American Airlines Service Sucks

Another disaster flying an American flight in first class with American Airlines unable to provide sufficient bandwidth on an HNL to LAX flight (16 August 2022). It really doesn't take much for American airline businesses to provide superior anything; that is unless you're flying AA. What corporate operation head holds such a position that the responsible head does not have a clue how to assure sufficient inflight broadband, should be terminated. You're on nearly a five hour flight back, and unable to watch or listen to entertainment. Wait, AA though makes sure you're forced to watch three of it's BS commercials though beforehand with broadband. Then bam, the cocktail waitress in the sky delivers, "Unless you jump on real fast there are those who cannot connect through."

Throwing salt on the wound. The inflight entertainment and information pamphlet doesn't state access is limited. It's a WTF? This type of poor service reminds me of my last International business class flight in January 2020 on Cathy Pacific. Horrible all around BS nothingness fisted without pre-greasing first. AA offers nothing special in the air or on the ground. EVA blows evey American airline business out of the air. Heck, PAL blows them out of the air as well. AA is the last airline I would recommend anyone flying. Thank you AA for turning what I was hoping to be a great experience cap into one of FU American Airlines. Good job on proving support that the American airline business is just as horrible as ever. 

Frigidaire Gallery - 24" Built-In Dishwasher with Dual OrbitClean® Wash System Review

Bought a new Frigidaire dishwasher and it was installed on 22 December 2021. The quick cycle that the install person ran did not reveal the leak. Welp, all 11pm on 23 December 2021 when the full cycle was run was OMFG. Water gushing out from the bottom. Now, I am sure you could imagine the nightmare mess happening. Tried getting in touch with Frigidaire with only to hear closed for the holidays on 27 December 2021. Avoid buying from this company. BAD CUSTOMER SUPPORT, AND SELLING PRODUCT THAT IS NOT CHECKED FOR QUALITY. JUNK! AVOID!

PS - Frigidaire blocks my truthful review of this junky dishwasher on its website as it violates Frigidaire's standard. Beware folks. Beware.

Cathay Pacific Airlines Fails Business Class

Travel is a gift. Every touch point should evoke a different sense of excitement and thrill. Air flights are the beginnings of many touch points, and options for comfort exist. International business class is not all equal. Here's my optic of Cathay Pacific Business Class LAX-HKG-BKK and the return BKK-HKG-LAX.


How excited we were to by chance be able to save our vacation travel from headaches and fly Cathay Pacific. Originally, we were set to fly PAL Business Class thru Manila to BKK; however, the Taal Volcano threw us a curve ball four days before our journey was to begin. In desperately search for an alternative carrier that would align with existing connections in BKK as well as return accommodation in BKK, Cathay Pacific held the flights. Without hesitation we booked. Now, we are not novices to International Business Class travel. EVA is our most preferred carrier, but its flight schedule did not align with our awaiting connection in BKK. We had always said that we should fly Cathay Pacific to see how it compared. It was only just nine months earlier we flew PAL for the first time, and were pleasantly surprised. With that being said, we were under impression that Cathay Pacific held one up on EVA. So, perhaps Cathay Pacific would be our new go to first before EVA. Let us begin.

Flight CX881 15 Jan 20
LAX-HKG departed on time. That's always a good thing. The business seat though lacks lumbar support (see photo). The amenity kit was marginal stocked with a toothbrush kit, 15ml mouthwash, Bamford hand cream plus lip balm as well as hydrating face spray, sleep mask, and earplugs. Other marginal amenities were a pair of small disposal slippers that are not quite sized to accommodate a wide foot market, and a comforter. No pajamas here folks on this long haul as EVA, but to be fair PAL lacks PJs as well. Good thing though I brought a heavy cotton sweater as the cabin is kept cold, like cold cold. You learn these little things as you travel. Not all carriers maintain comfortable air. Movie selection at first appears to be vast, but upon further review, Maleficent was the only recent movie. I'm not on top of trending movies, so I named Maleficent due to TV commercial exposure. The rest are older releases with some that are ancient. Ah, not something expected. Please take time to learn what customers are seeing at the movies. A note about the interactive monitor, it is sluggish to the point of freezing up at times while scrolling. What type of dated software operating system is being used? Just saying.
The dinner options were typical. Local food with some Western. When the flight attendant came to take my dinner order, she asked if I would like the burger. My mind was like WTF? She then asked if I would like the seared chicken breast. That received a no. She actually look stunned and finally asked what I would like. I think she must have been Bslapped surprised when I ordered fish ball tung choy choy soup. For beverages, I ordered French Burgundy and water. BTW, NO flight attendant comes around asking if you would like more wine. WTF? Dessert taken was cheeses along with fruit, and I asked for a cordial cointreu. Another look of like OMG I have to work. With the flight leaving almost at midnight, there was no pre cordial anything which was not expected either. So many touch points missed. Remember this is International Business Class, not American/United/Delta domestic make believe first.

A tablecloth is laid, but do not get excited. Food is divied up on a luncheon tray. Excuse me! We're flying International Business Class on Cathay Pacific, not China Eastern. The food had good flavor, but there is no individual salt or pepper shakers. There goes another touch point. After meal I went to the restroom to brush my teeth. I expected it to be stocked with extras as well, but not. The restroom was basic with two soaps and some hand cream. There is no extra mouthwash, or travel kit material such as toothbrush, toothpaste, or even single use shavers. Heck, even Asiana and Korean Air restrooms contain along with EVA and PAL stocking extras. Remember, Cathay Pacific ranks number four airline according to SkyTrac. I did ask a crew member for extra mouthwash. She searched high and low. Nope, there is nothing extra to be sourced on this carrier. Remember, Cathay Pacific ranks number 4. One side note, a 500ml bottle of Evian water is provided. One has to give that to an attendant for refill. The refill though was not Evian. How do I know? I asked for a refill by going up to the galley area where all good little flight attendants herd avoiding customers. I was told to bring my empty bottle up where it was refilled with basic bottle water. My eyes were shocked. Okay, I know don't be that picky. However, this carrier is bloated with reviews that do not reflect its actuality.

After taking sleep, a morning meal was served. I did prefill my request. Same issues as with dinner service, so no need to redredge. Beyound four plus touchpoints and missed superior service achievement on this particular leg.

CX615 17 Jan 20
HKK-BKK proved to be a tad better in flight service. Seats in business were not all occupied, so perhaps that was why. I had the dim sum for meal. Eh, was it purchased from Costco? Maximums is in HKG airport, go eat Dim Sum there.

Returning.
CX700 30 Jan 20
HKG-BKK was similar as before. I had asked to speak with the head flight attendant about why I received an HTML email from Cathay Pacific in Chinese. The tickets were purchased in US. All contact information is US. All communication email up to 27 Jan 30 are in HTML English. She had no idea and a bit confused why too. We also shared with her our initial optics of the company she works for. Sharing the impersonalness, the lack luster. She got pulled away because of the Captain, and I could hear her mention something to an attendant about my optics. About a minute later, an attendant came up asking me if I wanted a drink to calm down. I could only chuckle to myself, and tell the attendant that her boss clearly failed to grasp what I was sharing about Cathay Pacific. I certainly was not wanting booze at 8:20am. She said she would let her boss know. After takeoff the head flight attendant returned. We both went over with her the lackluster of hype about Cathay Pacific. She got it and was a bit of a taken back. I told her that she clearly should go experience EVA or even PAL service delivery. I even told her PAL may not have the most up to date business aesthetic cabin on all it's planes, but the personalness along with not serving food on a cafeteria tray are better presentation than Cathay Pacific's presentation. Yes, again I know it reads picky; however, I've been flying International business class for almost 30 years. Many airlines fail and many continue to fail presentation.

CX882 30 Jan 20
HKG-LAX held the same boring nothingness service as the outbound. After dinner, another round of hot towels were passed. The one I received was ice cold. I brought it to an attendant's attention. She tried to pass the buck on it being how the towels are stacked. Excuse me? Why is that my concern, and why did the young man who brought the towels fail to twice check that the towels were correct for delivery. I went to use the restroom and it was not stocked with cups. Do no attendants service the restrooms? Eww. There goes beyound countable touch points.

So here as I write, we are 35 minutes before landing. Would I fly Cathay Pacific again? No. Why would I go out of my way to recommend Cathay Pacific as I do with other international business class service carriers such as EVA, Korean Air, PAL, JAL, KLM, Asiana? No. Will I share my experience flying on Cathay Pacific with someone who asks have I ever flown? Yes. Just now as I sit finishing this, an attendant came by asking may she collect my glassware. I said yes. She stood there with her tray awaiting me to place on. Why did I have to do her job?

So, this was my experience flying International Business Class on Cathay Pacific ranked number four carrier by SkyTrax. How it ranks higher than EVA, I scratch my head. Perhaps the flyers skytrac asks are the problem, or perhaps the questions asked are not the right ones. As for Cathay Pacific, I'm willing to bet that it will remain as it is. One thing for us is that we don't repeat sloppy. Safe travels! And, there is nothing special about flying Cathay Pacific International business class.

1941 Armenian Potato Recipe

There is nothing more enjoyable than a delicious potato recipe, and my twist on this Armenian classic is one for the cookbooks.  Most recipes are bland when it comes to potatoes, or over compensated with fat. Armenian potatoes are far from bland or over fatted. These treasured flavors float between middle eastern and western worlds, while simplicity of ingredients delivers a pallet of delight. Best make enough because there won’t be any leftover. My healthy old world recipe will perfectly compliment your favorite demanding dinner meats, guaranteed. 

Honda North America Bites

Had to end call from Tony, Regional Case Manger, American Honda. Smart mouthed young man that keeps interrupting, and does not listen. OMG! I wrote to the eight board member by certified mail. Each letter was signed. If you want to gain access to the tracking numbers HMU. Each letter contained the same verbiage. Here’s one of them.

17 February 2016
Board member: Thomas G. Elliott, Exec. VP, American Honda Motor Co.
Honda North America, Inc.
700 Van Ness Ave
Torrance, CA 90501

RE: 2015 Honda Fit LX. VIN: 3HGGK5G55FM733627

Dear Board Member Thomas G. Elliott:

To get started right off, here I am another day with inferior HandsFreeLink firmware in my Honda. It has taken me a couple weeks to cool down, so I could write this letter. This type of situation is not what I expected from Honda when I purchased my new FIT LX in 2015. Let me take you through my frustration, and I ask you to image if it were you.
Back on 16 January 2016, I took my FIT in for the Rear Grab Handle Brackets and Outer Handle Corrosion Recall. At that time, I also made Spreen Honda (the dealer who I purchased the car from) aware that the car’s HandsFreeLink fails to properly pair fully. The call audio pairs; however, the media audio gets caught in a firmware looping error. When I first paired my LG V10 (running android lollipop 5.1.1), it paired perfectly. That as it may, upon turning off the car and then restarting, is when the pairing loop error showed its ugliness.
I vocally insisted, Jim Schultz (Service Manager, Spreen Honda), become involved. See, I was provided a loaner car when I brought the car in for service due to how long the recall would take to be corrected. Spreen Honda’s loaner car HandsFreeLInk did not exhibit the looping error. That was odd as I would have expected it to have the same issue should it be the phone. At the same time, I was also speaking with Honda Automobile Customer Service. CS agent, by the name of Grace, tried to help; but she had to turn the HandsFreeLink issue over to Amanda in tech support. Amanda, on 19 January, called me and stated that the dealership had to contact tech support. Mr. Schultz knew I was speaking with Honda Automobile Customer Service, and I believe he was of mindset that with two voices Honda might resolve.
On 20 January, I received this email from Mr. Schultz.
“Hi Darryl,
After going round and round with Honda Technical. They want me to try your phone in a 15 or 16 Fit to see if it works?
I was going to arrange for this car to be driven to you and test.
On 21 January, I received this email from Mr. Schultz.
“Hi Darryl,

I have arranged for a test vehicle to be driven out to your location Friday Morning. Please let me know if that day will work for you and the address the car will be at with your assistance providing yourself and your phone.

On Friday, 22 January, Mr. Terry from Spreen Honda arrived at my residence with a 2015 Fit EX. The HandsFreeLink paired flawlessly. I showed Mr. Terry the firmware looping error on my Fit LX, and he said that Mr. Schultz would resolve my problem.
Almost a week passed, and I had starting doing my own research about Honda’s HandsFreeLink Bluetooth pairing issues. Each online forum I located was full of complaints about Honda’s HandsFreeLink poor quality and lack of anything. I now began to think holistically about brand Honda, and warm fuzzy was not showing its face. Doing a bit more research, I also contacted a local aftermarket specialty audio dealer. I explained my issue, and the owner shared with me that my story of Honda’s HandsFreeLink pairing problems are not the first he heard. He invited me over to checkout a Kenwood DDX9703S currently installed in a car assuring me 100% that its Bluetooth audio is fully compatible, and has all the extra feature capabilities to support my Fit LX steering wheel controls as well as rear camera. Now as anyone of you would do, I went and checked it out. Just as with Spreen Honda’s loaner car, and the 2015 Fit EX that Mr. Terry brought out to my house, the aftermarket audio Bluetooth paired flawless.
On 28 January, I received this email from Mr. Schultz.
“Hi Darryl,

So after going round and round with technical support at American Honda. They are requesting that you bring the car back and we try pairing it again while we are communicating with tech line. 

I am just doing what is instructed by American Honda so I hope you can understand my frustration as well as yours. My goal is to get you fixed and singing to the music...

Thank you and Respectfully,

I drove into Spreen Honda that morning. Both Mr. Terry, and Mr. Schultz greeted. Mr. Schultz said that a Honda North America rep by the name of Marcel was there as well. There I was with high hopes that Honda is going do the right thing, but no. Instead, Mr. Schultz said after less than 30 minutes, “Honda can do nothing because the HandsFreeLInk in the LX model is inferior to the EX or loaner car model.”

Marcel was outside, and he approached after Mr. Schultz delivered Honda’s blow. He did not care for my tonal values, and quickly removed himself without care or solution alternate to help resolve. Imagine, there I was frustrated and blown off by a Honda Corporate representative afraid to engage with the customer standing in front of him. WOW! At that moment I knew that Honda’s Brand is not what it claims. This spoke volumes, which I now share. 

When I returned speaking with Mr. Schultz to learn how much it would cost to swap out the HandsFreeLink with a unit that did not have looping errors, Marcel quickly turned about to inject he (Jim Schultz) could not do that. Already being infuriated at Marcel’s lack of my concern, I scolded him firm by telling him I was speaking with Mr. Schultz and not him. Mr. Schultz went inside with Marcel, and came back with a laughable price of $3,200. I shared with Mr. Schultz that a local aftermarket audio dealer has a Kenwood system with more bells and whistles at under $1,000 installed. Mr. Schultz reserved comment stating his hands are tied.

I shared with both Marcel and Mr. Schultz before departing, on a scale of five stars, I can only give Honda two at best. As of the date of this letter, the situation with the HandsFreeLink still makes my temper rise. Never in my wildest dreams would I have suspected Honda to provide inferior Bluetooth firmware, let alone have a representative make me feel like I was stupid for not buying a different model. Is this how Honda trains its representatives? Does Honda purposefully not disclose that its HandsFreeLink Bluetooth systems are not equal? What if this were you? All the HandsFreeLink system needs is a firmware update. If this is not possible, I request that Honda cover my out of pocket expense for the Kenwood DDX9703S; or, swap out the unit.
Additionally, I also request that Marcel be placed back into training. He fails to understand that he should welcome customer feedback, whether positive or negative, stern or praising, and learn to think on his feet instead of dodging complex situations coming up solutionless .
I respectfully request to hear back from Honda North America, Inc. 15 business days upon receipt.
Sincerely,

I am requesting to hear from the Board Members NOT A REGIONAL CASE MANGER. Don’t buy your next Honda without making sure.

UPDATE 25 February 2016 from FaceBook Response:

Honda Hello and thank you for reaching out. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this situation may have caused you and understand you frustration. The contact information to a Honda associate is proprietary information and we are unable to provide it. You may mail us at 1919 Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90501-2746 Mail Stop 500-2N-7A. 

In this situation we act as a liaison between you, your local Honda dealership, and the regional Honda representative assigned to that dealer. After thoroughly reviewing the documentation of your specific situation your case manager provided you and your local Honda dealership American Honda's official position. If you would like more information on our position we'd recommend contacting your case manager at 1800-999-1009 opt.7 and referencing your case number.  Being that Honda dealers are independently owned and privately operated business entities, we'd recommend you continue working with them if you are seeking further assistance in addressing this concern. If you are unsatisfied with our position you are always welcome to refer to your consumer rights handbook located in the glove compartment of your vehicle. ^GR

Like · Reply · 1 hr

My Response: Read the letter. It has nothing to do with the dealership. This deals with Honda. Screen Honda I have no issue with. Honda America’s Board of Directors were sent certified return receipts to the corporate address. Each one was signed. When a letter is addressed to Board Members, it is expected that the Board respond. Not a response from a Regional Case Manager. Honda’s ability to read, listen, and shrug off represents consumer demoralization.

Honda just keeps failing to listen. Amazing.

Paradise, Ngwesuang Beach

Have you ever just wanted to get away? No, I mean really get away. I know of a place that sits at the tip of the Bay of Bengal where Internet is almost non-existent, time is measured not by a clock but by sun up to sun down, and the water is as cozy as the air. It is here where remote pale sandy beaches are back dropped by tropical forest. If it is rest and unplugged relaxation that you search for in a vacation, look no further than NgweSaung, Myanmar (Burma).

Allegiant Airline Review Failed To Pass

I took a day before writing this review of Allegiant Air because I didn’t want to review bias. The flight experience is broken down into two areas. The first being customer service. Second is inflight experience. I feel that for travelers interested in flying Allegiant to choose informed. Allegiant Air is a very basic airline that charges for everything, including extra for emergency rows seats that have extra leg room as well as water. Yes, I said water.

Best Grilled Corn On the Cob Recipe

Sometimes the simplest of simple cooks are the most delicious. Grilled corn on the cob is one of those most delicious simples. I’m fortunate to live in a part of the U.S. where it is abundant almost year round. Now, I used to be someone who first shucked and then de-silk. Worse, was when my native neighbor witnessed me boil the corn. I though he would never stop laughing. Well, I was raw when it came to how to prepare corn back then. Now, I cannot take full credit for my how to prepare the best corn on the cob without saying thank you to Derrick. My preparation retains all of those antioxidants, vitamins and minerals you want. So the next time you are going to be grilling, be sure to grill some corn as well.

Spreen Honda Wants To Sell Cars

It has been about three weeks since I purchased my new FIT. Buying a car is not something I or anyone wants to do. What I found common across dealership websites, is that what is shown online lacks details along with online help far from helpful. Hell, Spreen Honda’s online help was subpar too. I digress. After attempting online help, I decided to call.  A pleasant woman answered the phone, answered my questions, and scheduled me to come in. I’ve never heard of having to schedule an appointment before going to a dealership showroom, but all is good. Before making the drive in, I wanted to stop by my local VW dealership. My other car is a VW, and I do enjoy it so. That did not pan out. The sales manager was like, here’s your price. I was like; well, here’s what I was thinking. He sat back straight up and said, "we’re to far off.”

I just got up and walked out. Since when is $2000 far off, and where was the volley back? Any how, my cell was ringing off the hook. It was Spreen Honda wanting to know if I was still coming. I was like, yes. I had an unexpected side stop.

Camelot Chardonnay Review

Back on my quest to find a chardonnay that I can stock as a simple everyday table wine, which doesn’t break the bank. I came across Camelot. This wine boasts notes of apple, pear, and pineapple with a toasted oak creaminess. Well, it actually does. I enjoyed this surprise standalone chilled at 58°. The flavors are stable with a slightly dry finish.

I would have loved to taste more of the creamy toasty oak, but its recognized flavor character is well appreciated. A surprise again for a central coast wine. I recommend giving this wine a try. Overall, it’s a good find that’s not going to bust the bank.

I give ★★★.

Elantra Car Rental Review

Last week was a week of weeks. On Monday, I got caught with a flat. After having AAA change to the donut tire, and steering me toward Express Tire for a patch. I found myself Tuesday afternoon staring at the same tire going flat. Ugh! Using my smartphone smartly, I located a Goodyear tire franchise about 5 miles away. Darting over, Daniel’s Goodyear graciously opened its door to handle my tire warranty. Yes, I buy road hazard for tires. The bummer was that the tire had to be brought in. Stress mounted, and I turned to my smartphone again to find a car rental at 3:15PM. Enterprise monopolized search, and there was a location practically right down the road from where I was at.

SweetTalk Brand Anti Plaque Dental Rinse Review

I have been using SweetTalk now for the past eight years. No, it’s not a glorified brand like its competitor; however, it performs par equal. Prior to using, I used the brand name one. Each time I went back to the dentist to get my teeth cleaned,  I heard the same blah blah. You need to use anti plaque dental rinse, floss, and a plaque fighting mouthwash. My response back was always the same. I do all that twice daily.

So, that was the tipping point for me because apparently the brand name stuff wasn’t all it claims to be. I came across SweetTalk while picking up some stuff at my local dollar store. Stop right there with you thinking you cannot buy quality anything from a dollar store. Yes, you can. You have to read ingredients, and do some math to make sure you’re getting a "deal". The end of the story goes like this. Since I’ve been using SweetTalk, I don’t hear my dentist’s hygienist blah blah about my plaque any longer. Quiet the opposite. My cleanings now are barely nothing, and changing brands of anti plaque rinse was all I changed. Even the dental peeps have a hard time wrapping their heads around it, but I’m the wiser for trying something different that is half the cost of the name brand.

I give ★★★★.

Upside Down Caramel Muffins

I love going through my grandmother’s old recipes. They are old world delicious. I wanted to make a sweet treat, so I sifted through her recipes coming across upside down caramel muffins. Having never made muffins from scratch, I wanted to give a try. Now, I did improvise because I don’t own individual muffin rings to bake with; so instead, I used a cupcake pan.

When I peeked at the muffins baking, each one bubbled as the bottom caramelizes into the muffins diffusing the most wonder smell of yum. This recipe makes six, and can easily be doubled or tripled.

Upside Down Caramel Muffins Straight From Oven Cooling

Here is what you need for the muffin mix:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/4 tsp. sea salt
• 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1 medium egg
• 1 TSBP. shortening
• 2 TSP. brown sugar
• 1/2 cup sweet cream milk

Prepare the cupcake pan:

1st, lightly grease each form.
2nd, lay 1/2 tsp. of butter in each form.
3rd, place 1/2 tsp. of brown sugar on top of the butter.

Make ready the muffin mix:

1. Beat eggs, salt, and milk with a folk. 
2. Melt shortening (I microwaved for 20 sec.), add in brown sugar, and add that to the egg mix.
3. Fork all together for 15-20 seconds (I count to time it).  

Sift flour, baking powder, and cinnamon together, then add into egg mix. Now, fold together until all dry ingredients become moistened. Don’t over do it because her side notes state it will cause the dough to become toughened.

Hey, I’m a believer never to stray from my grandma’s instructions.

Fill each cupcake form with batter just a bit more than half way. Bake at 425° for 20 minutes. Once done, let cool for 3-5 minutes; then remove from pan.  Enjoy this nummy treat as much as I.

Homax Porcelain Chip Fix Review

Last weekend I found myself having to fill a nick inside my porcelain bathroom sink. Letting my fingers do the searching and reading product claims plus reviews, I decided on Homax Porcelain Chip Fix because of it being a two part epoxy. Majority of the reviews I read complained about the product not drying and remaining gummy, but that is impossible when an epoxy is correctly mixed. This means you have to accurately measure. Now, I’m also not disillusioned about the color white. There are just as many shades of white as there are any colors out there. I’ll talk more about that in a minute.

The product instructions are straightforward, so do read it twice over to be sure you do grasp what its specifying.  I say it like that because apparently this must not be occurring else complaints about the product not drying would not exist. Since, I only had a small nick I only needed to prepare a small quantity. I mixed one drop of epoxy plus three drop of the porcelain because there is .14oz of white epoxy and .04oz of harder in the kit. That’s a 1:3 ratio mix. Following instructions, I allowed the preparation to setup, and applied two applications using a script liner brush (not the brush included in the kit) that I further hand trimmed down to the size I wanted. Because of the small quality and size of repair, I used the brush that came with the kit to thoroughly mix together the two parts.

Referencing back to the color white I earlier mentioned, Homax’s white is not a dead ringer. Homax’s white is blue base, so it is brighter than my ceramic porcelain white sink that is violet-yellow base. Keep that in mind when using because its color exactness is probably not going to be perfect. After the product thoroughly dried (overnight), the finish was just as hard as my porcelain sink; however, the color remained brighter than the current sink white. I’m not disappointed by its performance, and hope that one day Homax will provide a wider white base color selection for a better color match. So, don’t believe all the whiny reviews because the product does perform as Homax claims.

I give this product ★★★1/2.

Travel To Seminyak, Bali Is A Must

Everything about this place is almost true. Bali is a bit off the beaten path for most, but do put it on your get to place before you get to old. Seminyak is the “Beverly Hills” of Bali. It’s north west of Denpasar and north of Kuta. Denspasar is the capital, and not exactly where you’d want to hangout. Kuta is less pricier than Seminyak, but the atmosphere is in Seminyak. I stayed in a private villa with onsite maid, and private pool. The property was less than a five minute walk to the beach, and the privacy of the villa was exactly what I wanted. Seminyak offers plenty of eating options plus nighttime entertainment. Being a bit of a foodie, I tried to eat at almost all the local warungs in the area for either lunch or dinner. A warung can be a street side food stall to more traditional sit down “restaurant”.  To be honest, the more authentic the warung was the better the food tasted. Do be sure to have grilled BBQ fish and steamed oysters at the night market on Jalang Nakula (Rhuma Makan). It’s yum yum yummy. Another must place to eat at is Queen’s Tandoor. The Indian food served up there is beyond delicious. It’s white linen served up all the way including cocktails to die for. Hands down, the most authentic Indian food outside of Deli that will have you licking the plates asking for more.

Bali's biggest disappointment was not being able to use the beaches. Sure you can rent a chair and layout, but the Indian ocean has a nasty undertow plus rip current. If you’re a surfer, it’s prime. I’m more the float and swim type, so the ocean is where Bali failed for me. As with most beaches in that part of the world, do expect locals to approach you offering trinkets for sale. Be sure to buy something, and haggle on price. The people are very friendly, and speak English too.

Now, I did take full advantage of seeing the island with a private guide. I did five separate excursions. All tours can be arranged once there, so no need to prearrange before hand. You can customize what you want to see. For instance, I wanted to buy some Bali flags to replace what I already owned. I was taken to the village where they are made. Get the idea. Be prepared though because Bali traffic is the nightmare. I’m used to clogged CA freeways, but that’s nothing to what Bali has. An eight to 10 hour day trip will be at least five hours in thick traffic. The roads that course the outer part of island are not able to handle the sheer volume. Once off the main roads, the back inner roads to the villages and sites are fine. Do be patient because it just takes time to get to where you are going. The roughest inner roads were up in the rice terrace region. Hold on tight is all I will say. Also, getting a full understanding of the Hindu religion is not going to happen. Sure, the guide tells you what you are seeing; however, the depth of understanding of what you are seeing lacks. Nevertheless, you’ll enjoy as I did the exotic tranquility of the sites.

Here is a flavor of a couple sites I saw.

If you are thinking of going to Bali and want to ask me questions, please feel free to email. Bali is definitely worth seeing.

Frutique Berry Berry Facial Cleanser Review

For the past month, I have been using Frutique Berry Berry Cleanse. Since the age of 17, I have been washing my face only with special facial washes that don’t strip the skin’s pH mantel. My prior favorite face wash was discontinued, so I had to source a new one. Now, I’m really particular about beauty products because of my background. Skincare is not an after thought for me. It’s chief. My skin type is oily, and I wash my face no more than two times a day (that is unless working outside in dirt). Once in the morning and then before going to bed. What I don’t want from a facial cleanser, is for it to strip my face of its natural oils leaving a dry tight feeling. I know that it sounds oxymoronic, but the skin natural pH is what you don’t want disrupted because oily skin responds by producing even more oil to compensate. As a consequence, would that be the case, my skin then suffers resulting in becoming inflamed.

Furtive Berry Berry is fitting the bill for my new oily skin cleanser. Its professed hydrating formula is not stripping my skin’s pH, and my skin has not gone into hypo oil production after using. The key antioxidants are not overwhelming either. Vitamin E acts as a protectant and aids in lessening fine age lines. Who wouldn’t want that? The aloe vera behaves as a moisturizer without all the slime or slip you think of. My prior facial cleanser used Tri-Oxy (oxygen) plus antioxidants; so comparing it against Frutique Berry Berry, I can say in all sincerity that Frutique is of equal quality.

I give ★★★★.

Simple Peanut Butter Cookies

No matter how you much you have grown-up, you still love peanut butter. My grandma’s peanut butter cookies are dear to me. Every time I make them, I can hear her in the background. No fancy peanut butter brand is needed, and I use as she did a no name peanut butter. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve made them using top brands, but the flavor to me tastes tamer. Hence, that’s why I prefer using a no name brand.  I guess she knew this too. Anyway, here is what you need to gather:

• 1 large egg
• 1/4 c. shortening
• 3/4 c. brown sugar
• 1/4 c. sugar
• 3/4 c. peanut butter
• 2 tsp. cream
• 1/4 tsp. sea salt
• 3/4 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1 1/4 c. flour

Mix together shortening, sugar, salt, and peanut butter. Beat egg well with the cream, add to prior mixed and mix all together well.

Sift flour, baking soda, and baking powder onto a piece of wax paper. Then stir sifted into the prior mixture slowly. As the dough incorporates, it will become stiffened. Use a spatula to scrape down the bowl sides. Once everything is mixed and blended, allow dough to chill firm.

Roll cookies first into ball, and then flatten using the palms of your hand.  Place cookies 3 by 4 on parchment lined cookie sheet. Sprinkle a pinch of sugar atop each cookie. Bake at 375 for 11-12 minutes. The cookie will be soft when it comes out of the oven, and you don’t want to bake this cookie hard. Makes between 18-24 cookies. Of course, that depends on the size you make.

Herbal Authority Liquid Echinacea Root Review

With cold and flu season in full swing, liquid echinacea root extract is something I keep stocked year round. Herbal Authority brand I have been using for years, and I use it in combination with my other antioxidant therapies to help support my family’s immune system. This particular extract brand is alcohol free, and has no taste bitterness. How perfect is that? I’ve even been known to take it without mixing, as it tastes that sweet. The droplet is legibly metered, so measuring is a breeze. I like to add it when I’m going to drink:

1. Juice,
2. Tea,
3. Water, or
4. Soda (yes, soda)

No one in my family has ever added to dairy or coffee, so I’m not sure how it compliments. I don’t exceed more than three consumptions when used. Once open, it does not need to be refrigerated either; but I do shake the bottle each time a couple time before opening. This keeps my mind at peace knowing that it is well blended. If you’re looking for an immune boosting herb to help support your immune system, liquid echinacea root could be your ticket too.

I give this stuff ★★★★

Beringer Simply Sophisticated Chardonnay Review

So on my quest to find a decent drinking chardonnay, I also bought a bottle of Beringer Simply Sophisticated Chardonnay. It’s investment was $4.99. I should disclose that I know someone who works for Treasury Wine Estates, but this review has no relationship. The label states ripe stone fruit (hell that’s broad), vivid citrus flavors offset with honeyed apricot. The honeyed apricot was what caught my attention, as I imagined a slightly sweet tasting chardonnay. Style indicated was neither light or full bodied, and the taste rating on the dry side. Okay, I was game.

I chilled the wine to 52 degree before uncorking. Typically, I chill complex character chardonnay to 55; however, the character described by the vintner is not what I call complex. So, the adding chilling should have helped to offset aback bright citrus flavors. What took me by surprise though was the lacking of any silky oak or noticeable described flavor notes in my mouth.  In fact, it was unimaginative. I couldn’t imagine serving it with any of the core dishes recommended except for the crisp apple tart, as that would help at least add some flavor while consuming.

My palate for chardonnay maybe discriminating, but I do believe that vintners owe the consumer characterizations fairly representing truth about their wines. Not every bottle of character chardonnay has to run over $50. Would I buy this particular label again? Sure, if I was having a large gathering where flavor is not center. This particular label of Beringer is indeed bottled house quality.


I can only give ★★¾.

The Fall Review

Are you a suspense drama watcher? You know, figure it out before the end type. If so then join the club. How I enjoy sitting back to watch suspenseful murder dramas, and The Fall five part miniseries on Netflix I watched last Saturday fit the bill nicely. It’s a pretty darn good crime drama that centers around, what other than, hunting down a sadist killer. Taking place in Ireland, Stella (Gillian Anderson who played Scully in The X Files) pieces together a string of random female murders as being serial killings that are not random as the police want to believe. The killer (Paul) is part sadist, part husband, and part father. It’s complicated.

Although you are exposed to knowing who the killer is early on in the series, it’s the unfold that keeps hold of your suspense. Even when Paul tells Stella that she will never catch him, Stella had already been behaviorally drawing his identity together. Stella herself has deviate secrets, and those have consequences as well. Paul’s wife, Sally-Ann, faces her gullibility. The choice she makes is almost unthinkable, but then again maybe not if you were her.



Over all, I give The Fall★★★★

Season two airs, January 16, 2015.