Thursday, July 13, 2017

Tokyo Milk Dark Femme Fatale Collection Lip Elixirs - Salted Caramel Lip Balm
























The beautifully packaged tin houses a delectable treat for the lips and senses. It is packed with aloe leaf extracts, vitamin E, caramel, sea salt, clove and rose water and it's formulated with any synthetic dyes. The clear lip balm left my lips soft and hydrated without a greasy feeling. The only downside to this product that it is nearly impossible to open and I usually have to leave the tin open. If the tin was a bit more easier to use this would replace my Smith's Rosebud Salve.

Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Level Naturals Organic Menthol + Cucumber Shower Bomb








I have always been a huge fan of menthol and bath bombs. I have tried Levels Natural Shower Bomb before but in a different scent. I thought menthol and cucumber would be an interesting and relaxing scent. The aroma was relaxing but the menthol was a bit more overpowering and the cucumber was barely scented. With most natural products, you should definitely use within a couple of days to opening otherwise the scent wears away really quickly.

Sunday, July 9, 2017

L'Occitane en Provence Ultra Rich Shampoo









The rich shampoo is enriched with shea butter, an ingredient known for it’s nourishing and hydrating properties. The shampoo is creamy and provides a generous lather. Unfortunately, it left my thin hair very greasy and felt weigh down. Perhaps, this shampoo is better suited to people with very dry hair.

Thursday, June 29, 2017

Book Review - Ascension of Larks

Photo Credit - Amazon
Maggie Henry has her dream career that she always wanted. However, lately she feels like her life is missing something except when she visits her two best friends and their kids at their summer home. When tragedy strikes and kills one of her friends, she must travel to a remote island to care for her friend and her young children. Maggie used to love to come out to island spend time with the Firelli family but now with the death of  the only man she has ever loved; she finds it hard to be at peace. As Maggie work to help pick up the pieces Marco's death left behind, she learns to appreciate things that she took for granted and open her heart to love again.

The novel was a pleasant read that keep me entertained until the last page. It showed a different side of tragedy while the recurring conflict of family versus personal ambition breathe life into the novel. While it was an enjoyable read, I wasn't completely in love with the novel but I would still be interested in reading other books by the author.


**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Friday, June 23, 2017

Book Review - Woman No. 17 by Edan Lepucki


Photo Credit - Amazon
When Lady Daniels' marriage is on the rocks, she decided to take a break from her husband. However, she needs someone to watch over her youngest son, Devin while she is working on her memoir about her relationship with her older son, Seth. Lady decides to take an ad out for assistance, when S arrives to help out. S is works like Mary Poppins for the Devin and becoming a confidante and trusted friend for Lady. However, everything is not what it looks like and the friendship becomes sour when secrets unfold. What secrets is "S" keeping? What is S's relationship with Seth? Will Lady be able to figure out her life?

An interesting read that kept me in suspense the entire time even though the secrets ended up being very predictable. The story is more of a cozy read as nothing exciting or titillating every happens.  I would be open to read other works by the author.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion** 

Wednesday, June 21, 2017

Book Review - The Heirs A Novel by Susan Rieger


Photo Credit - Amazon

After their father, Rupert Falkes, dies his five adult sons find their inheritance threatened when a woman sues their father estate, claiming she has two sons by him. While the brothers are still reeling from their father's death, they feel betrayed by the turn of events. However, their mother, Eleanor seems to be calm and cool even under pressure of the claim. Eleanor even believes that they should give some of the money to the "other" sons. The novel follows the quirky cast of characters as they deal with Rupert's death. Who is this mystery woman? What secrets is the family hiding?

A quick and interesting read with an unexpected ending.  A good read for the beach with the complex and interesting characters. But it lacks much of a story line; if you rather read more about character details, than this book is for you.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Monday, June 19, 2017

Book Review - ICB Blessed Garden Bible By Tommy Nelson


Photo Credit - Amazon

The beautifully garden illustrated bible is targeted little and young girls to read the full text of Scripture using the International Children's Bible translation.  The cover is coated with glitter and foil which makes it perfect for children. The book also includes 24 colorful pages of study and a guide on how to personalize. A well-made edition that can be passed on from generation to generation.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchanged for an honest opinion**

Saturday, June 17, 2017

Book Review - Do Baby Bears Have Mommies? (I've Got Questions) by Crystal Bowman

Photo Credit - Amazon

Little children are known for asking tons of questions, many of them very silly but sometimes very cute. This beautifully illustrated book will help your little one answer some of their most pressing questions in a cute but informational way. A perfect read for any child!

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**


Thursday, June 15, 2017

Julep Nail Polish - Sara












A beautiful Scandinavian blue creme nail polish which was perfect for the Spring weather. The nail polish provided full coverage and last two days before chipping.

Sunday, June 11, 2017

Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush - Fanciful





I recently found this limited edition blush in my collection and thought I would add it in rotation. Granted, I haven't even a dent in any of my currently 30 open blushes -- but one has to treat themselves, right???

Like the other Tarte blushes, this one is also infused with Amazonian clay that was naturally baked by the sun. It promises a 12 hour fade free finish and with a wide range of finishes such as satin, shimmer, and matte. The dermatologist tested blush is formulated without parabens, triclosan, mineral oil, phthalates, sodium lauryl sulfate, and gluten.

Unlike a few other blushes I have tried, this blush has a more powdery/chalky texture. It didn't last a full 12 hours on me and while it has a nice  matte pinkish mauve color, I had to really blend it in to avoid a chalky look. 

Friday, June 9, 2017

Ettang Modeling Co Take - Out Cup - Charcoal

















While on search for a new mask to try, I came across this brand. It seemed interesting enough and got good reviews. The single use pack comes with powder and all you need to do is add water and stir. The cup has enough for  2- 3 uses and I learned the hard way, to separate out some powder in another container so you can use the rest for another time. If you use too much water, the mask will be too watery and if you use too little water, the mask will be very dry. Each cup has a special “star” ingredient and Charcoal is known for controlling sebum. After removing the mask, most of the mask came out in one clean pull; my face was soft, smooth and looked radiant. I am definitely hooked and can’t wait to try the others.