Review of Tidewater Inn by Colleen Coble

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

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

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

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

 

Tidewater Inn

Tidewater Inn (The Hope Beach Series Book 1)

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

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

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

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

___________

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

 

 

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Joomra Barefoot Shoes for Women, Review

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

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

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

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

My overall impressions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Was it worth it?

Yes.

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

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

Cheryl Paton

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

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The Best Affordable Gel Ice Globes for Skincare and Muscle Relaxation

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

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

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

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

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

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

Design & Quality

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

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

Skincare Benefits

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

Eli with Love Ice Globes directions and uses insert card

Body Care & Muscle Relaxation

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

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

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

Fitted Case for Storage & Travel

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

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

Usage Tips

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

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

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

Who Would Love These?

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

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

Ice Globes for Facials by Eli with Love - 360 Rotating Unbreakable Steel Ice Globes with Carry Case - Professional Esthetician Supplies - Ice Roller for Face and Eyes - Ideal Skincare Tool (White)

Final Verdict

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

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

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

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How to Make Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara

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

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

Ingredients:

1 lb. of spaghetti

1/2 pound Pancetta or Bacon diced

2 cloves of garlic minced

3 eggs

1 cup of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese 

Fresh ground black pepper

Parsley Chopped for garnish

Salt, for pasta water

1/4 cup pasta water

Instructions:

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

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

This is our egg and cheese mixture 

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

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

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Travel: Cunningham Falls State Park, Maryland

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

By Jarek Tuszyński - Own work, CC BY 4.0, Commons Wikimedia

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

Cunningham Falls State Park

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

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

The park is divided into two sections. 

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

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

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

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

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

Cunningham Falls State Park website

Nearby sites and attractions:

Catoctin Furnace Historical Society information

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

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

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I Need to Introduce You to This Fruit Fly Solution

I recently encountered an epic fruit fly invasion. 

Whether the flies were fruit flies or gnats (I still don't know the difference—thanks, Google) didn't seem to matter. All I knew was that they were everywhere, and I needed to get rid of them. 

I did read somewhere that gnats might be hiding out in the soil of your plants, but honestly, that's about all the science I needed. 

I was less interested in understanding them and more focused on breaking their little mating cycle so they'd leave my life for good.

With a quick search on Amazon (because if Amazon doesn't have it, do we even need it?), I typed in something like "getting rid of fruit flies" and hit the jackpot: a product that was affordable, easy to use, and—bonus points—non-toxic.

The Yellow Butterfly is a Sticky Trap

Fruit Fly Sticky Traps for Indoor and Outdoor Use

These sticky traps are about as simple as it gets. 

Just peel off the protective cover and stick them wherever you need them. 

They even have a pointy end that easily slips into a planter, but you can cut that off and stick them anywhere—versatile, right?

They're decorative too, with shapes like butterflies and sunbursts, because why shouldn't bug traps add a little flair?

The Yellow Butterfly is a Sticky Trap

My Secret Weapon: The Wine Bottle Trap

In addition to these sticky traps, I always use my trusty wine bottle trick. 

I leave a little bit of wine in the bottom of a bottle, place it next to my fruit bowl, and let the flies find their way in. 

Usually, this works like a charm. But this time, the flies seemed to multiply faster than the wine could lure them in. So, I went all out with the sticky traps. I put four around the wine bottle—two at the mouth and two just below. 

The next morning, I found what looked like an entire fruit fly city had taken up residence. Success! That was the end of them.

And now, for good measure, I keep a couple of sticky traps tucked into my plants in case any stragglers try to make a comeback.

These Traps are Really Sticky!

These traps are not joking around when it comes to stickiness. They'll cling to your fingers, so handle them as little as possible to avoid frustration.

If you're ready to say goodbye to your fruit fly (or gnat?) problem, you can find these traps on Amazon.

Here's What the Product Package Looks Like on Amazon

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Reviewing My Personal Thoughts on Tidying Up

A From the Heart Book Review

I once read something about how the universe always tries to reassert itself when something is changed. In other words, put things back the way they were.

This is never more true than when it comes to our efforts to organize and declutter our lives. 

We've all read books on decluttering, organizing, etc. and even followed the suggestions in the current book on the subject, resulting in a satisfyingly organized life (for a while). Eventually, though, our normal inclinations and habits seem to reassert themselves and our old patterns return. Our once clean desktop is once again piled with papers, there are stacks of books on the floor and chairs, and our clothes seem to have multiplied overnight! 

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up

I just read a new book called "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, the Japanese art of decluttering and organizing" by Japanese cleaning consultant Marie Kondo, who calls her system The KonMari Method. It was interesting and fun to read, but not all that different from others on the subject, with one exception. She tells you to start by discarding, THEN organize your space instead of the usual room-by-room or little-by-little approach. Makes sense, but easier said than done when you find excuses not to 'discard'. :)  

As I read this book, I found myself nodding and agreeing and planning to once again get organized without much assurance that I would actually follow through this time. Then I read a line that made more sense to me than any others I've read in similar books. Basically, the author writes, when you put your house in order, you put your affairs and your past in order. As a result, you can see quite clearly what you now need in life and what you don't.... and you are then surrounded only by the things you love. 

Finding myself now well into my 'senior' years, I really would like to finally organize and downsize my household. This desire is not so much as having a tidy house and an organized life as it is to not leave my kids with having to decide what to do with my ‘stuff’. 

Summary

Image Source: Pixabay

Therefore, no matter what organizing book you use to get you motivated, or nothing but simply a plan listed on a piece of paper, realize that you are not just tidying up your house as much as you are in getting your affairs in order. 

My final thoughts on the subject are that you may be years from needing to think about such things, but time doesn’t wait while you decide when and if you will get organized so others don’t have to do it for you. 

Related Reviews:

• Taming the Paper Tiger
• How to Conquer Clutter

*Review written by Wednesday Elf

 

The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing

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Café Escapes Chai Latte Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Pods Reviewed

When my brother visited for a few weeks recently, I purchased 2 boxes of his favorite tea, Café Escapes Chai Latte.  I was rather surprised by his choice since I have never known of him to be a tea drinker.  He has always enjoyed a good cup of coffee, but not tea.  

When he shared his new favorite hot drink, I was immediately reminded of Wednesday Elf's review a few weeks ago of Chai tea where she shared how much she enjoys the blend of spices in Chai tea.

Because they both recommended it, I decided to try one of my brother's Chai Latte k-cups.  Clearly, the "latte" in the k-cups title informs us that milk is added.  That is something else I have never done.  I have never added milk to tea.  

In spite of my misgivings, I was pleasantly surprised!

The aroma is the first thing I noticed.  I could smell the blend of "savory spices" that Wednesday Elf described.  With the first sip, I understood why my brother loves the taste.  Thanks to them, I have discovered a new favorite black tea.  I quickly added the k-cups to my k-cup drawer of preferred coffee and tea.

 

Café Escapes Chai Latte Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Pods

Café Escapes Chai Latte Keurig Single-Serve K-Cup Pods, 24 Count

This Chai Latte has quite a unique flavor, one I find I cannot easily describe.  It reminds me a little of hot chocolate or cocoa, which I love, but with additional tasty spices.  

Chai tea touts several benefits including improved digestion, boosts immune system, reduces inflammation, improves heart health and more.  That is an impressive list of health benefits which would be a lovely side-effect for me since I love the taste of the Café Escapes Chai Latte and the convenience of k-cups.

 

The Gray Wolf Mug

The mug used in the introduction photo above, is available on Zazzle.com. It is one of my own personal photos that I offer in the House of Sylvestermouse Zazzle Store on a variety of products. The Gray Wolf mug does seem totally appropriate for warm hot Chai Latte on a cold day.   

 Gray Wolf Mug

 

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The Little Fairy and Her Imagination Review

The Little Fairy and Her Imagination is a children's story about using one's imagination. The Little Fairy likes playing with her imagination and daydreams about all kinds of things that she likes.

But one day she desires for her friend to have a special home and starts imagining what that home would look like. She so much wanted her friend to have this special home, that she took the time to daydream about it on multiple occasions. Then one day, it seemed that her day dream came true, or at least was beginning to come true.

Did her imagination have anything to do with what seemed to have appeared?

Those are questions that can be raised and talked about when reading this book.

The story goes on, and the Little Fairy tries focused imagining even more. Read the story to find out what happens.

Do you believe in using your imagination in imaginative ways? As a child and a teenager, I imagined things. Nothing came true right away, yet sometimes things did come true further down the road. Hmmmm. Could it be that our imagination can or may have an affect?

This story really doesn't provide the answers, but it does help in getting the discussion started.

I do kind of have my own views. I wanted to convey some of that in the story, without telling but showing what could be possible.

This story, of course is fiction. However, it was inspired by true events that happened in my life.

One day, I was in my home office and glanced out my window, and noticed that the neighbor's tree behind our yard, was being cut down. Oh no, I thought. Then I thought, maybe it's just a trim. But no, it was definitely more than a trim. The whole tree was cut down.

I was disheartened. That tree had provided afternoon shade to my office as the sun moved across the sky. There went my shady reprieve.

From time to time, I gave some thought to, if I was to plant a tree, where would I plant it. I kind of picked out a spot and did imagine where I wanted it to be from time to time. Then I actually thought better of it, and gave it no more thought.

I had wisteria plants that had been growing quite tall out there, that I didn't even know that a tree had sprouted right about where I had wanted it to be. By the time I noticed it, it was taller than me. I decided it was too close to the back wall, and sawed the top of it off. It was quite heavy when it fell.

I thought that was the end of it. Then later, there it was growing back again. I cut it down again and painted the stumps that were left. I had figured that should stop it from growing back. But nope, it grew back again.

And then it dawned on me, that is about where I had wanted one to grow. Then I figured, that if it was meant to be, who am I to now say no to it.

And now it grows in my back yard. It's not quite high enough to shade out the afternoon sun, but it is getting there.

There have been other times over the years that I have imagined some things, that also seemed to have happened out of the blue. So again, I ask you, do you ever play with your imagination?

If you would like to read a fun and simple story that would spark thinking along those lines, then I recommend reading - The Little Fairy and Her Imagination: A story about a thoughtful gift. It is available on Amazon.

The Little Fairy and Her Imagination: A story about a thoughtful gift.

If your answer is no, that is fine too.

Cheryl Paton

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Energy Efficiency and Comfort at an Affordable Price ~ A Product Review

It may come as a surprise to you, but air movement in the home can make the surroundings so much more comfortable whether it's summer or winter. 

We have had ceiling fans in our home for years and are always amazed at how much they help keeping the cool air moving around in the summer time and the warm air moving in the winter. 

Cold air by it's nature is heavy and sits lower down in the room.  A ceiling fan helps to move that cooler air to the upper areas of the room making it feel cooler and the breeze brought on by the air movement is really nice.  For myself I love the air movement in the night, because you know, women and their hot flashes just seem to happen more often at night.  Just that little bit of air movement seems to help with that problem.

In winter time the warm air moves to the top of the room and your feet can become really cold.  Keep that air moving and the warm air will also move down to where your toes are at!

Now if you are not an electrician, installing a ceiling fan could cost you some serious cash, but what if I told you there was an alternative?

Hubby just found a lovely little ceiling fan for under $50.00 that does not require and electrician to install it.  You don't believe me?  Well here is the little beauty! It's made by Bell & Howell and you can see for yourself that it does what it says it will do!

This little wonder will turn any socket into a lovely ceiling fan that not only offers movement of the air around you, but also gives you three different light settings and three different speeds for the fan.  It's all controlled by a nice little remote. 

It is quiet, easy to install and will help you keep that air circulating whether it is warm air moving around or cooled air for the summer months.

All in all, this is one handy little fan that I'm sure you will find a use for in your home or apartment.  It is a Number 1 Best Seller on Amazon and I can see why!  

If you need a little "movement" in your life, this just might be the thing to get you going in the right direction!  We are enjoying ours and now you can have an easy to install new Light/Ceiling Fan combination in your home too!

Oh and for those in apartment buildings, you don't even need the super's help or permission to install this handly little item.  Just undo the light bulb and insert the ceiling fan into the base.  Done!  It can't get any easier than this!  

I hope you enjoy this neat little find and let me know how you like it in the comments. I love to hear from you!

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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