Nikkouware Shower Curtain Rings Review

Shower Curtain Rings - ($11.97)

• ✔ Sturdy and attractive to enhance your stylish modern bathroom décor for many years to come. Multipurpose usage : Hanging handbags or accessories.
• ✔ Perfectly designed clamp to fit securely and rolls nicely on 3/4" to 1-1/8" diameter shower rods (curved, straight or custom type) to prevent the shower curtain from falling off.
• ✔ Simple and breeze DIY Installation, save time & value for money. Suitable for indoor or outdoor use, and able to withstand any bathroom environment conditions.

These rings are well-made and work great. Much smoother sliding than the old plastic hooks or metal rings with no rollers. Since these rings are top-heavy, it can be a little frustrating when first attaching the shower curtain since the rings keep flipping upside down. But all is fine once the weight of the curtain is holding them right-side up. If you lift up on the curtain, some of the rings may again flip upside down. Some fancy curtains with over-sized grommets or a lot of material between the grommets and the top edge of the curtain may not fit (will drag on the shower rod), but most standard curtains should be fine. A huge plus is that a vinyl shower curtain lasts much longer when used with these clips because you don't pull on it with so much force or keep tugging at it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”

Boson Sport - Jump Rope Review

Boson Sport Jump Rope - ($21.99)

• IT'S A TOP RATED FITNESS TOOL - Best cardio workout, promotes the greatest amount of weight loss in the healthiest manner possible. Effective in building endurance, stamina and speed. A favorite amongst Boxing, MMA, CrossFit and Cross Training enthusiasts. Can do a variety of jumps - cross overs, jog in place, side jumps, skips, and double-unders.
• ADJUSTABLE, ONE SIZE FITS ALL - You will love the option to adjust the length and it takes less than 1 minute to adjust to the correct setting. THE ROPE LENGTH is 8' 2.45'' and each handle 0.46 feet. It's designed for individuals as tall as 6'1". This is a great rope to take when traveling or take to the gym as it fits easily into your bag without taking up space or kinking up.
• CUSTOM FOAM GRIPS - The handles are very comfortable, they are custom molded to minimize hand fatigue. The handles come with a super-speed ball-bearings that ensure smooth, effortless and even rotation. It's great quality, built to withstand heavy use. The rope is made with a rope from nylon and iron wire inside assembly, very easy to use and works great on different surfaces.
• WORKING OUT FOR A GREATER CAUSE - $1 from every purchase is equally divided and donated to prostate and breast cancer research. 

CONFESSION: I suck at jump roping. I mean like really bad. Like kangaroos would laugh at my inability to jump rope. I'm not in bad shape or uncoordinated, I just never learned to jump with a rope that fit me. So my rope showed up last week and I eagerly put it to the test and guess what? I still sucked at jumping rope. So bad that I almost sent this back. Until... I realized you could adjust the length! I spent a few mins figuring out how to adjust it to the right size and BOOM, I was able to jump rope! This is by and far the MOST ADVANCED skipping rope I'm ever seen. But most importantly, I realized that being able to adjust the length to custom fit me makes jumping rope so much easier.  I also love how cool it looks, definitely the highest quality jump rope I have ever bought!

Also, since the rope is wire it doesn't fold up as nicely as some jump ropes do (again only an issue if you are traveling or like to keep a jump rope in a gym bag.) Since I hang mine up and just use it at home, it only will be an issue for travel.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”

NaturaliCo Vitamin C Review

Vitamin C - ($18.88)

• REVIVES DULL SKIN & REDUCES DISCOLORATION - Vitamin C has the remarkable ability to decrease the prominence of hyperpigmentation while brightening skin that is tired and stressed. Regular use of our vitamin C serum will help to restore that youthful glow and promote a more even skin tone.
• SOFTENS LINES AND WRINKLES - The hyaluronic acid and sea buckthorn oil organic extract in our anti aging serum help to plump the skin upon application. Fine lines and wrinkles are diminished as a result, leaving your skin looking years younger.
• PROTECTS AND FIRMS - The vitamin C present in our anti aging system face serum provides protection from the free radicals that damage skin cells and contribute to wrinkles. The anti aging serum also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin fibers, toning and firming aging skin to make it more resistant to wrinkling.
• THE BEST VITAMIN C SERUM ON THE MARKET - No other Organic Vitamin C serum can boast the same high quality ingredients and level of purity as our formula. Our anti aging serum treats your complexion to organic rose hip oil, organic sea buckthorn oil, hyaluronic acid and more. These ingredients are clinically shown to promote more youthful, healthier skin when used regularly. Lines, wrinkles, dark spots--signs of aging are a natural part of life, but that doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to seeing them in the mirror every day.
• THE PURE, GENTLE WAY TO FIGHT WRINKLES - Our vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serum is made from 98 percent pure natural ingredients and 72 percent of the ingredients are certified as organic. It's the gentle solution for all types of signs of aging and promotes skin health using the finest ingredients nature has to offer for an anti aging system.

In just a few days the texture of my skin has improved DRAMATICALLY!! I have used many other vitamin C serums and this formula leaves my skin hydrated and smoothed whereas others left it feeling dry and tight.  I've noticed the area around my eyes has fewer fine lines and my skin is overall much smoother and glows from the extra hydration. I highly highly recommend this product to any woman or man who takes care of her/his skin seriously.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”

Trex Attack Ugly Christmas Sweater Review

T-Rex Ugly Sweater - ($18.99)

• This long sleeve shirt is available in sizes from small to 4XL. 

Nothing quite says "It's the holiday" like a T-rex eating a delicious Moose on your tee. Good thing the tee is super soft, it makes it less awkward, right? This funny take on the classic Ugly Christmas Sweater is printed on a vintage Green tee and will be the perfect item to wear on Christmas Morning!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”

Tealight Candles Deluxe Stark White - Box of 125 Review

Tealight Candles - ($11.99)

• 4-5 Hour burn
• Stark White Paraffin, non-scented
• Box of 125, made in Europe 

I have a lot of tea candles holders around the house. They make for a nice, (and romantic) light here in there for effect and enjoying. Tealights are easy to find in drug and department stores here. Even though tea lights seem to be one of those things that seems near impossible to gyp one on, I have to admit that this brand is the best that I have owned. They're the same thing as the others in the respect of them being a little candle in a cheap metal cup with a wick in the middle, but they distance themselves from the rest in that they are so thick and last so long.  They come in a box and all of the candles were in perfect condition. They burn very clean and burn for 5 hours or more rather than the advertised 4 hours. This is an exceptional price for a good sized box of tealight candles. They are unscented and I use them to light my essential oil diffusers so buying them in bulk is both handy and a price saver for me.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”

Azure Naturals ULTIMATE RETINOL Anti Wrinkle Serum Review

Azure Naturals Ultimate Retinol Serum - ($23.95)

• HOW DOES IT WORK? Cellular renewal happens continuously when we're young, but as we age the skin's ability to renew itself slows down. Retinol has a very small molecular structure that allows it to deeply penetrate your skin activating collagen and elastin. Applied at night ULTIMATE Retinol will increase your skin's moisture, promoting cellular turnover and renewal.
• BUY WITH CONFIDENCE! Made in the USA With The Highest Quality Natural and Organic Ingredients Available: 97% Natural, 72% Organic. Contains No Alcohol, No Parabens, Plant Based, No GMO's, Cruelty Free and Never Tested On Animals!
• VITAMIN A WORKS! Retinol is one of the most effective ingredients for reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin A is proven to improve pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture, skin tone, color, as well as increase your skins hydration levels. ULTIMATE RETINOL is the most advanced Retinol product currently available. We have designed a delivery system that allows very high strength 2.5% Retinol to be used around the eyes and even by people with sensitive skin. Our elegant suspension of Retinol combined with a synergistic blend of other active ingredients, softens and heals the skin.
• HOW DO YOU RECEIVE OPTIMAL RESULTS? Start using in your late twenties or early thirties. Early use of Retinol can combat fine lines before they become apparent. If you don't have prior experience using Retinol products start slowly and be consistent with your use. Apply a small amount every other day, after a couple of weeks you can begin applying more frequently as your skin adapts. Just like exercise, it is very important to use your skin care products consistently. If you do experience any irritation decrease usage for a few days and work your way back up after that.

I have tried many Retinol products over the years and this is by far the best. It also has a pleasant scent instead of the odor the generic Retinols have. My laugh lines are no where near as bad as they were when I started with this cream. My forehead is not near as defined by the wrinkles. The cream goes on smooth without being greasy and absorbs quickly into skin. My skin is so soft! I use it night and day. What has really impressed me is the fine lines and crepiness under my eyes is gone.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”

Birchbox - January 2014

Birchbox
Cost: $10/month

Birchbox is a monthly beauty subscription service that delivers 5-7 sample products to your door. The cost is $10 per month and you can cancel at anytime.  Birchbox also has an amazing points system, where you can earn points for referring friends, reviewing products and making purchases in the Birchbox shop, and you can use those points for free products!

I chose the "Relax & Recharge Box" for January, which was a specially curated box. Birchbox now gives you the option to pick one of your samples every month, or you can choose a special guest box or you can pick nothing and be totally surprised!

Every box comes with the information card listing the items in your box, prices and some helpful hints and tricks to use them.

When Travelmate Sheet Mask - (Set of 4, $28)

I love sheet masks, and this is a big part of why I chose the special box this month. This brand is new to me,  so I am excited to give this a try. This mask does need to be left on for 30 minutes however.

Balance Me Wonder Eye Cream - ($38)

I am a big fan of Balance Me products, but as a blogger, I have a lifetime supply of eye creams. This is a small sample size though so I may give it a shot.

Manna Kadar Liplocked in "All of Me" - ($24.00)

I am a huge lippie addict, so I am thrilled when I get lip products in my boxes, no matter how big or small they may be. And this, is definitely small!  But I'll use it up!

Size comparison

Brigeo Don't Despair Repair Hair Mask - ($26.00)

I got this same sample in my Ipsy bag a few months back and gave it away, and I will probably do the same with this one.

Perlier Intensive Nurturing Body Butter in Shea Lavender - ($28.45)

I live in the Midwest and the winters are very harsh here, so I go through TONS of body butters. This brand is new to me, and the fact that it is Lavender scented is even more exciting!

Teapigs Tea Temples - (Pack of 15, $10.00)

This was a bonus item in the box. I'm not a tea drinker so all of my tea samples go to my father-in-law.


Overall: It's a HIT!! I'm very happy with the box this month (after all, I did pick it out!). To me, Birchbox is always worth the $10 a month, ($5 once you consider the points you get for it each month) and I have discovered some brands that I fell IN LOVE with.

What did you get in your box this month? Were you happy with it?

If you haven't already signed up for Birchbox, please consider using my link to subscribe.

Etekcity® 100 8" Party Supplies Light up Glow Sticks Review

Glow Sticks - ($9.99)

• Includes both sticks and connectors to offer a variety of sizes
• Fantastic for night parties, clubs, and events for both adults and children
• Available in a variety of colors: Blue, Green, Yellow, Pink, & Orange
• Break and Shake for a glow that will last up to 12 hours for extended use
• Glowsticks are of premium quality, non-toxic, and safe for children

The price is certainly reasonable for these. I've found them to be bright enough in darkness. The colors are bright and pure. The light output is adequately bright for a couple of hours, and progressively dimmer but still obvious for several hours more. Great glowsticks. They delivered exactly what they said they would. A tube of 100 glow sticks - no duds, they lit up and stayed lit up. Nice variety of colors, and the connectors let you put as many of the glowsticks together as you'd like.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”

Ozeri 3x Tower Fan (44") Review

Ozeri Fan - ($89.95)

• Upgraded with canted fan blades that utilize the physics of blade curvature to generate opposing sound waves to reduce blade noise and isolate the soothing sounds of the airflow itself.
• Boasting unrivaled technology, the 3x Tower fan is engineered with 3 independently controllable fans and 3 fan speeds, offering up to 9 levels of cooling and customized airflow.
• Defining the latest in stylistic innovation and digital decor, the 3x Tower fan is among the world's thinnest fans at less than 3 inches thick and boasts a visually arresting design with an elegant reinforced glass base stand.
• Features 3 preprogrammed airflow patterns designed to foster sleep, relaxation and comfort with 90 degree whisper-quiet oscillation for optimal air circulation.
• Extended range remote control and the touch sensitive LED control panel provide easy access to all features, including a 7.5 hour timer that can be programmed in 30 minute increments.

Very, very quiet - in fact, it's much quieter than the little $20 fans we've placed around the room in the past to circulate the air. I hardly notice that it's on at all. Great job circulating air, with or without using oscillation -- when combined with the ceiling fan in our family room, it really does feel like we're surrounded with comfortable spring breezes! You can definitely feel even if you sit 8 feet away from it. I'm in love. Not only does this fan move the air well, it is very quiet, Its footprint is small enough that even when oscillating, it takes up very little room. It is well made and appears that it will be an aesthetic plus for years to come.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”

Cynergy Emergency Flashlight Review

Emergency Flashlight - ($35.95)

• PERFECT FOR AREAS THAT ARE PRONE TO SEVERE WEATHER! - Put one in your home, one in your car and one in your emergency kit location. White LEDs give out bright light when power outages hit hard.
• MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK! Why have tons of tools when you can combine them all into one? Simplify! Window breaker, seat belt cutter, cell phone charger, compass and red flasher - ALL IN ONE RECHARGEABLE HAND CRANK FLASHLIGHT!
• DON'T RELY ON BATTERIES! This rechargeable flashlight can charge your cell phone with the built in USB port and the built in lithium battery will never leave you in the dark.
• MAKES A GREAT GIFT! Everyone wants to feel safe, give them the gift of being prepared.

Battery is great, quickly recharged and lasts long enough. The good feature is that everything you might need (or fortunately not) is in one tool, so there is no need to pack you car with few different items and then remember to take them all. I got this because I want an all inclusive emergency tool. Based on the features, it seemed to fit my needs. There is also a hand crank that folds out from the side that is used to recharge the flashlight. That could be very useful in an emergency when there is no place to recharge.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”

Limm Sports Armband for iPhone 6 and Samsung Galaxy S5 Review

Limm Armband - ($19.88)

• ✭ GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR WORKOUTS ✭ Eliminate the hassle of carrying your device in your hands or keeping it unprotected in your pocket and ENJOY the COMFORT and MOBILITY offered by the Limm armband. After a while you won't even feel that it's there any more. It's PERFECT for running, jogging, dancing, yoga, gym, fitness, bicycling or even household chores.
• ✭ HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL, LIGHTWEIGHT AND COMFORTABLE✭ : The armband is made of very high-quality, sweat-resistant neoprene with lycra - dries fast and fits your arm conveniently. It is designed for you to not notice that it's on your arm after a couple of minutes of exercising.
• ✭ ONE OF A KIND ✭ While other armbands have an opening in the back through which to insert the device that can also allow sweat to enter, the Limm armband is closed. The front cover not only looks stylish but it also PROTECTS your device if you happen to get caught in the RAIN. Also, unlike other armbands which are glued together, the Limm Armband is stitched to PERFORM and LAST. Fits 10-3/4" to 16-1/8" arm sizes (circumference) - Arm Size: Average.
• ✭ ARM SIZE - AVERAGE ✭ The armband is available in two different strap sizes, to accommodate different arm circumferences. The AVERAGE model features a longer strap, which fits 10.75" to 16.13" arm sizes (circumference).

Fits the iPhone 6 safe and securely, while allowing easy use of your phone within reason. Armband is very lightweight, comfortable, adjustable, and stays secure during runs. I had a very similar case for the iPhone 5 and had great results with it, so it was a no brainer when it came time to purchase one for my 6. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”

Fit For We Mommy & Me Matching Water Bottles Review

Fit For We Water Bottles - ($29.95)

• Safe to Use: Non-toxic, made with durable Eastman Tritan, a clear BPA free co-polyester, tested to be FDA safe for use with beverages. Shatter Proof. Top Rack Dishwasher Safe
• Easy to Use: Flip open cap with push button lid makes it easy for kids to use. Small finger-loop for easy carrying. Sleek & Slender design for ease in handling
• Convenient to Use: Our snap top lid ensures that these bottles will be Leak-proof. No Spillage at all! Lightweight & Shatterproof ! Perfect for Kids!
• Fun to Use: Enjoy with your child at Exercise Class, Yoga, at Mommy & Me Class and absolutely ANYWHERE!

The flip top seals tightly and flips easily with one hand.  I highly recommend! I've been drinking from stainless steel and just got fed up with the gross taste. Water from this bottle is just SOOO much better! It tastes just like it should... cold, clean, chemical free! I have gone through so many plastic water bottles and there is always something wrong...they start smelling or something breaks, etc.  I drop bottles a lot so I was afraid it would break but it has survived a lot of falls to the pavement. The pink color is very fashionable and cute!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will 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.”