Book Reviews and Money Saving Tips

Hopefully we can start the New Year Safe, Sane,  and  Hopeful!

Take note, Royal Caribbean may orally advise you on a phone call and later deny having done so.  We scheduled a Cruise on Jewel of the Seas, a 12 night Mediterranean Venice Cruise We made a deposit of $900.   The advent of the pandemic and the issues with cruising and the pandemic led me to making  multiple concerned calls to Royal Caribbean.  One agent advised me to wait awhile before canceling as Royal Caribbean was gradually pushing their cancellations out further and further.  I waited. On a following call I was told to go ahead and cancel and if Royal Caribbean canceled the cruise, I would get my deposit refunded.   Today I received an email telling me I was getting a credit for a future cruise. I called the 800 number listed in the email.  I was disconnected twice.   I finally got a person and she was so garbled I could not understand her.  This was on a land line.   I called again and finally got a person who told me she would research the problem.  I gave her my phone number

These drives are at a good price point. They seem a little slow. 59.9gb storage. 7 minutes to transfer 747 files, total 1.57gb, that seems a little slow.  However $29.00 for 5 of them makes them a very good value.  From the vendor: Multi-Color 64GB Flash Drive Set – USB flash drive with 64GB capacity, meet your needs of daily use on work, school, home and travelling for photos, music, videos, files storage and transfer. 5 different color thumb drives can be used to store different files, easy to distinguish. Plug and Play – VOOTOO USB2.0 Flash Drive, Simple plug the thumb drive then start to transfer and storage data between devices. (Do not have to install any software) Compatible with Windows 7/8/10/Vista/XP/Unix/2000/ME/NT Linux/Mac OS, and compatible with USB2.0 backwards USB 1.1. Reliable and Safe – VOOTOO USB2.0 flash drive adopts the ultra-stable storage technology, complies with U-SAFE standards, effectively protects your personal files / videos / music / photos or any other

For what ever reason my Samsung S10+ seems to be picky about bluetooth. This earphone connected easily.  I was pleased with the microphone and the fit although it is a bit bulky for behind the ear.  The sound for books and voice was fine, music sound was okay. From the vendor: ★QUICK CHARGE & LONG BATTERY LIFE: The improved lithium polymer battery supports up to 16 hours of non-stop talking or music, 240 hours standby with a quick charge of only 2 hours. Usage time increased by 30%, meet all your daily needs. Our Bluetooth earphones can be a reliable partner for your entire working day. ★ COMFORT AND SECURE FIT: The wireless earpieces are equipped with 270 degrees rotatable boom mic and180 degrees flip-boom arm. Meanwhile, 3 sizes of ear tips attached in the box allow you to adjust the angle and easily fit your ears. The ergonomic design achieves maximum ease even in the long journey with only 0.65 ounces. ★ DUAL MIC NOISE CANCELLATION: Dual-Microphones and CVC 8.0 noise isolatio

Nice thing about these is that you just take them out of the box and put them around the garage. Easy to install, then if or when you catch something you throw the whole thing in the garbage. From the vendor: Long-lasting glue tray effectively traps mice and insects Sturdy refillable design allows you to continuously use the trap Pre-baited boards attract pests to the trap with peanut butter scent No setting or baiting required – simply place and catch Large surface area increases chance of catching pests If reviewing a product, it may have been received free of charge. That will NEVER have a bearing on my recommendations. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases if you click on a purchasing link below.#CommissionsEarned

This is a really cute stuffed animal.  It is very sparkly which is appropriate for a little girl.  My only complaint is that the plastic bag that it came in was so tight that the animal has a definitive tilt.  A slightly bigger bag would make for a better looking plush. From the vendor: Adorable Image: Cuddly unicorn with big watery eyes, rainbow hair, purple glitter sequins covered body, sparkly purple horn and foot, super soft belly and mouth, fluffy mane & tail. Surface washable. Perfect gift for kids（Ages 3 and up） 🌈Huggable Size: The lovely unicorn measures about 13 inches tall which is a huggable and perfect size for hugging and decoration, and it is very convenient to take away when outgoing. Excellent soothing toy for child. 🌈A Special Gift: A magical gift for little girls, teens, kids and unicorn lovers of all ages. Meet the kids' unicorn fantasy. If you are looking for a creative gift for your kids, the sequin stuffed unicorn will be a good choice. 🌈Magic Functio

The car is very responsive.  This is the second one I've gotten.  I can't determine any difference between the two but they have different part numbers.  I want to be able to race them and wanted the same type of carl.  The car seems reasonably durable.  The remote may be the weak link.  It has a very flimsy feel to it.  The 4 screws on the battery compartment are a bit of a nuisance, a snap latch would have been nice.  The car is very responsive to the remote, even at a distance.  I like it. From the vendor: ✓1/20 Full Scale Stunt Toy Car: Double sided waterproof all terrain stunt toy car for kids, works great on land & water with 360 degree spins and flips, Perfect Christmas or Birthday gift toys for boys girls age 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 years old. ✓Advanced 2.4Ghz Remote Technology: Make it possible for multiple rc trucks playing together at the same time; Responsive transmitter enables more than 60 meters remote distance, Great for outside games at the beach sand pool park

One more time Xfinity/Comcast has proved annoying.   They are dropping Norton protection as of Dec. 31, 2020 for their own "protection".   I have not read anything that indicates that their protection is remotely as robust as Norton.  Now today Norton offered to take on Comcast customers for one year for $1.00.   Great deal, right?   Well maybe, maybe not.  Yes, the first year is a great deal but with automatic renewal you would be put right into $104.99 package in year two for five devices.    This means it is time to read and shop.   There are an astounding number of articles rating antivirus software.   They seldom agree as to which one is best and best is or at least should be a combination of price and performance.  Finding the right price with the features you need is challenging.   I found that the product website sometimes had a better price than Amazon, Staples or others and sometimes it didn't so their is no flat statement that a reseller will have a better pr

This knife does not open with one hand or at least it does not open completely and lock so half open is basically useless.  The knife otherwise seems fine.  It has a good edge.  The lock back seems secure.  I did not try and cut a seatbelt to see if that worked, nor did I break a window with the little knobby that is designed for that. From the vendor: ➽ 9Cr18Mov Stainless Steel Blade, Internal Precision Component ✅【The Best Material in Similar Knifes】Created in 9Cr18Mov stainless steel, 55-58 HRC Hardness. Compared with other 7CR steel knives on the market,this knife will sharper harder tougher with a longer service life. Excellent corrosion and abrasion resistance. Equipped with the thumb studs for right and left hand use. ✅【Safety Lock & Multifunction Design】Reliable safe liner-lock to prevents unexpected closure. Seatbelt cutter and window breaker can help you in emergency situation. Clip and leather sheath could fix the knofe on the belt from being lost. We also wraped a whe

This flashlight is very bright.  It took several hours to charge.  It says it has a three levels of brightness based on pushing the on/off switch multiple times.  I was unable to get medium or low, I was able to get SOS and strobe.  It is a nice size and throws amazing light for the small size.  Dinged one star due to not being able to get a medium or a low to work. From the vendor: Rechargeable, effortless and magical – We believe in comfort as well as effectiveness. Therefore, we have created the XQ-200 flashlight - a compact and innovative hand lamp that comes with a tactical holster allowing for a complete user experience. From comfort to cost, we have created tactical marvel - manufactured from the highest quality of materials. Enjoy accessibility with USB charging capabilities, with the power to keep-going for over 6-hours of light off of one charge. Elegant and insanely powerful – after much deliberation, investigation and understanding that we believe we have created the perf

I guess I didn't read the fine print, I didn't realize this was USB rechargeable. That doesn't mean it is bad but I just didn't notice. It seems a little flimsy but it works fine. I used it on two knives and it appeared to do a nice job. I will report back here if I have any issues. I've used this multiple times since the first review.  It does a nice job and holds a charge for weeks.  From the vendor: SHARPEN IN THE CONVENIENCE OF YOUR HOME: This two-stage sharpener quickly and easily sharpens almost any fine edge blade for professional results in the convenience of your home. SHARPEN AT THE PERFECT ANGLE: The slot angles position the knife at the ideal sharpening angle for perfect results every time. EASY TO CLEAN & LIMITS MESS: A removable magnet catches all metal shavings for easy maintenance and cleaning. NON-SLIP FEET: The sharpener features non-slip feet for safe sharpening. MEASUREMENTS: The sharpener measures approximately 8.8" long x 2.5" w

I like these a lot better than the velcro ones. Folding the velcro to use it, I lost length and consequently they don't fit. These are big enough they fit, even my large head. The colors do nothing for me, I'd rather have just black. From the vendor: UPGRADE LENTH&ADJUSTABLE DESIGN:Compared to the previous generation mask extender hook in the market, customers who gave feedback said that strap hook was too short and uncomfortable to wear. So, we added length to solve this problem. Which it have 5 Gears adjustable, adapt to various kinds of masks, suit for adults kids men women. RELIEVE EAR: Headband extension strap can help solve the pressure on the ears when wearing and the problem of the elastic rope sliding and being too tight due to the difference in personal face size. Basically, ear hook are compatible. SAFETY &SOFT : Adjuster made of soft TPU material, premium integrated silicone, soft and anti-slip,no irritation to the skin, smooth surface and no harm to the s

If you own a computer, you have cable issues.  These little strips beat zip ties, which have to be cut off and twist ties which don't stay put.   These are now kept in my center desk drawer for easy access and use. From the vendor: 【Perfect Design for Collection】This universal tie is designed without any unnecessary parts. Just functional and useful! Bind up the things that in a mess. Keep stuff neat instead of losing all around. Hang up small stuffs to be "vertical". It is the perfect design for the ones want neat and organized. 【Strong and Durable】The reusable ties are made of silicone and strong wire. It can be twist - bended - folded - unfolded time and time again without broken. It does not tangle itself and super easy to reshape. 【Multipurpose】The 12'' cable ties have a perfect length for collecting, fixing and sorting. You can use it to collect cables or accessories, to fix stuff to proper position, such as to fix the stand for flower stem. Yo

This worked well and was super easy to install.  It cut very easily with a hack saw.  The mounting was simple.  The photos show  before and after.  Looks much nicer and also protects the cord. Before After From the vendor: 🏠[Upgraded Longer Cord Cover]: Longer than the others, each half-round cord cover measures L39.37”(3.28ft)×W2.36”×H0.75”, minimize the need for multiple joint lines, less obtrusive connectors needed, smoother appreance. It can hide nearly 2 cord cables plus 1 USB cable depending on the cable size. Easily conceal the messy dangling cables out of sight! 🏠[Paintable & Cuttable ]: The sleek arc shape GAISTEN cable raceway kit can easily blend in the surrounding walls and fit your home decor after painted to any matching color you desire. Your home will look much neater and aesthetically better! To fit your cables perfectly, you can cut the channels to whatever length needed. 🏠[Two Installation Methods of Pre-drilled Channels]: Each GAISTEN cable hi

Mega cool!  I laughed out loud when this lit up.  Absolutely useless for play but great for practice particularly at dusk and even in the dark.  Distance stinks but then why would you care, these are just for fun.  Great gift! My hand in the dark. From the vendor: LIGHT UP GOLF BALLS: Practice or play in the dark! Pack includes 12 impact activated LED golf balls (3 Green, 3 White, 3 Red, 3 Blue) LIMITED FLIGHT: Balls fly about 65% as far as standard golf balls and feel different off the club (they have LEDs and a battery inside! ) NIGHTTIME PLAY: Take the fun of golf into the night! The balls are impact activated with a 10 minute timer - use for nighttime chipping or putting practice, or play a short course game with friends and family! ULTRA BRIGHT LEDs: Each ball features an ultra bright LED core and built-in battery. Batteries are built to last approximately 35 hours and are not replaceable. If reviewing a product, it may have been received free of charge. Tha

I've been wearing these for two hours.  They are comfortable to walk in and are very light weight.   My only concern is they have a very flimsy feel about them.  Time will tell on that.  The look is a little strange as it has elastic that comes up the ankle somewhat.   You definitely won't need no-show socks for these, regular golf socks will suffice. From the vendor: Easy Wear Off: Walking Shoes made with smooth knitted vamp, full of flexibility, like wearing socks, easy to slip on, good wrapping, super lightweight. Breathable Performance: Mesh upper breathability, let you put aside the stuffy troubles. To avoid the foot sweating and smelly. Fashion Design: Sock shoes are this year's popular design, featuring streamlined vamp with unique sole. Put on these shoes and you will be the fashion guy. Anti-Skid&Durable sole: High elastic EVA rubber sole, with shock absorption, anti-slip and wear resistance. Application: This is a good casual shoe, convenient

USB Hub, Aiibe 6 Ports Super High Speed USB 3.0 Hub Splitter + 10W Power Adapter + USB 3.0 Cable, Black Smart Fast Charger Powered USB Hub for Laptop, Mac, PC, Mobile HDD, Mulitple Devices This is a USB Hub, not a USB C hub.   Practically all the new USB Hubs are USB C and where I want to plug a hub is on my monitor which most definitely does not have a USB C connection.  I also like that the hub is powered because I plug devices I want charged into it.   This is a very good value for the money.  From the vendor: ✔️ USB Multi-Port Expansion - The hub has 6 USB data transfer ports that make it easy to connect multiple USB devices to a PC or laptop simultaneously. ✔️ 5Gbps High Speed Data Transfer - The usb hub 3.0 extension provides up to 5 Gbps data transfer speed, which means you can transfer an HD movie in seconds, and it is backwards compatible with USB 2.0/1.1. Every port supports Hot Plug. ✔️ Wide Compatibility - This powered usb hub is compatible with the most o

This chair is sturdy and as comfortable as this type of chair can be.   It folds just fine, a bit of a struggle to get it in the storage bag but not any worse than any other chair of this type.  It is suitable for a big guy.  From the vendor: Camping chair combines a cozy design with a convenient armrest cooler Built in 4 can cooler pouch keeps cold drinks within reach Fully cushioned seat and back provide support and comfort. Comfortable 18.1 inch. Sitting height Mesh cup holder and side pocket offer quick access to personal items Collapsible, folding design is easy to store and transport If reviewing a product, it may have been received free of charge. That will NEVER have a bearing on my recommendations.

These have a funny aroma.  I'm hoping it disappears after washing.  The extension strap feature seems like a good idea but the first time I tried it, I shot the strap across the room with the elastic on the mask.  That feature is thoughtful but will needs some work.  The mask covers the face well, it says to put the colored side out but since these masks are black on both sides, that tends to be confusing.  I'm assuming the side with net like holes is the side that should got to the face but after looking at the photos, the net side appears to go out.   Some good ideas here but they could use some refinement. From the vendor: Material: Light Weight, Maximum Coverage of face without discomfort, Moisture Absorbing Material No Ear Pain: Every mask is paired with Neck Band which can be used for longer usage of masks without ear Pain Safe: Cotton Masks has 3 Layer of protection, which is good for Dust Protection Comfort: Specially designed Mini Cup Shape ensures prope

These are very nice tongs.  They grip easily and feel sturdy.  The locking closed feature may be to just hang them and take up less space but for items that are really thin, you could use these as food clamps.  Just an idea. From the vendor: ✅FOOD LEVEL STAINLESS STEEL: The heavy duty TAVVA kitchen tongs built with 18/8 stainless steel, sturdy, heat resistance, anti-rust, anti-corrosion, light weight, easy to handle, like new forever. This tongs for cooking comes with a set of 2, standard 9" serving tongs and large sized 12" BBQ grill tongs. ✅EASY TO STORE: These kitchen tongs have locking mechanism, pull the ring for lock and push for unlock, super easy operation. Hang them with the hanging loop after use or put in the drawer by pulling the ring to lock it, space saving. ✅ENGINEERING FOR SAFETY: 2020 new design for the handle, better protects your hands from cutting by the edge when you grip the handle. Easy to control the handle and to eliminate wobbling &am

This appears to work.  I note no offensive odor from my arms.   The product itself has an aroma that is so slight it is hard to discern.  It goes on kind of messy.   I found the need to wipe some of it off as it went on pretty thick.  My biggest annoyance was getting a three pack, one of which was immediately useless.  See the photo.  I can only conclude that the plastic protective cap was on too tight.  Overall this seems okay and works. From the vendor: All Natural Deodorant That Works – Schmidt's Geranium Flower Sensitive Skin baking soda-free formula helps neutralize odor and keep you fresh enriched with magnesium Natural Fragrance – a natural scent made with essential oils thats inviting, relaxing, floral and rosy Proven Protection – Our award-winning deodorants are for every body Fights Body Odor – 1-2 swipes is all you need for all day protection with just a small amount. Before applying, hold product to skin to soften the oils on contact with body heat Plant

Digital Picture Frame, 10.1 Inch USB Digital Photo Frame for Smart Home, Remote Control and Body Induction, Music, Video,Picture Background Music Support, 16:10 Wide Viewing Angle IPS Screen This frame has a lot of features.   The sound is surprisingly good.   The photos and videos look good as well.   The setup and the remote are cumbersome.   The remote response is sluggish.  I can't decide if I like motion detection or not, it is an interesting feature.  For the price it has a lot of features and does most of them well.  From the Vendor: 【Digital Photo Frame with IPS Screen】--Customized with a 10.1-inch 1280*800 high resolution IPS screen, MYPIN digital frame presents superb quality images with 1920x1080 Full HD resolution video playing and a 16:10 aspect ratio. Pictures can either be played in full screen or in original proportion, which is both suitable for the visual sense 【Play Video/Photo/Music】--The photo frame supports an SD card or USB stick up to 32