Reviews by Friends of DUISparky

flbeachchic says "Gaylord Opryland Resort is a beautiful place to get away." about Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center - Nashville, TN

flbeachchic — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 22:31:39 GMT

During a trip to Nashville Tennessee, we decided to check out the Gaylord Opryland Resort. The resort from the outside a beautiful site, The architecture is just outstanding. We made our way inside and wow, I was so impressed with everything. Absolutly gorgeous! and thats just from first site. As we walked around and checked out all the wonderful, beautiful flowers and plants, all at a tropical level, and the temp inside the was also very warm and tropical. Waterfalls, streams and ponds, all indoors. There are resturants, such as the Jack Daniels one you can check out. I think this would be wonderful for a couple looking for a romantic getaway, but is it family friendly also. We did not have a room, as I did not even check on the prices, we were just there to look around. If your going to Nashville, this is among just one of the places you have to see. Make sure to bring your camera, youll get some beautiful pictures!

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Meri says "Did I mention how good it is?" about Taco Bell Fresco Steak Taco

Meri — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 22:08:45 GMT

My son, Devin says that all Taco Bell has to offer are different versions of beans, meat, cheese and lettuce. I used to agree. Most items had a similar taste...until now.

Taco Bell has come out with a reduced calorie menu that they are calling the Drive-Thru Diet. There are seven items on the menu including the Fresco Steak Taco. I didn't know what to expect of it but I had a free coupon so I decided to give it a go. Oh, wow. Did I mention how good it tasted? I only ordered the one taco but wished I had ordered two.

The Fresco Steak Taco comes on a soft shell. The steak is marinated and they actually put a generous amount on the taco. The next layer is a generous amount of lettuce- more than a regular taco. Then, comes the Fresco layer of fresh tomatoes and spices. I don't know what the spices are but they are delicious.

Right now you can try them in a combo of two tacos and a large soda for $4.99. Taco Bell also has a printable coupon for a free one so you can taste the deliciousness for...

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AngelaWLaFon says "Ozark Trail Tents: Lightweight, Waterproof & Easy to Put Up" about Ozark Trail 4 Person Dome Tent 8'x9'

AngelaWLaFon — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 20:57:06 GMT

Ozark Trail 4 Person Dome Tent 8'x9'

We've owned several Ozark tents and they have proven to be consistently reliable in many areas.

Ozark tents are:

-inexpensive and easy to find (Walmart usually has them.)

-lightweight (This one is less than 5 lbs.)

-really easy to put up and take down ( One person can do it and with two people it's a jiff.)

-fit back into the original zipper case (Maybe note ever quite a neatly but they do go back in and you are able to zip the carry case.)

-waterproof (So far we've had no condensation inside of the Ozark tents.

Features of the Ozark Trail 4 Person Dome Tent:

-8' x 9'

-"screen" door

-top "rainfly"

-mud flap entry

-side stash compartments for essentials

-overhead net hanger for clothes, etc.

-handled, zipper carry case

-4 stakes and bag

My only issue with Ozark tents and all tents really other than Montana Canvas Company tents are the "person" claims. This four person tent will sleep my husband and I and one puppy or baby perhaps but I don't think any...

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flbeachchic says "The Lost Sea, America's Largest underground lake" about The Lost Sea - Sweetwater, TN

flbeachchic — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 20:51:40 GMT

The Lost Sea adventure located in Sweetwater Tn is registered as a Natural landmark, due to the historical & natural heritage. It is also in The Guinness Book of world records as America's largest underground lake, ( almost 3 football fields long) To view the beautiful caverns and pristine water, you ride on a glass bottom boat, where you can see some of the biggest rainbow trout. The water is located 140 feet below the ground and at a temp of 58', so be sure to bring a sweater.

The rock formations you will see is just breathtaking, Crystal falls is a sight also, beautiful. You can also walk along a tour that will take you back to the days of moonshiners, where you can visit the moonshine area of the caverns, when White Lightning was brewed inside the caverns. You can also see where a Confederate Solider burned the date into the side of a cavern in 1863, the oldest known date in the cave. The date has been carbon tested and has proved to be real. Visit The Old Sweetwater Village...

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flbeachchic says "Penn Station sets the bar high for great Cheesestakes!" about Penn Station Subs - Middletown, OH

flbeachchic — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 19:52:22 GMT

While visiting my sister and her family in Ohio for New Years, my husband and I decided we had to stop at one of our favorite places in Middletown to eat, Penn Station Subs. Its like a treat to us, since we now live almost 5 hours away. The staff is always very friendly and is fast to welcome you to the store.

The only sub I ever get is the famous Cheesestake, in my opinion the best cheesestake I have ever had. Its made with 100% U.S.D.A. choice stake, so tender it melts in your mouth. Covered in fresh provolone cheese, and sauteed onions. You can add mushrooms, peppers, mayo, just about anything you want. They also have italian subs, clubs, rubens, and for vegetarians, they offer a grilled veggie sub. If a sub is not what your craving, they also offer wraps and salads. The fries are always fresh cut as needed and fried in peanut oil, delicious!!

The fresh squeezed lemonaide is always a great addition, or choose from your favorite Pepsi product. Its a family friendly place to enjoy...

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Meri says "Superior Cinnamon makes me look like a Superior Baker!" about Watkins pure ground Cinnamon

Meri — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 15:01:13 GMT

My mother-in-law introduced me to Watkins pure ground Cinnamon in the 70s. It has been a staple of my kitchen ever since. There is definitely a difference that you can smell and taste.

This cinnamon is different from the standard, run-of-the-mill variety. Most stores carry cinnamon that is made from the Ceylon variety. The essential oils in this variety only range from .5% to 2%. Watkins pure ground Cinnamon is made from the Korintje Cassia variety that has a very high oil concentration of 3-3.5%.

Watkins products have been around since 1868. They use only the finest ingredients and are the recipients of numerous awards.

If you don't believe me, try opening a can of Watkins Cinnamon and a can of another brand and just smell the difference. It is amazing. That same difference bakes into your favorite recipes and makes them taste better. People are always asking for my Cinnamon Bun recipe but don't understand when theirs don't taste as good. I tell them my secret- it is all in the Watkins!...

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GrandmawsOpinion says "Outstanding Service and More" about Progress Energy - Raleigh, NC

GrandmawsOpinion — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 12:30:01 GMT

At the end of last year much of the country suffered from severe weather. Western North Carolina suffered from a severe winter storm that resulted in fourteen to twenty inches of wet snow. It bought down power lines, tree limbs which caused numerous power outages. I was personally left without power for eight days. Our county is divided between two power companies. Unfortunately, our provider didn't have the capability of getting our electricity back nor did they have the modern technology to inform their customer when it would be restored.

The energy dividing line is obvious. Across the road our neighbors have Progress Energy. Not only did Progress Energy customers have their power restored quickly they provided them with daily recorded telephone message updates as to when it would be restored. I was very impressed with their state-of-the-art website, consumer service update system via telephone, email and Twitter! Progress Energy was prepared to assist and comfort...

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PattyTherre says "I don't smell the sea or cotton. I smell a strong floral scent." about Bath and Body Works Sea Island Cotton Fragrance Mist

PattyTherre — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 05:28:05 GMT

Quick View: I love fresh scents and can't get enough body mists and sprays that smell fresh, clean, and airy. During a buy 3, get 3 free sale on signature scents at Bath & Body Works, I picked up several items and one was Bath and Body Works Sea Island Cotton Fragrance Mist. With a crisp name like that, how could I go wrong? Well I did. It's very floral. It's fine for those who tolerate floral scents but I can't. Bummer.

My Take on Bath and Body Works Sea Island Cotton Fragrance Mist

This spray comes in a 8 ounce clear plastic bottle. The spray is also clear. When I read the notes, I was excited to try it. I figured all the clean ingredients would certainly overtake the floral accord....

# Fragrance Top Notes: Fresh Bright Floral Accord, Clean Cotton Accord, Drenched Air Accord, Fresh Linen Effect, Wet Green Pear, Blood Orange, Tangerine
# Fragrance Mid Notes: White Muguet, Crisp Orange Flower, Watery Cyclamen, White Freesia, Cotton Blossom Headspace, Dewy Jasmine
# Fragrance Base Notes:...

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pitcherday says "Cleans brushes with no leftover residue, clumping, or breakage" about Bare Escentuals Well Cared for Condtioning Shampoo for Makeup Brushes

pitcherday — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 04:10:32 GMT

The brushes used to apply Bare Minerals make-up are expensive. Also, one brush can be used to apply more than one component of the make-up (the foundations as well as Mineral Veil, Warmth, etc.). They build up with the different mineral powders over time and it can affect the application of Bare Minerals make-up.

I got the Bare Minerals Starter Kit from the TV commercial, but I didn't even think about cleaning the brushes until a saleswoman told me about it at the storefront in the mall. Bare Escentuals makes a brush cleaner and conditioner call Well-Cared For. It's a mild shampoo that comes in a four ounce bottle. When you buy it, it seems a little pricey, but compared to replacing the brushes, it's not that bad.

Once a month, I use Bare Escentuals Well-Cared For cleaner on my make-up brushes. I apply a good amount (how much depends on which brush you are cleaning), rub it in, and rinse with warm water until it runs clear. Reshape the brushes and dry them on a paper towel.

At first, I...

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AngelaWLaFon says "Burt's Bees Lip Balm: Superior Protection for Kisser in Winter" about Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm

AngelaWLaFon — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 02:49:03 GMT

Burt's Bees Lip Balm

We've had 17 days straight here of sledding so you can imagine the cold temperatures we've had but throw in the wind and then the indoor dryness of keeping a wood-stove going all of the time and you've got a recipe for dry, chapped lips. Not here.

We've used Burt's Bees Lip Balm for several years and this winter we stocked up on some of the Burt's Bees Lip Stash Mixed Packs.

Each Burt's Bees Lip Stash Packs- Mixed has a tube of:

Beeswax Lip Balm

Replenishing Lip Balm

Honey Lip Balm

Burt's Bees Lip Balms are made in North Carolina, USA! They use natural ingredients like beeswax and coconut oil, sweet almond oil, peppermint oil, honey and rosemary.

Burt's Bees has eco-friendly packaging. Burt's Bees using soy ink and recylced post consumer waste paper in their packaging.

We found the three packs of Burt's Bees Lip Balm for under $10.00.

I believe that these lip balms are truly superior to other brands. They go on smooth, have a minimal taste and smell and keep...

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Bryan-Carey says "Melissa and Doug World Map Puzzle: Educational, but Flawed" about Melissa and Doug World Map Puzzle

Bryan-Carey — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 02:31:40 GMT

Educational toys are almost always an improvement to the mindless objects commonly passed off as child entertainment. Some manufacturers are known for their educational child entertainment and one of them is Melissa and Doug. One of their many educational tools is the Melissa and Doug World Map 33- Piece Puzzle, a large puzzle that teaches kids world geography.

Puzzle Commentary:

The Melissa and Doug World Map Puzzle is a large, two feet by three feet puzzle (61 by 92 cm) that is large enough that most will assemble it on the floor or on a large table. This world map includes a grand total of 33 pieces, with each of the continents clearly named and identified by a separate color. Individual countries (and U.S. state) boundaries are clearly marked, but individual countries are not named. The oceans include the names and the map is covered with small depictions of animals native to the world’s many lands.

Puzzles are good for developing many skills, but they are even better when...

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Meri says "The most beautiful lake in the world!" about Lake Skaneateles

Meri — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 02:31:04 GMT

Located in the finger lake region of New York State, Lake Skaneateles is sometimes called "The Roof Garden of the Lakes" because it is elevated higher than the rest of the finger lakes. The lake is in three counties: Onondaga, Cayuga, and Cortland. The Victorian homes on the north end make that side of the lake as picturesque as it was in the 1800s.

My husband and I discovered the lake on a genealogy trip in search of seeing where his ancestors had lived in the high town of Spafford. Spafford is located on the east side of the lake. One of his ancestors, Asahel Roundy came to Spafford in 1804 by horseback from Rockingham, Vermont. In 1807, along with a few other settlers, Asahel moved to the Spafford Corners part of town. In 1820, Asahel built the Spafford Hotel and ran it until 1843. He also owned a 100-acre farm near the hotel. He was the first postmaster of the village and the first justice of the peace.

A History of the Town of Spafford says this about Asahel, "Spafford made a good...

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Meri says "Great Variety of Designs ..." about Provo Craft Cuttlebug Embossing Folders

Meri — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 01:07:34 GMT

After using my Sizzix Embossing Machine for a while I was bored with the embossing folders that came with it. I searched my local craft stores and found a couple designs that I liked but was disappointed in the lack of variety that I found. I decided to go online. I found several designs I liked but most were sold out. I noticed that the Cuttlebug brand made embossing folders that looked just like the Sizzix ones and wondered if they would be interchangeable.

I made another trip to the craft stores to check them out in person. Again, I was disappointed in the variety but I discovered that they were the same size and decided to try one. It worked great but the embossing depth was not as good as the Sizzix folders.

Bottomline:

The Cuttlebug embossing folders are the same size as the Sizzix ones and work in the same manner. The designs are plentiful and super cute but the folders are not as sturdy as the Sizzix ones. I found a site that had scads of folders on clearance so I ordered enough...

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KaciOhio says "A good movie w/Nicholas Cage. I recommend it. " about Knowing

KaciOhio — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:08:04 GMT

A disturbed little girl who hears voices and sees strange people back in the 60's is in grade school and has to draw a picture to place in a time capsule at the school. She must draw a picture of the future and what it would look like in 50 years when the capsule will be opened by the new students. Instead of drawing a picture she fills her page with numbers, writing hundreds and hudreds of codes. 50 years later Nicholas Cage's son gets her picture out of the capsule and then it begins. He soon figures out the codes and can tell when future disasters will strike and he feels like this was sent to him so he can save the world. The movie is really great and has you wondering about all kinds of things and then comes the end which goes way off track and hits you with.....well.....something very odd and just doesn't seem like it fits in the movie. Goes way sci-fi. Something you just wouldnt expect. It doesn't make the movie bad or stupid it just gives you one of those "omg" endings. Its not...

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KaciOhio says "This movie had me out of my seat in the first 20 minutes!" about changling

KaciOhio — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 23:59:16 GMT

Changling. A Clint Eastwood movie starring Angelina Jolie. Brilliant! He took a complete true story and filmed it amazingly! It starts off slow, kinda boring but easy to follow. A mother who loves her son, lives only w/her son and they have only each other. The son gets taken and she desperately is trying to find her son. They find her son, give him back and it's not her son....or is it? Is she confused? After 5 months the boy has changed....or has he? I won't tell you any more of the story but its a great one! Clint Eastwood knows how to make you so mad in the first few minutes of a movie, I wanted to jump off the couch and start screaming at the television! I felt her pain for wanting her son back!! Then when she gets her son back your screaming at the tv that that isn't her son!! Then after a few more minutes your not sure anymore.....lol It's GREAT! This movie takes place in 1928 I believe and the end has you thinking. Its GREAT! If you have a chance to see this movie watch it!!

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KaciOhio says "A Question & Answer session w/Kevin Smith. Excellant!! " about Sold Out- A Threevening with Kevin Smith

KaciOhio — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 23:51:25 GMT

Kevin Smith has made Clerks, Jay & Silent Bob movies, Chasing Amy and recently Zach & Miri. He is Silent Bob in his movies and loves to direct and act. This 3 hour long comedy/question and answer session is great. For his 37th birthday Smith goes back to his home town and tells it all. Anything you want to ask him he answers and straight out. He isn't afraid to let loose and tell you the truth. He is blunt, foul, crazy and very expressive!! There is horribly bad bad BAD language in this dvd, gross stories and hilarious jokes and true things that have happened. If you love the movie Live Free or Die Hard he tells the tale of helping write lines for the movie and his time with Bruce Willis as well as others. Its very long but you don't want to turn it off, its great. I love Smith and almost all his movies. If you like Jay and Silent Bob then your gonna love this guy!! It does get boring when he rambles on about his dogs but other than that its good.

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pitcherday says "Just as good as regular brownies!!!" about No Pudge Fudge Fat -Free Fudge Brownie Mix

pitcherday — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 23:32:47 GMT

Well, I am trying to watch what I eat, but still... I love to have a little something sweet every day. Even a fun-size candy or a few M&M's. I need a little sweetness.

While looking for something sweet in the local supermarket, I spied the No-Pudge fat-free cappuccino brownie mix. It said all you had to do was add some fat-free yogurt and you were good to go. "Yes" I thought "this is worth a try." I wasn't too excited that cappuccino was the only flavor my store offered, but I went for it.

I only needed to buy a one-serving sized cup of fat-free vanilla or French vanilla yogurt. The mix calls for 5 1/3 oz of yogurt. The cup I got was 6 oz. I didn't measure it, I just left a little in the cup. At first, I thought there was no way that the little bit of yogurt in that bowl of dry mix was going to make a batter. When I mixed it, it turned into chunks, then crumbles, and then amazingly, a smooth batter! I just stirred it with a wooden spoon, not an electric mixer. It doesn't say not to use...

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Meri says "Addictive Family Fun Made Easy!" about Cardinal Mexican Train Game

Meri — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 23:28:37 GMT

Years ago we learned to play Mexican Train with a set of double colored dominoes and pennies for the trains. The rules were passed down through memory. After a number of years I discovered and bought a battery operated "train station" that whistled when the middle was depressed at the end of each hand. It also came with little plastic colored trains that made the game a lot more fun than using pennies. Still, after several more years I discovered the Cardinal Mexican Train Game that took all of the game components and housed them in an adorable silver suitcase along with game scorecards.

This game is equally fun for an evening with friends or family. All ages will love it and maybe make it their favorite game. The rules of the game are easy to understand and once a practice hand or two are played strategy begins. Sometimes you'll win. Sometimes you'll lose because no matter how good of a strategist you may be, luck comes into play.

The object of the game is to discard all of your dominoes....

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Jo says " Quick Top Can Cap: best invention under $2.00" about Compac Industries Quick Top Can Cap

Jo — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 21:22:27 GMT

To the Point

Although the Quick Top Can Cap is an "as seen on TV" product, I picked it up in Wal-Mart. I was looking for inexpensive soda can tops but found the Quick Top Can Cap instead. I hesitated because it was over $2.00. I thought that a lot for what seemed to be a plastic top but it is so much more and really worth the money.

A Closer View

The Quick Top Can Cap was really a necessity for me. We are on the road traveling so I can put the cap on my soda and not be afraid of taking a drink and having it all over me. We also pull a travel trailer. I made the mistake of putting an open soda in the refrigerator.

I love using the Quick Top Can Cap on the beach or outside. I put the can in the arm of my chair and feel as if a bug or bee won't fly in my can.

The Quick Top Can Cap is amazingly versatile. The cover acts as both a cover and a coaster. The can seals into the cover so it stays put. The cap can also be used as a cup.

The Can Cap is dishwasher safe though I have only washed...

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PattyTherre says "Fakery at its finest. This Ugg boot site LOOKS legit but is NOT!" about bestuggsell.com

PattyTherre — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 03:24:52 GMT

Quick View: I have written a lot about Uggs and Ugg-Alike boots. I have an obsession with them. Imagine my delight when I saw that Ugg Australia website was having a great sale on the most popular styles of Uggs! Then I discovered a very sneaky plot to make people BELIEVE they are on the Ugg Australia website when, in fact, they are on a Chinese site that claims nowhere that the boots they sell are authentic.

My Take on bestuggsell.com

I clicked on an ad that showed a pair of Uggs at a great price. I was delighted to see some great sales on the Ugg Australia website. I decided to splurge and buy a pair of classic cardy Uggs since the price was discounted so much. Then I decided to go through a cash back site to get even more savings.

I went to Bing's cash back, logged in, and clicked on Ugg Australia. It took me to the exact site but the prices were different. Hmm. I went to the site I had been looking at and, sure enough, it was exact -- same logo, same photos, same everything -- but the...

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