Happy Turkey Day + Tips + Grab Universe for Sale... Free for a limited time!

No Top Audiences today, shout out to all supporters! Whether you get together with family, friends, or a combination of the two... don't forget to enjoy yourselves and cherish the time you have together. This isn't exclusive to Thanksgiving because... everyone doesn't celebrate it, but... (but... but) make the most of the day and fun it up in the process.

Jolly X Thanksgiving | AG1

 Foodie Public Service Announcement 

By the way, if cooking isn't exactly your thing... I'm sure no one would object to you grabbing something delicious to bring to eat or drink! This can save you money on a hit or miss dish, time in the kitchen, dishes you have to wash, and your feelings as people kinda sorta tip toe around your food.

If your pan has a long running record of being mostly full because guests try a little in the name of helping you feel better, don't feel bad about doing what's more beneficial for you and your time.

If you choose to whip up something anyway, here are a few easy to handle recipes that will have them asking, "You made this?" (in a good way). Just keep in mind, it's flu season so wash those hands!:

🍠 Easy Candied Yams with Marshmallows 

Ingredients

• 2 cans of sweet potatoes or yams (about 15 oz each)

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup butter (melted)

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• 1 cup miniature marshmallows

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Layer yams in a casserole dish. If using canned, drain them first.

3. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the yams.

4. Drizzle melted butter on top.

5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the yams are hot and the sugar-butter mixture forms a glaze.

6. Top with marshmallows and put back in the oven for 5–10 minutes, until marshmallows are golden and gooey.

Why This Recipe Works for Beginners

• Minimal prep: No peeling or chopping if you use canned yams. Keep it simple, go with cans.

• Few ingredients: Just pantry basics plus marshmallows.

• Quick cook time: Ready in about half an hour.

• Beginner-friendly technique: Layer, sprinkle, bake—no complicated steps.

🍪 Chocolate Chip Cookie Nut & Raisin Bars 

Ingredients

• 1 package of refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough (about 16 oz)

• ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds work great)

• ½ cup raisins

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare a clean pan: Lightly grease or line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

3. Mix add-ins: In a bowl, combine cookie dough, nuts, and raisins. Stir gently until evenly distributed.

4. Press into pan: Spread the mixture evenly into the baking dish.

5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.

6. Cool slightly before cutting into squares or bars.

Why This Recipe Works for Beginners

• Super simple: Just mix, press, and bake—no complicated steps.

• Customizable: Swap raisins for dried cranberries or nuts for seeds.

🍍 Fruity Pineapple Ginger Ale Punch 

Ingredients

• 2 cups chilled fruit juice (orange, mango, or a tropical blend works best)

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)

• 2 cups chilled ginger ale

• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Combine fruit juice and pineapple chunks in a large pitcher or punch bowl.

2. Add ginger ale just before serving to keep the fizz lively.

3. Stir gently to mix without losing too much carbonation.

4. Serve over ice in glasses.

Why This Recipe Works for Beginners

• Minimal prep: No chopping or cooking—just pour and mix.

• Few ingredients: Uses only three main items, all easy to find at the store.

• Quick assembly: Ready in under 5 minutes, perfect for last-minute gatherings.

• Beginner-friendly technique: Simple stirring, no special tools or skills required.

• Flexible: Works with any fruit juice you have on hand, so mistakes are hard to make.

 Fun It Up! 

Remember to laugh... a lot! Let the good times roll like... Texas Bushman!

Also... if you have a house full of people, no need to just sit around scratching your heads wondering what to do while saying... "Rubber baby buggy bumpers". Get your game on with Amazon Luna's GameNight lineup!

All you need are your cellphones to join the fun on the big screen!

• Scan a QR code on your TV.
• To scan a QR code on an Android, open your camera app and point it at the code; a notification or banner with a link will appear. If the camera doesn't scan it automatically, you can try using the Quick Settings panel by swiping down from the top of your screen and tapping "Scan QR code," or use a dedicated app like Google Lens.
• To scan a QR code with an iPhone, open the Camera app and point it at the code,
  then tap the notification that appears. Alternatively, you can add the "Code Scanner" to Control Center for quick access. For a QR code in a photo or screenshot, use the Photos app to long-press the image and open the link. 
• Your smartphone instantly becomes your controller.
• Tablets are supported too, making it easy for everyone to join in.

Last but not least... I can't forget about the Free Game!

Available Nov 27 - Dec 04!

            

Support us below!

Free Version | Kindle Version

Nacon MG-X Pro | Cloud Gaming w/out the price tag!

New Survey - Wants VS Needs: Ease the fight for entertainment and wants!

According to a Mind & Money Connection survey, people are refusing to give up certain expenses even though they are considered non-essential.

The top expenses include:

• 'Treat Yourself' Purchases (like morning coffee) - 30.1%
• Health & Wellness (gym memberships, therapy, etc.) - 29.3%
• Media & Entertainment (streaming, music subscriptions) - 26.9%
• Experiences (movie tickets, concerts, theme parks) - 26.7%
• Social Activities (dining out, clubs, sports) - 22.5%

I can understand the desire to maintain certain health/wellness, and some extras to add normalcy during tough times, but there are options worth considering.

For those who want to hold onto non-essentials, I suggest exploring more affordable alternatives:

• Amazon Prime provides good entertainment value in addition to free shipping
  - Amazon offers monthly payment plans
  - Amazon provides TV/Film, Games, Music, and More in one service
  - Grubhub orders are free through Amazon Prime
• Free streaming services like FreeVee, Pluto TV, Tubi
• Buy good coffee to make at home
• Free-to-play gaming options, discounts/bundles and games you already own
• Thrift stores and second-hand shops for clothing
• Travel or enjoy a nice affordable staycation

The key is to budget and do your research, get creative with free/low-cost options, and prioritize covering essential expenses first. Resources like the $30 Now Home Internet service can help make entertainment and work accessible if you need to cut a cost.

Remember, there are also assistance programs in the U.S. for the less fortunate. With discipline and a good plan, you can hopefully get through this challenging time and establish a budget. For saving, Paypal actually has a saving account option that provides you with 4.30%, so if you plug a small amount of money into it on a consistent basis you can benefit.

Lastly, Rideshare drivers, you can make $1200/year without additional work by signing up for a tablet to entertain your passengers. There is no charge for you and tips may increase due to the added entertainment.

Sophima

Support us via the helpful links below!

Affordable Wired 100 - 200 Mbps Internet

Hangout Spots For Gamers... in Orlando!

I was asked recently about hangout spots in Orlando that may appeal to gamers, so it's the perfect opportunity to recommend some and turn up the in-person interaction with fellow gamers.

One location that immediately comes to mind is... The Pinball Palace at Dezerland. This location has a lounge where you can kick it with friends and play various games on Playstation, Xbox, Nintendo, retro consoles, and ofcourse... pinball + Pool! This lounge also has a bar with an assortment of drinks. Outside of couch co-op games, I'd probably go and play pinball or pool. https://pinballatdezerland.com/

Dezerland is near the corner of International Drive & Oak Ridge Road (It's directly across the street from McDonalds, and the word 'Dezerland' are in huge letters). *There is also full arcade just past the bowling area at Dezerland as well.

Dezerland Park Orlando
5250 International Dr, Orlando (FL) 32819

Player 1 Video Game Bar is similar to The Pinball Palace, but you have a lot more drinks + snack options, which some have a game theme to them.

Snacks are limited. The current options are Boneless Chocobo Tenders, Itsa-me, Mario! Mozzarella Sticks, and Raph's Pizza Pockets. These prices are reasonable for the snacks, especially when compared to the sodas, which are $6.00 per bottle (yikes). https://player1orlando.com/

Player 1 Video Game Bar
8562 Palm Pkwy, Orlando (FL) 32836

Gods & Monsters is a comic book shop that serves drinks in it's Fallout themed "Vault 5421" bar (featuring games like free Joystick arcade tables). It has all sorts of figurines, the atmosphere feels like the perfect after party location once Comic-Con comes to a close. Which is crazy because the Orlando Toy & Comic-Con is going on right now! I can't confirm if they have food or not (in the vault). https://godmonsters.com/

Gods & Monsters
5421 International Drive, Orlando (FL) 32819

Quickly Boba N Snow isn't a place with video games, but... this Asian Fusion restaurant shows gamers, and anime fans a lot of love. Gamers will actually take their Nintendo Switch systems to this restaurant to chill, chat, game, and grub. You can really get your grub on here, and the prices are reasonable. Those Korean corn dogs are next on my list, we would get them here and there from a new place near by (Mochinut), but... you can basically get two for the price of one (because Quickly's Korean corndogs are $4 compared to $7.50). https://www.yelp.com/biz/quickly-boba-n-snow-orlando

Quickly Boba N Snow
3214 E Colonial Dr, Orlando (FL) 32803

While these are options you may be interested in checking out, there are other game/card related shops you can meet at if you don't plan to lounge. Also, you can go to a number of places and turn it into a hangout spot for gamers, because it all boils down to where a number of gamers choose to frequent. Seek places with a great option for lounging, good food at a reasonable price, and keep it respectful so that the owners appreciate the constant presence of gamers. They might even be gamers themselves.

Support us below!

The Cushion Designed for Gaming!

Sexy Summer Luv | May 30, 2024!

Apple Music/Amazon Music/Etc.

Spring + Summer Time Fun... Suggestions!

Spring & Summer are my favorite seasons, but no hate on the other two seasons.

Outside of Spring Break trips and Summer Vacays... gaming is still in full effect, but how will things play out for you and yours? I know gas is through the roof right now, but it doesn't put a pause on all the fun. So if you aren't getting away, consider some local fun.

What's going on locally in your area or even in a close neighboring city that gives you access to some discounted fun? Not sure? Groupon is just a click away. As you see at the link, you can find food, fun, etc.

If you're not a fan of Groupon, you also have Trip Advisor... which serves up more than just hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars. You also have access to restaurants + things to do. You can literally use these sites for an awesome staycation where you are.

You could even walk around Walmart and find some free entertainment. Just kidding, but not completely, you just never know when the crazy will emerge.

You don't even have to go out every other week during these seasons, because an empty bank account is less fun. Consider free fun, parks, outdoor activities, and learning how to cook or make new recipes for meals, desserts, and even beverages. A home-cooked meal doesn't have to suck or leave you desiring takeout. There are literally chef's teaching courses on Udemy... that can help expand your mind and your abilities when it comes to the kitchen. Grab some food and get it in!

You could take those cooking skills, invite some of your favorite people over and enjoy yourselves. This could even be a group session to learn how to cook (even the kids can join in), and it can ultimately end up in reoccurring potluck parties and even block parties depending on how close you live. Get creative, you could even grab a Slip N Slide (like the huge 50-foot ones) and relive childhood. BYOF (Bring Your Own Floats)!

You can go average, larger, or massive with your slide and dial up the fun. If you think I'd be on the sideline with one of these within reach, you'd be sadly mistaken! Enjoy life while you have the time!

As the sun goes down, the fun doesn't have to stop, let the streaming flow to your heart's content. You have Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and even free shows & movies are available on Pluto TV + IMDB TV. So you can save money and still enjoy yourself, just be intentional about what you're doing... narrow down the best shows and movies to enjoy by yourself, +1, or with a group.

Fun it up, and that definitely includes gaming on a console or PC. I'd probably recommend the Xbox Gamepass first and foremost if you just want to play a variety of games. Granted you will not own them once your pass expires, but the monthly fee is low enough to keep you playing the latest games. For console, I'd have to recommend the Nintendo Switch, especially with Nintendo Switch Sports... so you can get everyone in on the fun! Parents, avoid the Nintendo Switch "Lite" version if you're aiming for multiplayer fun on the same system.

One of the games I'm currently playing on Xbox Game Pass (in the spirit of Spring & Summer) is... Windjammers 2! If you're not familiar with the game, check out the included gameplay below.

Arm & Hammer Disinfectant Wipes

As an Official Brand Ambassador, I have to end the year with the new Arm & Hammer Disinfectant Wipes. If you're familiar with the post about the Arm & Hammer Fruit & Vegetable Wash... I said that it gave me solace that it took away any potential viruses off of my fruit and veggies. So to see the disinfectant wipes, I was like... oh heck yeah.

I have these in the office, but I got more for my household and a container for the vehicle... since I like to clean items before I bring them in the home. That just increases my peace of mind, plus there are more in the container at a good price without the concern of there being harsh chemicals.

Here is are the ingredients, which you're welcome to compare with your current products. I respect the fact that they use citrus-based disinfectant and that the provided info on the ingredients is compliant with the California Cleaning Product Right to Know Act of 2017 + the New York State Household Cleansing Product Information Disclosure Program.

Here are the ingredients for the Lemon Orchard scented option:

Here are the ingredients for the Renewing Rain scented option:

Things I appreciate about the product are the ingredients of course because I don't want to handle things with a potential virus that may result in us getting sick... but also... I don't want to have chemicals on my hands after wiping something while on the go (i.e. a beverage) and then I eat something with that on my hands. The same thing applies when I'm gaming, sometimes I eat when I game... which is like 9 out of 10 times, and I'd rather handle a clean controller while getting my grub on in between the action.

I don't know if they do anything under those circumstances once our hands are dry, but... if I don't even have to deal with that, I'd rather not. Outside of the ingredients I like the price and the amount that comes in the container. The wipes are durable, so I've been able to stick to one wipe when needed.

Support us below!

PS5 or Xbox X|S: Still unsure? Consider this!