Saturday, June 14, 2014

Organic Black Matcha Tea Review + Giveaway #tea

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.


You may not have tried Black Matcha Tea yet but you are truly missing out.  I really enjoy it in the afternoons as a pick me up and sometimes I even go for it in the morning instead of the usual ho-hum coffee. I am pretty particular though and I only buy organic black matcha tea. I recently had the opportunity to try a DNA Black Matcha Tea.


This is a Swiss certified organic black matcha tea.  They have tested for heavy metals and it is certified BPA free as well USDA organic.  It makes me feel relaxed just thinking about the quality.

You can get more familiar with the DNA organic teas brand by visiting their website and seeing what all the buzz is about. You can even watch some of our videos to see what other consumers think too.  I really like that Matcha DNA™ tea is organically grown and hand picked. I have made it hot and cold...you can even get adventurous and make tea  lattes, martinis or used in food like green tea ice cream and in other recipes.  Match DNA tea tastes great and has a very rich and pure taste both hot and cold. I saw a ton of tea recipes and drinks when I did a quick search on Pinterest.

Few people know that the current practice of drinking powdered tea in the Japanese tea ceremony is actually from the Song dynasty in China. It dates back to over 1,000 years ago. This practice was carried on in Japan and is now considered a pillar of Japanese culture. Today. once again high quality Matcha is being made in China.

The tea has a slightly different character than its Japanese counterpart. Both teas have a deep green color and thick, savory taste and texture. Both are high in EGCG and antioxidants. However, Chinese MatchaDNA™ is smoother, without the bitterness, and has rich, smooth and fresh taste unlike any other!  You can find it on Amazon so that makes it easy too.

Enter to win your own MatchaDNA™ via my Rafflecopter giveaway below. Good luck!a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

EZ Grip Bike Light Makes Me Feel Safer: a Review #lumenxusa

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

I love riding my bike but you really have to be careful whether you live in the city or out in the 'burbs here like I do. People drive like maniacs and you just gotta be ready for anything. When I ride my bike early in the morning or in the evening I always wear reflective gear but I needed a good little bike light too.  It doesn't have to be complicated though...I recently found the EZ Grip On the Go bike light.  It comes in a pack of two also. It gives me an extra measure of safety to see and be seen. 

This EZ Grip bike light was easy to install...it literally took seconds. No tools needed. They clip right on wherever you like. One light is shines a  strong white light and the other shines a strong red light to make it easy to see where I am going and easy for drivers to see me. It is great because you can choose from different settings. You can choose from Constant, Strobe, Disco strobe or Epileptic Fit Strobe for each light. It makes me feel more confident knowing cars can't miss me. Sometimes I have gone out when it was light and just didn't expect to be out so late. I feel more confident and safe now with my little bike lights. The EZ Grip has these LED lights that have a very high light output and life span. They are even guaranteed for life.


LumenX EZ Grip Bike Light consists of a front bike light and a rear tail light which can fit and can easily attach to any bike – mountain bike, street bike or children’s bike. You could even clip them to a dog leash if you take your dog out at night! They are small but strong. It has a high quality silicone material and a water resistant property which makes it great for safety and emergencies.

LumenX offers the new high quality dual energy efficient LED bike light which are super bright, with 90 lumens and provide up to 150M safe use. For added safety, it has 1 red LED for the rear light and 1 white LED front light. It can be used in Four modes: Constant, Strobe, Disco strobe, Epileptic Fit Strobe.  The Ez Grip Bike Light has an energy saving feature which can last up to 130 hours of flashing and 25 hours of constant light. It also has an easy integrated clip feature which allows quick mounting and fits around any handlebar, seat post and frame tube.  These are great little bike lights that have a reasonable price tag too.  LumenX guarantees them to have the best LEDs which offers the best performance bike light at a minimal cost. They are dedicated to maintain our high quality standards in compliance with ANAI (American National Standards Institute), an industry standard for flashlight categories.

You can buy the Lumenx front mountable bike light on Amazon and have it on your doorstep in a flash. It would be a great Father's Day gift for a mom or dad (or even Gramma!) who loves to bike and enjoy the beautiful weather this spring and summer. You would know it would be appreciated and enjoyed for many years to come too. 

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

UNi 100% Organic Pure Moroccan Argan Oil Review #arganoil

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.




I just really enjoy using natural skin and hair care oils. I love Argan oil but I really prefer organic Argan oil from Morocco. I was excited to hear about a new option suitable for hair, body and skin from UNi. 
UNi Argan Oil is 100% pure organic made from Moroccan Argan trees. This is a naturally light scented oil which can be used no matter what your hair type. It works naturally to protect, hydrate, and restore elasticity to your hair. One of the secrets of Argan oil is that it contains a large concentration of fatty acids and antioxidants. These special ingredients help restore the appearance of dull skin, hair, body, scalp and hands. It really reduces frizzy and damaged hair.  UNi is a multi-purpose Argan oil that is also excellent for cuticles.  It really helps prevent cracking and peeling nails. It is gentle and natural so it is great to treat all skin types as well.

This is a very fast absorbing light weight oil too. It is  is smooth, and not at all greasy.  I like the way it feels after I apply it to my hair.  UNi only uses the highest quality oils..they are cold pressed and unroasted. This is naturally rich in Vitamin E (tocopherols) and Omega 6 (linolenic acids) which are great for the skin.  One of the things I really like about this brand is that it has no strong odors. I have to assume it is because of the high quality. UNi 100% organic Argan oil has a light nutty smell and is fragrance free.  I also like that is has USDA and ECOCERT certification means high purity and authentic to me.


UNi Organic Pure Moroccan Argan Oil can be used on sensitive and non-sensitive skin to reduce age spots and boost skin tones.  It is manufactured in the Kingdom of Morocco and packaged in the USA.  UNi Argan Oil comes in a beautiful smooth dark glass bottle with easy access dropper.  UNi Argan Oil are manufactured and bottled throughout the year to ensure freshness and quality. Manufactured date is printed on every bottle with a shelf-life of 36 months.  I was really happy to hear that UNi Moroccan Argan Oil is available on Amazon. It makes it so much easier to keep up with good skin care. You can also get more information on the UNi brand on their website.


I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Instanatural Luxurious Argan Oil Hair Treatment and Elixir review #arganoilhairtreatment

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.
I have really been seeing a nice difference in how my hair looks and feels since I starting using Argan Oil.  I was excited to hear that insta natural recently launched a product that is a blend of luxurious organic argan oil, shea butter, coconut, jojoba, olive, grapeseed and sunflower oils.  This luxurious blend of oils makes a wonderful hair treatment and elixir. Argan Oil Hair Treatment & Elixir feels so good on my hair. I find that my hair gets so dry now that I am 40+. I have tried everything to keep my hair looking fresh and hydrated and this product is one of the best.

This Argan Oil Hair Treatment & Elixir  is unique and unlike others in the market.  It can be used as a leave in conditioner or as a heat & damage protectant. There are no chemicals in this formula...just plant oils, Vitamin B5 and shea butter. Besides argan oil, this unique hair treatment formula is compromised of Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Olive Oil & Grapeseed Oil to name a few.

It's perfect for restoring that shine and luster that's lost over time (read:  over 30 or 40). This needs to be part of your daily/weekly hair regimen!
  I worry more and more about what is in some of these beauty products that are stacked up in the aisles of all those local pharmacies. I love that there are no chemicals or preservatives in this product. It makes me feel good to use it anytime.


Insta Natural gave me some ideas on how I can use this product: 

Leave-in conditioner- Massage a few drops of Argan Oil Hair Treatment and Elixir in your wet hair and scalp after shower to hydrate your hair. This is particularly useful for people who have dry hair naturally or due to hair styling activities such as straightening and curling. Argan Oil Hair Treatment and Elixir can also be applied to hair before hair styling to reduce the damage caused to hair, especially if you’re using a hair dryer
 
Frizz remover - Do you experience frizzy and dull hair after you wash your hair? Argan Oil Hair Treatment and Elixir is an excellent frizz remover and de-tangler. Apply a few drops of Argan Oil Hair Treatment and Elixir on your hair paying more attention to the hair ends when your hair is still wet. It will make your hair soft and easy to comb. Along with this, it adds a great shine to your hair and reduces split ends.

Hair / Scalp Treatment - Give an overnight treatment to your scalp with Argan Oil Hair Treatment and Elixir, if you have dry and flaky scalp. The oil will penetrate deep to produce more efficient results. Massage a generous amount on your scalp for 15 minutes and leave overnight. Wash off the next morning with a mild shampoo. Do this twice a week to get healthy, non-itchy scalp. This treatment is beneficial for both hair and scalp at the same time.

I find my is looking so much more hydrated and youthful. I am impressed at the difference and will continue to use this. I like that I can stock up on it on Amazon so that makes it easy too. Let me know your thoughts but I am really enjoying this lovely moisturizer.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Majestic Bombay Stainless Steel High Performance Eye Brows Slant Expert Tweezer Review #MBEyeBrowTweezer

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Are you in need of a reasonably priced good slant tip tweezer that really performs like an expensive one? How about a gorgeous salon design, precision tips, sure grip, stainless steel Slant Tip Expert Tweezer!  I have always found that the precision-aligned slant tips are best for all my tweezing needs.  I love the perfect tension which gives me excellent control...much easier to tidy those little teeny tiny eyebrow hairs.

I really appreciate the matte finish for a non-slip grip. These tweezers are made from Quality stainless steel for long lasting usage. Majestic Bombay shares with me that these tweezers are always precision crafted and each one is fully inspected. Tweezit Beauty Tools meet exacting design and quality specifications to assure exceptional performance.

My tweezers arrived in perfect condition. They are easy to hold and grip.  They worked well and fit perfectly in my makeup bag.  They are even small enough to stash in your purse. The bright pink color makes them easy to find too.

This great tweezer can be found exclusively on my favorite online store....Amazon! Let me know how it works for you. 

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Rainbow Bandz Loom Kit Review #loomkit

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.


Rainbow Bandz Looms are even more fun than ever this spring and summer! My tween has added adorable animal crafts to her skill set with the loom. She sometimes even uses two looms together to make some of her creations! 
           
We recently received an excellent quality  Rainbow Bandz Loom set that 100% Compatible with ALL Rainbow Looms and refills. The Rainbow Bandz Looms work perfectly with both the original Rainbow Rainbow Looms. The adorable dolphin above was made with the Rainbow Bandz. Perfect as a little gift for a friend...the kids have been attaching them to backpacks and trading them!  You can look around on YouTube for tons of tutorials and craft ideas like the dolphin.

     
I love that these Premium Quality Rainbow Bandz are totally safe for kids. Obviously these are meant for older children like 2nd grade and above. You want to keep tiny objects away from a babies...that is common sense.  Each color is packed individually for easy organizing! No smell either and won't easily break. You can find these great Rainbow Bandz on Amazon too so easy shopping.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Nutra-Lift® Rejuvenating “A” Nano Reneu™ PLUS GROWTH FACTORS Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.


I am always looking for new skin care products to help give me a bit of a lift. I recently heard about a new product that truly marries the magic of science and nature in a beautiful way. Nutra-Lift® Rejuvenating “A” Nano Reneu™ PLUS GROWTH FACTORS: Advanced Anti-Aging Skincare is totally new and a completed advanced way to care for your skin that I really love. It uses Golden Collagenine, a NEW advanced peptide which is one of the newest skincare options out there. The company shares with me that this is a real break through in skin care technology.  This is a complex formula with Nanoconjugated 24k Gold Particles for remarkable effect on Collagen outgrowth.  

The company also shared with me that this is a secret of youthful beauty that has been known by royalty in ancient China and India and is now backed by modern science. Growth factors, which are proteins produced by various cells in the human body help you show a more youthful and vibrant look to your skin. The best part is there is no expensive plastic surgery or Botox treatments.

Nutra-Lift® Rejuvenating “A” Nano Reneu™ PLUS GROWTH FACTORS mildly exfoliates, moisturizes and even has the potential to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.  This is definitely an easier way to achieve younger and more beautiful skin

My thoughts:  I received this product and have been using it for almost two weeks now. It is easy to use and feels very comfortable on my skin. My skin looks vibrant and fresh. It looks better than usual especially when I wake up in the morning! I will continue to use it and let you know if I see additional results.

I love that I can find this great product on Amazon.
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

CHI Shine INfusion Hair Shine Spray Review #BeautyCareChoices

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

I love my hot round brush and my flat iron. They both are like old friends that I have known forever.  Even with my keratin treatments twice a year I still need my old buddies a few times a week. The thing is, you can't use hot tools without protection. It is really not a good idea to even try it.  I do my best to avoid damaging my hair because who wants more frizz? Not me! That is where things vary so much. You really need to make sure you are using a top notch hair protector like CHI.  

I was eager to try out the CHI Shine Infusion Hair Shine Spray. I love the fact that it truly polishes and protects my hair when I am using my styling tools such as hot brushes, flat irons and even the occasional curling iron.  

This spray feels pretty weightless and repairs the split ends and eliminates the frizz that sprouts up like crazy in the summer especially with all the humidity.  I like to lightly spritz it on as I style my hair.  If I need more I do a little at a time. The bottle lasts a long time since it is 5.3 oz.  My hair is shoulder length and I have been using it two weeks already and the bottle is still pretty full.  You can find it easily online at Beauty Care Choices. They have a great site that is easy to shop and has all your faves.

I hope this helps you gave a beautiful frizz free summer and relax even if the humidity is crazy!  Go for the CHI! 

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Beautiful Jewelry and Designs from Indalo Gallery and Studio @indalogallery

Disclosure:  I received two bracelets complimentary from Indalo in order to review them. My opinions are my own.



I recently had the opportunity to learn more about Indalo, a beautiful gallery of local artists that also houses an interactive studio space located in the pretty little town of Newton Highlands, Massachusetts.
I used to spend a lot of time in the Newton area back in college and it was always an adorable town with lovely shops.  Even if you are not in the Newton area, you can shop online at Indalo Gallery and find some truly gorgeous and unique gifts at this chic independent gallery.


Indalo is an gallery of local artists and an interactive studio. Indalo showcases local and regional artists’ talent by providing a venue for the sale of original artwork.  Indalo was also established to support area artists in a one-of-a-kind, gallery setting that is also online. That makes it a perfect option to find unique hand crafted art no matter where you live! Special occasions such as birthdays, weddings or graduations all are opportunities to find something just right to mark the day or event at Indalo.  You have never seen handmade jewlery and pieces like these. I know the gifts I really remember from our wedding were the unique art or pieces we received from a few of our guests. Every time I see them I think of our close friends.  Indalo is always updating their website too....you never know when you will be surprised by another new piece on the site. 



Perhaps you are looking for a unique piece of hand-crafted jewelry or a sculpture.  There are scores of independent artists that have breathtaking pieces on display at Indalo and on the website.  If you are looking for a special painting, photograph or another kind of unique gift or a piece for your or a friend, you will definitely find it at Indalo Gallery and Studio. It is amazing to see such a wide variety of pieces. The secret is that this is not just one artist...remember Indalo is a gallery of multiple artists.  The photographs don't truly do the pieces justice.

I received two bracelets which were just stunning.  The first piece is a gorgeous
Sterling Silver bracelet with a rhinestone center ball that is full of sparkle. It is on stretchy cord so it fit my petite wrist perfectly. It can be worn alone as an elegant statement piece or it would also look pretty layered with other silver bracelets. A beautiful look for summer and perfect for a special evening out. I have been wearing it all weekend to compliments galore. My friend Tammie noticed it right away and said that she loved the sparkle. My daughter was coveting it up a storm. I don't know...I love it too much to let her borrow it....


The second bracelet is really adorable and perfect for a relaxed summer look. It is a knotted bracelet constructed from lavender leather and small square shaped pewter beads.  The pewter cubes can move around a bit between the knotted leather which I like since I am a fidgeter. It gives me something to do when I am between appointments for work or just waiting at a red light. It is light and feels comfortable on my wrist. Surprisingly, it is also a perfect fit for my small wrist. I can see this piece as my go-to bracelet on the weekend all summer long. I am going to see how it pairs with my dressier workday outfits too...I think it would also work with several simple summer work dresses to give them a little bit of a lift.

You just have to take a peek at their site and see what they have for you. I am sure you will be as They even do custom work if you have something special in mind.

You can follow them on Twitter and Facebook for the most up to date information 

How to Train Your Dragon 2 movie is here!

Disclosure:  This information has been provided to me by IMAX. I have been entered into a giveaway for a ticket 4-Pack for sharing this information with my readers. 

Looking for an action-packed weekend of fun for the whole family? Head to your local IMAX® Theater for the premiere of How to Train Your Dragon 2! 

    

Starting this Friday, June 13th, the second chapter of DreamWorks Animation's beloved How to Train Your Dragon franchise is soaring to all IMAX theatres domestically in select engagements. The IMAX 3D release will be digitally re-mastered into the image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience®, creating a unique environment that will make audiences feel as though they are flying alongside heroic Viking Hiccup and his faithful dragon, Toothless.

 

Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson, America Ferrera, Jonah Hill, T.J. Miller, Christopher Mintz-Plasse and Kristen Wiig reprise their respective voice roles, joined this time by Academy Award® winner Cate Blanchett, Djimon Honsou and Kit Harington.


For more information about How to Train Your Dragon 2, please visit DreamWorks Animation's official website.

 

For IMAX Theater locations and local showtimes click here

  

 

 

 

 

Monday, June 9, 2014

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester, NY is a great place to stay cool this summer @USFG {Giveaway}

Disclosure:  I received this information through my relationship with US Family Guide. In exchange for sharing this information I have the opportunity to receive 4 free tickets to visit LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester. 


Maybe you are like me and totally did not know that  LEGOLAND Discovery Center had opened up last year in Yonkers, NY.  Even more exciting, this is the only LEGOLAND Discovery Center on the entire East Coast of the United States.  Who doesn't like Legos? Well then, welcome to one of Westchester's top kids attractions and one of the world's biggest boxes of LEGO bricks! This isn't just Legos though, this new family friendly spot offers tons of indoor fun, even rides, interactive stations and this huge play structure for kids to get some energy expended for a good nights sleep (heh, heh, heh...that is always the plan!)


Bring the whole family to explore LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester and see New York's top landmarks like the Empire State Building made entirely out of LEGO bricks. Get up close and learn secrets from the Master Model Builder while you are there.  Get the kids moving and take a break from the heat outside and experience their indoor soft play and score big on our LEGO rides.



This is an ideal getaway for children aged 3-10 years and LEGOLAND Discovery Center is perfect for the biggest fans of LEGO families! Think about it: there are 15 different attractions all included in the admission price.  You can make it super easy by purchasing tickets online...that way you guarantee entry to the Center as tickets are limited.  They have a special deal now with $5 off LEGOLAND discount tickets here through US Family Guide. Even more exciting...now you can totally ave on individual and family 4-packs of annual passes to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester. Sale is valid from July 7 – 31. Individual passes will be $55 and family 4-packs are $190. As you might know, annual pass holders receive the following perks:


 
    • Unlimited entry to LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester 12 months.
    • 10% off purchases in the LEGO® Shop
    • 20% discount on food and beverages in the café
    • 10% discount on birthday parties
    • Subscription to the LEGO® Club magazine
    • Invitation to sneak preview event days
  It all starts with a single brick! LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester is offering fans to build their dream creation with new Master Model Builder Veronica Watson. Create a sign that says “I want to build ______” and include what object you want to create in the blank space and pose next to it in your picture.  Upload to social media using #IWantToBuild and #LDCWestchester.  Entry deadline is August 29 and you can enter as many times as you want!


Now you have the opportunity to win four tickets to Legoland in Westchester as well. Enter my Rafflecopter giveaway and lots of luck to you! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, June 8, 2014

Razor Red Knife Sharpener Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.
It can be hard to decide on the best knife sharpener when you are looking at all of the options. How do you choose?  You need to think about price, durability and how easy it is to use to start with. Then don't forget storage.  Small and compact is always better for me...I am running out of space. Those are key elements and I know because I have purchased a few kitchen tools here and there (LOL) over the years. My husband and I both cook and we are very particular about our tools such as knives. We only buy very high quality knives. It really makes a difference in how easy it is to prep a meal. You do need to keep those knives sharp and to do that you need a decent sharpener. The prices vary a lot though so you have to consider a variety of factors like I just mentioned. Price does not always equal quality. You can get a really good knife sharpener like the Razor Red for a reasonable price.
I recently received the Razor Red to try out in my own home and I wanted to share my experience.  First off I was so surprised how small it is. It can fit right in the palm of your hand. Perfect for holding and storage. Right out of the box it was simple to use. There were no complicated instructions and my tween daughter was excited that this was another tool that she could use with a little supervision.  We believe it is important for kids to learn how to cook and taking care of their cooking tools (with adult supervision!!) is part of the learning process.  The Razor Red sharpened several of our knives very quickly and I liked that I could secure it during operation with the suction cup.  The price is right and it does the job that a much pricier sharpener does with a huge cost savings!

Features of the Razor Red kitchen knife sharpener
  • Works in seconds and so Easy even a Child can use it Safely
  • Sharpens any knife with Diamond Precision Quickly and Easily
  • Strong Suction Cup Mount for Safe Bench Use - Great for Seniors
  • Changes Blunt Old Knives into Just Like New - No Need to Buy New Knives
  • Use on Kitchen Cutlery, Gardening Shears and even Lawnmower Blades!
You can buy it right on Amazon too and by going to the Razor Red website and taking a peek at their video you can take advantage of a nice little coupon to save a few dollars as well.  Let me know your thoughts and share any good recipes like this yummy fast quesadilla one I recently made!
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.