Well, 2026 is already 1/12 of the way over, if that seems at all possible. But before January fades into the sunset, I have one last video to share with you that drops today. This is a collection of gadgets that all supposedly solve everyday problems, but did they succeed? I also posted my last vlog of January on F2 and found some fresh Amazon deals for you.

Let’s dive in!

My latest video is online and will be going public later today. It’s an interesting collection of gadgets including a glowing drawing pad, As Seen on TV rug grippers, an interesting gadget for taking salads on the go, and a blanket to keep you warm in a freezing office.

I spent my entire week with these gadgets and found that they all had their strengths, and not too many weaknesses. If you’re curious how these gadgets solved everyday problems, click the button below.

You can also read the written review here.

This first Amazon suggestion could be a bit biased, as I’m literally wearing it right now as I type this! It’s the ComfyTemp heated back massager, which I found works as advertised. I’m dealing with some back pain at the moment, and it’s nice to not be tethered to a heating pad that’s plugged into the wall. This item ping-pongs between a lower price of $40 and a higher price of $50. It’s on the low side now, so grab it before it goes back up. You can also check out my review here if you’re still on the fence.

This 2×3’ mat usually runs about $20 but you can snag it now for under $9. It has solid consumer ratings among over 7000 reviews, so odds are it’ll get the job done for you. Coincidentally, today’s review (above) includes rug grippers that might pair well with this.

Covid and flu are still running rampant in some parts of the country, and this combo Covid/flu test kit can help give you quick answers if you aren’t feeling well. My price tracker shows that it usually runs $18-$22, so the current price of $13 is a legit sale price.

If you have rugs that slide around on tile or wood floors, try this before buying any grippers. Flip the rug over and apply thin strips of silicone caulk (clear or white) in a zig-zag pattern along the edges and a couple lines through the center. Let it fully cure, then flip the rug back over.

The silicone adds grip without damaging the floor, doesn’t leave residue, and lasts a long time. It’s especially useful for older rugs that don’t work well with adhesive pads anymore.

I posted two new vlogs over on Freakin’ 2 this week. In the first vlog (#64), I tried out the NKD Doritos and Dr. Pepper Tic Tacs, with a little help from my friends.

Yesterday I posted Vlog #65 which includes a “vlog” I filmed way back in 1989. My goofy side was already on display 37 years ago when I filmed it with one of those giant VHS camcorders!

It was 2 years ago today that I tested out the Dezin electric pot, which allows you to cook anywhere you have an outlet. It may not be necessary in your kitchen, but it’s quite useful for those without one. This item is still in use two years later by the people I gave this to, so its durability has been an added bonus. This video also included a humorous segment called “Backyard Bites” where I tested it outdoors.