Safe Haven Movie and Book Reviewed

Several years ago, I read the book Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks.  If you have ever read a Nicholas Sparks book then you already know he writes about some very heavy, deeply painful real life situations.   As in life, not everything in his books is easy and happy.  He delves into the subject with a realistic perspective and he doesn't hesitate to tell it like it is. 

Safe Haven is a suspenseful, yet romantic book that brooches a too common subject that no one ever wants to acknowledge.  A young wife is brutalized by her detective husband.  She is trapped in the marriage with nowhere to go because she knows he would find her.  One evening, when he is in a rage, she stabs him in self defense and runs.  A neighbor takes her in and helps her flee Boston.  Erin cuts and dyes her hair, then boards a bus to Atlanta in search of a safe haven.

The Plot of Safe Haven

 Safe HavenThe bus from Boston to Atlanta makes several stops along the way.  When they stop in Southport, North Carolina, Erin doesn't board the bus when it leaves.  Drawn by the ocean and the peaceful surroundings, she introduces herself as Katie.  She gets a job and rents a house.  As you can well imagine, she doesn't trust easily, but she does reluctantly make friends with her neighbor Jo.  

As with any book that is made into a movie, I often prefer the book simply because there is more time to allow characters to evolve.  When we read, we feel like we really get to know a character personally.  That was the case with Jo.  She played a bigger "part" in the book than she did in the movie, but she was there in both of them.

Katie also makes friends with a little girl.  In both the movie and the book, it is believable to me that Katie would trust a child.  It would be easier for her to befriend someone so innocent and pure in motive.  She also meets Lexie's widowed father and her brother, Josh.  Even though she is attracted to him, Katie isn't initially quite as receptive to Lexie's father, Alex.  

I mentioned in the introduction that this is also a romantic story.  By now, you may have already surmised that Katie and Alex end up falling in love.  However, back in Boston, Katie's (Erin's) husband has issued a nationwide APB for a murderer, Erin Tierney.  He is determined to find her.  Unfortunately, Alex sees the wanted poster in the sheriffs office and confronts Katie.  He feels lied to and betrayed.  Since Erin ran, she didn't know if she had killed her husband or not, but she knew from the very beginning to avoid the police regardless.

There is a lot that happens after this.  Some of it is really sad, while other events leave you feeling extreme relief.  Like other stories by Nicholas Sparks, this story will cause you to feel deeply from one extreme to the other.  

Specifically about the Movie, Safe Haven

 Safe Haven on DVDI prefer the book, but some may well prefer the movie which does stay true to the original book plot.  I thought the actors were perfectly cast.  I completely disagree with reviewers who say this movie is unrealistic with a "ludicrous plot twist".  Life is often ludicrous.  Evil people bent on revenge often do unbelievable things because they have already thrown caution and logic to the wind.  

In the movie, Katie and Alex are adorable.  You really want them to have the happy ending.  You want life to give them both a break.  They have both suffered enough for one lifetime.  Unfortunately, Katie's past is determined to bind her forever.

When you watch the movie, or read the book, please return and tell me what you thought.  With such differing reviews, it will be interesting to see which reviewer you agree with.  For me, I think it is both an excellent book and an excellent movie that will cause you to fear, cry, smile and hope all at the same time.   

You choose which one you want!  The book and DVD are featured above, but the story is also available to view directly from Amazon, included in a Nicholas Sparks Triple Featured DVD, or to read on your Kindle.  If you are like me, you may want them all!!!

 Safe Haven - View on Amazon.com Safe Haven/Dear John/Notebook Triple Feature Safe Haven for Kindles

Check Out More Movie Reviews at
ReviewThisMovies.com

Safe Haven Movie and Book Reviews Written by:

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Don Francisco Coffee Review

My Review of Don Francisco Coffee

To me, Don Francisco Gourmet Coffee is the best grocery store coffee and it's reasonably priced! (If you know where to buy it.)

In my quest to find the best coffee on the planet, I have tried so many kinds of coffee! I love the coffee houses and their pricey coffee, but who can go there all the time? And even to make it at home can be quite expensive if you go for really good coffee. 

So I have tried many different ones, even belonging to coffee clubs where they ship you different coffees to try every month. I have quite a few favorites too, but no one compares to Don Francisco Gourmet coffee in my book. To get some right now, click here. 

Don Francisco coffee reminds me of the film, Out of Africa, where Meryl Streep (as Karen Blixen, the Baroness who moved to Africa) started a coffee plantation. You can almost see the elephants pounding across the African Savannah, or a lion peaking out from behind a tree while it stalks a wildebeest. 

And you can almost feel the African music pounding through your bones from a group camping out on the plains playing drums and dancing. But that's just my vision. Maybe you've got your own. The thing with a good cup of coffee is that your dreams can take you anywhere, to any lovely scene in any exotic country you desire. 

Don Francisco coffee comes in lots and lots of types, from different areas too, like Kona to Colombia to the rain forests of South America. And it comes flavored in a beautiful array of tastes. 

It also is available in whole bean to grind it just before you make it, or already ground if you can't get a hold of a coffee grinder.But I really do recommend that you get a coffee grinder and try whole bean coffee. You won't want to go back, I assure you! 

Also I think the best way to make coffee is with a coffee press. To read about my favorite way to make coffee, see my page about the Bodum Chambord Coffee Press.

So the first Don Francisco coffee I tried was Vanilla Nut flavored and then I was totally hooked on it! Then I had to try other flavors and wow! 

Next came the Caramel Creme (yum!) and hthe Cinnamon Hazelnut and all the unflavored ones. All of them are wonderful. In fact, I've tried every single flavor of Don Francisco coffee and I love every single one of them! 

Well, I have to be honest and say I have not tried the Decaf, because well, I just don't understand the point of coffee without caffeine...(but I am sure it is delicious or Don Francisco would not put their name on it)

Get Don Francisco Coffee On Sale

If you are searching for a Don Francisco coffee coupon, no worries! It's priced so reasonably at Amazon you don't need a coupon! They have it at a great price year round! I love that, as I used to buy it only on sale and freeze it to save money. 

Then one time I needed a whole bunch of coffee for a party and didn't have enough. I went online and searched for a Don Francisco coffee coupon and instead it popped up with a link to Amazon. 

Wow, I never thought of checking Amazon for my favorite coffee! And there it was, cheaper than it is on sale at my regular grocer, even with a coupon! So now I can buy it any time at Amazon; it's like it's on sale every day! And of course if you have Amazon Prime, shipping is free! Or if you buy $49 worth of coffee it will be free too! 

Don Francisco Coffee

So Many Coffee Flavors, So Little Time...

The Many Flavors of Don Francisco Coffee:

Vanilla Nut
Butterscotch Toffee
Cinnamon Hazelnut
Caramel Creme
Colombia Supremo
French Roast
Hawaiian Hazelnut
Kona Blend
Espresso

If you like to make your coffee in K cups, those are available too. Just click here.

*All of the products below can be purchased at Amazon.com by clicking on the photo.

Don Francisco Family Reserve
Kona Blend Whole Bean Coffee 

From the mountain slopes of Kona, Hawaii, comes a blend that will remind you of Paradise every morning. I can close my eyes and feel the Hawaiian breeze in my hair. The secret is the volcanic soil. Yum !

 Don Francisco's Kona Blend, 32oz Whole Bean Coffee Bag Family Reserve

Don Francisco Vanilla Nut Coffee, Whole Bean

If you love vanilla coffee, Don Francisco Vanilla Nut Coffee will blow your mind; it's VERY vanilla. In fact, it's so strong I mix it with unflavored coffee unless it's for dessert. All the Don Francisco flavored coffees are the strongest ones I've ever tried. No flavoring syrup is ever needed with their coffee. So if you like plain Colombian or a different flavor, just click the photo to see all the flavors.

 Don Francisco's Vanilla Nut, 32oz Whole Bean Coffee Bag Family Reserve

Ground Don Francisco Vanilla Nut Coffee

If you can't do the whole bean coffee experience, this is a close second. As is the whole bean, this coffee is VERY vanilla. For mornings when you are rushed, this is a shortcut you can take that will still give you fantastic vanilla coffee. 

 Don Francisco's Vanilla Nut, 12oz Ground Coffee Can

Braun KSM2-WH Aromatic Coffee Grinder, White

My favorite grinder, and mine has lasted since the 1980's so you know it's a good appliance! Braun stands behind their product and parts are still available if yours ever needs fixing. It is very strong and fast so be sure you watch through the top to get it the right grind texture for your liking.

 Braun KSM2-WH Aromatic Coffee Grinder, White

Enjoy Your Coffee! And for some sweet treats to go with it, visit Food, Decor, Kids Blog

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Two Movie Reviews "Just Let Go" and "Amish Grace"

Just Let Go

Just Let Go (Based on a True Story)

During the Lenten Season, I try to look for movies, books, music and other kinds of media, that makes me think! As a practicing Christian that is part of what the Lenten Season is for me.

It is a time to reflect and recognize my shortcomings and ask for the grace to become a stronger person in faith. To that end, I watched this movie, "Just Let Go" with the hopes that it would inspire me.

Just Let Go, features Henry Ian Cusick and Brenda Vaccaro in a couple of the leading roles. You will recognize both of these actors if you were a fan of 70's and 80's TV.
Based on a true story, It asks the tough questions. Can you forgive? Not an easy matter when your family has been decimated by a drunk driver.

The movie takes you to places that no one wants to visit.

When we hear the news reports of a drunk driver taking out a family and then walking away from the accident unscathed, we are appalled and angry!  How can this happen?  Why wasn't the drunk driver the one killed?  Our sense of justice is immediately put to the test.  I'm sure more than one would fail because we just can't see the Justice in that situation.  The bigger question is, if it happened to us, "Could we Forgive"?

As Christians that is what we are called to do, forgiveness is a large part of our core beliefs. But, if that were our family, could we forgive?

This movie tries to show what happens when we do take that time to work through our grief and let the anger and need for retribution go. Is it easy? Never in a million years would it be easy, but for our own sense of sanity, it might be necessary.  So ask yourself again, Can you Forgive?

Amish Grace (Based on a True Story)

Amish Grace by 20th Century Fox by Gregg Champion
In the same vein, "Amish Grace" is also a movie about forgiving those who have wronged us by their actions.

Not quite the same scenario as Just let Go, but with the same results. Many families were totally broken apart by one person's actions. How do you come to terms with those actions and the consequences of those actions?

The Amish, whose faith revolves around the "Our Father Prayer" has a strong connection with forgiveness.  They live the words of the prayer, especially,  "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us!"

They reached out to the widow of the shooter, recognizing that she also had her life turned upside down by the actions of her husband.

They did not turn their backs on her because of her relationship with the man who shot their innocent children. They forgave him and opened their hearts to the women left behind and her family. Could we do the same?

These are tough questions for Christians all through the year, but especially at the Lenten times when we are called to witness and proclaim our faith by our lives. We need to take the time to look at these hard questions!  It's a good barometer for our faith lives to see where we need to do more work.

My Conclusions

Of these two movies, I preferred Amish Grace as the whole story and the reactions were much more real to me than that portrayed in Just Let Go.

That may be due in part because of my own feelings.  I would be much more outraged and seeking some form of retribution. Just Let Go, seems to get to the point of forgiveness far too quickly.  My reactions would have been far more gut wrenching.  (My husband seems to think that's because I'm an extrovert!)
But that is my opinion. I'm hoping you will watch both movies and let me know how you feel.

The Bottom Line and the One that is the Hardest to Live is that:

Forgiveness is the Key to Happiness in this life. Both of these movies make you aware of that fact.
Is it easy to do? Not a chance, but then so many things that are worthwhile to do are not easy either!

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Killing Lincoln Book Review

When A Country Loses Their Leader

Abraham Lincoln 

I do not typically read non-fiction which is odd seeing as how I am a bit of a history nerd. Killing Lincoln was suggested for my reading list by my husband who rarely reads fiction. He was so enthused by this book that I finally followed his urging and read the book.

I have to tell you that I was not disappointed and am actually glad that I did read this historical account of the tragedy that our nation suffered when Abraham Lincoln was shot in Ford's theater by John Wilkes Booth.

I thought I knew quite a lot about that fateful and tragic day in April of 1865 but this book proved how much I did not know. As Bill O'Reilly so eloquently states, "It is important for us to know our nation's history. To understand the lives of our heroes and to also understand the villains of our history."

I am very impressed with the research that Mr. O'Reilly and Martin Dugard (the co-author) put into this book. I also was impressed to learn that Bill O'Reilly was a history teacher before he entered the world of political commentary and hosting television shows.

Typically, I find non-fiction books rather difficult to read. I usually find them a little on the droll side and have a difficult time keeping my mind from wandering. Not so, with this book. At times it almost reads like a fictional story but the difference is the facts are accurate.

Killing Lincoln

While reading this book, we do not just find out about our 16th President, we also find out about the days leading up to his assassination. We learn about the last few battles of the war and the people involved in those days. We learn quite a bit about General Grant and General Lee and how their lives had intertwined before the civil war. We are given the background of many of the central figures in Lincoln's life during his Presidency and that helps to understand what was really going on in our nation at the time.

The book reveals much about the villain of the story, John Wilkes Booth. We find that he was considered quite handsome at the time and was quite the playboy. We also learn about what drove him to his actions at the Ford Theater in April 1865. We also find out that he did not act alone and had not for quite some time.

I found myself stopping every once in a while and shaking my head, uttering, "Wow, just wow!" My husband and I would sit at the dinner table and discuss my progress through the book. We both found it fascinating, interesting and thought provoking.

I am really glad that I took my husband's suggestion and read the book. Admittedly, I was reluctant because I knew the ending, our President was fatally shot. There was so much more to the event that I did not know and did not understand. If you are a bit of a history nerd like me or prefer non-fiction over fiction; I truly believe that you will love this book. It would also be a wonderful gift for someone who you know loves to learn about history. The wonderful thing is that it comes in so many formats: hardcover, paperback, digital and audio cd.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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The 4 Best Denzel Washington Action Movies

Time and time again we are reminded of what a talented actor Denzel Washington is. Most recently he was nominated for Best Actor for his role in Fences. As I am preparing for an evening of relaxing at home with my favorite movies, I am realizing how much I enjoy my frequent dates with Denzel Washington. In this review, I will share with you the four movies that I think are Denzel's best action movies.

Denzel Washington the Actor

Denzel Washington is a very talented, multiple award winning actor who has played a wide range of roles.  His movies have ranged from action, to drama, to thriller, and historical. I have seen many of his movies, and am looking forward to seeing Fences.  But I have to admit that his roles in the action/thriller movies are by far my favorite.

In Training Day, he was Alonzo, the corrupt cop I loved to hate. In the movies The Equalizer, Man on Fire, and The Bone Collector he portrays defective and damaged men who continue to care for others. His struggling heroes are believable characters that have stuck with me over time.

I am not at all ashamed to admit that I own these movies and have frequent weekend movie night "dates" with Denzel. That smile - no matter the role - makes me melt. And his acting skills in the following movies take me away to different worlds.

Denzel Washington's Four Best Action Movies

Training Day - In Training Day (2001), Alonso is a corrupt narcotics cop who is training his new rookie partner (Ethan Hawke). "There's some profoundly evil people walking the streets right now" is quite an understatement and quite telling as that statement comes out of Alonso's mouth. I find that Alonso is evil and this intense ride-along still startles me. I still hold my breath at certain parts and hope everything turns out okay.

The Equalizer - In The Equalizer (2014) Robert McCall  "The old man met his greatest adversary just when he thought that part of his life was over" McCall says as he explains The Old Man and the Sea to Teri (Chloe Grace Moretz).  And she responds with the question of the day "Why didn't he just let the fish go?" So why does this quiet widower who has quite completely left his past behind go after that big fish? Because "you've gotta be who you are in this world, right? No matter what."

Man on Fire - In Man of Fire (2004) John Creasy is an impaired man whose alcohol issues and mental health have impacted his functioning. A friend helps the former assassin to obtain work - as a family security guard (or is that babysitter?) for the precocious little Lupita (Dakota Fanning). At times it is not quite clear who is protecting whom through the movie and I still bawl my eyes out at the end. There is no love like a child's love. And John Creasy battles his demons just to try to do his job. Will he be the hero or be too late?

The Bone Collector - In The Bone Collector (1999) Lincoln Rhyme is a physically impaired man whose mind is as sharp as it ever was. As a very talented ex-homicide detective, he is pulled in recent events in an attempt to find a serial killer.  Amelia (Angelina Jolie), a young  patrol officer, becomes his partner after being in the right place at the wrong time and demonstrating her natural observational skills. This movie is tense and the crimes are what nightmares are made of.  Can Lincoln's nurse (Queen Latifah) save him? Can Lincoln and Amelia save the next victim?  The twists and turns leave you guessing and holding your breath.

Warning - Please be aware and fully informed that these are action movies and are rated "R" for violent content, language, grisly images, and so on.  These movies are NOT for the faint of heart. I like "shoot 'em up" movies and some of these scenes near the line of "too much" even for me. 

Related Movie Review Links - 

For a WIDE variety of movie reviews from our contributors, be sure to check out the ReviewThis! Movie Reviews category. In that section you will find movie reviews by our contributors. Movies of every category; children's, drama, historic, black and white, classic, holiday, fantasy .... and the list goes on. Just click the link above and begin scrolling down.

And last but definitely not least, here are the links for the four best Denzel Washington action movies.

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Add 'Greenery' to Your Decor This Year - Pantone's Color of the Year for 2017

Mug Here - Featuring Greenery

Each Year Pantone Assigns a Color for the Year - Happy Renewal to You, Because it's Greenery!

You may be wondering how Pantone selects the color and you're correct if you've concluded that it's a reflection of the current mood and expression of the time.

On Pantone's website you'll read words like 'rejuvinate' and 'revitalize' appropriately used to describe why Greenery was selected.

It's safe to say, the need for reconnection during these stressful times makes almost ridiculous sense! The calming rebirth of nature and our need to make our way back to it, is offered up through Greenery's yellow/green soothing reassuring combination.

Redecorating and Choosing Colors

If we're planning a redecorating project or are starting from scratch, choosing colors can be challenging. However, the color palette is the first best place to start, with the exception being when we're using colors from an existing piece of furniture or accessory as the base.

When we're decorating a room from the beginning and need guidance choosing a color palate to work with 2017's color Greenery, Pantone's 2017 page is a time saver; check out their suggested pairings. When there, scroll down and you'll see the ten palates by name with color suggestions for each.

Each palate shows colors along with color numbers, making them easy to find when shopping for matching paint, furniture and accessories.

For 2017 the named Pantones Palates Are:

Transitions

Ethereal Material

Grand Canyon

Forest Floor

Rev It Up

Fathomless

Analogous

Moody Blooms

Deep Rooted

Calm it Down

Be sure to check out these palates; why struggle trying to choose colors ... Pantone is a very helpful resource.

Greenery is nature's neutral, so take a deep breath and enjoy your spring decorating projects as you create a space that reflects vitality, beauty and renewal.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Easy Crochet Critters Pattern Book Review

Vanna's Choice: "Easy Crochet Critters" is a crochet pattern booklet from Lion Brand Yarn. It is part of the Leisure Arts Little Books series.

Easy Crochet Critters has patterns for ten (10) Amigurumi designs.  I have made each of the animals in this booklet; some of them several times.

Each critter can be crocheted with 4-ply worsted weight yarn using a size G crochet hook.  

The pattern booklet lists the finished size of each animal, but this can vary depending upon the size of the crochet hook you decide to use (I often use an F hook) and whether your crochet style is looser or tighter.

Each animal is completed with fiberfill stuffing and safety craft eyes (or embroidered eyes, if desired).  Other features, such as nose and mouth are usually embroidered with a small amount of yarn.

Lion

Little Amigurumi Lion

Little Lion, pictured on the cover of this booklet, is a roly-poly ball of fun with his embroidered face and crocheted mane. He hardly ever roars and is usually a quiet playmate for a child. He measures a roly-poly 4 x 4 inches when finished and stuffed. 

The lion I crocheted from this booklet I named Luke.  Luke the Amigurumi Lion makes a perfect Roly-Poly Plush Pet!  Mine measures about 5" x 5" - as tall as he is wide - and is a plump 14" in diameter. 

Crochet Lion on Etsy

He's perfect for fans of zoo and jungle animals and gets along well with other plush animals in the toybox! 

Giraffe

Little Amigurumi Giraffe

This Little Amigurumi Giraffe turns out so sweet with such a cute face. I made mine in yellow with orange spots.  The pattern for little giraffe states he stands 8 inches tall.  Mine came out a bit larger with the body 5 inches long, plus his little tail, and he stands 9" tall.

Jellyroll Giraffe on Etsy

I named my version of this little giraffe, Jellyroll. This handmade plush toy sweet little giraffe got his name from the fact that instead of 'shoots and leaves', his favorite food is a big plump Jellyroll. 

He also loves children and would prefer to live in a child's playroom instead of outside with all those tall giraffes since he's only about 9 inches tall (if you count the horns on top of his head).

Seal

Little Amigurumi Seal

Amigurumi Seal is quick to make with the head and body crocheted in one piece, then the flippers crocheted and added after.

Since this is a plush animal, it can be made in any color you desire. 

Baby Harp Seal

I made this one in white to be a baby Harp Seal.  His finished size is about 7 inches from the top of his nose to the back flippers.

While Harp Seals can grow to over 5 feet long and weigh between 115 and 180 lbs.  This little crocheted replica is only 7 inches long and sits 5 inches high, weighing about 2 ounces . A much better size for a child to cuddle :)  Harp Seals have a white coat at birth to help them blend in with the ice and keep them safe.

Walrus

Little Amigurumi Walrus

 Another sea animal in plush is this little walrus.  The walrus pictured in the book was crocheted in brown yarn.  When I lived on the California Central Coast, I saw a walrus with a mottled or speckled looking coat, so I made my current crocheted walrus using a brown & tan variegated yarn to represent this speckling look. 

I named my plush toy walrus Wendy, a wonderfully winsome Walrus who will wind her way into your heart. :)

Wendy Walrus is a soft yarn toy who measures 7 inches long and about 4 inches wide (not counting her flippers). She's filled with a soft new fiberfil. Wendy Walrus would love to have a cuddle and a hug from a child who loves sea animals.

Ready-Made Crochet Critters

The giraffe, lion, seal and walrus crocheted critters shown here are all handmade by me. The giraffe and lion and are currently available in my Etsy Shop Coastal Crochet Crafts. The seal and the walrus have sold, but can be recreated upon request.

Many More Plush Animals to Crochet

In addition to the finished giraffe, lion, walrus and seal crocheted critters showing off for you here, this craft booklet also has patterns for a small elephant, an amigurumi hippo, a cute little monkey, a small alligator, a snowy owl and a plush penguin. 

 There are a total of ten (10) Amigurumi plush animal patterns available in this booklet Easy Crochet Critters!

The Easy Crochet Critters Pattern Book

Vanna's Choice: easy crochet CRITTERS

Besides the pattern instructions for all ten crocheted critters, the back of the booklet has general instructions for abbreviations used and hints and tips for finishing your creations.  Basic stitches and techniques are also included.

Published in 2009 for Lion Brand Yarn Company, this inexpensive little pattern booklet will give you many  hours of crochet pleasure and a whole menagerie of cute plush animals.

Where to Find Easy Crochet Critters:

• Amazon
• Jo-Ann
• eBay

Crochet Critters on Blogs:


Posts Featuring Some of These Crochet Critters

Plush Stuffed Animal Zoo

The little amigurumi giraffe and lion show off in my Plush Stuffed Animal Zoo blog article on my Etsy Blog Crochet Crafts and Cute Critters.

Two Seals and a Walrus
The cute amigurumi seal and his friend the plush walrus are featured in my blog post Two Seals and a Walrus ~ Plush Marine Animals in Crochet.

For more reviews of crochet crafts, check out Review This: Crafts.

 
*Easy Crochet Critters pattern booklet is Reviewed 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) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Tropical Fruit Smoothie Recipe Reviewed

Easy Tropical Fruit Smoothie Recipe

My son recently started requesting Smoothies again for breakfast, which caused me to pull out some of my old recipes. I thought you, too, might like to try this easy Tropical Fruit Smoothie Recipe for a healthy snack anytime you want one! 

The tropical fruit smoothies taste really good and they are very easy to make. Simply gather your favorite tropical fruits and the blender and you have a quick and healthy snack for breakfast, lunch or after dinner! 

Personally, I always enjoy discovering new ideas and delicious treats. These fruit drinks really are a lot more healthy than most desserts and are certainly more enjoyable than taking vitamin supplements. 
 

Tropical Fruit Smoothie Recipe

Preparation Time

Prep Time	Ready In	Yields
5 min.	5 min.	2 servings

 

Ingredients for My Tropical Fruit Smoothie Recipe

• 1 mango peeled and seeded
• 1 papaya peeled and seeded
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries
• 1/3 cup orange juice
• 5 cubes ice

Instructions

Tropical Fruit Smoothie are so simple to make. All you have to do to have a quick healthy snack is mix the following ingredients into a blender and mix it together.   

Step 1: Place the mango, papaya, strawberries, orange juice, and ice cubes in an electric blender 
Step 2: Process until the ingredients are smooth 

I have started cutting up my seasonal fruit and freezing it in freezer bags for convenience.  The frozen fruit is actually even better than fresh fruit in smoothies, but the fruit is delicious either way.

Reviewed & Recommended Smoothie Blender

Read Dawn's Review by Clicking this Photo

I previously used a blender for making smoothies. However, in June of 2016, Dawn Rae reviewed the Nutribullet here on Review This and I was so impressed with her review, that I replaced my blender with a Nutribullet immediately.  That was definitely the right decision!  

The Nutribullet works faster and chops the fruit into much smaller pieces which makes a smoother smoothie.  The Magic Bullet Nutribullet Pro 900 Blender/Mixer that we purchased also comes with a smoothie recipe book that has some great recipes in it.  We have enjoyed several of them.

The Nutribullet made such a favorable impression on our household, that we gave our daughter and her husband one as a gift when they moved into their new home last fall.

Read More About the Nutribullet on Dawn's Review:  Nutribullet: Why I Waited Too Long!

More Fruit Smoothie Recipes

Pawpaw Fruit Smoothie
PawPaws are not a fruit from my own area so when I discovered this recipe by Dawn Rae, I was quite intrigued. I still have not had an opportunity to try it, but I really look forward to it. In my case, I simply have to find a pawpaw supplier.

Tropical Fruit Smoothie Recipe Reviewed by:

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13+ Best House Cleaning Tips to Make Spring Cleaning Easier Than Ever

Best House Cleaning Tips Reviewed

Do the words "spring cleaning" make you cringe? Does the mention of "Saturday chores" send your kids into hiding?

Never fear! With the house cleaning tips you'll find below, you'll learn how to turn dreaded chore time into not-so-bad time with satisfying, built-in rewards.

So get comfy as you peruse these 13+ tried and true, best house cleaning tips ever, provided by yours truly and some of my fellow Review This! reviewers.

How to Make Housework Less of a Chore

1. Set the Mood With Music. Listening to upbeat music keeps me groovin' while I'm movin', getting those kitchen chores done! The Temptations didn't sit still and neither do I when I play my favorite Temptations music while I'm cleaning the house or washing the dishes. It's amazing how much housework I get done during the 2 minutes and 45 seconds of "My Girl," cleanin' to the smooth rhythm, singin' along in my private kitchen karaoke.

Music is a great motivator. Why not make a game of it? Can you (or the kids) finish folding the laundry before the last note? See how many pots and pans get washed while "you do the things you do" (don't forget to sing along!). Before you know it, your work will be done and you'll still be smiling and boppin' to the beat. Try it. I think you'll like it!

2. Set a Timer. Imagine this scenario:

Mom: "Come on, kids, it's time to do chores."
Kids: "Oh, boy! We get to use the timer!"

I can't promise you that using timers and other fun tools will make your family excited about doing their chores, but it couldn't hurt. In fact, using minutes as motivation is something that is appealing to me as an adult having to do housework on my own, without the company of my now-grown children. Even adults like to play games, and games make chore time go by a lot faster. While the reward is getting to look around and see floors and tables shiny and clean instead of dusty or dingy and kitchen counters clear instead of cluttered with dirty dishes, the fun can be in the getting it done.

The author's feet in her dustmop slippers.

3.  Use Fun Cleaning Accessories. Wish I would have invented dust mop slippers! They're great for hardwood, laminate, or tile floors and come in various styles with sizes to fit everyone in your family. I've tried them (those are my feet in the picture) and they work great for picking up dog hair and dust bunnies. My fellow reviewer, Barbara Tremblay Cipak, explains more in her review, How To Sweep Your Floor Without Lifting a Finger.

Clean Green! How to Make Housework Environmentally Friendly

4. Make Your Own Cleaning Products. Okay, so housework can't be all fun and games. If you're seriously concerned about cleaning with chemicals, make it a point to learn how to use "green" methods to clean all of the surfaces in your home, from floors to countertops and even clothing. Learning what's in the products that you use will really help push you along the road to getting those toxic cleaners out of the house for good!

When it comes to using chemicals and household cleansers, it's important to know what you're handling and to keep your family safe. One way to do that is with homemade cleaning products. For my favorite solution, read Best Homemade Tub and Shower Cleaner Recipe (http://www.lifeinout.com/2017/02/best-homemade-tub-and-shower-cleaner.html).

5. Use White Vinegar For Cleaning. In addition to my two-ingredient homemade bathtub cleaner, don't miss Bev Owens' White Vinegar for Cleaning Review for more ways to use this old-fashioned but very effective one-ingredient product that you probably already have in your kitchen.

Use the Right Tool For the Cleaning Job

6. "Honey, Where Did You Put The Extension Cord?" One of the best (though fairly obvious) pieces of advice I've ever heard about cleaning is to make sure the vacuum cleaner has a long cord, even if you have to use an extension cord, and plug it into an outlet in a central location. I used to have to stop and unplug and re-plug the sweeper halfway up the stairs. Is that silly, or what? When I discovered that I could just use the plug at the foot of the stairs and it would get me through three rooms and all the way up the stairs, well I wish I had a dollar for every time I didn't have to unplug and re-plug from then on!

"Bobi" speeds off to clean under the bed.

That's part of what I mean by using the proper tool. Of course if you have a robotic vacuum cleaner (I love my new bObi Pet robotic vacuum cleaner), the cord might not be the issue. Another tool that I finally bought was a handheld vacuum cleaner for the furniture. I have lots of attachments for my upright, but to use them I'd have to get the long hose and add it to the short hose and find the furniture attachment. . . Forget all that. Now I have a wonderful handheld vacuum that I can use for all the furniture without lugging accessories around. This very affordable investment was a no-brainer.

7. Toilet Tools. Another excellent tip that I've learned is to have a set of cleaning tools and cleaner in every bathroom and on every floor of the house. There's no reason to run downstairs for the toilet bowl cleaner when you have a second bottle in the upstairs bathroom. A variation on the theme is to use a handy-dandy tote for your cleaning products and carry them from room to room as you clean. That works well, too. The cleaning tote is an excellent tool, just as important as what's inside.

I also keep a roll of paper towels in every bathroom, handy for quick wipe-ups when I just want to throw away the towel and not wash and reuse it. I actually like that better than keeping the roll in the tote since they're always right there when I need them (or when the cat throws up on the bathroom floor).

8. Cleaning Furniture. In recent years, microfiber fabrics have become popular for everything from clothing to furniture. Furniture upholstered in microfiber is comfy,  attractive and, actually, fairly easy to keep clean. Don't put off what you might think is a major chore. Read my article on Cleaning Microfiber to learn how to clean yours.

9. What's Better Than Microfiber? It's easy to find cleaning cloths made from microfiber, but my preference is a cloth with an even finer weave, something called Mirafiber. I use it for everything from cleaning mirrors and dusting the television and computer screens, to cleaning the kitchen appliances and the bathroom sink. Read my Review This! article, Best Cleaning Cloth? The Ultimate Cloth, to learn why I recommend it.

10. Cleaning Hard-to-Reach Places. Once again, reviewer Bev Owens comes to our rescue with a helpful review of one of her favorite cleaning tools in Review of a Telescoping Corner Broom.

11. Cleaning Grout. Some cleaning jobs are more challenging than others and when it comes to cleaning grout, sometimes you need to go the extra mile. If your grout situation has you stymied and you want a solution that will really work, Barbara provides information on the products and methods that her family used to successfully tackle their grout in her article, How to Successfully Clean Grout.

More of the Best House Cleaning Tips Reviewed

12. Got Kids? Review This! contributor Wednesday Elf has put together a compilation of house cleaning tips and tricks that are especially useful for people with kids. But don't take my word for it. Click through to read her A Review of Spring Cleaning Tips to learn more.

13. One Last Best Tip.  If you need help with housework, especially the big jobs, hiring a local pro or handy-person can be a very worthwhile splurge. To find help with house cleaning, yard and outdoor chores, window or carpet cleaning, floor refinishing and more, check out the new Home Services department from Amazon. While many services are only available in select cities, one of those locations might be near you and pros are being added to the service providers every day. Services are described in detail and price is determined up front based on your needs. It's easy to request a no-obligation estimate. Just use the link above or click on the graphic below.




Really, doing chores isn't so bad when you incorporate tried and true house cleaning tips such as these in your daily, weekly, or seasonal cleaning routine. So tell me, did you learn anything new here? Which tip is your favorite?

Happy Spring cleaning!

~Susan
Read more of my reviews.

Posted by Susan Deppner

About the Author

Susan Deppner is a baby boomer, a cancer survivor, and a Southerner who believes in the Golden Rule. She enjoys writing about food, faith, and fitness; health, home, and holidays; people, places, pets, and patriotism, and more. Follow Susan on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Manatea Tea Infuser and Mug Gift Set

Today I'm going to review a great infuser and mug gift set I was given.   I'm not sure why everyone keeps giving me tea related gifts, I don't drink that much tea do I?!

The Manatea Tea Infuser and Mug Gift Set is really cute - I love the casual look of the mug and the 'go with the flow' inscription is very appropriate for me.   Don't even get me started on how cute the manatea infuser is!

The tea infuser is made from food grade silicone which means it's soft and pliable - very easy to handle.

You can see how cute it is below, a real conversation piece.   You can see in the first image that the 'infuser' part of the tea infuser is basically the manatea's body.

 Fred & Friends TEA FOR TWO Infuser and Mug Gift Set, Manatea

I do love cute tea infusers as they are a great way to brighten up my day - my rubber ducky tea infuser always brings a smile to my face.   I think this manatea is going to make me smile when I look at it too!

Now, what about the practical aspect of the infuser?

As I said the silicone is very easy to handle and the tea infuser comes apart and fits together again very easily.

There have been some criticisms of this tea infuser so I'm going to address them here.

You can't fill the infuser very easily because of it's size.  Now I don't know what size teaspoon this reviewer had because I found it very easy to fill - I only added one teaspoon of tea because that's all I use for one mug, but it would have taken two very easily.

I've added a photo here so that you can see how easily my (normal sized!) teaspoon can fit into the infuser.

You can't drink the tea while the infuser is on the mug.  Well I have to disagree with this reviewer as well - to a degree anyways.   I wear glasses and thought there could be a problem, however I found drinking most my tea from this mug with the infuser attached was fine.   When it got to the bottom part of the mug (from where the non-infuser part of the tail part was) the manatea did touch my nose, but I didn't think it was anything to worry about.

I also would like to note that I didn't get any tea leaves left in my mug after drinking although I should add that I haven't drunk any really fine leafed teas.

I would thoroughly recommend this and I don't think you can ever have too many tea infusers!


Want to check out more gift ideas for tea drinkers?

Rubber Ducky Tea Infuser
If you're after a bit of fun with your cup of tea then you will love to read my rubber ducky tea infuser review. I absolutely love this fun tea infuser, because let's face it what's not to love about a rubber ducky?

Peppermint Tea
As I review Twinings Peppermint Tea Bags let me also answer the question 'why drink peppermint tea?' - you might be surprised at the range of benefits this delicious beverage has.

Review of Lifestyle Awareness Teas
Last time I shopped for tea, I noticed a new brand on the shelf: Lifestyle Awareness Teas. I noticed they were organic and that they appeared to support specific aspects of health.

Tea Christmas Ornaments
As someone who loves their cuppa I think the idea of tea Christmas ornaments on my Christmas tree is an absolutely fantastic idea. Whichever tea you prefer there is just something about a tea inspired Christmas tree that I think is perfect.

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Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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