Rebecca Reviewed It – Rebecca's Country Notes

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.

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 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.

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

Rebecca Reviewed It: Hometown 4th

I live in a rural farming area. But I have always considered St. Johns, Michigan my hometown. When I was younger, I spent a lot of my childhood in town. Naturally, when the 4th of July celebration was announced I made plans to go. I am glad I did.

First, I must admit, I am a fan of community events, fairs, and festivals. The celebration in St. Johns did not disappoint. Before heading to the park, we (my cousin and I) stopped at Little Caesars for pizza. The young man that waited on me was polite and professional (a trait, I value in customer service).

My cousin and I met the rest of our family at St. Johns City Park. The Performance Shell area has plenty of room to watch concerts or other events. Many people bring blankets or lawn chairs along. The area also has a small pavilion.

Closer to the road leading into the park are picnic tables for public use. We were lucky enough to find one in the shade. Yes, the 4th of July was a hot day for us in Michigan. Luckily the area is close to restrooms and the playground.

The music, performed by Stone Street Revival, began around 7 pm. I enjoyed listening to the older songs. I found myself singing along to a few of the songs including Sweet Caroline. Yes, I am sorry for anyone who could hear my voice.

Prior to the start of the fireworks, our group moved toward the other end outside of the St. Johns Redwings football field. We had a perfect view of the fireworks display. I do not know if the show impressed me because I had not seen fireworks in years. Or I was simply happy to be out after everything was canceled in 2020. The Rotary Club of St. Johns hosted a wonderful family-friendly evening.

Will I Go Again?

In my opinion, if you can spend an evening with family, eat pizza, listen to music, and watch fireworks, do it. Yes, I plan on attending the 4th of July celebration in St. Johns again. In fact, The Clinton County Arts Council will host different music events throughout the summer at 7 pm on Wednesday nights. I am hoping to attend a few more concerts in the park.

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: 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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sweets Shop Key (Add on): I love the add-on options. The sweet shop key is magnificent.
Dark Magic Shop Key (Add on): This is a perfect item for photos.
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 All Hallows Eve Special Edition

Ok, I admit I was impressed. This is only my second subscription box from The Wizarding Trunk. The All Hallows Eve box is part of their special edition collection. Yes, I did pay more for the special edition box. But I feel the value of the products was well worth the price.

Please be advised, spoilers ahead. If you are still waiting for your special edition box to arrive, stop reading right now.

The All Hallows Eve Special Edition by The Wizarding Trunk

I was lucky this time. The fully packed box came with the cheat sheet card.

My last one did not have one. I had to scramble to figure out the right descriptions for the products.

Vintage Sweet Shop Advertisement Post Card

Can you imagine getting this in the mail for your next shopping trip? Around the edges are lists of products to purchase, including Ice Mice, Jelly Slugs, Every Flavored Beans, Chocolate Frogs, Exploding Bon Bons, and more. I know I would be in line for Chocolate Frogs.

2. Sweet Shop Sucker

Perhaps, this sweet treat came from the shop with the advertisement.

3. Wooden Street Sign

Perfect little sign replica to point the way to the darker type shops, would you go? I know I would. My curiosity would get the best of me; I would want to know what was in each shop.

4. Pumpkin Juice Candle

From the makers of Inflammare Candles, this candle is Toasted Pumpkin Spice. The decor is perfect for both Halloween and the Wizarding World.

5. Replica Pumpkin Juice Bottle

I was absolutely excited to see this Pumpkin Juice Bottle in the All Hallows Eve box. I think this my favorite replica. The Pumpkin Juice Bottle will make a perfect photo prop.

6. Bottle of Bone Regeneration Serum

When I first glanced at this potion bottle, I thought another perfect prop. But the contents are actually usable. Created by Alchemy for the Skin, the bottle contains oil for muscle aches.

7. Vital Incantum Poisons and Cursed Curiosities Catalogue

Created by Danny at Wzady Workshop, the catalog is definitely a fantastic prop to add to my growing collection.

8. Dark Follower Mask

I cannot believe this is my first mask.

9. Troll Salvia

When I first pulled this potion out, I thought Troll Bogeys. But the contents are Troll Salvia. Is that better? The potion bottle is a wonderful addition to my growing collection.

10. The Four Ghosts Pin

The quality of The House Ghosts pin is excellent. Even though I do not wear a lot of pins, I love this one. I will display the pin with the others in my collection.

11. B & B Key

Who wants their own shop? Here’s the key! The B & B Shop key is from one of the shops down the darker side. If you could own one, what would your shop be?

I loved the products in this All Hollows Eve subscription box from The Wizarding Truck. Did you get the box? What was your favorite item?

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