Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Something in the Walls ~ Daisy Pearce ~ A Book Review

Just in time for Halloween, this writer decided to jump on board the "horror" genre of books.  I'll be the first to admit that it is not my favorite genre, but "Something in the Walls"  by Daisy Pearce, grabbed me and didn't let go until the very end.

Netgalley has this book listed as a Mystery & Thriller or General Fiction.  I think I would add Horror to the tags on this book.

something in the walls


Nothing, but nothing will have you checking under the beds before you go to sleep than a good book that raises all the hackles.  

Mina is a newly certified child phycologist and she's waiting for her chance to show the world that she's ready to help any youngster make sense of their world.  She is also trying her hardest to be taken seriously even though she hasn't yet had a real "case".  Mina has issues from her own childhood.  She always attends a bereavement group after losing her brother.  At one of these meetings she is introduced to Sam Hunter (a reporter) and he has a proposition for her.

Alice Webber is just thirteen years old and the small community of Banathel where she lives, is convinced that she is being haunted by a witch.  The town has a long history of witchcraft and superstitions run deep.  Everyone believes there is evil in the world.  But in Banathel, there are prescribed ways of dealing with that evil.  

The Webber family and many of the townsfolk are very poor, so is this just a way for them to become the latest "front-page" news?  If they can milk this story maybe they can get out of their poverty and live a little better.  The whole family will benefit or is there something sinister happening?

Mina is convinced that she can help Alice and Sam wouldn't mind getting a good story out of the experience for his newspaper.  

Instead of things getting better with their arrival in town, Alice seems to be getting worse!  She hears voices, sees things coming out of the falling down brickwork, knows something of Mina's and Sam's past.  How do these things happen and does Alice have some answers for Mina and Sam?  

People are dying for reasons unknown and Alice seems to be in the middle of it all.  The townsfolk are ready to deal with the girl who is haunted or maybe is the witch herself.

If you like horror and being kept on the edge of your seat, then this book is for you.  It is available through Amazon , just click on the book cover above!  If you have an Audiobook subscription you can get it for free! 

A little scaring is just what everyone needs to get into the Spooky Side of Halloween!  Enjoy!




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.”


Tuesday, October 15, 2024

HALLOWEEN-THEMED LEGO GIFT & DECOR IDEAS

Discover some fun and fabulous Halloween-themed gift and home decor ideas!

A GIFT GUIDE FULL OF FUN 'N FABULOUS LEGO ITEMS FOR HALLOWEEN


My family loved and still love both Lego and Halloween. I am not sure if it was so easy to combine both of those themes when my boys were growing up but it definitely is now. Items from these two themes are great treats for Halloween. They are appropriate for those who are old enough for Lego and for those of us who are young at heart. I have found nine fun-tastic items and they are all available through the links right here on this page.  Come with me then as we review some fantastic Lego-themed Halloween items perfect for your gift giving or home décor. 

1. CAT AND MOUSE SET


Lego Cat and Mouse Halloween Set (40570)
If you’d like to have an actual set of Lego for Halloween, here is one to consider. The Cat and Mouse set, set number 40570, has 328 pieces and is recommended for individuals aged 9 and up. After you build it, you will have a nice little display piece for your home’s holiday décor. You can find Lego’s Halloween Cat and Mouse set here on Etsy.

2. OWL SET

Lego Halloween Owl Set (40497)

Another fun Halloween set is this owl set, number 40497, which includes 228 pieces and is recommended for individuals 8 and up. This guy will be over 4 ½ inches tall when you have finished building him and will be another fun addition to your Halloween décor. You will find Lego’s Halloween Owl set here on Etsy.

3. PUMPKIN, SKELETON OR ZOMBIE STORAGE CONTAINER


Lego Jack-O-Lantern, Skeleton and Zombie Storage Containers. Perfect for Halloween.


I love these containers, which are meant for storage whether that be of Lego, of Halloween candy or of something else. They look like classic Lego mini-figure heads but are bigger. Take your pick of a pumpkin, skeleton or zombie head! Watch for them in two sizes. You can find your Lego Halloween storage containers here on Etsy. Buy more than one and you can even stack them.

4. UNISEX T-SHIRT


Lego Mini-Figure Pumpkin Heads BOO! T-Shirt

Boo! Fans of both the holiday and the toy will love this unisex t-shirt with it is image of Lego-style mini-figure heads and the word Boo! Your builder will have fun wearing this shirt from Brick Road and you might even love wrapping it in the coordinating wrapping paper. Available in sizes from small to 3XL, you can find this Halloween Lego tee right here on Etsy. 

5. PUMPKIN COACH OR HORSE AND CARRIAGE INSTRUCTIONS


Instructions for a Lego Halloween Pumpkin Coach or Truck.

For someone who has plenty of Lego pieces but is looking for a creative way to come up with a Halloween-themed decoration, I found these Halloween-themed patterns. The first is an elaborate pumpkin coach or horse drawn carriage. It reminds me somehow of Cinderella’s carriage but is definitely meant for Halloween. The second pattern is a skeleton-themed truck carrying a large jack-o-lantern. It is ready to haul that jack-o-lantern wherever it is needed. Bricks Boys Studio on Etsy has the instructions for downloading of both pieces so once you buy them you can download the pattern(s) and start building. Find your Halloween pumpkin coach or skeleton truck Lego instructions here on Etsy.

6. BUILDING BRICKS LOT 


Halloween-colored building bricks lot. Great for your Halloween builds!

It can be hard finding a bunch of colored building bricks in a certain color. Bricks from Colorado has created a selection of Halloween-colored Lego bricks for your building projects. You will receive half a pound of genuine Lego pieces that have been hand sorted and that include random Lego pieces in appropriate colors like dark purple, lime green, orange and gray. Bonus, they include a few spiderwebs and spiders. Your selection will not be exactly as shown here in this picture but will be similar in nature. I think that this would be a totally unique gift idea for any Lego builder. Find your bundle of Halloween-colored Lego pieces here on Etsy. You will also find a selection of already built pieces and seasonal mini-figures.

7. DISNEY’S JACK SKELLINGTON MINI-FIGURE

Lego's Jack Skellington Mini-Figure.

If you love Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas movie franchise, you will love this Jack Skellington mini-figure. It is from the Disney Series 2 Collectible Mini-Figure pouches, set number 71024. Each set contained one Disney minifigure. Whether you were collecting all of the pieces from that series or you just love this character in particular, you will find the Jack Skellington mini-figure here on Etsy.

8. PUMPKIN CARVING PARTY INVITATION


Halloween Pumpkin Carving Party Invite - Digital and Personalized.

This card makes me wish I was having a pumpkin carving party. It’s a personalized digital download and, as such, is animated. It reveals three costumed characters carving their jack-o-lanterns. You add your party details including the date, time, location, R.S.V.P. and any extra details you want (within a st number of characters). Create your Halloween party invitations here on Etsy and note that Etsy seller Brick Greetings has two other types of Halloween party cards available.

9. AUTUMN SCARECROW PUMPKIN PATCH BOX


Gorgeous Genuine-Lego, Custom Built Scarecrow Pumpkin Patch Box. Perfect for Halloween.

I will close with this phenomenal custom-built autumn-themed trinket box. Handcrafted from genuine Lego parts by Etsy seller Lego Box, it features a lid that comes off to remove a small storage area. On top of this one you find a scene straight from the pumpkin patch! Find more custom-built Lego boxes for Halloween and other seasons by Liz here on Etsy. 

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There you have it, a page full of interesting Halloween Lego items. Which ones were your favorites? Don’t forget that simply adding accessories like napkins, plates, candles and mugs in a related color like orange will help create your Halloween mood.

Looking for more Halloween ideas? Check out Etsy’s Halloween shop, packed with “spooky-season picks at scary good prices” by clicking right here

See you
at the Lego store!
Brenda










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.”


Monday, October 14, 2024

2024 Hallmark Christmas Movies Reviewed

Hallmark's Countdown to Christmas begins Friday, October 18th with a new Hallmark film  Twas The Date Before Christmas. This year Hallmark brings over 35 new Christmas movies on the Hallmark and Hallmark Mystery channel.
 



A few of the most anticipated 2024 Hallmark Christmas movies are:

Three Wiser Men And A Boy

They are back! One of the best Hallmark Christmas movies is back with a sequel featuring the original cast:  Andrew Walker, Tyler Hynes and Paul Campbell. Reunited this trio takes on parenting with a now growing up baby (Boy) and all the antics and love that resonates.

Holiday Touchdown A Chief's Love Story

The title tells all in this highly anticipated Hallmark Christmas movie which premieres November 30th. Tyler Hynes, Hunter King and Ed Begley Jr. star with Donna Kelce, Jenna Bush Hagar as supporting cast adding a touch of realism to the movie.

Vying for fan of the year is King with Hynes the marketing brains and fan evaluator as the finalists weave their way to the goal of Fan Of The Year. Filmed in Missouri, speculation is high trying to predict who from the Chiefs may pop up in the movie...

Unwrapping Christmas

New four part Christmas series which airs November 7, 14, 21, 28. 

A Christmas Quest

It is not Hallmark Christmas without Lacey Chabert. This year Lacey stars with Kristoffer Polaha in this holiday story featuring mystery, adventure, Iceland and treasure of the Yule Lads, premieres December 1. Filmed in Iceland.. enjoy!

A few favorites from seasons gone by to look for in the 2024 Season.

A Merry Scottish Christmas 2023

The number one movie of 2023 at Hallmark1 Party of Five fans showed up for this movie and the movie/reunion did not disappoint. Lacey Chabert and Scott Wolf play siblings on a family trip to Scotland during the holidays. Family reunions and family mysteries are in the air. Filmed in Ireland and Scotland and the Duns Castle Estate is featured in a movie full of gorgeous landscapes and castles.

Never Been Chris'd 2023

The A team Hallmark actor Tyler Hynes leads reunion as hometown friends reunite for Christmas Hallmark love triangle, the Hallmark way. As always  Hynes brings humor, wit and a few winks to this holiday movie.

Three Wise Men And A Baby 2022

By far, the best Hallmark Christmas movie of 2022 was Three Wise Men and A Baby with Andrew Walker, Tyler Hynes and Paul Campbell (who also co wrote the movie.) Sure, the storyline may sound a bit familiar from the original movie, but this movie will bring smiles for the second time with a cast of Hallmark A team actors and their chemistry. 

A Cozy Christmas Inn

Jodie Sweetin (Full House) and David O'Donnell take on Alaska, Christmas, old loves reuniting and B and B's all in one charming Hallmark movie. If you love Hallmark then you can surmise the storyline and great to see O'Donnell back. He was in Christmas Under Wraps with Candace Cameron Bure, also in Alaska! 

Haul Out The Holly And Haul Out The Holly: Lit Up  Sequel 2022

Hallmarkies loved the first Haul Out The Holly and continues the love with the sequel. The characters continue to battle their inner Grinch with the annual HOA decorating competition and all that entails for the winning homeowner to win the coveted award.

It's a sequel, it is cute, it is Christmas, it is Hallmark and we love it. Lacey Chabert  and Wes Brown reprise their roles in this cute sequel which continues the charm of the first move. The  cast which proved its' chemistry already in the first movie also continues which contributes to the comfortable feel of the characters.

More Hallmark Christmas Movies Reviews

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2022 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2021 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

You, Me & The Christmas Trees by The Savvy Age

A New Year's Resolution by Cynthia 

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2020 Reviewed by The Savvy Age23

Finding Father Christmas by Cynthia

Christmas Tree Lane by The Savvy Age

Broadcasting Christmas by Cynthia

Top Ten Hallmark Christmas Movies by The Savvy Age

Debbie Macomber's Mr. Miracle Hallmark Movie Review by Cynthia


Where To Find Hallmark Christmas Movies?


 The Hallmark Everywhere App offers wide access to the Hallmark Channel content, but a cable subscription is necessary. Your cable subscription username and password wil be needed to log in.

Hallmark + is the rebranded  Hallmark Movies Now  which is a streaming service for a monthly fee. A seven day free trial is available.  Find information on pricing and the free trial here.



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.”


Sunday, October 13, 2024

A Man Called Otto: A Heartwarming Movie about Transformation and Connection

A Man Called Otto: A Heartwarming Movie about Transformation and Connection

The Storyline of A Man Called Otto

A Man Called Otto follows the story of Otto Anderson, a grumpy and bitter man who lives his life through strict routines and a pessimistic outlook. 

After the loss of his wife, Otto seems to have given up on finding joy in anything or anyone. The plot unfolds with him attempting to distance himself from the world around him, but life has other plans. 

New neighbors, especially the spirited Marisol, disrupt his carefully crafted isolation, and slowly, we start to see the layers of Otto's past and the reasons behind his anger.

The unexpected twists and turns make the storyline so engaging. It's not just a straightforward tale of a man rediscovering happiness. There are moments of humor, touching flashbacks that explore Otto's history, and scenes that offer a glimpse into the depth of his emotions. 

As the story progresses, it's hard not to be swept up in the mixture of heartache and healing. The movie balances serious themes like grief and loneliness with moments of lightness, making it captivating and relatable.

The Incredible Cast

Tom Hanks delivers an incredible performance as Otto. 

At first, you see him as just a cranky man who's fed up with the world, but as the movie reveals more about his character, Hanks brings a touching vulnerability that feels so genuine. 

You begin to understand Otto's pain and the heartbreak he's been carrying. Hanks' ability to show both the tough exterior and the soft center of Otto makes his character believable and compelling.

The supporting cast is just as impressive. Mariana Treviño, who plays Marisol (I loved her character!), is a standout. Her energy and warmth perfectly contrast Otto's gruff nature, and the chemistry between the two feels real. 

The way Marisol pushes her way into Otto's life and manages to break down his walls is a huge part of why the film works. 

The other characters, from Otto's neighbors to his old friends, all play an essential role in fleshing out the world around him, making you feel like you're part of their community.

Why I Loved This Movie

At first, I thought A Man Called Otto would be just another movie about a grumpy old man who complains about life. But it's so much more than that. 

While Otto's grumpiness is central to the story, the reasons behind his attitude, such as the deep sense of loss he's been carrying, unfold in a touching and surprising way. 

His character growth throughout the movie kept me completely hooked. Even though you can sense where the story is going regarding Otto's transformation, the film doesn't rush it. The pacing allows you to connect with Otto, and you feel invested in his journey by the end.

What really stood out to me was the ending. It's heartwarming in the best way. 

The movie's last line, delivered by Marisol, who grew to respect Otto, brings everything full circle. It highlights how far Otto has come and how, despite all his grumpiness, he found a way to reconnect with the people around him.

I left the movie feeling uplifted and reminded of how powerful character-driven stories can be. The film shows how even the hardest hearts can soften with time and the right people.

5 STARS From Me!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐




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.”


Saturday, October 12, 2024

Gift Review for Baby’s First Halloween

Image of a pumpkin next to a haystack
When parents, grandparents, aunties and besties need to shop for a baby gift, taking into consideration the time of year and subsequent holidays often sparks helpful ideas for a unique gift.


For October, Halloween is a fun holiday to coordinate into the planning of a baby gift. 


The following are a couple of suggestions for a Halloween-themed gift. 



My First Halloween Pumpkin Toy by Genius Baby


Plush playhouses are popular toys for babies and toddlers as they are handy as a tote to carry around the toys and animals they come with, as well as a place to store them. The cute plush toys in the totes introduce babies to various textures and sounds making them adorably educational. 


For a fun Halloween gift for a baby in your life, Genius Baby, a mom-owned company in Charlotte, North Carolina, created this My First Halloween plush pumpkin filled with a set of four sensory Halloween themed toys. 


The four plush toys include a black cat that meows, a squeaky ghost, a purple spider that rattles and an orange & yellow crinkle candy corn. These toys are just the right size to fit in small hands and they all fit inside the plush pumpkin basket which features hand embroidery and a gingham handle. 


The plush pumpkin playset measures 7 x 7 inches and unzips to reveal the toys inside. A darling pumpkin toy gift for a baby's first Halloween or first Autumn / Fall. It can also be used as a trick-or-treat basket as they grow up. 



My First Halloween Outfit



My First Halloween romper for baby
My First Halloween Baby Romper on Etsy

No need for a Halloween costume for your baby with this adorable First Halloween Outfit. 


Celebrating Halloween for the first time! How very exciting. Dress baby up in this My 1st Halloween outfit.


Your little pumpkin will look just adorable in this baby romper. You can also choose the personalized pumpkin hat to complete the look and add personalization to the outfit. 


Created by Cindy for her Esty Shop Sassylocks


Happy Halloween

October 31st





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.”


Friday, October 11, 2024

Crock Pot Ribs Recipe Review

This recipe for crock pot ribs makes the best ribs ever!  

Previously, ribs were a restaurant meal only, but now I cook them at home and they are truly better than any we can buy in any restaurant.  My mother originally made these ribs for my father, who loves ribs.  They saved some for me and I thought they were fabulous.  I immediately purchased the ingredients and made them for my husband a few nights later.  We all agree, they are the very best we have ever eaten anywhere.  

If you want to cook these ribs, be prepared.  There are a lot of ingredients required for the sauce and some you may question, but when combined, the end results are out of this world wonderful! 

 


Crock Pot Ribs Recipe

crock pot ribs recipe

  1. Combine all of the above ingredients in a bowl to create the sauce 
  2. Cut the ribs into sections so they fit into the crock pot, then place them in the crock pot. 
  3. Cover the ribs in the sauce. 
  4. Halfway through cook time, alternate the ribs from top to bottom and cover with the sauce again 

Cook in the Crock Pot on Low for 8 hours 
 
When done, spoon the sauce over the ribs and serve 
 
 
 



Crock Pot cooking can make life easier if your have more time or energy in the morning then right before dinner.  I recently even purchased a second crock pot for my kitchen so I could cook & carry meals during the holidays this year.  I love discovering new crockpot recipes! 

roast crock pot recipe4 Ingredient Beefy Mushroom Roast - EASY Slow Cooker Meal
Written by Dawn Rae - This 5 ingredient, easy, delicious beefy mushroom roast prepared in the slow cooker is a favorite meal option.

stock crockpot recipeHow to Make Easy Healthy Vegetable Stock for Free!
Written by Lou16 - Do you know how to turn your vegetable scraps into healthy vegetable stock? Find out how to make easy, healthy veggie stock for free!

soup crockpot recipe4 Ingredient Baby Lima Bean Soup
Written by Dawn Rae - This baby lima bean and bacon soup recipe is a snap. Four ingredients and a slow cooker are all that is needed to make this delicious comfort meal.

bbq crock pot recipeHomemade Barbeque Recipe for the Best BBQ Sandwiches
Written by Sylvestermouse & Published on Cooking for the Holidays - Save lots of money and make your own delicious barbeque sandwiches in your home with my Barbeque Recipe. Truly the best pork BBQ sandwiches anywhere!

stroganoff crockpot recipeEasy Beef Stroganoff Crock-Pot Recipe Review
Written by Dawn Rae - This Easy Beef Stroganoff recipe by Crock-Pot is a favorite in my home.



Check Out More Recipe Reviews at
ReviewThisRecipes.com





Crock Pot Ribs Recipe Written by:
House of Sylvestermouse





© 2024 Cynthia Sylvestermouse
 




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.”


Thursday, October 10, 2024

Skeletons for Halloween - Reviewed

 

Celebrate Halloween with Skeletons
Skeleton Photo by mbgphoto

I remember when the most common Halloween decorations were Jack-o-Lanterns.  If you can go by my neighborhood that is no longer the case.  As I drive around my area the most common decoration, by far, is skeletons.  There are skeletons on mailboxes, on shutters, sitting on benches, hanging from trees and standing out in the middle of the yards.  In the photo above you see a skeleton that is larger than the house with a skeleton dog sitting next to it.

I did a little searching on Google about what are the most popular decorations right now and they listed skeletons, pumpkins, spiders, witches and bats.  Google search data claimed that skeletons are the most popular overall. So it looks like my neighborhood is right in the swing of things!!

In this post I will give you a bit of information on the history of the Halloween decoration and share with you the photos I took of many of the skeletons in my neighborhood.
Two Skeletons on Chairs
Photo by mbgphoto

I love these two skeletons relaxing on chairs in a front yard.

History of Skeletons for Halloween

Did you ever wonder why there are skeletons on Halloween?  The festival that we now call Halloween started out as a Celtic harvest festival called Samhain.  It was celebrated on October 31st at the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the long, cold, dark days of winter.  The festival symbolized one of death and was celebrated with bon fires--called "bone fires" and symbols of the dead such as ghosts and skeletons.  This is also where our graveyards and haunted houses came to celebrate the Halloween holiday.

Climbing Skeletons

There is a house a street over from us that as a multitude of skeletons including the ones climbing on their shutters, as seen above, and one on their mailbox as seen in the photo below.

Yard full of Skeletons



More Reviews on Halloween Decorations

In 2015 I wrote a lens on Halloween decor in my neighborhood.  Here is a link to that review. 


In this post Wednesday Elf reviews handmade Halloween decor. A Review of Handmade Halloween Home Decor (reviewthisreviews.com)

Sylvestermouse reviews some fun Halloween decor in this post. Fun Halloween Home Decor (reviewthisreviews.com)

Amazon Links for Skeleton Decorations

If you are looking for some skeleton decorations, Amazon has a wide variety.


Happy Halloween!!!




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


Wednesday, October 9, 2024

The Best Affordable Carboxytherapy Mask for Glowing, Youthful Skin

As a skincare enthusiast who looks much younger than her age and is focused on helping mature women achieve radiant, youthful skin, I'm always on the lookout for innovative products that deliver real results. One such product I recently discovered is the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask, which offers a unique approach to revitalizing and oxygenating the skin.

Let’s dive into my detailed review of this terrific mask that is going viral on social media for good reason.

The best affordable carboxy gel mask for smoother, brighter, firmer skin

What Is Carboxytherapy AKA Carboxy Therapy?

Carboxytherapy is a non-surgical cosmetic dermatology treatment that uses either injections or transdermal application to infuse carbon dioxide into the subcutaneous tissue. It can be done as an in-office treatment, or a topical carboxy therapy gel mask can be used at home. Best of all, this treatment involves no downtime and can even be done on a lunch break.

Carboxytherapy oxygenates the area to which it has been applied, improving circulation and lifting, tightening and regenerating the skin for a firmer, more even-toned, more youthful glow.

Carboxytherapy Gel Treatment Masks

I first learned about topical carboxy gel treatment masks from the award-winning licensed aesthetician from whom I buy the professional-grade skincare products in my routine. She has helped transform my skin since I started working with her five years ago and she carries only products with proven clinical studies to back up their claims.

A pilot study found that a carbon dioxide transdermal gel delivered improved microcirculation comparable to that of a subcutaneous carbon dioxide subcutaneous injection.

An in-office carboxytherapy treatment can run around $100–$200 per treatment, way too expensive as an add-on to my skincare routine. The brand of CO2 therapy masks my aesthetician carries costs more than $100 per treatment, also too expensive as an add-on to fit my skincare budget. 

So, when a fellow skincare enthusiast highly recommended the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks, which are 1/5 the price of the brand my esthetician carries, I was immediately intrigued.

What Is the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask?

Dr. Medion, a leading Japanese skincare brand, is known for its science-backed approach to skin rejuvenation. The Spaoxy Gel Mask is an oxygen-infusing treatment that promises to give the skin an immediate boost of hydration, brightness, and plumpness. The mask involves mixing a rose-scented gel base with crystals that, when mixed, release oxygen bubbles onto the skin, delivering oxygen deep into the pores.

Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel carboxy gel mask kit

Key Ingredients

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid that penetrates deeply into the skin and is more effective than high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, plumping the skin by significantly increasing moisture content.

Royal Jelly Extract that helps promote collagen and elastin production for firmness and elasticity.

Coix Lacryma-jobi Ma-yuen Seed Extract to soothe skin, suppress excess oil production, even skin tone and improve texture.

Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract that has antioxidant and skin-soothing properties. 

Key Features and Benefits

Oxygen facials have long been popular in high-end spas, and this at-home treatment offers similar benefits at a more accessible price.

Oxygenation and Blood Circulation: The unique feature of this mask is its ability to deliver oxygen to the skin. The oxygenation process is vital for promoting healthy skin cell turnover and boosting circulation. This process helps with faster skin healing, reduces inflammation, and creates a glowing, even-toned complexion.

Hydration Boost: For those with mature skin, hydration is key to maintaining a youthful appearance. The Spaoxy Gel Mask is packed with hydrating ingredients like low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid, which attracts and retains moisture and leaves skin plumper and smoother.

Brightening and Anti-Aging: Along with oxygen, the mask infuses the skin with antioxidants and brightening agents, helping to even out skin tone and diminish dark spots. The results are especially noticeable in skin that’s dull or sun-damaged.

Firming and Lifting Effect: Over time, the mask helps firm and tone the skin, giving a subtle lifting effect. This is one of the most sought-after benefits for aging skin, as the mask promotes collagen production, which leads to firmer skin and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Gentle and Soothing: Even though it provides an intense treatment, the mask is gentle enough for sensitive or mature skin. The soothing ingredients help calm redness and irritation, making it suitable for all skin types, including those prone to rosacea or sensitivity.

How to Use the Spaoxy Gel Mask

Using the Spaoxy Gel Mask is simple and straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Start with freshly and thoroughly cleansed skin. I highly recommend the Colorescience Barrier Pro 1-Step Cleanser that removes makeup and even mineral sunscreen gently yet thoroughly without the need for a two-step cleanse. It's a bit spendy, but it does a lot. It eliminates the need for a second cleanse, is fragrance-free, strengthens the skin's protective barrier, supports and balances its microbiome, is gentle enough for even sensitive skin, and leaves your skin feeling smooth and hydrated.

Step 2: Squeeze the contents of the Spaoxy Gel Base packet into the mixing cup that comes with the kit. Pour the contents of the packet of Spaoxy Gel Powder over the gel and stir to mix thoroughly with the spatula provided until white and frothy. This creates the gel mask.

Step 3: Spread the mixture in a thick, even layer over your face (including the neck and chest, if desired). You can also apply the gel carefully to your lips, eyelids and undereye area, if desired, but avoid getting the gel in your eyes.

Step 4: Leave the mask on for 15–30 minutes. (I always leave mine on for 30 minutes.) You’ll notice small bubbles forming as part of the oxygenation process. These bubbles are crucial in delivering oxygen to your skin.

Step 5: Use the spatula to gently remove most of the gel mask, then use a warm, wet wash cloth to remove any residue and rinse well with lukewarm water. Pat your face dry and apply your normal skincare routine.

When to Use This Mask

For the most noticeable results, start with a series of six masks used on consecutive nights, and then use the mask once a week as part of your anti-aging skincare regimen.

You can also use the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask to prepare for a special occasion when you want to look your best and give your skin a fresh, youthful glow.

My Personal Experience

I decided to participate in the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel 6-day challenge and used the mask on six consecutive evenings. Here is my “before” photo:

My skin before using Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks

Here is the “after” photo of my "70-years-young" skin taken on the sixth evening after using the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks for six consecutive nights:

My skin after using Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel masks for six consecutive nights

The results are far more obvious in person (even my husband noticed the improvements to my skin!), but even in the photos you can see a noticeable difference.

Even after just one use of the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask on the first night, I noticed an immediate improvement in my skin’s texture and hydration levels. The mask has a cooling, soothing effect, which makes it a pleasure to use. My complexion appeared brighter, and my skin felt soft and plump to the touch. With continued use over six consecutive nights, I saw a subtle improvement in firmness, especially around my jawline, and a more even skin tone.

The oxygen bubbles feel like a gentle tingling sensation on the skin, which is a sign that the product is working its magic. I also appreciate how hydrating it is, as dry skin is a common concern for mature women. The mask leaves no residue once it’s washed off, and my skin feels soft, smooth, and refreshed without any tightness or irritation.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Easy to use.
  • Comes with everything you need: the gel base, activating powder, mixing cup, spatula, and directions for use.
  • Immediate hydration and brightening results.
  • Oxygenation technology boosts blood circulation and skin health.
  • Gentle enough for sensitive and mature skin.
  • Noticeable firming effect with continued use.
  • Much more affordable than the leading brand or an in-office treatment.

Cons:

  • One-time-use packaging isn’t the most eco-friendly.

Who Should Use This Mask?

The Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask is perfect for:

Anyone looking for an effective anti-aging treatment that is well priced for the benefits it delivers.

Anyone with dull, dry, or tired-looking skin in need of a quick pick-me-up.

Anyone dealing with uneven skin tone or fine lines.

Anyone looking to replicate a spa-like experience at home.

Final Verdict

If you’re seeking a luxurious, results-driven mask that offers immediate hydration, brightening, and firming effects, the Dr. Medion Spaoxy Gel Mask is an excellent investment. It's surprisingly affordable for what you get. Although the price may be a bit steep for some people, the results can be well worth it, especially if you’re focused on maintaining youthful, radiant skin. Even if you don’t use it weekly, it can be a worthwhile splurge before a special night out or vacation when you want to look your best.

Best of all, if you use my affiliate link at Shiko Beauty Collective, you can also use my exclusive discount code MARGARET15 to get 15% off your entire purchase, which brings the cost per mask (at the time of this post's publication) down from $20 per mask to just $17 per mask when you buy a box of three, and even less if you buy a box of six.

For those who enjoy indulging in an at-home spa experience or are looking for a way to supercharge their skincare routine, the Spaoxy Gel Mask is a winner. It’s the perfect product for a quick skin refresh before a special occasion, or as part of a weekly self-care ritual to boost skin health over time. And it makes a wonderful gift for someone who loves skincare or just needs a treat of some self-care.


The Best Affordable Carboxytherapy Mask for More Glowing, Youthful Skin by Margaret Schindel

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Tuesday, October 8, 2024

A Review of the Movie The Wild Robot

 





The Wild Robot opened in theaters this past weekend and my husband and I went to go see it.  Yes, I know it is a kids movie, but we have noticed that these days, kid's movies are some of the best to be seen......and we were right when it came to The Wild Robot.  It was a fun romp which also taught good lessons and sweetly showed the power of love and friendship in the face of adversity.

The movie starts with a crate smashed on a beach.  A family of otters, their cute heads sticking up out of the water see the crate and run to investigate.  One of them, while running around inside the crate, hit a button and bright blue eyes light up, and the life of ROZZUM unit 7134 begins.



The only thing that this poor robot wants is someone to help and a task to perform.  Unfortunately, all of the animals are terrified of her and run away the minute they see her.  She tries very hard to make friends but has no success at all until an accident leaves the robot in custody of a goose egg which she saves from a fox and then it hatches.  Roz, being the first thing the gosling sees, imprints on her as his mother and insists on following her wherever she goes.  

Over time the two form a bond, which happens to include the grumpy fox that tried to eat the egg earlier, (voice of Pedro Pascal) and a friendly mother opossum with a large group of babies who likes to give out parenting advice.

  



All the other animals on the island still think of Roz as "the monster" and don't want anything to do with her.  The gosling tries to make friends with other geese, but they all make fun of him and run when see who he considers his mother.  Due to this, Roz decides to teach him how to fly herself.  Some pretty funny shenanigans result from this plan that are very fun to watch.  To see the bond of the tiny gosling and the big robot grow is truly heartwarming.  As the gosling, now known as Brightbill, grows up, both he and Roz learn many things about the world, and about trust, compassion and love.




Before you know it, it is time for migration.  Roz and Brightbill have made friends with an old goose named Longneck, who asks Bright Bill to fly with him on the migration.  They all take off and head south and Roz is left with nothing to do but activate her homing beacon and go back to the factory.  She starts the beacon, but changes her mind, deciding to stay on the island and wait for Bright Bill to return.  Winter comes and it is much harsher than usual and the animals on the island are in danger of freezing to death.  Wanting to save them, Roz forces her friend the fox (Fink) to go out in the snow storm and sniff out all the animals so she can save them by bringing them to the house that she built for her and the gosling.  

Placing all the animals in the same one room house turned out to not be the best idea, as some were predators and some prey.  Somehow Roz and Fink talk them all into being friends as long as they are in this house.  These scenes were truly humorous and lovely, some of the best of the movie

Unfortunately, though Brightbill does come back to the island, so do the people from the Factory that Roz came from.  They are looking for her to take her back. Thus begins another adventure for Brightbill and his animal friends to save Roz.

I don't want to give away the whole movie, you really need to see it for yourself.  It was really beautiful and one you will walk from feeling warm and fuzzy.  I highly recommend this movie for both adults and children.  I believe people will love it regardless of their age.


All photo credits:  The Wild Robot/Universal Pictures








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.”


Monday, October 7, 2024

Reviewing Beginner Rock Tumbling Supplies

I have always loved interesting stones and fossils. I always thought polished rocks are gorgeous. But I have never tried polishing (or tumbling) rocks at home, until now. My first batch of tumbled rocks have gone through the cycles and while they aren't as shiny and smooth as the polished rocks found at souvenir shops, they are very pretty. And it was a fun adventure. Had I known that it was this easy, I would have begun long ago.

Picture with text and polished rocks


I had recently begun fossil and rock hunting again because my grandson was sending me photos of interesting rocks. Geodes were my favorite to find as a child in the Midwest. But it doesn't seem that geodes occur naturally where I live now in West Virginia. In my research about local rocks, I was seeing gorgeous photos of polished rocks that people in the rock hounding groups were sharing. I decided to purchase a rock tumbler.

Coincidentally, I learned that a child at work also has a great interest in rocks. I told him that we could learn how to polish rocks together. He is delighted with finding rocks, giving them to me, then having them returned clean and shiny. 

I've done this first two batches of polished rocks with a tumbler and with a set of polishing grit. Of course, there are many more products that could be purchased. But I had fun results with just this small amount of items. We are learning that some rocks polish and some do not. Some stay approximately the same size and become shiny and others quickly wear away to nothing or crumble apart. Beginning to identify rocks is becoming a part of this process.

Rock Tumbler

I chose the Central Machine rock tumbler from Harbor Freight Tools. I knew NOTHING about rock tumblers when I went shopping that day. But it turns out that I'm very pleased with my purchase. 

Central Machine tumbler from Harbor Freight:

  • dual drum, 6 lb capacity
  • low speed and quiet
  • barrels are rubberized to reduce noise
  • fan-cooled, V-belt driven
  • can be used with all types of polish media (ceramic, glass, resins, and nut shells)


You can find rock tumblers on Amazon. There are unknown brands and brands from companies such as National Geographic rock tumblers and kits for children. There are also rock polishers that work by using vibration. I would recommend the National Geographic tumbler and kit for kids, even thought it is a smaller, single tumbler because it comes with everything needed to try tumbling once; including some rough stones. Great for a one-time adventure in a classroom or with a person who isn't sure they are very interested in tumbling rocks. You can find that National Geographic kit here. 

One of the reasons that I'm happy about my Central Machine purchase is the dual drums. Tumbling rocks takes a long time; weeks or more. With dual drums I am able to run two sets of rocks at different stages of polishing at the same time. 

rock tumbler
If you do not have a Harbor Freight store near you, there are many rock tumblers available on Amazon.

Polishing Grit

I chose the grit set because I saw the labels on one of the rock polishing channels that was most helpful to me on youtube. 

Polly Plastics rock tumbling kit was the brand she was using so it was the brand I ordered from Amazon. The kit came with 5 separate containers. They included:

  • Step 1 Coarse grit
  • Step 2 Medium grit
  • Step 3 Pre-polish fine grit
  • Step 4 Final Polish (Aluminum Oxide)
  • container of 1 1/2 lbs of Ceramic Media (used to cushion and protect the rocks during tumbling at different stages).

While I had watched a variety of tutorials on rock tumbling, and everyone seems to have slightly different preferences, the Polly Plastics kit also comes with step-by-step instructions for their set. 

If you have ever wondered about tumbling rocks I hope you give it a try. I wish I would have started my rock tumbling adventures years ago. 






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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