Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Reviewing Our Experience And Benefits Of Silicone Soap Holders

 

Waterfall and flower silicone soap holders grey and white

We have used a variety of soap holders and soap dishes over the years in our bathroom and always felt a little disappointed. Some looked pretty but had no drainage so the soap always had a soggy bottom, others had great drainage but did not look nice. Some were lovely but got broken as they crashed into the ceramic bowl. Some seemed to attract mould or needed cleaning out every single day.  

Due to my skin allergies I have to use a soap that does not have any preservatives so if it gets wet and does not dry out quickly I lose this rather pricey soap into a mush, so I really want to avoid that as I really do not like mushy soggy bottomed soap. 

So we recently were on the look out for a soap holder that would look nice and organised and have great drainage.

We discovered that silicone soap holders can offer us the best of all worlds. They have decent choice of colours, are sturdy and easy to clean, planet friendly and have great drainage. This meant we wanted to look into it further. 

 

Silicone flower soap dishes in white and grey


Silicone Is Easy to Clean

We found very quickly that these silicone soap holders are so simple and easy to clean. This was very important to us and we feel bathroom hygiene is vital. The material does not absorb water or soap which thankfully helps to prevent mould and soap mush build up. All we do to clean them is to rinse under water and we do also spray with an anti bacterial spray for good measure. We have found them to be the most hygienic soap holders we have ever owned. 


Soap Holders With Good Drainage Design

I love the feature of self draining design in our silicone soap holders. It allows any water to simply drain away. We have found the soap is no longer soft and mushy. As I need to use soap that has no preservatives this has been a annoying issue for me with our old soap holders.  An added bonus is that the soap is lasting rather longer than it used to. 

I particularly like the drainage with these waterfall self draining silicone soap holders. I liked the look of them on the pictures but find them better in real life. They are available in a variety of colours, such as pink, white, black and green. We chose the grey ones to match our decor and give a contrast with the sink and bath. 


 

 Coipdfty Soap Dishes, Silicone Shower Soap Dish with Drianage, Bar Soap Holder & Saver Waterfall Self-Draining to Keep Your Bar Soap Organized and Clean (1, Grey)Check Price

 

Durable and Flexible Soap Holders

Silicone is well known for its durability and flexibility and this is obvious as soon as you handle it. 

With plastic and ceramic soap dishes there is a risk of breaking and cracking while silicone soap holders are much less likely to break and also will not harm a ceramic sink if they fall into it. 

Silicone soap holders are ideal for us now as my husband is sight impaired and accidents dropping things or knocking items off surfaces happen. With silicone this is not an issue we need to worry about. 

This would equally apply to households with children and older people or even pets that might go on surfaces and knock things off. The flexibility of silicone also allows these holders to fit in various spaces, large or small.

These items also caught my eye as being very good and useful and you get Three Silicone Soap Holders Slimmer Waterfall Design in white/grey/teal combinations and variations.


 Self Draining Soap Dishes, 3 Pcs Silicone Soap Saver, Waterfall Drainer Soap Holder for Bathroom, Extend Soap Life, Keep Soap Bars Dry Clean & Easy Cleaning (White, Gray, Teal)Check Price

 


Non-Slip Silicone Soap Holder

We no longer have the worry of a soap dish falling and breaking. The non slip surface on our larger silicone soap holders keeps the soap securely in place and we have found no soap slipping off leaping in to the bath at odd moments! 

As we have a shower over the bath and as my husband is sight impaired soap slipping in to the bath while he has a shower is a safety hazard so it was important to us that we solved this issue.

Even when the holder is soaking wet the soap remains in place. On this photo below the soap holder is wet and right on the edge of the bath and it does not fall in.

They also have eco friendly properties being a natural resource and recyclable. 


Grey Waterfall silicone soap dish on edge of bath


Soap Holders That Are Good Looking And Great Bathroom Decor

We were surprised at the variety of shapes, sizes, and colours available for silicone soap holders and dishes.

We chose Grey and white as they match our bathroom decor and also provide a good contrast to our white bath and sink. We placed the grey and white flower holders inside each other to give a better contrast visually. 

They look neat and smart for us and for when visitors use the bathroom and are lovely to look at and very hygienic.

We love these Silicone Soap Holder Flower Shape and tend to use these on our sink where they are more on display. They are very pretty and practical and are available in a range of colours white, grey, pink and blue which should take care of most bathroom decor styles. 



 Silicone Soap Dishes with Draining. Bathroom Bar Soap Holder for Shower. Soap Tray for Kitchen Sink. Flower Shape Soap Saver for Counter, Bathtub. (4 Pack, White,Grey,Pink,Blue)Check Price

 


We have found Silicone soap holders to be very practical and good looking decor for any bathroom. They last a long time and are easy to clean and pretty unbreakable along with eco-friendly properties. You do not need to limit them to the bathroom either as they can equally be used in the kitchen and utility room or downstairs toilet/washroom. We think they are a great choice and well worth considering.



Links to more product reviews

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Monday, November 11, 2024

Best Choice Artificial Christmas Trees Reviewed

Artificial Christmas Trees can elicit strong holiday feelings! Yes, no, never, maybe are common responses to the idea of buying an artificial Christmas tree. Admittedly a faux Christmas tree was not on this holiday horizon, but times are a changing...


Purchasing an artificial tree can be quite the shopping experience with so many choices, by so many brands at so many price points. After much comparison I found the trees by Best Choice to be nicely in the middle for price with a lifelike quality (but only if you Fluff, see below)

Best Time To Buy

Definitely varies! I have found summer and after Christmas sales offer the widest selection of prices and trees. Amazon Prime Days, Christmas In July sales and Wayfair Way Days also offer a nice selection.

Number of Branches

More is probably better with the number of tree branches; however more will also increase the price. 

Decide Upon Your Tree

Not all artificial trees are created equal! Artificial trees can be spruce, fir or pine at a minimum. 

Size?

While height is a factor with the space in your home there are also a few other considerations which can make the tree fit your space easier. Trees can be full (traditional), slim, corner, pencil, wide, sparse (think Charlie Brown Christmas). That is the wonderful part of choosing an artificial tree vs the fun of fitting the tree from the tree lot which looked great until you tried to cram in the living room!

Pre Lit ?

If you do not like putting lights on a Christmas tree then of course pre lit tree is the way to go. The price will be slightly higher. If purchasing

The Art Of The Fluff

Fluffing is the key to artificial trees ! Best Choice even includes a how to fluffing guide and practice does make the tree look even better! Sure you can just assemble the tree (but make sure to fluff later!). Unfluffed trees will have holes and look sparse. They just will!

Recommendation

Find a tree you like now then price shop the tree throughout the year beginning with Black Friday sales then After Christmas sales and then into the summer sales. Chances are judicious shopping for an investment will yield the tree of your choice.






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Sunday, November 10, 2024

Secondhand Lions, A Must See Movie - 5 Stars!

Secondhand Lions, A Must See Movie - 5 Stars

A MUST-SEE!

Released in 2003, Secondhand Lions is a five-star movie that blends adventure, heart, and humor in a way that few films do. 

It's one of the best movies I've ever seen, and I'd recommend it to anyone who loves stories about unlikely friendships, family bonds, and a touch of mystery. 

Right from the start, this movie pulled me in with its charm, warmth, and unforgettable characters, and it's stayed with me since I first saw it when it was released. 

Secondhand Lions is a true cinematic gem, perfectly balancing lighthearted moments with deeply touching scenes.

The Storyline of Secondhand Lions - What the Movie is About

Secondhand Lions tells the story of a young boy named Walter, who is sent to live with his eccentric great-uncles, Hub and Garth, on their quiet Texas farm. 

As Walter spends time with his uncles, he becomes captivated by their outrageous tales of adventure, treasure, and far-off lands. 

Through these wild stories and his time with Hub and Garth, Walter discovers the true meaning of bravery, loyalty, and family. They build an extraordinary bond and bring something meaningful into each other's lives. 

The film keeps you engaged by slowly revealing its secrets, allowing you to discover each twist and turn alongside Walter. 

It's a beautifully layered story that feels both rich and timeless.

The Magnificent Cast

The movie's strength owes much to its talented cast. Michael Caine and Robert Duvall portray the quirky uncles, Garth and Hub. They bring a depth and authenticity that makes these characters come alive. 

Caine's Garth is warm and open-hearted, while Duvall's Hub has a gruff exterior yet exudes wisdom and a fierce sense of adventure.

Their on-screen chemistry is remarkable, infusing the story with both humor and heart. 

Haley Joel Osment plays Walter, delivering a perfect mix of innocence, curiosity, and courage as he explores this strange new life. 

Each actor brings a realness to their role, making every interaction feel genuine and impactful.

Why I Loved This Movie

What makes Secondhand Lions unforgettable for me is its focus on characters and relationships, which feels incredibly authentic. 

The movie draws you into Walter's growing connection with his uncles, and it's easy to lose yourself in their journey together.

The ending is especially poignant and rounds out the story in a satisfying and heartfelt way. The acting is first-rate; each performance feels sincere, and that level of commitment is rare. 

Few movies make a lasting impression, but Secondhand Lions is one of those rare finds. I've always remembered it, and since first watching it in the early 2000s, I often think about the story and its beautiful, lasting messages.

If you love quirky, character-driven movies, you will surely love Secondhand Lions.




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Saturday, November 9, 2024

Holiday Themed Gifts for Newborn Babies

 As the holidays approach, we may find a new name or two added to our shopping lists this year in the form of family/friends' newborn babies. 


Newborn Baby dresses up for Christmas


This gift guide may be helpful in deciding on the perfect gift for a new baby.


First Thanksgiving Sensory Toy by Genius Baby


A cute developmental toy for the new baby to enjoy, My Baby's First Thanksgiving Playset comes with a Tom Turkey who has jingle sounds, a Pilgrim Teddy Bear who squeaks, and a crinkly Pumpkin Pie toy. The Native American Girl is also a rattle. These soft plush interactive toys fit inside a tote bag hand-embroidered with a  turkey applique and the words “My 1st Thanksgiving”. 


My First Thanksgiving Bib


What would be more appropriate for a newborn for this holiday mealtime than the gift of a darling baby bib with a sweet baby turkey and the words “My First Thanksgiving” printed on it. This soft cotton bib would make a really cute holiday baby gift.




First Christmas Tree Ornament


Since my daughter was born just one week before Christmas, I know what it’s like to have a newborn at holiday time.


Personalized Christmas Ornament for Baby's First Christmas
Baby's First Christmas Tree  Ornament
A very appropriate newborn gift for an infant’s first Christmas would be a personalized ‘first’ ornament


This one especially appeals to me with an image of a reindeer and a sleigh filled with a Christmas Tree, along with 1st and baby’s name and the year. 


This ceramic ornament is lovingly handmade by the Etsy Store called NorthPoleGiftsUS


First Christmas Outfit


Personalized Newborn Romper With Hat

Personalized baby romper outfit with hat
First Christmas Outfit
One of the cutest and most clever personalized baby outfits I’ve come across is this absolutely adorable “Sorry Santa, I drank the milk” newborn romper.  

The sleeves have the fold over mitts and a fold over foot cuff for a footed romper option. The bottom snaps open to make easy access for the quick diaper changes. 


The outfit comes with a knotted beanie hat that will be personalized with the baby's name in the same font and colors as the romper.


This outfit and a wide variety of other 1sts are available in the Etsy Shop called Qatasta.


Summary


Happy Holidays to all, and an especially warm holiday welcome to the newest babies.


Related Reviews:



*Holiday Gift Guide written by Wednesday Elf








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Friday, November 8, 2024

Review of Tidewater Inn by Colleen Coble

Tidewater Inn

When I noticed another book series written by Colleen Coble, I immediately downloaded it to my KindleUntil I started writing this review, I had not realized Tidewater Inn (The Hope Beach series) was published back in 2012, which means it was published before the Sunset Cove series that introduced me to Colleen Coble books.

Once again, I was not disappointed by this combination mystery and romance.  As a matter of fact, just like the first Colleen Coble book I read, "The Inn at Ocean's Edge", I was drawn into the story and ended up staying up really late one night to keep reading.

For me, it was a good thing I was already a Colleen Coble fan before I started reading "Tidewater Inn" since it starts with a young woman's abduction from a beach by two men in a boat.  That is a horrifying occurrence and would make me put down most mystery books immediately.  But, I trusted the author to not put me through an unbearable story.  

I don't like to read, or see, explicit details or scenes of crimes.  Since I was already familiar with Colleen Coble's writing, I knew that was not her style.  Her stories are strong enough on their own that they don't need graphic details for her books to make the bestsellers lists.

 

Tidewater Inn

As I said, the story begins with Nicole Ingram being abducted from the beach.  What I have not already told you is that her best friend and business partner, Libby Holladay, was helplessly watching via a webcam.  It all happened so fast, that calling 911 didn't stop the crime.  Nicole was grabbed, injected with something, and dragged into a boat in a matter of moments.

It was hours before Libby could get from Virginia Beach to Hope Beach.  When she did arrive, she found she was soon the sheriff's #1 suspect because the webcam recording had been erased.  He believed Libby had orchestrated her business partners abduction, most likely murder, and erased the video to protect the kidnappers.    

Libby had no way of knowing if Nicole's abduction was a convenient opportunity for human traffickers or if it was somehow related to Nicole's discovery that Libby was the heir to Tidewater Inn. 

Furthermore, Libby had no idea that her father had not died when she was 5, as her mother had told her, or that her father had 2 other children, younger than Libby.  Her half-brother believed that he had inherited Tidewater Inn and was already brokering a deal to sell it for millions of dollars.  That kind of money certainly might be worth murder.  But, why would he kill Nicole instead of Libby?

___________

To find out why Nicole was abducted, if she is dead, or why Libby's father disappeared from her life decades ago, you will need to read the book.

 



 


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Thursday, November 7, 2024

Joomra Barefoot Shoes for Women, Review

I got my first pair of Joomra barefoot shoes for women in April of 2024. I was looking so forward to them. I had been gradually shifting from well padded soles, curved soles, and a slew of other types of shoes from my past. Things had become gradually uncomfortable over the years, that even with wearing low based running and walking shoes as my regular shoe attire, I still longed for something that was better for my feet. Even without having a local shoe store to try any of these barefoot shoes on, it was time to take the plunge. I placed my order with Amazon.

barefoot shoe


The main difference about barefoot shoes, in general, is the wide toe box. They also usually have a soft upper fabric, so toes can stretch out and up to, without being blocked.

Another main difference is their flexibility. I can actually bend my foot from right behind my toes, without any restriction from the shoe.

The other main difference is the zero heal drop. The heal is not raised, so it is like you are walking on level ground when barefoot. They also don't come with arch support, which I am fine with.

My overall impressions:

I love being able to stretch my toes in various directions while wearing my barefoot shoes. Since I work from home, I usually go barefoot or wear flipflops around the house. I thought it would be a breeze switching to wearing barefoot shoes. Overall, it was pretty easy. But new muscles were being used, adjustments in my feet were being made. New aches were beginning to show up.

For awhile, I switched back and forth between my favorite running shoes (I used them for walking.), and the barefoot shoes. That just seemed more confusing to my feet, so I decided to just wear the barefoot shoes.

I started feeling quite a bit of pain near my big toe, especially on my right foot. I would stretch it out with my foot stretched out behind me, both with the bottom of my toes facing the floor, and then with the top of my toes facing the floor. I would do this several times a day. The stretches helped somewhat.

I did not consider going back to the old style of shoes; they were the reason I had decided to give barefoot shoes a try. So I continued with doing the stretches, and also did some massaging of my feet. My feet started improving. I decided to order another pair of barefoot shoes. I wanted some color choices.

One day, as I was scrolling through YouTube videos, I came across ones about fixing your bunion. Hmmm. I didn't really know what a bunion was. But the feet shape looked somewhat familiar. I recognized how the base knuckle of my big toes protruded more outward. Ah, so that's what they are.

Apparently bunions are caused from wearing shoes that cramp your toes. Yep, even as a kid, my toes were cramped. Narrow shoes weren't very common then, and I ended up getting shoes that were too short for my foot length so that they wouldn't be too wide. Then as I grew up, there was the wanting to wear heals. Yep, did that too. Anyway, those past behaviors had contributed to what I was now dealing with.

So low and behold, I have found out about some exercises that I found to be helpful.

The one that I have found most helpful, is wearing a somewhat wide stretchy hair tie, around both big toes at the same time. Both big toes are inside the hair tie. (My feet are elevated on the chair support while I watch some TV.)

feet


When I first started doing this exercise, it was rather uncomfortable, so I place a thick sock folded in half and placed it in the space between big toes. I would wear that for 15 minutes and after a few days, for 20 minutes at a time. Then I was okay with going without the folded sock. My bunions are feeling better. I don't have to do those original toe stretches so much any more. My feet are improving! Smiles.

Other exercises that I have been doing, is squeezing all my toes under, followed by stretching them up and then spreading them out. Since I have added the above exercise, I am able to spread my toes further now. I have also heard that this particular exercise for toes, is helpful in improving circulation in the feet.

The other main thing to mention about barefoot shoes, is that they aren't as padded. I have found that if I am wearing barefoot shoes and walking across a grassy area in my yard, that they are rather comfortable on the bottom of my feet, even without extra padding. But when I am walking on hard surfaces, I usually walk on hard floors and blacktop pavement, I want some extra padding. So I am using Doctor Scholl's air pillow inner soles, no arch support, no bends, just the flat plain inner soles. And I do mean plural, I have two pair of the plain flat inner soles in my barefoot shoes.

Was it worth it?

Yes.

My feet are getting stronger. They are healing from my past habits. I'm glad I took the plunge.

The local stores where I live still do not sell any barefoot shoes that I know of, but I know I can get them on Amazon. https://amzn.to/4fdXMrl These particular shoes comes in a variety of colors and patterns. I chose the Joomra brand because I like the shoe style, I resonated with a lot of the reviews, and they are reasonably priced.

Cheryl Paton


If you want to find another use for the wide stretchy hair ties, check out my blog on Alternative Toys for Cats, Review.



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 6, 2024

The Best Affordable Gel Ice Globes for Skincare and Muscle Relaxation

Today I am reviewing the newest tool in my skincare and body care arsenal, an affordable set of two 360° rotating, thermal gel-filled, stainless steel ice rollers that can be used not only chilled for facial tightening, lymphatic drainage and depuffing, but also either cold or warm for easing sore muscles after a workout, strain, or injury.

The Best Affordable Ice Globes for Facial Skincare and Body Massage

I have been lucky enough to find an extremely knowledgeable and experienced licensed esthetician and spa & salon owner whose product recommendations have transformed my skin remarkably over the past four or five years (even though we have never met in person). I trust her recommendations wholeheartedly and she has never steered me wrong. She also doesn't believe in recommending anything that doesn't have clinically proven results. So, when she shares a skincare recommendation, I'm all ears.

One of the tools she recommends is a set of gel-filled stainless steel ice globes that can be chilled and used on the face for a lifting and tightening effect and lymphatic drainage massage to depuff the face, especially the undereye area. The ones she sells rotate 360° so they glide over the skin without dragging against it and are filled with a gel that helps maintain the cold temperature for a long time. There is no question they are a high-quality product. Unfortunately, at $225 at the time of this post's publication, they are also way out of my budget.

I decided to research less expensive alternatives with similar features and was able to find a set of two 360° rotating, thermal gel-filled, stainless steel ice rollers — with two added benefits over the more expensive set — for less than $25 (at the time of this post's publication). I have been extremely pleased with them!

Ice Globes by Eli with Love — 360° Rotating, Unbreakable Steel Ice Globes with Carry Case

If you’re on the lookout for an affordable skincare and body care tool that combines high quality, functionality, and durability, the Ice Globes by Eli with Love are a fantastic choice. Made with unbreakable stainless steel and featuring a 360-degree rotating design, these globes are designed to enhance your skincare and relaxation routines, whether you’re looking to lift and depuff your skin, improve circulation, or simply unwind with a soothing facial or body massage.

Design & Quality

These Eli with Love Ice Globes are crafted from high-quality stainless steel, making them not only sleek but, more importantly, extremely durable. Unlike some other ice rollers made from glass or plastic, they’re designed to be unbreakable, which makes them a smarter investment. The 360-degree rotation feature allows for fluid, continuous motion so the globes glide seamlessly across the face and over facial contours, rather than dragging against the delicate facial skin (something we always want to avoid!). This rotating function also enhances the effectiveness of each stroke, making it easier to apply consistent pressure and achieve optimal results without straining your hand. The handles are also very comfortable.

I love the fact that, unlike the much more expensive ice globes I looked at originally, this set can be used either chilled or warm, making it much more versatile. I also love that, unlike the costlier set, this one comes in a sturdy, latched, fitted case for storage and travel.

Skincare Benefits

  • Lifting and Firming: The ice globes work wonders when chilled, as the cool temperature helps firm the skin, reduce puffiness, and provide a lifting effect. Regular use over time can support the skin’s elasticity and improve facial contours, which is especially beneficial for mature adults looking to maintain a youthful appearance.
  • Reducing Puffiness: The cooling sensation of the ice globes is perfect for reducing puffiness, particularly in the under-eye area. In just a few minutes each morning, the globes can depuff and brighten the delicate eye area, leaving you looking refreshed and ready for the day.
  • Calming Inflammation: These globes are perfect for anyone dealing with redness or irritation. The cooling effect helps calm the skin, making them ideal for post-treatment relief (like after microneedling or exfoliating treatments) and for those with sensitive skin.
  • Enhancing Product Absorption: After applying your favorite serums or creams, the globes can be used to gently press the products deeper into the skin, improving absorption and boosting the efficacy of your skincare products. You can also use these over a serum-infused facial sheet mask to enhance its benefits.
  • Lymphatic Drainage: The rotating feature is particularly effective for lymphatic drainage. When used with gentle pressure along the jawline, neck, and cheeks, these globes help stimulate lymph flow, flushing out toxins and promoting a more radiant, healthy-looking complexion.

Eli with Love Ice Globes Directions and Uses Insert Card
Eli with Love Ice Globes directions and uses insert card

Body Care & Muscle Relaxation

The Eli with Love Ice Globes can also be used for body care and wellness. They are particularly effective when applied to sore muscles, offering soothing warmth or cooling relief to areas that feel tight or tired.

Whether you use them for a quick neck massage after a long day or on your temples for stress relief, these globes bring a sense of calm and relaxation. They're a lovely tool to help you start or enhance a self-care routine.

Eli with Love Ice Globes in fitted storage case
I love the hard plastic storage case with sturdy latch that keeps these ice globes clean and organized in between uses and for travel (especially since I store mine in the refrigerator)

Fitted Case for Storage & Travel

One standout feature of the Eli with Love Ice Globes set is the included carry case. The case is compact, fairly sturdy (for hard plastic) and stylish, making it easy to keep your ice globes clean in between uses and when they are stored in the refrigerator (where I keep mine). 

This clean, hygienic storage case has a sturdy latch and is great for travel, too, allowing you to enjoy a spa-quality facial massage or a soothing body massage wherever you are.

Usage Tips

Chill in the Fridge: For optimal cooling without making them too cold, store the globes in their case in the refrigerator rather than the freezer. This keeps them at a comfortable temperature that’s effective yet gentle on the skin. If you desire a more penetrating cold, for example, to calm inflamed muscles, you may chill them in the freezer inside their storage case, but I wouldn't use them frozen on the face.

Easy Warm-Up: To use the globes warm, simply place them in warm water for 10 minutes. This option is excellent for soothing sore muscles and relieving tension. If they cool off too quickly or you desire more warmth, try warming them in slightly hotter water for a longer time.

Go Slowly and Gently: When using the globes, apply gentle pressure, especially around sensitive areas like the eyes. Take your time with each stroke to fully benefit from the massage and cooling effects.

Who Would Love These?

This set of two Ice Globes by Eli with Love with Carry Case is perfect for skincare enthusiasts, especially women over 50 who want an effective yet gentle tool for boosting skin radiance, reducing puffiness, and enhancing relaxation. Their durability, ergonomic design, and versatile use make them ideal for anyone who wants to add a professional-quality tool to their beauty routine without the worry of breakage or complex care instructions.

These would also make a great, affordable gift under $25 for anyone (man or woman) who works out regularly, has chronic muscle aches, or suffers from "tech neck" neckaches.

Final Verdict

The Ice Globes for Facials by Eli with Love are an excellent addition to any skincare routine. The unbreakable stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the 360-degree rotation offers a smooth, enjoyable massage experience that targets every curve of your face and body. With benefits ranging from skincare-enhancing product absorption to muscle relaxation and soreness relief, these ice globes are an excellent value. The included carry case is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to keep them safe, clean, and ready for travel.

Overall, these globes are a versatile, high-quality tool for achieving professional spa-like results from the comfort of home. They make a fantastic investment for anyone committed to skincare and wellness, delivering both immediate, soothing relaxation and long-term beauty benefits.


The Best Affordable Gel Ice Globes for Skincare and Muscle Relaxation by Margaret Schindel

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Tuesday, November 5, 2024

How to Make Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara

 Spaghetti Carbonara is one of the simplest and most delicious pasta dishes from Italy. You don't have to go to a fancy Italian restaurant to enjoy this easy-to-make dish. In my review today I'll show how simple this is to make at home.

Spaghetti Carbonara a Foolproof Recipe

Authentic Carbonara is made with Guanciale (cured pork cheek), which is really hard to find. So, we use Pancetta (cured pork belly). You can easily find pancetta already diced at your local grocery store. If you can't find pancetta, you can use bacon.

Ingredients:

1 lb. of spaghetti

1/2 pound Pancetta or Bacon diced

2 cloves of garlic minced

3 eggs

1 cup of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese 

Fresh ground black pepper

Parsley Chopped for garnish

Salt, for pasta water

1/4 cup pasta water

Instructions:

  1. Start a large pot of salted water for the pasta and bring to a boil.
  2. Add the pancetta or bacon and minced garlic to a large frying pan. Cook over medium heat until the fat has rendered and the pancetta or bacon is crispy.
  3. While the pancetta is cooking add the eggs, cheese, and black pepper into a bowl and whisk together. Set this aside.
  4. Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain, and place in a large bowl. Quickly add the pancetta and egg mixture. Return to the frying pan over low heat. Mix well to create a creamy sauce. Add 1/4 cup of pasta water if needed.
  5. Garnish with chopped parsley, and more cheese, and serve.

Cooking Pancetta

This is our pancetta and garlic cooking in the frying pan. 

Carbonara egg and cheese mixture

This is our egg and cheese mixture 

Tip: When you return the pasta to the frying pan low heat is the key. You don't want the eggs to scramble, the low heat while mixing will create a smooth custard-like sauce.

Our family loves this Italian classic. So, try this at home I'm sure your family will love it as much as we do.

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Monday, November 4, 2024

Travel: Cunningham Falls State Park, Maryland

Cunningham Falls State Park located in Maryland is a wonderful place to visit during all times of the year, but especially during the peak colors of fall. On a recent adventure I passed through the Catoctin Mountains and was reminded of how wonderful this area is to visit. Cunningham Falls is an especially interesting area for any outdoor enthusiast. 

text and photo of Cunningham Falls State Park
By Jarek Tuszyński - Own work, CC BY 4.0, Commons Wikimedia

While driving through the park at sunrise, I saw scattered groups of hikers crossing the road or leaving the parking areas for the trailheads.  I thought it would be a shame if this area isn't known to others who might enjoy that natural setting. That's why I decided to give a very brief overview and spread the word.

Cunningham Falls State Park

Are you looking for a way to unwind, relax, and unplug? This area might the perfect spot. The website confirms this by stating that cell communication may be spotty or non-existent as many carriers do not provide service in this area. 

This Maryland state park is over 6,000 acres that includes a 43 acre man-made lake and the largest cascading water fall in Maryland. 

The park is divided into two sections. 

The William Houck area of the state park is located three miles west of Thurmont, Maryland on winding, tree-lined route 77. Camping, the falls, and the lake are located in this area. I have spent the most time in this section of the park. I have enjoyed hiking near the 78-foot waterfall on several occasions. I was always glad to spend time in the serene setting; surrounded by rocks, boulders, and flowing water in the wooded area. 

The Manor area is located three miles south of Thurmont, off Route 15.  The Scales, Tales Aviary, camping and the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace.

I am not as interested in history as I am in hiking and crossing creeks on foot, using rocks as stepping stones. But I found the Catoctin Iron Furnace a very interesting site to visit. It is hard for me to imagine this furnace being built of stone in the 1770's and began operating in 1776 to manufacture iron for household and industrial goods. 

Over the years, I've known people who use the camping areas in Cunningham Falls as their preferred, local getaway. I personally have not camped there so I am not familiar with the amenities. But I am aware that it is a recommended spot to spent a weekend or vacation. 

Whether you are looking for a place to stayover, for a day hike, or for a more meaningful historic experience, Cunningham Falls State Park may be the spot for you.

Cunningham Falls State Park website

Nearby sites and attractions:

Catoctin Furnace Historical Society information

Driving tour information for the three covered bridges in the area: Loy's Station Covered Bridge, Roddy Road Covered Bridge and Utica Covered Bridge.

I have enjoyed the annual Catoctin Color Fest in Thurmont, Maryland. It is held in October and features a large collection of art, jewelry, crafts and food vendors. It is a super enjoyable festival in a small town setting during a beautiful time of year. 




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