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Showing posts from July, 2017

Easiest Way to Make a Salad

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Easiest way I’ve ever found to quickly make a salad by simply placing all the items going into your salad into the bowl and cut both ways or even more if you need it chopped more than those two cuts accomplish. Also a neat way to slice a melon neatly and quickly. I did some slices by cutting just once through the slit every 3 or so slots, depending on the width you’d like your slices. Then I put more melon in and diced it quickly by cutting numerous ways. Cut once, turn it to cut again and you’ve got your melon sliced or diced faster than ever. Since tossing a salad for one person or even just two can mean a real hassle, this is such a time saver. For a larger salad, cut the lettuce at once, then tomatoes, onions, and so on. A neat gadget to have with many uses! #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon #AmazonPrime #WEBSUN #WEBSUNSaladCutterBowl SOURCE: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06ZZ2HQ4M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Just the Right for My Cats

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My finicky, elderly cats don’t like new containers but they seem to like this new contraption where they don’t have to bend to get to their food. Since there are three, I use both bowls for food and another container for water which seems to be working best. The container in which the bowls fit comes in either black or white and is made of a hard material that won’t be effected by spills. The bowls are double stainless so very strong, not easily bent or dented and lift out for cleaning,  #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon #AmazonPrime #BINGPet #RaisedDogBowlsElevatedPetFeederwithDoubleStainlessSteelDishes SOURCE:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y43NVNV/ref=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_0

Got This for My Sister’s Store

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Got this projector for my sister to prepare stills and video for her silversmithing classes and other jewelry design classes as well as, when possible since it is a portable projector, use at the various festivals and shows at which her jewelry is represented. It is a great sales tool and something that can be playing during breaks in classes and sometimes during the class, itself, when various designers are awaiting instruction and biding their time until an instructor can get to them. It is 1080p and work with an HDMI cord as well as a USB. It can display music, pictures, videos and will connect to any device that has an HDMI port. The only thing is does not have is a  sd port so although it can work with a Smart phone, it must have an adapter. I wish it did have a sd port but it does have the USB so if not using to attach to your device, use it to prepare presentations much the way a power-point would work on various sd cards for the various shows, classes and other uses she may hav

Make Ahead Meals, Reusable Compartmentalized Containers

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These are ideal for make-ahead meals for a party, for delivery to a catered party that isn’t fancy, take meals to your shut-in neighbor or family member, or simply to donate to a non-profit that feeds homeless and shut-ins. The uses for these are numerous and that they are reusable makes them virtually invaluable as they can be used for a picnic or an outing, to make ahead pre-portioned meals for yourself or loved one who is working when meals are served. Extremely well made, these are stackable, freezable - so make ahead and freeze an entire meal, microwavable, leak resistant and completely dishwasher safe. They have three partitions for servings of an entrĂ©e and vegetables or desserts and are the best way to pack your lunch rather than a brown bag cold sandwich and unhealthy chips or other pre-proportioned snacks. Make ahead and deliver for a luncheon at your work place or treat some folks who rarely get food other than institutional, tasteless meals. #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSim

Really Nice Chef Knife

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Not only an addition to my knife collection but perhaps the most well made Chef’s knife I’ve ever used. Made of forged steel, this is a chef’s knife one would expect to pay quite a bit more than what it cost to own. It is very well made, not a one piece knife but riveted to a very sturdy handle with no space between the metal and the handle. As sturdy as it is, I don’t see it coming apart any time soon. It isn’t flimsy at all and will chop, dice, slice and more like cutting through butter. It comes in a gorgeous gift box and would be a terrific wedding gift. At this price, the recipient would thing they’re getting a gift worth far more. It says it is dishwasher safe but I’ve always been taught to lengthen the life of a knife, don’t wash it in the dishwasher and don’t submerge in water. Rather, wash the knife immediately after use with antibacterial soap in hot water and lay out to dry. This seems to be a very high quality knife and I am very impressed with its build, how sturdy and how

Comfy for my Tush When I Ride My Bike

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I would NOT have gotten rid of the racing bike I got for Christmas last year had I had this seat that is so cushy and soft it makes riding enjoyable. Easy to install, built for universal fit, it comes with an elasticized cover and is ergonomically shaped like a humans bum when they ride. Filled with memory foam, you can see from the photo how thick and cushioned this seat is. Cover, seat and all come in a handy backpack like bag for all sorts of uses. I put it on my mountain bike and whether on or off road, this seat makes a huge difference in riding comfort - adds fun to jumping on my bike now! #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon #AmazonPrime #GTROAD #GTROADMountainMemoryFoamPaddedBicycleSaddle SOURCE:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072NZJXMH/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Nice Billfold For The Price

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It is hard to find a good quality genuine leather billfold without paying exorbitant prices but this is genuine and treated with something making it shiny and, hopefully, adding to its longevity. It is thin but long, 8/3” X 4.3”, but once Mom fills it, I’m sure it will be bursting at the seams. The lining is the only disappointment but at this price, it is not unexpected. It has a acrylic vinyl-like lining that sadly is not very sturdy and easily tears. This billfold comes in a variety of colors including the wine/red I bought for Mom. It is also available in a light beige, black, green, and rose red. The zipper closure is across the top and down one side only but it has numerous card slots as well as side openings for longer items such as money. It also has an inner zippered compartment for change. Pretty but I truly wouldn’t advise stuffing it full as it will have little give and there is the risk of tearing the lining.  Still, the price cannot be beaten. #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMad

Reversible Non-Slip Mat

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Yoga is something that was suggested Mom could be doing to stretch her injured back as sitting in front of the computer all day is not helping. She quickly learned certain exercises she once did with no problem are now a huge problem pulling on her wounded back from a fall down the stairs 11 yrs. ago. Another friend had the idea of rather than joining classes, Mom can watch online videos to learn positions and movements so I got her this reversible mat in 2 shades of lavender. It has no odor at all, rolls up and even has a carrying strap. It is non-slip but my only complaint is it attracts every fiber laying on the floor where it is placed. The straps used to tie up and carry the mat can also be used for different types of stretching exercises by hooking one loop around one foot and using the momentum of the strap like a pulley (each end is looped and finished off with plastic covers). Finding a good place to place the mat and see videos is the only thing stopping her from getting goin

Comfortable Snorkel Improved Features

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The dual strap is the first thing I noticed being so comfortable and easily adjusts to fit with no buckle so it won’t get tangled in mine or anyone else’s hair or make it more difficult to adjust. Easiest to adjust I’ve ever seen. From tempered glass, this snorkel is fog-proof with a clear view even in murky water (though it may only be a view of brown water, at least you can see well). You can submerge and no longer worry about leaks or constantly blowing out the snorkel to clear it. Not only is this extremely comfortable but it is CE certified so use it virtually anywhere you plan to snorkel. And the snorkel clips and unclips from the mask easily so you’ve got an excellent mask OR a snorkel all in one. Most comfortable I’ve ever used! Cannot wait to use it somewhere OTHER than the back-yard pool!! #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon #AmazonPrime #DIVEENERGYAdultSnorkelMaskSet SOURCE:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071P8RBDW/ref=cm_cr_ryp_prd_ttl_sol_0

13 Handy Accessories For Comparable Sports Cameras

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Nearly all MUST HAVE accessories for your sports camera like a Go Pro Hero 5 including one each of a chest, head, and wrist strap which are all fully adjustable based on your size and clothing such as fitting over a bulky coat verses a wicking sports tee-shirt or bare chest. The floating grip mount has a bright yellow tip so you won’t lose sight of it if it is bobbing along in the water without being attached to you or your equipment, and a non-slip texture all designed to keep your camera floating on water. There is a multi-purpose wrench designed to fit a multitude of screws so you can tighten your screws good and tight to prevent tilting or constantly adjusting your aim. Whether you’re into rock climbing, surfing, biking, or hiking, this set of accessories has nearly everything needed including a wrist strap for your camera. There is a 360 degree swivel mount clasp which can attach to any of the three mounts or onto you or your backpack - whatever you plan to use to film. There’s so

Really Sharp Well Made Knife

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Though I’ve always wanted to acquire a really GOOD set of knives, I’m finding it easier & ultimately more cost effective to purchase knives individually thereby getting the exact knife I want from each category and some I need more than others. This is a wonderful knife that is very sharp and excellent to remove all the meat as close to the bone as needed. As for filleting fish, it will do a good job as the tip is perfectly pointed and can pin point each tiny bone (though it would be amazing to have one that detected ALL the fine bones), and flick them out with just the tip of the knife. Though it is flexible, it is not flimsy. I do wish it were a one-piece knife but it is so well made and connected, I don’t fear it will begin to come apart. This is a like a high-priced knife without the high price. And I have a butcher block from a much less expensive knife set I bought for my first apartment & though those knives are long gone, the block is solid oak and remains as good looki

Sharp, Handy Peelers

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If you haven’t used good, new peelers in a long while, its a good idea to act as though you’re handling a very sharp knife. When these first arrived, I dropped one and upon picking it up by the wrong end, I nearly sliced my finger. This set of three peelers comes with a straight peeler, a serrated peel, which I’ve never actually owned, and a Julienne peeler, another I’ve never had. Though I’ve not had a mandolin before, I can certainly understand how these would be safer to use as you’re the one in control of how much or how little to peel. Of course, it is the same with a mandolin type peeler but often one would or could get carried away, peel too much and risk peeling fingers, particularly knuckles. These have a lifetime warranty, as do most of the products in the Remi line and are very well made. They are simple to clean and dishwasher safe.  #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon #AmazonPrime #ChefRemi #LatestKitchenPeelerSetWithLifetimeWarranty SOURCE:  https://www.amazon

Thought I’d Made an Expensive Mistake

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This is undoubtedly the most money I’ve ever spent on a bed pillow and when it arrived, I knew I’d goofed. It was squished where it had been vacuum packed but over a bit, it fluffed out to its full size and I honestly think this is the best pillow I have ever slept on. It is antibacterial and mite-proof for which I’ve previously bought covers that weren’t only expensive but very uncomfortable. This pillow has piping around it’s thickness twice and so it isn’t that it is such a thick pillow but its make, feel and comfort is phenomenal. I’ve never slept better than I have since getting this pillow which I’d been advised to buy and so glad I listened to my friend. Even though I’m only 30, I do have a lot of back and neck problems so my sleep surface and pillows are vital to my activities the following day. This pillow is a pure delight! It is 100% cotton and machine washable but I plan to lay it out to dry or tumble it with tennis or dryer balls like I do down and feather pillows to ensur

Plastic Gets GROSS, Stainless Does Not

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After years of using plastic reusable cups for toting around my ever present glass of sweet tea, I’ve discovered stainless tumblers and with them stainless straws. This set of straws are particularly impressive as they have grippers on each as well as top covers (which I’m afraid will wind up going down the drain and am having to watch), a straw cleaning brush which I find I rarely need as the gunk doesn’t build up inside stainless as it does plastic as well as clips for use in a deeper cup or to keep from chasing the straw around the cup with your mouth when you can’t look down the grasp it easily. With stainless straws, the only drawback is hitting your teeth if you don’t have them facing you but when using lids, as I do, they need no clips. The clips, though, are a great idea for situations where a lid is unavailable. In total, the set has 4 crooked straws, 4 straight straws (my personal preference), 2 cleaning brushes, 8 clips and toppers. This is a good number of items; you won’t

Heavy 4 pc. Herb Grinder for Every Kitchen

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A very heavy, sturdy, well made grinder, this aluminium grinder is four pieces, two of which are the lid and the bottom but in between are the actual grinder with extremely sharp teeth to finely grind whatever herb you’re grinding as well as a piece designed to collect any pollen or kief that you can separate from the ground herbs. It comes with a bonus kief pollen scraper enclosed in a velveteen drawstring bag to avoid scratching and is made of aircraft grade aluminium alloy. Once ground, your herbs can be stored inside the grinder until ready for use unless they are not meant to be exceptionally dry and kept moist to some degree. In that event, this is not good for storage and I recommend transferring your ground product to another air-proof container for future use. #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon #AmazonPrime #ROCKET #BestHerbGrinderByROCKET SOURCE:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1O03VB/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Essential if You Own a Pool

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Constructed of a strong mesh and PVC poles and is on casters, if needed. Mine is on grass so the casters don’t make much difference to me as regardless of filling the bin, it isn’t heavy enough to be concerned with rolling on grass. It has side pockets for smaller items such as goggles, even non-aerosol sunscreen, always a good idea to have handy in case you’ve suddenly decided to jump in and need a refresher on your sunscreen application. It is mildew resistant but I advise hosing off your floats, noodles, and other accessories to rid them of both chemicals and grass before storage but you can even hose all off after storing in the bin. I got the medium bin as I do not have children and don’t have many pool accessories but what I do have are easily contained in this storage device. This has a great many uses though I don’t advise gardening tools as the mesh could easily be cut via storing a set of clippers or other sharp instruments. This is a great investment for our summer fun and m

Mom Loves Jewelry

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Sometimes gold and even sterling aren’t in the budget so an excellent alternative is stainless as it doesn’t turn the skin nor does the metal itself turn. This anklet has cute little charms on it that say “LOVE” in gold-tone as well as clear crystals. I’ve shown a photo of it scaled next to a ruler as well as Mom wearing it though it is a birthday surprise for her. That ankle is the one on which she will have ot have surgery so I want her to enjoy it as long as possible. It is a quality piece of jewelry without biting into my budget and I know she’ll enjoy it  #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon #AmazonPrime #SUNSCSC #SUNSCSCAnkletforWomen SOURCE:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072LYMQ1V/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Adorable For My Little Niece

I hope my 2 yr. old niece will get immense enjoyment with this adorable baby float. The boat, of course, is inflatable but so is the canopy. The canopy attaches with strong acrylic male stems into the female counterparts built into the actual float. The canopy can be easily removed but while in use, though all who are in the sun at any time should use sunscreen, the canopy keeps the sun out of her face and eyes. At 2, she is a long way from being able to touch the bottom of the pool but we’re hopeful she’ll take to the water like she has to virtually everything. This little girl is fearless and for that reason, we have to keep the ladder out of the pool when we aren’t in or around it. This float keeps her safe while we’re swimming but should never be taken for granted she can’t find a way out. The float is well made and should outlast the maximum weight allowance of 44 lbs. by the time she’s swimming like a fish. Made of a sturdy PVC material, it even has a little steering wheel so she

Dual Probe Accurate and Good for Home Kitchen

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This dual probe wireless remote digital cooking thermometer is a terrific product that is accurate and though it says wireless, the issue we discovered with it is it must be plugged into the base to continue working making it such it has to be carried around from grill to other duties. I’d hope to be able to use the in the kitchen at work but since having to be carried, it just isn’t feasible for that. It is ideal for home use, for which it is intended,  and the base can be clipped onto my belt or waistband for more portability. This comes in either silver (I got) or black and the remote is accurate up to 230 feet. The probes are waterproof so easy to wash and is even dishwasher safe. A very good digital food thermometer with great features such as pre-sets of temperatures, ability to switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit, and heat-resistant submersible probes. #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon #AmazonPrime #SMARTECH #SMARTECHWirelessRemoteDigitalCookingFoodMeatThermometer

Round Reusable Grilling Mats

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I’ve tried all varieties of these in search of the best and this one is very good. It is round, as are various grills, and keeps the grill from getting gunky when grilling out meats, fish, poultry and even vegetables. These are reusable and I simply rinse them when they’re still warm and then spray them with degreaser to soak overnight. The grease and build up on both sides comes right off. There are 2 to a pack of these and can be cleaned in the dishwasher easily. They can even be used in a microwave though I’ve yet to try that. I enjoy having these mats as opposed to cleaning the grill each time we use it. They are such a help in cleaning but also in heat distribution over either coals or gas links. These are also a bit thicker than the others I’ve used. #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon #AmazonPrime #GEEKHOM #GEEKHOMBBQGrillMatsUltra SOURCE:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LEMAMHS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Creating Excitement for My Nephew

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My nephew who is mildly Autistic is in love with these gadgets but sadly, he is very clumsy. His father bought he and my nephew each a fidget spinner made of glass and even more sadly, my nephew brought them both out here to show us, dropped them and shattered both. He was terrified to go home. It broke my heart. If they’re Autistic, they’re often clumsy and glass won’t be a good idea. This one is so quite, you can barely hear it spinning. It is a unique tri-star shape and when I gave it to him, his only frustration was it wasn’t solid gold. I guess we’d all like one of solid gold but not necessarily to spin. This is a well-made spinner compared to several I’ve seen and my nephew needs a different hobby than his constant collecting of NASCAR toys. This has become his new hobby and I’m so glad I bought it.  #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon #AmazonPrime #WOOCOOL #FidgetSpinner SOURCE:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XF7SS7M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc

Blue-tooth Headset For My Bro

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I got some like these and they’re my favorite Blue-tooth headphones. When my brother saw them, he immediately wanted a pair, as well. I ordered him the exact style only made by a different company and a little less expensive. Regardless, they’re still quality headphone that perform as well as mine and since he has no yard in which to work and also has small children, we thought these would do weel ass he can’t wear his nearly as frequently as I can mine. These are high quality headphones, though, through which he can stream music as well as handle calls all while going through exercise routines or working on his silversmithing designs; riding his skateboard, and all other activities that cause him to sweat like I do. These are sweat-proof and hook around his ears as well as have a band around his neck to keep them from falling off at the worst possible times (like while preparing food where he works). They take only 1 1/2 hrs. to charge and do make a terrific gift AND they come with a

It’s A Tiny Box of Power for On The Go

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Always having wondered about these, I’ve never owned one and now I don’t know how I’ve ever lived without one. I first got spoiled by being able to charge my phone and other devices in the car (which isn’t always possible if a fuse is blown or you have no cord and charging device) but this little box is packed with power to take with you wherever you go, plug in your phone, tablet or whatever device needs charging and you’ve got a refill so quickly I was amazed at how fast it recharged my phone. Not large at all, this power bank is terrific for camping trips, hikes into the mountains or just any kinds of cuttings where you don’t plan to have the convenience of a charger and an A/C outlet or even a car charger. I’ve been stuck like that more than once and this is the answer. Charge the power bank itself and when the time comes, plug in your device wherever you are, even in the car as many do not have socket ports that work in their cars and this small box will charge your device in no t

Rainbow Fidget Spinner in Nice Zippered Case

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At first, I was skeptical as to what these did and what, specifically, they did for Autistic children but my Autistic nephew simply loves his! His father purchased him glass ones and his being clumsy, they didn’t last long. This is a sturdy, heavy, long-lasting spinner that is beautifully colored in a metallic rainbow-like paint. The shape is unique to the others he owns. My nephew just loves to watch his spin and enjoys collecting the various styles and colors. This one comes in a zippered case which makes it convenient to store the tools he has collected (this one comes with a tiny screwdriver) as well as some of the other spinners. He has had issues with the center coming out but it screws right back in easily and we’ve had no difficulty.  He is thrilled with these toys and I like the fact they are outside his ordinary range of toy choices. This one is also very quite compared to the cheap ones sold at convenient markets. Far better made! #McNeilGraphix #PurchasesMadeSimple #Amazon

Gorgeous Black & Brown Watch with Genuine Leather Band

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My friends would call me a watch-aholic and they would be correct. I love jewelry but don’t find too many items appealing for men to wear while a watch can be expressive as well as color-coordinating to the ensemble I’ve chosen to wear for the day. The black and brown together in this watch is beautiful though I wasn’t certain at first it would be something I would like. I really do enjoy the color scheme, my only complaint being the knob on the side which one would turn to set the time is so large, it actually causes discomfort if I move my hand in a certain way. I found this out by first trying on the watch and clapping my hands at the dogs. I spoke with the seller that while the knob is beautiful in the size on the side of the watch, it does cause discomfort digging into the skin of my very small wrists. For a man, I am small boned so this may not be a problem for everyone but has turned out to be one for me, sadly. Otherwise, I think the watch is very attractive with the large numb

Large Oil Diffuser to Add Scent to the Entire House

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A beautiful oil diffuser in a wood grain that appears made of real wood, this little over 14 oz. diffuser is one you can fill and forget for the desired time I plan to be out and when I return, my home smells like an amazing array of floral or fruit scents, whatever fragrance I have chosen for the day. It adds a beautiful fragrance to my home or can be used in an office. I had never used a diffuser but rather the wax/tart burners but those can be dangerous. I had one catch fire once & since that time, I’ve been leery of leaving them unguarded. I feel much safer setting this up for the allotted time and leaving it. I choose my desired time setting and prepare it before leaving. This is the largest I have seen and think it is safe to use as well as delicious to smell upon arrival back home. Perfect for a busy person to not have to babysit and worry it will dry out and cause an accident. Plus, it is color changing so I set mine for my mood that particular day. #McNeilGraphix #Purchase