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Friday, August 15, 2025

The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker Reviewed

I recently watched and reviewed Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Yarn Maker without realizing I had started watching the series out of order. I will note that it didn't detract from my enjoyment of "A Case for the Yarn Maker" since I didn't know what I didn't know. However, if you haven't started watching the series, you will wish to start with "A Case for the Winemaker", because it gives more background and initially introduces the characters.

For instance, in the winemaker episode, we see the opening of Ainsley's craft market and get a better feel for how it works. I loved the concept of the market, which is reminiscent of a crafts fair with individual booths. While the market was the site of the murder in the second movie, A Case for the Yarn Maker, the market was not really the focus.

We also see how a simple book club becomes a group of self-appointed "investigators" in a murder case. In a small town, everyone knows everything about everyone, except outsiders. In Sweet River, Texas, the book club simply can't resist a murder mystery in their own town!

It is obvious that the movies do not have to be watched in order, but I would recommend it so you have all of the background knowledge and information.

Synopsis of A Case for the Winemaker

Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case For The WinemakerWatch on Amazon
Subscription May Be RequiredWhen Ainsley McGregor discovers a murder victim in the winery, she knows it is impossible to immediately identity the murderer. No one is in the vicinity of the body and there is no apparent reason why anyone would kill someone in a winery.

With her criminology background, Ainsley can't just sit back and watch when her best friend's husband (owner of the winery) is the number one murder suspect. She, herself, questioned why he had changed clothes since she saw him earlier in the day.

It isn't hard for Ainsley to insert herself into the investigation since her brother, Ryan, is the town sheriff. He tolerates her interference because of her criminologist background and uncanny intuition. Together, the siblings really do make a fun team to watch. They actually talk to each other like siblings instead of colleagues.

Aside from the murder investigation, it is rather funny to watch the interactions between Ryan and his best friend, who seeks his advice on dating Ainsley.

________

Ainsley McGregor (Candace Cameron Bure) is the main character, but the series would not be complete without her brother, Ryan McGregor (Robin Dunne) and his best friend, Jake Trenton (Aaron Ashmore). Together, they make a wonderful trio of crime solvers who look out for each other.

More Cozy Mystery Movie Reviews

Gourmet Detective

A Healthy Place to Die (Gourmet Detective: Episode 2)

Death Al Dente (Gourmet Detective: Episode 3)

Eat, Drink and Be Buried (Gourmet Detective: Episode 4)

Roux The Day (Gourmet Detective: Episode 5)

More Great Movies Reviewed

Check Out More Movie Reviews at
ReviewThisMovies.com

The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker Reviewed by:

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

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Thursday, August 14, 2025

Peasants to Patriots - A Book Review

This carefully researched book of historical fiction takes place in the early days of the United States. It covers the time period just prior to the revolutionary war and continuing until the colonies become a country. It is particularly interesting that the author researched when his ancestors entered the colonies and their struggles through the early years of the new country.

This is the fourth in a series of books the author has written, tracing back his ancestors to Scotland, Ireland, Prussia and finally to the new world.

Book Summary

Peasants to Patriots: Book 4 by Dewayne Landwehr is a masterful blend of historical research and family legacy, brought to life through the lens of historical fiction. By tracing his own ancestors' journeys from Scotland and Ireland to the American colonies, Landwehr crafts a compelling narrative that immerses readers in the epic story of the Revolutionary War.

The strength of this book lies in its unique perspective. Rather than relying on broad historical accounts, Landwehr dives deep into the lives of his ancestors, recreating their experiences with vivid detail and imaginative storytelling. We see them face countless challenges, from the harsh realities of frontier life to the brutal battles of the war.

What sets this book apart is the way Landwehr weaves his ancestors' stories together with those of well-known historical figures. The encounters between his family members and legends like Daniel Boone feel particularly compelling, offering a glimpse into the interconnectedness of history. While rooted in meticulous research, the dialogue and personal moments are skillfully fictionalized, bringing the characters to life in a way that feels both authentic and engaging. For me, this brings history to life in a way that textbooks never could.

Landwehr's dedication to uncovering the past is inspiring, and his writing brings the struggles and triumphs of his ancestors to life. This book isn't just a historical account – it's a tribute to the people who shaped America, told through the lens of one family's journey.

For anyone interested in historical fiction, the Revolutionary War, or genealogy, Peasants to Patriots: Book 4 is a captivating read. Landwehr's passion for his ancestors and his craft shines through, making this book an enriching experience that draws readers into the tumultuous world of America's founding. I highly recommend this book!

Links to books and Reviews

This book is available on Amazon and can be purchased at the following link: Peasants to Patriots

Here are links for reviews I wrote on other books in this series by Dewayne Landwehr.

This is the first in the series.

Smoke on the Whiteadder

This is the third in the series.

Spark of Revolution

The second in the series Inside Odenwald can be purchased on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3Hw9Pod

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Wednesday, August 13, 2025

The Protein Advantage Cookbook — A Delicious, Healthy New Cookbook

The Protein Advantage Cookbook is a collection of 100 high-protein, low-carb recipes and tips from bestselling author Carolyn Ketchum, the deservedly popular recipe developer and blogger behind All Day I Dream About Food. Ketchum’s newest cookbook blends quick weeknight meals with make-ahead basics and treats, wrapped in her pragmatic, low-carb approach, this time with a focus on high-protein recipes.

Its official launch date was yesterday, August 12, 2025, but I was lucky enough to get an advance review copy courtesy of the author and the publisher, Fair Winds Press (an imprint of Quarto). It’s a terrific cookbook for anyone interested in increasing their protein intake, and I’m delighted to share my review.

The Protein Advantage Cookbook by Carolyn Ketchum

Who It's For

This low carb, high protein cookbook is for anyone looking to improve their health through “weight loss, blood sugar management, building lean muscle mass, or simply having more energy for daily life” while eating delicious, easy to prepare, wholesome food.

Ketchum’s stance of prioritizing protein aligns with the current science: increasing protein intake can improve satiety and support lean mass, especially alongside resistance training. And for adults 40+, adequate protein becomes increasingly important.

What's Inside

Ketchum opens with a concise science and strategy overview, including what “protein-forward, low-carb” means, why prioritizing protein matters from a health perspective, and how to stock a high-protein, low-carb pantry with healthy, tasty ingredients.

True to its name, of course, the majority of The Protein Advantage Cookbook is devoted to the recipes. I was delighted to see Ketchum's signature format: clear, easy to follow, step-by-step instructions, lots of full-color photos (although not every recipe has a photo), and practical tips, such as for swapping ingredients or scaling portions.

The 100 recipes are organized into chapters with straightforward labels:

Breakfast
Breads and Muffins
Appetizers and Snacks
Soups and Salads
Main Dishes
Desserts

The Breakfast chapter includes 22 tasty recipes, such as Loaded Breakfast Casserole (29.5g of protein), Chocolate Protein Pancakes (19.7g of protein), Hot Maple Cereal (29.7g of protein), and Everything Bagel Smoked Salmon Toast (26.5g of protein).

Loaded Breakfast Casserole recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

The Breads and Muffins chapter has 10 yummy high-protein recipes including Easy Protein Bagels (13.3g of protein), Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread (11g protein), Cheddar Jalapeño Biscuits (12.9g protein), and even Chocolate-Glazed Donuts (10g protein)!

The Appetizers and Snacks chapter caters to both savory and sweet cravings, including 17 recipes such as Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms (12.8g protein), Taco Bites (18.7g protein), Frozen Hot Chocolate (17.6g protein) and Chocolate Hazelnut Spread (9.8g protein).

Asian Chicken Noodle Soup recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

The Soups and Salads chapter features 13 simple yet satisfying recipes such as Asian Chicken Noodle Soup (31.1g protein), Chicken Chile Verde (35.3g protein), Turkey Club Salad (29.1g protein) and Old Bay Shrimp Salad (23.3g protein).

Easy Steak Fajitas recipe from The Protein Advantage Cookbook

The Main Dishes chapter contains 22 terrific recipes to suit a wide range of tastes, such as Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs (33.3g protein), Easy Steak Fajitas (25.2g protein), Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce (33.4g protein), and Teriyaki Salmon (30.2g protein).

If you have a sweet tooth, never fear! Carolyn Ketchum is also the author of The Ultimate Guide to Keto Baking, and The Protein Advantage Cookbook includes 16 luscious desserts with a high-protein twist, such as Deep Dish Brownies (16g of protein), Lemon Cheesecake Bars (12.3g of protein), Coconut Candy Bars reminiscent of Mounds bars (10.4g of protein), and Strawberry Lemonade Ice Pops (10.1g of protein).

There's also a chapter called "A Day in the Life" which chronicles what Ketchum ate over the course of a few typical days, along with the workouts she did on those days. As a very active, extremely fit woman, her calorie limits are much higher than mine, but it was still helpful to see how she incorporates the cookbook recipes into her daily meal plans.

Why It Deserves a Place in Your Kitchen

The Protein Advantage Cookbook delivers exactly what it promises: approachable, protein-centric low-carb recipes anchored in sensible nutrition guidance. For those of us who want to feel more satiated, lift heavier weights, or simply be stronger as we age, while eating delicious, nutritious food and without spending all day in the kitchen, this book will be an excellent, much-used addition to our cookbook collections.

The Protein Advantage Cookbook: High-Protein, Low-Carb Recipes That Burn Fat, Build Muscle, and Restore Metabolism

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

What is Summerween?

Curious about Summerween? Wonder where it came from? Looking for ideas for celebrating the holiday?

I have long known that Halloween is the biggest selling holiday in America. With all the costumes, candy and decorations that people buy, that comes as no surprise. But I have just discovered a trend known as Summerween that I will review here.

The stores have long put their Halloween merchandise out during the late summer. However, Good Morning America says that stores launched their Halloween items extra early this year at least in part hoping to catch a piece of this trend. People are not just buying their Halloween supplies early but they are actually celebrating the holiday twice. That is, in October and in June or July and hence the term Summerween.

According to the magazine Real Simple, the holiday may have originated from the Season 1, Episode 12, Disney Channel episode of Gravity Falls, in which the residents celebrated Halloween with jack-o-melons and trick-or-treating in the summer on June 22nd or the second to last Friday of the month. The Pioneer Woman points out that if this is the origin, it took more than a decade for the trend to translate from the screen to reality, which it has done in 2025.

Summerween is enjoying succes at least in part because of the nostalgia surrounding Halloween though Summerween-themed merchandise tends to include our favorite themes with some brighter, summery colors like those shown in the photo at the top of this page. You will find an endless variety of items like these for your Summerween celebration here on eBay.

The new ‘holiday’ is I suppose whatever you make it but it tends to be a blend of summer and Halloween with both non-traditional Halloween items like the aforementioned melon jack-o-lantern, icy drinks and flamingoes to traditional items like Frankenstein, skeletons and ghosts. You can have a pool party and a BBQ. You can read fireside stories at the campfire. You can watch spooky movies outdoors!

What a great way to get double the value out of your Halloween collection. If once a year is not enough for you and you want to do Halloween twice, you’ll find lots of ideas for celebrating a traditionally non-traditional Summerween in your social media feed but let me take this opportunity to share a few great ideas here:

MORE SUMMERWEEN CELEBRATION IDEAS

Harley Quinn Costume

A Harley Quinn costume might even be better in the summer than in the winter because you don't have to worry about being warm!

A Barbie-Themed Apron

How about a Barbie-themed apron? I think it would make a perfect part of your costume in the summertime especially if you are serving up some pink cocktails.

Here's How to Celebrate Summerween

A Summerween party with recipes from Delish that seem appropriate to the original holiday hosted in summer. Mummy hot dogs, pumpkin s'mores cookies and a black widow cocktail are just a few.

Creepypasta

Perfect for your Halloween-themed storytelling, fall or summer, creepypasta is definitely not edible.

Wait Until Dark

Audrey Hepburn's Wait Until Dark is a perfect psychological thriller considered "one of the most intensely frightening movies in movie history."

Halloween Treats Jigsaw Puzzle

Puzzles aren't just for wintertime. If you find you have more time on your hands in the summer or you just enjoy puzzling all year long, you will enjoy this Halloween Treats puzzle.

SOUND UNNATURAL?

"Summerween?" says the Gravity Falls character played by Kristen Schall. "Sounds unnatural." What do you say?

Happy Summerween!

Brenda

Treasures By Brenda

SUMMERWEEN MERCHANDISE

Find the Summerween-themed pieces shown at the top of the page -- including Frankenstein's bust (and his bride, not shown here), a pumpkin flamingo, assorted skull ice cream cones and the female Scream movie character and so much more -- here, on eBay.

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Monday, August 11, 2025

Jim Henson Muppet Monster Cereal by General Mills

Discover Jim Henson's Muppet-themed Monster Cereal boxes by General Mills.

Fans of The Muppets and Jim Henson, of Halloween and of General Mills’ Monster Cereals are going to love this review of this limited-edition, monster-themed cereal. It’s a collaboration between the two companies. That is, The Jim Henson Company and the General Mills Company and it shares new artwork with the popular monster cereal characters of Count Chocula, Boo Berry and Franken Berry as Muppet-style puppets.

General Mills says the boxes are tactile and ‘soft-touch fuzzy’ though I have not had the opportunity to actually touch one and I have seen mixed messages about when it is supposed to be released. One article said October and another said August but I see that some boxes with this artwork are already on store shelves and on eBay as I write this post on August 11, 2025. It does make me wonder if there is a non-fuzzy and a fuzzy version. If you know, be sure to let us know!

The back of the boxes feature more Muppet pictures and celebrates 70 years of “A Monstrous Legacy.” The box is collector worthy whether you collect Muppet, Halloween or cereal-themed items and is supposed to retail for $7.70 per box at Walmart. Of course, being a limited edition, that price will not last once the supply is sold out. If you don't find the box or boxes on the cereal shelf, you will likely have to pay more to obtain the boxes when they are retired.

General Mills says, “Whether you're reliving fond Halloween memories or making new ones, Monsters Cereal promises a season of frightful fun, fuzzy feels, and puppet-powered nostalgia.” Though not a particular fan of this cereal myself, I agree.

Note that more merchandise and collectibles are available here on Jim Henson’s website featuring the Monster Cereals. Eventually, I am sure, they will arrive on eBay, too.

Click here to see what Jim Henson Muppet-themed Monster Cereal merchandise is available now on eBay.

Happy Halloween!

Brenda

Treasures By Brenda

MORE READING

Find General Mills and The Muppets in my eBay store.

The Muppets Exclusive Deluxe Plush Toys.

I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story.

Haunt Your House With Lego's Haunted Mansion set.

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Sunday, August 10, 2025

The Secret to Uniform Sized Homemade Burgers - Use This Must-Have Gadget!

The Handy Little Burger Gadget My Husband Swears By

Let me tell you about a simple kitchen gadget that's made a big difference in our house—especially for my husband, who's the one doing all the burger grilling around here.

Shaping Burgers Has Never Been Easier!

We make a large number of burgers at once, especially during the summer, and we typically freeze a batch for later use. However, shaping them by hand was becoming frustrating—none of the patties came out the same, and they always had a little lump in the middle that made them cook unevenly. Some were too thick, some too thin, and it just became a pain.

One day, after another round of lopsided burgers, my husband went digging through Amazon and found a burger press that looked like it might do the trick. He asked me to place the order—and I'm so glad he did.

A Simple, Affordable Gadget That Does the Work For You

This little gadget has completely changed the way we make burgers. The patties come out perfectly shaped—uniform in thickness and size—and they actually look like something you'd get at a restaurant. Best of all, they cook evenly, which means no more guessing which one needs more time on the grill. And when you place them between the buns? Chef's kiss. They fit just right.

Easy To Use, Clean and Store - It's Not Big!

It's easy to use, easy to clean, and doesn't take up much space. It's a compact little unit. I actually keep ours on top of the bread box—not because it's big, but because our kitchen drawers aren't very deep and I don't want it to get caught when we open and close them. But if you have deeper drawers, it'll fit nicely inside. Either way, it's small and simple to store.

Here Are Some of the Particulars For This Must-Have Burger Press Gadget:

Made from food-grade aluminum that's BPA-free and SGS certified, so it's safe and built to last.
Features a premium non-stick coating and comes with 50 pieces of wax paper to keep patties from sticking—plus, it's dishwasher safe.
The built-in grooves give the burgers that classic, professional look.
Comes with a detachable non-slip handle, great for taking along to barbecues, picnics, or camping trips.
Compact size: 4.6 inches wide, 0.7 inches deep, and 3.7 inches tall.

Final Thought

If you're making burgers at home—especially in batches like we do—you really should try this gadget.

It's affordable, easy to use, and just makes the whole process smoother. My husband's been using it ever since it arrived, and we're both impressed. Sometimes, it's really the little things that make the biggest difference.

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The Language of Hoofbeats by Catherine Ryan Hyde - A Book Review

Among the many interests and activities which author Catherine Ryan Hyde enjoys, is that of horses. She is an avid equestrian and often posts pictures online of her horses. In addition, Catherine has featured horses in several of her books. The Language of Hoofbeats is one such book. This is my review of this fascinating and interesting novel.

Synopsis

Two of the main characters, Clementine and Jackie, each narrate the story, taking alternating chapters to tell their side of the events.

The Language of Hoofbeats

The story begins when Jackie and her wife, Paula, looking for a quiet life for their kids - a young adopted son and two teenage foster children - move in across the street from Clementine. Paula is a veterinarian and this move has brought her to a remote country area in need of another vet. Jackie is a stay-at-home mom for the kids.

Clementine is a terribly unhappy person who is so damaged by her daughter’s suicide that she cannot be civil to most people, including her husband. The husband finally cannot take her negativity any longer and he moves out about the time Paula & Jackie and the kids move in next door.

Clem has a horse named Comet who used to belong to the now-dead daughter. Comet is quite high-strung and has not been receiving very good care because Clementine is rather scared of the horse and the husband has moved out. When the foster teen Star, a quite unhappy girl herself, is drawn to and bonds with Comet and attempts to begin a friendship with the horse. Clementine, in her usual horrid fashion, resents the friendship developing between Star and the horse and chases her away from her property several times. Clem is extremely nasty to Star and also to her foster mothers, Jackie and Paula. Finally, not being able to stand the way the horse is neglected, Star steals Comet and they become lost. The real action in the story begins as Jackie and Clementine join forces to search for both Star and Comet.

Throughout the story, we also become acquainted with the other foster child, Mando, and the younger adopted son, and learn what happened to Clementine’s daughter.

Summary

From the book jacket:

When a troubled girl steals a horse, her foster moms are thrown together with their reluctant neighbor

The Language of Hoofbeats shows us the complexity of human relationships and points out how very relatable characters can sometimes be intensely flawed. But, by facing the scars they carry and the choices they have made, along with forgiving the regrets, a diverse group of people often can be transformed into a family. An extremely good read!

For more Book Reviews, check out
ReviewThisBooks.com

Click here for more reviews of books by
Catherine Ryan Hyde

*Book Review of “The Language of Hoofbeats” is written by Wednesday Elf

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Friday, August 8, 2025

Fabulous Hiking, Water-Resistant Cargo Pants for Women Reviewed

For those of us who hate carrying a purse, tote, or even a backpack, these cargo pants for women are awesome!

I get tired of having to keep up with any type of bag, especially if I am getting in and out of my car several times in one trip. I also enjoy walking trails or in the woods with my camera. Additional "baggage" is unwanted. I have lamented several times how I wish they made lightweight cargo pants for women. I admit, I have been rather covetous of my husband's cargo pants, but they are way to heavy to be comfortable for me to wear.

It has been really hot in our area this summer, which makes carrying anything extra more laborious. Out of desperation, I went in search of lightweight cargo pants for women, truly expecting to find nothing. Imagine my surprise when I found these fabulous hiking, water-resistant cargo pants. I quickly ordered my first pair. Yes, I did say first! Now that I have experienced wearing them, I have ordered more in additional colors. I doubt I will ever go back to wearing jeans and carrying a backpack for daily errands, walking, hiking, fishing, boating, or even in my own backyard. Being able to put my cellphone, keys, ID, sunglasses, an extra camera battery, etc, in pockets on the side of my legs is like discovering a whole new way of living. The are comfortable enough to wear indoors too, even when sitting at a desk or behind a computer. They allow me to keep my cellphone on me at all times.

These pants might not be the height of fashion, but the are certainly the height of desirable clothing.

Outdoor Sports Cargo Pants for Women

This lightweight pair of water-resistant cargo pants for women is such a fantastic find. There are so many reasons why these pants should be in every women's wardrobe, especially if they ever go outside. The pockets side pockets with either a zipper or velcro closure, allow us to keep what we need close at hand.

One note, there are belt loops if you wish to wear a belt. For me, the elastic waist band has been enough to hold my pants up, even when the pockets are fully loaded.

Women's Hiking Pants Water Resistant Lightweight UV Protection Work Cargo PantsCheck Price6 pockets - 2 traditional slant hand pockets, 2 velcro fastened flap back pockets, 1 zipper side leg expandable pocket & 1 velcro fastened side leg expandable pocket
Lightweight
Water Resistant
Moisture Wicking & Quick Dry
UPF 50+ Material for Sun Protection
4 way Stretch Fabric
Zipper & Button Fly Front Closure
Machine Washable, Hang Dry
Available in Several Colors

Note: The linked listing states 5 pockets (1 back pocket instead of 2), but my pants have 6 pockets and this is the listing I used when purchasing my cargo pants.

There are several sellers that offer the Outdoor Sports Cargo Pants for Women - Be sure to look for the Outdoor Sports brand logo on the side pocket flap

Rdruko Women's Waterproof Hiking Pants Lightweight Quick Dry Cargo Travel Pants with Pockets - Purple
(This is the seller link I used)Check Price YSENTO Women's Cargo Pants Lightweight Stretch Quick Drying UPF 50 - 6 Pockets BlackCheck Price TBMPOY Women's Hiking Cargo Pants Lightweight Water Resistant Quick Dry 6 Pockets - Army GreenCheck Price

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Reviewing Simple Green Smoothies Book

I hadn't been planning on buying a new smoothie book. I still had several from years past, and had even donated some of the ones I had to Goodwill.

However, I had been trying to improve my nutrition. I usually had a couple of eggs sauteed with fresh spinach on most weekday mornings. I decided to cut down my egg intake; I have been trying to become more vegan for sometime now.

I switched my egg ratio to one egg and upped my spinach amount. That first breakfast that I ate with my new ratio was transforming. Wow, I really enjoyed the extra taste of spinach compared to the egg. I wanted more spinach in my diet. And then the book, Simple Green Smoothies showed up on my radar.

My local bookstore showed that they had one in stock, so I purchased that one. I was impressed. Two women told about how drinking a green smoothie a day had been transformative for them. They felt more energized throughout their day, had less cravings, and dropped off weight relative easily, after having made the switch, even if they ate some of their old ways for the rest of the day.

It sounded too good to be true, but also hopeful.

I had already had a couple of days of green smoothies before buying the book. Just winging it on whatever I wanted to put in it. And I liked them. And I saw it as a way to more easily get more greens into my diet.

After I got the book, I started making some of the recipes from the book, Simple Green Smoothies. I liked that they were refreshing for the most part. I liked that the authors gave tips on how to switch things up; i.e. if you wanted them to be creamier, or have more protein, etc. I liked that this gave me more flexibility in how I wanted to approach my green smoothie making.

The authors, Jen Hansard and Jadah Sellner, also give tips on why certain foods were combined; i.e. the combination of spinach with pineapple, helped with the absorption of both vitamins, A and C.

I like how I have been progressing with my diet, since purchasing, reading, and practicing what I have read in this book, and recommend this book to anyone who is wanting to get more greens and or plants, or fresh plants into their diet.

Simple Green Smoothies book on Amazon. Check price.

The earlier smoothie books that I had purchased, were more dessert like than being focused on nutrition; I was in a different place when I purchased the earlier ones compared to this one. Also, not all smoothie recipe books are alike. There can be different types of ingredients, i.e. some books were heavy on using protein powder as a main ingredient. I prefer fresh whole foods.

Cheryl Paton

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Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Addie's Eyes ~ A Book Review

What draws someone to pick out a book? I constantly ask myself that question. Sometimes it's the cover and sometimes it's something else. In this case it was the title that grabbed my attention. I confess, I have a granddaughter named Addison, Addie for short and she does have the most beautiful eyes! So when I saw the book titled Addie's Eyes, I just knew I would have to read it!

Addie's Eyes is listed as a Historical Fantasy by Tim Landry. It's not my usual genre of reading material, but I was committed to reading it!

Tim Landry did NOT disappoint me at all. What a magical adventure set in the Victorian era. This tale follows the life of Addie Alexander, a young girl who happens to be blind.

Her father, who runs the local theater/sideshow/entertainment venue, mistakes the friendship that his daughter Addie has formed with one of the sideshow headliners.

Fedor, is an "act" that uses his facial disfigurement to amuse the people of the time. He would be considered a "freak" because of his "appearance". But Fedor also is human and has feelings that need some extra TLC, (tender loving care).

Addie does not see his disfigurement, just hears his calm voice. Immediately a friendship with the young Fedor is formed .

Fedor tells her stories of magical lands where he is the Lost Prince and that his kingdom is doomed unless he is able to get back home!

Can a blind and sheltered young girl help Fedor get back to his kingdom? Will she have the courage and strength of character to do what needs to be done in order to help Fedor?

You will have to read the book to find out what happens and I'm sure that you will not regret picking this book up. It is a story that will resonate with children of all ages (I'm in my 70's and loved every word).

Addie's Eyes is a great book for anyone who has a child who is "different" or sees themselves as "different". Different can be anything from blindness to ADHD, to a misshapen hand and anything in between. These young people will see themselves in either Addie's character or Fedor's character. It's how they handle their differences that will make life make sense and help them understand that different isn't bad or less than anyone else.

This fantasy adventure is a book that should be read by anyone and everyone ages 8 and up. I loved the book from start to finish and wanted it to go on!

Congratulations to Tim Landry the author and Nataliia Kretsu the Illustrator. The book is wonderful and the words on the page are made even more magical by the illustrations found within the book! If you love reading to your children or grandchildren, this book is definitely for you!

It rates a 5 out of 5 stars from me! And I don't give up 5 stars that quickly! Give Addie's Eyes a read and let me know if you loved it like I did.

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