Popsugar Must Have December 2013

My favorite box arrived today!

Here are the treats included in the final Popsugar Must Have box of the year!  Popsugar is a popculture/fashion website.  They have a monthly "must have" box for $35/month.  The items in the box are divided into categories for food, beauty, fashion, and home.  

Must Have Fashion

Lulu Frost for PopSugar Bracelet ($~100) 
This is a total estimate on the cost of the bracelet.  It's a piece made especially for the box so it's probably of a lower value than the usual bracelets they make.  In addition to the bracelet which is a sparkly silver charm on a gold chain, the box included a 25% code to use at all purchases on the Lulu Frost website.  The bracelet is different from what I usually wear, but I like it and will definitely wear it.

Must Have Home

MIXT Studio Wrapping Paper ($9)
I guess this time of year it's impossible to have too much wrapping paper so this will definitely come in handily.  The prints are cute and the set also includes gift tags and twine to decorate.  

govino Go Anywhere Flutes ($12.95)
These champagne glasses (cups?) are made of reusable plastic.  We actually have the red wine version of these and they are perfect for enjoying beverages outside during the summer months.  Now we can enjoy champagne without worrying about breaking glasses outside too.

Must Have Beauty
modelco Fiber Lashextend Black Mascara ($20)
I love Fiber mascara but it's been a while since I've used it.  This actually came at a perfect time since I was needing to pick up some new mascara.

NCLA Peppermint Lane Nail Wraps ($16)
I've only done nail wraps once but I'm excited to try these out for the holidays.  

Must Have Food
CC MADE Caramel Corn ($4)
Any type of caramel corn is a good thing.

Special Extra
Ghiradelli Chocolates (2 bags) ($8)
Yes, I realize I could buy these at any grocery store, but I probably wouldn't.  But now that I have them, D and I will definitely enjoy them.  :-)

The overall value ($170) of the box this month is a little uncertain since my value of the bracelet is an estimate.  Even if the bracelet wasn't included it would still be a great value and I'm excited for all the items.  This continues to be my favorite box.

Interested in trying PopSugar Must Have?  Please use my referral link!   http://popsu.gr/ndbC

#popsugar
#popsugarmusthave

Monday Musings 12/2/13

Happy First Monday of December everyone!  It's back to reality after such a beautiful time in Antigua.   Here are some thoughts I have as the week gets started.  

1.  K vs. Pinchy 

There were lots of cute little crabs crawling around our resort last week.  I thought they were hermit crabs but I'm really not sure.   On our last full day, I decided I wanted to befriend one.   I remember holding hermit crabs during beach visits as a kid so I thought it wouldn't be a big deal.  As D and I were lounging beachside, I saw a crab cross our path.  Of course, I named it Pinchy and got up to go pick it up.  D told me not to.  I should have listened.   As I approached, Pinchy hid inside his shell.  I picked it up anyway.  This was a very stupid idea.   The next thing I knew, Pinchy emerged with a giant claw and latched on to my finger.  Yes, Pinchy broke skin and drew blood.  After panicking and shaking my hand, he let go.  I can report that I am now almost fully healed and no harm was done to Pinchy.   He hid in his shell for a bit before crawling away.  The lesson to be learned from this story is to not pick up creatures on the beach.  Here is a photo of Pinchy after the incident.  

2. Book Review: Valley of Amazement by Amy Tan

During my beach and pool time last week I finished this latest novel by Amy Tan. The Joy Luck Club has been one of my favorite books for many years so I looked forward to enjoying this over vacation.  This novel again focuses on mother/daughter relationships but within a single family.  The story moves very quickly and to be honest I had a hard time putting it down. I highly recommend it. 

3. Finding gym motivation.  

I've always been someone to workout fairly regularly and I was SUPER motivated to workout before my wedding  (of course).  Now that work hours are longer and daylight is shorter, I admit it's sometimes hard to motivate and get moving.  Variety definitely helps me but that can also sometimes backfire.  It's always a risk to try a new class or program if it ends up not being a good workout.  On the flip side, finding a great new class is a major win.  Even though it's not the new year yet, I'm going to make a resolution to make sure a workout happens 4 times a week.  And now that it's on the blog, I have to make sure it's true. ;-)

That's all for now!  Happy early December to everyone!

Rocksbox #8

Before leaving for vacation, I decided my week away would be the perfect time to refresh my Rocksbox.  It's hard to believe this my 8th box since joining in July.

Rocksbox is a jewelry subscription service that sends 3 pieces for you to try for 60 days or purchase what you like a reduced price.  The cost is $20/month and you can refresh your set as many times as you'd like during the month.  It's sort of like Netflix for jewelry.  I haven't purchased any pieces yet, but looking back at some of my past sets I wish I had.  The next time I get something I love I won't let it get away!  :-)

Here is my latest box:

Delicate Beaded Bar Necklace in Rose by Charlene K (retail: $78, member's price: $62.40)
I currently don't have any pink jewelry in my collection so it will be interesting to see how frequently I incorporate this into my outfit.  It's a very delicate looking piece and will probably go nicely with solid colored items of clothing.

Big Break Earrings in Gold (retail $46, member's price: $36.80)
These are definitely fun statement earrings.  There are definitely some holiday events coming up these will be perfect for.

Rami Ring in Blue Chalcedony (retail $76, member's price: $60.80)
This ring is cute, but I don't think I can justify the price tag on this one.  I'll enjoy it over the next couple of weeks but it's not really a memorable item.

Overall this is a middle of the road box for me.  I like all 3 of the items enough to wear them over the next coming weeks, but I'm not super excited about any of them.  Getting to mix up my usual accessories still makes Rocksbox one of my favorites though.

Interested in trying Rocksbox?  Please use my referral link!  Join Rocksbox

#rocksbox

December 2013 Birchbox Man

D's December Birchbox Man box arrived just in time to get the holiday spirit started!  The theme is "#manoftheyear" and suggests December is a great time to celebrate a personal highlight reel.  I love this idea!

Birchbox Man is a men's lifestyle box for $20/month that includes both grooming and lifestyle items.  It's a larger box than the women's version, but still contains a nice variety of surprises.

Here is D's December box!

Adrenaline Junkie Energizing Scrub by Billy Jealousy (sample value: $3)
This body scrub has an invigorating peppermint smell.  It's meant to be used on both face and body.  D says "It's cool and smells nice."

Texture Paste by GO247 (sample value: ~$4?)
I'm estimating the size of this sample.  This product claims to add definition and texture without any stiffness.  It can be used on damp or dry hair.  D says he "doesn't really like texture paste."  Maybe I can still convince him to try it out...

All-In-One Moisturizer by Mereadesso (sample value: $28)
This is a very fancy one step approach to skin care.  It serves as a toner, moisturizer, and under-eye cream.  It's meant to be used twice a day.  I enjoy using all in one products and I think D will like this too.  D says he "likes the stuff he already uses."  I'm going to have to convince him on this one too.  I'm also glad there is a re-sealable nozzle on the back of the sample so it won't go to waste.

Liquid Aftershave Cream by Proraso (sample value: $3.75)
This cream has witch hazel and eucalyptus to calm the skin.  D says "it smells nice but I already have lotion."  Clearly I'm going to need to do some work on D to get him to fully appreciate the fun of Birchboxes.

Knit Watchman's Hat (value: $25)
This is the winner of the box!  D says "I like it."  It's already gotten use on this cool day.  :-)

Speakeasy Candle by Votivo (value: ?)
This is a bonus item in the box and has a "bold scent with a hint of rum and bourbon."  It's a small candle compared to last month's travel candle.  D says "this is stupid but nice" (we seem to have a lot of candles right now).

The overall value of this box is ~$64.  A great value if I can convince D to try everything out.  I guess at the very least the hat being a success makes it worth the price paid.  It will be interesting to see how D's feelings toward Birchbox Man evolve over the coming months.  Any suggestions?  ;-)

#birchboxman

Bonjour Jolie November 2013

It's time for November's Bonjour Jolie delivery!  As usual, it was right on schedule.  :-)

Bonjour Jolie is a time of the month box that sends you monthly supplies in the brand of your choosing along with special treats for $16/month (plus s/h).   This subscription doubles as a wonderful delivery service of necessary items and also a way to put a smile on my face as I go through all the other goodies inside.  :-)   The November theme is "A Time for Giving Thanks" and like previous boxes, the contents did not disappoint.

The Protection (retail ~$12)
To start with the most important items first, here are the 30 feminine care items in the quantities requested along with some Advil.

The Gift
Copper Stone Necklace (retail ~$12)
This necklace has a brass charm that says "Live-Laugh-Love", a Bronze Key ("to remember you are the key to finding your own happiness") and a natural Sodalite stone.  This isn't really my style, but I feel like it will be a very sweet good luck charm to pass on to someone special.  :-)

The Edibles
Jumbo Sea Salt Caramels (retail ~ $2?)
These caramels are made with only sea salt, butter, and sugar by Grandma Cindy.  They are a handmade Etsy item and proceeds from the caramel sales support the medical bills of the creators grandson.  It's a great cause and the caramels are definitely delicious.  I highly suggest these to anyone who is a caramel fan.

Mott's Flavored Apple Cider (retail ~ $2.40)
I'm a huge fan of apple cider.  Right now I've been enjoying buying fresh apple cider to enjoy, but when the season is over these will definitely come in handy.

The Pampering
Organic Cider Spice Soap by SomervilleSoapWorks (sample - $1)
This handmade soap has a very gentle smell and softly exfoliates.  I really liked how the scent wasn't too overpowering.

Body Butter by The Concord Soap Company (sample $1)
I got two samples of this body butter - Almond and Green Cactus.  The sample packet sizes make them great to throw into a purse.  So far I've only tried the Almond one and it smells great!

Sugar Scrub Soap Cubes by All Earthly Things (sample $1)
These little sugar cubes of body scrub smell great, but I wish the consistency was a little looser.  They were too firm to just break apart in the shower.

Calming Bath Oil by BlissFull Apothecary (sample $2)
This bath oil smells amazing - maybe it will motivate me to actually take the time to relax and take a bath.  :-)

Overall another great box from Bonjour Jolie with a retail value of ~ $33.  I love getting surprise bonus treats with items I would otherwise have to go purchase anyway.

What did other people think of the November Bonjour Jolie box?

#bonjourjolie

Monday Musings 11/25/13

Welcome to Monday Musings Island edition. :-)

1. Antigua is beautiful

We are having an amazing time here in the beautiful Antigua.   It's my first time staying at an all inclusive resort, and I'm quite impressed.  The frozen cocktails and delicious food just keep coming. Here is the view from our beachfront room - complete with a rainbow. 

Here is a picture is a red footed tortise.  I named him Elviki. :-)

We don't plan on doing much other than enjoying the soft sounds of the ocean waves, but on Wednesday I'll get to show D my Katnis skills with a bow and arrow. 

2.  Kids do not belong at R rated movies

The weekend before leaving on our vacation, D and I went to go see "12 Years a Slave."  It is a very powerful film and will definitely get attention during awards season.  I realize the harsh images and vocabulary are a sad reality of American history, but that does not mean someone should bring a 7 year old to this movie.  A couple in front of us brought a small child to the theatre.  As I keep thinking about the movie, I also continue to be disturbed someone would bring a kid to see this.  The movie is rated R for a reason. :-(

3.  I'm over the juicing craze

I was becoming a fan of occasional juice cleansing before our wedding and I still maintain if anyone is curious to give it a try the Blueprint cleanse is the way to go. Last week I decided to try a similar cleanse offered by a new juice bar near our apartment.  I don't know if it was the fact the juices were different or if my body is now just decided to be tired of juicing, but I didn't even make it half a day.  By lunch time, it felt like crap and ended up eating lunch.  I realize this doesn't make much sense but I'm still done with juicing.  

That's all for now!  Happy Thanksgiving week to all!!

#Mondaymusings

Stitch Fix #3

My third StitchFix arrived just as I was packing for our Thanksgiving vacation.  The timing was actually perfect since I figured I might have something fun to pack.  This being my third fix, I was hoping issues with how things fit would be resolved and that I would love at least one item to put the $20 styling fee to use.

Here is my fix!  The box was lighter and less full than the previous ones.  

Amy was my stylist this time.  I guess my feedback from each order gets saved centrally and I should expect to always have a different stylist.  She mentioned in her note to me she was sending some blouses that would go great with jeans and a different blazer to try.  Since I had previouslyshared a link of my Pinterest board with styles I like, one of the dresses she included was one I had previously pinned in a different color.  Here are the items in my fix:

Missy Polka Dot Tab Sleave Blouse by 41Hawthorn ($58)

I really liked this print.  Unfortunately, like the other blouses I've received from stitchfix previously, the fit was too boxy in the body.  41Hawthorn is the house brand for stitchfix and I think I need a size down in their blouses.  I made sure to include that in my feedback. The fact the fabric was very sheer was not something I was thrilled about, but if the fit would have been great I would have been happy to always wear a tank top under it. Status: Returned

Capitola Fit and Flare Tank Dress by 41Hawthorn ($78)

This was the dressed I had pinned on my Pinterest board, so I was excited to see it in the box.  It was also nice to know the Pinterest board actually gets looked at by the stylists.  Even though the version I had pinned was in red, I was very excited for this shade of blue.  The fit was perfect.  (Sorry for blurry photo! :-(  ) Status: Kept

Ivy Lace Printed Tab Sleave Blouse by 41Hawthorn ($68)

I liked the color, but the fit of this blouse was the same as the other one.  Too big.  Status: Returned

Joede Asymmetrical Sheath Dress by Miilla ($68)

The asymmetry was part of the draping on the back which I couldn't manage to get a good photo of. I felt like the dress was kind of shapeless and didn't do much for me.  Maybe I should have tried belting it, but I didn't particularly care for it enough to consider it. (Another blurry photo. Sorry!!!)  Status: Returned

Toshi Contrast Long Sleave Blazer by 41Hawthron ($88)

While the blouses by this brand are too big, this jacket was too small. They are both the same size but I would have needed a bigger size in this.  I also didn't love the contrast cuffs. Maybe a blazer is something too difficult to estimate the right size for.  Status: Returned

Overall I liked the styles I was sent, but the fit just wasn't right for most of the items this time around.  I ended up keeping the dress since it's a peice I know I'll wear and the price was very reasonable (especially when putting the styling fee to use).  In addition to my feedback regarding the sizing, I requested my next fix not include dresses.  I'm really hoping to add some great separates to my wardrobe with my next fix.  #stitchfix

Interested in trying stitchfix?  Please use my referral link!  https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3184070.