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Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Reviewing 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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Sunday, November 24, 2024

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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Saturday, November 23, 2024

Continuation of the Sid Halley Book Series

Sid Halley is a continuing character in a series of six books begun by Dick Francis and continued by his writer son, Felix Francis. This fictional character became so popular that he has his own page on Wikipedia!

Image of jockeys on race horses during a horse race

Dick Francis wrote numerous books in the horse-racing mystery genre in conjunction with his wife, Mary. Mary insisted on remaining in the background, but she did a tremendous amount of research for each novel, plus assisting in the development of characters.

After Mary Francis died in 2000 at age 76, Dick lost interest in writing and virtually retired. Five years later, his son, Felix, agreed to help revive interest in the popular Dick Francis series of books, beginning with a new book featuring the legacy character, Sid Halley. (See Keeping a Legacy Character Alive by Felix Francis).

Sid Halley Series Continuation by Felix Francis - Synopses

Image Source: Pixabay

Here are brief reviews of the second set of three books, written by Felix Francis, starring Sid Halley.

Under Orders (2006)

Last seen in 1995 in Come to Grief, Sid Halley, former champion jockey turned super-sleuth, returns in a new novel.

The plot centers around three deaths which occur on Cheltenham Gold Cup Day. Sadly, death at the races isn’t that uncommon; however, finding a jockey who had just won the top race of the day dead from three bullet wounds to the chest is unusual enough to raise more than one question.

Moments before finding the dead jockey, Sid had been asked by Lord Enstone to investigate why his horses suddenly appeared to be on a permanent losing streak.

Halley sets out to find answers to a darker side of the race game; that of race fixing. Are the bookies involved? How about the trainers and the jockeys?

The results of his investigations push Halley to his limits, both professionally and personally.

Dick Francis’ Refusal (2013)

As the story in Refusal begins, we find that Sid Halley has retired from the field of Private Investigator. His work was rather dangerous at times, resulting in him being harassed, beaten and shot. Now Sid is married and has a daughter, so he gave up his former life. He thought nothing would ever lure him back. He thought wrong.

Sid refuses a request from an old friend (Sir Richard) to investigate a series of dodgy races. The next day, Sir Richard is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Then he receives threats and warnings from a man with an Irish accent of dire consequences if Sid doesn’t deliver a white-washed report to the racing authorities about the suspected race-fixing.

Sid at first ignores these warnings, but the intimidation escalates, placing his family under threat. Sid now realizes he must meet his enemy head-on – or pay the ultimate price for his refusal.

Hands Down (2022)

Felix Francis returns once again with Book number 6 in the Sid Halley series.

As the story begins, we find Sid Halley having had a transplant of a new left hand since his last appearance in Refusal.

An ex-jockey friend calls Sid for help after receiving death threats, But Sid is busy coping with his own problems of recovering from surgery, plus saving his crumbling marriage.

Then, his friend’s stable yard is torched, horses are killed, and the friend is found dead. Sid now blames himself for not helping sooner. The police think it’s suicide, but Sid is not convinced after his friend’s terrified phone calls. As Sid begins to investigate, he finds himself in the middle of a conspiracy involving the integrity of British horse racing.

Summary

Therein concludes this series of novels featuring popular fictional character, Sid Halley. Will there be more? We will have to wait and see. Meanwhile, Felix Francis continues to write in a genre fans of Dick Francis enjoyed and has become a successful crime writer in his own right.

*One interesting side note about the Sid Halley series relates to the time periods they were written. Dick Francis began the series with Odds Against in 1965. Dick's son Felix began the continuation of the series in 2006. These two authors' styles were similar, but the difference is in technology. In 1965 there were no personal computers, cell phones, or the Internet. All of those things come into play in the second three Sid Halley books written by Felix Francis. If you read all six books in the series back-to-back, you will see how technology changes many things.

Related Reviews:

For more Book Reviews, Check Out
ReviewThisBooks.com

Under Orders (Sid Halley series Book 4)

Dick Francis's Refusal (Sid Halley series Book 5)

Hands Down: A Novel (A Dick Francis Novel)

*Sid Halley Books Part II reviewed by Wednesday Elf

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Friday, November 22, 2024

A Paris Christmas Waltz (2023) Movie Review

Reminiscent of Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, Jen Lilley and Matthew Morrison are a beautiful couple that make ballroom dancing look fun, easy and very romantic.

I assure you, I don't take comparing Lilley and Morrison to Rogers and Astaire, lightly. For as long as I can remember, I've thought Ginger Rogers was the epitome of grace, beauty and talent. To say she was captivating would be an understatement. Plus, she was an extremely talented actress in a variety of movie genres, including comedy. She is, by far, my all time favorite actress.

Fred Astaire's name is synonymous with dancing. He was, quite literally, born to dance and he made precision dance look effortless. Astaire's talent wasn't limited to dance and choreography. He was a singer, composer, and played several instruments. His talents, as well as awards and recognition, seem limitless.

As you can see, I greatly admire Rogers and Astaire's talents. They were consummate entertainers.

As for Lilley and Morrison, they have decades to share their talents with us. However, I do believe they have already captured the ability to appear to shut out the rest of the world when they are dancing with each other, just like Rogers and Astaire.

A Paris Christmas Waltz - Great American Family Movie

A Paris Christmas Waltz

The movie opens with Emma Harris and her best friend, Cece, attending a Christmas Gala performance. Emma is mesmerized by the beauty of the dance and the powerful performance by Leo Monroe and his dance partner. When she expresses how she would like to dance like that, her friend immediately knows what she will give her for Christmas, ballroom dance lessons.

When the performance is over, Leo returns to his dressing room to discover an emergency call from a hospital in Paris. When he is informed that his dance teacher and mentor, Henry Fontaine, needs him, he immediately makes plans to fly to Paris. He is still in Paris helping with Henry's dance school a year later when Henry shares that he feels well enough to choreograph a new dance for Leo so he can compete in the Paris Yuletide Pro-Am. Since Leo has severed ties with his previous dance partner, he will need a new partner and decides to audition potential dance partners when he is in New York. That is where he meets Emma.

Emma's heart is touched when a co-worker is informed that his job is being cut. Since she is single with no dependents, and he has children, she offers to take the job cut herself to save his job.

After Emma sacrifices her own employment, she has plenty of time on her hands. Fortunately, she has wisely saved money so it is not imperative that she take a new job immediately. Therefore, when she is given the opportunity to dance with a renowned professional dancer in a Pro-Am competition in Paris, she is ready and excited to embrace this new adventure.

"A Paris Christmas Waltz" is a really sweet and uplifting movie about two people who sacrifice for others at Christmastime. The changes to their own lives as a result of those sacrifices are significant, yet those changes lead them to each other and much more than a Christmas waltz.

Check Out More Great American Family Christmas Movie Review

The Great American Family Channel (GAC), which began in Sept. 2021, offers us family-friendly programming with movies that are clean. Pure entertainment without foul language or disturbing scenes. It is my favorite channel to watch! Here are more Christmas movies that I have previously watched and reviewed. I look forward to seeing what comes next!

A Brush With Christmas
When the demands of her restaurant increase for the holidays, Jillian must choose between her commitment to her family & her art due to limited time.

Twas the Text Before Christmas (2023) - Great American Family Movie
A grandmother sends a text to wrong number & ends up making friends with a woman who replies. A Christmas invite is a chance for fun, family & romance.

A Dash of Christmas
Great American Family channel delivers "A Dash of Christmas" in time for the season. A delightful romantic movie with lots of cooking, baking, & fun.

Check Out More Movie Reviews at
ReviewThisMovies.com

A Paris Christmas Waltz Movie Review by:

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Thursday, November 21, 2024

Atmoko Hair Clippers Review

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

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

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

The process:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the results.

I am pretty pleased.

Here are the clipper supplies that I used.

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

Other supplies that I used:

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

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

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

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

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

Atmoko Hair Clippers for Men and Women

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

Happy hair cutting.

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

Cheryl Paton

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Wednesday, November 20, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

What is Jocko Mölk Protein Powder?

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

Ingredienst for Jocko Molk Protein Powder Mint Chocolate Protein Shake

Ingredients & Nutritional Profile

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

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

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

Taste and Texture

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

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

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

Performance and Benefits

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

Who It's For

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

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

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

Value for Money

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

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

Pros:

Clean, natural ingredients

High in protein

Sustained-release protein blend

Low in sugar, carbs, and calories

Added probiotics and digestive enzymes

Cons:

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

Not suitable for those with dairy or egg allergies.

Closing Thoughts

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

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

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

Bonus: Our Favorite Mint Chocolate Protein Shake Recipe

Servings:

Ingredients:

2 scoops Jocko Mölk Protein Powder, Mint Chocolate flavor

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

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

6 ice cubes

Directions:

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

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

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

A Review of Three Lower Calorie Thanksgiving Recipes

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

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

Low Sugar Cranberry Relish

Ingredients:

12 ounce cranberries - fresh or frozen cranberries.

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

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

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

Instructions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Green Bean Casserole

Ingredients:

1/3 cup chopped onions

1/3 cup bread crumbs

4 slices turkey bacon

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

1/2 cup plain fat free yogurt

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

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

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees

2. Lightly spray a cookie sheet with no stick spray

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

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

5. Remove from oven and set aside.

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

7. Chop the bacon and set aside.

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

9. Then stir in the beans and bacon.

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

11. Transfer the bean mixture to the backing dish.

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

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

Makes 6 servings, 103 calories per serving.

Pumpkin Pie

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

Pumpkin Pie Filling:

15 ounce can of pure pumpkin - Not pumpkin pie filling

12 ounces of fat free evaporated skim milk

2 eggs or 1/2 cup of Egg Beaters

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

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp powdered ginger

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

1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees

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

3. Beat eggs lightly in a large bowl.

4. Stir in pumpkin and spice mixture.

5. Gradually stir in evaporated skim milk.

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

7. Bake pie in the oven for 15 minutes.

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

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

Makes 8 servings, about 150 calories each.

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

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

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

Happy Thanksgiving!