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Bandstand across from Muny |
The production of Beauty and the Beast was wonderful, and the girls were on the edge of their seats the entire time.
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Bandstand across from Muny |
This past month has been one of many ups and downs in my life! Three weeks ago, I hit the wall when my iPad died!
Now that my mother has joined our family, I find that I need to keep track of so many things and I did this quite easily on my iPad. So when it died, I was in a state of panic.
I don't have the funds to buy a new replacement! The one I had was a refurbished model and it worked great for many years. I was not going to shell out lots of money for a new one!
My other half has been using an Amazon Fire tablet for a couple of years now and he was always touting its ease of use and how much time he was able to spend on his tablet without recharging it.
So the next thing I knew is that my better half had gone ahead and bought me a new Fire Tablet 10!
At first I was not convinced that I would like it as much as he loves his, but after this first three weeks I can honestly say that I'm not looking back. The price point for this Fire Tablet 10 is just so reasonable, it really is affordable for all people. If you get it today or tomorrow, with Prime Days you will save yourself a nice little bundle.
It was easy to set up and all my reading apps, games, Facebook and more are all installed and working as well as ever!
My calendar with all my mother's appointments and medication lists and all things regarding her health and care are all in a nice little package on my new tablet! Nothing is missing and nothing gets missed either.
The "Home" screen looks much like the iPad and getting used to some new and different ways to do things has just taken me a couple of days to figure out. I must add that I'm not the brightest when it comes to technology.
One other thing that the other half did for me was to make sure that I had a screen protector and a good strong case for my new Fire Tablet! Even though the cost of this tablet isn't near what a new iPad costs, doesn't mean that we don't want to protect this new investment. Plus I can be a real "klutz" sometimes! Better to be safe than to be sorry (in my world those are words I live by).
The camera works well too! As you can see from this picture of my other half, I was able to edit the picture right on my tablet and share it with you! Handsome guy, right?
So far I am thrilled with the new replacement for my very sick (almost dead) iPad. The only real difference between the two is a matter of weight. The Fire Tablet is a little bit heavier than the iPad. But with the right case and ability to hold it while walking around, this is a minor point.
I would highly recommend this Fire Tablet to anyone who finds themselves in my sorry position of having to say good bye to an old friend (my iPad) and hello to a new way of doing things (my brand new Fire Tablet)..
Wishing everyone a wonderful summer ahead! May your days be full of great new technology!
I have been helping a person new to gardening recently. Its been a long time since I was a new gardener as I started as a child when I was around 5 years old. This person is an adult and has no prior knowledge so I had to start from the beginning to help them with a new garden.
So I thought it would be useful for any brand new gardeners out there to have a basic list of things to bear in mind when you start gardening.
To my mind a garden is anything from a window box to a small back garden to large acres of land. Each have their own challenges and rewards. In particular never think you cannot be a gardener if you only have a small patch or containers.
Research where it originally grew, what conditions it likes, what care it needs including its watering and soil requirements, pruning, ideal situation and winter care.
Select plants that are well-suited to your growing conditions, such as your climate and soil type. Right plant, right place will save you time, money and heartache.
This is better especially in the early days of gardening than trying to cope with plants that will need a lot of care and input from you because your conditions do not suit it.
If you do this with each plant it is not as daunting and you will quickly learn about a lot of plants. Once you are experienced in your gardening you will be more confident to try more difficult plants.
Every gardener has their tried and trusted favourite tools and that will vary between gardeners and gardens. The ones below are what I use most in my garden so I would suggest a basic kit to include:-
You can always add more as you go and you may need specific tools depending on your garden and the trees, shrubs and plants in it, but get the basics first.
Get to know your soil type whether it is clay or sandy, loam or stony. To check if it is acidic, neutral or alkaline you can purchase soil testing kits such as the one below, that will give you this information.
If you garden in containers you will be able to choose the soil type depending on which compost you buy. Ericaceous compost is for acid liking plants, for others a good quality general purpose compost will be fine.
Get to know which parts of your garden faces south, north, east or west.
Check which areas of your garden are sunny or shady. It is useful to map out areas that are in full sun, total shade and partial shade.
All this influences the type of plants that will be happy in your garden and enables you to get to know your plot.
Make sure you have materials for taking cuttings and propagating and growing seeds. This will save you money in the longer term being able to grow your own seeds and take cuttings to make more plants.
So buy a few seed trays, small pots and larger pots, good quality compost suited to young plants, perlite and grit, vermiculite and seed or young plant compost.
Buy labels as well as you think you will remember which pot has which seeds in it but in my personal experience you won't!!
Perhaps not immediately necessary but if you can invest in a cold frame to harden off young plants and a basic greenhouse to keep tender cuttings and young plants, you will find it valuable.
It does not need to be a big elaborate greenhouse, if you are starting out a very basic temporary greenhouse will be sufficient for a while.
A wildlife friendly garden will benefit you and your plants more than may be immediately apparent. As time goes on your garden will find a balance of pests and predators and the plants will thrive better. You will have the added joy of watching bees, moths and butterflies, birds and maybe even hedgehogs and frogs in your garden.
To achieve this it is best not to use pesticides or slug pellets which are harmful to wildlife.
Get to know the pests and diseases your plants can suffer from so you can identify any issues.
Design your garden and grow plants so that it attracts beneficial predators that will eat the pests and do the work for you.
Do not be too tidy, wildlife need messier, wilder areas to live and material to build nests but you can easily incorporate areas like this into a lovely garden.
Grow shrubs birds like to nest in and/or fix up bird boxes, have a pile of logs in an out of the way area that insects and frogs can live in.
Build or buy an insect house. Great for insects and fun for any children to build and watch. Why Insect Hotels Are Good for Wildlife And Gardeners
If we give garden friendly predators a place to live and do not interfere too much soon your garden will have a balance. Yes you will still get pests but the beneficial predators will keep them in check so they will not do much damage.
One of the best books about wildlife friendly gardening I have read is The Wildlife Gardener By Kate Bradbury. It is a beautiful book I very much enjoyed reading and learning from.
Keep all broken crockery or broken pots to use as crocks in the bottom of pots so that soil does not block the drainage hole and to increase drainage.
Other gardeners are a wonderful source of information and inspiration. If they are local to you what grows well in their gardens may well grow well in yours. If you get chatting to them they may even share cuttings or dig up and share plants with you ! :)
Most gardeners are very happy to talk about plants ! If there are any open garden events near you do take the opportunity to go around other gardens, You will learn so much and can continue to improve your skills and knowledge as long as you want to garden!
Few gardens are perfect.
Cultivate patience and enjoy the seasons, gardening takes time and effort, and not everything will be perfect right away. In fact in my experience a garden is always an ever changing dynamic, work in progress.
Enjoy the process and learn from your successes, failures, surprises and mistakes. I am still learning and making mistakes and having successes after decades of gardening! The main thing is to enjoy yourself and have fun.
No muss no fuss tech alert! This little gem falls under the why did I wait so long to purchase. I have definitely heard the positive reviews of air tags for luggage tracking and pretty much any item!
The positive reviews are correct. Affordable, easy to install and so very easy to use! How many tech items live up to that promise! The once caveat is the Air Tag is an Apple product so the technology does require the apple products.
True! As in the setup takes a few minutes at most. Promises as delivered. The bluetooth and iPhone integrates the air tag seamlessly.
The air tags are also available in a pack of 4 at a reduced price vs purchasing one, two or three separately.
The price of some batteries has skyrocketed! Very economical the air tag is powered by the easily found CR2032 coin cell battery.
The air tag comes as is so air tag accessories may be desired to make the most of the air tag and easily find the air tag.
Splash, water and dust resistant as purchased plus a multitude of affordable accessories exist to help you make the best use of the air tag. Keys, wallet holder, luggage holders, collar holders, bike vaults are just a few! Enjoy the possibilities and I suspect you will quickly find an air tag use specifically for your household and wondered why you waited so long! I know I certainly did!
Adding an area rug to your home is a wonderful way to enhance the aesthetic appeal of any room. Not only does it provide a cozy and stylish touch, but it also adds a layer of comfort underfoot.
However, consider using an underpad to maximize the benefits of your area rug. An underpad, also known as a rug pad or rug underlay, is a thin cushioning layer placed underneath the area rug. Its advantages include increased comfort, improved safety, and enhanced rug durability. If you're wondering how to properly choose an underpad for your area rug, here are some key points to consider.
Product Page Featuring Various Area Rug Underpads Here
When selecting an underpad, it's crucial to consider its size in relation to your area rug. The underpad should be slightly smaller than your rug, allowing the edges of the rug to lay flat on the floor while the underpad remains hidden beneath.
The underpad should be cut approximately 1-2 inches shorter on all sides than your rug. This ensures the underpad doesn't protrude or become visible, creating a neat and polished appearance.
Also, by allowing the edges to lay flat on the floor, you'll avoid added elevation of the rug edges, which can be a tripping hazard. With the underpadding a couple of inches away from the edge and the edges lying flat, you'll have a safer setup.
2. Which is the Better Material and Thickness to Go With?
Underpads are available in various materials, such as rubber, felt, and synthetic blends. Each material offers distinct benefits, so choosing the one that suits your needs is essential.
Rubber underpads provide excellent grip, preventing your rug from slipping and sliding on the floor. On the other hand, felt underpads offer additional cushioning and can help protect delicate floors from scratches. Synthetic blends often combine the advantages of both rubber and felt.
Thickness is another crucial aspect to consider. Underpads come in different thickness levels, typically ranging from 1/16 inch to 1/2 inch. Thicker underpads offer more cushioning, making your area rug feel softer and more comfortable underfoot. They also provide extra insulation and noise reduction. Thinner underpads, while less cushioned, are suitable for rugs in high-traffic areas where a lower profile is desired.
3. Consider the Benefit of Added Protection for Your Floors
Besides offering comfort and stability, underpads also play a vital role in protecting your floors. Hardwood, laminate, or tile floors can be susceptible to scratches and damage caused by the constant movement of an area rug. A quality underpad acts as a barrier, preventing your rug from rubbing against the floor and minimizing the risk of unsightly marks or scuffs. Moreover, underpads can help extend the lifespan of your flooring, making them a wise investment in the long run.
4. Safety Considerations with a Slip-Resistant Underlay
Safety is a crucial consideration when choosing an underpad. A high-quality underpad should have a slip-resistant surface on one side, which helps keep your area rug securely in place and minimizes the risk of slips or falls. This is especially important if you have children, elderly individuals, or pets in your home. Additionally, underpads with good grip properties ensure your rug stays in position even in high-traffic areas, preventing potential accidents.
5. Consider an Area Rug Underpad to Help with Floor Noise Reduction
An underpad can also contribute to noise reduction in your home. If you have hardwood or tile floors, footsteps, and furniture movement can often create echoes and amplify sound.
The cushioning properties of an underpad help absorb impact and reduce noise transmission, making your space more peaceful and quiet.
Whether hosting a gathering or enjoying a relaxing evening at home, an underpad can create a more serene environment by minimizing the sound produced when walking or shifting furniture on your area rug. Say goodbye to unwanted noise and hello to a calmer atmosphere with the help of a quality underpad.
In conclusion, while an area rug can undoubtedly enhance the beauty of your space, using an underpad is highly recommended to fully enjoy its benefits. When selecting an underpad, remember to choose a size slightly smaller than your rug to maintain a clean and polished look. Consider the material and thickness that best suits your needs, whether it's the grip of rubber, the cushioning of felt, or the versatility of synthetic blends. Don't forget about floor protection and safety—opt for an underpad that provides a slip-resistant surface and helps safeguard your floors. By choosing the right underpad for your area rug, you'll ensure maximum comfort, increased durability, and a safer living environment for you and your loved ones.
Product Page Featuring Various Area Rug Underpads Here
Just before his recent birthday, I asked my 9-year-old grandson, Tyler, to write me a list of gifts he was hoping for. On the list was a pair of Crocs Shoes and a set of Crocs Charms to go with them. (These items were given to him by his parents). Also on the list was something called an 'Infinity Cube'.
Admittedly, grandparents seldom keep up with the latest trends in toys, music and video games popular with the 'younger set', so we depend upon the grandchildren to 'explain'. Tyler picked the easiest way to tell me about what an infinity cube was by showing me an example on the internet. Ah, the ease of modern technology!
Now I am out shopping and searching the toy section for an Infinity Cube. Unable to find it, I ask for help. The sales clerk takes me to a section on the shelf where there is a group of small toys called Fidget Toys. I did not know that is what they were called! And, Wow, I had no idea the range of toys that are now available as 'Fidget Toys'.
Fidget toys are tiny toys that fit in a pocket or are easily transported in a backpack. They are intended to keep hands busy, rather like a toy version of a stress ball. Fidget toys often feature little buttons or switches that move back and forth, or ones, like the Fidget Spinner, has propellers that spin.
Besides just being a fun thing for youngsters to 'fiddle' with, they are also called 'sensory toys' and are sometimes marketed as stress relievers or to help kids burn up pent-up energy. There have even been claims that they are stress tools for kids with ADHD (although there are no real scientific or medical facts behind this claim). Mostly, they are just for fun, as Tyler will tell you.
Infinity Cube
Fidget Spinner in Action!
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| Tyler at his family birthday party |
The Infinity Cubes and the Fidget Spinners are fun, and inexpensive, puzzle-type toys for kids. In addition, Fidget Toys come in many shapes, sizes and colors, from balls to cubes to those that pop or squish. It seems that the world of Fidget Toys is virtually endless.
Click Here to Find Your Favorite Fidget Toys on Amazon
*Fidget Toys Review written by Wednesday Elf (grandmother to Birthday Boy, Tyler). :)
We recently set out on a cross-country drive to visit a family member. Since our destination was over 1000 miles away, we opted to drive only one vehicle to carry 5 adults and our dog, Merlin.
You may wonder why we took our pup with us. He is approximately 15 years old and has arthritis. He can no longer get up without assistance. Leaving him in a kennel is not an option. So, he made the trip with us.
Merlin is a Labrador Retriever and requires as much room, or more, in the car as any adult. We put one seat down with his bed on it so he would be comfortable on the long drive. He was fabulous on the trip! However, with 5 adults and a full-size doggie, we had no place for luggage. Unfortunately, the people wanted to be able to change their clothes a few times on the trip, even though Merlin thinks that is silly.
A month before the trip, my husband spent a lot of time researching cargo carriers that would fit on top of our SUV. He wanted one that would mount securely and would not fly off the top of the car. He also wanted one that would minimize the drag on the car. Plus, he wanted a reputable brand that would lock closed. Last, but by no means least, he wanted one large enough to carry our luggage and supplies.
Those are not unreasonable expectations for a cargo carrier on the top of the vehicle, but those combined concerns did limit options.
Before he even started looking at carriers, he looked up the manufacturer's specification for the total weight that our SUV could carry on it's roof. We did not purchase the largest cargo carrier available. The combined weight of the roof rail crossbars, the expected weight of the luggage, and the weight of the carrier itself, had to be considered before the cargo carrier size was selected.
Now that we are home and our packed cargo carrier traveled over 2000 miles on the roof of our SUV, I can highly recommend the Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier - Large. Not only does it have a streamline attractive appearance, it has a lightweight construction that is extremely durable. It didn't shake, rattle, bounce, fly open, or fly off of our SUV. Plus, our luggage was safely locked inside so we didn't have to worry about opportunistic thieves when we stopped along the way or overnight.
First, we checked the Vehicle Manufacturer's Data for the maximum weight limit allowed for our vehicle roof rack when the vehicle is in Motion (not the weight allowed when the vehicle is parked).
We ensured the Combined Weight of the following did not exceed the
vehicle manufacturer's maximum roof mounted weight specifications:
I am sure there are more things to consider, but these are the things we
found most important to us before we purchased, mounted and loaded our
cargo carrier.
*Thule specifies crossbars that are safe to use with their cargo carriers on their website. Our selected GMC crossbars were not listed, so we emailed our cargo carrier's manufacturer to ensure the roof rail crossbars we selected were safe to use with our vehicle and our cargo carrier before we bought them.
We mounted our carrier in accordance with our vehicle manufacturer and the
cargo carrier manufacturer's instructions. Both have specific
limitations and guidance on how and where
to mount the rooftop carrier.
Even after we considered all of these things in advance, we still weighed each item as we were packing the carrier to make sure we were within the specified weight limits of the roof rails, the carrier and the luggage combined.
On our trip, we saw several "interesting" ways that people carried their luggage or supplies on their roof. Looking at those terrifying and potentially dangerous "techniques", made me grateful that my husband considered safety first before putting anything on the roof of our car.
Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier, Titan, Large, L (16 cu ft)Check Price VEVOR Step Ladder 2-Step 330lbs Capacity, Ergonomic Folding Steel Step Stool with Wide Anti-Slip PedalCheck Price
Finally, I share this handsome and rare Roots Canada red pebbled leather gym or weekend bag. Also produced for the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics in 2002, it is a very handsome bag with details that include punch-needle embroidery, bottom metal studs, double-strap leather handles, double zipper closure and waterproof interior. It measures 19 inches long by 6 1/2 inches wide by 11 inches tall with handles that drop 10 inches. It can be found in Curations by Jonathan's shop on eBay by clicking right here.
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Renaissance Woman
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Decorating for Events
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