Welcome back to "Mike's Favorite Things," where I explore the marvels and wonders that make life a little easier, a little brighter, and a lot cleaner. Today, I’m introducing a powerhouse that has revolutionized the way I tackle messes—Mr. Jinx All Purpose Cleaner, also known to some as Sprayway® Crazy Clean All Purpose Cleaner. This isn’t just a story about cleanliness; it’s a tale of midnight discoveries and the kind of magic that can only be found in a 20 oz can. A Midnight Revelation The saga begins in the quiet hours of a Southfield, Michigan night, deep within the confines of my office. It was there, amidst the silence of work and the soft hum of the night, that I witnessed a custodial engineer performing what can only be described as a miracle. The walls, marred by the day’s chaos, were being restored to their pristine glory with just a few sprays and wipes. Intrigued, I inquired about this elixir, only to be introduced to the legendary Mr. Jinx. "This stuff is the bomb," he said, and with a generous spirit, handed me his can. "I got plenty." I can only imagine, 1980s pitchman Mike Levey, with his bright Coogi Sweaters pitching this stuff. It is that good. From scuffs on the walls to the rims of my tires, and even the once-thought-untouchable stains on my shoes, Mr. Jinx proved its mettle. It is safe for most surfaces, and believe me, it cleans better that DiDi Seven! The Magic in the Can What makes Mr. Jinx the hero of our cleaning closet? It’s not just its ability to tackle a wide range of messes; it’s the sheer versatility and efficacy packed into every spray. Here’s a snapshot of what this all-purpose cleaner brings to the table:
From a Custodial Tip to a Household Staple Available in a convenient 20 oz can (Amazon or Ferguson), Mr. Jinx has transcended its humble beginnings to become a staple in not just my home, but anyone lucky enough to wield its power. With just a spray and a wipe, it erases the evidence of daily life, leaving behind nothing but cleanliness and a sense of satisfaction. Conclusion: The Cleaner That Cleans 'Like Crazy': In a world filled with cleaners that promise much but deliver little, Mr. Jinx stands apart. It’s not just an all-purpose cleaner; it’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best discoveries are made when we least expect them. So here’s to the midnight encounters that change our lives, to the custodial engineers who share their secrets, and to Mr. Jinx—the cleaner that truly cleans 'like crazy.' Whether you're tackling the aftermath of a creative burst that left ink and crayon on every surface or simply looking to restore the sparkle to your kitchen and bathroom, Mr. Jinx is your go-to solution. And perhaps, like me, you’ll find yourself wondering how you ever managed without it.
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In the ever-expanding universe of "Mike's Favorite Things," a new star has emerged, shining brightly on the corner of Parker and Kercheval in Detroit, Michigan. Sister Pie, a bakery that has kneaded its way into the hearts of many, including mine, stands as a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and downright delicious baking. On a day that seemed like any other, Allison and I found ourselves stepping into this temple of treats, and what we discovered was nothing short of a culinary revelation. The Sweet Beginnings Sister Pie's journey from a Thanksgiving venture in Lisa's parents' kitchen to a bustling bakery with national acclaim is a story sprinkled with dedication, community support, and a dash of dance marathon endurance. With a $50,000 Hatch Detroit grant and an Indiegogo campaign fueled by 24 hours of non-stop dancing, Lisa and her team transformed a dream into a tangible, pie-filled reality. Opening its doors on April 24, 2015, Sister Pie promised more than just exceptional baked goods; it offered a slice of home, a place where every visitor could find warmth, joy, and a connection to the vibrant spirit of Detroit. The Menu That Stole My Heart (And Taste Buds) Let's get one thing straight: I've never been much of a pie person. Yet, Sister Pie's menu, rich in creativity and flavor, compelled me to indulge in a pastry pilgrimage, tasting my way through offerings that were nothing short of transformative. From Another Galaxy Brownie - A celestial experience wrapped in a brownie, this gluten-free, vegan delight was rich, chocolatey, and crafted without nuts, catering to my specific brownie preferences. Each bite was a journey through the cosmos of flavor, proving that Sister Pie's talents extend far beyond the pie tin. Lemon Drop & Orange Drop - These weren't just cookies; they were drops of sunshine. Frosted to perfection, the distinct flavors of lemon and orange danced on my palate, leaving me wishing for more. It's rare to find such a perfect balance of tart and sweet, but Sister Pie nailed it. Buckwheat Chocolate Chip Cookies - "Buckwheat" and "delicious" in the same sentence? You better believe it. Opting for a 6-pack, we dove into these gluten-free wonders, and let me tell you, they were much more than "Oh-Tay." Blueberry Muffin - This wasn't just any blueberry muffin. Oh no. This was a culinary masterpiece, complete with a dollop of cream cheese at its heart, transforming an ordinary muffin into an extraordinary delight. More Than Just a Bakery Sister Pie doesn't just serve baked goods; it cultivates community through its cooking classes, ranging from all-butter pie dough to sweet hand pies. It's become my new favorite thing, embodying the essence of what makes Detroit special: resilience, community, and a whole lot of flavor. Surrounded by other gems like Marrow and Mumma Maria's, Sister Pie stands as a beacon for foodies, locals, and visitors alike, inviting everyone to partake in the joy of baking, learning, and, most importantly, eating. So, here's to Sister Pie, a place where every bite tells a story, every class ignites a passion, and every visit feels like coming home. If you ever find yourself in Detroit, do yourself a favor and experience the magic of Sister Pie. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. Welcome back to "Mike's Favorite Things," where today's highlight isn't just a product, but a true game-changer in my daily life and athletic endeavors. Allow me to introduce the ultra-cushioned marvel that has redefined comfort and stability for me: the Hoka Bondi 8 running shoes. The Ultra-Cushioned Game-ChangerDubbed as one of the hardest working shoes in the HOKA lineup, the Bondi series has taken a significant leap with its latest iteration. The Bondi 8 isn't just a shoe; it's an engineering masterpiece, combining softer, lighter foams with a revolutionary extended heel geometry. The result? A shoe that provides an incredibly soft and balanced ride, making each step feel like a cloud. Best For:
A Marathon Runner's Best Friend As someone who's previously tackled the grueling 26.2 miles of the Detroit International Marathon, I can attest that the right footwear isn't just recommended; it's essential. The Hoka Bondi 8 stood by me every step of the way, proving itself to be more than just a shoe but a trusted companion on the pavement. What Makes the Hoka Bondi 8 Exceptional?
Beyond the Run Hoka's commitment to sustainability is evident in the Bondi 8, featuring vegan materials and significant use of recycled polyester, aligning with my personal values and lifestyle. Moreover, the variety of colors ensures that your shoes are not just about performance but also about expressing your style. In Conclusion: My Soleful Companion: In the pantheon of "Mike's Favorite Things," the Hoka Bondi 8 occupies a special place. It's more than just footwear; it's a testament to how innovative design can elevate the running experience, providing the foundation (quite literally) for achieving new personal bests and comfortably going about one's day. So, here's to the Hoka Bondi 8: the ultra-cushioned marvel that supports, cushions, and accompanies me on every adventure, from marathons to the mundane. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just someone who values comfort and stability in your stride, I cannot recommend the Bondi 8 enough. Here's to many more miles together, in comfort and style. Welcome back to the caffeinated corner of "Mike's Favorite Things," where today we're stirring up a little something special for my fellow business enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike. As a seasoned salesman always on the hunt for that brew-tiful wow factor, I've discovered a game-changer that combines my love for coffee with a clever marketing twist. And yes, this involves the global coffee giant we all know and can't live without—Starbucks. The Perk of Personalization Imagine handing a prospect or client a token that not only leaves a lasting impression but also gives them a taste (quite literally) of your brand. Starbucks offers a co-branded card service that lets you customize their gift cards with your logo. This discovery is like finding out your latte can come with zero calories—simply amazing! Here's the grind on how it works: visit Starbucks Card B2B and choose your type of card. They offer both digital and physical options, but for that tactile touch, I went with the physical ones. Upload your logo, write a tagline with some sort of pun...like "brewing". ChatGPT can probably help. The Details:
Opting for the minimums to test the waters for an upcoming industry event, I found the order process smoother than my morning espresso. In just 5 minutes, my order was complete, and the cards were en route to me within 3 business days (thanks to next-day air shipping). The First Sip: Unboxing Impressions: The anticipation was akin to waiting for that first coffee of the day. When the cards arrived, they looked better than imagined. The quality exceeded my expectations, promising not just to impress but to espresso just how much thought I put into my relationships with clients and prospects. You have the option to splash your logo and a couple of sentences on the card, transforming it into a pocket-sized billboard for your brand. Or, for the same price, you can double down and have your business cards printed on them, serving both as your contact info and a Starbucks gift card. Who wouldn't appreciate a good cup of joe on you? A Legacy of Coffee Connections This isn't just about giving away gift cards; it's about creating connections, stirring conversations, and leaving a memorable impression that links your brand to something as universally adored as coffee. It's a strategy that's sure to have your prospects and clients buzzing with excitement. Reflecting on my previous blog posts about coffee, from my Philips 3200 Series Espresso Machine adventures to my grandmother's coffee-loving dog Sporty, it's clear that coffee runs in my veins (and my family's, apparently). This Starbucks co-branded card strategy feels like a natural extension of my love for coffee, blending it seamlessly with my professional life. Conclusion: A Jolt of Genius: So, whether you're looking to make a splash at your next industry event or just want to brew up some goodwill with your clients, consider the Starbucks co-branded card. It's not just a gift; it's an experience—a delicious, caffeinated reminder of your brand that they can savor with every sip. Remember, in the world of business, it's the personal touches that count. And in this case, a cup of Starbucks on you might just be the perfect blend of thoughtful and strategic. Here's to brewing up success, one cup at a time! 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. 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. 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. 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. |
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