BeautyArmy: May 2013 Review.

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May is Women’s Health Month, and to raise awareness, BeautyArmy offered a few selections in their sample choices this month to introduce subscribers to new products and companies that focus on promoting fitness and well-being. I was only given a couple of these options in my selection window, but I took advantage of them.

What I Received (Chose):

KORRES Wild Rose 24-Hour Moisturizing & Brightening Cream

OWN Lifting Eye Cream

YES TO Cucumber Facial Towelettes

NAILUV Gel Polish in “Berry Sweetie”

Mighty Leaf Tea in Green Tea Tropical

iTrain Downloadable Workouts Gift Card

Product #1: KORRES Wild Rose 24-Hour Moisturizing & Brightening Cream ($35.00)

With temperatures in New England steadily on the rise, my skin is starting to get oily again, as it does every Spring/Summer. Even still, I decided to treat myself with this rich moisturizer before work earlier this week to see if it really did brighten my skin and even out it’s texture & tone the way it was advertised.

The first thing I noticed was that despite rose oil being the main ingredient, this moisturizer didn’t smell floral at all. It didn’t have a specific fragrance, and absorbed quickly into my skin without leaving a residue behind. While I didn’t notice any particular improvement in my skin’s brightness, texture, or tone (and I suspect those results may come with continued use with more than what I was provided with in the sample), my face did feel hydrated all day, and even most of the night, long after I’d washed the product off. Best of all? I didn’t have any bumps or breakouts pop up despite the extra oil on my skin.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! A little goes a long way with this cream, so it’s not something I would have to continually slather on throughout the day. I wish I had been given more of the sample so I could evaluate the results after a week or so of use, but from what I saw in just one day, specifically how soft and supple my skin felt- I’m a fan.

Product #2: OWN Lifting Eye Cream ($23.99)

This sample kept popping up in my selection window, despite my specifying that I’m not having issues with droopiness or fine lines around my eye area. I relented, and gave it a shot- FOR SCIENCE! The sample was small, but I used the product sparingly and managed to prolong it’s longevity into a 3-day test where I used a little of the cream every night before bed and documented my results in the morning.

After the first night, in which I felt minor irritation after applying (my eyes watered a little but nothing too serious), the area around my eyes did, admittedly, feel a little softer, but it was nothing that my usual swab of Vaseline before bed couldn’t do.

The second night, there was a little more irritation than the first night. My eyes watered, and the area where I’d applied the cream stung briefly. In the morning, the results were the same as the first night. It wasn’t anything extraordinary.

The third and final night of the test, I ended up having to flush my eyes out with cold water for ten minutes almost immediately after application because the pain was so bad. Not only were my eyes watering to the point where I couldn’t see, but the area around my eye were I’d applied the cream became red and inflamed. I’m still experiencing some discomfort as I write this that I’m hoping will go away in the coming days.

Would I Purchase?: No. Dear God, no. I can’t even stress how problematic this product was for the minimal, barely note-worthy results I saw before it wreaked havoc around my eyes. That’s not to say it wouldn’t work for others, but my experience has completely put me off of ever trying this brand again.

Product #3: YES TO Cucumber Facial Towelettes ($5.99)

Every night before I start my P.M. skin care regime, I use basic Olay makeup removal towelettes to swipe away the day’s BB cream, blush, powder, etc. I’ve done it for years, and have never really considered any other alternatives since that seemed to be the most convenient way.

I’ve grown quite fond of the YES TO products, though, and decided to go ahead and check out this cucumber-infused towelette. I’m a little weary of putting anything scented on my face, but this towel was instantly cooling to the touch and did a phenomenal job of removing all of my makeup without drying my skin out. When I was done, my face felt clean, tingly, and refreshed.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! For convenience, results, and especially the price- you couldn’t ask for a better product.

Product #4: NAILUV Gel Polish in “Berry Sweetie” ($14.95)

I have a small container full of nail polishes that I’ve been persistently trying to use up in recent months. However none of those polishes are gel-based, and having rediscovered my love for the quick and long-lasting effects of a gel manicure, I opted for a small bottle of “Berry Sweetie”. I brought it down to my nail salon yesterday for my manicurist, Nina, to apply on my tips.

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I LOVE the color. It’s gorgeous. It’s the perfect deep, reddish-pink that really stands out on my pale skin and goes well with nearly everything I wear, and with it being gel-based, I know it won’t flake or fade for a few weeks.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I don’t think I’d necessarily run out and buy a full bottle of “Berry Sweetie” anytime soon, since this sample will last me quite a while, but I would love to try other colors by this brand.

Product #5: Mighty Leaf Tea in Green Tea Tropical ($9.95)

I’m fairly sure that by now everyone knows how much I enjoy (or depend on, whichever way you want to look at it) coffee and teas. I love trying new ones, and the sweeter, the better. The last time I tried a tea from Mighty Leaf, their “Vanilla Bean” tea, I wasn’t a fan. It was very bland to me, but I was hoping that this tea would taste a little better.

This tea had the same problem, however. It smelled better than it tasted- even after I added a pinch of sugar. It was just a very watered down, dull, fruit-flavor.

Would I Purchase?: No. I’ll pass on this one, and stick to my iced chai teas.

Product #6: iTrain Downloadable Workouts Gift Card ($25)

I have a monthly gym subscription to a local, up-to-date, very modern facility that I enjoy. That’s not to say I don’t enjoy working out in the comfort of my own home on the days when I lack the motivation to get up and go sweat with a bunch of strangers. I saw this gift card, valid for different downloadable workout programs, playlists, and trainer voice-overs that can be used both at home or at the gym up for grabs, and managed to snag one.

In order to use the voucher, I first had to register at iTrain.com, enter the gift card information, and peruse the available downloads. One of the programs I was interested in trying, a 60-minute beach body workout, was a little more than what I had available on the card, so upon checking-out, I only owed four dollars and some change.

After making the payment, I navigated to the section of the site where I could download my workout file, and low and behold- I can’t. It shows up that I purchased the program, but I can’t click on it or make use of it.

What’s worse, is that the site has saved my credit card information and I can’t erase it. I can’t cancel my account. I can’t do anything.

I’ve sent an e-mail to customer service regarding the whole ordeal and asking for an account cancellation, but have yet to hear back from anyone apart from an automated e-mail reply saying my account should be cancelled in 30 days if I’ve met the 3-month membership minimum- which means I’m going to have to monitor my bank account activity carefully in the coming weeks to make sure no additional funds go missing.

Would I Purchase?: No. This one was self-explanatory. The whole ordeal was stressful and I’m better off just sticking to classes at the gym than attempting anything like this through iTrain ever again.

Apart from the disastrous iTrain incident and the painful eye cream reaction, this month’s box wasn’t too bad. In the future, however, I will not be selecting gift cards or vouchers should BeautyArmy offer them.

Liebster Award.

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LiebsterAwardI’m always so flattered and beyond humbled whenever this blog receives any kind of praise or recognition. With so many phenomenal writers, designers, photographers, and artists out there promoting themselves and trying to leave their mark on the world- it’s such a great feeling to know that my little blog, still spreading it’s wings in it’s first year, is appreciated and even enjoyed.

Much love, and many thanks go out to my dear friend Imogen from Imogen Rose Beauty, who nominated me for the Liebster Award. To show my gratitude, I will NOT be kicking her tea into Boston Harbor and screaming “no taxation without representation!” (it’s an inside joke.)

Here are the guidelines for this award:

1. The nominee must link back to the blogger who nominated them.

2. The nominee must state 11 facts about themselves, and then answer the 11 question provided for them by the person who nominated them.

3. They nominee must then nominate bloggers with less than 200 followers, who they think deserve the recognition, and pose 11 new questions for them to answer.

4. They must then tell the bloggers who they have nominated about the award.

I thought writing down several facts about myself back when I received the Versatile Blogger Award was hard enough, but here’s my attempt at 11 more- just in case anyone was (still) curious about me!

MeBeingCharming1. I have three vacations/adventures I’d really love to try and go on within the next three years (totaling 1 per year): driving historic Route 66 across the country to Santa Monica and back by myself, going to Ireland, and visiting Hawaii for a couple of sun-soaked weeks.

2. One of my favorite books is “A Tree Grows In Brooklyn” by Betty Smith. It was assigned as one of our options for summer reading back when I was still in my pre-teens, and I remember not being able to put it down. I was thoroughly engrossed by Francie Nolan’s story and at times, felt absolute heartache for her struggles, even though I knew the book was fiction. I’ve read it numerous times throughout the years, and although it’s been a while since I’ve picked it up- I always keep it close by in my bedroom.

3. My name was “Max” until the day I was born, and then my parents, in a last minute decision influenced by my grandmother throwing a fit that they were going to name me something so unfeminine, decided to go with the popular 1980’s name, and unquestionably boring, “Ashley”. Thanks, Gram.

4. The first movie I ever saw in theaters was “Jurassic Park” with my dad. My mom was concerned it would scare me. I came home and excitedly told her about how the T-Rex ate the lawyer while he was hiding in the bathroom stall. I recently saw the re-release in IMAX 3D, and still smirked at that scene.

5. My favorite scent is toasted coconut. Whether it be soap, or body lotions, or candles. The aroma is just heavenly and never fails to relax me.

6. I’ve always found tornadoes fascinating, and despite being caught on a highway dangerously close to one that touched down in Massachusetts a couple of years ago, I’d still like to go on one of those storm chasing tours someday and observe one (from a safe distance, of course.)

7. I don’t drink often, but when I do, I like whiskey sours (but only with Jameson whiskey).

8. The first Off-Broadway show I ever saw was Billy Connolly performing stand-up in 2007. My friend Steven brought me and his former co-worker, Scoot, during one of my first outings to NYC. I remember laughing until I had tears in my eyes.

9. I’m not very good at sports, but I can play a mean game of pool, and, my nails permitting- I’m not a bad bowler, either.

10. I have a series of freckles on the right side of my face that, if you connected them with a marker, would resemble the shape of the Big (or Little, depending on your preference) Dipper constellation.

11. My ringtone for as long as I can remember has been The Psychedelic Furs’ “Love My Way”. It’s the quintessential 80’s new wave song.

The questions Imogen asked me are:

1. If a bear and a shark had a fight, who would win?

If a bear finds itself in the ocean, far enough from the coast where it would be in a position to fight a shark in the first place, then the shark has the advantage since a bear has to keep it’s head above the water to survive. Not only that, but if we’re talking a Great White Shark, then with size, strength, and mobility alone, the shark would definitely destroy the bear.

I put way too much thought into that answer.

2. Why did you start blogging?

My blogging days began way back in my sophomore year of high school, where I’d write about the guy I had a crush on, homework assignments I didn’t want to do, PG-13 movies I was excited to go see with my friends (if our parents were willing to lend us money drive us to the theater, of course, since none of us were old enough to work or have our licenses), trips to the mall, and school drama. At first, it was just a way for me to chronicle my life and network with other people my age- like a diary that I shared with others- but after a while it sort of became my creative outlet and evolved over the course of more than a decade into what this blog is today.

3. What is one thing you do every day without fail?

There’s a lot of things I do every day without fail- shower, eat, brush my teeth, check my e-mail. I guess if I had to pick one that I remind myself to do every day, it’s to laugh- usually at myself. Work can get stressful and my weekends can get crazy, so I always make sure I laugh about something. It just sort of re-centers me so I don’t get overwhelmed and it instantly makes me feel relieved.

4. What’s your one ultimate blogging tip?

It sounds so cliché, but really- be yourself when you blog. Trying to cater to or win over an audience that doesn’t share the same interests as you is exhausting, and over time, readers will catch on that you’re not really passionate about certain things. Blog about things that YOU like and care about, because there will always be an audience who will appreciate the same things, find your writing, and enjoy it. Even if the things you like to blog about are obscure- I guarantee you there will be people out there who will be into it, too. That’s one of the great things about the internet.

Not only that, but being yourself automatically makes you stand out in a sea of blogs. Fashion blogs are a perfect example, since there are so many of them- but there can only be one you- right? Keep on keeping on with yourself.

5. Whats your favourite TV show?

It should come as no surprise that it’s “The Walking Dead”. I’m going through physical and mental anguish that I have to wait for October for season 4 to begin. I love “Breaking Bad”, “Archer”, and “White Collar”, as well- and I have a feeling once I start watching “Game of Thrones” that I’m going to be hooked like everyone else, too.

6. If somebody gave you £20/$20 what would you do with it?

That’s automatic gas money for my car right there, but if I already had a full tank, I’d probably use it over the course of a few days to buy coffee or treat myself to a movie.

7. What’s your favourite possession?

I have a few things, mostly notes, photos, and little trinkets from my dad- but I also have a softcover copy of “A Clockwork Orange” that Malcolm McDowell signed for me a few years ago when I met him. He was so personable and such a gentleman. I’m a big fan of his and it just makes me really happy to have it because it’s a reminder of a lovely experience.

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8. Who is your favourite YouTuber?

THE MOST POPULAR GIRLS IN SCHOOL. Hands down! So funny and obscene. I love it.

9. Nearest thing to you?

One of my puppy’s plush sock monkey toys is laying next to me. He brought it to me a little while ago and then took off down the hallway.

10. Worst habit?

Apart from cursing and road rage (which usually go hand in hand)? I’d say twirling my hair. Ever since I was a little girl, I always absentmindedly twirled my hair, which, with it being as curly as it is- tends to result in knots and snarls by the end of the day. I just paused after writing that last sentence and realized I was twirling my hair. It’s a habit I don’t think I’ll ever break.

11. Favourite gift you ever received?

My friends are notorious for buying me the silliest, most impractical things ever for Christmases, birthdays, etc., but one year, my best buddy Sean converted an old (and terrible) horror movie we filmed when we were both 10 years old from VHS format to DVD and gave me a copy for Christmas. Watching it was like re-living the most awkward stage of our childhood, but it was incredibly funny. It took a lot of effort on his part to put it together and I’m just really touched by that.

And here are my questions:

1. Who do you consider your inspiration and why?

2. What is your dream vacation?

3. What is your most embarrassing or cringe-worthy fashion/style moment?

4. What is the last good book you read?

5. What do you like best about blogging?

6. What is one thing that always helps you relax?

7. If you could meet any person in the world, living or deceased, who would it be and why?

8. What is one thing you want to accomplish before the end of 2013?

9. What is your favorite, or most-inspirational quote?

10. What is something you could never leave home without?

11. What is your favorite song, and why?

To pay this award forward, I’ve selected Justin over at Mr. Walk & Talk, a really well put together men’s fashion blog, and Jocelyn at Beauty and Lifestyle of a Broke College Girl, who makes frugal fun.

xox

Closet Crushes: Arachnophobia.

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ArachnophobiaBangle1Perhaps this should be called a “Jewelry Box Crush” instead of a closet one, but during a recent organizing spree of some of my clothes and jewelry, I found one of my favorite, and creepiest, accessories tucked away in my bracelet & bangle drawer. I fell in love with this bangle, a limited edition piece by Betsey Johnson for a Halloween-inspired collection, a couple of years ago- despite my overwhelming (and borderline irrational) fear of spiders- and had to have it.

The bangle is a little heavy, but it definitely adds an interesting twist to even the tamest of ensembles, and the crystal-encrusted body of the spider gives a really great sparkle in the light. Every time I’ve worn it, I’ve been stopped by people who want to get a closer look.

My only gripe with the bangle is the design of the fastener. A simple magnetic strip, it tends to open easily and fall off whenever the bangle or the spider is bumped against anything (which, in my case, happens quite frequently), so I find myself removing it occasionally throughout the day to avoid misplacing it while I’m busy working or running around.

Other than that minor inconvenience, though- it’s a great, unique piece.

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Quick Eats: Chicken & Cheese Enchiladas

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Tonight I decided to mix up my usual healthy regimen of pesto and/or vegetables and cook up some very cheesy, very filling chicken enchiladas. Fair warning: this recipe isn’t exactly the healthiest thing, and I wouldn’t recommend enjoying these on a regular basis, but once in a while- a special occasion, a “cheat day” if you’re dieting, or even just to satisfy a craving- won’t hurt. These are delicious, and if chicken isn’t your thing, it can be easily supplemented with tofu or grilled vegetables. I chose chicken since that seems to be the most popular.

YOU WILL NEED:

* 1 1/2 Pounds of boneless chicken.

* 1 Tablespoon of olive oil.

* 1 Cup (or one 10 ounce can) of enchilada sauce.

* 1 Package of soft flour tortillas (burrito size).

* 1 Pouch of four-cheese Mexican blend shredded cheese.

* 1/2 Cup of of Cheez-Whiz (NOT THE AEROSOL KIND. Make sure it’s the type in a jar!)

* 1 Container of sour cream.

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OKAY, HERE’S WHAT YOU DO:

1. Cut up the boneless chicken into small, chewable pieces, and place them into a saute pan, adding the tablespoon of olive oil to help the chicken cook properly and evenly. From there, begin to saute your chicken until the pieces are slightly caramelized and crisp. You don’t want the chicken to be dried out, so be mindful that you don’t overcook them.

2. When the chicken is crisp, add the 1 cup (10 oz. can) of enchilada sauce and let simmer briefly.

3. After giving your chicken and sauce a good stirring, add 1/2 cup of Cheez-Whiz and mix thoroughly.

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4. When everything is mixed, scoop the chicken onto your flour tortillas. Be sure to leave a little of the cheese & enchilada sauce mixture left in the saute pan. You’re going to use it again in a couple of minutes.

5. Pre-heat your oven to 350°F. While it’s heating up, fold your flour tortillas and carefully place them side by side in a baking pan. Once they’re sorted, spread the excess cheese & enchilada sauce mixture over the folded tortillas.

6. Sprinkle some of the four-cheese Mexican blend shredded cheese on top of the folded tortillas. Depending on how cheesy you want these to turn out, you can add as much as you want.

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7. By now, your oven should have reached the necessary temperature. Take your baking pan jam-packed with enchiladas and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes in the oven- just enough time to melt the cheese and lightly toast the flour tortillas.

8. Remove the baking pan and enchiladas from the oven, let cool, and apply a generous amount of sour cream on top.

9. Garnish as desired (I used a little chopped parsley to add some green to an otherwise very orange looking dish before serving these.)

10. INTRODUCE ENCHILADAS TO STOMACH.

Like I said before, this meal isn’t super healthy, but it won’t cause any kind of irreversible damage if you have them once in a great while. There are ways to make them more fit-friendly, whether it be substituting certain ingredients or cutting portion sizes, but I thought this was a well-deserved treat.

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Closet Crushes: Orange Crush.

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OrangeCrush1Back in February, I had raved about my love for Bettie Page Clothing and their lovely staff at the Newbury Street location. I had purchased a beautiful high-waisted skirt with a simple, lovely print during my first visit that I’ve been longing to wear ever since, and even though today was a little chilly and breezy, I put it on anyway and couldn’t help but do a little twirl (or two) before I headed to the law firm. It’s just such a perfect fit. It accentuates my figure without sacrificing comfort, and the lining means no embarrassing see-through moments- which is a problem I’ve had with lighter colored skirts in the past.

I decided to play up the orange print of the skirt with a matching colored tank-top with a hint of lace along the neckline and straps, an intricate multi-colored beaded bracelet, and a big, bold ring. I kept my shoes (the same open-toed braided heels from my last Closet Crushes post) simple, and my nail color and makeup very neutral and minimal- some light blush, a little mascara, and some clear lip balm. I have a coral/orange matte lipstick by Clinique that I was tempted to wear, but I decided to let the skirt, and the accompanying jewelry, make a statement all on their own. I didn’t want to overdo it.

This was a great outfit for work, because while it was playful and even a little fresh, it was still very office-friendly. If baring arms isn’t appropriate for work, or in cases like today where there’s a nip in the air- wearing a basic white cardigan sweater would still look professional and pretty. Thankfully, my boss is lenient in letting me show off the guns (which aren’t really guns at all.)

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The Green Man Cometh.

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On Saturday, Sean and I headed out to Manhattan to attend  “Green Man”, a dinner and rooftop party hosted by the Sleep No More crew at the McKittrick Hotel to welcome Spring properly. The dress code called for white, so I donned a fitted white lace dress and a white floral crown, and was promptly greeted upon my arrival in the city by an alarmingly sudden (and very loud!) thunderstorm when it crept up on us after I parked my car near the venue. We ended up having to duck under some scaffolding when the downpour started.

Regardless, when the skies cleared and the sun emerged, we still had some time to dry off and roam the streets for a couple of hours before the show- and what a show it was.

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“Green Man” was the first production I can remember in recent years where we didn’t have to wear masks, and where photography was allowed. After a delicious and diverse meal and a couple of glasses of wine with strangers who quickly became new friends, we were led up to the rooftop for more drinks, dancing, penis-shaped cookies (seriously), and to watch and/or participate in a couple of rituals to welcome the “season of rebirth”. The whole night and it’s theme reminded me of “The Wicker Man”, with cast members prancing around in animal masks and frilly frocks, but there was no Nicolas Cage punching women dressed in bear suits- and also no human sacrifices.

The view from the roof was breathtaking, but if it got to be too much, you could go downstairs, back into the hotel, for an incredible live performance from a house band followed by plenty of dancing and posing in a photo booth area. As was the case for New Years Eve, you were also free to roam certain areas of the hotel, and if you were in a certain place at a certain time, you could find a surprise or two. Sean and I actually ended up stumbling upon a puppet show in one of the rooms while we were exploring.

The drive home was excruciating, but overall, the night was worth it. I had such an incredible, memorable time and I’m anxiously looking forward to the next event. I highly recommend anyone interested in participating in these types of parties add themselves to the McKittrick’s e-mail list so you’ll get the notifications when they have things like this. I never would have known about it otherwise!

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xx

Beetlejuice! Beetlejuice! Beetlejuice!

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Sometimes all it takes is a little wild-colored pasta to turn an otherwise blasé meal into something fun. Such was the case the other night when I cooked up this black and white swirled all-natural bow tie pasta I had picked up at a farmers’ market a few weeks ago. There were a few other variations: checkered macaroni and rainbow spaghetti, for example, but these bow ties reminded me of the movie “Beetlejuice” and I just knew I had to cook them up.

A little butter and a pinch of salt, and voilà! Dinner was served. The pasta itself tasted fine. I think I’m going to try the rainbow spaghetti next time.

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Sunday Drive.

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Sometimes, usually on warm, sunny days, I get the urge to get into my car and just drive with no particular destination in mind. I don’t know if it’s taking in the scenery, the freedom of not having anywhere to go or anything to do, or just the excitement at the possibility of discovering some place new, but it’s incredibly relaxing for me.

On Sunday, after running a couple of errands in the morning, I did just that- hopped into my car and just drove with my windows rolled down, listening to music, and cruising on the back roads until I reached Western Massachusetts (specifically Belchertown, Hadley, and Northampton- where an old friend of mine lives.) On the way, I found so many interesting abandoned places- a pharmacy, a roadside cafe, an automotive shop, a church in the middle of the woods- and I stopped to enjoy the peace, quiet, fresh air, and snap a few photos.

There were a few other sites I passed along the way that I have every intention of going back to check out in the coming days (an abandoned motel and a farmhouse being a couple of them), weather permitting.

While I was in Northampton, I also spotted this house on the main street and immediately fell in love with it. It’s not abandoned, but it’s my dream home!

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SO gorgeous.

GLOSSYBOX: April 2013 Review.

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I love natural beauty and wellness products. The less harsh, hard-to-pronounce chemicals and the more organic ingredients, the better. I also love having a more subtle look with my makeup in the Spring and Summer months, especially since I’m so active in the warmer weather. April’s GlossyBox, which I just finished playing around with, was inspired by Earth Day and was right up my alley- delivering luxury sized, good-for-me samples to indulge myself with and to help me achieve a fresh-faced finish.

What I Received:

Alterna Haircare’s “Bamboo Style Boho Waves Tousled Texture Mist”

The Honest Company Organic Lip Balm

TIGI Cosmetics Glow Blush (Full Size!)

Le Métier de Beauté Replenishing Daily Solution

WASH WITH JOE Coffeemint Invigorating Body Wash

Bulgari Eau Parfumée au thé Blanc Tea Bag for Bath

Product #1: Alterna Haircare’s “Bamboo Style Boho Waves Tousled Texture Mist” ($22)

If you’ve been reading this blog for any considerable amount of time, you’re probably well aware by now that I have naturally thick, curly, often unruly hair, and that trying to tame it is a challenge in itself. Creams, serums, sprays- I do it all, mixing and matching depending on my mood and how well my hair is behaving, if it’s even behaving at all. When I read the instructions to this light, clean-smelling spray- simply spritz some on from the root to the ends of damp hair and let air dry- I was a bit skeptical. Usually in order for me to obtain “just left the beach” waves, I need an arsenal of product, a flat-iron, a curling iron, and a lot of time and patience.

I was blown away by the results of this spray, however. While my hair wasn’t particularly wavy, my curls were touchably soft, considerably defined, and frizz-free. The spray cut my styling time in half, and the results were phenomenal.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I love this spray. It’s perfect for the Spring and Summer when all I want to do is get up and go. It’s lightly scented, it’s effective, and it doesn’t weigh my hair down or leave any kind of greasy residue. I’m completely smitten.

Product #2: The Honest Company Organic Lip Balm ($10.95 for a 3 Pack)

I have a few Spring & Summer lip looks. I love a good coral tint on some days, or a bold pop of neon pink on other days, but my go-to, always-in-my-purse standby is just a classic, clear, moisturizing lip balm. When I’m out in the sun or sipping on an iced GTL (green tea lemonade, and my warm weather on-the-go drink of choice), the only thing I’m concerned with when it comes to my lips is that they’re staying hydrated and smooth. This balm, loaded with olive, sunflower, and coconut oils, applied nicely, didn’t feel thick or sticky, and didn’t slide off too easily. It’s a nice and simple.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I don’t think I would go out of my way to purchase a pack of 3, since I have so many lip products already, but if I saw this in a store, I’d probably pick one up to keep in my purse. These would make a great gift for someone, too.

Product #3: TIGI Cosmetics Glow Blush ($22)

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It took me a couple of tries to get acclimated with using a powder blush again since I’ve been using cream blushes for so long, but once I got the hang of this beautiful, flattering, flushed-pink shade, I knew there was no turning back. The color may look dark in the container, but it applies lighter and has a touch of shimmer to really highlight cheekbones. It lasts for a long time, so re-applying throughout the day isn’t necessary unless you want to gradually build up the color, and a little goes a long way, so you won’t be using a ton of it to get the desired look.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! I never thought I’d stray from cream blushes, but this one has changed my mind completely. I love it, and I’d love to try a more nude-tone shade of it, as well.

Product #4: Le Métier de Beauté Replenishing Daily Solution ($225)

This is actually my second sample of this particular product. My first, received back in January, had yet to be reviewed at the time I posted the entry. Since then, my opinion of the product hasn’t really changed all that much. The price point to the moisturizer is a little shocking, even with a $75 voucher that GlossyBox included in this month’s package to apply towards the purchase of a jar of it. It wasn’t exactly a miracle product. Sure, it was hydrating, the SPF was a perk, and my skin felt soft all day, but I still don’t think I’d ever pay that much for it when I can achieve similar results with other products.

Would I Purchase?: No. The first “no” so far in this month’s GlossyBox. I’m all for splurging and treating yourself, but to me, this particular moisturizer just isn’t worth the price. That’s not to say it isn’t a good product, because it is, but it definitely shouldn’t be marked at $225.

Product #5: WASH WITH JOE Coffeemint Invigorating Body Wash ($28)

Two things I realized as soon as I poured some of this product onto a wash cloth in the shower: 1. It smelled delicious (think a peppermint mocha latte), and 2. It had the color and consistency of chocolate syrup, which I was NOT expecting. The unusual coloring and texture aside, this wash was really nice. It didn’t lather up particularly well, but my skin still felt soft, clean, refreshed and tingly after I rinsed it off. Just a reminder that when you’re done using it- it’s a good idea to rinse around your shower, just in case some of the product splattered against the walls. My shower curtain looked like I had been messily baking a chocolate cake after the first time I used this.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! If you want a really bubbly, sudsy body wash, this isn’t the product for you- but this product does thoroughly clean your skin without drying you out, and it smells so, so good.

Product #6: Bulgari Eau Parfumée au thé Blanc Tea Bag for Bath (9.50 per bag)

Some of you may remember my review of Bulgari’s Eau Parfumée Au Thé Blanc Soap from the GlossyBox I received in February, where although I was more than satisfied with the result the soap gave me, I was completely put off by the fragrance. When I saw I had received another product infused with the same perfume, this time a teabagged version of a bath bomb, I was a little disappointed. I decided to give it a try anyway, and took a nice hot soak earlier this morning before I got going for the day. Unrelated note: I think I need a bigger bathtub, but that’s a whole other story.

To my surprise, the scent in this adorable little white tea packed bag, although the same as the soap, was a LOT less overpowering. Even better? My skin was left with the same smooth, silky feeling that I had coveted with the soap sample. I couldn’t think of a more relaxing way to spend twenty minutes on a Saturday morning than with this soak, a good book, and the window open to let in some fresh air and listen to the birds chirping outside. I’m still in a zen state of mind.

Would I Purchase?: Yes! Absolutely. This is such a treat for myself, and would make a great gift for others. I loved the results, the scent was infinitely nicer than the soap from the same fragrance line, and unlike the clean-up with most bath bombs, this product was mess-free.

With the exception of one product that just didn’t “wow” me, I was so pleased with April’s GlossyBox. The samples were fun to try and gave great results, and now I have a few more full-sized products  to add to my “must buy” list.

April 2013: In a Nutshell.

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April was the month we finally saw Spring prevail over Winter (after taking quite a beating for a few rounds), and with temperatures consistently climbing day by day, I’m hoping it’s here to stay and that we won’t get a freak snowstorm or anything (it’s happened before!) It’s been wonderful being able to wear skirts and dresses without having to layer on leggings or sweaters over and under them.

Sunny days and warm weather aside, April was truly the month that the city of Boston showed the rest of the world exactly why it’s the best. In the wake of a cruel and unfathomable terrorist attack, regular, every day citizens became heroes as they rushed to aid those affected in any way they could (the ONE FUND to date had raised over 20 MILLION dollars!), and tireless authorities and officials made sure they tracked down those responsible in less than a week following the bombing at the Boston Marathon. The city rallied together to show everyone watching that “Boston Strong” was more than just a phrase to help get us through a crisis- but a longstanding and deep-rooted way of life.

There have been so many benefits, charities, fundraisers, raffles, vigils, and other gatherings to support the victims, their families, and the Greater Boston communities, and on Sunday afternoon, I headed down to Lansdowne Street for the sold out “For Boston!” benefit show put together by the Dropkick Murphys. All of the proceeds from ticket sales, merchandise, etc. went directly to helping those affected by the attack, and with performances by Dropkick themselves, State Radio, Big D and The Kids Table, The Parkington Sisters, Old Brigade and Barroom Heroes- all of whom had the most sincere and inspirational words to say about Boston and it’s residents- it turned out to be a really fun, sometimes emotional, but very successful and rewarding day.

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Kudos to everyone who participated in the show and for everyone who came down to show their support!

Finally, April ended on a high note. I received some great news at work today (one word: promotion!) and I’m hoping that the luck and good fortune will carry into May as I prepare to attempt some semi-late-in-the-season Spring cleaning, get ready to reboot my diet and fitness regime, and gear up for a little bit of travel and adventure within the coming weeks.

See you all there!

xox