Category: Rebecca Reviewed It

Rebecca Reviewed It: Grand Rapids Lantern Festival

If you are in the mid-Michigan area (or up for a road trip), go check out the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival at the John Ball Zoo. You will not be disappointed. The event is hosted by Family Fare. 

The Lantern Festival started on April 19th but it runs through June 11th. The festival illuminates the zoo Wednesdays through Sundays from 7 pm to 11 pm.

Cost

 If you are a non-member, like me, the cost of the ticket is $22.00. Or for members, the cost is $19.00. But trust me, the price is worth the cost. Children under the age of 2 are free. The tickets are staggered which means your ticket is for a specific time slot. But once you enter the zoo area, you are free to enjoy the exhibit at your own pace. 

Pros

Absolutely beautiful set up of lanterns throughout the zoo. Some of the lanterns move which made my night. 

  • Easy walking area. But be aware the walk throughout the zoo area is at least a mile long.
  • Wheelchair and stroller accessible. 
  • Beverage and food areas are open.
  • The gift shop is open. 
  • Bathrooms are available. 

Cons

Well, if you are not used to walking, the exhibit can seem long. But there are rest areas to stop and take a break if needed. 

  • For younger children, you may want to use a stroller or wagon.  
  • Dress appropriately. The weather was a little on the cooler side the night we went. So, I would take a jacket along. 
  • Rain or shine. It’s Michigan. There are no refunds for rainy days.

Would I go again?

Most definitely. The lanterns lit up against the evening sky were almost magical. The music playing added to the atmosphere of the evening. I would not have any objections to going to this exhibit or a similar one again.

Go check out the Lantern Festival at the John Ball Zoo. Let me know what you think of the experience.

Rebecca Reviewed It: Village of Ashley Country Christmas

Colorful lights, Santa & Mrs. Claus, flame-throwing juggler, Christmas music, and a roaring steam engine, what else do you need on a chilly evening? I went to watch the beautiful Pere Marquette aka the Polar Express thunder into Ashley, Michigan. Carrying passengers to visit a small town completely decked out for Christmas fun.

Where: The train comes from Owosso to arrive in the small Village of Ashley, Michigan. The passengers enjoy about a 1 hour 15-minute ride, stay in Ashley for a couple of hours, then return to Owosso. The public is welcome to enjoy the small town and view the train coming into town.

When: The Polar Express comes into town twice a day every weekend until Christmas.

This is the official pamphlet from the Village of Ashley Country Christmas 2021.

What You View: The town is set up with a variety of little Christmas shops, food, hot cocoa, and activities for the entire family to enjoy. For example Penny Lane has handcrafted gifts to wear. The handmade hats are beautiful and warm.

The lists of little shops and activities within in the town.

Will I Go Again? Most definitely, yes. I would love to see the train arrive after a heavy snowfall. Hopefully Mother Nature and my schedule allow me to do it. Who knows maybe one of these times, I will actually ride the train.

Rebecca Reviewed It: Oh Mi Organics

A couple weeks ago, I went out to eat with my sister and our dad. After the fantastic home-style cooked meal at Dershy’s Cafe, we stopped next door at Oh Mi Organics. Dubbed the Chocolate Studio, Oh Mi Organics provides “chocolate your body understands.”

Now, I do not claim to be a gourmet foodie. But I do know what I like. And, Oh Mi Organics chocolate is in my “like” category.

The General Information

Oh Mi Organics is located at 109 W. Higham Street., St Johns, MI 48879. They serve over 180 different flavors of chocolate. Serving a healthier alternative, many of the premium chocolates are gluten-free, dairy-free, or without peanuts. Along with chocolates, there were a few beverages, cold coffee, and hummus available.

Customer Service

In a word, the customer service was outstanding! The cashier was polite, quick to answer questions, and always had a smile on her face. When she found out, we were first-time visitors, she immediately offered samples.

At first, the customer service representative gave each of us a sample of the base chocolate. Next, the cashier had us test the Neapolitan chocolate. Listening to the instructions of the cashier, we held the chocolate on our tongues. When the chocolate dissolves, we really could taste each flavor. Yes, the flavors were yummy.

Sampling the chocolates!

Will I Return?

Yes! Oh Mi Organics offers a great incentive to return, a punch card. After purchasing 12 dozen chocolates, you receive a dozen of chocolates free. And, every Tuesday is double punch day.

The punch card from Oh Mi Organics.

The outstanding customer service went beyond being inside the store. The packaging of the chocolate was superior. Each chocolate was placed in trays then set inside of a box, for easy travel. The best part, the cashier wrote on the side of the tray to identify the type of chocolates.

Easy identification of each chocolate!

Next time you are in St. Johns, Michigan, do not forget to stop by Oh Mi Organics for great-tasting chocolate.

Rebecca Reviewed It: Loot Crate | Nobody’s Perfect

The subscription box up for review today is Loot Crate’s Nobody’s Perfect. All items in this crate were made exclusively for Loot Crate. If you have not opened or received this box, please stop reading. Spoilers ahead!

I love the stickers that seal these crates. I put them in my scrapbook. (Yes, I am that much of a geek).

Nobody’s Perfect

I admit I love the theme, Nobody’s Perfect for this crate.

Zonko’s Shoelaces

I keep telling myself, I am an adult. I cannot wear Zonko’s shoelaces in public. Yes, I already ordered me a new pair of shoes just for these shoelaces. I figure who is going to notice the shoelaces when I am at community events.

Howler Patch

The Howler Patch of Ron Weasley will make a perfect addition to jean coat. I actually have a jacket just for all the different Wizarding World patches.

Sorting Hat Hogwarts House Heat Changing Mug

I am an avid tea drinker. So I welcome any new mug. I cannot wait to see how this mug changes when I am sipping on my hot tea.

Mischief Managed T-Shirt

The Marauder’s Map t-shirt is lime green. What can I say, numerous Marauder’s Map tees are black or tan. I love the change in color. I definitely will wear this green Mischief Managed t-shirt.

Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes Pin

The Diagon Alley pin is a wonderful addition to my collection. Who wouldn’t want to spend a day at Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes? I can hear Fred and George now, telling Ron the prices of their products.

Pygmy Puff Clutch

The pink, fuzzy Pygmy Puff clutch is my favorite item in this Loot Crate subscription box. Perhaps, I am bringing out my inner child. But I just love it. I decided to store my extra business cards inside.

Am I going to get the next Loot Crate subscription box? As of right now, I am not signed up for the next installment. But I was just looking on their site, I notice the next crate contains the Grimm cup. I do not have one of those in my collection…yet.

Did you get the Loot Crate, Nobody’s Perfect subscription box? What was your favorite item?

Rebecca Reviewed It: Accio! Box | The Steadfast Friend

June’s Accio Subscription Box centers around Ronald Weasley, the Steadfast Friend. From the start, Ron’s friendship with Harry Potter was a major part of the storyline.

Now, if you have not opened your June’s Accio! box, please stop reading. The rest of the blog contains major spoilers.

The Steadfast Friend Unboxing

Deluminator Print

An Accio! box exclusive, the print is a great addition to my wall. Ron knew he wanted to return the moment he left. The deluminator brought him back to his friends.

Angry Letter Sticker Notes

Who does not remember the howler? The sticky notes are a cute copy of the howler sent to Ron by his mother, Molly. I will definitely use the sticky notes. I am always jotting down stuff to remember. Now, only if I can remember to grab my lists before I leave the house.

Another Weasley

The Sorting Hat knew exactly where to put “Another Weasley”. The hologram sticker is a great way to remember the Sorting Hat’s choice. I love stickers. (Yes, I am still a kid at heart). I plan on putting my sticker on my address book.

Protector Stained Glass Pin

The second in the series, the pin shows off Ron’s Patronus, a Jack Russell Terrier. Featuring both the Golden and Silver Trios, I cannot wait to view all six of the pins together.

Chudley Team Tee

The orange tee displays Ron’s favorite Quidditch team, the Chudley Cannons. I like the simple sports team design. I will keep this tee to wear. Often, if I do not like an item, I give the product away. Now, the tee shirts are true to size and made from high-quality material.

Ron’s Sweater

Who wouldn’t want a Weasley sweater? The Accio! box exclusive is a bottle sleeve. Perfect item to keep my pop cold on a warm summer day in mid-Michigan.

Invisibility Booster

The Invisibility Booster is actually a car outlet USB charger. The red button item is my favorite in the box. I cannot wait to use this in my car.

Am I going to purchase the next Accio! box? Yes, I plan to continue my monthly subscription. I want to collect the entire set of pins.

Did you get June’s Accio! box, the Steadfast Friend? I would like to hear your feedback. What was your favorite product?

Rebecca Reviewed It: Accio Box | The Brightest Witch

The Brightest Witch Accio Box is actually from May. I am just behind with my reviews. Of course, the Brightest Witch refers to Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter series. Where would Ron and Harry be without Hermione?

If you have not opened your box from May, please stop reading. The rest of the blog contains spoilers.

The Brightest Witch Unboxing

Yes, I am a fan of Accio box. For those who asked, I pay for the subscription myself. I just like to share my findings.

Wand Bookmark

As a person who loves to read, I welcome new bookmarks. The faux-leather bookmark is perfect with Hermione’s embroidered wand.

Bluebell Flames Drinking Jar

During the summer time, I cannot have too many tumblers. The Accio exclusive jar shaped container is perfect for holding ice tea. I admit, without an accurate description, I would not have guessed bluebell flames.

Hermione Print

I love fan art. The print is Sarah Brown’s version of Hermione. I will definitely display this art on my wall.

Essence of Dittany

The little glass roller contains lavender and peppermint essential oils. Together, the oils produce a sense of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Stained Glass Pin

First, in the series, the pin has Hermione’s Patronus, an otter. The pin is exclusive to Accio. Each pin from the Golden and Silver Trio will produce a circle.

Numerology & Grammatica Notebook

Hermione always had books. This is a replica of one of her textbooks. The faux-leather notebook is my favorite in the May Accio Box. I am always writing down my thoughts. I can never have too many notebooks.

Will I order this subscription box again? Yes. In fact, I already received June’s box.

Did you get the May Accio Box? What was your favorite item?

Rebecca Reviewed It: Accio! The House Pride Box

Today’s unboxing review is of the Accio! Box: The House Pride box. Now, this is only my second subscription box from Accio. So far, I am enjoying the products. I even continued my subscription for next month. For me, continuing a subscription is high praise.

Last month, the box arrived late due to manufacturer’s delay. But, I loved the communication from Accio. I received emails describing the delay. And, for a bonus the Accio team enclosed a special treat in their April Box. I found the entire process extremely professional. Of course, I loved receiving the extra surprise. I plan to snack on the candy while watching, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows later tonight.

April’s Accio! Box

Now, if you have not received your April’s box, please stop reading. Because the rest of the blog contains spoilers.

House Pride Pennant Sticker

The sticker an Accio! box exclusive. Since I am a proud Hufflepuff, my sticker is yellow and black.

House Shield Sunglasses

At the temple of these sunglasses is a small badger representing Hufflepuff. I like these sunglasses. Reminds me of the cheesy sunglasses I use to buy at the fair or dollar store. I am definitely going to wear this pair of sunglasses over the summer.

House Mascot Cotton Backpack

The high-quality backpack is perfect for day trips or overnight stays.

Wizard Sports Striped Socks

I can never have too many socks especially in House colors.

Varsity Letter Patch

I love the varsity letter patch. I am going to have to get a jean jacket or other type of outer wear just to add the patch.

House Unity Tee

The high-quality t-shirt designed by Lauren Fairweather is my favorite addition to April’s Accio! box. I just love the message.

As I mentioned, I already subscribed to next months box. I am curious to see the upcoming theme. Yes, I fully recommend this subscription box to any Harry Potter fan.

Rebecca Reviewed It: Feb. LitJoy’s Young Adult Book Box Subscription

Journey to Belong is the February theme of LitJoy’s Young Adult Book Box subscription. I admit I am well over the age of “young adult”. But I love these subscription boxes from LitJoy.  I currently subscribe to the young adult and the magical subscription boxes. In my young adult quarterly book box subscription, I receive the full crate items. I get the book, related theme items, and usually the add-ons.

Here’s a first peek at the contents of the Journey to Belong subscription crate. If you have not received yours yet, do not go any further. Major spoilers ahead!

I love opening these boxes. The subscription boxes are my treat. I have recently subscribed to a couple more from different companies. I will share my thoughts on those as they arrive.

Contents Included in the Journey to Belong box.

Are you ready?

New York Institutes Photo Strip

Who doesn’t love photo booth images? I remember squeezing into booths with my friends just to make silly faces before the camera snapped the photo. These photos are from our favorites in the Shadowhunters series.

Rapunzel Spoon Rest

This a cute little spoon rest. Currently, the item is not in the kitchen but on my shelf.

Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers Lip Balm

If you have been following the storyline of the Bridgeton family, you already know about Lady Whistledown.

Stalking Jack the Ripper Manicure Set

I love the little manicure set.

His Dark Materials Candle

I am such a fan of candles. This one has glitter.

A Dark Shade of Magic Teacup and Saucer

Teacups and saucers are part of the young adult subscription boxes. I am becoming a big fan of these themed cups.

Here’s a better view of the saucer.

The Golden Flame

I cannot wait to read this book. One of my favorite items in these boxes is the books. If you are a fan of different books, I recommend joining the Lunacorns. When you are a member, you get the normal deals and exclusives like most groups. But you also get access to the Lunacorn group on Facebook.

The best part of the group is the book recommendations. There are so many books and series that are new to me. Without the group, I would not have expanded my reading to different authors.

Umbrella Academy Washi Tape

My penpals are going to love the Umbrella Academy-themed washi tape on their next letters.

The Add-Ons

The add-ons are additional purchases to the LitJoy Crate Young Adult Book Subscription boxes.

New York Institute Polaroid Enamel Pin

New York Institute Rosie Puzzle

The puzzles are fantastic. I am hoping to put them together to eventually hang on my wall.  The one from this box is officially licensed merchandise, created by @rosiethorns88. I love the artwork.

So did you get the box? I would like to know your opinions. My favorite item? Tough choice! But I think, the cup and saucer are my favorite. I am starting a new collection.

Rebecca Reviewed It: LitJoy Subscription Box-Magical Alley

LitJoy has a series of new Magical Subscription Boxes. Now, this is my first purchase of a magical theme box from LitJoy. I cannot even begin to express my amazement. If you are a fan of The Wizarding World, I recommend checking into this subscription box right now. I promise you will not be sorry.

The theme of the first box was Magical Alley. All of the products are high-quality items. The box was just packed. As a subscriber, you have the option to add on products too. If you are a current subscriber who has not received the box, this blog contains massive spoilers.

Here’s the first sneak peek.

Now, the purchase of the box comes with the option of adding on the polybag. I highly recommend getting the bag to protect the artwork on the box.

Last warning, spoiler alert, here are the items in this Magical Alley Subscription Box by LitJoy.

  1. Harry & Hagrid Photo Strip: Can you imagine Harry and Hagrid getting their picture taken on their first trip to Diagon Alley? This is such a cute idea. I can imagine Hagrid squeezing into a photo booth to make a lasting memory for Harry.
  2. Magical Menagerie: As an animal lover, one of my first stops in Diagon Alley would e the Magical Menagerie. Can you imagine all the animals? The three-toed frog is adorable. The collectible box was designed by Tim Beeren.
  3. Collectible Spell Coin: Designed by Maggie Rose Studio, the coin depicts the unlocking charm, Alohomora. Each crate in the Magical Subscription Boxes will contain a magical coin. I cannot wait to see the rest.
  4. Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour: Who wouldn’t want to stop and get some ice cream? Imagine all the witches and wizards passing by the little shop. Of course, sending ice cream would be difficult. Mixed by Riddles Tea Shoppe, the container’s tea bags were made just for the subscription box.
  5. Ollivander’s: Of course, no visit to Diagon Alley would be complete without getting a wand from Ollivander’s. I am impressed with the packaging and the quality of the wand.
  6. Madame Primpernelle’s: The magnificently designed perfume bottle is a great addition to my collection. I cannot wait to use the beautiful bottle in themed photos.
  7. Weasley Wizard Wheezes Staff Pin: Who wouldn’t want to work at Wizard Wheezes? Can you imagine all the fun? The staff pin is a great addition to my collection.
  8. Eeylop’s Owl Emporium: The golden candle carousel is my favorite in the box. I absolutely love this item. I cannot wait to get a little candle to try it out.
  9. Print & Puzzle: The themed art print is definitely going to be a great addition to my bookshelf. The print is also in a puzzle form. I admit I have been picking up extra puzzles lately. Now, I just need to find the extra time to put them together.
  10. Sweets Shop Key (Add on): I love the add-on options. The sweet shop key is magnificent.
  11. Dark Magic Shop Key (Add on): This is a perfect item for photos.
  12. Key Ring for Alohomora Key Add on Collection: This add-on is to place all the keys on from the collection. What a wonderful display idea.

So, did you get the Magical Alley crate? What is your opinion? What is your favorite? I am definitely getting the next one in the series. I was truly impressed by these products.

 

 

Rebecca Reviewed It: The Wizarding Trunk Other World Beast & Arithmancy Crate

I recently received my second crate from The Wizarding Trunk. The title of the crate was Other World Beast and Arithmancy. Here are my thoughts on the contents.

First Peek! Now, if you are still waiting on your trunk, stop here! There are spoilers ahead.

 

  1. Tree Lice: Pure Blood Apothecary created this wonderful Tree Lice potion bottle. I love the potion label. I could definitely vision this as part of a potion master’s supply cabinet.
  2. Today’s Lesson Pin: Sorry for the poor quality photo. The pin slides to one side to review the lesson of the day. I love the pin. But, I can honestly say I would never wear it. The Lesson Pin will be displayed with others that I cannot depart with yet will not wear.
  3. Magical Platypus Wooden Print: J.P. Misslecrow rendition is absolutely stunning.
  4. Leprechaun Gold: Who wouldn’t want some gold? But will this one disappear?
  5. Flesh-Eating Slug Repellent: The Flesh-Eating Slug Repellent’s potion bottle is my favorite item in the entire box. I admit I stared at this for a long time. I cannot wait to use the little green bottle in some upcoming photos.
  6. Negative Energy Reed Diffuser Oil: I am excited to use this Negative Energy Reed Diffuser Oil. The item came with reeds, which will soak up the oil to distribute a scent throughout my home.
  7. Other Worldly Beast Info-Grams: Twillings & Tattings did a fantastic job creating these two World Beast Info-Grams.
  8. Skeletal Horse Paperweight: I am not a paperweight user. But, I did like this skeletal horse paperweight. I plan to just display the paperweight on my shelf. Do you use a paperweight? Am I the only odd person who doesn’t?
  9. Arithmancy Study Guide & Information Sheet: Danny at Wizardry Workshop designed this wonderful guide and information sheet.
  10. Other Worldly Creature Book Cover: Love the foiling on this book cover, designed by Danny at Wizardry Workshop. Now, the cover fits the American edition of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
  11. Antiqued 9 Sided Arithmancy Dice: The 9 sided arithmancy dice looks old with antique coloring. What mystery does the dice hold for you?
  12. Notebook for Other Worldly Creatures: The notebook is my second favorite in the box. I just love the design-perfect for photos or cosplay.

Will I get the next crate? As of right now, my membership is canceled. I do love the products. But my budget is a little tight. I want to have extra money for the upcoming holiday season.

Did you get this crate? What was your favorite?

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