Friday, November 30, 2012

Aveda's Brilliant Spray-On Shine Review

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Aveda's Brilliant Spray-On Shine.jpeg
Aveda's Brilliant Spray-On Shine


I hate those days when my hair lacks its normal luster.  If you're like me, you want instant help to make yourself presentable and rely on instant conditioners, shine serums or sprays on those occasions when dreaded bad hair happens.  Today, I want to share my feelings about Aveda's Brilliant Spray-On Shine that I was provided to review.

This pleasant scented product is enriched with vitamin E and rice bran among other botanicals for shine and smoothness.  I found using Aveda's Brilliant Spray On-Shine on my finished style didn't weigh my hair down with any oily feel. 

I do have some natural curl and waves that are prone to frizz with humidity, but  this spray managed to control the frizz and any potential flyaway hair as well.   

As to shine, well, prepare to be dazzling!  This spray will definitely correct any dullness you may have as it imparts a brilliant shine all right.

A 3.4 oz. bottle has a retail price of $25 and is wonderful to have on hand when you need that quick hair beauty fix.  Do check it out and see for yourself. You may also have found hair salvation in a bottle with cruelty-free beauty brand, Aveda's Brilliant Spray On-Shine!

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  A free product was provided to facilitate this review.*

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Mally Beauty Citychick Smokey Eye Shadow Classic Colors Kit (Midtown Merlot) Review and Giveaway!--Ends December 17, 2012

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Mally Beauty Citychick Eyeshadow Kit.jpeg
Mally Beauty Citychick Smokey Eye Shadow Kit  in Midtown Merlot


What is it about smokey eyes that never ceases to be exciting?  The way those darker colors seem to ring the eyes with an aura of mystery always seems to draw attention especially when you have beautiful, crease-proof colors to work with like Mally Beauty's Smokey Eye Shadow Classic Colors Kit in Midtown Merlot that I received for this review and giveaway.

This mirrored compact comes with the most gorgeous red plum color to be used on the lid, a deep bluish purple plum with a bit of a charcoal gray for contour, and a glistening pink beige highlight shade along with a cream to powder base to make those shadows last.  Each shadow and the base are 0.07 oz.  

Although like many other eye shadow compacts, there was no brush or applicator included.  Instead, you get a black  eyeliner pencil that swivels up and doesn't require sharpening.  This handy pencil helped me dramatically line my eyes with further smoldering intensity.  

Furthermore, they adhere wonderfully with a velvety texture to this powder that makes them glide on like silk.   The colors are basically more matte than shimmer while the highlight shade has the most striking pearly luster.

I loved how  versatile these shades were to use.  For a change, I tried that deep contour shade on the lid with only the highlight and it gave me a completely different look.  Another was using the contour shade on the lid, then dusting on some of  that red plum and blending as you go, finishing with the highlight shade.  

Regardless of eye color, I honestly think these stunning plum shades would suit any eye color.  Any that think the lid shade is too pink or red, I say blend, blend, and blend!  If you feel that way, you can easily deepen the lid color with a swipe of your eye shadow brush to tone it slightly down.  However, I thought that the red plum was a very flattering lid shade just as it is.

I swatched the shades in the photo below.  Unfortunately, the pretty highlight color didn't take the best picture on my arm.

Mally Beauty swatches of Citychick Eye Shadow Kit.jpeg
Swatches of Midtown Merlot shades

After my experience with this and my growing appreciation of the Mally Beauty products that I have tried so far, I know that I want to pick up another compact or two.   These Citychick Smokey Eye Shadow Kits sell for $40 and I think you can have a lot fun with these!  Do look into getting one or a few for yourself and dress up your eyes this holiday season.

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  A free product was provided to facilitate this review.*

Thanks to Mally Beauty, one lucky Nuts 4 Stuff reader in the United States wins a Mally Beauty Citychick Smokey Eye Shadow Classics Kit in Midtown Merlot ($40 value)!



Both Are Mandatory to Enter:

1. You must follow me on Google Friends Connect before any of your entries will count.  If you already follow, then INCLUDE your ***EMAIL*** with name in a comment!

2. Go to Mally Beauty and tell me what other product that you would love to try or something else you learned from their site in another comment.

Extra Entries:

(Provide proof once with email when doing each form of entry and number the rest):

Tweet Want Sexy Eyes?  #Win @mallybeauty #SmokeyEyeShadowKit #Giveaway ($40) @Nuts4Stuff http://bit.ly/TvFntm  Ends 12/17 (Tweet up to 3 times a day, but at least 3 hours apart for each tweet.)--1 to 3 extra entries to leave in separate comments with proof.

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Enter another Nuts 4 Stuff giveaway (enter as many as you want, however, only 1 extra entry will count) and tell me which one in a comment--1 extra entry

Enter the Harvey Prince Natural Big Holiday Perfumes & Soaps Giveaway--1 extra entry   

Leave a separate comment for each entry.  Be sure you include your email address inside your comment so I can contact you if you win.   This giveaway is only open to residents of the United States.  No PO Boxes just USA-based street addresses.

**Any entries that contain a link or website address for redirecting readers to your site to sell your products will be deleted when found.  I am giving you a chance to win, not advertise for free.*** Do follow the rules because I check entries.   Be alert that if you attempt to enter using multiple identities will be grounds for disqualification. 

This giveaway ends December 17, 2012 at 12 PM Eastern Standard Time. The winner will need to respond to my email with name and shipping address within 48-hours or another winner will be picked.  

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Let Your Complexion Bloom! Tammy Fender Bulgarian Rose Water Review

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Tammy Fender Bulgarian Rose Water.jpeg
Tammy Fender Bulgarian Rose Water


I started my love affair with organic rose water while in college.   I discovered it gave my slightly oily complexion dewy freshness when I spritzed that really made a striking difference with or without a moisturizer or to set my makeup throughout a long day.   Though some years have passed and now my complexion is on the dry side, I never stopped using or believing in the beauty power behind rose water.  

When Tammy Fender's Bulgarian Rose Water unexpectedly arrived at my door, I was surprised but happy to have the chance to test this holistic skin care product out without any hesitation!  Although I have never tried any of the famed aesthetician's all natural line that started at her spa in Palm Beach with custom formulations to meet the needs of each skin type, I couldn't wait to get started.

The heavenly aroma of rose petals surrounds you even through the closed bottle.  And yet, this sweet scent is only just the beautiful beginning of what is ahead.  Now I could have just spritzed and refreshed my complexion on the spot, but I cleansed my face first and then sprayed some on a cotton ball before swiping over my still damp face.  Ah, the exquisite rose fragrance was aromatherapy in itself and left me with a blissful feeling while I dabbed to tone my skin.

Instantly, my complexion felt soothed and soft like velvet.  This extremely gentle product provided the perfect base once I applied my anti-aging serum and brought with it radiance and a bloom to my cheeks, which increased daily.  Whenever my skin felt extra dry or to refresh my makeup, I gave myself another fragrant treatment. 

If my face could talk, it would say I am happy--just look at me!  After all, you will be stealing the potent energy from a rose from what Tammy Fender's Bulgarian Rose Water will do for own face for keeping it moist, softer, and revitalized. 

Honestly, I have used countless bottles and brands of rose water.  In my opinion, this one is incredible.  You might call this face food to feed a hungry face that may be starving from dull, lackluster skin.   A 6.7 fl. oz. bottle retails for $65 and does go a long way.  

Try Tammy Fender's Bulgarian Rose Water for yourself or give one as a gift this holiday season and then you'll understand why I love it so!

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  A free product was provided to facilitate this review.*

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Look Younger! Renee Taylor's face Love Tightening Serum Review


**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Renee Taylor's face Love Tightening Serum.jpeg
Renee Taylor's face Love Tightening Serum


Those that make their living in front of a camera depend on maintaining their best appearance possible.  Ask any actress or model what their special trick is and you might discover certain cosmetics, makeup tips, diet, or skin care products are what keeps them looking  beautiful and practically defy aging.   Actress, Renee Taylor, best known for her role as Sylvia Fine on the hit television comedy,  "The Nanny," is one such master now sharing her secret with the world.

Working together with Renee's personal makeup artist, Cindy Carol, the pair developed a product to instantly tighten facial lines for a more youthful appearance.  This firming serum is called face Love and I was asked to review it.

I don't have lots of deep wrinkles, but I do have two bad boys on the sides of my cheeks near my mouth. Therefore, I was game to test  Renee Taylor's face Love all right!  

According to the directions, you can use a drop or two on a freshly washed face or over makeup for anywhere on the face, eye area or neck.  Be sure your face dries completely first before applying the product.  I only needed a drop to do my entire face.  What I noticed was the serum did seem to chip away years while toning your face from what I was staring at in my mirror. 

The two deeper wrinkles that plagued me did tighten and the finer creases around my eyes disappeared.  However, I must have over applied on those two bigger wrinkles trying to finish what I had left on my finger because I noticed there was white caking in the area. 

Less is better when using this product.  Therefore, the next time I tried using, I only added what I needed and not layering.  This gave a much better look to my face. 

In fact, I also wanted to see the difference of how this product would work when applied over my makeup.  I gained a more natural look and preferred this method.  

The driving force behind this revolutionary instant face lift is a powerful anti-wrinkle peptide called acetyl hexapeptide.  And I must admit, but Renee Taylor's face Love does help you look younger quickly.  I don't know how long this wonderful improvement will last, but I think it's fantastic way to  feel better about yourself and aging.  I think any woman that has some wrinkling issues, whether a few like mine or more, would love this serum. 

This serum came ready for gift-giving in a pink  bag, adorned with pink ribbon and also came with a bonus of a full-size tube of LipLove lipstick, a medium pink shade, for $55!  If you ask me, you can hardly buy one skin care product anymore for that price.

With the holiday season and all those parties on the horizon, you need to put your best face forward and Renee Taylor's face Love can definitely help you do that!  Pick some up for yourself or give as a gift to brighten someone else's life and witness a beautiful change. 

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  I received a free product to facilitate this review.*


Monday, November 26, 2012

L'Occitane En Provence's New LIMITED EDITION Marvellous Flowers Eau de Toilette, Body Cream and Hand Cream Review

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

L'Occitane's Marvellous Flowers Eau de Toilette, Body Cream and Hand Cream.jpeg
L'Occitane's Marvellous Flowers Eau de Toilette, Body Cream and Hand Cream


I love L'Occitane fragrance and have used their products before.  Therefore, when I had the opportunity to review some of their new  limited edition Marvellous Flowers scented products,  I was delighted.  Let me tell you what to expect.

Like a floral explosion, L'Occitane's Marvellous Flowers, bursts to life with countless acres of roses and peonies that compete with sparkling pink grapefruit and juicy red berries to give this enchanting fruity-floral a sense of pure romantic bliss.  

Blame the mischievous red fruit notes at play for the freshness tempting to lift and carry you off to their magical world in the fragrance's opening notes.  However, those magnificent peonies and roses are jealous by forcing every last bud in their ranks to bloom to break the fruit spell, perfuming the air with their unified sweetness in this heart.  

The dry down is soft and seductive with light woods and white musk for a lingering finish to bewitch those caught up in this fairy tale of a beautiful romantic fragrance.

The Marvellous Flowers Body Cream comes in a unique square 8.8 oz. jar that is abundantly enriched with skin pleasing moisturizing ingredients to soften while perfuming with floral beauty of rose and peony among the raspberries.  The formula is light, but rich for easy absorption.

The Marvellous Flowers Hand Cream is topnotch when it comes to hands.  You don't feel greasy with the L'Occitane formula that contains shea butter and natural floral extracts while it protects, repairs, and allows you yet another irresistible way to draw you into that dreamy, very feminine floral fragrance.

I was sent the Marvellous Flowers Eau de Toilette Spray in the 75ml size, which has a nice lasting power as well.  It also comes in a 10ml roll on. 

This fragrance is a limited edition for the holidays so you will want to get a jump on it and order, otherwise, you might miss one of the prettiest scents I have experienced from them so far!  Marvellous Flowers also comes in holiday gift sets like the Marvellous Flowers Star Gift Set  (an $80 value) for $68, which would please anylucky lady on your shopping list.  Honestly, I highly recommend visiting L'Occitane and stocking up on some while the scent is available.  Look for limited edition sets of new Magical Leaves and Shea Embrace gifts while you're at it.

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  Free products were products to facilitate this review.*

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Harvey Prince Natural Perfumes BIG Holiday Perfumes & Soaps Review + ($254) Giveaway! (3 Winners!)--Ends December 12, 2012

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Harvey Prince Scents of Purpose Set.jpeg
Scents of Purpose Gift Set and Flirt Soap


Harvey Prince Natural Perfumes knows how to make us, as women, feel truly irresistible and desired with their exhilarating line of sensational fragrances that are scents geared with specific purposes.  And as a big fan, I am pleased to be working with them again for this big holiday review and giveaway!

Those that still never tried any of their amazing fragrances would find a good place to start is with their six roll-on perfumes in the Scents of Purpose Gift Set.

Harvey Prince Eau de Lite perfume and Flirt Soap.jpeg
Eau de Lite fragrance and Flirt Soap
Eau Flirt, which I personally labeled the man magnet for the way this gorgeous scent works to drive men wild with tempting notes of floral, fruit, and spice like freesia, ylang ylang, jasmine, lavender, pumpkin pie, nutmeg, cinnamon and warmth from amber.  Ladies, this is  the perfume that definitely will get you noticed by male eyes and I must confess my ultimate favorite.

Eau Fling, is the one that has proven science behind it for just the right mix to fire men up with arousing natural ingredients like lavender, jasmine, juicy raspberry, luscious plum, nutmeg, cinnamon, sexy musk, and rare woods.

For happily ever after, Coupling, is one up to the task.  This is so pretty with that heavenly aroma of gardenia, freesia, patchouli, cinnamon, nutmeg, cucumber, with a sexy dose of amber.

Eau de Creme is the one for adding a playful sizzle to any romance.  Can you imagine a more fun way to tempt your man than with delicious rum raisin, vanilla, passion fruit, chocolate, citrus, and patchouli?

Eau de Lite is known to help suppress appetites with a mix of green apple, rosemary, peppermint,  sandalwood, and fennel.  However, it does stir male appetites up in other ways--like for delicious YOU!

Ageless is the one fragrance to keep you smelling young with a vibrant blend of fresh pink grapefruit, pomegranate, luscious mango, jasmine, tuberose, ylang ylang, and sandalwood.  Think of this as a sensory beauty lift to beat that age barrier!

Harvey Prince Ageless soap and Coupling perfume.jpeg
Ageless Soap and Coupling Eau de Toilette
Another way to savor those sensual fragrances are through Harvey Prince's beautiful and moisturizing scented soaps in Flirt and Ageless.  The Flirt bar has green tea leaves, essential oil of lavender, and mowrah shea butter  with exfoliation properties as well from pumpkin seeds.  The Ageless bar has time released collagen actives, soothing olive oil, vitamin E,  green tea, grapefruit, mowrah shea butter, and pumpkin and berry seeds built into that formula.  Trust me, these giant bars smell so gorgeous you'll want to stock up and hide extra to perfume your lingerie drawer.

I really do love everything this company makes that I tried so far and have no doubts that you will too once you experience some of their fragrant magic.  So give that special woman in your life a gift from Harvey Prince Natural Perfumes and watch how quickly you power up her smile to one with more wattage than any holiday lights! 

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  Free products were provided to facilitate this review.*

Thanks to Harvey Prince Natural Perfumes, three lucky Nuts 4 Stuff readers in the United States or Canada win from the following below:

1st Prize:  Scents of Purpose Gift Set + Flirt Soap ($88 value)

2nd Prize:  Coupling Eau de Toilette Spray (1.7 oz.) + Ageless Soap ($83 value)

3rd Prize:  Eau de Lite (1.7 oz) Eau de Toilette Spray + Flirt Soap ($83)


Both Are Mandatory to Enter:

1. You must follow me on Google Friends Connect before any of your entries will count.  If you already follow, then INCLUDE your ***EMAIL*** with name in a comment!

2. Go to Harvey Prince Natural Perfumes and tell me what other fragrance you would love to try or something else you learned from their site in another comment.

Extra Entries:

(Provide proof once with email when doing each form of entry and number the rest):

Tweet Set His Senses On Fire! #Win BIG @HarveyPrince #Perfumes&Soaps #Giveaway ($254) (3 Win!)  @Nuts4Stuff http://bit.ly/WqwrmE Ends 12/12 (Tweet up to 3 times a day, but at least 3 hours apart for each tweet.)--1 to 3 extra entries to leave in separate comments with proof.

"Like" Harvey Prince on Facebook--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Follow Harvey Prince on Twitter --2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Share Harvey Prince on your Facebook Wall--5 extra entries to leave in five separate comments (show me the proof) 

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Add Nuts 4 Stuff to your blogroll  (using my URL) with a link back to me (comment where you left it for 2 more extra entries to leave in two separate comments)

Enter another Nuts 4 Stuff giveaway (enter as many as you want, however, only 1 extra entry will count) and tell me which one in a comment--1 extra entry

Enter the Monave Mineral Makeup Big Holiday Gift Assortment Giveaway--1 extra entry   

Leave a separate comment for each entry.  Be sure you include your email address inside your comment so I can contact you if you win.   This giveaway is only open to residents of the United States and Canada.

***Any entries that contain a link or website address for redirecting readers to your site to sell your products will be deleted when found.  I am giving you a chance to win, not advertise for free.*** Do follow the rules because I check entries.   Be alert that if you attempt to enter using multiple identities will be grounds for disqualification. 

This giveaway ends December 12, 2012 at 12 PM Eastern Standard Time. The winner will need to respond to my email with name and shipping address within 48-hours or another winner will be picked.

Saturday, November 24, 2012

Torani Coffeehouse Flavored Syrups Review + My All-Time Favorite Chocolate Cake With Hazelnut Cream Icing Recipe!

*Disclaimer:  This is a sponsored post for SheSpeaks and Torani.  Nonetheless, this is my own honest opinion.*

Torani logo.jpeg
Torani
  

I was invited by SheSpeaks to take part in the Torani Syrups campaign.  The company makes more than 100 delicious flavors of these syrups to add to your coffee, drinks, sodas, teas, or lemonades in a formula with pure cane sugar or a sugar-free version.  However, I happen to love their products from prior experience and found not only are their syrups wonderful for heightening the taste of those hot or cold beverages to make them special, but also for baking and using in icing.

Torani Coffeehouse Flavored Syrups.jpeg
Torani Coffeehouse Flavored Syrups

I requested both of my Torani Syrups of Hazelnut and Pumpkin Pie in the sugar variety to compare it to the sugar-free, which is also excellent.    In fact, you may also want to try the Caramel Syrup sugar-free version because it too is fabulous and also works beautifully with very easy chocolate cake for another delicious   caramel cream icing. 

A teaspoon or two added to your coffee can make it taste like it came out of an expensive coffeehouse instead of out of the grocery store.  The Pumpkin Pie Syrup had just the right spice and made my coffee more festive for the holidays.   And trust me, when you add a few tablespoons to my icing, you will find that hazelnut or caramel flavor multiplies with so much more intensity with that Torani Syrup than any extract. 

I dare you to try my recipes to boost up flavor of icing or in your baking and you will be a Torani Syrup convert too!

You can a 10% off code to buy Torani Syrups online at the company's website when you enter the code: SHESPEAKS at checkout.  However, you need to hurry because this deal expires on 11/30/12.

One important step that I must point out is that you need to sift all the dry ingredients for the cake batter together for superior results. 

*Disclaimer:  This is a sponsored post for SheSpeaks and Torani.  Nonetheless, this is my own honest opinion.*

My All-Time Favorite Chocolate Cake

2 cups of sugar
1-3/4 cups of flour
3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa
1-1/2 teaspoons of baking soda
1-1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
3/4 teaspoon of salt
2 eggs
1 cup of milk
1/2 cup of canola oil
2-1/2 teaspoons of vanilla
1 cup of boiling water


My Hazelnut Cream (or Caramel Cream) Icing

3 cups of confectioners' sugar
1/4 cup of margarine (not spread)
1/4 cup of milk
2 tablespoons of Torani Hazelnut Flavoring Syrup or Torani Caramel Flavoring Syrup

Beat everything together with your electric mixer until creamy and spreadable. 

To Make the Cake Batter:

Sift the dry ingredients together in a large mixing bowl.

Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla next and beat together with your electric mixer for a few minutes until well combined.

Now  stir in the boiling water, a little at a time, with a whisk.  Don't try to rush pouring that boiling water in all at once or you can cause the batter to form lumps and ruin your cake.  After the boiling water is added, the batter will be thin.

Pour your batter into two greased and flour or wax-paper lined 9-inch layer cake pans.  Bake this for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let your cake cool for about 10 minutes in the pans before attempting to remove them.  Trying to take them out too soon can cause your cake to fall apart.

Top with my Hazelnut Cream Icing or Caramel Cream Icing.
Serves 8-12.
ENJOY!

Torani Coffeehouse Hazelnut Flavored Syrup.jpeg
Torani Coffeehouse Hazelnut Flavored Syrup

My All-Time Favorite Chocolate Cake With Hazelnut Cream Icing.jpeg
My All-Time Favorite Chocolate Cake With Hazelnut Cream Icing
piece of my All-Time Favorite Chocolate Cake With Hazelnut Cream icing.jpeg
Here's a piece of my All-Time Favorite Chocolate Cake with Hazelnut Cream Icing.

Friday, November 23, 2012

Lisa Hoffman Beauty's Tunisian Neroli Eau de Parfum Spray and Variations Fine Fragrance Oils Review

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Lisa Hoffman Beauty's Tunisian Neroli Eau de Parfum Spray and Variations Fine Fragrance Oils.jpeg
Lisa Hoffman Beauty's Tunisian Neroli Eau de Parfum Spray and Variations Fine Fragrance Oils


What a cozy way to stay warm than with Lisa Hoffman Beauty's beautifully intoxicating Tunisian Neroli Eau de Parfum as it wraps you with its rich fruit-floral and woods for a comforting feeling as soft and elegant as cashmere against your skin as it seduces.  And yet, there is an exotic opulence in the way this perfume touches you.

The opening notes are dreamlike with gardenia petals floating among watery accords for sweet breeziness.  You pleasantly drift until encountering the brisker undercurrent of blood orange that stirs up the mix for a refreshing splash of freshness.

Happily awake now, the compelling heart notes of ylang ylang, orange nectar, and neroli blossoms force you into plunging into that tempting pool of fresh sweetness.  Because it exerts such a powerful hold over your senses, you want to savor that exquisite aroma in that haunting water and the uninhibited sensation for as long as possible.  You could stay there forever if not for the warmth in the eyes of an awaiting admirer.

The romantic base is all about desire as you exchange knowing smiles.   You nearly stop his heart with a heady dose of floral from gardenia and ylang ylang burning with golden amber and vanilla for seduction in this dry down.

The matching set of four Variations Fine Fragrance Oils is another appealing way to experience the joy of wearing this scent.   What is so irresistible about this set is how Lisa Hoffman Beauty formulated the Tunisian Neroli perfume to best suit morning, daytime, evening, and bedtime.  

You can wear each roll-on perfume alone or layer them for a slightly different variation.  Regardless of the method you choose, you will be captivated by this exquisite fragrance.

Vial 01:  Morning--This is when the Tunisian Neroli fragrance sparkles the most with juicy citrus from blood orange infused with sweet gardenia and watery accords.

Vial 02:  Daytime--This is the formulation of the scent that shows its warm and romantic side with  ylang ylang, lemon, golden amber, musk, and Tunisian Neroli blossoms.  

Vial 03:  Evening--You'll find this oil the most seductive Tunisian Neroli variation.   With romantic floral, vanilla, and golden amber, this alluring version can play havoc with your senses.

Vial 04:  Bedtime--This vial is the most delicate way to experience the Tunisian Neroli fragrance.  All soft woods and deep musks are dominant over the notes to give it a dreamy romantic quality. 

If you want a truly sensuous floral that goes lightly with the woods and spice while also having an inner sparkling radiance, you will also love this Lisa Hoffman Beauty fragrance as much as I do.  

The Tunisian Neroli Eau de Parfum Spray retails for $65 and the Tunisian Neroli Variations Fine Fragrance Oils sell for $95.

Those looking to make a woman happy this holiday shopping season should definitely think of these for gifts!

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  Free products were provided to facilitate this review.*

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Auric Blends Love Perfume Spray and Egyptian Goddess Perfume Oil Review + Giveaway! (2 Winners!)--Ends December 6, 2012

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Egyptian Goddess Perfume Oil.jpeg
Egyptian Goddess Perfume Oil

Auric Blends is a company that seems to infuse intoxicating beauty into every one of their natural perfumes, candles, incense, soaps, and perfume oils that I have tried.  For effortless seduction, let me acquaint you with two of my favorites, their best-selling Egyptian Goddess Fine Perfume Oil and Love Perfume Spray that were sent to me for this review and giveaway

The essence of Egyptian Goddess is so subtle and yet mysterious as it softly weaves its seductive spell of soft florals, light powder and musk to command attention.   Whenever I wear this bewitching perfume, I feel more beautiful and so empowered because I can feel male eyes on me.

Egyptian Goddess Fine Perfume Oil is a more potent mix of sensual creamy musk and soft powdery floral that comes in a dab on form.  Unlike the perfume spray, this version of the fragrance is a concentrated form and will last even longer to make him burn with desire for you. 
Love Perfume Spray.jpeg
Love Perfume Spray

Love Perfume Spray takes that same mind-boggling Egyptian Goddess formula and gives it a breezy clean lightness to round out the warmth of seductive musk, white amber, woods, and those soft floral notes.  This one is just as irresistible, only it has more of a powdery quality to the spiciness that is enchanting. 

How can I explain how much both of these perfumes can make a woman feel at her sexy best?  Egyptian Goddess is sizzling with hidden sensuality only a bit stronger in the perfume oil form  compared to the spray version that I reviewed last year.  Whereas, Love Perfume Spray  has a bit more spice compared to the softer scent of Egyptian Goddess Perfume Spray, but is just as enticing when it comes to encompassing sexiness only in a different way.   

I honestly love them  and do highly recommend both Egyptian Goddess and Love Perfume of any form.  Either or both of these captivating perfumes would make a wonderful holiday gift for any woman so she may cast her own seductive spell.  So, guys, do pick Egyptian Goddess or Love Perfume or both for your own goddess and show her that she rules your heart!

Thanks to Auric Blends, two lucky Nuts 4 Stuff readers in the United States or Canada win either:

1st Prize--Love Perfume Spray (1.7 fl. oz)--$29.99
2nd Prize--Egyptian Goddess Fine Perfume Oil (1.87 fl. oz)--$24.99


Both Are Mandatory to Enter:

1. You must follow me on Google Friends Connect before any of your entries will count.  If you already follow, then INCLUDE your ***EMAIL*** with name in a comment!

2. Go to Auric Blends and tell me what other product that you would also love to try or something else you learned from their website in another comment.

Extra Entries:

(Provide proof once with email when doing each form of entry and number the rest):

Tweet Smell Sexy! #Win #EgyptianGoddess&LovePerfumes @AuricBlends #Giveaway @Nuts4Stuff  http://bit.ly/Te8YGX   Ends 12/06 (Tweet up to 3  times a day, but at least 3 hours apart for each tweet)--1 to 3 extra entries to leave in separate comments with proof.

"Like" Auric Blends on Facebook--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Follow Auric Blends on Twitter--2 extra entries  to leave in two separate comments

Share Auric Blends on your Facebook Wall--5 extra entries to leave in five separate comments (show me the proof) 

Subscribe to Auric Blends newsletter--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

"Like" Nuts 4 Stuff on Facebook--3 extra entries (leave three separate comments)

Add @Nuts4Stuff to Your Twitter and tell me so in your comment with your Twitter id--3 extra entries to leave in three separate comments (proof only needs to be in one)

Subscribe to the Nuts 4 Stuff blog by email--3 extra entries (must confirm) to leave in three separate comments

Subscribe to Nuts 4 Stuff in a reader--3 extra entries (Orange button in my sidebar) to leave in three separate comments

List this giveaway on any giveaway site just leave a link to this post wherever you share it--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where with proof in one of them)

Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link to the post--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where with proof in one of them)

Grab my Nuts 4 Stuff button and paste it in your sidebar--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where you left it with proof in one of them)

Add Nuts 4 Stuff to your blogroll  (using my URL) with a link back to me (comment where you left it for 2 more extra entries to leave in two separate comments)

Enter another Nuts 4 Stuff giveaway (enter as many as you want, however, only 1 extra entry will count) and tell me which one in a comment--1 extra entry

Enter the Garden Botanika Warm Thoughts Almond Cream Gift Collection Giveaway--1 extra entry   

Leave a separate comment for each entry.  Be sure you include your email address inside your comment so I can contact you if you win.   This giveaway is only open to residents of the United States and Canada.  

***Any entries that contain a link or website address for redirecting readers to your site to sell your products will be deleted when found.  I am giving you a chance to win, not advertise for free.*** Do follow the rules because I check entries.   Be alert that if you attempt to enter using multiple identities will be grounds for disqualification. 

This giveaway ends December 6, 2012 at 12 PM Eastern Standard Time. The winner will need to respond to my email with name and shipping address within 48-hours or another winner will be picked.  

Monday, November 19, 2012

Garden Botanika's Warm Thoughts Almond Cream Gift Collection Review and Giveaway!--Ends December 5, 2012

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Garden Botanika's Warm Thoughts Almond Cream Gift Collection.jpeg
Garden Botanika's Warm Thoughts Almond Cream Gift Collection


The moment I began unpacking the box that contained Garden Botanika's Warm Thoughts Almond Cream Gift Collection for this review and giveaway, I found a delectable sweetness wafting toward me as I pulled out that decorated container.  The Almond Cream aroma was so delicious and inviting, it reminded me of a particular Christmas cookie my grandmother used to make and that made me smile because I always associate the scent of almond with her.   

Loosing myself in this Almond Cream fragrance soon became apparent the longer I examined this beautiful holiday gift set, which included two huge 16.9 fl. oz. sizes of that comforting scented  Almond Cream Body Cleanser and Body Lotion, a generous 6 fl. oz. Almond Cream Body Mist, and a hefty 3.5 oz. bar of Almond Cream Gentle Exfoliating Soap that came housed in and holiday prepped with festive packaging tied with a pink ribbon ready for gift giving.  

Since I couldn't wait to play with those delectable smelling products, I grabbed everything and hurried to lock myself away in the bathroom.  I was in my element once I poured some of that yummy smelling Almond Cream Body Cleanser onto my sponge and began washing with that rich foam.  My tub had that delicious aroma of a bakery.  

Then I looked at the Almond Cream Gentle Exfoliating Soap bar that I also had rested on the ledge of my tub.  I thought it would be an awesome way to stimulate circulation on the backside, legs, and feet so I rinsed my sponge and soaped up for the task.   You won't find any coarse feeling with this bar as you wash only a delicate brush against your skin with that same cookie like smell.

Before my skin would shrivel up from staying in that fragrant water too long, I forced myself up and dried.  Nonetheless, I could still keep that pleasing scent with me with some of the Almond Cream Body Lotion.  Smelling like a delicious human cookie, I increased my new irresistible appeal with a spritz of Almond Cream Body Mist that I had also on the vanity.  Now, I was smiling and looking forward to my guy's reaction once I finally emerged from my ritual.

Just as I suspected, he asked if I baked something today.  I shook my head and walked by him close enough that he might get a better whiff of sweet me.  He began laughing and teased whether I was product testing again before grabbing me around the waist so he could get a better sample for research purposes, of course.

Garden Botanika has such an amazing variety of fragrances and natural skin care that I thought were beautiful, including this tempting  Warm Thoughts Almond Cream Gift Collection, which I also cherished.   Guys, this is a great gift choice at $45 to give your lady this holiday season.   If sold separately, these products would sell for $63. Think of it as a treat to yourself with her wearing that Almond Cream scent of yummy almond cookie for you to enjoy!


Thanks to Garden Botanika, one lucky Nuts 4 Stuff reader in the United States or Canada wins a Warm Thoughts Almond Cream Gift Collection (16.9 fl. oz. Almond Cream Body Cleanser, 16.9 fl. oz. Almond Cream Body Lotion, 6 fl. oz. Almond Cream Body Mist, and the 3.5 Almond Cream Gentle Exfoliating Bar ($63 value)!


Both Are Mandatory to Enter:

1. You must follow me on Google Friends Connect before any of your entries will count.  If you already follow, then INCLUDE your ***EMAIL*** with name in a comment!

2. Go to Garden Botanika and tell me what other product that you would also love to try or something else you learned from their website in another comment.


Extra Entries:

(Provide proof once with email when doing each form of entry and number the rest):

Tweet Smell Delicious! #Win #GardenBotanika #AlmondCreamGiftCollection @Nuts4Stuff #Giveaway  http://bit.ly/SIOuCT  Ends 12/05 (can be done daily)--1 extra entry per day in another comment

"Like" Garden Botanika on Facebook--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Check Garden Botanika's Gift Section and tell me your favorite--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments or find two favorite gifts and tell me about them in four separate comments

Share Garden Botanika on your Facebook Wall--5 extra entries to leave in five separate comments (show me the proof) 

Subscribe to Garden Botanika email--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

"Like" Nuts 4 Stuff on Facebook--3 extra entries (leave three separate comments)

Add @Nuts4Stuff to Your Twitter and tell me so in your comment with your Twitter id--3 extra entries to leave in three separate comments (proof only needs to be in one)

Subscribe to the Nuts 4 Stuff blog by email--3 extra entries (must confirm) to leave in three separate comments

Subscribe to Nuts 4 Stuff in a reader--3 extra entries (Orange button in my sidebar) to leave in three separate comments

List this giveaway on any giveaway site just leave a link to this post wherever you share it--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where with proof in one of them)

Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link to the post--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where with proof in one of them)

Grab my Nuts 4 Stuff button and paste it in your sidebar--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where you left it with proof in one of them)

Add Nuts 4 Stuff to your blogroll  (using my URL) with a link back to me (comment where you left it for 2 more extra entries to leave in two separate comments)

Enter another Nuts 4 Stuff giveaway (enter as many as you want, however, only 1 extra entry will count) and tell me which one in a comment--1 extra entry

Enter the Crabtree & Evelyn Golden Fig Silkening Body Nectar and Bubble Bath & Body Wash Giveaway-- Giveaway--1 extra entry   

Leave a separate comment for each entry.  Be sure you include your email address inside your comment so I can contact you if you win.   This giveaway is only open to residents of the United States and Canada.  

***Any entries that contain a link or website address for redirecting readers to your site to sell your products will be deleted when found.  I am giving you a chance to win, not advertise for free.*** Do follow the rules because I check entries.   Be alert that if you attempt to enter using multiple identities will be grounds for disqualification. 

This giveaway ends December 5, 2012 at 12 PM Eastern Standard Time. The winner will need to respond to my email with name and shipping address within 48-hours or another winner will be picked. 

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Umberto of Beverly Hills Repair Treatment Masque Review

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**

Umberto of Beverly Hills Repair Treatment Masque.jpeg
Umberto of Beverly Hills Repair Treatment Masque


Since I have been blogging, I have been introduced to so many fabulous products that I honestly might have never picked up and tried.  The Repair Treatment Masque from Umberto of Beverly Hills is certainly among that group with the hoards of hair conditioners on the market.  Fortunately, I was asked to evaluate this salon-formulated product to see its effectiveness on my own hair.

Created by top stylist, Umberto, this deep conditioning treatment uses marine derived amino acids to bring back dry, brittle hair to life.  Furthermore, this product is safe for chemically treated hair.

Therefore, I made Friday night, beauty night and pulled no stops.  With its algae, wheat, and soy protein, this Repair Treatment Masque is a rich feeling cream.  I slathered some on this conditioner on as directed and kept it longer than the minutes required to give it even more time to soak in and do its thing to strengthen and restore shine and softness.  So instead of rinsing it, I wrapped my head in some plastic wrap before sporting a towel turban and waited thirty minutes or so while I gave myself a manicure and pedicure.

Later, I rinsed the product out and headed to dry and style my hair.  What I discovered when I finished was healthier looking hair that definitely had more softness and gleam with curls and waves behaving nicely.

I really liked this Repair Treatment Masque from Umberto of Beverly Hills.  The surprising thing is you can find this product either at Umberto's West Coast salons or at Target for $9.99.  What's not to like about that?  Do look into this one.

*Disclaimer:  This is my own honest opinion.  A free product was provided to facilitate this review.*

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Recipe: Resistance Is Futile When It Comes to My Decadent Peanut-Chocolate Pie!


Today, I plan to spoil you with one of my favorite pies.  Imagine digging into a creamy piece of what tastes like a liquid candy bar is what you get with my decadent peanut-chocolate pie!  This terribly delicious way to indulge your sweet tooth is easy to make as well with a base of peanut butter, corn syrup and crunchy peanuts, swimming among melted semi-sweet chocolate chips.  Serve this chilled delight alone or top with a fluffy cloud of whipped cream or topping for ultimate ecstasy.

Those that are reluctant about making homemade pie crust and believe it is beyond their abilities, I do hope you finally try my fool-proof oil pie crust dough.  Sincerely, friends, this crust always turns out flaky and is so much cheaper than buying any prepackaged pie crust.  In fact, you can use this recipe to make a pot pie, quiche, or any dessert pastry likes pies and tarts. 

Trust me, if you want to impress your guests over the holidays serve them this pie and they will be singing your praises because this one is that special!

My Decadent Peanut-Chocolate Pie

1 cup of sugar
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 cup of creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup of dark corn syrup
3 eggs
1 teaspoon of vanilla
1 cup of dry-roasted peanuts
1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell 
1 cup of chocolate chips
2 tablespoons of butter or butter-flavored shortening
Whipped cream or your favorite whipped topping (optional)

Cream the sugar, salt, and peanut with your electric mixer until fluffy.

All you do next is to add your corn syrup, vanilla, and eggs, beating one egg in at a time until thoroughly combined.

Stir in your peanuts, butter, and chocolate chips into the mixture last and pour into your pie shell.

Cover your filled shell loosely with foil and bake in a 375-degree oven for 30 minutes.

After that half hour of baking, you take the foil off and continue baking for about ten more minutes or until the crust is golden brown. 

Cool and keep refrigerated.

Top with your favorite whipped cream or whipped topping.  This is entirely optional.

ENJOY!

Friday, November 16, 2012

Crabtree & Evelyn's Golden Fig Silkening Body Nectar and Bubble Bath & Body Wash Review + Giveaway!--Ends December 3, 2012

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**


Golden Fig Silkening Body Nectar.jpeg
Golden Fig Silkening Body Nectar
Golden Fig Silkening Bubble Wash.jpeg
Golden Fig Silkening Bubble Wash

As part of their Christmas 2012 Collection, Crabtree & Evelyn has once  again come out with two enticing scented combinations to spread holiday joy with their Golden Fig and Golden Petals duos of Bubble Bath & Body Wash and Silkening Body Nectars.

Although both fragrances sounded incredibly appealing, I was helplessly drawn to the Golden Fig pair for this review and giveaway. To me, this particular scent possesses a mysterious blend of modern sophistication that any woman would love to lose herself in.  Golden Fig opens with such delicious sweetness of fresh figs and apple that meets grapefruit and mangosteen for an arousing wake up call to give it sparkle and to gently curb that sweetness.  And when the cedar, white sandalwood, and golden amber accords emerge, this romantic fragrance warms in an intriguing way until the medley of musk wraps their seductive hold over your senses.

The Golden Fig Bubble Bath & Body Wash is a luxurious, richly soap-free foaming formula to indulge your fantasies while you shower or use in the bath with its haunting aroma that moisturizes precious skin with soothing glycerin.

The Golden Fig Silkening Body Nectar allows you to pamper your delicate skin in this rich conditioning, scented formula with Shea butter and a hint of glitter, perfect for giving you more dazzling sparkle when showing off shoulders or your back at festive holiday parties.  

I adore Golden Fig and highly recommend this duo of the 8. 5 fl. oz. Bubble Bath & Body Wash ($20) and matching  8.5 fl. oz. Silkening Body Nectar ($20) for any lady on your holiday shopping list because it would be a hit.


Thanks to Crabtree & Evelyn, one lucky Nuts 4 Stuff reader in the continental United States wins a 8.5 fl. oz. Golden Fig Bubble Bath & Body Wash and the 8.5 fl. oz. Golden Fig Silkening Body Nectar ($40 value)!

Both Are Mandatory to Enter:

1. You must follow me on Google Friends Connect before any of your entries will count.  If you already follow, then INCLUDE your ***EMAIL*** with name in a comment!

2. Go to Crabtree & Evelyn and tell me what other product that you would also love to try or something else you learned from their website in another comment.

Extra Entries:

(Provide proof once with email when doing each form of entry and number the rest):

Tweet Smell Deliciously Enticing! #Win #GoldenFig @CrabtreeEvelyn #Lotion&Wash #Giveaway @Nuts4Stuff http://tiny.cc/i36bm Ends 12/03 (can be done daily)--1 extra entry per day in another comment

"Like" Crabtree & Evelyn on Facebook--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Follow Crabtree & Evelyn on Twitter--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Share Crabtree & Evelyn on your Facebook Wall--5 extra entries to leave in five separate comments (show me the proof in one of them) 

Check out Crabtree & Evelyn Gift section and tell me your favorite one--2 extra entries

"Like" Nuts 4 Stuff on Facebook--3 extra entries (leave three separate comments)

Add @Nuts4Stuff to Your Twitter and tell me so in your comment with your Twitter id--3 extra entries to leave in three separate comments with proof in one of them

Subscribe to the Nuts 4 Stuff blog by email--3 extra entries (must confirm) to leave in three separate comments

Subscribe to Nuts 4 Stuff in a reader--3 extra entries (Orange button in my sidebar) to leave in three separate comments

List this giveaway on any giveaway site just leave a link to this post wherever you share it--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where with proof in one of them)

Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link to the post--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where with proof in one of them)

Grab my Nuts 4 Stuff button and paste it in your sidebar--5 extra entries (leave five separate comments and tell me where you left it with proof in one of them)

Add Nuts 4 Stuff to your blogroll  (using my URL) with a link back to me (comment where you left it for 2 more extra entries to leave in two separate comments)

Enter another Nuts 4 Stuff giveaway (enter as many as you want, however, only 1 extra entry will count) and tell me which one in a comment--1 extra entry

Enter the Dancing Deer Baking Company's Brownie & Cookie Holiday Gift Medley Giveaway--1 extra entry   

Leave a separate comment for each entry.  Be sure you include your email address inside your comment so I can contact you if you win.   This giveaway is only open to residents of the continental United States.  No PO Boxes just USA-based street addresses.

***Any entries that contain a link or website address for redirecting readers to your site to sell your products will be deleted when found.  I am giving you a chance to win, not advertise for free.*** Do follow the rules because I check entries.   Be alert that if you attempt to enter using multiple identities will be grounds for disqualification. 

This giveaway ends December 3, 2012 at 12 PM Eastern Standard Time. The winner will need to respond to my email with name and shipping address within 48-hours or another winner will be picked.