the name of the Scottish goalkeeper Jim Herriot, who Alf would have known about.

Surgery In Thirsk Where James Herriot (Author) Alf Wight (Vet) Practiced.

If Only They Could Talk is a warm hearted book recounting his early experiences as a young veterinary surgeon in Thirsk, a small rural town in North Yorkshire, UK during the 1930's. I have written about Thirsk in my article Reviewing Our Visit To James Herriot Country Thirsk North Yorkshire UK, should you wish to know more about the town and the surgery where he practiced.

His first book is full of witty observations, humourous moments and heart warming stories about the animals he treated and their owners. He depicts with honesty the difficulties, challenges, passion and wonders of a young vet starting out in the 1930's.

His writing style is very easy, engaging and descriptive, bringing the animals and people to life so you feel like you are living his experiences right along with him. I just love the stories and tales he so wonderfully brings through the page.

His growing love of his adoptive county of North Yorkshire shows in his writing as he skillfully transports us via his words to the gorgeous stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales countryside.

Whether he is helping a sheep in difficulty give birth in a cold field on an early Spring evening, performing small animal surgery, or diagnosing a beloved dog's illness, his love of the work and his passion to do his best for both animal and owner and his commitment to veterinary practice shines through. You really feel the dedication he has to his patients and the joy and sadness, frustration and amusement the work brings.

Reading it again now makes you realise how much the world has changed and how much we have lost and gained. How community was so important and how they lived with significantly less technology than we do now. It was often frustrating that vets did not have the medicines they needed yet they were inventive and persistent to do their utmost to relieve suffering and cure, working hard and valuing each other.

He clearly has a wonderful sense of humour and the book is filled with hilarious anecdotes of his experiences with the animals and their owners which will make you laugh. I love the way he depicts the many wonderful often larger than life characters both human and animal he came across in his work. Truly one of the joys and gifts of all his writing.

If Only They Could Talk, is a touching, funny and uplifting book. I loved it as a child and as a teenager, often reading deep into the night, way longer than I should have on a school night. I loved it even more as an adult, picking up more on the nuances of life as a vet and the challenges, joy and frustration it would bring. It can be read on many levels, appealing to animal lovers, depicting life as a young vet, and for anyone seeking an escape into the 1930's Yorkshire countryside along with a young vet making his way in the world.

Whatever age and stage of life I have been when I read the book it has made me laugh and cry every time. There were times I quietly smiled and times I felt it pull at my heart. The book appreciates the special bonds we can develop with animals and recognises those deep enduring feelings. It brings to life the struggles of farming life, making a living in harsh conditions and of being a pet owner with the deep bonds and emotions that prevail.

It depicts clearly and without pretension or hubris what it was like for a country vet in the 1930s in North Yorkshire including the joys and sorrows, the successes and failures and slowly becoming a part of the landscape he worked within.

Overall If Only They Could Talk available at Amazon, is a beautiful book, a timeless classic I have enjoyed reading and rereading for decades and I would highly recommend it. As his first book as a published author, I think he writes very well, easy enough for older children to read, yet there are I think deeper levels to recognise as an adult. If you have enjoyed the TV series then do read the book which has the scope and time to go into more detail.

Reviewing Our Visit To James Herriot Country Thirsk North Yorkshire UK

More Book Reviews By Contributors On Review This Reviews

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Monday, June 12, 2023

Grampa's Weeder Review

Weeds! Weeds! Go away! The bane of flower beds, vegetable gardens, container gardens, pathways and walkways are the weeds that multiple overnight. One day a sprout of a weed turns into a monster with tough and tangly roots with no signs of abating. Grampa's Weeder to the rescue for easy and efficient weed removal.

After a very prolific spring weeding season it was apparent that the family had a distinct lack of interest in the labor involved with weed removal. It wasn't the labor or lack of interest but the labor as in who wants to constantly do toe to hand to foot battle with weeds and weeding utensils.

Grampa's Weeder is a tool that promises to be "Easy & Simple Weeding Tool That Saves Your Back & Knees With Grampa's 45" Stand Up Bamboo Long Handle. Remove Weeds Without Bending, Pulling, Or Kneeling." True? I was definitely swayed by the 4.5 / 5 stars of over 39,000 ratings prior to purchase.

Yes! True! This old school tool makes weeding so quick and easy. By simply stepping on the foot lever the claws dig into the soil and find the roots.

How Does the Weeder Work?

Very simple. Position the claw in the middle of the weed so the claw will be grabbing the weed and the roots. If the weed is very large with strong roots (ie a very mature dandelion), you may want to use two attempts. This tool works best on size medium and up weeds, but I did try the tool on smaller weeds too and was successful.

clump of dirt & weed pulled out by grampas weeder

Press into ground by stepping on the foot lever.

Then lean the tool forward or to the side to loosen the roots.

Simple! It really is.

Pros

Easy to Use
Four Claw Design to seek roots
Old school weeder design with the added foot lever
Remove weeds by standing
Foot lever very easy to use
The roots stay in the claw until manually released which ensures proper disposal
Solid construction

Cons

I didn't find any, only a note. The overall weight of the tool is not light; I'd consider it midweight in that if you desire to flip the tool upside down to remove the weed/weed roots from the claw which is totally optional.

I highly recommend this tool. While price is subjective, at this price point, I would expect the tool to deliver as promised or the tool would be returned. Happy to report Grampa's Weeder is a keeper.

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Sunday, June 11, 2023

Check Out Pantone's Color of the Year 2023 - Magenta

Magenta Pantone's Color of the Year 2023

Hey there, fellow color enthusiasts! Today let's dive into Pantone's captivating color of the year —Magenta. What a great color! Magenta is basically the colors red and purple mixed together.

Have you ever encountered a color with a certain spark, an irresistible allure? Magenta is one of those colors.

The History of Magenta

Magenta has a fascinating history that traces back to the ancient Persians, who used a fuchsia dye from the mallow plant to dye their clothes. Isn't it incredible how colors carry stories from the past? It's like a piece of cultural heritage infused into our modern lives.

The Qualities of Magenta

For me, magenta embodies a captivating mix of qualities.

It's like the love child of red and purple, blending the fiery passion of red with the spiritual depth of purple. Imagine Love being a touch of artistic flair and warmth with a hint of enchantment. That's magenta for you.

Magenta is like a burst of creative energy but with warmth and calmness mixed in. It is a soothing color, especially in home decor. Below there's a link to various magenta-colored items for the home; be sure to check it out.

Magenta Plays Nice With Other Colors

Now, let's talk about the magic when magenta meets other colors. I've discovered some delightful combinations that have stolen my heart. Picture magenta and teal together.

The coolness of teal complements the warmth of magenta, creating a visually striking partnership.

When magenta joins forces with lime green, it's like a burst of vibrant energy. The freshness of lime green adds an invigorating touch to magenta's intensity. It's like sipping a zesty, colorful cocktail for the eyes.

But if you're into a more classic and sophisticated vibe, magenta can hold its own with black and white. It becomes the focal point, the center of attention. The contrast between magenta's vibrancy and the timeless elegance of black and white creates a captivating visual dynamic.

Check out How Nicely Magenta Goes With Teal!

To wrap it up, magenta holds a special place in my heart. It's a color that invites me to embrace my creativity, express myself boldly, especially in home decor, and relax in its calming nature.

Go ahead and explore the magic of magenta for yourself. Let it infuse your life with its vivacity and charm. Paint, wear, and decorate with it—whatever speaks to your soul. And remember, the world of colors is vast and beautiful, waiting to be explored one hue at a time.

Magenta Home Decor Product Ideas

Magenta actually comes in many shades; you can check out the various Magenta items for the home here - bedding, lamps, rugs, and more.

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Saturday, June 10, 2023

Crocs Charms Reviewed

Crocs Charms are actually called Jibbitz Charms for shoes.

My youngest grandson just celebrated his 9th birthday. One of the gifts he requested was a selection of Crocs Charms for his Crocs shoes.

I was introduced to these interesting little charms at grandson Tyler's birthday party, having never heard of them before. At my grandmother age, I have to be 'clued in' on the latest 'craze' by my grandchildren, as I seldom follow what's new in the world of the younger set. :)

Children and grandchildren keep parents and grandparents “in the know” when new things become popular.

Jibbitz Charms or Crocs Charms for Shoes

Jibbitz charms are cute and fun little images in the form of pop culture characters. There are also letters and sayings. Each charm is mounted on a post and pop into the holes of Crocs Classics. Each Croc (shoe) has 13 holes, so you can place up to 26 of these charms at a time. Or just use your favorites one day, and then change them out for another day.

These Crocs charms are not just for kids. Adults, and even celebrities, collect them and wear them on their Crocs. Kids like the cartoon and animated movie characters, moms like to add jewels and dads often wear charms of their favorite sports.

How Long Have Crocs Charms Been Around?

In 2005, a stay-at-home mom got the idea to decorate her kids' Crocs with faux flowers and charms. She used clay and rhinestones to make charms that would fit snugly into the holes of her family's multiple pairs of Crocs. Her husband saw the potential, since more than 80 percent of the 26 million pairs of Crocs in the world are speckled by holes. A great many of these popular shoes are worn by accessory-loving youth.

The couple began a web site to sell their homemade Crocs charms under the name of Jibbitz. They began to create these charms in an assembly-line production in the basement, with help from their parents.

In a very short time, these charms became so popular that they had to eventually branch out into a regular office and warehouse. Within months, their company, Jibbitz, was purchased by Crocs when the couple agreed to take $10 million for the company, which will operate as a subsidiary. An American 'dream come true'.

Summary

Having just learned about 'Crocs Charms' I found them so interesting I had to research what they were all about. This review is the result.

Crocs Charms come in a variety of package sizes, from sets of 5 or 25 up to 100 pieces in a package. The charm themes are practically endless, from cartoon characters to anime superheros to flowers, sports, animals and Disney. Just about anything you can think of can be found in a Crocs Charm.

Click here to choose from a selection of Crocs Charms Available on Amazon

Tyler choosing which charms to add
to his Crocs

Tyler putting his Charms on
his Crocs shoes

I certainly could see how excited my grandson was to receive a new pair of Crocs shoes and a package of 30 charms to decorate them with.

Happy Birthday, Tyler!

Quick Links:

A Selection of Crocs Charms on Amazon
Crocs Shoes for Kids on Amazon

*Crocs Charms Review by Wednesday Elf

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Friday, June 9, 2023

GIFT IDEAS FOR DAD

This card is perfect for the dad who is a home handyman!

Father's Day is celebrated every year on the third Sunday in June. Remember to do something for your father that shows you know and appreciate him because that is what Dad really wants for his day and/or even his birthday. If you want to add a small physical gift, here are some wonderful and affordable gift ideas for Dad.

On this page we'll review a few great gift ideas for dad including a picture frame, a couple of coffee mugs, a t-shirt, an apron, a keepsake journal and a Hallmark movie. I am sure that you will find something here that is within your budget and that is perfect for your Dad.

Click here to see this Hallmark card for dad on Amazon.

A PICTURE FRAME

Malden Daddy and Me Expressions Picture Frame, an affordable gift idea for dad.

Featuring a contemporary, clean and modern design, this frame suits many household styles. It holds one 4 inch by 6 inch vertically oriented picture of daddy and me. In fact, there are a variety of designs by Malden that read differently. From this one to one that reads, The Boys, Dad, Godfather, Daddy's Girl and more.

Find Malden's Daddy picture frames here on Amazon.

A COFFEE MUG

Coolest Dad in the Galaxy space-themed, camping-style ceramic coffee mug by Our Name is Mud. Perfect gift idea for dad on Father's Day or on any occasion!

There's a modern theme on this blue space-themed, camping-style, stoneware mug from Our Name is Mud. The front side reads "Coolest Dad in the Galaxy" and the other, "You're Out of This World." It holds 16 ounces of your dad's favorite steamy hot beverage and is microwave and dishwasher safe.

Find this Coolest Dad mug here on Amazon.

AN ART POTTERY MUG

He'll love this art pottery coffee mug, personalized with your choice of dad word.

If you think that the dad in your life is not into the space-themed mug shown above, you might consider something like this personalized, handmade art pottery coffee mug from Laura Lynn Pottery. It is a handsome piece that holds up to two cups of dad's favorite hot drink. It comes with your choice of dad-themed words including dad, daddy, papa or grandpa and you can request others terms of endearment by contacting the artist. Done in an attractive color combination of buff clay and satin black glaze.

Find this dad-themed art pottery coffee mug here on Etsy.

A T-SHIRT

Life is Good Dad You're One of My Favorite Parents T-Shirt

A t-shirt might not seem like a totally original gift idea. However, it surely is a practical one and Life is Good has and has had some fun designs like the one shown above, which reads, "Dad, You're One of My Favorite Parents." Guaranteed to make people smile and perfect for dad all year long.

Click here to buy your Life is Good Dad-themed t-shirt from Amazon.

CUSTOMIZED APRON

I love this personalized apron. Etsy creator By Barva takes a photograph of the father or other individual in your life and transfers a likeness of the image and the name of the individual onto an apron. Perfect for any dad who likes to cook and/or grill. Of course, aprons are not the only product they produce. You can also have a drinking glass customized in the same fashion or even a t-shirt.

Check out By Barva's apron and their other dad-themed items here on Etsy.

A GUIDED KEEPSAKE JOURNAL

Dad Tell Me Your Story is a thoughtful gift idea. It is a glossy, hardcover book, journal-style that helps guide your father to put his memories and thoughts on paper. When finished, it becomes a treasured memento of dad's life. Features 100 numbered pages and a family tree. Subjects cover a wide variety from childhood to adulthood. It even includes blank pages for photos or illustrations or small paper mementos. It is available in hardcover or paperback though I would think if dad is going to invest time filling out the pages, you might prefer to preserve them in hardcover.

Find this keepsake journal here on Amazon.

A FAMILY FRIENDLY HALLMARK MOVIE

Hallmark's Safe Harbour (2009) Movie, suitable as a Father's Day gift for families to watch together.

Hallmark's Safe Harbor movie (2009) is based on the true story of a married couple who are set to retire and spend their retirement on their sailboat. However, before they manage to leave, a friend asks them to look after two teenagers who have been sentenced to juvenile hall. The hall is at capacity and unable to take them and when it is suggested that the teen boys be put to work getting the boat ready for their trip, the couple agrees. Soon they find themselves with four boys.

The situation brings a set of challenges from attitude to fire but, in the end, there are positive changes in all four boys who decide they do not want to break up their newly created 'family.' The couple questions their own situation, their sailing trip, their choice not to have children and the future.

Starring Treat Williams, Nancy Travis, Reiley McClendon, Myra Turley and Cameron Monaghan, Safe Harbor is a good viewing opportunity for dad to share with the family.

Click here to order your copy of Safe Harbor from eBay.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

What will you be giving your dad for Father’s Day this year?

Brenda
Treasures By Brenda

MORE GIFT IDEAS:

Mugs For Old Guys and Vintage Dudes
From a series, 31 Days of Coffee Mugs, comes a fabulous "old" guy mug.

The Best Lego Gift Ideas
If you're looking for a great Lego gift idea that is not a Lego set, you will find some of the best choices here on this page.

The Best Sizzlin' Hot Barbecue Aprons
Summertime and the living is easy. Great weather, good music and your trusty friend, the barbecue, will help you prepare some good food. Before you throw your meat on the grill though you might want to throw on a fun, spirited and practical...

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Thursday, June 8, 2023

Book Review - Toes on the Dash

AI Creation

Sometimes life just calls for a "Cozy Mystery". When I need a book to just relax and chill out I find one of these light novels fits the bill. I was recently introduced to a cozy mystery writer that I really like. Karen Whalen writes delightful cozy mysteries that I really enjoy. The first one I read introduced me to a delightful character named Delaney.

Character Summary

Delaney Morran is a young woman (28) who, after a short career as a social worker is trying to decide what to do with the rest of her life. Meanwhile she is helping out part time in her friend's coffee shop.

When Delaney's estranged father dies in an accident, she is surprised to find that he has left her his tow truck and his towing business. Now Delaney is a real girly girl who loves wearing a different pair of shoes with each outfit and is quite fond of spikey high heels. This image doesn't quite seem to fit with a tow truck driver and Delaney has no idea what she is getting into, but she is up for the challenge. Her somewhat nagging mother, however, thinks she should sell the tow truck. Delaney has a lot to learn but she is a strong woman and feels she can make it as a tow truck driver and owner.

The book is full of twist and turns as Delaney finds her way in the business and gets the help from a fellow tow truck driver to learn how to operate her vehicle. The book, which is set in Colorado, is full of laughter and a bit of romance as Delaney sizes up the young tow truck driver and the cute cop. It also ends up with a murder mystery when a dead body is found in the trunk of her first tow.

Toes on the Dash (The Tow Truck Murder Mysteries Book 1)

I am looking forward to reading more books by this author. You can find out more about her books on her website www.karencwhalen.com .

This book was recommended to me by author Teri M Brown. You can read a review I posted on one of Teri's book at An Enemy Like Me .

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Wednesday, June 7, 2023

These Inexpensive Face Washing Wristbands Keep Your Arms Dry

Spa wristbands, AKA face washing wristbands or towel wristbands, solve the annoying problem of water running down your arms while washing or rinsing your face (and dripping onto your bathroom sink or counter). I only recently learned that these handy spa wristbands existed while watching a popular online skincare store owner using them during a “get ready with me” video of her current AM and PM skincare routines. Even though she didn’t talk about them (and doesn’t sell them), the minute I saw them, it was like a lightbulb moment for me!

Here's my product review of the soft, absorbent microfiber face washing wristbands I bought and love.

Ultra Absorbent Face Washing Spa Wristbands Keep Arms & Sleeves Dry!

I chose the "Lovely Colors" color assortment (white, light blue, lavender and pale pink), but there are many others to choose from.

While it's true that having water running down your forearms while washing your face or rinsing off a facial masque or other skincare treatment certainly isn't the end of the world, it can be quite annoying. That's especially true if you wear a long-sleeved bathrobe or nightgown while cleansing your face.

I used to try standing farther away from my sink and bending over it at a steeper angle to try to avoid the drips, but the water simply ran down my forearms more slowly and dripped off my elbows onto the bathroom floor instead of into the sink. Not exactly an improvement!

Since discovering these towel wristbands, both my arms and my sleeves stay comfortably dry while I'm washing my face.

Woman splashing water on her face while wearing face washing wristbands

I can splash water on my face without getting the sleeves of my peignoir wet!

What I Love About These Microfiber Face Washing Spa Wristbands

These deliciously soft microfiber spa wristbands come in sets of 4 pairs and are:

Extremely Absorbent

Microfiber is deservedly popular as a towel material because of its high absorbency. The more plush the material, the more surface area there is to absorb water.

At 3.15"/8 cm wide by 2.4"/6 cm tall, there's enough of the plush microfiber toweling to absorb dripping water before it can get past your wrists.

Delightfully Soft and Silky Microfiber Fleece

Snuggly soft microfiber fleece material feels great against your skin.

Very Stretchy

These wristbands have excellent elasticity and stretch easily to fit most wrists. They go on and off easily and stay put while wearing, providing a snug yet extremely comfortable dam to prevent water from dripping down your forearms.

Nice Selection of Solid Colors and Appliqué Designs

You'll find a choice of many pretty color assortments to suit any taste.

Easy Care

Although I usually hand wash my microfiber spa wristbands, wring them out and allow them to air dry, I have also washed mine in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. I haven't found that they need washing very often.

Surprisingly Affordable

At the time of this review's update on May 11, 2026, the price for four pairs of spa wristbands ranged from $6.49 to $7.59, depending on the color selection.

That made them between $1.62 and $1.90 per pair, with free Prime shipping for Amazon Prime members!

Woman washing face while wearing microfiber towel spa wristbands

I have extras of these plush microfiber spa wristbands and my stretch terrycloth spa headbands so I never run out while they are being laundered. I also keep a set in my suitcase for travel.

They Can Do Double Duty as Sweat Wristbands for Sports (or Hot Weather)

The plush, absorbent microfiber material can wick away sweat as well as water effectively, and they feel much nicer against the skin than typical terrycloth sweatbands.

These Spa Wristbands Make Great, Affordable Gifts for Her

They would make a great gift for any woman, teen or young girl on your list.

4 Pairs Microfiber Spa Wrist Bands for Washing FaceCheck Price

For an even nicer gift idea, consider pairing these face washing wristbands with my favorite terrycloth padded spa headbands.

If you want to splurge, add my favorite VOLO Hero premium microfiber hair towel or some luxury skincare for a gift she's sure to love that will make her feel pretty and pampered!