The perfect tabletop Griddle/Crepe Maker from Epica.

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I was really excited about this. For one, I caught an incredible sale, lol. For two, I had never made crepes before, but have always wanted to. This crepe maker is virtually a tabletop griddle. So, you can cook a lot of other things on here. It is lightweight as well, so it is also highly portable, for travel, RVs, going over to a friend’s home for entertaining. It is insanely easy to operate as well. This product arrives with 1 griddle, 1 pamphlet, 1 wooden spatula, and 1 wooden batter spreader.

Since I had never made crepes before, I researched recipes online. There are a ton, for you novices. The key is to follow the directions perfectly. With my chosen recipe, each recipe called for exactly ¼ cup of batter. Before placing the batter on the griddle, I did a thin coating of olive oil. This allowed for no sticking of my crepe whatsoever. The crepe, however, would stick to my plastic spatula. I had never used one like the wood one included, but I can see how it wouldn’t stick to the wood. I also chose not to use the batter spreader. I decided one new thing at a time, lol. What I did do, was, after placing the batter on the griddle, I actually carefully picked up the griddle, and swirled it slowly, to get the batter to spread out. It worked perfectly like this. Then cook the crepe for 2 minutes on each side. Cook crepes on medium heat, as well. This griddle is a 1400watt griddle, according to the included pamphlet. It states 1200 on the online description. It has a turn number to adjust the heat setting. There is no off switch. You need to unplug it to turn it off, so remember that when prepping. Do that first, and then plug it in. It also states there are 5 different temp settings, but there are no set lines to delineate the settings. Just the min and max settings are noted. But, it’s pretty easy to figure out. I placed it in the middle for medium heat, and that worked perfectly for me. There are little rubber feet underneath the griddle, so it sits very well in place. It did not slide on me at all during use. I have had no issues with cooking on my griddle at all. It is a breeze to clean, as well. Overall, this whole experiment has been fun, and very positive. I am so glad I took the chance on this Epica Crepe Maker/Griddle.

Here is the link to the recipe I used off of AllRecipes: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/16383/basic-crepes/

If you would like to purchase this product, it can be found here on Amazon, sold by Perella: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N76NK3C/ref=cfb_at_prodpg

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Great products for your home from Rhino Goods Inc.

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Bathroom accessories are not always glamorous. More than not, I am sure you never talk about them with people, and forget to think about them when you are out and about shopping. Nonetheless, they are necessary items in our homes. I came across one company that offers some pretty nice quality items, so I decided to share them on my blog. I had the privilege to test out these products:

1.       Premium Bath Tub Mat – Non-Slip & Anti-Bacterial with suction cups – 29 x 16 in. long, White.

2.       Sammy Tub Side Bath Kneeler & Garden Kneeling Pad with Hook: Orange.

3.       Clean Healthy Living 70×71-Inch PEVA Shower Curtain Liner, White.

4.       Clean Healthy Living Roller Shower Curtain Rings – Polished Stainless Steel.

What I noticed about each product, was the quality. Everything was well made. Everything was practical in use, and not a frivolous expenditure. Quality materials were used in production. Nothing was unhealthy to breathe in. The shower curtain liner is mildew-resistant non-toxic PEVA. I love that. No horrible, unhealthy smells, like the normal PVC shower curtain liners give out. It has 12 rustproof metal grommets, so it’s easy to hang and use. To top it off this liner even has three magnets and 4 suction cups to help keep it in place. The shower curtain liner measures out at 70” x 71” in size.

The Shower curtain rings are made out o stainless steel. So, you will not have any rust worries with these. We love this style of curtain ring, and have been using them for years. Each ring has 5 stainless balls on them, and they really let you roll the curtain across the pole. They do not catch, or get stuck, they just keep on rolling. They watch have a full closure on them as well, and you never have to worry about your curtain falling off the hook. That is a pet peeve of mine. These are so durable and well made, they should last for years.

The other two items I received are a shower mat, and a kneeling pad. They are both made with great quality. Mine arrived in perfect condition. One of my children’s friends past away by falling in the shower. It really never occurred to me, until that happened, about what a possibility it could be. This one is a neural color, thick, and covered with tiny suction cups. It holds very well, and did not have any odor upon arrival. It measures 29” long x 16” wide, so it’s a pretty good size. Just remember to pull it up and let it dry after each use, to prolong its lifespan. It does have antibacterial properties to it, as well.  This bath mat is actually eco-friendly to. “It’s made of Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE). This microban material is organic, BPA free, and therefore healthier for your family.” I love that! The kneeling pad, I feel can also be used for bleacher seating. It will not just keep your knees from hurting, but your tushy too, lol. I love the large goldfish design. Mine arrived in perfect condition. Kneeling by the tub can be very, very uncomfortable. I love the size, color, and shape of this pad. It’s fun, and endearing. It can be used for so many applications: bathing a little one, gardening, tiling, and home improvement application where you are kneeling, and scooching around, stadium seating, picnic benches, or any other hard seating surface. It’s covered in a neoprene fabric, which is durable, water resistant, and easy to clean. The underside is done on a thick, vinyl like material. It stays put when you press weight onto it. I thought it would be slippery, but I tried it on smooth flooring, in different tests, and it stays put with weight pressing down on it, even just one foot. It has a nylon webbing carry handle. It has a Velcro closure on it, so you could strap it to your towel rack, or stroller, if needed. This mat measures out at 13 ½” long and 12 ½” wide. It’s really cute!

Overall, I am really happy with this company’s products. They are made to be healthier for you, and to last. They are also competitively priced.

I received these items at a discount. I was under no obligation to leave my unbiased and honest review.

This products can be found here on Amazon: Rhino Goods Inc. Storefront:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0131A19HS/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O0DFLPM/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00V93L9TI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HU43AB4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

#GotADiscount #RhinoGoodsInc. #CleanHealthyLiving

Finally, a comfortable pillow with a cotton cover. – Deluxe Homes’ Gel Fiber Pillows.

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I am insane about the pillows I use. I use multiple. Yes, I am one of those. I was so lucky, and found these on a flash sale, so I grabbed them. Normally I am hesitant about ordering pillows online. I have had bad experiences of them arriving and reeking of chemicals, and then having an anaphylactic reaction to them. I have insane allergies, and have to be so careful about my pillows. These pillows arrived in the most comical way. The box was heavy, and smaller, so I did not expect there to be 2 queen sized pillows in it. When I opened the box, it looked like there were two large cocoons in it, I kid you not. When you open the box, you will see two tightly wrapped up pillows. Each pillow is tightly wrapped up in a roll, and held in place with saran type wrap and packing tape. Fortunately, they are made in the USA, so I wasn’t too worried. I was so surprised that after I careful unwrapped them, they popped right out into pillow form. It took like no time at all, to be fully puffed right back up. Be very, very careful unwrapping them, though. Besides peeling, tugging, at the wrap, I had to occasionally use a pair of scissors and cut my way through the wrap and tape. I was afraid I was going to cut the pillow. After unveiling them, I found them to be odor free! They were also very clean, soft, and fluffy, and quite comfortable! These are not firm pillows at all. So, if you require a firm pillow, these are not for you. You sink into these. They do spring right back, though. These are meant to be squished and held, and pulled to support your head and neck. I sleep on my side a lot, and pull the pillow down on that side to my shoulder, to fully support my neck. This can be done with these pillows. The same goes if I lie on my back. I can grab a side of the pillow and pull it down over to each shoulder, thus again, fully supporting my neck. I had full whiplash from an accident in my past, along with my constant swollen throat from my anaphylactic reactions. So, supporting my neck is very important while I sleep. The gel fibers are made out of a Micro Denier Poly Fiber. They state that it is tougher than silk fibers. I personally do not have a way to test that, lol. But, they are performing better than my all cotton fill pillows, that have fallen apart after 6 months. I am very happy with these gel fiber down alternative pillows. The stitching was all done tight and on point. My pillows had no imperfections upon arrival. They do not bother my insane number of allergies at all. The internals haven’t become all twisted and malformed from my type of sleeping with them. Overall, I am a very happy camper with these pillows.

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I purchased these with my own money for my own personal use.

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If you would like to purchase this product, it can be found here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LWU3WKM/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Pumpkin lights! – Liberty Imports’ Halloween Pumpkin Lights.

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Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. I love everything about it, espically the decorations. Nothing is more iconic than the Jackolantern either. These lights are really cute. Even though they are not LED, they have them made to keep working, even when a light  goes out. I was able to test this out immediately too. One of my pumpkins would not light up upon arrival. Poor thing stayed dark while all of the other pumpkins slowly blinked along. They include 2 spare bulbs with this set. This is a blinking set. There is no other setting option available. On this set of lights from Liberty Imports, you get 10 pumpkins. The individual lights slide into the top of each pumpkin too. There is only 24” of leader line from the plug to first pumpkin, so you may need to use an extension cord, if you are hanging them up. I needed to use one. The entire set is approx.. 11ft long. Every pumpkin is about 12” apart, and each pumpkin is a pretty good size, at 2 ½” in diameter. They plug into a regular outlet, and can use any extension cord, since they have a 2 prong plug. When I first tested them out, I literally just laid them on the floor near me, and let them run all night. The pumpkins are so large, that they never even get warm to the touch when on. This is great, because little ones are drawn to lights, and will definitely try to touch them. When my youngest was little he was drawn to Jackolanterns because of their faces. He loved everything with faces, lol. Overall this is a fun set of lights. I wish they had an option to stay on fully, but since they blink slowly, they are still comfortable to look at and are enjoyable. Some lights blink so fast, so they can make you dizzy, and hurt your eyes. Fortunately, this set is not like that. The green wiring gives the resemblance of pumpkin vines, so the lights look extra cute to me. With all of the LED lights hitting the market, these almost look old fashioned, lol. I actually shocked myself with that reaction. I love, love, love the look. These are sooooo much cuter than the thin LED pumpkin lights I’ve seen. The wonderful character of a Jackolantern, gets lost that way. These are truly iconic.

I received these at a discount. I was under no obligation to leave my unbiased and honest review. – Liberty Imports’ Halloween Pumpkin Lights Blinking Decorative String Lights – Set of 10 Lights.

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If you would like to purchase this product, it can be found here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M2131X5/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

A convenient lightweight hose. – TopStockBiz’ Top Rated 50 Ft. Expandable Hose.

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We have a hose at our house which weighs a ton. Well, it feels like it anyhow. My mom rarely uses her own hose anymore because of how much it weighs. These expanding hoses are pretty neat to use. I think it’s fun to watch it go from tiny, to fully expanded. I received mine in the 50ft length, but they actually have it available in 75, 100, and 150ft lengths too.

This hose comes with accessories as well. In your package you will also get a couple washers, a plastic hose hanger, and a really nice hose nozzle. The nozzle is great. I love the ones like this one, since there are multiple water stream choices to choose from. Instead of changing out the whole nozzle, you just need to turn the face of the nozzle to your chosen field. There are actually 8 choices too. The nozzle is comfortable to hold. The back side of it is molded for a natural hold, and it has a rubber coating on it, as well, to ensure a solid grip. There is even an easy flow control switch that just moves to the side. It’s a very easy on/off switch to use. This is separate from the trigger pull to use the hose. The fittings on the hose are made out of solid copper, so you will not have any rusting issues. I live by the coast, so that is very important. They include washers, and the threads were done well. I have no issues, fortunately. The hose is also more durable then you would think, lol. It has a 3/4″ double-latex core and a water-resistant nylon fabric shell. When it is dry, it measures out at 16’, and expands to the 50’ during use. Such a fun feature. This hose is so much lighter in weight to use. When dry it weighs around 2lbs, and it’s a breeze to maneuver because of the low weight, when in use. Overall, I am really happy with this hose. It does not leak, or hinder my good water pressure. It’s easier to use than our heavy hose. The freebie hose hanger is made out of plastic. Is it the best set up, no. But, it works, and will weather well. Depending on your hose bib, it will just slide over it. No hardware is needed for the hose holder. It’s nice that they added it. It’s a solid hose, and it does its’ job well.

I received this, at a discount. I was under no obligation to write my unbiased and hones review. – TopStockBiz’ Top Rated 50 Ft. Expandable Hose.

If you would like to purchase this product, it can be found here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L7QCQA2/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

#GotADiscount

Beep, beep, beep….New Sky Techs’ LCD Digital Kitchen Cooking Timer.

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Timers are an item that all families use, no matter what their economic position. Be it for cooking, working out, timing your progress, homework, time outs for children, and more. I remember the old wind up models, which are still widely used today. They make that incessant ticking sound, lol. I always feel anxious while those are counting down. I love the silent, battery operated models better. You can focus on what you are doing, without feeling overly anxious with the impending countdown. This particular timer is both compact and easy to store and use. It has a large magnetic on the back, as well as a pop out stand. So, when you are not using it, you can just attach it to your fridge. The timer only measures 3 ¼” wide and 3” tall. It is also only 7/8th” deep. These are my personal measurements. The only downside is to remember to have a AAA battery ready when it arrives. It will not operate without it, and it does not come with one, lol. The battery compartment is on the back of the timer, and no screwdriver is needed to access the compartment.

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The stand on the back just pulls out to use, or push it back on flat, and use the magnetic base to mount it. This timer is pretty easy to use. There are three buttons on it: M for minutes, S for seconds, and ST/SP for start and pause your timer. Press in your time, for example 5 minutes and 25 seconds, the up press the ST/SP button. To pause it, press downward on the same button. Then to start it again, press upwards on it. Now, to clear it, just press the M and S buttons at the same time; that’s it. It is so easy to use The screen is not illuminated, but the numbers are big and easy to read at a glance. When the timer goes off, it makes the traditional beeping sound we all know and love, lol. Overall, it’s a reliable timer. I love the ease of use. I hate the fancy ones, that come with an actual booklet of directions, lol. I mean, really, it’s a timer, for the love of pearl. The directions for this are as simple as I already spelled out, and they are literally just printed on the packaging. I really like this one, and it’s found its’ home on my fridge.

I received this, for free, in exchange for an unbiased and honest review. – LCD Digital Kitchen Cooking Timer Count-Down Up Clock Loud Alarm with Magnetic Stand, White

If you would like to purchase this product, it can be found here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LMZ86BG/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

#Elite1Reviews #GotItFree

A big ol pack of 60. – Best Standard Everyday White Hangers.

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Hangers are not fancy to talk about, or even a common thought in ones’ head. But, they are one of those household items that we all have around the world. I really needed hangers, so I was looking forward to getting such a large set. I don’t like buying multiple small sets. I find that annoying for some reason. So, the thought of a set containing 60 hangers, was pretty awesome. These hangers arrive in a generic brown box, and yes, there were 60 in the box. They, unfortunately, are thinner than what I am used to using in a plastic hanger. Mind you, I normally only buy them at Walmart or Target. So, I was surprised that these were thinner than what I was used too. It has been some years since I have been hanger shopping though. I played with them, and played with them to see if they would be worth using, and they are. The corners have a webbed like feature, which actually make the thinner main bar, more sturdy, than I thought it would be. This is the same for the side rails as well. I was afraid the thinner design would make them too bendy when you had pants on them, and not just a simple shirt. They do have a lot of flex in them, don’t get me wrong. But, they are very usable, so I will be using them in my home. They measure out at 16″ long x 10″ tall x 1/4″ thick. I won’t be using clothes pins attached to them to hang dry pants, though. They are not sturdy enough for this purpose, unfortunately. I’ll have to use another set of hangers for that purpose. They may not be the thickest, or he fanciest of hanger, but they work for the everyday, lightweight wardrobe. I like using same color hangers in a closet. It gives the closet a clutter free look, as well as a more organized look.

I received these at a discount. No review was required, but I wanted to leave an unbiased and honest review. – Best Standard Everyday White Hangers, Made in USA Long Lasting Tubular Hangers, Value Pack of 60 (60 Count)

If you would like to purchase these hangers, they can be found here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JJFJNSQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

#Elite1Reviews #AtADiscount

Bell anyone? – Emdmaks’ Dog Bell Potty Training Bell Doorbell for Housebreaking & Housetraining

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This is a great idea. I’ve had cats and horses in the past, and they really respond well to bell training. I do not have a dog, myself, right now, but have many, many, many friends who do, lol. One good friend is even a professional dog sitter, walker. Although, I think this would be great to use high up on a door, to let you know when people enter or leave. That is essential with little kids. No matter where you install it on your door, they do include the hardware to install it with. It only requires two screws. Now, if you want to install this on a glass door or metal door, you can get commercial strength double sided sticky tape, at your local hardware store, and still be able to use this. The bell unit is well made, and made out of all metal. It’s pretty attractive too, which is good, since it is now a fixture in your home. If you have cats, this would make a great toy for them, as well. My cats have always loved bells. It seems to be a favorite for most. The springiness of the bell is pretty nice. It’s a well-made product, and I feel, can be used for many purposes.

I received this at a discount. I was under no obligation to post my unbiased and honest review. – EMDMAK Dog Bell Potty Training Bell Doorbell for Housebreaking & Housetraining

If you would like to purchase this product, it can be found here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M15ZO9N/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

#Elite1Reviews #AtADiscount

One fad that stands the test of time. -Perfect Life Ideas’ Pin Art.

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I have wanted one of these since I was much younger, lol. I remember when they were the biggest phase, and even businessmen had them on their desks. But, sadly enough, I never had one, lol. This one is a little different than the original. But, it still has the cool factor to it. The pins are not metal, but made out of plastic, so children are less apt to hurt themselves, or you, with it. It currently is only available in the blue coloring as well. It is still a great size for a desk. Its measurements are only: 5″ x 3.75″ x 2.25″. So, it doesn’t take up a lot of room. This is great for inspiration, to spark your creativity, or even to help you relax. You can just play around and make your own creations, or you can push an object into it to emulate its shape. My son is big at fidgeting. This is a huge win for a fidgety person. They can just sit and push away, even without a purpose. I have known children with sensory disorders, and one thing that would help them handle a bunch of external stimulation was to hold, and do something with their hands. Be it a rubbing stone, or something they can fidget with. This could be great for some of those children and adults. It’s a pretty silent way for them to keep too much stimulation in check. Of course, as a parent, I love that no batteries, or electricity are required. Your children can actually be amused without power. Imagine that. My son absolutely loves this thing. He plays with it non-stop, while at his computer. He has a lot of fun creating with it. Overall, it’s a fun way to be creative. It’s made well, and runs with no store bought power. I’m glad I finally got my hands on one. It brought back a lot of memories.

I received this, at a discount, in exchange for an unbiased and honest review. – Perfect Life Ideas’ Pin Art – Make Incredible 3-D Pin Impression Sculptures and Fascinating Shapes of Objects by Impressons of Push Pins.

If you would like to purchase this product, it can be found here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L2M0POU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

A great security measure for your home. – Innovative Home’s Wireless Remote Control Outlet Switch.

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I got really excited about this product, when I first read about it. I’ve always wanted a way to turn my lights on from outside of the house, when I come home at night. It’s not only for safety, but I also have a son who is terrified of the dark. Safety, though, is my main concern. You hear about people coming home, only to find a criminal still in their house. That is a terrifying thought. Being able to walk into the lit environment, allows you to be able to react faster, and more safely. There are a lot of app related products now, but anything like that can be hacked, and then people can just mess with you, and that’s not something I feel like dealing with. This set from Innovative Home is pretty simple to set up. They have two options available. You can get 5 outlets with 2 remotes, or the version I bought. I bought the version that comes with 1 remote and three outlets. I went back and forth over my decision. Since I am a stay at home mom, I decided we really only need one remote for when we all go out together in the evening. Then, at night, we can keep the remote in our bedroom. If we hear a noise, we can turn on the main house lights with our remote, before heading into the rooms to see what it was. Yet, again, another important safety measure.

I am so happy how easy this set is to operate. I mean, the instruction pamphlet is literally a fold out sheet, less than 4 inches tall, lol. On the bottom of each plug in device there is a black button. You press the button, once it’s plugged into the outlet, and hold it. When it flashes, press the number button on the remote that you want it to be paired with. That is it. That is all you have to do. Before you can use the remote, you will need to pull out the plastic tab. It comes ready to go with batteries already installed in it. They designed this item, so when it is plugged into an outlet, you can still use the outlet underneath it. Sometimes these things are so large, that is not possible. The remote has two rows of buttons on it. They are clearly labeled as well. On the left side of the remote, you have the on buttons for 1,2,3, and All. On the right side of the remote, you have the off buttons for 1,2,3, and all. At first I wondered why they separated the on and off functions. After thinking about it, I decided it was a good thing for most people. In an emergency a lot of people can’t think straight. They might press the same button more than once, actually turning the lights back off on themselves. This way, that accident can’t really happen. This remote has a distance of up to 100ft away from the source. Being behind a bunch of walls is an issue. I couldn’t turn on the far away table lamp from behind my bedroom door. If I pointed it out of my bedroom door, then I could turn it on. There were too many obstacles. I still had a long hallway and wall in my way, from behind my bedroom door. I did not have to step out of my bedroom though. Which was a good sign. You can also turn the lights on as you enter the home, as long as those lights are in the main area you are entering. Not only is this a great safety measure, but it helps you conserve energy as well. We try and remember to leave a light on when we go out. Leaving a light on while you aren’t home all day costs money. So, this device can actually save you on your electrical bill as well. Overall, a great working product. It is simple to set up and use. It is a great and affordable safety measure to implement in the home.

I received this, at a discount, in exchange for an unbiased and honest review. – Innovative Home’s Wireless Remote Control Outlet Switch – Best Electrical Smart Plug On/Off Control – Perfect For Household Appliances/Devices.

If you would like to order this product, it can be found here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GTYSIPO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1