Cheez It Wendy's Baconator Flavour short review

I’ve never been a huge fan of Cheez-Its. I like cheese and crackers, but the cheese for Cheez-Its is usually isn’t sharp or flavourful enough for me. That said, I decided to give the special edition Wendy’s Baconator Cheez-Its a try. They’re pricier than your average Cheez-It, but after tasting them, I understood why. The bacon flavour adds a delicious, savoury punch, and I was able to finish a whole box in no time!

Why is it that limited-edition foods almost always taste amazing? Why can’t they just become a permanent part of the lineup? I’m really hoping these come back soon so I can stock up! It just goes to show that products can have fun, tasty variations, and this one was such a delightful surprise. :)

All in all, these Wendy’s Baconator Cheez-Its were a total win: cheesy, bacon-y, and way too easy to finish in one sitting. Limited edition or not, they prove that a little twist on a classic snack can make it feel like a whole new treat. Fingers crossed they come back soon, because I’ll be first in line for another box!

Score: 9/10
Website: https://www.cheezit.com/en-us/products/cheez-it-baconator.html

Rootalive Chicory Mushroom Coffee review

Mushroom blend Coffee alternative

🌿 Trying Mushroom Coffee for the First Time

Mushroom coffee has piqued my attention, especially as someone who likes to try new things — and mushrooms 🍄 and coffee ☕️ are both big parts of my palette.

I first saw ads for mushroom coffee on TV and then stumbled upon this blend by Rootalive while shopping at Marshall’s. Naturally, curiosity won.

ingredients and other information

☕️ Description by Rootalive

“Our chicory mushroom blend is a perfect alternative to coffee. It is powered by chicory root, which contains high amounts of inulin, a prebiotic soluble fibre that feeds your digestive flora. It also contains high-quality organic mushrooms known for their restorative properties. Indulge in a delicious, well-rounded cup of this calorie-free blend to satisfy your coffee cravings.”

The ingredients are very straightforward:

Instant Chicory Powder, Organic Mushroom Powder Blend (Organic Cordyceps, Organic Reishi, Organic Lion's Mane, Organic Shiitake, Organic Turkey Tail, Organic King Trumpet).

It looks earthy

🍄 Ingredient Benefits

Chicory – Known for its prebiotic properties that support gut health, improve digestion, and promote healthy gut flora. It may also help regulate blood sugar levels and support liver health.

Organic Cordyceps – Enhances energy and stamina, supports oxygen utilization, and may improve endurance and athletic performance. It’s also believed to help combat fatigue and support respiratory health.

Organic Reishi – Often called the “mushroom of immortality,” it helps boost the immune system, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and improve sleep and stress management.

Organic Lion’s Mane – Known as the brain mushroom, it supports cognitive function, focus, and memory. It may also help with nerve regeneration and mood regulation.

Organic Shiitake – Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune and heart health. It can also help lower cholesterol and promote glowing, healthy skin.

Organic Turkey Tail – Packed with powerful antioxidants and immune-boosting polysaccharides (PSK and PSP) that strengthen the body’s natural defences and support gut microbiome health.

Organic King Trumpet (King Oyster) – Supports cholesterol management, bone strength, and antioxidant protection. It’s also high in ergothioneine, an amino acid that helps protect cells from oxidative stress.

☕️ Directions

Add 2 teaspoons to 8–10 oz of hot or cold water, blend thoroughly, and enjoy! You can also enhance it with milk, creamer, or a natural sweetener.

(Note: Natural ingredients may cause some sediment to form — that’s totally normal.)

✨ First Impressions

Naturally, I was curious to see how it would taste, especially since mushroom coffee has such a reputation for being either surprisingly good or… an acquired taste. So, I made my first cup and here’s what I noticed:

• It tastes very strongly of mushrooms — earthy, deep, and slightly bitter.

• It reminded me a bit of Chinese herbal medicine, probably because of the Reishi mushroom.

• Milk makes a huge difference! Adding milk completely transformed the flavour, making it smooth, comforting, and easy to drink.

• It feels nourishing — my body genuinely felt calm and refreshed afterward.

🌸 Overall Thoughts

To my surprise, I actually enjoyed it, especially once I learned how to balance the flavour with milk. The experience feels grounding, and I like how it gives a gentle sense of focus without the usual coffee jitters.

Overall, my first impression was mixed but interesting; it’s definitely an acquired taste. The earthy flavour was much stronger than I expected, and the Reishi gave it that slightly bitter, medicinal note often found in traditional Chinese herbal tonics. However, once I added milk, the entire experience transformed: the taste mellowed, became smoother, and more balanced. With milk, it became something I actually enjoyed sipping slowly, especially in the afternoon when I needed a gentle pick-me-up without the caffeine jitters.

Chicory Mushroom Coffee with milk

☕️ Conclusion

After finishing my first cup, I can say that while mushroom coffee might not completely replace my usual morning brew, it has earned a spot in my rotation for calmer days. The health benefits are undeniable: from boosting focus to supporting gut and immune health, and I genuinely feel good knowing what’s in it. I find myself wanting to drink it again, especially with a bit of oat or almond milk. It’s definitely one of those drinks that grows on you over time: earthy, grounding, and surprisingly comforting once you get past the first sip.

It’s funny how trying something new can remind you that comfort and wellness can come in the most unexpected forms, even in a cup of mushroom coffee. 🍄☕️

I was able to finish it after adding milk!

Score: 9.0/10
Website: https://www.rootalive.com/products/chicory-mushroom-blend?srsltid=AfmBOop-BGGAF34o_Cwd3R6HVdocCRm1MJmbb7375I_hIQombjTw6ttQ

St. Ives Hydrating Face Mist Grapefruit short review

St. Ives Grapefruit hydrating facial mist

(I wrote this a few months back and forgot to post it! Apologies in advance... Hope you can still find it and use it during your dry cold heater months!)

Hello, hot weather, and AC dry skin! This is the perfect formula for skin discomfort.

I notice that every year around this time, I go hunting for facial mists, and to my disappointment, the mists I used to love always seem to be discontinued. So, I’m always on the hunt. This year, I found one from St. Ives and chose their Grapefruit scent—partly because it smells good and partly because grapefruit-scented facial products are rare.

The formula is paraben-free, dermatologist-tested, and not tested on animals, which I really appreciate. It contains 100% natural grapefruit extract, and each spray dispenses a generous amount—usually just 2–3 sprays are enough to cover and hydrate my face thoroughly.

A spritz of this facial mist contains an infusion of grapefruit, peach, and orange. Although the formula is nothing fancy, it is more than adequate for what I want it to do: moisturize and add hydration to my skin. I also really love the scent—it feels refreshing and cheerful.

First Impressions:

• Light and airy
• Hydrates well
• Leaves skin feeling smooth
• Scent lingers for about 10 minutes

Summary & Thoughts:
This facial mist works well for all skin types, but it’s especially useful when your skin feels a bit dehydrated throughout the day. There aren’t many comparable products on the market, but this one delivers impressive results: my skin feels very smooth, hydrated, and the effects are surprisingly long-lasting for a spray. I am extremely glad I bought it and hope it will still be available when I finish this bottle!

Conclusion:
Overall, I’d recommend this mist if you’re looking for a simple, affordable, and effective way to refresh and hydrate your skin. It’s lightweight, gentle, and cheerful, perfect for daily use, especially in hot weather or when indoor heating dries out your skin. While it’s not revolutionary, it does exactly what it promises—and sometimes, that’s all you need.

Lip Oil trend is back

 

Clarin's lip oil

Lip oils are back in trend, and whenever I think of lip oils, Clarins is the one that comes to mind. I believe Clarins was the brand that really started the lip oil trend over 10 years ago, and it continues to be the OG product in this category because of its consistent quality and smart product marketing.

I had almost forgotten about lip oils and what they actually are—until I bought a new one recently and remembered why I stopped using them in the first place.

Although they sound fancy (lip oils!), they really aren’t much different from lip glosses. In fact, they’re basically lip glosses in disguise. And here’s the thing: lip glosses are not my favourite. I don’t like their consistency, and I really don’t like the sticky feeling they leave behind. Lip oils promise hydration, nourishment, and skincare-like benefits, but in reality, they don’t actually repair or strengthen your lips long-term. They give you shine, maybe a bit of temporary moisture, but that’s it.

So, I’m writing this as a reminder to myself: lip oils = lip glosses.

Pros

• Glossy shine that looks fresh and trendy
• Large doe-foot applicators (especially Clarins) make them easy to apply
• Feel lightweight on first application
• Can give temporary hydration and a smooth finish

Cons

• Basically, lip glosses in disguise—without long-term benefits
• Sticky consistency (same problem as gloss)
• Don’t truly repair or nourish lips over time
• Marketing can be misleading (“oil” makes you think skincare, but it’s not)
• Often more expensive than actual nourishing lip oils or balms

Clarin's lip oil

That being said, one thing I do like about lip oils—specifically Clarins’—is their large doe-foot applicators. They make the application so much easier and more enjoyable.

Since I've already purchased a few lip oils, I’m considering finishing them up and then refilling the tubes with actual, nourishing oils that are genuinely good for the lips. What do you think? :P

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Conclusion:
At the end of the day, lip oils may look and feel nice, but they don’t live up to the hype. They’re glossy, they’re shiny, and yes, they can be fun—but they’re still just lip glosses dressed up as skincare. For me, the stickiness and lack of real results just aren’t worth it. Still, I might hold on to a Clarins tube for the applicator—at least that way, I can fill it with the real nourishing oils my lips actually need.

Revlon Lipsticks: Why Drugstore Lipsticks Will Never Be a Dupe: My Honest Take on Revlon

recent Revlon purchase

It’s been a long time since I’ve used drugstore lipsticks. As someone who usually gravitates toward high-end makeup—think MAC, Chanel, YSL, Armani—I never really felt the pull toward more affordable alternatives. But the other day, I was watching a video on Marilyn Monroe’s lipstick collection and came across a mention of Revlon’s iconic shade, Fire and Ice. Out of pure curiosity, I picked it up at my local drugstore, along with a few other Revlon shades that caught my eye.

The packaging is unique, I like the window, so you know which lipstick you are using

I’ll admit, I went in with an open mind. The packaging was decent, the formula glided on smoothly, and the colour payoff was strong. They were scentless, pigmented, and easy to apply. On paper, they check a lot of boxes. But once I saw the shades on my lips, it hit me: they looked like drugstore lipsticks. I can’t quite put my finger on whether it was the undertones, the finish, or the way the formula sat on my lips—but something about them just didn’t have that refined, flattering quality that higher-end lipsticks consistently deliver.

my "luxury" lipsticks (partial collection)

There’s a certain richness and elegance to a luxury lipstick that drugstore options simply can’t replicate. It's not just about the price tag—it’s about the finish, the depth of colour, and how it wears throughout the day. And most importantly, how it feels.

Despite Revlon’s claims of a “moisturizing” formula, my lips told a different story. After just two days of wearing their creme lipsticks, my lips started to dry out and became sensitive. I had to slather on lip masks for three days straight to get them back to normal. For comparison, I had been wearing MAC’s Ruby Woo—a matte shade—for over a month with no such issues.

This experience only reaffirmed what I’ve always suspected: drugstore lipsticks can be fun, and yes, budget-friendly, but they can never truly be dupes for high-end products. Influencers often promote drugstore "dupes" as identical alternatives, but as a long-time high-end makeup user, I can confidently say: they're not the same. Drugstore lipsticks will always look and feel like drugstore lipsticks.

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Revlon 720 Fire and Ice

If you're on a budget, here's a quick breakdown:

Pros:

• Scentless

• Easy to apply

• Smooth texture

• Strong pigmentation

Revlon 435 Love that Pink

Cons:

• The colour payoff lacks depth and sophistication

• It can look cheap or flat on the lips

• Dried out my lips (despite “moisturizing” claims)

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light staining, but can be completely removed using Micellar water

Call me picky, but I know what works for my skin and what doesn’t. If you find a drugstore gem that works for you, great! But for me, I’ll be sticking with my high-end staples—for the colour, the comfort, and the confidence they give me.

Until then, Fire and Ice can rest in my drawer as a piece of lipstick history… but not my everyday choice.

Reasons to love facial mists: more than just a trend

 

a partial collection of facial mists

Contrary to popular belief, facial mists are a lot more useful and hydrating than most people think.

My love for facial mists runs deep. Ever since I was introduced to them during a trip to Hong Kong back in 2008 (back when the Evian water spray was all the rage), I’ve been hooked. It was love at first spritz. From that moment on, anytime my skin felt even the slightest bit dry, I found myself reaching for one. Over the years, they’ve become one of the most versatile and comforting parts of my skincare routine.

Evian facial mist

What I’ve learned is that not all facial mists are created equal, and that’s actually a good thing. Some are infused with vitamin C to brighten dull skin, others contain serum-like ingredients to treat dehydration or irritation, and a few are designed to help combat blue light exposure from screens. While their added benefits can vary, all facial mists share one thing in common: they deliver an immediate layer of hydration that feels both refreshing and nourishing.

Every facial mist has its own benefits :)

Here’s why I keep going back to them:

• Lightweight and fast-absorbing – Facial mists are incredibly light and sink into the skin quickly without feeling heavy or greasy.

• Easy to integrate into any routine – Whether it’s morning or night, pre- or post-makeup, they’re easy to slot into any skincare step.

• Makeup-friendly – One of the best things is that they can be sprayed over makeup to freshen up your look without disturbing anything underneath.

• Extra hydration boost – They give your skin that extra “moisture ump” when it needs a quick quench—especially helpful in dry climates or air-conditioned environments.

• Targeted benefits – Many mists now offer targeted solutions like antioxidant protection, barrier repair, or skin-soothing ingredients.

That being said, one of my biggest frustrations with facial mists and skincare in general is the short product cycles they tend to have. Just when I find one I really love and incorporate it into my routine, it gets discontinued.

It’s not that the product isn’t good; in fact, it is quite the opposite. Many of these mists are genuinely effective, well-formulated, and even gain loyal followings. But for some reason, companies tend to quietly pull them off the shelves. Whether it’s due to rebranding, reformulation, or shifting marketing priorities, it’s incredibly disappointing for long-time users. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had to start from scratch, trying to find a replacement for a mist I had finally grown attached to.

It makes maintaining a consistent routine difficult when your staples are constantly disappearing. And in a market that thrives on novelty and trends, tried-and-true formulas often don’t get the shelf life they deserve.

Still, despite the ups and downs, facial mists remain one of my favourite skincare steps. Don’t underestimate the power of a good mist—it might seem simple, but your skin will thank you.

Click here to see a list of facial mists I have used and loved in the past.

Biodance Bio-Collagen - Real Deep Mask review

I Finally Tried the Viral Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask!

I know I’m super late to the game, but I finally got my hands on the super viral Korean facial mask—and I just had to share my thoughts.

In case you need a refresher, this is the mask that went viral for turning transparent the longer you wear it. You’re supposed to keep it on for 3–4 hours—or even overnight! Unlike most sheet masks that go viral for their ingredients, this one took off because of its unique experience.

But beyond the novelty, I was curious: does it actually do anything? Here’s my experience.

🧖‍♀️ What It Claims to Do

The Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask is a hydrogel mask packed with serious skincare benefits:

• Ultra-Low Molecular Collagen for deep firming and enhanced elasticity
• Oligo-Hyaluronic Acid for long-lasting hydration that penetrates deeper than regular hyaluronic acid
• Probiotics (Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate) to reduce fine lines and strengthen the skin barrier
• Niacinamide to brighten and refine texture
• Fragrance-Free & Hypoallergenic – perfect for sensitive skin

You can use it two ways:

• Overnight – apply it at the end of your routine and sleep with it on (only if you can sleep on your back!)
• Daytime – apply after toner or serum and wear for 3–4 hours until the mask turns transparent

Pro tip: Repurpose the cut-out pieces from the eyes and mouth—apply them to your neck or under-eye area for bonus hydration!

after 2.5 hours

I tried to smile but couldn't... the mask got really tight. You can also see how bits of it were stretched so much that they ripped a bit.

💭 My First Impressions

• It ripped almost immediately when I was taking it out of the packaging—so handle with care!
• Unscented, which I appreciate
• It stings a bit on broken skin, but that sensation fades quickly—and those areas actually felt more hydrated after
• You can literally see where your skin is dehydrated: those areas turn transparent first (for me, it was around my nose and mouth)
• Despite some reviews, I didn’t find it uncomfortable—I actually fell asleep during the first 2 hours of wearing it!
• Don’t use your phone while wearing this—it can slide around with movement or blinking, and if your phone slips… well, it’s not a fun wake-up call
• Strengthening Skin: One thing I noticed that really surprised me was how strong and resilient my skin felt after just one use — it felt like my skin barrier had been reinforced, especially in areas that normally feel a bit raw or fragile.

other info

🛏 Best Way to Use It

To keep the mask in place, lie flat on your back—especially for the first two hours. I tried sitting and standing, and the mask kept slipping. Sleeping on your side is also a no-go unless you want it to shift or fall off completely.

Some people see transparent blotches within the first hour, but for me, they didn’t appear until about 1 hour and 45 minutes in.

after 3 hours

🤔 Final Thoughts

This mask was definitely more than just a gimmick. It gave me:

• Deep hydration
• A visible look at my dehydrated areas
• Firmer, smoother-feeling skin afterward
• Improves and strengthens the skin barrier
• Skin feels good after using

But I did have a couple of frustrations:

❌ Cons:

• Tears very easily, both during application and while wearing
• Can really only be used while lying down (preferably flat on your back)

That being said, one of my biggest frustrations with facial masks like these is how short their product life cycles are. Just when I get attached to a formula and start incorporating it into my routine, it gets discontinued. It’s not because the product isn’t good—often, it’s because companies quickly move on to the next trend or formula, especially in the fast-paced K-beauty world. I’ve never fully understood why this happens, but it makes it hard to stick with what works.

All in all, I can see why this mask went viral—and while it’s not perfect, I’d consider using it again (with very gentle hands!). Would I sleep in it regularly? Probably not, unless I’m totally exhausted and planning to stay in one position all night 😅

What the discarded mask looks like... soft plastic material

🌙 Post-Mask Results & Final Thoughts

While the effects weren’t as dramatic as some influencers hyped them up to be, I still genuinely enjoyed using this mask. What stood out to me was how much stronger and more resilient my skin felt after one use — as if my barrier had gotten a little boost. After removing it, my skin felt noticeably hydrated, smooth, and calm—especially in sensitive or dry patches. The glow wasn’t just temporary either; the results lasted well into the next day, which pleasantly surprised me.

That said, this is definitely on the luxury side of sheet masks. At around $100 for 24 masks, it’s significantly pricier than many drugstore options that go for $1–2 each. But if you’re looking for a unique masking experience with visible hydration and skin-calming benefits—and don’t mind lying completely still—this might be worth trying.

Would I repurchase? Yes — despite the price, the results were worth it for me. My skin felt moisturized, soothed, and noticeably smoother. The calming and hydrating effects lasted well into the next day, and my skin genuinely looked healthier.

In fact, I find myself craving to use this mask again and again because of how good my skin feels afterward. It’s become something I look forward to in my routine — though I try to limit myself, or I might just end up using it daily!

score: 9.5/10
website: https://biodance.com/products/biodance-bio-collagen-real-deep-mask

GoodNotes app review rant

GoodNotes used to be the gold standard of digital note-taking apps—a classic case of “if it ain't broke, don’t fix it.” Before its AI-heavy overhaul, it was one of the most popular and reliable note-taking tools out there. It was intuitive, well-designed, and honestly, I really enjoyed using it. At one point, I even considered purchasing the full version with a one-time payment.

(*Click here to see my notetaking pages done on GoodNotes)

Then came the “big” update.

They scrapped the one-time purchase model and replaced it with a subscription system. Not only that, but they added multiple confusing version tiers and introduced flashy features like a predictive AI tool and a built-in math solver. While these features might sound impressive on paper, they completely changed the app’s user experience, for the worse.

GoodNotes logo

Instead of feeling upgraded, I felt overwhelmed. There were too many options and versions to choose from, and the once-simple interface became cluttered. My immediate thought? WTF is going on? And more importantly, why isn’t there a lifetime purchase option anymore? The new features felt more like gimmicks than genuine improvements.

Ever since that major update, I haven’t touched the app once. They took something that was simple, efficient, and beautifully designed—and turned it into a bloated mess.

I thought I had found the perfect note-taking app... turns out, I haven’t. 😞

Back to searching for something simple yet efficient—a space where I can freely squeeze out my creative juices without battling unnecessary features and subscriptions.
Until then, let me quietly lament the death of what GoodNotes once was.

So, goodbye GoodNotes. You had potential, but sometimes, less really is more.

RIP GoodNotes.

(Click here to see my notetaking pages done on GoodNotes)

Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson (1963 to 1968)

Happy Canada Day! 🇨🇦

Canadian Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson (1963 to 1968)

Today, I want to highlight one of my favourite Canadian Prime Ministers—Lester B. Pearson. If his name sounds familiar, it might be because Toronto’s international airport is named after him—and rightfully so!

Pearson's contributions to Canada were not only impactful but also enduring. When people think of Canada today, many associate us with universal healthcare, a strong social safety net, peacekeeping, and our iconic red and white maple leaf flag. Did you know that we can thank Lester B. Pearson for all of this?

Serving as Prime Minister from 1963 to 1968, Pearson led with diplomacy, vision, and pragmatism. His government introduced universal health care, the Canada Pension Plan, and student loan programs—all of which continue to shape the lives of Canadians today. Under his leadership, Canada also officially adopted the Maple Leaf flag in 1965, giving us a bold and unifying national symbol.

But his influence wasn’t just domestic. Before becoming Prime Minister, Pearson earned international recognition as a skilled diplomat. In fact, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1957 for organizing the first United Nations peacekeeping force, helping to de-escalate the Suez Crisis. His efforts laid the foundation for Canada’s long-standing reputation as a peacekeeping nation.

Lester B. Pearson was a visionary who modernized Canada and helped shape the compassionate, inclusive identity we’re known for today. On this Canada Day, I’m especially grateful for his legacy.

🍁 Thank you, Mr. Pearson, for helping build the Canada we’re so proud to celebrate today! 🍁

Diet Coke isn't just Coke without sugar

I’ve started noticing Diet Coke more—not because of its iconic silver can, but because of an unexpected source: President Trump. During his diplomatic trip to Saudi Arabia, it was widely reported that he preferred Diet Coke over coffee. That odd detail stuck with me, and eventually, my curiosity got the better of me.

Not Just a Sugar-Free Coke

Like many people, I had always assumed Diet Coke was simply regular Coca-Cola with the sugar swapped for artificial sweeteners. But after doing a bit of research, I discovered that Diet Coke is actually based on an entirely different formula. It isn’t a sugar-free version of Coca-Cola—it’s its own drink altogether.

diet coke

The Real Origin: TaB

Diet Coke’s roots trace back to TaB, Coca-Cola’s first diet soda released in the 1960s. TaB had its own loyal fanbase but remained a niche product. When Diet Coke was introduced in 1982, it was designed as a more mainstream, modern diet soda with updated branding and a lighter, crisper taste.

The success of Diet Coke was immediate—it became a cultural phenomenon and eventually replaced TaB in most markets. However, what makes Diet Coke unique is that it retained TaB’s base formula, making it chemically and flavor-wise distinct from original Coca-Cola.

The Flavour Difference

This is why Diet Coke tastes so different—not just less sweet, but sharper, lighter, and crisper. It doesn’t have the syrupy richness of classic Coca-Cola. The carbonation feels more pronounced, and the drink finishes clean. It’s refreshing in a completely different way.

That flavor difference is also why Coke Zero, which is a no-sugar formula made to taste like original Coca-Cola, exists alongside Diet Coke. And when there were rumors about Coke Zero replacing Diet Coke? Loyal Diet Coke drinkers were not pleased.

I usually get Diet Coke from McD's :)

My New Appreciation

After learning all of this, I decided to give Diet Coke another try—this time with a more open mind. And honestly, I’ve come to appreciate it for what it is. It’s not just a lighter version of Coke; it’s a crisp, refreshing soda with its own distinct personality. It pairs well with food, doesn’t leave a sugary aftertaste, and feels a bit more “grown up” than regular Coke.

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Final Thoughts

What started as a random fun fact turned into a deeper appreciation for a drink I’d long overlooked. Diet Coke isn’t just Coca-Cola minus sugar—it’s a legacy product with its own history, taste, and cult following. If you’ve never given it a real chance, maybe it’s time to try it again—with fresh eyes (and taste buds).

HiSmile Grape Bubble Gum short review

 

I wanted to see what all the hype around HiSmile was about, so I picked up a tube to try for myself. I opted for the Grape Bubble Gum flavour—and I'm so glad I did!

Pros:

• sweet (I'm glad they stated it was sugar-free)
• lovely muscat grape taste (not the other gross artificial grape taste!)
• gentle on teeth
• slight mintiness
• fun to brush teeth with
• I noticed a little brightening (... but I'm not sure whether it is a placebo)

Cons:

• too gentle, can't clean teeth or mouth properly
• still feel plaque and particles between my teeth after brushing
• expensive (for toothpaste)

Here are a few thoughts after using it:

First off, the gel formula is extremely gentle, which sounds nice in theory, but it doesn’t quite deliver on the cleaning front. Compared to more traditional brands like Colgate or Crest, HiSmile doesn’t leave my mouth feeling as fresh or thoroughly cleaned. I could still feel plaque and other particles between my teeth after brushing, which was a bit disappointing.

That said, the flavour is delicious. Honestly, it almost felt like I was doing something wrong because I enjoyed it so much! While the label says "grape," the taste leaned more toward a muscat grape—reminiscent of those Japanese muscat bubble gums I used to have as a kid. There's a hint of mint, but it's extremely subtle. The overall experience felt more like chewing sweet bubble gum than brushing your teeth.

Now, let’s talk price. While your typical Colgate toothpaste costs just a few dollars, this HiSmile tube rang up at $14—definitely a premium for something that's more novelty than necessity.

HiSmile toothepaste

Verdict:
HiSmile is a fun, aesthetic toothpaste, especially if you're curious about unique flavours or want a bit of novelty in your routine. But in terms of functionality, it's not worth the high price tag. It doesn’t provide the deep clean most people expect from a toothpaste. I’d recommend using it for a quick midday refresh, like after lunch, but not for serious cleaning, especially before bedtime.

score: 4/10
website: https://ca.hismileteeth.com/products/toothpaste/grape-bubblegum

Head and Shoulders Supreme Scalp Scrub review

I love my hair, and I’m always looking for new ways to care for it—especially from the root up. So when I came across the Head & Shoulders Supreme Scalp Scrub, I had to try it. A product that promised to exfoliate, refresh, and create a healthy foundation for beautiful hair? That checked a lot of boxes.

I was curious to see if this scrub could live up to its claims of detoxing the scalp, removing buildup, and leaving both hair and skin feeling revitalized. Here's how it went, along with some of my honest impressions—and what others are saying too.

Product Claims:

• Deeply exfoliates to remove buildup and renew your skin's surface* (*With regular use)
• Provides a healthy foundation to grow beautiful hair from the scalp
• Fresh-smelling formula is crafted to be free of dyes and adds a soothing experience to your shower routine

Exfoliate yours with Supreme Exfoliating Scalp Scrub, brought to you by Head & Shoulders, America’s #1 dermatologist-recommended brand. Infused with vitamin E and argan oil, this scrub detox helps to remove product build up and dead skin cells for healthier hair. It’s like a gentle buildup remover and scalp treatment all in one. To use it, massage the scrub into your scalp before shampooing to renew your skin’s surface. Follow it up with Head & Shoulders Shampoo.

How to Use:

Massage into scalp before shampooing to gently exfoliate, remove buildup and renew skin's surface. Rinse well. Follow with Head & Shoulders shampoo.

Head and Shoulders Supreme Scalp Scrub

Highlights:

• gritty, not like St. Ives, but like a facial exfoliator
• has a nice soft scent but does not linger in your scalp or hair
• scalp feels slightly refreshed and gently exfoliated
• does not make scalp more or less greasy
• it is a good to have product but not a must have product.

My Impressions:

My scalp likes this scrub, but I wouldn't say it loves it. It craves the grittiness—there’s something satisfying about the gentle exfoliation—but the long-term benefits for my scalp health haven’t been particularly noticeable. It feels good in the moment, offering a light refresh, but hasn’t made a dramatic difference. Interestingly, I’ve noticed it moisturizes my hair more than my scalp, leaving my strands soft and touchable after use.

From researching online and seeing what others were saying, I’m not alone in this mixed experience. Many people love its effectiveness and clean, pleasant fragrance. Some even call it a miracle for their scalp, saying it works well for their scalp type and leaves their hair feeling moisturized and healthy. However, others mention that the exfoliating beads are quite tiny—almost too subtle—and that the tube is smaller than expected, comparable to a hand cream. A few reviewers also found the application directly to the scalp a bit awkward or ineffective.

All in all, it’s a nice sensory experience and a gentle way to refresh the scalp, but it may fall short if you’re expecting a deep detox or dramatic results.

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Head and Shoulders Supreme Scalp Scrub

Summary & Conclusion:

Head & Shoulders' Supreme Exfoliating Scalp Scrub offers a refreshing, mildly gritty texture and a light, clean scent that enhances your shower routine. While it doesn’t dramatically improve scalp health for everyone, it does provide a satisfying cleanse and noticeably softer hair. It’s ideal for occasional use when your scalp feels weighed down by product buildup. Just keep in mind the exfoliation is more subtle, and the tube might be smaller than expected.

If your scalp enjoys the ritual of exfoliation and you’re looking for something gentle with a soothing feel, this is a nice-to-have. But if you’re after a more intensive scrub or lasting scalp improvements, this might not be your miracle product.

score: 7.8/10
website: https://headandshoulders.com/en-us/shop-products/pre-wash/supreme-exfoliating-scalp-scrub-treatment

Zojirushi NS-LHC05 rice cooker review

Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker & Warmer NS-LHC05

I never thought much about rice; it has always been just a simple side dish. But after trying the Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker & Warmer NS-LHC05, I can confidently say it’s a game-changer. 

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This model, priced at $210 CAD ($180 USD), is a noticeable jump from your standard rice cookers that run around $130. But after just one use, I realized it was worth every penny. I’m so glad I made the investment.

For those who, like me, always thought “rice is rice,” here’s what changed my mind:

Subtly Sweet Flavour: The rice has a natural sweetness I never knew rice could have. It’s not sugary, but there’s a gentle, rice-derived sweetness that makes even plain white rice incredibly satisfying.

Perfectly Distinct Grains: Unlike other cookers that steam and mush the rice together, this one cooks each grain to perfection. You can feel and taste every individual piece—nothing is clumped or overly sticky.

Chewy, Mochi-Mochi Texture: The rice has the ideal “mochi mochi” texture—chewy, soft, and fluffy, yet firm enough to hold its structure. It feels both comforting and gourmet.

Consistent Results: Each batch turns out just right, as long as you follow the instructions closely. The rice-to-water ratio is key, and getting it right makes all the difference in texture and flavour.

The Experience: I used to think of rice as just a filler, but now it’s the centrepiece of my meal. Sometimes, I even eat it plain to savour the taste and texture. This rice cooker didn’t just upgrade my cooking—it changed how I experience rice altogether.

Downsides: The cooking time is a bit long—about 59 minutes for one cup of rice. However, the quick-cook setting still delivers a great result. It's also important to follow the manual’s instructions carefully, especially with the rice-to-water ratio. Small changes can make a big difference.

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Other Features:

Aside from the standout performance, there are a few other features of the Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker that make it incredibly convenient:

• Microcomputerized Fuzzy Logic Technology: This smart technology allows the rice cooker to make minor adjustments to temperature and cooking time based on the type of rice and conditions. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures consistently excellent results—even if your measurements aren’t perfect.

• Easy-to-Clean Components: Most of the parts of this rice cooker can be removed for a thorough cleaning, which is a huge plus for maintenance and hygiene.

• Retractable Electric Cord: The retractable power cord is a fantastic space-saving feature, making storage much easier when the cooker is not in use.

• Rice Spatula Nooks: Conveniently placed nooks on both sides of the cooker provide a spot for storing your rice spatula, keeping it within easy reach while maintaining a tidy kitchen.

• Clock Works Unplugged: Even when unplugged, the clock continues to run, so you don’t have to reset it every time you store the rice cooker. It’s a small but thoughtful feature that adds to the overall ease of use.

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Final Verdict:

This rice cooker has completely transformed my view of rice. It’s no longer just a side dish but the highlight of every meal. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the investment, the answer is a resounding yes. Whether you’re a rice lover or just want to elevate your everyday meals, this Zojirushi rice cooker is a purchase you won’t regret.

Score: 9.8/10
Website: https://shop.zojirushi.com/products/nslhc?srsltid=AfmBOoovV9eTikQbqlscyxMnFhzrPF3921SQSzrdrtZy7axqa8GymzMX