Birchbox: February 2016

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This month’s Birchbox

I received my Birchbox yesterday, and have to say that I’m a bit happier with the sample sizes.  That being said, there is one product I really don’t care for.  The February box featured a nice variety of products for the shower/bath, lips, face/body, and a fragrance.  The sizes of the products were bigger than they have been in the past, which is a plus.  I hope that trend continues. 

Image courtesy of birchbox.com

 The Naobay moisturizing cream has the initial consistency of a lotion, but once I rubbed it into mu skin, it was hydrating like a body cream.  I used it on my face, but it was a bit too heavy, so for now I’ll use it as a hand cream.  The product, in my opinion, has the fragrance of Froot Loops, but is barely detectable and dissipates quickly.  Would I purchase the product?  Probably not, only because there are other creams I prefer.  I do, however,recommend that you try it, especially if you have drier skin.

Image courtesy of birchbox.com

 I was happy to see a full-sized ARROW BOOST lip balm.  I had been wanting to try it out, so it was a nice surprise.  The color-enhancing balm will be a nice addition to my makeup bag.  Similar to Smashbox’s O-GLOSS and tarte’s LipSurgence skintuitive gloss, this balm activates color once it touches your skin.  On me, the color was much lighter that I expected; it was barely there.  My lips feel hydrated, but I don’t think that will last.  The description says that the product works with the body and adjusts to your pH.  There are mixed reviews, but I like the product.  Would I purchase it?  Probably not, only because I have favorite lip balms and colors to spare.  As far as taste goes, there is a hint of mint and something else that I can’t describe.

Image courtesy of birchbox.com

 Not Soap, Radio‘s bath & shower gel scented with coconut, mango, and vanilla, was a tropical surprise.  The scent is exactly as described.  When I opened the cap, I was transported back to Hawai’i, and the beautiful beaches of Waikiki.  This product is something I would consider purchasing once I finish the other products I have.  I like that this is a multi-use product, so I can have it as a bubble bath– it won’t be very bubbly, but it’ll smell amazing, or as a shower gel.  I am also going to try using it on the bottom part of my hair. Who knows?  It might make a great shampoo.

Image courtesy of birchbox.com

 TOCCA’s Emelia eau de parfum sample was welcomed because (1) I LOVE Tocca, and (2) I haven’t tried this particular scent.  The sample itself was not big enough, in my opinion.  I also wish it came in a spray vial instead of just having a cap as it makes it difficult to apply.  The eau de parfum is not like the others.  It has floral and citrus notes as well as a woodsy component.  It is not a personal favorite.  I prefer Florence or Cleopatra.

Image courtesy of birchbox.com

 I am always on the lookout for hair products.  Terax crema had relatively positive reviews, so when I saw it in my box, I was eager to try it out.  This is, by far, one of the worst products I have ever used in terms of scent.  The conditio
ner works like any other I could get at the store.  The smell, however…well, I’m just glad it didn’t linger.  Have you ever gone camping at El Capitan?  Well, imagine if you will, a campground restroom that has been sprayed with Lysol.  Now take that scent and bottle it in a conditioner.  That is what you get with this.  Perhaps it was a bad batch; many reviews stated that the scent was great.  This is a product I can’t wait to run out of.  Would I buy it?  Absolutely not.  Whether or not you try it is up to you.  I just hope yours has a better scent than this one.

Here is the product list included in the box:

Stay beautiful!

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Everyone

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Valentine’s Day is in 4 days, and whether you are celebrating with your sweetheart or friends, gifts always add a nice touch.  They may not get them on the day, but (1) It’s the thought that counts, and (2) It’ll be a nice little extension of the day.  Gift cards & handmade gifts are always nice as well.  Anyway, here are some ideas for everyone. 

For the Gamer

Razer Naga Epic Chroma Mouse, $129.99

Image courtesy of razerzone.com
Add some life into your gamer’s set-up with this mouse.  Complete with a 12-button thumb grid and over 16.8 million colors, it works wonderfully alone or in conjunction with other Razer Chroma accessories.  It will also sync with other Chroma products, lighting a desk in a “wonderful world of color”.

Gunnars Gaming Glasses, $59.25 & up

Image courtesy of gunnars.com

The frames of the gaming glasses are specifically designed for headset compatibility.  Gunnars also makes outdoor and crystalline glasses.  The crystalline glasses are made for graphic designers and those who work with true color.  They can also be customized using your gamer’s prescription.  You can read their FAQ for more information.

For the Traveler 

LOOP:  World Travel Adapter, $19.97

Image courtesy of amazon.com
Does your loved one travel or do they have a trip coming up?  If so, this is the perfect gift to make sure that all of their devices are charged, no matter where they are.  This adapter is compatible for outlets in over 150 countries including, but not limited to:  Australia, China, the United States, and Canada.  Three devices can be charged at once.
Image courtesy of amazon.com
Airlines are becoming more strict with weight allowance.  This digital scale makes the perfect gift to ensure that the recipient’s luggage not only meets the weight requirement, but the measurement requirement as well.  Batteries are included, and the light-up screen makes the display easy to read.
SouthernGalSass on Etsy:  Monogrammed Travel Cosmetics Bag, $7.00
Image courtesy of SouthernGalSass
This 8 x 6, TSA-approved travel bag can be customized with any initials.  There are several initial colors to choose from, such as purple, black, and pink, to create a completely personalized product.  Gift it alone or fill it with little travel accessories or sweets.   

For the Makeup-Lover

Kevyn Aucoin:  Making Faces, $21.99 and Kevyn Aucoin:  Face Forward, $21.99
Image courtesy of sephora.com
Image courtesy of sephora.com

Years ago I purchased these two books.  Both helped me tremendously regarding techniques and color application.  Making Faces provides photos of makeup looks on one side, and the techniques, tools, colors, and tips for creating the look.  Face Forward does the same, and provides bios of the celebrities who Kevyn worked with.  The books are a great addition to the bookshelves of those who want to hone their makeup skills, learn the different ways that fundamentals can be used, and create more than just a smoky eye.      
bdellium tools:  Travel Basic 7 piece brush Set, $50.00
Image courtesy of nigelbeauty.com
Image courtesy of bdelliumtools.com

Great looks start with good skin and great tools.  Since aDesign is no longer in business, I have been using bdellium tools.  The quality is wonderful and they have lasted a long time, under harsh treatment.   This travel set contains one of each of the following brushes:  Blusher, Foundation, Slanted Contour, Tapered Blending, Shadow, Angled Brow, and Precision Liner.  Since brushes, even though they are named, can be used for multiple purposes & applications, the possibilities are virtually endless.  It also comes with a convenient carrying case, so it’s great at home and while traveling.  
Benefit Cosmetics:  Dandelion Wishes Set, $34.00
Image courtesy of sephora.com
Benefit has some great gift sets, and this is one that will finish off any “no makeup” look.  The colors in this set are light, perfect for spring and summer, and will add the perfect amount of color.  It also comes with the much-loved Roller Lash mini mascara, for flirty lashes.  This set contains mini versions of the following (set courtesy of sephora.com):  Dandelion Box o’ Powder Blush in Baby-Pink, Dandelion Ultra Plush Lip Gloss in Soft Pearly Pink, Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara, High Beam Liquid Face Highlighter, and Posieblam Hydrating Tinted Lip Balm in Poppy Pink.
 

For the Skincare & Fragrance Guru

Caroline Chu:  Anti-Aging Starter Kit, $59.95
Image courtesy of carolinechu.com
This wonderful starter kit comes with an anti-aging eye cream, day & night cream, and serum.  While some may be offended at the thought, others will appreciate it.  For example, my friend’s mom loves trying out new anti-aging formulas because she wants her skin to stay as youthful as it possibly can.  This set is the perfect addition to anyone’s skincare routine.
The Art of Shaving:  The 4 Element
s of the Perfect Shave, $30.00  
Image courtesy of sephora.com
Make sure your recipient gets the perfect shave every time with this travel-friendly 4-piece set that contains:  Pre-shave oil, shaving cream, after-shave balm, and a shaving brush.  The products help to combat ingrown hairs and razor burn, and is perfect for sensitive skin.  There are no synthetic dyes or fragrances, and the products do not contain alcohol. 
Clarisonic:  Mia 2 Starry Night Set, $119.00 
Image courtesy of sephora.com
If you’re looking to indulge your loved one, this set has a little bit of everything.  Clarisonic is, personally, my favorite skincare device.  It cleanses and is travel-friendly.  This set includes a variety of skincare and the device.  It is everything your recipient will need for amazing skin at home and on-the-go.
Set contains (from sephora.com):
– Blue Moon Mia 2 Facial Cleansing Device with Sensitive Brush Head
– Blue Moon travel case
– pLink Charger
– 1 oz Clarisonic Sonic Radiance™ Brightening Solution Skin Renewing Peel Wash
– 0.17 oz Dr. Jart+ BB Night Beauty Balm
– 0.17 oz Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Vitamin C+ Serum
– 0.7 oz Boscia Tsubaki Deep Hydration Sleeping Mask
Fred Segal:  The Blend Mini Kit, $29.00 
Image courtesy of sephora.com
This unisex 4-piece set of travel-sized rollerball fragrances are perfect for creating one-of-a-kind scents.  The set contains 0.09oz of the following fragrances:  Amber Vanilla, Tropic Bloom, Clean Musk, and Citrus Zest Pure Fragrance Oil.  Recipe cards are also included that contain some favorite blends.

For the Accessorizer

Enchanted Leaves:  Jewelry & Accessories, $4.99 & up
Image courtesy of enchantedleaves.com
Image courtesy of enchantedleaves.com
Image courtesy of enchantedleaves.com
Enchanted Leaves has some great eclectic and whimsical jewelry.  I have a few pieces from them, and I have purchased a few for my friends.  They have something for everyone.  From pendants featuring airplanes, wishing bottles, and miniature silverware, to brooches and earrings that make a matching set, Enchanted Leaves has it all.
Razer:  Nabu & Nabu Forged Watch, $149.99 & $199.99
Nabu Forged.  Image courtesy of Razer
Nabu Forged.  Image courtesy of Razer
Nabu Watch.  Image courtesy of Razer
Nabu Watch.  Image courtesy of Razer
These new watches are the latest wearables from Razer.  Announced at CES 2016, each watch is a fitness tracker, message notifier, timer, stopwatch, and has the option to sync alarms & display world times.  There is an app that the watch syncs to that includes a fitness section, sleep tracking, and more.  The difference between the regular and the Forged edition is the material.  The Forged watch is made of stainless steel, whereas the Nabu watch is made of polycarbonate.

For the Chocolate-Lover

Chuao Chocolatier:  Craft Beer & Chocolate Bar Set, $24.00

Image courtesy of chuaochocolatier.com

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love Chuao.  My dad introduced me to it awhile back, and I was so sad when they closed the only boutique close to me.  Now that they have a full online store virtually any combination of bonbons/truffles can be arranged, and they have several gift baskets & items.  This set contains 4 Potato Chip Bars OR 4 Baconluxious Bars & a bottle of Arrogant Bastard.

Chuao Chocolatier:  Milk Chocolate Bliss Tower, $64.95

Image courtesy of chuaochocolatier.com

This generous gift can be given to one person or broken up to provide several smaller gifts.  It contains a 9-piece bonbon set, 4 regular sized chocolate bars in:  Oh My S’mores, Ravishing Rocky Road, Cinnamon Cereal Smooch, and Strawberry Waffle Wild, and a 16-piece mini bar assortment in:  Potato Chip, Caramel Apple Crush, Baconluxious, and Pop Corn Pop.

** Get free shipping on orders of $60+ with promo code SWEETTHING OR $10 off expedited shipping on orders of $60+ with promo code HOTSTUFF **

For the Fitness Fanatic 


AfterShokz:  Bluez 2, $79.99 
Image courtesy of aftershokz.com
Image courtesy of aftershokz.com

 Everyone knows how much I love AfterShokz.  Their wireless Bluez 2 headsets provide wonderful sound without compromising safety.  The music is heard clearly, as are one’s surroundings.  Recipients can work out at the gym, home, or outside, without worrying about what is around them.    
Image courtesy of amazon.com
Gabor Fitness:  Shaker Bottle, $9.95
Image courtesy of amazon.com
 This shaker bottle makes a great gift for those who like to mix up their drinks.  It comes with a 6oz dry product container and divided container.  The containers can be used for protein powder (or any other drink mix), and the divided container is perfect for supplements, medication, or a small snack.  The bottle comes in the following colors:  black, blue, green, orange, and pink.

For the Kids 

Milk Jar Cookies:  Box Set, $15.00 & up 
Mint Chocolate.  Image courtesy
of Milk Jar Cookies
Birthday Cake.  Image courtesy
of Milk Jar Cookies
Chocolate Chip.  Image courtesy
of Milk Jar Cookies


Chocolate Covered Strawberry.
Image courtesy
of Milk Jar Cookies
If you’re not wanting to spend time baking, these cookies are the best I’ve had from any bakery.  Remember those awesome giant chocolate chip cookies from school?  Well, they no longer sell them, but these are the closest thing to them.  They are not as big, but the flavor is all there.  They also have seasonal flavors such as Chocolate Covered Strawberry, and everyday options, such as Birthday Cake and Mint Chocolate.  You can pick from popular and gluten-free boxes, or customize your own.  each box starts at a 1/2 dozen.  Kids will love them, and you will too. 
Image courtesy of activitiesforkids.com
This activity is labeled for kids, but it’s perfect to give to kids as well.  You can customize what each coupon says, or cut & create your own in a word document.  Include one-on-one parent days, a trip to their favorite place to eat, an ice cream, or something else they enjoy.  When I was little we had coupon books that included things like “One mommy & me day” or “One picnic in the park”.
*You may have to pay for string or whatever your use for binding and decorations, but if you have something around the house, then this gift is essentially free.*
DIY Gifts

If you are unsure what to give and don’t want to give a gift card, there are several other DIY creative options.  Adult-themed coupons can be a fun way to bring intimacy to the relationship.  They don’t have to be those kind of coupons either.  Sometimes all it takes is one day of not having to do the dishes or laundry.  Of course, if you are looking for those types of gifts, Hustler Hollywood has some great options.  Lingerie, shoes, adult toys, edible body paint, and more are both online and in-stores.  Their gift cards can be registered as a rewards card, too.  Each dollar is worth a point that can be converted into money that can be used in the stores.  Find out more by reading their FAQ.  Mason jars filled with your recipient’s favorite goodies, a handmade piece of jewelry, or a handwritten letter (because, who does that anymore, eh?) are also ideas to show you care.  

Stay beautiful!

Derma-e is now at Target: #NOTICETHELOTUS

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About the Brand

It is a new year, and a new brand, derma e, is now available at Target.  Derma e is a vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, mineral oil-free and petrolatum-free skincare line that has been family owned and operated for the past 30 years.  The product line, which can be found in retailers such as Whole Foods and ULTA,  Derma e uses “green chemistry” to create high-quality products.  “What is green chemistry,” you ask?  It is a process they use by fusing plants, vitamins, and other naturally powerful ingredients with modern science.   “The award-winning line features doctor-developed, consumer-tested and clinically-tested face care, body care and treatment products,” (dermae.com, 2015).

About the Product:  Firming DMAE Eye Lift
 Video courtesy of derma e
Derma e‘s Firming DMAE Eye Lift is a multi-action eye cream that is doctor-developed, and is made to tighten, lift, and firm the skin around the eye area as well as smooth out crow’s feet.  Clinically tested, powerful ingredients including: collagen boosters, peptides, antioxidants, as well as others, help to smooth out fine lines, and prevent new lines from forming.  This vegan eye cream keeps skin hydrated throughout the day, and safe for those with gluten allergies, as it is gluten-free.  
Product Review
Image Courtesy of derma e
The applicator ensures that you always get
the perfect amount of product.

I have been using this eye cream for about a month now.  It has the consistency of an eye balm, so a little goes a very long way.  I like that tip of the tube is slightly pointed so you get just the right amount of product every time.  After my morning and night cleansing routines, I tone and then apply a small amount of the cream under my eyes and work around to my eyelids.  Using a tapping motion, I work the cream into my skin.  Because the skin around the eyes is delicate, you want to avoid using a rubbing motion (although I sometimes forget).  I have noticed a change in the texture of the skin around my eyes.  The area is more hydrated and slightly firmer.  That being said, I have yet to notice any change in the dark circles under my eyes.  I should note that the product description does not explicitly state that the product targets dark circles.  I have tried several eye creams, none of which have helped to diminish dark circles.  Derma e does make an eye cream for dark circles, which I may try in conjunction with this product.  If there is still no noticeable difference, at least the skin will look refreshed, tight, and fine line-free.  If you have sensitive skin or oily skin, you may find that this product is a bit heavy.  Don’t be afraid to try something new.  You never know whether a product will work for you until you do.  And don’t forget, if you purchase derma e use #noticethelotus.   
Have you tried derma e products?  If you have, I would love to know your opinion.
**I received this product in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.  Powered by BrandBacker.**
What I Need at Target this Month 
Who doesn’t love taking a shopping trip to Target?  Unfortunately, what is supposed to be an in-and-out situation often turns into a two hour browsing/buying session.  Even when I make a checklist, I tend to veer off course and look through the beauty/hygiene section, home decor, cleaning supplies section, and electronics department.  This month, there are only a few items that I need, and honestly some of them aren’t even necessities.  The following is my checklist:
–  derma e hydrating face wipes (I think they will be perfect at the gym.)
–  Toilet bowl cleanser
–  WoW game time subscription
–  Deodorant
–  Almond milk
–  Valentine’s Day items 
What’s on your Target checklist?

Stay beautiful!     //www.brandbacker.com/trk/bb_clk_trk.js

OZ Naturals: Ocean Mineral Cleanser

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OZ Naturals, thus far, has had wonderful, effective, cruelty-free products.  Their Ocean Mineral Cleanser is a gentle, lightly-foaming cleanser that contains rich minerals, Vitamin E, and other natural & organic ingredients.  This cleanser is free from parabens, sulfates, and alcohol, which helps make it safe for sensitive skin.

Image courtesy of OZ Naturals

I have combination skin; an oily T-zone and drier skin around my hairline.  I have been using the cleanser as part of my daytime and nighttime skincare routine (in place of my usual products), both with and without my Clarisonic.  A dime’s worth is all I need to cleanse my face.  In the time I have been using it, which is almost a month, my skin has felt refreshed, clean, balanced, and clear.  I still get the odd breakout (thanks to my medication), and the weather still has an effect on how dry certain areas are, but overall my skin is balanced.  I have not had any issues with the cleanser.  There are several cleansers out there that can make skin feel tight and dry.  So far, this cleanser has not done that, and it doesn’t have any synthetic fragrance.  While not everyone has positive results I, personally, really love this cleanser.   

You can learn more about the product and purchase the cleanser here.

**I received this product in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.  Powered by BrandBacker.**

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Chao by Field Roast

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My Chao Purchase @ Whole Foods

Vegan “cheese” products are more common, but finding a quality product (or one that isn’t terrible) can be difficult.  I have heard a lot about Chao by Field Roast from vegans and non-vegans because it is the closest thing, texturally and taste-wise, to the real thing.  Since I don’t have a Whole Foods near me, and the closest Mother’s Market that carries it is not close at all, I took a trip to LA.  Yes, I will travel for food, especially when it’s good.  Upon entering Whole Foods, I did some shopping before heading to the refrigerated section.  The vegan cheese-like product section is already quite small, and I was worried that my trip would all be for not.  Luckily, they had all three flavors in stock.

Each package comes with 7oz (10 slices) of pre-sliced product.  When I took the slices out of the package they felt a bit waxy.  I started to have my doubts, but kept an open mind, since I hadn’t tasted them yet.  When I took my first bite of each of the flavors I noticed that my teeth didn’t really sink into the product, but the taste was surprising.  If you read my vegan post, you know that I didn’t have dairy for some time.  At the time, the alternatives were not that great, and mostly tasted of plastic.  Chao definitely does not taste like plastic.  Should you decide to try it on its own I will say that it breaks down to be a bit grainy, but as it melts, it becomes more cheese-like.  Each flavor is creamy, and the one that tastes the most like dairy cheese, in my opinion, is the tomato cayenne.  It closely resembles a spicy cheddar, and the creamy original is similar to a monterey jack.  The coconut herb is interesting, and I can’t quite figure out what it’s suppose to resemble.  Chao is about $5.00 a pack, so it’s not cheap, but if you’re looking for a good dairy cheese alternative, then it’s worth the price.           

I have used it in place of real cheese in my grilled cheese, macaroni & cheese, cold sandwiches, and of course I tried it on its own.  My favorite flavors are the original and tomato cayenne.  They do melt similarly to the way Kraft singles do in a grilled cheese, but if you use too much, the sandwich becomes a bit squidgy.   

As I try out new recipes, I will do my best to post them.  Field Roast lists some recipes that can be found here.  Have you tried Chao?  What’s your favorite recipe that includes the product?

Stay beautiful!

OZ Naturals: Ultra Ageless Eye Creme

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About the Brand 

OZ Naturals is one of of Amazon’s top-selling skin care brands.  Co-created by certified esthetician Angela Irish, OZ Naturals focuses on creating & producing the highest-quality products using the latest technology and natural ingredients.  “Our products are cruelty-free, paraben free, sulfate free, mineral oil free, lanolin free and gluten free,” (oznaturals.com, 2015).  

Product Review
Image courtesy of OZ Naturals

I was given the opportunity to try OZ Naturals Ultra Ageless Eye Creme.  This light-weight, hydrating cream is a wonderful addition to my skin routine.  After cleansing and toning, I apply this product in the morning and at night, under my eyes and on top of my eyelids.  Its formula absorbs fast into my skin without leaving any sort of greasy film.  The product has smoothed out my skin over the time I have been using it (about a month), but I have not yet noticed a change in the dark circles under my eyes.  The puffiness, however, has decreased considerably as have the fine lines.  I can also use the cream on other areas of my face that need a little more hydration.  I am hoping for the dark circles to diminish, which may happen the longer I use the eye cream.  Who doesn’t love a multi-functional product?  For the price, you get quite a bit of product, too, which is another plus.  I should note that I did not notice instant results.  It took about two weeks before I started to see results.  You can read more about the product, as well as purchase it, by clicking here.   
 
**I received this product in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.  Powered by BrandBacker.**

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CES 2016!

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The top of my CES badge.

We are back at CES, and this time it’s (supposedly) bigger than ever, with even more drones & 3D printing areas.  Not that we really need more, but why not?  I am looking forward to seeing everything that will be coming out in the next year.  Over the week, I will try to post updates on what we experience.  I am especially looking forward to seeing what new products Razer and iHealth will be producing over the course of the next year or so.  Virtual Reality (VR) is another thing I am quite excited for, and not just for the gaming aspect.  With VR, you can be just about any place at any time.  Last year, we were chased by a T-Rex, we attacked a giant robot destroying the city, and watched two cute cranes play ball.  Oh, the future…

Stay beautiful!      

Happy New Year!

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Well, it’s almost a new year.  Where did this year go?!  The older I get, the faster time seems to fly by.  It seems like yesterday we were packing for CES 2015, and prepping for what was to come.  Tonight, I will be packing for CES 2016, and planning out the year.  Planning what I can, anyway.  Life has a way of throwing some curve balls and being spontaneous.  

I hope you all have a fun, safe New Year’s Eve, and a fabulous new year.     
Stay beautiful!

Gift-Giving Guide, Part 4: Technology, Gadgets, & Travel

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There are tons of gadgets available so it’s hard to pick just a few.  What is on your holiday list?

1.  ESPRO Insulated Coffee & Tea Press, $49.95

Image courtesy of brookstone.com

Know anyone who can’t live without their tea or coffee?  I must admit that I am one of those people.  I also don’t mind saying that I kind of want to buy this for myself.  Who wouldn’t love the perfect cup of their favorite fresh-pressed tea or coffee?  Whether it’s made ahead of time to enjoy on the way to the office or made so it’s ready to enjoy at the office, the tea/coffee will be amazing and stay hot for up to 6 hours.  Comes in black, stainless steel, and white.

2.  Perfect Bake:  App-Controlled Smart Baking, $69.99 (currently on sale, $49.99)

Image courtesy of brookstone.com

At CES 2015, we watched the demo for this “smart baking” set.  I think it’s a wonderful gift for those who are just starting to bake, as it does far more than weigh your ingredients.  You hook up the scale to your device, and it will auto-adjust the amount of ingredients necessary for whatever it will be put in the oven.  Need the recipe for half a dozen cookies instead of a dozen?  What if you need more?  That’s no problem either. 

3.  GoalZero Flip 10 Charger, $25.80

Image courtesy of amazon.com

I listed this in my post about gadget travel essentials, which you can read here, if you like.  This portable charger has saved me countless times.  I always take it, whether I am headed to the store or traveling here and there.  You can bring the power stick to a full charge on your computer.  Attach the USB cable, and charge away.  The link provided happens to be for the green charger, but they do offer other colors.

4.  ZUCA Pro Artist Case, $305.00 ($275.00 on amazon.com)

Image courtesy of zuca.com

If you are feeling extra generous this year, you can splurge on a ZUCA.  I LOVE mine, and have had it for ages.  It has been all over the world, and rolled through just about everything– rocks, snow, ice, gravel, etc.  The frame still looks new, and it still acts as a seat.  You can read more about my use of ZUCA here.  This makes the perfect gift for anyone who travels and is looking for a lightweight, durable carry-on.  The ZUCA Pro Artist Case also comes with convenient inserts for storage and organization.  

5.  Razer Kraken 7.1 Chroma, $99.99

Image courtesy of razerstore.com
Image courtesy of razerstore.com

The Chroma products from Razer are fun and functional.  I love that the Chroma line can be synced to change so all devices have the same colored light.  If you’d like, you can click here to read about what I have.  They can also change or be set on a static color.  The sound is amazing, and the noise-cancellation is comparable to Bose.  Each headset also comes with an enhanced digital microphone.  When it retracts into the earpiece the microphone will turn off.   

6.  R2D2 Kitchen Timer, $19.99

Image courtesy of bedbathandbeyond.com

No Star Wars fan’s kitchen would be complete without this adorable R2D2 kitchen timer.  He is the perfect addition to any counter top, and will ring when the time is up.

7.  iHealth Edge Activity + Sleep Tracker, $69.99

Image courtesy of ihealthlabs.com

iHealth is a wonderful company.  They have everything from glucometers to advanced scales, blood pressure cuffs, and more.  The products can all be linked to the app, so all stats are within reach.  The Edge is comfortable to wear, and there is no need to worry about burns or other issues.  It is not waterproof, though, so no swimming or showering with it.  All-in-all the Edge is a fantastic gift for those who are health/fitness savvy.

Gift-Giving Guide, Part 3: Hair & Fragrance

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1.  ULTA:  Ultra Chi Travel Tools, $149.95 (on sale now, $99.95.  Only available at Ulta.)

Know anyone who loves to style their hair?  It can be difficult to carry hair tools, especially when traveling.  This travel-ready set comes with smaller versions of some great and effective Chi products.  The best part is that this set can travel wherever the recipient does since it comes with its own case.  The white, quilted bag is thermal-lined and comes with removable pouches.     

               Image courtesy of ulta.com

List courtesy of Ulta.com:

– Ultra CHI travel dryer
– Ultra CHI travel hair styling iron:
– Ultra CHI Travel curling iron:

    2.  Caroline Chu:  Ayurvedic Herbal Thickening Boost Shampoo & Conditioner Duo, $128.00

    Image courtesy of carolinechu.com

    I can’t say enough positive things about Caroline Chu products.  Her line has expanded, and now you can have a one-stop shopping experience.  She has wonderful skincare, makeup, and haircare.  This thickening boost duo is the “it” gift for those with thinning hair.  Hair feels smoother, softer, and fuller in just a few uses.  Pamper your loved one with this high-end hair duo must-have! 

    Contains:

    – 16.9 fl. oz. Shampoo
    – 16.9 fl. oz. Conditioner 

    3.  Wen by Chaz Dean:  Cleansing Conditioner Sampler, $38.00

    Image courtesy of sephora.com

    Wen is one of my favorite hair products.  My aunt gave me a set to try awhile back, and it worked wonders.  My hair was soft, shiny, and I didn’t need to use a leave-in conditioner after.  This set is wonderful because of the variety of scents it offers, and each tube is travel-friendly.  Give the gift of beautiful hair with this set of Wen.      

    Set includes (list courtesy of sephora.com):

    – 6 x 2 oz Cleansing Conditioner in Sweet Almond Mint, Tea Tree, Fig, Cucumber Aloe, Lavender, Pomegranate.

    4.  Verb:  Style with Verb Set, $36.00

    Image courtesy of sephora.com
    Image courtesy of sephora.com

    This set from Verb is a great value.  You can read a little bit more about it here.  While the shampoo & conditioner samples are only enough for one or two uses, everything else is full-sized.  I really like the dry shampoo and leave-in conditioner.  I haven’t yet tried the sea salt spray, but as soon as I do, I will post an update.  If you have someone on your list who loves trying new haircare, I highly recommend this set.  It even comes with a travel bag that fits all of the products shown, and then some!  The set contains the following (list courtesy of sephora.com):   

    – 0.065 oz Hydrating Shampoo
    – 0.065 oz Hydrating Conditioner
    – 2 oz Dry Shampoo
    – 8 oz Leave-In Mist
    – 6.3 oz Sea Spray

    5.  Pacifica:  Roll-On Perfume, $12.00 each
     

    Tahitian Gardenia
    Hawaiian Ruby Guava
    Island Vanilla
    Tuscan Blood Orange
    Indian Coconut Nectar
    Malibu Lemon Blossom

    These roll-on perfumes from Pacifica are a great gift for those looking for a more exotic scent to wear.  My personal favorites are blood orange and gardenia.  The fragrances are fun, slightly sophisticated, and great for anyone regardless of age.  And speaking of, it can take ages for a whole bottle to be used up, so these roll-ons are perfect.  They also travel well, and are a great alternative to travel sprays.
    **All images courtesy of ulta.com**   

    6.  Viktor&Rolf:  Spicebomb Shave Set, $125.00

    Image courtesy of nordstrom.com

    Spicebomb is a very popular fragrance from Viktor&Rolf.  This set is perfect for the Spicebomb fan on your list.  Each item is travel-friendly and will fit into any kit.  It comes with the following (list courtesy of nordstrom.com):

    – Eau de Toilette Spray (3 oz.)
    – Razor
    – After-Shave Balm (1.7 oz.)

    Notes:
    – Top: bergamot, grapefruit, pink pepper, elemi.
    – Middle: cinnamon, chili pepper, saffron.
    – Base: leather, vetiver, tobacco.

    7.  Billy Jealousy:  Beard Envy Kit, $20.00

    Image courtesy of nordstrom.com

    Beards need love, too.  What better way to paper your bearded wonder than with this Billy Jealousy set?  Complete with beard wash, lightweight styling product, and boar bristle brush, your recipient’s beard will be the envy of all.  

    The set includes the following (courtesy of nordstrom.com):

    – Beard wash (3 oz.)
    – Beard control (3 oz.)
    – Boar bristle brush

    8.  The Blend by Fred Segal:  Custom Fragrance Blending Kit, $150.00

    Image courtesy of sephora.com

    If you are looking for a more extravagant gift, this set of rollerballs from Fred Segal are perfect for anyone who loves trying out new fragrances.  Worn alone or layered, these scents are wonderful.  My personal favorite is Tropic Bloom.  It reminds me of walking along the beautiful beach in Waikiki as the sun set into the ocean. 

    The set (list courtesy of sephora.com) contains the following:

    – 0.17 oz Water Lily
    – 0.07 oz Grassy Vetiver
    – 0.17 oz Amber Vanilla
    – 0.07 oz Forest Patchouli
    – 0.17 oz Tropic Bloom  
    – 0.17 oz Clean Musk
    – 0.17 oz White Tea
    – 0.17 oz Exotic Rose
    – 0.17 oz Ocean Air
    – 0.17 oz Citrus Zest 

    Gifts with Purchase and Promo Codes:

    Don’t forget that several companies have some good promotional codes and/or gifts with purchase.  For the latest, check out the following links:

    ULTA
    Nordstrom
    Sephora
    Bloomingdale’s
    Macy’s