Thursday, April 30, 2026

Overview of Custom Flash Cards on Zazzle

This is the third of a seven part series of my various stores on Zazzle. I'm going through them alphabetically.

When I went into private practice as a literacy tutor for adults, I looked around for various teaching tools that weren't geared towards kids. There was very little to choose from. I used to design worksheets for students, including word search puzzles and more, to help my students have something they could do to help reinforce their newly learned skills.

alphabet
I had made a few basic flash card for learning basic words, for those that were more at the beginning level. After I left that, and started creating art and the like on Zazzle, I got the idea to design flash cards for reading, that were geared towards adult learners.

I included a photo or artwork on one side and customizable text on the reverse side.

Here are the categories in my Custom Flash Cards store on Zazzle.

Adjectives Reading Flashcards:

Adjectives are words that are used to describe a noun, a thing, such as a fuzzy peach.




Adverbs Reading Flashcards:

Adverbs are words that are used to describe a verb, a type of action, such as how quickly the tiger turned towards the noise.




Alphabet Cards:

The Alphabet Cards are not flashcards, but are tutorial cards for the alphabet. It shows directional arrows on the letters, to help students to master the writing of each letter. The majority of students that I worked with already new the alphabet, but those who are true beginners can appreciate a tutorial that is geared for adult learners.




Animal Reading Flashcards:

The Animal Reading Flashcards category features a variety of animals, from wildlife to domestic animals.

DIY Flashcards:

The DIY Flashcards category features basic instructions on one side of the flashcard, and a placeholder for the purchaser to upload their photo on the reverse side.

Floral Reading Flashcards:

The Floral Reading Flashcards features a variety of flowers, including a surprise of the word MOM spelled out with flowers. I do not have a Holiday category at this point, but that might be a good idea to do.

Food Reading Flashcards:

This category features a variety of food items including fruit, vegetables, a couple of entrees including pizza, and desserts.




Insect Reading Flashcards:

This category features common insects in the United States. If you have a request for an insect that is unique to your area, do let me know in a comment below.

Love Cards:

The Love Cards are not flashcards, but offer a couple of options to students that want to express their love to someone, with something that is personal to them.



New Products:

This category is automatically assigned by Zazzle, if a specialized category isn't already picked upon designing of the new product. This category is normally empty.

Number Flashcards:

These number flashcards feature artwork of an item that has something that can be counted, along with the numerical number and the word for that number, on one side, and just the word for the number on the reverse side. The text can be easily customized should the tutor want to use these flashcards for a different purpose.

Personalized Family Flashcards:

The Personalized Family Flashcards are to help the student recognize words that can describe a family member. The purchaser is to upload a different photo from the student, so that these cards can be personal to them. Any of these cards can be personalized with different text, and for relatives and or friends that haven't been already specifically made; i.e. any flashcard with a female photo on it can be used to make a card for an aunt.

Places Reading Flashcards:

This category represents common places, like a ball field; a well known place, like the Eiffel Tower.

Transportation Reading Flashcards:

These flashcards features different types of transportation, and even a drawing of a space shuttle for those who are interested in space.

Verbs Reading Flashcards:

Verbs describe a type of action, such as this flashcard for hand washing.




I had an adult student ask me to go over the various words that could be found on restrooms. I had never paid much attention to them before, but did do a search of this special request. On one restroom for women, the word used was Sheilas. Not at all what most people may expect when they're out an about and want to use the appropriate restroom for them.

So there you have it. If you know anybody who can benefit from these cards, whether they be tutors or learners, do pass this blog along to them. Thank you.

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.”


Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Paws for Connection ~ A Book Review

When you are away on holidays you really don't want to get bogged down in a heavy novel that requires your total attention.  So instead of going deep into a book, you get a book that you can put down easily and take up again without too much trouble.

Such is the book Paws for Connection!  

paws for connection book


It's a sweet little read, that will certainly make anyone smile at the antics that are happening between the local bookstore owner and the driving force at the local animal shelter.

Jeanine Lauren has crafted a well told and sweet story.  Second chances and sweet romance fill this novel and will keep you smiling and enjoying a well written, easy to read book. 

Sarah and Simon are both single again parents to a daughter each.  Both are afraid to take that next step from friendship to something more.  Riley and Sally are best friends and the daughters of the aforementioned adults. Needless to say, the girls have a plan.

Then there is Lance (the bookshop owner) and Raven (operator of the Animal Shelter).  Who doesn't love it when two kindred spirits find each other?  It takes time and some lovely adopted kittens to bring all of these people together.  But it works and each of the couples manages to find a way to make things work.

This is a heart warming story that makes you smile at the antics that seem to be happening all around.

I'm sure this is a book that everyone will enjoy for some light hearted reading with a warmth that just makes you happy that you picked up this book.

Well done Jeanine Lauren!

Paws for Connection!

I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens.com and I am leaving this review voluntarily.




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.”


Monday, April 27, 2026

Make Crispy and Juicy Smash Burgers

We love making burgers on our charcoal grill. I have never cared for a thick burger; I try to press my burger to make it thinner. My daughter and grandsons got me this Sasquash Burger Press, and now it is so much easier to make burgers the way I like them.

Sasquash burger press

Smash burgers have taken over diners, food trucks, and backyard grills. Who knew that smash burgers would become so popular? I just like my burgers thin.

Fran picked up some burgers at our local grocery store, and we had the family over for some smash burgers.

I started by firing up the charcoal in my Weber charcoal chimney. Read my post on how easy it is to use a Charcoal Chimney Starter.

I placed my Lodge Cast Iron Griddle on the grill and pressed the burgers with the burger press. After flipping them once, I placed the burgers on the grill grates and finished them over the hot charcoal. The results were amazing, crispy edges, juicy inside, and great taste.

You can also make smash burgers on any griddle, cast-iron skillet, or any skillet on your stovetop.

I love my Sasquash Burger Press; it is made in the USA in Nashville, TN, and you can find it on Amazon.

Find more Product Reviews Here:

ReviewThisProductReviews.com



Sasquash Smash Burger Press, Heavy Duty Welded Meat Press Round, 6 Inch Stainless Steel, Flat Handle Hamburger Smasher Tool for Grill, Skillet, Cast Iron Cooking, Kitchen AccessoriesSasquash Smash Burger Press, Heavy Duty Welded Meat Press Round, 6 Inch Stainless Steel, Flat Handle Hamburger Smasher Tool for Grill, Skillet, Cast Iron Cooking, Kitchen AccessoriesBuy Now

 




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, April 26, 2026

I'm Not Done! Don't Count My Candles Count My Sparks

I'm Not Done! Don't Count My Candles Count My Sparks

Those of you who know me know that I write lyrics about life. That has always been my lane. 

I’ve shared many different life moments through my words and then brought them into videos and streaming platforms. I write about motherhood, fatherhood, grandparents, humor, and life reflections. 

I write for special occasions like weddings, as well as for motivation and inspiration. I also write about quieter emotional states, like numbness, indifference, and the in-between feelings that are harder to define. Life is not one-note, so I never wanted my writing to be either.

But no matter what I am writing about, I try to end on a hopeful note. That matters to me. There is already so much negativity in the world, so much division and harshness in the way people speak to each other. I do not want to be part of that. 

I am not perfect, and I make mistakes, but I'm committed to contributing something better. When I write, I want to add a sense of understanding, a sense of connection, and something that lifts rather than divides.

These Lyrics are Very Personal to Me. It's The Anthem For Anyone Who is Not Done

This lyric video is different for me.

This lyric video, titled "I’m Not Done," has become my daily reset. It is the voice I turn to when I need to remind myself who I am and where I am still going.



When I wrote the lyrics, I made a point of speaking across the years. I mention the ages of 20, 30, 50, and over 60. That last one is me. I am living that line.

At the heart of it all is one message. I’m not done.

That's why I called it that. I needed to say it clearly and without apology.

There is a line in the chorus that says, “Don’t count my candles, count my sparks.” That line carries everything. It is the heartbeat of what I am trying to say. Life is not measured only in years. It is measured in energy, in passion, and in what still burns inside you.

“It ain’t over till it’s over.” That idea has lasted because it is true, but only if we decide it is.

And that is really what this lyric video is about.

I did have older women and men in mind when I wrote it. I thought about the quiet moments when people start to wonder if their time has passed or if they should begin to step back. But this message is not only for them. It is for anyone, at any age, who needs the reminder that they still get to choose.

Because that is what I believe. We choose.

We choose whether we are done or not.

And when we make that choice with intention and with passion, we begin to move differently. We show up differently. We go after things we may have talked ourselves out of before.

That is where this came from.

It is not just something I wrote.

It is something I feel and live, and I dedicate it to all of us still pushing forward, doing what we find joy in.

*********

Facebook: Lyrics About Life on Facebook

YouTube:  Follow Me on YouTube - @dragedapoemslyrics

Spotify:    Stream Drageda Lyrics on Spotify

Amazon: Drageda Lyrics on Amazon Music

iTunes:   Drageda Lyrics on iTunes

**Subscribe For A Free Short Guide on How to Convert Your Poems Into Lyrics***

*********






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, April 25, 2026

National Pretzel Day Review


National Pretzel Day is celebrated each year on April 26.


The image of a pile of pretzels



Pretzels and Their History



Founded in 2003 by Governor Ed Rendell, this food holiday honors Pennsylvania’s long-standing pretzel heritage, a cultural staple that remains a vibrant part of the state today.  Pennsylvania, and especially Philadelphia, is home to 80% of the country’s production of pretzels. 


In the late 18th century, immigrants from southern Germany and Switzerland introduced the pretzel to North America. These immigrants became known as the Pennsylvania Dutch, and became known for their handmade pretzel bakeries throughout Pennsylvania. Southeastern Pennsylvania is considered the birthplace of the American pretzel industry, and many pretzel bakers are still located in the area.



Created by monks as 'little rewards' (pretiola) for children learning prayers, the pretzel’s signature shape mimics arms folded in prayer. Its three holes represent the Holy Trinity.


An assortment of pretzels of various shapes andsizes.


Two Kinds of Pretzels


  • Crunchy and Salty - Crunchy, salty pretzels are baked snacks, often knot-shaped, but also popular in a variety of shapes. These shapes include the traditional knot, along with mini twists, bites and nuggets, rings and pretzel sticks, plus several ‘fillable’ shapes of pretzels. These pretzels have a satisfying crunch with a savory burst of salt and a slightly nutty wheat flavor.



  • Soft - Soft pretzels are fresh-baked pastries with a warm, chewy interior and a distinctively shiny, golden-brown crust. This type of pretzel is perishable and best eaten soon after baking.  Soft pretzels became very popular in areas such as Philadelphia, Chicago, and New York. You can frequently find them available from street vendors in these cities.  Philadelphians on average consume five times more soft pretzels than anyone else in the country.



Summary



A soft pretzel

Your choice of pretzel comes down to two things: the setting and your snacking style.


Soft pretzels are wonderful on cold days when you crave something warm and tasty.  Hard pretzels are a convenient, crunchy snack. 


For the perfect pretzel taste, why not choose both on April 26 to celebrate this tasty food holiday known as National Pretzel Day



For more holiday reviews, check out 
ReviewThisReviews: Holidays



*This National Pretzel Day Review was written by Wednesday Elf



Pretzels Galore:





The Ultimate Pretzel Recipe Book: Delicious Pretzel Recipes for You to Make at Home!The Ultimate Pretzel Recipe Book: Delicious Pretzel Recipes for You to Make at Home!Check PriceAmazon Grocery, Mini Twist Pretzels, 40 OzAmazon Grocery, Mini Twist Pretzels, 40 OzCheck PriceUltimate Guide: Homemade Soft Pretzel Recipe: Delicious and Easy Pretzel Meals to Make at HomeUltimate Guide: Homemade Soft Pretzel Recipe: Delicious and Easy Pretzel Meals to Make at HomeCheck Price

 




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, April 24, 2026

Back Seat Extender for Dogs - Large Hard Bottom Dog Car Seat Reviewed

back seat extender for dogs
Prior to adopting our puppy, Watson, it had been many years since we needed a back seat "container" for a dog.  Our senior dogs were perfectly content to lay down on their car beds and ride comfortably.  Watson, on the other hand, is a very active puppy.  Laying down in the car, or sitting in someone's lap, is absolutely out of the question for our baby dog.  Therefore, we went in search of a solution.  

We wanted something that would keep him in the back seat, but allow him to move around.  Because we have captain seats in one of our SUV's, we need something that would hold his weight in between the seats even when he is full grown.  

The back seat extender we selected crosses both seats, covering the gap between them.  That allows Watson to lay down, walk from window to window, or stand in the center.  The front flap of the extender, covers the back of both front seats and has a restrainer section in the center that he can see through, but not walk through.  That keeps him safely contained in the back seats of the car.

This back seat extender is perfect for us and our puppy dog, Watson!

 

puppy on back seat extender

 

Back Seat Car Seat for Dogs Specifications

 Upgraded Back Seat Extender for Dogs - Large Hard Bottom Dog Car Seat CoverCheck PriceWhen fully expended, this back seat car seat covers both captain seats (and space between seats) or a bench seat.  It also covers the space between the front and back seats to keep your pet from falling between the seats.  It will fold in half if you want only one seat covered allowing a person to sit in the other seat.  

It is held in place by using the straps on the seat cover placed around the head rests on all seats.  There are also side straps to place on the coat hooks just inside each door.  

The side panels will keep your dog from falling out when the car door is opened.  Each side panel has zippers that are used to lower the panel so you can easily lift your puppy out of the car. 

We purchased the medium size seat extender and it fit perfectly.  

  • Holds up to 550 lbs
  • Large enough for 2 dogs
  • Rigid bottom for safety & stability 
  • Padded bottom for comfort 
  • Center mesh panel between front seats for air flow and so dog can see you
  •  Pocket on either side of the mesh panel for dog toys or supplies
  • Waterproof material 
  • Available in two sizes

 

More Reviews for Puppies and Dogs by Contributors Who Love Their Dogs!

National Puppy Day

Best Gifts for Puppies

Kong Wubba Toys for Puppies 

Everlasting Treat BentoBall for Puppy 

Milk-Bone Holiday Biscuit Treats

Easter Milk-Bones for Dogs 

Backseat Barker Dog Bed for SUV or Jeep 

Ortho Sleeper Comfort Couch for Dogs 

Dog Agility  

Recommended Summer Reading for Dog Lovers 

How to Speak Dog Book Review 

 

 

Read More Product Reviews On
ReviewThisProducts.com

Or

Pet Related Reviews

 

 




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, April 23, 2026

Peg Unhinged-Book Review


 

Woman holding wine glass
Peg Unhinged- A Book Review

I have reviewed several books by Teri M Brown and I have enjoyed every one of them.  Teri is a talented author that has written works in several different genre's.  In her latest novel she explores a woman going through menopause, divorce, career issues and all the emotions these issues can cause.  The book is a real page-turner that is written with humor and compassion. In this book you will meet Peg and her sometimes helpful and sometimes not cast of friends and relatives. 

Book Synopsis

Peg is a successful real estate agent who has been the top agent in her agency for several years.  Peg has just found that her husband wants a divorce and to top it all off one of the new agents in her firm is a young ambitious woman who also has eyes on Peg's husband.  When this woman goes after the coveted award that Peg has always had, Peg becomes unhinged.  This is the last straw to all the troubles in Peg's life.

As the book progresses Peg is forced to pull herself together and rely on her strengths.  In her struggle to find herself she has conversations with God where she sometimes complains and sometimes pleads for guidance.  The book is written with humor in the crazy situations that Peg gets herself into and I often laughed out loud.   

The Book on Amazon

This book can be found on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle formats.  Here is a link to the book on Amazon.

Book cover



Review This Reviews of Other Teri M Brown books






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.”


Wednesday, April 22, 2026

I Love My Crystal Cage Necklace!

Reviewing the crystal cage necklace

I brought myself a stainless steel cage crystal holder necklace (try saying that fast!) a couple of years ago and I couldn't be happier with it.

You can get these in stainless steel or gold. I opted for stainless steel because I thought it complemented the crystals I already had better than the gold one did. 

I love being able to change out the crystals every day. For some people, this could be a fashion choice (and I'll admit I have changed them out a couple of times to complement my outfit). 

I usually choose what crystal speaks to me on the day or what I feel I need for the day - crystals have different properties, such as protection and clarity.

I purchased my cage necklace at a market and it came with a crystal of my choice. It wasn't until I got home and decided to change the crystal out that the fun began! 

It looks so simple to take a crystal out and add one in, but I found it was very fiddly to start with. This is the only downside to this necklace as you don't get any instructions with it! There is definitely a knack, but once you master it you have a very versatile piece of jewelry. I am glad I persevered with it as it's one of my favourite pieces of jewelry and I wear it most days.

I have noticed on Amazon that you can buy these necklaces as a set with crystals to get you started on your journey. If you're already a crystal lover like I am, then you will be happy with just the necklace on its own.

Crystals with a stainless steel cage necklace

Do you like the idea of this versatile cage necklace? Another thing I love about this necklace is that you can use different crystal shapes as well. I have several polished oval and teardrop-shaped crystals that sit perfectly in the 'cage'. I also have a lot more irregularly shaped, unpolished crystals, and these fit nicely in the necklace cage.




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.”


The Review This Reviews Contributors



SylvestermouseSylvestermouseDawn Rae BDawn Rae BMbgPhotoMbgPhotoBrite-IdeasBrite-IdeasWednesday ElfWednesday ElfOlivia MorrisOlivia MorrisTreasures by BrendaTreasures by BrendaThe Savvy AgeThe Savvy AgeMargaret SchindelMargaret SchindelRaintree AnnieRaintree AnnieLou16Lou16Sam MonacoSam MonacoTracey BoyerTracey BoyerCheryl Paton Cheryl PatonRenaissance WomanRenaissance WomanBarbRadBarbRadBev OwensBev OwensBuckHawkBuckHawkDecorating for EventsDecorating for EventsHeather426Heather426Coletta TeskeColetta TeskeMissMerFaeryMissMerFaeryMickie_GMickie_G

 


Review This Reviews is Dedicated to the Memory of Our Beloved Friend and Fellow Contributor

Susan DeppnerSusan Deppner

We may be apart, but
You Are Not Forgotten





“As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and or Etsy (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from purchases.” Disclosure Statement

X