Saturday, March 30, 2013

Julep Maven April Box


Most Julep Mavens get pretty excited to check the mail around the first of each month. I am not an exception to this rule.  Julep usually gets my box to me so quickly, especially since they are also in Washington, like me, so the box does not have to travel so far. I actually got my box on Friday, but I was waiting for my add on that came today before I did my review. This month I was really excited becuase not only were the colors awesome, but Julep added a couple new additions to  the Julep collection, Dry Shampoo and Mighty Nail and Cuticle Serum.  And they added the Mighty Nail &Cuticle Serum into their line of products.

Julep’s April theme was The Brights, and bright they were. I really did love the whole collection. However, I decided to just stick with my Classic with a Twist Box with the add on of the Dry Shampoo, since my whole box and the add on was free this month with using my Jules this month.  I secretly was hoping I might get a Golden Box, haha, wishful thinking.



April's  Classic with a Twist Box



The two polish colors in this box were Jackie and Avery.







These two colors were my favorite out the Maven box choices this month. 

Next in the box was

Mighty Nail & Cuticle Serum


What it is:
A nail serum with groundbreaking protein-peptide technology that strengthens nails and cuticles. 


What it does:
The Mighty Nail & Cuticle Serum is the first nail serum to use ground-breaking protein-peptide technology to transform dry and damaged cuticles almost overnight. Peptides are super-charged amino acids that support your body’s natural production of keratin (for your nails) and collagen (for your cuticles). Plus, get visibly stronger, smoother nails with fewer ridges and less splitting and brittleness in only two to three weeks. 

The Mighty Nail and Cuticle Serum sells for $22, so with this alone the entire box was paid for. Whoo hoo, way to go Julep. They really know how to treat their Julep Mavens.

Last my add on

Julep Invisible Dry Shampoo


This is going to be great for those work days that I sleep in, and need a hair pick me up before I leave.  I have never used a dry shampoo, but have been wanting to try it out, so I am excited to give it a shot.

Again Julep never lets me down, and I love all the colors. I am just kicking myself for not going in on the full collection of The Brights. I guess I have next month, and the Secret Store!

If you are interested in seeing more Julep Maven Boxes you can see them HERE.  If you are also looking at becoming a Julep Maven I would highly recommend it. You can always opt out on months you do not want to get a box, however, I will say it is a hard thing to each month, as Julep always has great colors.  Make sure to use Promo Code JULEPVIP, and you can get your first box for a penny. You can sign up HERE.
Until next time
Stay Tickled Pink,
Stephanie

Friday, March 29, 2013

Naturebox is a Keeper


Naturebox was one of those food subscription boxes that instantly drew me in. I am always looking for healthy snacks, and healthier ways of eating. a Naturebox definetly got it right when they curated their box. Naturebox has found healthy snacks for people, and help with snacking on unhealthy foods. The other item that drew me into Naturebox was that for each box that someone purchases Naturebox gives one meal to a child in need.  

If you want to learn more about Naturebox you can HERE.

For my first Nature box that I got I chose the Discovery Box.  This is my March box:



Such an assortment, and they all looked so yummy. The best part is that each pack is seal-able,  great to grab on my way out the door to work, and are really good sized. The bag size far exceed some Peckish packs and way bigger than the little nibble in the Graze samples. 

Here is what was inside my Naturebox:


Roasted Kettle Kernels


These are corn nuts and are really tasty.  They have a sweet and salty taste, and are really addicting.  I am actually snacking on them now as I write this, haha.

Granny Smith Apples


I am not the biggest fan of dried apples when they are not crunchy. However, I did taste one of these, and they are not bad, and did not lose their apple taste.  I think these will be a perfect snack for the little one in our house. 

Toasted Cheddar Stix


The cheesy taste of these were super addicting for me.  They certainly help to satisfy my snack attack. These are actually one of my favorites out of the box, and are almost gone.

Honey Mesquite Almonds


Almonds are my favorite snack. These had just a hint of honey mesquite, not too over powering. And the almonds were perfect to add to a salad at dinner and to snack on at work.  These were by far the best out the box. As you can tell in the pictures, the almonds were already opened because I had a hankering for the almonds even before I could get finish with the photos.

And Last, 

Sunshine Chips


These were very tasty. A more healthy potato chip. They were perfectly crisp with a great salty taste. The perfect mix of Sweet Yellow Potato, Squash, Carrots, Green Beans, and Purple Potato was excellent. I give these an A++.

Overall Naturebox is a subscription that I will be keeping around for awhile. It is a perfect subscription box for my household, and great for work.  For the price and the healthy quality of snacks you cannot go wrong with Naturebox. If you click my link on the side of my blog or click HERE, you can get $5 off your next box using the Promo Code HEALTHY. 

How do you like Naturebox or are you planning on joining in?

Until next time
Stay Tickled Pink,
Stephanie

Thursday, March 28, 2013

Ipsy March Glam Bag



 It has taken me awhile to post the Ipsy Glam Bag, but finally here it is. The theme this month was the Great Escape. Ipsy is getting everyone all excited for the Spring to Summer weather. And many people would love to just take a Great Escape to A dream location.  I know I would not mind taking a great escape to Costa Rica or some other hot local. 


Okay enough dreaming...

Here is March’s Ipsy Glam Bag


Juicy Beauty Hydrating Mist


I have never used a hydrating mist before, but I assume it would be good if I were in a hot or dry place.  Juicy Beauty hydrating mist smells great, and I have used Juicy Beauty CC Cream, and I really liked it, so I am sure this Hydrating Mist will not be disappointing. I will keep this on hand for my next vacation or if I feel my skin needs a little hydration. 

La Fresh Makeup Remover Wipes


I enjoyed getting a little travel pack up makeup removers. This travel-lite pack is perfect to keep in my purse, for those days when I need a touch up at work or great to packaway in the suitcase for a little weekend getaway.  I never buy makeup remover wipes, as I usually use baby oil gel, so I am excited to give these a try.

GLAM RX Make up Compact and Yaby Eye Shadow


This is a cute little compact could probably hold about 10 little magnetic eye shadows. I loved the pink color, the mirror was nice inside, and the magnetization is a great concept, that should catch on. This Glam RX Compact was made just for this Ipsy Glam Bag, and yes Ipsy also included eye shadows this month

The Yaby Eye Shadows that are made to magnetize to the GLAM RX Makeup Compact. This is a brilliant idea, and I wish more makeup companies would actually pickup on this concept. I sometimes like to have the shadow I am wearing with me in my purse, but most times the shadows are in a larger palette. I then have to  pack the palette with me all day long, in case I need to touch up. If I could just grab the shadows I was wearing and put them in a little compact like GLAM RX, that would save so much space.

The shadows included from Yaby were Azalea petal and Seashell. These are great neutral colors, which are great for spring time.

Again Ipsy Glam Bag is one of my favorites, and for $10 each month it is even better. Not only are the  products received each month top notch, but each month subscribers always get a lovely makeup bag. This month’s bag was a white and navy blue nautical bag, very great escapy and cute.  

I continue to look forward to IPSY Glam Bag each month. What did you think of Ipsy Glam Bag this month?

 If you would like to check out other reviews you can HERE. Or check out Ipsy Glam Bag HERE as well.

Until next time...

Stay Tickled Pink
Stephanie

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

ModCloth Stylish Surprise Revealed



 I received my Mod Cloth Stylish Surprise on Monday. For all those who don’t know about ModCloth or know what the Stylish Surprise is all about you can go HERE or HERE for more details. 


Yes, it took me a couple days to post because, I just was not sure how to post my Stylish Surprise or if I wanted to share at all.  When I first saw my stylish surprise I thought of a guy shirt mixed with one of my grandma’s old shirts.  Don’t get me wrong,  I love ModCloth , and there was no guarantee I would like my stylish surprise in the first place. It was only $15, as well. However, after looking at this shirt/dress a little long, I think I can make it work. 



I have not yet put it on yet.  I will show you the results and the full effect once I put an actual outfit together. But don’t judge my stylish surprise just yet.I might have a little trick up my sleeve still with this item. I will keep everyone posted.

Here it is...



What does everyone think, and be honest? Does anyone have any good ideas to make this a top notch look? Let me know. 


Also if you would like to join ModCloth please take a look and sign up on their website HERE. You can get $15 off by clicking my referral link HERE

Until next time
Stay Tickled Pink,
Stephanie

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Bulu Box to the Rescue, Tip Top Tuesday Sequel


A little sequel to my Tip Top Tuesday posts, my first Bulu Box is here. 

Before  I start my review I have to tell you, Yes, I am on a big health kick right now. My main goal is my physical fitness, and yes, I would like weight loss to go with it.  I have been trying to find some natural supplements to help with my energy during the day. Obviously, after a day of work sometimes it is hard to get your butt up to go work out.  I also was on the lookout for a couple natural supplements to help me getting to sleep at night.  It seems that my body and my head were on opposite cycles lately. When I want to sleep I can’t, and when I should not be thinking about sleep all I do is want to just take a nap.   I came across Bulu Box a month ago or so, and come to find out they had a box specifically designed for weight loss. I immediatly signed up, and I am very happy with the first months box and their customer service

March's Weight Loss Bulu Box


XyloBurst Xylitol Gum


This Green Tea gum was the first to go out of the box. Me and my fiance’ immediately took a liking to this gum. The gum is very fresh with green tea flavor with a hint of mint. It definitely leaves your mouth feeling refreshed. The gum also keeps you from snacking throughout the day, and it is sugar free. We are going to be purchasing more of this gum soon. It was a hit.

And the next three items:


Dream Water
6-8 hours of sleep is very hard for me to come by. After driking this Pineapple flavored shot, which was just like water with a hint of pineapple, I slept more soundly than I have in a while. I was very pleasantly surprised with the results.  I would highly recommend this to anyone who is having restless nights.

Prolab Quickfire
I have not tried this one out yet, as I have been trying the others first.  This is described as a supplement that gives you energy, while helping you to burn more calories and perform at optimum levels. Sounds perfect for that next kickboxing class or long run!

Barlean’s Omega Swirl Fish Oil
I know that fish oil is supposed to be good for the heart, however, I did not know it was good for weight loss as well. The only thing about fish oil of any kind, is I am a little apprehensive of the taste. Fishy taste, hmmmm, not sure. I will give this a try though, soon. And let you know what I think. I currently take fish oil gummies, so as soon as I am out of those.  I will keep you posted.

And Next...

NRGX Labs Red Stinger


This was definitely the ticket on Monday, after work. I was so tired, but knew I had to get my butt outside, as good weather in Washington is rare. I took this Red Stinger and I was ready to go.  When they tell you this gives you energy, curbs your appetite and gives you energy; NRGX Labs is not kidding. I  was impressed.

iTrain $50 Gift Card


I am excited to try this out. This gift card allows downloads of music and workouts. I usually hate doing workouts at home on the TV, but the music downloads sound great. And wow $50, that is awesome. Thanks Bulu.

Redd Remedies and More...


Now I originally did not receive the Redd Remedies trueEnergy in my box, so I sent an e-mail out to Bulu. They immediately responded, and within 2 days, I received another box with my sample, along with a handwritten note from Kelsey, who deals with customer relations, and some more samples (Yay, I was so excited to try them all).

First Redd Remedies, was very new to me, but I was very impressed with their product. All the supplements are very natural and gluten free. Here is my impression on a couple:

Redd Remedies trueEnergy


 I got energy right away from this supplement. It was not a jittery energy, like drinking a can of Red Bull, but a pick me up kind of energy to get you through the day.  I took this on a work day, so I could also focus on work on a lull of a Monday. However,  I am pretty focused at work typically everyday, so I didn’t notice much of a difference. Overall,  I was very happy with the energy from the trueEnergy though.

Redd Remedies At Ease
This was great. I took this about an hour before bed, and I had another restful night! You cannot imagine how excited  I am to feel refreshed in the morning, by actually having a full nights rest. I really dislike waking up several times a night.  A+ on this product

I have not yet tried the Gouch or Sinus, but I will keep you updated.

Also in the box was:

Cocoa Well True Energy
This is made out of Organic Cocoa Powder, Green Tea, and some other natural supplements.  I took this over the weekend, and I was full of energy during my jaunt around the park! And, 

Defend Energy
This is another product I am excited to try. Like I said earlier,  I am always looking for natural supplements to keep me energized. This berry flavored packet mixed with some water is supposed to give energy and give immune support,  sounds good to me. 

Bulu Box also came with 5 really nice recipe cards. I am excited to try a couple of these recipes out.  A very nice touch to the Weight Loss Bulu Box.

Here is an overview of the March’s Bulu Box, with a pamphlet they add in the box. Bulu, as you will see is very motivating, and I think it is a great touch!


I am so pleased with my first Bulu Box. I am also very happy with the company and service..  I am excited already for the boxes  in months ahead,  and to see what Bulu has in store.


If you are interested in Bulu Box get your first box FREE using Promo Code BULUGAN131, and click HERE to go to the Bulu Box website. It comes highly recommended by me!


Until next time
Stay Tickled Pink,
Stephanie

Glance at Sample Society



I just love getting Beauty Bar’s Sample Society Boxes each month. This is my second box, and I am still very impressed. And yes, I am very smitten with each of my samples.

March Sample Society Box


Alterna Bamboo Smooth Kendi Dry Oil Mist



Very great smelling, and in a spray bottle. I have received some other argan type oils for my hair in the past, but I did not like just pouring it out on my hands. I always seems to  pour out way too much. With this Alterna spray bottle, it makes for a more even and light mist for the hair, which I like.  I am always for more shine and hydration for my hair. This is especially the case since I use a hair dryer, curling iron, or straightener on my hair most days (sometimes all 3).  I used this oil mist today, and I must stay it got rid of my fly aways and frizz instantly. Whoo hoo!

Lashfood Nano-Peptide Natural Eyebrow Conditioner




I must say I have never heard of an eyebrow conditioner before receiving this, but if it helps with the brows I am all for it. I used this Lash Food today, and the serum was nice and light, no smell, and, although I thought it looked oily at first, the Lash Food was not oily at all.  I think I can keep trying this out. Can you believe that some people spend $90 on a full size bottle of eyebrow conditioner though? Wow! Although I would not buy this outside of a sample outside this sample through Sample Society, I really do like it, and will take advantage of the eyebrow conditioner while I have it.

Hollywood Fashion Tape



This is a full size sample of fashion tape. Not sure yet how much I will use this, but you never know. I do have wedding planning coming up soon, so with all the little shindigs and dressing up; maybe this Hollywood Fashion Tape will come in handy.

Butter London 3 Free Laquer in The Old Bill



This was my favorite part of this month’s Sample Society box. A nice metallic, shimmery, bronzed/gold polish is a perfect color. And I am never one to be disappointed in a full size nail polish. I will most definitely be making use of this polish from Butter London! And since a full size Butter London usually cost $15, the polish practically paid for the box itself!

And last,

Murad Essential-C Day Moisture With SPF 30



This will be a great addition to all my face regimented lotions, serums and potions, since most my product do not carry SPF.  However, Murad has SPF 30... And, since I know SPF is very important, maybe the tides are turning for me. A trial run on Murad Essential C-Day Moisture could be just what I need, and at last my face will be protected fun the sun!

Sample Society never disappoints, and I am always excited to try new items from companies I have never used. Again, I cannot wait for next month, and I haven’t even gotten through March’s box entirely, haha! 

You can check out more about Sample Society HERE if anyone is interested. I highly recommend it! 

And if you sign up now do not forget to use sample code TickledPin


Until next time
Stay Tickled Pink,
Stephanie

Monday, March 25, 2013

Cravebox Book and Beauty Box is a Hit




I was  very excited for the most recent Cravebox.  If you have never heard about Cravebox you can read my other reviews or go to Cravebox website HERE, HERE or HERE.When received this  Book and Beauty Cravebox  in the mail this weekend, and I was blown away by each and every item in the Cravebox Book and Beauty.  I think after reading this review you will have to agree . Cravebox never ceases to amaze me with each and every box.

Without further ado here is the

BOOK AND BEAUTY CRAVEBOX


. Please note that I do not always put prices on the items and compare the price of the items received versus the price of the box, but in this case I thought the Book and Beauty Cravebox went above and beyond. Each item was so great in this box, I do not know where to start. They must have known I was looking for a good book because this is the first item.

Mistress of My Fate by Hallie Rubenhold


This ladies and gentleman was a hardcopy book in the Book and Beauty Cravebox. This retails at $25.99. Just with this one book alone, the Book and Beauty Cravebox has paid for itself, plus.

Another plus of receiving this book is that I love historical fiction books, it is  one of my favorite genres to read. I cannot wait to relax, hopefully in the sun, and read this book front to back. And, even more exciting, this looks to be an installment series by Hallie Rubenhold, so I look forward to the read, and possibly more in the future.

Vaseline Total Moisture Lotion


I have already been using this every day. It has a great, like it says, clean feeling after putting it on, and a nice fresh smell. Cravebox included a 3 fl. oz. sample, which would sell for around $2.99.  I am always excited to get a nice travel size lotion since they are perfect to pack in my purse. Another great item from Cravebox.

John Freida Full Repair Deep Conditioner


I cannot tell you enough how excited I am to use this deep conditioner. Not very many subscription boxes out there give out conditioner, but when I saw this John Freida Deep Conditioner, I was jumping for joy. Cravebox must have known I was in desperate need for some deep conditioning fo my hair.  I now just hope that this deep conditioner rescue my hair to looking silky, smooth and shiny! I will keep you posted on my results.

The John Freida Deep Conditioner 4 fl oz. costs around $10. Anther amazing addition to the Book and Beauty Cravebox.

And last, three samples of:

Biore’ Combination Skin Cleanser, Pore Unclogging Scrub, and Nose Strip



I have used Biore’ Nose Strips before and I was not disappointed, so I know I will be using this right away.  However, I have never used any other products from Biore'. I most definitely will be  taking advantage of the Unclogging Scrub to get rid of that unwanted pore clogging and dirt. And the Balancing Cleanser looks like a great everyday cleanser, morning or night.  

I cannot really put a price on each of the samples from Biore’ , so I will just say about $2.00 for all three. 

Overall, Cravebox Book and Beauty has been by far my most favorite Cravebox yet.  I will  certainly  be getting full use out of  each item in my Cravebox.  And, with the box costing me only $12, it was well worth the price, as the total value of all the items is approximately $41. Wow, Cravebox is great!

And now the exciting news, for all those who did not participate in this Book and Beauty Cravebox, or are just now hearing about Cravebox all together; Cravebox is offering Book and Beauty to everyone as an Instant box for $15. You can get the box I just reviewed above at the Cravebox website HERE.  And if you register with Cravebox make sure to reference my User Name (stephlin82).

I hope you enjoyed a look at Book and Beauty Cravebox, like I said it was my favorite out of all the Craveboxes I have gotten to date. I give it 10 +++ STARS! Thank you Cravebox!

Until next time
Stay Tickled Pink,
Stephanie

A Look at Kona Kase


I was very interested in Kona Kase when I first heard of it. And why you ask? Because it gives people an opportunity to try out different snacks and nutritional samples that  help a body's endurance, stamina, energy, and more during and after physical activities.  If you read my blog here and there you know I am trying to become more physically in shape. So, I immediately  signed up! 


Usually, I tend to stay away from nutritional bars or foods that I am not familiar with for a couple reasons; 1) Because they may not be any good; and 2) The price. However,  Kona Kase did not disappoint. 

Here is my March Kona Kase



Although, many of the treats will probably end up going to my other half,   I think the product quality and the amount of samples , which most are full size, in the box far exceeded my expectations. 

My favorite part of the March Kase was...

Wild Friends Almond Butter


This company was featured on ABC TV Show, Shark Tank! This nut butter is unique, healthy, and delicious! I give it a 10!

If you would like to try some Wild Friends Almond Butter go to Wildfriendsfoods. Com, and use Promo Code KONAKASE to get 15% off your order.

TCHO Chocolate. 
(Yummy!!)

In the Kona Kase I received the following flavors, all of which were yummy!

1) SeriousMilk “CLASSIC” Milk Chocolate with caramel notes (my favorite);;
2) Pure Notes Dark Chololate extremely rich and “Chocolatey”; 
3) Pure Notes Dark Cholocate with subtle “Nutty” notes; and 
4) SeriousMilk “Cacao” Milk Chocolate with lush and fudgy notes.

 What I really like about this chocolate is they use great ingredients, and strive to base the flavor of the chocolate on the cacao beans they get. This chocolate is also Organic and Fair Trade.  

SUNCUPS


This is not your normal peanut buttercup or in this case Carmel Cup. These got devoured right out of the box.  What is great about these are that they are Nut-free and Gluten-Free. Suncups also are produced only from cacao from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms. I am all about Rainforest protection.  They say Suncups is a great post-activity treat, but I think it is good any time J

If you would like to try you can subscribe with Kona Kase HERE or go to Suncups.com and use the PROMO Code KONA13 for 25% off.

CLIF SHOT BLOKS


I am a big fan of anything gummy, and this tasted just like a gummy bear. The Clif Shot Bloks are way better on the taste buds than downing a RedBull.  I received Cran-Fraz, and they were deliciously gummy. After just  one shot blok, it had already given me a good kick of energy.

CLIF BAR


I have tried all types of Clif Bars, but this one just brings me back. to when I was young. I would go to summer camp when I was younger, and all we would eat was granola bars.  This Clif Bar Granola Bar was natural tasting with just the right crunch that you look for in any granola bar.  Delish! This is a great snack on the way home,  right before a good workout, but not too much to stuff you full! I give this Clif Bar an A+.

EARNEST  EATS


This bar was like picking some berries, taking a handful of nuts and seeds and smothering it all together, in the best tasting way possible. The Dark Choco Mint was very good. This earnest eats bar is also wheat-free and vegan. What is also very interested about the Earnest Eats baked whole food bar is that in this particular bar the mint was grown by refugees (Rescue.org), up to $5,000 supports the International Rescue Committee, leading the refugees away from harm. 

Go to earnesteats.com if you would like more information.

PERFECT FOODS BAR


At only 100 calories per bar and made out of Almond butter, this was my other favorite from the Kona Kase.  If you like cookie dough, like I do, you will love the consistency of this bar. I can see why Runner’s World Magazine named this bar among their list of “Top 10 Best Recovery Bars for Runners”.   A very good addition to the Kona Kase!

BRUBAR


I must say I was not sure how much I was interested in tasting this one. The BRUBAR is made with Barley Malt, which is the key ingredient in many beers.  However, after reading the ingredients more in depth,  the Original Malt BRUBAR does not sound all that bad at all.  Other ingredients include: rolled oats, almonds, coconuts, vanilla and cinnamon. Sounds like an oatmeal breakfast all in one bar to me.

Overall, I give my first KONA KASE a standing ovation, and I am recommending it to many of my friends and family.  If you click HERE 
 you can get your first KONA KASE for only $7.50. Whoo- hoo. And please,  let me know what you think of Kona Kase as well!

Until next time
Stay Tickled Pink,
Stephanie