Monday, June 30, 2014

BzzAgent: Coppertone ClearlySheer For Sunny Days Sunscreen Body Lotion #Review #Coppertone

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I know we need it and this is why I use it, but I don't have to like it. This has been my attitude towards SPF anything in the past. I even apply the shot glass worth to my face and try not to make faces while doing it. I tell myself while applying where I don't need it as the sun won't be seeing this or that, in hopes I can talk myself down from continuing to achieve a oily but white chalky look for the sake of protection. I have also opted in just not going out because I did not feel like being greasy that day.  Staying indoors while the birds and squirrels tease me by having feathers and fur is not my ideal way of spending Summer.  Having a pool means even the water taunts me in coming out but "lobster girl" is not something I desire and last I checked, not exactly in the hot looks for 2014!

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In comes Coppertone's new solution for "SPF Frightened" people like me. CLEARLYSheer's formula allows the user to still be protected with their SPF 30 and SPF 50 formulas, but minus the I bathe in milk look. Your skin remains your own color tone, plus the formula is non-irritating. Friendly to acne, but in the way like it does not clog your pores or cause any breakouts. You have a sheer finish that moisturizes but is not heavy. Yet you can play for up to 80 minutes in the water before needing to reapply.......I call that living in peace with the sun. The sun does not burn me, so I don't have to hide from it so beware those that go near me when I'm in the pool, I'm the splashing kind :)

 

You can check-out Coppertone and find the formula that fits your needs at:

 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from BzzAgent and Coppertone.  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. #GotItFree

 

 

BzzAgent: Coppertone CLEARLYSheer Sunscreen Spray lotion #Review #Coppertone

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It's hot and the weather started warming quickly in California, as we never really got to experience a real Winter. Yes, the days got overcast but the sky never opened up, thus we are experiencing a severe drought. The sun and protection from it is an all-year-round worry in Southern California, so everyone welcomes a discount or even a free sample.

I was able to test drive the new Coppertone ClearlySheer products, both in lotion and spray lotion form.  You have two formulas and one comes in a blue and white colored bottle for "Beach & Pool" and the other is the yellow bottle, "For Sunny Days".   Each has it's own application and I am fond of both because quite simply......I have not burned this Spring or Summer.

I used the Spray formula in both versions and even found the formula  "For Sunny Days" performed well if I had a short dip in the pool.  The spray has a nice application tip that allows even coverage and you can just spray and go.  Great for when the hour comes to reapply for continuing protection.  The sunscreen does not clog pore and dries sheer.  No longer do you have to deal with that white film over your skin that stained clothes, made you look milky and let's not forget that feeling that your skin can't breathe.  I did find a residue is left but think of how it feels when you apply coconut oil, your skin still can breathe but the oil does not feel heavy or nasty.

My only Con:

The product is sheer as I mentioned but because of the residue, sand will stick to you if you are at the beach and if you are gardening, dirt and even leaf trimmings may stick on.  An easy flick gets it off but you do get those "dirt creases" in areas like the inside of your wrist or the inside part of your arm, back of the knees....and so forth.  I don't burn so I think it's totally worth a little grime that in the end I made and found by doing yard work.

Coppertone

You can check-out Coppertone and find the formula that fits your needs at:

 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from BzzAgent and Coppertone.  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. #Got it Free

 

 

 

 

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Orgullosa Event: Entre Nosotras, Mi Casa es mi Estadio #Fùtbol #Orgullosa

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With the FIFA World Cup matches heating up, this has been a year where record numbers are starting to tune in. I can say that I have had more "soccer" conversations than I usually did in the past. Orgullosa, a Procter & Gamble division was kind enough to treat my guests and myself to some P&G products and a little party to celebrate the event(s). I have found serving a buffet of desserts and making it a "sweet treats" event keeps the guests happy and I have mastered the art of mini pies and desserts. Finger foods and small servings lets everyone make enough room to have a little bit of everything :)

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Let's begin......

 

  • Tide & Orgullosa T-Shirts:


Finally, shirts that are cut beautifully to fit a female. Each shirt featured a colorful Futbol embraced with the Orgullosa logo and colors. The slogan read, "Orgullosa De Mis Colores", meaning Proud of my colors. A Tide logo is located on the bottom left corner and the facebook address and Orgullosa logo on the back. Nice white shirts that are comfortable to lounge in and my guests were excited to receive them. I folded the shirts to resemble a basket and stuffed them with goodies and others I used as a base, and stacked the Procter & Gamble items with a finished bow to hold it all together.

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  • Tide Pods:


The pods are perfect for HE washers and regular models. You simply toss a pod in the drum, add your clothes and the machine and the Tide Pod do the rest. Everyone received the Spring Meadow scent. One pod is enough to do one large load and if it's an extra large one, simply add two. I love that they dissolve easily in any water temperature and perform well when it comes to removing stains and getting clothes clean. Not hard on fabrics and actually tends to brighten colors. Each pod contains detergent, stain remover and a brightener, so you are covered when it comes to getting clothes cleaned their best with Tide Pods. You can find these pods at your local stores and don't forget your coupons. A 72 count usually retails for $17.99 and places like Target have the Cart Wheel app, where savings can be greater.

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  • Head & Shoulders 2-in-1 in Green Apple:


Shampoo and Conditioner with a nice fresh green apple scent. This is a anti-dandruff shampoo that has a clean and crisp scent. The product contains Pyrithione Zinc in 1% as the active ingredient. Many anti-dandruff shampoos tend to be drying to hair and even the scalp, making the dandruff problem worsen plus creating others. Head & Shoulders leaves your hair manageable and looking beautiful, plus benefiting from a healthy scalp. This product contains conditioner and for those days that I am short on time or need a quick wash to get the pool's chlorinated water off, this fits the bill perfectly. A 14.2 ounce bottle is a low price of $5.79.

 

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  • Charmin Basic Huge Rolls:


I have purchased the normal rolls, double to big rolls and when I saw the word HUGE, I just thought the big rolls had changed their name. This roll saves my sanity! Why you ask? I seem to be the only one in the house that has mastered the skill of changing the TP roll. Since I have held such a skill, this means for some reason I go in and the roll is empty but still there, empty but a roll was placed on the counter (like saying "almost got there") or two square sheets are left and this includes the one that is glued on. The Charmin Basic Huge rolls have 385 sheets, which breaks down to 41.9 square feet of peace. You save with the Basic line and you don't sacrifice quality. Even though this is a 1-ply tissue roll, the sheets are comfortably soft and still "hold up". I like saving and that includes my skills as bathroom TP roll installer! You can find this new product at your local store and if you can't find it, ask for it!

 

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  • Head & Shoulders 2-in-1 Old Spice:


Being that I also have male guests, Orgullosa sort of figured out that not all the guys want to smell like flowers or even a green apple. In comes the Old Spice scent that smells clean but with less of a floral bouquet fragrance. The product still contains the same fighting power of 1% Pyrithione Zinc and conditioner because guys even with short need it. I don't want to date a Porcupine, so please condition your locks no matter how long or short they are. The "handsome scent" as listed on the bottle does smell nice and not at all like most men products that smell like musk or the woods. This is a welcoming scent that does it's job but in a more "manly" way :) A bottle retails for $5.79 for the 14.2 ounce size.

 

  • Orgullosa Tumbler:


I have been on a kick to increase my water intake and it has helped to add lime and lemon slices.  My skin has improved and I feel better, so I have continued the habit.  I do not enjoy always refilling a bottle and trying to stuff citrus slices, so these types of tumblers always make things better and easier.  Easy to wash means I keep my water drinking habit and the Orgullosa logo just makes me appreciate it that much more.  Great gift because it will get used on a daily basis.

 

  • Coupon Booklets & Tide Pods Magnets:


Every guest received not only all the items above to try but also a savings book filled with coupons.  There was also other coupons for other P&G products like Covergirl, which were not included.  The Tide Pods magnets gave instructions and tips about the pods.

  • Futbol Feast:


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As I mentioned, I find serving an array of desserts and treats as a way to make something for everyone.  I made 4 mini pies that each yield 4 slices.  I went with a star theme as the that is what La Copa (the cup) had.  I went with an apple, blueberry, blackberry and a strawberry rhubarb pies.  I also included 2 other treats, a Lemon Pound cake with a cream cheese swirl laced with Meyer Lemon curd and a Blueberry Buckle.  I wanted my guests to leave with a treat but a not so sweet one, so I made each a small artisan loaf.  My way of thanking them for coming and something they can enjoy at home with their next meal.  Nothing like fresh bread to make a sandwich for two or just enjoy with a little butter.  We plan to see los partidos together that involve the countries we are rooting for.  I wanted Argentine, Brazil or Germany and then I was told I had to pick one.  I'm waiting for more games to finish to see who ends on top when it comes to my favorite.  Orgullosa also supplied us with a field poster and cut-outs.  We had fun....maybe too much fun :)

[caption id="attachment_3810" align="aligncenter" width="300"]Fresh Baked Bread for guests to take home. Fresh Baked Bread for guests to take home.[/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_3811" align="aligncenter" width="300"]Orgullosa Sweety We got crazy with cut-outs and even the dog was included but she smiled :)[/caption]

 

Visit the above Procter & Gamble products to learn more:

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Orgullosa and P&G.  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.

The Gourmet Nut: Tilapia Fish Bites made with the Himalayan Pink and Hiwa Kai Hawaiian Sea Salt #Recipe #Review

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With fish prices rising and myself still craving fish, I have pretty much made every fish readily available in a manner of ways. Nothing satisfies a dual craving of seafood and fried food like the recipe below. The combination of salts brings a unique flavor to the dish as do the flours, which create a perfect thin crust that is super crunchy but remains light. You can make the dish using pretty much any fish (that is not ultra oily)or even use shrimps....po' boys style or just bites to enjoy. You can also make "Devil Fish" bites by adding Sriracha to the buttermilk soak. Great for fish tacos too because the batter is crunchy but not heavy!

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The combination of salts is what makes the impact because the salinity in the Himalayan Pink Salt is great in the buttermilk soak but does not "pickle" the meat. The Hiwa Kai Hawaiian Salt brings those earthy notes that is almost like a truffle but so unique that is difficult to pin point. In the end, you just end up with a flavor combination that is perfect and better than anything you can buy. It's also quick to make!

Let's get started......

I start the night before to allow the fish soak up all the flavors and I like making meals that allow me to prep the evening before, so I get less mess but the benefit of capturing every flavor note without doing a thing.

 

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  • Start with 3 Tilapia Fish Fillets and cut them into finger size pieces and I usually try to make bites in size that take one to two bites each to eat.


Buttermilk Soak:

  • 1/8 of teaspoon of each (Dried Herbs)- Thyme, Oregano, Parsley, Dill Weed, Marjoram, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black Pepper, and the Gourmet Nut's Himalayan Pink Salt.

  • Optional- You may add 1/8 of a teaspoon of Cayenne Pepper or more to suit your taste. I have added Sriracha in the past to create "Devil Bites" but again this is to your own discretion. You can also make 1/2 normal and 1/2 deviled to get different bites out of one dish.

  • 1/2 cup of Buttermilk


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You add the dry ingredients and the fish to a bowl and mix to combine and cover everything evenly.

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Then add the buttermilk and allow the fish to soak over night. I like to give it at least 4 hours but the more you give it, the more the fish absorbs and the better the flavor.

The following day, take the fish out and allow it to lower in temperature for about 20 minutes and then begin making the coating/batter.

Batter/Coating:

  • 1/4 cup of Corn Flour

  • 1/4 cup of Rice Flour

  • 1/2 cup of All Purpose Flour

  • 1/2 teaspoon of Gourmet Nut's Hiwa Kai Hawaiian Sea Salt

  • Cracked Black Pepper to taste

  • Optional- Cayenne Pepper to taste


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Combine the batter and no egg needed bath is needed as the buttermilk serves as a great "glue" to make the coating stick. You simply drop each bite and coat evenly, repeat until finished.

 

Frying:
I use Peanut Oil to produce a nice crisp outside and a clean taste when frying but you may use any oil you desire. I heat up the oil between 370 and 395 degrees because I find this heat point perfect for less spatter and spitting, even though my chicken tends to cause more than the fish does. Simply drop the bites and because this is a light batter, the fish coating will remain light in color and you will achieve a light golden tone. The fish literally stops making noise when they are done. You will see within the oil the bubbling starts to subside and it takes only a few minutes to fry in small batches. It's quick and self telling when it's done, so that works for me.

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Serving:
You can make fish tacos or serve the fish as-is with a side of tartar sauce. I made shrimps and crab cakes that evening, plus fries because I wanted to nip my fried food craving. I also like to grind a little finishing salt of the Hiwa Kai Hawaiian Sea Salt when serving because it gives it touch of extra flavor and the color against the white meat of the fish is just gorgeous! Enjoy!

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Get in touch with, or find out where to buy Gourmet Nut’s fantastic products by visiting them:

I received the above product(s) free of charge from The Gourmet Nut.  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.

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Monday, June 23, 2014

Influenster: Spring Fling Vox Box featuring Nivea, Rimmel London, Kiss, Soft Lips, Playtex to the Labor Day Movie release #SpringVoxBox

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Another great Vox Box from Influenster and this one had a little bit of everything.  Even though Summer just arrived, this Spring Fling Vox Box has you prepared to take it on and look as beautiful as ever doing it!

 

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  • Rimmel Londom Scandaleyes Retro Glam Mascara


The new ScandalEyes Retro Glam Mascara by Rimmel London, has a great brush that distributes a non-crumbling and free of clumps formula evenly to your lashes. The delivery of the mascara via the nicely shaped bristles, gives you a look you can build-up or down. The even coats lets you glam your eyes with intensity for a bold look or you can just apply a light coat for a nice and classic finish. I also feel when the formula sets, it tends to hold the curl up through out the day and your lashes do not feel ultra stiff or heavy. Pair it with a "cat eye look" and a bold lipstick, you get a gorgeous look that never fades and is perfect for summer. I have been using a smokey bronze shadow and a thin wing tip at the end to get that copper-ish glow and I pair it with a nice nude colored lipstick. Great and an easy daytime look! You also can't beat the $5.99 price tag!  A water-proof version is also available in case there is a beach or a pool in your future.

Connect with Rimmel London:

 

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  • Kiss Everlasting French Nails


Each packet comes with 28 nails in 14 different sizes that lasts a recommended 7 days. You get Kiss's "no chip nail " technology, which is easily applied in less than 10 minutes and this includes fitting to make sure you have the nail size that suits your finger nail best. No waiting to dry your nails, you literally glue and go! The glue is gentle to your natural nails but strong enough to hold the nail in place. No one wants a flying nail no matter how gorgeous they may look, but with Kiss Everlasting French, you are free of "nail attacks". I love the peachy pink colored base that has a nice tone that matches any skin color beautifully. The white tip has a pleasant hue but not so white that it looks unpleasant or to intense. The box supplies you enough nails to get 2 applications and for the cost of under $6.50, you can get a salon look without the price tag. Any girl's dream and you can find the Kiss Everlasting French nails in Flat or Regular nail arches, which come in a Medium length. Available in stores like Target, CVS, and Walgreens to Rite-Aid and Kmart. Pick-up yours today to get a classic that never fades and that includes the nail polish in this case too!

Connect with Kiss and their nail collection:

 

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  • Soft Lips Cube


The lip balm advertises a 5 in 1 lip care system. Think BB cream but for your lips! You get protection from future damage with the SPF 15. The formula helps Hydrate and Replenish moisture. You get Smoothness for that kissable look and a touch of shine. All that protection in a cute looking cube! I would rate the shine as low ,so you get more of a natural sheen that is not super glossy with zero tint. I liked the new Pomegranate Blueberry and because it's in cube shape, I could easily find it when needed and it also stacked well with my other items in my purse. I used it both as a primer and protection under my lipsticks/glosses, but it performed well alone too. The product retails for a fair price point of $3.49 and you also have the choice of Fresh Mint or Vanilla Bean if the Pom & Berry is not your thing.

Connect with SoftLips:

 

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  • Nivea Skin Firming Hydration Body Lotion


A lotion that has skin toning properties and also improves skin's firmness and all in as little as 2 weeks. With bathing suit and bikini season in motion, I don't want my skin to be in motion too. Nivea's lotion has Co-Enzyme Q10 and Hydra IQ that deliver rejuvenating properties and also helps your skin retain deep and moisture longer. You won't see my complaining if I can get skin improvements out of a bottle and especially firming and toning. It does not replace a work-out but it definitely softness my skin and with the extra hydration, I did notice a plumper feeling, which gave me a tighter/firmer look. They say to drink water to keep hydrated and this helps with smoothing out wrinkles.....well, Nivea's new Skin Firming Hydration formula is a nice cool glass of water for your skin and gave me satisfactory results in all fields. No irritations and even after shaving, plus 2 weeks is a cinch when it comes to waiting to see results. The body lotion comes in two size, a 2.5 ounce bottle for $2.49 and a 13.5 ounce bottle for $10.99.

Connect with Nivea:

 

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  • Playtex Sports Fresh Balance


Playtex has added a new variety to their Playtex Sport's line, which now not only gives you the same protection no matter what the day has ahead but also the option of Odor Shield. Odor Shield technology helps neutralize odors for that extra protection. A box of 18 tampons retails between $3.99 and $4.99 and the new Plus + Odor Shield is available in all absorbency/sizes.

Connect with Playtex:

 

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  • Labor Day the Movie


Paramount's Pictures movie release, which features Kate Winslet and John Brolin. This drama is directed by Jason Reitman and is about a single mother that picks up a wounded man and offers him a ride. The man ends up being an escaped convict and the novel based movie depicts what the duo must choose, as they get to the know the stranger and Police edge closer. Available on Blu-ray and DVD for just $19.99. I was sent a nice little pie shaped air freshener to commemorate the movie's release!

Connect with the movie Labor Day:

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I received the above product(s) free of charge from Influenster and the above mentioned companies.  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.

 

Sunday, June 22, 2014

No offense, Defense is the best! Defense Soap #Review

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A while back, I was doing some gardening in my front "succulent garden" in our courtyard. We have no "outside" pets, just a dog who acts allergic to sunlight. So, since we use good organic dirt and have (had?) nothing to fear, I was gardening bare handed. Little did I know some neighbor and their "outside" cat had decided my front door garden was also suitable as a litterbox. Truly, truly a disgusting find. I washed my hands almost immediately, but as anyone who gardens will tell you, little scrapes and scratches happen. I started to get what our Google-fu told us was ringworm. Double ew. Luckily for me, hubby had been in contact via The Underground forums with Guy Sako of Defense Soap. I started washing with his bar and shower gel poste-haste. In a matter of about a week, I was itch and worry free. Huzzah!

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Now you may be wondering what all this has to do with my usual posts of beauty, health, and food. See, hubby uses this soap fairly regularly after exercise or especially after doing yard work, because again, for some reason, inconsiderate people think a cat's dirty business belongs in our yard. I liked how it smelled, and a little added bonus was that he stopped getting really bad blemishes or breakouts from sunscreen and grime. So I thought I'd give it a try on my face. And have I been ever so pleased with the results.

 

 

 

IMAG1393Defense Soap uses simple, natural disinfectants like the highest quality 100% natural Tea Tree and Eucalyptus oils. No petrochemicals or triclosan. No sodium lauryl sulfate either. It helps balance your skins natural pH and bacteria, and not be so harsh as to cause redness, irritation or cracked skin. And lo and behold, within a week's time, I noticed that my skin started clearing. No breakouts after a long, hot day wearing make-up. No over-dried feelings that made me afraid to smile or laugh. Best of all, no micro-beads that made me leave my little electric face scrubber in the drawer. Just clean.

IMAG1392Defense Soap's unique blend of essential oils manage to devastating to harmful bacteria, virus and fungus but are gentle enough to your helpful bacteria that your skin is recolonized in just a few hours.

 

Can I talk to you about your makeup brushes, as long as I've got you here? How many of you wash your brushes regularly? Because you really should. We spend a pretty penny on our brushes (or even get really good ones on sale, cheap!), and using harsh soap on natural brush bristles? Can we really be that cruel? I was. Until hubby shared his Defense soap gel. A little drop in some hot water...boom; Clean, disinfected brushes on my clean, disinfected face. Especially you there on the couch, you know who you are. The one that reapplies your makeup in the bathroom on lunch? YOUR BRUSH IS DIRTY! Because your brush has all those germs from that bathroom festering in your compact, in your makeup pouch, in your purse. Yuck. You NEED Defense soap. Today. Right now. Go ahead. I'll wait.

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This little discovery has been great, and as anyone who reads my blog with any regularity will tell you, I like to champion the little guy. And Guy Sako has been doing this labor of love with very little support outside of the combat sports community. It's time I did my part and tried to spread his sphere of influence far and wide, because here is an American company doing all the right things for all the right reasons. You might have even seen Defense Soap at your gym before, and thought nothing of it. I'm here to tell you you should. Not just for the gym either! (because there's nothing skeevier than the floor of your gym's shower.) Not only will it keep funk and grime off your significant other keeping them healthy and happy, but will also make your skin healthy and happy too. Sharing is caring after all.

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Oh, gym clothes got a serious case of the "YUK"? Defense Soap has you covered there. Don't feel like a shower after the gym or workout? Again, covered. Want to add some healthy, natural disinfectant to your every day body wash? Defense already thought of that. His shoes giving his feets the itch? Spray the ick away. Got a scratch you don't want to itch? A little dab'll do ya.

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So, in the end, while on the surface it might seem Defense Soap isn't for you, you have to remember that every day is a fight us. Against germs. Against viruses. Against breakouts. Against all the yuck the world tries to throw at us every day. The world isn't fighting fair, either, bringing all it's weapons to bear. Better bring a weapon of your own. This good Defense is the best offense.

 

Connect with Guy and Defense Soap:

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Guy Sako and Defense Soap. 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.

Influenster: Kiss Everlasting French Nails (Design- 53421/EF06) #Review

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Kiss Everlasting French Nails:
Each packet comes with 28 nails in 14 different sizes that lasts a recommended 7 days. You get Kiss's "no chip nail " technology, which is easily applied in less than 10 minutes and this includes fitting to make sure you have the nail size that suits your finger nail best. No waiting to dry your nails, you literally glue and go! The glue is gentle to your natural nail bed but strong enough to hold the nail in place. No one wants a flying nail no matter how gorgeous they may look, but with Kiss Everlasting French, you are free of "nail attacks". I love the peachy pink colored base that has a nice tone that matches any skin color beautifully. The white tip has a pleasant hue but not so white that it looks unpleasant or too intense. The box supplies you enough nails to get 2 applications and for the cost of under $6.50, you can get a salon look without the price tag.  Any girl's dream and you can find the Kiss Everlasting French nails in Flat or Regular nail arches, which come in a Medium length.  Available in stores like Target, CVS, and Walgreens to Rite-Aid and Kmart. Pick-up yours today to get a classic style that never fades and that includes the nail polish in this case too!

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Connect with Kiss and their array of products that keep you look Gorgeous at:

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Influenster and Kiss. 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.

 

Friday, June 20, 2014

"MELT"ed Chocolate? Yes, Please!

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I've been able to try every single kind of Rich & Creamy Melt Organic spread they make (feel free to take a gander at my review from a while back), and I have yet to find one I dislike, even a little bit. From the Original, the Honey, and now, the Chocolate. Oh, the chocolate. How do I love thee?

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Let's start with, it's chocolate.                                   Not that fake, weirdly sweet, waxy, sugary, nasty pseudo-chocolate that everyone seems to like to 3480use. No, I'm talking the real deal. To quote their website, it's a: "velvety blend of rich organic cocoa". Boy, howdy is it. It also adds wildflower honey to the mix, along with the Melt Organic to make a truly good and good for you spread. With just 1 gram of sugar per serving and being dairy free, vanillin free, and nut free,everyone can enjoy it. Each square of Chocolate MELT Organic is certified organic, non-GMO (Non-GMO Project Verified), kosher and made with Fair Trade Fair for Life certified virgin coconut oil and Rainforest Alliance certified palm fruit oil. Chocolate Melt is also soy free, gluten free, dairy free and trans fat free. Each serving of Chocolate Melt is a rich source of the ‘good fats‘ with an ideal balance of Omega-6 to Omega-3 ALA (that are optimally metabolized with virgin coconut oil), and has 425 mg of Omega-3 ALA (or 26% RDA) and Vitamin E (or 15% RDA). Now that's a mouthful, and a darn good one, too.


The best part is, since it's good food that's good for you, you can truly enjoy it any time, breakfast to dessert. Want to enjoy it on some toast? Aces. Want it with some fruit? Pile it high and deep. Want to bake with it? You had to know I was going to go there, and oh...I went there. But that's for another post. ;-) Icings, filling, just drizzled on a slice of warm panetone bread. It's something I can't recommend enough that you try immediately. They even have coupons to print right from the website. It's like it's meant to be!! You really should dip a finger into their butter 2.0, it's something you'll wonder how you did without.


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Connect with Melt Organic!!

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          I received the above product(s) free of charge from MELT Organic. 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.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Klout: Fair Trade Moms Make a World of Difference #Perk #FairTrade

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Here's another great Klout perk to share and I list the Fair Trade boxes in my top 10 perks to get. The boxes are filled with wonderful goodies and are always a hit in my home. I have become a fan of many of the brands and have continued to purchase them all, just because of my introduction via these great Klout Perk boxes. This one was smaller but did not disappoint!

Included were 6 items from 4 different manufacturers that adhere to the Fair Trade global practices of delivering goods from workers treated fairly. Fair Trade USA is not a charity but a global organization that helps developing communities improve their quality of life, and also make it possible for us to enjoy the goods they produce. This can range from clothing to foods, but always knowing that the symbol on the package goes beyond just a simple promise. It's a social movement constantly improving and finding ways to do things not only better.....also, the right way.

 

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Numi Organic Tea- An indulgent tea and in a Chocolate Spice flavor. You think chocolate and tea does not seem right and you start associating it to maybe being a light latte or some thinned out hot chocolate drink. This is none of that! It's a clear and light chai tea, which has nice soft notes of dark chocolate with just a hint of spice. It's smooth and delightful and kills any sweet tooth craving you may have. The box comes with 12 tea bags and is also non-GMO certified. I enjoyed this blend and found that the chocolate taste is very present but balanced well with the tea leaves, plus you can adjust the strength by letting it steep a little longer. This is on my "buy again" list.

 

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Alter ECO chocolate truffles- I received my parcel in the start of the hot weather and also that week we got a nice little heat wave. My truffles were hot and liquidy inside and thankfully only one oozed a little outside of it's wrapper. I quickly put them on a dish and into the fridge they went. I kept hoping the truffle would stiffen up and remain edible. Even though I did not enjoy these chocolates in their prime state, they still held up well regardless of their not so fair arrival. The truffle center that is soft stayed in place, so it seems I was lucky!

I received the Black Truffle and the Velvet Truffle. I can say that both had a very smooth consistency and were velvety soft with the difference pretty much being one was a dark chocolate and the other a milk. The Black truffle was very smooth with no bitter after-notes or a waxy consistency left in your mouth. It melted and dissipated nicely......sort making me wish I had another. The Velvet truffle was pretty great for being milk and had a rich flavor, smooth but not super milky. You taste the chocolate and for being a milder variety, I wished I had 2 more of these after I finished. I can say the truffles peaked my curiosity and Alter Eco Foods has a pretty large assortment of treats that I hope to try in the near future. Their brand goes beyond chocolate and you have Rices to Quinoa and even Sugars to choose from. My opinion is that if a stressed out little melted truffle can taste this good......can you imagine one in it's prime state? I know, let me just ponder about it a little more :)

 

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Nutiva Virgin Coconut Oil- I was so happy when I saw this bottle and Nutiva did not just include a sample packet, but a full size bottle. There is a reason why you visit the site and the product in the standard size is sold-out. Not all oils are created equal and this non-GMO oil takes the Coconut experience to whole another level. Clean and pure in taste, this comes from using fresh Organic coconuts in production. I baked delicious cookies that were moist in the inside and crisp on the outside and the pineapple chunks just gave them that tropical burst I was looking for. Nutiva makes everything you can get out of a coconut from flours, sugars, oils to you got to check out what an "o' coconut" is! They also carry Hemp, Chia and Red Palm derived products. I got lost on their site just checking out everything they make!

 

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Fair Trade pin- I know it's just a pin but I love this little stuff and I can now take pictures of my Fair Trade certified products with a pin by it! That makes the blogger in me happy and yes, I still have it in it's plastic so it remains beautiful and shiny :)

 

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Runa Clean Energy- A Guayusa based drink that comes in an array of flavors, I was able to try the Lemon Lemongrass variety. I chilled mine before enjoying it. The product is a natural energy drink without the crash or too speedy feeling. You get a "pep in your step", with no after-burn, plus it's refreshing and tastes great. The lemon is nice too...think of a sweet tea that is not super sugary, so your thirst in quenched and you get that extra energy to go about your day. One bottle is only 50 calories and that is something your waist line will appreciate with Summer around the corner. Runa also carries other products made with Guayusa from the bottles to energy drinks and even loose leaf tins.

 

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I recommend checking out the companies above by simply clicking on the titles and please read on how they grow, make, cultivate, to how they get products to your door via the Fair Trade practices. Many have other advantages to being Organic and using non-GMO ingredients. To a healthier Summer 2014 and better choices!

You can also become a Klout member buy visiting Klout and all you need is a Facebook or Twitter accoount.  Simple and takes less than 3 minutes and you can start enjoying Klout Perks too!

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Fair Trade USA and the above named companies.  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.

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Tuesday, June 17, 2014

I SoulKu, Do You Too?

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When I was contacted by SoulKu to review a few of their pieces, I was flattered. While I get to try a lot of yummy treats, awesome face and body products,  as well as wonderful cosmetics, things I can hold fast to are not that common. SoulKu was nice enough of send 5 different pieces, as well as other little treats for me to share. More on that later.

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For now, let's dive into my first 2 SoulKu pieces, the SoulKu Intention Necklaces. This is a fabulous, fresh twist on an old idea: daily affirmation cards. The idea here is that you write your goal, idea, or inspiration on the card, put it somewhere you'll always see it, and have a pretty little reminder around your neck all day as well. How cool is that? SoulKu also went the extra mile and made sure your necklaces are infused with the power of either Amethyst (for empowerment & achievement) or Amazonite (for inspiration & hope), so you can choose which power stone you feel best suits your daily need.  Priced at $21, you could easily make both part of your routine. Not feeling the need for amethyst or Amazonite? How about Carnelian (for motivation) or Sodalite (for self-esteem)? There's really something for everyone. Each 16 , 17, or 18 inch necklace has 5 5-6 millimeter faceted stones hand threaded on a golden nylon cord, with silver-plate hardware. Made in Asheville, North Carolina, this is a "Made in the U.S.A." product that you'll be proud to wear prominently. It's a simple piece that goes with any look or style. Understated and delicate, but still eye-catching.

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Even the Intention Cards are well thought out, and eco-friendly. The packages are eco-friendly. They are committed to using local vendors where possible, they donate a portion of each sale to various charities... I mean, do these people have their stuff together or what? Even the number of stones is chosen to maximize the good vibrations this little beauty provides. And did I mention? It just looks great too.

Everything here is clearly thought through, as (to quote their website):

"... SoulKu & Infinite Possibilities

The word “Ku” in Japanese translates to “a place of infinite possibility.” We like to think of our company as just that, “A place where, guided by our soul’s calling, anything is possible.” Our products reflect that idea and are meant to inspire deeper connection and action in others... "

How 'bout that?

SoulKu is all about personal connections. Keeping things close, inspiring others, giving back. Human touch in an impersonal world. That's an idea we should all get behind. We spend far too long staring at out various sundry screens and not enough time interacting with the world and the people around us. While it might be a lot to ask of one pretty little necklace to help us all reach out and just touch the person next to us instead of texting them, it sure is a nice thing to remind us to start.

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Make a connection with SoulKu:

I received the above product(s) free of charge from SoulKu.  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.

Friday, June 6, 2014

Siggi's: Icelandic Style Skyr Strained Non-Fat Yogurt Tubes in Blueberry #Review

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I've been fortunate enough to get to try a whole host of yogurts, Greek style, European style, Australian style...the list goes on and on. Some have been great. Some, not so much. A few are now in my regular rotation. Siggi's falls into that last category. You might not have heard of Siggi's, but you really should make a point of finding yourself some.

Siggi's is truly a different kind of yogurt. In fact, it called Icelandic Skyr, a protein-dense low sugar form of yogurt. Truthfully, they

[caption id="attachment_3520" align="alignright" width="535"]My local Target carries the Siggi's Yogurt Tubes in Blueberry & Raspberry My local Target carries the Siggi's Yogurt Tubes in Blueberry & Strawberry[/caption]

had me at "low sugar". In the U.S.A., almost everything you can buy in the markets is salty or sweet. Overly so at that. Don't believe me? Take a look at almost everything in the middle of the market. Sometimes I think the FDA has revamped the 4 major food groups as salt, sugar, corn and soy. So when Siggi's skyr says it's not too sweet, I jumped in with both feet. It's got all the probiotics and active cultures of the best Greek-style yogurts, but the yogurt here is the star, not some syrup on the bottom or some packets of stuff in a sidecar either.

Here's another bone to pick: the tubed yogurt marketed mostly to kids is loaded with sugar. It's practically syrup itself . Yuck.

But not Siggi's. The yogurt you get in the cups is almost identical to the yogurt in the tube! Nice. And while it's not as thick as the cups, I'd assume to promote viscosity and ease of eating, it's not some runny mess either. Finally, something you and the kids can share, and not have them hopped up on a sugar rush later! I'm in love with a tubed yogurt? I am, and I have no shame admitting it. It's so good hubby made a tube or two a part of his morning breakfast routine.

I have tried only the blueberry tubes from Siggi's so far, but I'm a big enough fan that I have plans to immediately go and get the other flavor as well.  You can also freeze them and have a healthy frozen yogurt treat!

This is a product unlike any on the market today in the U.S., and if you're like me a day you're fed up with all the sugar in everything, get some Siggi's today. You'll wonder how you ever ate yogurt any other way before.

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Connect with Siggi's:

 

 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Siggi’s.  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.

Oloves Olives: Veggie & Bean Delight Quinoa Salad #Recipe

 

 

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  • Veggie & Bean Delight Quinoa Salad


You have a great salad that is packed with protein and fiber that is perfect for a "Meatless Monday". You can also make this in the evening and it holds well for up to 3 days in the fridge. No dressing needed and you can eat it over a bed of lettuce, fill two tomato halves, or stuff an avocado. I opted for a little bed of lettuce to go with my avocado and it made two beautiful and very filling cups.

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Ingredients:

  • 1 /2 cup of Tri-Color Qunioa (cooked, drained and cooled)

  • 1/2 cup of White Kidney Beans

  • 1/2 cup of Garbanzo Beans

  • 1/4 cup of raw Carrots (diced)

  • 1/4 cup of raw Celery (chopped)

  • 1/4 cup of raw Zucchini (diced)

  • 1/8 of a cup of raw Red Onion (diced)

  • 1 pack of Oloves in Lemon & Rosemary

  • 1 pack of Oloves in Basil and Garlic

  • Optional- Feta crumbled Cheese (add this before serving as a topper)


 

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Begin by cooking your Tri-color Qunioa, draining and allowing it to cool.  I always cook mine with a touch of smoked salt and this is why I did not any more to the salad.  The flavor comes all from Oloves olives!

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Then chop up all your veggies and add to a large bowl that is big enough to mix and toss.

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Drain and rinse both cans of beans and take 1/2 cup out from each type of bean.

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Add to veggies and toss.  Then open an avocado in half, so you are left with two equal sized halves.  I always brush mine with a little lemon or lime juice to preventing browning and add a little flavor.

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Then simply open 1 bag each of the Oloves pouches in Lemon & Rosemary and the Basil and Garlic varieties.  Add to salad and toss to combine.  Taste and if you want to add a little salt or freshly cracked pepper.......go right ahead but I found the flavors were perfectly balanced by just using what Oloves provided.

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Then simply lay out some lettuce (even Kale) so the avocados don't feel lonely, top with the salad and you can add some Feta cheese if you desire.  You can store the remainder in a glass container for up to 3 days.  I never store with the cheese because for no reason it sounds "icky" to me, so I top just before serving.  Enjoy!

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Get your Oloves and you can make the above recipe and more at:

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I received the above product(s) free of charge from Oloves.  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.