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Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Get Brighter, Smoother Skin With These Fabulous New Facial Masks

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

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

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

Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus Facial Mask

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

What Are Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Osmanthus Masks?

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

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

Product Highlights

Oxygen-Infusion Technology

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

Osmanthus Flower Extract

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

Deep Hydration and Brightening

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

Two-Step Activation Process

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

Non-Irritating Formula

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

How to Use These Spaoxy Gel Masks

Using the mask is straightforward and relaxing:

Preparation: Begin by thoroughly cleansing your face and patting it dry. This ensures that your skin is free from impurities and ready to absorb the mask’s benefits.
Mixing: Squeeze one packet of the gel into the container that comes in the box and pour one packet of the powder over it. Use the provided spatula to mix until the mixture turns into a smooth, thick, foamy consistency.
Application: Using the spatula, spread the mixture evenly over your face. If desired, you can also apply the mask to the eyelids and undereye area (being careful to avoid getting it in your eyes), over the lips, and on the neck and décolleté to lift, firm, and plump those areas as well. (You can see me apply the mask to all these areas in the video demo below.) Alternatively, you can apply any excess mask to the backs of your hands.
Treatment: Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes. During this time, you’ll feel a cooling, soothing sensation as the oxygenating gel gets to work.
Removal: Gently remove the bulk off the mask with the spatula, then rinse with lukewarm water to reveal the brighter, smoother skin underneath.

The preparation and application of the mask feels indulgent, like a mini at-home spa ritual. Once applied, the mask's cooling sensation is incredibly soothing, making it ideal for a self-care moment after a long day. The gel spreads easily and stays in place without dripping, making it convenient for relaxing during the treatment.

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

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

Key Benefits

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

Who Would Benefit Most From These Facial Masks?

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

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

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

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

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

What Makes These Masks Different

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Hoover Smart Wash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner - Reviewed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Hoover SmartWash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine, for Carpet and Upholstery, FH52000 + 64 oz Everyday Carpet Cleaner Solution, Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampoo, AH31924

Hoover Pet Carpet Cleaner Solution, 64 oz., Tropical Breeze Scent, Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampoo Solution, Eliminates Urine Stains and Odors, Pair with Hoover Carpet Cleaner Machine

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Monday, January 13, 2025

Review Post Holiday Bark Recipe

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

How To Make Holiday Candy Bark

Materials

Baking sheet

Parchment Paper

Glass bowl

Ingredients

Leftover Candy

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

Sprinkles optional.

How To Make

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

Prepare the baking sheet with parchment paper.

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

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

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

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

Freeze or put in refrigerator to set.

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

Which Candy, Nuts, Raisins Work Well

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

Leftover candy canes work well but should be chopped.

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

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

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Sunday, January 12, 2025

How To Create a Collage Directly on Pinterest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Create a Pinterest Collage

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

Open the Pinterest app and navigate to one of your existing boards.
Select the Pin with the photo you want to feature on your Collage. Select the three dots on the Pin. Options, including "Add to Collage," appear. Select the add to collage button. The first photo automatically goes to a collage. (Note: you won't see the Collage at that point).
Arrow Back on the Top Left to return to your boards and select another pin photo to add to your Collage. Repeat the process. This time, you'll see the collage Pin that was automatically created by the first Pin—add the photo to it by clicking that new collage pin. Don't worry; this collage creation isn't published until you hit publish when you're done.
When all your photos are selected for the college, tap the "Your Collages" section under your "Saved" tab on your main page. Then click the new collage creation and start working on it.
Move the photos around by dragging and dropping them to fit your desired layout.
Add text by using the built-in text tool to label or describe your Collage. I also add a call to action in my collages; you'll see the call to action I use in the Collage I featured below. I change it up depending on what I'm creating.
Change the background to match the vibe or theme of your Collage. Pinterest offers various background options, from plain colors to patterned designs.
Experiment with quirky features like stickers, frames, or filters. Plenty of customization options exist, but don't feel pressured to try them all at once—information overload can be real!
There's a spot to include a website URL on that Collage. However, I can only add that once the Collage is created. I go back in to add it by using the edit feature.
For Collages related to affiliate links, I included a short #afflinks in the description as a disclosure. I also indicate a short clause on how I may earn commissions in my main profile description.

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

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

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

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

Key SEO Points to Remember When Creating a Collage

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

Use SEO-optimized titles: Your Collage's title should include relevant keywords that describe its theme or content. Choose keywords and designs based on what people actually search for. You can do a Google search or search Pinterest to check for the common phrases used for the type of Collage you create.
Remember to add your Collage to one of your Pinterest boards: The default board option is "Profile," so be sure to change that (unless you want it there, of course).
Write detailed descriptions: Include keywords naturally in the description to help your Collage get discovered by others. Mention what the Collage is about and why it's helpful or inspiring.
Add alternate text: When you upload your Collage, be sure to add alternate text (alt text). This not only improves accessibility but also helps with SEO.
Focus on quality over quantity: It can be tempting to create lots of collages quickly, but quality matters more. A thoughtfully designed collage with a clear theme will engage viewers better than multiple rushed ones.

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

Here is one of the Decor collages I recently created:

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

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

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

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

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

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Saturday, January 11, 2025

Flashpoint - An FBI Thriller by Catherine Coulter

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

Synopsis of Flashpoint

Flashpoint: An FBI Thriller (An FBI Thriller, 27)

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

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

Meanwhile.....

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

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

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

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

Summary

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

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

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Friday, January 10, 2025

John Wick (2014) - Movie Review

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

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

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

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

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

John Wick - Movie Synopsis

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

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

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

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

Warning - Even the trailer is violent

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

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John Wick (2014) Movie Review by:

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Thursday, January 9, 2025

Reviewing Food Warming Tray

Food Warming Tray

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

Easy to Use

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

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

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

Easy to Store

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

Easy to Clean

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

Order from Amazon

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

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

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Wednesday, January 8, 2025

There are Vacuums and then there are Stick Vacuums! A Product Review

Hubby and I have been having a major disagreement over, wait for it, Vacuum Cleaners!

After 50_+ years of marriage you think we would have done this subject and moved on to something else, but alas, we are still having major discussions over which vacuum sucks more!

When we were in our home, we had a central vacuum that I really enjoyed as there was no bags, no canister and no cords to worry about! But once we moved into our apartment, we were back to needing a vacuum that was not built in!

So we have had canister vacuums, upright vacuums and each of them leaves me wishing for something better. The canister vacuum always gets something stuck in the wand and leaves me stopping the job half way through to dislodge whatever is blocking my way! It is good for getting under the couch and catching all those little bits of snacks that hubby eats during the hockey games. But, I find that the cord is not long enough and the canister fills up real quick so the suction power seems to be a lot less very quickly. The upright vacuums are a little better in not getting blocked up, but they are cumbersome and don't get under the couches easily at all.

So, while I was out one day I happened to see someone using a small upright vacuum with no cords visible anywhere. I watched as he vacuumed the area rugs that were full of salt from people's boots and this small upright vacuum did an amazing job on all those salt chunks in record time. It was relatively quiet during operation and did not need a "strong man" to handle it! Some of the uprights I've had tired me out completely!

So being curious, I asked the young man about the vacuum and he told me it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. Easy, mounts on the wall, runs for a good hour without another charge and is really easy to clean after using. Not only that, but it's light and doesn't require the arms of a body builder to use.

Going home, I did some research and decided that I wanted to try one of these Stick Vacuums!

Hubby and I started to look at all the options and there really are many models available and many different manufacturers as well.

If you have money to spare and want top of the line you can buy a Dyson* for about $900. This was not an option for us! Eureka was much more affordable at about $125.00, but the reviews weren't that great! Bissell also has a Stick Cordless Vacuum for about $165.00 but again the reviews were not all that flattering.

We decided to go with the Amazon Choice as it was affordable, had good reviews and met all the needs I had. For $170. it was a chance I was willing to take and now I'm really glad I did!

This Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner has a good strong motor, a 60 minute run time between charges, suction to spare, wall mounting and will vacuum carpets as well as hardwood floors without needing to change the vacuum head! It will also vacuum upholstery(with an attachment) and crevices as well. Easy emptying of the dust container is a bonus. I think I'm in love with vacuuming again.

Of course you can have a corded vacuum if you want, but why would you? No running over the cord as you move through your home with the cordless models! For daily clean ups, this is the answer for me! When I'm done it goes back onto it's charging dock, out of sight and getting ready for the next time!

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Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Reviewing Charms And Practicalities Of Paper Diaries

Only a few weeks ago I was discussing with a friend how our lives are now intrinsically bound up and even dominated by digital devices. We are reliant now in a way we never were ten and certainly twenty years ago.

This was brought home to me sharply a few months ago by an unusual set of circumstances where my mobile phone and my computer decided to break down at the same time! Suddenly I had no access to e mails, social media but even worse all our diary dates including medical appointments, meet ups with friends.... everything!

The only recourse while my computer was “in bits” in the shop and we were waiting on the mobile phone to arrive was our local part time library. How I wished I had a paper copy of all the appointments!

So in all this the humble paper diary planner I regularly used years ago a suddenly seemed like a great idea I had relegated unnecessarily to history and I missed it.

I can tell you that I quickly bought a paper diary and I do value it and love making my appts and notes in it in a way that tech does not fulfil somehow.

Paper Diary And Mindful Reflection

Despite the convenience of digital calendars, the tangible act of writing in a paper diary offers certain benefits I had completely forgotten as I embraced technology.

I find that writing our appts and dates by hand encourages mindfulness for me. The slower pace of writing in a diary allows for a level of reflection I never feel when using tech.

I feel more in control and it helps me organise my thoughts. All the noise of digital tech is gone leaving just the order and calmness of organising my life. I am finding that when I write a date in my diary I tend to recall and remember it far better than I do when I use the computer or phone.

Of course all diaries are a bit different in what they include and you need to decide what is best for you. I have included a range in this article to consider.

I love that my Diary has a features such as year to view, Year planner, big single day pages to write in and month to view. It makes organising and recording very easy.

I like the sections at the beginning of each month to record Notes, travel planning, financial planning and fitness planning as well. It also has space to record useful telephone numbers and details of friends and family. I love that it has inspirational quotes across the diary days which act as little reminders to live our best life.

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Creativity and Expression In a Diary

My paper diary has become already a place for self expression. I can write little extra notes, hopes and plans for the future, doodles have once again become a thing and I have again become conscious of my long neglected handwriting style.

I enjoy writing in my diary planner, even when it is just appointments. Its a little bit of creative freedom I cannot replicate online.

Reduced Screen Time and Digital Fatigue

I spend a lot of time staring at a computer screen, I need to for many aspects of my life and work. In many ways I am grateful for digital technology, it has enabled me to work remotely, make friends across the world, shop for my home, find information easily and simplified many things.

However, we are also constantly bombarded with notifications, emails, and social media updates which can become tiring and distracting.

A paper diary offers a welcome break from screens, helping to reduce digital fatigue and the strain it places on our eyes and mind. A paper diary is simple, uncomplicated and can be a beautiful thing to hold in your hands.

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Privacy and Security

My diary is for me and my husbands engagements. No one else sees it and I really don’t have to worry about privacy, hacking, breaches or especially after my recent experience any tech breakdowns or long wait times for new parts!

It provides a secure and private space for thoughts and plans. You don't need to worry about privacy policies or data storage issues and confidentiality is easy to ensure.

Calm And In Control With My Paper Diary

As I am now recording all important dates and appts in my paper diary I know that even if I face tech breakdowns, failures and long waits for replacement parts or new tech, I will always know I have my back up and do not have to worry. In some ways my paper diary now has my back!

I do still record in my online planners but that is practical, routine and in work mode. My paper diary feels more personal, more tangible and calm.

In a world where technology dominates our day to day life, the paper diary is a valuable tool. It might be old fashioned now but I have found a new respect for it helping me in my life organisation in a calm quite tranquil way.

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I won't of course give up tech and it has many undeniable advantages that make life easier.

However, embracing the simplicity and sometimes beauty of a paper diary planner has brought a sense of peace that computer or other digital tools often lack.

In this increasingly digital world it was amazing to me how satisfying holding an actual pen and writing in a tangible, beautiful paper diary is a pleasure I didn’t know I had missed so much!

Monday, January 6, 2025

Starting Lettuce in an Indoor Hydroponics Garden in the Height of Winter

I follow several homesteaders and gardeners who use small indoor hydroponic gardens to grow fresh food in very small spaces, during inclement weather, and in rental homes where they are unable to have a garden. I have tried container gardening (both here on the homestead and on my previous apartment balcony) but I hadn't tried indoor hydroponics - until now. This is the review of my experiment up until now.

Photo with text recommending indoor hydroponic gardening

What Are Indoor Hydroponic Garden Systems

I have seen examples of extremely large hydroponic growing systems. One system was in a large building in an urban setting. The operation was large and provided a significant amount of fresh vegetables. I am not currently able to remember the name of that group. But their story was pretty amazing. I have seen other hydroponic growing systems that include large tanks of fish, with plants growing just above the surface of the water. The plants and fish work together to create a preferred growing environment. The idea of the Indoor Hydroponic Garden system is similar, but on a small personal scale.

Some folks are able to use containers that include small fish and grow a plant just above the surface of the water. I needed easier than that. So I chose the mass-produced growing systems.

Initially, I chose a very small, 6 pod, AeroGarden brand. Then on the advice of two friends, I chose a 12 pod Mufga brand system. I have set up the 12 pod MUFGA and gave the 6 pod AeroGarden as a gift.

Indoor Hydroponic Gardens provide the light (LED lights in the colors that plants need) and water to the plants automatically. The "pods" are holes in the top of the water container that hold baskets of some sort of growing material (not soil). You simply place the seeds in the top of the growing material, place the growing material into the basket, place the basket into the hole in the container, and push a button. The growing light is currently just above the pods but it is on a telescoping arm that will move up as the plants grow taller.

I set my system up on December 30, 2024, Now, a mere 7 days later, I have lettuces that have germinated and are looking great. The system only takes up a portion of one of the shelves that is where I normally start my seeds in the spring. Speaking of which, many folks use the indoor hydroponic gardens to start their seeds for outdoor gardens; saving the time and money that it takes to purchase seeds from a nursery. The quick and easy germination of my lettuce has convinced me that starting summer outdoor garden plants will be the way to go.

Even though, there is a severe snow and ice storm moving into the area, in the first week of January 2025, I have lettuce plants started with the hope of making my own salads soon.

Shopping:

I ordered my indoor hydroponics garden system from Amazon. My friends advised me that AeroGarden is more expensive and that the many other brands, nowadays, do just as well at a much lower price tag. I can't advise which brand is best. I can say that the set up of my MUFGA was easy and the items seem well-made for what it is. The MUFGA isn't currently available but there are many similar units.

It does sound as though the units available in this market are frequently changing. It might be a good idea to watch or read recent reviews of the brands currently available.

A Peek at my Personal Video:

I took this video for friends and family that shows the different components of this hydroponic garden and may be interesting to you. In this video, I do a sort of show-and-tell. If you are truly interested in growing food indoors, I encourage you to watch the videos of experienced folks who have been growing their own food in these systems for some time for the how-to information.