Reviewing Vicks VapoShower

A few years ago I came across how to make shower steamers and I thought that sounds interesting, down a rabbit hole I went looking at shower steamers and imagining creating a lovely spa experience in my own bathroom with some - I just had to decide which ones.

Vicks VapoShower Shower Tablets

Imagine my surprise a few weeks later when I had a bad cold so my husband did a grocery shop and came home asking me if I had ever seen these tablet things that you put in a shower, I was so excited to see what he'd got me. I'm not going to lie when he showed me the box of Vicks VapoShower that he'd got I wasn't overly impressed as I had been thinking citrus or floral scents!

His heart was in the right place though as a Vicks VapoShower with it's Eucalyptus, Menthol and Camphor scents was certainly a good idea to clear my sinuses. Now I think it's important to talk about Vicks and both mine and my husband's history with the brand before I review the shower steamers. I'll also let you know how easy they are to use.

My husband used to always have Vicks VapoRub on his chest when he was younger and feeling sick and he loved it, I remember when we hadn't been married long and he had a bit of a cold he came to bed with some on his chest - I couldn't sleep with the smell as I found it way too strong. I have never been able to use the Chest Rub however I did used to use the Vicks nasal inhaler both when I was blocked up and also when I was flying. Vicks is actually really good, I just can't handle the smell for too long.

When it comes to using these Shower Tablets (aka shower steamers), once you open the box you'll see all of the tablets individually wrapped. Simply cut off the top of the plastic wrapping and push the tablet out onto the floor of the shower (I choose to do this without touching them, personal preference). Once you turn the shower on the tablet with start to dissolve from the heat of the water and the fragrance will be released.

So let's get back to reviewing the Vicks VapoShower tablets. The first time I tried them I got in the shower and couldn't smell anything, by the end of my shower I could smell it faintly and I found that it had definitely helped to clear my sinuses. A big yes from me, until my second time of using these.

My second time of using Vicks VapoShower tablets I had a bad cold/flu, but it was more chest congestion and a bad cough - my sinuses weren't too bad. When I stepped in the shower I could smell the Vicks straightaway, I did cough a lot during my shower and it helped to break up the phlegm, but the smell was too overwhelming for me personally and I felt quite sick by the time my shower had finished. Did the Vicks help with breaking up the phlegm as I coughed or would that have happened with a hot shower alone? I don't know.

In conclusion, for me I only use the Vicks VapoShower if I have very blocked sinuses and for this it works really well.

Let's now talk about my husband - he loves Vicks VapoShower and does not find the smell overwhelming at all. If he has a cold or is feeling a little sniffly he will use one whether he's congested in his chest or sinuses and he swears it helps.

I would definitely recommend them for anyone who finds Vicks VaporRub helpful. If you generally find Vicks VaporRub a little too over stimulating then try a Eucalyptus & Lavender or Tea Tree & Lemon shower steamer as they will still help but the smell won't be quite as over powering.

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Tired Eyes? These Two Affordable Concealers Are My Secret Weapons

Another Affordable & Effective Under-Eye Concealer I’ve Recently Tried

I’ve always been a fan of E.L.F. makeup products—they’re affordable, reliable, and get the job done without any fuss. A few years back, I even wrote about their Under Eye Concealer and Highlighter, which I still think is a fantastic little product.

To be honest, I’m not a big makeup person. My daily routine is simple: a touch of under-eye concealer, a hint of blush, lip gloss occasionally, mascara, and eyeshadow on special occasions. That’s pretty much it. I don’t wear foundation, and I rarely go on makeup shopping sprees. I’ll use the same few products until they’re finished, then restock only when necessary.

Recently, it was time to replace my concealer, and I decided to try something new: the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer. Since it’s budget-friendly, I figured I might as well give it a try.

Why I Still Love the E.L.F. Concealer

The E.L.F. under-eye concealer is a go-to for a reason. It’s light, easy to apply, and it doesn’t sit heavy on the skin. It brightens up tired eyes, smooths things out a bit, and gives a nice, clean look without being overdone. If you’re like me and prefer a natural, minimal makeup vibe, it’s perfect.

My Recent Find: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind

Now, about this Maybelline Concealer—I was genuinely impressed. It features a soft, cushiony sponge tip that makes application super easy. 

You just twist the top, and the product flows into the sponge. Dab it under your eyes, around the corners, or even on your lids if needed. It blends well, doesn’t settle into creases, and has a smooth finish.

For someone who sticks to just a few products and likes things to be quick and effortless, this one fits right in. It’s affordable, effective, and doesn’t feel like you’re wearing a layer of product.

Both Products Are Worth Having

Now I have two favorite under-eye concealers—and I’m not usually someone who keeps multiple options on hand. Both the E.L.F. and Maybelline concealers are budget-friendly, easy to use, and deliver real results. 

If you’re in the market for a new concealer or just want to try something different without breaking the bank, give the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind a shot.

It may become one of your everyday go-to products, like it has for me.

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Holiday Review of National Ice Cream Sandwich Day

On August 2nd we celebrate the fun food holiday, National Ice Cream Sandwich Day. It is the perfect cool treat for a hot summer day. It is a delicious summertime follow-up to July’s National Ice Cream Month. 

Some Fun Tasty History of National Ice Cream Sandwich Day

On National Ice Cream Sandwich Day, we celebrate a delicious delight that is over a century old. We know this to be true because of an article published in the New York Mail and Express (a daily New York City newspaper) in 1899 to verify that there were ice cream sandwiches for sale by street vendors in New York at that time. For one penny! 

The article said the following:

There are ham sandwiches and salmon sandwiches and cheese sandwiches and several other kinds of sandwiches, but the latest is the ice-cream sandwich.

How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Sandwich Day

In my day, the ice cream sandwich I remember (and enjoyed) the most as a child was the traditional brick of vanilla ice cream placed between two soft chocolate wafers. Ice cream and cookies - always a child-favorite!

Over time, many variations of the ice cream sandwich have come about and many can even be created in your own kitchen.

• There is the creation invented by an ice cream vendor in 1928 in San Francisco who used two oatmeal cookies instead of chocolate wafers.  He even had a version of this that he dipped into chocolate before he served it.

• Maybe you could add some chocolate chips around the edges of the ice cream. Or use chocolate chip cookies with chocolate chip cookie ice cream! :) 

• How about chocolate ice cream between vanilla wafers?  

• Making ice cream sandwiches can be as simple or as difficult as you choose them to be. Just select your favorite flavor of ice cream and the cookies/biscuits/wafers you like best and come up with your favorite version.

If you want a challenge and enjoy ‘fun in the kitchen’, try making your own cookies and your own ice cream for a tasty homemade impressive creation!

Summary

This wonderfully simple frozen dessert is an extremely tasty and delicious ice cream treat. So be sure to be ready with your favorites on National Ice Cream Sandwich Day on August 2.

More Holiday Reviews

Review This Reviews: Holidays

More Ice Cream Reviews

Review This Reviews: Ice Cream

*Holiday Review of National Ice Cream Sandwich Day is written by Wednesday Elf

 

HOME NEATLY Ice Cream Sandwich Scoop, Easy Release Sandwich Cookie Scoops for Evenly Sized Gelato Scoops, Ice Cream Scoop with Trigger for Effortless Serving, Stainless Steel Food Scoopers for Kitchen

Chef'n Sweet Spot Ice Cream Sandwich Maker - Set of 2, Brown | Craft Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches with Ease | Gift for Family Fun and Parties

Jellybean Foods Ice Cream Sandwich Wafers - Crispy Chocolate Wafers For Ice Cream Sandwiches - Rectangular Sandwich Wafers - Chocolate Cookies - Rectangular Wafers Without Cream or Ice Cream(1 lb)

Nestle, Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwiches, 6 Count (Frozen)

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The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025) Movie Review

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, 
Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Fantastic Four: First Steps movie is a refreshing return to the basics and Marvel comics for kids. It really is a family movie that everyone can enjoy.

While the movie is rated PG-13, the members of our family who viewed it together could only recall one swear word in the whole movie.  It could have received that rating because of the huge space creature, Galactus, with glowing eyes.  He could certainly be perceived as scary by a child.

Adults will enjoy the "retro" styles of the 60's.  Those old enough to remember will appreciate the notable design elements which include block letters and color panels commonly used in 60's media and comic books.  There is even a game show style marquee that is reminiscent of the iconic Stardust marquee.

 

The Fantastic Four:  First Steps Movie Synopsis 

The Fantastic Four started out as regular human astronauts, but when they returned to earth, they possessed unique powers after being exposed to cosmic radiation.  Reed Richards, aka Mr. Fantastic, has stretching powers and his body stretches to the extreme.  His wife, Sue Storm, aka the Invisible Woman, can turn herself or anything invisible.  Sue's brother, Johnny Storm, aka Human Torch, can literally turn his body to fire without burning himself.  And last, but not least, the captain of the spaceship, Ben Grimm is always The Thing and looks like a boulder with rock-like skin.  Unfortunately, Ben is the only one who cannot change back to his original human form and features.  However, he still possesses a heart of gold.

We find out very early in the movie that Sue is pregnant and they are all thrilled, but concerned about the baby's normalcy.  In spite of her pregnancy, when the earth is threatened by a space creature, the Fantastic Four must take action to protect the planet.  Galactus eats entire planets. Thanks to a heralding cosmic entity, the Silver Surfer, they learn that the next planet selected for his consumption is earth.

 

Currently showing in theaters    

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The Fantastic Four: First Steps (2025) Movie Review by:

 

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My Favorite Ruler, Review

My favorite ruler for all of my artistic projects is a sewing ruler. The particular one that I own measures 2" by 18" and is see through. I can see my design under the ruler, making it so much easier to know right where I want to place my next mark, and or where I need to measure from.

My canvases can vary, from regular canvas, paper, to my computer screen. Yes, you read that right. I don't know if my current upgrade of my artist software has a grid pattern that I can use or not; I have never bothered to find out. It is so natural for me to reach for my see through ruler.

I can hold it up to the computer screen, shift it this way or that, and I have figured out what I need to know. It is also flexible; it has just enough flex to it that I can maneuver it across my computer screen without any issues.

This is one gal that does not want a touch screen on my monitor. I want to be able to use my see through ruler.

Some people may refer to this as a seamstress ruler, quilter's ruler, etc. But it is so much more versatile to use than just for sewing. But if you're looking for one in the art section, you may need to go over to sewing to find one.

Not just any see through ruler will do. This sewing ruler is smooth on both sides and on the edges too. That is another criteria for my ruler. Some of the see through rulers for school have raised ridges to designate the different measurements.

If you are looking for something that gives you the option for straight lines, that has a decent length to it, (They do come in other sizes though.), is smooth on both sides and edges too, then I recommend a sewing ruler for your creative needs.

The two or three that I own, are all from Artist's Loft. You can find them at Michael's and also on Amazon.

Artist's Loft See Through Ruler Check for price.

Happy creating!

Cheryl Paton

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The Best Affordable UPF 50+ Sun Protection Gloves Product Review

Most of us are pretty good about putting sunscreen on our faces and necks before we head outside. But if you’re like I used to be, you might not give much thought to your hands. The truth is, they’re one of the first areas to show sun damage—age spots, thinning skin, and those little freckles that pop up over the years. And, of course, unprotected hands are just as vulnerable to skin cancer as the rest of your body.

My sister, who’s a physician, has urged me to take sun protection seriously for decades, and as I've gotten older I have become a bit obsessive about wearing high SPF sunscreen and UV protective clothing. Our dad developed skin cancer after his time in the Navy, and that was a turning point for both of us. We learned firsthand that protecting your skin isn’t just about looks—it’s about health. She was actually the one who convinced me to start wearing UPF 50+ gloves, not just outside, but even in the car. I don’t drive myself, but UV rays easily penetrate car windows, and the exposure really adds up over time.

My sister's recommendation is how I discovered the Coolibar UPF 50+ UV Gloves. Coolibar was the first sun-protective clothing company to receive the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, and it’s a brand I’ve come to trust.

Coolibar UPF 50+ UV Gloves Review: My Go-To Sun Protection for Hands

Even though I have been diligent about applying sunscreen to my face, neck and chest for many years, I have been less diligent about protecting the skin on the rest of my body. Sunscreen lasts only so long, and it is more difficult to reapply it to the body than to the face when you're on the go. About five or six years ago I really started noticing some of the sun damage incurred during my twenties and thirties, when I was not diligent about sun protection or sunscreen use. I have succeeded in reversing a lot of the sun damage on my face, neck and chest with diligent use of well designed, high-quality AM and PM skincare routines, but again, I haven't been as careful with the skin on my arms and legs.

Fortunately, using Coolibar UPF 50+ UV Gloves to protect the skin on my hands has really helped, especially when I'm in the car, running errands, or at an outdoor event for longer than two hours. Although my hands obviously show signs of age, they're fairly youthful for 71-year-old hands, with minimal wrinkles and only a few, small age spots, thanks in part to the Coolibar Unisex UV Gloves with UPF 50+ UV protection.

(Not sure what the strange reflection is!)

Why I Love These Sun Protection Gloves

The first pair of these gloves that I purchased two years ago were the Coolibar UPF 50+ Unisex Gannet UV Gloves (sun protection isn't just for women!) in the color Beige. I wear a woman's size 7 glove and the size Small fit me perfectly. The Gannet style comes just over the wrist.

The first thing I noticed was how soft and feather-light they felt. They’re made from Coolibar’s UCmax™ fabric, a blend of 87% polyester and 13% spandex with breathable micro-mesh and four-way stretch. They fit snugly but not tight, and they don’t make my hands sweaty. In fact, the Cooltect® technology wicks away moisture and keeps my hands feeling cool, even on hot days.

And the best part is that they block 98% of UVA and UVB rays, giving UPF 50+ protection without having to slather on sunscreen that washes off or needs reapplying every hour or two. Honestly, I almost forget that I’m wearing them because they’re so comfortable.

Touchscreen-Friendly (So I Don't Need to Remove Them to Use My Phone)

One feature I use constantly is the touchscreen-compatible thumb and pointer fingertips. I can grab my phone, scroll, or send a quick text without peeling the gloves off and exposing my skin. It’s such a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in how practical they are for daily use.

Perfect for the Car, Walks, Everyday Errands and Outdoor Events

I keep my UV gloves in my purse so I can easily slip them on whenever I go out. I love that they come with a zippered pouch to keep them clean and neat when not in use.

Since I don’t drive, I’m usually in the passenger seat and I like knowing my hands are protected from UV rays coming through the side windows. I wear these gloves while I'm walking, shopping, or sitting outside with a book. They’re just an easy habit now, like sunglasses or sunscreen on my face.

Need More Coverage? Try the Longer Version

When I looked at the sun damage on my arms recently, I decided to buy a pair of the Coolibar UPF 50+ Unisex Culebra UV Long Gloves as well. They use the same UCmax™ fabric and the same touchscreen-compatible thumb and pointer fingertips as the wrist-length Gannet style, but they extend well past your elbow. I reach for these when I’m wearing short sleeves or sleeveless tops or spending more time outdoors. It’s that extra layer of peace of mind against sun damage, especially at the beach.

A Great Gift for Gardeners and Outdoor Enthusiasts

Men or women who work outdoors or enjoy gardening, driving, spending time at the beach, walking for exercise or pleasure, and anyone else who spends time exposed to the sun (directly or indirectly) for extended periods of time could benefit from either style of these Coolibar UPF 50+ UV gloves. I think they would make a great gift, especially since they come nicely packaged in a matching zippered storage pouch.

Final Thoughts

Sun protection is a big deal for me, and not just because I want the skin on my hands and arms to look good as I get older. After seeing what skin cancer did to my dad, I take sun protection very seriously. The Coolibar Gannet UV Gloves make it effortless. They’re light, comfortable, easy to wash, and practical enough to wear every day. Plus, they save me from constantly reapplying sunscreen to my hands.

If you want even more coverage, the Culebra UV Long Gloves are just as good with added length for your forearms and part of your upper arms.

Both styles give you top-notch protection from a brand that’s trusted by dermatologists and recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. For me, they’ve become a non-negotiable part of my daily routine, and the skin on my hands and arms is showing visible improvement. At the time of this post's publication, both styles were available on Amazon for $39. That's a small price to pay for protection against skin cancer and other types of unsightly damage from the sun's harmful UV rays.

Coolibar UPF 50+ Men's Women's Gannett UV Gloves - Sun Protective (X-Large- Beige)

Coolibar UPF 50+ Men's Women's Culebra UV Long Sun Gloves - Sun Protective (Small- Beige)

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Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

 Pork Tenderloin is a very lean and tender cut of meat; it's the filet mignon of pork. Fran picked up a 1.5 lb. already seasoned pork tenderloin last week.

There are several ways to make pork tenderloin, and our favorite is using our Ninja Air Fryer.

This method is easy to do, and the pork is so tender and juicy. Our pork tenderloin was already seasoned. You can find these in your grocery store already seasoned with various types of seasoning. If you don't find one already seasoned, here is how we like to season ours.

Seasoning for Pork Tenderloin:

• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Mix all seasonings together in a small bowl, and rub the olive oil over the pork tenderloin. Rub the mixed seasoning on all sides of the tenderloin.

Set and preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees. Set the timer to 25 minutes. Check the pork tenderloin at 22 minutes with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the meat. You want the internal temperature to be at least 145 degrees. 

The tenderloin will be crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. Serve with your favorite vegetable or baked potato. 

Ninja | Indoor Grill | Foodi | 5-in-1 (Grill, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, and Dehydrate | Fits up to 3lb Roast | Smoke Control System and Dishwasher Safe Parts| Black/Grey | AG301Check the PriceThermoPro Lightning 1-Second Instant Read Meat Thermometer, Kitchen Food Thermometer with Auto Wake/Sleep/180° Rotating Display, Waterproof Cooking Thermometer for Oil Deep Fry Smoker BBQ GrillCheck the Price

 

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Lifelong Original Office Chair Wheels Reviewed

Have you ever taken a chance on a DIY idea only  to discover... What took me so long to do it! This simple DIY has changed the scenario 100 percent for an office with hardwood floors. 

Hardwood Floors

The great feature of hardwood floors is the ability to have office furniture with wheels. So handy, so useful, so worrisome if the wheels are not high quality and the hardwood floors are in jeopardy. The one sound you do not want to hear is a rolling piece of furniture scraaaatcccching the hardwood floor.

Wheels and More Wheels

What I have added Lifelong wheels to in the office with hardwood floors:

Rolling shelves

Rolling printer stand

Office Chair

Stool 

Shredder

Through the years this old office chair became THAT chair. The chair which is so comfy and broken in and you do not want to let it go when age reigns on its' parts. One of the wheels was not working properly and was showing signs of scratching the floor as well as the floor protector. One of the bonus features of replacing the wheels was the ability to leave the plastic floor protector in the trash.

One word of caution! The wheels are fast! Like rollerblade wheels, so the chair which was barely rolling is now a lean mean rolling machine !

The one measurement needed is the stem size. The old wheels pop off and the new are easily put on, but the stem size is necessary for proper fit. Lifelong comes in different color combinations and brakes are an option. For the printer stand on wheels I chose the style with brakes.

Brands

As noted I have replaced a few wheels and have found the brands I used all were more than adequate. The installation took minutes! No tools needed. 

My favorite brand was Lifelong and it was slightly more expensive than other brands. the one cavaet is the wheels are advertised to fit 98 percent, but NOT Ikea furniture. 

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Which Voice Contestants Went on to Real Fame? Check it Out

 

To Date, Here Are 5 of The Biggest Stars to Come Out of The Voice

You know, I've been a fan of The Voice for years—probably over a decade now. And thanks to the magic of TikTok, I've fallen down more than a few rabbit holes watching short clips from The Voice UK, The Voice Kids, and even auditions from countries I didn't expect—like Germany, Indonesia, and South Africa. There's something about those blind auditions and spinning chairs that just pulls me in every time.

After digging into the history of The Voice, I found a few fun factoids I thought you might like, too. The show actually started way back in 2010 in the Netherlands, created by John de Mol (yep, the same guy who helped create Big Brother). 

Since then, it's exploded across the globe with over 60 international versions. You can now catch The Voice in countries like the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Mexico, South Africa, Italy, Indonesia, the Philippines, Sweden, Argentina, and many more.

Now, while The Voice has given the world thousands of notable singers, not all of them have gone on to become household names. Who are some of the biggest stars to come out of The Voice? Who made a significant impact after the show was over?

"After conducting some research (and encountering a few surprises), I've found the following. By the way, this is my personal research; feel free to dispute any of these, or add people you think belong on this list! Leave your opinion in the comments." 

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🌟 Top 5 Most Successful Contestants from The Voice – Worldwide

These are the ones who not only wowed us on the show but also went on to sell records, earn awards, and build actual careers. Let's break it down:

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1. Morgan Wallen

(The Voice USA, Season 6 – 2014, Team Usher initially, then Team Adam)

Okay, so this one shocked even me. Morgan Wallen was actually eliminated early in the playoffs, but he's become the biggest success story ever from The Voice.

Why he's #1:

• 🎧 Record Sales & Streams:

  • Over 35 million equivalent album sales (EAS) globally

  • Dangerous: The Double Album broke all kinds of country music streaming records

  • One Thing at a Time dominated the charts for weeks

• 💵 Estimated Earnings:

  • Net worth estimated between $25–30 million and rising fast

• 🏆 Awards:

  • ACM Album of the Year

  • Billboard Music Awards

  • CMT Music Awards

  • Holds records for most weeks on Billboard Country Charts

Bottom line: He didn't win the show, but he definitely won real-life stardom.

---

2. Melanie Martinez

(The Voice USA, Season 3 – 2012, Top 6 Finalist)

Melanie had a style all her own from the start—quirky, artistic, emotional. And it turns out that unique identity is precisely what carried her beyond the show.

What she's accomplished:

• 🎧 Album Sales & Streams:

  • Cry Baby was certified Double Platinum in the U.S.

  • Albums like K-12 and Portals have cult followings

  • Billions of streams across platforms

• 💵 Estimated Earnings:

  • Net worth somewhere around $10–12 million

• 🏆 Impact:

  • While she's not mainstream radio famous, she's a huge streaming success, especially among younger listeners on TikTok and Spotify.

  • Strong merchandise sales and sold-out tours

Bottom line: She has built a loyal fan base and a full-blown brand on her own terms.

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3. Jordan Smith

(The Voice USA, Season 9 – 2015, Winner – Team Adam)

Jordan Smith's voice is the kind that makes you stop what you're doing and just listen. He made history with his chart performance during the show and continued to do so afterward.

Highlights:

• 🎧 Sales & Chart Success:

  • Became the highest-selling Voice contestant on iTunes during his season

  • Albums charted on Billboard's Christian and Adult Contemporary charts

• 💵 Estimated Earnings:

  • Estimated net worth around $2–3 million

• 🏆 Awards & Recognition:

  • Wrote "Ashes" for Celine Dion (Deadpool 2 soundtrack)

  • Billboard chart-topper in the Christian music space

Bottom line: Jordan found his lane in Christian and inspirational music, and is thriving.

Here's Jordan Smith's blind audition:

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4. Cassadee Pope

(The Voice USA, Season 3 – 2012, Winner – Team Blake)

Cassadee brought her pop-punk background from the band Hey Monday into country music, making it work. She was the first female winner of The Voice USA and used the win to launch a solid country career.

Career Snapshot:

• 🎧 Sales:

  • Frame by Frame hit No. 1 on Billboard's Country Albums chart

  • Single "Wasting All These Tears" sold 125,000 copies in its first week

  • Duet "Think of You" with Chris Young went Platinum

• 💵 Estimated Earnings:

  • Estimated around $4–5 million

• 🏆 Awards:

  • Grammy nomination

  • CMT Music Award

  • ACM Award nomination

Bottom line: A fan favorite who turned her win into long-term respect in the country scene.

Cassadee Pope performed this song on The Voice, and ever since, it's held a special place in my heart. When my dad passed, I wept listening to it. Those tears were part of my healing. The original is by Miranda Lambert, and it still brings me back to that time.

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5. Koryn Hawthorne

(The Voice USA, Season 8 – 2015, 4th Place – Team Pharrell)

She didn't win the show, but she's dominating the gospel and Christian charts today.

Why she made the list:

• 🎧 Chart Success:

  • Unstoppable topped Billboard's Top Gospel Albums

  • Single "Won't He Do It" stayed at No. 1 for 41 weeks (that's almost a whole year!)

• 💵 Estimated Earnings:

  • Net worth estimated at around $1–2 million

• 🏆 Awards & Nominations:

  • 2 Grammy nominations

  • Billboard and Stellar Gospel Awards

Bottom line: She's a star in her genre, with one of the most consistent post-show careers.

Here's Koryn's blind audition:

🎬 Final Thoughts

So there you have it! While not every Voice contestant goes on to global superstardom, a few have carved out seriously successful careers. And what's fascinating is that most of them didn't even win, which shows that sometimes, winning the show isn't the only path to success.

Whether it's country chart domination, like Morgan Wallen, quirky theatrical pop, like Melanie Martinez, or inspirational gospel, like Koryn Hawthorne, these artists have found their unique lane.

And if you're like me and still find yourself watching audition clips at 1 AM from The Voice UK or The Voice Kids Philippines, it's kind of nice to know that the show really can change lives—and sometimes, lead to something bigger than anyone expected.

Do you have a personal favorite from The Voice over the years?

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Dead Heat Book Review

A horseracing mystery by Dick Francis and Felix Francis

After a successful eleven-year career as a jockey in England (during which he became one of Britain's leading National Hunt jockeys and a champion steeplechaser, riding as jockey to the Queen Mother. Queen Elizabeth), Dick Francis wrote his first book, an autobiography (The Sports of Queens), which led to a job on a London newspaper as a racing correspondent. In 1982, he published his first mystery book that dealt with crime in the horse-racing world. Through a publishing career of nearly 40 books, Francis’ wife, Mary, was his researcher, proofreader and biggest fan. 

Mary died in 2000 and Dick, heartbroken, virtually gave up writing. Six years later, their son Felix talked his dad into writing again and they collaborated on Dead Heat. Herein, is my review of this book.

Synopsis of Dead Heat

Dead Heat

The main character in Dead Heat is Max Moreton. Max is locally known as a celebrity chef, enjoying success in his horse-racing themed restaurant in Newmarket called The Hay Net. Max also frequently caters special meals at nearby racetracks. His troubles begin when he caters a dinner at Newmarket races where dozens of guests end up with food poisoning. Max cannot figure out what went wrong.

But, that incident was just the beginning of Max’s problems. The very next day, he caters a VIP lunch in one of the special boxes at Newmarket races, and he is nearly killed in an explosion. It suddenly becomes time for Max to start trying to figure out what is going on and why it seems as though someone is trying to kill him. 

Summary

The clever plot of Dead Heat has some interesting and some quirky characters (there is the laughing lawyer for one) and a romantic interest between Max and a beautiful viola player from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London who originally starts out to sue him! In addition, the reader gets to enjoy the ambience of the world of haute cuisine. 

I enjoyed this first collaboration of Dick Francis with his son Felix. The team went on to publish 3 more books together. Since Dick’s death at age 89 in 2010, Felix Francis has continued on in the same vein, writing horse-racing mysteries. 

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*Book Review of ‘Dead Heat by Dick & Felix Francis was written by Wednesday Elf

 

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