tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82224055336755821152024-02-19T18:06:09.025-08:00Amberlyn's ReviewsAmberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-11304009090370069092015-08-13T12:55:00.000-07:002015-09-17T13:01:34.684-07:00Ipsy Review - August 2015<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=1ox9" target="_blank"><b>Ipsy</b></a> is probably my all time favorite subscription service, tied closely with<b> <a href="http://lovewithfood.com/invite?m=r&ref=AsK" target="_blank">Love With Food</a></b>. I frequently get full sized products from them and they're almost always exactly perfect for not only my skin tone/type/hair type, but also my personality. After taking a quick quiz to show them exactly what your style is, you're put on a waitlist. Eventually, you become an <a href="https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=1ox9" target="_blank">Ipsy</a> subscriber and you can look forward to deluxe samples and full size products from brands like <b>Cailyn</b>, <b>Nyx</b>, <b>tarte</b>, <b>Pixi</b>, <b>Elizabeth Mott</b>, <b>Be A Bombshell</b>, <b>OPI</b> and many more!</div>
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The best part of this service for me however, is that every month instead of a box, you get a <u>one of a kind makeup bag</u> to contain all your goodies. I may do a post eventually showing my favorites I've received so far. They're always high quality, and have stunning detail. I haven't had a <b>single one</b> fall apart on me in any way. As a bonus, for every review you do, and product you share on Facebook you get <b>ipsyPoints </b>and once you rack up enough, you can get exclusive items as rewards. You also get major discounts on all the brands you receive items from. This service is well worth your money.</div>
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How much money exactly? A mere <b>$10</b> a <b>month</b>. Ships across the <b>US </b>and it's territories, <b>APO</b>, <b>DPO</b>, <b>FPO</b> and<b> Canada</b>.<br />
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My bag arrived on <b>August 13th</b>, in perfect condition. It was exactly on schedule.</div>
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My opinion at first glance? I <b>ADORE</b> the print of this bag, and the color scheme. I was never much of a pink girl until my late teens, but I'm all about it now. I'm not big on hot pink, but with the black and white - it really stands out. Also, I've never been into high fashion, but I actually know this pattern is called <b>Houndstooth</b> because my best friend has an<b><i> amazing</i></b> eye for fashion, and linked me this outrageously expensive outfit once in the pattern. Any fashion terms or fabric terms I know, I owe to her. She has her own fashion/review blog you can find <b><a href="http://lepetitecurl.blogspot.com/">here</a></b> if you're interested.</div>
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Now then, sorry for delay in posting and rambling - let's get onto what's <b><i>inside</i></b>!<br />
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<a href="http://loveaila.com/collections/nail-colors/products/mister-pookies?variant=1095159127"><b>AILA Nail Lacquer in the shade "Mister Pookies"</b></a>, <b>$17 @ loveaila</b></div>
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This nail lacquer by<b> AILA </b>boasts being 100% <b>vegan</b>, <b>paraben free</b>, and <b>cruelty free</b>. Also it states it's <b>gluten free</b>, which I didn't even know was a thing. It claims to be chip resistant, and long lasting. So honestly, before I even tried it I was impressed and felt good about the product. I also loved the color straight away.</div>
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I applied the product in just a strip on my thumb, <b>one coat</b>, just to test how opaque it is and to see how true these claims of chip resistance are. The color is a beautiful grey-purple. It looks like a creamy grape soda, if that makes any sense at all. One coat gives full enough coverage you could just swipe and go. It <b>dries fast</b>, and I'm happy to say after a full day, I see no chipping. The only incident I had with it was when I accidentally shaved some off with a knife.<i> Whoopsies</i>. </div>
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All in all, this is a wonderful product. I love the color. I love the formula. I <b>love </b>that they're cruelty free. For<b> $17</b> I still don't know if it's worth it to purchase another, when there's other brands out there that compare and are still pretty cheap, like <a href="http://www.zoya.com/"><b>Zoya</b></a> - a personal favorite - coming in at a <b>$9</b> price tag (but often on sale through various retailers). So I don't know if I'd pay for this, but it's nice to know the brand is out there and how wonderful it is. And maybe, who knows, I may buy another one day. They have lovely colors.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.hikaricosmetics.com/shop/lip-gloss/">Hikari Cosmetics Lip Gloss in the shade "Merlot"</a>, $13.00 @ Hikari Cosmetics</b></div>
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This product boasts a high pigment, and I can say first hand it's correct in this statement. It's a rich, deep mauvey red and just a little goes a LONG way. The formula is thick, and sticky much like any normal gloss out there. I didn't leave it on long, I just wanted to see the color and consistency, so I can't tell if it's drying or not.</div>
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Now, <b>Ipsy</b> is usually fantastic about the quality of the products they include. But I feel like sometimes, they just get bought. A brand buys in to their service, and we get thrown it. This I feel is one of them.<b><u> It contains multiple types of parabens</u></b>, tons of <b><u>synthetic dyes</u></b> instead of natural plant based dyes which work just as well. Some of the dyes <b><u>derive from insects</u></b> and so this is <b><u>most definitely not a vegan/cruelty free product</u></b>. If you don't really care, that's totally fine. But for those who do, like myself, I wouldn't suggest this brand. The price of<b> $13</b> is ridiculous for something so cheaply made. The bottle is probably the most expensive part about it, aside from production. <b><a href="http://www.pacificabeauty.com/makeup/lips/enlightened-gloss">Pacifica</a></b> has an excellent lip gloss that's non sticky and has a wonderful formula and color payoff, for only <b>$12.</b> Alternatively,<b> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/search?q=vegan+lip+gloss&order=most_relevant&view_type=gallery&ship_to=US">Etsy</a></b> has TONS naturally made <b>100% vegan </b>and <b>organic</b> products within that price range constantly. This gloss has a beautiful color, but being full of parabens and chemicals I'd rather not use it, or even give it to anyone unless they just don't care. This is a dud for me. The value would've been amazing otherwise.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.swisscollc.com/2_Pack_Soft_Touch_Tweezers_Slanted_and_Pointed_From_Swissco">Swissco Soft Touch Slant Tweezers in "Red"</a>, $10 (2 pack) @ SwisscoLLC</b></div>
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Honestly, this product was one of the best I received in this month's bag. It's practical, useful, the tweezers really do have a 'soft touch' coating that somehow is comfortable and protects from slipping at the same time. They allow you to be super precise, and honestly? They're pretty painless. I think it's the precision that aids in that. I find with most tweezers you end up grabbing too many hairs, or maybe the tip isn't wide enough or angled enough to get what you're looking for. Maybe your hands slip. Any number of things lead to more pain than you bargained for. So I really appreciate these.</div>
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Ultimately, they're well worth the price. I mean<b> $10</b> for <b>2, </b>both a full size and a mini, isn't bad at all -- and I've heard you can find these in singular packs at Walmart for comparable prices. I'm very pleased with this, and I feel useful items like these really add to the value of the bag.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=480186&catid=183495&aid=338666&aparam=480186&kpid=480186&CAWELAID=120142990000029103&CAGPSPN=pla&kpid=480186">Batiste Dry Shampoo in fragrance "Blush"</a>, $6-7 @ drugstore</b></div>
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So, ignore the terrible photo of this and the next product, please. There will be more details at the bottom of the post. With that being said, this is my 3rd Batiste dry shampoo I've received in recent months. I understand why, because on most surveys I put my hair type which is curly and I'm sure they're under the assumption I use tools such as straightening irons on my hair. Which I do, once in a blue moon. And I fully admit, dry shampoos are fantastic when my hair is straight. Because of the tugging from the iron, and how long it takes, typically my scalp over-produces oil. I think it thinks it's injured. Which it kinda feels like, at times :P and in the past, I've LOVED dry shampoos because they decrease the pain and agitation, and they keep the hair from re-curling from the over-production of oils. So I'm always happy to receive samples.</div>
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Now, I don't hate Batiste. I've used two of their products already, straightened my hair just to try them. The fact you can find them in drugstores and major retail stores is appealing, as is the price, but the one thing I've always disliked is the scents they carry. They often give me a headache, because I find them to be too perfume-y. I'm very sensitive to floral scents - and they love to use them. And Blush is no exception. However I was pleasantly surprised to find it didn't give me the typical migraine. I'd still stick to the original scent, if I ever use Batiste, because it's safe and I don't need all the fancy scents. But all in all, this is a solid product and it does exactly what you want it to. And it tames even the oiliest of hair. </div>
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<b><a href="http://starlooks.com/products/luxe-longwear-eye-liner-pen">Starlooks Pro Luxe Longwear Eye Liner Pen</a>, $19 @ Starlooks</b></div>
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There's not a lot to say about this product -- it's your typical black felt tip eyeliner pen. It's precise, and perfectly angled so even beginners can figure out after 1-2 applications how to get the perfect wing. It doesn't seem to be waterproof, because after a day out in Texas' heat (100 Fahrenheit) it DID melt a little. I assume that's just natural skin oils working it off. So, honestly, if you use setting sprays or powders and blot for excess oil it might have a MUCH longer staying power.</div>
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It's a bit expensive, from my personal perspective. I've found plenty of pens I like in/around the $10-12 range -- so this is really nothing special that warrants $19. But other people may feel otherwise. The formula is very nice, it goes on smooth, it doesn't dry out the skin or feel foreign on the skin like some eyeliners can. It's not too wet where it easily smudges. Not too dry where it snags. It's a good pen. Just depends on your personal preferences, I suppose. It's nice to have, though, for the time being. I enjoy the product, and the value it added to my bag.</div>
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And that's all she wrote! Sorry for some of the lower quality pictures and how late this review came -- my camera's batteries wore out right when we were preparing for guests to arrive, and I put cleaning and shopping for them over blogging for a bit. But I can assure you, September's posts will be in much better quality and on time. I already have<b> Birchbox </b>and <b>Ipsy </b>in the works. Awaiting the arrival of my <b>Love With Food</b> and <b>Bocandy</b>, currently.</div>
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If you're at all interested in this service, feel free to use my referral link you surely found multiple times in this post already, but you can find again<b> <a href="https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=1ox9" target="_blank">here</a></b>. Remember there is often a waitlist, and in my experience with friends and family it generally takes about a month for them to get to you. You'll (in my experience) be immediately charged when they finally clear you, so be prepared for that coming out at any given time. But honestly, they're worth every cent in my humble opinion. Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-25959781480621359992015-07-17T08:35:00.000-07:002015-09-17T13:00:41.136-07:00Ipsy Review - July 2015<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=1ox9" target="_blank"><b>Ipsy</b></a> is probably my all time favorite subscription service, tied closely with<b> <a href="http://lovewithfood.com/invite?m=r&ref=AsK" target="_blank">Love With Food</a></b>. I frequently get full sized products from them and they're almost always exactly perfect for not only my skin tone/type/hair type, but also my personality. After taking a quick quiz to show them exactly what your style is, you're put on a waitlist. Eventually, you become an <a href="https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=1ox9" target="_blank">Ipsy</a> subscriber and you can look forward to deluxe samples and full size products from brands like <b>Cailyn</b>, <b>Nyx</b>, <b>tarte</b>, <b>Pixi</b>, <b>Elizabeth Mott</b>, <b>Be A Bombshell</b>, <b>OPI</b> and many more!</div>
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The best part of this service for me however, is that every month instead of a box, you get a <u>one of a kind makeup bag</u> to contain all your goodies. I may do a post eventually showing my favorites I've received so far. They're always high quality, and have stunning detail. I haven't had a <b>single one</b> fall apart on me in any way. As a bonus, for every review you do, and product you share on Facebook you get <b>ipsyPoints </b>and once you rack up enough, you can get exclusive items as rewards. You also get major discounts on all the brands you receive items from. This service is well worth your money.</div>
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How much money exactly? A mere <b>$10</b> a <b>month</b>. Ships across the <b>US </b>and it's territories, <b>APO</b>, <b>DPO</b>, <b>FPO</b> and<b> Canada</b>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLcv2Lr4rKV_ZBJpPEDcjxvCRMOkyelMfcaZQs7NkNld23dRvN-gdrQ5FnQYZADdMVQMyNpLIcZj-E4xTsP6RtOqikFbmka1pjG391GglxD5_LBcYDEdKOpJprlUvEMiL4Xzo4Glm9zzre/s1600/100_0155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLcv2Lr4rKV_ZBJpPEDcjxvCRMOkyelMfcaZQs7NkNld23dRvN-gdrQ5FnQYZADdMVQMyNpLIcZj-E4xTsP6RtOqikFbmka1pjG391GglxD5_LBcYDEdKOpJprlUvEMiL4Xzo4Glm9zzre/s400/100_0155.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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My bag arrived on <b>July 14th</b>, in perfect condition. This is a little bit later than typical delivery, I usually get it around the <b>10th</b>, sometimes up to the <b>12th</b>. But with the weekend falling during that time frame I fully get it.</div>
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My opinion at first glance? Cute bag, nice pattern and colors. I'm not the biggest fan of their front zippered bags, I feel like I don't always get to utilize their full capacity. But honestly I have so many now, the ones I'm not in just absolute love with, I've been saving to send along with samples I can't use to my best friend. She also has an up and coming blog where she talks about fashion, beauty, reviews products and services and talks about the best deals she's found and sites you can use to get more for your dollar. You can find her blog <b><a href="http://lepetitecurl.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">here</a></b>, expect great things.</div>
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Now then, onto what's inside!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVnJ7htXLwhPIhKlKEqx0XjWlfe0gwwrgGbfs9xWTxDG4VUFPSXkQdfjvtJcAgspMw5pHY1KIZ6-5ZNLe4tFJePhGItLAOh4hUK4abY3bZFg2P5BdJkkJuBDjJhE0SninN0i3R1qvELCe/s1600/cooltext137592008431560.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVnJ7htXLwhPIhKlKEqx0XjWlfe0gwwrgGbfs9xWTxDG4VUFPSXkQdfjvtJcAgspMw5pHY1KIZ6-5ZNLe4tFJePhGItLAOh4hUK4abY3bZFg2P5BdJkkJuBDjJhE0SninN0i3R1qvELCe/s1600/cooltext137592008431560.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPUmOL20Vt3iLW60f6jAaSkYgQW3zxvvs-0LFBqhAUPbjw3eSveX2g13UZj02OFVxqEVBLMCjMm-d3Hfv6lFA93rcVFulGY-DhIGaabmOxBLnEIgkzVCuudxxOXQFP7FY551kBGl2eE33/s1600/100_0161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfPUmOL20Vt3iLW60f6jAaSkYgQW3zxvvs-0LFBqhAUPbjw3eSveX2g13UZj02OFVxqEVBLMCjMm-d3Hfv6lFA93rcVFulGY-DhIGaabmOxBLnEIgkzVCuudxxOXQFP7FY551kBGl2eE33/s320/100_0161.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Avene-Thermale-Cleanance-Blemish-Prone-Sensitive/dp/B000TV9RW2" target="_blank">Avene Eau Thermale Cleanance Soapless Gel Cleanser</a>, $19.15 @ <i>Amazon</i></b><br />
This product promises acne fighting power, free of soap. It claims it'll clarify your skin without stripping it, and that you'll be left with soft and smooth skin. Now, I have severely sensitive skin, so that's going to be a major factor whenever reviewing ANY products. Anything can set my face off and make it feel like I have chemical burns. However I was pretty hopeful for this product, because I've used their <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Avene-Thermal-Spring--Ounce-Package/dp/B002D48QUC/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1436832110&sr=1-1&keywords=avene+thermal+spring+water" target="_blank">Thermal Spring Water</a></b> before and fell in love with it, especially during the hot summers here in Texas. It's just a can of what they claim is compressed mineral water straight from a thermal spring. I don't know if it's true, but I loved it and it made my skin softer. Probably just because of the moisture I was adding and then reapplying my face cream on top of.<br />
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So back on subject -- I tried this product, and honestly, it's genuinely not a bad product. No skin irritation, no breakouts, no reaction at all from this cleanser. It was just light, and effectively cleaned my skin. Bonus is for my skin type, it didn't dry it out as much as other cleansers. The only one that I've ever tried that has this style formula and affect on my skin is the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Simple-Water-Cleansing-Micellar-ounce/dp/B00PATJ796/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437145795&sr=8-1&keywords=simple+cleansing" target="_blank">Simple Cleansing Micellar Water</a>. If this wasn't so expensive, especially compared to the aforementioned product, I'd totally suggest this. But the Simple is SO much cheaper for basically the same size bottle, and is very gentle on your skin. However if you have bad reactions to Simple, since I know everyone has different skin types and we're all always fighting to find the perfect products, I'd give this a try. If my Rosacea, dry skin and extremely sensitive skin didn't have any negative reactions, you should be safe!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4fKRU_Zvw6zZA0rEfKR1G7s23jBYI5_P5CEckPaG3F9e1r5NfUDiKKiX8UH6SOcMhzeO3DvvZ0mKUi4ST0EWwhrkrtNYd9PULReKwmRR2tQUq7OyIS-yduz_J09uY6k2ONCgOpfq_In8/s1600/100_0157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4fKRU_Zvw6zZA0rEfKR1G7s23jBYI5_P5CEckPaG3F9e1r5NfUDiKKiX8UH6SOcMhzeO3DvvZ0mKUi4ST0EWwhrkrtNYd9PULReKwmRR2tQUq7OyIS-yduz_J09uY6k2ONCgOpfq_In8/s320/100_0157.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><a href="http://citycolorcosmetics.com/hd-powder/#.VaRHpKhViko" target="_blank">City Color HD Powder</a>, $5.99 @ <i>City Color Cosmetics</i></b></div>
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This powder claims to give your foundation a matte finish, and aids in blurring fine lines and imperfections. It's translucent, so good for all skin tones apparently. With that being said, I can't say I'm the best person to review any skin related makeup product. I rare wear foundation, I don't know how to contour or mattify or anything fancy like that. I wear lip balms, occasionally lip sticks/glosses, and eyeliner/maybe eye-shadow if I'm going out with my significant other. But I'll still give it my best shot and see how it works.</div>
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I used this on top of my favorite foundation -- favorite primarily because it's cheap and actually in my skin tone - even porcelain in most brands is too dark for me, I'm not even exaggerating. It's called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0039288AA/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_2?pf_rd_p=1944687762&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B000UGUQLM&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=04F3VPWRGFRN8HPGHP2J" target="_blank"><b>True Match</b> by <b>L'Oreal Paris</b></a>, in the shade<b> Alabaster</b> (<b>C1</b>). Overall, it's a nice product. It's truly transluscent, unlike some powders out there which have a peachy look to them and wash out people with darker complexsions and make people like me look like a ghost. It looks better in pictures than it does in person, it really helps light be picked up on the face. Which is why I guess it's called HD powder, it truly plays for cameras well. In person it provides a light matte finish, which is great for people who have issues with looking oily throughout the day. And the feel is very satin-y to me, and light. A little drying, which is a problem for someone like me with dry skin already, but people with oily skin I feel would LOVE this product.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4BztODk_Ldbri6A0L2ueZmfIQOBGgrG7itc2_zpIVULhGf5T3gX6qAhgl_a-NG2q_FQb4PfqGHnka6ffn6jd03MVtyTvj9Y5IhSOqgV4Tk1EDCZo0-Z6oHZDER9lP9TnDXwI4WN_WKq3/s1600/100_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4BztODk_Ldbri6A0L2ueZmfIQOBGgrG7itc2_zpIVULhGf5T3gX6qAhgl_a-NG2q_FQb4PfqGHnka6ffn6jd03MVtyTvj9Y5IhSOqgV4Tk1EDCZo0-Z6oHZDER9lP9TnDXwI4WN_WKq3/s320/100_0168.JPG" width="320" /><b></b></a><b><a href="http://www.sephora.com/mineral-powder-bronzer-P99809" target="_blank">tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Bronzer</a>, $30.00 @ <i>Sephora</i></b><br />
I received what seems to be a full size, which is pretty impressive considering it's a tarte product. I've honestly been looking into their products for a VERY long time and watched nothing but great reviews about them and how great they are for skin prone to breakouts because of their ingredients. So I was pretty excited that I'd received even what I thought would be a sample, let alone a full size tarte product. Because I'm so pale and use makeup infrequently, bronzer is something I've honestly NEVER used. But that won't stop me from trying. I decided to use a brand new clean brush I bought from elf to apply, in case I want to give it to someone at another time if it doesn't work out for me.<br />
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Verdict is in - I actually love this. It's really light, and perfect for my skin tone. I think this will be a new date night staple for me. It adds definition, but not too much. I love enhancing my features not trying to get rid of them. And the best part is I don't even feel it on. Honestly, it's SO light weight. The thing I dislike about makeup the most is the caked on feel. Even the lightest of BB Creams feel like a sheet on my face, suffocating my poor skin. So I look for things that will feel lightweight, and look subtle. This is perfection. I'm glad to see tarte lives up to the hype surrounding them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4BO16DK-MHeFK1fXKBZA07bhiTTAHU6GuZLGqmZEZsllfeky6KFJmf8NkZXXkcmaHiC0rrM9ows5NOp-DvB2v3PCCmvp92fLPd4x_jQkwTZbcNM84LD0tbZAJ8gFbVlUjkuInOpvUk0G/s1600/100_0167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4BO16DK-MHeFK1fXKBZA07bhiTTAHU6GuZLGqmZEZsllfeky6KFJmf8NkZXXkcmaHiC0rrM9ows5NOp-DvB2v3PCCmvp92fLPd4x_jQkwTZbcNM84LD0tbZAJ8gFbVlUjkuInOpvUk0G/s320/100_0167.JPG" width="320" /></a><b><a href="http://beabombshellcosmetics.com/shop/product-category/lip-balm/" target="_blank">Be a Bombshell Lip Balm</a>, $14 @ <i>Be a Bombshell Cosmetics</i></b></div>
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I received a full-size lip balm in the 'shade' French Kiss. I say 'shade' because I notice no pigment. If there's supposed to be any, I'm pretty confused.<br />
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First thing I noticed was that there was no scent, and then quickly after I realized there's no taste either. It honestly tastes like those fake weird lip products that came in children's play makeup kits. You know the ones, I'm sure. That weird silly putty smell. Actually exactly like silly putty. I don't know if this is typical of their formulas, but it already made me feel unsure about putting this on my lips, for sure. Then double that with the fact NO WHERE on the packaging, or website is there a list of ingredients. It doesn't say paraben free, it doesn't say sulfate free, it doesn't say it's free of animal cruelty. I have no idea what I'm putting on my lips right now, and that's terrifying. I've had their products before through Ipsy and I never thought about it until this day, but NONE of their products have any ingredients listed on packaging, or online. I checked the side of the box and all the info it gave was their company copyright information and other various mumbo jumbo. I finally tried it, even though I didn't want to, and it was about as good as expected. Which is not good. I was 100% unbiased, and decided even if I didn't approve of their not listing formulas or anything else online, I'd give it my respect if it was a good product. It was not. It dried up my lips, left them feeling honestly more chapped, and offered no color at all. Maybe if someone has a darker skin tone on their lips, it would barely be visible. But on me, it just looked lightly glossy. Not impressed by any of this.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.octaviomolinahair.com/shop/dwnfowpueb21trdtd6mhxjr21oy97b" target="_blank">La Playa (Sea) Salt Spray by Octavio Molina</a>, $15.50 @ <i>Octavio Molina Hair</i></b><br />
So, knowing my hair type, you'd think I'd KNOW this shouldn't be a good product for me, right? Puffy, frizzy, tight curls everywhere - none of this suggests using sea salt is ever a good option. But I wanted to give it my all, just like I did the spooky lip gloss.<br />
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So after my shower yesterday, I applied it to my roots, and no lower than mid-shaft, after combing it out. I then wrapped it in a towel to dry slowly. After about 30 minutes, I removed the towel and immediately my hair looked and felt fantastic. It was soft, my scalp felt 100% clean and fresh, as did my hair. Sometimes, due to dandruff/etc, my scalp and hair can feel a little oily or gunky. Even after showering, sadly. So to have it feel really clean and purified without being dry in any way was SO nice. But it took maybe 10 minutes for it to quadruple in size and puff up. It was still very soft, and it didn't feel dehydrated or crunchy or anything unpleasant. I just don't need volumizing.<br />
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I honestly couldn't get a comb through my hair after this fiasco, and ended up needing to rinse the product out and re-apply my leave-in conditioner spray. But I can say this, my hair has felt softer than it's ever felt since. I'm assuming this is due to the algae it claims to contain. If that's the case, I need to find a spray with it in it to use with my leave-in. Or maybe one that combines algae and sea buckthorn, the primary ingredient in my leave-in. As for salt sprays, I'm staying away. If you have issues with volume (thinner hair) and also straight hair that gets oily easily, then I'd use this. I'll be giving it to my mother who falls under both of those categories.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And that's it guys! If you're at all interested in this service, feel free to use my referral link you surely found multiple times in this post already, but you can find again<b> <a href="https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=1ox9" target="_blank">here</a></b>. Remember there is often a waitlist, and in my experience with friends and family it generally takes about a month for them to get to you. You'll (in my experience) be immediately charged when they finally clear you, so be prepared for that coming out at any given time. But honestly, they're worth every cent in my humble opinion. Thanks for stopping by!</span></div>
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Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-80875631778101478952015-06-30T14:39:00.007-07:002015-07-17T17:27:45.709-07:00Graze Review - June 2015 + Promo Code!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.graze.com/us/p/AMBERT9CU" target="_blank"><b>Graze</b></a> is a food subscription box you can set up for weekly, bi-weekly or monthly delivery. You can also select not only the quantity of the variety pack they offer which includes all their snacks (<b>4</b> for <b>$6</b> or <b>8 </b>for<b> $10</b> pack, respectively), but the box type. They have any and every type of box you could desire. Special diet? They have you covered. Not into sweets? Or ONLY into sweets? They've got you too. Their box types include:<br />
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<li><b><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/explore/light-8" target="_blank">Calorie Count Box</a>, 8 for $10 -</b> all snacks included come under <b>150 calories</b> each, but you're still getting full flavor and satisfaction. Honestly a lot of my favorites are listed under this category. Like <b>Pizza Margherita</b>, <b>Grilled Cheese</b>,<b> Caramel Apple</b> and <b>Lemon Almond Cookie Dippers </b>with<b> Blueberry Compote</b>!</li>
<li><b><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/explore/sugar-count-8" target="_blank">Sugar Count Box</a>, 8 for $10</b> - all snacks included have under <b>5 grams of sugar</b>, and all the sugar honestly in my experience is natural from fruit - not additional. You get <b>Soups</b>, <b>Maple Pecan Granola Topper</b>, <b>Southern BBQ Pistachios</b> and more. Don't confuse this box for low carb however, if you're diabetic. There's currently no box that caters 100% to diabetics, but this box if you're controlled can fit within your diet quite well. There's just a lot of savory snacks, but most whole grain at least! Try at your own discretion.</li>
<li><b><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/explore/protein-8" target="_blank">Protein Box</a>, 8 for $10</b> - just as you'd think, loaded with protein for those needing more in their diet or bulking up. Lots of nuts including some of my favorites like <b>Sour Cream & Onion Cashews</b>, <b>Brooklyn Bites</b> and <b>Super Kale & Edamame</b>.<b> </b></li>
<li><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/explore/savoury-8" target="_blank"><b>Savory Box</b></a> - for savory snack lovers, with snacks like <b>Chili Lime Cashews</b>, <b>Soups</b>, <b>Popcorn</b>, <b>Grilled Cheese</b>, <b>Barbeque Sub </b>and so many more!</li>
<li><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/explore/flapjack" target="_blank">Flapjack Box</a> - for those who love their flapjacks, which are delicious little moist and dense bars filled with rolled oats and whole grains typically. A lot of them packed with protein and perfect for people with active lifestyles. Flavors can include<b> Lemon Drizzle</b>, <b>Cocoa & Vanilla</b>, <b>Apple Cinnamon</b> and <b>Honeycomb</b> with a <b>chocolate drizzle</b>.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/explore/sweet-treat-8" target="_blank">Sweet Treat Box</a> - just as it sounds, a box for those with a sweet tooth that won't stop. It includes delicious snacks like my <u>all time favorite</u><b> Iced Cinnamon Bun</b>, <b>Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Dippers</b> with a <b>Berry Compote</b>, <b>Honey Drizzled Cashews</b> - and the list just goes on.</li>
<li><b><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/sharing" target="_blank">Sharing Box</a>, $25 </b>- all new, <b>5</b> bags (<b>20 </b>portions) monthly of a huge variety of your favorites. Closest thing you can get to purchasing bigger orders of their snacks, and I'll be getting one next month to review. So we can all see what that's like!</li>
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They also include a nifty section on their site under your personal options titled 'Food Preferences' that allows you to see things unsuitable for <b>Vegans</b>, <b>Vegetarians</b>, <b>Celiacs/Gluten Free Diets</b>, <b>Dairy</b> and<b> Soya</b> <b>allergies</b>, <b>Fruit </b>&<b> Nut allergies</b>, people with issues with <b>Spicy food </b>and ones that require special preparation like a <b>Microwave</b>. They allow you to view the snacks that fall under each category and '<b>trash</b>' them so you'll never receive them. This is the one feature I love most about Graze - you get randomized snacks tailored to you. Don't like something? <b>Trash</b> it and you'll never see it again. Obsessed with something? Select '<b>love</b>' and you'll receive it more often. You can do this with not only the snacks you receive but<u> ALL snacks on their site</u>. Onto my box, though.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unopened box, topside.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZNJC7UakiaOaCUXrCG58tjede1WrK8OuH1sMHr6BZc4fJ816iif_VdJKBzafVZfOHNcfOwFoV2w3slUc4TwyJik7tOVcWYNTn7VJvV0cDNFOc1OGnzPoQshFYHPapCBtKWLjUypZMKK4/s1600/100_0117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzZNJC7UakiaOaCUXrCG58tjede1WrK8OuH1sMHr6BZc4fJ816iif_VdJKBzafVZfOHNcfOwFoV2w3slUc4TwyJik7tOVcWYNTn7VJvV0cDNFOc1OGnzPoQshFYHPapCBtKWLjUypZMKK4/s400/100_0117.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First view of the inside.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD9FOoMEquRi0w41bkQYRbF7Mzr_3xX4fWLo2N7uOH6PGDEPguf95CBUNHQb_01zc3AgnCTtfWTi48ltbDGC1FTFPhbQDS3uvgz5_9kno74JXvU3F2p70_4Y17eIQUuaqxKUKHNjI3EdLH/s1600/100_0123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD9FOoMEquRi0w41bkQYRbF7Mzr_3xX4fWLo2N7uOH6PGDEPguf95CBUNHQb_01zc3AgnCTtfWTi48ltbDGC1FTFPhbQDS3uvgz5_9kno74JXvU3F2p70_4Y17eIQUuaqxKUKHNjI3EdLH/s400/100_0123.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detailed view of snacks.</td></tr>
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My box arrived on<b> June 27th </b>in perfect condition<b>. </b>I opt for the monthly <b>variety pack</b> right now. which includes <b>4</b> of any of their delicious snacks.</div>
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I was pleasantly surprised I FINALLY got one of their various soups they released a few months ago. I've been waiting for one for a while. I was checking every box (they have a feature on their site to see what your current box includes) for it and eventually gave up. So this was a nice surprise addition.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9DHpc1jKWFsRY-vfy5DTJSJUAJDHVQ77KWG2mjWnKd1jeML0yb2vG-pWg1aqnasA_D5oLivB8owXxS55Kaf4bRDia7AS41WqGhMWOTgf_Wc62F1ZLGYK_5vf9MNJwfLjjepM6WV_XpEp/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz9DHpc1jKWFsRY-vfy5DTJSJUAJDHVQ77KWG2mjWnKd1jeML0yb2vG-pWg1aqnasA_D5oLivB8owXxS55Kaf4bRDia7AS41WqGhMWOTgf_Wc62F1ZLGYK_5vf9MNJwfLjjepM6WV_XpEp/s320/1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bowl of sadness.</td></tr>
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First snack I received, as you can see, is the <b><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/1244/japanese-miso-soup" target="_blank">Japanese Miso Soup</a></b> with a side of <b>Roasted Edamame Beans</b>. See the link for ingredients. The soup comes in paste form, and asks you to combine the paste with 8oz of hot water. Inside the paste is a few sheets of <b>Wakame seaweed</b>, but I honestly expected when I heard 'soup' for perhaps the side to be something like rice noodles or at least a vegetable blend you could add into the soup. But I ignored it, and prepared the soup at the same time as my dearest friend who also received this in her box. You can check out her review <a href="http://lepetitecurl.blogspot.com/2015/06/graze-box-review.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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We nibbled on our Edamame and both came to the agreement that they were fantastic. I'd definitely purchase something like this frequently as a savory snack. They were rich, and had a nice nutty toastiness from being roasted. Deep crunch, lightly salted and just wonderful. But unfortunately - and you'll see why I say that soon - our soup was ready. </div>
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This is where I'd put in a picture if I had one, but I don't, however you can see my friend's by going to her page once again located <a href="http://lepetitecurl.blogspot.com/2015/06/graze-box-review.html" target="_blank">here</a>. In short, though? It was horrible. Broth tasted like genuinely nothing but soy sauce, but super watered down soy sauce. I sipped it a few times to make sure it wasn't just my taste buds needing time to acclimate. It wasn't. It was still just salty and sad. But I still decided to try a little bite of the seaweed included. Worst mistake. Both of us instantly spat it out and felt deeply saddened by our experience. It was rubbery, flavorless and not at all pleasing in any way. I trashed it on their page, and I'm now skeptical of their other soups - but I WILL try them all. NO FEAR.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The most delicious thing on earth.</td></tr>
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Next up is this bad boy, my ALL time favorite snack Graze offers -<a href="https://www.graze.com/us/1262/iced-cinnamon-bun" target="_blank"> <b>Iced Cinnamon Bun</b></a>. Which includes <b>Cinnamon</b> & <b>Honey Almonds</b>, <b>Yogurt Coated Sunflower Seeds</b> and <b>Vanilla Cookie Drops</b>. See the link for nutritional information. </div>
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There's literally nothing about this snack I can say negatively. The almonds are crusted with sweet and sticky honey and cinnamon; and they're perfectly roasted with a deep nutty flavor and the perfect crunch. The vanilla cookie drops offer a light sweetness, with a crispy element and the sunflower seeds taste honestly like icing. Entirely. They all go perfectly with one another or can be enjoyed on their own. My personal preference is eating the almonds first then the cookie drops and sunflower seeds together. Fantastic, and I wish so badly they'd make a big bag of these. Needless to say I rated these <b>LOVE </b>and requested they <u>send them soon</u>.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Please more cashews, never enough cashews <3</td></tr>
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And here we have<b><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/1266/chili-lime-cashews" target="_blank"> Zesty Chili Lime Cashews</a></b>. Exactly as they're advertised - zesty lime and spice covered cashews. I don't know if I'd call these chili, they have some pretty crazy varied spices on them if you read the nutritional information listed above. But they do offer a light heat, so I'll allow the name I suppose :P</div>
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They're pretty basic, heavily spiced with tart lime flavor. Nicely roasted, not overpowering at all, perfect little snack for anyone who loves the savory and cashews like I do. I marked them as <b>LOVE</b> and requested they <u>send them soon</u>. I'll take any cashews, any time. Especially when they're this delicious. They're not quite my all time favorite <b>Sour Cream & Onion</b>, but they'll definitely do. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious little gummy treats.</td></tr>
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And finally, we have <b><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/1365/stars-stripes" target="_blank">Stars & Stripes</a></b>. Which includes <b>Mini Blackcurrant Stars</b>, <b>Raspberry Strings</b> and <b>Blueberry Flavored Cranberries</b>. The first two are created using various purees and juices to form them together. See nutritional information for more.</div>
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They were all great together, and individually. I didn't quite care for the Blueberry Flavored Cranberries, however. They were a little too cloying, and sickeningly sweet for my tastes. Though I did truly appreciate previous 'infused' fruits they offered like cherry flavored cranberries, these just didn't work for me. But all together they were able to blend in well and I barely noticed the flavor. The raspberry strings were the real winners here though. While I was pleased with the blackcurrant stars and they offered tons of flavor and a light gummy texture, the raspberry strings were basically just raspberry fruit leather which happens to be my favorite kind. All in all I rated this Love, I wouldn't mind seeing it again. It's much better to me than a lot of their fruit combinations.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's all I've got! If you're looking to try out <a href="https://www.graze.com/us/p/AMBERT9CU">Graze</a>, you can get your first box free by entering the code AmberT9CP on the first page to get your 1st and 5th boxes free. You can of course just get your first box free and cancel any time if you dislike the service, but I'm positive you won't. Enjoy!</span></div>
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Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-61908294973140516572015-06-21T18:13:00.003-07:002015-06-21T18:13:56.911-07:00Love With Food Review - June 2015I've been subscribed to<b> <a href="http://lovewithfood.com/invite?m=r&ref=AsK" target="_blank">Love With Food</a></b> for over and year and I've never regretted it. I subscribed to them when my previous favorite food subscription service - <b>Goodie Box </b>- closed their services. They gave me a free month and I'm so glad I decided to try it out. It's a monthly subscription box full of various foods, all of which are pretty great for you and easy to find in stores locally. At least, for me they are. <div>
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You'll find popular brands like <b>popchips, Lindt, Annie's, Jer's, Lovely Candy Co. </b>and so many more. But what I love most is that you find new brands you never thought of trying, or maybe were too scared to because of the price or the healthy labels. I know from experience a lot of labels that read Gluten Free, or Vegan can be a little scary because not too long ago it meant flavorless, boring. But they're exceptionally good at finding things that are healthy for you, with ingredient lists you can pronounce and understand that are also somehow delicious. Bonus? Every box you buy, one meal is given to a hungry child in need. So you give back without even thinking about it. There's nothing negative I would say about this service, ever.<div>
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Remember to review your products if you subscribe for points you can use to get discounts off your orders through them! Which you'll find yourself doing more often than you'd think, surprisingly. They constantly have discounted bulk orders of your favorite treats you've received, and they have every item up the send in case it's hard to find in your area. I personally have ordered from them multiple times, the most recent of which I bought something they sent me last year I absolute cannot live without now. <a href="https://lovewithfood.com/products/705-burrito-taco-seasoning-by-desert-garden-chili-spice-company" target="_blank"><b>Burrito & Taco Seasoning</b></a> from<a href="http://comfortfoods.com/" target="_blank"> <b>Desert Gardens Chile & Spice Company</b></a>. It's the best taco seasoning I've ever tried and an order of $10.98 got me 10 packets, when their retail price is $3.45 on the<b> <a href="http://comfortfoods.com/shop/taco-burrito-seasoning/" target="_blank">company's website</a></b>. And I'm soon going to order something in this month's box. Read ahead for what that something is!</div>
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Now what's the price of such a fantastic box? NEW LOW PRICE of $9.99/mo. Before it was $12 due to shipping costs. It's a fantastic price, and you get 40% off using <a href="http://lovewithfood.com/invite?m=r&ref=AsK" target="_blank"><b>this link</b></a> now!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-Rec6HNa8cFOBA3qzdXZQ_X3C0lGZdh2KKmaymEDpbXSmwxUDagsRoiZ_RuGYcePlhbaDX1RoBPSktifJ1L1J0_gUdnn1L2IpJ3cUM9HNThyphenhyphendtJepOZcNKMUKoh-vTZeBsZ1-1CQrjEz/s1600/100_0079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-Rec6HNa8cFOBA3qzdXZQ_X3C0lGZdh2KKmaymEDpbXSmwxUDagsRoiZ_RuGYcePlhbaDX1RoBPSktifJ1L1J0_gUdnn1L2IpJ3cUM9HNThyphenhyphendtJepOZcNKMUKoh-vTZeBsZ1-1CQrjEz/s400/100_0079.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Boxes were delayed this month so I got mine pretty late, on <b>June 20th</b>. Arrived in perfect condition though, awaiting my binging :P this month's box is entitled <b>Saturday in the Park Sunshine</b>!<br /><div>
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My opinion? Fantastic box this month. With only ONE thing out of the entire box I didn't particularly like, but I appreciated it's concept. If you'd like to purchase this months box, it's available on Love With Food's website. See <b><a href="https://lovewithfood.com/products/1108-saturday-in-the-park-sunshine-tasting-box-by-love-with-food" target="_blank">here</a></b> for more details. </div>
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Onto the items! My favorite thing of the month, that I'll be ordering ASAP is:</div>
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<b><a href="https://lovewithfood.com/products/1067-northwest-trail-mix-by-emily-s" target="_blank">Emily's Northwest Trail Mix</a>, $17.99 for 18 <span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">0</span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">.85 oz bags @ Love With Food</span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">I fell absolutely in love with this trail mix. Whole roasted cashews & almonds for a nice salty, toasty and nutty kick paired with delicious diced cinnamon apples, raisins and cranberries. It's the perfect mix of salty and sweet, but everything was so fresh tasting. And I was really genuinely pleased with the cinnamon apple dices. Usually you find apples in trail mixes to be chewy and rubbery, and generally unpleasant. But the texture was superb in this and the flavor was fantastic. And their short, concise and healthy ingredients list made me smile and feel great about my snack choice. I'll definitely be buying this, and while the bags are small they're I feel the perfect snack portion. And coming in at $1 each through Love With Food, it's a decent deal. Their retail price is $21.25 for the same 18 on the <a href="http://www.emilyschocolates.com/NW-Trail-Mix-p/0-29796-54405-5.htm" target="_blank"><b>company's website</b></a>.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXY0wKTZVgd0OVJeLt4dgN_d9evY77aQlPRtfhYagGYVj63JSwsN9R-sfLVtrpYhHwmZkwk3eAl7TqlmltUZEAq2k8HigKVte3rk5PlZdAJkCEq2ekaU_Y4dk6Go0nRkBCRJt9jwtgbch7/s1600/11651117_10153278646077415_1283586486_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXY0wKTZVgd0OVJeLt4dgN_d9evY77aQlPRtfhYagGYVj63JSwsN9R-sfLVtrpYhHwmZkwk3eAl7TqlmltUZEAq2k8HigKVte3rk5PlZdAJkCEq2ekaU_Y4dk6Go0nRkBCRJt9jwtgbch7/s400/11651117_10153278646077415_1283586486_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;"><b><a href="https://lovewithfood.com/products/1089-classic-iced-tea-candy-by-bali-s-best" target="_blank">Bali's Best Classic Iced Tea Candy</a>, $8.99 100ct @ Love With Food</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">Delightful little hard candies that taste exactly like fresh brewed black tea. Lightly sweet, not at all too powerful. They're perfect if you're a tea lover, and I'm buying some next month. I'm obsessed now. Best value I've found online is at Love With Food. 100 for $9? Yes please.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ukaN0evcSggBHxL_HCGBnXKVE5ERhvy74_oM5NmlYlFfCmQlKQjiHpzwGxXaPTSV3x8Ib1jkRFuxBYfoMVR2Id9RDUHT_KH9i-dsqv_lou-bnS-fR2EolLcfPCNDUwjH5J7N4A3ST7rT/s1600/100_0085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ukaN0evcSggBHxL_HCGBnXKVE5ERhvy74_oM5NmlYlFfCmQlKQjiHpzwGxXaPTSV3x8Ib1jkRFuxBYfoMVR2Id9RDUHT_KH9i-dsqv_lou-bnS-fR2EolLcfPCNDUwjH5J7N4A3ST7rT/s400/100_0085.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Popchips-Potato-Chips-Crazy-Flavor/dp/B00V57E864" target="_blank">Popchips' Crazy Hot Chips</a>, unavailable but may be in stores near you</b></div>
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These are currently unavailable for purchase online from what I can see and I didn't find any in stores near me. I'm just glad Love With Food subscribers were lucky enough to be able to test them. I say lucky because they were delicious. Super smoky, a great mouth burn for those who love spicy (heat) foods. They delivered the heat, also, without sacrificing flavor. Other 'hot' chips such as Hot Fries, or Flamin' Hot Cheetos, you often find just provide a lot of heat without any complexity. I love those too, but sometimes you want to taste the chile flavor, and get little hints of vinegar and spices - these chips really give you that. I would recommend to anyone. I'm not the biggest fan of popchips, they taste strange to be typically, but these are perfect.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsezIsorfU2Nk-dmAnXp3vPNwsER5-8cMpa71y4-CH0d1kdGwb__G20a6XDFi9yl-zC1N5kwORcKoC6NCfkY7IGzCsvW_56XY4pgWPn-o_bO-RWo0Iu6knKwz7I93ivLJbwaZefRF1O1lc/s1600/100_0082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsezIsorfU2Nk-dmAnXp3vPNwsER5-8cMpa71y4-CH0d1kdGwb__G20a6XDFi9yl-zC1N5kwORcKoC6NCfkY7IGzCsvW_56XY4pgWPn-o_bO-RWo0Iu6knKwz7I93ivLJbwaZefRF1O1lc/s400/100_0082.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="https://lovewithfood.com/products/1074-everything-savory-bar-by-sheffa" target="_blank">Everything Savory Bar by Sheffa</a>, $12.99 for 12 0.64oz bars @ Love With Food</b></div>
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Smells like beef Ramen, tastes like beef Ramen ground down and fused into a bar with some nuts added in, yet somehow is vegan and has no nuts at all? Call me confused but intrigued. The bar is Non GMO, Vegan, contains no nuts, soy or corn and is Gluten Free and Low Sodium. I have NO idea how they fit all this flavor into a bar with only 50mg of sodium and made it taste like beef Ramen. It's confusing, and strange, and delicious. It's Kosher and made in Israel, has 14% of your daily fiber and is loaded with healthy seeds including Poppy, Sunflower and Sesame. I loved it, and one day I may be tempted to buy them. That's if my significant other doesn't buy them first, because he's in love with them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirsjuyMCf6dRvt_RaV9BCp-YwnroO0m4TqxeYMzQNAc_TgTbD2BIll7TB86lFUi6hfROnr6IQTlvOJP2iNxxoButVkIkdkv7PfTA6ACzK2lKKt0eNRTb3QUdwnXalXG8jQ0ZATeBBt2KEe/s1600/100_0087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirsjuyMCf6dRvt_RaV9BCp-YwnroO0m4TqxeYMzQNAc_TgTbD2BIll7TB86lFUi6hfROnr6IQTlvOJP2iNxxoButVkIkdkv7PfTA6ACzK2lKKt0eNRTb3QUdwnXalXG8jQ0ZATeBBt2KEe/s400/100_0087.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Brownie-Brittle-Chocolate-Variety-Count/dp/B00LAQ4Z1I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1434931633&sr=8-1&keywords=sheila+g+brownie+brittle" target="_blank">Sheila G's Chocolate Chip Brownie Brittle</a>, $18.85 for 20 1oz bags @ Amazon</b></div>
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What can I say? Chocolatey, crispy, delicious melty chocolate chips in every bite. It's what you'd expect. Absolute delicious. I've bought them in store several times before, and I'll never stop. Not a surprise in my box, but they still made me really happy. And the 1oz bag is the perfect snack size, truly. I might actually just buy the bags I found on amazing since they're perfect servings and cheaper per ounce than in store!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvJlCkc3vFYANx5zkWbEV4yyOmXNlmOiSxo0zkciqCsgnRVoOi59GCNZz_-xg0HHMDUhNmEZSGpoN25NID-ARHQh0nD2bBJE7NY2jGozpnEJ-1WszSbuVjsKDJnw_FOg7MOw_rgOcOv7YB/s1600/100_0101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvJlCkc3vFYANx5zkWbEV4yyOmXNlmOiSxo0zkciqCsgnRVoOi59GCNZz_-xg0HHMDUhNmEZSGpoN25NID-ARHQh0nD2bBJE7NY2jGozpnEJ-1WszSbuVjsKDJnw_FOg7MOw_rgOcOv7YB/s400/100_0101.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://lovewithfood.com/products/1075-choo-choo-cherry-flavored-dried-cranberries-by-funny-face" target="_blank">Funny Face's Choo Choo Cherry Flavored Cranberries</a>, $7.99 for 12 boxes @ Love With Food</div>
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Simple, but great. Very soft and supple, but with a nice bite - so way better than Craisins already. Nice and lightly sweetened with a great cherry flavor. Natural cherry flavor, too, none of that horrible sickeningly sweet maraschino flavor here. I'd definitely buy these in the future. Way better than any raisins/Craisins I've ever tried, hands down.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4A4HYGuzyiaH719Qw-DdfR4ftiwwuRpfcAPbNlrrN26FwvVORmpBgbQcqmU7J8ph80PK9hHmsYtxACfRLnlF2DKn6SUsPQEztppc63wiPUHEWH6tKr1X72tr8BpVfbbqN4JMmX2Dovw6/s1600/100_0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4A4HYGuzyiaH719Qw-DdfR4ftiwwuRpfcAPbNlrrN26FwvVORmpBgbQcqmU7J8ph80PK9hHmsYtxACfRLnlF2DKn6SUsPQEztppc63wiPUHEWH6tKr1X72tr8BpVfbbqN4JMmX2Dovw6/s400/100_0093.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="https://lovewithfood.com/products/1081-rosemary-croccantini-artisan-italian-crackers-by-la-panzanella" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Open Sans', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4;" target="_blank">Rosemary Croccantini by La Panzanella</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Open Sans', Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.4;">, $9.99 for 12 packs @ Love With Food</span></b></div>
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I unfortunately can't try these because I'm allergic to Rosemary, but I'm told they're quite delicious and have tons of great aromatics. Heavily salted, and very dense, but would be great with hummus or other dips.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieG5BMqXGYW5BIqE2-kJvk2gyJaQLr1hLVDyY6IijM1SAi4FZ3JHehVE5VEITjoCidGBl5ej9KPwhzCg4E4mwnBzigebivnsT9mV9EwcUroVdVpCzuORgB_PPKkSTk2PO-G8UKBO7w1frs/s1600/100_0080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieG5BMqXGYW5BIqE2-kJvk2gyJaQLr1hLVDyY6IijM1SAi4FZ3JHehVE5VEITjoCidGBl5ej9KPwhzCg4E4mwnBzigebivnsT9mV9EwcUroVdVpCzuORgB_PPKkSTk2PO-G8UKBO7w1frs/s400/100_0080.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/KUTOA-Gluten-Free-Bar-Blueberry-Almond/dp/B00UMPTDZ6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1434932446&sr=8-2&keywords=kutoa" target="_blank">Kutoa Blueberry Almond Health Bar</a>, $18.97 for 4 @ Amazon</b></div>
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Okay, let's start with the prices I've found online before we even get to the product. They're ridiculous, often the bars come out to be at least $3 each and that's heavily discounted. Now for taste - they're horrible. Some people will throw out the gluten free/vegan card when trashing this, but I won't. I've had SO many gluten free/vegan items that are fantastic. My significant other's mother makes the most delicious gluten free cookies. I know how wonderful it can be. And I've had vegan breakfast bars before that just burst with flavor, because of the fruits used and they used this simple syrup as a binder made from watermelon. So that's not why these are horrible. These are horrible because they're dry, yet sticky so I'm confused by the texture heavily, they're very raw tasting, and I'm barely getting any blueberry flavor honestly. </div>
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Worst part is there's 17g of sugar in this one little bar, 2 types of sweeteners (Agave & Brown Rice Syrup). One of which, Brown Rice Syrup, is just as bad for you as sugar in the long run. It's empty calories, and is 100% Glucose and spikes your blood sugar. So for advertising themselves as 'healthy' they're kind've the opposite. I wouldn't care if they didn't slap all these labels claiming to be healthy on themselves. I still eat horrible for me chocolate bars, and the brownie brittle from earlier. But they don't falsely advertise. I would never repurchase or suggest anyone else try them. I appreciate what they're trying to do even if they're failing, and that they're non-GMO, but I'm good making my own. Thanks.<br /><br /><b>*UPDATE</b>: My significant other had one in his box too, and his was actually moist and VERY packed with blueberry flavor. Still very raw tasting but at least I could finish it. He didn't want it but I had it and didn't hate it. I still wouldn't ever pay for it, or choose it over some of my other favorite bars, though. Just less terrible than I though. But honestly for their price they should NEVER be hit/miss. Still has the insane sugar content too.</div>
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Total value? Hard to say, honestly, but well over the $10 I paid for sure. Well worth your money.</div>
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If you'd like to subscribe, I have links throughout the blog post but you can also just click <a href="http://lovewithfood.com/invite?m=r&ref=AsK" target="_blank"><b>here</b></a>!</div>
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Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-55700136338397028232015-01-13T03:26:00.000-08:002015-01-13T03:26:09.811-08:00UPDATESorry for the lack of updates through December. I had a lot going on up until now, but I'll be getting the rest of Decembers reviews out and then tacking Januarys through the rest of the month. My hope is to be all caught up before February.<div>
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Thank you for your patience!</div>
Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-26432674454326573892014-12-23T05:22:00.000-08:002014-12-23T05:22:13.897-08:00Loot Crate Anniversary Review - December 2014 + Discount CodeI've been subscribed to <a href="http://mbsy.co/lootcrate/341826" target="_blank">Loot Crate</a> for a little over a year. And despite the
high price, I stay subscribed because I absolutely love it. On average I
get a shirt every other month, but sometimes multiple months in a row,
always valuing total $15 or more. On the months I don't get a shirt, like this month, I always get something of at least $15 in value as a big item. Pop vinyls, Wallets, etc. You also frequently get promo codes
for future purchases at the companies they do business with. So far I've
actually purchased from companies like <a href="http://shirt.woot.com/">shirt.woot.com</a> and <a href="http://teefury.com/">teefury.com</a>
because of their service introducing me to them. And that's not even
the half of what you get.<br />
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It's the perfect box for gamers, lovers of
graphic novels, anime and nerd/geek culture alike. Everything from Pop
Vinyl figures, gear from upcoming games/major gaming companies (see
their Titanfall box, or Valve box), and more. They theme their boxes
monthly, and everything within will fit that theme. Is the theme Space?
You'll most likely get items from the Star Wars universe, or Star Trek -
and perhaps even Firefly. It's a super fun service I recommend highly
at least trying. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE71FA3eVWtU1EA2SCln0FopU6Tp9IHLvyjYCn4BwCL4LvLfMUeDIvfdO5wNQAXymP0KTSZXKWF2JC8O2r7fbdlsEw_XynCyQtyKgnJd8W2Wx_HlcXJseeDTGKL63Fm8OhKr6Ig3cA9dyA/s1600/IMG_3423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE71FA3eVWtU1EA2SCln0FopU6Tp9IHLvyjYCn4BwCL4LvLfMUeDIvfdO5wNQAXymP0KTSZXKWF2JC8O2r7fbdlsEw_XynCyQtyKgnJd8W2Wx_HlcXJseeDTGKL63Fm8OhKr6Ig3cA9dyA/s1600/IMG_3423.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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This arrived on December 20th, which is exactly when they say boxes will arrive by. It's actually extremely early, most of the time it arrives around the 23rd or 24th of each month for me.<br />
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The month's theme is Anniversary, celebrating various Anniversaries - including Batman's 75th, Marvel's 75th and Ghostbusters' 30th! I'm not the biggest DC fan (though I love several Batman characters dearly, and I enjoyed all the movies past and present) but I'm an extreme Marvel fangirl. I've read every comic, seen every movie, played every game. Read every wiki article about every character to ensure I didn't miss anything. And who doesn't love Ghostbusters? So I'm beyond excited to say the least.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYNJifAzrZVd0vfzdBGZzO7pxBXndasI2nT69iMyZmzOx9wTJqkvHgDTOEbM_37HlO8g7bhk8RK9gzBAKNv3dxEOquf_vSfzJW5OxQPj7KZ2D903KnEZyYJA4wydy47g3WAmjdXvjh9J17/s1600/IMG_3429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYNJifAzrZVd0vfzdBGZzO7pxBXndasI2nT69iMyZmzOx9wTJqkvHgDTOEbM_37HlO8g7bhk8RK9gzBAKNv3dxEOquf_vSfzJW5OxQPj7KZ2D903KnEZyYJA4wydy47g3WAmjdXvjh9J17/s1600/IMG_3429.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.dynomighty.com/shop/Simpsons-Cast-Mighty-Wallet" target="_blank">Dynomighty Simpsons Cast Wallet</a>, $15 @ Dynomighty</b></div>
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I'm absolutely thrilled with this wallet. I've previously through Loot Crate received a <a href="https://www.dynomighty.com/shop/Batman-Mighty-Wallet" target="_blank">Batman wallet</a>, and still use it when I don't want to bring my purse and billfold somewhere. I love how vibrant they are, and how well detailed they are. The major selling point for me however is they're eco-friendly. They're made out of 25% recycled plastic, and are fully recyclable. They're made out of High-density polyethylene and so they're extremely durable and waterproof. They may look like paper, and feel like paper, but they're not. Amazing value, especially considering the box costs only $5 more than this wallet would.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYkffDU8dMMXa82yNAFCL4qFhF2QoM3XQNhYFFLHjp3KFkVObtXpehwCvqSDzw215eF6cIr8hyOXt_OZ3xdLQAlwVNd6_SSXzzB5d1txi5I1m7KmWxlqzK81WQ77oXh-6brM9QKINtLP4/s1600/IMG_3430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYkffDU8dMMXa82yNAFCL4qFhF2QoM3XQNhYFFLHjp3KFkVObtXpehwCvqSDzw215eF6cIr8hyOXt_OZ3xdLQAlwVNd6_SSXzzB5d1txi5I1m7KmWxlqzK81WQ77oXh-6brM9QKINtLP4/s1600/IMG_3430.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<b>Avengers Assemble Vanilla Car Air Freshener, <i>UNKNOWN</i></b></div>
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I have no idea what the price is of this item, or where to buy it, no matter how hard I search. It's a novelty item, so it's obviously not adding a ton of value to the box, but I think it's cute and fun to have around, and despite Captain America not being my ultimate favorite Marvel character, I still love to show support however I can, so I'll definitely use this. Smells like artificial vanilla. Very normal, but cute.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKJKE14TJCqESszNBG8ycZfAa3zQ0XT7lzOwbdE_16MVcAW3YilaCwHU6pWnOB1NM7bO61nzCq7FNOVyOfL-kid4716qf6FqFv-HbxaWuNKohOCUWuJDPud-qloklSYUwhledrEGnwWhi/s1600/IMG_3431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKJKE14TJCqESszNBG8ycZfAa3zQ0XT7lzOwbdE_16MVcAW3YilaCwHU6pWnOB1NM7bO61nzCq7FNOVyOfL-kid4716qf6FqFv-HbxaWuNKohOCUWuJDPud-qloklSYUwhledrEGnwWhi/s1600/IMG_3431.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Paladone-Products-PP2274TTTX-Tetris-Sticker/dp/B00K0GIN0I" target="_blank">Tetris Sticker Set</a>, $7.65 @ Amazon</b></div>
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I'm more excited by these than I should be. I don't know a single person who hasn't played Tetris in their lives, and it was especially satisfying for me growing up because of my OCD. Everything falling into place was just the most beautiful thing on the planet to me. And now I can make adorable art with these little stickers. They're high quality, and the adhesive seems pretty strong. A++ for this one. I might even buy more, who knows.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnm8bmXxMtibku3S7Vu2XxhK7wx4qjM5g5AxFXeVlryUxUkRruDwRwN7O9HWMZAy8cpJJiCUiUWRjG6o9x3Ot2n1YkM5n5BbVOhq4V-BpsVsprSofWnKfq-jYgX60A7W6GOnyvqwA-h_Fn/s1600/IMG_3433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnm8bmXxMtibku3S7Vu2XxhK7wx4qjM5g5AxFXeVlryUxUkRruDwRwN7O9HWMZAy8cpJJiCUiUWRjG6o9x3Ot2n1YkM5n5BbVOhq4V-BpsVsprSofWnKfq-jYgX60A7W6GOnyvqwA-h_Fn/s1600/IMG_3433.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<b>Marvel Guardians of the Galaxy 'I Am Groot' Socks, <i>UNKNOWN</i></b></div>
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I'm going to say these are my absolute favorite out of the crate. Guardians of the Galaxy was one of the best comic series and easily made one of the best movies in Marvel history, and who can say they didn't adore Groot? The design is adorable, they're high quality and feel super soft, and once again they're Marvel branded so they're supporting the company. If I could find where these are sold, if anywhere, I'd buy every pair. I've previously received a Deadpool pair in a past crate, and I'm happy to say they're still holding up. No seam issues, snagging, pilling or anything. I'd recommend them to anyone who can find them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBTErDhOvGp0Xdkn612XNRI_c3g-mF2t4BAGnsskkAZa7cMEQvNMXY_6WJZDBKpBR1_70-LsNe-__XipTFfvhEUdDOIvQwIg9fkC3Lu2_q7xcIBSJYBzGbvrByMhZu5MeGMjfNx-1Bu2QQ/s1600/IMG_3438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBTErDhOvGp0Xdkn612XNRI_c3g-mF2t4BAGnsskkAZa7cMEQvNMXY_6WJZDBKpBR1_70-LsNe-__XipTFfvhEUdDOIvQwIg9fkC3Lu2_q7xcIBSJYBzGbvrByMhZu5MeGMjfNx-1Bu2QQ/s1600/IMG_3438.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Funko-Pop-Heroes-65-Joker-Batman-Batman-LOOTCRATE-/161531574189?pt=Video_Games_Games&hash=item259c0837ad" target="_blank">Funko Pop Heroes The Joker Batman-Batman Pop Vinyl</a>, $20 @ Ebay</div>
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This is once again another Loot Crate exclusive, can't find on their website. So you're at the mercy of online sellers here, selling their Loot Crate. It's amazingly detailed, and of high quality as you'd expect of Funkos products. I'm definitely keeping and displaying this one, it's truly unique. Highest valued item in the entire crate, I'd say. I'm impressed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigWhUEpPGUiawByu6oRuG6MzC0p86jawCQe1EdUUEMrz6aJsbiTsycpqpnBVGjcC-SDwVePqf6ds6T_iivEkD8ez90Yr5Ar2MA7WCVkJcrahbISu8rI8hIrGKzJS6aoJ644ts2A2FhRjXM/s1600/IMG_3439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigWhUEpPGUiawByu6oRuG6MzC0p86jawCQe1EdUUEMrz6aJsbiTsycpqpnBVGjcC-SDwVePqf6ds6T_iivEkD8ez90Yr5Ar2MA7WCVkJcrahbISu8rI8hIrGKzJS6aoJ644ts2A2FhRjXM/s1600/IMG_3439.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Ghostbusters' Loot Crate Exclusive Slimer Door Hanger, $7 @ Ebay</b></div>
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So once again, another exclusive item which you're only going to be able to find seemingly through sellers on Ebay, selling their extras. I'm really happy with how many exclusive items there are, it feels like it adds a lot more value. I absolutely adore this little hanger and if I lived with roommates, I'd be able to utilize it to it's best potential. But it's still fun to have hanging around. Excellent addition. </div>
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<b> <a href="http://www.dccomics.com/comics/batman-2011/batman-36" target="_blank">Loot Crate Exclusive Batman: Endgame #36</a>, $4 @ DC Comics</b></div>
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The link I shared is for part 2 of Endgame, and is the normal copy. This is a Loot Crate exclusive copy, and seems to be both part 1 & 2 but I'm unsure. I'll have to double check. I don't really want to open it, it's so pretty. You also get a bonus Digital Download of the first<b> three chapters</b> of <b>Arkham Unhinged</b>, which is bound to be amazing. I've always been more into the villains of the Batman universe than Batman himself. So I'm super interested. Great value, and I love the exclusive comics. I got a Walking Dead one one month and I love it dearly. Great way to celebrate 75 years.</div>
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There were also 3 Bonus items not pictured, including a <b>Loot Crate Anniversary badge </b>(they include a little badge themed with the month with every crate), <b>a month free of <a href="http://www.crunchyroll.com/" target="_blank">Crunchyroll</a> </b>which I'll greatly enjoy, and a tiny little <b>candycane</b> which I promptly put on my little 4'5" tree. Fit nicely.</div>
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Overall, the value of this Crate was well over <b>$50</b> just based on the items you can find online right now, but some are unaccounted for still and don't have a determined worth. It was an amazing crate, and one of my favorites so far. Well worth the price, I'd say.</div>
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If you like what you see, and you'd like to subscribe, head over to <a href="http://mbsy.co/lootcrate/341826" target="_blank">Loot Crate</a> now. You can currently get <b>$3</b> off your first crate using the code <b>Save3</b>. Order by January 19th to be able to get the January Crate.</div>
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Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-26634278436488856752014-12-16T05:55:00.003-08:002014-12-16T05:56:59.030-08:00Ipsy Review - December 2014<a href="http://www.ipsy.com/r/1ox9?sid=ipsypoints&cid=general" target="_blank">Ipsy</a> is probably my all time favorite subscription service, tied closely with Love With Food. I frequently get full sized products from them and they're almost always exactly perfect for both my skin tone/type/hair type, AND personality. After taking a quick quiz to show them exactly what your style is, you're put on a waitlist. Eventually, you become an Ipsy subscriber and you can look forward to deluxe samples and full size products from brands like Cailyn, Nyx, tarte, Pixi, Elizabeth Mott, Be A Bombshell, OPI and many more!<br />
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The best part of this service for me however, is that every month instead of a box, you get a one of a kind makeup bag to contain all your goodies. I may do a post eventually showing my favorites I've received so far. They're always high quality, and have stunning detail. I haven't had a single one fall apart on me in any way. For every review you do, and product you share on facebook you get ipsyPoints and once you rack up enough, you can get exclusive items as rewards. You also get major discounts on all the brands you receive items from. This service is well worth your money.<br />
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How much money exactly? A mere<b> $10 a <i>month</i></b>. Ships across the US and it's territories, APO, DPO, FPO and Canada.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMNsUs1uAHv8TnCphOT2WSKpylGayjOgQtHev_n1iB-k9fH8WCd8tnulrghyphenhyphenhI4nd5XJ-SKMIw2FKMGz0F2KOsWRm1WWORrTHAa6Rj-aqp2fHT-Up1prLw-guG4L1sX_wRtQPv0U-4RVDt/s1600/IMG_3174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMNsUs1uAHv8TnCphOT2WSKpylGayjOgQtHev_n1iB-k9fH8WCd8tnulrghyphenhyphenhI4nd5XJ-SKMIw2FKMGz0F2KOsWRm1WWORrTHAa6Rj-aqp2fHT-Up1prLw-guG4L1sX_wRtQPv0U-4RVDt/s1600/IMG_3174.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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It arrived <b>December 11th</b>. The bag consistently for me arrives anywhere from the 10th-12th, though sometimes I get lucky and it arrives earlier.</div>
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My opinion? The makeup bag this month isn't the most stunning or unique bag they've had so far visually, however it's quality is excellent, and it's more spacious and easy to use than some of their past ones which had a front zipper on a flat bag. A little difficult to fit things into neatly. The dark, deep wine/plum mixture of a color accents the black exceptionally well, making for a more elegant and sleek bag. As for the items? Brilliant as ever. Multiple items were favorites in this bag for varied reasons. Let's examine them more closely for a more detailed review.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVq_3PWK-2z92O02ldVyV5EhmmBdUMdSheyQENVd4jdsotMO7FryurfHmW2zVmFmzPwIO7SnLIuCHcOC6vKuIRlZ_jyNwoajiArDZPoX2Mu3Gbj8dkd6B0hK4kQ9d-dO0tMRFx_JavH-_/s1600/IMG_3177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVq_3PWK-2z92O02ldVyV5EhmmBdUMdSheyQENVd4jdsotMO7FryurfHmW2zVmFmzPwIO7SnLIuCHcOC6vKuIRlZ_jyNwoajiArDZPoX2Mu3Gbj8dkd6B0hK4kQ9d-dO0tMRFx_JavH-_/s1600/IMG_3177.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Beauty-Without-Cruelty-A-H-A-Cleanser/dp/B003FODWVC" target="_blank">Beauty Without Cruelty A.H.A. 3% Facial Cleanser</a>, $7.99 @ Amazon</b></div>
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Beauty Without Cruelty is a cruelty free brand (no animal testing and vegan ingredients), and this particular product is paraben free, and PH balanced. Among it's ingredients are Lavender, Honeysuckle, Camomile, Cucumber and Aloe Vera extracts. Along with Lavender, Ylang Ylang, Geranium & Sweet Orange oils. The '3% A.H.A.' part of the title means it contains 3% beta-hydroxy-acids which slows the effects of aging, improving fine lines and wrinkles, and offers a deep cleansing. The sample size I recieved is a deluxe sample and I've gotten 5+ uses out of it so far. 2.8oz compared to the full size of 8.5oz. </div>
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I've tried this product and I've got to say, from the view of someone with extremely sensitive skin, this product is VERY gentle and very effective. I felt it cleansed my face without stripping away positive oils, leaving it dry, and without aggravating my skin problems. In fact after several uses, I noticed slightly clearer skin. I might pick this up in the future in replacement of my Cetaphil. It's surprisingly affordable, and I love that it's 100% vegan. Ipsy offered me with this product 15% off all products through Beauty Without Cruelty. They don't currently have this cleanser on their site for purchase or I'd definitely use that code.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.cailyncosmetics.com/EYE/JUST-MINERAL-EYE-POLISH" target="_blank">CAILYN Cosmetics Just Mineral Eye Polish</a>, $15.00 @ CAILYN Cosmetics Website</b></div>
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I received a <b>FULL SIZE</b> sample in the color <b>Orchid</b>. CAILYN is notorious for sending out full size products instead of samples, and they never have disappointed me. The color payoff is very nice, it's a beautiful shimmery pink. Almost light enough to call it more of a highlight. But it blends VERY nicely, and looks absolutely stunning. Wearing it alone with white eyeliner makes your eyes just brighten completely and gives them life and depth. Absolutely perfect shade for someone like me who can't really wear dark colors. And it brings out the pink in my skin tone. </div>
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It has a wonderful soft sponge applicator, and it's 100% minerals so you don't get the smudging and caking you can get from normal eyeshadows. Even a small sample would have lasted me a long time, but being given a full size sample makes this even more wonderful. By far my favorite in the bag. And with 20% off storewide curtesy of ipsy, I'll be buying at least 1-2 other shades.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.nyxcosmetics.com/p-214-butter-lip-balm.aspx" target="_blank">NYX Butter Lip Balm</a>, $4.00 @ Nyx Cosmetics Website</b></div>
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I received a FULL SIZE lip balm in the color Marshmallow which is a pure nude shade. It's highly pigmented, and smells and tastes very sweet and candy like. The pure nude pairs wonderfully with a nice mauve or pink lip gloss when doing a dramatic eye. Saves me from having to apply a nude lipstick and then gloss, all on top of a good lip balm. It does well moisturizing, and while it feels a bit thick isn't too overwhelming texture wise. </div>
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I pair it with one of my favorite lip gloss by <a href="http://www.juicebeauty.com/store/makeup/shop-by-category/lips/reflecting-gloss.html" target="_blank"><b>Juice Beauty</b></a> in the shades Pink or Fig. You once again get a nifty discount of 25% off NYX Cosmetics Glam Collection.</div>
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<b><a href="http://tartecosmetics.com/tarte-item-lights-camera-lashes-mascara" target="_blank">tarte lights, camera, lashes 4-in-1 Mascara</a>, $20.00 @ tarte Cosmetics website</b></div>
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This mascara is a deluxe sample, and claims to be a true 4-in-1. Lengthening, Curling, Volumizing and Conditioning. I already have very long, thick eyelashes that happen to be pretty dark thankfully. So I'm not the biggest user of mascara, I use it to make my eyes more dramatic on nights out or something of the like, though, so I'm always happy to try new samples. Out of all the mascaras I've ever used this is hands down my favorite. My problem with mascaras is because my eyelashes are so thick and long, most mascaras bog them down and make them feel heavy and honestly like I'm wearing fake ones. They also clump, and feel generally disgusting. </div>
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This formula, however goes on very light and smooth, and stays that way. I already have naturally curled eyelashes but it gives them an extra oomph, and looks like it lengthens them a tiny bit. The best part though is it truly seems to condition. It's soft, light weight and doesn't leave my lashes feeling dry or brittle. I'll use this from now on. I'm so pleased to see high end brands like tarte I've always wanted to try in my Ipsy bag, and with a 20% discount through tarte, I just may be able to get a nice palette I've eyed for a long time.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sexy-Hair-Style-Defense-Spray/dp/B00FUC9WY8" target="_blank">Sexy Hair 450° Blow Out Heat Defense Blow Dry Spray</a>, 11.09 @ Amazon</b></div>
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I've yet to use this product, because I don't blow dry my hair, but I'm hoping it works the same with general heat from heating tools. I'll be sure to update this once I have more information on it, but I'm going to preface it with saying I don't like the Sexy Hair brand, and never have. I've gotten countless products through Ipsy from them over the years and have never found one I liked. But I'll keep giving them chances. If it doesn't work out for me however, I'm sure it could go into someones stocking. The best thing about subscription boxes is even if you don't love something, you're always surrounded by people who will.</div>
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Total value? Over $30 with two full sized products and two three truly deluxe samples - well worth the $10 price. There's a reason I've stayed subscribed for so long. ADORE. Will use every product!</div>
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If you'd like to subscribe, head over to <a href="http://www.ipsy.com/r/1ox9?sid=ipsypoints&cid=general" target="_blank">Ipsy</a> now and take your style quiz!</div>
Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-34618100452868118842014-12-15T22:46:00.003-08:002014-12-16T04:29:16.927-08:00Graze Review - December 2014 + Promo Code!<a href="https://www.graze.com/us/p/AMBERT9CU" target="_blank">Graze</a> is one of my favorites, a subscription service that sends out 4 individually packaged snack samplers - all wholesome, and truly good for you. You get the nutrition information in each box, and each package shows what it has to offer. For example one of my favorites, Cracking Black Pepper Cashews has at least 2 sources of Vitamins & Minerals, and is a good source of Protein. They're perfect for small indulgences, or to throw as a snack into your Gym or Lunch bags. The best part of the service? You can see every product they have to offer on their site, and they allow you to rate how you enjoyed the snacks, or even if you'd never like to try certain ones at all. Be it due to an allergy, or perhaps because you don't like certain foods, you can customize your snacking experience. Set your snacks to Love if you want to receive them frequently, or Trash to never see them (again)!<br />
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What's the cost, you say? <b>$6 <i>weekly, bi-weekly or monthly</i></b>. Ships across the <b>US</b>, but there's also a <b>UK</b> version of the service. You can select their traditional <i>nibblebox</i>, which opens you up to all their options or if you're watching your calories try their calorie <i>counter box</i>. Every box has snacks ranging from <b>50-150 calories</b>, and all the traditional flavor.<br />
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My box arrived on<b> December 8th</b>, very quickly after it was shipped. Snacks were perfectly fresh. Sorry I didn't get individual pictures of all the snacks, I'll be sure to next month. Something came up.<br />
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My opinion? I think I've already said all the reasons why this box is amazing, and this month did not change my opinion one bit. In fact, it solidified it. I've finally gotten it almost perfectly tailored to my liking. I'm more of a savory/nut person, and so I don't always enjoy the fruit or dippers they send me. But we've almost gotten it down to a science. I only disliked ONE thing from this box, and it wasn't the taste, more the consistency. I'll give a full rundown of my opinions on each snack below.<br />
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The <b>Oat, Spelt & Raisin Dippers</b> were the clear loser of the bunch. The delicious Berry Compote didn't disappoint, though I'd love to have had something a bit denser for it. The dippers were very dry, and fell apart upon being touched. They tasted fine but had no body or depth. I would've liked to see some shortbread perhaps, but a denser less dry shortbread. I get it though, healthy for me. I added it to my trash bin but others may truly enjoy it. Especially those counting their calories, as it comes in at 140 calories and contains whole oats, so it's a hearty snack.<br />
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<b>Herby Bread Basket</b> is one of my all time favorites, and I'm always excited to get it. NOTHING disappoints and all the flavors go perfectly together. Best of all? Only 100 calories. And really a filling, and hearty snack. You have beautiful little basil breadsticks, which are rich and have a super nice crisp crunch to them. And then garlic crostini, which are dense and super flavorful. And finally oregano rice crackers, which are one of my favorite things ever and are too dangerous for me to be around. They're herby, and sweet, and lightly crispy. A perfect savory snack.<br />
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Speaking of perfect savory snacks, the <b>Cracking Black Pepper Cashews</b> top my list of all time favorites. They're heavily peppered, so they give a nice burning mouth feel, they're perfectly lightly salted and roasted so you get that sweet depth from them. The flavors are perfect with one another. This one isn't low calorie, so I'm sorry you calorie counters won't be seeing it. But the 210 calories are so worth it. You're getting healthy fats, Magnesium (23% dv), Zinc (13% dv), Iron (11% dv), Calcium (2% dv) and a hefty amount of Protein (6g/12% dv). It's wonderful.<br />
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And finally we have <b>Rock the Casbah</b>. Sweet chopped dates, seemingly only partially dehydrated because they're still nice and moist and chewy. Perfect seemingly blanched/raw Walnuts and what seems to me roasted Pumpkin Seeds. This BARELY falls out of the low calorie zone, at 160 calories, and contains a lot of nice nutrients - so good for you in fact it's a nutritionist pick. You get once again those healthy fats, Magnesium (19% dv), Phosphorous (15% dv), Iron (7% dv) and Calcium (2% dv) along with 4g of Protein. I love it all, it's very raw and healthy tasting but still super flavorful.<br />
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See <a href="http://grz.cm/b/5QQWRO" target="_blank">this link</a> for more information on this month's box. If you'd like to subscribe, you can go to <a href="https://www.graze.com/us/p/AMBERT9CU" target="_blank"><b>Graze</b></a> now and enter the promo code <b>4T67GZZTR</b> to get your <b>1st and 5th boxes free</b>.Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-6536062356558148862014-12-15T21:48:00.000-08:002014-12-16T04:29:05.175-08:00Phone Case of the Month Review - December 2014 + Promo Code!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My first review as you can see from the title, will not actually be a Beauty Box service, but is a subscription service I really enjoyed trying out and may remain subscribed to for at least another couple of months.<br />
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<a href="http://bit.ly/127p9hW" target="_blank">Phone Case of the Month</a> is a subscription service that delivers exactly what it sounds like - limited edition phone cases for both iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones monthly. There are several unique cases each month so you may not get the same ones I get, but I doubt you'll be disappointed. They all have truly unique and interesting designs. And while they're not the heavy duty protective cases you most likely own, especially if you own an iPhone like myself, they're really cute fun ones you can slap on whenever you're going out on special occasions or when you want to have some fun.<br />
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Wondering about the cost? <b>$10 </b><i style="font-weight: bold;">monthly. </i>Ships all across the <b>US</b> and <b>internationally</b> for an extra <b>$5</b>.<br />
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This arrived in the mail on December 6th, after being shipped out December 2nd. I live in Texas, and it came out of Nevada so it's a quick trip here. It may vary depending on where you are in the country (or longer if you're an international customer).<br />
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So what do I think? I'm <b>in love</b> with it. I don't know how they hit the nail on the head with me but I'm currently obsessing over owls. I have a fluffy white owl on my tree, I bought an owl themed laptop bag, and an owl necklace. A month later, this arrives. And its faux-wood design is very appealing to me. I love earthy tones and themes, and dark finishes to wood. As you can see from the table in the background of all my photos. So this perfectly suits me, and I like that it wasn't really themed per se, so I don't have to use it only a certain time of the year. It's truly an any time case. Also as a bonus to this subscription, you get little stickers and other nicknacks and you can also download the image used for your case as a wallpaper on their site, which is pretty nifty. Because it's so beautiful, and so cheap, I think I'll stay subscribed for at least another couple of months.<br />
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If you liked the look of this subscription service, and are wanting to try it out yourself, you can go to <a href="http://bit.ly/127p9hW" target="_blank">Phone Case of the Month</a> now and enter the code <b>arm8zaoUWZaE</b> for <b>$5</b> off your first case, a <u><b>50% discount</b></u>.<br />
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*If you have iPhone 6, wait until January of next year, they'll be updating to accommodate you!Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-29811564597895615762014-12-15T19:15:00.001-08:002014-12-15T22:49:07.199-08:00A true introduction & favorite products :3<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Hello</b>! My name is Amberlyn, I'm 23, and I am an absolute beginner when it comes to makeup and beauty. Due to this fact, for the past two-three years I've been getting into 'Beauty Boxes' to help me find products that work for me on every end of the spectrum. Skin care, makeup, hair care, you name it. I've needed - and found, thankfully - a LOT of help.<br />
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All in all, I value skin care the most. This I think is due to the fact I have <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rosacea/basics/definition/con-20014478" target="_blank">Rosacea</a> and <a href="http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/guide/atopic-dermatitis-eczema" target="_blank">Eczema</a>. And I'm honestly extremely pale, so SPF is a big deal for me. As is finding the right shades for my skin color. When I got started with my first Beauty Box, I felt pretty limited not only in my skin care products, but also on that odd occasion I wanted to look nice I had NO idea what products were both gentle enough to use on my skin and also strong enough to cover up my vast flaws. I think right now would be a good time to mention that I'm sorry in advance if I'm at all biased towards or against certain products. I do have a very specific skin type, hair type, and I'm very very fair skinned. Not all products will work as well for me as they do anyone else, and vice versa. I guess now I should get into a skin/hair/etc profile to kind've give people an understanding of where I'm coming from with my reviews.<br />
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We'll start from highest importance/what I'll be most biased with and work our way down. Number one? My skin. As I mentioned before, I have Rosacea. Which for those who don't really know, is a skin condition centered around the nose and cheeks. It occurs all over the face, but mine is absolutely at it's worst around my cheeks. I have oily skin naturally, but on my forehead, cheeks and nose I get the driest patches ever. They flake constantly. It's so bad most days that literally the second I step out of the shower the patches start to heal over and flake. No amount of moisturizer has helped, thus far. The best I can control it is when I use natural oils such as Grapeseed Oil or Coconut Oil with a nice moisturizer. The more chemicals in anything I use, the redder and most irritated my skin gets. I use mostly Vegan products for this reason. This goes for my body, too. I have Eczema all over my arms, and my skin in general is very sensitive all over. I'll leave all the products I'm using currently at the end of this post, and keep it updated so I can really show if any of the products I receive at any point make enough of a difference to change my rituals.<br />
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As for my skin's pigmentation - it's honestly so fair that even the foundations I've found marked 'porcelain'/the lightest shade within a spectrum has been too yellow/tan for me. I find more success mixing light foundations with BB/CC cream. They also help control the flaking - I NEED moisturizing foundations or I just look like a flaky pasty mess. So foundations will be a majorly hard thing to win me over with. And anything that can hide redness offers an extreme bonus, due to the redness on my cheeks and forehead caused by Rosacea.<br />
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My hair is my second most paid attention to feature. I had fairly bad chemical damage, I won't go into why right now though. The front of my hair has the most damage and feels very fried/kinky. It's always been naturally curly but the damage to the roots - not sure of the exact science - somehow made it a frizzy curly mess. I pretty much had an afro for most of my youth. We couldn't even brush the hair without me ending up a screaming, crying mess and having major breakage for years. So now, I look for products that tame the frizz and repair the texture of the hair. I've DEFINITELY found that through Birchbox and Ipsy alike, thus far. They have to be all natural, or mostly natural though, as I stated earlier. I have allergic reactions to mostly everything. And they're always red, puffy face, itchy all over allergic reactions. Head to toe needs to be super natural.<br />
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Aside from my skin and hair, I have no real preferences. I like nude/earth based colors when it comes to makeup, and I love nail polishes more than I ever will makeup - once again, nude and earth colors but I love having glittery polishes, or really intense polishes for those days I want to be colorful and wild. So now you know. Sorry in advance for any bias, and I've said. I'll try to find redeeming factors for products regardless of how I feel about them, for people with different skin types/pigmentation/hair types than me. And now, for my full list of currently used products.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Shampoo</b></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Head-Shoulders-Eucalyptus-Dandruff-packaging/dp/B0043OYFJQ" target="_blank">Head & Shoulders Itchy Scalp Care w/Eucalyptus </a>- Dandruff Shampoo, has an amazing tingling sensation like all the shampoos from Paul Mitchell/etc that your local Salons usually have. Keeps hair super clean without stripping it of essential oils. Smells of a nice deep mint/Eucalyptus.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Moist-Minute-Miracle-Deep-Conditioner/dp/B001F51PXA" target="_blank">Aussie Moist 3 Minute Miracle Deep Conditioner</a> - I haven't found many conditioners that tackle frizz and help lock in moisture nearly as well as this has. I absolutely adore this, and even though it's supposed to be used as a deep conditioner, I use is as my primary conditioner. I'm sure there's better conditioners out there I just haven't tried yet, but for now I'm fine with this one. It does exactly what I want it to. Helps with frizz, locks in moisture, and adds shine and silkiness. Nice light smell, I can't quite place it but it's not at all overwhelming.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Styling Products</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sea-Buckthorn-Curl-Activator-4oz/dp/B00028LVJE" target="_blank">Aubrey Organics Sea Buckthorn Leave-In Conditioner & Curl Activator</a> - I use this daily after a shower. My fiance's mother gave it to me for Christmas one year, and I absolutely fell in love with it. It leaves my hair feeling baby soft, and my curls feel a little more defined. Overall though I use it for how soft it makes my hair feel, and how it keeps in moisture even during harsh Winter months. It smells lightly spiced, somehow. Almost like nutmeg. It goes on a bit harsh but clears quickly and smells amazing on the hair.</div>
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<a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/orofluido-elixir" target="_blank">Orofluido Beauty Elixir</a> - An organic mix of 3 hair oils (Argan, Cyprus and Linseed) all in one, which I received from Birchbox as a sample. I noticed a major difference in my hair's texture - it began softening immediately - and my curls were coming together on their own in a very healthy way. It didn't reduce all frizz, but it made me actually feel okay about wearing my hair down. I've since re-purchased 3 times. Remember to those trying though - a little goes a LONG way. My first try I put FAR too much on and my hair looked and felt very oily. Now I put on a little after a shower on days I want to wear my hair down, along with some styling cream. I dry my hair a teensy bit first though, towel dry only. Be sure to work from the ends upwards. I found I need NO heat protectant while using this or my other hair oil(s), but I would suggest using one anyway unless you're comfortable risking heat damage. My hair is extremely thick/coarse and can withstand a LOT of heat. Moderately strong smell. Bit like a perfume. I find I don't need to wear ANY body sprays/perfume when using this. Goes perfect with my body chemistry though. Once it heats up I find the smell divine. I don't use this daily, however. The only daily product is the one mentioned above.<br />
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<a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/macadamia-oil-healing-oil-treatment" target="_blank">Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment</a> - Took me a LONG time to try this one, despite all the raving about it I saw on Youtube/Blogs. I received it in an Ipsy Bag not long ago in a nice size sampler I'm still working on finishing, and I've already re-purchased due to the largest size being on sale currently on Amazon. It's a rich, dense oil that has almost completely won me over from using Orofluido. The two are battling it out right now, but honestly the Macadamia Oil has improved texture even more in a month or two than Orofluido has over the past year. It's VERY nourishing, and my hair actually soaks a lot of it up very easily. It doesn't leave an oily residue even if I sometimes use a little more than I should unlike the Orofluido. And best of all? It's an amazing heat protectant somehow. I was in a rush and decided one day to take my curling iron after it had dried into my hair a good deal and re-define my curls. I brushed my hair out until it was a puffy ball and began in 10 second bursts re-curling my hair. Within minutes I was done and the curls were bouncy, had major movement, and felt like silk. It didn't feel like I had ANYTHING in my hair and my hair looked naturally shiny and healthy. I've been AMAZED with this product so far. Smells like you'd think it would, very nutty.</div>
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<a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/miss-jessie-s-quick-curls" target="_blank">Miss Jessie's Quick Curls</a> - I've had equal experience with both this and <a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/miss-jessies-multicultural-curls" target="_blank">Miss Jessie's Multicultural Curls</a>, and both work equally well. I'm currently just using the first because I received a full size sample through Birchbox one month. And I only received a packet of Multicultural Curls. I liked the latter a little better, because it didn't leave my hair feeling greasy and felt more soft, but overall they both do the one thing I need them to - define my curls. I wear one of my oils with this and the mixture of the two leaves me with soft (instead of crunchy like most products cause) curls that are defined and not frizzing out. It decreases my frizz by I'd say roughly half, there's still a lot of body/poof going on but it looks intentional most days unless humidity is high. I use it when I'm going out for dinner with my hair down, for short periods. It smells light, slightly citrusy. VERY easy to handle smell.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Face Products</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/dr-jart-ceramidin-cream" target="_blank">Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream</a> - I was sent this product in a sample from Birchbox a year ago, and I instantly fell in love with it. I took it with me to Connecticut when visiting my fiance's family, and I was truly scared of how bad my Rosacea looked, especially the redness. I used this every day when there, and by the end of the 2 week trip I had 0 redness, and my flakiness was controllable for an ENTIRE day. Previous moisturizers still left me feeling bumpy and flaky and needed reapplying multiple times through the day. I apply this once in the morning after washing my face, and it lasts all day. Even if other products have helped my flakiness more, NOTHING beats this in controlling hyper-pigmentation. A little truly goes a long way, too, so despite the higher cost I end up needing to only buy it once a year, maybe twice if I overuse during the dry Winter months. It smells so soft and natural, very green. Like plant extracts.<br />
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<a href="https://www.birchbox.com/men/real-chemistry-3-minute-precision-peel" target="_blank">Real Chemistry Luminous 3-Minute Peel</a> - This is one that I TRULY didn't expect to fall in love with. I received this from Birchbox in I believe September, and held off using it until mid-November. I'm always afraid of chemicals and anything that 'peels' sounds dangerous for my skin. But I decided one time couldn't hurt, and I'd deal with the repercussions afterwards in hopes for results. I was stunned. I thought it'd be much like the whole ear candling fad, and be fake. Like perhaps the formula would clump up to act as if it was dead skin peeling off, making you think something was happening when it wasn't. But I found the TINIEST amount of product worked in sloughing off all my dead skin. All the way down PAST the scaliness level to fresh new skin. After getting out, my face felt baby smooth which I honestly haven't experienced in almost a decade. My problems started at 14, and have only gotten worse. So I call this a true miracle worker. I use is 2 times a week, on average, and since once again a little goes a long way I feel I'll only need to repurchase this around 2 times yearly as well. I'll give an update on how long a tube lasts once I buy a fresh one. Smells of absolutely nothing.<br />
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<a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/origins-plantscription" target="_blank">ORIGINS Plantscription Anti-Aging Serum</a> - This is another Birchbox sample favorite, which I haven't repurchased yet but I'm going to immediately. It's AMAZING for light weight days, I feel I'll be using it during the Summer months a lot more than Dr. Jarts Ceremidin Cream - simply because when you sweat it can feel a little greasy on your skin. This soaks right in in RECORD time and makes my skin feel smooth, and soft with a dry silky finish. It really feels like it adds a deep level of moisture to my skin, and feels very fresh going on and not at all like any products I've used in the past. I couldn't recommend it more. I don't know about it's anti-aging claims, but as a base serum it's wonderful. It smells very much like my Ceramidin Cream, very green and natural.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Gentle-Skin-Cleanser-oz/dp/B000FFT8KS/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1418697944&sr=1-2&keywords=cetaphil+gentle+skin+cleanser" target="_blank">Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser</a> - I'm a firm believer in the products we cleanse our faces with don't do nearly what they promise, I tried countless ones through my youth that promises clearer skin and reduced pigmentation but unless you leave products on for long periods of time, such promises can't be fulfilled. So I opt for this gentle cream cleanser from Cetaphil. Especially since I've been using my Peel, it's been exactly what I've needed. It smells of absolutely nothing, so there's no irritants and it gently lathers the smallest bit but more so feels like you're applying a cold cream to your face and washing it with it. It's very moisturizing and softening. I love it.<br />
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/drink-up-10-minute-mask-to-quench-skin-s-thirst-P297547?skuId=1376011&om_mmc=ppc-GG&mkwid=6Ou5k4uE&pcrid=50233218639&pdv=c&site=us_search&country_switch=us&lang=en&gclid=CjwKEAiAqrqkBRCep-rKnt_r_lkSJAArVUBcEqCgvHy2GIj-sBCpFMV2ZftiILb5-edZ9DbgvDx-nxoC0Drw_wcB" target="_blank">ORIGINS Drink-Up 10 Minute Mask</a> - This is a favorite for the Winter months. It's super hydrating and keeps your skin soft and fresh on the driest days. I use it nightly or several times a week depending on how dry it is week to week during the Winter.<br />
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<a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/sw-basics-lip-balm-flights" target="_blank">S.W. Basics Lip Balm Flights </a>- Another Birchbox purchase. My go to, absolute favorite Lip Balm. Comes in a delicious quad of excellent 'flavors'. They're all moderate in smell/taste, except for the Pepperment. Peppermint is extremely powerful. I love it though. By far Cocoa is my favorite, though. Very true taste/smell of Cocoa Butter. I'm looking into making my own right now, just going to take some investing. It's all organic and fair trade, and is just composed of Peppermint Oil, Coconut Oil as it's main base, Cocoa Butter and a little Beeswax I believe. It's not at ALL waxy or sticky, and if you've ever used Coconut Oil it glides on and rests JUST as Coconut Oil would. It's very melty and just feels amazing on the lips. For those who HATE sticky lip balms, they're perfect. Otherwise, I use <a href="http://www.beautycarechoices.com/body-drench/lip-drench-lip-balms-pomegranate" target="_blank">Body Drench Lip Drench</a> in <b>Pomegranate</b> - smells and tastes exactly like Wonka Sweet Tarts to me and is nice and hydrating, no stickiness but a little thick. Consistency is like EOS lip balms. Which are my go to when my favorites aren't in stock or available nearby. For EOS I go for Pomegranate Raspberry or Sweet Mint. Their Coconut Milk is nice too. <br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Aveeno-Active-Naturals-Creamy-Moisturizing/dp/B0000AJ3PT" target="_blank">Aveeno Active Naturals Creamy Moisturizing Oil</a> - My all over, full body lotion. It's exceptional paired with a little Coconut Oil if I need an extra quench of moisture. It's not at all greasy, and has the Aveeno staple of Colloidal Oatmeal and Pure Oat Oil. As such, it's an EXCELLENT product for those who suffer from Eczema. Not gonna lie though - despite being scent free, I think because of the Oat Oil, it does smell a bit like play-dough. It's odd. But you get used to it. Especially if pairing it with Coconut Oil.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Yes-To-Blueberries-Hydrating-Fluid/dp/B00D42C9H8" target="_blank">Yes to Blueberries Hydrating Body Wash</a> - I've also used the entire collection of Yes to body washes and shower gels, but by far this is my favorite. The others all offer their own benefits, like if you have body acne the Yes to Tomatoes brand might be really good for you. But for me, suffering from Eczema, the Blueberries is perfect. It does the job a body wash should, getting me squeaky clean but also making my skin supple, soft and very hydrated feeling. And because the Yes to brand is so good about using natural products, I never have breakouts or Eczema patches after using it like I do other body washes. The first scent you get when using it surprisingly isn't Blueberries, but Lavender which is added for a calming effect. The longer you bathe/shower however the more the nice slightly sweet scent of the Blueberries arises. It's so relaxing in baths.<br />
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<a href="http://www.drugstore.com/freeman-bare-foot-creamy-pumice-foot-scrub-invigorating-peppermint-and-plum/qxp20962" target="_blank">Freeman Peppermint + Plum Warming Foot Scrub</a> - I use this on the weekends to repair my dry, icky feet. I start by washing them in depth and if I need to before hand I use a file on my feet to make them nice and smooth and get rid of dead skin. Then while they're nice and warm I use the scrub and it's like a spa day. Give myself a nice massage while exfoliating all the gunk that's left, and then I follow it up right after with some of my Aveeno Creamy Moisturizing Oil and some thick warm socks. It's a savior during the winter, but nice any day of the year you're feeling dry. Nice way to pamper yourself. Smells very light and more like Plum than anything. Nice Peppermint kick though.</div>
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<a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/17325251?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227015515617&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=40754233232&wl4=&wl5=pla&wl6=56115060280&veh=sem" target="_blank">Dr. Teals Epsom Salts</a> & <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/22211249?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227016059114&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=40843195592&wl4=&wl5=pla&wl6=78655846832&veh=sem" target="_blank">Dr. Teals Relax and Relief Foaming Bath</a> - If you're not in Texas Dr. Teals might not be available to you, but there's plenty of other products out there. It just so happens these are my personal favorites, and I use them at least twice a week. They reduce swelling, water retention, aid in pain relief from sore muscles or aching joints especially during the Winter. They make me feel refreshed, relaxed and at peace. I accompany a bath with a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Freeman-Avocado-Oatmeal-Facial-Purifying/dp/B00005NFBD" target="_blank">Freeman's Mask</a> once a week or so, and a nice foot scrub when I want to pamper myself a little more. The best gift you can give yourself is a relaxing Epsom bath, imo.<br />
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That about sums it up I think. May clean up this post/add more in the morning. But until then, welcome and thanks for coming around. I hope these products can help someone else out there <3<br />
- Amberlyn</div>
Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8222405533675582115.post-8983294049747151452014-12-15T17:49:00.000-08:002014-12-15T21:56:31.456-08:00A pre-introduction, if you will.<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">I thought my first post should be a preface to all my future postings, so we can clarify what you can expect to see here. I'm only actively subscribed to a few of the boxes I'll be reviewing for the month of December. Most of them I got free codes, or a certain amount off due to a promotion. My current active subscriptions are as follows:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/invite/4dn34" target="_blank">Birchbox</a>, </span><b><span style="font-size: large;">$10<i> monthly</i></span> </b></div>
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I've been a subscriber for 2 years now, and I absolutely love the service. Not just for the samples but the points you're able to accrue. Every 2 months or so I've saved up enough for $10 in their store. I've bought around $200 or more worth of items through them simply using credit. It's an excellent service, in my opinion. Especially for beginners in makeup, or people looking to change up their routines and maybe find better products for their skin/hair.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ipsy.com/r/1ox9?sid=ipsypoints&cid=general" target="_blank">Ipsy</a>, </span><b><span style="font-size: large;">$10</span><i><span style="font-size: large;"> monthly</span> </i></b></div>
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I've also been subscribed to this service for several years, back when it used to be called MyGlam. This service I think has the most bang for the buck overall. I would call it my favorite service by far, that I've experienced. I average 2 full size products a month, AND every month comes with the cutest makeup bags. They also seem to listen more to my choices and what I love than I've seen Birchbox do through the years. Well worth the $10/month.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lovewithfood.com/invite?m=r&ref=AsK" target="_blank">Love with Food</a>, <b>$12 <i>monthly</i></b></span> </div>
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I started using this service over a year ago, when a previous box I enjoyed called the Goodie Box discontinued it's service. I haven't regretted once keeping this service. My fiance even signed up, and recently bought a year subscription for himself at a reduced price because he knows he enjoys it that much. Just this month I raided their online store when they had major sales on some of my favorite products I've gotten through this past year, because some I can't find in my state.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.graze.com/us/p/AMBERT9CU" target="_blank">Graze</a>, <b>$6 <i>weekly, bi-weekly, tri-weekly or monthly </i></b></span></div>
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I've been subscribed for a year to this service, and constantly switch between monthly and bi-weekly payments/boxes because I absolutely love the snacks. What I love most about the service is unlike most other boxes, they allow you to see EVERYTHING they have and tell them what you absolutely do not want. You're able to customize in such a way you'll only get what you want or are okay trying. So everything I get is custom tailored to my tastes. Well worth the money.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://mbsy.co/lootcrate/341826" target="_blank">Loot Crate</a>, <b>$19.37 <i>monthly</i> </b></span></div>
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I've been subscribed to this for a little over a year and despite the high price, I stay subscribed because I absolutely love it. On average I get a shirt every other month, but sometimes multiple months in a row, always valuing total $15 or more. You also frequently get promo codes for future purchases at the companies they do business with. So far I've actually purchased from companies like <a href="http://shirt.woot.com/">shirt.woot.com</a> and <a href="http://teefury.com/">teefury.com</a> because of their service introducing me to them. And that's not even the half of what you get. It's the perfect box for gamers, lovers of graphic novels, anime and nerd/geek culture alike. Everything from Pop Vinyl figures, gear from upcoming games/major gaming companies (see their Titanfall box, or Valve box), and more. They theme their boxes monthly, and everything within will fit that theme. Is the theme Space? You'll most likely get items from the Star Wars universe, or Star Trek - and perhaps even Firefly. It's a super fun service I recommend highly at least trying. They frequently have promos to get $3 off any box, sometimes even half off. So keep an eye out.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.bulubox.com/rewardsref/index/refer/id/60388/" target="_blank">Bulu Box</a>, <b>$10 <i>monthly</i></b></span> </div>
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I subscribed after seeing many positive reviews for months, when they had a promotion to get 3 months for the price of 1. I'll be reviewing this until February, and then I'll be deciding if I'd like to keep the service.</div>
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Each box has been embedded with my <b>referral links</b>, I'd greatly appreciate anyone using them in the future. Also, I will always state if I'm going to remain subscribed to any other boxes after trying them. Because this list is always subject to change.</div>
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Sometime within the next week I'll be posting an entry about myself, primarily my skin type and hair type so you can understand the type of perspective I'll have on these products as I try them. And I hope to have a full list up soon of my current products I use daily, in hopes they may help someone else like myself. But for now, thank you for checking out my blog, and I hope it can help you decide whether or not to try these services in the future.</div>
Amberlynhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16391573630061841663noreply@blogger.com0