Product Review: Ulta Dual Action Cleansing System

So, as luck would have it, I've gotten a little older.

When I was a teenager, I had some acne and it turned into cystic acne in my early 20's.  It wasn't HORRIBLE, but it was bad enough...bad enough that I still have scarring 10-15 years later.  So, I used proactive, got it cleared up, and never really paid much attention to my skin after that.  I would wash it, and occasionally moisturize it, then pack on the make up, and then wonder why my pores looked like canyons, especially around my nose.

As time wore on, my pores bothered me more and more.  Now in my mid-30s, I do get the occasional acne, but nothing too serious.  But my pores...UGH...just awful.

I had seen commercials for the Clarisonic Skin cleansing system and got pretty excited, until I saw the price.  Depending on the model you get, you can spend between $100 and $225 or more on these things.  That's a lot of cash for someone who isn't used to caring for their skin...who is also a mother of 4, whose family depends on a single income.  (Now, to be perfectly fair, I haven't tried the Clarisonic line, so maybe it is worth every penny. But...I like my pennies...alot.)

So, I put my late-to-the-skin-care-party dreams on hold, and simply began washing my face a little more and, thanks to my wonderful subscription boxes, have been using Pur-lisse moisturizers for a couple of months.  (LOVE them!!)

Fast forward to last week, and I had run out of foundation, so I hopped on to Ulta.com to order some. (I really like Urban Decay Naked Skin for my foundation...and no one sells it in my small/in-the-middle-of-nowhere town.)  While there, I somehow came across Ulta's Dual Action Cleansing system.  It's along the same lines as the Clarisonic system, but...only $25!!  THAT I can totally do, I thought to myself, so I ordered one.

 Finally, after waiting for a week, it came in.  I gave it a try last night using L'Oreal Revitalift Cream Cleanser (also purchased from Ulta).

L'Oreal Revitalift Cream Cleanser ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 

Girls, LET ME TELL YOU....I am in love with both of these products.  Following the directions on the box, I wet my face (I didn't wear any make up yesterday, so that was all I needed to do), applied some of the L'Oreal Revitalift Cleanser and turned on the Ulta Cleansing system.  

Ulta Dual Action Cleansing System ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Using the Ulta Cleansing system, I scrubbed my face for about 90 seconds.  The bristles don't hurt, but it's a little more rough than just using a wash cloth.  (I am also a redhead with very fair skin, thats also a little on the sensitive side, so maybe it felt rougher to me than it would to any of you?) I have to admit, I might have had a little too much fun, and giggled a little to much as I made a beard with all the foam, but...there is also a part of me that will never grow up.

Turned off the system and rinsed it, then rinsed my face.  INSTANTLY, many of the pores on my nose had disappeared.  No kidding!!  Now, there are still some visible pores, especially on the side of my nose that are visible, but they are also the largest ones, and as it was my first time using this product, I wasn't expecting full miracles.  But to see a noticeable difference after the first try was amazing!  

Patted the skin dry and applied my Pur-Lisse Moisturizer, and my skin felt as soft as baby skin.  I wasn't overly dry, but there was no oil slick either. Clean, smooth soft skin. I was so excited by the results, I rushed into the living room and made my husband stare at my nose and look at my pores.  Even he was impressed.

Again, I have not tried any of the other face scrubbing units, so I can't honestly say if it's comparable to other brands.  The Ulta brand is my first one, but it surely knocked it out of the park!  I can't wait to see what my skin looks like in 30 days!

All in all, I give both the Ulta Dual Cleansing System and the L'Oreal Reviatalift Cleanser two enthusiastic thumbs up!

Until next time,

XOXO

Sam

Pretty from the inside out - Avoiding Toxicity

When someone gets a case of acne, the first thing many people say is that one must wash their skin and purge their pores of impurities.

When someone gets a sore that becomes infected, health care providers often want to clean the area, clean out the infection, and begin a regiment of antibiotics to stop the infection from going further.

Cleaning up and cleaning out your home, your car, your closet, your purse/wallet, your locker if you are still in school, and any other thing you can imagine is often the first piece of advice you get when you are trying to solve a problem involving those things.  And one often feels better after doing so.

So, what happens when there is a person that makes (or tries to make) you feel bad about yourself?  Well, that is another infection that you have to get rid of.  And you must do it as soon as you recognize the problem, before the infection spreads. And like with your skin, it can sting and burn as you clean it out, but in the long run, you are better off for it.

I have been in the process for a while of cleaning out some infection of my spirit.  Passive-aggressive and aggressive ugliness that there is no need for.  I've been called names.  I have had things about me twisted around and turned upside down, and then smeared over part of my social circle.  Part of said social circle has alerted me to said infection, knowing better or even asking questions, asking my input, my side....others are believing the nonsense and have become, themselves, passive-aggressive.  That part of my social circle was actually never really friendly, honestly.  But the fact that my name has been spit out like vinegar, both in public and in private is hurtful, eye-opening and, last but not least, hollowing.

But, it's also lending to growth, renewal, healing and repair.

I've discovered weeds in my garden.  Some were weeds I was aware of from the get-go, but pretended not to notice.  Some were "surprise" weeds, ones I didn't see coming, but weeds that needed to be culled out, nonetheless. Why?  Because feeling ugly, feeling less-than, feeling targeted spoils the spirit and embitters the soul.  And I won't let the whispers and sneers of the minority rob me of my joy.

Inner joy, peace and happiness are reflected on your outward appearance.  It doesn't matter what your waist size, hip size, bra size is, it doesn't matter what color your eyes are, what length your hair is, or the kind of clothes you wear.  When you are bitter, people can see it.  It seeps from your body and infects those around you.  And I don't want any part of that.  I hope, dear reader, you don't either.

Using the words of a friend of mine, spread love, not hate.  Love is easier to manage.  And if there is anyone causing you grief or pain, clean out that infection.  Cauterize that wound.  Yes, it hurts...but it's better to leave a healed scar than it is to lose a bigger part of yourself.

Until next time,
XOXO
Sam

I've started a new addiction

It's happened.  I don't even know how I feel about it, but...I am addicted to something that my teenage self would shudder to even think about 20 years ago.  Some might say I am a bit late on the band wagon, and others...many others...will just not understand. Some may gasp, some may wonder what in the hell I am thinking...others will welcome me to the dark side.

What is my new addiction, you ask?

I make my bed, EVERY MORNING.

I know, right?!?

And it's nearly a compulsion now.  This morning, after I had gotten dressed and cleaned up for the day, I tried to let it go, and walk away.  After all, everyone needs a day off from chores, right?  So, I grabbed my phone off my night stand and started to walk away, into the kitchen where my coffee machine was waiting patiently for me.  I got about 5 steps way from the bedroom door, and couldn't help but turn and look at the bed...cozy looking, yes, but...crumpled and askew.  And before I knew it, I set down my phone and started making the bed.


For most of my adult life, unless it was "cleaning day, I never made my bed.  Hardly ever, anyway.   I made my bed much more often as a teenager, and even then I wasn't consisted about it.  "What's the point?" I would say, "It's just going to get all messed up again when we go to bed tonight."  Oh I tried creating the habit, like a good girl/housewife, but I just seemed pointless.

Until recently.

Something has clicked.  I made my bed not long ago, and, after a particularly busy and exhausting day, I  LOVED how it felt to crawl into a nicely made bed.  There is something so comforting about that.  Plus, it makes the entire master bedroom look neater, more inviting, more like actual grown ups sleep there.  I love walking about the house and glancing into my room and knowing that if nothing else gets done, the bed is MADE and its something I can check off my to-do list.

Now, I know that many people have been making their bed for years.  My father and step-mother made their bed every morning as I grew up.  Without fail, no matter how early in the morning they had to leave the house, no matter if one of them was not feeling well (Of course, I really can't think of a single time either one of them took a sick day at work...hearty, salt of the earth types), no matter if they were getting ready to go to a funeral, that was one of several things that they did, every day.  Without fail.    My older brother often made his bed.  My brother is several years older than me, and moved out of the house shortly after I moved in, but still...you could almost guarantee his bed was made every morning.  Occasionally, during the short time we lived in the same house, he would be running late for work and maybe his bed didn't get made, but then on his lunch break, he came home and made it.  My mother made her bed more often than not as well.  I am telling you that I was shown example after example all while growing up that one should make their bed.  Me...well I was a bit of a rebellious spirit, and I thought of it as just one more thing I HAD to do, and if I *HAD* to do it, I didn't want to do it, so I fought against it. "I do what I want!!" was my mindset.  (Much more trouble for me than it was worth, but...rebellious and stubborn was I, and I am sure I gave my parents fits of frustration.  I know this because I now have a 14 year old daughter whom I love dearly, but she is making my hair fall out because she is much like I was at her age.)

I tried getting into the habit over my adult years.  But I could never stick with it because, as I became an adult, especially after I had married and started having children, my to-do list was chock full of more important things to do.  "I don't have time to make my bed...I have to make a grocery list/get ready to go talk to a teacher/run by the bank/randomly scrub a room/write emails/check Facebook", etc.  There was always something more important to do, and to be honest, I didn't care about making my bed.

Today, I do.   I can't help it.  Dear God, I have become one of "them".

Try it.  Seriously.  If you are not already a bed maker (and I know some of you are not), seriously try it.  Make your bed every day for a week, no excuses.  It is going to take less than 5 minutes, you will have something accomplished for your day, and you will start feeling the exhilaration  that comes with having a neatly made bed waiting for you at night.  It really does feel good.

Until next time,
XOXO
Sam

RIP Shame

Something has been on my mind lately...something that is so controversial that no one really wants to talk about it, and anyone who does has to be prepared to get an earful.  It's hard to believe that this is even a topic of "debate", but people really do have strong feelings, one way or another,  regarding what I am going to write about.  Nonetheless, I think it's something that needs to be said.  And it's something that needs to be said by me.

I'm fat.

And that's okay.

Let me head off the first droll remark I can see coming.  "You are not fat, you have fat.  Just like you have fingernails, but you are not fingernails."  Whether I say "I am fat" or "I have fat", it really does mean the same thing, right?  We all know the point I am getting to here.  I hate semantics for this very reason, because someone wants to correct what I say instead of just letting me say it, and then dealing with what I am saying.

So, let's not lose the point of my train of thoughts here.  I am fat.  And THAT'S OKAY!

Body acceptance is a touchy subject for me.  I, personally, have been taught since I could remember that there is only around 3 body sizes that are okay to have.  "Small", which is preferable.  "Medium" which is expected.  "Large" is pushing the limits but is generally accepted to a certain degree. Other than that, if you don't fit into those three categories, you are a BAD PERSON, societally speaking, and obviously fair game and a fair target for ridicule, jokes and you MUST hate yourself.  I have never actually been in the "small" category.  Even at a "medium", I look rail thin.  I have been blessed/cursed with big boobs, so even at my smallest size that I am comfortable at for me, my tops are a medium or large, depending on the cut.

Among your friends and loved ones, you are not allowed to say you are fat.  "You are not fat!!" is something I have heard, time and again,  from my kids, my husband, my friends, and anyone trying to be nice.  In all fairness, "I'm fat" is said by me with a hint of self deprecation, and often in a mocking tone to suggest (read: confirm) that I was making fun of myself.  But let's face it.  I am fat.  And, as of today, that is okay with me.

To ward off the second argument I can hear coming, I would like to say I believe in health, and I have to admit I have not been living healthy.  I haven't exercised in a long time, and I eat way more than my fair share of junk food and fast food because it is convenient.  I sit on the couch, at the table or at my desk too much.  I don't drink enough water.  And those things need to change.  Let me be clear...Those things need to change.  But, as has so often played out, what happens when I change those things, and I am still fat?  Maybe not AS fat, but still fat by societal standards. And the line between "acceptable fat" and "not acceptable" fat levels is murky and gray and vast.

Society and the media tells us that is you are pushing above a size 8, you are a.) fat, b.) not beautiful and c.) ridiculous for thinking you could be beautiful.  At this point, I would love to be a size 8.  Which is a good medium size for me, but still on the larger end of the spectrum generally speaking, and therefore only tolerated.

I have felt awful and ashamed almost my entire life because I was not/am not/and can not be a petite waif like many of my friends.  I have scrutinized myself, glared at myself, yelled at myself and despised myself based on the number that showed up on the scale that morning.  I have abused myself because I am larger than what I feel should be. Quite honestly, if I spoke to a child the way I speak to myself regarding weight, I would be picked up and jailed for verbal and emotional abuse.  Really...I have been just awful to myself.

But the thing is, I am lovable and beautiful and smart even as a chubby/larger woman.  I have only recently become convinced of this.  My cooking tastes as good whether I am medium or extra large.  I bend over backwards for my friends and my family and especially my kids no matter what.  I am HI-larious after a bottle of wine.  I am genuinely concerned about the welfare and well-being of my loved ones.  I write just as well. My house is just as clean (or not clean, depending on the day)...I have just as many kids, and I love them just the same.  I stand up for just as many underdogs and I fight just as many good fights for equality, justice and freedom for all...I do all these things whether I am bigger or smaller.  The "me" doesn't change.  Who I am is who I am, and dropping a few pounds, or shrinking a couple of pants sizes isn't going to change the way anyone views me.  And at the end of the day, and at the end of my life, I doubt my funeral will be full of people saying "RIP Sam...she was fat."  I mean, maybe people will say that, but I would like to think that more people will be saying "RIP Sam...she was a great friend/wife/mother/cook/wine drinker."  And THAT, my friends, is what matters.  THAT is who I am.

I can be beautiful.  My husband thinks I am beautiful.  And, at the end of the day, that's all that matters, right?  I can be deserving of love and affection and give those things right back where I am now.  And, I am not into size bashing ANYONE...but there are some who think that bigger women are sexier than smaller women, just as there are some who think that smaller women are sexier than bigger women.  Heck, we are ALL women...and that's damn sexy, period.  And it is high time we as women stop tearing each other down, especially on physical appearance.  It's dumb and it's hurtful and we are all better than that.

I *do* need to focus on my health, and get back to exercising because it's good for my body and mind and soul...not necessarily to decrease in size.  I will drink my water for proper hydration, and I will eat healthy wholesome food because it will extend my life and I will feel better...not because it gets me to a goal size or weight.  If that happens, fine.  But it's not my sole purpose anymore, because what happens when I bust my butt and then hit a plateau and the scale doesn't budge?  I quit exercising.  Well, now, it's no longer about losing weight...it's about being healthy, whatever that looks like for me.

At the end of the day, dear reader, if you are fat or if you have fat, however you want to say it, it's okay.  You are still a worthy human being.  You are still lovable and the likelihood is that no one is going to care or even remember if your jeans were a size 2 or a size 18.  Whether your teeth were crooked, or if you had split ends.  They will remember you for the quality of human being that you are.  And "quality of human being" doesn't have a size or weight limit.

Until next time,
XOXO
Sam

May Birch Box!!!

Birchbox hasn't disappointed me yet!  Let's see what was given to us in May!

This month, I wasn't blown away.  The box wasn't bad, but...well, it wasn't my favorite.  But hey, no one can knock it out of the park every time, right? Let's get to it.

Nexxus Color Assure shampoo, conditioner and primer★★

Let's rip the band-aid off and get to my least favorite part.  I wanted to like this shampoo, I really did. But I didn't.  The primer is something you are supposed to put on your hair before you shower, I believe to protect it from the heat of your shower.  Um, okay?  Did that.  The shampoo - I needed more.  I have a lot of hair, even as it's shorter, and the sample size was smaller than it appears to be.  And the conditioner...ehhhh?  Wasn't impressed.  My hair didn't feel right afterward. I think I will stick with my Redken.

Gilchrist & Soames Body Lotion★★★

This body lotion was okay.  I didn't feel it was any more special than any other lotion.  The scent was so-so.  I will use it, but I won't go out of my way to purchase it.  

Pix! Shea Butter Lip Balm★★★★

Great lip balm!!  Definitely going to use this one all up.  Lips feel soft and silky and with that yummy shea butter smell/taste.  Awesome

32 Effervescent Breath Treatment★★★

One I haven't tried yet...and I can't guarantee that I will.  You are supposed to drop this in to your mouth and let it fizz up, and it is supposed to kill bad breath.  I just can't seem to bring myself to do it.  If I do, I will update this review later.

Whish Shave Cream★★★★

This is a thick, creamy shave cream as it comes out.  I used it sparingly, in a thin, almost invisible layer, and it was still great!  Smelled great, too...and while I can't quite pick out exactly why that's important, because no one but the dogs walk around smelling my legs.  BUT a great smell just makes it better. Right?  Loved this over my whatever-brand-i-grab-at-Walmart usual pick.  Will hunt this down and buy!

And that's it!!  The lip balm and shaving cream saved this box for me...wasn't overly impressed with everything else.  Oh well. BirchBox June should be here in a few days, and I look forward to reviewing that one...ON TIME...

Until next time,

XOXO

Sam

May BeautyBox5!!

Okay, so I know I sort of poo-pahed BeautyBox5 last month, but they really outdid themselves this month!!  Much more impressed this go round!  Read more to find out why!!

Okay, I admit it.  I was pretty quick to be judge of BB5 last month, and this month, they totally redeemed themselves!  They are on the lower end of the boxes, and as the 5 in "BeautyBox5" suggests, the box holds 5 items.  Here's the run down:

Ban Total Refresh Cooling Body Cloths ★★★★

When I first saw these, I have to say, my initial reaction was "Really??  What am I going to do with these??"  I literally live in the desert, and summer was making a late entrance.  Last year, we had hit 100 degrees by March, but this year, we didn't hit 100 degrees until June.  So when these came in, there wasn't much need for them.  But I have to tell you, when you have spent hours in a car in even 90 degree heat, on leather seats, you can start to feel a bit funky.  Then you have to run in somewhere or meet someone.  These babies help you freshen up on the go!!  Love them.  A definite purchase in the future for me!!

Harvy Prince Hello -★★★★★

I have never been much of one to experiment with scent before.  I usually find something I like, occasionally two, and I stick with them.  My husband got my a large bottle of Beauty by Calvin Klein for my birthday last year, and it's pretty much all I wear.  Don't get me wrong, I love CK Beauty, which is why I have stuck with it for so long, but...wearing the same scent everyday can get pretty monotonous.  BB5 sent this gem in May, and I have a new favorite!  Girly, yet woodsy and sexy!  My husband LOVES it, and I feel a little younger yet a little more sophisticated while wearing it, and would LOVE a full size bottle of it!

Cattiva Waterproof Eyeliner ★★★

Admittedly, I haven't tried this eyeliner yet.  Out of the 4 subscription boxes I receive, in the last 2 months, I have gotten 4 or 5 eyeliners, and with it being so hot, I haven't bothered with eyeliner the last few days.  (Eyeliner sweating into your eyeballs is not a pleasant experience.)  So, my review for this one will have to be updated later.

Mask-er Aid Pre Party Prep★★★

Another little item I haven't had a chance to try yet.  To be fair, it's been end of school activities heading straight into a weekend family reunion at the lake, and now we are packing up to take the kids to camp and then visit my in-laws for a day or two.  Another item I will have to update at another time.

Aqualibrium Marine Cleansing Gel ★★★★

This is one that I did try.  And I have to say, not bad  One the plus side, my face was left feeling refreshed and hydrated...not dry like some cleansers can leave your face feeling.  Got the job done without drying out my skin.

And that's it!  Like I said, I was quite pleasantly surprised with BB5 this month, and can't wait to see what comes in the next few days!

Until next time,
XOXO
Sam

May Ipsy Bag!!

Okay!  At least I am in the correct month now!  Ipsy really wowed me this month.  I have enjoyed getting their bags, but this one is my favorite of the two!  Want to know why??

Barefoot Exfoliating Body Polish ???

I admit, I haven't yet tried this, but I will tomorrow.  We are getting ready for a family reunion by a lake, and I need to put on some self tanner so my legs are not light beacons for fish.  And before I dare put the self tanner on, I need to exfoliate.  That being said, I have used (and still do, actually) Barefoot products, and for a drugstore brand, they are at the top of my list!  They even included a $2 off coupon with one of the samples.  I have not seen this product in store before, and I am hoping the $2 coupon is not a premonition of this being expensive.  Stay tuned, though...I will add a PS in my June review for how this worked out.

Hang Ten 50 Natural Sunscreen ★★★★

I really don't know much about this company, but I did try their sun screen.  It seems to do the trick!  An SPF of 50 is great for redheads like myself (and everyone else...skin cancer is bad, mmmkay?  Protect your skin!!) AND as a bonus, it smells good AND is non-greasy!!  The back label also claims Oxybenzone free, Paraben Free, Retinyl Palmitate free, and synthetic fragrance free.  I would definitely buy this brand again!

Pacifica Eye Shadow - Duo 2 ★★★

I don't know much about this brand either, and to be honest, I haven't really even given this eye shadow a try.  I don't wear "colors", per se.  I am a more neutrals kind of girl, so the purple will not work for me.  I suppose the white might make a good eyebrow highlight, but I honestly haven't tried it.  This will probably go to the 10 year old.  However, I do love the fact they are 100% vegan, Cruelty Free, free of FD&C  coloring, and free of parabens and petroleum.  So, it is "clean" and that makes you feel good.  Also, a portion (I don't know how much) of every sale from this company goes "to support clean water".  I haven't done my research so I am not sure what that means...but it sounds good!

Purlisse Pur-Moist Hydra Balance Moisturizer ★★★★★

I was happy to see this included!!  I was introduced to this exact product from another subscription box last month and I LOVE it!  I use it everyday.  I was so thrilled to see this in Ipsy this month!!  Makes my supply last a little longer, and hopefully, for anyone else that hadn't known about it before, they will try it and fall in love like I did!

LuLu Blossom Dreamsicle Body Balm ★★★★★

As much as I love Purlisse (and I DO!!), this little tin was the front runner for Ipsy this month.  Purlisse is great, but having already been exposed to it before, it takes a second seat to this gem.  This body balm is Amazing!  The tin is only 2 oz, but it's great for on the go!  A little goes a long way and it smells heavenly.  Just.  Heavenly. Use it on your cuticles, or elbows or knees or even your feet.  Or use it on pulse points and drive your sweet-tooth having guy a little crazy.  *wink*

Ipsy did a great job with this month's bag, and I am so looking forward to next month's!

Until next time,
XOXO
Sam

April BoxyCharm!!

April's BoxyCharm was the belle of the ball for me this month for two reasons...But, because I am a mysterious, mischievous minx, you will have to read each review to find out why.

I forgot to snag pictures, and it;s been several weeks, so I am just putting the titles of the products here.

1.) ModelCo Blush Cheek Powder in Peach Bellini ★★★

Don't get me wrong, I love ModelCo!  BoxyCharm introduced me to their products in March and I reaaalllyyy like it!!  But, my blush literally fell out in a full powdery mess when I first opened it.  I am assuming it's supposed to be more solid, but..it fell out in the top drawer of my vanity, and since it was all in one pile, there was no real way to try it because WAY to much clung to my blush brush.  I am assuming here this is neither ModelCo's fault, nor BoxyCharms but just what happens sometimes in shipping.  All in all, I was unable to use the Peach Bellini Blush in any form, so I can't tell you whether it's good or not.

2.) Ofra Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick in “Hollywood” ★★★

If you look this up, do not be shocked by the color.  It looks BRIGHT PINK...but it isn't that pink when you put it on.  The color is pretty good, but...I found it to be a bit drying and...not to my liking.  I will give this one to my 10 year old who is just learning to experiment with make up.

3.) ModelCo Eye Pencil in Black ★★★★★

I. Love. This. Eye. Pencil!  Seriously, I use it almost everyday.  The lid has a handy built in sharpener,  so a quick 1/4 turn gives you a nice sharp point for a thinner line.  It glides on smooth, and actually attaches to the tear line of the lower lid (my experience has been that eye liner pencils don't attach well.)  First run along the tear line, and it's there, and the BEST PART, is that the eye liner tends to stay!  I love in the desert, and it can get sweltering out here, and often if I wear eyeliner on a hot day, I end up looking like a raccoon by 3 PM.  Even if I powder underneath, which I don't like to do, because the powder often settles into the wrinkles I am starting to develop.  (I am 36...it happens)  Not with this eye liner...nope.  It's awesome!  Will definitely buy!!

4.) bellapierre Nail Polish in Lavender ★★★★

Cute nail polish.  I wore it on my toes, and it was great!  

5.) Coolway Glow Finishing Oil ★★★★

I loved this stuff, too.  ESPECIALLY with my hair texture and humidity induced frizziness.  Now, as with all hair finishing oils, "a little dab'll do ya", and one, maybe two sprays should be more than enough.  More than that, and your hair may end up feeling greasy.  That's the nature of finishing oils, though...not a mark against the product.



And there you have it!!  For me, front runners were the ModelCo eye liner (HIGHLY recommend) and the CoolWay Glow.  Sorry about the no pictures thing, but I figured for this instance, you could Google it if you are curious.

Until next time,
XOXO
Sam

April Birchbox!!

Okay, I know I am SUPER late with this.  I believe I mentioned in a previous blog that I just started a new business, and, as much as I love it, it is totally taking up 90% of my time, with the remaining 10% equally spread out to eating, sleeping, hygiene and family time.  

I know, excuses, excuses...right?  Who needs to shave their legs when they have blogs to write? Yeah, I know.    However, my husband appreciates the leg shaving...so...ya know....

Anyway, without further ado, let's get this party started since I have 6 boxes to blog about!!

Kind Healthy Grains Bar - Maple Pumpkin Seeds with Sea Salt ★★★★

Birchbox, have you been reading my mind??  This bar was scrumptious!  In fact, I ate it pretty quick and uhhhh didn't save the wrapper so I can't tell you the nutrition content.  But, salty+sweet+natural nutrition?  And yummy!!  WINNING!!

N4 Lumiere d'Hiver Reconstructing Masque ★★★

Don't let the French fool you...I didn't think this was particularly special.  That being said, maybe my hair was just too far gone?  I hadn't had a haircut in over a year and, as I straighten my naturally crazy hair, it was pretty damaged.  A years worth of damage.  It was better than normal conditioning, but it isn't anything I am going to run out and get.  I will stick with my Redken, I believe.

N4 Lumiere d'Hiver Clarifying Shampoo★★★

Same as above, this was okay, in my experience, but maybe it's an unfair judgment as I had ALOT of hair (thick and long) that was severely damaged.  Still not much to write home about...for me.

Yogini perfume★★★★

I loved this little sample.  I am normally attracted to sweeter smelling scents and this one is a bit more woodsy/earthy but it smells good.  Sophisticated without pretension.  However, I think those of us in our late 20s/30s will appreciate it more than a teenager...which if fine by me.  ;)  Nothing worse than a 30-something year old woman smelling like a 17 year old.  (Okay, there are worse things...disregard the snark.)

Color Club Nail Lacquer ★★★

This nail polish was okay...okay for summer, maybe?  I actually like a little (a lot) more color, and stand out nails.  I will for sure check this out in other shades, though!

Sumita Eye Pencil★★★★★

I was starting to think this box was a little ho-hum and nearly ignored this little gem.  SOOOO glad I gave it a chance!!  Sumita eye liner is smooth and velvety and GREAT for a smokey eye.  I don't know much about this company but I definitely will use this entire pencil, and would likely buy another one!

And that's it!!  I know this is short and sweet, but like I said, I have 5 more to do, AND, in all fairness, when I reviewed these, it was actually in April.  The Sumita eyeliner was a stand out though, and I still use it!  If you purchase one thing from these items, my money would be on Sumita eye liner.

Until next time, 

XOXO

Sam

April Ipsy Bag!

 April's Ipsy bag got here, and the first thing that popped out was the packaging.  I actually love it!  This is my first Ipsy bag, so I wasn't sure what to expect, but I love the mailer.  I even looked up where to buy them, so I could use them for my jewelry biz.  Too cute and fun! Makes a statement, and is memorable.

So off to open it I went.  And, inside the mailer bag, another bag holding (most of) the goodies!  

I am not sure what I will use the little bag for, but as an ultra organizer (albeit with ADD) I will find a use for it to be sure.  Right now, I am thinking it can hold the umpteen billion hair ties I have running around here but can never seem to find.

Inside the bag was this little postcard type thing.  On the back is an invitation to take photos or blog or whatever of your "Glam Bag Goodies" and share them, for a chance to win a year subscription to Ipsy.  I was doing this blogging thing before, so score for winning on something I already do!!  (Not that I won...just...a figure of speech.  Don't want there to be any misunderstanding.)

Okay, now let's get down to business!

Dr. Brandt Microdermabrasion Skin Exfoliant .25 oz (Value of $9.75) ★★★★

I have to be honest, I haven't had an opportunity yet to actually use this.  Shortly after Ipsy came knocking on my door, my husband and I started renovating the back yard, and Ive had a fairly disagreeable sunburn for days.  BUT I did run a db between my fingers, and am pretty sure I am going to love it.  I looked it up on Sephora, and a 2 oz. bottle costs $78, and the reviews are fairly glowing, much like my skin will be after I use it.  However, it may be a decent week or so before I can, because, seriously...I am pretty badly burned.  I gave it 4 stars because that is my initial score on it, and it may go up or down after actual usage.

Starlooks Luscious Longwear Lip Pencil in "Naked" (full size pencil, $12.99) ★★★★3/4

A brand I am unfamiliar with but I think I will love.  It's creamy without being smeary, and a good color for many of my more nude lipsticks.  It does have a tiny pinky/coral tint to it.  I thought I should mention that because when people think "nude", they tend to think of a more neutral light brown.  This is a bit closer to a nude-but-pink lip.  Great for everyday, for most paler complected ladies.  I am not sure where else to get it though.  Is it a new company or just exclusive?  A quick Google search for "Starlooks Lip Pencil" came up with the Starlooks website, Ipsy and Amazon.  Maybe it is available at other stores and I just didn't dig past the first page.  Due to that, and only that, I knocked off a quarter of a star for not easily found in say, Sephora or Ulta.

Elizabeth Mott's Pop Goes The Shadow in Champagne ($12.99)★★★★

So, I pull out this little box and my first knee jerk reaction/thought was..."oh, dear.  A box of Chiclets??" Perhaps I have been living in the south for too long. Another company I am unfamiliar with, but that's why I am doing this year long beauty box subscription box experiment...to learn more about the smaller and/or up and coming and/or awesome cosmetic companies that I personally don't know about. (I hope no one takes offense to that.  It's me...seriously...not you.)

 Anyway, I pull out the shadow and this is what I see.

Honestly, quite a pretty color.  Again, due to working in the back yard day in and day out for 2 weeks, I haven't had a chance to try it out much, but I did play with it a little bit.  The pigment is good yet buildable. Once it's on (use your eyelid primer, ladies!!  And thank me later!) it stays on.  It compliments my fair skin nicely, but (And only because of my skin tone) I would have to make sure not to build up too much or it may look a little orangey.  Again, though...that is a problem with lots of redheads and cosmetics.  I believe it will blend nicely with my UD Naked 2 palette.  As for long term usage, and buying it myself, that will remain to be seen.  I just need more time with it.

Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide On Eye Pencil in Black Velvet ($15) ★★★★★

If I haven't let this be known already, I love Urban Decay.  Love, Love, LOVE UD.  So, I admit, a squealed like a 12 year old girl when I pulled this out of my glam bag.  I hadn't used THIS product before, so I was anxious to give it a shot.  It absolutely glides on. And it feels like velvet.  It won't pull your eyelid.  It's soft and smooth and not likely to dry out, as long as you keep the lid on it.  You do meed to be careful about application because this is BLACK and once it's on, it's pretty much on.  But, still, totally stoked at THIS item.  UD lists this as $20 for .04 oz, and my pencil was .03 oz, so let's say this is a $15 dollar value.  Will likely buy this again!!  Especially if it came in other colors.

CoastalScents Make Up Brush Medium Shadow Brush ($2.49)

As an add, Ipsy threw in this little make up brush.  I can't tell you much about it as it is still in it's wrapper.  I promise, I or my teenage daughter WILL be using it soon.  Just haven't had a chance.

There you have it.  My $10 a month subscription to Ipsy got me a tidy $40ish or more in product.  Nice!!  I don't know if Ipsy is always this awesome, or if I just lucked out with my first bag.  Time will tell!!

XOXO, Sam

April BeautyBox5

Finally back to subscription reviews!  I opened and photographed THREE subscription boxes a while ago!  And today's review is for the April edition of BeautyBox5.

(The others will come in the coming days.)

I wasn't exactly thrilled with the size of this box.  It seemed almost the size of the box that my business cards came in.  And it was light.  Perhaps this wasn't exactly fair to BB5, as I had gotten Birchbox and Boxycharm a couple of weeks ago, and their boxes a very generous in comparison.  Plus, it seemed on the light side as far as weight is concerned, and everything was rattling around on the inside.  Still I was willing to give it a chance.

Now the other two boxes I received before were packaged rather well, yet BB5 seemed to just throw things in there.  Still, perhaps this is just an off month.  I always try to keep these things in mind, and give the benefit of the doubt.

Blum Naturals All Purpose Cleansing Wipes ★★1/2 $6.99

Not exactly what I expected in a beauty box, but okay.  These are okay...and the travel sized container is nice for your purse.  I didn't see, feel or smell anything special about them.  Perhaps these are good in a pinch or on a plane?  The wipe sizes are quite small and dainty, and as a mother of 4, that does me no good.  Still, I suppose if you were childless and travelled a bit, these might be okay.  I have no use for them, nor would I, in a million years, spend $6.99 on something like this.

Jergens Natural Glow 3 pack, Medium to Tan ★★★★

I've used Jergens Natural Glow before.  Too much sun is a no-no for anyone, but as a redhead "too much sun" can be 15 minutes without any sunscreen on.  Plus, we redheads tend to come in either alabaster white or lobster red...nothing in between...which can be blindingly obvious when it comes to summer and shorts season.  So, I use Jergens Naturals to give me a little bit of color.  Like any other sunless tanner, you have to be sure that you put it on evenly, and exfoliate before your first application.  Unfortunately for me, this pack is for "medium to tan" which will turn me a burnt orange color.  This will end up going to my daughter or my sister.  "A" for effort, though.

bh Cosmetics California Collection  ★★★1/2 

This cutesy little compact eyeshadow has nice packaging, but the colors were a bit shocking when I first opened them.

These didn't photograph that well, but Hollywood is a deep yet bright shimmer purple...San Francisco is a shimmery nude and Malibu is...shimmery golden yellow?  Alrighty then.  These do not appear to be too highly pigmented, but the color is build able.  I can see myself using SF and maybe Hollywood but the Malibu is not for me.  Again, though, it might just be my skin coloring...and not everyone is paler than milk.  It might be nice on a darker skin tone.  I am not sure how much BB5 wants me to believe this is worth, but it has to be super cheap when a 26 color palette on Amazon is $16.99.

Bonne Belle Lip Definer in Ash Rose $1.99 ★★★★

Who doesn't have experience with Bonne Belle?  It's rather on the low end of the price line at any department or drug store, and most of us cut our cosmetic teeth on Bonne Bell lip glosses.  The pencil is nice enough, and the color almost exactly matches most of my more subdued lipsticks.  I usually prefer a creme pencil, but this one will do the trick just fine.

NickAK New York Lipstick in Concerto - $4.99 ★★★

I had never heard of NickAk New York before, so I wasn't sure what to expect.  At $4.99, this is...well...a cheap lipstick.  The color is great for me, and it pairs perfectly with the Bonne Belle Lip Definer listed above.  It's especially pretty with a rose or nude lip gloss over it. I don't know that I would go out of my way to get this lipstick again...but this will get plenty of use.  Who knows, though?  Maybe I will fall in love with it.  I don't discount anything.

And there you have it.  Yup, that's it.  I can't feel but a little gypped with this box.  At $10 a month, I don't think I got $10 worth out of it.  Personally, I feel like subscription boxes should make you feel like you are getting a great deal, if not your money's worth.  I am holding out that maybe this is just an off month for them? Surely not every box is this...cheap?  

Maybe BB5 will surprise me next month.  

My first look at Ipsy in a few days!  Stay tuned!

Xoxo,

Sam

Revenge of the Nerds

Hey guys!  I know its been a while since I updated the blog, which almost borders on cliche for new blogs.  Many blog writers get lofty goals, and then burn out quickly and I am sure some of you are thinking that is what happened with me.

Mais non, mon amis!!

See, what had happened was, I launched my business at the same time as the blog, AND business has been booming, and I got a bit compulsive about the inner workings of my business.  I got super obsessive with creating sales trackers and inventory forms and super duper organized date sheets awaiting my input.  I got a trifle caught up in the moment with it all at first, but as I am finding my professional rhythm, I aim to get back to blogging here.

I've gotten THREE subscription beauty boxes in the last week or so, and have only opened one.  I will blog more about that tomorrow.  So far, the one I opened is a box that I had never received before, and...well...I was less than impressed.  Details will follow within about 24 hours or so.

But before I go much further, I wanted to get something off my chest.  Are you ready for this, Blogosphere?   Are you ready to hear the thing that has been eating away at me for quite some time?

I love nerds.

Seriously, I love nerds of all kinds.  Yes, there is the traditional nerd that wears bow ties and pocket protectors and performs calculus functions in their sleep.  Those nerds are awesome, and great, and wonderful and I do love them.  But I love all nerds.

I love music nerds, and computer nerds, and gaming nerds, and make up nerds.  I love fitness nerds.  I love movie nerds.  I love literary nerds.  I love car nerds, and sports nerds, and trivia nerds.  I love beauty nerds, and clothing nerds, and philosophical nerds, and photography nerds, and social issues nerds, and theatre nerds, and dance nerds, and animal nerds, and political nerds. I love all nerds. ALL nerds.

For me, a nerd is someone who has a passion.  And having a passion for something...anything...is sexy, for lack of a better term.  Sexy in a non-sexual way.  I love passionate people, and I find their passions to be contagious because, while I may not be completely excited about what excited them, their passion is stimulating.  Being around passionate people has a way of opening my mind and my soul to new experiences and knowledge.  I could honestly give a rats patootie about HTML coding or how to rebuild a carburetor. But I can be completely mesmerized in learning about those things when my educator is passionate about the subject.

Nerds are beautiful.  I really and truly believe that because that is how I comprehend them.  They may not have symmetrical features, or they may be plump or have a lot of piercings or tattoos, or be a societal beacon of beauty.  That doesn't matter.  You can be "pretty" and boring, and I ill find you off putting.  Be "plain" but passionate about something, and I am drawn to you like a moth to a flame.

I review make up and skin products and hair products, and I sell jewelry, not in effort to encourage someone to conform to a societal definition of beauty.  Actually, I hope to lend someone a helping hand in accepting the fact that they are beautiful.  Applying a complimentary shade of lipstick or accessorizing an outfit with the right earrings doesn't, in fact, make anyone more or less attractive to the eye.  What it does is raise someone's confidence level, and that is a change that is visible to the eye and can make someone more attractive. And, THAT, dear readers, is my end game.

So if there are any of you that feel less than awesome because Cosmo hasn't begged you to be on their cover...find a passion.  Have a passion?  A real burn-in-your-gut-and-heart passionate that gives you the giddy rush you can feel in your bones passion?  Well, then darlin', you are gorgeous and sexy and beautiful.  You are a nerd.  Embrace it.  Love it.  And love yourself.  The rest is nothing but cake.

Until next time,
Xoxo
Sam

My Love Letter to You

Why do I do what I do?  Four words:  I'm on a mission.

I got into my new business because I want to help women feel a bit better about themselves.  Many women who inspire me, especially local women, are on the same mission, and this is just my way of joining the effort.

I know first hand what it's like to feel like you don't measure up; to feel like you are past your prime, you aren't pretty, and to feel depressed about it.  And I know that, on the surface, it might seem silly. "How do $5 trinkets help women?"

I did my research.  I bought some of these baubles from another local rep.  These are cute and affordable, and the variety is so vast, you can find things to go with any outfit, no matter what your "look".  I experienced first hand how a few accessories help pull an outfit together, and, in turn, make you feel better about yourself and turn your day, your week and even your life path around.  I want other women, whether family, friends or perfect strangers, to have that same experience.

While it pains me to see so many of my friends feel down about themselves, I totally understand.  I also understand the proclivity of women to not do much for themselves because they tend to want to do more for their family, especially for children.  So, oftentimes we forgo getting things for ourselves so that we can do more for others.  What my company offers is a way to do both...treat yourself to a few accessories and trinkets without spending a fortune, so you don't feel guilty, and can still afford to do things for the rest of your family.

It really is that simple.  It's empowerment.  It's confidence building.  And, in my own little way, it's important.

Until next time,
XOXO
Sam

March Boxycharm!!

Since I subscribed to my boxes mid March, two of the box companies sent me March boxes a little later in the month than everyone else, as I was not yet on the mailing list when the boxes originally went out... which is why my review is late compared to most other bloggers.  Two companies won't send me a box until this month (April)...different strokes for different folks!

Okay, so my Boxycharm box came in last week, and they scored points off the bat, as the shipping box was black, sealed closed with purple duct tape.  Purple being my ABSOLUTE. FAVORITE. COLOR. EVER!  I have no idea if this is their normal colors, or if it merely matched the theme of the month.  But either way, I might have been squealing with delight...a little bit.  The inner box was shiny black with the logo in silver, and completed with purple bow.

The card inside said "Spring Beauty - Charmers!  Spring is in the air!  We are so excited of this Spring Beauty Box that is filled to the brim with amazing full size beauty products that have a value of over $100.  We can't wait to pack up those winter clothes and do some Spring cleaning (and shopping!)  Bring on the color and head out for some fresh air, and looking beautiful."

MakeUp Base by bellapierre ★★★★★

So, the first thing that I pull out is a "MakeUp Base" by bellapierre.  I don't know much about this brand, but it was in my shade (awesome) and the box said "This wonderful product helps transform all of our shimmer powders from shimmery to matte; it also provides a water proof base for any of our pigments."  I've never used a product like that before, but I am not knocking it.  I have several shimmery eyeshadows that I think would look better as matte.  What you do with this product is lightly apply with a clean finger on the eyelid where you intend to use the eyeshadow.  Apply your eyeshadow with a brush, and what was once shimmery is no longer, but it supposedly retains the color.  It's also an eyelid primer, and will help your eyeshadow stay in place longer.

IMPORTANT SIDE NOTE:  Aside from being a primer, this makes a GREAT concealer.  That's what I used it for.  Use sparingly, as it is thick and dot on any blemishes you want to conceal. This tiny jar (0.3 oz) retails for $18.99.  Don't let that scare you though.  As you should apply it very sparingly, a little dab will do ya, and this will last you for quite a while.

Shimmer Powder by bellapierre★★★★★

Also, from the same company was a little jar of shimmery eyeshadow in the shade of Earth.  I assume they paired this with the MakeUp Base so you can test both out yourself.  Well...I didn't use the base with this.  It IS shimmery, but I usually wear Urban Decay, and am used to it.  It's a very pretty shade. A shimmery cross of pink and brown with a tiny bit of copper thrown in.  Likely to be flattering for most women of any shade.   This is HIGHLY pigmented and so, again, a little dab will do ya. Quite reasonably retail priced at $14.99 for .08 oz.  I know, it sounds like such a minuscule amount, but I promise you, it's going to last.  Like I said, I did not use the makeup base with it, so it is a bit shimmery, but I am sure it's gorgeous matte as well.  In fact, I will try it matte tomorrow!

Party Proof Cream Lipstick by ModelCO ★★★★ 1/2

Another brand I wasn't familiar with until now.  What can I say, I usually stick with brands I already know, and don't usually branch out...these beauty box subscriptions are allowing me to change that.  This is a full size lipstick and what is nice is ModelCO imbeds a mirror in the cap to help you with application/touch ups on the go.  I have to admit, when I first opened the tube and saw the shade ("Pinking Of You") I was afraid.  VERY afraid.  Barbie doll pink seemed to be a more apt name.  Now, I have always done a darker, more neutral lip...a more classic look, let's say, and at first, I hated this color.  It almost looks like a color a 12 year old would wear.  But, in an effort for an honest and fair review, I put it on this morning.  My husband LOVES the color.  I am still getting used to it, because, again, for 20 years I have worn a more mauve/neutral shade.  It is very creamy and feels good on.  I also don't notice that normal "lipstick" taste.  There really isn't a taste.  I took a half star off the rating ONLY because of the shade...and only because I am not used to it.  All in all, something I may definitely buy myself.  At $17 for a stick, I don't know that I would commit to this particular shade, but maybe.  Who knows?

STRANGEBEAUTIFUL Nail Lacquer by Jane Schub ★★★★1/2

Yet another brand I am currently unfamiliar with.  The names of the colors on the label were "Bandaid" and "Pussy Willow".  This is a nail lacquer that is free of phthalates, parabens and formaldehyde.  Not bad at all!  I did my nails with these last night.  "Bandaid" on 4 nails of each hand and the diva finger done in "Pussy Willow". Don't let the names of the colors scare you off.  "Bandaid" is actually more of a medium pink, and "Pussy Willow" is a blue gray.  They have high pigmentation as well.  (you don't have to put on 4 coats to achieve the color as it looks in the bottle...one would probably do it, but a good rule of thumb is 2 coats.) The lacquer is thick and the bristles of the brush are a little stiffer than most nail brushes, so I had to apply a clear top coat to sort of mask the obvious brush strokes (It lost half a star for that.)  Without the bad chemicals in it, it doesn't really smell like normal nail polish, either.  This duo retails for $17, which is more expensive than drugstore brands, but for formaldehyde, paraben and phthalate free nail color, it's probably worth it.

pur-moist hy-dra-balance moisturizer by pur-lisse ★★★★★

I was SO excited to see this!!  I know of the pur-lisse brand, and know it can be a little bit expensive. But in this box was a full size tube of it! It glides on smooth, it feels light, it has vitamin E in it which helps fight fine lines and wrinkles, as well as White Tea and Blue Lotus which helps fight free-radicals.  Use morning and night, after washing your face, as part of your daily routine. Doesn't take long to dry/soak in, so you can wear it under your makeup.  Made in the USA, this 1.7 oz tube retails for $55!!  I don't know that I really want to spend THAT much on a moisturizer (I prefer the term frugal or pennywise instead of cheap) but I will use it while I can.  Who knows, though...maybe pur-lisse will prove it's goodness and I will go ahead and buy it.

So, there you have it.  Boxycharm is $20 a month in subscription, and for my $20 this month, I received $124 dollars worth of product.  I don't know if every month is that generous yet, but I did get a sneak peek from Boxycharm for April and more ModelCo will be in that one.  That's at least $20, so I think it's safe to say next month is gonna be a winner too.

Until next time,
XOXO
Sam