Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Lavanila Healthy Vanilla Coconut Fragrance Review and ($58) Giveaway!–Ends May 16, 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.**


Lavanila  Healthy Vanilla Coconut Fragrance.jpeg
Lavanila  Healthy Vanilla Coconut Fragrance


What if I told you that I discovered a sensational oriental vanilla fragrance that is beautifully exotic, long lasting, and best of all, healthier than commercial perfumes?  This sensual blend that I am referring to is Lavanila’s Healthy Vanilla Coconut Fragrance, which would happen to make a perfect Mother’s Day gift being a delicious smelling escape to the warm tropics–only costing a fraction of what that expensive vacation would run!

This lovely fragrance opens with inviting sweetness of exotic tiare flowers against creamy coconut and Madagascar vanilla.   The result is delectable with how these irresistible notes come together.

As this scent warms, the heart is where you detect more of an oriental influence with notes of heliotrope and sandalwood. You get an exquisite heady rush from the incredible sweetness heating that also has an earthy seductive quality about it that is uninhibited and so freeing.

The notes of the base are where you find this fragrance to have a soft and lingering appeal from the coconut and rich vanilla in this lush, alluring mix. 

The 1.7 fl. oz. Lavanila Healthy Vanilla Coconut Fragrance normally retails for $58. However, now is the ideal time to buy in time for Mother’s Day gift buying because the company is running a sale where you get 25% off.  So this or any of their 1.7 fl. fragrances will cost $43.50 while this sale is going on.  Do visit Lavanila and take advantage of this bargain while you have the chance because it is a gorgeous fragrance!

Thanks to Lavanila, one lucky Nuts 4 Stuff reader in the United States wins the Lavanila 1.7 fl. oz. Healthy Vanilla Coconut Fragrance ($58 value)!

Mandatory to Enter: 

You must follow me on Google Friends Connect before any of your entries will count. INCLUDE your ***EMAIL*** with NAME in a comment even if you already follow! 


Extra Entries:

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

Tweet! #Win #HealthyVanillaCoconutFragrance @LavanilaLabs #Giveaway ($58) @Nuts4Stuff http://bit.ly/1rOTx7Y Ends 05/16 (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 Lavanila and tell me what other products or fragrances you would love to try or something else you learned from their site in another comment--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

"Like" Lavanila Labs on Facebook--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

Follow Lavanila Labs on Twitter--2 extra entries to leave in two separate comments

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

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"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

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List this giveaway on any giveaway site just leave a link to this post wherever you share it--8 extra entries (leave eight separate comments and tell me where with proof in one of them)

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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 ENJOY Hair Care Styling and Finishing Products 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.  No PO boxes only USA-based street addresses are eligible.

**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 16, 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.

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

**NEW Fragrance Alert**Why Thymes Tiare Moni Whipped Body Cream Deserves Your Attention (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.**


Tiare Moni Whipped Body Cream from Thymes
Tiare Moni Whipped Body Cream


Thymes, the Minnesota-based creative collaborative, recently came out with several new fragrances.  I had the opportunity to review one of the new floral products with the Tiare Moni Whipped Body Cream that showed up at my door.  Let me tell you that this captivating scented body cream embraces feminine beauty to the fullest.

This intoxicating floral draws you in from the beginning with a lush blend of Tiare flower, osmanthus, sinfully enticing ylang ylang, brighter heliotrophe and seductive agarwood while providing a rich velvety moisture from natural plant oils, vitamin E, and shea butter among its wondrous ingredients.

If you are looking for wonderful gift for Mother’s Day that will touch her heart with its soft grace, I definitely feel this captivating scented cream is sure to please any woman, regardless of age.  

The 6.7 oz. Whipped Body Cream retails for $30.  The Tiare Moni collection includes the following:  cologne, bar soap, body lotion, body wash, bubble bath, candle, hand cream, hand lotion, hand wash, home fragrance mist.  

Do visit Thymes!  Feel free to thank this perfumista, later.

Monday, April 28, 2014

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.**

Korora Express Bronzing Mousse Supreme Bronzette and Mitt.jpeg
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.*

Sunday, April 27, 2014

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!

Saturday, April 26, 2014

Recipe: My Chocolate Chip Raised Dough Coffee Cake Is a Great Weekend Treat!


Unlike a quick bread type of coffee cake, my recipe is for a delicious yeast raised sweet dough version complete with chocolate chips that you make in a tube cake pan. This light and tender dough is topped with a yummy chocolate and nut crumb topping that carries this coffee cake to glorious new heights to remind you of one from a bakery.

The next time that you are in the mood to bake, I do hope you think of me and print out this recipe.   


My Chocolate Chip Raised Dough Coffee Cake

Cake Dough:

½ cup of milk
1 stick of margarine (not spread) or canola oil

2 packages active dry yeast (2 teaspoons)
1/3 cup of sugar + 1 teaspoon
3/4 teaspoon of salt
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
½ cup of very warm (not hot) water
2 large eggs, beaten
3-1/2 cups of sifted flour
½ cup of chocolate chips


Crumb Topping:

½ cup of sifted flour
1/3 cup of brown sugar, firmly packed
½ cup of chopped nuts
½ cup of chocolate chips
1/4 cup of margarine (not spread)
1-1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon


To prepare the dough:

Scald the milk and then take off of the heat.

Add the margarine, vanilla, sugar, and salt and stir together. Allow mixture to cool to lukewarm.

Judge how hot the very warm water is by testing the temperature on the wrist before stirring in the yeast and teaspoon of sugar. (The sugar feeds the yeast and helps speed up the growing process). Stir until dissolved.

When the yeast begins to bubble in your mixing bowl, add the milk mixture, eggs, and 2-1/2 cups of the flour.

You can use an electric mixer and beat until smooth for about 30 seconds or so.

Now is the time you will want to grab a large wooden spoon to mix instead of your mixer. Slowly, you will finish adding the rest of the flour and chips to combine.

Take your batter and turn it out into a well greased 10-inch tube cake pan.

Top with the crumb topping mixture that you prepare by rubbing the flour, sugar, nuts, margarine, cinnamon, nuts, and chips together with your fingers as you would do for typical shortening pastry dough.
   
Cover and let the cake rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-1/2 hours).

Bake in a 400-degree oven for about 35 minutes, depending on how your oven is regulated.

ENJOY!

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

NEW Health Beauty Life’s Like It, Love It, Want It Box Subscription Program 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.**

Health Beauty Life’s Like It, Love It, Want It Subscription Box.jpeg
Health Beauty Life’s Like It, Love It, Want It Subscription Box



When I was approached about voicing my opinion on the recently debuted quarterly subscription box program from Health Beauty Life, I was eager to see what this new Like It, Love It, Want It Box offered. 

After all, discovering new products that might work better than what I currently use is important to me since it can save me time and money.

Now that my box is here, I can understand why Health Beauty Life calls it Like It, Love It, Want It Box because the contents were awesome. You can expect at least five fabulous products (beauty, health, food, fashion, or travel related items) to show up with a value of $100 or more for $29.95 plus tax and shipping for each box.

When I tell you about the incredible assortment I received, then you will understand why I think this subscription is such a great bargain. Look at what I got below:

1. Skin Joy Moisturizing Spray–FULL SIZE–This convenient spray on type of a moisturizer is lightweight and wonderful with the upcoming warm weather. It is fast-absorbing and perfect for all skin types.

2. Keeki Pure & Simple Cherry Liscious Body Lotion–FULL SIZE–What a delicious aroma this yummy skin pampering lotion has as it treats with nourishing jojoba, shea butter, and coconut oils.

3. Dial-A-Smile Zero White Teeth Whitening System–FULL SIZE–You get three treatments besides a free whitening pen!

4. Paleo Krunch Grainless Granola Bar– 1.5 oz.–This bar was so good with coconut, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, almonds, and honey!

5. HBL Hair Masque (6.7 oz.)–FULL SIZE–This is my not first experience with HBL Hair products, which are topnotch in my book. This is an intensive deep conditioning that did a nice job for helping bring back the luster and softness to my dry hair.

6. Bella Vado Avocado Oil Lip Cream--FULL SIZE–I loved how soothing this creamy lip product was on my dry lips. The Peppermint flavor I got was so refreshing. There are four other varieties available.

7. Health Beauty Life Magazine–This is a fascinating magazine full of celebrity news, fashion, beauty, fitness, and travel.

Wow, right? The Health Beauty Life Like It, Love It, Want It Box did more than impress me. It made me want another one now that I know what a find it is. How about
you?

You can cancel this quarterly subscription at any time, but honestly why would you want with give up a deal like this?

Find more information on HealthBeautyLife’s Like It, Love It, Want It Box online.

You also connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

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

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Review: Beyonce's NEW Rise Eau de Parfum Spray

**Disclaimer:  This post has been compensated through a free product (s) or monetary payment.  Opinions are solely mine. All links are "no-follow" links.**
Beyonce's Rise Eau de Parfum Spray.jpeg
Beyonce's Rise Eau de Parfum Spray


Super talented, Beyonce has done it again and launched her ninth perfume. Rise, which just hit stores February 2014, is a sensational tribute of helping a woman find inner strength to overcoming self-defeating barriers that keep her from shining with the confidence and beauty of a superstar that is within all women. 

This addictive fruity-floral created by perfumer, Loc Dong, is a mastery of spirit, will, and passion that will take you by storm with the sophistication it encompasses.

The fragrance sparkles with bright notes of apricot, Italian bergamot and iced basil sorbet as it opens. The result is a fluid, fresh start.

The floral heart is romantic and feminine, but strong as well. With orchid, freesia, and Sambac jasmine flowers, those notes contribute a voluptuous and empowering feel to the fragrance, which skillfully emerges as it warms.

As this heady scent dries down it further entices with sexy notes of autumn woods, cashmere, musk, and vetiver. The combination with its powdery appeal is so alluring that you will love the seductive way it tenderly beckons.

If you appreciate a luxurious fruity-floral bordering on light, woody-oriental, then you need to experience Beyonce’s Rise Eau de Parfum because it is glorious. Do check it out and you will be glad you did.
 

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

Saturday, April 19, 2014

Recipe: Get More From Your Easter Ham With My Delicious Ham Bone Soup!

Many of us are going to make a ham for our Easter dinner. Before you throw out that ham bone, I have a suggestion. Why waste all that flavor when you can use it to make a great soup? My Delicious Ham Bone Soup is an excellent way to get more of that ham while giving you another very tasty light meal.

This is a hearty soup with beans, potatoes, celery, onions, garlic, carrots and just a few herbs that go wonderfully together. Feel free to throw in bits of some leftover ham, if you so desire.

Here is a tip that I want to pass on. Add the salt when you are cooking dried beans when they are nearly done to help keep them softer. Otherwise, your beans will be hard.

I just hope you try my recipe because it is very good and helps stretch your budget further!


My Delicious Ham Bone Soup

2 cups of dried navy beans
2 whole cloves
1 meaty ham bone
1 cup of cubed potatoes
1 cup of chopped celery
1 cup of finely chopped onion
2 cloves of finely chopped garlic
1 cup of cubed carrots
1 bay leaf
2-1/2 quarts of water
1 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

 

Cook the beans in the 2-1/2 quarts of water for about two or three minutes before taking them off of the heat. Now you will let this stand covered for about one hour.

Next, add the ham bone and any small chopped pieces of that leftover ham you need to get rid of along with garlic, cloves, and bay leaf to the beans and water. Keep this covered and simmer for about two hours or until the beans are almost tender.

Now add the rest of the vegetables, salt, and pepper and simmer an additional one hour.

Remove the ham bone and cut off the meat, which you can throw back into the soup before pitching that bone.

Reheat to almost boiling and be sure to remove the bay leaf before serving.

ENJOY!

Friday, April 18, 2014

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.
 

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Make a Statement--Cate & Chloe Jewelry's VIP Membership Monthly Subscription and Layla “Beauty” Pendant Necklace 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.**


Cate & Chole Jewelry's Layla "Beauty" Pendant Necklace.jpeg
Cate & Chole Jewelry's Layla "Beauty" Pendant Necklace



All fashion forward ladies know if you want to make a statement then the right accessories can help you accomplish that goal. With eye-catching classics to fun pieces, Cate & Chloe Jewelry has what it takes to give you that extra chic edge that always promises second looks! 

Their beautiful collection of jewelry ranges from $69 to $135 a piece. Whatever your personal style preference might be, this company has the perfect finishing touch for your outfits.

How about taking a peek at their Layla "Beauty" Pendant Necklace ($115) that I was sent with its dazzling CZ Stone and silver-plated embellishments and tell me that you don’t want more from their fabulous collection of jewelry? 

Recently I told you how you can build on your jewelry wardrobe with their VIP Membership program. If you are not aware of this monthly jewelry subscription, you need to check it out because for just $39.99 a month you would receive two such standout pieces valued at more than $200.

Here is how the program works. Sign up and expect to receive your first box about the first of the month and the second around the fifteen of that month. One of your new treasures will be a pre-release piece that is only available to subscribers and the other will be from their current collection.

For $39.99 per month, there are no shipping charges even if you buy additional Cate & Chloe jewelry, which if you want to make those outfits rock like I do that you probably will. Membership also gives you 20% discount on additional pieces, including sale items.


R
est assure, fashionista, that if you don’t care for one of the selections that you can easily exchange it. All you have to do is contact their special phone or email support representative.

Cate & Chloe even gives subscribers a tracking email the date their boxes are sent out so you are prepared for its arrival.

I really love the Cate & Chloe Jewelry VIP Membership because it is a great way to get some notice-me pieces to build on your own jewelry collection. 


Now is the perfect time to check the VIP Membership out because the company will give Nuts 4 Stuff readers 20% off your first month's membership when you enter coupon code Nuts4Stuff20 at checkout. (This code will only be valid on the standard month-to-month sign up of $39.99 a month). 

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

IT Cosmetics NEW Liner Love Waterproof Creme Gel Eyeliners (Espresso, Rich Plum) 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.**

IT Cosmetics  Liner Love Waterproof Creme Gel Espresso Eyeliner.jpeg
IT Cosmetics  Liner Love Waterproof Creme Gel Espresso Eyeliner

Most of the time, I prefer eyeliner pencils for every day because of the control you have over the thick or thinness of the line. The fact you can smudge that line is something else that I like when trying to keep your look natural. Nights, however, I like to glam it up with more dramatic eyes and switch out pencils for eyeliner pens and liquid liners.


Though I am new to a creme gel form of eyeliner in a pot that you need to brush on, I needed to try IT Cosmetics new Liner Love Waterproof Creme Gel Eyeliners. After all, I rely on their No-Tug Waterproof Gel Eyeliner pencils ever since I reviewed them so I had to see how these would compare when you need to go all out gorgeous.


The company sent me Espresso (black-brown) and Rich Plum (intense purple bordering on black) and a Heavenly Luxe 10-in-1 Tightline Liner Brush to apply with. In the pots, these rich colors look lighter than when you start brushing.

IT Cosmetics Liner Love Waterproof Creme Rich Plum Gel Eyeliner.jpeg
IT Cosmetics Liner Love Waterproof Creme Rich Plum Gel Eyeliner

Being a novice with this form, it took me a few bungled attempts with the brush before perfecting my line. Once I finally got the hang of this angled, two-sided brush, this eyeliner spread smoothly as I painted without tugging that fragile area.

Heavenly Luxe 10-in-1 Tightline Liner Brush.jpeg
Heavenly Luxe 10-in-1 Tightline Liner Brush
At the same time, my eye area benefitted from IT Cosmetics anti-aging ingredients with its lash enhancing peptide, collagen, and vitamins for doing more than just beautifying them.

Both shades beautifully enhanced my dark brown eyes, but with the Espresso my eyes appear blacker while the Rich Plum made the brown color seem to show up. 

I do think Liner Love Waterproof Creme Gel Eyeliners ($24) are wonderful for when you want to look extra special, especially for nighttime. They do require little more work and developing a knack with the Heavenly Luxe 10-in-1 Tightline Liner Brush ($24) but the results are worth it.

Do check these out at IT Cosmetics, QVC.com, Ulta Beauty, and the Shopping Channel!

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Kushyfoot Spring 2014 Foot Covers Review + ($50) Giveaway!–Ends May 1, 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.**


Kushyfoot Spring 2014 Foot Covers.jpeg
Kushyfoot Spring 2014 Foot Covers


This is the time of year to think about trading in the winter boots and shoes for sandals, athletic shoes, and maybe new pumps. Before you wedge your feet inside, you might be interested in Kushyfoot’s Spring 2014 line to make your transition more comfortable.

I received a variety from this new collection that features more than twenty styles to fit your needs.

The two pairs of Sport Foot Covers I found for athletic shoes are more like a thin, low-cut sock that can keep your feet cooler with a ventilated mesh top.

Another helpful choice is their Extreme Low-Cut Foot Covers (Super Low Cut, Extreme Low Cut, Ultra Low) so they never show on the sides if you want to skip the stockings and wear heels or pumps. I got four pairs from thin lacy to a mesh to non mesh with a dot and plain pattern.

They also sent along a Sheer Anklet for adding a stylish edge when wearing with sandals or pumps.

Lastly, I got two pairs of Toe Covers. These are nylon-like with padded soles and ideal for lounging.

The line ranges from $3.99 for one pair to $7.99 for a two-pair package.  Do check out Kushyfoot products.

Thanks to Kushyfoot, one lucky Nuts 4 Stuff reader in the United States wins a $50 assortment of foot covers (13 items) from Kushyfoot’s Spring 2014 Collection.

Monday, April 14, 2014

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.jpeg
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.*
 

Saturday, April 12, 2014

Recipe: My Cheesy-Salmon Loaf is Simple and Tasty!

My family eats a lot of fish, especially during Lent. One of our favorite varieties of fish happens to be salmon. The recipe that I have for you today is my delicious Cheesy-Salmon Loaf that is very economical and so simple to make.

You can serve this loaf plain or top it with a white or cheese sauce. I like to alternate. But either way you do it is just as tasty.

I do hope you give my recipe a chance and try it sometime because it is yummy!


My Cheesy-Salmon Loaf

1 can of salmon
1-1/4 cups of grated sharp Cheddar cheese
1 large egg, beaten
½ cup of evaporated milk
½ teaspoon of salt
1 cup of coarse, dry bread crumbs
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
½ cup of finely chopped onion

I always like to take out the bones and skin from the salmon before I combine all the other ingredients together in my mixing bowl. This is just my own preference.

Pack the fish mixture into a greased one-quart loaf pan.

Bake in a 350-degree oven for about 35 to 45 minutes, depending on how your oven is regulated.

ENJOY!

Friday, April 11, 2014

Emjoi Micro-Pedi Nano 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.**

Emjoi Micro-Pedi Nano.jpeg
Emjoi Micro-Pedi Nano 


The sandal season will be here before you know it. Therefore, you got to make sure your feet are ready for their big debut. If you have ugly, rough calloused skin and are wondering how you will be able to accomplish that without embarrassing yourself when you present them to the world, then listen up because I was sent a tool that can help shape those puppies up in time.

Manually sanding that rough skin on your feet can take a while. Otherwise, you can end up with pain. However, the Emjoi Micro-Pedi Nano is a battery-operated tool that uses a gentle roller type of buffer to rub away that hard, calloused skin. After I put in the two AA batteries, I just held it without exerting any pressure and ran it over the bottoms of my feet.

This tool was easy to use, painless, and so much quicker than a daily attempt at doing the same thing by hand.

I advise you to put a towel under your feet while you are using this device. This way you will avoid the mess because it does produce a lot of white dust from your feet. 

You will have to buy refills later on to keep it sanding, which I don't mind at all after using this.


In fact, I am not the only one that likes how this product works--the American Podiatric Medical Association has given the Emjoi Micro-Pedi Nano their Seal of Acceptance.


The Emjoi Micro-Pedi Nano retails for $24.95, which includes shipping. Check it out on Amazon.com as well as other retailers or buy at Emjoi.


Thursday, April 10, 2014

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.jpeg
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.jpeg
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.*

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

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.

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

The Joyous Return of Thymes Classics Green Tea Cologne (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 Classics Green Tea Cologne.jpeg
Thymes Classics Green Tea Cologne


Why Thymes ever got rid of their Green Tea Cologne is a mystery to me. This crisp, fresh green floral is so soft and feminine that it is hard to imagine why the company ever felt the need to deny us this pleasure. Fortunately, this fragrance is back in their collection!
 
The fragrance opens with a brisk rush of green tea that soon meets up with Moroccan rose that curbs the crispness, lightening it to a sheerer scent, more green than floral. 

As the scent warms in the heart, notes of honey and spices add a delectable sweetness to the mix that gives it an interesting depth. Those warm and spicy notes make for an irresistible soft and sensual fragrance.

Undeniably earthy and seductive, the base is powdery and exquisitely alluring with earthy notes of warm amber, cedarwood, oak, and teak. 
This is a charming fragrance that I know would appeal to anyone, especially those that love green scents. With its lightness, I think Green Tea Cologne would be appropriate for day or night. 

The 3.25 oz. Green Tea Cologne retails for $60 at Thymes.  Do look for this fragrance.
 
    

Monday, April 7, 2014

Review: Burt's Bees Lemon & Vitamin E Bath & Body Oil

**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 Lemon & Vitamin E Bath & Body Oil.jpeg
Burt's Bees Lemon & Vitamin E Bath & Body Oil

The perfect start to my mornings lately has been due to Burt’s Bees Lemon & Vitamin E Bath & Body Oil. With its lemony brightness, this is an energizing 100% natural body oil that perks spirits and body in a remarkable way while lovingly tending to dry skin at the same time.

Since it arrived for this review, I have used this oil by pouring two caps directly into my bath when I was extra tired to give my brain a needed boost. On other occasions, I just applied some after I showered to my still damp body.

This formula has wonderful skin benefits with vitamin E, almond oil, and lemon oil besides such good things as wheat germ oil and rosemary leaf. What I really noticed was how those ingredients made my skin feel silky instead of greasy when I rubbed some over myself straight from the bottle.

Burt’s Bees Lemon & Vitamin E Bath & Body Oil retails for $8.00.

I wasn’t a big fan of bath oils because they made the bath water feel too slick–that is until I tried this one. Do check it out because it does nice things for a body!

Sunday, April 6, 2014

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.
 

Saturday, April 5, 2014

Recipe: Make Your Easter Special by Trying My Grandmother's Easter Bread Recipe


eggs-for-baking-Easter-paska.jpeg
You need plenty of eggs to bake my grandmother's paska for Easter.


Easter is the time my family always had a special sweet bread to serve with dinner.  My grandmother's recipe for this Easter Paska produces a wonderful raised sweet dough that turns out several delicious loaves of this traditional, egg-rich bread topped with a shiny egg-milk wash glaze. 

When you are making this dough, don't try to add all the flour at once.  Instead, you want to gradually add it because you might need more or less to get this soft, pliable dough.  Rushing the process can leave you with hard dough.

To activate the yeast, you need warm (not hot) water.  The easiest way to tell the right temperature is by testing some of that water on the back of your wrist like you would do for a baby formula. 

My grandmother liked to make round loaves.  Usually, she baked these Easter breads in round casserole dishes and the 3-quart and the smaller round metal mixing bowls.   

I do hope you give this recipe a chance because we always thought it was special.  


Grandmother's Easter Paska

2 cups of warm water  (about 110-degrees)
4-1/2 teaspoons of dry yeast or (2 packages)
3/4 cup of melted shortening or oil
2 teaspoons of salt
1 cup of sugar + 1 teaspoon
6 eggs yolks
1 cup of milk
10-11 cups of sifted flour

Egg Wash Before Baking:

2 egg whites
1 tablespoon of milk

To Prepare the Dough:

Start by dissolving the yeast in 1/2 cup of that warm water along with the one teaspoon of sugar in your measuring cup.  (The sugar will help activate the yeast to bubble up more quickly.)

Add 1-1/2 cups of the warm water, milk, melted shortening or oil, salt, and sugar to your mixing bowl next.

Once the yeast bubbles up after a few minutes, you will also add it to the mixing bowl of ingredients.

Beat the six eggs thoroughly.  Next, add those eggs to the mixing bowl as well.

Add two cups of the flour to your mixing bowl.  Using a long wooden spoon to mix the flour through is easy at this stage.  Gradually, start adding more flour, stirring as you go.  After a few more cups, you will need to use your hands to mix this dough because the spoon will become too difficult to use for continuing to mix it.  Keep adding only enough flour until it is pliable and no longer sticky.

Separate the dough and place in two large, well greased mixing bowls.  Be sure to cover them.

Let the dough rise in a warm spot for about two hours.  Later, punch the dough down.  Now allow the dough to grow another hour.

Shape into several loaves to fit whatever well-greased pans you want to use from bread pans to round casserole dishes to metal mixing bowls.  Cover with a towel.  Let these breads rise for about 1-1/2 to 2 hours.

Brush your loaves with the egg-milk mixture.

Bake in a 350-degree oven for about 45 minutes, depending on how your oven is regulated.

ENJOY!