Mystery Caden M2 Waterproof Camera Case

When I ordered this camera case, I didn’t realize just how versatile it really is or how much I would enjoy using it. I’ve bought other camera bags in the past only to discover dimensions weren’t accurately described. Consequently, my camera equipment often fit in them too snugly or not at all. I’m delighted this bag can hold my Canon 100-400 mm long lens, even with the camera body attached. The lens measures 8.5” and with the body, they both measure about 10.5”. This spacious bag is about 13” wide, so there’s room to spare. Having a removable insert inside the main bag is a great idea.

Different occasions require different lenses and set-ups; this bag accommodates them all. While birding, I typically use a long lens and very few accessories. I can easily do that with this bag. Inside the main bag are two separated sections. When visiting family or attending social events, I use smaller lenses. By adding the compartmentalized and well-padded insert, the bag compactly holds everything I need for those occasions too. The camera body and lenses are safe, zippered inside twice and then velcroed down by an outer flap. The insert easily conforms to equipment needs, thanks to removable velcro dividers. If I want to take everything I own, I can put the long lens into the main bag, and the insert can be used as an additional external bag for all my smaller camera lenses. The insert has a convenient, strongly sewn-on carry handle.

I especially like having easy access to essentials, like car keys, license, cash, cell phone, etc. They’re hidden inside a zippered, waterproof area underneath the outer top flap. Two outer pockets (also zippered) are located under the outer flaps as well, and they can hold lots of odds and ends. Sewn inside them are form-fitting pockets that securely hold commonly-used equipment, like extra batteries and cleaning tools.

I like everything about this bag, including its utilitarian but attractive gray color, which is waterproof canvas. It looks deceptively slim, but this is the first camera case I’ve owned that holds just what I want when it’s needed. That includes transporting my long lens with a bulky tripod mount attached. My camera case came at a deep discount, but the current $40 price seems very reasonable, especially considering it’s like getting two bags in one. The Amazon description pictures do a great job showing the bag from all angles, but I’ve included a close-up of the streamlined pockets within the two pockets and a photo that gives a better idea just how large this bag is in relation to an 8.5” long lens. You can see there are inches to spare on each side of the bag.

You can find the product at Amazon here: Mystery Caden M2 Waterproof Camera Case (Canvas Camera Bag) Messenger Carry Case DSLR Shoulder Bag for Digital Camera, Sony Canon Nikon Pentax Olympus Camera Lens 

PLS Pet Quiet Time Pet Bed Duvet Brown, Chewproof Removable Covers

This is the first dog bed I’ve found that holds up well outdoors. Its outer material is similar to that found on patio furniture cushions—the kind that lasts for many seasons and is dirt resistant.

It’s exactly what I was looking for—one of our four dogs lives to be outside during warm weather, but he also likes creature comforts. The cushion material warms up if left in the sun, but stays comfortably cool in shady spots. Depending on weather conditions, I put the bed where it’s most appropriate. After the dog is done snooping around in the woods, I always know where to find him—laying on this aptly named bed (quiet time).

The bed works just as well indoors. We also have a 13+ yr. old dog who prefers a softer sleeping area. It’s nice that this bed has a removable fleece liner that attaches with velcro strips. I wish there were a few more strips to help the liner stay in place a little better, but the dogs don’t mind at all. They’re actually the problem—while trying to nest, they intentionally pull on one of the velcro sides so the liner bunches up. It bothers me because I want a neat-looking bed, but the dogs want a cozy top cover surrounding them.

The best feature of all is both covers are machine washable, even though the main cushion cover resists dirt like iron and can often just be wiped clean. Still, there’s no getting around the messes dogs can make, especially if their beds are used outdoors. I won’t use a bed that isn’t machine washable—this one cleans up very well, and has a nice zipper closure.

My bed came at a deep discount, but it is turning out to be one of the most versatile pet beds we have ever owned. It is rugged yet comfortable. We ordered the medium size--two of our Jack Russells can and do sleep on it together at the same time. I’ve included pictures showing the bed’s size in comparison to dog breed, a close-up of the cushion’s outer material and another held up next to my patio furniture material (very similar). Our dogs really like this bed—in the house, but especially outdoors.

You can find the product at Amazon here: PLS Pet Quiet Time Pet Bed Duvet Brown, Chewproof Removable Covers, Removable Top Fleece Cover, Easy Clean, For Crates, Extra Plush and Thick 

PLS Baby Smart Robot Electronic Learning Toy

We ordered this toy robot for our twin grandkids, who are one yr. old. They really like playing with it, and making the robot move is easy for them to do. Two activation buttons are located on the top of the his head. While he travels a good distance, he also loops back toward the kids, and ends up within easy reach for continued play. The middle button on his head allows voices to be recorded. They aren’t permanent—just instant repeats of what was just said. We have fun using this button to make the robot become a little more life-like—the kids enjoy it when we use one of their names in the recordings, like “Hi, I’m Max the Robot!” The toddlers also like hearing every day sounds instantly played back to them, like dogs barking, the cockatiel squawking, the other twin babbling, etc. The robot’s arms can be turned, and his claw-like hands make ratcheting noises when twisted.

What we found surprising is how much the twin’s 3 ½ yr. old brother enjoys playing with this toy too. He’s a little too big for such a simple toy, but he really likes being in charge of song selections. This robot can play 60 songs, but each song title has a corresponding number which must be pressed into the key pad in order to play. Our little guy knows his numbers, but the robot helps him put them in sequence form, and he remembers which numbers play his favorites songs and stories. For instance, “three little monkeys” is song #21. The number 21 must be punched in on the key pad, and then the yellow “affirm” button must then be pressed to activate the song. The same affirm button also has the ability to stop the music, if desired. Some of the songs sound a little tinny, but words are easy to understand and the kids don’t seem to mind. Many of the songs are popular tunes, while others are short stories or instrumental music. This toy was made in China; some stories have an Asian flair to them, which is different. I’m amazed how long each song and story lasts—about one minute. It has two sound levels and can be completely turned off.

After two minutes of non-use, the robot automatically turns off by playing a four-note melody while blinking his yellow eyes. He frequently catches us off-guard when he does that, and those actions can sometimes be startling. The robot moves best on hardwood floors, but he works on short carpet too. I appreciate that the toy comes with batteries, so he can be played with immediately. Our toy came at a discount, but the price seems reasonable for toy that is a robot, voice recorder and song/story player all in one. Overall, this is a fun toy that amuses all our grandchildren.

I’ve included pictures of the robot’s eyes lit and unlit, his top button display, and the list of 60 songs and stories he plays. When the green button on the top of his head is pressed, he moves about 7 feet and incorporates a few swirls in his movements. When the orange button is pressed, he twirls more and moves about 4 feet. He’s about 9” tall.

You can find the product at Amazon here: PLS Baby Smart Robot Electronic Learning Toy

JEF World of Golf JR828 Easy Fold Golf Cart

This easy fold golf bag cart takes about ten minutes to unpack and attach the wheels. The cart holds my golf bag securely and is well balanced when fully loaded. The rear wheel lock engages by stepping down on the lever and unlocks by lifting the lever with your foot. The wheels turn easily on and off the cart path. The front wheel does not pivot left and right. Simply lift the front wheel to steer the cart a new direction. The front wheel can easily be adjusted left or right if the cart does not seem to track straight and true. I didn't have to make any adjustment with mine.

The height of the handle can be adjusted down a few inches. A water bottle holder is built into the handle along with some holes to store tees. There is a clip to hold a scorecard and pencil as well. I haven’t found a use for the small built-in compartment but it’s about an inch deep and 6” square. Golf bags are held securely between upper and lower brackets with bungee cords

The cart is very stable when unfolded with no worry of it folding back up unintentionally. Folding it up is as simple as pressing one button that folds the cart into a package about 30” long x 16” wide and 13” tall. There is plenty of room in the trunk of my Honda Civic for the cart and clubs. The wheels can be removed with the press of a button if you need to make the folded cart an inch or two smaller.

This is a sturdy, light-weight cart that is well made and should provide years of regular use. I have had no problems or concerns with it on or off the course. It’s a practical cart at a practical price.

You can find the product at Amazon here: JEF World of Golf JR828 Easy Fold Golf Cart

PLS Pet Siesta Deep Dish Pet Bed Brown

Not too long ago we received a rustic pet bed as a gift—the wood frame is attractive but the thin, flimsy bedding that came with it was pitiful. The whole thing never got much use because our dogs just didn’t like resting their heads on exposed log supports. They really like to lean--laying up against an incline is a favorite sleeping position.

What a difference adding this Siesta Deep Dish cushion inside the frame has made—now the bed is in constant use. Our dogs like all the comforts this bedding offers—thick cushioning and an incline for leaning against. This is the first time we’ve had Sherpa fabric as pet bedding, and the dogs have really taken to such a warm and comforting texture. Sherpa covers most of the top, but the rest is attractive brown suede. Together, the neutral dark brown and tan colors are very complementary, and the bedding blends in nicely with any room setting. I’m especially happy that the cover is machine washable and has a sturdy zipper closure.

This bed is big. We ordered medium, and its 25” x 35” size can accommodate three of our four dogs at one time. It comes shrink-wrapped, but bulks up into thick comfort once opened. The bed has become so popular we take it upstairs and use it as a stand-alone in our bedroom each night. There’s a dog laying on it at all times.

We received our bed at a deep discount, but considering the generous size, thickness and comfort it provides, the current price seems reasonable. It’s one of the nicest dog beds we’ve ever used.

You can find the product at Amazon here: PLS Pet Siesta Deep Dish Pet Bed Brown, For Large Dogs, Removable Covers, Easy clean, Extra Thick 

Radius Garden 41402 Butterfly 2-in-1 Handheld Hose-End Spray Nozzle and Sprinkler

We have three outdoor water faucets connected to hoses and nozzles. I use traditional style sprayers for two of them, but really like having this butterfly nozzle for a side yard that has small gardens, flower beds and a bit of grass that never seems to do well. I know I’m to blame—each year grass seed is re-applied, but lack of watering doesn’t help. The reasons are simple—I hate dealing with hard-to-work-with hoses and reconnecting the garden equipment that goes on them.

There’s not much I can do about kinking hoses, but this Radius sprayer eliminates the need to switch out between sprinkler and sprayer all the time. Two arms in the handle easily pivot outwards and they lay nicely on any surface. The sprinkler’s coverage range doesn’t extend as far as some conventional ones, but the 870 sq. ft. radius is adequate for my needs. It can sprinkle in either a full circle or half of one. Both patterns are put to use here—the full circle works well in that hard to grow grass area, and the half circle is useful for elongated flower beds. I was a little leery about arms that project out and possible breakage, but the rotating ball connection points are very sturdy. Should an accident occur (example—stepping on it) the wings look like they’d fold back inward rather than break off.

I like using this as a sprayer too—it’s comfortable to hold and the thumb control for water flow operates smoothly and easily. The spray patterns are the usual ones, but instead of words, pictures convey what pattern is being used when the outer ring is turned. I especially like how well it connects up with our hoses—screws in easily and there’s a mesh screen to keep out unwanted debris from going into the hose.

I don’t have a need for this type sprayer at all the outdoor water faucets, but it’s the perfect solution for lazy gardeners like me who hate messing with hose connections and have specialized yard issues. I’ve included pictures showing the butterfly nozzle’s size compared to traditional sprayers, its picture display of spray patterns, the nice screen insert and the sturdy ball connectors that operate the two leg extensions.

You can find the product at Amazon here: Radius Garden 41402 Butterfly 2-in-1 Handheld Hose-End Spray Nozzle and Sprinkler

PLS Pet Cuddle Pouch Pet Bed

I received this at no cost, but wasn’t sure our pets would even like a covered bed. We have four dogs--three are under 20 lbs. They love snuggling under bed covers, so I hoped this product might have the same appeal. All three love laying inside such a cozy little cave, although the Boston Terrier sometimes flattens it down like a regular bed. I’m glad the dogs have the option to sleep on top or inside—the bed is extremely flexible. The dogs enjoy rearranging the plush interior pillow or the furry outside to their satisfaction. If one dog pushes the whole thing down, it’s still easy enough for another to open it back up like a fox hole. The bed has quickly become a favorite, and is never empty. Even our fourth dog, a 30 lb. Jack Russell, manages to squeeze inside. It’s a tighter fit, but he’s quite content. I ordered the medium, and it’s just the right size for all the dogs.

I like that both bed sections can be machine washed. The interior pillow is zippered, so the filling can be removed. Although the description says this is maroon, it is actually brown, and the neutral color blends in well with any setting.

We also use the bed for traveling. It’s lightweight, can be crumpled up if necessary and fits in the back seat of our car very well. Taking this soft bed along on outings provides a little bit of “home” for the dogs. They’re at ease and definitely more comfortable while traveling.

You can find the product at Amazon here: PLS Pet Cuddle Pouch Pet Bed, Bag, Covered Hooded Pet Bed, Igloo-Shaped Lounger, Cosy, For Cats and Puppies

Ingenuity SmartClean ChairMate Chair Top High Chair

High chairs are nice, but not many are as compact and portable as this Ingenuity SmartClean chair. We’re a household with lots of grandkids, and that includes 5 month old twins. I love this chair’s versatile features—depending on who’s visiting, the perfect height, recline and tray (if needed) is ready and waiting in seconds. If someone else of a different age group needs to use the chair soon after, I can easily adjust to different height levels while the chair is still securely attached to its bigger kitchen chair. This small chair is easy to store and when it's needed I can bring it up from the basement with just one hand.

I live in the same town as the other grandparents of our grandkids, and we all share baby equipment. Here’s where this chair shines, and certainly lives up to its SmartClean name. Every part of the chair can be wiped down, including the very comfy soft foam seat pad. All the sturdy straps are machine washable, and both the tray and insert are dishwasher safe (so is the foam seat pad). I don’t even mind if it comes back to us slightly dirty now—if need be, the entire chair could be hosed down outside without causing damage to any part. So many high chair manufacturers seem to forget the mess makers that go into these things, and they focus more on looks. I like Ingenuity’s logic—this chair combines attractiveness and cleanliness.

All levers used to make adjustments are well made and easy to operate. The insert on the tray removes easily too. The seat back has two reclining positions—upright has just a slight incline, and can be pushed back slightly to better accommodate infants. At its lowest height adjustment, the chair measures about 18” tall; at maximum height it is about 21”. Four different height levels makes it easy to fit up against most tables—the chair works well with both my dining room and kitchen table/chairs, and we take it along on outings too.

This is the second Ingenuity baby product I’ve used, and both come highly recommended. The first, Ingenuity Washable Playard with Dream Centre, Piper, has withstood lots of kids and travel, and it’s still in use after several years. I’ve no doubt the SmartClean chair will hold up just as well, if not longer.

People don’t always appreciate plastic products, but I have to say this chair is heavy-duty and high-quality, especially when it comes to the working levers. I’ve included pictures of the gray height and recline levers (first picture) and the lever that is located underneath the tray (second picture). They all operate with ease and are very durable. The other photos show the thickness of the foam seat and how nicely the chair fits one of our dining room chairs. The bottom and back straps make sure it sits safely on the chair.

You can find the product at Amazon here: Ingenuity SmartClean ChairMate Chair Top High Chair

Nature's Variety Instinct Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken Meal Formula Dry Dog Food

Our four dogs really enjoy this small breed formula. Every time I introduce them to a new kibble, I taste some myself. This has a distinctive fishy flavor, probably because salmon and Menhaden fish meal are part of the ingredient list. Before switching to Nature’s Variety, I used to supplement salmon oil into the dogs’ diet, and they loved its flavor. The same fishy taste may be one reason why they’re so eager to eat this.

Besides salmon and fish meal, Instinct’s ingredient list is extensive, and it’s important to note the primary ingredients are chicken meal and chicken. Meat meals have more protein punch than simple animal meat, so I’m glad there’s a combination of the two, and that the company lists specific meat names (like chicken meal, freeze-dried turkey, chicken and turkey livers). Cheaper brands often just list generic phrases like poultry by-products or meat and bone meal. This ingredient list is very specific yet diverse, and the formula is a naturally preserved product that contains a source of live, naturally occurring microorganisms.

Besides excellent flavor and nutrition, these are just the right sized nuggets for our three Jack Russells and one Boston Terrier. Morsels look similar to fish chow. I’ve included a picture showing just how small the pieces really are—about four nuggets can fit on a dime. Regular sized kibble is also included in the picture for a general size comparison. Our oldest dog is around 13 yrs. old—this is very easy for her to eat and digest, even though the nuggets are crunchy.

Our dogs don’t usually get excited about dry kibble—they save that kind of enthusiasm for treat-like products. I was surprised to see the same kind of eagerness while eating this formula. They come running when it’s meal time. I only wish a four lb. bag was a bit cheaper.

You can find the product at Amazon here: Nature's Variety Instinct Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken Meal Formula Dry Dog Food

Fisher-Price Thomas the Train Wooden Railway Speedy Surprise Drop Set

This isn’t the only Thomas Wooden Railway set our 3 ½ yr. old grandson plays with, but it’s a favorite. He really enjoys having two different track options. With a down-turn of a lever, train cars can roll high atop tracks and hillside; by turning the same lever upwards, trains roll downhill through a hidden tunnel. This is a great set that requires little adult intervention—our three year old can easily assemble/disassemble all by himself and operating the lever/knob is an easy concept. The simple choice of driving trains over or under keeps him occupied a long time.

As with other Thomas Railway sets, I’m impressed with craftsmanship. Wooden and plastic pieces are sturdy and colorful, and they can be connected with other Thomas track pieces and accessories. We also have a KidKraft train table, and this set works well with those pieces too. Used alone, this is a great introduction to the world of toy trains, but it also makes a nice add-on with any other wooden set.

Set up, it measures about 39 ½ “ long and about 11” wide. I’ve included pictures showing what happens when the knob is turned down (trains travel above and down) and when the knob is turned up (goes through hidden tunnel). The last couple photos show the nice picture detail on some of the pieces.

You can find the product at Amazon here: Fisher-Price Thomas the Train Wooden Railway Speedy Surprise Drop Set 

ORBLUE Silicone Dish Drying Mat

This silicone drying mat is just what I was looking for. Not everyone has brand new kitchens—I still have traditional sized double sinks, and since there’s only two of us here, I hand wash dishes every day. It’s hard to fit all the washed dishes into the sink drying rack, and most counter mats/racks are way too big for my needs. Some reviewers expressed dismay about the size of this particular mat, but the 12 x 12” dimensions are clearly mentioned in the product description, and its size is the very reason I wanted it.

This is a perfect drying solution for me. A meal’s worth of glasses fit perfectly on the mat, and I know they’re much safer there than crammed into the bottom of the sink rack somewhere. The small size is deceiving—it can hold 9 large glasses comfortably or about 7-8 large coffee mugs. We usually have a combination of both per meal and the mat easily accommodates them all.

The mat’s width is thin, but no thinner than a Rubbermaid sink mat (photo comparison included—this mat is on the right). Its suppleness and size makes the mat very easy to work with—when not in use, I simply deposit it into the sink drying rack to thoroughly drain.

The smaller size also allows me to keep more kitchen essentials close to the sink, without looking like a jumbled mess. I used to have a hard time keeping soap, scrubbing pads and hand lotion nearby—now everything fits in an attractive fashion, and I’m compromising nothing. My mat came at a deep discount in exchange for constructive feedback and review--I find it to be a real space-saver and glass protector.

I’ve included pictures showing how many glasses/mugs this mat can really hold, its size in comparison to a traditional twin sink, and how easily the mat fits and dries inside one of the double sinks.

You can find the product at Amazon here: ORBLUE Silicone Dish Drying Mat