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Thursday, November 21, 2024

Atmoko Hair Clippers Review

I did it! I gave myself a full haircut using Atmoko hair clippers for men and women.

I have given myself partial haircuts using hair clippers over the last couple of years or so. But I had done the top part of my hair using scissors. This time I took the plunge. I did the all over cut using clippers!

Here is the before photo. This haircut was mostly done by a salon person in a beauty shop. I had since trimmed my bangs and the back. Believe me when I tell you that the trim in the back was straighter by me than it was done by the stylist. Anyway.... Also, my hair does have some wave to it; that left side usually has a mind of its own, lol.

The process:

I combed my hair. I left my hair dry as per the instructions for using the clippers, and also added oil to the cutting part; I use sewing machine oil.

Then I gathered my supplies. My plan is to use four comb attachments that came with the Atmoko clippers. Ten actually come with the set, but I chose four of the ten. The largest one is for one inch. I used the one inch, the 3/4 inch, the 1/2 inch, and the 3/8 inch.

I placed rows of paper towels over the bathroom sink. With the clippers in hand, with the one inch comb attachment, a cut my hair, combing it in an upward direction. I also cut it with the same one inch comb attachment, combing my hair in a horizontal direction, going one way and then the opposite way.

I then pinned the upper part of my hair up on top of my head, so that I would accidentally cut off any more from the top than what I had already cut.

Then I used the 3/4 inch attachment on the clippers and followed pretty much the same cutting pattern; up and also horizontally. As I come up with the clippers (with attachment attached), I comb away as I get to the top part of cutting upward.

Then I repeated the previous step with the 1/2 inch comb attachment, but not going up quite as far as I did in the previous step.

Then I only did the process with the 3/8 inch comb attachment on the lower back part of my hair.

I combed it with a regular comb, trimmed the neck with scissors, and gave myself a neck shave.

Here are the results.

I am pretty pleased.

Here are the clipper supplies that I used.

Having used most of these supplies before, I do recommend them. They give a good cut, and I like that I can do various hair lengths on the back of my head, without always having to have someone else do it.

Other supplies that I used:

Are scissors; I used them to trim around my ears and to cut the line across at the back of my neck.

Styling clips, to hold the top part of my hair out of the way; these are so much better than bobby pins. This is a link for the brand that I used. https://amzn.to/3YZNHaF

And an Olay five blade razor. I like that these have the lotion strips on them and that the five blades gives a closer shave than ones with three or less blades. Here is the link for that. https://amzn.to/3OjgxxE I hold the razor in one hand, a small mirror in the other hand, while I sit in front of a large mirror.

And the star of this hair cutting venture, is the Atmoko Hair Clippers. It is relatively quiet, the attachments are easy to put on, and it is pretty easy to use. They are sold on Amazon.

This looks to have some different combs for over the ears than the ones that came in my set. The ones below look longer. They are the angled ones.

Atmoko Hair Clippers for Men and Women

One BIG tip that I give you, is to lay out your comb attachments that you plan to use, in plain sight, before you start clipping! I didn't do this step one time, and I gave myself a really short haircut! I didn't reach the top of my head, so I was pleased about that. My daughter thought it was cool, but I wasn't a big fan. So yes, do lay those little comb attachments out in plain sight before you start.

Happy hair cutting.

If you are interested in learning how I give a straight haircut at home, check out this blog: How to give a straight haircut at home.

Cheryl Paton

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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Wednesday, November 20, 2024

The Best Clean, High-Quality Protein Powder That Tastes Terrific

I recently discovered Jocko Mölk Protein Powder after it was recommended by several nutritionists I follow. Ever since I started my low carb lifestyle back in 2019, I have tried to prioritize protein. But it can be harder than you think to get as much protein as we need!

I have used low carb protein shakes and protein bars to increase my protein intake without adding a lot of calories and fat to my diet. Unfortunately, many of them just don't taste that good, and many of the protein powders also have an unpleasant texture and tendency to sink to the bottom of whatever beverage you're making with them.

Fortunately, the one I'm reviewing today, Jocko Mölk Protein Powder, ticks all the boxes for my husband and me. It tastes great when blended into a shake with milk, ice, and optional flavorings, packs an impressive 22g of protein, yet it has only 120–140 calories, 2g–3.5g of fat, 3–7g of carbohydrate, and only 1–2g of sugar. It's soy-free and gluten-free and contains probiotics and digestive enzymes to prevent bloating.

Our favorite protein shake made with Jocko Mölk Mint Chocolate Protein Powder, nut milk, ChocZero Peppermint Flavoring Syrup, and ice

What is Jocko Mölk Protein Powder?

Jocko Mölk Protein Powder, developed by retired Navy SEAL Jocko Willink, is designed for those seeking a high-quality, no-nonsense protein supplement that supports fitness goals. Known for its clean ingredient profile and versatility, it has become popular among athletes, gym-goers, and anyone looking to boost their protein intake. Here’s an in-depth look at the product:

Ingredienst for Jocko Molk Protein Powder Mint Chocolate Protein Shake

Ingredients & Nutritional Profile

Jocko Mölk is a blend of casein, whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and egg protein. This mix provides a sustained release of amino acids, making it an excellent option for both pre- and post-workout recovery, as well as before bedtime.

Protein Content: Each serving delivers 22 grams of protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
Carbs and Sugar: With only 1-2 grams of sugar per serving, depending on the flavor, it’s suitable for low-carb diets, including keto.
Fat: This protein powder is low in fat. Our favorite flavor, Mint Chocolate, has only 2.5g of fat.

The formula is rounded out with added digestive enzymes for improved absorption and probiotics to support gut health, a unique feature compared to many other protein powders.

Taste and Texture

Jocko Mölk comes in a variety of flavors, including Vanilla Milkshake, Strawberry Milkshake, Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate, Banana, Cookies & Cream, and Pumpkin. (Some flavors may be seasonal.) So far, we have only tried the Mint Chocolate and we love it. We plan to try more flavors!

The flavors are rich and not overly sweet, as they are sweetened naturally with monk fruit. Many users appreciate the lack of artificial aftertaste that some protein powders have. This also makes it easy to customize your desired level of sweetness. (We love adding ChocZero flavoring syrups sweetened with monk fruit.)

Unlike many other protein powders, this one mixes smoothly with water, milk, or alternative milk without leaving clumps or being gritty. Using a blender yields the best results, but a shaker cup works well, too.

Performance and Benefits

In addition to providing a basic protein boost, which is why my husband and I use this, the slow-digesting protein blend supports muscle recovery over an extended period, making it ideal for nighttime use or between meals. We find that a shake made with Jocko Mölk, nut milk, ice, and optional flavorings is filling and satisfying while being low in calories, carbs, and fat.

Who It's For

• Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a clean, versatile protein powder.

• Dietary Needs: It’s keto-friendly, gluten-free, and made with natural ingredients, making it accessible for a range of dietary preferences. I also think it would also be great for seniors or invalids who aren't getting enough protein and other nutrients in their diets and would find a delicious protein shake an easy and pleasant way to supplement their nutrition.

• Who should avoid it: Those with dairy or egg allergies, as it contains casein, whey, and egg proteins.

Value for Money

At roughly $40–$45 for 31 servings, Jocko Mölk isn't inexpensive, but its price reflects its premium quality and clean formulation. Surprisingly, it's actually significantly less expensive than several other high quality, clean protein powders we have tried, such as Truvani whey protein, which costs roughly the same a 20-serving bag. And at roughly $1.30-$1.45 per serving, Jocko Mölk is a less expensive source of high-quality protein than many other foods.

Jocko Mölk Whey Protein Powder 22g Sugar Free Monk Fruit Blend - Muscle Recovery & Growth, Packaging May Vary (31 Servings, Mint Chocolate)

Pros:

Clean, natural ingredients

High in protein

Sustained-release protein blend

Low in sugar, carbs, and calories

Added probiotics and digestive enzymes

Cons:

Not inexpensive, but (surprisingly) less expensive than several of the other high quality protein powders we have tried that we don't like as well.

Not suitable for those with dairy or egg allergies.

Closing Thoughts

Jocko Mölk Protein Powder delivers on its promise of providing high-quality, natural protein with added health benefits. It’s particularly suited for those serious about fitness and overall health, offering sustained energy and muscle recovery, but you don't have to be an athlete or fitness buff to benefit from it.

It's also a wonderful, delicious, quick and convenient way for anyone to get more protein into their diets, including seniors and invalids who may not have an appetite for more conventional protein sources.

If you’re looking for a great-tasting, clean protein powder that goes beyond basic nutrition and doesn't cause digestive upset or bloating, Jocko Mölk is an excellent choice. Its emphasis on quality, health, and performance makes it stand out in a crowded market.

Bonus: Our Favorite Mint Chocolate Protein Shake Recipe

Servings:

Ingredients:

2 scoops Jocko Mölk Protein Powder, Mint Chocolate flavor

2 cups milk or milk alternative (we love unsweetened almond, cashew, macadamia, or pistachio milk)

2-3 Tablespoons of ChocZero Peppermint Flavoring Syrup or 1 tsp. Watkins Pure Peppermint extract (far superior to any brand other we have tried)

6 ice cubes

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth and ice is fully crushed. Divide between two tall Pilsner glasses and enjoy.

The Best-Tasting, High-Quality Protein Powder That Tastes Terrific by Margaret Schindel

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

A Review of Three Lower Calorie Thanksgiving Recipes

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and if you are like me, you worry that all that luscious food will be taking up residence on your hips after the event. Over the years I have found a few recipes that help reduce this possibility, and are just as delicious as their full calorie counterparts. I even started sneaking them into potluck events around the holidays, and not a single person has ever noticed that the calories have been trimmed.

Substitute one or more of these recipes at your family feast, and see if anyone notices. I can practically guarantee they won't!

Low Sugar Cranberry Relish

Ingredients:

12 ounce cranberries - fresh or frozen cranberries.

1 whole orange with skin If you are not a fan of oranges, they can be changed out with any crispy, tart apple that is cored, peeled and sliced.

1/2 cup almonds, chopped medium. If you aren't partial to almonds, you can use walnuts or if you prefer softer nuts, use pecans.

1/2 cup to 3/4 cups sweetener. I use Splenda, not in packages, but loose.

Instructions:

1. Wash the orange and cut it in half. Peel one half and discard the peel. Peel the other half and put the peel into the food processor or blender. Separate the orange sections and cut each in half and set aside.

2. Turn on the food processor or blender and chop the orange peel as small as you can without pureeing it.

3. Wash and drain the cranberries well. Make sure they are all firm. Put in the food processor or blender.

4. Put the almonds and 1/2 cup sweetener in the food processor or blender.

5. Pulse the food processor or blender until the pieces of the mixture are smallish chunky, and the sweetener is well mixed in.

6. Add the orange pieces and pulse a few more times till the oranges are well mixed in with the other ingredients.

7. Try the relish for sweetness and and add more if needed.

8. This relish should be stored in a covered bowl in the refrigerator for 8 hours before serving.

Green Bean Casserole

Ingredients:

1/3 cup chopped onions

1/3 cup bread crumbs

4 slices turkey bacon

1 can (10 ounce) of 99%fat free cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup plain fat free yogurt

1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (I use Stubbs Hickory Liquid Smoke from Amazon)

3 9 ounce packages of frozen French cut green beans, frozen

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees

2. Lightly spray a cookie sheet with no stick spray

3. In a small bowl, stir together the onions and bread crumbs.

4. Evenly spread the mixture on the cookie sheet and bake about 12 minutes until golden brown.

5. Remove from oven and set aside.

6. Cook the the turkey bacon (I use the original Makin Bacon Microwave Dish to make mine)

7. Chop the bacon and set aside.

8. In a large bowl, stir together the condensed soup, yogurt and liquid smoke.

9. Then stir in the beans and bacon.

10. Lightly spray a glass baking dish (11" x 7" or 9" x 13") with no stick spray.

11. Transfer the bean mixture to the backing dish.

12. Top with the onion mixture to the glass dish.

13. Top with the onion mixture and back for 25 to 30 minutes or until bubbly.

Makes 6 servings, 103 calories per serving.

Pumpkin Pie

If you prefer, you can make your pie shell from scratch. I always use a premade pie shell to save time.

Pumpkin Pie Filling:

15 ounce can of pure pumpkin - Not pumpkin pie filling

12 ounces of fat free evaporated skim milk

2 eggs or 1/2 cup of Egg Beaters

1/2 cup granulated sugar - I substitute Splenda for this

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp powdered ginger

1/4 tsp ground cloves - this is optional, as some don't like the taste

1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees

2. Combine sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and cloves in a small bowl.

3. Beat eggs lightly in a large bowl.

4. Stir in pumpkin and spice mixture.

5. Gradually stir in evaporated skim milk.

6. Pour in to a pre-prepared pie shell.

7. Bake pie in the oven for 15 minutes.

8. Reduce temperature to 350 degrees and bake for 40-50 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Remove from oven and let cool for at least two hours, serve immediately or refrigerate before serving. DO NOT chill before the pie has set, if you do it can begin to weep moisture on the top of the pie. If this happens, blot the top lightly with a paper towel.

Makes 8 servings, about 150 calories each.

I especially love the relish. It is so sweet and crunchy! I always had eaten regular jellied cranberry sauce until about 10 years ago when my sister brought some relish to our Thanksgiving dinner. I tried it and just never looked back. It is YUMMY!!

The pumpkin pie is a recipe that I made myself when my husband developed diabetes and could not have sugar anymore. While I was tweaking the recipe I decided to try to cut some calories too which is why I started using fat free evaporated skim milk. I really cannot taste the difference.

I hope you enjoy these recipes as much as I have and you and yours have a

Happy Thanksgiving!

Photos by Pixabay and eatloveeats

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Monday, November 18, 2024

Reviewing the ChickCozy Automatic Chicken Coop Door - A Year Later

Have you ever used something you bought with hesitation then found yourself a long while later being pleasantly surprised at how much you depend on the item? Surprised at how long it has lasted? I feel like that about my ChickCozy battery operated automatic chicken coop door. Both my chickens and I are happier for it. This automatic door has been durable and has made chicken-chores so much easier.

photo with text and the ChickCozy coop door

The ChickCozy information provided online:

safest automatic door - with a touching safety sensor that stops closing when it senses a barrier
operates with a programmer timer or light sensor
powered by battery or corded outlet
low battery alert when powered by batteries
super easy set-up
auto door settings, current mode, battery level are visible on the screen

I moved to my small home on 4 acres about 3 years ago. I had always wanted a small flock of chickens. So I built my own coop and small chicken run and brought home my first chicks about 2 years ago. As I became better at taking care of chickens, I purchased and installed the ChickCozy automatic coop door.

Even being a brand new chicken owner, I've only lost two chickens in 2 years. One suddenly became ill and passed away. One disappeared; likely snatched by a predator. I try to give my flock a combination of security (coop and fenced run) and freedom with free-ranging when I'm home. It didn't take long to notice that they love to free-range. And it didn't take long the they like to get moving at sunrise and "go to bed" in the coop at dusk. That their internal clocks are set by the movement of the sun became a problem with my schedule.

I go to bed super early and get up for work super early. Through the year, I may be going to bed 2 hours before sunset in the summer. Or I may have already left and arrived at work before the soft glimmer of sunrise in the winter mornings. For this reason alone, the automatic chicken door has been amazing. I only have to call the chicken from free-ranging and into the coop at my bedtime and their door closes after their bedtime. Happy me and happy chickens.

The ChickCozy Automatic Door

The opening for this door may be different than your existing chicken coop door. I was able to build a retro-fit frame suitable for the ChickCozy.

Installation is super easy. If there is an appropriately sized, flat opening, the door attaches easily.

I chose the battery-operated version. I just checked tonight - a year later - and the battery reads at 30%.

Minor Complaints:

My complaints about the door are very minor. If it is muddy, the chicken drag the mud across the bottom of the ChickCozy door. The safety feature that keeps the door from closing on the chickens also responds to muddy, dried debris in the threshold and doesn't close. I just keep something handy to scrape that area if needed.

The keypad that is used to set time isn't intuitive for me. Because I rarely make changes, it is still confusing. But it only takes a few minutes of clicking around to find the screen I want. That's just a small annoyance.

Pros:

The neighbor woman said she no longer keeps chickens because of some small vermin that killed her flocks repeatedly. This door helps to keep that type of small nocturnal predator away from my chickens.

After work, I go to the coop 2 times: to let the chickens out of the fenced run to free-range, then at my bedtime to feed them and to put them back into their run. During most of the year, without the automatic door, I would be out there a 3rd time; to close their coop door at dusk.

My chickens are able to spend an extended period of time in their fenced coop while I'm sleeping or at work. Also, I can go away for a day, two, or three and now the chickens will be safe behind that closed door at night.

Durability:

I fully expected to have to replace batteries frequently. And I did not expect the door to last for a full year. While my chicken run fence has a hooped top with a tarp covering, the door is not fully protected from rain and ice.

The ChickCozy automatic door has been a wonderful investment.

Check the price on Amazon - ChickCozy Automatic Chicken Coop Door

A short video of the original unboxing and a few current comments.

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Sunday, November 17, 2024

Moonfall: An Imaginative Movie About The Moon's Dark Secret

If you're looking for a fun, fictional action movie to get lost in, Moonfall is an ideal choice.

Released in 2022 and available on Prime, this science fiction thriller offers a wildly creative premise: the moon is hollow. Believe it or not, conspiratorial theories support this idea, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the storyline.

The movie takes you on a high-stakes journey with larger-than-life scenarios, impressive visuals, and enough action to keep you glued to the screen.

What the Movie Is About

The plot of Moonfall revolves around an urgent mission to save Earth as the moon spirals out of orbit, threatening to destroy the planet.

A group of unlikely heroes, including a former astronaut, a conspiracy theorist, and a NASA executive, join forces to uncover the truth about the moon's mysterious nature.

Without giving too much away, the movie takes viewers through wild, almost unexpected twists and turns that lead to a futuristic and unpredictable ending. It's an adrenaline-packed ride from start to finish, with surprises that keep you guessing.

The Cast of Moonfall

The talented cast brings this imaginative story to life:

Halle Berry: Jocinda Fowler, a former NASA astronaut turned executive with a crucial role in saving Earth.

Patrick Wilson: Brian Harper, a disgraced astronaut seeking redemption.

John Bradley: K.C. Houseman, the eccentric conspiracy theorist who believes the moon is hollow. (His character is fun and gives you some laughs)

Charlie Plummer: Sonny Harper, Brian Harper's son, adds a realistic family element to the story.

Donald Sutherland: Holdenfield, a retired NASA official who provides critical insights.

Why I Enjoyed This Movie

I've watched Moonfall several times, especially when I'm in the mood for an out-of-this-world action thriller that's not too gory.

The movie's ability to transport me into a fictional scenario makes it a perfect escape from real-world topics.

While there were a couple of seat-jumping moments, I found them manageable, and they added to the excitement. The imaginative storyline makes Moonfall one of my go-to movies for pure entertainment.

If you're looking for an action-packed sci-fi mystery movie to escape the daily grind of life, I highly recommend this one.

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Reviews of the First Three Books in the Sid Halley Series

Dick Francis was a well-known British steeple-chase jockey who, after retiring from one profession, became an internationally known author of horse-racing mysteries.

Dick Francis wrote more than 40 novels, which were mainly stand-alone stories with a single central character. The main characters in each book were not repeated in other books. There was one exception due to one character becoming so popular that Francis’ readers asked for more. Thus, the author began the Sid Halley series.

Character Sid Halley was a steeplechase jockey until an injury left him with a crippled hand. He subsequently became a one-handed private investigator after discovering he had a natural affinity for the work. His specialty, due to his considerable knowledge of the horse racing industry, becomes centered around crimes related to racing. Dick Francis featured him in three novels.

Review of the First Three Novels Featuring Sid Halley

Odds Against (1965)

Former jockey Sid Halley landed a position with a detective agency following a career-ending injury. While setting a trap to catch a penny-ante thug, Sid lets down his guard and ends up getting shot.

While recovering from his bullet wound at the home of his former father-in-law, Charles, he is intrigued to learn that some invited weekend guests are planning a takeover of a famous race course with the intent of selling the land for housing and making a bundle. Charles wants Sid to prevent this from happening, but these criminals are experts and have gotten away with similar situations in the past.

Halley goes up against them, and finds the odds are against him succeeding, or even surviving.

Whip Hand (1979)

Sid Halley, ex-jockey turned detective, returns in the second book in the Sid Halley series. Sid lost his left hand due to an earlier racing accident and subsequent beating by thugs. Now he is spending his time working as an investigator, specializing in racing crimes, helped by fellow detective Chico Barnes.

Sid & Chico suddenly find themselves in the middle of investigating three different horse racing problems at the same time.

First, a trainer’s wife wants them to look into problems in her husband’s racing stables involving horses whose 2-year-old form are failing as 3-year-olds.

Then, Charles, Sid’s ex-father-in-law, asks Sid to find a man who has conned Sid’s ex-wife Jenny and left her in police trouble over a fake charity.

Finally, Sid & Chico are approached by both a racehorse owner and Lucas Wainwright, head of the Jockey Club’s security service, to look into certain syndicates which should not have gotten through the checking process.

A fascinating Dick Francis thriller.

Come to Grief (1995)

Sid Halley returns in book #3 in the series.

Still continuing to work as a private investigator, Sid goes to help solve the problem of who could have maimed a pony belonging to a little girl suffering from leukemia. While investigating, Sid discovers that there have been several shocking violent acts against horses left unattended overnight in fields.

Sid eventually becomes convinced that the perpetrator is one of racing’s most beloved figures - and a personal close friend. The case thus becomes the most troubling of his career.

Summary

These first three books in the Sid Halley series set the stage for a continuation of the series by Dick Francis’ son Felix. The rest of the series will be found in another review coming soon.

Odds Against

Whip Hand

Come to Grief (Sid Halley series Book 3)

*The Sid Halley series of book reviews is written by Wednesday Elf

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Friday, November 15, 2024

Lightweight Warm Fleece Wrap Shawl Reviewed

I have several wraps and blankets that have been given to me over the years because everyone in our family knows how I tend to stay cold. I was surprised when my daughter sent me another blanket wrap for my birthday this year, but as the weather has turned cold, it has quickly become my favorite.

This wrap shawl is so lightweight that I can walk around with it around my shoulders without feeling weighted down by a heavy blanket, but it is still very warm. It is the softest wrap I have ever owned. It has buttons if I wish to button it closed, which is a huge positive and something unique to this specific shawl.

It also has two large pockets which is really awesome! I frequently drop my cell phone in my pocket so I can keep it with me.

The shawl is on single flat piece that will stretch across the back of a couch like a throw blanket. I especially like this feature because I don't need to hang this shawl in a closet for storage.

The Fleece Wrap Shawl with Buttons & Pockets

EzrAllora Fleece Wearable Blanket -No Sleeves- Lightweight Warm Wrap Shawl -Shawl Wrap Blanket -Lap Blanket - Gifts for Grandma - Mothers Day Gifts (Silver Grey)

Fleece Wearable Blanket - Lightweight Warm Wrap Shawl

There are several attributes of this wrap shawl that I love. Because it can lay flat, as shown in my picture above, it doubles as a lap blanket. It is long enough that I can wrap it around my shoulders, cover my chest and the top of my legs when sitting down.

Since it is a flat piece and not a jacket with sleeves, it can be folded flat and smooth for storage during the summer months if desired.

As I mentioned in the introduction, I especially like being able to button it if I want to walk to the mailbox or open the front door to visitors. That coverage keeps me warm without having to put on a coat.

The pockets provide warmth for my hands as well as a place to carry my cell phone.

Machine Wash and Tumble Dry Low - Additional colors are available

________________

For More Ways to Keep Warm & Cozy, be sure to visit Raintree Annie's article: Gifts to Keep Loved Ones Warm in the Winter

Thursday, November 14, 2024

Booty in the Backseat- Book Review

I really enjoy Cozy Mysteries and Karen Whalen writes some that are a lot of fun. The latest in her "Tow Truck Mystery" series is Booty in the Backseat. Karen has another winner in this book with the delightful Delaney and her friends.

Book Summary

Booty in the Backseat is the 6th in Karen Whalen's "Tow Truck Mystery" Series. It again features Delaney the "high-heeled tow truck driver" and her cast of fun-loving friends.

As in the other books, Delaney stumbles across something during her working hours and ends up getting involved in trying to solve the mystery. In this book, while towing a car away from a no parking zone, Delaney comes across a bag of money in the back seat of the car. In addition, when looking in the bag she finds a severed hand. Where did the hand come from? Why is there a large amount of money left in the car? Was someone murdered? These are just some of the questions Delaney feels obligated to answer. After all it was a car she was towing that contained the evidence.

In her quest to find answers she finds herself meeting with gang members, spying on possible suspects and not being entirely upfront with her "boyfriend" the sheriff.

I know you will enjoy this cozy mystery. It is available on Amazon at the following link. Booty in the Backseat

Author Interview

Karen Whalen very graciously agreed to do an author's interview with me. Here are my questions and her answers.

1. Tell us a bit about your background.

I worked as a paralegal for 30 years, but always had a love of writing. I wrote for paralegal magazines for a long time, including a regular column for The National Paralegal Reporter magazine.

2. What made you decide to write novels and why did you choose the mystery genre?

Writing a novel has been one of my goals for as long as I can remember. I love to read cozy mysteries. Joanne Fluke and M.C. Beaton are two of my favorites. An idea came to me to center a mystery around a dinner club, so I got up at five each morning and wrote for two hours before leaving for work. I wrote on weekends. Evenings have never been a high-energy time for me, so I didn’t write at night. I wrote Everything Bundt the Truth in about six months. That was my first published novel and it came out in 2016.

3. I love the way you make your characters come to life and Delaney in particular is delightful. What is your secret?

I’m glad you like Delaney. I like her, too. The law firm where I worked represented tow truck companies. These car haulers are an under-appreciated, crazy breed, with interesting stories to tell and characters bigger than life. People I will never forget. That all of the tow truck drivers I met were men made me wonder…women in the industry would need to be tough to compete in a man’s world. But what if a woman owned her own towing business? What if the woman was young and inexperienced? What if she wore high heels to set herself apart from the all-male car haulers in town? Oooh, sounds fun, amiright? Delaney is a female version of those characters, but she comes up with her own stories.

4. Do you know the outcome of your book when you start writing or do you create the story as you go?

A little bit of both. I do love plotting, and I come up with thirty scenes as recommended by the books on the craft. But in between those scenes, I let the pantser in me take over—that means writing by the seat of your pants.

5. What would you like your readers to come away with from Booty in the Backseat?

The tow truck business dropped into Delaney’s lap (and dead bodies have a way of turning up, too) and she encounters many oppositions, from learning the business to customers who prefer a male tow truck driver. But she makes a proactive decision to master the process, overcome the prejudice, and become the best high-heeled tow truck driver around. The tow truck business may have been a twist of fate, but she’s in charge of her own path now.

More Reviews of Karen Whalen Books

Here are some other reviews I have done of Karen Whalen books. The first three are the tow truck series and the fourth is a separate book by the author.