My Picks Of The Week

Off topic, but it's my blog! I can write whatever I want :-)

My movie of the week?

Spork blew my mind. Me and The Husband watched this yesterday, and we had to stop it and replay scene after scene. It's not only funny and freakishly odd, but at the end it made me cry. Matt turned around and looked at me and said "Oh! My Baby's crying! You got lil' tears rolling down your face!" Yes I did.

Album of the week?
CHET ATKINS. Click the link for an amazing video. It's just FREAKY that someone can make it sound like more than one person playing and it's just him and his geetar.

Book of the week? At Home by Bill Bryson. Literally every paragraph has me saying "wow! I didn't know that!" I have been making The Hubband insane, following him around the house saying "did you know...." This one's a keeper.

Meal of the week? Grilled cheese sammiches made with caramelized onions, wilted baby spinach, GOBS of manchego cheese, and bird in the next eggs embedded in the handmade sourdough bread.

Life is good.

Ye Olde Chandler - Soy Awesome! har har har

Ye Olde Chandler makes absolutely AWESOME soy products!

Look at how many scents they have to choose from for their candles and tarts!

Amaretto Angel Wings Asian Sandalwood Autumn Harvest Baby Powder Bayberry Bird of Paradise Birthday Cake Black Magic Blueberry Muffin Cafe au Lait Candy Corn Cappuccino Hazelnut Cherry Berry Chocolate Cake Chocolate Covered Berries

Cinnamon Apple Cinnamon Bun Cool Citrus Basil Cucumber Melon Creamsicle Crème Brulee Crushed Ginger Dogwood Dragon’s Blood Endless Love Eucalyptus Evergreen Fleur de Lis Flower Shop Frankincense & Myrrh Fresh Linen

Ginger Bergamont Gardenia Georgia Peach Ginger Tea Gingerbread Green Tea High Maintenance Type Honeysuckle Hot Apple Strudel Jasmine Lavender Lemon Pucker Lilac Macintosh Apple Magnolia Mango Papaya

Mulberry Muscadine Nag Champa Orange Mango Peach Mango Peppermint Pineapple Cilantro Plumeria Pomegranate Pumpkin Spice Rain Garden Rose Bouquet Sinus Relief Sleighbells Spiced Cranberry Stargazer Lily Stormy Day

Strawberries & Cream Sugar Cookie Sweet Dreams Sweet Pea Tiger Eyes Tropical Romance Twigs ‘N Berries Vanilla Spice Vanilla Velvet Verbena Berry Victorian Rose Violet Musk White Tea & Ginger Wild Watermelon Woodland Cabin Wine & Roses

 I have wax tarts in Pumpkin Spice

These Handmade Natural Soy Candles last approximately 16 hours in a standard tart warmer. Tarts come in packages of three for $1.50 and smell divine! I swear, I want to EAT the Pumpkin Spice! 

From their Four Elements Soap Collection, I have a bar of their Water blend, which is appropriate for my being a Pisces :-) Water inspired scents are among my favorites!

The bars are $3.00 each or a set of all the elements for $10.00. These are in a goat's milk base, which is AWESOME for your skin.  The soap rinses extremely cleanly with no residual soap scum or skin tightness. It's also a well made, hefty bar that doesn't disappear after the first use. As with any handmade soap, I do still recommend storing it on a soap drainer to keep it dry and help it last longer. I love the subtle clean rain scent of the Water bar, it's light but still fragrant and doesn't corrupt or overwhelm any scent you want to use after your bath. 

I also have one of their votives in Rain Garden, which sells for $1.25. Their candles come in six different sizes, not including the tarts. Their 9 oz candles burn for approximately FIFTY to SIXTY hours!!!!! The scent throw on these is great, even in a votive size, I could smell this throughout the room when it was burning.

Can you believe how awesome their prices are? Check 'em out and tell 'em I sent ya!

My Glam VS. Beauty Army - 1,2,3 FIGHT!

On the same day I heard about 2 new beauty subscription services. I'm sure it's clear by now that I'm a subscription crackhead, so I had to give 'em both a try. One I've been wowed by two months in a row. The other...... not so much. 

My Glam is $10 a month, so I'm not losing sleep over my disappointment with their service, but still. Their December and January kits looked AWESOME- I was like a kid waiting for Santa to come. Seems I'm not the only one let down by this month's package. I have seen maybe ONE positive review of the current shipment. I'm going to give them another month to prove themselves. First of all- WHY have me take a quiz to "personalize" my kit when everyone gets the exact same thing no matter what? WHY ship everything in a makeup bag every month? How many tiny makeup bags do I need? I'd rather have another beauty item. WHY have almost everything enclosed be something I can get at Walgreens? And finally WHY count a "gift certificate" that requires me to spend fifty to a hundred bucks as a kit inclusion? On top of that, they charged my card at the beginning of January but didn't ship me anything until mid February. On the day I got my first My Glam kit, I got my SECOND Beauty Army, and I signed up for them on the same day.

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Beauty Army is two dollars more, but big whoop. Their customer service is INCREDIBLE (they email you the tracking info when it goes out, then send you a second email the day before it's set to arrive). You get to choose 6 different items out a pick of 9, or you can have them curate your kit for you. You take a quiz to determine what products you're offered, and they actually give everyone different choices! (ahem, Myglam....) The product choices are comprised of high end and luxury brands so you're really getting a chance to try out pricey items to see if they float your boat before selling the farm. All in all, I'm THRILLED. let's just say that right now Birchbox better watch out, cause these guys might just kick your ass.

 When I made my video I accidentally left out this pumpkin fleur de sel scrub, so I have to tell you that this might be one of the most fabulous things to ever touch my body. 

Foodzie Bacon & Bourbon Box

Foodzie is my FAVORITE new subscription service! Okay, it's not a beauty service, but I find that wonderful artisanal foods nourish the soul and spirit, and what better way to feel and look beautiful than to indulge in flavorful foods? I'm a huge fan of small batch food companies- I trust them a lot more than something that has 80 unpronounceable chemicals and a the shelf life of a Twinkie. Lucky me, my first box was the Bacon & Bourbon themed box. It was so awesome that I got a second one so I could share with my husband without violence ensuing! (Yeah- I guarantee he would have lost a finger if he'd tried to take my Raleigh Bars away!) Oh, and the paprika makes the most mouth watering deviled eggs EVER.

This Bacon and Bourbon Box contains five delicious treats:  Bourbon Cocktail cups from Lillie Belle’s

, a Jar of Bacon Jam from Skillet Street Food

, 2 Bacon Raleigh Bars from Xocolatl de David

, a jar of Bourbon Smoked Paprika from Bourbon Barrel Foods

, and a package of Bacon Peanut Brittles from The Redhead.



From the enclosed item description card
We’ve learned by now that the salty tang of bacon doesn’t pair with everything, but it’s irresistible when paired with peanuts and chocolate.  Bourbon provides a smoky complexity that takes meats and even chocolate to a whole new depth of flavor.  We’ve sourced five of the best Bourbon and bacon products in the country for you to taste.  Each has it’s own special take on at least one of these two memorable ingredients.  You’ll especially enjoy the Bourbon Smoked Paprika, smoked with the wood from old Bourbon barrels, which lends both sweetness and spice to an already memorable spice.  Our canister is sitting right on the Lazy Susan by our stove, ready to be sprinkled on a fried egg.  We loved the idea of taking these two favorite ingredients and putting them into one box.  Enjoy!

And then I died of happiness. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the bacon and bourbon fund. 

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January Eco-Emi package

Eco Emi is truly unique in the sampler biz by providing natural, organic and vegan choices in the bath/body/beauty market. Their website also provides interesting links, recipes and more. They give you tons of ideas on going green and introduce you to great vendors you may never have heard of before. For $15 a month (including shipping) you get a beautiful package full of goodies with a value generally far surpassing the price of the box. It's an especially great deal for those who don't have a Wild Oats or Whole Foods around and have to get green items over the internet, by giving you a good jumping off place and letting you try out products so you know what you're getting. I'll update this with product reviews of the items in this sampler asap, but in the meantime, here's a video to give you an idea of the quality you can expect from Eco Emi.

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Merry Hempsters Endangered Wildlife Balm is USDA certified organic and they donate 25% of all profits to a group that protects endangered wildlife! How cool is that? I got the lavender orange and I'm becoming ridiculously addicted to it. It tastes AMAZING, and I'm po'd that I left my tube at home because I want to put more on. My lips are still soft from putting it on before I left the house, but like I said, I've become addicted. It's the flavor, this is a combo I would have never dreamed of and yet it's perfect. And besides,  just look at that face.....

JR Watkins lip tint was a huge surprise. I got it in Berry Charming, and it's a GORGEOUS shimmery color! It goes on and feels like a balm, but you have the color of a light lipstick plus it has the added bonus of peppermint oil giving it a wonderful tingling feeling and a yummo flavor. I can't believe this company has been around since 1868! This is the color I'm wearing in the video review.

Tru Roots sprouted quinoa was a revelation! I am SO grateful to Eco Emi for including this! I really like the nutty sweet flavor and versatility of quinoa, but the normal process of having to wash it over and over is a giant pain. Well this one you just pop it right in the pot, saving a good 15 minutes off your prep time. "TruRoots produces the finest quality quinoa in partnership with organic family farmers on the high plains of the Andes in Bolivia."  I cooked this and added lemon juice and peel, then put sauted scallops on top. I then drizzled a wasabi lemon sauce over all. The whole meal took mere minutes but it tasted like something from a schmancy eatery. 

Dr Cleangreen's Organic Hand Purifier  is truly amazing, easily my favorite thing in this month's sampler. I know a lot of people are sceptical about the efficacy of natural hand sanitizers as compared to the kind full of alcohol and triclosan. Well, feast your eyes on this! Microbial Lab Test Results.  WOW. And what's so great about this stuff is that it doesn't dry out your hands, in fact the opposite- it leaves them silky soft! it also smells wonderful, a clean clove and citrus smell. After using this yesterday, a co-worker asked what I was wearing that smelled so good!     Not every hand purifier doubles as an aromatherapeutic boost as well!

New Beauty Test Tube - Updated With Video

These sell out CRAZY fast, so if you want one, you better jump on it!!!

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New Beauty 10-Piece Test Tube with Magazine Limited Edition What is it: The NewBeauty TestTube is a collection of some of the hottest and most in-demand products in beauty. In this tube, you'll receive the January issue of NewBeauty magazine, along with a mix of full-sized, travel-sized, and deluxe-sized samples from Mally, tarte, Kate Somerville, philosophy, Calista Tools, and more. Who is it for: Anyone looking to sample a wide variety of fabulous beauty products at an unbelievable value. Why it is different: The NewBeauty TestTube combines luxurious beauty products with extensive product and how-to information. NewBeauty magazine, included in the test tube, provides insider information on trends and hot topics within the beauty world via respected experts from the beauty industry. How do I use it: This TestTube includes a booklet with instructions on how to use each product. Colors may vary. From NewBeauty. Includes:

So this test tube included the following:

• 0.39-fl oz full-sized Mally Volumizing Mascara

Mally Beauty Volumizing Single Mascara What is it: Mally's best-selling mascara in a single tube. Who is it for: People who want only one tube of mascara. Why is it different: This mascara is all about volume! Made with an Italian base, Japanese pigments, and a secret brush, it helps you build wow lashes to the hilt! How do I use it: Stroke on mascara from the base of your lashes to the tips. Make sure to wiggle the wand all the way up. From Mally Beauty.


• 0.003-oz full-sized tarte emphasEYES Aqua Gel Eyeliner

tarte emphasEYES high definition eye pencil What is it: A super-slim, high-definition eye pencil specifically designed for the inner rim of the eye to help give the appearance of thicker, fuller lashes instantly. Who is it for: This ultra-thin liner is a must-have for all women who want high-definition eyes. Why is it different: This high-definition eye pencil is thinner than a traditional wood barrel eye pencil for absolute precision. The ultra-fine tip allows you to easily glide the liner in between each lash, instantly giving the appearance of thicker and fuller lashes. Unlike wood pencils, emphasEYES is formulated with natural plant waxes. The twist-up rounded tip is never sharp, so it glides on smooth. The formula is created without parabens, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, mineral oil, petrolatum or synthetic fragrance. How do I use it: Glide emphasEYES directly onto the inner rims of your eyelids, staying as close to the lash line as possible. You can choose to wear on the upper inner rim alone to instantly give the appearance of thicker, fuller lashes, or add to the lower inner rim and on the outer rims of your eye for added intensity and drama. From tarte.


• 0.5-oz Kate Somerville ExfoliKate

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate IntensiveExfoliatingTreatment What is it: A safe and effective at-home treatment designed to provide deep exfoliation to help eliminate dead skin cells and instantly clarify--revealing a healthy, glowing complexion. Skin feels dramatically softened and smoothed after just one treatment. Who is it for: All ages, genders, and skin types. Especially beneficial for those suffering from a dull, lifeless complexion; stubborn pore congestion; skin cell build-up due to slow, sluggish exfoliation; uneven skin tone; or skin imperfections and blemishes. Why is it different: This convenient, use-at-home, dual-exfoliation method features fruit enzymes that instantly clarify by eliminating dead skin cells and bacteria, revealing a healthy, glowing complexion. It's the next best thing to seeing Kate in her clinic! ExfoliKate works both physically and enzymatically delivering safe, dramatic results instantly. How do I use it: Use one to two times weekly, morning or evening. Gently apply an even layer to a clean, wet face using circular motions. Leave on for 20 to 30 seconds, allowing the enzymes to work. Gently wash off and pat dry. Redness may appear up to 20 minutes post-treatment due to an increase in circulation. Discontinue use if irritation or sensitivity continues. Follow with your favorite Kate Somerville moisturizer and treatment serum. From Kate Somerville.


• 0.5-oz Ole Henriksen Truth Serum

Ole Henriksen Truth Serum, 1 oz. What is it: A lightweight, oil-free treatment serum for daytime use. Who is it for: All skin types, women and men alike. Anyone concerned about aging. Why is it different: It is a daytime serum, while many are made for nighttime use. It contains rose hips, a source of vitamin C, popular in Ole's native Denmark. How do I use it: Apply evenly to face (bringing it up under the eyes) and neck after cleansing and toning. After absorption, follow with your favorite moisturizer. From Ole Henriksen. Includes:


• 2.0-oz Nick Chavez Yucca Root Shampooing Cream  - no extra info on this one, it's only available in the Test Tube at the moment....
• 
  
• 1.0-oz philosophy field of flowers perfumed shampoo, shower gel, and bubble bath

philosophy field of flowers shampoo, shower gel & bubble bath What is it: philosophy has captured the essence of an incredible field of flowers and infused it into their signature 3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel, and bubble bath formula for you to experience each day in your shower. Who is it for: Anyone who loves the smell of fresh flowers, loves a rich, foaming lather, is a true multitasker, and wants to start or end the day feeling happy. Why it is different: philosophy's 3-in-1 formulas are packed with moisturizing agents that help smooth and condition the skin and hair, while gentle cleansing agents help remove excess oils and impurities. How do I use it: Apply to wet body or scalp; lather, rinse, repeat. If using as a bubble bath, drizzle a generous amount under running water and enjoy. From philosophy.


• 1.0-oz philosophy field of flowers perfumed body lotion

philosophy field of flowers body lotion What is it: A ultra-rich perfumed body lotion that captures the essence of a field of flowers. Who is it for: Anyone who needs a hydrating body lotion, craves super-smooth, soft skin, and loves the smell of fresh flowers. Why is it different: A flower is the embodiment of everything that is right and beautiful in this world, and a field of flowers is a delicate, classic experience. philosophy captured the essence of an incredible field of flowers and infused it into an ultra-rich body lotion. This luxurious formula helps moisturize, soften, and condition dry skin, so it feels silky smooth and extremely touchable. Let the fresh, beautiful floral scent bring you happiness as you melt field of flowers body lotion into your skin each day. How do I use it: Apply a generous amount to skin with fingertips and massage in gently using a soothing, circular motion.


• 2.0-oz Calista Tools Achieve 10 Styling Cream - also only in this Test Tube
• 2.0-oz First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream To Go, 2.5oz What is it: First Aid Beauty's best-selling Ultra Repair Cream in a portable tube that is perfect for the car, office, or handbag for immediate hydration on the go. It is a head-to-toe, ultra-moisturizing cream for anyone with severely dry, scaly skin. Ultra Repair Cream provides relief and visible improvement for distressed skin. It has an incredibly rich, whipped texture that is immediately absorbed and leaves no greasy residue. Who is it for: Anyone with severely dry, scaly skin whatever the cause, including harsh winter weather and eczema. Why is it different: This all-purpose "miracle" cream is loaded with skin-nourishing ingredients. Its super moisturizers and humectants, including shea butter, squalane and ceramides, hydrate deep down, providing immediate relief and visible improvement. It calms and restores with colloidal oatmeal, an FDA-approved, over-the-counter ingredient for minor skin irritation and itching due to eczema. It's free of harsh chemicals, parabens, artificial fragrance and colorants. How do I use it: Apply as needed, wherever needed. Can be used all over the body and on the face. For external use only. Do not get into eyes. From First Aid Beauty.


• January edition of NewBeauty magazine

Julep Love And Get Your First Month For ONE DOLLAR!!!!

I've blogged about the Julep Maven program before so I'm not going into details here, but I wanted to tell you more about my experience with them. I decided to try and get a different box from my default pick, and it was SOOOOO easy. Normally I'm an "It Girl", but this month I went for "Boho Glam". All I HAD TO DO WAS CLICK ON ONE LITTLE BUTTON AND VOILA! Different box for the month.


I received Oscar

Marisa  - which you can't tell in the bottle, but it has this really cool underlying shimmer

And Julep Essential Cuticle Oil - this stuff is AWESOME!

And in honor of The Academy Awards, they also included an Oscar shaped chocolate!

To join and get you first month for ONE DOLLAR!!!!! CLICK HERE and enter the code OSCARINTRO or SHAREONFEB

Julep is also having a giant $2,000 giveaway HERE