Wednesday, December 4, 2024

The Best Cotton-Rich, Athlete-Approved, Comfortable Padded Sport Socks

I'm certainly no athlete, but I do enjoy walking with my husband. Unfortunately, as I've gotten older, walking has become a bit harder on my feet. I have purchased padded socks in the past, but they were too thick to fit comfortably inside my sneakers. My feet are inherently quite wide and I need all the room I can get.

Fortunately, the CS CELERSPORT 6 Pairs Ankle Athletic Running Socks Low Cut Sports Tab Socks for Men and Women I purchased a few months ago on Amazon have nicely cushioned soles without being so thick that they take up unnecessary room inside my sneakers or walking shoes. I also love that they have arch support. Here's my detailed product review.

The Best Comfortable Sport Socks for Walking, Running, Etc.

My friend who enjoys daily hikes for exercise and has three athletic sons highly recommended the CS CELERSPORT Ankle Athletic Running Socks to me for my walks. Her sons, who play lots of sports, love them, and so does she for her daily hikes. With their enthusiastic stamp of approval, I decided to take her excellent recommendation to order a set of 6 pairs. I'm so glad I did!

CS CelerSport 6 Pairs of Low-Cut Ankle Athletic Running Socks for Men and Women

These cushioned socks are designed for active men and women seeking comfort, durability, and performance during various activities such as running, gym workouts, hiking, and casual wear. These low-cut socks feature a tab design to prevent slipping, a cushioned sole for shock absorption, and moisture-wicking materials to keep your feet dry.

Key Features

Comfortable Fabric Blend

Made from a blend of 88.3% combed cotton, 10.7% polyester and 1% spandex, these cotton-rich socks are soft, stretchy, and breathable. The blend offers a snug fit without being restrictive, ensuring all-day comfort during walks, workouts or casual wear.

Arch Support

Integrated arch support enhances stability and reduces foot fatigue, making these socks ideal for high-impact activities like running or weightlifting as well as lower-impact activities like walking or hiking. I've definitely noticed a difference in how my feet feel after our walks or even after a day of running errands.

Cushioned Sole

The padding on the sole provides extra comfort and shock absorption. This reduces strain on the feet, especially during long runs or high-intensity workouts, but also making walks and daily activities more comfortable.

Moisture-Wicking Technology

Designed with moisture-wicking fibers, these cotton-rich socks help keep your feet dry by wicking away sweat, reducing the risk of blisters and minimizing foot odor.

Tab Design

The low-cut style features a back tab to prevent the socks from slipping into your shoes. This small addition ensures a secure fit and adds protection against chafing.

Durability

Reinforced heels and toes increase the socks' longevity, even with frequent washing and wear. They have held up extremely well so far and still look like new after a few months of frequent wear.

Unisex Design

Available in multiple sizes and colors, these versatile socks are suitable for both men and women. I ordered a set of two white, two grey and two black pairs, but you can choose from all white, all grey, all black, and several other color options.

CS CelerSport boxed set of 6 pairs of cushioned sport socks
The set of 6 pairs of cushioned sport socks comes nicely boxed for gift-giving. The box slides open for easy access to the socks inside.

Pros

  • Versatile: Ideal for running, sports, and casual use.
  • Stay-Put Fit: Tab design prevents slipping and enhances comfort.
  • Affordable: You get a nicely boxed set of six pairs in your choice of colors at an excellent price.
  • Odor Control: Breathable fabric minimizes sweat buildup.
  • Durability: Reinforced stress points ensure long-term use.

Cons

  • Thickness: While the cushioning is great for comfort, those who prefer thinner socks might find them a bit bulky for tighter shoes. However, even though I have wide feet and need as much room inside my footwear as I can get, I did not find this to be as much of an issue with these socks as I have with other brands of cushioned cotton sport socks.

Who Are They Good For?

The CS CELERSPORT 6 Pairs Ankle Athletic Running Socks are perfect for individuals who prioritize comfort, durability, and moisture control in their activewear.

Whether you're a runner, gym enthusiast, a casual walker, or someone who appreciates comfortable, high-quality socks for daily use, these socks deliver exceptional value.

A Thoughtful, Affordable Gift

If you know someone who enjoys walking, running, or playing any type of sports, these cushioned sport socks would be a welcome gift.

I love that they come nicely boxed and ready for gift-giving.


The Best Cotton-Rich, Athlete-Approved, Comfortable Padded Sport Socks by Margaret Schindel

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Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Festive Peppermint Oreo Cookies

 These Peppermint Oreo cookies are a perfect fit for the Holiday Season or any time of the year. They are loaded with peppermint candy, crushed Oreo cookies, and chocolate chips.

Fran and our daughter, Jamie, made these cookies for the local village Women's Club, cookie exchange.

Festive Peppermint Oreo Cookies
Peppermint Oreo Cookies - Reviewed

The recipe below makes five dozen cookies; you can cut it in half if you don't want to make that many.

Peppermint Oreo Cookies Ingredients:

  • 1 cup butter (Cold and cut into cubes)
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup crushed peppermint candy (We used peppermint candy canes crushed)
  • 16 Oreo Cookies chopped
Instructions:

  1. Cream the butter and brown sugar together. We used our KitchenAid Stand Mixer for this, but you can also use a hand mixer on medium speed.
  2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until it's fluffy.
  3. Add the white sugar and continue mixing making sure all ingredients are combined.
  4. Add the baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt.  Then, add the flour one cup at a time. Mix until all is combined.
  5. Add the white and semi-sweet chocolate chips, almost all crushed peppermint candy, and Oreo cookies. (Reserve some of both for garnish before baking).
  6. Scoop the dough and roll it into about 1-inch or larger balls. Place them 2 inches apart on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Add additional Oreo, and peppermint pieces to the tops before baking.
  7. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set.
  8. Allow them to cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a rack to completely cool.

Cookies ready to bake

This photo is the size that Jamie rolled the cookie dough. It may be closer to 2-inch balls. The larger you make them the fewer cookies you going to yield.

Cooling on the rack
Peppermint Oreo cookies are cooling on the rack

These Peppermint Oreo cookies are a delight, they are crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside. We will certainly be adding this cookie recipe to our Holiday list this year.

Find more Recipes on ReviewThis Here:



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Sunday, December 1, 2024

Continuum: A Must-Watch Series About the Future and Time Travel with a Twist

Continuum: A Must-Watch Series About the Future and Time Travel as a Correction

The Plot Line of the Series Continuum

Continuum is an exciting Canadian sci-fi series with four enjoyable seasons and a gripping storyline centered around time travel, corporate greed, and the fight for justice.

The series begins in 2077 when corporations have become governments, controlling society with an iron fist. A group of rebels known as Liber8 is determined to overthrow this corporate-dominated world. 

During their escape from captivity, they activate a time travel device and inadvertently bring Kiera Cameron, a police officer from the future, back to the year 2012 with them.

For example, in the 21st century, a rebel group uses this method to evade capture and carry out their mission to change the future. This ingenious approach to time travel creates ethical dilemmas, as the travelers must grapple with the lives they inherit and the consequences of their actions in reshaping history.

Stuck in the past, Kiera must navigate a familiar and strange world while trying to stop Liber8 from altering history in a way that could prevent her own future from ever existing. The show balances action-packed moments, moral dilemmas, and complex character arcs, creating a futuristic and relatable world.

The Top Cast Members

The cast of Continuum is fantastic, bringing depth and emotion to their roles:

  • Rachel Nichols as Kiera Cameron: The protagonist is a law enforcement officer from 2077 who is fiercely loyal to her future but conflicted by the events unfolding in the past.
  • Victor Webster as Carlos Fonnegra: A detective in 2012 who becomes Kiera’s partner and friend, unaware of her true origins.
  • Erik Knudsen as Alec Sadler: A young tech genius in 2012 who becomes Kiera’s ally. Alec’s future self plays a pivotal role in the world Kiera comes from, adding an intriguing layer to the story.
  • Tony Amendola as Edouard Kagame: The leader of Liber8, a revolutionary group with a vision for a different future, though their methods are extreme.
  • Stephen Lobo as Matthew Kellog: A cunning and opportunistic member of Liber8 who often plays both sides to his advantage.

Each actor delivers compelling performances, making their characters feel authentic and multidimensional.

Why I Love This Series

What draws me to Continuum is its fascinating exploration of time travel (my favorite movie topic). The series blends futuristic technology with the challenges of living in a less advanced world, which is thrilling and thought-provoking. 

One of the most compelling aspects of the show is watching Kiera use her knowledge of the future to navigate the past while grappling with ethical dilemmas.

The themes of corporate control versus public interest are also incredibly relatable. The struggle between those in power and those fighting for justice mirrors many real-world issues, making the series feel relevant even though it’s rooted in sci-fi. It’s not just about action; it’s about asking big questions—what kind of world do we want to live in, and how do our choices shape the future?

Ultimately, Continuum is more than just a time travel story. It’s an innovative, engaging series that challenges viewers to think about society, morality, and the ripple effects of our decisions. If you’re looking for a show that’s as entertaining as it is creative, I highly recommend trying this one. I loved it.





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, November 30, 2024

Damn Yankees Musical Comedy Movie Review

Anyone who knows anything about me knows I am a huge baseball fan, that of all baseball, but most especially the New York Yankees. What you may not know is that, as a teen in the 1950s, I was also a big Broadway musical fan. Living near the upstate New York city of Rochester, the excitement of New York City and Broadway shows was appealing to me. Not being able to go there myself, I followed every musical that opened on Broadway, buying the record album and learning all the words to all the songs. 


Image of a Baseball Player Swinging a Bat

Damn Yankees
really appealed to me, from the perspective of both my interests, musicals and baseball. THe play opened on Broadway in 1955. I don’t really remember most of the original actors, except for Ray Walston and Gwen Verdon. And, of course, the music.


The following year, the traveling road show of Damn Yankees came to the Auditorium Theater, a Performing arts theater in Rochester, New York, and my uncle took me to see the play for my birthday. The memory remains a special one for me.


Damn Yankees was made into a movie in 1958, with Ray Walston and Gwen Verdon recreating their Broadway play characters for the movie.  The movie also starred Tab Hunter as young Joe Hardy. 


Movie Synopsis


Damn Yankees was a musical comedy based on the book “The Year the Yankees Lost the Pennant” (which adapts the Faust theme of a deal with the devil to the world of American baseball in the 1950s. This was a time when the New York Yankees dominated Major League Baseball and the storyline centers on the New York Yankees and the Washington Senators baseball teams.


Joe Boyd is a middle-aged fan of the unsuccessful Washington Senators baseball team. When he sees his team lose once again, he declares he would sell his soul to the devil to see his team beat the Yankees. Of course, the devil appears, disguised as the suave conman, Applegate (Ray Walston). He promises Joe he can restore Joe’s youth and make him a ball player who can win the pennant for the Senators. Joe agrees, but insists on an escape clause - if he leaves the team the day before the last game of the season, he can return to who he was with his wife Meg, instead of having his soul belong to the devil.


Joe becomes young Joe Hardy (Tab Hunter), a talented ball player with tremendous home runs and game-saving catches. Joe leads the Senators on a long winning streak into contention for the pennant. But he misses Meg and keeps sneaking back home to get a glimpse of her. 


Applegate gets worried that Joe could leave before the end of the season and ruin his plans, so he tries to entice him away from thoughts of Meg by bringing in his demonic right-hand girl, Lola (Gwen Verdon), a seductress. But Joe loves his wife and Lola fails. 


Summary 


By the end of the season, the Senators are on the verge of overtaking the Yankees when Applegate tries one more time to ruin everything. Check out the full write up of the plot of Damn Yankees here on Wikipedia


I watched this movie on Friendly TV for free. You can also view it for free on Tubi, or buy the movie on Amazon Prime Video.


*Reviewer’s note:  I had not heard the music to Damn Yankees in more years than I care to admit, yet I was delighted to discover that I still remembered all the words to songs such as Whatever Lola Wants (Lola Gets) and (You Gotta Have) Heart. A fun memory trip back in time. 


*Damn Yankees Movie Review 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, November 29, 2024

How to Decorate Cheesecake Reindeer Reviewed

Reindeer Cheesecake
Cheesecake is one of my favorite desserts to make.  When I saw the slices of cheesecake decorated like reindeer on the cover of the Kroger magazine last year, I knew what we would be making on Christmas Eve. 

A week or so before Christmas, I purchased the several types of chocolate covered pretzels for the antlers, spice drops, and eyes to use for decorating.  I made the cheesecake the day before and refrigerated it overnight so it would be firm and easy to decorate.

When my parents arrived, we pulled the cheesecake from the refrigerator, grabbed our supplies and went to work.  We tried a few different shapes and sizes of pretzels before we decided we preferred the broken pieces off the larger pretzels.  My mother and son, who also decorated Easter eggs together, jumped right into action, not hesitating to "play" around with the design.  I was content to take the pictures.  My father and husband were happy to sit back and watch the fun while offering suggestions.  

As the reindeer started taking shape, my son decided there should only be one Rudolph with a red nose.  I pulled out the chocolate chips so all of the other reindeer would have plain, yet delicious, noses.  

Needless to say, we had fun and laughed a lot together.  It was the perfect family "event" for Christmas Eve and not one we will forget, especially since we have lots of pictures.


Supplies We Used to Make the Cheesecake Reindeer


cheesecake reindeer supplies
  1. Cheesecake - baked the day before
  2. Chocolate Pretzels
  3. Pre-made Eyes
  4. One Red Spice Drop
  5. Chocolate Chips 

Those are the supplies we used, but now that you have seen the pictures and the idea, you may come up with a version your own family prefers.  It doesn't matter!  The fun is in decorating them together and creating a fun family memory.

 Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Milk Chocolate Covered Pretzels 5.5 OunceCheck Price Wilton Edible Candy Eyeballs, 0.88 oz.Check Price NESTLE TOLL HOUSE MORSELS SEMI SWEET CHOCCheck Price Zachary Cinnamon and Spearmint Flavored Spice Drops, 24 ozCheck Price

 

______________

 

Last year, I made Chocolate Hot Cocoa Bombs as our special treat.  We enjoyed watching them "explode" inside our festive snowman mugs.

Chocolate Hot Cocoa Bombs



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Cheesecake Reindeer Written by:
House of Sylvestermouse





© 2024 Cynthia Sylvestermouse
 




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, November 28, 2024

Happy Thanksgiving from Review This

 

Basket of Flowers

Today is a day of Thanksgiving in the USA and I wanted to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving on behalf of the entire staff of Review This.

I have many things that I am thankful for, but on this post I'd like to share my thanks for my hobby of photography by sharing with you several of the photos that I have taken this fall.  I always see Thanksgiving as the end of the colorful fall colors and the start of the winter holidays.  

Fall  Photography

In the photo at the beginning of this post, I have shared a photo that I took down on Main Street in St. Charles, Missouri.  They always decorate for each holiday and fall is no exception.  I loved this box of fall flowers set against the wood railing.   Another place I visited to take some fall photos was our Missouri Extension gardens.  Fall is really the end of the blooming season, but there are still some great flowers to photograph.  The photo below shows some bright purple flowers peeking out of an old wooden fence.
Wooden fence and purple flowers


I love the beautiful shades of colors of the leaves in the fall.  Here are a few of my favorites from this year.
Fallen leaf

Bright Red Leaves


Brightly Colored Tree

One of the views I particularly enjoy all year round is the view from the sliding doors in our kitchen.  It looks out past our deck to the trees in a subdivision below us.  It is interesting to see how this view changes with each season.  In the photo below it is a early fall morning and the trees are just beginning to change colors.  The sky is full of color in the early morning light.
Beautiful sky and leaves

As I look at nature and my photographs, I thank God for this beautiful creation He has giving to us.

May you and your family be blessed with a thankful heart!



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, November 27, 2024

November, A Great Time to Pursue a New Hobby!

 For most of us who live in the Northern Hemisphere, the days are definitely getting shorter and the nights a lot longer.  Well that's what everyone says, but it's not really true.  The days are all still 24 hours long, it's just that when it gets dark at 5 p.m. the day seems that much shorter.

So what are you going to do now that you have more time indoors rather than out of doors?

Might I suggest it's a great time to take up a new hobby, or revive a hobby that you haven't done in a long time?

I'm personally taking up my knitting needles.  Why?  Well, let me tell you!  My mother who you have heard about in other reviews, was a knitter extraordinaire!  She could whip up a sweater in less than a week!  I'm talking about sweaters that had intricate patterns or several yarn/color changes and with long sleeves.  

The only problem was that her knitting was so fast, that neither my sister or I could keep up with her and she would get frustrated by our lack of dexterity!  Whenever we started a project, she would end up finishing it for us.  While we loved that (because we got a sweater faster), it did nothing to help us with our learning skills.  So it was a mixed blessing.

https://amzn.to/3CIu3Z0


Actually, I feel kind of bad because I could have seen that she was slipping into dementia had I paid more attention to what was happening between her needles!  But that is another whole story!

Now I know that I will never have another sweater made by my mother, so I have to take up the hobby if I ever want another beautiful cardigan or pullover in my wardrobe. Oh I know the basics and remember them well, but I also want something that has a little pizzazz added! So now I am trolling You Tube channels to find the help and knitting circles at Senior's Centers for some added comaraderie.



For absolute beginners there are several channels to help you begin.  This is one that I watched and liked and you might like it as well from Frock and Fern!

If you can't stand listening to someone giving instructions, you can also buy books to show you with bright well done pictures so that you can move faster or slower depending on how you are enjoying this new experience.  Here are some great books and leaflets to help you along.

Knitting for Beginners Amazon Page!

You will find everything you need to know to start this new hobby and if you are a Prime Subscriber, you get next day delivery too!  

For myself, I know I will take up the knitting and keep at it, but if you are not sure that this is a hobby for you, you can go to your local Salvation Army/Good Will store and I'm sure you will find yarn and needles there for next to nothing.  If you don't enjoy this hobby you can donate it back to the same place you purchased it.  Nothing lost, just a little of your time.

I know I get lots of inspiration here on RTR (www.reviewthisreviews.com) especially from some of our contributors who make the most fantastic hand knitted and crocheted items. You can find all kinds of beautiful hand made goodies just check out ReviewThisCrafts.com

While I will take up the knitting, there is lots on these pages to help you decide what you are going to do with your extra indoor time now that it is here!  Happy Indoor Crafting Time for everyone!






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, November 26, 2024

Reviewing The Joy And Creativity Of Flower Pressing


The Joy and Creativity of Flower Pressing

 

I have wanted a hobby for some time that I can pursue during the winter and that is creative. 

Most of the year I prefer being outdoors and active, gardening, long nature walks, countryside and beach walks. However in the depths of winter and to be honest as I get older i have felt the need for something I can do that is indoors in the depths of a cold, wet winter and that is creative, but that still relates to my love of nature. 

I wanted to pursue something useful and make something. I truly admire those who can knit and crochet and make clothes but while I can do basic mending I have never been so successful at those crafts. I like art and drawing but it is not something I am especially good at. I would love to learn pottery but it is not something I can do at home.   

So I was watching a gardening programme and there was a lady who was gathering flowers from her garden for flower pressing! Suddenly it hit me, I could do that! 

Flower pressing is a lovely, traditional craft that allows us to gather and  preserve the beauty of flowers and leaves from Spring to Autumn which can then be made into decorative or artistic pieces at any time, but especially for me in winter.


So the Flower pressing journey for me started this summer. 

pressing flowers


Selecting Flowers

 The first step in flower pressing is selecting the right flowers. I had to do some research on this as I needed to know which flowers were suitable for flower pressing. 

We need to look for blooms that are not too succulent. The reason is that they press well when their moisture is taken out quickly.

 So I learned that all Roses and daffodils are excellent choices due to their thinner petals. Luckily I have a garden full of roses in summer though I missed the daffodils this time i can pick those in Spring. 

Then it was a case of looking for flowers with thinner petals and I found that Aquilegia, Poppies and Forget Me Nots were perfect and with learning and a little trial and error I found a lovely selection from our garden.

 

pressed flowers

 

 I made a decision early on that I would only pick flowers form my garden. We are losing so many wildflowers from the wild so fast that I do not want to contribute to their loss , so I never pick any wildflowers. I only pick the flowers that I grow and I always leave a lot to set seed for next year and for wildlife. 

 

 When to Pick Flowers

 I read that for the best results it is preferable to pick flowers when it is a dry day after the dew has evaporated from the flowers , so about mid morning. The worst time is after it has been raining when the flowers are wet and should be avoided. 

 

preparing flowers for pressing

How To Preparing Flowers for Pressing

It is ideal to prepare the flowers by blotting them with tissue paper carefully in order to remove any moisture. Although I have to say that in my excitement to get going I often forgot to do this step and the flowers were just fine, but for best results I would advise it. 


The Flower Pressing Process

I remembered as a child I used to press flowers with my Mum. We used to arrange the flowers with paper and place between the covers of a heavy book like a National Geographic hardback copy. However now we can buy specific flower presses and once my husband realised I was interested in this hobby, he thoughtfully bought me a flower press for my Birthday! I was so happy with this beautiful gift! 

I simply placed the flowers carefully and not overlapping onto the paper in the Flower press and placed another sheet of the absorbent paper over it and repeated until the whole book was full. Then gentle and carefully tightened the screws

I always used to think you needed a huge weight for the process to work but it turns out you only need a gentle pressure.

This Happinit Flower Press is really lovely with great reviews and can dry smal petals quite quickly

 Happinit Large Flower Press Kit, 6 Layers 11" x7" Even Pressure Flower Pressed DIY Arts, Flower Pressing KitCheck Price

 



The Waiting Game, Drying and Storing Flowers

We need to have some patience as the drying process takes time, up to 3 or 4 weeks ideally though you can get away with 2 weeks, or with some flower presses and small petals you can manage a few days.

The flower press needs to be placed in a warm dry place indoors. It is advised to check on the flowers every day or every few days, however due to family bereavement I did not check for several weeks and they were just fine.

I think ideally I need at least two flower presses so that I can have some drying and some to work with. I like this Aboofx Extra Large Flower Press


 Aboofx Extra Large Flower Press Kit, 11" x 11" 10 Layers Wooden Flower Pressing Kit with Storage BagCheck Price

 


So I have now reached the stage where I have all my beautiful pressed flowers! In the coming year I will have the whole season of flowers so even more to work with.  I am very much still learning what work and what doesn't but I am finding it a very satisfying hobby. The next step is finding out what I can create with the pressed flowers. 


Creating With Pressed Flowers

I am thinking of using the pressed flowers in several different ways. First to make a piece of art that I can hang on the wall or if good enough give as a gift. 

I could make cards from some of the flowers. I could explore how to add flowers to plain glass vases, though I am not sure how I could then wash them. 


Perhaps some of the more crafty people reading this could give me some more ideas.   

dried flowers

  

If you are or you know someone who loves flowers, nature and gardening a gift of a flower press would be a beautiful present. A Flower Press can be an excellent gift for an adult or a child.

I have found flower pressing to be a lovely way to still feel connected with nature even in winter. 

I love the process of collecting them and pressing them and now I can see them all again and work creatively with them which is a beautiful hobby that brings me joy.  


More Reviews By Raintree Annie

Read More Gardening Articles

Essential Wildlife Gardening Gifts

Diary Of A Wild Country Garden

Reviewing Restoring A Metal Garden Swing Seat


Crafts & DIY Reviews By Contributors On Review This Reviews

Product Reviews By Contributors On Review This Reviews




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, November 25, 2024

Kebtek Cordless Pruning Shears Reviewed

They are not glamorous. They are not glitzy. They are quickly zooming to the top of the best purchase list for 2024. The Kebtek Cordless Pruning Shears deliver as promised and will land on your 'why did  I wait so long to purchase' list.



Lightweight

One of the reasons I purchased this brand were the reviews praising the weight of the shears. Over 1,000 reviews with a 5/5 rating.  Lightweight is however subjective; the battery adds weight of course to the shears, but overall the shears can be easily used and lifted for high branch trimming.

Sharp

Wow! The shears are very sharp and easily with little effort can trim larger branches. I can see the pruners already easily handling trimming larger diameter branches where the lopper was used.

Two Batteries

I appreciate the two rechargeable batteries included with the shears. I have found one battery easily lasts for a day of casual yard trimming; always great to have a spare charging and ready to go.

Price Point

Shopping online I used a $10 off coupon to decrease the price to make the purchase more economical. 

Carrying Case

Very easy to store the pruning shears and batteries in the easy to use carry case. Tuck the shears away and store neatly with the batteries tucked away. The orange carrying case ensures the case is easily spotted in the garage!  

Recommendation

The cordless pruning shears are a great gift for the gardener or landscaper in the family. Also a very practical gift to make life easier for the I'm landscaping because I have to family member. Or treat yourself!


Click Here to See the Kabtek Cordless Pruning Shears


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, November 24, 2024

5 Textured Wall Ideas to Help You Add Interest to Your Space

5 Textured Wall Ideas to Help You Add Interest to Your Space

Transform Your Space with These 5 Stunning Textured Wall Ideas

Did you know that textured walls are one of the 2025 home decor trends?

When decorating your home, textured walls are the secret ingredient to adding depth, warmth, and personality to any room.

Whether creating a bold statement or a subtle layer of interest, these ideas will inspire you to reimagine your walls in ways that evoke emotion and style. 

Let’s explore five fabulous textured wall ideas, complete with tips on color, balance, and how to maximize each option.


1. Faux Brick Walls: The Charm of Urban Sophistication

Faux brick walls bring the rugged charm of a city loft into your home without the structural overhaul. These panels or wallpapers mimic the texture and appeal of exposed brick, creating a cozy yet industrial vibe.

What It Adds:
Brick walls add a sense of authenticity and character to your space, perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Use them in a living room or home office to make the space feel grounded and stylish.

Color Tip:
Go with classic red bricks for a rustic charm or whitewashed bricks for a lighter, more modern feel. To avoid overwhelming a room, balance the texture with smooth surfaces, like sleek furniture or polished floors.

Designs to Preview Here.


2. Textured Paint Techniques: Subtle Sophistication

Textured paint was a hot trend in the 1990s, and I added it to my home as well. Fortunately, this textured look is making a comeback! Because I still have it featured in my hallways. I find it very durable, especially when you seal the sponge work with a sealer. 

Textured paint techniques, like sponging or rag rolling, bring soft, layered textures to your walls, evoking a sense of movement and depth. These techniques work wonderfully in bedrooms, hallways, or bathrooms for a soothing yet elegant touch.

What It Adds:
This option adds a luxurious, artistic flair to any room, drawing the eye while remaining understated. It’s perfect for creating an intimate, serene space.

Color Tip:
Choose soft hues like lavender, sage green, or pale blue for a calming effect. Avoid overly bold colors, as they can make the texture feel chaotic. Stick to a monochromatic palette to keep things cohesive.


3. Wood Paneling: Rustic Warmth with Modern Appeal

Wood paneling should have a modern flare—not those found in 1960s basements. Unless you love that, then go for it.

Whether reclaimed or new, wood paneling or shiplap makes a space feel cozy and organic. Vertical or horizontal slats can create illusions, like making a ceiling appear higher, or a room appear longer.

What It Adds:
The natural texture of wood infuses warmth and a tactile quality into a room, making it feel grounded and serene. It’s especially effective in dining areas or bedrooms.

Color Tip:
Light oak or ash wood brings brightness, while darker shades like walnut create a dramatic, moody vibe. Pair dark wood with light-colored walls or ceilings to avoid making the room feel heavy.


4. 3D Wall Panels: Drama and Depth

3D wall panels create a dynamic visual experience for a bold, modern look. These panels, available in geometric, floral, or abstract designs, turn any wall into a statement piece.

What It Adds:
These panels add drama, sophistication, and a futuristic vibe. They’re perfect for accent walls in living rooms or behind a bed as a headboard feature.

Color Tip:
White or neutral panels keep the design crisp and modern, while bold colors like navy or emerald green make a room pop. Use sparingly, as too much texture and color can overwhelm a space.

3D Wall Designs to Preview Here


5. Grasscloth Wallpaper: Organic Elegance

Here comes the 1980s. We created a featured grasscloth wall in our first apartment in 1982! Oh, and I loved it, and I still love grasscloth.

Grasscloth wallpaper is made from natural fibers like jute, sisal, or bamboo. It gives walls a soft, woven texture, perfect for creating a tranquil, spa-like ambiance.

What It Adds:
Grasscloth brings an organic, earthy feel to a room, creating a sense of calm and balance. It’s ideal for home offices, libraries, or even entryways.

Color Tip:
Earthy tones like beige, olive, or sand enhance the natural vibe. Because grasscloth has subtle patterns, pairing it with solid-colored furniture is best to maintain balance.

Grasscloth Wallcovering on Amazon.


How to Avoid Overwhelming a Space with Textured Walls

  • Start Small: Use texture on a single accent wall rather than an entire room to keep the look balanced.
  • Coordinate Colors: Choose complementary colors across textured and non-textured surfaces for harmony.
  • Balance with Simplicity: Pair textured walls with minimalist decor to let the walls shine without creating visual clutter.
  • Play with Lighting: Proper lighting can beautifully highlight textures, so use spotlights or wall sconces to add depth and drama.





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