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Friday, March 14, 2025

Copycat Pronto Pup or Corn Dog Maker at Home Reviewed

We love going to the fair! One of the biggest reasons we love the fair, is the food, especially Pronto Pups. The first stop we make when we enter the fairgrounds, is the Pronto Pup food truck. If we attend a festival or specialty show and see the Pronto Pup food truck, we make a beeline to it immediately. Forget the show, we need a Pronto Pup!

We didn't get to go to the fair this past fall and we felt a tremendous loss by not getting our annual Pronto Pup. Well, okay, calling it a "tremendous loss" might be exaggerating a bit, but having a 40+ year tradition interrupted, does leave one feeling unsettled. We simply needed a Pronto Pup to center our universe back on its axis. And, horror of all horrors, we had not attended any shows or festivals in months. We were, most definitely, feeling deprived.

When shopping for Christmas gifts this year, I spotted a corn dog maker on Amazon. I added it to my wishlist so I could think about it. I did not believe there was any way a homemade Pronto Pup could live up to the taste of the fair delicacy. I honestly believed they must be deep fried to have the right texture and flavor. I feared a Pronto Pup made in an electric gadget at home would be a great disappointment. However, after my husband said he wished he had a Pronto Pup for the trillionth time since fall, I was determined to find one for him. With no upcoming local events that would offer a Pronto Pup, I became more desperate and decided to try the electric corn dog maker.

Yowsers, I'm glad I did! The half-sized Pronto Pups made in the electric corn dog maker were delicious. Almost as good as going to the fair, although I haven't figured out how to get the Ferris Wheel here for the full fair experience.

MasterChef Corn Dog Maker - Electric Nonstick Baker

MasterChef Corn Dog Maker-Electric Nonstick Kitchen Baker, Hot Dogs on Stick, Cheese Mozzarella Sticks, Cake Pops, BBQ -Recipes +50 SkewersCheck PriceThe corn dog maker is distributed under several brand names. I opted for the MasterChef brand because it had the best reviews and came with 50 skewers. Including the skewers with the baker, allowed me to get started immediately.

I was not thrilled with the recipe included with the maker because it called for pancake mix. I thought pancake mix would make the batter too sweet for the authentic Pronto Pup taste I wanted to recreate. I sought out a Pronto Pup copycat batter recipe and it sounded perfect as I read through the ingredients. Since this was our first test, I decided to make a batter recipe of both types, the one that came with the maker and the copycat recipe. After my family had tried both, the copycat recipe was unanimously chosen as the best. However, to be fair, the pancake mix recipe tasted good, even though it was sweeter, and required less ingredients to make, but it was much thinner than the copycat batter. We all preferred the thicker coating on the hot dogs.

It is very easy to make the Pronto Pups.

Make the batter recipe
Preheat the maker - wait for the green light to come on & indicate that the maker is ready
Spray the trays with a non-stick spray (I wipe off excess spray before adding food. It just needs a light coating)
Simply cut the hot dogs in half
Insert a skewer into each half
Dip the hot dogs into the batter, covering them fully
Lay the battered hot dogs on the maker plate with the sticks aligned in the depressions on the side
Spoon a small amount of batter on the top of each hot dog
Close the maker lid and cook for 3 minutes
Open the lid, turn the hot dogs and cook for 3 more minutes
Remove your cooked Pronto Pups/corn dogs and serve

Pronto Pup Batter Copycat Recipe

I am including the recipe here for the copycat Pronto Pup batter so you don't have to go on a separate search. Since there are several recipes online, I thought it best to share the one that we used. I wouldn't want any Pronto Pup lovers to be disappointed.

1 cup all-purpose flour

⅔ cup cornmeal (white or yellow)

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon dry mustard

2 Tablespoons shortening

1 large egg, beaten

1 cup milk

Instructions

Combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt and dry mustard. Mix well.
Add the shortening and cut it into the mixture using fork until the mixture becomes a fine crumble.
In a separate bowl, mix egg and milk together. Pour this mixture into the flour mixture. Stir until smooth (batter will be thick).

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Book Review- At the Edge of the Orchard

Historical fiction is my favorite genre, and Tracy Chevalier is among the authors in this genre that I enjoy reading. Her careful research and delightful way of pulling you into the story make her books real page turners. At the Edge of the Orchard was a fascinating tale that I found myself unable to put down.

Book Summary

James and Sadie Goodenough leave their home in Connecticut to head out west. When they get to Ohio their wagon gets stuck in the muddy 1830's black swamp area. They decide to claim some land in this area and settle down to growing apple trees. If they plant 50 trees within 3 years, they can claim the land for their own. James is enthralled with apple trees, that remind him of his home in Connecticut, while Sadie is more interested in the apple jack that they can produce. She can use it as an alcoholic retreat from the tough times that visit them, including deaths of a child to illness in many years. Their children are helpers on their farm from a very early age.

The next part of the book skips to 15 years later when the youngest son Robert is wandering through the Gold Rush in California. He is haunted from his past and the family he left behind when he was only 9 years old. He does find some peace working with a naturalist and helping him to gather saplings and seed of the majestic redwoods and sequoias to send to gardeners in England.

I found the book to be very interesting and really appreciate the care the author takes in describing the historical settings in the novel. The characters are delightful, and you find yourself pulled into their lives.

I have read several of Tracy Chevaliers books in the past and have never been disappointed.

About the Author

Tracy Chevalier was born and grew up in Washington DC. After attending Oberlin college in Ohio, she moved to London in the mid 1980's. Her first novel was Virgin Blue in 1997 followed by The Girl with the Pearl Earring in 1999. She is currently working on her 12th book.

She does a lot of research for each book and one thing she likes to do is put herself in some of the situations she writes about. She tried painting for one book, stitching for another and for At the Edge of the Orchard she spent some time among trees, including the redwoods and sequoias in California.

Link to Book on Amazon

At the Edge of the Orchard, along with Tracy's other books can be found on Amazon. Here is the link: At the Edge of the Orchard

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Wednesday, March 12, 2025

The Most Affordable OTC Lidocaine Pain Relief Patches

If you’re looking for a strong, over-the-counter pain relief patch, 4% lidocaine plus 1% menthol pain relief gel-patches offer a powerful combination of numbing and cooling effects to help ease discomfort. With the FDA-approved maximum strength of lidocaine available without a prescription, plus the added benefit of menthol, these patches can be a great option when you’re dealing with muscle aches, joint pain, or general soreness. Here is my review of the affordable Sumifun Lidocaine +Menthol Pain Relief Gel-Patches I have been using to help me with a painful upper back muscle spasm.

Recently I developed a painful muscle spasm in my upper back that seems to have pinched a nerve. (I suspect it was caused by my propensity to spend too much of each day looking down at a mobile phone or laptop screen.)

A few years ago, when my husband had an even more severe muscle spasm that caused a pinched nerve, he was prescribed not only oral painkillers but also 5% lidocaine patches that helped him enormously. Subsequently, when he developed a less severe muscle spasm in his back, we decided to give 4% lidocaine patches from the pharmacy a try, since 5% lidocaine patches are only available by prescription. After buying a box of the popular but expensive Salonpas 4% lidocaine pain relieving gel-patch from the local pharmacy and realizing that he would need to use the patches for an extended period of time, my husband bought a less expensive 4% lidocaine roll-on product, but it wore off faster and was smellier than the gel-patches.

So, when my recent back spasm began, I decided to try a more affordable brand of gel-patch and opted for the over-the-counter (OTC) maximum-strength lidocaine plus menthol version.

Overview

Sumifun 4% Lidocaine + 1% Menthol Pain Relief Gel-Patch is a maximum-strength over-the-counter pain relief patch designed to alleviate a variety of aches and pains, including backaches, stiff necks, joint pain, and muscle soreness. Combining 4% lidocaine, a potent local anesthetic, with 1% menthol, a counterirritant that provides a cooling and warming sensation, these patches promise fast-acting, long-lasting relief for up to 8 hours. Available in various pack sizes, they are also FSA/HSA eligible, adding to their appeal for convenient topical pain relief without a prescription.

Packaging and Presentation

The Sumifun patches are individually wrapped, ensuring convenience, cleanliness and portability. Each patch measures approximately 3.9” x 5.5” (similar in size to most other large OTC lidocaine patches). Instructions are printed not only on the box, but also on the wrapper of each lidocaine pain relief patch.

The patches have a soft, stretchy fabric exterior and a sticky adhesive side infused with the active ingredients. The menthol gives them a subtle scent.

Application

Applying the patch is straightforward: Remove the patch from the individual packaging, partially peel back the protective backing film, position the patch over the affected area and press to adhere, then remove the remaining backing film as you press and firmly smooth down the patch against the skin. If you have back pain, you probably will need someone to apply the patch for you.

I have found that, if adhered smoothly and firmly, paying special attention to the edges, the patches stay in place on my upper back for about 5-8 hours during light activity (sitting, standing, walking). However, some customers report that the edges may begin to lift slightly after sweating or bending, especially when the patch is applied to more mobile areas like knees or lower legs. You might need to use tape to help keep it in place securely in those situations.

The patch feels lightweight and flexible, molding to the skin without feeling bulky. However, it’s thinner than the prescription-grade patches we’ve used, which makes it a bit trickier to apply without it folding onto itself. Once properly applied, however, it’s discreet under clothing and there’s no greasy residue like with lidocaine creams or lotions.

Effectiveness

The combination of 4% lidocaine and 1% menthol is the star of this product. Lidocaine, at 4%, is the highest OTC strength available, working by numbing nerve signals to dull pain. Menthol complements this by creating a cooling sensation followed by subtle warmth, which can distract from discomfort and soothe the area.

The patches feel extremely cold upon application. The cooling effect from the menthol provides some comfort within about 15–20 minutes. The lidocaine kicks in shortly after, reducing the sharp ache to a more manageable level. For moderate pain, like my tech use-induced back muscle spasm, it has worked well, taking the edge off enough to improve mobility and focus. However, it hasn’t completely eliminated deeper soreness, and the relief is mostly gone after about 6 hours.

These lidocaine patches with menthol are especially helpful for backaches or joint stiffness. They would not be adequate to help with more severe or chronic pain, like neuropathy or post-surgical discomfort. Compared to prescription 5% lidocaine patches my husband has used previously, these over-the-counter 4% lidocaine patches are slightly less potent, but they’re a solid alternative for less severe pain.

The product claims up to 8 hours of relief per patch, with a recommendation to leave it on for no longer than 8 hours. In my experience, the pain relief peaks around hours 2–4 and then gradually declines. By hour 6, the numbing effect is faint. However, when applied an hour before bedtime, these patches have helped me fall asleep and stay asleep, which has been a blessing.

Key Features

Maximum OTC Strength: Contains 4% lidocaine, the highest strength available over the counter, to provide numbing relief for pain.
Enhanced with 1% Menthol: Provides an instant cooling sensation that helps soothe discomfort while the lidocaine takes effect.
Fast-Acting & Long-Lasting: Works quickly and delivers pain relief for up to 8 hours.
Flexible & Comfortable: Designed to be thin and stretchable to conform to different body areas without restricting movement.
Non-Greasy & Mess-Free: Unlike creams or gels, these patches adhere to the skin without leaving a sticky residue.

Benefits

Great for localized pain relief: Ideal for back pain, arthritis, and muscle soreness.
Easy to use: Just peel and apply; no need for rubbing or massaging like creams.
Affordable compared to prescription options: Provides effective relief without the need for a doctor’s visit.
Dual action relief: The lidocaine-menthol combo offers both numbing and soothing sensations, making it versatile for various pain types.
OK to use even on sensitive skin: I have had to have these patches applied and removed twice a day for the past five days so far, and even though I have fairly delicate skin, the affected area where the patches are being applied and removed repeatedly is slightly pink but not irritated.
Affordable: At roughly $1-$1.50 per patch (depending on pack size), it’s a cost-effective OTC option compared to prescription alternatives or better known brands like Salonpas.
Discreet and Mess-Free: No greasy residue or strong smell, ideal for daytime use.
FSA/HSA Eligible: A bonus for those leveraging tax-advantaged accounts.

Considerations

May not stick well on very mobile or perspired areas: If you sweat or move a lot, the adhesive can loosen, especially on joints like knees or elbows.
Cooling sensation fades quickly: While the menthol effect is noticeable at first, it doesn’t last as long as the lidocaine.
Not a cure-all for chronic pain: Works well for temporary relief but may not be strong enough for severe or deep pain conditions.
Adhesion issues: Edges may lift with flexion or sweat, especially on joints or lower extremities, where tape may be required to hold the patch in place securely. However, a stronger adhesive might cause skin irritation, especially if you need to apply and remove multiple gel patches successively until the muscle pain resolves permanently.
Application challenges: Thin and stretchy material requires care to avoid folding and sticking to itself when being applied. If the affected area is inaccessible, such as the back, you might need someone to apply the patch for you.

Who Is This Best For?

People with mild to moderate muscle or joint pain
Individuals with arthritis or general body aches
Anyone looking for easy, on-the-go pain relief without messy creams

Value for Money

Priced at $29.74 for two packs of 15 patches (30 patches total), equivalent to $0.99 each, on Amazon at the time of this review’s publication, these large Sumifun lidocaine and menthol pain relief patches deliver excellent value. By comparison, the Salonpas Lidocaine Gel-Patch (15 Count) 2 Pack cost $47.99, equivalent to $1.60 each, on Amazon as of this writing. That’s a significant difference in price! Note that Salonpas also makes other pain relief gel patches with different and potentially less effective active ingredients.

The addition of menthol in the Sumifun lidocaine patches is helpful, enhancing the pain relief at an affordable price. For occasional use on mild to moderate pain, these patches are definitely a worthwhile investment.

My Final Verdict

The Sumifun 4% Lidocaine + 1% Menthol Patches are a solid choice for those who need fast-acting, targeted pain relief. The combination of numbing lidocaine and soothing menthol makes them effective for many types of pain, especially sore muscles. They offer a convenient and affordable way to manage muscle aches and pains without a prescription.

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Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Ian Fleming's The Penguin Complete 007 Centenary James Bond Book Collection Review

Here for your review is a popular set of books that celebrated the 100th birthday or centennial of Ian Fleming’s James Bond books. Called The Penguin Complete 007 James Bond Centenary Collection, it came attractively packaged in a red box with a cut out in the form of 007.

James Bond Fact Files said, “Every so often in the sea of marketed mediocrity perpetrated in the name of James Bond 007, something of worth is produced which is not only a joy to behold and own, but in time will also become a desirable and much sought-after collectable.”

This series definitely fits that description. The books were paperbacks with new and interesting vintage-style covers and this release made the books exciting for new and old readers alike. Many years later, these books are indeed desirable and a sought-after collectable.

The Penguin Complete 007 Centenary Book Collection of James Bond books by Ian Fleming.

The set included 14 books as shown here on this list, presented here in alphabetical order:

Casino Royale
Diamonds are Forever
Doctor No
For Your Eyes Only
From Russia with Love
Goldfinger
Live and Let Die
Man with the Golden Gun, The
Moonraker
Octopussy
On Her Majesty's Secret Service
Spy Who Loved Me, The
Thunderball
You Only Live Twice

It was a wonderful way to gift the whole set, perfect for anyone who loved the stories or for an introduction to the series. My dad was gifted a set around the release date, which I believe was 2008 here in Canada. The books would still make a wonderful gift set but they are long out of production and as mentioned above, much sought after. For those who don't know, this means that the sales price has risen. Dramatically.

If you are, however, a really big fan and want to add the set to your collection or if you are just curious, you can find The James Bond Centenary Collection here on eBay or sometimes here on Amazon. Occasionally, you will even see a new, sealed set on the resale market. However, you will have to have deep pockets to add it to your collection today.

A list of the books in The Penguin Complete 007 Centenary Collection by Ian Flemming.

The picture of the row of books shown above was kindly provided by eBay seller Bushido_108. Check out all of the great sets of books he has in store for you here, on eBay.

See you
At the bookstore!
Brenda
Treasures By Brenda

MORE READING:

Gift Ideas for Dad

Steve Berry's The Amber Room Reviewed

The Man with the Golden Typewriter by Ian Fleming

Discover Bond 50: The Complete 22 Film Collection

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Monday, March 10, 2025

Gardien Decorative Stepping Stones Review

Have you ever wanted to DIY a garden path or foot path in your yard? Yet the thought of bringing in stones seems ... like alot of work! Enter the resin Gardien stepping stones which are lightweight faux stepping stones attached to the ground with stakes. Yes, stakes!

The stones are textured to resemble limestone and can be used as separately or spaced together depending upon the desired look or use.

Colors

Gardien 15.5” Decorative Stepping Stones That Stake Into The GroundCheck Price

Light Beige Limestone and Slate Grey

Quantities

The stepping stones can be ordered in packs of 4, 8, 16 stones

Size

The size of each stone is 15.5" X 15.5"

The stones do require minor installation of the four stakes to adhere stone into the ground. The stakes are attached to the back of each stone. After the stakes are removed from the back of the stone the stakes need to be clipped into the back of each stone (that did require hand strength.)

Installation

The stones are very easy to install on soft ground, grass or mulch. Simply place the stone and stand on the stone to lower stone into the ground. The stones are easily detached also to move or realign.

I love this idea and the flexibility to DIY a space. The stones are not inexpensive especially if a large area is to be designed and work better on level land.

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Sunday, March 9, 2025

Why Put a Spring Wreath on Your Front Door?

I've always loved a seasonal wreath on a front door. There's just something about walking up to a house and being greeted by a cheerful wreath that feels warm and inviting.

It's like the house itself is smiling at you. When spring rolls around, a bright, floral wreath is the perfect way to welcome the season of renewal right at your doorstep.

1. The Meaning Behind a Spring Wreath

Spring wreaths aren't just pretty; they carry symbolic meaning as well. Wreaths, in general, have long been symbols of growth, renewal, and the cycle of life, which makes them a perfect match for spring.

Flowers represent the blooming of new beginnings, while greenery symbolizes life and vitality.

A spring wreath can be a quiet but meaningful reminder to embrace change, fresh starts, and the beauty of nature awakening around us.

Whether you choose a floral design, a greenery wreath, or something whimsical like one made with Easter eggs or butterflies, it's a lovely way to mark the season.

2. Decorative Impact That Elevates Your Curb Appeal

Let's be honest — a spring wreath just makes your home look good!

It's a simple yet powerful way to add color and personality to your front door. Even if your porch is basic, a vibrant wreath can instantly brighten things up.

I've found that a spring wreath can also tie together other decorative elements.

If you enjoy putting out a welcome mat, potted plants, or seasonal decor on your porch, a wreath can pull the whole look together. The combination creates a cohesive and inviting entryway that leaves a lasting impression.

Check out this collection of spring wreaths for unique ideas on different wreath styles. Whether you prefer bold colors or soft pastels, there's something to suit various styles.

3. Practical Tips for Choosing and Hanging a Spring Wreath

If you're like me, you want a wreath that not only looks great but holds up well. Here are some quick tips I've learned over the years:

Go Artificial for Longevity: While fresh flower wreaths are stunning, they don't last long. Artificial options can look just as beautiful and will stay vibrant all season.
Choose Weather-Resistant Materials: If your front door is exposed to the elements, look for UV-protected or weather-resistant wreaths to prevent fading.
Pick the Right Size: A wreath that's too small can get lost on the door, while one that's too big may overwhelm it. Aim for a size that fits comfortably within the door's center.
Use a Sturdy Hanger: Over-the-door wreath hangers are easy to use, but adhesive hooks can work well if you'd rather avoid a visible hook on top. I prefer the over-the-door hanger, but that's just a personal thing. Check out both hanging devices and decide which works best for your door.

As a reminder, if you're ready to find the perfect wreath for your door, I've gathered some wonderful ideas in this spring wreath roundup. There's something for many tastes and styles.

Final Thoughts

Putting a spring wreath on your front door is such a simple way to celebrate the season and make your home feel warm and welcoming.

Whether you choose a floral masterpiece, a greenery-inspired design, or something playful and fun, it's a beautiful way to show off your style and greet guests with a smile before they even step inside.

Happy spring decorating!

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Saturday, March 8, 2025

National Alfred Hitchcock Day Reviewed

March 12 has been selected as the day we honor the Master of Suspense - Alfred Hitchcock.

Alfred Hitchcock Day is a holiday in the category of Arts & Entertainment. On March 12 we celebrate the life, times and work of this master filmmaker.

Presenting Alfred Hitchcock

Alfred Hitchcock (Wikipedia)

Hitchcock was an English film director who became one of the most influential figures in the world of cinema.

In a career that spanned six decades, Hitchcock directed over 50 feature films, many of which are still watched and well known today. Some of his most famous were Strangers on a Train, Dial M for Murder, To Catch a Thief, Vertigo, North by Northwest, The Birds and Psycho. The actors in these, and other, Hitchcock films were some of the top names of the day, including Cary Grant, Jimmy Stewart, Grace Kelly and Ingrid Bergman.

Hitchcock became as well known as any of his actors due to his cameo appearances in most of his films, his many interviews, and his television series Alfred Hitchcock Presents.

Born in Essex (near East London), Alfred Hitchcock grew up in a rather austere and strict environment without much joy. He had no real friends and developed many fears over the years. Perhaps his background helped bring out the suspenseful and fearful ideas he had for his many films.

Hitchcock's favorite subject was geography and he loved maps and timetables of trains, trams and buses. He had a particular interest in London trams and, fans of Hitchcock films will note, a large percentage of his films included rail or tram scenes.

Alfred Hitchcock married Alma Reville, an English screenwriter, in 1926 and they had one daughter, Pat. Alma became his closest collaborator and wrote or co-wrote many of Hitchcock's films.

One of Hitchcock’s most famous movies was Psycho. The violence (shower scene) and the early death of the heroine by a disturbed murderer became the hallmarks of a new horror-film genre and became very popular with audiences.

Alfred Hitchcock’s films showed recurring themes and plot devices throughout his directing career. The "Hitchcockian" style included the use of "editing and camera movement to mimic a person's gaze, thereby turning viewers into voyeurs, and framing shots to maximise anxiety and fear."

Summary

Alfred Hitchcock received many awards for his work over the years, and frequent accolades. Life magazine called him the "greatest master of melodrama in screen history". The holiday of National Alfred Hitchcock Day celebrates this outstanding Master of Suspense.

Related Reviews:

Alfred Hitchcock Suspense Films Collection Reviewed by Sylvestermouse Cynthia

For more Holiday Reviews, Check out
ReviewThisReviews: Holidays

A Few of the Many Favorite & Most Well-Known Hitchcock Films:

The Birds [DVD]

Psycho (1960) - 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital [4K UHD]

North By Northwest (4K UHD + Digital)

Rear Window - 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital [4K UHD]

*Review of the Holiday ‘National Alfred Hitchcock Day’ was written by Wednesday Elf.

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Friday, March 7, 2025

Pork Chops with Gravy Crock-Pot Recipe

I love cooking in my crock pot. It is so nice to be able to start a meal in the morning and have it ready to serve at dinnertime without too much additional fuss. I am constantly seeking new crock pot recipes that my family will enjoy.

Not all of my new recipe experiments have been well received in our home. Due to varying ingredient preferences, it is not unusual for one of us to like a particular meal while others simply do not care for it and start rutting in the refrigerator for last night's leftovers. When I plan to try a new recipe, I make sure there is an alternative meal available. I've learned that is a necessity.

Due to my own childhood experiences with tomatoes, I've never required my children, or anyone, to eat a meal that did not appeal to them, simply because it was set before them. Of course, I cook with tomatoes, but my personal preference is either tomato sauce or petite diced tomatoes. I cannot eat a tomato alone or sliced on a hamburger like my parents, siblings & husband. Therefore, I completely understand when someone doesn't like a specific ingredient or presentation.

A few years ago, my mother started cooking pork chops in her crock pot. I have cooked pork loin in my crock pot for decades, but not the chops and I hesitated to try the pork chops in gravy. However, Mom was kind enough to share one of her cooked pork chops with me and I loved them. They are awesome!

She gave me her recipe and with a few very simple changes based on my household preferences, I now cook pork chops in gravy for my family. Everyone, except our vegans, love these chops.

Crock Pot Recipe for Pork Chops with Gravy

5 Pork Chops (any size – I use the breakfast chops)

1 Campbell's Cream of Chicken Soup

1 pkg of Pork Gravy Mix (I use Pioneer Roasted Pork Gravy Mix)

½ Cup Water or Chicken Broth

½ teaspoon Pepper

Butter

Note: Can add a pkg of onion dip mix if desired (I don’t use this)

Directions

Mix together the soup, gravy mix, water and pepper. Pour into the crock pot.

Layer the pork chops on top of the mixture.

Lightly pepper and add a pat of butter on each pork chop.

Cook for 7 ½ hours on low.

Finishing sauce thickener after chops are cooked: In a cup, stir together 2 Tablespoons Corn Starch & 2 Tablespoons Water to make a sauce thickener. Temporarily remove pork chops and stir mixture into sauce in the crock pot. Add the chops back to the crock pot and cook chops in the sauce for another 30 minutes.

During that additional 30 of cooking in the crockpot, I prepare a box of Uncle Ben's Wild Rice and serve the cooked pork chops over the wild rice.

My Crock-Pot

I own two crock-pots. My original crock pot is over 40 years old, but it still works like new. However, during the holidays, I found I needed a second crock-pot to carry meals to my parent's home when my siblings and their families are in town. I chose one that has latches on the top for easy transporting.

Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Oval Manual Portable Slow Cooker, Red - SCCPVL600-R

Check Out More Recipe Reviews at
ReviewThisRecipes.com

Pork Chops with Gravy Crock Pot Recipe Written by:

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Thursday, March 6, 2025

Using Affirmations - A Review

When I first started using affirmations, I was a novice. I had worked through a book and came up with ten affirmations that I would write down, and then read and recite daily.

I was floored when I noticed that some of them were coming true. I continued on a bit more, and became flabbergasted. I really started watching what I was saying; so much so, that I became very quiet. I didn't want to let words slip out that were not affirmative of what I wanted and or liked.

But then I also began to miss having conversations. I didn't know how to be discerning of what I watched on TV or listened to as background noise, etc.

Having been raised as a Christian, I also began to wonder if this what was God wanted me to do. I wrote about that in another blog, and will share a link to that at the bottom of this post.

My main point of writing about using affirmations, is that I have found and also developed some tips and tricks that have helped me out in my continuing journey.

As much as possible, I try to notice more of what I do like.

As much as possible, I try to see the good. If that didn't seem to be working, I would leave a certain situation, and continue to work on me.

If it is a situation I want to stay in and make the best of, I have tried to state more of what it is I want, and only sticking to that. Sometimes I might rephrase something in a more positive way. I have found that to be helpful.

When it comes to reading, I take the time to transform the word I, used by others to refer to themselves, to they, he, she, etc. I have become more conscientious of when I use the word I, so I don't want to take on that word when I am reading in regards to someone else's I. So yes, I book has to really sound good for me to want to read it. Or, if the writer is coming from a place that I would like to be, then I can be okay with reading their I as also my I. Hope that makes sense.

When it comes to singing, I have found that singing words, has actually created more energy for those words as I sing them. So when my favorite tunes come on and I want to sing, I either replace the words with more positive words that I can align to, or just think my replacement words in my head, or just repeat a string of syllables to go along with the tune. Like lots of la la la, do rah do, etc.

Yes, these are all things that I have done to help me in my journey of using affirmations, without having to resort to a very quiet life. I don't like the idea of becoming a monk or be monk like. Did you notice what I just did, I used the word like with a derivative of not. I read about someone else doing that, to get out of the habit of using less positive descriptions.

I have also done quiet self talk. Early on in my affirmation journey, when I was out in a restaurant and the person across from me had said something I didn't like and I wanted things to go better, I cupped my hand up over my mouth and would quietly say the affirmation that I was trying to foster. I knew that what they were saying was triggering my old beliefs, so it was nothing I had to try and get them to change in that moment. This was my own personal way of working on me. I learned later that I could also say to myself, I dissolve this energy, and would mentally just think it to the area that I was feeling it in my body.

Another thing I have decided to do, is when I am with others who may not be talking very affirmatively, I have asked them, "What is it that you do want to happen?" Sometimes I have responded with what I may like to have happen, to give them an idea of what I mean. Sometimes, this has proven helpful.

I have found that I like various ways of doing affirmations. Sometimes I just like to chill and listen to them as background. Other times I follow along and repeat what I am listening to. If there is enough time, I repeat each one out loud and then again silently to myself.

I also like saying affirmations while doing physical activity. An example is saying that "I am strong," while exercising. I can find that quite invigorating. Physical activity can also be beneficial by itself.

You may not equate massage with affirmations, however our bodies can store energy of our beliefs. Massage from another or even one's self can help to release that stored energy through massage. It doesn't have to be a whole body massage, it can be as simple as massaging one's hands or feet. When I do that, sometimes I feel like I just need to take a deeper breath and let it go. I find it very helpful. Physical exercise can also loosen up stored energy.

Those are some of the things that I have done to improve my self well-being. I am glad that I pursued this journey of affirmations. I hope that you have found some help here, either with new tools that you may find helpful, and also that if you are going through anything similar, that you know you are with others who are on a path of transformation as well.

If you would like to read more about my transitioning went as far as me wondering what God wanted to me do, you can check that out here. It's my blog on Proverbs as Affirmations.

If you'd like some books that foster a more affirmative life, check these out. They are on Amazon.

Proverbs as Affirmations: An Affirmation Journal for Self Transformation This is especially good for those who want to experience the lessons in Proverbs said in a kind manner.

Positive Affirmation Coloring Book Coloring while focusing on an affirmation can be a relaxing and calm way to incorporate affirmations.

Proverbs as Affirmations Coloring Book: Words to Live By

May you have a great and blessed day.

Do you have an affirmation tip to share? Please do.

Cheryl Paton

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Wednesday, March 5, 2025

There Are Days Just Meant For Fun! A Holiday Review

As Mid-March arrives, if anyone asks what your favorite color is, the answer better be GREEN!

Why? Well everyone knows that on the 17th of March, the whole world seems to be Irish! St. Patrick's Day is the one day of the year where GREEN is the mandatory color in everyone's attire or their accessories!

It doesn't matter if its Kelly Green, pale Green, Bold Emerald Green or any combination, the most important part is that it belongs to the family of Green!

Now let's get down to a bit of history! St. Patrick became the Patron Saint of the Green Isle when he was sent to proclaim Christ to the people in the 5th century. Yes you read that right, he is a very old Patron Saint. He was born in Britain and at the age of 16 was taken from his village and placed into slavery in Ireland. Yes, the times he lived in were barbarous and slavery was not uncommon. He did manage to escape, but felt a calling to return to Ireland.

He was a very spiritual man, who during his travels around Ireland, baptized many people into the Catholic Christian Church. He was very careful to keep the peace with all the chieftains in the region so that he was welcomed by all. He gave gifts and took none in return. Many legends surround St. Patrick, the most popular is the Shamrock which helped Patrick explain the concept of the Holy Trinity.

St. Patrick is also credited with getting all the snakes, demons and practitioners of magic to leave Ireland. These "miracles" cannot be authenticated, but many still believe them.

But let's get to the fun part, current day celebrations of St. Patrick's Day are attributed to the European immigrants in the 18th century. Boston celebrated the first St. Patrick's Day parade in 1737. The large Irish population enjoyed the celebrations so much that many new ways to celebrate the day came about. The color GREEN not only celebrates St. Patrick, but rather is a way to celebrate the country of Ireland.

Today we see everyone as Irish on March 17th and many people enjoy adding to the mirth and merriment of the day by adding something GREEN to their clothing. People will enjoy Irish foods and even color their beer for the day.

Now I've given you fair warning that this holiday is coming up shortly and to that end have furnished you with a page from Amazon.com where you can find anything your little heart could desire to make this St. Patty's Day fun for you and your family.