Sunday, June 30, 2013

Recipe: Celebrate Blueberry Season With My Delicious Lemon-Spiked Blueberry Bread!


This is the time of year to take advantage of blueberries while they are plentiful.  This recipe that I want to share with you is one fantastic way to enjoy them in this moist sweet bread.  What really seems to shake up the flavor of those blueberries is the pairing with lemon.  Once you add some chopped nuts and plump raisins to give it more chewy appeal, this yummy quick bread is a real family favorite.

The extra special touch is giving a slightly tart, but sweet glaze to the loaf once baked.  However, this bread also tastes wonderful just as it is.  To glaze or not is solely up to you.  Either way, I am confident you will be happy once you taste it.

Here's a tip for turning out better baked goods.  Always use large eggs in your recipes instead of medium or small because they do make a difference in the success or failure of what you bake.  I just wanted to pass that along.

Now I hope you try my recipe out because it is something special!

My Delicious Lemon-Spiked Blueberry Bread

1/3 cup canola oil
1 cup of sugar
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons of lemon juice
1-1/2 cups of  flour
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/2 cup of milk
2 tablespoons of finely grated lemon peel or 1-1/2 teaspoons of pure lemon extract
1/2 cup of chopped walnuts
1/3 cup of raisins
1-1/4 cups of fresh blueberries

Glaze:

2 tablespoons of lemon juice
1 tablespoon of milk
1/4 teaspoon of pure lemon extract
1/4 cup of sugar

To Make the Loaf:

Beat your oil and sugar in a large mixing bowl with your electric mixer until well combined before adding the eggs and lemon juice.

Sift together in a separate mixing bowl:  flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Add this sifted dry ingredients slowly to the beaten egg mixture, alternately with the milk, until all the ingredients are combined.

Then add the peel or extract, nuts, raisins, and blueberries.

Now pour into a greased 8" x 4" x2" loaf pan and bake in a 350-degree oven for about an hour or 65 minutes or so, depending on how your oven temperature works.  

Test with a cake tester or a slender knife inserted to see if it comes out clean to determine if it is done. 

Cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before attempting to remove it.

To Make the Glaze:

Mix the glaze ingredients together and then drizzle over the warm, but not hot bread.

ENJOY!

Saturday, June 29, 2013

Reinvent the Look of Your Skin: Hydroxatone AM/PM Anti-Wrinkle Complex 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.**
 Hydroxatone AM/PM Anti-Wrinkle Complex.jpeg
Hydroxatone AM/PM Anti-Wrinkle Complex

Did you know you have a better chance of saving your skin if you start using anti-aging products in your 20s and early 30s instead of waiting until time ravishes your face with wrinkles? However, it is never too early or too late to begin taking better care of it. Thanks to iFabbo, I had the chance to see what I thought of Hydroxatone's AM/PM Anti-Wrinkle Complex.

This luxurious cream is packed with beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid for plumping and help in filling in wrinkles while also retaining moisture with argireline, an anti-aging peptide, Matrixyl3000 to stimulate collagen, and SPF 15 protection for sun defense against harmful UVA/UVB rays. 

Furthermore, this is a multi-tasking product that you can use on your face and safely on your eyes according to the company.  Saving money always appeals to me.  Therefore, it this cream could successful replace a few jars with one and help streamline my vanity, I was even more excited to see how well this cream worked.

Using mornings and nights, my sensitive skin reacted without any irritation problems and found the formula quite gentle.  Now that my normal dry skin changed due to warm weather into combination skin, the way this cream hydrates without bogging it down with heaviness or any greasy appearance was another plus. 

Although I haven't been using this silky, yellow-colored cream all that long, I did like the way my fine creases around my eyes were already looking somewhat smoother.  If this is any indication of what this product can do, I do look forward to further improvements over time.

I do recommend trying this product yourself and put it to your own test.  You can find Hydroxatone AM/PM Anti-Wrinkle Complex at ULTA for $69.95.

Friday, June 28, 2013

Attention, All Perfumistas: NEW Beauty on the Horizon With Violet Hand-Made Perfume Spray From Soap & Paper Factory! (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.**

Violet Hand-Made Perfume Spray From Soap & Paper Factory.jpeg
Violet Hand-Made Perfume Spray From Soap & Paper Factory


Perfumistas, listen up because I have good news to report on the natural fragrance front.  Soap & Paper Factory has added three new handmade perfume sprays to their collection of tempting offerings.  If that is not exciting enough,  they are  now available on Anthropologie!

The line includes Bouquet (a celebration of rose), Camilla, and Violet Hand-Made Eau de Parfum Sprays.  I was the lucky recipient of Violet to share with you in this review.

Awaiting you in Violet is sheer romance and all about femininity.  This perfume is overflowing with floral beauty from crushed violet petals and exotic jasmine.  

Heady at first, I also detected a bit of green as it developed, which complimented this blooming mix and steeped it with unavoidable elegance.  

As the citron notes emerge, this fragrance becomes fresher with more a velvety sweet aroma that it is irresistible.

If you are a fan of violet scents, I think you would be pleased with Soap & Paper Factory's composition just as much as I am.  

The 1.7 oz. bottle of Violet Hand-Made Eau de Parfum Spray retails for $32.  Do look into these new fragrances because the one that I just tried is simply heavenly!   

Thursday, June 27, 2013

For Lips With Dazzling Impact--Beauté Cosmetics Lip Products to Glam It Up Like a Hollywood Star! (Review)--Photos + SWATCHES

Disclaimer:  This post is based on a free product provided by a company as a press sample so that I may offer my own  opinion, which may be the same or differ from yours.
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Beaute Cosmetics Liquid Gel Stain for Lips and Cheeks (Flouron BCLS 500)


When products from Beauté Cosmetics arrived from their Desert Collection, my first thought what was it they thinking with such a shocking bright orange neon color for lip gloss?  Another tube was a pale beige that I feared would make me looked drained of blood like an extra in a vampire movie.  Last of the lippies I received was more what I was used to being this ready to wow, knockout deep red.  Yet, I was met with a big surprise.  When you look at the colors in the tubes you see one thing and once on the lips, you see another so incredible it dazzles.

I can't contain my excitement, especially when it comes to their Liquid Gel Stain for Lips and Cheeks.  That wild orange shade of Flouron BCLS 500 that I almost was afraid to wear changed within a few minutes into this gorgeous tulip sort of medium pink once this highly pigmented stain touched my lips.  This color was striking and a perfect choice for summer with how it really played up my warm complexion.  

Since this is a stain, the feeling was drier than a gloss or a lipstick, but you can layer it like I chose to.  Beauté Cosmetics  has suggestions of color combinations that work well together.   I also think topping with some clear gloss or lip balm was also a lovely effect.

Here I am modeling Flouron in this photo.


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Here I'm modeling Flouron Liquid Gel Stain.

Long wear lipsticks move aside because this stain wears through eating, drinking, and until you decide to take it off.  Don't worry about finding any color on your glass or cups because Beauté's formula is incredible.  Besides, this one, there are three other stain choices available.

When you use this product on your cheeks, you need to work quickly on your freshly moisturized face since there is only about 12 seconds before it dries.  The easiest method I found was dropping a little moisturizer in your hand and dab color near it before hurrying to combine then blending with your fingertips.  Wash your hands immediately to avoid staining.

I also had the opportunity to try one of their six Weightless Lip Creme in Masochist WLC 110.  This is one of the best lippies for such pampering creamy comfort and for chic, riveting color that I have ever tried.  I am talking about an all out, true dark red so captivating that all eyes can't help but focus on you.  The company describes this color as Helmut Newton Red.  I, on the other hand, just refer to it as that perfect showstopper red with such a dreamy lightweight texture.  

Check out Masochist in the next photo below.


Beaute Cosmetics Weightless Lip Creme Masochist WLC 110.jpeg
Beaute Cosmetics Weightless Lip Creme Masochist WLC 110

Just as fantastic is how this highly hydrating formula also seemed to make my lips look somewhat fuller with its collagen stimulating ability and zero pain compared to some plumping lip glosses.


modeling Beaute Cosmetics Weightless Lip Cremem Masochist WLC 110.jpeg
What do you think of me wearing Masochist?

Instead of pumping to disperse the product, your task is easier with a doe-foot sponge applicator.   Something else wonderful about Masochist is you can do a full coat or apply and blot for more of a sheer stain and then finish with clear gloss.

You'll also love how long this non-sticky, beautiful Weightless Lip Creme color can last.  This color lasted on me for hours after dinner last night without fading, smearing, and ending up on my teeth.  In fact, I swiped most of it off before I went to bed and the color I left was still there in the morning.  

Out of the 12 Luminous Volume Glosses, I received Skin Trade 004.   Seriously, I was shocked at how this went from a sickly pale beige to a sheer peach-nude color that is so versatile.  I don't know how the company manages that beautiful transformation from tube color to lips, but I am impressed at their technology with this feat. This gloss can also help give your lips a slightly fuller appearance, which I also appreciated. 


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In this photo, I am holding Beaute Cosmetics Luminous Volume Gloss (Skin Trade 004).

This one has a brush inside. The only complaint is a few of those bristle bent, but it didn't ruin my application.  I just would have preferred the doe-foot applicator.


modeling Beaute Cosmetics Luminous Volume Gloss in Skin Trade 004.jpeg
Here I am wearing Skin Trade to show you.

This is my first experience of using Beauté Cosmetics.  After trying these lip products, I honestly am a fan.  You, see, my enthusiasm just can't be contained.  I definitely want more! 

The Liquid Gel Stain retails for $29.  Weightless Lip Cremes sell for $26 and the Luminous Volume Glosses run $26 as well.  Have you tried these products because I can't recommend them highly enough!  Visit Beauté Cosmetics to shop or find where else to buy.  Connect with them on Facebook or Twitter.


Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Instant Skin Beautifier You Need to Try Straight From Your Kitchen!


The next time you treat your complexion to a facial mask, here is something that I think you will want to try because it gives a remarkable boost to your skin.  I am talking about instead of following with your normal toner, you might like to try milk since it can help tighten, refine pores, and moisturize. 

Whatever milk you have in the refrigerator will work.  However, the higher the fat content, the more goodness your face will experience.  In fact, whole milk buttermilk is supreme since it is loaded with live bacteria to feed to your complexion.

Once you wash off your mask, this is what you need to do.  Pour a small amount of milk into a cup, saucer, or whatever that would be enough to be absorbed by a cotton ball.  

Let this milk rest on your skin for several minutes until it completely dries.  I like to keep it on for at least five to ten minutes to gain the most skin rewards.  As the milk dries, you will feel the skin tightening as it does its magic. 

If you poured too much milk, you just need to grab a fresh cotton ball and reapply a second coat once your first milk treatment dries.

Rinse with lukewarm water and close your pores with cold.  Gently pat your skin and be prepared to see how much prettier your complexion is just by a simple adjustment in your beauty routine.  Those pores will shrink before your eyes making your skin feel as soft as  a rose petal with an overall healthier, nourished glow.  

Earlier, I shared an excellent homemade milk firming facial mask recipe with brewer's yeast for tightening the complexion. This is wonderful to use also for increased tightening as your mask or use it in rotation with the products or recipes you normally use.  

Follow with your moisturizer as usual. Then, I hope you check your mirror because you will smile at your reflection, you gorgeous creature!  

Now, what are you waiting for?   Trust me, and you will thank me later.

Monday, June 24, 2013

More Amazing IT Cosmetics--Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Illuminator and Heavenly Luxe Pointed Precision Complexion Brush Review 

Disclaimer:  This post is based on a free product provided by a company as a press sample so that I may offer my own  opinion, which may be the same or differ from yours.
IT Cosmetics Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Illuminator and Heavenly Luxe Pointed Precision Complexion Brush.jpeg
IT Cosmetics Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Illuminator and Heavenly Luxe Pointed Precision Complexion Brush


What a way to enhance your bone structure than with a bit of gleaming radiance aimed at a few choice spots? Once again, I have  IT Cosmetics to thank for developing their Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Illuminator  and Heavenly Luxe Pointed Precision Complexion Brush because this pairing that I received to review is all you need to achieve a bit of instant glamour!

This lightweight cream formula is so skin pampering with anti-aging properties from hydrolyzed collagen, peptides, vitamins A, C, E, grapeseed, green tea, hyaluronic filling spheres, silk, and aloe.  As glorious as those ingredients sound, this illuminator has a special edge with its drops of light technology incorporated inside to unleash a look of brightness to blur fine lines.  

Due to their ingenious light refracting microspheres, the brightness seems to originate from within like you turned on some inner switch to flood your face with pure pale silvery-golden beige light whether you wear it with other makeup or alone.

I found applying the cream in a C shape, starting at my temples and then extending out to the tops of my cheekbones gave my face noticeable impact without glitter or shimmer--only that beaming soft light.   The look was not greasy.  Instead, my dry complexion gained a lovely dewiness that stayed pretty until I had to cleanse it off along with the rest of my makeup.  

By the way, the angled tip of their Heavenly Luxe Pointed Precision Complexion Brush was fantastic for using with this cream illuminator.   The bristles on this brush head are very soft and mega dense to make quick work with a few artful sweeps. 

Here's a makeup trick for using this illuminator on your nose, if you want to slim or straighten it.  Dab on a straight line down the length of your nose to create an illusion of a straighter or slimmer nose.  You will be surprised at how well the product reflects light to help you achieve that straighter bone structure.  However, be careful when blending into your foundation because you need to maintain that perfect line if you intend to pull this off.

Front of the Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Illuminator Box.jpeg
Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Illuminator box 

Back of Hello Light anti-Aging Creme Illuminator Box.jpeg
Back of the Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Illuminator box

Another makeup tip I want to share is using this precision brush when doing a smoky eye.  Though it may appear larger than a typical eye shadow brush, this precision brush was wonderful when it came to blending for this look.  Dip this brush in your eye shadow in an arch shape above the crease and then blend down toward the lash line before lining with a black kohl eyeliner pencil.  Use your regular eye shadow brush to work your slightly darker shade along your lower lash line.  Finish with your lighter tone powder near the inner corners of your eyes and then bring out the mascara.

I highly recommend checking out the Hello Light Anti-Aging Creme Illuminator and Heavenly Luxe Pointed Precision Complexion Brush, especially if you have dry skin and have had issues with powder illuminizers.  

You get to pick up both products at QVC for just $35 or separately at IT Cosmetics.  



Sunday, June 23, 2013

What to Look for When Buying Body Lotion to Keep Skin at Its Best!

Those that think all body lotions are created equally are sorely mistaken.  While all formulas provide moisture, some inexpensive varieties mask the problem by covering up the dryness instead of healing it.  

Therefore, you need to scrutinize that label of any body lotion carefully before buying if you expect to keep your skin healthy and in the best condition.

Start making it a habit of reading labels to see what you are paying for.  Ingredients are listed from the most prevalent to the least on any product label.  The first three ingredients are the most important for skin benefits.  

Look for a phytobotanical oil that is derived from plants such as Shea butter, Jojoba Oil, or oils taken from fruits (like peach oil or coconut oil, etc.)  for effectively nourishing your skin.  

Cheaper formulas often substitute mineral oil which will appear to soothe, but is more a temporary fix for skin.  

Natural formulations, on the other hand, are more expensive due to active ingredients from plants or fruits since they are closely resembling our own skin oils when compared chemically.  Those potent components provide the healing skin solution.

The next on your lookout list when buying your body lotion revolves around scent since not all scents are made the same way as well.  For instance, if you pick up a bottle of lavender body lotion and expect to benefit for its mood soothing qualities, then it must contain lavender as an essential oil.  

Essential oils are the only scents that have beneficial properties since they were extracted from plants so keep that in mind.  Lavender from fragrance oil will do nothing except let you smell pretty.  Again, this is the reason natural and organic formulas are more costly than some drugstore brands.

Remember to apply your body lotion after your shower or bath while you are still damp.  Be sure to moisturize within ten minutes so that you get the most advantage out of it.  By making a few adjustments to your routine, your skin will be more beautiful and better nourished than ever!

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Recipe: My Chilled Lime Cloud Pie Will Cool You Off When Temperatures Soar!


Now that summer is finally here, I thought you might like to keep this delicious recipe for my Chilled Lime Cloud pie within reach.  This is a very unusual pie that has applesauce, lime gelatin, sugar, lime juice, and rind that are eventually combined with whipped, chilled evaporated milk to turn it into a light lime cloud texture when poured into your baked pie shell.

For a wonderful change of flavor, I suggest switching the lime and replacing with lemon gelatin, lemon juice and lemon rind.  Orange gelatin, orange juice, and orange rind makes a yummy orange version.

The most difficult thing about this recipe is remembering to take out your evaporated milk chilling in the freezer before it hardens.  Other than assembling and whipping that milk, this filling requires very little preparation.

You can stick this filling in a graham cracker crust or put in a regular baked pie shell.  I strongly recommend trying my no-fail oil pie crust recipe.  Readers, this is the best out there and always turns out flaky even for beginners.  It's also healthier than typical store-bought shells. 

I hope you try my pie and definitely give my oil pie crust a shot! 

My Chilled Lime Cloud Pie

2-1/2 cups of applesauce
1 cup of sugar
1 small package (3-oz.) of lime gelatin
2 tablespoons of lime juice
1/4 teaspoon of lime rind
1 can evaporated milk (13-oz.), chilled
1 baked 9-inch pie crust

Take your measured applesauce and heat in a saucepan. 

Stir in the gelatin next.

Add the sugar, lime juice and rind.

Whip the chilled evaporated milk with your electric mixer until thickened.  

Then fold into the heated applesauce-gelatin mixture.

Spoon into the baked shell and chill thoroughly before serving.

ENJOY!

Friday, June 21, 2013

Unleashing Some Lippie Love--Mineral Fusion Natural Brands Lip Products Review--Photos--Swatches!

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

My lips were so happy when they met up with some great new lip products from Mineral Fusion Natural Brands.  Today, I want to tell you about what to expect from their  Lip Sheer and Regular Lipsticks, Lip Glosses, Liquid Lip Glosses, and a couple of their Lip Pencils that I had the chance to review. 

Both varieties of their lipsticks went on smoothly and felt nicely conditioning while I had them on from Shea butter, jojoba seed oil, pomegranate, red and white teas, and vitamins C and E.   Furthermore, either type did stay on my lips without disappearing into my skin and lasted from early morning until I ate some off along with my lunch.

The two Lip Sheer Lipsticks I received were Exotic (a lovely medium pink-peach) and Inspire (a pretty cool-toned pink).  Though the colors look darker in the tubes, these deliver a beautiful wash of color.

Alluring, one of the eight Lipsticks in the line had more pigment and gave me striking plum-wine lips.  In the photo below, Alluring is on the left, Inspire is in the middle and Exotic is on the right.
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Mineral Fusion lipsticks 

Their Liquid Lip Glosses come in a tube with an angled tip that you apply with for extreme shine whether colorless like Polished or with color.  Sensitive, one of the five colors, is deep berry-red that will make your lips drip and tempt with fruit-like sweetness.  

These really feel so comfortable on your lips with their nourishing botanicals that include sunflower oil, vitamin E, and plenty of antioxidants to also protect them. 

I also think applying gloss from the tube itself this way poses less risk for contamination as it would when inserting a sponge in and out of gloss.


Mineral Fusion two Liquid Lip Glosses.jpeg
Mineral Fusion Liquid Lip Glosses

I did find two tubes of Lip Gloss in Serene  and Sheen among the items provided.  These are the type of gloss that you pull out a sponge wand to color your lips.  Sheen was so natural a pink-brown with a tad of peach that really flattered.  Serene was a deeper berry-pink shade that probably could perk up most complexions with how it manages to light up a face.  

This form of their gloss had a slightly less moisturizing feel upon my lips compared to the Liquid Lip Gloss.


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Mineral Fusion lip glosses of Sheen on the left and Serene on the right.

I also tested two of their four shades of Lip Pencils with Graceful (nude with a bit more brown and on the top in the photo below) and Elegant (a pink-brown).  These pencils spread well without being too dry and did help me keep lipstick and glosses from wandering over my lips. 


Mineral Fusion two Lip Pencils.jpeg
Mineral Fusion Lip Pencils

All these products were wonderful in my opinion, but I think my favorite was their Liquid Lip Gloss.  You get stunning vinyl like shine and it feels like a lip care treatment while keeping you beautiful.  
Modeling Mineral Fusion Exotic lipstick.jpeg
In this next photo, I am wearing Lip Sheer Lipstick Exotic.

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Here I am modeling the Alluring Lipstick.Add caption

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What do you think of me in Lip Sheer Lipstick Inspire below?Add caption

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I swatched the three lipsticks for you in this next photo.  Starting on the left is InspireAlluring in the middle, and ending on the right with Exotic.

The Lip Sheer and Regular Lipsticks retail for $14.99.  The Liquid Lip Glosses sell for $6.99 each while the Lip Pencils go for $15.99 a piece.

Do visit Mineral Fusion or find these lip products at Whole Foods.


Wednesday, June 19, 2013

What a Way to Smell Delicious and Refresh Summer Skin--Perlier Lemon Sorbet Crackling Body 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.**
Perlier Lemon Sorbet Crackling Body Water.jpeg
Perlier Lemon Sorbet Crackling Body Water


Have I discovered something exciting to share with you when it comes to summer skin care and suffering through that horrible heat! 

Through iFabbo I got to try a product from Perlier with their Lemon Sorbet Crackling Body Water, which is different from what you may be accustomed to using.  Listen up because this product is fun and so delightful to wear while it cools and soothes you with its delicious frothiness so you're as tempting as any fruit sorbet.

During those dog days of summer just imagine how refreshing it would feel to take out a yummy-smelling skin care product from your refrigerator to lavish over your warm skin?  This is how Perlier's Lemon Sorbet Crackling Body Water can help spoil you with its cooling, comforting sensation as it rescues skin with moisture and scent.

The name says body water.  However, this product is far from a wimpy liquid and comes out as a foam that crackles and pops upon contact with your skin.  But give this product a few minutes on your body and it becomes a gel-cream with that energetic burst of citrus scented skin relief.
  
Doesn't that sound great?  Do try Perlier's Lemon Sorbet Crackling Body Water and prepare to be amazed.  This product retails for $24.95 on HSN.

Lucky you, the company is giving my readers $5 off your first order of #PerlierOnHSN.com when you enter the iFabbo5 coupon code at checkout!

*Disclaimer:  A free product was provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Delight Your Senses With Delicate Floral Beauty--Meet Temple Tree Jasmine Cologne NEW From Thymes! (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.**
Thymes Temple Tree Jasmine Cologne.jpeg
Thymes Temple Tree Jasmine Cologne


Summer is a great time to stop wearing heavier fragrances in favor of lighter ones.  Those winter scents with lots of spice and musk can be overpowering and intensified by body heat and humidity in hot weather. Therefore, it is the perfect time to shop for a lighter fragrance that will compliment that change in your body chemistry to keep you making a memorable impression.  

A gorgeous choice is the new Temple Tree Jasmine Cologne that recently made an appearance this Spring 2013 from Thymes, the creative Minneapolis collective that I was sent for this review for the way it can light up your mood with its  tropical floral beauty.

Initially, the scent is a rush of floral sweetness from heady Temple Tree blossoms and jasmine sambac stealing all the glory.  You drift among those intoxicating flowers until you detect the honeysuckle and ylang-ylang softening the mix to better ground you. 

Soon elegant notes of damask rose combined with a splash of coconut milk ooze femininity for a delicious creamy softness to the floral.  So ladylike and delicate, the fragrance floats with airy tropical beauty that is romantic and hard to resist.

Those that love a  jasmine floral would especially find the Temple Tree Jasmine collection quite appealing.  Nonetheless,  I think anyone that prefers a gentle floral fragrance that has a lovely sweetness to its composition would also adore this graceful scent.

I do suggest checking out this fabulous new Thymes Temple Tree Jasmine collection because it is a wonderful addition to summer.  Products start at $13 for the soap and range up to $33 for the 1.7 oz. cologne. 


Monday, June 17, 2013

Wrinkles Meet Their Match--Ageless Derma Stem Cell and Peptide Anti-Wrinkle 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.**
Ageless Derma Stem Cell and Peptide Anti-Wrinkle Cream.jpeg
Ageless Derma Stem Cell and Peptide Anti-Wrinkle Cream

When I was approached to review Ageless Derma's Stem Cell and Peptide Anti-Wrinkle Cream, I looked forward to testing it out once I read more about the product and its development.  With an exclusive blend of ingredients proven to benefit the aging process such as active plant stem cells and extracts, bio-peptides, natural antioxidants, and vitamins in high concentrations, I knew my face could only improve.

Ageless Derma is the brainchild of Dr. Mostamand, California based medical spa owner and author, who gathered a team of five biochemists, estheticians, and scientists to find a better solution for maintaining a youthful appearance from what was currently on the market. 

The result was intensive research comparing the effectiveness of ingredients, concentrations, and formulas until they found a blend with substantiated ingredients that revitalized the body's natural abilities to heal itself since it could be absorbed at the cellular level.  

Swiss apple stem cell extract better known as PhytoCellTec Malus Domestica is the driving force in the formula.  According to various laboratory studies, this extract can stimulate growth and supply nutrients to initiate rejuvenation in human skin.  When put in combination with those other power-packed ingredients, including those peptides to help signal the skin to make new collagen, this cream seemed likely to trigger the production of healthy, younger cells, which give the skin the appearance of plumpness.

Now that I explained about the formulation, I will tell you about what to expect and my experience for more than four weeks as I used this product day and night.

This luxurious gel-like cream comes in what look like a typical jar container--that is until you lift the clear plastic lid and press the inside down to release the product.  

The cream itself has a wonderful cooling sensation when applied and absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy look.  My skin can feel tight but this cream soothed and felt so good.

Although it can take up to three months of use to see how a new anti-aging product performs, I did start noticing a gradual turnover in my complexion within the first week.  With all the fine products I test, I do have pretty skin.  However, this product refined my pores further and brightened. 

Now after a month of using this cream, I am in awe of how even more beautiful my skin has become.  I can't say the two deeper wrinkles  are gone, but I can say they have plumped enough to take some years off of the clock, if you ask me.  How long these results will last is anyone's guess, but I am quite happy with what I am seeing.  

Ageless Derma Stem Cell and Peptide Anti-Wrinkle Cream retails for $65 for one-fl. oz.  Do check it out!

Sunday, June 16, 2013

NEW Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme Cereal Review

*Disclaimer:  The information and products have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark to facilitate this review.*


Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme Cereal.jpeg
Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme Cereal

General Mills and MyBlogSpark sent me their new Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme Cereal to review along with a cereal dispenser and two cereal-to-go containers.  

This new breakfast cereal is made from 100% whole grains with at least 14 grams of whole grain per serving and just 9 grams of sugar per serving along with calcium, vitamin D, and 10 other important vitamins and minerals.

If you happen to love the taste of Cookies 'n' Creme ice cream, you need to try this cereal because it is quite delicious.  When I originally looked at the box, I half-suspected it would have been geared for children as one of those overly sweet cereals.  However, I was wrong because this has just the right amount of sweetness without making you feel as if you just ate a bowl of sugar. 

The size of the chocolate and vanilla balls were perfect without being too large.  They also had a nice texture when crunched instead of any hardness.  Furthermore, these cereal balls held up well in milk without dissolving into mush before you finish eating or discoloring your milk.

We did like this new General Mills Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme Cereal very much!  

We also got a cereal dispenser to store the product. However, the cereal was so good it never made it to the container.  

Listen up, readers, because you can save $1.10 with this online coupon   for one box of Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme Cereal!
Promotional MyBlogSpark items for launch of new Hershey's Cookies 'n' Creme Cereal.jpeg
The promotional items MyBlogSpark sent to celebrate the launch of Hershey's Cookies 'n' Cream Cereal.

*Disclaimer:  Free products were provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion, which may or may not be the same as yours.*

Saturday, June 15, 2013

Cradle Your Feet in Comfort, Like I Do--Dr. Scholl's Massaging Gel Insoles for Women (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.**
Dr. Scholl's Massaging Gel Insoles for Women.jpeg
Dr. Scholl's Massaging Gel Insoles for Women


Being a BzzAgent puts you in touch with a lot of great products to test.  This time I was recruited to test out Dr. Scholl's Massaging Gel Insoles for Women and voice my opinion.

I was eager to put them in my sneakers.  Once I cut them to the appropriate line to fit inside, I was ready to go once I removed the original insoles as recommended for getting the best fit. 

After I put them on, I decided I would give my feet a whirl.  All shoes on carpeting always feel comfortable, even the ones that can hurt later when they hit the pavement. Therefore, I thought a trip to the mall  and some leisurely shopping was in order.  

These insoles definitely felt my feet more comfortable for those hours that I was on my feet.  I had a bounce to my step and felt less tired later that afternoon when I returned home.

Truly, I never realized how much of a wonderful difference this insole made, but I am now hooked on Dr. Scholl's Massaging Gel Insoles and am looking into more options for my other shoes!

Have you discovered Dr. Scholl's Massaging Gel Insoles yet?  Check out the collection--and make your feet happy. Look for the $2.00 coupon at that link as well--and get even happier!

*Disclaimer:  A free product was provided to facilitate this review--not my opinion.*

Friday, June 14, 2013

My Amazing Blow Dry Secret Hair Care Trio Review and ($78) Giveaway!--Ends July 1, 2013

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

My Amazing Blow Dry Secret Hair Care Trio.jpeg
My Amazing Blow Dry Secret Hair Care Trio

My hair is really thick and can be a problem with how long it takes me to wash and style before I can get out of my house.  When this box from My Amazing Blow Dry Secret arrived at my door with their newly launched three product system of shampoo, conditioner, and styling spray to shorten the time from shampooing to styled hair, I was curious and looked forward to trying them.

Their My Amazing Blow Dry Secret Shampoo and Conditioner use a coconut oil-based water-wicking system of evaporation to help speed drying along.  At the same time, their ingredients with concentrated antioxidants and softeners moisturize, condition with hydrolyzed vegetable proteins while protecting hair from UV damage with sunflower seed extract.

This is more of a low-lathering, creamy formula of shampoo so you don't want to use too much.  The luscious aroma is sweet and fragrant, but I can't pick out the coconut only a beautiful melody of fruits.

After I towel-dried, I was ready for their My Amazing Blow Dry Secret Conditioner.  I measured out about enough to amount to a silver dollar, applied, and let it rest on my head for about three minutes or so before rinsing.

The star product and last in this system is the Quick Dry Shake'n Spray for cutting that drying time, safeguarding heat damage from your hair dryer, smoothing and adding shine. You can spray this styler on damp hair to speed up drying, or on dry hair for extra shine, conditioning, control, and smoothing. 
   
On my head, I found this spray left my hair with lots more shine and softness.  It also seemed to straighten some of my natural waves and curls in my hair and helped combat frizz.  Though it did help dry my hair faster, it was hardly by 50% less time as claimed.  Nonetheless, all time saved with how busy we are is a welcome bit of news.

The 10.1 oz. of My Amazing Blow Dry Secret Shampoo and Conditioner retail for $26.50 each.  The  6.78 oz. Quick Dry Shake'n Spray retails for $25.00.  Do check these products out at fine hair salons and their website.

Thanks to My Amazing Blow Dry Secret, one lucky Nuts 4 Stuff reader in the United States wins all three My Amazing Blow Dry Secret products of Shampoo, Conditioner, and Quick Dry Shake'n Spray ($78 total value)!


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):

Tweet #Win  #FasterHairDryingSystem @MyAmazingHair #Giveaway ($88) @Nuts4Stuff http://bit.ly/17MAdRN Ends 07/01(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

Go to My Amazing Blow Dry Secret and tell me something you learned--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

"Like" My Amazing  Blow Dry Secret on Facebook--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Follow My Amazing Blow Dry Secret (My Amazing Hair) on Twitter--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Share My Amazing Blow Dry Secret on your Facebook Wall--5 extra entries to leave in five separate comments (show me the proof)

Check out My Amazing Blow Dry Secret's video on YouTube and tell me a tip you learned--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

Follow Nuts 4 Stuff on Bloglovin'--8 extra entries (to leave in eight separate comments)

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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--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--6 extra entries (leave six 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 5 more extra entries to leave in five separate comments)

Enter the Mally Beauty Believable Bronzer Giveaway--1 extra entry   

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.  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 July 1, 2013 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.