Snuggles, Anyone??!!

I'm excited to announce that I am a Snuggle Bear Den Member...and you can be too! Go on missions, get free products and be the first to know about new products!

Check it out! Www.snuggle.com

Brazil Nut Hand Cream and Environmental Responsibility

Studying the impact of harvesting natural resources to make consumer products, I have found that the claims of "all natural ingredients" can mean the devastation of habitats for both animals and humans alike. My most recent studies show that harvesting palm oil is destroying the home of endangered species including the orangutan. The more I learn about this topic, the more important it has become for me, personally, to source out companies that make products that benefit the environment, not the other way around.

I live in the high desert of New Mexico with rather dry conditions and I suffer from really dry skin. I was recently contacted by the Natura Company to try their EKOS Castanha Hydrating Hand Lotion. In exchange for my honest review, they provided me a free or deeply discounted product. I am never required to provide positive feedback! With that said, here are my personal thoughts.

Natura uses Brazil nuts as their main moisturizing ingredient in this Castanha formula.This product is hard to find and it's totally produced in Brazil using renewed, green technology. Emollients and humectants made with 100% vegetable oil, extracted in a sustainable way.

The bottle is made of Aluminium which is great for conservation of the fragrance and also provides a better use experience and the box is made of recycled materials, further benefiting the forests.

According to Natura, "The Castanha (Brazilian Nut) of the Natura Ekos line are harvested by the RECA community in Rondônia and Rio Iratapuru community, in Amapá, where you can find one of the largest bulky of Castanha trees (Castanheira) on the Amazon forest. Known as the queen of the forest, the Castanheira tree lives more than 500 years. Its fruits, called hedgehogs, keep dozens of tasty and nutritious nuts, one of the main sources of protein of the forest."

Now, the product itself is, in my experience so far, deeply hydrating and my nails feel stronger. There is no greasy after film and the smell is very pleasant but not overwhelming. My husband says it smells clean!

So we have an environmentally sustainable harvesting, recycled packaging and a product that moisturizes fabulously - Natura is doing great things, the right way...support them and get your Natura EKOS Castanha Hand Cream today:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007NZO7X6/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1435020085&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40&keywords=Castanha+hand+cream&dpPl=1&dpID=316GIuvdn2L&ref=plSrch

Pioneer Pondering and Fabulous Lemon Oil

Over the last few years, I've been learning how to do many things in a pioneer way. From learning how to sew a quilt, baking bread from scatch and creating my own soaps, lotions and potions I am keeping the old arts alive and keeping my life full of hard work and simplicity.
 I have been blessed with 9 grandchildren so far and I love being able to show them how to make bread and how to sew and how to make soap by hand. It is the soapmaking that interests my 8 year old granddaughter the most. Together we've gone treasure hunting in our high desert landscape searching for natural ingredients to make our soaps better. She loves lavender and pine but her favorite scent is lemon. I've tried several different concentrations of lemon oil and admittedly, most smell the same...lemony...but I found myself using massive amounts to get the right scent then I'd have to increase my (jojoba, avacado, grapeseed, etc.) which really drives up the final cost of my soaps.
In the world of lemon oils, a person can find literally thousands of brands, all with varying concentrations of strength and purity.  Lucky for me and my wonderful connection with BuView.com, I was offered the chance to experiment with a 5X Strength Lemon Oil from Lift Care. Here's the product:   https://www.amazon.com/gp/mobile/dp/B00VN23VE6/ref=cm_cr_wr_ty_shop
I promised an honest review and blog post in exchange for free or greatly discounted product,  and it bears repeating that I am never required to provide positive feedback!
Okay back to my story! They say it is a 5X Strength Lemon Oil so I put it to the test! My typical batch of 10 soaps usually required 5ml of lemon oil.  I immediately realized that I could use less oil and achieve really aromatic results. In fact, I only used a third of my normal measurement! Additionally, by cutting down the amount of lemon oil I can use less carrier oil (another cost savings) and in turn, makes my soaps lather better! This impacts my bottom line so positively!
As an added benefit, the disinfectant properties of my soaps since using this lemon oil, has increased - so there's more cleaning power. I love discovering great products!
 My final observation is that my soaps smell better, I am able to make more while using less additive ingredients and I'm getting great compliments on the new version of my soaps!
Thanks to Lift Care and their 5X Lemon Oil, I'm a happier soapmaker!
Whether you make soaps, lotions, potions, cleaning solutions or just love it for aromatherapy, I recommend trying the Lift Care 5X Lemon Oil.  Til next time my lovlies...
♡

Not BITTER over my AWESOME experience with Kiss Me Organics Organic Dandelion Root Tea with Cinnamon and Hibiscus

I've been looking for a decent tasting Organic Dandelion Root Tea to help me occasionally detox my kidneys and liver.  I've had a lot of medical issues over the last few years which result in my having to take several prescription medications and I have been concerned with their effects on my organs and thus my search for Dandelion Root Tea.

So I have tried some from the grocerey store, the Farmer's Market, etc... but I always find that the taste is really prohibitive of me creating a true tea drinking habit. Bleck! Nothing worse than trying to do something to better your life when it tastes like dirt, weeds and/or (very often) bitter.

The trouble with Dandelion Root is that it is naturally bitter and in order to get enough of the good stuff from it in a tea, you just have to deal with a bit of bitterness. Not with Kiss Me Organics Organic Dandelion Root Tea! They have found a recipe that makes sure enough of the Dandelion Root is incorporated in the tea that it is very potent and effective AND they have added a delightful mixture of cinnamon and Hibiscus which makes the tea very easy to drink.  Plus, cinnamon and Hibiscus have their own healthful benefits - BONUS!

I have been drinking my tea once or twice a day since my order arrived and along with the tea, the company also provided me with some delicious recipe variations to help me continue my new good habit.  Everthing seems to be in bloom here in the High Desert right now so I've begun to add a teaspoon of raw local honey to combat allergies - yummy!

 Hats off to Kiss Me Organics - you've done a wonderful thing and I will shout from the rooftops how much I am thrilled to have found this Organic Dandelion Root Tea! You can find out for yourself right now! Click here or copy and paste the url in your address bar!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00NFYLN18/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1426820657&sr=8-1&keywords=kiss+me+organics+dandelion+root+tea

*note* I received a product from the company and their PR firm free for the purpose of testing and review.  I am never required to write a positive review! All opinions in this post are my own honest thoughts and experiences!

Savvy Ice Premium Sphere Mold ~Unique and Works Beautifully

Hello friends!
I want to tell you that BuView.com has been my new favorite source for connecting with businesses seeking product testers and real life customer reviews for their products. They introduced me to the great folks at Savvy Ice. Savvy Ice is a small company with a bright future and they really care about the customer experience.

I like an occasional cocktail and I love a cold, cold whiskey but I do not like it watered down.  Savvy Ice works exceptionally well in the fact that the shape and density melt very slowly!
Now, with that said there are a couple things to be aware of in the actual preparation of the spheres.  My first attempt had me a little frustrated because it was a bit messy and awkward.  I filled the bottom not quite full of tap water, placed the top over and worked to press them together properly while not losing too much water. After freezing I twisted the molds for a few seconds and came out with - not spheres!  They were cloudy, half circles at best with a curious ice belt. Lol So I went back to the beginning and tweaked my approach.  I switched from tap water to filtered, I put the mold together, dry, and then slowly added the water through the top holes to not quite filled while squeezing the middle of the mold to prevent water from seeping to create the "ice belt". Back into the freezer!
This time was almost a success -  seven of the eight balls were perfectly spherical, clear and impressive!  Number eight was more like the runt of the litter. I've experimented with fruit juice, fruit puree, lemon and mint...they all come out really nice! Is this a necessary kitchen tool? Probably not, but it's very cool, worth the learning curve and definitely a conversation starter!
I was provided a free product in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions and I am never required to be positive.  I like this Savvy Ice Premium Sphere maker and if you are in the market for something cool, unique and interesting,  this ones a winner!

Copy and paste the link below to your browser address bar to find it on Amazon.com.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00RL65H3Q

Imbue Naturals Passionately Natural Skincare Vitamin C Serum ~My Elegant New Secret

I have been really interested in Vitamin C serums and have implemented it into my nightly beauty regimen. Imbue Naturals has a 20% Vitamin C serum that I was so fortunate to be able to try! I stopped using my previous brand for a few days before begin my trial with this brand in order to be able to fully evaluate its effectiveness.

A little background - I am in my mid forties and I am a cancer survivor YAY! But in the course of the (life-saving) treatments I've undergone, my skin is definitely showing signs of premature aging. Fine lines around my eyes and mouth, a couple deep lines in my forehead and what I call "dullness" in my skin tone are the trophies I carry from my adventure with chemotherapy. These reasons are why I began to test and review Retinols and Vitamin C Serums. I am really conscious of the harsh and/or unnatural ingredients in so many skincare products on the marlket. I want my skin to be revived by natural ingredients!

Ok! So I started my trial use of Imbue Naturals 20% vitamin C Serum 14 days ago. I have a nightly skincare routine that involves a gentle cleanser, twice weekly exfoliation, tonic, the Vitamin C Serum and a really good moisturizer (PLEASE DON'T FORGET THIS VERY IMPORTANT STEP!) Upon receipt of my product, I immediately noticed the beautiful packaging! It is apparent that this company has taken the time to refine not only its product ingredients but also their professional image and it reflects in their classy, refined packaging. The bottle of serum is contained in a dark brown glass bottle wuth a plastic pump distribution system. The pump allows no bacteria to be introduced into the product! It distributes just the right amount of product for application (no waste = better value!) Going on, the product feels light and and doesn't really have a scent. I have not experienced any dryness or flaking from the serum. Sun sensitivity with this serum is minimal and I do use a moisturizer with 35 SPF everyday. What I am excited about is that I have seen a nice reduction in the appearance of my fine lines! My skin is no longer dull or ashy. My neck skin feels firmer and I feel like I have a fresh faced look to present to the world each day. The serum is gentle enough for twice a day use and so far, I am really happy to have had the opportunity to experience it.

A final note - I was provided this product by Imbue Naturals and their PR firm for the express purpose of testing and reviewing the product. I always post my honest thoughts, opinions and experiences (good, bad and ugly!) and I am not required to write a positive review. It is important for me to share the true experience with you all.

So, if you are interested in a Vitamin C serum, Imbue Naturals product is truly worth the time and cost. Get yours today right here --

http://www.amazon.com/Vitamin-Serum-Face-Hyaluronic-Satisfaction/dp/B00O8DBRKC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426202964&sr=8-1&keywords=imbue+naturals+vitamin+c

It is on sale today (March 12, 2015) for $20.95 on Amazon.com- it normally retails for $49.95!

Happy healthy glowing skin is only a few clicks away. See ya next time!

Vitamin C Serum by Joyal Beauty Natural Skin Care Brightens My Day!

I've been really fortunate with the appearance of my skin as I ease into my mid forties. Obviously not that dewy fresh faced twenty-something anymore but that's life! So I've been really interested the vitamin C serum craze and really cautious about the nature of chemicals I use on my skin, and I found Joyal Beauty Natural Skin Care Super Brightening  Vitamin C Serum which is alcohol free, Paraben-free, cruelty free 100% Vegan and Phthalate Free as well as 72% Organic!

It differs from other similar serum in that it only takes a very small amount and it is necessary to massage the face in  a circular motion during application to get the best effects from it. However, like most similar serum products,  it is really important to follow with a great moisturizer!

Joyal and BuView.com worked together to provide me with a full size product to personally use and then honestly review. ..I really do use these products and the results (good or bad, are genuinely my own) naturally!

So I have these stubborn sun spots that haven't gone away no matter what I have tried. Perfect way to test a brightening serum, methinks!
I'm rather sceptical about this particular issue because I've had them so long but I am really surprised and pleased to see that 11 days into my evening application...the two darkest spots are noticeably lighter!
At this point, in my humble opinion,  this Serum gets a definite thumbs up from me. I'll continue to use it.

If you're interested in trying it for yourself,  you can find it here:

http://www.amazon.com/Joyal-Brightening-Anti-Wrinkles-Even-Toned-Satisfaction/dp/B00KPKIV8I

Azure Naturals Ultimate Retinol Anti Wrinkle Serum ~ My Overnight Beauty Secret!

Hello, friends!  I have been very busy these past two weeks,  testing a new product! BuView.com and Azure Naturals teamed up to provide me with a free full size (1fl oz) product of Ultimate Retinol Anti Wrinkle Serum. In exchange for the freebie, I have promised to use and honestly review it.

So, I began using this serum 14 days ago and I incorporated it into my usual beauty routine in the evening before going to bed. The serum is professional strength, but that really didn't register with me for about three days...when I woke up on the third day after beginning the trial, my face was a bit irritated,  dry and flaking!  It wasn't painful,  just not what I expected!  So I have been using only a very small amount of product EVERY OTHER DAY and that has made a huge difference. So if you are new to using this retinol product, EASE into it so your skin can adapt to its strong formula!

Like I said,  it's been two weeks now and after my initial freak out, LOL,  I find that using very little product consistently every other evening before going to bed (don't forget to moisturize!) I can see the diminished appearance of the fine lines on my forehead and around my mouth have virtually disappeared! I was really starting to become concerned about these lines...I was a smoker for 22 years (I quit in 2006 and haven't had one since!) and while I no longer smoke, it looked like my skin around my lips/mouth didn't get the memo! I'm pretty excited about my initial results with Azure Naturals Ultimate Retinol Anti Wrinkle Serum!

In brief, I do recommend this product. It is exceptionally important to remember to ease into it by using minimal product every other night until your skin gets used to the strong serum and it is imperative to MOISTURIZE with a hydrating deep moisturizer immediately after application. It took about 10 days (five applications) for me to see visible results and I am delighted by the reflection in my mirror.  My facial skin appears to be renewed and a good portion of my fine lies have greatly diminished!

Ready to try it for yourself?  It's available at Amazon.com ~~~

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00KXG8JF4/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1424364505&sr=8-1&keywords=Azure+Naturals+Ultimate+Retinol&dpPl=1&dpID=51htCBgTMnL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

One last thing, if you're like me, I buy product made in the good ole USA - Azure Naturals Ultimate Retinol Anti Wrinkle Serum is proudly manufactured in America with the finest natural and organic ingredients! It is also Paraben-free,  97% natural, 72% organic, no alcohol, no GMO's, cruelty free and is not tested on animals!

Get yours today and experience the results for yourself!  I am simply delighted!

I am in love with the OZ Naturals Ocean Mineral Tonic!

February's always considered the month of LOVE. Well, I was given the opportunity to experience this product, Ocean Mineral Tonic by OZ Naturals. The company provided me a full size product for free for the purpose of testing and reviewing it, giving only my own thoughtful and honest opinion.
I have an established facial care routine that involves a gentle cleanser, followed by an exfoliating product then a serum and finally, a moisturizer.  The OZ Naturals Ocean Mineral Tonic with Glycolic Acid, MSM and Vitamin C is meant to be used immediately prior to the application of any Serum and again as needed throughout the day, over makeup for a refreshing lift. It is also an excellent all over body tonic.
After the first use, I noticed that my serum was easily absorbed! After 7 days of use, I could see a brightening of my skin and now, 3 weeks into my daily routine with the OZ Naturals Tonic, I am ABSOLUTELY IN LOVE WITH IT!  It hydrates my skin, refreshes my makeup mid day and is my go to product from here on out. My fine lines and uneven skin tone are a result of having radiation therapy for cancer and again for the recurrence.
My skin is showing great signs of premature aging and I am only 44. I believe that this tonic, along with my careful and consistent facial care routine have given me the opportunity to truly push back the advancing telltale signs of time.
If you are on the fence about the usefulness of a tonic, I highly recommend this one!

Even Glow Serum by Valentia Skin Care

Today I am bringing you a review of Valencia Vitamin C Even Glow Serum.  Note here, as you all know by now I received a free full size product for my personal use and in exchange for this review in which I will give my honest opinion. ..good bad or ugly!

Environmental pollutants, day to day stress, and chemical laden cosmetic products, among other things are constantly barraging our skin, causing damage and visible signs of aging.  I am right smack dab in the middle of my 40's and ad I look in the mirror each day I am starting to see the subtle changes in my face. 

Panic? No, not me...I'm more of a "how can I fix this" kind of gal rather than being panic prone. So I did some research on which ingredients are useful in reversing or slowing down the aging process.  What I found is that Vitamin C has great efficacy on the skin, Roseship Seed Oil offers deep nourishing properties and Hylauronic Acid has no rival in its ability to absorb moisture from the environment and deposit it into the skin.

In my research, I was led to the Valentia Skin Care company and their product, Even Glow Serum. Valentia states, "Our Even Glow Serum will repair, refresh, and renew your skin; restoring evenness to your complexion, giving you an extra boost of confidence each time you look in the mirror."

The product says it can even skin tone, increase glow and rafiance and reduce the look of fine wrinkles.

So tried this serum for 14 days. I don't normally use a serum so it was an additional to my regular facial routine.  Each evening and morning,  I cleanse my face with a gentle face wash, exfoliate,  tone and then applied this serum. Afterwards I always follow with a great face moisturizer! 

I noticed immediately upon my first use that it absorbed very quickly. After the fourth day of use I noticed a better elasticity to my skin and the red spots that are so randomly placed on my face were slightly less visible!

At day 10, I went out to the store without my makeup on because I felt so fresh faced! I haven't done that in years!

I believe that I've finally found the right product with the perfect blend of the most important ingredients for my skin! It has given me the confidence to show my glowing skin off and not have to bury the flaws under makeup! 

My recommendation is to try it for yourself.  Valentia Skin Care Even Glow Serum can be found at Amazon.com 

InkJoy Ode to Joy!

Hello everyone!  It is time for another mission from Smiley360.com and their partners from PaperMate InkJoy line of writing instruments.  Yes, they ARE pens...but not just some cheaper fling it out the window cuz it sucks pen that we generally end up with...no! Theses are special.

Embarked on my Smiley360.com and Papermate #INKJOYPENS mission by going to Wal-Mart to get myself some products!  I have been given free merchandise for offering my thoughtful, honest opinions so beware. ..I speak the truth!
Firstly, the selection is not overwhelming for this brand but its simple design and packaging stands out from the crowd and I chose some 300RTF in black and a large package of the assorted colors because doodling in black ain't all that! Lol
Home now and I have been more productive in the last two hours than I have all month! Bank balances are reconciled,  grocery list made and color coded for  veggies (green), meat (red) and everything else is a beautiful mix of turquoise and purple!  I can't be the only one who does this, right??

So the pens don't skip or drag,  seems to have plenty of ink and the colors are really nice. I would, will and AM recommending the Inkjoy Papermate pens!

Stay tuned for the next installment!