 Welcome back to another episode of "Mike's Favorite Things," where today we're diving into the ultimate WFH desk setup that's sure to supercharge your productivity—and maybe even make your coffee taste better. No promises on the coffee, though!
1. IKEA Bekant Sit/Stand Desk The IKEA Bekant Desk is your back's new best friend. With a length of 63 inches and a width of 31.5 inches, this sit/stand desk adjusts from 22" to 48" in height, ensuring your posture stays pristine whether you're pounding the keyboard or practicing your TikTok dance moves. This bad boy is sturdy enough to handle your coffee spills and existential crises alike.
2. LIDKULLEN Sit/Stand Support from IKEA For those moments when you actually want to sit down, the LIDKULLEN has got your back (and your butt). Priced at $139.99, this innovative sit/stand support keeps you moving even when you're sitting, which is perfect for those of us whose legs can't decide if they're coming or going.
3. RISSLA Desk Pad from IKEA The RISSLA Desk Pad is like a security blanket for your desk. At $34.99, it protects your desk from the horrors of pen scratches and the dreaded coffee ring while providing a posh look that screams "I have my life together".
4. ELLOVEN Monitor Stand with Drawer Raise your monitor to the perfect eye level with the ELLOVEN Monitor Stand, priced at just $29.99. This stand isn't just a pretty face—it comes with a handy drawer to hide your snacks... I mean, office supplies.
5. External Monitors Because one screen is never enough when you're a multitasking wizard, I've decked out my setup with a trio of monitors. The centerpiece is a widescreen LG 27-inch monitor, flanked by two Dell 21-inch monitors set in portrait mode. This way, I can keep my social media feed open at all times because, priorities.
6. Office Candles To wrap up the perfect WFH setup, don't forget the ambiance. My go-to is the Maple Syrup Candle because nothing says "productive work environment" like the sweet scent of breakfast. Plus, it’s a great way to trick your brain into thinking you're having pancakes instead of deadlines.
So, there you have it: a WFH setup that would make even the most dedicated office enthusiast consider a permanent home office. If you’ve enjoyed this deep dive into desk nirvana, make sure to follow my page for more tips on how to live your best remote work life—one quirky office gadget at a time.
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 Welcome back to Mike's Favorite Things, where today I'm sharing not just a treat for your taste buds but a tried and true tactic for sweetening deals and winning business. Let's talk about Crumbl Cookies and how these delightful desserts have become my go-to strategy for breaking the ice with prospects and leaving a memorable impression. The Challenge with Cold Calling Anyone in sales knows that cold calling can often leave you feeling, well, cold. It’s a tough gig. You dial number after number, hoping to catch someone at just the right moment, only to be met with quick dismissals or, even worse, no answer at all. Remember my blog post from ten years ago about persevering through tough calls? If not, here's a refresher: Don't Give Up on Cold Calling. While persistence is key, I’ve discovered a sweeter way to open doors: cookies. The Power of a Cookie
Yes, you read that right. Cookies. But not just any cookies—Crumbl Cookies. Here’s why they’re a game changer in the world of sales:
Strategies for Cookie-Based Networking Here’s how I leverage Crumbl Cookies to transform a routine sales call into a memorable encounter:
Pro Tips for the Ultimate Cookie Delivery
The Sweet Result Using Crumbl Cookies as a door-opener has revolutionized my approach to sales. It turns cold calls into warm welcomes and transforms the often impersonal art of prospecting into a genuine exchange. It's not just about the cookies—it's about crafting an experience that's as delightful as it is memorable. So next time you're dreading dialing up a new lead, grab a box of Crumbl Cookies and prepare to make a sweet first impression. Whether you’re looking to break the ice or close a deal, a little sugar goes a long way in the world of sales. Happy selling, and remember, in cookies and in sales, presentation is everything!  Welcome back to the latest installment of "Mike's Favorite Things," where today's gadget might just be the unsung hero of home security and obsessive sump pump monitoring. Yes, you heard that right. We're diving into the world of the WYZE Cam Pan v3, a device that has single-handedly eased my severe sump pump anxiety. Let's embark on this semi-humorous journey together.
The Genesis of My Sump Pump Saga: It all started with a sump pump—a device that, while essential, became the source of my nightmares. The fear of coming home to an indoor pool where my basement used to be led me down the rabbit hole of home monitoring solutions. Enter the WYZE Cam Pan v3, the knight in shining armor for my sump pump, furnace room, and, well, the entire house. The Sump Pump Sentinel: One of these magical cameras now stands guard over my sump pit, offering a 24/7 livestream of its thrilling existence. Paired with my RIDGID Smart Sump Pump and the ever-vigilant Govee Water Leak Detector, I've constructed an impenetrable fortress of flood prevention. The peace of mind? Priceless. The Furnace Room GuardianAnother camera has taken up residence in my furnace room, casting an unblinking eye on my condenser unit, which, without its monthly bleach cocktail, becomes as leaky as a sieve. Thanks to the WYZE Cam, I can now monitor its sobriety from anywhere in the world. The Traveling Sentinels: The rest of my WYZE Cam Pan v3 fleet is deployed strategically around my fortress—ahem, I mean, home—whenever we dare to venture beyond our moat. With their motion sensors and two-way communication, I can bark orders at unsuspecting relatives or friends who've been conscripted into house-sitting duties. "More bleach in the condenser!" I can command from a beach halfway across the globe. The Mighty Specs of the WYZE Cam Pan v3: This isn't just any camera; it's a wired, pan-and-tilt marvel with an IP65 rating, making it more versatile than my wardrobe. Whether braving the elements outside or keeping watch over the nursery, this camera does it all with the grace of a ballet dancer and the quiet determination of a ninja.
The Verdict: The WYZE Cam Pan v3 has not only provided an invaluable service in my quest against water damage but has also allowed me to resurrect my fancy watch-wearing days, now that my wrists are no longer burdened with smartwatches doubling as fitness trackers. Customers rave about its value, image quality, and ease of installation, echoing my sentiments about this tiny titan of surveillance. Though opinions on its performance and motion detection may vary, one thing is clear: in the battle against the unexpected, the WYZE Cam Pan v3 is my chosen champion. So here's to the WYZE Cam Pan v3: the guardian of my sump pump, the overseer of my furnace room, and the commander of my temporary home security force. May it continue to provide peace of mind, one pan-and-tilt at a time.  Before....disgusting! Welcome back to "Mike's Favorite Things," where today we're tackling a topic hotter than a summer romance in a romance novel: the thrilling world of dryer vent cleaning. Yes, folks, buckle up because we're diving deep into the lint-filled crevices of household maintenance. Enter the Dragon:The Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit A couple of years ago, faced with a dryer vent that needed to be cleaned or replaced, I embarked on a quest for fire safety and stumbled upon my knight in shining armor: the Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit. This isn't just any tool; it's the Swiss Army knife for battling the fiery beast of lint that lurks within the belly of your dryer vent. What's in the Box (in my best Brad Pitt voice)? Imagine, if you will, a high-quality synthetic brush head, paired with not one, not two, but 22 pieces of flexible, durable rods that can extend up to an Olympic diving pool length of 30 feet. It's like having a magic wand that says, "Begone, lint!" Hooks up to your power drill. Couldn't be easier. DIY: A Tale of Home Improvement The beauty of this kit is its simplicity. hook it up to your Black and Decker power drill, and feed it through the maze of your dryer vent. The instructions are so straightforward, even my 19-year-old son could follow them—if he ever ventured into the laundry room, that is. The Quest for Efficiency By embarking on this lint-removing journey, you're not just preventing your home from catching fire; you're also boosting your dryer's efficiency. It's like giving your dryer a pep talk and watching it perform like an athlete on game day, all while saving the hefty sum of $150 per professional cleaning. That's more money in your pocket for, well, more lint-producing hoodies. The Reward: Peace of Mind. Just like with my Sump Pump review, and my Water Sensor Review, I am all about peace of mind. Armed with the Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit, I spend a thrilling 30 minutes every six months ensuring my household is safe from the lurking danger of dryer fires. The real treasure, though, is the peace of mind, knowing that I can dry those endless hoodies and yoga pants without turning my laundry room into a scene from "Backdraft." In Conclusion: So there you have it.. In the epic saga of household maintenance, the Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit emerges as the hero we didn't know we needed, but can't live without. Join me in this quest, and together, let's keep our homes safe, our dryers efficient, and our spirits lint-free. Because in the end, the only fire we want in our lives is the burning passion for more of Mike's Favorite Things. Stay tuned, stay safe, and remember: a clean vent is a happy vent.  After! Now that's a clean pipe!!!  Welcome back to another whimsical wander through Mike's Marvelous Menagerie of Gadgets! Today, I'm beaming with excitement (and a dash of nostalgia) as we dive into the enchanting world of the Oura Ring. Now, I know what you're thinking: "Great, another fitness tracker trying to guilt-trip me into walking those extra steps to the fridge." But hear me out—this one's a game-changer.
A Brief Trip Down Memory Lane: Flashback to 20 years ago when I splurged on my first high-end watch. Ah, the good old days when strapping a sophisticated timepiece to your wrist was the ultimate flex, signaling you had places to be and, more importantly, that you knew exactly when to be there. Millennials, imagine that—wearing something that doesn't buzz or beep with every heartbeat! Fast forward to the wearable tech era, and my beloved Rolex found itself benched in the dark corners of a drawer, overshadowed by the shiny features of a smartwatch. That is until the Oura Ring waltzed into my life, allowing me to dust off my fancy watch and wear it with pride, all while secretly tracking my every move with a gadget snugly wrapped around my finger. The Oura Ring: Not Just Another Band on the Run The Oura Ring isn't just a fitness tracker; it's like the Swiss Army knife of wellness gadgets, minus the actual knife. Launched with a Kickstarter campaign back in the prehistoric year of 2015, Oura has since evolved from its bulkier beginnings to a sleek ring that makes tracking your health as effortless as... well, wearing a ring. Unlike other wearables that scream, "Look at me, I'm counting my steps!", the Oura Ring whispers, "I'm stealthily monitoring your vitals, but let's keep that between us." It tracks everything from your activity levels to your heart rate, body temperature, and even how well you're sleeping (because apparently, sleep is important—who knew?). Features That Make You Go "Hmm" This magical ring operates using infrared LEDs, which sounds more like a feature of a superhero gadget than a health tracker. These LEDs shine through your skin, and the changes in reflection are analyzed to spill the beans on your heart rate, temperature, and more. It's like having a tiny, non-judgmental doctor on your finger 24/7. The third generation, unveiled in the futuristic year of 2021, introduced even more wizardry, such as blood oxygen monitoring and period prediction. Because, let's face it, who wouldn't want their ring to nudge them and say, "Hey, maybe pack some chocolate today"? A Ring to Rule Them All?: With over a million rings sold and a side of controversy courtesy of a $5.99 monthly membership fee (on top of the ring's $299 price tag), Oura has certainly made waves. But for those of us who cherish the ability to wear a statement watch without sacrificing the urge to obsessively track our bodily functions, the Oura Ring is a small price to pay for marrying the old with the new. So, as I parade around flaunting my gaudy timepiece with an Oura Ring subtly sitting on my finger, I'm reminded that in the world of gadgets, sometimes it's the smallest things that make the biggest impact. And if nothing else, it's a great conversation starter for when someone asks, "Is that a fitness tracker?" and I get to smugly reply, "No, it's my Oura Ring. Let me tell you about it..."  Welcome back to another caffeinated edition of "Mike's Favorite Things," where I spill the beans on the gadgets and gizmos that make my world go round. Today, I'm bubbling over with excitement to talk about my beloved Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine, equipped with a Classic Milk Frother. This marvel, a steal from Amazon, brews up a storm in my kitchen without breaking the bank.
The Dream vs. Reality Like many coffee aficionados, I've long daydreamed of owning a top-of-the-line espresso machine. You know the ones I'm talking about—the De'Longhi Dinamica Plus, the JURA ENA 8, or the Miele CM6160 Milk Perfection. Machines so sophisticated, they practically require a barista degree to operate and a small fortune to own. But let's be real; laying out $1,300 to $2,300 for the luxury of a home-brewed espresso felt like a fantasy reserved for another lifetime. Enter the Philips 3200 Series, my shining knight in stainless steel armor. Priced at less than $800, it's the happy medium that brought my espresso dreams down to earth. The Specs That Steal the Show What makes the Philips 3200 Series the MVP of my kitchen? Let's dive into the details:
Why the Philips 3200 Series? You might wonder, why not spring for the fancier "LatteGo" model with the built-in milk reservoir? Simple. My wife and I have different milk preferences, and the idea of being tied to one type of milk didn't froth well with me. The flexibility of the Classic Milk Frother system was the perfect solution, allowing us to customize our milk choices without compromise. In Conclusion: My Espresso Epiphany The Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with Classic Milk Frother has become more than just an appliance; it's my daily ritual, my moment of zen before the storm of the day. It proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy luxury coffee at home. Whether it's serving up a robust espresso to kickstart my morning or a creamy cappuccino to wind down the day, this machine delivers, cup after cup. So, here's to the joy of brewing, the art of espresso, and the thrill of finding a product that exceeds expectations without emptying your wallet. Cheers to the Philips 3200 Series, a true gem in the world of coffee aficionados and a shining star in my collection of favorite things.  Welcome to another riveting episode of "Mike's Miraculous Home Gadgets," where today's star is none other than the RIDGID Stainless Steel Smart Dual Action Sump Pump—a device so advanced, it might just send a friend request to your smartphone, unless you are using a Nokia Flip Phone.
The Great Sump Pump Saga: Let's rewind to over a year ago when my trusty old sump pump decided to retire without giving me its two weeks' notice. And by retire, I mean it utterly failed. The twist? My basement visits are as rare as a pleasant Monday, so I had no clue about this development. By sheer luck, my basement didn't turn into an indoor swimming pool. Fast forward to the present, and I've upgraded to something that assures me I'll catch any mischief before it turns into an aquatic catastrophe. Yes, you guessed it—the RIDGID 1000RSDSSmart, available at your local Home Depot. And get this: even a DIY rookie like myself managed to install it, all thanks to the almighty YouTube. The RIDGID® 1000RSDS Smart isn't just any sump pump; it's the James Bond of sump pumps (in order of greatness....Sean Connery, Daniel Craig, Roger Moore, Pierce Brosnan, Timothy Dalton, and the other guy) —sleek, smart, and ready for action. Engineered and assembled in the land of the free, this digitally connected marvel uses cutting-edge smart home technology to ensure your basement remains drier than a British comedy. Here's the deal: Whether you're sunbathing in Hawaii or stuck in a meeting that could've been an email, you can check in on your basement's status faster than you can swipe left on a dating app. Thanks to its second-generation mobile app and electrical sensors, the 1000RSDSmart pump is like having a basement butler who never sleeps. It tracks its own performance, sends alerts for clogs or obstructions, and even politely informs you when it's time to say goodbye and replace it. It's like having a personal basement concierge, minus the fancy suit. Features That Make You Go "Wow": This pump is so quiet, you'll start to wonder if it's even working. But don't let its silence fool you; this gadget is the hardest working pump you'll never hear—a tagline that could also describe my efforts in high school gym class. Assembled in the USA with premium components, it not only offers top-notch performance and digital connectivity but also comes pre-assembled for easy installation. Compatible with both iOS and Android, it's ready to mingle with your other smart home devices, and yes, it even chats with Alexa. Conclusion: A Dry Basement is a Happy Basement. In the grand scheme of things, life is indeed too short to worry about water in your basement. With the RIDGID 1000RSDSSmart, you're not just buying a sump pump; you're securing peace of mind with a side of tech-savvy bragging rights. So, here's to a future where the only thing flooding your basement are compliments on your smart home setup. Grab yours and join the elite club of homeowners who whisper sweet nothings to their sump pump before bed.  Welcome back to the latest installment of "Mike's Favorite Things," where I, your trusty guide, take you through the winding paths of my culinary adventures and the treasures I've uncovered along the way. Today, we're venturing into the realm of dairy alternatives, where Califia Farms Zero Sugar Oatmilk has emerged as a creamy champion in my daily routine.
From Cow to Oat: A Dairy Devotee's Conversion Let's get one thing straight: I was a whole milk enthusiast through and through. There was something about its rich, full-bodied flavor that had me convinced no plant-based alternative could ever match up. The thought of ditching dairy was akin to giving up a cherished childhood friend. Skim milk? Please, that was like water trying to be something it's not in my book. However, as the saying goes, "change is the only constant," and my foray into the world of oat milk was about to upend everything I thought I knew about my milky preferences. Califia Farms Zero Sugar Oatmilk: A Revelation in a Carton Enter Califia Farms Zero Sugar Oatmilk. This wasn't just any alternative milk trying to make its mark in the crowded plant-based arena; this was a game-changer. With zero grams of sugar per serving and a promise of creaminess that could rival dairy, my curiosity was piqued. Could this be the solution to my whole milk dilemma? The answer, as I soon discovered, was a resounding yes. The texture? Smooth and remarkably creamy, a feat for something that came from oats and not a cow. The taste? Pure, subtle, and versatile enough to complement my sacred morning (or evening) coffee ritual. The Espresso Lungo Test While black coffee has always been my stalwart morning companion, the introduction of Califia Farms Zero Sugar Oatmilk into my espresso lungo was a revelation. A splash of these creamy oats transformed my coffee into a luxurious experience, enhancing the flavor without overwhelming it—a delicate balance that few milk alternatives can achieve. The Health Horizon The debate on whole milk's health merits (or demerits) aside, venturing into oat milk territory has been an eye-opener. It's seemingly healthier, yes, but what won me over was how Califia Farms managed to deliver a product that didn't make me feel like I was compromising on taste for health. It's creamy, delicious, and comes with the added bonus of being kinder to my body and the planet. In Conclusion: A New Favorite EmergesCalifia Farms Zero Sugar Oatmilk has earned its place in my heart (and my fridge) as a staple. It's more than just a dairy alternative; it's a testament to the fact that change can be delicious, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. So, here's to Califia Farms for creating something that even a dairy devotee like myself can not only enjoy but wholeheartedly embrace. And to you, dear reader, I say: give the oat side a chance. You might just find yourself pleasantly surprised, hooked on the creamy goodness that Califia Farms Zero Sugar Oatmilk brings to the table.  Have you ever experienced the sudden shock of discovering a leak under your sink that's been secretly wreaking havoc for who knows how long? Or how about the heart-stopping moment when you realize your trusty sump pump has silently betrayed you, leaving your basement at the mercy of water? If you're nodding along, feeling the pain of unexpected water disasters, then boy, do I have a solution for you: the Govee Water Leak Detector.
The Unsung Hero in the Battle Against Water Damage Let me introduce you to your new best friend and the unsung hero in the battle against water damage. The Govee Water Leak Detector is not just any gadget; it's the guardian angel of your home, tirelessly standing watch where water poses a threat. I'm not just a fan; I'm a super-user, with over 25 of these little lifesavers scattered throughout my house, my parents' house, my mother-in-law's house—basically, anywhere water dares to flow. Why You Need a Govee Water Leak Detector (or 25): The beauty of the Govee Water Leak Detector lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. Here's why it's an absolute must-have:
Personal Testimony: A Convert to the Church of Govee. I'm not just preaching the gospel of Govee without cause. My journey to becoming a Govee evangelist started with a single leak detector and a skeptical mind. Fast forward to now, with over two dozen devices deployed, I've thwarted more potential disasters than I care to count. From saving my basement from a sump pump failure to catching a stealthy leak under the kitchen sink at my mother-in-law's, these devices have more than proven their worth. Conclusion: Don't Wait for Water to WinIn the end, water damage is a homeowner's nightmare, but it doesn't have to be your reality. The Govee Water Leak Detector offers a simple, effective, and affordable solution to a problem many of us don't think about until it's too late. So, whether you're a home maintenance pro or someone who's just tired of unpleasant surprises, consider giving yourself the gift of prevention with Govee. And remember, in the battle against unexpected water, it's better to be overly prepared than caught off guard. Here's to dry floors, peace of mind, and the little devices that make a big difference. Let's make unexpected water a thing of the past—one Govee Water Leak Detector at a time. |
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