Saturday, January 18, 2025

Reviewing Two Similar Rummy-Style Card Games

Image of playing cards



Several years ago I learned a new card game called Three-Thirteen (3/13). It is played with a regular deck of cards. The rules are simple and the game is very enjoyable played with two or more players. 



The other rummy type card game I just began playing is called Five Crowns.






Three-Thirteen Basic Rules


3s in each suit in a deck of playing cards
Image Source: Pixabay

As each round is played, each player tries to combine all the cards in their hand into one or more sets (as either 3 or more of a kind, or as a run, or a combination of both). When a player’s hand is complete, they lay down their hand and all other players get one more turn to try and improve their own hand to reduce their score.

Play begins with a three-card hand and the number of cards increases by one for each subsequent hand from 3 to 13 (kings). Designated wild cards can be used for any card when saving runs and sets. The wild cards change with each round with the jokers always being wild and each round having as its wild card the card that equals the number of cards dealt for that round (i.e., with 3 cards, 3s are wild, with 4 cards, 4s are wild, etc.)

At the end of the final round (Kings), the winner is the player with the fewest number of points. There are several variations of Three-Thirteen, as seen here in the Wikipedia article


Since learning to play 3/13, I have taught it to everyone in my family. So anytime I get together with siblings, children, or grandchildren, this has been our card game of choice.


Recently, I joined a card group at my apartment complex. They get together once a month to play cards and then share a meal. My first time I planned to play whatever the group had decided on, but also hoped to eventually teach them my favorite card game ~ Three-Thirteen. When I arrived for my first visit to the group, I discovered their preferred game was Five Crowns. Turns out that the rules are basically the same as my beloved game of 3/13. What fun! I learned a new game with new friends and still get to play my favorite rummy card game!


Five Crowns Basic Rules


Five Crowns differs from playing with simply a regular deck of cards (or two decks if you have more than 3 people) in that there are five suits (your regular hearts, spades, clubs & diamonds, plus a STAR suit. 

The game consists of two 58-card decks (116 cards in all) containing the five suits, each consisting of eleven cards from the 3s to the kings. There are also six Jokers in this game, used as wild cards in each round. 

As with the game of Three-Thirteen, Five Crowns is won by the person with the lowest score at the end of play.


Summary


Whether you play Three-Thirteen or Five Crowns, these rummy-style games are quick, easy and a great deal of fun to play. If you enjoy playing cards, you will find these two games extremely pleasurable. 


Links to Related Reviews of Playing Card Games & Playing Card Holidays:



*A Review of Two Similar Rummy-Style Card Games was written 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.”


Friday, January 17, 2025

MyPillow Flannel Sheets Reviewed

flannel sheets
For our anniversary, my husband & I purchased new MyPillow flannel sheets.  I knew I would like the plaid colors and I expected quality sheets.  We have several other sets of MyPillow sheets as well as the MyPillow pillows and mattress topper.  All of which I have previously reviewed and recommended.  However, I did not expect to love these sheets as much as I do.  

When we first received them, I washed them in hot water before I put them on our bed.  Like all flannel sheets, they are soft and comfortable.  Plus, they are very warm.  The deep pockets allow them to easily fit over the combination of mattress and mattress topper that we have on our bed.

Because we both prefer these MyPillow flannel sheets to any other sheets, we gave a set to my parents for Christmas.  They have both told us several times how much they love the sheets too.  Since the sheet set is literally heavier than most bed sheets, I was very concerned that these flannel sheets would be to heavy for my "little" mother, but she tells me almost daily how much she really appreciates the warmth they provide.  However, she does have my dad carry the set back to the bed each time they are washed.  That certainly seems like the optimum solution for them.

We have had several brands of flannel sheets over the years.  The MyPillow flannel sheets are sturdier than standard flannel sheets.

 

The MyPillow Flannel Sheets

flannel sheets
MyPillow Flannel Sheets - Navy Plaid
Currently, the MyPillow flannel sheets are only available on the MyPillow website.  To get the best price, you will need a promo code.  At the time of publishing this review, the most recent promo code is FS13.  If that code does not work for you, get a current code by clicking here to visit MyPillow | Promo Codes.

  • 100% Cotton
  • Warm
  • Soft
  • Deep Pockets (fits over my mattress & topper together)
  • Cold Wash Recommended* 
  • Available in a variety of colors and sizes

For a good night's sleep during the winter months, I highly recommend MyPillow flannel sheets. 

 

*As noted, cold wash is recommended, but I always wash my sheets in hot water.  Thus far, the MyPillow flannel sheets have fared well through the hot water wash.

 


If you would like to read my review of the MyPillow pillows which I mentioned earlier, you can find it by clicking here

 
You may also enjoy reading my review of the MyPillow mattress topper by clicking here.




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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.”


Thursday, January 16, 2025

Preferred Water Bowl for Cats, Review

Our preferred water bowl for our cat is a human grade dessert bowl made for humans.

bowl


We had tried water fountains before with other cats that we had, to encourage them to drink more water. Actually, we didn't see a big difference and there was the additional upkeep of the fountain and filters, etc. So we switched to metal pet bowls. They seemed to last a long time.

When our cat Tori came into our lives, I bought her a new metal bowl of the same brand that we had purchased before. It didn't seem to last long at all. As before, I rinsed it each day and put in fresh water. After a month or so there was a roughness that I noticed when I rinsed the bowl out. I thought perhaps it was a fluke, and bought another one. Same thing happened. I purchased a different style metal bowl that was a different brand. Again, the same thing happened.

These were decent bowls, I had thought. They had a good weight to them and were coated on the bottom to prevent sliding. And I didn't have that issue before.

I decided to move up to human grade bowls and kept my eye out for one that would be a good size for our cat. I found an 11-ounce dessert bowl by Corelle. It was a great height for our cat and held a decent amount of water. This bowl is thicker than the cereal bowls in this style.

It worked! I do the same routine, and the insides of the bowl have remained smooth for months and months. And our cat even drinks more water now than she did before. The bowl doesn't have the rubber grip stuff under it, but I can live with that. A cloth mat under the bowl suffices. It is now our favorite bowl for our cat's water.

These bowls are available on Amazon as a set. Amazon wouldn't allow linking to the specific bowl, but did allow me to link to the page it is on. It is the 11-ounce size and is sold as a dessert bowl.

bowl


Corelle bowls on Amazon


I bought mine as an individual bowl from Walmart.

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.”


Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Get Brighter, Smoother Skin With These Fabulous New Facial Masks

As I have shared previously, I was blessed with good skin and didn't pay much attention to skincare until several years ago, when the sun damage incurred in my youth (before I got in the habit of using sunscreen 365 days a year) suddenly started aging my appearance rapidly. Now, at age 70, my skin looks considerably better than it did at age 65 or 66, thanks to following a good skincare routine and using effective products consistently to turn back the clock. 

A few months ago I wrote a review of a new-to-me skincare discovery, the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel facial masks, The Best Affordable Carboxytherapy Mask For Glowing, Youthful Skin. Since then, I have tried the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Bright Plus masks with vitamin C for added brightening and the newest addition to the line, the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus masks with pink kaolin clay to minimize the appearance of pores. The Osmanthus masks are a limited edition, but they are so good that I am hoping they will become a permanent part of the line. These are the version I am reviewing today.

Note: I fell in love with these products as soon as I tried them and applied to become an affiliate partner at Shikō Beauty Collective, the US distributor, because I believe in them so much. The product links in this review are affiliate links.

Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus Facial Mask
Each box of Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus masks comes with everything you need to do 5 at-home facial mask sessions: 5 packets of gel, 5 packets of powder, a mixing cup, and a spatula.

What Are Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus Masks?

Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus Facial masks are a luxurious and scientifically advanced at-home facial treatment designed to deliver professional spa-like results at home and give you glowing, hydrated, and rejuvenated skin. This innovative mask combines cutting-edge Japanese skincare technology with natural botanical ingredients to visibly transform your skin's appearance after just one application. The improvements compound with repeated use.

This version of the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks contains osmanthus flower extract (hence the name) and pink kaolin clay to clear and tighten the appearance of pores for a smoother complexion.

Product Highlights

Oxygen-Infusion Technology

At the heart of this mask is Dr. Medion's patented Spaoxy Gel technology, which infuses oxygen into the skin during the treatment process and provides deep hydration. Oxygen is a vital element for skin rejuvenation, helping to boost cell turnover and improve skin’s overall texture and radiance. This oxygenation promotes cellular regeneration, enhances circulation, and boosts skin vitality, leaving your complexion plumper and more radiant.

Osmanthus Flower Extract

Osmanthus, a rare and precious flower, is known for its soothing and antioxidant properties. Rich in polyphenols and essential nutrients, osmanthus extract helps calm and soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, neutralize free radicals, and fight the effects of environmental stressors, leaving your complexion calm, smooth, and glowing. Its gentle fragrance also enhances the overall sensory experience of using this mask.

Deep Hydration and Brightening

Formulated to tackle multiple skin concerns, the mask delivers intense hydration to restore moisture balance, smooth out dry patches, and improve elasticity. It also brightens dull complexions and helps to refine pores and promote a firmer, lifted appearance, making it an ideal solution for those with uneven skin tone, signs of fatigue, or early aging. Regular use can enhance skin elasticity and radiance.

Two-Step Activation Process

This two-step mask involves mixing the gel and powder components to create a custom, effervescent mask that activates oxygen bubbles on contact with the skin. As the formula activates, it delivers a refreshing and cooling sensation, signaling its active oxygenating effects.

Non-Irritating Formula

Dermatologically tested and free from harsh chemicals, the mask is gentle enough for sensitive skin. It is free from parabens, synthetic dyes, and artificial fragrances, ensuring a clean and skin-friendly formula.

How to Use These Spaoxy Gel Masks

Using the mask is straightforward and relaxing:

  1. Preparation: Begin by thoroughly cleansing your face and patting it dry. This ensures that your skin is free from impurities and ready to absorb the mask’s benefits.
  2. Mixing: Squeeze one packet of the gel into the container that comes in the box and pour one packet of the powder over it. Use the provided spatula to mix until the mixture turns into a smooth, thick, foamy consistency.
  3. Application: Using the spatula, spread the mixture evenly over your face. If desired, you can also apply the mask to the eyelids and undereye area (being careful to avoid getting it in your eyes), over the lips, and on the neck and décolleté to lift, firm, and plump those areas as well. (You can see me apply the mask to all these areas in the video demo below.) Alternatively, you can apply any excess mask to the backs of your hands.
  4. Treatment: Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes. During this time, you’ll feel a cooling, soothing sensation as the oxygenating gel gets to work.
  5. Removal: Gently remove the bulk off the mask with the spatula, then rinse with lukewarm water to reveal the brighter, smoother skin underneath.
The preparation and application of the mask feels indulgent, like a mini at-home spa ritual. Once applied, the mask's cooling sensation is incredibly soothing, making it ideal for a self-care moment after a long day. The gel spreads easily and stays in place without dripping, making it convenient for relaxing during the treatment.

After about 15-20 minutes, the mask leaves your skin feeling noticeably softer, smoother, and refreshed. There’s an immediate plumping effect that makes fine lines appear less prominent, and the brightening properties give you a radiant, youthful glow.

I recorded a video of myself using the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus masks for the first time a week or two ago. Unfortunately, I'm recovering from a bad case of bronchitis, so I wasn't looking or feeling my best in the video. Even so, you'll be able to see the difference in my skin's appearance after applying and removing this impressive facial mask treatment! In case you can't see the video below, here's the link to my Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus mask demo video.


Key Benefits

  • Immediate Results: After just one use, skin feels deeply hydrated, refreshed, and visibly brighter. Fine lines appear softened, and the overall texture is smoother.
  • Long-Term Benefits: With regular use, the mask helps improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of pores, and protect against oxidative damage, contributing to a youthful, healthy complexion.
  • Spa-Like Experience: The sensory experience of using this mask—from the light floral scent of osmanthus to the cooling sensation on your skin—adds an element of relaxation and self-care to your skincare routine.

Who Would Benefit Most From These Facial Masks?

The Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus Mask is perfect for anyone looking to:

  • Combat dullness and uneven skin tone.
  • Minimize the appearance of fine lines and pores.
  • Pamper their skin with a luxurious, spa-like treatment.
  • Rejuvenate tired, stressed, or dehydrated skin.

While suitable for all skin types, those with sensitive skin will particularly appreciate the gentle, calming properties of osmanthus extract.

This mask is suitable for a wide range of skin types, but it is especially beneficial for:

  • Dry or Dehydrated Skin: Provides long-lasting moisture and plumping effects.
  • Mature Skin: Softens fine lines, improves elasticity, and boosts radiance.
  • Dull or Tired Skin: Brightens the complexion and restores a healthy glow.
  • Sensitive Skin: The gentle, non-irritating formula calms and soothes, making it ideal for those prone to redness or irritation.

What Makes These Masks Different

Like all the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks, the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus mask elevates at-home skincare with its professional-grade results, natural ingredients, and relaxing application process. Unlike traditional sheet masks or creams, the oxygen-infusing formula delivers instant visible improvements while working beneath the surface to repair and protect your skin over time.

Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks are more than just a skincare product, they're also a relaxing self-care experience. From their innovative two-step activation to its luxurious results, these masks offer everything you’d expect from a high-end spa treatment, but in the comfort of your home. Whether you’re preparing for a big event or indulging in weekly self-care, these Spaoxy Gel masks consistently deliver impressive results.

You can use order any of the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks and use my exclusive discount code MARGARET15 to get 15% off your purchase of Japanese skincare products at Shikō Beauty Collective!

These luxurious, effective facial masks would also make a wonderful gift for someone who loves skincare or for anyone who could use a bit of pampering and self-care.


Get Brighter, Smoother Skin With These Fabulous New Facial Masks by Margaret Schindel

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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.”


Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Hoover Smart Wash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner - Reviewed

 Keeping your carpet clean can be challenging, especially in high-traffic areas. We like to have our carpet cleaned every year before the holidays. Fran called the carpet cleaner we used several times and left a message to make an appointment.

 After several days of not receiving a callback, she tried another local carpet cleaner. Once again we didn't receive a callback from the second carpet cleaner either.

So, we decided to buy our own carpet cleaner. Fran researched and decided on the Hoover Smart Wash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner.

Hoover Carpet Cleaner

After receiving our new carpet cleaner, it was a matter of finding the time to clean it. One day, before the Thanksgiving holiday, we got almost two feet of snow. You're probably wondering what snow has to do with cleaning our carpet. Well, my car was plowed in, and I couldn't get out of the driveway to go to work that morning. So, I decided to stay home and clean the carpet with our new carpet cleaner.

After opening the box I found the assembly to be very easy. I filled one tank with warm water and the other tank with the cleaning solution as instructed.

Cleaning the carpet was as easy as vacuuming. The Smart Wash+ is equipped with motion-sensing technology. Push forward, and it automatically dispenses the cleaning solution. When you pull it back it activates a powerful drying process. No triggers or buttons - it's as intuitive as it gets.

When you advance the brushes activate penetrating deep into the carpet to remove embedded dirt. The drying has HeatForce technology, and the Smart Wash+ dries carpets faster letting you walk on them in just a few hours instead of waiting all day.

I cleaned our living room carpet, and hallway in a couple of hours. Clean-up was easy, the removable brushes and nozzle ensure hassle-free cleaning.

I love one other feature: there is a button on the tank for Dry Only. When you push it, the brushes and cleaner stop, and the tank will dry going forward and backward.

The Smart Wash+ also comes with accessory tools to clean your stairs and upholstery. All of these accessories are in a handy bag, that easily hangs in a closet.

Our Smart Wash+ was reasonably priced, and I'm sure it will pay for itself very quickly. If you are looking for a professional-level clean carpet without the professional price tag I recommend the Hoover Smat Wash+. We are very pleased with the results.

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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.”


Monday, January 13, 2025

Review Post Holiday Bark Recipe

Leftover Holiday Candy? Repurpose leftover holiday candy and nuts into yummy candy Bark with ease. So easy for any holiday or party any time of the year! Christmas, Halloween and Easter Holidays definitely produce a variety of candy (or sales to stock up!)



How To Make Holiday Candy Bark

Materials

Baking sheet

Parchment Paper

Glass bowl

Ingredients

Leftover Candy

Chocolate or White Chocolate melted, 1 bag of chips or 1-2 Bag of melts

Sprinkles optional.

How To Make

Prepare all the candy, nuts, decorations. Unwrap candy, chop nuts, chop candy if needed. 

Prepare the baking sheet with parchment paper. 

Melt the chips or melts in the microwave in a glass bowl or the bowl of your choice which is microwaveable. 

Microwave on high 1 minute and check. Use 30 second increments after the first minute. After each 30 sec check the chocolate and stir. Check if the chocolate is melted to a spreadable consistency.

With a spatula spread the chocolate mixture over the parchment paper. Thickness should be enough to cover the paper, about 1/4 inch thick.

Add the chopped or whole candy, nuts and sprinkles if desired. Randomly sprinkle over the chocolate mixture.

Freeze or put in refrigerator to set.

Break apart into triangles pieces. Store covered and can store in refrigerator if in danger of melting. 

Which Candy, Nuts, Raisins Work Well

There can be trial and error with choosing the best leftover candy. Chopping the candy into bite size pieces is helpful. Raisins, coconut and nuts can usually be used from the package. 

Leftover candy canes work well but should be chopped. 

Leftover Easter Bunnies work well but should be cut up into smaller pieces.

Chocolate can be testy when melted and each type of chocolate has its' own correct temp to melt. I have found using the microwave on high for 1 minute, check and stir, then in 30 second increments does work well.







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.”


Sunday, January 12, 2025

How To Create a Collage Directly on Pinterest

Review of How To Create a Collage Directly on Pinterest

I just started using this addictive Pinterest feature: collages. It was launched on the Pinterest mobile app in 2024—based on my search, that's the approximate time frame.

Pinterest has long been a favorite platform for discovering inspiration, sharing ideas, curating visual collections, promotion and marketing. 

Now, there's an exciting feature that allows users to create collages directly within the Pinterest Mobile App. 

This tool makes it easier than ever to bring your favorite saved Pins together into one visually appealing layout, perfect for planning projects or sharing a cohesive aesthetic with your followers.

I like creating collages from almost anywhere while on my phone's Pinterest App. If I'm resting in my room, I head over to Pinterest instead of mindlessly scrolling and have some design fun!

Best of all, if you have a variety of Pinterest boards, you can create collages on those multiple topics. 

Although my Pinterest account is Funkthishouse, I have featured many other topic boards and made a few collages on topics other than home decor.

How to Create a Pinterest Collage

Follow these simple steps to create a Pinterest collage from your mobile app. Keep in mind that, at the time of writing, this feature is only available on the Pinterest mobile app:

  1. Open the Pinterest app and navigate to one of your existing boards.

  2. Select the Pin with the photo you want to feature on your Collage. Select the three dots on the Pin. Options, including "Add to Collage," appear. Select the add to collage button. The first photo automatically goes to a collage. (Note: you won't see the Collage at that point).

  3. Arrow Back on the Top Left to return to your boards and select another pin photo to add to your Collage. Repeat the process. This time, you'll see the collage Pin that was automatically created by the first Pin—add the photo to it by clicking that new collage pin. Don't worry; this collage creation isn't published until you hit publish when you're done.

  4. When all your photos are selected for the college, tap the "Your Collages" section under your "Saved" tab on your main page. Then click the new collage creation and start working on it.

  5. Move the photos around by dragging and dropping them to fit your desired layout.

  6. Add text by using the built-in text tool to label or describe your Collage. I also add a call to action in my collages; you'll see the call to action I use in the Collage I featured below. I change it up depending on what I'm creating.

  7. Change the background to match the vibe or theme of your Collage. Pinterest offers various background options, from plain colors to patterned designs.

  8. Experiment with quirky features like stickers, frames, or filters. Plenty of customization options exist, but don't feel pressured to try them all at once—information overload can be real!

  9. There's a spot to include a website URL on that Collage. However, I can only add that once the Collage is created. I go back in to add it by using the edit feature.

  10. For Collages related to affiliate links, I included a short #afflinks in the description as a disclosure. I also indicate a short clause on how I may earn commissions in my main profile description.

Once you're satisfied with the look of your Collage, save it, and it'll be ready to share with your followers by adding it to one of your boards, embedding it, or sharing it on social media.

The Best Part! - Each photo in the collage links back to the original Pin! When a photo is clicked, the word "Visit" and "Save" comes up, so a person can go directly to where that featured collage photo is by choosing visit, or save it to one of their boards.

Note: Adding photos from other people's pins to your Collage will also link back to their original Pin! This is excellent promotional support for your followers or friends. Also, if you add stickers and designs that are available in the design section, they link back to that item's original creator's Pin.

**If you need to edit your collage, you need to do it from your mobile Pinterest app, not the desktop version - at least that's how it's working for me right now.

Key SEO Points to Remember When Creating a Collage

Creating a great collage isn't just about making it look good—it's also important to keep SEO in mind. Here are a few key tips:

  • Use SEO-optimized titles: Your Collage's title should include relevant keywords that describe its theme or content. Choose keywords and designs based on what people actually search for. You can do a Google search or search Pinterest to check for the common phrases used for the type of Collage you create.

  • Remember to add your Collage to one of your Pinterest boards: The default board option is "Profile," so be sure to change that (unless you want it there, of course).

  • Write detailed descriptions: Include keywords naturally in the description to help your Collage get discovered by others. Mention what the Collage is about and why it's helpful or inspiring.

  • Add alternate text: When you upload your Collage, be sure to add alternate text (alt text). This not only improves accessibility but also helps with SEO.

  • Focus on quality over quantity: It can be tempting to create lots of collages quickly, but quality matters more. A thoughtfully designed collage with a clear theme will engage viewers better than multiple rushed ones.

By following these steps and keeping SEO in mind, you'll be able to create eye-catching, share-worthy collages that look great and help you grow your audience on Pinterest.

Here is one of the Decor collages I recently created: 



If you want to see my various collages, I created a board featuring each Collage I've made to date. You can view it here. It will give you a better sense of the different creations you can make.

YouTube also features several helpful tutorials on creating Pinterest Collages, so don't hesitate to check some of them out—that's what I did to get started!

In summary, what I like the best about Pinterest Collages is that you can create your collages in one place, directly on Pinterest itself! There is no need to use a third-party program (although I still do that if needed for other purposes).

I'm still learning to make better collages and use and understand the features little by little. So much fun!

If you find this too convoluted, you can also read the instructions from Pinterest Help.





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.”


Saturday, January 11, 2025

Flashpoint - An FBI Thriller by Catherine Coulter

Agents Savich & Sherlock return in a new novel in Coulter’s bestselling FBI Thriller series.


Image of a sunburst

Synopsis of Flashpoint


A year ago, Elizabeth Palmer was almost killed, along with hundreds more, in what police thought was an attempted terrorist bombing of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London. 

Today, Elizabeth feels her life is finally getting back to normal. She’s optimistic and her painting is going well. Suddenly, her world changes in a flash with three new attempts on her life. Because of her connection to the terrorist attack, MI-5 gets involved to find out who is trying to kill her ~ and why.



Meanwhile.....


At the same time, back in the U.S., twelve-year-old Autumn takes on a summer job to watch over Tash Navarro, a shy, bullied little boy who is staying with his uncle while his father and stepmother go on a honeymoon in Europe. 

While teaching Tash to hike, Autumn learns that Tash is psychically gifted just like her. They learn that Archer Navarro (Tash’s father) is suspected of embezzling from his own firm and he is being sought by both the FBI and Interpol. When Archer and his new wife disappear, Tash is scared and becomes convinced that his father needs help.  

Autumn wants to  help Tash, so she reaches out to the only person she knows who can help find them - Dillon Savich of the FBI, who also shares the psychic gift Autum and Tash have.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth, desperate for answers to who wants her dead, flies to D.C. to get help from Savich and Sherlock.  Special Agent Rome Roxe is assigned to protect her in a race for survival from deadly assailants. 


Summary


Flashpoint is an action-packed, nonstop thriller from Catherine Coulter. It is #27 of 27 in her FBI Thriller series starring Dillion Savich and his FBI partner and wife, Sherlock. More than one mystery needs to be solved before this story is done. Fast-paced and an enjoyable read. 



*Review of the book “Flashpoint” by Catherine Coulter was written 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.”


Friday, January 10, 2025

John Wick (2014) - Movie Review

It will surprise a lot of our readers and my fellow contributors to read that I enjoyed and would recommend the movie, John Wick.  I do love a great mystery or suspense movie, but not normally violent movies.  This will be the exception!

My husband and I were looking for a movie we could watch together last night and I came across "John Wick".  We are both Keanu Reeves fans.  Clearly, he is an extremely talented actor that excels in multiple genres.  He is also musically talented (see video below).  It would seem this multi-talented entertainer was destined to stardom, but I doubt it was that simple. 

When watching the movie, "John Wick", it is easy to believe Keanu Reeves is Wick in reality.  The character of a vigilante would almost fit with the charitable real-life man who founded a private cancer foundation with a vengence against cancer.   

John Wick is rated R due to violence, foul language and drug use.  Remember, I started by saying you would be surprised that I watched, reviewed and recommended this movie.

I look forward to watching the rest of the John Wick series of movies.  I plan to watch John Wick, chapter 2 tonight for a second round of acceptable violence. 

 

John Wick - Movie Synopsis

 John Wick on Prime VideoCheck Price

Retired hitman, John Wick, is literally drug out of his life of retirement and back into the violent world of his past when the son of a known crime lord, Viggo Tarasov, attacks him in his own home.

It isn't enough for the young fool to steal Wick's coveted 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429.  No, Iosef Tarasov has to make a statement.  No one refuses to give him what he wants and get away with it!  

Iosef and friends enter Wick's home, beat him and kill his dog, which was the last gift from his recently deceased wife.  This attack will not go unanswered.  Even Viggo Tarasov, who describes Wick as the "one you sent to kill the Boogeyman", knows his son is now in grave danger.  

Hoping to save his son's life, Viggo puts out a contract on Wick.  It is interesting to see which "friends" from Wick's past are willing to seek the reward and which one's have his back.

 

Warning - Even the trailer is violent

 John Wick [Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD]Check Price John Wick 1-4 Movie Collection - Chapters 1, 2, 3 and 4 DVD SetCheck Price John Wick 4K Ultra Hd [Blu-ray] [4K UHD]Check Price

 



Stepping away from the violence, here is the music video of Keanu Reeves with "Dogstar"

 


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Thursday, January 9, 2025

Reviewing Food Warming Tray

 

Warming Mat with Dish
Food Warming Tray
For Christmas this year, I received a new food warming tray.  This warmer is so very practical.  It is easy to use, easy to clean, and takes up very little storage space.  As you can see the tray fits nearly flat on the counter so it takes up very little extra space.  

Easy to Use

The warming dish features rapid warming at temperatures anywhere from 122 degrees F to 212 degrees F.  The temperatures are in 6 different stages.  There is also a timing device that allows you to set an hourly timer anywhere from 1-6 hours.

To use the tray, you place it on the counter, put the plug into the side of the tray and into an outlet.  You then hit the power key on the tray and adjust the temperature and the timer to your desired settings.   

The tray is big enough to put multiple dishes on it at once, so you can keep all of your hot dishes hot.


Easy to Store

Warming Tray and Storage Bag


One of the great features of this tray is how easy it is to store.  Because it is silicone you can easily roll it up and attach the band that comes with it to hold it in place.  You then just slip it into the bag that comes with the tray and pull the bag shut.  It can stand or lay in very little space in a corner of your cabinet or pantry.

Easy to Clean

The tray is very easy to clean.  You just take a soft wet cloth and wipe the surface of the product and store it once it is dry.  If there is oil on the product then you would wipe it with a mild detergent and a soft cloth until there is no residue let.  You should never rinse the product or immerse it in water.

Order from Amazon

The warming tray can be ordered on Amazon at the following link. Food Warming Tray    On Amazon you will find many similar products so you can pick one with the features that work best for you.

warming tray

In this photo I am keeping a dish of cranberry chutney warm to go with the meal.  At Christmas we had three different dishes on the tray at once.  Keeping the food warm and safe for our buffet.






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