Soul Journey's Strength of Tiger's Eye, and It's GORGEOUS!

                                                                                                                                                                                                  Okay, stop rocking out in your head to that Survivor song from the 80's. This isn't about that. It's about Soul Journey Jewelry and another stunner of a bracelet I was lucky enough to get to review. This time, It's about Personal Power and the Tiger's Eye gemstone. Sourced primarily from South Africa, Tiger's Eye is gemologically-speaking a member of the extended quartz family. Noted for it's silky-smooth sheen, Tiger's Eye is also noted for it's chatoyancy, or "cat's eye effect". Due to this, the sheen from a Tiger's eye gem will be slightly different when viewed from different angles. Tiger's Eye has been renowned for centuries for it's ability to grant the wearer strength, insight, spiritual balance, mental focus and confidence. Roman soldiers even used to wear it to grant them protection in battle! Thought to help with a number of ailments including asthma and heart disease, it is sometimes a gift to one known to be in ill health. This beauty is paired with onyx, also from the quartz family. Onyx is said to increase one's power, focus, resistance and confidence. Finally, rounding out your gemstone power trio is Golden Agate, prized from the dawn of civilization for it's beauty and thought to grant protection, strength, and brings a grounding to the wearer. There is some serious juju running through your wrist wearing this bracelet, and thanks to Jill Boylan, you can look stunning wearing it too.  With the stacking fashion craze in right now, I love stacking these on my wrist to get a very stunning look.  There is not a time I go out with Soul Jewelry bracelets and not get asked about them!

Like all of Jill's creations, this is handcrafted in the U.S.A., in California. Made to order of the finest hand-selected gemstones available. Matched for color and clarity, this bracelet alternates between smooth and faceted gems, all bound lovingly together with hand-knotted nylon thread. Graduating from 10mm gems, to 8mm, and fully adjustable from 7"-9 1/2", it will fit any wrist. You can see and feel the love that went into creating each piece of Soul Journey Jewelry, and I feel that Jill's creations are worth the investment.



Connect with Soul Journey Jewelry and view their extensive selection at:

• Online


• Through Facebook


• Through Twitter


• On Pinterest

For a limited time, get 50% off on any purchase via their on-line store using Promo Code: sj50 

I received the above product free of charge from Soul Journey Jewelry.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Bolthouse Farms: ALMOST Too Much Good Stuff

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Almost. But as it stands, this one is just right. I love it. Hubby loves it. You'll love it too! For those following along at home, this is the last in the Bolthouse Farms Juice reviews. We previously covered their 100% Carrot Juice, 100% Pomegranate Juice, Daily Greens, and now, without further adieu, I happily present Bolthouse Farm's MultiV Goodness!



The last treat in my batch of Bolthouse yum is a newer product for them, the Multi-V Goodness Smoothie. Packed with the juice of pomegranate, cherries, strawberries, apples, peaches, blackberries, cranberries and bananas, but not packed with calories (only 140 per serving) there is nothing not to love about this drink.
Did I mention the 8 grams of fiber? That's nearly a third of the recommended daily intake already. You're set! High in vitamins A, B, C, and D, and none of the yuck that comes in most highly processed smoothies, this one is good for breakfast, lunch or even dessert! I liked how the flavors all blended in harmony, making for a great experience. Hubby loved it too, and he's not big on peaches or bananas. There's no seeds or pulps like a home Smoothie would have. I love it. Hubby loves it. If we hadn't been so quick to enjoy it, I'm sure the pooch would have loved it too. This one also comes in 2 sizes, 15.2 oz and 32, which makes it big enough to share, if you're so inclined.



Visit Bolthouse and their Countless Juice Selections, Juices from Blends to the Plain; to Cafe drinks and even Protein ones:

• Say hello to the MultiV Goodness online!


• Veggies and Fruits on Twitter


• Visit Fun Bolthouse Crew on Facebook


• Catch the pics on Instagram


• Save $1.50 off any bottle here!

I received the above product free of charge from Bolthouse Farms. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Flat Iron Experts: Beyond the Beauty Hair Care, Precision Pro Select Zebra Ceramic Flat Iron

Let's have a chat about out hair for a bit, shall we? I have very long, veryfine hair, and there's a lot of it. This means that anything I use usually uses high amounts of product or a process takes longer. I admit that most times I resort to doing a bun or do a half-up do to try to mask my short comings (i.e. lack of dedication) regarding my hair style.



I was sent the Beyond the Beauty Precision Pro Select Zebra Cermic Flat Iron (Item #BTBPPZ) from the Flat Iron Experts to try out. I have to admit that I have walked by hair flat irons but most times I get a case of the lazies and walk away. I've had some very negative experiences with devices, with my most recent one being that the build was poor and not only zapped me, but there was an area of plastic that was not smoothed out enough, so it loved to catch a hair and surprise me by pulling it out.  Bad dreams about that curling iron still haunt me!



Now, the first feature I love is that the controls on the Beauty Precision Pro-Select Ceramic styler. A temperature selector that uses degrees Fahrenheit. I can fine tune the heat I want and or need that fits with my hair/style. None of this low, medium and "I fry your hair" functions you see with other flat irons. The selector is easy to reach, touch and set....this is even with it on. The handles remained cool throughout my entire use. No discomfort whatsoever. What I liked best, it only took me 10 minutes to learn how to use it (yeah, I sort of skipped on instructions and jumped in) and that was counting styling. The setting for me was in the low 200°'s (Fahrenheit), but this little zebra starts at 176° and gives you every temperature in between to a maximum of 430°. I like that because some styling sprays and hair-dos require different needs and this styler fits every single one of them!

Other Features:

I also liked BtB Precision Pro Select's ergonomics. You do not think much of it until you have to use an item that gives off heat and you have very long or even short hair, it takes being able to handle and reach the right angles to get the final look you want to achieve. I could get close to my head and reach out with the iron to the tips of my hair, with one fell swoop. I saved time not having to go back and forth to get areas I missed, it missed, or could not reach. It's slim and easy to manage and light in weight. I bake in the kitchen and sometimes my hands are tired and not steady but I had zero complains when it came to functionality. The styler also has a long cord so it comes to you versus you trying to work with it.

Longevity:

The plates are 100% ceramic and I like no skimping in that area because this is what will be touching my locks! The heat not only is well distributed, as you see this by it's exceptional performance, but it also retains the heat well so you can keep going with the styler. It keeps up with me versus I having to wait for it! I get regular visits from the frizz monster, and as well as his buddy the Static King.....not good when your hair is long. This means it's obvious to all and I don't want to crackle when I flip my hair. In comes Far Infrared Red (FIR) technology to save the day from all those monsters and kings trying to ruin it. No frizz, no zapping people (or the poor dog's nose) and I can now wear the fabrics that I sort of ditched because the friction with them made my hair worse (aka: putting back that hood on my jacket with the shiny lining). The flat iron is well insulated and constructed. I received it on February 12th and wanted to use it several times before drafting out my final review......I have zero bad things I could find and even became fond of the zebra print! It adds character to my very "blah" world of hair styling tools.....even my hair brush is a plain bamboo color!

Quick Note on the Pros: Great controls, easy to manage the styler and heats up quick to any setting you desire. Leaves my hair soft and silky and this was using the styler as-is with zero assistance from sprays, leave-in conditioners, serums, or any magic spells or potions. You get Ceramic Technology (100% regarding the plates), Negative Ion Technology and Far Infrared (FIR) Technology for a economical and low price point.

Quick Note on the Cons:  I review many items and I usually find a con or that little thing I should mention/share. I had to reach out like I even stared at the poor zebra and tried to find a flaw. I couldn't.....well maybe it could come with it's own zebra home....like a pouch for keeping but do I want or need one? No, but you may and that is really a very itty, bitty, con I had to hunt for to fill my "Con" space. Beyond the Beauty even made a Peacock version if you are anti-zebras.

Price Point:

I am giddy about the $86.99 sale price at Flat Iron Experts that if I could insert a little squeal by the price, I would! Flat Iron Experts charges no shipping if you spend $50.00 or more, so you save there too.  The product also comes with a generous 2-year warranty.

Accessories Recommended:
I was sent two accessories that I recommend in purchasing, which I will be posting later this week the KQC Thermal Shine Spray Review......but please do not forget to pick-up the Flat Iron Experts Iron Holder. You will thank yourself and so will your home's surfaces. No sliding, no mishandling of your flat iron and your styler is ready to grab at anytime. The holder even comes with suction cups that truly work, so it's like having a third hand that we all need when doing our hair (except this one does not sigh like my Husband does) :)

• KQC Thermal Shine Spray $13.99

• Flat Iron Experts Holder $14.99

Connect with Flat Iron Experts:

• Get your Zebra Here


• Visit Flat Iron Experts on FaceBook


• Say, hello via Twitter


• Visit Pinterest to see pretty hair and product ideas


• YouTube, in case you are into videos


• Flat Iron Experts even Blogs!


• Visit the Beyond the Beauty Hair Care

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Flat Iron Experts.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

A Fridge Full of Bolthouse

Okay, we already covered Bolthouse Farm's 100% Carrot Juice, even adding a nifty little take on going "beyond the juice". Now, we get to the other treats Bolthouse sent, and let me tell you, in this house, we'll always make room for Bolthouse now.



Pomegranate juice, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways...


No, seriously, I love me some Pom juice. Over ice cream, in my fizzy water, as a glaze on a grilled leg of lamb. Bolthouse went the extra nine here, though, and gave you the pearl in the oyster and juiced that red globe for you. There's a "Wonderful"  version of this juice out there, and don't get me wrong, I love them too. But let's be real, they're not always the most affordable, or easy to find. Bolthouse has really saved both of these issues in one fell swoop.

3 and 3/4 servings of fruit in this bottle. 5 and 1/4 whole Pomegranates. 150 little calories, 100% juice. And it tastes like a million bucks, but doesn't cost anywhere near that much, obviously. You can find small 15.2 oz. bottle for you or to share. Giant 52 oz. bottles from your local Costco for the whole family. There's something for every fridge and every budget. This one, this is my favorite. I'd drive across town for it. It's not bitter, and tastes very fresh, very light, and not overly sweet. Out of the 4 juices Bolthouse sent, this has to be, far and away, my favorite.





Visit Bolthouse and their Countless Juice Selections, Juices from Blends to the Plain; to Cafe drinks and even Protein ones:

• Say hello to the Pomegranate online!


• Veggies and Fruits on Twitter


• Visit Fun Bolthouse Crew on Facebook


• Catch the pics on Instagram


• Save $1.50 off any bottle here!

I received the above product free of charge from Bolthouse Farms. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Orgullosa Fiesta: P&G Party with Bounty Basic, Charmin Basic and Puffs Basic...plus Coupons

I love these parties and who doesn't? You get to share items with friends and also money saving coupons. Today we all try to save and also get the best bang for our buck and you do not need to sacrifice quality all together. Procter and Gamble helps do just that with their Basic lines, so you can still purchase necessities without breaking the wallet.



I was sent a healthy assortment of products to try, share and also had a raffle giveaway for the coupons that were for the free items. Everyone loves leaving with goodies to take home and give it a "real world" test!

My Orgullosa !Esta Quincena se Celebra! Kit Included:

• Bounty Basic:

You still get the "picker-upper" power but for a more economical price-point. We found the sheets to be thinner but if you spilled a liquid, the Basic Bounty sheet did it's job of absorbing every last drop. The only differences we noticed is that the product can't be reused as much as the other Bounty lines, however it all depends on your needs. I use paper towels to clean and dispose with few times needing to squeeze a second life out of a sheet. We rarely clean spills so Bounty Basic fits my needs perfectly.  We usually clean a surface and then dispose of the sheet.  I also like that the Basic sheet does not let go lint all over my counters. Having a dark granite makes it easy to spot a paper-towel that may be leaving anything behind, but Bounty Basic did not dirty while cleaning :). We all enjoyed the lower price-point and you can catch Bounty Basic on sale, plus with the coupons (look in your Sunday paper or use my link below), you get to save more!

Connect with Bounty-

• Bounty on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/bounty


• Let Bounty know what you like about the Basic lines via Twitter- https://twitter.com/Bounty

• Charmin Basic:

A place where skimping on quality can go wrong, in comes Charmin Basic to save the day with a lower cost toilet paper that does not require you to waste more by using more. Charmin Basic is the only toilet paper we have found that for the price point, it gives you a satisfied clean, does not require you to dust the bathroom because of the "TP linty dust" left behind like with other brands. Charmin Basic is also easy on plumbing and I found that it rarely clogs or slows a toilet when flushing. We switched like many of my guests have, to a more economical toilet paper because no one likes to flush money down the drain. I have been satisfied with how long a roll lasts and overall performance, that if Charmin Basic remains like it is, I will not be changing brands anytime soon.

Connect with Charmin-

• Charmin on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/charmin


• Say hi to the bears on Twitter- https://twitter.com/Charmin

• Puffs Basic:

Out of habit, I like many others purchased the facial tissue that my parents purchased. I went with the tissue that could keep up with my allergy needs and leave me with a "kleen" nose. As time went on, the prices kept increasing and the coupons when I found them......well, they were not much savings. Sometimes I felt I was wasting ink and paper for the sake of saving! I switched at my last Orgullosa party, when P&G sent just a travel size pack. I used the pack up and realized I did not miss my former brand. I started purchasing Puffs and then tried the Basic line. Found my perfect balance of savings without sacrificing quality. I still use 1 to 2 tissues like I did with my old brand but found I'm more allergic to wasting money than pollen :)

Connect with Puffs-
Puffs on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/Puffs
Share your "achoos" on Twitter- https://twitter.com/Puffs

• Gifts for Guests "Entre Nosotras":

The wonderful Orgullosa/P&G group also included gifts for my guests. We received adorable notebooks with pens, bracelets and coupons. I raffled the "freebie coupons", to the guest that could stack more on their Bounty Basic sheet before it broke. Think of a Jenga game but with Bounty!

[gallery ids="2714,2715,2718,2717,2727,2725,2724,2726"]

• The Meal:

Being that we were close to Valentine's Day, I baked chocolate chip cookies and just added a heart sprinkle to each one for that Valentine's Day touch. I served my guests Kabobs with a Mediterranean Wild Rice and Vegetable Medley. I usually go the Spanish route but wanted something different for my guests and barbecuing seemed fit on this beautiful California's day. The sun was out and since Winter forgot about us this year, we made the most of it! Everyone enjoyed the festivities and you see how happy people get when they learn to save with the Basic Everyday lines from Procter & Gamble.....savings makes smiles :D

You can save too and check out P&G On-line but also the sites of each brand, because sharing is caring <3:

• P&G on-line- http://www.pg.com/en_US/index.shtml


• P&G Everyday Coupons link- http://www.pgeveryday.com/tag/coupon


• Charmin Basic- http://www.charmin.com/


• Puffs Basic- http://www.puffs.com/


• Bounty Basic- http://www.bountytowels.com/


• Don't forget to check your Sunday Paper for the P&G insert. Sign-up to their e-mails and they even let you know when to look out for it.

Want to become an Orgullosa member and also share with your guests?  You can apply at:

• On-line- http://www.orgullosa.com/


• Connect on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/orgullosa?


• Connect on Twitter- https://twitter.com/Orgullosa/

I received the above product free of charge from Orgullosa, a P&G division . I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

To Clarify Your Fashion, Wear Soul Journey Jewelry

I got the opportunity to try out and review a few pieces from this wonderful company, Soul Journey Jewelry. Come along with me on this fantastic voyage, won't you?



The first piece I want to review is called "To Clarify Destiny Wear Labradorite", and this is, in my opinion one of the most stunning pieces from Soul Journey Jewelry. It happens to be a favorite of Jill Boylan, their creator, as well. Jill had a previous jewelry line, Lapis Lois, but wanted to move on to something with a purpose. "Soul Journey Jewelry is a collection of stylish amulets with spiritual power..." So let's have look see, shall we?



Labradorite comes originally from Labrador, in North Eastern Canada, but is also found elsewhere. A type of feldspar, it is one of the more colorful of the volcanic rocks found in nature. Labradorite has it's own type of iridescence, called labradorescence. From fully opaque to semi-clear, Labradorite comes in a rainbow of colors, but primarily pale greens and blues, as seen above.

Inuit peoples believed that labradorite was actually frozen pieces of the Aurora Borealis fallen to earth, imbued with power and granting the wearer insight and direction. Labradorite is thought to be a magical stone and has been used by mystics, shamans and holy people for centuries for healing, discovery, detoxification and inner abilities.

Handcrafted in California, USA of genuine polished, faceted labradorite, German nylon thread, and made to order, each piece is unique, no two will ever be alike. The one you buy will be yours and yours alone, and no one will ever have one exactly like it. Such is the beauty of natural stone and this jewelry's handmade quality. Fully adjustable from 7"-9 1/2", it will easily fit just about every wrist. This bracelet, from the glitter collection, is denoted by its rose-gold plated, jeweled pave bead at its center. A beautiful touch. It fits any style, and sensibility, and would look amazing on your wrist. Soul Journey is a company that we should all be supporting, a small business that dreams big.



Connect with Soul Journey Jewelry and view their extensive selection at:

• Online 
  


• Through Facebook


• Through Twitter


• On Pinterest

 

For a limited time, get 50% off on any purchase via their on-line store using Promo Code: sj50 

I received the above product free of charge from Soul Journey Jewelry.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Almondina: Delicious Cookie without the Guilt Review & Giveaway

Last week, I shared the Valentine's Day Almondina ice cream hearts recipe and today I wanted to not only recap some of the flavors, but also have a giveaway :)  Yes, one lucky winner will receive the same assortment I did courtesy of the wonderful people at the Almondina brand.

You can visit here to get the Valentine's Day Almondina recipe to make a treat that is delicious all-year-round-



http://samplesandfreebiesgallery.wordpress.com/2014/02/11/almondina-cookies-no-bake-valentines-day-gelato-sorbet-and-ice-cream-heart-treats/

It was difficult to choose a favorite among all because they were all delicious.  This is the type of cookie that when I shop at Trader Joe's, if they did not have my first selection.....it does not matter. I will pick-up the flavor they have in stock.  Yup, not passing it up!  I love to pair the thin cookie mostly with ice cream because it's like having a treat after dinner but I don't pay for it a day later at the scale!  It tastes good, maybe so good that you forget that each sweet cookie is just around 30 to 35 calories.  The selection is bountiful and you can choose from chocolate based cookies to just the Original.  No added fat, salt and a cholesterol free product.....so, your heart will thank you as much as your taste buds.



AlmonDuo:

I love pistachio nuts, so this one really was the perfect little cookie for me.  Almondinas are thin, but do not mistake that for being dry because they are not.  They are crisp and light and the cookie is just studded with with perfect slivers of almonds and pistachios.  It's a happy cookie that will make anyone smile!  Dip in chocolate ganache and you may even get the giggles :)



Chocolate Cherry:

This cookie has a rich chocolate base that is deep in flavor.  You have a great combination of plump dried cherries that just complement the cocoa perfectly but also almonds.  I enjoy having this cookie with ice cream because in my eyes it's almost a sundae with the fudge, nuts and even cherry on top!  Also, you can have your chocolate and enjoy it too with 4 cookies only at 132 calories.



Cinnaroma:

I love cinnamon but tend to avoid it in products because manufacturers forgot the words, "a touch of Cinnamon",  Almondina thankfully has not.  You taste the spice but you will find it compliments versus just engulfing your mouth with it.  Your taste buds still enjoy the almonds, and the raisins really make me think of a loaf of cinnamon bread when I have this cookie.  You also pick up the malted barley flour, giving this cookie a distinct flavor.



GingerSpice:

This is what I call my "breakfast cookie" because I enjoy it with a pear based yogurt I like having in the morning.  The Almondina is like the cereal that never loses it's crunch in milk but yogurt in it's place.  I start my morning with this healthy parfait and you get to enjoy the diced Australian ginger they used that really gives it that gingery-snap taste.  Nice to have a cookie like this available year round!



Almondina cookies come in several varieties and flavors, you are sure to find one (or three) you will love:

• Original - America's all natural favorite with almonds and raisins


• Chocolate Cherry - We combined the world's finest dark chocolate with plump cherries to produce an irresistible, decadent treat without guilt.


• Choconut - Rich tasting crunchy chocolate, but low in calories


• Cinnaroma® - The original biscuit for cinnamon lovers


• Gingerspice - Trend setting, with chunks of Australian ginger


• AlmonDuo® - Double-nut wonder with almonds and pistachios


• AnniversaryT - Award winning delight with a touch of anise


• BranTreats® - Made with oat bran and the finest cinnamon "Cookies For Breakfast"


• Sesame - Irresistible, exotic, flavorful


• Seasonal Pumpkin Spice - A seasonal attraction with a delightful touch of fall spices combined with the highest quality almonds and pepitas (pumpkin seeds)

Try Almondina's Newest Products:

• Chocolate Dipped – the Original® dipped in the finest, pure, rich dark chocolate was previously offered only certain times of the year is now available year round


• Delights – The Original® Almondina totally encased in Milk chocolate


• Yogurt Dipped – Brantreats® dipped on one side with a layer of all natural yogurt

Stop by and thank Almondina for sharing with us their Grandmother Dina's cookie, a delight since 1929:

• Online


• Facebook


• Twitter

**Now for the Giveaway**

Very easy to participate and have a chance at becoming the winner of the same selection of goodies I received from Almondina.  All you have to do is-

1. Like Almondina on Facebook


2. Please Follow them on Twitter


3. Then please leave a comment on this review......that is all :)

I will announce the winner on March 3rd!

I received the above product free of charge from Almondina. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

PINCHMe: Gevalia Keurig K-Cup Caramel Macchiato and Froth Pack

I just signed up to become a "PINCHer" and my first items to review arrived from Gevalia Kaffe. Included was a froth packet, which you pour into your mug before brewing, and then you just brew as you would. The flavor is Caramel Macchiato and I definitely am a fan and very familiar with the flavor.



Unfortunately, the coffee was not that great and had a bitter almost burnt smelling aroma. I thought it was my nose but it also was picked up when I tasted the coffee. The froth packet tasted very sweet and almost had a coconut flavor, which I am a fan of but it did not translate well with the flavor or the bitterness. I just was not a fan and I really tried to find the caramel notes in all this, so my first "Pinch Me" moment was not spectacular but I am eager to see what else the program has to offer. I find these programs useful because even the not so positive experiences let me know what I like and don't enjoy, so I know what to buy and what to pass on when I'm shopping!

If you want to become a member (PINCHer) of PINCHme, please visit them at:

• Online to join- https://www.pinchme.com/samples


• Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/PINCHme


• Twitter- https://twitter.com/pinchme_now


• Instagram- http://instagram.com/pinchme_now


• YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/user/PINCHmeUS

I received the above product free of charge from PINCHme and Gevalia Kaffe.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Klout: Sheila G's Brownie Brittle Perk Review with Discount/Promo Code

I have mentioned before that being a Klout Member has it's perks and one that I wanted to share, I have reviewed before:

http://samplesandfreebiesgallery.wordpress.com/2013/10/08/swaggable-sheila-gs-the-original-brownie-brittle-company-review/

I received a bag in Chocolate Chip flavor, also a discount code for their store at:

• Online- www.browniebrittle.com


• Phone- (800) Brownie


• Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/BrownieBrittle


• Twitter- https://twitter.com/BrownieBrittle


• Pinterest- http://www.pinterest.com/browniebrittle/

Get 30% off online code BB2014 and it expires on 12/31/2014



If you wish to join Klout and get in on the perks, it's at no cost at: www.klout.com

BeautyBox5: Monthly Subscription Beauty Box 5 Review ; Beauty in a Box

I have been interested in subscription box programs and have committed to some from Allure and especially their seasonal (quarterly) boxes. I wanted to try something on a smaller scale because that also means a smaller price point, which is welcoming on a monthly basis.

BeautyBox5 costs just $12 and that includes shipping. No surprises or fluctuating price points, just $12! I already love this part because it takes a bit of the fear away from committing.  You also get added perks, like exclusive discounts from the brands featured, so if you like an item....you will be able to purchase it at a special price. That again falls in the "love-it" category!

So let's get started in opening this already pretty on the outside turquoise colored box.....



Item #1: H2O+ Plus, Spa Sea Lotus Body Wash

I received a generous sample of 1 fluid ounces making this a nice deluxe sized bottle. The scent is Sea Spa Lotus and advertised as uni-sex. I quickly get my guinea pig (hubby) and ask him to test it out with me because very few products come to this house that I can share. The product's fragrance is strong but welcoming because it has a pleasant scent. I washed my hands and notice as my Husband did, you are left with a nice scent but most of all, you do not lose your skin's moisture like you do with hand soaps. Lathers up nicely and no film is felt on the body and hands. Definitely an item I would purchase and the standard bottle from H2O Plus, retails for just $17.00 for a 12.5 fluid ounce size.

• Visit H20 Plus at- www.h2oplus.com #h2oplususa

Item #2: Nubar Cuticle & Nail Oil

Included is a green colored bottle measuring 0.25 ounces and you know nail and cuticle oils tend to go far. I am glad I received this because I am not happy with my current brand. I tend to dehydrate my nails by using acetone to remove those glitter based polishes and my cuticles.......well, I pretend I don't have any so I do not have to address their issues :) My denial is not working out. Now even sleeping with lotion drenched hands in cotton gloves is not fixing my dilemma overnight. I also have been informed that sleeping with a "mime" is not something my husband appreciates. At-home manicures are something I do not want to skimp on and especially after Santa brought me so many nail polishes, so I give Nubar a try. The elixir is advertised as having Jojoba oil, Vitamins A, D and E, so I am liking the natural approach already. My green colored bottle is labeled as Green Apple and you get a very faint smell of the fruit, but mostly the oil just smells clean/fresh. The brush is on the stiff side, which is smart because I can apply oil to target areas without wasting or making a mess. The oil is thin but stays where you apply, no dripping off or travelling anywhere. I treat both my cuticle and nails by just applying small amounts and I like that the brush does not even waste a drop when it travels from the bottle to my nail, and back and forth....sort of makes me wonder how easy this is and why I did not do it sooner. One of the reasons has been that my former oil was messy and left a residue on my actual nail. Nubar has more than just oils and gorgeous nail colors, so I definitely added them to the "buy list" because I'm loving this cuticle and nail oil! A 0.5 fluid ounce bottle retails for $10.00 and they have other scents like Vanilla, Passion Fruit & Grape.

• Visit Nubar at- www.bunubar.com #bynubar

Item #3: Swissco Bath and Body Shower Exfoliating Gloves

These are pink in color so I can't be called a mime in the shower! The gloves are easy on the skin while making the job of removing dead skin cells a breeze. I love that you can target areas like the ankles easily and because my fingers curve better than my shower poof, I can exfoliate between my toes!!! They also stay on and I find I use less shower gel than I did with the mesh poof, so I waste less! I make sure to rinse them off well, hang them, and they are dry and ready to use the next time I shower. Swissco, has so many products from these gloves to beauty items so get ready to spend some time on their site. I also like the price point of just $5.00 for a pair.

• Visit Swissco at- www.swisscollc.com #swisscollc

Item #4: Jergens Daily Moisturizer

Jergens is a brand that we always have in the home from their body moisturizers to their specialty lines, like products for dry skin to target areas like hands and feet. Included was a 1 fluid ounce bottle of their Daily Moisture lotion for dry skin. My skin tends to not retain moisture in the colder months, so I go through lotion quicker and especially if it's not formulated to fit my needs. I used the Jergens Daily Moisture and found the formula lasted very close to the 24-hour hydration they advertise. The moisturizer soothed my skin and calmed irritations well after shaving, plus it costs less than my current brand. The scent is light and undetectable once applied and this bottle is the perfect size to have by the sink. Jergens retails the lotion at $6.99 for a 21 fluid ounce bottle. Add a coupon and you are golden!

• Talking about coupons, get a $1.00 off here- http://www.jergens.com/promotions/default.aspx


• Visit Jergens at- www.jergens.com #jergensus

Item #5: Epic Blend Hemp Coconut Lip Balm

I love coconut and I have owned hemp based products in the past but have never tried a lip balm. First, I must share that when I opened it, the balm smells like coconut but not the type they use like in car fresheners.....real coconut. I wanted to bite it! Now that I got that part out of my system and I applied the lip balm, it goes on silky and smooth and yes, I smell that coco-licious scent that is heavenly. I would say I miss the sun if I did not live in California! The product covers well but feels light, so you do not feel like your lips can't breathe. It works and nicely moisturized my lips and when it wore down, my lips remained soft and replenished. Epic Blend labels this as an organic balm and that's important with all the unhealthy stuff we tend to put on our lips for beauty's sake. It's nice to be able to treat my lips nice for once! It get's better, petroleum free, non-GMO, gluten free and they are even kind to bunny rabbits.....not tested on animals. The product retails at a friendly price too of $3.99 for .15 ounces of balm.

• Save here- By using Code BB5 before 03/31/2014, to get 25% off sitewide


• Visit Epic Blends at- www.epicblend.com #epicblend

**Bonus** Item #6: That Awkward Moment Compact Mirror

I know I said 5 items but then BeautyBox5 added more so I am not complaining!  The compact encourages you to check out the movie trailer for, That Awkward Moment Movie.

• Movie Trailer- www.thatawkwardmomentmovie.tumblr.com

I highly recommend BeautyBox5 because I rarely find subscription boxes a positive experience when it comes to item selections, but you can see that this one not only included new products, but products that work well.  Yes, I have lip balms, lotions and nail products but I can say that I found new items to buy because they performed better than what I currently use.  BeautyBox5, helps broadens your brand experience because tunnel vision with anything is not such a good thing to have, so give them a try today!  It's just $12.00 and that includes shipping....no funny stuff with them!

Connect and Subscribe with BeautyBox5 at:

• On-line: http://www.beautybox5.com/


• Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/BeautyBox5


• Twitter- https://twitter.com/BeautyBox5


• Pinterest-  http://www.pinterest.com/beautybox5/


• YouTube- http://www.youtube.com/beautybox5

I received the above product free of charge from BeautyBox5.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Smiley360: Centrum Flavor Burst Multivitamin/Multiminerals Chews Review

Being a Smiley360 member has it's perks and one is being able to try new products. I was recently sent the Centrum Flavor Burst Vitamin and Mineral Chews, in Pineapple and Wild Grape flavors. I'm always about finding new ways to nourish the body because quite frankly, I get bored doing the same thing day after day. Variety is really what I seek and I have taken the gummy vitamins in the past, but not liking the idea of having gummy pieces stuck to my teeth right after I brushed them in the morning.

What a product is made of and how it tastes matters, especially if you will be taking something daily or several times through out the day. I do think in today's market of supplements, just settling is not something you have to do anymore. There are so many products from drinks, chews, pills, to even infused chocolates....so I was eager to see what Centrum had to offer in this world of Vitamin and Minerals.



Centrum Flavor Burst Chews come in several flavors and range in cost from $9.97 at Amazon for a bottle of 120 chews to Walmart's price point of $7.97 for a 60 count bottle. The highest price point was at CVS for $12.49 for 120 chews, followed closely by Walgreens at $11.79 for the same count, so I suggest price matching and seeking the lowest cost before you buy because they vary greatly.



I brought up the count because the suggested serving amount for an adult is 4 chews daily...sort of makes the bottle not last as long when most chews of this kind are formulated for 2 a day. The bottle will be disappearing at a fast rate but you can also adjust your intake by your needs and even adjust through out the day.

A Centrum Flavor Burst adult serving has the following daily values (4 Chews Count):

• Vitamin A 2000 IU, providing 40% of your Daily Value


• Vitamin C 60 mg, 100% DV


• Vitamin D 800 IU, 200% DV


• Vitamin E40 IU, 133% DV


• Vitamin B6 2mg, 100% DV


• Folic Acid 400 mcg, 100% DV


• Vitamin B12 10mcg, 167% DV


• Biotin 150 mcg, 50% DV


• Pantothenic Acid 10 mg, 100% DV


• Iodine 80 mcg, 53% DV


• Zinc 5 mg, 33% DV

DV based on a 2,000 caloric diet

You can see with the above values that with most you meet or exceed the 100% suggested daily intake, so this is why I opted to adjust my serving by my nutritional needs and Centrum does facilitate that by breaking up the serving by 4 a day.



Wild Grape Flavor:
This was my least favorite flavor because I picked up more of the vitamin taste and the aftertaste was just not pleasant. I also looked at the ingredient list and this particular flavor has Blue 2 Lake food coloring, while the other flavor I tested did not, so that turned me off on top of it being the worst tasting. I tried by day 3 chewing another and I met my limit with what this flavor had to offer...so not wild about it!



Pineapple:
The Pineapple has a nice tropical taste and does not list any artificial food dyes. The dyes listed are derived from Annatto, which is a food dye derived from the seeds of the achiote tree and Beta-Carotene. Keeping it natural is what I seek so I liked this, plus like I mentioned the flavor is pleasant.



Quick Note on the Pros: No water needed and you can adjust your intake on a daily basis because the adult serving is broken up into 4 chews. Pineapple was good tasting and the percentages on a daily values scale was not unfavorable. It's more like a "Skittle's" candy when it comes to texture, so no candy or gummy residue is left on your teeth after you chew.

Quick Note on the Cons: Both flavors I tasted contain Corn Syrup, Maltodextrin and Sucrose. I know Maltodextrin can be derived from barley and wheat, so this can be an issue for Celiac disease suffers. The Grape contains an artificial dye, plus it's taste was unpleasant. Watch where you buy because the price fluctuates greatly and keep note of the count per bottle when comparing price points.



I do have a coupon to share that saves you $2.00, so that is always a great start:

• Save $2.00 Coupon- https://www.centrum.com/couponsinc-register-form/334/#2014

If you would like further information on Centrum Flavor Burst Multivitamin Chews, please visit them at:

• On-line- http://www.centrum.com/centrum-flavor-burst-chews#chews


• Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/Centrum

I received the above product free of charge from Smiley360 and Centrum. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.