Review: Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream

Forty-Five! Forty-Freakin'Five years old. I can't even believe that I am admitting this in public. So now that I am this age that I will not mention again, skin care is of the upmost importance to me. I will be fighting and hiding any signs of aging til I die!

I have been lucky so far. My only complaints are a few sun spots (I refuse to call them age spots) and a few broken capillaries around my nose. I HATE (and do not wear) foundation. I may use a bit of concealer if necessary along with my tinted moisturizer.

I recently received a tube of Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream to sample from BzzAgent. I was really excited to try this product after reading about B.B. creams. This is a perfect fit for me! The coverage is way better than that of my tinted moisturizer plus it evens out my skin tone and hides imperfections. I have been using it for over 2 weeks with no break outs or complaints.

B.B, Short for Beauty Balm, Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream combines intense hydration with tinted minerals and Vitamin C, so you can ditch that drawn-out beauty routine for naturally more even, radiant and smooth skin in minutes.
Used as often as you want to refresh your look, Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream instantly delivers big results:


Renews radiance
Brightens your complexion
Evens skin tone and blurs imperfections
Hydrates for 24 hours
Protects against UVA & UVB rays with SPF 15

Works on all skin types with two shades: Light/Medium and Medium/Deep
Contains mineral pigments which melt instantly upon application to even out skin tone for a lightweight, flawless finish
Formulated with the antioxidant Vitamin C to help renew your skin's natural radiance, creating that healthy glow every gal wants
Available at mass retailers (such as Target and Wal-Mart) for a suggested retail price of $12.99

I only need a tiny pea size drop to cover my entire face. I also wipe up any additional cream left on the opening of the tube and add it where I need a little more coverage. It does have a slight scent, but it's not a bad scent. Just putting it out there for anyone that may be sensitive to scents.

Now, like with almost everything, the Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream has both pros and cons.

Pros:
* It provides good coverage and evens out tones
* Feels light, not heavy
* Contains SPF 15
* Price is decent at about $13 plus you can find coupons

Cons:
* Feels a bit greasy/ shiny at first until it dries
* SPF 20+ woul be ideal

The pros outweigh the cons. The price is great when compared to other B.B. creams and seems to work just as well. I, for one, will continue using it. Like with anything else, results may vary from person to person. But at this price, it will not hurt to try it out and see if it's for you.

"Like" Garnier on Facebook at facebook.com/GarnierUSA

*** I am a BzzAgent. I received complimentary products in exchange for my honest opinion. This is not a paid or sponsored post ***

Review & Giveaway: Sea-Band

I just recently returned from a Trans-Atlantic crossing on a cruise ship. Generally, I do not suffer from motion sickness on these mega liners but this sailing was very different. I noticed many crew members wearing these bands on their wrists and thought that it must be a fashion statement or a sign of solidarity. I later learned that they were Sea-Band wristbands for relief from motion sickness. They actually sell these on board the ship as well. Early on in the cruise, we met a couple and the wife offered to lend me a pair of Sea-Band wristbands. The verdict? They worked. Although we were walking zig zag or bouncing around, up & down and up & down, I never felt sick. The only problem that I did have was that the bands felt kind of tight on my wrists and I have really thin wrists. About the only part of me that's thin nowadays! But they worked and that made my cruise all the more enjoyable. Plus I didn't have to worry about getting drowsy or not being able to enjoy a froo-froo umbrella drink because it might interfere with motion sickness meds.

Now, thanks to Sea-Band, I have my own pair. I received a pair to try along with Sea-Band Anti-Nausea Ginger Gum. I have not had the opportunity to try the gum but I plan to soon. I will be using my Sea-Band wristbands when I'm forced to sit in the backseat of a car, on a plane, on a boat... just about everywhere that I get motion sickness.







Nausea induced by busy and stressful days, filled with traveling and migraine triggers, are unfortunately hallmarks of the holidays. This year, stop nausea in its tracks with Sea-Band Drug-Free Nausea Relief Wristbands. It doesn’t matter whether you suffer from motion sickness, morning sickness or need nausea relief from a migraine, even chemotherapy treatment or post-surgery; it’s time for you to join the “band wagon” for drug-free nausea relief from Sea-Band!

How Sea-Band Works…
Approved by the FDA, Sea-Band is the leading drug-free remedy for, motion sickness, morning sickness, chemotherapy nausea and post-operative nausea. Most recently, a 2010 study, carried out at a German clinic specializing in migraine and headache therapy, showed that Sea-Band wristbands significantly reduced nausea and vomiting: 83% noticed perceptible reduction and 44% found their symptoms markedly reduced.

Sea-Band works by exerting constant, gentle pressure on a point on the inner wrist known as the Pericardium 6 (P6) acupressure point. It brings effective relief within five minutes of being applied and can be used before or after the onset of nausea. The all-natural, drug-free, latex-free Sea-Band does not cause the side-effects often associated with anti-nausea medication such as drowsiness, disorientation, dry mouth or possible interactions with other drugs. It’s safe for pregnant women, children, and patients taking prescription medications. Packaged in a convenient carry-case, they are washable and reusable, and available a variety of colors in sizes for adults and children.

Click here to watch an informative video about how Sea-Band wristbands work.  In addition, the company also offers Sea-Band Anti-Nausea Ginger Gum, for fast nausea relief with fresh, uplifting flavor. Each piece of the great tasting gum contains 25 mg of ginger oil (equivalent to 8 grams of fresh ginger root).

Sea-Band products are available in the U.S. in Walmart, Target, CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, as well as in Canada in Overwaitea, IDA, Familiprix, Guardian and other independent drugstores or pharmacies throughout North America or online at drugstore.com and at http://www.sea-band.com/shop.

Suggested retail price is $10.99 per pair in the US , and $12.99 in Canada .

You can also connect with Sea-Band on  Facebook


This post was written for Family Review Network & Sea-Band who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for my honest opinion.


WIN A Pair of Sea-Band wrist bands and a pack of Anti Nausea Ginger Gum


**Note: You can enter using Facebook OR e-mail**

Review: The Zero Scale

For the last 10 years or so, I have been in constant battle with my weight. I generally get frustrated with the actual weight and just give up. Sometimes I can be dieting for a few days and I don't see much change in the number. So why deprive myself of that piece of cake since I am not losing any weight anyway. I actually may be losing and can't really tell by looking at my scale.

I recently received The ZERO Scale™ to review. I was curious enough to want to try  it. Quite honestly, I wasn't sure how I felt about the concept of not seeing my actual weight. I've been using the scale sporadically since I received it, quite frankly, I'm not actually dieting right now. But immediately after the holidays, I'll really be getting serious about losing the weight. I hope!

But I digress, I really liked this scale. Say you're dieting, and day one you weigh in at 125 lbs. Day 2 of practically starving you're still at 125. Day 3 comes along and the freakin' scale still reads 125. If you're like me, you quit because you do not see any results. BUT, with The ZERO Scale™ on day 2 you might see that you actually lost 8 oz and day 3 you lost an additional 7 oz. But since you didn't actually hit the full 1 lb lost,  on a regular scale the number would remain the same. In reality, you're on track to a healthy 2lbs per week weight loss.

Same goes with weight gain, if you weigh in on The ZERO Scale™ and it reads 2oz gain, you more than likely will just figure that you can pee it out! But if you weighed yourself on a conventional scale and weighed in at 125 and you didn't actually know that your actual weight was 125 & 14 oz, those 2 extra oz would weigh you in at 126 and freak you out! When I say you, I actually mean me!

If you just HAVE to see your actual weight, you can also weigh in on guest mode.

The ZERO Scale™
The original and unique scale designed to help you achieve your fitness goals whether it's to lose, gain, or maintain your weight. The advantage is that you NEVER have to see your weight again! Our scale shows small increments of gain or loss, plus the number of days since your last check and your very first check so it does all the tracking for you!
All you need to see is your "Results without the weight"! As you may have experienced, seeing your weight can derail the best of intentions to get in shape. In the past you might have worked hard on your diet or exercise programs but you still had a big number facing you. Our clients have discovered that when you ONLY see small manageable numbers of gain or loss, it's easier to stay motivated and on-track!

* 4 Users & a guest mode
* 1.3" LCD display
* Fast & Easy set up
* 397 lbs/ 180 kg weight capacity
* Sleek Modern Design
* 12.5"x12.5" platform
* Pounds or Kilograms
* 10 year warranty


The ZERO Scale™ retails for $69.95. Right now on their website their offering the scale for $59.95 PLUS a FREE pedometer. They are also offering my readers an additional 15% discount just enter promo code "Zero".
You can also follow them on Facebook and on the blog Zero Excuses Fitness

This post was written for Family Review Network & The Zero Scale who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review: Dr. LeWinn by Kinerase®

Living in S. Florida can be a blessing and a curse. The humidity can leave you melting on the sidewalk like the Wicked Witch of the West. However, the same humidity can leave your skin looking and feeling younger than your years.

I am quite fortunate when it comes to wrinkles. At 45 the only visible signs of wrinkles are tiny lines around the eyes. After trying the Under Eye Recovery for a few weeks, I did notice a bit of improvement. Lack of sleep causes a bit of puffiness and dark circles under my eyes. The Under Eye Recovery seemed to minimize the puffiness and made the area around my eyes seem brighter. The dark circles are still there but do seem slightly lighter.

As part of a BzzAgent Campaign, I received the Dr. LeWinn by Kinerase® Under Eye Recovey & the Anti-Winkle Daily Cream

Dr. LeWinn by Kinerase® product line

• Consists of 10 anti-aging cleansers, moisturizers and daily treatments
• Combines exclusive clinical strength kinetin with potent cosmeceutical ingredients
• Awarded Prevention Magazine's 2011 "Defy Your Age" Beauty Award – Best Eye Cream for the DLK Lift & Resculpt Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream
• Available exclusively at select Walmart and Walgreens stores as well as at all Duane Reade locations for $25-$35

DLK Anti-Wrinkle Daily Cream SPF 30

• Softens lines and wrinkles
• Brightens skin and makes it more vibrant
• Makes skin feel soft and hydrated
• Helps skin stay youthful with fewer wrinkles and dark spots
• Protects against sun damage – the number one cause of aging

DLK Under Eye Recovery

• Uncovers fresh, energized and beautiful eyes in 14 days*
• Soothes and deflates puffiness
• Decreases dark circles as it brightens
• Boosts collagen to smooth the signs of wrinkles
• Minimizes future eye bags by stopping liquid accumulation and inhibiting loss of elasticity

The Wrinkle Repair Cream was too heavy for my taste, I do not like using heavy creams on my face, I prefer sticking to lotions that are easily absorbed and do not leave my face shiny. I tried it on my face for a few days but it just felt too heavy and my complexion looked too shiny. It did not cause breakouts though. I did, however, use the cream on my décolletage, primarily the cleavage. This area, although not wrinkled, did appear to show the beginning signs of aging. After using the cream, that area appears smoother. I do love that the cream contains an SPF of 30 which is an every day absolute necessity for me.

I would definitely consider using the Under Eye Recovery in the future. My eyes did look brighter and less puffy. The Anti-Winkle Daily Cream is just not for me. But I do see it possibly working out for those that have more wrinkles and/ or live in harsher, dryer climates.


**I am a BzzAgent. I received the products free of charge to review, share, and provide my honest opinion.***

Review: Fekkai Advanced Salon Technician® Color Care Shampoo & Conditioner

Through the years, I have abused my hair to no end. I have permed, colored & highlighted. I blow dry, curl iron & flat iron. I'm always looking for a way to keep the signs of abuse from showing. BzzAgent recently sent me the Fekkai Advanced Salon Technician® Color Care Shampoo & Conditioner to try. I was also sent samples of the Glossing Cream™.

Products within the Fekkai line:

• Have luxurious textures and refreshing, invigorating scents
• Help maintain the healthy look of your hair
• Have all been tested in the world-renowned Frédéric Fekkai Salons
• Are developed to meet the standards of Fekkai's A-list clients
• Address specific needs of different hair types
• Include shampoos, conditioners, masks, glazes, mousse, creams, lightweight hairsprays and shine mists.

With four high performance collections available, beautifying your hair is easy:

Glossing™
With olive oil
Helps restore shine to normal or dull hair

Shea Butter
With shea butter
Helps restore moisture to dry, unruly hair

Technician® Color Care
With Triple Color protection complex
Helps prevent fading and guard against UV rays

Full Volume®
With botanicals
Adds body and volume to fine, limp hair

Glossing Cream™ – The Fekkai Finishing Touch
This award-winning, frizz-fighting, soft-seeking shine cream works for nearly every hair type. With olive oil, it reboots shine. This superstar formula is a secret from the runway to the red-carpet for that finishing touch.
The trick is using just the right amount – a pea size is enough to add that perfect finishing touch. Rub in your palm and run through your hair – avoiding the roots.

I really, really didn't want to like these products, and I'll explain why later. But I did. The shampoo has a nice, soft floral scent. The conditioner had a slightly bolder scent that leaned towards the fruity, but not bad plus a little goes a long way. I did not have to use huge globs. They not only leave your hair feeling super soft and healthy, but my color has not changed or turned brassy. You can also feel the difference as you are using. With some other shampoos, my hair feels like a blob of knots as I shampoo, not so with Fekkai. The Glossing Cream is AMAZING! At first I thought that a cream would weigh my hair down. Nothing could be further from the truth. After styling, my hair was soft, beautiful & shiny. I am my own worst critic and I loved looking at and touching my hair.

Now, for the downside. The product is very pricey. That is why I did not want to like it. At all. I mean the small 8 oz bottles are $22 at Target slightly less on Amazon. And I wash my hair practically every day! Can I afford myself that luxury? I have debated that question over and over. And although I really can't, I do love how my hairs looks & feels. So after a long debate with myself... shut up! yes, I do talk to myself!... I decided that I would use the Fekkai shampoo and conditioner every 3rd wash and the glossing cream every day! Might as well put truth behind my husband's claim that I am high maintenance! ;-)

**I am a BzzAgent. I received the products free of charge to review, share, and provide my honest opinion.***

Review: Downy Un-Stopables

I do not LOVE doing laundry. Actually, the actual doing it doesn't bother me. My machine does all the work. The part that I HATE is folding & putting away.  I love having clean & fresh smelling clothes though. So yes, it's a LOVE/HATE relationship.

I received a sample bottle of Downy UNSTOPABLES™ in wash scent booster from Vocalpoint a couple of weeks ago. First of all, let me say that I love scents. I love candles,warmers, plug-ins, sprays...well, you get the picture. So this product definitely appeals to me.

I find that using just a little bit gives my laundry just the right amount of scent. You use as little or as much as you like. I have yet to use it together with fabric softener though. I'm not quite sure how both scents would meld. I may just switch to the Downy unscented softener or just stick to dryer sheets instead. I do love scent, but I don't like to mix scents. I also like that Downy UNSTOPABLES™ is safe to use in my HE washer.

Now, it's not all butterflies & roses. There is one downer. I find the price point to be a quite high. I saw it at Target for about $6 per bottle. Considering that I will be using Downy UNSTOPABLES™ in addition to everything else that I use in the wash, I have to ask myself; "Is the added cost worth it?" It is just scent after all. A 'want' not a 'necessity'. Will I buy Downy UNSTOPABLES™ in the future? That is yet to be determined. It depends on how long the bottle will last and how many coupons & sales become available.

Funny Story. When my girls were little, we were visiting a friend and my girls went in the pool. My friend brought out towels for them, and my sweet, polite girls embarrassed the heck out of me. When they dried their face, the both... at the same time... exclaimed that the towels smelled bad! As I turned every color of red, I bent down to tell them to stop and realized that the towels did not smell bad. They just did not smell like Downy.


If you are anti-scent, then this product is not for you. But if you LOVE scent like I do, then grab yourself a  bottle and try it for yourself.

Hungry Jack® Premium Hashbrown Potatoes Review & Giveaway

I have this weird habit of checking out other peoples shopping carts while at the grocery store. I was doing just that when I spotted these little milk containers in someones cart. But the containers weren't milk. They were Hungry Jack® Premium Hashbrown Potatoes. Potatoes in a milk container? I have to try that. I made a mental note to pick some up next time I went grocery shopping.

As luck would have it, the Hungry Jack® Premium Hashbrown Potatoes came to me first. Not just the samples to try but a box including a "Hashbrowns Making Kit"! How cool is that?

So what's a girl to do? Well, get right down to hashbrowns making of course! I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical. But let me just say, that it was great. First of all, I love that it is shelf stable. For one thing, no frozen bits popping up and splattering me. No frost bitten potatoes either. It's much more portable and great for camping trips. It is super easy to prepare, although it can take a bit longer than the frozen stuff. Since it doesn't have to be kept frozen or refrigerated, it's a great addition to my hurricane supplies too.

First you fill the container with hot tap water and let it sit for 12 minutes. While you wait for that, you can be prepping the rest of your meal, no biggie. Then you heat 2 tbs of oil in a large skillet. Drain any excess water from the container and add the potatoes. Pan fry to golden brown. Salt and/or pepper to taste. Then enjoy. Easy peasy.

My family & I enjoyed the Hungry Jack® Premium Hashbrown Potatoes. I will definitely be buying it again the future. Now, the packaging states that it makes an entire pound of hashbrowns to serve 6. I would say that realistically it will feed four normal eaters.

Each carton typically retails for $1.79 That's about $0.45 per serving for a family of four. Another plus, it is made with 100% Idaho® Potatoes. There are some great recipes on the Hungry Jack® website. It's not just for breakfast! I particularly like to mix in some fresh bacon bits, shredded cheddar, some green onions and top with some sour cream. Yummo!

GIVEAWAY! (Closed)

The folks at Hungry Jack® have generously offered a "Hashbrown Making Kit" for not one but TWO of my readers. The kit is just like the one pictured and includes a pan, spatula, apron and samples of Hungry Jack® Premium Hashbrown Potatoes. 

To enter simply visit the Hungry Jack® Premium Hashbrown Potatoes recipe page and tell me which recipe you would like to try. Or if you have your own recipe, please share.

Extra entries are optional and only in addition to the mandatory entry above. Please leave a separate comment for each entry.
~ Like Hungry Jack® on Facebook ( Leave your FB name)
~ Follow me on Twitter (Leave me your Twitter handle)
~ Tweet the following: "I just entered for a chance to #win a Hungry Jack Prize Pack from @Just4YouReviews. You too can enter here: http://is.gd/qndFID  #Giveaways " (Link to your tweet)
~Subscribe to my feed
My giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on July 26th. I will then draw my winners via a random number generator. Open only to U.S. Residents 18+. Void where prohibited.

Contest
You also have a chance win a $3000 kitchen shopping spree by entering the “My Happy Hungry Jack Family Photo Contest” Contest ends on July 31st, so act quickly! Let me know if you win!

This post was written for Family Review Network & Hungry Jack® Premium Hashbrown Potatoes who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for honest opinion.

Review: TRESemmé® Color Revitalize

I have been coloring my hair for over 10 years. It all started when I spotted the first gray and I started to panic. I was not going to accept the grays! I started with reds and I LOVED the color. But red fades really fast. I couldn't afford keeping up with it. It would actually fade before the roots started to show. So I gravitated towards lightish auburn with blonde highlights.

I am a BzzAgent and I recently received samples of TRESemmé® Color Revitalize shampoo & conditioner. I figured, what better way to try it than by going back to red? So I did. After using both the shampoo and conditioner for 4 weeks, my color remained pretty much the same. It was still shiny and not as dull as it normally would be 4 weeks after coloring. After rinsing the shampoo off, my hair felt like a mass of knots but thankfully the conditioner de-tangled well and did not weigh down my hair. I did notice that although my hair did not feel weighed down, I did have a difficult time styling it. Even my curling iron did not give me the desired waves that I'm used to. Also, my hair did not feel as soft as I like.

All in all I would give the TRESemmé® Color Revitalize Shampoo & Conditioner 3 stars because it did maintain my hair color. It did, however, seem to make my hair less manageable. It is not sulfate-free which may be a concern for some. The price point is very reasonable.It is worth a try for those with color treated hair.

So, have you tried TRESemmé® Color Revitalize? What did you think about it?

**I was given a coupon/products for free from BzzAgent.com. Opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid for this review***

Review: George Foreman GRP4B Next Grilleration™

In my house, Summer generally means cook outs and pool time. My husband has a fancy schmancy outdoor grill which he considers his baby and uses it quite often. But what happens when it rains? The BBQ is out in the open, so it usually means that we have to bring the stuff in and mess up my kitchen.  Because of this, I was so happy to receive the George Foreman GRP4B Next Grilleration™ Removable Plate Grill to try.

When I first opened the box, I was thrilled to see that the unit is sleek and black. The grill surface (72 sq.in.) is smaller than I expected though. The biggest plus is that it comes with removable grill plates! My old George Foreman Grill did not have removable plates, and clean up was a chore. I remember saying that they should invent something that could be removed. Well, now they did and I love it!

This is a spacious yet sleek 72" grill that offers easy clean up grilling for the whole family.

* 72 square inch grilling surface lets you cook for 4
* 2 dishwasher-safe removable grill plates for easy clean up
* Temperature indicator light indicates plates are at grilling temperature
* Integrated handle is ergonomic & compact
* George Tough™ Triple non-stick coating is durable & eliminates need for oil
* Patented sloped grill design knocks out the fat
* 1 ½" floating hinge works to accommodate thick cuts of meat
* Embedded heat elements provide consistent heat & rapid recovery time
* Dishwasher-safe removable plates with cool-touch handles for easy clean up
* 2 Plates included: 2 ribbed grill plates
* 2 drip trays catch run off liquids for no-mess clean up
* 2 spatulas are customized for grill

Knock Out the Fat™ new fat-reduction claim:
New results of independent testing show that the George Foreman Grill removes up to 42% of fat from quarter-pound burgers made with 80/20 ground chuck beef, translating to a reduction of approximately 89 calories per burger!

Learn more about the Knock Out the Fat™ claim


Of course, I put it to the test.

 What was in the box

 About to grill the burgers

 Look at all that nasty fat!

What I liked:

* The removal grill plates. Clean up was a breeze. So much easier than with my other GF Grill!
* The sleek design
* The amount of fat removed.

What can be improved:

* The grill surface. They say that you can cook for 4, I say 2 maybe 3.
* The cord is very short. Just a few more inches would be nice.

All in all, I liked George Foreman GRP4B Next Grilleration™ Removable Plate Grill. I will continue to use it like I did my old GF Grill. I love making chicken breasts and pressed sandwiches on the grill. Now I won't hesitate in using the grill just because I don't want to go through the hassle of cleaning it. I still have to clean it, but it's so much easier to do now.

This post was written for Family Review Network & George Foreman Grills who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for honest opinion.

Review: Perfective Ceuticals

Perfective Ceuticals is allied with renowned biochemists, medical specialists and doctors in developing the finest and most advanced anti-aging formulas to provide comprehensive solution targeting the aspects of aging.

Growth Factors are naturally occurring substance capable of stimulating cellular growth and proliferation. They participate in skin rejuvenation at various levels such as stimulating the synthesis of collagen and elastin and promoting growth of keratinocytes, dermal fibroblasts and other cells with decreased prolific capacity due to aging. Medical studies indicate that Growth Factors are unparalleled in enhancing dynamic and rapid cell activity.


Perfective Ceuticals comprises holistic wisdom with cell biology technique to provide aging skin the most extensive compensation ever experienced in a skin care formulation. Famed Growth Factors, proven anti-aging ingredients, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are included in our anti-aging creams and wrinkle treatments to reverse the ravages of time. Apply once in the morning before the sunscreen and at night after cleansing. Sleep on it and after 6 weeks you'll notice a smoother, plumper, younger complexion.



My Thoughts

I recently received samples of Perfective Ceuticals to review.  The following is my personal opinion, based on just under two weeks of use.  The products that I received included the Divine Age Guardian Serum with Growth Factor ($128) & the Divine Age Guardian Cream with Growth Factor ($96) . The instructions suggest using them in tandem  2x per day.

Let me point out that I am fortunate enough not to have many noticeable wrinkles... yet. I do have a few lines on my forehead and tiny crows feet. Plus, I live in in South Florida where the humidity is the death of my hair but the salvation for my skin.

First of all, let me say that I LOVED the packaging of the products. They are pretty enough to display on your vanity and not thrown in a drawer.  Also, the serum comes in a pump which retracts and locks. This is great for traveling!

Although, the suggested use is 2x per day, I found the creme to be a bit heavy for me for daytime use. I used the serum in the morning & before bed. I only used the creme at night though. Just a few pumps of the serum was enough for my face, neck & décolletage. I would venture to guess that both products should last me 1 1/2-2 months of continuous use.

After just 2 weeks of use, I do find my skin feeling smoother & more toned. It also looks brighter and healthier. I did use the serum around my eyes and the baby crow's feet are less visible, which is great. Aside from the Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), the ingredients include peptides and retinol  which are scientifically backed ingredients. I also love that it contains Emu oil because...well, I love Emu oil! One thing to point out,  is that these products do NOT contain sunscreen. Be sure to use your sunscreen after applying the products. If they could find a way to incorporate sunscreen into their formula the products would be just perfect.

Pricing is a bit high and can be prohibitive for some. But it may be worth it to invest in these Perfective Ceutical products instead of an arsenal of many different products with sub-par ingredients. You can also tweak your regimen to make the products last longer.

All in all, I was very pleased with the products.  I probably will be tempted to purchase in the future, simply because I like the way it makes my skin look and feel. I would also like to see how it works when the real wrinkles start to make an un-welcomed appearance. I will, however, be tweaking my own regimen. Maybe by using it every other day instead of every day. Unless I win the lotto of course!


This post was written for Family Review Network & Perfective Ceuticals who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for my honest opinions.

REVIEW: Wilson La Davine Capri Pant

The Wilson La Davine Capri Pant is a compression fit Capri that is lightweight, breathable, and flattering. The premium technical fabric and design allow for maximum moisture wicking and comfort. The Capri has versatile functionality whether training in the gym, playing on the tennis court, or just out and about running errands.

As some of you may already know, I am a bit disabled right now due to a severe tibia & fibula fracture.  Unfortunately, I won't be hitting the court anytime soon.  I'm talking about the tennis court. I am no pro-tennis player by any means, but I do enjoy going out and playing with friends for fun. Although, for the most part, I am running around chasing errant balls. But I digress.

I had volunteered to review a pair of Wilson La Davine Capri Pants.  That was before the accident. I just received the pants a few days ago. I did try them on, and they fit perfectly and are very comfortable. Especially the waistband. I have even worn them to physical therapy a few times. But, that is not a real work out.  At least not a real, sweat my rear off workout. So, I recruited my daughter to try the pants for a spinning class.  That might have been a huge mistake on my part. Primarily because she has not returned them to me. She loved that after an hour of spinning, it didn't feel or look like she had wet her pants. She liked how they looked on her too. You know that looking cute is always a huge plus!

I can't wait to put them to the test myself! Hopefully I'll be walking again soon and eventually, back to actual workouts. In the meantime, I have my eye on the Wilson La Davine Tank & Skirt and the Monarch Tank & Skirt too! Those can be my reward for all the painful PT sessions!


**This post was written for Wilson Tennis who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for my honest opinions. No payment or compensation was received for my review**

Review: CardiWrap by Kymaro

Travel much? We sure do try. And every single time, I attempt to travel light. I may not always succeed, but I do way better than my DH! He's worse than a girl! Come October, we are booked to fly to Paris, then to Barcelona and finally end up on a trans-Atlantic cruise back to Florida. With baggage fees the way they are, we definitely need to pack light. So I was really excited to get the opportunity to review the CardiWrap by Kymaro.

The CardiWrap is single multifunctional wrap can be twisted, tossed, tucked and slung to create 50 different figure-flattering styles and is an indispensable wardrobe addition.

I received a black CardiWrap, which is perfect since it goes with every color. I tried a few different ideas and some worked well for me, while others didn't. But it's nice to experiment and see what works well for you. The sleeves did feel a bit snug around the armpit area on me, but that may be because I am carrying a few extra pounds. Hopefully, by October, I can wear more styles. I had my daughter try some styles and they looked great on her. I'm sure that the average person can find at the very least 10 styles that they can work with. It can be used as a loose cardigan, a shawl, a wrap and even a scarf. I particularly liked the loose draped styles and the belted styles too! It will definitely be my go to item for our trips!

I'm still in my wheelchair, so my photos would not do the product much justice. The Cardi Wrap comes with a booklet with 56 styles for you to try. You can also check out the CardiWrap by Kymaro website to see the many style options plus you can come up with some of your own.  The possibilities are endless.

The Kymaro Cardi Wrap is available in seven colors and two sizes and comes with a Style Book illustrating how it can be worn in a limitless number of ways. Use it to go to the office and then change its style for a night out on the town. The Cardi Warp is made from light-weight fabric labeled 100% Viscose and is machine washable. Fantastic! Because I hate paying for dry cleaning! I have never heard of viscose, but it's a soft material like rayon and it drapes really well.

It is available  in two sizes. Misses & Plus Size. And comes in seven colors... blue, black, red, gray, pink, purple and tan. The price is $49.99 including shipping.

About Kymaro

Kymaro is owned by BJ Global, a pioneering company in affordable and practical consumer products. For more than 20 years, the Irvine, Calif.-based company has engaged in all aspects of the direct-response industry from designing, marketing and distributing products to producing infomercials. Founded and run by BJ Fazeli, BJ Global sells dozens of products under the Duragear and Kymaro brands. The latter takes its name from Fazeli’s three daughters: Kyara Fazelli, Mahdice Fazeli and Romy Alahmari. The sisters are behind such popular products as Body Shaper, Bust Up Cups, Cardi Wrap and Rhythm Rocker.

This is not a paid post. This post was written for Family Review Network & Cardi Wrap who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for my honest opinions.

Review: Exposed Envy Bra Accessories.

Underwear is meant to be worn  under your clothes. Hence the name. I am not a fan of pants on the ground or thongs hanging out from the back. I also do not like my bra straps showing. It just looks unkempt and kind of trashy.

Here in Florida we are blessed with weather that allows us to wear cutesy, sleeveless tops practically year round.  Problem is that a) I hate strapless bras and b) strapless bras hate me! I'm not kidding.  They do not stay on. Within minutes, it slides down practically to my waist.  Going bra-less is not an option either. So what's a girl to do? I do have the clear straps and for the most part, I'm okay with them. But if I'm going to wear those, why not go a step further and wear something cute & fashionable instead?

With Exposed Envy Bra Accessories, I can wear my bra, still get the support needed and look cute in the process!  Exposed Envy supplied me with two sets of straps for review. I received the
Pink, White and Apricot Print Fabric Bra Straps & the Red Garnet and Crystal Rhinestone Bra Straps.

My daughter promptly stole the printed ones. She wore it with a pink top and the straps matched perfectly. You could not tell that they were bra straps.  Now, you have to be willing to alter the look of your clothes.  For example, your strapless top, will no longer look strapless. But, you will have fashionable straps to accent the top for a whole new look. They attach easily to any strapless or convertible bra. Plus they are adjustable!

The rhinestone straps that I received are gorgeous! I just wish I had an opportunity to wear them.  I'm sure these will look fabulous with a black, white or red cocktail/evening dress. Definitely for evenings, too much bling for daytime. They lay flat and are not  uncomfortable at all. Thing is, we don't have any fancy, schmancy events coming up any time soon. There is one suggestion that I would make for the rhinestone straps though.  Hook the straps to the back first, then put on the bra, bring the straps over shoulders and then hook them to the front.  Since they are not elasticized, I think that this would be the best way. At least it was for me.

Here are a few of my personal favorites:

Bohemian Brown & Black Bra Beaded Straps Retail $22

I love,love, love the Bohemian Brown and Black Beaded Straps.  Those are totally my style. As you can see in the picture, they look great with an off the shoulder peasant top. I have tons of tops like these and I normally have to slide the straps down so they don't show.  Very uncomfortable. I actually like most of the beaded straps and would love to see them in Turquoise too.

Designer Eyelet Silver Bra Straps Retail $18

Reversible Fabric Sparkle Bra Straps Retail $10 or 3 for $25

These reversible straps are just too stinkin' cute! It would be great to have them in all colors.

All in all, I liked the concept of the product even though you are altering the look of your outfit. But sometimes, that is a good thing. You can wear the same top, for example, and change the look each time by wearing different straps. It's functional yet fashionable.  

GIVEAWAY!

Which straps do you like? Go to Exposed Envy and check out their wide selection of bra accessories. Then come back here and tell me which are your  favorite straps from these three categories: Printed, Fabric Sparkle or Gem. Be sure to pick just one pair. One commenter will win the straps that they choose plus will also receive a $15 gift certificate. 

Extra Entries:

* Follow me on Twitter  & leave a separate comment on here with your Twitter handle.

* Tweet the following: "I just entered for a chance to win @ExposedEnvy bra accessories! http://is.gd/dC4jS8 #Giveaway"

* "Like" Exposed Envy on Facebook

Be sure to leave a separate comment for each entry.

Open to US & Canada
Giveaway will end at 11:59 PM on March  9th.

I will use a random number generator to pick the winner.  Winner will be announced on here and on Twitter on March 10th. Winner will have 48 hours to respond or an alternate winner will be drawn.

***"This post was written for Family Review Network & Exposed Envy who provided the complimentary product for review (and giveaway) in exchange for my honest opinions."***

Review & Giveaway: Stikins™ by Label Lighthouse

I am a bit obsessed with "tagging" my personal items. Been that way since I was a kid. I would write my name on everything! My mom would get upset because I would use an ink pen to write my name on my tennis shoes.  As I got older, I graduated to just my initials. But it still wasn't pretty.

When my girls started pre-school my use of Sharpies was rampant.  Their name was on everything! Sippy cups, bottles, toys, clothing, backpacks... you name it! Problem was, especially with clothing, that consignment shops would generally not take those items that were marked.So I was out a bit of $$$ because of that.

So now, I may have found a solution! I was recently sent samples of Stikins™ by Label Lighthouse for review. At first glance, they looked like regular sticky labels and I wondered how they would hold up to the claims. The literature states that Stikins™ are advanced, no iron & no sew labels. They are said to withstand the washer, the dryer, microwave & the dishwasher! Well, I was skeptical and just had to put them to the test! So the first thing I did was stick one on the care tag of a shirt and another on a water bottle. The instructions state to wait 24 hours before washing, so I did. After a day and a half, I put them in the wash! After a wash & dry cycle, the labels on both looked exactly as they did when I put them on! The labels weren't peeling off and the print was not smudged. For the sake of testing, I also, removed the label from the bottle and it came off with no residue left behind.

Stikin™ labels are small, only 1-3/16" x 9/16". You get two lines with up to 14 characters each. They are easy to use, just peel and stick. Plus you can stick it on anything. Just one label for everything. No need to buy different labels for different uses.
Another thing that I like about these labels, is that they're nondescript. Just plain little white labels with black letters. You can use one set for everyone  or get several sets, one for each member of the family. You won't have to stick Dora the Explorer stickers on your husband's coffee mug that he takes to work.The guys at the station would have a field day with that one!Sort of like when I secretly changed his ringtone to "If I Only Had a Brain". But I digress...

Stikins™ are great to use on anything! I personally used them on my craft tools, so that I could easily identify my stuff at crops. I also used them for my nephew's sippy cups and clothing that he takes to daycare. Stikins™ would also be great for Summer camps. This way everything that goes to camp, returns home. Hopefully. Plus, if you sell your stuff on consignment, like I do, you won't have to worry about a Sharpie tattoos! I am now sticking Stikins™ on every Tupperware container that leaves my house! Those things seem to grow legs and go home with other people. Cheaters!

You can order Stikins™ from Label Lighthouse. They come in two package sizes. The Starter package is $24.95 for 60 labels and the Super package is $39.95 for 120 labels. Both package prices include standard shipping to the U.S. & Canada.

GIVEAWAY!

Lena at Label Lighthouse is generously offering a Super Package ($39.95) to giveaway to one lucky reader! That's 120 Stikins™ so that you too can go label crazy! You might even want to slap one on your significant other's forehead in case they get lost!

Giveaway is open to U.S & Canada
To Enter:
*Leave me a comment and tell me how you would use the Stikins™.

Extra Entries:
*For an extra entry, follow me on Twitter and leave a separate comment with your Twitter handle. Giveaway will close at 11:59 PM on February 28th.

* Tweet " #Review & #Giveaway: Enter to win Stickins Labels $40 value! No-iron, no-sew labels. http://is.gd/esKOUu"

Be sure to leave a separate comment for each entry.

I will use a random number generator to pick the winner.  Winner will be announced on here and on Twitter on March 1st. Winner will have 48 hours to respond or an alternate winner will be drawn.

Don't forget to visit Label Lighthouse & check out their FAQ's!

***"This post was written for Family Review Network & Label Lighthouse who provided the complimentary product for review (and giveaway) in exchange for my honest opinions."***

Review: Thomas' Bagel Thins

For a person that doesn't really eat breakfast, I have been reviewing quite a few breakfast products recently. Just to clarify, I don't eat eggs & I don't drink milk. My typical breakfast includes a bagel, slathered with cream cheese. Or dry cereal, no milk. Since I am trying to cut down on caloric intake, I had stopped having my bagels and I wasn't a happy camper

I am a BzzAgent and occasionally receive products (or coupons) to review & spread the word. In this case, I received a coupon to obtain a free package of Thomas' Bagel Thins. I was so happy to learn that each bagel thin only has 110 calories! Regular bagels contain about 260 calories. Now, the carbs are still there at 25g per bagel thin. But considering that standard bagels contain 51g of carbs, I think that's a great option for cutting down.
The bagel thins also contain:
* 0g Trans Fat
* Cholesterol Free
* Good Source of Fiber
* Low Fat

Bagel Thins toast up nice & crispy. I don't know if it's just my toaster, but they seemed to toast faster. So keep an eye out so you you don't end up with burned bagel thins. I honestly like the thins. They taste like bagels to me. I do miss my chewy bagels, but I can definitely get used to these. Especially if I can reach my weight-loss goals without sacrificing too much. In my experience, if I completely get rid of my favorite food items, I end up cheating on my diet. Big time. I am now experimenting with toppings, including low fat cream cheese. Any yummy and guilt-free suggestions?

The Thomas' Bagel Thins give me my bagel fix with half the calories and carbs. They are available in 100% Whole Wheat, Plain, Cinnamon Raisin & Everything (variety of seeds, garlic and onions).

***I was given a coupon for free product from BzzAgent.com. Opinions expressed are my own and I was not paid for this review***

Review: Kashi Go Lean Crisp

I am ashamed to admit that I am not a big breakfast person. I know that breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day, but I just don't care for it. For starters, I do not eat eggs. I also do not drink milk AND I do not like milk on my cereal. I eat my cereal dry which cuts my healthy options to a minimum.

It's no coincidence that my healthy option cereals are all made by Kashi. I started with GO Lean Crunch. Although I really like this cereal, it is a little too crunchy and hard. I am sure that it is better enjoyed with milk... for those that like cereal & milk. I also like the Kashi Heart to Heart Cereal. This one I can totally enjoy dry. I love the Honey Toasted and the Warm Cinnamon Oat, not only for breakfast either. I carry around a baggie of cereal for snacking as well, just like a baby!

I just recently received a sample of the new Kashi GOLEAN® Crisp!™ Toasted Berry Crumble. Can I just say that this is my new favorite cereal? Not only does it contain 9 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber (that’s twice the protein and fiber of the average of other cereals) but it tastes GREAT right out of the box! I also like to mix it in my yogurt instead of granola. Yummy! I love that it's crisp and much easier to chew than the  GoLean Crunch. Plus it has a nice hint of berries that makes it tastier for us dry cereal lovers. Since I don't eat eggs, I'm getting my morning protein from my cereal! Who would have thunk it??? Plus for someone that has been told that I need to include more fiber in my diet, this is a great choice!

Have you tried Kashi GOLEAN® Crisp!™ Toasted Berry Crumble? What did you think? If you haven't, try it. You won't be disappointed! You can find a coupon on Target.com and stack it with a manufacturer coupon as well for added savings.


***I received a sample & money saving coupon from Vocalpoint.  
I was not paid for this review and the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.***

Nasoya® Wrappy Hour!

It's almost time for my Nayosa® Wrappy Hour Party! I had to move the date from the 4th to the 5th to accommodate my guests. But the party is on! I just received my party box today. I can't believe how generous they were with the supplies! Just look at all my stuff!

The box included the following:

~ Recipe booklets
~ A bottle of Honey Ginger Soy Sauce
~ A jar of Marinara sauce
~ Dough presses
~ Wrappy Hour napkins and aprons
~ 6 cute bamboo appetizer plates
~ 12 coupons for free Nasoya products
~ PLUS a $25 AMEX gift card for other supplies!

Thanks Nasoya®!  I'm sure that we will have a great party! In the meantime, here is the recipe for the Hazelnut-Choc Wontons that I am planning on making.

• 16 Nasoya® wonton wraps (you can use raviolis or egg roll too!)
• 1 egg, beaten to blend
• 1 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread (I LOVE Nutella)
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Nonstick vegetable oil spray
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Line a baking sheet with plastic wrap. Place 1 wonton wrapper on the work surface. Brush the edges of the wrapper lightly with egg. Spoon 1 tablespoon of chocolate-hazelnut spread into the center of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper diagonally in half over the filling and press the edges of the wrapper to seal. Place the ravioli on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining wonton wrappers, egg, and chocolate-hazelnut spread.
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F. Add enough oil to a heavy large frying pan to reach a depth of 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat to 350 degrees F.
Working in batches, carefully add the ravioli to the hot oil and cook until they are golden brown, about 45 seconds per side. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the ravioli to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Then, transfer the cooked ravioli to another baking sheet and keep them warm in the oven while frying the remaining ravioli. (The fried ravioli can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cool them completely, then cover and refrigerate. Before serving, place them on a baking sheet and rewarm in a preheated 375 degrees F oven just until they are heated through, about 7 minutes.)

YUMMY!


***To help defray the cost of the party, I am being provided with products, coupons and a gift card by Nasoya®. All opinions expressed are strictly my own. Please refer to my disclosure policy***