June Birchbox = happiness:)

Hi Lovelies! My goodness, it feels like it's been forever since I've blogged! This weekend was pretty busy, but in a good way! It rained allllll last week (welcome to hurricane season, Florida!) but the clouds finally cleared over the weekend and I even got some time at the beach! Yay!

So, today I got my June Birchbox in the mail. For a while Birchbox was very hit or miss... one month was awesome, the next month would be like.. Um, really, Birchbox?? Did you not check my beauty profile?? And every month I say, "I'll give them one more month and then decide if I'll cancel or not."

Birchbox may have won me over this month... Like I am SUPER excited about everything in my box. EVERYTHING. This is surprising to me, 'cause I'm not sure I've ever liked every little thing they send me. Last month's Gossip Girl box was really good, too. And dare I say this... I think Birchbox might've even been better than Beauty Army this month (gasp). I know, I know. I LOVE Beauty Army. I love their brands; I love their customer service; love their social media activity; love it all! I really do! But the past few months, my choices have been kinda crappy (my fault? perhaps, but I retook my beauty profile again last month...) and this month when I got my box it was just kinda like.. eh... whatever. I didn't even take pictures. I did get a full size NYX mascara which I'm pretty psyched about. (do people even use the word "psyched" anymore? lol well, I guess I just did;)

So, enough rambling! Here is my June Birchbox!

Comodynes Self-Tanning Intensive
Who needs the sun when you can get a safe, buildable, and natural-looking tan with these bestselling European towelettes? Pack of 8, $14.99
Okay, I'm a little nervous about trying these, 'cause I really don't know what color they'll turn me (I may live in Florida, but I practice safe-sun and am very fair skinned... think Snow White... that is the color of my skin right now... lol) But I'm curious to try them and see how they work compared to fake tan lotions, sprays, and creams!

Eyeko Fat Eye Stick
A Birchbox exclusive, this UK brand's too-cool shadow stick combines creamy color and long-lasting wear. Full-size, $15
I'm a little sensitive to things called "fat" lol, but this looks pretty cool! It works as an eyeshadow and liner! I'm definitely gonna do a post just on this after I use it for a while:)


Likewise Facial Moisturizer + Sun Protectant SPF 50 Normal to Oily
Get sun savvy with this zinc-infused cream. It acts like a hydrating toner to mattify skin while deflecting UV rays. Full-size, $44
Yay sun protector!! As I previously stated, I'm fair and nearly all the sunscreen I use is 50+ SPF, so this will definitely be great to throw in my beach bag.. or really even use under my makeup on a regular day!

theBalm cosmetics Stainiac in Beauty Queen
We're crazy about this two-in-one lip and cheek stain: the sheer gel formula delivers a subtle, long-wearing flush. Full-size $17
I'm definitely a little nervous about this...lol. It's kind of the color of fake blood (you know the kind that's out around Halloween time for costumes?) and the fact the word "stain" is in its name, I'm also afraid I'm going to have big red clown like splotches on my cheeks... but we will see!:)

tili Bag
Breeze through airport security with these too-cute plastic bags. They're perfectly sized for storing all your travel essentials (and beauty samples). Pack of 9-12, $8.49-$9.49
This is absolutely adorable! Even if not traveling, you can use it to store little stuff in the bathroom, in your purse, in your makeup case, etc. I LOVE it.


John Varvatos Star USA
In honor of Father's Day, we've included this dapper cologne, a blend of ginger, juniper, berris, and velvet. Pass it on to a lucky guy friend or family member. Full-size, $55-70
I kinda want to send this to my dad, but will it seem cheap if I give him a sample for Father's Day? (along with other stuff, of course! lol:)

Also included was a $25 off my first purchase at Artspace which sells "the world's best art. insider prices" (good to know!)

And there you have it! I'm wondering if I'm more excited about everything this month because I got my box before seeing what others got? Sometimes I'll see something someone got and when it's not in my box I feel letdown. :( lol.

Anyway, if you've ever wanted to try Birchbox, you totally should! You can click here and for $10 a month you can get fabulous surprises sent to you! Cancel at anytime:)

What's in your box this month? Who's your favorite subscription service right now?

What's in my May Birchbox?

Lovelies! The week is half over! Yaaaay!! I've gotta tell you, there are some weeks I only get thru by planning what I'm going to do on the weekend, hahaha. Sometimes even if there are no plans, it still helps to think about Saturday to get thru the week! lol. How do you get through long/hard weeks??

Anyway! Today is another box to show you! My Birchbox!!! I feel like Birchbox can read my mind or something and somehow knew that I was thinking about cancelling so they send me a package with products that I actually enjoyed! To me, Birchbox has been really hit or miss. I'd get a box that I liked and was like, "ok, cool, well done!" then I'd get a box and be like, "what is this?? what in my profile made you think I'd want this??"

Well, this month their theme was "Gossip Girl" which, I've honestly never watched, but I feel like it's a show I would like. So maybe I'll check it out sometime (is it on Netflix?). And when I opened my kit, I pretty much liked *everything*

Without further ado, let's get right to it and see what I received!:)

Arquiste L'Etrog

This transporting scent will take you to an exotic Mediterranean cabin built out of palm leaves and foraged branches. Beneath these opening woodsy notes hovers a bright base of Etrog citron, which is native to Calabria, plus lush date and fragrant myrtle. The overall composition is warm and citrusy without veering into overly sweet territory.

Okay, I actually really didn't like how this smells. But it will not go to waste! I gave it to my mom for mother's day:) lol She'll enjoy it!

Dr. Jart+ Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25+

A moisturizer, sunscreen, and treatment serum all-in-one, this tinted balm even helps hide imperfections—so there’s no need for foundation or cover-up. Think of it as the Swiss Army Knife of your beauty cabinet.

A combination of glacier water, deep ocean water, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera deeply hydrate skin to ensure you that you look dewy, never dry. Sebum-regulating ingredients keep your complexion from becoming greasy, while portulaca oleracea extract protects skin from environmental damage. The cherry on top of this multi-tasking product is broad-spectrum SPF 25+, which blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays from reaching your skin.

I'm super excited about trying this!! This is definitely the kind of product I'd pick up on my own; though I've never heard of Dr. Jart+ so I'm glad that Birchbox introduced me to it:)

Color Club® Foil Collection

Give your nails an unexpected look with Color Club’s edgy foil shades. A favorite of top beauty bloggers (not to mention everyone in our office), these polishes have a super-reflective metallic finish that’s truly mesmerizing. We’re warning you now: you won’t be able to stop staring at your nails.
 
Disco Nap is a metallic gold with a silvery finish, while Foil Me Once is an icy pink with faint mauve undertones. And you’ll be happy to hear that all of Color Club’s nail polishes are free of harmful ingredients like formaldehyde and parabens.

This is such a fun color!! I don't have any metallic polishes and this is just really pretty and soft. Plus, when it comes to football season, I bet I can use it for some good Steelers black and gold manis;) (to all my international friends, that is American football;)[p.s. I just realized this wasn't in my box when I took the picture! oops! I really did get it!]

beautyblender® blendercleanser

We’re all guilty of being a bit sporadic when it comes to washing our makeup sponges and brushes. But since we found this lavender-scented cleanser, we’re fully committed. Originally designed to be used with the bestselling beautyblender®, it’s also great for any other tool that comes into contact with our skin. The earth-friendly formula gets rid of the bacteria, dirt, and oil that can accumulate over time. Plus, the gentle low-suds formula doesn’t contain any artificial dyes or irritating ingredients.
 
Use this soy-based cleanser to clean your tools regularly and keep them in pristine condition. It’s also a way of doing your skin a favor. Soy has natural moisturizing properties and dissolves any dirt and debris trapped in your brushes and sponges.

I'm not gonna lie, I don't clean my makeup brushes nearly enough or as much as I'm supposed to (or really at all, it seems at times...) I know it's such a simple thing that can really keep my face safer and cleaner... No excuses! Especially not since Birchbox sent me this! I used it on Sunday to clean my brushes--all of them--and it's like I have a brand new set!! Yay!! I'm going to keep doing it every week now--just like I'm supposed to:) Thanks, Birchbox!

A greeting card was also stuck in my box. It's a really cute red card that says "xoxo" on the front and came with a pink envelope! Someone will get a special message from me!:)

But my absolute favorite thing in the box?? It's actually the cheapest, littlest thing ever haha. It's a

Twistband Skinny Headband

We never seem to have a headband when we need one, like those times we’re trying to salvage a bad hair day or running on a treadmill with sweaty bangs. Happily, these hip elastic bands are remedying the situation for good. Perhaps the most versatile hair accessory ever, they look equally awesome paired with your workout gear or a sweet sundress. This six-pack comes with a variety of fun colors—from orange to turquoise—to match every mood and outfit.
 
Skinny and stylish, each band is made of super-soft elastic that won’t leave a crease behind or induce a dreaded headband headache. They’re especially great for those growing out their bangs.

I LOVE THIS!!! Mine is bright yellow, but these things are seriously the best!!! It doesn't hurt my head, doesn't slide, it's just amazing! I would definitely buy more! When I opened my Birchbox, I put this in my hair right away--tag still on 'cause I hadn't even taken pictures yet lol--but it is simply fabulous!! If you haven't tried one of these, you totally need to!:)

A final thought on Birchbox for today: I thought since it was a special Gossip Girl box, everyone was going to get the same box (I have no basis for this opinion, just thought it) SO! When I saw Arielle's box, Daanielle's box, and Lizzy's box I was both surprised (and impressed) that no one got the same exact thing! And out of all of them, I think I really like mine best! At least this time, haha, usually I see other people's boxes and get jealous that they got something "better" than I did. But Birchbox definitely got it right this time;) Another month I won't be cancelling... but I'm still not totally sold on Birchbox, so I'll keep you posted!

What was in your Birchbox this month?? Do you watch "Gossip Girl"? What do you think about it??:)

May Beauty Army First Impressions (and why they're awesome)

Hi Lovelies! Another month and another Beauty Army kit! As usual, I'll show you what I got with some initial thoughts. Make sure you scroll down all the way to the end to see something really special about Beauty Army!:)

CellCeuticals
PhotoDefense SPF 55+

Photo-Defense Anti-PhotoAging Daily Skin Protector is an ultra light hydrating formula with patent pending Photoplex, which provides extreme anti-aging protection against daily UVA and UVB sun exposure, oxidative stress, and glycation. Fortified with a powerful Auto-Defense System and vitamin D to help strengthen the skin's natural defenses. PhotoDefense contains Photoplex, a photostable complex with exclusize Cellular EEQ (Excited Energy Quenchers) Technology. Photoplex provides broad-based spectrum UVA/UVB protection and quenches both free radicals and advanced glycation end products, which prevents premature skin aging.


I'm really excited about this! Every day I get closer and closer to 30 which means I'm closer to more and more wrinkles! The fact that this "prevents premature skin aging" means I should automatically love it!!:) Plus, I *love* how high the SPF is! I'm super fair, and the more protection I have, the better my skin is!;)

Weleda
Almond Soothing Cleansing Lotion

Sensitive and reactive skin gets soothed and restored with this gentle hypoallergenic Almond Soothing Cleansing Lotion. This natural face wash is a creamy, fragrance-free facial treatment with organic ingredients that gently cleanses and protects your skin.


Organic sweet almond oil in our Weleda Almond Soothing Cleansing Lotion is packed with essential fatty acids that help nourish and soothe your sensitive skin while balancing your natural moisture level for truly healthy beauty. Plum kernel oil in this natural face wash contains high quantities of antioxidants and vitamins A and E, which absorb easily to soften your skin and protect from harmful environmental influences. Your skin feels refreshed, soft and balanced when you use Weleda Almond Soothing Cleansing Lotion. Delightfully mild, you can’t help but be soothed by the purity of your naturally cleansed skin.

This stuff smells divine!! I was a little confused as to what it was--is it a cleanser? Or a lotion? Do I rinse it off? Or leave it on?? lol, I am very excited to try it out!

Aquolina
Pink Sugar Body Mousse
A soft mousse which captures the sweetness and sensuality of the Pink Sugar fragrance, leaving the skin long lastingly scented and soft.

I think it was last month I got the Pink Sugar perfume sample and FELL IN LOVE!!! It's been quite some time since I invested in a pricey perfume. For me, I've found that the more cheaper sprays from Bath and Body Works suited me just fine. But after having the Pink Sugar sample, I went to Ulta and bought the whole bottle! It is such a light, sweet smell. It's like cupcakes and cotton candy!! I'm like a walking sugar cane lol:) So I was super excited when I got to pick up the lotion mousse to try!!!

LaRocca Skincare
Cellular Gold Hydrating Body Balm
With an enriching blend of Cupuaçu butter, Shea butter and olive oil, this ultra-rich nourishing balm soothes and melts beautifully into the skin adding intense moisture lasting all day.

Directions: Scoop out with your fingers and massage into your skin, as often as desired. Best after bath.

I got a LaROCCA product in one of my first Beauty Army kits and I have been looking forward to trying some of their other awesome items! I've only used this a couple times since I got it, but it has a very fresh, fruity, kind of citrusy smell. But it is soooo soft and smooth! It is simply fabulous!

Lucy B
Pink Frangipani Eau De Parfum
Lucy B’s Pink Frangipani roll-on perfume oil is a tropical Australian beach scent that has top notes of pink grapefruit & pineapple with middle notes of red suva frangipani and bottom notes of heliotrope & coconut milk.It has the added benefit of the mood boosting natural Australian flower essences.

This is a really pretty, summery smell. It reminds me of walking on a tropical beach with the sun on my shoulders and the breeze blowing through my hair. I'm not in love with it, but I need to try it a little more to really see how it interacts with my body:)

Finally, Beauty Army is trying something new! There are products you can try for your man! I think this is a great idea, not just for the men in your life, but to even review some manly products! I understand most of my readers are female, but I know there are some men that also stumble upon my blog! So my last item in my Beauty Army kit for May is....

Sex Panther
Sex Panther Cologne is the most awesome cologne ever made in the history of the entire world. Scientifically engineered from space age petroleum distillates and animal byproducts. 60% of the time, it works every time.

Unleash your inner animal!

Sex Panther cologne lures you in with clean and refreshing top notes of fresh air accord and juniper while the heart of the fragrance centers around lavender and sensual musks. As the fragrance evolves it turns warmer as it envelopes you with masculine notes of cedar and sandalwood.

OMG. This stuff smells so unbelievably amazing!!! I have been unable to convince my man friend to try it out for me, and I'm wondering if I could test it myself and see what kind of reactions I'd get, but... we will see:)

So that's my May Beauty Army kit! But, as promised I wanted to tell you something about Beauty Army. You know I've been with them for a while now and my only complaint had ever been that it took too long to get the kit here! lol But that's more my impatience than anything;)

Last month I mentioned that each item wasn't individually wrapped--while I think that was something really special that they did, I don't think it's changed the quality of any of the products I receive. This month, the outside of the box changed. It used to have all kinds of beauty/makeup words all over the top--I thought that was so fun! Now it's just "Beauty Army" across the top. It definitely makes it more simple/sleek/classy/whatever, but I was sad and felt it took away some of the uniqueness.

You may be thinking, all right, Kristen, seems you're just complaining about them, can you get to the point? Well, the Lucy B. perfume in my kit this month--I was supposed to get two 1 oz samples. I got one. And it was a third of the way full. Almost like it had spilled out or something--though nothing was wet or smelly in the box. This made me very sad. :( So I emailed Beauty Army and just told them what happened. (here's where the story gets exciting) They responded to me in less than an hour (it was actually ELEVEN MINUTES) with an apology and told me that next month, send her a note to remind her and they'll let me pick an additional sample to make up for the loss! Thank you Beauty Army! I didn't expect anything from them (okay, maybe an apology lol) but I got way more than that!

I have always been impressed with how active Beauty Army is on Facebook and Twitter, but their customer service is seriously unsurpassed! Two thumbs up for Beauty Army! Thanks so much!!:)

How about you? What was in your kit this month? Have you had any experience with their customer service department? What company(ies) do you think have the best customer service??

Hello Glossbox USA, I think I love you!

By now, you've probably heard the latest on the big news in beauty subscription boxes! Ladies and gentlemen, GLOSSYBOX IS NOW IN THE USA!!! Yaaaaaaayyyy!!! You may not see why this is so exciting yet (but you will;), and many of my international readers can probably sing the praise of Glossybox that they've had in their countries a lot longer:)

Several months ago, when I first started looking at which beauty box I waned to subscribe to, I started researching all the ones that were out there. Glossybox seemed absolutely amazing! The blogs and videos about them just made me think, yes! That is what I want!

One major problem. ... Not available in the States. *sigh*

Beauty Army had just started so I signed up with them (and loved them!) and got on Birchbox's and Glam Bag's waiting list.

Then. The announcement came.

GLOSSYBOX WAS COMING TO USA! Yaaaay!! They didn't have a lot of info on the site at the time; and they were still working out what brands they would be working with. But they had a simple entry form: enter your email to win a chance to try one of the first boxes! Of course I enter.

Then. The email came.

I WAS A WINNER!!! I was going to get one of the first American Glossy boxes!!!!

It came in last week, I opened it up! Full size products! Beautiful, wonderful products!

Then. I fell in love.

And here is the story of how we fell in love:)

I opened the perfectly pink box to see gorgeous pink tissue paper and a blank and pink insides... upon unwrapping the ribbon and pulling back the tissue paper I was greeted by six perfectly prepared products:

Basq Cucumber Tea Eye Gel
Give your eyes a fresh start with Basq's soothing and smoothing Cucumber Tea Eye Gel ($24.00/.5oz)
[I LOVE this! The consistency is like that of aloe. It's cool and refreshing when you put it on! I've been wearing it around my eyes every night since I bought it. I wake up with less puffy and more refreshed eyes.]

OPI Kiss Me on my Tulips
A smooch-worthy shade of hot pink ($8.50/.5oz)
[I haven't used this color yet; but I love OPI and I love pink polish, so this is a winner no matter how you look at it;0}

C.O. Bigelow Lavendar & Peppermint Body Lotion
An exhilarating formula that will moisturize and soothe your skin ($12.00 5.2oz)
[This lotion just smells expensive! Hahaha. I believe I read that this company was only making products for hotels for a while; so it's definitely a quality lotion. I haven't used it yet]

Erno Laszlo Hollywood Collection
This Hollywood Collection of Creams commemorate 85 years of Erno Laszlo with forumlas inspired by his iconic devotees: Ava, Katharine, Marilyn, Grace and Greta. ($125.00/5x.5oz)

Kryolan High Gloss Brilliant Lip Shine (Toffee)
This lip gloss is filled with pearl pigments that supply your lips with extraoridnary radiance. *Exclusive to Glossybox before Kryolan's US launch ($18.10/.135oz)
[Lipgloss is by far by favorite makeup product of all time. And I am thrilled to be one of the first to try this brand!! The applicator is a brush instead of the usual spongey applicator, and I'm excited about that. Like painting my lips!:)]

Total cost of products:$187.60.
Total cost to me: $0
Cost of Glossybox USA: $21

I'm going to assume that last number may cause concern to some of you. Twenty-one dollars? But almost all the other beauty boxes here are around $10, that's more than double what we're paying now! True, but the quality is more too. At least for now.

This is where my one concern is. Did they make the first box super fabulous to get everyone sucked in? Then they collect all their money and the quality starts to deteriorate? Should I sign up right away or wait?

See, right now I'm doing Birchbox and Beauty Army--together they are $22. So really, if I did *just* Glossybox, I'd be saving money! lol. I haven't decided what I'm going to do yet, but I can say that I am definitely impressed (and in love) with Glossybox. If they actually win me over as a customer is still to be determined:)

Did you get one of the first US Glossyboxes? Do you live in a country where they've had it for years? Do you think it's worth the money? What is your favorite monthly subscription service?

April Birchbox First Impressions

Hey Lovelies! A few disclaimers up front: as I write this post, I have not tried ANYTHING yet in my Birchbox. Also, this month was just kind of eh for me. I'm okay with what I got in my box, but I sometimes hate seeing what other people got 'cause I see stuff I think I'd like more lol. But alas, I am still grateful for what I have.

At the end of this post, I am going to say a few words about Birchbox that I'm sure you'll want to hear (well, read;)

So! Here is what my box has!

Befine Skincare Sampler
Revive dull skin with this gentle cleanser and moisturizer duo. both use rice extrats to restore skin's natural barrier (Full size $24 each)

dirt. luxe salt scrub in lemon leaf
Battling rough patches? Show 'em who's boss. This all-over body scrub uses she butter, lemon oil, and raspberry seeds to moisturize as it exfoliates (Full size $45)

Orofluido Beauty Elixer
We don't know what we love more--this hair treatment's trio of nourishing essential oils (argan, linseed, and cyperus)--or its intoxicating vanilla amber scent. (Full size $29.99)

Vapour Organic Beauty Elixir Lipgloss
This sheer tinted gloss is infused with yummy botanicals like lemon balm and green tea. You'll love the pretty hue and non-sticky feel. (Full size $20)

Le Palais des Thes Tea Bags
Little known fact: the French take teatime just as seriously as their coffee breaks--as evidenced by these sophisticated Parisian green tea blends (20 pack $12.50)
So overall a decent box:) I'm really excited to try the tea and the Orofluido beauty elixir! Look for full reviews in the future:)

Now, here's the interesting thing that happened this month with Birchbox. The day I got it in the mail, I saw a note on Twitter that the Befine moisturizer samples were expired! (this was note a note from Birchbox, this was something that someone else had retweeted.) I pulled out my box and checked and sure enough! It said "EXP 2010/02" :( Birchbox sent me expired product! I got in a discussion on Twitter with some other girls about this issue. It seemed that all of us got expired product though the dates differed. I probably never would've even thought to look at the date! I know some beauty products have dates on it, but do they really go "bad" or do they just lose some of their effectiveness?

Thankfully, the story does not end there!;) Birchbox Customer Service sent me a note yesterday that said:

Dear Birchbox Customer,

It has come to our attention that a small number of the Befine Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15 samples included in our April boxes may have passed their expiration dates. Please check the stamp on the outside of your packet of Befine Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15. If your sample has expired, we advise you not to use the product, as the SPF is not guaranteed to be effective after the stated expiration date.

If you received an expired sample of the moisturizer, we would like to deposit 100 Birchbox Points in your account. Please complete this survey by April 27 to request the points award; your account will be updated by May 1.

We take pride in sending you high-quality products from great brands, typically their newest and best selling products. This situation is unacceptable and not representative of the Birchbox standard for product quality. We are working with Befine to determine the root cause of the error, and we deeply apologize for this experience.

All the best,
Hayley and Katia

I thought this was an AWESOME way to handle the situation! I appreciated that they acknowledged the problem; accepted responsibility; and are doing something to make things right! Well done, Birchbox!

This could have gone any number of ways. And honestly, after not hearing anything about it again for a few days, I was worried they were going to just sweep it under the carpet and like oh well, whatever. I was very excited to get that email and very impressed with how the whole thing was handled!

For those of you who don't know how Birchbox points work, for every 100 points, you get $10 of credit to use in their store. So basically, they're giving everyone $10 to spend which is almost like refunding the entire month's box! I think this is over and above what was even necessary for a few expired moisturizer products. THANK YOU BIRCHBOX!:)

What did you get in your box this month? Did you have expired product? How do you feel about how they handled it?

April Beauty Army and First Impressions

Hey Lovelies! Another month and another Beauty Army kit! I'm starting to think they just keep getting better and better! And they've been getting here faster! LOL Or maybe it just seemed faster because I completely avoided reading any of the tracking information so I'd be surprised when it got here!:)

I opened it up, and the first thing that I noticed that was different this time was that not every item was individually wrapped! Just a folded sheet of pink tissue paper over top of everything... Beauty Army cutting costs and not paying someone to wrap everything? Or did my kit just get through quality control and someone forgot to do it? hahaha.

So without further ado! Here is what I got this month with some of my first impressions!

the pink tissue paper just folded in:( lol

everything in the kit when I removed the tissue paper!:)

First item, packaged almost like a mini-tampon, lol is the Aquolina Pink Sugar Eau de Toilette. They made it almost childproof to get in to! Hahah. Once I opened the plastic, it's just a little vial of perfume. This stuff smells soooo yummy! It's not too strong or potent, just sweet and feminine! LOL I'm writing my thoughts and I realize it's pretty much what's in the description:

Two drops of perfume and the world is tinted pink. Pink is the color of femininity, sweetness and passion. Pink is the color of emotions, of sensuality and indulgent innocence. Pink Sugar is a cloud of sweetness that lasts long on the skin.

A unique olfactory experience interlacing fantasy and reality. The encounter of femininity and inner childhood. The earliest memories in life are also the most addictive. Nostalgia of cotton candy tinted with gourmand raspberry, tickled by the greenness of fig leaf, and lifted by the citrus notes of bergamot and Sicilian orange.

Product Size: 1.7 fl oz ($45)

This is my second Indie Lee product and this is fabulous!!! It smells sweet with just a hint of tartness that gives it a little kick! The scrub seems really rough when you start, but as you work it into your skin (and it gets off all the dead skin) it starts smoothing out! I've only used this a couple times so far, but I am definitely a fan!
 
Indie formulated this all natural scrub, to deliver a daily dose of pampered, sexy skin. The essential oils create a calming, light, lemon scent to start or end your day.

Product Size: 12 fl oz ($38)

I had seen some other girls get this in the kits in previous months, so I was very excited when it was one of my choices! It really smells like bananas!!!! Kind of a cross between artificial banana (like a yellow Popsicle) and real bananas. It reminds me of a banana pudding or banana cream pie! Omg, I'm getting hungry just typing about it lol. Anyway, this stuff is super thick and super creamy. A thicker version of a Body Shop body butter! Almost like... cream cheese. That kind of consistency. I've used this a couple times on rough parts of my body (on my feet after a pedicure at home) and it is definitely moisturizing and softening. I'm almost positive I'll have this done before I get to choose my next samples! It's pretty fab!:)
 

Bananas and baobabs, oh my! Need that fresh from the jungle feeling? Well, you've got it. This luxurious, pampering cream will give you super soft skin all day long with a combination of 30% organic shea butter and African baobab oil. But that's not all. The all-natural banana extract in this baby will make you want to pull out a spoon and dig in.

African baobab oil is cold pressed for Shea Terra Organics in West Africa. Many of the amazing upside down trees are over 3000 years old. The oil is highly emollient and rich in omegas.

How to Use: Dig in and spread all over. Jump all over like a monkey in a baobab tree.

Product Size: 9 oz ($18)

I really don't have a lot to say about this product yet. But I will soon!:)
 
Strengthens hair, making it over 2x more resistant to breakage*
Protects against color fade by 94%**

Keratin Peptide Complex™:
• Bio-Mimetic Peptides
• Keratin Amino Acids
•Jojoba Oil
• Aloe Extract

*vs. untreated control group
**week following color service ($34.50)

I absolutely adored my BABOR sample last month (the Argan Cream! Like silk on my face!) and was looking forward to trying more of their products this month. I haven't tried this yet, but I will:)
 
BABOR CLEANSING is the first step to beautiful skin. BABOR has combined the natural cleansing power of oil and water to create a unique signature bi-phase cleansing system that ensures mild but thorough deep-cleansing. This gentle hydrophilic (water loving) cleansing oil is formulated with pure herbal ingredients, is free from preservatives and is suitable for all skin types. It is used in combination with a skin-specific Phytoactive cleansing fluid (sold separately).

Benefits: A gentle, water soluble cleansing oil that leaves no oily residue on skin. Must be applied with the skin specific phytoactive. Great for all water and oil soluble make up.

Application: Massage 3 pumps of HY-OL onto the skin. Immediately apply 2 pumps of Phytoactive on top and massage together. Add water, massage and rinse off. A wash cloth may be used, if desired, for the ultimate cleansing experience.

Product Size: 6.8 fl oz ($32)

LOL I took this picture next to a quarter just to give you a visual of the size of this last product. And the container really only has a little spot of product in it! (but, this is only like a .1 oz sample or something so what do you expect?) The whole concept of this intrigues me. It's like a concealer but thicker? or something. I'm a little nervous thought because it comes in "medium" and I am definitely "fair"... but we shall see!
 
Have a Boo-Boo? Skip the bandage and the shiny ointment. Look your best even while you heal with Boo-Boo Cover-Up. The innovative formula offers great coverage for skin imperfections while containing ingredients known in nature to promote healing.

Directions: Dot and blend a small amount over minor skin imperfections. A little goes a looooong way! Shake if needed. Apply twice a day for 6-8 weeks. Not intended for use on open wounds.

Shade: Medium 

Product Size: 0.5 fl oz. ($20.85)

Total Value of full size products: $188.35
Amount I spent: $12

And that, ladies and gentlemen, concludes this month's First Impressions of my Beauty Army Kit!:) Have you tried any of these products? Ones you love or loathe?

Also, Beauty Army has wait-listed a lot of people, but I think they are now opening new memberships! So get in while you can! Or at least on a wait list! I promise you it's a $12 a month well spent!:)

What's in my March Birch Box?

Hi Lovelies! I know last month I expressed much disinterest in Birchbox. It was only my first month, and I was about ready to cancel on the spot! However, I stuck it out another month and it was well worth it!

I still don't have *as* good of things to say about Birchbox as I do about Beauty Army. I still think overall Beauty Army has more quality products; much better customer service; and it's super cool you can choose your own samples! But Birchbox is still fun because they send more affordable, easier to buy products that I might actually purchase in every day life.

Birchbox had announced that in March it would have a Teen Vogue box in addition to it's regular monthly box, and you could choose which one you wanted. Okay, clearly I am no longer a teen, but I was so disappointed in last month's box, I requested a Teen Vogue one anyway just to see what it contained!

I, however, did not receive the Teen Vogue box... Not sure why, but that is okay!

Now, my one (and only) complaint with Beauty Army is that it takes soooo freaking long to get here! (not their fault, they ship from Cali and I'm in Florida; I understand that's a long distance lol) But Birchbox is only coming from New York, and it traveled pretty fast last month. When I got the shipping notification it said it would be at my house approximately on March 13th... On March 15th, I received my box. *sigh* I'm giving up expecting things and even looking at the tracking info; I'll just be surprised! hahaha

So here's what they sent me:

I won't go thru every item, 'cause I'm probably one of the last people to post about my box this month, but I do what to point out a few of the things I was really excited about!

The polish! It's Color Club Jackie Oh! and it is simply stunning!! I love, love, love pink! This hot pink I might not purchase on my own 'cause it's just sooo bright, but I will definitely be using it! I'm sooo excited to get it on my nails! Also, while it's a mini, it's the absolute perfect size polish!!

The Miss Jessies's Quick Curls! I have naturally wavy hair and especially in the hot summer months I really don't want to be blow drying--so anything that I can use to watch, scrunch, and go is good for me!:) It promises "no fuss" and "frizz free" and even claims "curly, wavy, & relaxed textures including white gals too!" So this is encouraging:)

I will be continuing with Birchbox to see what other fun surprises I get!:) What did you get in your Birchbox??

March Beauty Army--YAY!:)

I love Beauty Army! I can't say I'm their #1 fan, because that is clearly Marina at mCubed Makeup lol. But I am definitely a huge fan! This is only my 2nd kit, and I cannot wait 'til I get to pick my samples again for my next one!!

You may recall last month that I said my only complaint was that it took sooooo lonnnnngggg to get here. :( I will say this month wasn't nearly as bad! Probably more because I kept my expecations in check so that even when I got the email saying "Your kit is on its way!" I knew I should wait about 2 weeks before really checking the mail box. And really, it did better this time! It shipped on Feb 24th (I chose my samples on the 23rd! So they are super serious about sending your stuff out right away! Love this!) and I got it on Mar 6. Soooo, ladies and gentlemen, that is *only* 8 business days! Faster than last month! (by a day, BUT STILL!!:)

Anyway, without further ado, here's what I got this month!

MyFace Cosmetics Blingtone Eyeshadow in Caribbean Queen
Inspired by the tranquil, azure colours of the Caribbean, where the blues and greens of the sea and sky blend together so that you can't tell where one ends and the other begins...caribbean queen is an iced turquoise that shimmers like the sun on the ocean and makes you swear you can hear steel drums in the distance when you wear it. (Full size cost $20)
This is not like any color I normally wear, but I loved last month's Blingtone Eyeshadow so much that I was just excited they were offering me another one! 


Mama Mio Shrink to Fit
An incredibly effective cellulite-blasting serum set in a richly moisturising cream. Double whammy; smooth ‘orange peel-free’ legs wrapped in soft, toned, nourished, FIT skin. To reduce the appearance of cellulite, you need to kick start the sluggish circulation, decongest and reduce toxins. Shrink To Fit is packed with the most effective, expensive cellulite busters, circulation stimulators and antioxidants; all at very, very high levels to ensure we have made the very best anti-cellulite cream we possibly could. (Full size cost $56)
This is the same brand that made the Boob Tube that I picked last month. I have no idea if this will actually fix my cellulite, but it's definitely worth a shot:)

Weleda Iris Hydrating Day Cream
Dry to very dry skin gets daytime strength and protection with this moisture-regulating Iris Dry to very dry skin gets daytime strength and protection with this moisture-regulating Iris Hydrating Day Cream. Our all natural face cream is a nutrient-intensive treatment that balances your skin’s natural moisture and provides a healthy base for facing forward and starting a beautiful day.

Iris root extract found in our Iris Hydrating Day Cream can help your skin naturally balance itself. Draw your natural moisture to the surface with Biodynamic® iris root extract in this all natural face cream to hydrate naturally and evenly. Organic shea butter, a soothing moisturizer packed with fatty acids, carotene and vitamins A, E and F, protects your naturally balanced skin against harmful environmental influences when you use our Weleda Iris Hydrating Day Cream. Organic cocoa seed butter nourishes your skin into supple perfection. Your skin emerges after using this all natural face cream with a luminous, moisturized softness you can see and feel. Get your morning skin in balance for nourished, healthy beauty that’s prepared for whatever your day throws at you. (Full size cost $20)
I'm always up for trying new moisturizers and am excited to see how this one performs!

Babor Argan Cream
Foreign regions are opening up new horizons in the world of cosmetics. Experience the exotic nature of Morocco’s “Liquid Gold” Harvested from the ancient Argan Tree-which is found only in the Sous valley of southwestern Morocco- this precious oil has long been valued for its medicinal, nutritional and cosmetic properties. The active ingredients such as Agranyl and Aloe Vera work to aid skin in retaining elasticity, boosting firming power and rejuvenating cells. The unique Arganyl extract also stabilizes the skin’s collagen fibers and protects them against enzymatic breakdown. Experience younger, more hydrated skin in minutes. (Full size cost $125. Yes, you read that right)
I would never pay this much for a skin product (unless it performs miracles; then maybe I'd consider it). But I am sooo thankful that Beauty Army offers products like this so I can try the super-duper expensive stuff! The packaging of this is so amazing. I've used it for 2 or 3 days now, and it feels so wonderful on my skin. So far I love it. Of course, for a $125 product, it should be lovable!!! lol

Cover FX Eye Prep FX
This anti-age smoothing eye primer immediately soothes, hydrates and helps reduce undereye puffiness. Formulated to strengthen the skin around the eye, it firms and rejuvenates while lightening dark undereye circles. EyePrep binds concealer, foundation and eye shadows to lids and eye area for long lasting wear. Tolerated by the most sensitive skin, this formula is oil free, fragrance free, paraben free and gluten free. (Full size cost $43)
Always looking for a new or better primer, I was delighted to see this as an option for this month's kit!!


Indie Lee Squalane Facial Oil
A naturally occurring oil that promotes elasticity in the skin. As we age, its production diminishes. This key component of our sebum helps boost cell regeneration and oxygenation, leaving your face looking healthy and radiant. (Full size cost $24)
So far I love Indie Lee. Her story, what she believes, what she creates, etc. (again, though Marina is definitely Indie's #1 fan! hahaha) This is my first Indie Lee product, and I'm curious about how it will work, because I think "Squalane Oil" is a fancy way to say Olive Oil:)

Total cost of all products* sent to me this month: $288
Amount I paid: $12
Do I love Beauty Army: Um, do you even have to ask??? YESSSS!!! Love love love!!

When I first took the beauty quiz, I was interested in anti-aging stuff (hello! I'm nearly 30! Aging started already!) But I think I might re-take the quiz and see what other fun stuff I can get!

What did you get in your kit this month? Are you receiving Beauty Army yet? If you're in the USA, you totally should do it!!:)

Click to join the Beauty Army with me!!:)

*based on full size product cost. I only receive sample sizes. (exception: Blingtone shadow)

February Birchbox--First Impressions

Hi Lovelies! I got my first ever Birchbox today and wanted to write a quick post to show you what I got and share my first impressions!

A little background, Birchbox was actually the first monthly subscription service I'd heard about and I went to sign up right away. I've been on the wait list for a few months and was super excited to get the chance to join a week or so ago! I filled out the beauty profile and was ready to get my surprises!

Within a week, I got notice that my first box was shipped! I just found that out on Saturday... Today is Wednesday! (+1 for them on BeautyArmy which took FOR EV ER to get here! But, it was shipping from the east coast so it had a shorter distance to go;)

Without further ado, here it is! (I'll show you everything then share some things at the end:)

Here it is first opened!

the welcome card

everything!

perfume, lip gloss, free music downloads

stick on eyeliner, clothing adhesive, powder puff

description of everything I got

So! At first, I was sadly disappointed. Since I got my BeautyArmy kit a little while ago and their "sample" sizes were actually real sizes of stuff that I could use several times to give a good solid review of things. Birchbox "sample" size is more or less nonexistent on some stuff.

My next thought was, when am I even going to use this stuff? I rarely if ever wear clothes that would need adhesive to keep it on... And a random powder puff?

But! I will say, I sprayed a little spritz of the Juicy perfume and I LOVE IT. It is definitely a scent that I enjoy and works well with me! And the lip gloss?? What a perfect color for me!! It's light and makes my lips look wet.

I'll still use everything and give you more thoughts later on. Bottom line right now? I still felt a little let down, but my expectations may have just been a little too high. I'll try it for another month or two, maybe retake my beauty profile, and see if I get some better/different stuff then:)

One Lovely Blog Award

Hello Lovelies! Today was an overall miserable blah day, BUT two fabulous things came out of it! 1.) I got an email from Birchbox saying that they has a spot for me now!! (I've been on the wait list since before Christmas time, so I'm super excited about that!) My first box should hopefully be shipping in the next couple weeks! I'm excited to get new samples as well as have another monthly subscription service to compare with Beauty Army!

2.) Kristin (similar name; spelled differently;) from Meet Me on the Brightside nominated me for the One Lovely Blog Award! Yayyyy!! I know sometimes the "award" blogs get old 'cause it seems like everyone is getting one for something; but what I love about them is when it's a straight up peer award and it's not an award that 18,000 other girls got! So thank you sooo much Kristin for thinking my blog was worthy enough to get this!

So here's how this one works:)

This award is personal, just a way for bloggers to encourage each other to keep up the good work. There are three rules to follow:

1. Thank the person who nominated you.
2. Name your nominated blogs. Notify them that you have done so.
3. Share seven things about yourself.

I nominate the One Lovely Blog to:

Beauty by Arielle

Seven Things Beauty

Gloss and Glitz

BeautyFul World

Thoughts of a Midwestern Girlie Girl

Seven Things About Me

1.) I'm watching all the seasons of Felicity again on Netflix. This show gave me false views of what college life would be like lol.

2.) I am obsessed with word games on my phone (Words with Friends, Hanging with Friends, and the one that I'm really all about now--Scramble with Friends!:)

3.) I love word games in general--Scrabble and Scattergories are my favorites:)

4.) I was known as "Sprinkles" at work for several years (it's slowly fading away since I've moved lol)

5.) I prefer Tampax to Playtex

6.) My hair has been my natural color for almost two years!

7.) Vanilla Coke Zero is my favorite soft drink:)

And there you go! Thanks again, Kristin! And congrats to the lovely ladies I nominated! You should check out their fab blogs:)

Beauty Army ~ First Impressions

Hi, Lovelies! Those of you that follow me on Twitter know that I was intently waiting on my first ever Beauty Army kit! I am happy to tell you all, that my kit reported for duty yesterday and I was super exited to open it up and see everything I got!

For those of you that don't know, Beauty Army is one of the newest kids on the blocks when it comes to monthly sample subscription services. The thing that sets them apart from the others is that you get to choose your samples! You still take the profile quiz like the other companies, so it recommends things to you based on your answers, but the final choice is totally up to you! You can read more about them at their website.

I'm not gonna lie, part of the reason I went with Beauty Army was simply 'cause there's a wait list at Birchbox and MyGlam, so this was the easiest one to sign up for;)

After taking the survey and making my selections, I refused to log back into the site to see what I selected, I still wanted a little bit of mystery and surprise when my kit arrived;)

So I'm going to show you everything I got, then I'll share with you some of my initial thoughts and reactions:) (text in italics is the description from the site).

The outer box is pretty cool. When I'd seen pictures other girls had posted, I thought that it was Beauty Army tape around the box, but it's actually printed ON the box. 

 The outer box opens and the inner box appears!

 The inner box is a very fancy flip up style like pencil boxes I had in elementary school. It's covered with fun beauty words all over the top:)

 When the box opens, it has this pretty pink camo on the inside (for the "army" part;) and a welcome card!

 The navy tissue paper opens to a layer of pink tissue paper...

 Then everything is wrapped like Christmas presents!:)

The icy, iconic blingtone collection from myface cosmetics is the new Hollywood obsession and boasts a break-thru formula packed with crushed pearl, not gaudy, garish glitter.  This precious jewel and metallic coloured shadow is the perfect blend of pearl and pigment. Create a wicked wash of colour and dramatic, wet-looking shine.  Blingtone eyeshadows  glide smoothly on to the eye, and won’t drop or flake. Color: Purple Haze ($20)

This intensive LIFT & FIRM Eye Cream redefines eye area to visibly firm and reduce the appearance of crow’s feet, deep wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness and sagginess. This includes Cell Protection Protein to stimulate skincell regeneration and protect against harsh climatic elements, Aquafill to fill in wrinkles and lock in moisture, Glucosyl Hesperidin to increase circulation to reduce dark circles, Unirepair t-43 to protect and treat environmental aggressors, Niacinamide to increase microcirculaion to reduce dark circles, and MDI Complex to inhibit MMP breaking down skin's collagen. (the full size price of this is $95!!)

A silky cream with a gentle natural exfoliant that dissolves makeup quickly while it moisturizes and stimulates collagen growth. Our revolutionary cellular gold complex, made with 24K gold energizes the cells while the green tea extract is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that leaves your skin smooth and radiant. ($45)

For reddened, inflammed or Rosacea-prone skin. Aloe vera, vitamin E and vitamin A join forces to neutralize the redness and flushing that result from vascular over-stimulation. Non-irritating microfine zinc oxide provides full spectrum sunscreen protection. ($48)

Aim North, not South! What women really love about Boob Tube is that the quality of their skin changes so quickly. Within a week, you will notice that the skin on your neck, your chest and your boobs looks firmer, fitter, glowing, more dewy and youthful. Daily use will maintain this beautiful skin and over the years you will be so pleased you took the time to befriend your bust.No crinkles or droop for you – no turtle necks or even turkey necks! You are so wise to daily dose with Boob Tube, feel free to thank us in 20 years. ($45)

Neo-Cell Micro-Resurfacing Skin Treatment uses natural enzymes and volcanic micro-minerals to gently resurface skin without irritation, revealing smoother, more radiant, and healthier-looking skin. Natural enzymes and volcanic-minerals work together to exfoliate surface skin cells without irritation. ($47.50)

Ta-da! And that is everything! The prices I listed above are what Beauty Army charges for the full size products of everything in my kit. Adding them all together totals: $300.50!!! And I only paid $12:) (and got small size:) But still! This is extremely expensive/high quality stuff that I would probably never buy on my own, so it's awesome I get to try it first.

Now, here's my one complaint. I feel like it took FOR-FREAKING-EVER to get here. When my payment was received and it was shipped out was super fast. Then I just waited. And waited. And waited some more. The tracking site they sent me wasn't updated very frequently, and I got more impatient as I saw such little progress being made. They say to give it 5-11 business days, and it took 9 business days to get to me. Which, I understand is well within the timeframe they gave, it was just too long for me! lol

To solve this problem, I would almost rather not get a tracking email and just be surprised when it gets here. Hahaha.

Overall though, I'm really excited to try everything! Especially that boob tube stuff. I'm highly intrigued to see if it works:)

So how about you? Have you tried Beauty Army yet? Will you? What monthly subscription service to you use?