Wet Cell Phone - Don't Use Rice - Do This Instead!

 It is hard not to take it personally, when your cell phone takes a nose dive into the only puddle in the parking lot!

But when it does, it is amazing how fast we move to rescue it!  After all, most of our life is now carried on our cell phones, at least mine is anyways!

So what do you do?  

I heard you put it into a bowl of dry rice, but I have been told differently by an expert on just how you should dry out your phone and rice is the LAST resort, due to the dust that gets into the phone to cause other problems.

SILICA GEL PACKS

You know those little packs you get in those new shoe boxes, vitamins and other products that could get damp?  Save them.  Have a jar or baggie just for those silica gel packs, they can save your phone's life.

Steps to Take 

Step 1 - After rescue from water, TURN OFF YOUR PHONE!!.. try to resist poking around to see how it is.

Step 2 - Dry off as much water as you can with clean cloth, paper towel, or whatever you have handy at the moment, until you get home.

Step 3 - Take it out of it's case if you have one, and open the phone and take the sim card out, and lay everything out on a clean absorbent surface when you get home or back to the office.

Step 4 - Place silica gel packs into a bowl and then place your phone gently in the packs so they can get to work absorbing moisture which is exactly what they are designed for.

Step 5 - Leave you sim card to air dry.

Step 6 - Leave your phone for at least 24 hours, try to resist poking at it.

Step 7 - After 24 hours and frantically using a friend's cell phone to call your frequent contacts and family so they no you are not dead and are safe since you didn't answer them... put your phone back together.

Step 8 - Turn it on with fingers crossed.

So far so good!

Someone needs to invent waterproof cell phones, they would make a fortune!!

How to Quickly Get Rid of Leaves on Your Small Lawn

 If you have a small lawn but it is full of leaves every autumn, then it becomes that annual chore of raking and bagging.

It can easily become 10 or more bags easily, depending on the trees in your area.  But after years of tackling this chore, I decided on a different approach.

Rake some (small layer, not too thick) into your flower beds and veg gardens to rot and be ready to dig into in the spring to help nourish the soil.  That should take care of some.

But What To Do with the REST?

I am not big on spending money, as most who know me, say I am somewhat "frugal" but sometimes it actually is the best investment.

What am I Talking About?

Leaf Lawnmower or Lawn Sweeper...

Earthwise LSW70021 21-Inch Leaf & Grass Push Lawn Sweeper, Width, Black

Yep, I said it.  If you don't have a huge property or lawn to deal with, you can upgrade your lawnmower to one that actually vacuums and sucks up leaves, mulches them into the bag and now you simply empty it into those leaf bags to put at the end of the driveway.

This is totally opposite to those leaf blowers, which are super noisy especially on a weekend morning!  These mowers actually suck up pine needles and leaves rather than just blow them around.

With the leaves falling now, it might be something worth investing in.  You end up with way less leaf bags for pickup or drop off.

Just something to think about :)

HAPPY FALL 

How to Trim Your Calories to Lose Weight - No Fuss No Muss

 As with many people, the silly saying that is going around is how "I gained the Covid 10 or 15 or 20"!!  

Without the activities,  going to the office, the gym and socializing many people took to the couch and Netflix and gained a few pounds!

If this is you (and me!) then here is a brilliant way that has worked for me in order to lose the stubborn pounds without counting every bite, depriving yourself or working your butt off in exercise.

I find counting calories super stressful and the minute you take away any treats I will constantly think about them, so to me trying to lose weight seemed stressful until I found this idea.

PORTION CONTROL

Now before you hit the back button as visions of scales and measuring spoons come into mind, I came across these portion control plates.

You simple fill the spaces with your favorite foods and you are using portion control!

Portion control is the best way in my opinion to ditch some calories without feeling deprived.  A came across an article that stated our dinner plates have seriously grown in size since the 1950s, and of course we tend to fill them.

I despise measuring and weighing food, so this idea has been working for me.  I don't cut anything out I simply control the size, which is easier when you use a premeasured plate.  You get used to eating less.

Hope this helps!

Sending Unique Pet Sympathy Cards During the Covid Pandemic

 As we all isolate and try to stop the spread of the COVID virus, life still happens.  

Time marches on and birthdays, anniversaries and even Pet deaths still happen and it can really be hard to deal with when we can't gather with family and friends.

So how do you honor someone who has lost their best furry friend?  

Going to the store and getting a card is not a good idea right now especially if you are isolating or even if the weather is bad, so I came across this cool ETSY SHOP that sells unique pet sympathy cards.   

Angel Dog Sympathy Card

The above is just a cute example of a dog sympathy card.  Click the link and see more about it.  At no extra charge, she will add a personal note to your card and send it to the grieving pet parent or parents.

Will Add a Personal Message and Send to Your Recipient for FREE!

The whole site is about pet sympathy.  All kinds of different cards and personalized tributes for cats, dogs, other critters and even a pet rat and guinea pig sympathy card!

Working with online stores right now, is just one tool we can use to still carry on with life as close to normal as possible.  

Cat Sympathy Card

We all need to stay safe but at the same time get creative with life events.  Many people have only their pets for company right now.  

HOMEMADE CARDS BY DIANE

Let them know just how much you care with a phone call and follow up with a pet sympathy card.  

Add a personal message.  I have lost enough pets in my life time, and it hurts.  It always felt like a warm hug if someone acknowledged my loss.

Times are rough right now.  Stay in touch, check in with loved ones, and monitor each other's mental health.  Technology has the tools, so use them to your benefit.

STAY SAFE EVERYONE!

Last Minute Coworker, Boss or Colleague Gift

 If you are looking for last minute Secret Santa, or Office gifts for your coworkers, boss or colleagues, then your best option is printables.

Printables are items such as quotes that you can purchase, download to your computer and then print.  I found this awesome ETSY shop that offers mostly 8x10 printable quotes.  These won't take up so much ink, and all you need to add is a frame.  DONE!

GOOD VIBES WORD ART

Click on cubicle decor for awesome office, coworker, boss and colleague gift ideas, or just to decorate your own desk with fun and humor, or cheeky advice.  Example:

Funny, Cheeky, Sarcasm Quote

These are mostly 8x10, with lots of different ideas depending on what you like.  Some are more on the cuss word sides of things and others are inspirational and a bit mushy.

These are definitely on budget and there is a sale on right now.  Many people are purchasing printable quotes from this shop for the office, home office, fun, friends, colleagues or coworkers.  

Cubicle Decor Printables

There are many other sections such as bathroom fun, inspirational and more, but if you are looking for work related quotes and prints, then click the above link for cubicle decor and you will find many funny and inspiring quotes.

Match them with your office or coworker personality and you have an awesome office gift, or Secret Santa Gift Idea that is presently under 5 bucks!

With the mail becoming backlogged with this year of the COVID taxing the postal system, printables are a stress free way to get creative fun gifts.

Print on Nice Paper

To make the gift special, once you make your purchase and download the file you can print as many times as you need for yourself or for gifts.  

Try using different quality papers or photo paper, and have fun with thrift shop frames.  These quotes print in any printer.

I have many myself!  I liked them so much I didn't give them as gifts, I kept them.

This Christmas will definitely be different this year, but you can still have some fun.

Enjoy the holidays!

Creating An Office in a Small Space

This is a problem I have been researching as we are selling our house and my nice large desk will not fit in the space we are going to.  We are DOWNSIZING.

But I work from home and I need something.  So after much research I came across products online that use the walls and vertical space of your room no matter how tiny.

Yes I will have to purge some useless items as every square inch becomes prime real estate in a small space but it can be done!!

Step 1 - PURGE

Make 2 piles.  One for keeps and one for recycling or donation.

Step 2 - DECIDE WHAT YOU NEED

Now that you are looking at the "keeper" pile, decide on the type of storage and user friendly things you will need for your office.

In my case... a place for my laptop etc, drawing table and filing are the main things.

This is when I found the floating wall desks.  AWESOME idea!  check them out.

I especially like the idea of the folding desk. If you can keep things tidy you can fold away at the end of the day.

If you simply need table room, you can get a fold down desk that attaches to the wall and can be put away at the end of the work day.

Make Your Own Small Simple Desk

If you don't want to invest much, another option that can use not as much space as a monster desk and can serve a couple of purposes.

What you Need:

2 x Single Filing Cabinets with 2 drawers.  (perfect for any storage)

Door or Wood cut to your preferred size.

Method:

Take your filing cabinets and place at each end and then place the wood or door on top.  You can add a piece of glass to top of that and you have an instant desk.

Don't Forget the Back of the Door

You can get a lot of space on the back of the door.  These storage units simply fit over the door and don't interfere with closing and really are an awesome way to store the things you need without any damage.

By using the back of the door, wall mounted desks and storage or even an armoire that houses everything, you can create the perfect home office in a tiny space. I was amazed at just how much of my stuff will organize well by using more of the walls and the door.

Hope this has inspired you to rethink your home office space especially if you have been delegated to a tiny room, corner or closet!

With so many of us working from home now, it is super nice to get organized and invest in a few space saving pieces that actually help you work your best.  

Keep in mind you can usually write off any investment in a home office.  Something to think about!

Car Camping Without a Tent - Comfy Car Hotel!

Maybe you love the idea of traveling but not the idea of setting up a tent and all the added work.  Or maybe you are a tiny bit scared of critters in the night sniffing at your tent!

THIS WOULD BE ME!  

I have found these awesome products that can turn the back seat of your car (and you don't have to have a van for this) into a proper bed!  Check it out below:

There are inflatable supports that fit in the foot wells so that you can use that space for sleeping!  You can feel safe and comfortable in your own car off the ground with no worries of critters sniffing at you and you can feel secure by locking the doors.

I personally think this is an awesome way to camp.  Easiest packing up ever!

If You Want to Spread Out a Bit .... Car Tent

If you find you love the idea of sleeping in the car or the back of an SUV especially, there are these cool tents that are designed just for that.  They attach to the back of your SUV or VAN.

They give you the airflow overnight, so you can still sleep comfy in the van and have a place to get out and sit that is under cover from the hot sun or weather.  

It is like having an instant bedroom and a living room while camping!

These attach to the back of an SUV or van as you can see in the above pictures from Amazon.

I was amazed at the products you can get to make camping more comfy!  If you are young and flexible, this may not appeal to you, but as you get older a good night sleep can be hard to get especially on the hard ground!

I love the idea of being OFF the ground myself and cozy.

Window Shade and Mesh

These are portable and can help to keep the sun out of the interior of the car as well as protect from bugs at night if you keep the window rolled down.  

Perfect scenario for me!  Cushy mattress, night breezes through the window without bugs!  Camping has taken on a whole new meaning

Turn Your Car into a Comfy Hotel!

You can travel on the cheap without the setting up of tents or discomfort.  Pack it all up quickly the next day and you are on your way.  You can go to campgrounds or simply rest stops, anywhere you can park your car overnight.

This is also an awesome way to self isolate during these scary times of the pandemic and yet enjoy the fresh air and nature.  Something to consider!

How to Organize Your CAR Office

With many of us having to work at home, the car has also become a mobile office, and why not?

You can still self isolate, you can go thru a drive thru and get coffee, snacks or lunch, and then park just somewhere else rather than your driveway for a change of scenery!

As long as you have a good mobile connection for your calls, then why not?  I created a little bag of things that I need to keep in the car for those days when you "just have to get out".

Car Office Supplies (duplicate these from the house to keep solely in the car)

• extra pens, pencils etc
• spiral notepad
• phone charger
• ruler
• clip board (makes a hard surface to write on)
• napkins (coffee spills and snack crumbs!)

I also came across actual office desks that are designed for the car.  My favorite is the steering wheel tray!



These have become popular items
Amazon Car Desks and Office

You can get more extensive depending on the work you have to do.  If you normally head out to see clients or are on the road, these actual car desks sit on the passenger seat.

You can keep everything organized and your eyes on the road, instead of checking the seat to see your files slide off when you turn that corner.

Totally makes sense.

As I was browsing I saw that you can also get nice seat pockets to keep things safe and even ipad holders for vans and SUVs.


If you are constantly looking for pens, paper or anything to do with work, then getting organized would be a good start.

Start With the Basics

Start with the most necessary things and duplicate them to keep in the car.  Then slowly build.  It is nice to get out of the house and feel a bit normal.  Sometimes getting a coffee/tea and then parking in a park or even the parking lot to do some work feels like you are getting out.

Invest in some car office supplies, whether it is a simple knapsack or a car desk or tray!

Make Losing Weight and Getting Healthy a Little Easier with this Idea

Well its the New Year, and along with the calendar change comes the resolutions!

Did you make any this year?  I don't usually because it tends to set me up for failure, but this year, after my blood pressure medication was raised, I decided it was time to lose a few pounds and get healthier.

But Just How Can I Lose Weight without Deprivation, Calorie Counting and Misery?

I talked to a dietitian, that was at a local pharmacy handing out information on health issues, and I asked her what was the best way for someone like me to lose weight with no will power?

Her answer "Start with Portion Control" and add an extra walk to my day.

Portion Control??

She said simply measuring out your portions instead of cutting out entire food groups was much easier.  This way you shaved off some calories but still enjoyed your food from all food groups.

She stated the benefits were huge, and you were more likely to stick to it when it was already measured out on the plate.

Benefits of Portion Control

1.  No deprivation of favourite foods

2.  No cutting out entire food groups

3.  No Calorie Counting

I had visions of measuring cups, scales, teaspoons etc!

She frowned and said, why not try portion control diet plates or containers?

Brilliant Idea!

I found this plate on Amazon.  It has a guide right on it.  Fill half your plate with veggies and 1/4 of protein and 1/4 starch.  It is sized in such a way that you can't overfill.



It is a good way to get started.  Actually this is when I realized that my portions had grown, so this brings me back to a normal sized helping.

You could also take a few days and measure out your food and use one of your own plates.  But I just thought this was a worthwhile investment for 10 bucks.

Another option is containers.  These are pre-measured and ready to go for your packed lunches, or simply your entire day of food.  I also found these on Amazon below:


I just know I have to do something, and using aids of some kind, will give me the kick I need to get my weight down.

As it turns out, I ate good healthy foods, just too much of them.

No Calorie Counting!

This is the best method for me.  I am not the best at calories counting, writing my food down, or measuring.  The above ideas, take the guess work out of the size of my portions.

I have also added an extra walk to my day, and make a point of using stairs always.

Anyways,
HAPPY NEW YEAR
May this be the best year ever for changing your bad habits!

How to Clean a Mattress - Get Rid of Pee Stains

A good mattress is an expensive part of the bedroom and you want it to last.  But eventually they need some deep cleaning and this is the best way I have found to do this.

Follow these Steps and You will Have a fresher and cleaner mattress!

Step 1 - Vacuum the mattress.  Get into all the nooks and crannies with the tool attachments.

Step 2 - Sprinkle liberally with baking soda.

Step 3 - Leave for at least an hour.  Baking soda will absorb odors and leave a fresh clean scent.

Step 4 - Vacuum again.

For Nastier Stains...

If you have "biological stains"  which happens, especially pee stains from kids and pets. Then try using this product.

You can just use baking soda but I have found you need to use a cleaner that is designed to remove "biological stains" which is called an "enzyme cleaner"

All pee (people and pets) is made of uric acid, and you need a cleaner that will break that down.  Pet stain removers have this enzyme that breaks it down, that is why they work so well on rugs etc.

I personally love this particular brand RESOLVE as I have 3 cats and a dog, and everything from pee to puke happens and it works!.  Plus it has not bleached or damaged any surfaces in my house.

Step 1 - Make sure you always address the stains as quick as you can by soaking up excess.

Step 2 - Spray this product directly on the stains (check a part of your mattress for color fast, but I would think you would rather just attack the stain and odor).  Follow instructions on spray bottle.  Make sure you get the entire stain covered.

Step 3 - Let it dry for the day if you can.  It will work on breaking down acid that has soaked in.

Step 4 - Once dry, Sprinkle with baking soda to absorb any left over moisture and odors.

Step 5 - Vacuum.

This is my "GO TO" Cleaning Method for my Mattress

The Above steps have worked wonders for me.  I have found this pet product to work on all soft fabrics such as mattresses and couches and of course carpet for human accidents too.

The trick for getting rid of biological stains and odors is to put enough product on to follow the trail of the stain and to break down as much of the odor causing acid as it can.

Once clean, use a mattress protector if this may happen again to extend the life of your mattress.

How to Butter Corn on the Cob - No Mess

Corn on the cob is a staple come summer time and there are so many awesome ways to cook it.

Whether you boil it, barby, or bake, it smells and tastes great, especially with the addition of butter.  But if you are getting tired of the corn threads stuck in your butter as guests roll the corn on the cob, then check out these two options that both work.

With this special spreader, you simply slice butter and then spread it. It matches the contour of the cob, so less dripping and falling off and it evenly coats the corn quickly.

There are many different gadgets on the market to combat this problem so there is less waste, but I thought this curved knife is a great idea.

DIY Butter Corn

This one works well if you are having a lot of people over and you want to make buttering the corn on the cob easy and quick will less waste and mess.

It doesn't always look so good but does the trick.

Step 1 - Find a large clean mouthed mason jar or large pickle jar.

Step 2 -  Fill with super hot water (from the kettle is best)  Not boiling but close.

Step 3 - Add a chopped stick of butter.

Method:

The melted butter will float on top.

With tongues, dip the cob into the jar and when you take it back out, it will be coated with a film of butter as it passes through the melted butter layer on the way back out.

It is actually the perfect amount.

This makes for a quicker moving line at the food buffet table!

The downside... doesn't look too pretty but definitely works.

A friend of mine taught me this trick as she was used to hosting large gatherings in the summer.  She would have two on the go.

Cute Butter Pot that Will Keep Butter Just Right

I also came across this really cute butter dish, that is designed to reflect the heat back out and keep your butter at just the right temperature.  You fill a bottom portion of it with cool water.


This would look awesome on any table.  You simply add cold water to the base of this crockery, and the crockery reflects the heat out.

I just thought it was the cutest piece!  It holds one stick of butter.

Hope everyone enjoys time with family and friends this barby season and hopefully the corn buttering ideas help.

Small Bedroom - Raise the Frame for Under Bed Storage

If you are trying to find storage in a small bedroom, look under the bed.

Many bed frames sit pretty low to the ground making it harder to store things except for those shoes you kick off and then try to crawl under to find!

But finding small bedroom storage is as simple as raising your bed frame.  By raising it, you can then add larger containers that can slide in and out with ease.  There is a lot of real estate under your bed that you could be using.

You simply add these to the bottom of the bed and it will raise it 5-6 inches. This can make a huge different for storage bins. or you could DIY with wood blocks yourself. The ones online are a super affordable way to find that extra room you need.

or DIY if you are Handy..

Add Dollar Store Baskets or Find Ones With Wheels

Depending on your floor covering, you can add open plastic containers or baskets from the dollar store to store your extra shoes, or out of season shoes, purses, belts and all accessories.

If you have hardwood under the bed, you may prefer to get them with casters on them so as to not be dragging them across the floor.  You can find these online, just make sure to measure the amount of room you have as the casters do take up some height.

Under Bed Storage Wooden Box with Casters

This particular one has a chalkboard front for labeling.

 Don't Forget the Dollar Store.. 

They are worth checking too depending on your budget.  It all depends what you wish to store under your bed.

If you don't like the idea of raising your bed frame, and you feel you could use a new bed, this would be the time to get a frame that is designed for under bed storage such as the one below.

This particular frame is popular as it has 18 inches of space for storage. You can feel like a princess in a high bed and have loads of storage underneath.

Downsizing Doesn't Mean You Have to Get Rid of Everything

For a long time, low platform beds were the norm for home decor, but they take up so much room.  So unless you have a bed with drawers underneath (another idea) take a look at just how you can raise yours so that you bed does double time.

Comfy to sleep in and organized storage underneath.  Many small bedrooms don't even have a closet so you have to get creative.  Containers are your best friend.

Organize seasonal Clothes and Accessories to Fit Under the bed

Twice a year have a clean out in your closet.  If you live where the seasons change, then take your winters clothes and accessories and store them under the bed and in the spring ... switch!

When organizing a small bedroom you have to also look at vertical space, such as under the bed by raising the bed or the backs of closet doors etc.  There are ways to create a calm and clutter free environment even in a small space.

Five Last Minute Mothers Day Gift Ideas

So it is the day before or even the special day itself, and well.. you have been so busy and just didn't get around to finding something nice for Mothers Day. 

Don't beat yourself up...

Here are 5 last minute Gift Ideas that hopefully get you thinking about what to give that special woman in your life.

1.  Printable Artwork

There are many online sources for this but ETSY has by far the most to choose from.  This particular shop has 5x7 and 8x10 artwork that you can purchase and instantly print.  Lots of folk art, country, and some abstract artwork to choose from and instantly print.

Check it out Art Printables by Diane.

Simply pick something you like, purchase it, instantly download it to your computer and either print it on your own printer or save to a USB stick and take to Walmart and have it printed in an hour. 

Find a frame while you are waiting and you are done.

2.  Word Art Printables

Mother - 8x10 Printable

If you Mom is more into inspirational quotes and sayings than artwork, then here is another source of something you can print right away. Check it out Good Vibes Word Art. 

These you can print right away in your own printer since they are mostly black and white word art at 8x10.  If time is super limited this might be a better option.  You can then frame it or not.

3.  Online Gift Card

Amazon is one place that offers online gift cards so that your Mom can go shopping for herself.  You could print something and decorate it and give it to her.  If she likes to shop online this is a good offer.  Many book stores offer the same idea too.  But Amazon pretty much sells everything including the kitchen sink!

4.  Homemade Gift Basket

Before you panic, this is easier than you think.  If you have an hour at least, head to the dollar tree or store and find a large plastic bowl and some clear cellophane (for wrapping to look pro). They sell this near the wrapping papers.

Now head to the grocery store and find all the goodies you know you Mom would like but not likely buy for herself.  Such as special foods, chocolates, coffees, tea and fruits etc.  Even toss in a favorite magazine.

Sit the bowl in the center of a large piece of cellophane and then fill the bowl with the goodies and then bring up the sides of the cellophane and crumple together at the top and wrap with an elastic band.

Find a bit of ribbon or wool or and tie a bow over the elastic band.  This is a beautiful personalized gift basket just for Mom.

5.  Movie Tickets

Head to the nearest movie theater and get gift cards for the theater for you and your Mom, place in a card and when she opens it, she will see that you are offering to go to the movies with her for a gift.  She gets to pick the movie.

Last Minute Mothers Day Gifts Do Not Have to Look Rushed

Hopefully the above 5 ideas have got your creative juices flowing.  Now you can relax and give your Mom her special gift.  She doesn't need to know that it was a last minute thing!

ENJOY

Embossed Rolling Pin for Halloween - Super Cool Way to Make Patterns on Cookies

If you love Halloween and all the events associated with this season, then check out the latest in embossed rolling pins!  It says for Kids but they are for any age!

These are a super awesome way to create patterned cookies in this theme.   To use these rollers you need a cookie recipe that is stiffer and requires you to roll it out and cut out shapes. 

Here is the Best Roll Out Cookie Recipe!

Ingredients:

1 x cup butter
1 x cup white sugar
1 x large egg
2 x tsp baking powder
2 x tsp vanilla
2-3/4 cups of all purpose flour

Method:

Step 1 - Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 2 - Cream the butter and sugar with a mixer (works best if butter is room temperature)

Step 3 - Beat in egg and the vanilla with the mixer

Step 4 - Mix the flour and the baking powder together

Step 5 - Add one cup of flour mixture at a time combining after each addition.

Step 6 - It will be too hard at this point for the mixer, so take it out and add the last 3/4 cup of flour and mix with a spatula or wooden spoon.  The mixture will be quite stiff.

Step 7 - Divide into 2 equal balls

Step 8 - Roll out to the desired thickness, usually about 1/8 inch thick

Step 9 - Cut out with a standard shaped cookie cutter

Step 10 - Quickly roll over your cut out cookies with this patterned rolling pin to create the shapes.  Don't press too hard our may flatten the cookie too much.  The stiffer the dough the better.

This part takes a bit of practice but the results are awesome.

Step 11 - Bake for 6 - 10 minutes until light brown.  They change from perfect to burnt very quickly so don't leave the room!


Now you have perfect cookies for Halloween, for the kids lunch boxes, or just to celebrate the season.

The trick is to create a stiff dough for the cookies that needs to be rolled out so that they will maintain the cute indents you will add.

Natural Wood Patterned Rolling Pin

I thought these were the coolest way to add some pizzaz to your cookies!  The ones above are Halloween, but if you click the link they also cater to many other patterns and themes.

This set contains the cutest Halloween shapes, such as moon, pumpkin, spider, ghost, witch, skull cross bones, candle and hag.

You can use them for awesome cookies and your kids can also use them on play dough.  Super fun idea.

Keen Newport H2 Womens - Best Hiking Sandals for Women - Review - Loving Them!

Part of my exercise routine is to walk everyday, and I need good footwear.

In the winter I have always sworn by Keen hiking boots, but come summer, they are too hot and so are my sneakers.

I wanted the best support as well as comfort I could find without wearing socks.  That is when I discovered Keen hiking sandals.  I had heard of them, but was not convinced and continued using sneakers in the summer until this year when my feet simply got too hot. 

Best Hiking Sandal - Newport H2

✅I still Wanted a Little Girly!!

These come in many colors, and I managed to find a light pink pair as I still wanted something a little girly!  Click on the image above and you will see the many colors available.

There are many styles of this brand, but I wanted to be able to hike through trails and woods and wanted something that could breathe and still give me the support I need and just feel sturdy on my feet.  They fit me like a glove and I can tell you, I can be hard to fit as I take a size 11.

✅I Suffer From Lower Back Issues - So Proper Support is Necessary

I walk to stay in shape and to help lose weight, but I also have to baby my lower back.  If I go walking on hard pavement or hiking in the woods with flip flops or basic sandals my back will hurt the next day and so will my knees.

The Keen Newport H2, which is the one that works best for me, has all kinds of support under the foot and at the sides.  I can wear bare feet no problem and my feet get the air they need.  They can also get wet and will dry quickly.

✅No NEW Shoe Woes to Worry About...

I was able to walk and hike right away without blisters or those "new shoe woes" that make shopping for shoes difficult.. There are different adjustments if needed.

✅Can be Worn in and Out of the Water

Perfect for those beach hikes that are a bit stony or that walk just in the waters edge to cool down.  They dry quickly and keep their shape.

This has got to be one of the best investments I have made in summer footwear.  Having comfort while hiking especially in the summer hot months is so important.

I just wish I had purchased them sooner.

I have been wearing mine for 4 months now, and still enjoying them.  Being comfy will get you moving more!

✅Take them on Vacation 

If you go away to warmer spots over the winter, these should be in your suitcase, keep you sandals with heels for that special night, but if you want to go exploring, then take these keens with you.

✔🔺CON

Need some more brighter girly colors!

Although I noticed more bright colors if you purchase them online.

The physical stores are limited in just how much they can carry.  I am loving the colors on this page.  Just click on any of the pictures and you can see a huge assortment of colors. 

Follow the Size Chart on the Page

There is a size chart on the Amazon page.  This will tell you the best size for you.

There are a lot of great deals online right now especially with Amazon, so there is still some summer left (at least here in Ontario) but as always if you get seasonal items towards the end of the season you get the best deals!  As of this writing there have been over 3010 Reviews!

Stand Up Desk - Height Adjustable Standing Desk Converter - Get Off Your Butt

As someone who works all day at a desk, I can tell you it is not easy on your bum, back and shoulders.

I tried the exercise ball instead of a chair, and that lasted one day, but I did notice that I like to do many of the office tasks standing.  So I did some research and found that your body not only feels better but you actually burns calories standing!

Adjustable Standing Desk

What I really like about this model, is that I don't have to purchase an entirely separate desk!! This one fits right onto your present one.

Instead of scheduling time to get up from your seat and walk to the water cooler with those legs that feel like they have fallen asleep, you can simply stand and work.

This portable desk converter can lay flat if you need to sit and work, or extend upwards if you want to stand.  You can adjust the height and it safely holds your computer, screen, work things and more.  It is a great way to keep the body moving, and it will really help to stop those 3pm slumps!

Fit Exercise into Your Day

You may not look at this as exercise, but simply standing does burn more calories and keeps the blood from pooling.  I know that if I get totally involved in whatever I am working on, time flies by and before I know it, my shoulders are slumping and I need that extra coffee.  I promise myself I will walk at the 30 minute point but I usually forget.

Double Duty - Work and Stay Active

I know it may not be the same as running on the treadmill and yest you can get treadmill desks which are more of an investment but are also a good idea (see below)


A treadmill desk works well if you have the room and are in need of a new desk. So this would have you walking and working especially if taking phone calls.

But for me personally, the sit stand desk converter is more of what I am looking for.  Something that can sit on my present desk.

I can simply stand and work and not have to think about standing every 30 minutes to stretch my limbs that have fallen asleep.

I read that sitting is the newest danger to us humans with all this technology, it is easy to not have to move.

I love the idea of integrating standing and moving into my day instead of trying to do marathon exercises after work.

This would make a great gift idea for anyone who spends a lot of time at their desk or computer.

Getting off your rear as often as possible is good for the body.  You brain actually works better with good blood flow.  But at the same time this desk converter can quickly flatten to let you sit if you want.  As long as you have the cord length on your electronics then you will be set.

Check it out!  Click on any of the pictures to find out more about this awesome tool to get you off your butt and still doing work.

Best Hand Crank Radio That Can Charge Your Cell Phone and Possibly Save Your Life

Severe weather events are traumatic for everyone, but not knowing anything because the power has gone out, just adds to the anxiety.

After a tornado warning where I live was was announced just as the power went out, we wished the little old radio I owned still had some working batteries.

 I had created an emergency kit, but these batteries were too old and didn't work.  After that event I decided to research hand crank radios that could keep us informed without worrying about batteries. 

Best Hand Crank Radio

I found this affordable model so far in my research to be the best.  Not only can it keep you informed with radio bands, but it can be charged by solar or hand crank and also charge your cell phone so you can keep in touch with friends and family during an emergency.

Kaito Voyager 5 Way Powered Radio

I personally love the idea of this radio because it has a solar panel that you can alter depending on where the sun is, or a crank for night time use to charge it up.

It wouldn't have to sit in the closet until an emergency, because you can also take this camping.  It has a flashlight as well as an emergency red beacon if needed.  You can charge your electronics and it is small enough to carry in a backpack at 1.5 pounds!  It measures 8 x 5 inches x 2.5 inches.

This small little thing can do so much in an emergency or simply camping and hiking.  It has stable reception weather alerts to keep you informed and to stay safe.

 It will receive weather alert signals that can help you to find cover if needed.  Or use it for those simply annoying power failures, so you can keep informed as to when it may turn back on.

Solar Crank Radio as well as Hand Crank Radio

It does both, absorbs power from the sun if possible and can be cranked to get it going.  I just love how small it is but the power it has is amazing.

As I searched online and looked at all the details of many models.  This particular model of a hand crank emergency radio just stands out.  If you go by the reviews, it already has over 2245 reviews at the time of this writing.  I would keep something like this front and center and ready.  I would let everyone in the family know where it is, as you don't want to be fumbling in the dark to find it.

Creating an Emergency Kit

It is good to create a container filled with emergency supplies just in case violent weather arrives.  It might affect the clean water, so have enough bottled water for your family, packaged snacks and food that doesn't need cooking, and things you would need for at least 48 hours.

You can purchase a complete kit online if you would prefer, this one comes in a large back pack and covers 4 people for 72 hours.

One of the things I would be adding to this kit, is this hand crank radio.  We are in an electronic age where communication is so easy with cell phones, computers, and more, but in the event of a power failure many of these things wont work.

If you can afford a generator, that is great, but this is not always possible, so having that little bit of insurance to help you light your way, stay in touch and hear the latest news and alerts without batteries is one of the best things we can add to our emergency kit, of for that backpacking and camping trip.

Find Out if You Need to Take Cover with a Hand Crank Radio

When we had the tornado warning flash across the TV for our area and then blackout.  I got my family all together and headed for the basement.  It would have been nice to hear the ALL CLEAR or the path it was following.  But we simply had to guess that it was over.  I really felt "out of the loop" not knowing.  So this is the model for me.

Coleman Steel Belted Cooler - Unbelievable quality - Mine is 35 years Old!

Yes this will age me and I swore I would never use this term ..... but   .... "back in the day" purchasing a cooler for picnics was an investment.

You didn't need to buy one every year.  You purchased one and you kept it, you gave to relatives, it even got handed down to the next generation!  Coleman was front and center in the aisles.

Coleman has to be in my opinion one of the best producers of quality coolers.  Yes you can run out to the dollar store and get that insulated bag or that Styrofoam one that breaks at the end of the day or the kids take the lid for a flotation device, but it will not protect your food for more than an couple of hours or so and they sweat all over the car.

Coleman Metal Cooler

Ours is this same color as the new "vintage" models, and we used it constantly when the kids were small for picnics and to keep snacks and cold drinks in the car for long road trips.  No worries about things going bad.

When camping we would fill it with food and there would still be ice in the bottom a few days later.  So no need to run out every 5 minutes trying to source ice.

You can drain off the water without emptying your cooler, and the lid is strong enough that it makes an extra seat.  If you prefer freeze packs, they stay frozen for a long time.  This model pictured offers a 4 day ice retention.

I think it is time for us to invest in a newer one and give our grown kids the old one.  This new one has a built in bottle opener, and yes I think we deserve the new one!

The lid fits tightly so no air leaks....

Coleman Steel Cooler

When I was a kid, things were purchased to last.  We too have used the insulated bags or those Styrofoam coolers, but we always go back to the old standby steel Coleman cooler.  After 35 years ours is starting to show signs of some rust in the bottom corners, and some tell tale signs of some abuse, but it is still the best cooler we have ever had.

So if you are concerned about the investment, it will pay you back in less ice to be bought and peace of mind that after a night sleeping at your campsite that the eggs, juice and bacon for breakfast will still be cold and they will, even after a warm night.

Plus the shape makes it so that there is no wasted space.  You can fill every corner.  When we are finished with it.  I tilt it to let the water drain out keep the lid open and let it dry out.  This way it is ready for your next adventure.

Table Top Fan - Go Retro and Unique - Decorative Table Fans

If you need to move air around in your home or office, there was always that standard oscillating fan that was cumbersome and ugly.

But as I was researching decorative table fans I came across this one make that takes the cake with really cute looking ones!  Check them out!
This is a super portable electric fan with the dial pad being the 4 inch fan. Would be perfect for the office or kitchen table. You won't trip over it (like those big old power sucking ones you put on the floor) It is efficient and simply looks great! This hummingbird would sit nicely on the counter, table or office desk as it doesn't take up much room, but can definitely move the air around or cool you down. This pineapple table fan has a larger 7 inch fan and is electric but doesn't use a lot of power but will move the air. If you need the big guns, this standard 12 inch one is an oiled bronze and looks like a retro table fan. This cat is also a perfect cat lover gift that is also useful and will move air around. It is cute to look at too!

\ USB Table To Fans - Plug into Your Computer to Cool You Down

The above decorative table fans are cute electric ones that will definitely need an electrical outlet.

Although they don't use a lot of power (compared to those old ones) they do need power. But I also came across these USB style ones that will cool you down while you are working in your office or on your laptop.

They simply plug into your USB port and only use minimal power but move the air around. As we all know it can get pretty warm working on computers. Check them out. This doggy 6 inch fan plugs into your computer or laptop and uses 2.5W per hour. An easier way to get cooled down. This awesome pink flamingo will sit on your office desk and plug into your computer. Moves the air and simply makes you smile!


This Bumble bee USB table fan is fairly new on the market and has no reviews as of this writing, but if bumble bees are your thing, this would make a great addition to your office. It can keep you and your computer cool and the air moving.

Fans have come a long way.  They went by the way side when modern A/C became efficient, but it is still expensive to run and many times we simply need the air to move in one room to keep us cool.

If the office is a source of heat from equipment then simply plugging in one of these fun character fans to your computer would keep you cool.

Decobreeze makes all kinds of super cool ones.  There is no need to have ugly fans!

I have found that shopping online is the best place to see the greatest variety compared to physical stores.  Many of the physical stores will have a presence online too so you can check them out if you have a favorite store.

Online has the Largest Variety of Table Top Fans

I found all the ones above on Amazon and if you CLICK HERE you can see an entire page of Decobreeze fans.  Actually there are quite a few pages of everything from the floor style to the cutest animal shapes to retro table fans depending on your decor.

Unique Gift Idea

If you are looking for a gift for someone special, this is an awesome idea.  I am loving the idea of the USB fans because my office even with the window open tends to get stuffy.

I don't want to turn the entire house AC on too early in the summer season but definitely need to feel some sort of breeze especially with the heat from my main frame computer.  It is much easier to work when you are not feeling hot and sweaty!