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March 9, 2014

Wantable Intimates Box Review March 2014 - After Thoughts

Like always I received my Wantable Intimates box right on time ... and sometimes before I'm done receiving all of my previous month's subscriptions.  A brief description of Wantable will be posted at the end of the post.  I have always loved Wantable and this box is no different.  Let's take a look at what I received this month...



While I always love a great pair of socks, and this box had many, I would prefer to see a bit more of a variety of items.  especially after seeing some of the items offered up during sneak peeks.  I had even went in and re-evaluated my survey.  However, this is in no way a deal breaker.

Some Quick Tips to get Green For SPRING!

With Daylight Savings here (and losing that hour of sleep), I'm starting to get in "Spring" mode.  I've already got a ton of ideas floating around in my head regarding projects around the house and yard, and of course with warmer weather, it means we can get back outside and enjoy the outdoors!  With this thinking comes the idea that it's time to GREEN MY ROUTINE ... following is just some simple ways to help GREEN things up for Spring!!



1.  Switch to low wattage or compact fluorescent light bulbs.
2.  Share magazines and books with Friends (Check out BOOKMOOCH )
3.  Reuse glass jars as vases, makeup brush storage or home decor (Just add a touch of YOU)
4.  Give up the T.V. for an extra hour a day ... more on weekends & get OUTSIDE!
5.  Use cloth towels instead of paper.
6.  Bike or use public transportation to work as much as possible.
7.  Turn off the water while brushing your teeth or while soaping up in the shower.
8.  Leave the cleansers with Micro Bursting Beads at the store.    The beads are not biodegradable and end up in our lakes and streams.  Bad for fish, bad for water, bad for US!
9.  Brown bag your weekday lunch.
10. WALK!
11. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
12. Toss coffee grounds in the garden.  No garden?  Give them to a neighbor that does!
13. Bring your own bag - not just for grocery shopping!
14. Open windows instead of running the AC.
15. Before leaving the house, make a quick run through to make sure everything is turned off.
16. Be sure to set your thermostats to turn down or off while you're not home and schedule them to turn on an hour before you're due back.
17. Use reusable containers.
18. Go solar where you can or buy solar made products.
19. Stop phone book delivery if you haven't already.
20. Use a reusable water bottle.
21. Recycle your old electronics.  Do this responsibly!!  Contact a reputable company that deals in electronic recycling.  Check your City and County as well, sometimes they have a "Cleanup" schedule.
22. Eat Organic when possible.
23. Use organic skin care and makeup products.
24. Wrap gifts in materials you have around the house.
25. Shop flea markets and small business ... Support local Artisans.
26. Support your local Farmers Market.
27. Call you utility company for a free energy audit.
28. Replace old toilets & appliances with energy saving models (Plus you may qualify for tax incentives or rebates)
29. Wash laundry with cold water & line dry (And it makes them smell so good!)
30. Eat fruit and Veggies that are in season.
31. Start your own compost.
32. Group errands together to avoid making multiple trips throughout the week.
33. Try to shorten your shower by 5 minutes.
34. Plant a tree, or donate to an organization that will plant one for you. (Check online for local organizations)
35. Plant a garden ... and don't forget your own veggies!
36. Make your own non-toxic household cleansers using vinegar, lemon and essential oils.
37. Choose an Ice Cream cone over a cup.
38. Use organic soy candles.
39. Volunteer at a local organic farm.
40. Shop consignment shops, thrift stores and garage sales for those awesome one-of-a-kind items.
41. Swap to e-statements.
42. Buy rechargeable batteries.
43. Use an Eco-friendly dry cleaner.
44. Use scrap paper for desk notes.
45. Bring your own mug to the coffee shop.
46. Use electronic invitations for your next get together.
47. Unplug appliances when not in use.
48. Print on both sides of the paper.
49. Carpool when going out with friends and family.
50. Shop LOCAL boutiques & shops before going online! (Saves on shipping materials)

Well, these are just a few ways you can help Green Your Spring.  Let me know below if you have any additional tips!  Happy Early Spring!

XOXO,

Colgate® Optic White™ Toothbrush + Built-In Whitening Pen #BrushWhitenGO - Final Thoughts

It has now been a total of 8 days using my Colgate® Optic White™ Toothbrush + Built-In Whitening Pen, and I seriously can't believe me eyes!!  I had tried whitening toothpastes before with not much change, but was never willing to invest in whitening strips and definitely not ready to throw down a couple hundred dollars to get it done professionally.  So when I received my voxbox from Influenster for testing purposes, I do have to admit, secretly, I was a bit skeptical.


You would think that it would be messy or complicated, possibly even wondering if you have to sit there with your mouth hanging open while the gel sets ... NOPE!  It's very simple, however, it does add a couple extra minutes to your routine until you get the hang of it.

March 6, 2014

Wantable Makeup Box Review - February 2014

Hi Everyone!!  My February Wantable makeup box came a little later than usual due to a bookkeeping error (completely on my part).  Wantable is one of my absolute favorite subscription box companies.  If you're interested, a brief description will be posted at the end.


Upon opening the box you will find it packaged in egg crate foam which ensures nothing is going to rattle around in there.  There is always a "Cheat Sheet" included, listing the items and the price breakdown of each item.  Lately they have also been sending small card reminders that they now have an iPhone app available in the iTunes store.  The Android app will be coming soon.  And let's not forget about the insert that they include in every box with a cute message on the front, and a famous quote or affirmation on the back (I secretly love these).  Listed below is what I received in my February Wantable makeup box.


March 5, 2014

Colgate® Optic White™ Toothbrush + Built-In Whitening Pen - First Impressions #BrushWhitenGO

Last week my Colgate Optic White VoxBox from Influenster arrived in the mail. I had been extremely excited to receive this...I had just a couple weeks before been pricing whitening services here in Denver. My teeth are not horribly discolored, but I am a coffee drinker and I would like a bright summer smile!


Upon opening I found the toothbrush with built in whitening pen, a small tube of Optic White Toothpaste, 7 coupons for $3.00 off the Optic White System and the explanation card.


I've been using this for a couple days now (3 to be exact), and I have to say I am completely impressed!! I have noticed a slight difference, but nothing incredibly drastic. However, I'm hoping to keep the whitening streak going. The Toothpaste and Gel are tolerable, not too strong or overpowering, glides on easily and there is no tacky feel on your teeth after application. It does take a few attempts to figure out exactly how much of the gel you need for YOUR teeth. The toothbrush itself is a bit hard for me, I usually use a soft bristle brush, but I like the rubber bristles, I think they add an element of additional cleaning. I also think this is a great alternative to office whitening services, which can be pretty pricey. All in all I think this is a great product, and I look forward to a Bright, White, Summer Smile!

I will definitely be posting a follow up after I've had a chance to really use the product!  If you have any questions, please post them below.  Thank you Influenster for the complimentary Colgate® Optic White™ Toothbrush + Built-In Whitening Pen VoxBox for testing purposes.



XOXO,







February 19, 2014

Get Perfect Beach Waves! Sarah Potempa & Birchbox

Today I participated in my first Google+ Hangout, and much like a Twitter Party, there are guest bloggers, brand ambassadors and usually a celebrity stylist/artist.  The huge difference comes with the video aspect, which is a lot of fun.  Today's Hangout was held by Birchbox (A quick explanation of Birchbox will be noted at the bottom) featuring celebrity hairstylist Sarah Potempa and her Beachwaver curling iron, a rotating, adjustable temperature iron.

Not only did I walk away with some new tips and tricks, but there was a ton if interesting information as well! I don't know about you, but I always thought the more lather you had in your hair, the cleaner it would be.  But, did you know that shampoo is for your scalp, not your hair itself?  I sure didn't.  I really wish I was able to show you the video, however, it seems to have disappeared to a black screen with voices.  If you'd like to check it out, please click HERE to see the Beachwaver in action!

After checking out the video, I want a Beachwaver more than ever!!  However, it is a Pretty Pricey Product (PPP) at $199.00.  But after checking other reviews, it definitely seems worth the price.  I WILL be ordering mine soon.  For those of you that are already Birchbox babes you can get 15% OFF in the Birchbox shop, of all Sarah's products, including the Beachwaver, But ONLY FOR THE NEXT 24 HOURS!  Just use code SARAHPOTEMPA15 at checkout. (Until 2/20/14)

For those of you beauties and gents that aren't Birchbox subscribers:  "Birchbox is a subscription service where each month, you'll receive a selection of samples that we've tried (and retried) ourselves. We source our samples from both well-known brands and emerging gems. The women’s subscription includes everything from skincare to makeup, as well as fun non-beauty extras. The men’s subscription delivers top-tier grooming products in addition to lifestyle accessories ranging from hip socks to tech accessories."  The women's box is $10 a month and the men's box is $20 a month.  You also have the option of  paying monthly, or in advance for 3, 6, or 12 months.

If you already own a Beachwaver, please leave a comment below and let me know how you like it!

XOXO,




February 17, 2014

Julep - FREE gift with purchase

Just in time for the Oscars, Julep is hosting its new "Red Carpet Ready" sets. Not only do they have some unbelievable shades this go 'round, but they are offering a FREE gift with any $25 purchase.  You get the sequined clutch, a bottle of Oscar (Gold multi-dimensional glitter) and your choice of either Rita (Royal Blackcurrant micro-shimmer) or Holly (Green frost) A total $50 value.  This offer is available to anyone, just use the code EVERYBODY.  And don't forget your exclusive priced add-ons! But remember this offer only lasts until 2/28/14 11:59 PST.


If you happen to be interested in becoming a Julep Maven, you can score your first month free (A $19.99 value) by entering code: FREEBOX.  Just take the quick quiz to see what style you are and BAM! ... You're ready to go.  Don't like your box selection?  You can change it.  Want to skip a month?  No problem.  Hassle free nail polish right to your door monthly!

XOXO,
  









**Picture from Julep email.

Late January Volupties Review ... and OOPS!

Like I mentioned above,I am a huge procrastinator.  No, really I've just been extremely busy, so I apologize that this is so late, but I figured since my February shipment should be here any day I better get my January review up!!

Now Volupties (Volup-Tease) is a monthly Panties/Underwear subscription for $17 including S&H ($12 for your FIRST month) in which you receive 3 pairs of panties.  They also deliver to Canada!!  The styles and colors differ and you do not get to customize, but they have a great selection and I have gotten the "booty-licious" seal of approval numerous times!  Volupties is for us ladies that have a more full booty than our smaller girlfriends.  Don't worry ... There's a subscription for you too called Splendies.  If you wear a size 8 or above, you're a Volupties girl!!

Recently I received an email that the company has grown so much that they have changed their billing process a bit.  You now get billed on the 10th of the month and your package is shipped on the 15th.  NO worries!  I like the structure myself..  Last month I was involved in a small OOPS.  I was actually billed once on the 5th and received that shipment, then was billed again and received a second shipment in January.  Not a problem really as you will see below.  But as with any changes in processes, there's going to be small glitches, but like I said, no worries! :)

February 16, 2014

NUBAR Cuticle Nail Oil

Recently I participated in the Beauty Box 5 (BB5 will be explained below) #awkwardmakeupmoment contest on Facebook in conjunction with the new movie "That Awkward Moment" featuring Zac Efron.  My Awkward makeup moment was one of 4 that received the highest number of votes.  In return for reliving my embarrassing experience I won a full size bottle of NUBAR Cuticle Care Oil in Vanilla.

I knew what the prize was, so I was extremely excited when I found out I had actually won!!  I have been suffering the last couple of months with horrible hang nails, splitting cuticles and ripping skin; especially on my thumbs.  I had tried a couple other brands touting amazing hydration and wonderful healing properties, but neither lived up to their hype.  Lately I had just been working lotion into the area a couple times a day.

I came home from work last week to find a package in my mailbox!  I quickly opened it to find the box I had been waiting for.  I applied it that night and noticed it had a nice feel.  Not too greasy, and it soaked it pretty quickly, not to mention it smells absolutely divine.  Not much difference the first day.  But by day 4, the skin was healing on my thumbs and the rest of my nails just looked a little healthier.  It's now been a week and with nightly application of the cuticle care oil, the skin and cuticles on my thumbs are completely healed!

So for the time being, I think I've found the product that I need, and all because of an awkward makeup moment.  Thanks Beauty Box 5!!


You can purchase the NUBAR Cuticle Care Oil from their website for $10 + S&H along with a large variety of products.  Aids in healing inflamed skin, psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.
Contains:

  • Jojoba Oil
  • Bran Oil
  • Safflower Seed Oil
  • Caramium Rubrum Extract
  • Morus Alba Root Extract
  • Vitamin D
  • Mulberry Root Extract


BEAUTY BOX 5:  "Beauty Box 5 is a subscription based, beauty sampling program that delivers a box filled with 5 cosmetic samples to your door every month".  You receive free shipping and exclusive discounts from partner brands.  Just choose the plan that's best for you; monthly ($12), quarterly ($30) or yearly ($99)!



February 6, 2014

My Celestial Seasonings Green Tea Experience

I have never been a Tea drinking kind of girl.  I have tried a few brands here and there.  But Soda was my first choice and coffee (Starbucks) my second.  Of course I had tried the "in everybody's kitchen" Lipton brand and I happened along an Arnold Palmer in New Mexico.  Which, by the way, is not as good when it comes in a carton.

Recently I was sent the Celestial Seasonings #ArtofGreenTea VoxBox compliments of  Influenster for testing purposes.  I was originally sent 2 different flavors to taste as well as a coupon for a free full size box of any Green Tea flavor.  After trying the samples I was given I quickly grabbed that coupon and ran to the grocery store.  I picked up my free box and 4 others with it.  The Sleepytime Lemon Jasmine is my new favorite ... so far.

As I get older, I'm starting to look for new ways to incorporate healthy living into my daily routine.  I'm trying to cut down on the amount of caffeine which mans cutting back on my coffee and I am trying to watch my weight as well, so the soda has to hit the road.  Celestial Seasonings tea is a great alternative.  They have both Caffeinated and Decaf varieties to choose from, also with added Antioxidant benefits, and remember they are 100% Natural Teas.


January 26, 2014

Wantable Intimates Box Email

So Wantable is a monthly beauty subscription service that offers three different boxes:  Intimates, Accessories and Makeup for $36 per box or you can purchase just one box to check it out for $40.  I personally sub to all 3, and this is by far one of my favorite companies. Not only do they personalize your box but they have the most awesome Customer Service ever!  I have yet to receive a box I didn't like.  I would like to see a way to purchase the particular products received through my account, but that is in no way a deal breaker.

Anyhoo ... upon checking my email, this is what I saw:


Inner Peace ...

Like most, life really have a knack at sometimes overloading our plates, leaving one feeling overwhelmed, confused and just plain out stressed. I find it hard to function under such pressure and it starts to break through, revealing itself in bad moods, unhappiness and an overall bad vibe. I am a generally happy person but that doesn't mean I don't have a bad day. Sometimes one has to take a step back and reevaluate the things we have going on. Where can I eliminate stress? How can I get my old self back? 

Have you recently suffered the death of a loved one? Been through a bad break up? Lose a job? Many things come along our path that we have no control over and its hard to move on through some of life's hardships, but that doesn't mean it can't be done. Here are some great tips on letting go of the negative and finding an inner peace that is going to change your outlook on life and make you an overall happy and healthy person!

January 25, 2014

Quick FYI ...

Just a quick one ... I'm still under construction, and I am an enormous procrastinator ... please be patient.  (Plus Drama seems to be finding me...not liking it much, takes up too much time).

January 24, 2014

10 Random Thoughts ...

1.  I wish I knew how to put on fake eyelashes correctly.  I tried it on my daughter for Halloween, and let's just say she fit the Frankie Stein character from Monster High pretty well.  NOTE TO SELF:  MUST LEARN...SOON!

2.  Wish.com is actually a really awesome site :)

3.  I truly am a shopping addict ... oops!  Is there a group for that?  (saying this while shopping online)

4.  Truly, deep down, I LOVE it when people tell me I don't look my age (37 in Feb....EEEK)

5.  It's been almost 2 years, and I'm still nowhere with WLH ... I think it's time to move on ... Heart breaker

6.  Holy Cow ... I'm a HUGE procrastinator...lol

7.  A tad annoyed that a certain company didn't want me as an affiliate...well poo poo to you to BB.  I won't be renewing my subscription anyway....So there!

8.  Realized I have 3 calendars, 2 day planners, an online calendar and another on my phone.  Oh!  And don't forget the one at work.  I have yet to synchronize any of them...maybe I'll do that to this weekend.

9.  I will have no time to myself this weekend ...

10.  Wow!!!  I really need to paint my walls ... which leads me back to #6 & #9.  But first ... I need to finally get these decorations put away (See?  #6)...LOL

Good Night All ... More tomorrow!

Thursday Blah's

Well by the time this is done and I'm ready for bed....it will actually be Friday.  Friday oh Friday, how I missed you!  I was actually going to hold off, but I can't seem to fall asleep ... so this will be one of those random posts.  I think the reason may be that I have so much to do, both at work and at home.  It's probably NOT as much as I think, but I'm a worrier ... lol.  Drives my family crazy!

I have decided this is a new outlet for me to relax and be myself.  However, I have had many of these outlets in the past.  We'll see how this one goes.  I do happen to have a TON of Beauty box reviews to get done. Including 6 months worth of JULEP!!!!   I've been procrastinating again, so my personal mission is to get all of my reviews done plus possibly some slideshows or videos over this weekend.  No football, so that may actually happen!!

GO BRONCOS!!!!!

Earlier I was having all of these random thoughts.  Things I thought, "Hey, I should write about that before I forget", well ... I forgot.  Maybe They'll come to me in the middle of the night, if that's the case ... I'll be back on.  If not, well then ... lol.

Good Night All!!

January 19, 2014

Celestial Seasoning / Influesnter Voxbox Review

Hello All!!

Wow, time flies and life happens!  Yesterday I received my Celestial Seasoning #ArtofGreenTea Voxbox complimentary from Influenster.com.


Upon opening I was pleasantly surprised. There were 2 samples included along with a coupon for a FREE 20-Count box of Celestial Seasonings Green Tea!!  I love taking stuff like that to work so I will definitely be putting the coupon to good use.  The 2 flavors included were: