September BuluBox Unboxing Review PlusDiscount #subscriptionbox @bulubox

Disclosure:  I received the product mentioned below for free for the purpose of this review.  The opinions are my own, based on my personal experience with the products.  However, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. There may be affiliate links in this post. The affiliate links will provide me with a commission while you receive a 50% discount or a free initial Bulu Box.  **Please consult with your physician or health care practitioner prior to adding any supplements to your diet.

Are you trying to improve your health?  Get more fit? Eat better?  2014 is your year to do it and you have plenty of time with the summer still in full swing!  Bulu Box is the first vitamin, supplement and general health subscription sample box designed to help you get there too. Every month, you’ll get a box filled with 4 to 5 premium, curated samples from top brands. This month the BuluBox has curated a feel good discovery box full of healthy goodies just for us.  You have to keep reading to get the full scoop!

Each month you can look forward to a new mix of products for both women and men, including vitamins, weight loss, sports nutrition, protein, diet, energy, detox, digestion, sexual health, herbs, natural remedies, endurance and more. The smarties at BuluBox make sure you get enough to decide if the product is right for you. No shipping or extra fees either. Depending on your plan, you can cancel anytime. There are two kinds of Bulu Boxes to choose from and both of them are healthy subscription boxes that you will just love. 

Bulu Box-This is the box that I subscribe to....It is the first and only vitamin and supplement sample box out there.  Each box includes a sampling of vitamins and supplements from different areas of health. Each box contains 4 to 5 premium samples (some are bigger than others as you will see!) plus lifestyle extras sometimes. There is good stuff in every box to discover and enjoy.

Bulu Box Weight Loss: This box is the first and only weight loss and nutrition box. They designed it with the specific goal of weight loss in mind. Each box contains 4 to 5 premium weight loss items such as vitamin and supplement samples, fitness gear and healthy eating tools. These are products to help you succeed with weight loss.

 I know you want to see what was in my specially curated Bulu Box so no more delays:  here it is.  The big scoop! This month's BuluBox, like every box comes with a card (below) that explains more details about the samples and gives you the prices for the full size products.

Each box also comes with a My Sample Journal shown below. You can keep notes for yourself and also submit your feedback and earn points towards products you like from your Bulu Box!  Easy and fun.

BuluBox is not stingy when it comes to products.  There is always enough to get a real feel for the products. 

You can see that the NuHair Foam is a full size product. This is a natural solution to rejuvenate hair suitable for me and women. It works from the inside out.   I have heard about this before but never tried it. It has a natural peptide complex with 3% active ingredients. My hair is definitely not as full as it used to be so I tried it.  I will have to keep using it for 4 months but if it makes a difference then it is worthwhile! $24.99

The next item is PowBab. I love the name to start. It is a chew made from the African Baobab fruit to boost immunity and support health. It is high in anti-oxidants and Vitamin C as well as other vitamins and minerals. It tastes great. 22.49/30 chews 

I love tea in the afternoon so I was excited to see Swirl Tea.  It is a speedy iced green tea in a stick pack.  I like that it has no artificial flavors or preservatives. Tastes yummy too. 17.45/50 servings

Who doesn't know about KIND bars? They have a new product called Clusters but I received something different I think.  Oats and Honey with Toasted Coconut tastes great any way you put it together though so I still enjoyed it. Crumble in yogurt or cottage cheese for an afternoon snack. 39.99/6-11oz pouches 

Hemp Pro  Chocolate plant based protein powder is a great idea.  Perfect in smoothies or baked goods. I love the healthy fiber and great taste.  I sprinkled it on my oatmeal yesterday...delicious. 24.99/11oz bag

We get colds in the fall and winter so I was interested in a tiny sample I received on ClearLungs.  It is a homeopathic decongestant with oils and Chinese herbs. I like that it is chemical free...something to try for the next cold. $12.99/tub

Love all the goodies? Thinking about signing up for BuluBox?  Here you go:

 
1. Head over to BuluBox and choose a month-to-month ($10), 3 ($30), 6 ($60) or 12 month ($110) plan. The 12-month plan at $110 is your best value! Use Coupon Code BULUGAN989 and get the first box FREE.

2. Sample each vitamin or supplement and try out the fitness gear or weight loss items.
3. Earn Reward Points:  Earn 50 points ($5) or more each month for completing sample surveys, sharing and subscribing.
4. Save by using your Reward Points to purchase your favorite products!

**Remember to use my exclusive coupon code BULUGAN989, you can get your first box totally free!

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255:  "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

**Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically any products that I have reviewed above here via BuluBox. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare professional prior to use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication or have a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.

Pure Bliss Stroller Organizer Review #strollerorganizer

Everyone needs a good stroller organizer but the reality is, they aren't all the same. You really have to look closely at the features. I recently had the opportunity to try out what is called the Mercedes Benz of stroller organizers. I can pretty much see why after using it for a few days.

The Pure Bliss Stroller Organizer has several key advantages that make a huge difference for me. This stroller organizer was designed to specifically handle the problem of drinks spilling. Ugh...the worst nightmare for me.  I really don't like messes. Okay, I hate messes.  Really. I was so happy to see that it has reinforced cup holders that totally keep drinks firmly in place.  No more sloshing around and spilling. It works for hot and cold beverages. Lordy knows sometimes we NEED that hot or iced coffee just to keep upright. Another advantage is that the drink holders ere even double insulated to keep your beverage of choice hot or cold longer. 

I noticed that it is made of thick, high quality material. It also features adjustable Velcro straps that are intelligently designed to accommodate various handle angles which easily attach to most strollers, even those wacky pet strollers with handles between 13 and 21 inches wide. I am not judging (teehee, teehee). The collapsible design will not interfere with folding your stroller either. Made of eco-friendly machine washable fabric.  The manufacturer suggest that you just air dry it...that means no no hot dryers. It is even BPA-free and phthalate-free for peace of mind.

The large center compartment has a magnetic closure. I like that because it is elegant and smart. No worries about waking the baby when you open it. That center compartment is big enough to hold diapers, wipes, snack, small toys and even my wallet. The two outer pockets are perfect for keeping my cell phone and keys so I can grab them in a flash  The middle pocket is lined with microfiber to protect my beautiful and expensive sunglasses from getting scratched.

The Pure Bliss Stroller Organizer comes with a No-Hassle Lifetime Money-Back Guarantee.  The company shared that if you are not 100% satisfied for any reason, you can return it for a full refund.

They are even including a free E-book,  “55 Fun and Educational Activities To Do With Your Baby or Toddler” with your purchase of the Pure Bliss Stroller Organizer. This book is loaded with fun and creative ideas you can do with your baby, both indoors and out, summer or winter. It has some super ideas to beat the boredom any season. Download instructions will arrive with your package.

You can pick up this great stroller organizer right on Amazon and have it at your door in days.  It would be a perfect gift for a baby shower or a special friend that just had a baby and is trying to get out and get herself moving.

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.

ZEDA Tea - Korean 100% Pure Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder Review #zedamatcha

Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically Zeda Organic Green Tea Powder. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare professional prior to use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication or have a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.

I really enjoy the flavor of fine quality green tea.  I guess I just like the flavor plus the energy boost.  I recently had the opportunity to try Zeda Organic Green Tea Powder.  If you tried ZEDA green tea powder before you know it is a wonderful option to use as a base for all kinds of drinks including lattes, smoothies and teas of all kinds. You can even incorporate it into unique desserts.  Zeda premium organic powdered green teas are made from hand picked tea leaves that bloomed in the first week of May by Soa Dawon tea plantation in Korea.

Some important points to consider:  

DEEP FLAVOR - A special traditional processing gives ZEDA powdered green tea a distinctive and special flavor.

USDA CERTIFIED ORGANIC - The tea farm has organic certification from Europe, USA, Japan, and Korea. That is important for me.  It is a recognized tea producer that has received Green Agricultural Product Certification and ISO Certification for its hygienic production processes and equipment.

I like to consider carefully what I put in my body. ZEDA is the finest premium quality organic green tea Matcha from "Soadawon" organic tea plantation in Boseong, Korea

I love the fact that ZEDA globally certified organic powdered green tea Matcha is grown in limited quantity and harvested only once a year. That special time in May. It has a vibrant green color and a smooth and mellow flavor. ZEDA is chock full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Think about all the ways you can enjoy Zeta!  I like to drink it hot in the winter and chilled in the summer.  I love to make extra and use it as flavor for smoothies or and in my baking. It is perfect for everyday drinking...it is a wonderful afternoon pick-me-up. Just the energy boost I need in a flash. 

Their tea plantation (Soa Dawon) is on the southwest coast of the Korean Peninsula. The temperate climate of this region is ideal for green tea cultivation. The plantation is located at center in "Boseong" area of Korea and 350m high from the sea. The tea plantation has been authorized to supply green tea powder for Coca Cola Corp., Korea since 2010 which is pretty neat. It is widely known that green teas from Boseong passed the strict quality inspection of the Russian Medical Biology Lab. As a result, they are  officially recognized as a beverage suitable for an astronaut's special diet.

Facts about Zeda

● Organic Certification from USDA, EU, Japan, and Korea
● Taste: Deep Flavored, full-bodied, smooth
● Natural Energy Boost: Full of antioxidants 

You can find ZEDA tea on Amazon and have it in your home in a flash.

 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.

Naturalico Cellulite with Retinol & Caffeine and Body Firming Cream Review #cellulitecream

I truly believe some people just have genetics that predispose them to cellulite. Like me. My mom has none. Amazing because she is 80 plus.  We both work out vigorously and eat clean diets. Ahhh, what to do?  I had the opportunity to try a new Cellulite Cream with Retinol and Caffeine from Naturalico and hoped for the best. It couldn't get worse that I knew.  I liked that it was made in the USA to start.  They shared that it can firm, make the skin look more toned and even potentially eliminate cellulite.

I thought that it would really be amazing even if I could see a small improvement in the appearance and tone.  I know some ingredients have data to back the results so I was happy to see that they have really high levels of Retinol & Caffeine.

This is the basis for the ingredients in a nutshell.  Retinol enhances collagen production, encourages skin renewal and helps tighten and firm the skin. * L-Carnitine helps the body metabolize fat * Green Tea stimulates the release of stored fat * Glaucine Helps By Decreasing Fat Deposits * Coenzyme-A breaks down fat and helps restore connective tissue the active Ingredients Glaucine and Caffeine (which contains Theophylline) Helps Successfully Treat Cellulite and Decrease Cellulite Fat Deposits and Stretch Marks

Naturalico shared some benefits: 

• Overall appearance of skin is improved, toned & restored. 
• Skin becomes smoother & firmer
• Clinically Proven To Eliminate Cellulite
• Give You The Results You've Been Looking For
• Caffeine encourages the body to burn fatty tissue

Active Anti-Cellulite powerhouse ingredients include Caffeine, Retinol, L-Carnitine, Green Tea, Glaucine and   Coenzyme-A. They work synergestically to smooth those lumpy bumpy cottage cheese thighs and firm that jiggly behind.  They suggest it as a viable option post pregnancy (NOT while pregnant!) or after significant weight loss. 

My thoughts:  I have been using it all week.  I think I see some slight improvement already but I am sure it will take a few weeks to really see a difference.  My skirts fit nicer and my legs look more toned.  I will keep using it and give you the updates!
 
You can find this great Cellulite with Retinol and Caffeine and Body Firming Cream right 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.

Wine Club from Uncorked Ventures Review #Uncorked

I consider myself a little bit of a wine connoisseur. I have lived abroad and many moons ago cut my teeth on a variety of good quality northern Italian wines. Well, my love affair with wine just expanded over the years and I learned more and came to enjoy a variety of wines from different areas of the world. I find my wines here and there locally and love to discover interesting new wineries and wines in the mid-Atlantic.  I heard about a new kind of exclusive wine club recently, something truly different that I thought was worth a try. This is a totally different kind of wine club.  I think you will forget those big internet newspaper branded clubs after you hear more. 

Uncorked Ventures is a family owned and operated startup wine club based just outside of San Francisco.  They don't buy the standard run of the mill wine through middle men and distributors either. They actually spend time in wine country getting to know winemakers, vineyard owners, farmers and others directly involved in the creation of what's in your glass. As a result they find some exceptional, special and rare wines. I know...maybe I need to seriously consider a career change....

I received two bottles of white wine from Uncorked Ventures and I was excited about trying them. The first bottle I received is from Lennox Vineyards. Each bottle comes with an personally written information sheet from one of the Uncorked Ventures owners. It shares interesting tidbits about the winery, the locale and even the owners. Of course it includes  tasting notes as well which I found to be accurate and added to my enjoyment of the wines. So my first bottle was a Russian River Valley Chardonnay. If you don't know, the Russian River is in Sebastopol, CA.  I was interested in trying this one because Lennox is actually a tiny winery... producing  only 1-2 tons of grapes per acre. They shared that this factor often translates into the potential for a concentrated, more distinctive flavor.  Obviously, fewer bottles in the market as well so the opportunity to try a wine that you are not going to find in the corner wine shop too.

My 2010 Lennox River Chardonnay was actually created to for the wedding of the owner's daughter. The winery owner, Mike Bielawski created this special wine just to celebrate his daughters wedding as she had told him for years that she wanted a special wine from their vineyard when she got married.  She had requested a unique Chardonnay and of course her dad came up with something special. I love the idea that I get to be part of their family celebration, in a way. Mark Aseltine from Uncorked Ventures shared that Lennox Vineyards entire winery is about 2/3 of an acre, situated right next to the owners house. I love that because you know they are out there checking on those vines just like I am in my own 2/3 acre with my rosebushes and garden beds. Interesting that we both have the same acreage! You know they are tending to their vines and really care about the wines they produce.  The Lennox Vineyards 2010 Chardonnay was light and slightly fruity with an oakey finish. Mark's tasting notes were accurate and picked up on the pineapple and lemon aromas as well. I thought that added an interesting quality to this bottle. We both enjoyed it immensely the other evening. 

My second bottle was also a white wine but quite different. This was a 2012 Semillon from Chatom Vineyards.  Mark shared some interesting facts about the Chatom Winery which was wonderful since I was not familiar with it. It is based very far east in Calaveras County, California.  The area is also described as being part of the Sierra Foothillls. Mark pointed out that the owner, Gay Callan, is a little known innovator in the California wine industry. Sadly, she recently put the winery up for sale. Chatom has been known in local circles as an innovative winery introducing varietals like Semillon in California which was unheard of 30 years ago. Remember the ubiquitous California Chardonnay? That's all people knew back then. Those awful wines in the...ugh...jug. Chatom helped change all that. 

Jason Lewis is part of the brains behind Chatom after having worked his way up the ranks of winemaker. He enjoys crafting a more austere French style wine that is uncommon in the region. Think about your typical California whites...austere is not the first thought that comes to mind. That makes the Chatom wines a bit more unique. They chose Semillon originally to blend with Sauvignon Blanc but then were pleased to see it held it's own and produces a light, crisp and almost creamy wine. 

The Chatom Semillon 2012 was crisp and slightly creamy. I was surprised at the clean flavor for a California Semillon. I am always expecting fruit or oak finishes. Not with this. They can vary a lot in quality but this was pleasing.  It went beautifully with a light salad and grilled chicken.  

Uncorked Ventures is definitely a different kind of Wine Club.  I love the small-sourced vineyards which give it an exclusive feel.  I would consider Uncorked Ventures a top source for Christmas and holiday gift baskets as well. You know they put the personal, but exclusive touch to all that goes out the door. 

Uncorked Ventures has several options available from monthly shipments to gift baskets.  These exceptional wines from California, Oregon and Washington's best producers arrive securely packed and cushioned in boxes. You can choose from the Explorations, Special Selections or Reserve Selections Wine Club. You can call or order easily online and start your membership quickly or even order a gift basket for friends, discerning clients or colleagues.  

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.

Phantom Fit Wrist Wraps Review #phantomfit

Some of my friends ask me how I do it? What do you mean by "do it?" I mean keep fit after 40.  It is a lifestyle for me. Does my weight stay exactly the same week to week? Of course not. Don't be totally ridiculous. But I am careful. I enjoy life and I love to eat but I know it is not an endless pit. Well, it could be if I just ate everything I wanted. I have to really think about it more and more as I get older. I will treat myself but then go back to the diet and fitness plan.  I don't mean "diet" in the crazy sense either, just a healthy eating plan that includes lots of fresh veggies, lean meats and fish and fruit. A few treats here and there too of course.

Included in the whole master plan is fitness, fitness, fitness. It doesn't work if you don't eat right so pair it all together in whatever way it works for you. I try to keep it fresh with new equipment and even a new pair or capris or top here and there to keep me motivated. I recently had the opportunity to try out PhantomFit Wrist Wraps.

These are excellent quality wrist wraps that really work:

• Durable, long lasting wrist wraps (with LIFETIME guarantee)
• One size fits all for both men and women of all ages
• Protects your wrists and increases your lifts 
• Boosts lifting confidence and ability
• Are lightweight and portable so you can take them anywhere including on a plane or train

What do you get?

• 2 Phantom Fit Wrist Wraps with Thumb Loop
• Access to our custom workout mix MP3 file to improve your workout intensity!
• Nylon Phantom Fit bag to store your wrist wraps. Perfect for taking to the gym or any workout on the go!
• They are easy to learn how to use and very comfortable to0
• A bonus is the PhantomFit favorite workout music downloadable as a mp3 file

I have been using the PhantomFit Wrist Wraps here for my boot camp classes and they really help. I am in top shape...I do bootcamp type workouts regularly, run hills and all kinds of crazy regimens and these are the real deal. They help you lift more and I feel like my wrists are protected better than without them. You can pick up your Phantom fit Wrist Wraps on Amazon so you don't even need to leave the house.

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.

AlphaHealthy Probiotics Review #AlphaHealthy

Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically AlphaHealthy Probiotics. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare professional prior to use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication or have a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.

I can't tell you how many friends I know that have GI issues. Yikes. I am mostly lucky but I have been a victim of salmonella and norovirus and not just one or two times.  I travel often for business and that doesn't help. I do my best to really make sure I am clean and wash my hands but who can control when someone else is preparing the food? What about when you are between a rock and a hard place and have to eat from a buffet? My latest secret is probiotics. You really have to consider it.  Probiotics are known for their ability to protect and support your immune system. I recently tried AlphaHealthy Probiotics to do just that.

I had never realized that the gut is  literally one single cell layer away from an extremely toxic environment. If this layer is damaged, you get sick and produce inflammation throughout your body.  A compromised immune system can lead to a variety of health issues.  It could even lead to the loss of energy, weight gain and not to forget that it has the potential to speed up the aging process. AlphaHealthy custom probiotics can support and  strengthen that one cell layer, which in turn can boost your immune system.

Most people don't recognize that digestive problems can really be hard on your entire body. Digestive problems could lead to so many other problems. Since the digestive system is responsible for producing necessary vitamins, helping regulate hormones and excreting toxins, it is important to keep it healthy. AlphaHealthy Probiotics were designed to do just that.

100 million Americans suffer from gut related problems so I am not so surprised I have more than a few friends that have issues. Probiotics for women are something that has more recently been in the news.  I have seen articles about probiotics for kids as well in parent's magazines and in the pediatrician's office. So many people suffer from issues ranging from gut pain to diarrhea.  Who wants to take prescription pills to promote healthy digestion?  A natural solution is the ideal option. Of course, you should always check with your physician before starting any kind of supplement.  One way to maintain a healthy digestive system is to take a probiotic supplement or probiotic pill like AlphaHealthy.

How do you choose the best probiotic supplement? When choosing a daily probiotic, it is important to make sure they are carefully produced in a GNP certified lab (Made in USA) for quality control.  Not all of the products out on the market are made in the USA. I also feel more confident taking supplements that are made here.  I was happy that AlphaHealthy Probiotics are made in the USA by a GNP certified lab. They are easy to take and my gut felt good all week long. I try to adhere to a clean diet but I am not perfect and I do have to eat meals out often for work. No issues here. The AlphaHealthy Probiotics kept me feeling energetic all day long with no GI discomfort.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

You can find AlphaHealthy Probiotics on Amazon and stock up easily without even leaving home.

 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.

Beauty Box Five September 2014 Balancing Act @beautybox5

Disclosure: I was not financially compensated for this post. I received a sample of the products for review purposes. The opinions are my own, based on my personal experience with the product. 

I love it....Beauty Box Five has the most amazing outlook.  No reason why you should fall just because the leaves are! The to-do list is piling up between back to school and work, but I can manage to juggle it all with my glam look as always. I squeeze in that time to take care of myself and enjoy life a little.  BB5 is shining right into fall with a smart new fall look just for me and you.  Think about all the little things that make you special no matter what the season. Embrace those fall trends and fresh colors...don't forget to bookmark those fall favorites and share with friends. I like trying new beauty products from sunscreens to lipsticks and find that I often find new faves.  That is one of the great things about BB5.  You can try lots of new things and sub in new favorites without being stuck with a huge bottle of this or that. I know you know what I mean. Sometimes I look at a product in the store but I worry it might not be for me and I don't want to spend all that money if I don't know that I really like it.  Who needs something else to sit on the bathroom shelf or take up more room in a drawer? Every once in a while you get lucky and the store has a sample or perhaps a beauty company sends you a sample and you get to try it first. 

The ideal solution for all of us is brought to you by Beauty Box 5. They understand  and created their great sampling box program. Beauty Box 5 is an amazing subscription beauty box sampler that is delivered right to your doorstep (or mailbox) filled with a combination of 5 brand new cosmetic samples monthly, quarterly or annually. You can start out at just $12 a month or save more by getting a longer subscription. Signing up to receive Beauty Box 5 each month is a great new way for anyone from teens to moms to sample new cosmetic products and see what works for you.  Each month they include tips and tricks for the products on the back of this little card below to help you get the most out of your beauty samples each month.

Beauty Box 5 is always on the lookout for the latest new items to make the best matches for your own personal taste and lifestyle.  The prices are reasonable too. You can get a Beauty Box 5 monthly for $12, quarterly for $30 or annually for just $99.  Shipping is always free.  A fun way to check out lots  of the new beauty stuff out there without a whole lot of $$ investment. The great part is that if you like something, you can just up and buy the full size item, right?  Much better than buying a full size you-know-what-beauty-item and paying a fortune and then it sits in the makeup bag gathering dust because it doesn't work for you.

Beauty Box 5 mixes it up with their brands and keeps things adventurous. They source from a mix of niche, luxe, regular drugstore, vegan and eco-conscious brands.  One month you might get hair care, nail care, makeup, skin care, fragrances or even beauty accessories or a mix of any of the above.  I love the suspense!  You will get a carefully curated blend of travel, full-size and deluxe samples from their most current collection.
  

I just received the September Balancing Act Box this week.  The team at Beauty Box 5 wants to celebrate the change of seasons and not by hiding behind layers and layers of dark clothes. Go big. Take care of yourself and add those special touches. If I can do the Glamamama Balancing Act then you sure can. Sometimes it is a challenge, yes it sure is but I do it. You have only one YOU and each one of us is special in our own way. We deserve to take a little bit of time to beautify and keep our look fresh. Beauty Box 5 is here with a few special treats to help you along the way.  Here is the scoop on the amazing treats that were in this sweet sea blue September box:

As always It was chock full of amazing goodies that I could not wait to try. There were goodies for my nails, face, body and hair tucked in there.  Lots of special items to keep me looking fresh and glam wherever my fall days take me.  They take me all over too....from the the mid-Atlantic to Washington, D.C. and to Florida. I am one busy mama!

The first treat in this exciting September box is two samples of Natural Style FUBU Deep Conditioner and Co-Wash.  I am wondering if this was tucked in the box special for me with my dry damaged hair?  My hair solution pretty much knocked on my door this week. I tried this gentle wash on my keratin-treated hair and liked the way it looked and felt. I guess the 8 repairing oils and Shea butter helped. t had a light scent and left my hair easy to style!  It felt and looked camera ready. Already added into my to-buy list. Retail: $9.99/12oz

The next product in the box is perfect for my tired eyes. Christie Formulations 3-in1 Eye Bright is amazing. If this can wake up my exhausted eyes and make me look good than it can work for anyone. It is a light serum that feels cool and refreshing. It reduced the dark circles and made my eyes look more alive.  It feels lightweight and it didn't cause any irritation.  I plan in picking up the full size one at 0.5 oz it is a great size to stash  right into my makeup bag ready for a long work day or a business trip.  A smart splurge at $40.00 for 0.5 fl oz

Sally Hansen Toe Spacers are a bargain secret for home pedis. They cushion and separate with cute patterns and prints.  I feel so professional when I use these it is like a trip to the salon but way less costly! is a smart option for ladies who try to save with at home pedis like me.  Make your life easier with these. Even  the price is reasonable at $1.99/pair. 

You know how much I love makeup. I think it is the combination of color and pop that makes a creamy shadow stick like this one from Nicka K New York a winner for me.  This Nicka K New York Eyelight Crayon is a beautiful, bright green color. It has just the right touch of color for day or night. I love the versatility to use it as a liner or shadow. I tucked this right into my makeup bag after I tested it out...ready to wear all week long!   An amazing deal at $4.49/0.056 oz

The last item in this exciting September box for a final treat is the luxury My Beauty Spot Nail Polish in this pretty fall mauve shade.  I tried it out this week and it goes on smoothly for shiny finish. Go stylish and trendy and bi goodbye to your boring nails with this pretty color. I found it easy to do a pretty mani  and look like a pro.  Retail: $24.99

So, are you ready to get in on the fun? The ladies from BB5 have put together another really amazing box full of beauty fun perfect to take you straight into Fall. Don't forget to join Beauty Box 5 and get in on the goodies to keep you looking fab all four season.

After you join, you can even spread your good fortune via Instagram and have an opportunity to win full-size versions of these products too! Don't forget to tag @beautybox5 and #bb5fave so they know that it was you spreading the love around!

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255:  "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Hardest Peace by Kara Tippetts (Expecting grace in the midst of hard) {giveaway}

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Kara shrugs herself off as ordinary but I know she isn't.  She is one special mom who is doing her very best to live every day to the fullest.  This is with the concrete knowledge that the sand is running out of the hourglass. Kara has stage IV cancer but doesn't let it rule her world. Her world is according to G-d. She is blessed with a beautiful family and wonderful friends who support her on her journey.  She shares herself openly in this book which truly touched my heart.  As you read, you only hope that you might have some of her grace and peace.  This is one book that you must read, I will be honest, with a box of tissues....but you must know her story and share it with others. She has wisdom that will make you think and hopefully you might take some actions to live your life more fully. I think if every reader took a tiny step back and considered some of the tidbits Kara shares, she would be so joyous that her story has touched and help others. You can learn more about Kara via her blog MundaneFaithfullness, and follow her on Instagram and Twitter as well.

About the book:

Kara Tippetts knows the ordinary days of mothering four kids, the joy of watching her children grow…and the devastating reality of stage-IV cancer. In The Hardest Peace, Kara invites readers to see the grace of the everyday in all seasons of life and to live well even when the living is hard. This book is an invitation to join her in moving away from fear and control and toward peace and grace. Just as the thousands of people who read her blog know, Tippetts explores the hardest questions of life with rare beauty and honesty. Most of all, she draws them back to the God who is present, in the ordinary and the suffering, and shapes every life into the best story of all.

About Kara:

Kara Tippetts and her husband, Jason, have four children and are planting a church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Cancer is only part of Kara’s story. Her real fight is to truly live while facing a crushing reality. She blogs faithfully at mundanefaithfulness.com.

You can enter to win a copy of her book via my rafflecopter giveaway below. Please share with friends so others can know about this wonderful woman and her story. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sweet'N Low Recipe Challenge #teamsweetnlow #sponsored @crowdtap

Disclosure:  I am a member of the Crowdtap community. Crowdtap recently challenged some members to craft some good Sweet'N Low recipes. Just give me a challenge and you know what happens.  I have been entered into a giveaway for a cocktail set. Here are two fun Sweet 'N Low recipes for you.

Running belt Waist Pack for Sports or Activities Review #myrunningbelt

I have a lot of issues. You don't need to hear all my problems (yes, I am LOL) but one eternal one is where do I put my stuff when I am jogging or I am traveling and working out in the hotel gym?  I have resorting to using my gym bra or those eensy beensy pockets that I have in a few of my gym pants or tops. Not enough space. I was happy to hear about a new option to solve my problem. My Running Belt is a light weight waist belt that works for most anyone including me.

My Running Belt has two expandable pockets that are perfect for all my stuff. You can get a lot in there too. Important items tuck right in there like your smartphone, credit cards, energy bars, money, gels, passport, keys, medical products, fem hygiene products and other personal items. It has a comfortable non-binding 2.4-in wide elastic belt with adjustable clips that fits perfectly...not too tight and not too loose. It does not  curl or bunch up while I run. This would also be great for walkers and speed walkers. The strong elastic waistband prevents bouncing and movement.  What an amazing innovation, right?  It even has a reinforced YKK zipper that is meant to withstand intensive use.

My Running Belt's is crafted from solid waterproof material that is soft to the touch and flexible. It works for you no matter whether it is raining, snowing or a beautiful sunny day. It even comes trimmed in pink, yellow and blue so you can choose your fave.  It works for most everyone too since it fits waist sizes between 28-52 inches. I'm pretty petite so I have it at the smallest setting. It even sports a heavy-duty buckle, waterproof 3-layer TPU pockets, and a reflective band for increased safety especially at dusk and dawn.

I love the three great colors, yellow, blue or pink. I had a hard time deciding on my fave.  This has been so useful for me when I am out running. I don't have to struggle anymore with what to do with my keys and phone.  If I am traveling on business I know this is coming with me...it will be perfect to bring down to the hotel gym and I know I can stash all my stuff right inside with no worries.

You can pick up this convenient and light running belt right on Amazon for the ultimate convenience.

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.