Product review: Medpeel Retinol Collagen Cream

I use the retinol collagen cream around my eyes.  My goals is to decrease the fine lines and get smoother skin around the eyes.  I have been using the cream for about two weeks and I see small improvement especially in the morning soon after I apply the cream.  This is not a miracle and improvement is slight, but I thinkit does make my lines look less noticable.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.


Ali Julia review ★★★★★

Book review: George Washington's Secret Six: The Spy Ring That Saved America

This book tells us about a little known team of spies that helped Patriots to win the war against the British. To quote the book George Washington did not out battle the British he out spied them.

The six brave spies in the book (5 men and 1 woman) were so secret that we would have not known about them if George Washington did not keep their letters. This group of amateur spies came up with the methods of spying that are still used today - dead drops, back stories, code names, secret codes. The book describes how they invented these technique learning from mistakes and near calls of collecting information. This is the type of the book that makes learning about history so much fun.

I listened to the audio version of this book. It is read by the author, Brian Kimeade. He reads with a lot of passion and is well spoken, but he is a fast talker. It did not make the book less enjoyable, but I listen to an audio books a lot and this is something that jumped out at me.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.


Ali Julia review ★★★★★

Product review: Liby Liquid Dish Soap, Orange , salt and tea flavor,16 Fluid Ounce

This is the first time I used Liby's dish cleaner. It my experience it works as well as Dawn. I was attracted to the scents in this three pack and I like how they semll. "Green tea" smells similar "green apple" scent, "orange" scent is exactly what I expected based on the name, and the blue "Mineral salt" has a light flowery scent.  All three liquid soaps are clear in color, only the bottles themselves are colored.  The soap worked well on greasy dishes as you see in the attached video.  It left my hands smelling nicely too.  The cleaner generated medium amount of suds. 

The bottles were well packaged, nothing leaked. They were shipped in  a sealed plastic bag so if something did leak it would have been well contained.

I am pleased with this set and would buy it again.


You can find it on Amazon by following this link.

Ali Julia review ★★★★★

Product review: Little World Gear Steampunk Fashion Heart-shaped Pendant

This is a fun piece!  This is not fine jewelry, but is perfect for piece for a costume I am planning to wear to a costume party.  It is 2 1/4" at the widest part, and the plastic blue bead is 7/8" wide. In attached video you can see on 1/2" grid to get a good idea of various dimension. The chain is 16" long. The piece is chunky and fun, it is somewhat roughly made but that goes with the theme.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.

Ali Julia review ★★★★☆

Product review: ODSEN Phone Call Blocker

This call blocker works - i.e. once you block the number the calls from this number are disconnected after one ring.  The caller hears nothing, it works like a disconnect.

The user interface is easy when you want to block a number of something calling you by pressing the red button while the call is active. However, pre-programming the device to block number using programming code does not work with Verizon FIOS service.  These commands collide with Verizon's own codes and generate an error  when I tried the codes specified in the ODSEN manual on page 10.  You can see an example in my video.

On the positive side, some of the commands can be entered by using the keys on the device itself: such as deleting blocked numbers or seeing which numbers are blocked.  I show this in my video as well.

The second issue I ran into is related to showing caller id on my phone.  I found a solution to this problem as I explain below.  The issue depends on how you hook up the blocker. There are two options for hook up - you can plug the call blocker into the wall, and hook up the phone to the blocker. Alternatively, you can put a splitter in the wall and have the phone and the blocker hooked up in parallel. If you use the phone in-line with the blocker, the caller id is no longer visible on the phone display. I am using the parallel hook up because in this configuration I still see the caller id on the phone.  The phone blocker only displays numerical phone numbers, caller ids are not shown even if you have the caller id service. Since only the numbers are displayed  it is not easy to identify a marking call without picking up the phone or looking at another phone which shows the caller id.

Blocking a marketing calls gives me a lot of satisfaction. Just the fact that I am not helpless and can take some action has a great mental benefit.

This phone call blocker strenth is preventing repeated spammers from calling again, but I have to block them manually once first.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.

Ali Julia review

Product review: MedPeel Hyaluronic Moisturizer Cream

I am very pleased with this moisturizing cream. I have a dry match of skin on my forehead that has been a problem for about a year. I have tried a number of creams on this area with less then satisfactory results.  Medpeel Hyaluronic Moisturizer Cream worked better than others. I apply it twice a day andthe peeling of the skin totally stopped.  The cream is unscented, which is a big plus as I can apply it before going to bed (scents keep me away and I always seek out unscented creams).

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.


Ali Julia review ★★★★★

Product review: Hydrofarm HGS16P Green Premium Saucer, pack of 10

I bought these saucers for the 7 gallon fabric pots which are 14" wide at the bottom.  These saucers are 16" wide at the bottom, and 18" wide at the rim.  This means I get a 2" area to catch the water run off to improve hydration of the plants.

The saucers are made out of heavy duty plastic.  The plastic has a little bit of give, but the saucers are sturdy.  For example, I can lift a saucers with water without the saucer flexing under the weight and spilling.

These saucers came in a pack of 10, which works out to be just under $3 per saucer.  When shopping for saucers be on a lookup for the number of saucers included in each item, I almost bought what I thought was a bargain but luckily noticed a review that mentioned that only one saucer was included making that plastic saucer cost around $20! 

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.

Ali Julia review ★★★★★

Product review: Kamisafe Ultra Thin Dimmable CRI95 LED Video Light Panel

I own several light panels and Kamisafe panel has several features that I really like. The most useful feature to me is the ability to change the amount of light that the panel generates with a simple turn of the knob. This allows me to have perfect lighting in different situations.  This panel is thinner and lighter than my older panel, and I show it side by side with an older light panel for comparison.

The second thing that I find very useful is ability to change the light from cold white to warm yellow.  This is done by pushing down the knob (the same knob that controls brightness by turning). The color temperature adjusts from 3200K to 6200K and the brightness  can change from 10%-100%.

The light panel can run plugged in or on the battery.  The batteries that are compatible are: NP-F550/F750/F960.  The power adapter is included, but batteries are not.

The light panel generates continuous light. Once you turn it on the light panel stays on. This panel does not communicate with the camera like a flash. I use it mounted on tripod so I have more control of where the lighting goes and my camera is lighter for a steadier shot. 

Overall, I like this light panel. It is easy to set up and easy to change the amount of light I get to fit any situation.  Is it perfect? No, my panel has a flaw in the back panel where the LED display does not show all numbers.  I show a few photos that demonstrate it. It does not effect how I use the panel, but it does reflect workmanship that is not top notch for that reason I rate this light panel as ok.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.

Ali Julia review ★★★☆☆

Product review: WEfun Reward Stickers Smiley Teacher

This bulk set includes a large number of small stickers.  In my video I show them next to a ruler but in general their size varies from 0.5" to 0.75".  There are 10 sheets of each design, and there are 8 different designs.  Majority of the photos are smileys of various kinds and one set is stars.  They stick well and the cost per sticker is much better than what I've been buying at a local craft store.

The stickers come in resealable plastic bags, and in a nice cardboard box to store them in so they don't get bent.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.

Ali Julia review ★★★★★

Product review: Little World Wheeled Backpack Carry-on Luggage with Removable Roller Frame

This backpack on wheels is unique because the roller platform is not attached to the backpack.  The backpack and roller can be used together or separately.

The backpack has three compartments. The large compartment is 18" tall, but narrows at the top. Inside the main compatment there is a pocket with a velco strap for the thin laptop, that pocket is 8.5" wide, so my large laptop does not fit, but my large tablet fits comfortably.

The roller has an extenable arm, which extends 38"5' inches.  I am 5'2" and the handle reaches my to about my waist so it pretty comfortable to roll.  When the handle is collapsed it can fit inside of the bag (this is how it is shipped), but when it is inside the backpack there is not much room left, so it defeats the purposes of the backpack.

The backpack attaches to the roller in two ways. There are velcro straps that go through the holes in the platform.  And there is a loop that goes over a special holder on the handle.  The velcor loops are a little fussy to attach especially when the backpack is full.

What I like about the roller is that I can use it for other things (like a shopping bag) not just the backpack.  The roller is not super heavy duty but sufficient for the backpack and grocery bags.

The velcro straps on the bottom of the backpack are handy for holding a jacket while I have the backpack on my back when I am not using a roller.

This is not a fancy backpack,  but I like the concept of having a frame that is separate.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.

Ali Julia review ★★★★☆

Product review: DaskFire Diving Flashlight 1000 lumens

This flashlight is 6 inches long and weights 8.8 oz. It has 3 modes: bright, normal and strobe. The bright setting is quite bright with a central hot spot (i.e. not a uniform light but rather brighter in the center).

This flashlight runs on a built-in rechargeable battery.  It comes with a charging cable.  The charging is a bit unuseal as the flashlight has type A connector built-in, rather then a more common mini USB.

Attached video shows the flashlight in action to give you a better idea of what to expect.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.


Ali Julia review ★★★★★

Product review: Hotder HT6399 Luxury 2-in-1 Cordless Wireless Bagless Stick Vacuum

Originally, I loved this vacuum. When it was new its battery lasted 9 minute and I divided cleaning my house one floor at a time. After using it for a number of months its battery began lasting less and less and in less than a year I could only use it for a couple of minutes at a time.  However, the concept of wireless vacuum is terrific and since then I purchased another cordless vacuum whose battery continues to operate well (Bissell AirRam).


Wireless vacuum makes cleaning a lot easier.  So even though I don't recommend this specific vacuum, I recommend the concept.

You can find Hotder on Amazon by following this link.

You can find Bissell vaccum on Amazon by following this link.

Ali Julia review ★★☆☆☆

Product review: Tengyes Digital Caliper - 6"

I checked that this caliper gives me accurate results and it is consistant by giving me the same reading if I measure multiple times.  I like that I can get the read out not only in inches and millimeters but as a fraction as well. The display is easy to read. I am attaching a video which shows the caliper in use.

The caliper has two sets of jaws: one can measure items on the outside, the other on the inside.  It also has a button for tare (zeroing).

There is one gotcha to watch out when using the caliper. The display turns on automatically as soon as you move the caliper's jaws. This is very convenient when you measure, but it is also easy to do accidentally turn it on when you place it back into the case (happened to me a couple of times).  And this can drain the battery while the caliper is sitting in the case.  I now always take a look at the display to make sure the screen is off as close the case.

The caliper came with a case, a spare battery, cleaning cloth, a small screwdriver, and an instruction manual. 

The battery replacement is a little tricky.  You need to open the screw on the back of the unit.  The little screwdriver that fits the screw is included in the package.


This is a reasonably priced caliper and a display in fractions is not a feature that all digital calipers have.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.


Ali Julia review ★★★★★

Product review: Tengyes Pet Fur Lint Remover Brush

I am reviewing a set of pet hair removal brushes from Tengyes.  The feature that interested me most was the self-cleaning aspect of these brush.  This feature works really well because the holder has the lint brush that goes in the opposite direction. However, removing the large brush from the holder requires quite a bit force as it gets really engaged with the cleaner. Not impossible but it is harder than I expected.  The small brush has a smaller surface so it is easier to clean.  In attached video I show the brushes in action as well as brushes on 1/2" grid for size reference.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.


Ali Julia review ★★★★☆

Product review: Little World Expandable Garden Hose

I have been using flexible hoses for several summers: I use one to wash the car, another for watering the garden. They are great to work with - they are light and when empty become very short.  However they are more fragile than regular hoses, so you cannot treat them the same as a regular garden hose.

Here are a few things I learned: you cannot leave them in the sun when not in use, you can not drag and pull them like you would a regular hose, you cannot step on them when they are full with water. It is best not to hang them to store (this puts pressure on the internal hose).  I store them curled up in a bucket and bring it into the cool basement when they are not in use.  When I use a hose I lay it out in the direction of where I want to use it, fill the water and then streatch it out as needed. I have strong water pressure, so when I use the flex hose I do not put the water pressure all the way up.  I use it at a half force setting.

This hose has brass connectors which give me good no leak connections. Also included in the package is a sprayer.  The sprayer has all plastic construction. The sprayer has 9 different settings. 

Also is included a sturdy plastic hose hanger.  I use it for short term hanging while I am working the garden, I store the hose in the bucket when not in use for a long time.

Yes, this hose requires extra care but I really like that it is so light which makes it easier on my bad back.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.


Ali Julia review ★★★★☆

Book review: Special Report: How to Bundle Products Together on Amazon for More Profits, by Vick Boone

Not as insightful as I hoped

This Kindle book is a short report (author's description). It is 10 pages of content, one paragraph introduction, one page of links to other books by the same author, and one paragraph conclusion.

I did not find the book particularly helpful because its content is just common sense: put related others together and sell them as a bundle to make more profit on each sale.   Example of typical advice:  take good pictures, bundling several items allows the seller to reach free shipping level.  I was hoping for some non-so-obvious insights.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.

Ali Julia review ★★☆☆☆

Product review: Svakom Nova Kegel Exercise Weights

Svakom Kegel balls are well made. They are weighted balls with a silicone covering.  They are waterproofed, which is a good thing as one should wash them before and after each exercise session.

My doc has mentioned Kegel exercises as good thing to do for every woman to maintain bladder control functions as people age.  As with many things it is best to start when you don't have a problem. Pelvic floor muscle exercises will help restore muscle function before it is permanently lost as well as lessen the symptoms of incontinence.  Kegel exercises increase the strength of your pelvic floor and may improve or even eliminate bladder leakage.

Pelvic floor muscles indirectly control the contractions of the bladder muscle.  The pelvic floor muscles relax to allow urination and tighten to stop the stream of urine. Contraction of the pelvic floor muscles closes the lower urethra, squeezing any remaining urine back up into the bladder.

Kegel excercises can be done with and without props. How to know where pelvic musles are? If you can stop your urination flow mid-stream, you have identified your pelvic floor muscles.

Without props:

The first exercise is called a short contraction, and it works the fast twitch muscles that quickly shut off the flow of urine to prevent leakage. The muscles are quickly tightened, lifted up, and then released. You should contract as you exhale, then continue to breathe normally as you do the exercises.

The second exercise works on the supportive strength of the muscles and is referred to as a long contraction. The slow twitch muscles are gradually tightened, lifted up, and held for several seconds. At first, it may be difficult to hold the contraction for more than 1 or 2 seconds. Ultimately, the goal is to hold the contraction for 10 seconds then rest for 10 seconds between each long contraction to avoid taxing the muscles. A solid exercise plan would be to perform 3 sets of 10 short and 10 long contractions twice per day.

Watch outs. Be careful not to flex the muscles in your abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. Also, avoid holding your breath. Breathe freely during the exercises to keep from stressing the rest of your body.

Pelvic floor excercises with balls:

Kegel balls are small weighted devices that can help strengthen a woman's vaginal and pelvic floor muscles.

The sitting exercise.

Sit with your legs still closed. Isolate the PC muscle and use it to try to move the balls back and forth. If initially you can't move the balls back and forth, focus on squeezing the balls and holding it for a few seconds, then relaxing for a few seconds. The University of Maryland Medical center recommends performing kegel exercises 10 times, three times per day.

The standing exercise.

The standing exercise uses the weight of the balls and the force of gravity to make you work your PC muscle. Stand and position your feet shoulder-width apart. Use your PC muscle to hold the balls in your vagina. If you stop contracting your PC muscle, the balls will fall out. Perform this exercise three times per day, working each time to hold the balls in place longer.

The squatting exercise.

The squatting exercise combines elements of both the sitting and standing exercises. Place your feet as wide apart as you can. Bend your knees slightly to move into an easy squat. Use your PC muscle to both hold the kegel balls in place and move them back and forth. Move into a deeper squat to make the exercise more challenging.

Routine activities.

This is similar to the standing exercise. Use your PC muscle to hold the balls in place while you do housework, go for a brief walk or take a shower. Make sure you're strong enough to hold the balls in place so they don't fall out at potentially embarrassing moments.

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.


Ali Julia review ★★★★★

Product review: Stick It Wood Grain Adhesive Film -

I used wood gran adhesive film for the shed shelf.  The paper is fairly thick, the design looks nice, the backing of the paper has a grid which makes measuring and cutting easy. The paper was fairly easy to work with. Once I measured and cut to shape, I remove a portion of the backing near one edge and then used a balled up paper towel to spread it without crinkles.  This paper is fairly thin so it was easy to work with, I had no fear of tearing it as I was spreading it.  I was able to lift a re-position one section which did not look as smooth as the rest.  The paper is waterproof.  Overall, I think the area looks better and will be easier to clean. 

You can find it on Amazon by following this link.

Ali Julia review ★★★★★