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Friday, July 11, 2025

Insulated Lunch Boxes for School Children Reviewed

The right lunch box is very important to any child. They reflect personalities, preferences, or interests at a glance.

When my children were in elementary school, carrying the right lunch box was just as important as having a "cool" backpack for the first day of school. Because so many schools require uniforms now, lunch boxes and backpacks are often the only things that allow students to show their individuality. In our family, one of our favorite adventures before school started each year, was selecting a new lunch box.

Favorite featured "characters" change with each year so it is important to let kids select what they want when you can. Like Halloween costumes, whatever video game, cartoon or movie character is a hit, that is often the most sought after character design for a lunch box.

There were years when my children wanted dinosaurs, animal or space related "everything" regardless of what else was popular. While my children were most concerned about the pattern on the fabric, I was concerned about the closure, pockets, straps, weight, size and whether or not it was sturdy enough to last the school year.

Kulle Lunch Box for Boys,Insulated Lunch BagsCheck Price

I preferred a lunch box that had a separate interior pocket for an ice pack. I always liked to include a dessert like a fruit cup or a pudding cup along with a sandwich in their lunches. Because those choices must be kept cold, I added a reusable ice pack to their lunch boxes. I wanted the ice pack in a pocket so it would not get thrown out with their food packaging trash. Even juice boxes need to be kept cool, as well as any sandwich that has lunch meat or refrigerated condiments, so those ice packs were imperative.

I also wanted their lunchboxes to have a zippered external pocket for napkins or a separate morning snack, which was allowed in kindergarten and first grade. I didn't want them to have to search inside of their lunch box for the snack.

Back then, we were limited to what was available in our local stores. Today's generation of school-age children have a plethora of online stores to search for just the right lunch box or lunch bag.

Parent and Student Approved Lunch Boxes or Bags

Depending on the age of the child, the size will be a big part of what a parent will need to check before purchasing a lunch box for their student. For instance, a kindergarten student could not easily carry an adult size lunch tote filled with food. A small child will most likely need a lunch box that measures approximately 8.5" x 9.5" x 3.25" while an older child can carry a larger lunch box.

Lunch Bag for Girls Leather Insulated Lunch Box with Water Bottle Holder and Shoulder Strap (White Bunny)Check Price

Other Lunchbox Considerations and Preferred Features

Insulated
Shoulder Strap & Handle Options
Size & &Weight
Interior Pocket for Ice Packs or Separation
Water Resistant
Exterior Pocket for Bottles or Thermos
Exterior Pocket for Napkins
Easy to Wipe Clean Interior
Easy Zipper

Animal Fox Insulated Kids Lunch BagCheck Price Insulated Lunch Box for Boys Girls, Game Lunch BagCheck Price Bluey Kids Soft Insulated School Lunch BoxCheck Price

As kids get older, they will most likely prefer specific artwork, or a solid color lunch tote. However, they will still need the same lunch box construction features itemized above.

Lunch Box for Boys Girls - Reusable Insulated Lunch BagsCheck Price

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Fear in First Gear a Book Review

I love cozy mysteries, and Karen Whalen has some really fun ones to read that are sure to keep you up reading to find out the mysteries. Fear in First Gear is #7 in her Tow Trucker Driver mystery series. In this book you again meet with the delightful cast of characters in a small Colorado town. First there is Delaney, the shoeaholic tow truck driver who is the main character. Coming back and reading another book about her is like meeting up with an old friend. Then you have the fun cast of characters in Delaney's life. Her romantic interest is Ephraim the town sheriff. Her best friend is Kristin, who owns a coffee shop. Other supporting characters include Zach, Kristins romantic interest, who is with the local police. There is also Kristins cousin Axle, who rooms with Delaney and Tanner a fellow tow truck driver who is always willing to help to Delaney in the tow truck business.

Book Summary

The book starts off with a blizzard in this small Colorado town. Delaney is asked to check out Clarkson Pass and make sure no one is stranded before there is a need to shut down the snow gates. As she is driving up County Road 350 she sees a car off in a ditch and as she gets closer, she sees a woman with her eyes staring out in the car. Delaney has to travel quite a distance before she finds somewhere to turn her rig around. The snow is coming down harder and she does not have any cell service. As she passes where she thought the car was, she can no longer see it, so she makes her way to the nearest place she has cell service and calls in what she believes to be a dead woman in the car. Now Delaney has found other dead bodies during her tow truck career and the police are leery about what she thinks she has seen. Meanwhile the blizzard has gotten worse, an avalanche goes through the area and the pass has been shut down.

In the days and weeks ahead, Delaney is determined to find out who the woman is in the car and find her murderer. She is constantly sidetracked by law enforcement who want her to leave the investigating to them.

As the story goes on Delaney finds herself in several situations where social media posters delight in reporting about her. Here are some of the posts that received lots of attention:

Tow Truck Driver finding bodies.
Hi-heeled tow truck driver.
Tow truck driver tows a bear across town.
Mishaps during lip syncing with the band.

To read about the above situations and find out how Delaney discovers the answers to the mystery you must read this delightful book. You can get the book on Amazon at the following link.

Here is the book on Amazon. Fear in First Gear

More Reviews on Karen C Whalen Books

The author has written three different series of books. The Tow Truck Driver Mysteries, the Dinner Club Mysteries, and the Sea Oaks Beach mysteries. I have reviewed several of the books and have thoroughly enjoyed them all. Here are some of my reviews.

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Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Summer Tips for Pets ~ A Product Review

There seems to be no lack of things that we can do to make our pets more comfortable during the summer months. Just in case you are a new Pet Parent, here are some wonderful ideas to make Summer Months and the heat bearable for your pets.

SUMMER TIPS FOR FAMILY PETS

The Number 1 and I think most important tip is to keep water available at all times. If it is a really hot day, you can add a few (1 to 5) ice cubes to the water to keep it cool.
Take your pets especially dogs out for their walks early in the morning and later in the evening. Why? Well let's just say that the pavement gets really hot when the sun is beating down on it. If you can't take your pets out early or later, then make sure you are walking on grassy areas! Grass is naturally cooler on their little feet.
If you are going for longer walks, take along a water bottle for you and one for your pet. They make these lovely and easy to use portable water bowls for you dogs. If you are interested you can find a whole bunch of different options for travelling water bottles right here!
Use a cooling Bandana to help keep your dog chilled while out in the heat. Or you can get a Puppy Cooling jacket. If you are interested in cooling bandanas or cooling jackets for your dog you can check a whole lot of them out on this page link!
Dog booties are a must if you are walking for long distances on hot pavement. Dogs paws are really sensitive to heat and they can blister and burn. Whether you have a large breed dog or a small breed, they both need foot protection so you can find what fits your Poochie's needs on this page and there are many different choices that you can make!
When you come in from your walks a nice cooling mat/pad will make your pet feel wonderfully chilled. Again if you have a large or small dog, your needs might be different, but you can find wonderful cooling mats for your dogs whatever their size right here!
Needless to say if your dog is a long-haired variety, they will be shedding a lot of fur over the summer months and good grooming, while essential all year long, makes an even better idea in the summer. Getting all that extra hair off of them will keep them cooler.
If you are a home owner and have the space, a nice little kiddies pool or a special dog pool, will be an added extra for your poochie friend. Don't over fill the pool, but just give them enough water to splash around, keep the pool in a semi-sun area. Dog's can get sunburned too! But please don't use sunscreen on you pet, rather keep them in a shaded area!

Having a pet in the house is wonderful for our mental, emotional and physical needs and they are a part of the family. So when you know that it's hot out there, it's our duty as pet parents to keep our pets happy during the extra hot days of summer.

They sure appreciate it and you will too! Your dogs and cats will be much happier and relaxed when their needs are met.

I think I have covered the most important parts of keeping our pets safe and happy, but if there is something I have forgotten, please leave me a comment and I will certainly look into your suggestions.

Many thanks for reading and Happy Summer to all!

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Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Reviewing Benefits Of Sun Protection Hats for Adults and Children

Person Wearing a Sun Protection Wide Brimmed Sun Hat

I always look forward to Spring and summer, It is so lovely to get some sunshine and enjoy lovely weather, but too much or too strong sun exposure can be harmful so I look for ways to enjoy the sun safely.

One way we can protect ourselves is to wear a hat. However although we can wear any ordinary hat, if we want the best sun protection it is better to buy one with added sun protection built in to the fabric. Most are factor 50 which is excellent sun protection.

Sun safety is very important and a Sun Hat with built in sun protection can be very helpful. As summer arrives and the temperatures rise and the Ultra violet (UV) factors also rise we should all be more aware of keeping ourselves safe in the sun.

My husband and I always wear a Sun Protection Hat now and it really makes a huge difference to how we feel when out about about in the sun, we feel much more protected and cooler.

What Are UPF Protection Sunhats?

UPF sunhats are designed with tightly woven materials and special treatments to block harmful UV rays. They are better than a standard hat in this respect and offer more protection.

A short explanation is that we are used to hearing Sun Protection Factor SPF in sunscreens, but in clothing and sun hats you may see UPF which means Ultraviolet Protection Factor.

UPF measures the level of Ultra violet radiation the fabric permits to get through to our skin.

UPF 50 in a sun hat blocks 98% of the sun’s rays and protects us from UVA which are the ones that age us and UVB which are the ones that burn. You may still see them advertised as SPF or UPF and should look for factor 50 ideally.

They are available in a very wide variety of styles for men, women and children. Styles include wide brimmed which are my favourite, baseball caps, bucket hats, beach hats, travel hats, stylish hats and some corded to keep them on in windy conditions. Some are plain, some pretty, others two tone so you can have a two in one hat, some very practical, others more decorative but all offering you added sun protection.

A range of colours are available from blues, pinks, creams, greens, black and many others so there is sure to be a colour that you like.

Women's Travel Beach Hat with Chin Cord - UPF 50 Sun ProtectionCheck Price

Why Do We Need A UPF/SPF Sun HAT?

Most offer sun protection to our scalp, hair and face. If the brim is wide enough it can also give protection to our eyes, ears and neck.

Sunscreen on the face and head needs reapplying often, can cause allergic reactions and can rub off during the day. For many people it is more difficult to apply to your head and not perhaps very comfortable and may be greasy or tacky. If you can wear sunscreen on your face and neck you should. However, by wearing a Sun protection hat as well, we cover all bases by being sun safe and maybe a little cooler. Yes hats can blow off or be taken off, but as long as the person keeps the hat on, perhaps with an adjustable chin strap, it gives all day protection.

Some medications can make your skin very sensitive to sunlight and you may be advised to keep your skin covered while taking them. Always check with your doctor, but if advised to avoid the sun, a wide brimmed SPF sun hat may be a very useful accessory to protect you while going about your day.

Some health conditions make exposure to the sun inadvisable. Your doctor is the best person to advise you, but if they approve wearing a wide brimmed SPF sun hat may be useful to help you go about your day more safely.

Sun Protection hats can really help us by protecting our skin from the sun, helping to shield us from burning or damage by the suns rays and even serious cases of skin cancer on the head and neck. My friend got skin cancer on her head despite having thick hair. She never wore a hat all summer both home or abroad. After having surgery for the skin cancer, she does now.

If you cannot wear sun screen due to allergies and still want to go out during summer, a sun hat is essential to protect your scalp, face and neck. Due to allergic reactions to sun creams and other creams and cosmetics I am unable to apply sunscreen. I have very fair sensitive skin which does not tan easily, so it is vital to me to wear a SPF sun hat at all times when the sun is out from Spring to Autumn to protect my skin.

Many sun creams contain chemicals which not only can irritate the face, eyes and skin but the chemicals may affect marine life too. A UPF/SPF sun hat may be an option if this affects you. Also look for sunscreens kinder to you and the environment.

There is a SPF sun hat for any occasion. Whether its gardening in your own garden yard, going for a walk, days out sightseeing, dog walking, hiking, beach days or exotic holidays.

A UPF/SPF Sun Hat can make enjoying the heat and suns rays a little safer for everyone.

Wallaroo Hat Company Men’s Summit Sun Hat (Stone, Large/Extra Large) – UPF 50+, Wide BrimCheck Price

Sun Hats With SPF Benefits for Teenagers And Adults

A sunhat with added sun protection can be fashionable, sporty, practical, even stylish. You can always add a ribbon or brooch to the hat if its too plain for you or you like to individualise it.

If the brim is wide enough, it can protect your face against sun skin ageing and from the skin going red and sore or getting burns.

A sun hat may help make up look better for longer.

AN SPF sunhat is very helpful for people with fine or thinning hair as it offers protection for the skin on the scalp, as well as the face.

UV exposure can fade hair colour so if you colour your hair it is worth wearing a good sunhat.

If you have short hair or neck coverage is important to you there are styles with back flaps to guard the neck. It is often a difficult place to apply sunscreen thoroughly and can feel tacky or greasy if it gets in your hair.

An SPF sun hat is great for people who like to be active and outdoors. There are hats suitable for hiking, gardening, fishing and many sports. I always wear a Sun Protection hat while I am gardening and out walking in nature in the summer.

I find an SPF sunhat with a wide brim also keeps me cooler.

Solbari Everyday Broad Brim Sun Hat with Pocket UPF50+ Uv Protection, Sun Protective Hat for Women Beige MediumCheck Price

Benefits for Babies And Children

Children have more delicate thinner skin and it is important to protect it from the suns rays.

It might not be the easiest task to keep reapplying sun screen especially to a child's scalp, neck and face, although of course we should try, but a hat with a strap to keep it on may work and be a good double form of protection.

Children generally like to be active and a SPF Sunhat will help to protect their face, eyes, head and neck from sun damage and burning while they have fun, play or watch sport.

If a child grows up to feel that it is normal to wear sun screen and protective hats and clothing, they will hopefully continue to wear them. It keeps their skin protected from damage now and also perhaps guard against serious skin damage and cancers later in life.

Coolibar UPF 50+ Baby Splashy Bucket Hat - Sun Protective (one Size- Aruba Blue)Check Price

Points To Consider In A Sun HAT

Ensure it has UPF factor fabric, ideally Factor 50.

Check the brim width is suitable for your protection needs and your activities.

Choose the colour and style

Choose the size - for this you will likely need to measure around the head above the ears then check with the size charts.

Is the Hat adjustable to your head

Especially if you travel a lot does it fold up or lie flat for packing

Is it reversible - useful for travel, or if you want to buy only one hat.

When it arrives is it comfortable for you to wear for long periods of time.

Does it have a chin strap, a detachable one is useful to make it more versatile.

Is it washable or wipeable to keep it clean.

My favourite features in a sun hat include a wide brim to give some shade and more protection, an adjustable chin strap so that there is less likelihood it blows off in the wind and also gives me the strap to hold it with over my wrist if I don't need it on.

I like a choice of colours and I do like a two tone reversible so I get two hats in one which is great for travel. I like when they are packable and foldable as well or at least lie flat.

There is a Sun Protection Sun Hat that will suit every person and they do make a thoughtful gift.

Monday, July 7, 2025

Travel: Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine in East Granby, Connecticut

During a recent, brief visit to see family in Connecticut, they surprised me with a sight-seeing trip to the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine which is a National Historical Landmark. I am still thinking about that site and how the prison-slash-copper mine use has shifted over hundreds of years. I doubt that I will ever forget imagining those who worked, or were imprisoned, in those cold, dark and wet tunnels underground in Colonial Connecticut times.

my souvenirs from the gift shop

Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine, East Granby, Connecticut

East Granby, Connecticut is home to the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine. Author William G. Domonell compiled the history of this site and lists the time frames of the various uses as:

Copper Mine, 1705 - 1773
Colonial prison 1773 - 1775
Military prison 1775 - 1782
State prison 1776 - 1827
Renewed mining activity, 1830 - 1837 and 1855 - 1857
Tourist attraction under private ownership, 1857 - 1968
Historic museum and tourist attraction under state ownership, 1968 - present

-Newgate from Copper Mine to State Prison; a History compiled by William G. Domonell (1998)

During our visit to Old New-Gate, visitors were allowed to roam the area and take in the atmosphere at their own pace. Tours were self-guided and signs provided historic information. The admission was free and re-enactors were present on site. The folks in colonial-period costumes included soldiers, families, and traders. I especially enjoyed seeing the woman who was somehow using a the equivelant of a large, many-tined, wooden fork to weave while seated in a chair.

When open for the season, visitors are able to walk down into the mine. Closed toe shoes are recommended on the website. Sturdy shoes for walking or hiking are recommended by me. There are handrails along most of the mine path, which is a good thing because the floor is uneven and slanted (both downwards and to the side in many places). On the day we were there the mine was self-guided. However, the staff positioned in certain areas were more than happy to give a large amount of information. It was clear that the gentlemen who were giving us information were not just repeating dry facts. They were painting a vivid picture of life in the mine for both prisoners and miners.

My understanding was that at one point it was thought that the prisoners would mine the minerals. But it was quickly discovered that prisoners will/may escape given access to the mining tools (pick axe, hammers, shovels, etc). The prisoners were then given other jobs on site with the idea that jobs helped with reformation. The miners worked in almost total darkness; moving the rocks in buckets to daylight, via two vertical shafts, to be sorted there. While the mine was cool during the warm summer day, the water dripped on our heads and I could only imagine how difficult it would be to spend an entire day, or try to sleep through a night, in the dripping, wetness of the mine.

malachite and copper bits

As a very amatuer rock collector, I was interested to learn that the obvious green lines in the mine tunnels were malachite, a "common secondary copper mineral". I have seen beautiful bracelets and jewelry made of malachite stones. I never imagined that it could be processed into copper.

The Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine was not a large site and only took a brief part of our day to tour. The impact of the information I learned there was significant and will remain with me for years to come.

Related Links. This historical site is open seasonally. Please check the website for accurate hours of operation as well as for any scheduled special events.

Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine official website and YouTube channel. The documentary video is very interesting. There is also a mine video tour. While you are able to see the inside of the mine, it is NOTHING like walking it, and experiencing it, in person.

note: While researching books, photos, and websites it seems that Old New-Gate is spelled in several different ways. I have chosen to the use the spelling that CT.gov is using.

a portion of the stone and brick walls from the parking lot

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Sunday, July 6, 2025

Step Back in Time With The Carpenters - Reflect, Cry, Enjoy

Settle In and Relax with the Top 3 Songs by The Carpenters

If you're looking to wind down after a long day, few things are as soothing as the soft, melodic sounds of The Carpenters.

Whether you're already a fan or just discovering them, these three timeless songs offer the perfect soundtrack for a peaceful evening. Their harmonies invite you to slow down, breathe, and simply enjoy the music.

Who Were The Carpenters?

The Carpenters were a brother-sister duo—Karen and Richard Carpenter—who rose to fame in the 1970s with their uniquely gentle pop sound. Karen's rich, warm contralto voice became their signature, backed by Richard's polished arrangements and piano work.

Tragically, Karen Carpenter passed away in 1983 at just 32 years old due to complications related to anorexia nervosa. Her untimely death brought public awareness to eating disorders at a time when the topic was rarely discussed. Richard Carpenter, her older brother, is still alive and has continued to preserve their musical legacy.

Despite their relatively short time together as a performing act, the Carpenters left behind a catalog of deeply touching and beautifully arranged songs. Below are three of their most iconic and beloved tracks.

1. We've Only Just Begun

Often considered their most enduring hit, We've Only Just Begun captures the essence of hope and new beginnings. Originally written as a bank commercial jingle (yes, really!), it blossomed into a full-fledged love song that resonated deeply with young couples starting their lives together.

Karen's smooth voice paired with the gentle instrumental backdrop creates an atmosphere of optimism and serenity. It's been used in countless weddings over the years—and for good reason. Its melody and message wrap you in a warm, hopeful embrace.

2. Close to You

"(They Long to Be) Close to You" was the Carpenters' breakout hit and marked their arrival on the mainstream music scene in 1970. It's hard to resist the gentle sway of this Burt Bacharach and Hal David classic, especially when delivered in Karen's effortless style.

This song has a sweetness that feels almost dreamy, as if it were written for quiet Sunday mornings or reflective evening strolls. Richard's arrangement gives it a simplicity that allows the emotion to take center stage. For many fans, this track embodies the essence of the soft pop genre itself.

I used to sing this song while rocking my babies to sleep. It brings back so many sweet memories of those early days.

3. Rainy Days and Mondays

For those quieter, more introspective moments, Rainy Days and Mondays is the perfect companion. The song beautifully captures the feeling of melancholy without becoming heavy or dark. It's the kind of song that makes you feel understood—even comforted—when you're not quite yourself.

Karen's voice here is especially moving, as she conveys vulnerability with great poise and grace. The lyrics touch on the universal experience of those off-days, but in a way that feels healing rather than hopeless. It's a gentle reminder that everyone has gray days, and music can be a soft place to land.

Let the Music Wrap Around You

These three songs by the Carpenters are more than just nostalgic hits—they're a gentle retreat from a noisy world. Whether you're reminiscing about the past or discovering their music for the first time, take a moment to let the harmonies wash over you.

Enjoy some nostalgia. Take time to relax. Let the Carpenters be the soundtrack to your calm evening.

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Saturday, July 5, 2025

National Macaroni Day - A July Food Holiday

This is a review of National Macaroni Day, which is celebrated each year on July 7th.

What is Macaroni?

Macaroni is a variety of pasta which gets its name, not from its shape, but from the type of dough used to make the noodles. Made with durum wheat, the flour is made from a type of ground semolina, resulting in a softer dough that works best for use with a pasta maker.

After the noodles are made, they are then formed into shells, spirals, straights, and other shapes. The elbow macaroni is the most common form found in the United States.

Macaroni Uses

Macaroni is used in a wide variety of dishes, including casseroles, soups and salads. It is used in both hot dishes and cold dishes. It works equally as well in cheese dishes and meat dishes, perfect for both meat lovers and vegetarians.

Macaroni’s usefulness works especially well for dishes for a large group of people, or simply as a dish to make ahead, making mealtimes easier. A general favorite is the simple Macaroni and Cheese, as there are so many delicious recipes for this family favorite.

My personal very favorite macaroni and cheese dish is one I have had several times at and from Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, a delightful and delicious restaurant found in the historic district of Savannah, Georgia.

*Personal Story about macaroni involves the kid-favorite Kraft Macaroni & Cheese. I have never been very fond of cheese and ever since my teens I have eaten this Mac & Cheese prepared with simply milk and butter ~ no cheese. My family thinks this is very weird, but it is what I prefer. For homemade macaroni & cheese, I like the way Mrs. Wilkes makes their tasty dish seem less ‘cheesy’ then most. It is truly delicious and the only one that really appeals to me ~ cheese-wise!

My very favorite cold macaroni salad is my family’s favorite ‘Shrimp Macaroni Salad’. It is basically made with cooked (and chilled) elbow macaroni, shrimp, diced onions, and a sauce made with mayonnaise, mustard, spices and sour cream. There are several recipe variations, but it is really quite simple to make and very delicious to eat. Traditionally, our family always requests it for several summer holidays, such as Memorial Day and the 4th of July!

Outside the Kitchen!

Macaroni has more uses than just food. It can also be used for fun craft projects for kids. Let the kids play with a box of dry uncooked macaroni for arts and crafts projects. Create such things as necklaces and bracelets, suncatchers, and DIY art projects. Here’s a list of ideas online to get you started. Some call these arts & crafts projects “Pasta Art”.

A Delicious List of Pasta-Related Celebrations

National Spaghetti Day: January 4
National Fettuccine Alfredo Day: February 7
National Tortellini Day: February 13
National Ravioli Day: March 20
National Carbonara Day: April 6
National Macaroni Day: July 7
National Mac & Cheese Day: July 14
National Lasagna Day: July 29
National Noodle Day | October 6
National Pasta Day: October 17
World Pasta Day: October 25
National Parmigiano Reggiano Day: October 27
National Noodle Ring Day: December 11
National Pasta Month | October

To Sum Up this Fun Food Holiday.....

So, on July 7th, choose your favorite macaroni dish and enjoy a delicious meal on this pasta holiday. As you can see by the list above, there are many pasta days throughout the year to enjoy each dish you like best.

+All images in this review are compliments of Pixabay

*National Macaroni Day Review is written by Wednesday Elf

Macaroni Cookbooks:

Melt: The Art of Macaroni and Cheese

Mac & Cheese Cookbook: 100+ Simple Recipes from Homeroom, America's Favorite Mac and Cheese Restaurant

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Friday, July 4, 2025

TURN: Washington's Spies (TV Series) Reviewed

The weather doesn’t always cooperate with our plans for the fourth of July. As often as not, our parties and community fireworks are cancelled due to rain, but we still seek a way to celebrate the 4th of July. This year, we will be watching Turn: Washington's Spies for the second time. It is a mini-series I can highly recommend to anyone who has an interest in American history and it is a great way to spend a rainy 4th of July.

Several years back, my husband and I watched the Turn series. I recently watched the pilot movie again so I could review it today. I was surprised by how much easier it was for me to follow the characters since I have previously seen the entire series. This is clearly a series worthy of watching more than once.

I will warn you in advance, it is about the Revolutionary War and does have some graphic war scenes and content. Any realistic war movie is not viewed so much for pleasure as it is for historical value. The Turn series has been deemed very accurate and is quite a lesson on the American War for Independence.

There are some things that happen in any war that you might not have ever considered. For instance, what does it look like to be the temporary "home" for the invading army? How it really changes everything: what you say, what you do, where you go. And, what about the "occupiers" lodging and food? They take over your homes, your restaurants or taverns, your churches, your work places and dictate what is acceptable for your daily lives. Your very life is always at risk by their whim.

TURN: Washington's SpiesWatch on Amazon Prime

TURN: Washington's Spies Series - Pilot Episode Synopsis

From the very first scenes of the pilot movie, you are introduced to the main characters and given very important information about their history with one another. The bonds that were formed in childhood affect their choices throughout the series.

The people of Setauket, a hamlet in Long Island, New York which in fact was the base of the Culper Spy Ring, found themselves entrenched in the Revolutionary War whether they wanted to be or not. As a matter of fact, the main character of the series didn't want to be involved, and he certainly did not wish to become a spy. However, he was forced to choose a loyalty, risking everything for himself and those he holds most dear.

_________

As you watch the pilot movie and the series, keep in mind they are based on the actions and decisions of real people. Those people changed history.

Turn: Washington's Spies Season 1Check Price Turn: Washington's Spies - Season 2 [DVD]Check Price Turn: Washington's Spies Season 3 [DVD]Check Price

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Thursday, July 3, 2025

Hand Weights Dumbbells Review

When I purchased my first set of hand weights, quite a few years ago, I had no idea of how many I would come to own, or that I would develop any kind of preference.

My first two dumbbell set were one pound each. Today, I would recommend, if you got some full water bottles around, go with them. See if you like them and if it is something you want to keep doing.

However, one pound weights can come in handy if you want something light weight to carry, to burn some extra calories, when out for a walk.

Other than that, I would say that two pound weights would be a good place for beginners to start. At least, that is my preference, your starting place will depend on what works for you and where you are in your fitness journey.

The other preference that I developed, is the texture of the dumbbells. My first ones were coated with a smooth type surface. I really didn't mind that. But as I advanced to wanting heavier weights, I purchased ones with a rougher type coating, which are rated as non-slip. I felt I had a better grip with those.

I never was inclined to buy the dark gray or black weights, no matter their coating; so I can't speak for those. This girl likes colors and finds them more motivational.

When I purchased my first set of hand weights, I may have purchased just the one pounders; I'm not sure. A thing to consider is once one knows that they are going to go forward with lifting weights, is that different weights can be better for working different sets of muscle groups.

For instance, I can easily handle heavier weights when doing arm curls. (Lifting the weights from a down position, and bringing my hands upward, making a 90 degree angle with my elbows, or lifting them even higher from that position.) But when I work my forearm muscles, like when lifting the weights from a down position and forearms upward and out to the sides or upward to the front, I want a lighter weight. Some muscle groups will already tend to be stronger than other muscle groups, and different weights will be more appropriate for the muscle group that one is currently working on at that given time.

I currently own seven different weight sets, and would have never thought that I would fill a rack that would hold more than three sets. I'm glad that I didn't purchase a small rack early on. I simply found a place off to the side to place my weights, mainly near or on the lower part of the cat tree, lol!

I'm glad that I ended up getting a larger dumbbell rack, because it was something I knew that I was sticking with by then, and that I had become more educated on needing and wanting different weight sets, and on my preferences.

If you are considering purchasing a rack for weights, that has the option of coming with weights, be sure to consider the texture of the dumbbells that you want, and whether or not they come in the color(s) that you like. Also consider the weight spread in between the weights. Some weights in these multiple weight sets, may only be two pounds apart, and some three pounds or more. Consider your ability, and allow yourself to grow into your weights, and decide what will work best for you.

For me, a two pound difference is plenty enough, at least for now.

My husband did have an old type set of weights, many years ago. With those, one had to add or remove weights from the handles. If one is limited on space, this may be a space saver. However, I found the time of changing the weight ends rather annoying.

I do have some smaller weights with a space for your fingers to slide through; I prefer having the open space to easily put my fingers around. They might however serve better for other purposes. I saw that Pilates was mentioned for some of these styles.

One last thing to consider is the shape of the ends of the weight, whether they are round, or hexagon in shape. The round ones can roll. I like knowing that my hand weights will stay steady when I place them on the floor, etc. I've seen people do elevated planks, holding onto hand weights that were placed on the floor. One definitely needs a steady set for that.

There you have it. If you're ready to to check out hand weight options, here is the general link to them on Amazon. Hand weights on Amazon. I don't own any one certain brand, I just have my preferences on texture, end shape, and weight spread between the weights that I purchase.

On one final note, I have stayed more steady with using weights now that I am older than when I was younger. I find that my back is stronger and that I can do more things now than I could before. I also listen to my body, and move up to the next weight as I see fit.

Happy fitness journey to you.

If you're interested in the weight lifting exercises that I have been following, you can check out my blog on 8 Minutes in the Morning.https://www.reviewthisreviews.com/2025/05/8-minutes-in-morning-book-review.html

Update:

For those wondering what weight they should get, it will depend on a variety of factors. One thing to consider is the amount of weight one is already used to picking up and or carrying.

Many of us are already used to picking up a variety of different weight amounts when we shop for groceries, etc. However, when exercising, one will be doing repetitions. What I read as a recommendation, is that if one can easily do 12 repetitions in a row with a hand weight, that it is too light for your stronger muscles, but may be suitable for your smaller muscles.

According to Jorge Cruise, from 8 Minutes in the Morning, It's good to have three sets of weights. Cruise's recommendation for repetitions is 12. He has two different exercises that he shows for each day, that you alternate through for a total of four sets. Also, as your muscles get stronger, instead of increasing repetitions, it is better to increase the weight amount.

Cheryl Paton

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