January Beauty Box Five Review

Beauty Box Five was nice enough to send me a box to review for them. I was so excited to receive this box and rushed inside to open it up. This is one that I have been advertising for but had not had a chance to try yet. It did not let me down!!!!

It comes with a great card to let you know about all of the products and the box!

Here are all of my goodies that came in the box.

NYX Eyeshadow Palette- I will NEVER complain about an eyeshadow palette, they are just so handy. I love that this one has a neutral and warm and cool color in it. These are all colors that I will use and they have some sparkle to them. Love it!

Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facewash- I have actually used this before, I love Clean & Clear and use one of their face washes daily so I am loving that I got a small one to pack with me for my next trip.

Body Drench Hemp Lotion- Let me tell you, my hands look like a 90 year old woman! I am dry and cracked and it is miserable. Being a Nurse Practitioner I was my hands a million times a day between patients and my poor hands take a beating. I am really liking this stuff, I had never heard of it before and now I am so glad to have found it.

OFRA Lipgloss Plumper- This stuff works!!!!! The color is not right for me but I tried it to see how the plumping effect worked and you can actually feel it working!!!!

Foot Smoother- THANK YOU LORD! I needed this. My heels are like crackled alligator skin in the summer from living in flip flops so this thing will be my best friend this summer, for sure!

For more information visit: www.beautybox5.com

January Citrus Lane Box Review

 Upset Tummy & Nausea Relief from Mommy's Bliss-
This is an herbal, all-natural supplement that comes in single dose packages which makes it so convenient.

 Duo Tip Washable Markers from Faber-Castel-
These are colored with vegetable dye so if they get on clothing it is easily washed out. The tips are wide tip at one end and fine tip at the other. These are great for kiddos to get creative with!

 Zig Zag Zebra Coloring Book from Barefoot Books-
This is not your ordinary coloring book. Each page is designed to encourage creativity, helping your child master drawing skills, shape recognition, line drawing, color combining and reading, all through simple activities.

 Fruit Set from Plan Toys-
This was made exclusively for Citrus Lane! This set allows kids to learn to "chop" food. It develops fine motor skills and encourages imagination.

 Would you like to sign up for Citrus Lane boxes? Here is a link to sign up and get $10 off:

https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Lindsey.Daniel.2501707

January Bluum Box Review

I love our Bluum boxes. I thought that the January box was way better than the December one. The first thing that we saw when we opened it was this adorable teddy bear! Foster's eyes lit up!

Fiesta Toys - Happy Kritters Cuddle Bear- This is pretty self explanatory... an adorable teddy bear!

Nature’s Bakery - Fig Bar - Whole Wheat Raspberry- Nature's Bakery gives you the all natural, kosher, cholesterol-free fuel you need to help power life’s great journeys. Oh yeah, and to make it and your journeys jam-packed with flavor.

Luna - Bars - Carrot Cake Bar- An indulgent cinnamon-spiced bar with carrots, walnuts, white soy chips, and sweet raisins—drizzled with creamy vanilla icing.
Luna - Bars - Chocolate Dipped Coconut- With your health in mind, Luna Bar is created with 70% organic ingredients, and steers clear of synthetic fertilizers, harmful chemicals, high fructose corn syrup, and other unhealthy additives.

The I Like Book - I Like Book For Kids- The i like book for kids is the newest and best way to build your child up one LIKE at a time while opening better communication. This 12 month journal will allow you to show your child all of the big and little things you LIKE about them consistently. Designed by a mom who wanted to create a lasting memory with her child. This colorful book is filled with fun stories, quotes, a fill-in family tree, tic tac toe, places to doodle or color, cool images and many places to add pictures and/or mementos. In this special book that you child will cling to, you simply write what you LIKE about them and express it verbally too. Your child will feel loved, safe, unique and special.

Bumkins - Waterproof Super Bib - Crocs- Made of Bumkins' proprietary waterproof fabric. Stain and odor resistant. Adjustable VELCRO® brand closure. Features catch-all pocket. Machine washable, hang dry. Measures 10 inches across, 9 inches from neck down. Sized to fit 3 months to 2 years. PVC, BPA, Phthalate and vinyl-free. Made in the USA.

Priddy Books - Puzzle Town At The Zoo- Interactive book and puzzle set for preschoolers . The set includes a board book with simple questions to answer about things to find down on the farm as well as a jigsaw puzzle pieces to place on the pages. Encourages development of hand-eye coordination and early reading skills.

Want to order Bluum for your little one? Follow this link for 50% off!

http://bluum.me/1aLrOy4

January Ipsy Glam Bag Review

I must say that my Ipsy Glam Bag is bar far the best thing that I receive in the mail each month. It is always so fun to get some new makeup items to try out in my arsenal!

Nourish Organic: Lightweight Moisturizing Face Lotion- 

Nourish Organic's Lightweight Moisturizing Face Lotion provides continuous moisture throughout the day while replenishing essential skin nutrients. The advanced, non-greasy formula is also rich in vitamins and antioxidants to boost skin's defenses and leave skin healthier and younger-looking every day. 100% Natural. USDA-Certified Organic. Fragrance-Free. Alcohol-Free. Ultra gentle for sensitive skin.

* Moroccan Argan Oil intensely hydrates and replenishes skin
* Rosewater evens out skin tone and smoothes texture
* Shea Butter locks in moisture and improves skin's elasticity.

Size: 0.5 oz

The Verdict- This is great feeling lotion. I love lotions that aren't oily and don't leave a greasy feel behind. If it is greasy then I don't want it. I also like that it is organic and fragrance and alcohol free so it will not irritate my sensitive skin!

Elizabeth Mott: Smooth Shadow- (in pearl)

The ultimate gel pencil that’s smooth like butter and packed with deliciously creamy colors. These velvety pencils glide on with ease, and contain just enough shimmer. They’re also waterproof and perfect to wear all day and night, a must have for all color lovers! Use a cosmetics sharpener for best results.

Size: 0.7 g

The Verdict- I am obsessed with this. It is my FAVORITE thing that I got in this glam bag. They aren't kidding when they say that it perfect to wear all night and day. I tested it on my hand and I washed them multiple times and slept and the next morning it was still there and looking shimmery and wonderful. The color it gorgeous as well. This is something that I will be purchasing after t runs out!

 

Proactiv+: Mark Fading Pads-
The Proactiv+ Mark Fading Pads are a convenient, single-use, no-rinse peel pad that can instantly boost your skin’s glow and radiance. The pads help remove dead skin cells to unclog pores and remove dull layers to reveal newer, smoother, more even toned skin. With just a few quick swipes you can help fade away post acne dark marks, reduce the appearance of fine lines and enlarged pores.

4 separately packaged pads.

The Verdict- I am excited to try these. When I was younger I used Proactiv even though I never had acne because I loved the clean feeling that it gave me. It always worked great so I am sure that these will work wonderfully too. I have not had any blemishes to try them on yet but when I get one you can bet your bottom dollar that I am pulling on of these suckers out and using it right away!

Briogeo: Don't Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask-

Repair and treat dry, damaged and breaking hair with Don't Despair, Repair!™ deep conditioning mask. Fortified with ultra-hydrating avocado, sweet almond & argan oils, strengthening keratin protein, power-conditioning rosehip oil, soothing aloe, and super hair-essential vitamins B5, D, A, E and biotin. This unique complex of targeted ingredients helps increase hair elasticity and moisture to prevent breakage, promotes healthy shine and luster, and replenishes strength.

Size: 1.0 oz


The Verdict- This could not have come at a better time! I have recently become addicted to my Hot Tools Deep Waver so my hair has been getting more abuse than it is used to. I have been talking about how I need a deep conditioning treatment so badly, WELL HERE IT IS! I am planning to use to next weekend because this weekend was so busy. I will update with how it goes =)

Mica Beauty: Tinted Lip Balm- (in Fiesta)
MicaBeauty's 24 hour Tinted Lip Balm conditions your lips without smudge while delivering sophisticated finish. For a sheer wash of color, one swipe is all you need. For a bolder pout, simply apply another swipe and this lip balm will create lips every woman covets. Kiss-proof and smudge-proof!

Size: 2.5 g


The Verdict- This feels nice on my lips. I like the product overall but I am not a fan of lip products in pots because it just makes application less convenient. Am I right?! Also, the color isn't great on me. I don't hate it though!

Ipsy is my favorite subscription! I literally excitedly await it's arrival each month. If you would like to sign up here is a link: http://www.ipsy.com/r/31kc

December Bluum Box

This was our first month receiving a Bluum Box. Foster was really excited to open it and so was I. Isn't the box cute? {Yes, sometimes the simplest things excite me}

This is what we saw when we opened the box. A neat card that tells how many months old Foster is, has a coupon for 50% off for a friend and some other info.

This is what was under the card! I love that they use the recycled paper screeds to pad the box, the look nice and keep everything safe in my opinion!

Play-Doh Mini 4 Pack:

Foster immediately said "out this!", which mean open this in Foster-talk, the moment he saw the play-doh set. For real, he loves this stuff. This helps him develop hand-eye coordination and also work on his colors. A fun activity that promotes learning, love it.

Dreambaby- Bath Toy Bag:

This is a great thing to have, we just happen to already have a bath toy holder like this in his tub. I think that we will put this one in our bathroom now that he uses our tub sometimes! So this was great timing because he just used our bathtub for the first the other night. These things are a MUST for bath toys. They allow them to dry out and keep from mildewing or molding and they keep the toys out of the bottom of the tun so other people can use it is needed as well.

Nature's Bakery- Fig Bar:
Foster has not tried this yet. Not really something that I think he would like. He is a super picky eater and is on a hunger strike right now {no clue why, maybe too much to play with rather than eat}. I am definitely going to try and get him to eat it though. It is organic so that is a plus!

Kandoo-Flushable Wipes:
Another item with great timing! We are getting ready to hopefully start potty training or at least trying out Foster's new potty that he got for Christmas soon and these with be great to accompany it. Gotta keep that honey clean!!!

Clairvoyant-Soothing Lip Balm- Wild Honey:
Yay, something for mommy! I have eternally chapped lips so this is perfect for me. And it is winter in Ohio. Can I say it again, PERFECT.TIMING.

Bluum is a great deal! If you are interested then follow this link and check it to get 50% off and try it out:

http://bluum.me/1aLrOy4

That time I filled my toddler's stocking with LUSH cosmetics...

I am one of those girls who gave up baths once I was old enough to take shower and I never looked back. The thought of laying in water that is filled with the dirtiness I am trying to wash off is just disgusting to me. The only time I am in a bath is basically large outdoor jacuzzis.

I read on someone's blog {yes, I read blogs, I don't just write one} about LUSH Cosmetics. They looked interesting and I thought "well, that looks fun, I will get some for my toddler!". At this point I know what you are thinking "WHO THE HELL GETS LUSH COSMETICS FOR THEIR TODDLER!?". Like I explained before I adamantly refuse baths so when I saw how cute this stuff was and knew that I had to see it with my own eyes, I really though "I can experiment on my child!". That's what we have kids for, right, to experiment on?! (totally kidding).

There is a LUSH store in one of the malls here close to my house so I went and entered this amazing, yummy smelling place and my eyes lit up. It is like beauty product heaven. If I had to be a robber this would be on my "top 10 stores to hit up" list. Alas, I am no felon. An adorable sales girl helped me and showed me how to use the things I was interested in. I went in for one bath bomb, maybe 2, and left with almost $40 in bath goodies. One lucky toddler {read: spoiled}.

Here are the goods that I picked out:

{1} Red Fun- Bright and cheery Red FUN brings sunshine to your tub. We add a perky dose of orange and mandarin oils to each batch. Just one whiff and you'll be traveling through a sunny mandarin grove! For best results we suggest lathering a piece up in your loofah for a quick pick me up in the shower, or crumble into bath water for an extended orangey soak. Whether you use this at sunrise or sunset your mood will surely be brighter.

{2} Lush Golden Wonder Bath Bomb- (no longer available- was a Christmas 2013 item)
This bath bomb is like a pass the parcel gift – each layer has something different to offer. This is not for a quick bath because it takes its time, this bath bomb. Its layers of golden lustre, dazzling colours and soluble gold stars are a wonder to behold. First take some time to shake it, listen to the little rattle from within and try to imagine what’s in there. Then drop it in your water and revel in the sweet orange and cognac oils.

This video was not made by me but shows the bath bomb in action so I wanted to share how cool it is!

{3} Luxury Lush Pud- (No longer available- Christmas 2013 item)
The first thing you'll notice is the deep purple color of the base, studded with polka dots of color that float to the surface making pastel islands in the water. Then you'll inhale the magnificent aroma of lavender oil, sweet benzoin and comforting tonka absolute. You may recognize the scent from our best-selling year-round bomb Twilight. Sink in for a fluffy, frothy end-of-day soak, relax, release your worries and emerge for a restful slumber.

{4} The Comforter- When life is getting you down, crumble The Comforter under hot, running water for passionately purple water and creamy, comforting bubbles. This massive slice of vibrant fruitiness gives you the feeling of being enveloped in a warm hug and gently consoled by the friendly fruity aroma of a blackcurrant candy. It was created to bring a real sense of comfort to people, just like a real comforter would. Snuggle in, and stay undercover until you’re ready to face the world once again. Even better, each bar creates two baths of fruity comfort.  

Check back for reviews of each product as we use them {Yes, I said we, I am forcing my toddler to share because this stuff kicks as*}.

Foster's Favorite Toys: 2.5 years old

First, follow me on GFC on my sidebar and/or Bloglovin please: 

                                                             

Honestly, I cannot believe that later this month I will be the mommy {I refuse to say mother} of a two and a half year old. How did that happen? Foster is ALL BOY. He is active, full of energy, spunky, sassy, rambunctious, rough {most boy moms know what I mean} and so very loving.

He is now really into showing affection by giving hugs and kisses. He really puckers up and it is adorable. There is nothing that can melt my heart quite like my little guy saying "more hugs, more kisses" and leaning in with open arms and a pucker! Seriously, this is the stuff I live for. 

This is the stuff that Foster is living for right now:

{1} LeapPad2-Monsters University Edition- This was a Christmas gift from Auntie Meg, and her parents (Justin's aunt and uncle). Foster cannot get enough of it. There is a game on it where you can have a digital pet and feed and care for it. He chose the cat and he is obsessed with caring for it. He will run around the house and say "My cat! My cat!". This keeps him busy in restaurants or still when we need to. I think this will be a great trick at the doctor and other places where we need to try and keep him in a chair or kind of quiet. We will see! So far, this is a hit.

{2} Imaginarium Rescue Train Set- My parents got Foster this wooden train set. The neat thing is that  this set is made to fit with thomas the train and a couple other kinds of sets. Therefor, this is something that we can expand. Foster has lots of fun driving the train around it and being that he is still kind of young he likes to drive his matchbox cars around this too. Keeps him entertained for a long time, which mom and dad like.

{3} Toy Story 3 Villains Figurine Set & {4} Toy Story 3 Heroes Figurine Set- Is there any toddler boy that doesn't love Toy Story? I know mine does. He calls the movie "BUZZ!". He is really starting to develop an imagination so he likes to take little figures and make them walk around and say "'hi" to each other. It is adorable to watch his mind grow like this. These figures are perfect. 

{5} VTech Go! Go! Smart Wheels Train Station- This is a really neat train set. The edges are a bit higher so it stays on the track really well and it drives itself around. There are some spots that you have to help it (like crank it up the hill), so we have to help him a little but I am sure he will learn how to do that. Foster really loves this. It is currently set up in the middle of the floor in our family room {don't judge me, ; , fine judge me}.

December Citrus Lane Box

This year I decided to get creative with some of Foster's Christmas presents. I ordered him a subscription to Citrus Lane and wrapped up the first box for him to open on Christmas. I have seen the advertisements for this company on Facebook for a long time now and I would be lying if I said that they hadn't caught my eye more than a few times.

I know you are probably interested about Citrus Lane so here is the scoop!

Loved the festive snowflake box, so cute!

We opened the box up and this was what we saw:

A pretty packed package. It wasn't a mess when I opened it which made me really happy! The note on top opens and has a picture and description of everything in the box and information about the company that makes each product as well.  There are also promo codes for purchases from these companies. Great brochure with great info, I love that they include this.

This was a coupon for a book club for Barefoot Books.

I Took the Moon for a Walk- Book

Then there was this book from Barefoot Books. It is a great book. Big, with colorful pictures, good story, and Foster loves it. My favorite part... it smells like a brand new picture book {anyone remember the awesome smell of bearenstein bear books?!}. This book was clearly specially picked for Foster's box because it is about a boy which is something that you inform them of for your box and it is to help toddlers not be afraid of the dark. Great pick Citrus Lane!

Handprint Art Kit- Craft

This is awesome. It comes with all the items that you need for the craft inside the package. The canvas is big enough that you can do two handprints; both hands, mom & little, dad & little, or siblings. The instructions even tell you how to erase it and start over if you make a mistake {anyone who has a kid knows that a handprint with a baby or toddler is NOT so easy}. I think that I am going to use this to do a themed handprint, like turn his handprint into an animal! So excited to use this.

Snuggly Lotion- Body Product

The company that makes this specializes in organic products that are safe for babies and good for the planet, does it get any better than that?! This came at just the right time because it has been so cold here in Ohio so Foster has had some very chapped skin on his cheeks and hands. This lotions is duper moisturizing and nourishing. It is concentrated so I only have to use a little bit at a time and it doesn't leave him greasy, thank goodness because he doesn't like that!

Chunky Puzzle- Toy

Both Mommy and Foster's eyes lit up when we saw a Melissa & Doug product in the box. There is no toy company that we love more than Melissa & Doug in this house, that I can promise you. This puzzle is adorable and fun. Foster is really just starting to actually use puzzles as they are meant to be used so this will get plenty of play time.

Overall this box ROCKED! Foster loved this, Mommy and Daddy loved this, heck my dog {Bella} would probably love it if I let her get at these items to check them out.

December Citrus Lane Box gets an A+

If you a re interested in Citrus Lane follow this link to get $10 off: https://www.citruslane.com/invitedby/Lindsey.Daniel.2501707