Review: Solid-Cordz Premium Gold Plated HDMI Cable

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

Solid-Cordz Premium Gold Plated HDMI Cable

I love to watch movies and with my new Premium Gold Plated HDMI cable from Solid-Cordz, the picture quality is exceptional on my HDTV.  It’s so much easier to connect my Blu-ray player with this type of cable.  If you have HDMI ports on your stuff use this type of cable because everything is sharper than you can imagine and it’s easier to connect!  

Blu-ray’s image quality gives us the theater experience at home. We have great movies and enjoy watching them whenever we please without traveling, spending money on gas and theater snacks, now from the comfort of our home.

I received the HDMI 2 Pack of this Premium Series Gold Plated 6 ft. High Speed DDMI Cable with Ethernet and 4K Support from Solid-Cordz to review.  It also has 3D Gaming Support and is Xbox and PS3 compatible. 

This cable’s interfacing using those gold-plated HDMI connectors helps provide the best signal transfer between whatever audio/visual source you intend to use it with while it protects against EMI/RFI interference.

Besides set-top boxes and Blue-ray Disc players, this cable also would be great for DVD players, video game consoles, AV receivers and/or an audio and/or a video monitor, such as a digital television or plasma monitor, over a single cable.

It also supports Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master AudioTM standards.  Furthermore, it is HDCP & RoHS compliant.

Though I am not tech savvy, I do know what I like and it’s beautiful reception when it comes to picking up a fantastic signal.  And with Solid-Cordz’s, Premium Series Gold Plated 6 ft. High Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet (latest Edition), you get an excellent choice when you plug in!  Remember you invested in a lot of cool tech gadgets so don’t skimp on the ‘pipes’ between them!

Do look into picking up the HDMI 2 Pack - PREMIUM SERIES GOLD Plated 6 ft High Speed HDMI® Cable with Ethernet (latest Edition) 4K Support - 3D Gaming Support - Xbox & PS3 Compatible by Solid Cordz® on Amazon ($35).

*Disclaimer: Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

Spotlight on Nuts 4 Stuff Sponsor, Travel Sweepstakes Aficionado, Where You Can Win Your Dream Vacation!

*Disclaimer:  This is a sponsored post.*

Travel Sweepstakes Aficionado

Entering sweepstakes is so much fun. Before I started my blog, I used to enter regularly and win fairly often. There are no car or trip wins yet that I can brag about, but I won a few large prizes and lots of small ones.  If you think entering sweepstakes is silly or a waste of time, then the better the odds for those of us that know differently.

Ordinary people like me win all the time. There is no secret strategy involved except entering as many sweepstakes as you can and being persistent. Allow yourself a set amount of time a day to do your sweepstakes and stick to it.

With all the countless sweepstakes available, it may be hard where to start.  My advice is deciding what you want to win most of all like cars or trips–and then concentrating your efforts on entering those sweepstakes.

What I didn’t know until learning about my new sponsor’s website, Travel Sweepstakes Aficionado, was that there was a specialized sweepstake site available where you enter strictly to win trips all in one place.  How great is that when you browse through destinations from around the globe or just look for ones like Beach Vacations in the United States and dream about where you want to vacation?

Finding dream vacations has never been easier because Travel Sweepstakes Aficionado has done the legwork for you, just search through categories like International Destinations, Trips to Australia, Trips to Europe, Trips to Asia, Trips to South America, Beach Vacations, and U.S. Destinations and browse tempting locales.

I compare sweeping to planting a garden because you never know what will sprout from your efforts.  So visit Travel Sweepstakes Aficionado and be sure to make it a bookmark because you will want to start entering all this sites fabulous getaways regularly and be on the prowl for all the new ones! 

Wantable Makeup Box May 2014 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.**

Wantable Beauty Box for May 2014

Like anyone excited about beauty, I am constantly reinventing myself and changing my looks like a chameleon. One day I might want a soft, natural look and then the next I go trendy or dramatic.  Constantly experimenting with new cosmetics, skin and hair products, and fragrances can cripple your budget. However, the right monthly beauty subscription service like a Wantable Makeup Box can be the perfect solution.  

What makes Wantable so special is that you receive all FULL SIZE luxury brands geared to your individual preferences of colors and products chosen by their beauty experts for $36 a month or $40 to buy one box at a time.  

Usually you get four to five products that in all likelihood are ones you are just going to love because you went through a questionnaire that matched you on those likes and dislikes first. Nonetheless, if you aren’t pleased, then return it and the company will give you a full refund.

Trust me though, why would you want to with a no-risk deal like that, especially when I tell about what arrived for my personalized Wantable Makeup Box for May 2014.

I got a Vincent Longo Trio Eyeshadow Compact in Harem--($30).  This is a gorgeous palette with shades of gleaming deep umber, pale peach, and a rosy pink.  I had never tried this brand, but these neutral colors are sensational for how they blend to light up my brown eyes.

Vincent Longo Trio Eye Shadow Compact

I also got a tube of Mirabella Lipstick in Heat.–($22).  I already know how wonderful Mirabella lipsticks are for comfort and incredible color delivery and was delighted to find one in my box.  Though this is Coral according to my sheet, I would describe the color as more of a flaming red-brown, an ideal compliment to my new eye shadows.

Mirabella Lipstick in Heat

Next, I found my favorite form of eyeliner, a GlamNatural Mineral Eye Pencil in Black Opal–($25).  With how sensitive my allergy-prone eyes are at this time of year, I am thrilled at the forethought of Wantable including a healthier pencil during peak allergy season with everything finally blooming. 

GlamNatural Eyeliner Pencil

Last in my box of beauty goodies, I got Pla Beauty Cheeky Blush in Blushing–($22).  At first glance, I wasn’t sure if this dusky rose matte shade would be dark enough.  But, I am glad to say that I was wrong because it was more pigmented than I thought.  This blush delivered just enough sheer color to give me a beautiful natural look without looking powdery or overdone.  

Pla Beauty Cheeky Blush in Blushing

I really love my Wantable Makeup Box and think theirs is a great subscription service that is worthy of your attention.   Do visit their website for more information or to sign up because you won’t regret it!

*Disclaimer: Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

Recipe: Give Mom a Taste of Paradise and Treat Her to My Tropical Carrot Cake This Mother’s Day!

Today, I want to share my Tropical Carrot Cake with you. Though it is not a fancy layer cake, I think it is just as special in sheet cake form. This recipe combines the most luscious ingredients like crushed pineapple, coconut, and walnuts to enhance the flavor and provide extra moistness to an already delicious carrot cake. One taste is enough to whisk you–or Mom to paradise as it melts in your mouth!

Please remember how important it is to sift your dry ingredients together, especially when you are working with baking soda.  Taking a bit more care will turn out a lighter cake and prevent any nasty sour spots from baking soda that could land in one spot.

I hope you do try this one because it keeps well too.

Happy Mother’s Day!

My Tropical Carrot Cake

2 cups of flour
2 teaspoons of baking soda, leveled
2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon of salt
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons of molasses (any variety)
2 cups of sugar
1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
3/4 cup of canola oil
3/4 cup of buttermilk or sour milk
2 teaspoons of vanilla
1 small can of crushed pineapple, well drained (8-1/4-oz.)
2 cups of grated carrots
1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans
1 cup of flaked coconut


Sift the flour, soda, cinnamon, cloves, sugar, and salt together in your mixing bowl.

Add the eggs, oil, buttermilk or sour milk, and vanilla and beat to combine with the dry ingredients.

Stir in the drained pineapple, nuts, coconut, and carrots next.

Pour into your greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.

Bake in a 350-degree oven for about 55 to 60 minutes, depending on how your oven is regulated.  

Use a toothpick, slender knife, or your cake tester to see if anything sticks to test if it is done.

ENJOY!

**WIN Better Skin!**Trophy Skin’s RejuvadermMD Hand-Held Microdermabrasion System and Argan Stem Cell Serum Review + ($238) Giveaway! (2 Winners)–Ends May 27, 2014

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

Trophy Skin’s RejuvadermMD Hand-Held Microdermabrasion System

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Whether your complexion is less than perfect or just could benefit from some slight refining, then exfoliation is vital. However, you can only do so much with scrubs and at home chemical peels in that quest for flawless skin.  But Trophy Skin’s new RejuvadermMD Portable Microdermabrasion System along with their Argan Stem Cell Serum that I have been using speeds up the process on that road to prettier skin.

This device is like a powered mini sander for your complexion, instead of wood.  It has four different levels, an authentic Diamond Tip for doing the buffing, a Pore Extraction Tip for working on unclogging large pores, and an Infusion Tip to deliver your anti-aging serum or cream deeper into your skin than any normal application. 

What else impressed me about this device is that you could work on your body to help do away with any age spots, sun damage, or even stretch marks in addition to smoothing the skin. 

I liked that it wasn’t bulky or heavy to hold, which is important if you have a lot of you to do.  

Though you may be tempted to hurry skin perfection along, you don’t want to overdo. The company recommends a buffing treatment two or three times a week so that is what I did in hopes of getting rid of two small pimple marks.

Before I started, I washed my face first before I plugged the power adaptor in and attached it to the device.   You hold in the button for a few seconds and know the machine is ready to operate when the power levels light up blue.

It is advised to start with the device on the lowest setting, suction Level 1 or 2. Therefore, I placed that diamond-tip on that area of my cheek and started at Level 2. You definitely feel some suction, but I wasn’t sure how long to keep the device against my skin before moving over the surrounding skin as evenly as I could.

My skin didn’t get red or anything so I decided to switch up the setting and tried Level 4.  I felt  more suction as I held it. I didn’t want to risk damaging my skin so I stopped working on that section of my cheek after my third time at it, which is specified in the directions.

My skin didn’t look worse for wear when I was examining my face in the mirror.  It felt so much softer, but showed no signs of irritation.  In fact, I wasn’t sure of how much it did until I was putting the machine away.

After you disconnect, you need to unscrew the Diamond Tip head and replace the black wool filter inside each time you give yourself a treatment.  (You get a bag of 50 of these included with this device).  The black filter now had a white film over it unlike the solid black ones in the accompanying little bag, which had to be old skin.  So I replaced the old filter before putting it away.

Immediately afterwards, I washed my face again with cool water before applying a few drops of the Argan Stem Cell Serum that Trophy Skin also sent.  My skin had become a little sensitive by that time, but this serum felt so soothing and was fast absorbing.

Trophy Skin's Argan Stem Cell Serum

Later in that first week, I tried the Infusion Tip instead of the Diamond Tip to maximize how that anti-aging serum could penetrate through the layers of my skin once I had some on.   I felt the force of this vacuum like effect on my lubricated face, but I won’t be able to tell for a while until a longer period has passed.

My small complexion issue is still a work in progress, but the texture of my skin overall keeps improving.   

The list price of RejuvadermMD on Amazon is $199 with FREE shipping within the United States there or on Trophy Skin!  The Argan Stem Cell Serum retails for $39.00.  High-end retailers such as Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and Macy's will also sell them.

Don’t keep hiding behind thick coverage creams to deal with old acne scars or uneven texture because this little device and serum can help.   Do look into Trophy Skin’s RejuvadermMD and Argan Stem Cell Serum!

*Disclaimer: Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

Thanks to Trophy Skin, two lucky Nuts 4 Stuff readers in the United States or Canada win either of two prize packages ($238 value)!

First Prize: 
a RejuvadermMD Portable Microdermabrasion System ($199)

Second Prize: 
Argan Stem Cell Serum ($39) for another winner! 


Mandatory to Enter:

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!

Extra Entries:

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

Go to Trophy Skin and tell me something you learned from their website--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Tweet #Win #RejuvadermMDMicrodermabrasionSystem or #ArganStemCellSerum @TrophySkin #Giveaway ($238) @Nuts4Stuff  bit.ly/1l7FKXq  Ends 05/27 (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.

Follow Trophy Skin on Twitter--2 extra entries (leave two separate comments)

"Like" Trophy Skin on Facebook--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

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

Check out Trophy Skin RejuvadermMD video on YouTube and tell me something you learned--3 extra entries to leave in three separate comments

Sign up for Trophy Skin's 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

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

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

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List this giveaway on any giveaway site or sites just leave a link to this post wherever you share it--5 extra entries.  Leave five separate comments with a link to show proof of the site where that giveaway is listed in one of the entries.

Blog about this giveaway and comment with a link to the post--6 extra entries (leave six separate comments and tell me where with proof in one of them)

Grab my Nuts 4 Stuff button and paste it in your sidebar--10 extra entries (leave ten 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 five more extra entries to leave in five separate comments)

Enter the Lavanila Healthy Vanilla Coconut Fragrance Giveaway--1 extra entry to leave in one comment

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

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 May 27, 2014 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.  

Perlier Royal Elixir Facial 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.**

Perlier's Royal Elixir Facial Serum

I fell quite in love with Perlier’s Royal Elixir Facial Serum that I got to review from  iFabbo. Instead of being some heavy, souped-up anti-aging product, this one possessed the moisturizing richness my dry skin craved without weighing it down. 

This anti-aging serum feeds the skin with nutrient-rich royal jelly from African bees to boost collagen production.  It also has plenty of anti-oxidative properties to further enrich it along with pure rose distillate in place of water, which is common in many products.

The first time I used this product, it smoothed my complexion with a luxurious moisture veil quenching the dryness and left my skin feeling very soft. Over the past two weeks of continual experimentation, I witnessed my overall complexion blooming more after every application.

You can buy #PerlierOnHSN.  The 50 ml retails for $99.  Do look into trying Royal Elixir Facial Serum for yourself or give it to Mom for Mother’s Day because it would make a great gift!

*Disclaimer: Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

The Right Brushes Matter When You’re Striving for Makeup Perfection!

Just because you bought a new set of high-quality makeup brushes does not mean that you have all you need for creating your best work with your cosmetics.  What can make a true difference in helping you achieve perfection is the type of bristle that you are using for each individual task.

For instance, those luxurious natural bristles (sable, goat, pony, or squirrel) are meant for using with powder-based cosmetics like blush, powder, and eye shadow since their softer bristles are better for blending for a more natural look.

On the other hand, brushes with synthetic bristles are what you want for using with your cream concealers, gel liners, and lip products.  That extra bit of stiffness in the bristle gives you more accurate control when applying.

Do look at your tools and consider the brushes you have and the ones you need because your face can only benefit!

Pack A Hat From Cappelli Straworld Offers Portable Sun Protection (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.**

Cappelli Straworld Pack a Hat with Zippered Totes

Summer will be here in a matter of weeks.  If you’re intending on safely enjoying the sun and those outdoor jaunts to the beach, park, garden, or wherever the mood takes you, then it is always a good idea to protect yourself.  

When I know that I will be spending a lot of time in that hot sun, I like to wear my straw hat that has a wide brim and decorated with an attractive, ornate ribbon.  However, packing my pretty hat requires knowing ahead that I will need it.

Other times when it becomes a last minute decision to do something outdoors and you find yourself hatless, then it’s great to have what I received on hand in the car to save your head and hair from burning.  A prime example is this Pack A Hat from Cappelli Straworld that comes in a small striped, zippered bag with a foldable, matching pre-treated cloth hat with a wide brim and UPF 50 sun protection.  

You may look a bit wrinkled at first when you pull it out, but when your head is at stake and you're suffering in the hot sun, this hat will be your new best friend.

To find out more about Pack A Hat and where to buy, do check out their website.

Pack A Hat retails for $25 and is available in twelve shades.

*Disclaimer: Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

Get Glowing With the Karora Cosmetics Skinwear Collection--Express Bronzing Mousse Supreme Bronzette (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.**

Express Bronzing Mousse Supreme Bronzette and Mitt by Karora

Anyone that is on the pale side appreciates what a good self-tanning product can do to boost your self-esteem. You can gradually pick up some healthy color without risking your skin to hours in the hazardous sun. Considering it is already Spring, I for one, welcomed Irish brand, Karora Cosmetics’ invitation to try their Express Bronzing Mousse Supreme Bronzette in Medium/Dark to see what I thought. 

What I liked about this product even before I put it on was that it is meant to moisture the skin with natural botanicals to enable the tan to last longer. Also, you can control how dark you want to go without worrying about the outcome using this one Medium/Dark formula.

The choice of experimenting first whether you want a light, medium, to deep bronze was important, especially if you never used one or might have had a bad experience with a self-tanning product that, perhaps, turned you too orange or left you streaked, etc. This formulation allows you that freedom to decide within one bottle.

Take me for instance, right now I am as pale as a ghost and need the most natural way to appear tanned. Therefore, I like to start out with less than a serious color commitment and go with a light tan.

I prepared by exfoliating my body in the shower the night before following with plenty of body lotion to moisture the skin.

In the morning, I used their tanning mitt to apply this mousse, which changes more into a liquid with a fruity smell once it comes out.

Since I wanted to see what I would look like with the lightest option, I left the product on for one hour as recommended. Two hours gives a deeper tan and three hours is the darkest bronze.

When my timer rang, I showered and later discovered I had more of a medium tan than the light. At the same time, I must admit the color was darker than I had expected, but a realistic shade that tanned me fairly evenly.

The Express Bronzing Mousse (5.07 fl. oz.) retails for $40. Other products in the Karora Skinwear Collection include Karora CC Cream for Face and Body ($35), Instant Tan–Water Resistant Glow Glamster ($25), Tinted Self Tan Mist($30), and Gradual Tan ($25). Learn more about these products at Karora’s website.

Buy Karora Cosmetics at ULTA Beauty or find locations where to purchase.

If you are looking to warm up that skin after hibernating this winter, I recommend checking out the Express Bronzing Mousse and the Karora Skinwear Collection.

*Disclaimer: Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

Plagued by Dark Under Eye Circles, Then Try These Natural Remedies!

Many of us suffer from ugly dark circles under our eyes. Whether you come by yours through heredity, lack of sleep, allergies, aging, sun, stress, diet, or even due to the prescriptions you may take, dealing with this problem can be a challenge.

Even the best concealing products on the market can do only so much by temporarily hiding those black, raccoon eyes.  Of course, certain eye creams can help more than others because of beneficial ingredients.  

For example, ingredients like caffeine and vitamin K constricts blood vessels to make that pooled blood under the skin less noticeable. Vitamin C and arnica are other ingredients that you also need to check those eye cream labels for since they can brighten and heal. Another ingredient that can do well for your eyes is almond oil, which is rich in fatty acids and also helps in lighting darkness.

However, you can find some wonderful treatments for this problem in your own kitchen that you may not be aware of like the power of smashed bananas or some slices of cucumbers used in conjunction with some almond oil to lighten under eye darkness.

Mash about a third of a banana. Then wash your face and take what you need and apply some carefully under your eyes. Prepare to chill out for about a half hour to give nature the time it needs to work before rinsing.

You also might want to try soaking a few slices of cucumber that you cut one-quarter inch thick in a few tablespoons of almond oil. (I like to save most of the cucumber for salad and reserve two of slices of that size in a small container with two tablespoons of the almond oil). You don’t put this mix on immediately. Instead, you let the cukes soak with the oil for about twenty minutes first. Afterwards, you dry your cucumber slices off with a towel and then lay down with one slice on each eye for about fifteen minutes or so.

Another suggestion is to try whipping up this natural under eye lightening paste that has tumeric powder and pineapple juice. Try a teaspoon of the tumeric powder and gradually add only enough pineapple juice to form a paste that is thick enough to spread under your eyes. Be sure the area is clean first before applying. Keep this paste on for about fifteen minutes and then rinse off.

Living with year-round allergies, I am always trying new products, recipes, and ways to cope with the problem. While these may not completely solve under eye circles, these natural remedies that I am sharing do seem to help more than you may believe. I do encourage you to give them a try!

How to Keep Your Makeup Brushes in the Best Shape Possible!

Cleaning your makeup brushes is important if you want those expensive tools to last and best enhance your beauty. Otherwise, makeup does accumulate on the soft, quality bristles that can affect their performance if not done regularly.

Your complexion can also suffer since neglected makeup brushes harbor bacteria, which can cause your perfect skin to break out. Therefore, you need to make it a point to schedule time once a week to washing them.

As I mentioned in an earlier post about caring for your makeup brushes, I like to use baby shampoo to wash mine in. Of course, you use a more expensive professional brush cleaner to give you the same results. However, the only advantage of going that route is this type of cleaner makes your brushes dry faster than with the cheaper baby shampoo.

What I recently found helpful was a trick I learned from a friend of mine who happens to be a makeup artist. She suggested that after washing my brushes that I should use a small amount of a light, leave in hair conditioner directly after and allow it to remain for about minute before rinsing out.

Once you finish rinsing the conditioner away, you gently squeeze to get rid extra moisture before reshaping the bristles with your hands. Lay your brushes on a clean towel and let them dry.

I was surprised at how much better my brushes with those bristles with natural hairs turned out. Do try this on your own high-end makeup brushes and prepare to be amazed at how new they will look again.
　

Award-Winning Burt’s Bees Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Creme 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.**

Burt’s Bees Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Creme

The skin on my hands is on the delicate side. As a result, I am constantly slathering on hand lotions and creams to keep them well moisturized and presentable. Otherwise, my sensitive hands would be perpetually rough, chapped, and scary-looking.

I have tried my share of products in various forms to relieve this condition. Some of those have worked better than others. Though I have used other Burt’s Bees products, I never got around to using their hand lotions or creams. Therefore, I thought it was about time that I put their 2013 award-winning Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Creme ($9.00) to the test.

First of all, I want to point out this natural product is heavy-duty lubrication with sweet almond oil and vitamin E to coax ailing skin back from the brink. This yummy, nutty-smelling product also has beneficial beeswax as an ingredient to seal in needed moisture and condition.

As to its performance, I found this cream definitely helped a severe dry skin problem like mine. At the same time, I want to caution that this product can also leave hands a bit greasy so use sparingly.

For daytime, I prefer less the formula to absorb more and be less slippery to the touch. I felt this hand creme was better suited for nighttime, which is exactly how I have been using it after initially sampling it. 

Give your severe dry hands an ample coat of Burt’s Bees Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Crème before bed and find them recovered by morning–at least, this is what this stuff did for me. Do try this because you’ll like it!

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

Mirenesse Cosmetics Instant Lash Extensions Mascara Duet 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.**

Mirenesse Cosmetics Instant Lash Extensions Mascara Duet

Though I have skimpy lashes, one product that I never had any desire to try with my sensitive eyes is false eyelashes. Gluing a pair on with my allergies would only invite trouble. In my case, I depend on a less risky option to build up volume.  However, an interesting product arrived from Mirenesse Cosmetics that allowed me to produce a thicker sort of fringe.

Due to their ionic technology, Mirenesse Cosmetics Instant Lash Extensions Mascara Duet Black is a gentle doubled-ended mascara capable of adding dramatic length to extend lashes.  One side has the black fibers.  The other end has the transparent gel, which adheres the fibers.

Mirenesse Cosmetics Instant Lash Extensions Mascara Duet  showing the brush

As someone with no experience gluing on false eyelashes, I found application was easier than I thought. All I did was follow their directions by coating the tips of my lashes with the gel before wiggling the brush from the bottom to the tops to cover everything.

The next thing I did was turn that tube around toward the end with the black fibers. The important thing to remember is that you need to brush on this mascara side before the gel has a chance to set, starting at the base and brushing upward again. Otherwise, the results may not be to your liking.

Once I finished with the fibers, I returned to the gel side and gave myself a bit more to secure the fibers before combing through my lashes to prevent any from sticking together.

These fibers really build up length quickly so be careful on how much you brush on. After all, you can get them in the wrong spot and have too much in one place and not enough in another. This is what I did the first time so just keep this mind.

  

What I thought was fantastic was not experiencing any flaking or smearing of any kind, only huge lashes that stayed put. 

Furthermore, removal was simple.  All I did was use warm water and cotton squares that I pressed against them. Afterwards, these fibers slide off pretty quickly.



I was quite pleased how easy Mirenesse Cosmetics made it to transform my lashes with this one tube.  Do check out their Instant Lash Extensions Mascara Duet ($29.95) at their website!

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

A Quick Tip for Trying to Squash an Emerging Pimple

You always seem to get a new pimple just at the most inopportune times. However, I have a wonderful suggestion that could help you out when this happens.

Wash your face first and then dab some facial toner or witch hazel over the new offender. This will help zap the excess oil and prepare your skin.

Next, go to your freezer and get an ice cube. Wrap your ice around a thin cloth, paper towel, or even a tissue, just something to protect your skin from too close of contact with that ice.

Now take your covered ice cube and press it flat against your pimple for about one or two minutes at the most because keeping that ice on too long can irritate and cause you extra redness. 

If you haven’t tried the icing method for a fresh zit, you might want to give it a shot.

My Natural Oil Zapping Mask That You Make in Your Kitchen Helps Normalize Skin

I was going through my skin care recipes when I stumbled upon this particular mask to help correct an oily complexion. This recipe is what I regularly used while in college because of how well it worked to banish the shine. Though I have dry skin now, I thought those suffering with the same problem as I was at that time might like to try this recipe to help get their own skin back since it is a fantastic skin degreaser that also lightly moisturizes as it normalizes!
　

Natural Oil Zapping Mask

1-1/2 tablespoons dry clay
2 egg yolks
½ small ripe avocado, pitted, peeled and mashed
1/3 cup of witch hazel
1 tablespoon of honey


Mix the clay, yolks, and honey together with a fork or your whisk to well combine. Next, add the mashed avocado and witch hazel to the above mixture and stir through until smooth.

Store your mask in a clean plastic container with a lid until you are ready to apply. However, you need to use your mask within a few hours and then dispose of it. (An emptied and clean peanut jar works wonderfully for this purpose.)

When you are ready to use, apply a medium layer of the mask to your clean face, avoiding getting near the eye area.

Since you will look rather hideous, I suggest hiding out for a while or doing this when you have privacy because you will resemble a swamp thing.

Resembling a slimy, swamp creature may be rough on you, but this ordeal doesn’t last long. You just need to wear this mask for about 12-15 minutes and then you can shed that ugly slime and rinse it away with some warm water. Close your pores with a few splashes of cold water and you will feel human again.

When you look in the mirror next, the swamp thing is gone and a gorgeous, healthier face is in its place. You won’t believe how much better condition your skin will be in once you use this mask.
 

Soap & Glory's Original Pink--Perfume, Hand Food and the Righteous Body Butter 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.**

Soap & Glory's Original Pink--Perfume, Hand Food and the Righteous Body Butter

Rose, gardenia and jasmine's sweet floral scent blends effortlessly with luscious strawberries, fresh lemon, peach, and orange leaf in Soap & Glory's Original Pink fragrance, an intriguing, modern fruity-floral that takes you on a riveting journey of the senses.  Regardless of the form this scent may take or how it may change somewhat, it reflects unwavering confidence and a spunky, happy attitude that are delightful and quite contagious. 

Take the Original Pink Eau de Parfum ($38).  From the fragrance notes, I never expected such a bold entrance.  Nonetheless, in this form the scent was intensely brisk as it opened, almost to the point of giving the scent a peppery aroma.  Then as it warmed in the heart, the more the fragrance evolved, releasing that lovely lifting of floral and fruit sweetness.  In the dry down, this fragrance lingered like a beautiful memory due to haunting notes of powdery patchouli, amber, and musk. 

Soap & Glory's Original Pink Perfume

Soap & Glory's Original Pink Hand Food

The Original Pink scented Hand Food ($12) is a lighter fruity-floral scent without the peppery feel that the perfume has.   This creamy formula is very soothing on chapped hands and does great work repairing the redness with healing ingredients like shea butter, macadamia oil and marshmallow.  I appreciated how quickly this product sunk into my skin without leaving any sticky or greasy feeling behind.  Just as wonderful was how long that bright, fruity-floral scent lasted on my hands despite washing.

Soap & Glory's Original Pink Righteous Body Butter

Last of all, I softened my body with a fragrant veil of Original Pink scented Righteous Body Butter ($22) from that convenient pump dispenser.  The feel of this product is lush and so pampering with its shea and cocoa seed butters, sweet almond and rosehip seed oils, aloe vera, glycerin, and vitamin E while that uplifting wave of fruits and floral with vanilla and seductive sandalwood stayed with me like a lasting smile.  This is a breezy, pleasant fragrance that is perfect for summer or just whenever you need to feel good.   

Definitely check these Soap & Glory's Original Pink products out.  The Hand Food and Righteous Body Butter are my favorites for both moisturizing and the lovely, lighter way the scent plays out itself. 

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

The Fastest Way to Look Chic Now--FRAAS Spring-Summer 2014 Collection Dottie Scarf 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.**

FRAAS Spring-Summer 2014 Collection Dottie Scarves

What woman can live with just one scarf?  An eye-popping scarf can be the perfect fashion accessory you need for Spring.  A beautiful example is the latest Dottie Scarf collection from FRAAS for what it can do to update your wardrobe and sense of style.

Measuring 28 x 76-inches, these white, dotted polyester scarves can be worn several different ways from just draping around your neck.  You  can wear them as waist wraps, shawls, head wraps, sarongs and fashion into a halter top, if so inclined. 

The colors available are fresh and vibrant such as turquoise, yellow, pink, and green in the somewhat sheer polyester, fitting for the warmer weather. 

Taupe is the last shade, and the one I requested, which is more neutral.  In the photo, taupe appears practically an orchid.  In reality, taupe is a soft gray with a hint of brown.

A Dottie Scarf retails for $32.  FRAAS products are sold worldwide via department and specialty stores as well as online retailers.  You may also order from the company by calling 212-575-0191. Select styles are available on fraas.com and amazon.com

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

Recipe: Your Family Will Demand Seconds Once They Taste My Yummy Chocolate-Sauerkraut Cake!

Today I have an easy and delicious chocolate cake to share with you. My recipe has an unusual ingredient of sauerkraut, which may not sound appetizing in a dessert but is what make this delicious cake extra moist with what may fool you as coconut instead of sauerkraut!

What you will get is a hearty sheet cake that really goes over well with the family or friends. Finish this off with your favorite white or chocolate frosting and serve. Then wait for the compliments to start rolling in.

You can use buttermilk or sour milk. If you happen to find your milk just went sour, this is a great recipe to save you from throwing it out. Then again if you don't want to run to the grocery store for buttermilk, you can simply make your own by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cup of milk needed.

Be sure to use your measuring spoons for the baking soda and baking powder and level with a knife to produce the best growing cake. Don’t think that giving your recipe a heaping spoon or skimping on the amount will help make your cake grow more because it will do the opposite.

Another tip that I want to mention is sifting the dry ingredients together, especially when dealing with baking soda. Just adding your measured baking soda alone to the batter can give that awful taste of a sour spot. Sifting everything together solves that problem. 

I hope the next time that you don't know what to do with that can of extra sauerkraut that you will make my cake.

My Yummy Chocolate-Sauerkraut Cake

1/2 cup or 1 stick of margarine (not spread)
1-1/2 cups of sugar
2 cups of flour
3 large eggs
1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
1 cup of buttermilk or sour milk
1 teaspoon of baking powder, leveled
1 teaspoon of baking soda, leveled
1 cup of sauerkraut, drained, rinsed, chopped

Sift the dry ingredients together in one mixing bowl.

In another mixing bowl, cream the butter with the sugar thoroughly. 

Add eggs, one at a time, beating well with your electric mixture until combined before adding to the creamed butter-sugar mixture. 

Take the vanilla and the milk and slowly start adding it to the creamed ingredients alternately with the dry ingredients until everything is added.

Stir in the sauerkraut.

Grease and flour a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.

Pour the batter in your prepared sheet cake pan and bake in a 350-degree oven for about 35-40 minutes. 

Test with a toothpick or slender knife to see if anything sticks.

ENJOY!