Shelley Reads and Writes

Tag: Products You’ll Love

  • Why Diamond Dot Painting Is the Perfect Hobby for Relaxation and Creativity

    My first diamond painting

    If you’re looking for a relaxing, creative hobby that doesn’t require a lot of artistic skill, diamond dot painting might be exactly what you need. I recently discovered this craft, and it has quickly become one of my favorite ways to unwind. Diamond dot painting combines creativity, relaxation, and the joy of seeing a beautiful piece of art come together one tiny gem at a time.

    Whether you’re new to crafting or someone who already enjoys creative hobbies, there are many reasons why diamond dot painting is worth trying.

    It’s Incredibly Relaxing

    One of the biggest reasons people fall in love with diamond dot painting is its calming effect. The process is simple: you place small resin “diamonds” onto a sticky canvas that has a color-coded pattern. It’s a repetitive, gentle motion that helps you slow down and focus.

    Many people say diamond painting feels similar to meditation. As you work on placing each tiny diamond, your mind begins to relax. It’s a great way to take a break from screens, work stress, and the busy pace of everyday life.

    After a long day, sitting down with a diamond painting project can be the perfect way to unwind.

    You Don’t Need to Be an Artist

    One of the best things about diamond dot painting is that anyone can do it. You don’t need drawing skills, painting experience, or any artistic background to create something beautiful.

    The canvas already has a printed pattern that shows you exactly where each color goes. All you have to do is match the symbol on the canvas with the corresponding diamond color and place it in the right spot.

    Even beginners can create stunning artwork that looks impressive when finished.

    It’s Easy to Get Started

    Another reason diamond painting has become so popular is that it’s very beginner-friendly. Most kits come with everything you need, including:

    • A pre-printed adhesive canvas
    • Colorful resin diamonds
    • A diamond applicator pen
    • Wax for picking up the diamonds
    • A tray to hold your gems

    Because everything is included, you can open your kit and start crafting right away. There’s no need to buy expensive tools or supplies before you begin.

    This makes diamond painting a great hobby for people who want something simple and easy to start.

    It Helps Reduce Stress and Anxiety

    Creative hobbies are well known for their mental health benefits, and diamond dot painting is no exception. The repetitive placement of the diamonds helps your brain settle into a calm rhythm.

    Many people find that diamond painting helps them:

    • Reduce stress
    • Improve focus
    • Feel more relaxed
    • Take a break from daily worries

    It’s a wonderful way to practice mindfulness without even realizing you’re doing it.

    The Finished Art Is Beautiful

    Another one that the author finished

    One of the most rewarding parts of diamond dot painting is seeing the finished result. As the canvas fills with sparkling diamonds, the image slowly comes to life.

    Once your project is finished, you have a piece of artwork that you can frame and display in your home. Many people enjoy creating diamond paintings of landscapes, animals, seasonal scenes, or inspirational images.

    It’s incredibly satisfying to look at a completed piece and know that you created it yourself.

    There Are Endless Designs to Choose From

    Another fun part of this hobby is the huge variety of designs available. You can find diamond painting kits for almost any interest or theme.

    Some popular options include:

    • Nature and landscape scenes
    • Animals and pets
    • Holiday designs
    • Inspirational quotes
    • Fantasy and colorful artwork

    Because there are so many choices, it’s easy to find a design that fits your personal style.

    I was so excited to find these for Easter gifts!

    It’s a Hobby You Can Enjoy Anytime

    Diamond dot painting is also very flexible. You can work on it for just a few minutes or spend a whole evening placing diamonds while watching TV or listening to music.

    Unlike some hobbies that require a lot of setup or cleanup, diamond painting is easy to pick up and put down whenever you have time.

    That makes it perfect for busy people who still want a relaxing, creative outlet.

    A Hobby Worth Trying

    If you’re searching for a hobby that is relaxing, creative, and easy to learn, diamond dot painting is definitely worth trying. It’s a wonderful way to unwind, reduce stress, and create beautiful artwork at the same time.

    Since discovering this hobby myself, I’ve found it to be one of the most enjoyable ways to relax at the end of the day. And once you finish your first piece, don’t be surprised if you immediately want to start another one.

    Diamond dot painting is one hobby that can quickly become addictive—in the best possible way. ✨

    ***

    My favorite places to get quality diamond art pieces for a good price is Temu and Shein. They are much more affordable than most craft stores, if you are just starting out (or if your habit is becoming a little out of control like mine)!

    ***

    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    Til next time.

  • Make Coop Cleanup Fast And Easy with Omlet Eglu

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Do you find yourself dreading coop-cleaning day, struggling with wood dust, poop-caked corners, or awkward nooks that are nearly impossible to clean? That weekly chore shouldn’t feel like a battle, especially when all you want is healthy, happy hens without the headache.

    How the Omlet Chicken Coop Makes a Difference

    The Omlet Eglu (or Pro model) is built with smooth, sturdy plastic panels that break down easily and rinse clean in mere minutes. Forget scraping wood or battling bacteria hiding in cracks—the coop’s design avoids nooks where pests or parasites might lurk.

    With a pull‑out droppings tray and stackable nest box, maintenance becomes simple and hygienic. The insulated, predator-resistant build helps keep your flock safe and comfortable all year round.

    Users consistently praise how nearly odor-free their coop stays, plus the plastic design naturally discourages pests over time

    Time for a Coop Upgrade?

    If cleaning your wooden coop has become a dreaded chore, the Omlet Chicken Coop offers a clean, low-maintenance solution, with better hygiene and more time to enjoy your birds. Start with the standard Cube if you have fewer hens, or opt for the larger Pro for expanded capacity. Pick the model that suits your flock, and spend time collecting fresh eggs—without missing your weekends to scrubbing.

    Wrapping It Up

    In short, the Omlet Chicken Coop tackles the messy, back‑breaking chore of coop cleaning with sleek, removable trays and smooth plastic construction that pressure wash in minutes—no more scrubbing wood or crawling into corners.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Plus, its insulated, predator‑proof design means fewer worries and healthier hens. Choose the model that fits your flock—standard Cube for a few birds or larger Pro if you plan to grow—and get back to what matters most: spending quality time with your cozy, contented flock.

    ***

    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    Til next time.

  • Why You Should Use Historian to Organize Your Photos Digitally

    Photo Courtesy of Forever

    If you’ve ever spent hours scrolling through your phone or digging through computer folders just to find that one photo, you’re not alone. Between phones, cameras, social media downloads, and cloud storage, our memories are scattered everywhere — and it’s overwhelming.

    That’s where Historian by Forever® comes in.

     This software was designed specifically for preserving, organizing, and protecting your photos — not just storing them. Whether you’re a lifelong memory keeper, a digital scrapbooker, or just someone who wants to make sense of years of digital clutter, Historian is an amazing tool to have in your creative toolkit.

    Here’s why so many people (myself included!) love using Historian to organize their photos digitally.

    📸 Everything in One Place

    The beauty of Historian is that it brings all of your photos together in one secure, searchable location. No more chasing down files across multiple devices or cloud accounts.

    You can easily import images from your phone, camera, computer, or external drives — and Historian keeps them neatly organized for you. Once they’re in the program, your photos are safe, accessible, and easy to browse anytime.

    🏷️  Powerful Tagging and Organization Tools

    Unlike basic computer folders, Historian gives you real organizational power.

    You can tag photos by event, people, location, or theme — whatever makes sense to you. The software also lets you sort and filter images by date, camera type, or keyword.

    This makes finding that special photo from your 2017 vacation or your child’s first birthday incredibly easy.

    💡 Pro Tip: Try creating albums for each year, holiday, or major life event. With Historian’s tags and albums, your entire photo history becomes a digital timeline of your life.

    🔒 Backed Up and Safe for the Future

    We’ve all heard horror stories of lost phones, crashed hard drives, or corrupted memory cards. One accidental deletion can erase years of memories in seconds.

    Historian eliminates that fear with built-in backup protection. You can back up your entire photo vault to an external hard drive, cloud service, or Forever’s permanent digital storage platform.

    That means your photos aren’t just organized — they’re protected for life.

    🖥️ Simple Editing and Restoration Features

    Historian isn’t just about organization — it also helps you enhance and restore your pictures.

    You can make quick fixes like cropping, red-eye correction, and adjusting lighting or color. For those treasured old family photos, Historian even includes restoration tools to remove scratches or fading.

    These easy-to-use features let you polish your memories before sharing or using them in digital scrapbooks (especially if you pair Historian with Artisan — they work beautifully together!).

    🌈 Works Seamlessly with Artisan

    If you already use Artisan for digital scrapbooking, Historian is the perfect partner.

    You can store and tag all your photos in Historian, then easily send them to Artisan when you’re ready to create your next scrapbook page or photo book. It’s like having an organized library feeding directly into your creative workspace.

    No more hunting for photos — just drag, drop, and design!

    💕 It Keeps Your Stories Alive

    Our photos are more than just pictures — they’re stories, milestones, and memories of the people and moments that shape our lives.

    Historian helps you preserve those stories with intention. You can add descriptions, journaling notes, and tags to every photo, so even decades from now, your family will know the stories behind the images.

    ✨ Final Thoughts

    If you’ve ever felt like your digital photos are out of control, Historian can give you peace of mind and clarity. It’s easy to use, built for memory keepers, and designed to protect your images long-term.

    With Historian, you’re not just storing photos — you’re curating your family’s legacy.

    So if you’re ready to take control of your photo chaos and keep your memories safe forever, it might be time to give Historian a try. You’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying photo organization can be.

    ***

    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    Til next time.

  • Vet Techs: Earn CE on the Go with VETgirl’s Flexible Courses

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Ever feel stuck hunting for RACE‑approved CE that fits around your shifts, family life, or study schedule? As a busy vet tech, the struggle of juggling hands‑on work and license requirements is all too real. That’s exactly why I’ve grown to love VETgirl CE—this platform delivers top-quality continuing education you can access anytime, anywhere.

    Why It Works for Vet Techs Like Us

    VETgirl offers a robust library of RACE-accredited courses, including live webinars, on-demand videos, podcasts, and blog-based quizzes—all tailored for vet techs and vets alike. Whether you’re commuting, grabbing a coffee, or sneaking in an educational break between patients, it fits seamlessly into your routine.

    From clinical deep-dives in anesthesia, dermatology, and critical care to leadership and practice management tracks, their content covers real challenges we face daily. There’s also a certificate program offering 12–60 hours of credit, included with membership, perfect for techs who want to dive deeper into specific areas.

    Insider Praise: Real Techs, Real Feedback

    People rave about how practical and engaging the courses are. Techs describe VETgirl as “clinical CE that actually works with our time constraints” and appreciate how each session offers tangible takeaways for better patient care. The mix of formats—podcasts, webinars, quick blog posts—makes earning credits feel doable, even on the toughest days.

    Fit It Into Your Learning Style

    • Prefer listening? Download a podcast while walking or commuting.
    • Want interaction? Join live webinars and earn CE in real time.
    • Short on time? On-demand videos and blog quizzes let you earn credits in minutes.

    Why I Recommend It

    It’s vet tech–focused, affordable, and clinically relevant—no fluff, just useful knowledge from experts in a format that respects your schedule. Whether your local hospital limits in-person CE or you simply want a flexible option you can access anytime, VETgirl keeps your learning going without burnout.

    Ready to earn CE that actually fits your life?
    Take a peek at VETgirl’s ELITE membership—choose the plan that suits your pace, start with a free or trial webinar if they offer one, and see how it strengthens your confidence and skills on the floor.

    Looking to join the community? Check out my affiliate link to help support my own journey of learning. Even better, you get ten percent off for your first year!  

    ***

    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    Til next time.

  • Cat Water Fountain Benefits (and Why I Won’t Go Back)

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Worried your cat isn’t drinking enough water? You’re definitely not alone. A lot of cat parents deal with this—especially since many cats are surprisingly picky about how they hydrate. Still water in a regular bowl often doesn’t cut it. And when cats don’t get enough moisture, it can lead to dehydration, urinary tract issues, or even kidney problems over time. It’s one of those sneaky little health concerns that can go unnoticed—until it turns into a vet visit.

    That’s where a cat fountain can make a big difference. Instead of stagnant water sitting in a bowl all day, a fountain keeps it moving and fresh—just the way most cats prefer. The gentle stream mimics running water in nature, which cats are naturally drawn to. It’s like flipping a switch: suddenly your cat is way more interested in drinking regularly, and you can feel better knowing they’re staying hydrated.

    Fountains also come with built-in filters that help remove impurities, hair, and debris, so the water not only looks cleaner—it is cleaner. And if your cat is a bit of a water snob (most are), that fresh taste can be the thing that finally encourages them to drink more throughout the day.

    Another bonus? They’re surprisingly low-maintenance. Most models only need to be topped off every few days and cleaned weekly. Some even come with dishwasher-safe parts to make things easier. No more constant bowl refills or wondering when your cat last drank.

    Product Available on Pet Cube

    If your cat turns up their nose at their water bowl, or you’re simply looking for an easy upgrade to support their long-term health, a fountain might be the game-changer you’ve been looking for. It’s one of those small switches that can have a big impact—and your cat will thank you (probably by drinking more and knocking fewer cups off the table). Hydrated cat = happy cat.

    ***

    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    Til next time.

  • Why I Love Ohora Nails (and Why You Will Too!)

    Nails by Ohora

    As much as I love spending time caring for pets, writing blogs, and helping other pet owners — my hands go through a lot! Between typing, cleaning, and everyday life, keeping my nails looking nice used to be nearly impossible. Regular polish chipped in days, salon visits were expensive and time-consuming, and DIY gels always seemed to end in frustration.

    Then I discovered Ohora nails — and honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever go back.

    If you’ve ever wished you could have salon-quality nails that last for weeks without the cost or hassle of an appointment, Ohora might just be your new obsession too.

    💖 What Are Ohora Nails?

    Ohora nails are semi-cured gel nail strips that give you a professional gel manicure at home — no fancy equipment or nail-tech skills required. They come pre-formed, slightly flexible, and about 60% cured. Once you press them onto your nails and cure them under a UV lamp, they harden into a glossy, chip-resistant finish that lasts up to two weeks or more.

    In short: they’re salon results without the salon price tag.

    🕓 Why They Work So Well for Busy People

    Between work, family, pets, and everyday life, most of us don’t have hours to sit at a nail salon. Ohora nails take minutes to apply.

    You simply:

    1. Clean your nails.
    2. Choose the correct sizes for each nail.
    3. Press the strips in place and trim the edges.
    4. Cure them with the mini UV lamp.

    That’s it — you’re left with perfectly smooth, shiny nails that feel like they were done professionally.

    And the best part? If you get interrupted (like when your dog decides to bark at a leaf outside mid-application), you can stop and finish later — something you definitely can’t do at a salon!

    💅 Why I Prefer Ohora Over Traditional Gel or Polish

    Here are a few reasons Ohora nails stand out from every other option I’ve tried:

    • No Mess, No Smell: No sticky bottles or chemical fumes — just peel and stick.
    • Strong and Long-Lasting: They stay flawless for 10–14 days (even longer for some).
    • Endless Designs: From classy French tips to sparkly holiday looks, there’s something for everyone.
    • Affordable: Most sets are under $15 — far less than a single salon manicure.
    • Gentle on Nails: They don’t require harsh removal chemicals if you use the recommended remover.

    Plus, Ohora’s designs look so polished (pun intended) that I often get compliments — even from people who think I had them professionally done.

    🏡 Perfect for Anyone Who Wants Easy Beauty

    I love that Ohora nails fit real life. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent, or someone who just doesn’t love spending hours doing beauty routines, these nails give you confidence and convenience at the same time.

    If you’re curious, I recommend trying one of their starter sets — they usually come with everything you need, including the UV lamp.

    👉 You can shop Ohora nails here with my affiliate link.

    Ohora nails have been a total game-changer for me. They’re affordable, easy to use, and they hold up beautifully — even with my hands constantly busy caring for pets and typing blog posts.

    If you want pretty nails that last, without the salon time or price, I genuinely recommend giving Ohora a try.

    Your hands (and your wallet) will thank you. 💅

    ***

    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    Til next time.

  • 💡 Top Tips for Using an At-Home Laser Hair Removal Device (Safely and Effectively)

    Product Available on Amazon

    If you’ve recently invested in an at-home laser hair removal device — like the Ubroo IPL or another IPL system — you’re probably excited to start seeing results. Smooth, hair-free skin without salon visits? Yes, please!

    But while these devices are safe and convenient, getting the best results (and avoiding irritation) takes a little know-how. As someone who loves at-home beauty tools, I’ve learned that the right prep and technique make all the difference.

    Here are my favorite tips for using your at-home laser hair removal device safely and effectively, so you can enjoy professional-quality results right at home.

    ✨ Always Start with Clean, Shaved Skin

    Before you begin any IPL or laser session, make sure the area is clean, dry, and freshly shaved.

    Shaving ensures that the light energy targets the hair follicle beneath the skin — not the hair above it. Avoid waxing, plucking, or epilating before treatments, since removing the root prevents the laser from working properly.

    👉 Pro tip: Shave the night before so your skin has time to calm down before using your device.

    ❄️  Test Your Skin and Start Slow

    Every skin type is different. That’s why most devices (like the Ubroo IPL) have multiple intensity levels — start with the lowest setting the first time you use it.

    Do a small test patch on your arm or leg and wait 24 hours to make sure your skin reacts well before treating larger areas. Gradually increase the intensity level as you feel more comfortable.

    If your device has a built-in cooling feature, use it! Cooling before and after helps soothe your skin and prevent redness or swelling.

    💡 Stick to the Schedule

    Consistency is key with IPL treatments. Most devices recommend using them once or twice a week for the first six to eight weeks, then reducing to maintenance sessions every few months.

    You won’t see results overnight — but by staying consistent, you’ll start noticing thinner, slower regrowth within a few sessions.

    Think of it like training your skin: the more regular your sessions, the better your long-term results.

    🧴 Avoid Sun Exposure (Before and After)

    Laser and IPL devices target pigment, so tanned or recently sun-exposed skin is more sensitive and at higher risk for irritation.

    Avoid tanning or sunbathing for at least 48 hours before and after treatments. Always use SPF on treated areas if they’ll be exposed to sunlight — even just driving to work!

    🪞 Don’t Rush — Be Methodical

    It’s tempting to glide your device over large areas quickly, but take your time to ensure even coverage.

    Overlap slightly as you move, and hold the device at a 90° angle to your skin for best results.

    For small or curved areas like underarms or knees, switch to manual mode if your device has one. It gives you better precision and prevents missed spots.

    🧼 Keep Your Device Clean

    After every session, gently wipe the treatment window and cooling plate with a clean, soft cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners or water entering the light window.

    Keeping your device clean ensures that the light stays strong and your results stay consistent.

    🌸 Be Patient and Consistent

    It takes a few weeks to see noticeable results — but don’t give up! Each session weakens more hair follicles, so your regrowth becomes lighter and slower over time.

    Stay consistent, track your sessions, and celebrate small wins along the way. Smooth, confident skin is totally worth it!

    💬 Final Thoughts

    Using an at-home laser hair removal device is one of the easiest ways to achieve salon-smooth skin on your own time and budget. With a little prep, patience, and the right technique, you’ll love your results.If you’re still looking for a device to try, I highly recommend the Ubroo IPL Hair Removal Device — it’s painless, effective, and has a built-in cooling system that makes the process super comfortable.

    ***

    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    Til next time.

  • ❄️ Smooth, Simple, and Painless: Why I Love the Ubroo IPL Laser Hair Removal Device

    Product Available on Amazon

    I am also going to use this blog as an opportunity to share products I love and want to share with you.

    ***

    If you’re tired of shaving, waxing, or spending big money at salons for hair removal, there’s finally a solution that actually works—and lets you stay comfortable at home.

    The Ubroo IPL Hair Removal Device offers professional-level results with ice-cooling technology and red-light IPL treatment, designed for both women and men who want smooth, beautiful skin without irritation or hassle.

    Here’s why I decided to grab one and I can’t wait to see if it’s worth the hype.

    💙 What Makes the Ubroo IPL Device Different

    Not all at-home laser hair removal devices are created equal. The Ubroo IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) system stands out because it uses advanced red-light technology (600–1200nm) to safely target hair follicles deep below the skin’s surface.

    This process sends the follicles into a “dormant” state, reducing regrowth over time and leaving your skin smoother with each use.

    But what really makes it special is the built-in 5°C ice-cooling feature—it instantly cools your skin before each flash, so you can enjoy hair removal without pain or redness.

    It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin yet powerful enough to see visible results in as little as 6–8 weeks.

    ❄️ Comfort Meets Convenience

    One of the most frustrating parts of hair removal is the discomfort—burning, irritation, or redness that lasts for hours.

    The Ubroo IPL solves that problem beautifully. The cooling plate keeps skin at a soothing temperature during every flash, while the ergonomic, curved design makes it easy to use on any body area, from your legs to your bikini line or even your face.

    It also comes with 9 adjustable intensity levels, so you can customize the treatment to your comfort and skin sensitivity. Start low, increase as your skin adjusts, and you’ll find the perfect balance of comfort and effectiveness.

    💡 Designed for Real Life

    The Ubroo IPL device includes both manual and automatic modes, so you can switch depending on your needs:

    • Manual mode: Perfect for small, sensitive areas like your underarms, lips, or bikini line.
    • Automatic mode: Ideal for larger zones like your legs, arms, or back.

    And with 999,900 flashes, this device can easily last years—enough for your entire body and even shared use with family members (just remember to sanitize between uses).

    Each session only takes minutes, and because it’s corded, you never have to worry about charging mid-treatment.

    🏠 Why I Recommend It

    Here’s why I think this device is such a smart investment:

    ✅ Saves money: One purchase gives you salon-quality results without expensive treatments or appointments.
    ✅ Time-saving: No waiting in lines or scheduling visits—you can do it anytime, anywhere.
    ✅ Comfortable & safe: The 5°C cooling plate protects your skin from heat damage.
    ✅ Full-body ready: Works on face, arms, legs, bikini line, and more.
    ✅ Long-term results: Most users see up to 96% hair reduction after two months.

    It even comes with goggles, a shaver, and a user manual, so you’re ready to go as soon as it arrives.

    ✨ My Final Thoughts

    If you’ve ever wanted smooth, hair-free skin without salon prices, the Ubroo IPL Hair Removal Device is a must-try. It’s safe, effective, and shockingly easy to use.

    The combination of ice-cooling comfort, powerful red-light IPL, and affordable pricing makes it one of the best home devices I’ve found.

    Whether you’re prepping for summer or just ready to ditch shaving for good, the Ubroo IPL helps you look and feel your best—all from the comfort of home.

    ***

    Please note, this is an affiliate link, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    Til next time.