Showing posts with label Product reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Product reviews. Show all posts

Friday, June 28, 2013

Tastykake® Kandy Bar Kakes Review!


We all know how it is when that sweet tooth sets in and you can't seem to find just what you are looking for! Well, look no further with Tastykake® Kandy Bar Kakes!



Kandy Bar Kakes are the best of both worlds. Light and fluffy chocolate enrobed cakes come in a unique kandy bar shape with a delicious créme filling made with your favorite candy flavors. Available in S'mores, Peppermint, and Peanut Butter flavor.

 I was given the opportunity to try the Smores Tastykake  bar and loved it! It was delicious with just the right amount of flavor. 

I loved how you could clearly see the 3 different sections of it  and that it was a decent size for a snack. It really tasted like a smore and reminded me of  when my family used to sit around the fire pit making smores.



I found it to be a little high in calories for me, but no more than other snack options. I was able to split it in half with my daughter and still be able to stay within my calorie limit preference. Plus, we both were able to enjoy it this way.  My daughter found it to be tasty too and wanted another one.

Purchase it!
Available at grocery and convenience stores across the East Coast and Southeast. Use their store locator to find a store near you!
 
Connect!

Disclosure: I received the above mentioned product at no cost to me for review purposes only through the  Spring Fever VOXBOX from Influenster. All opinions remain my own.

Schwarzkopf Professional OSiS+ Geltastic Review!


Having curly, frizzy hair can make for  bad hair days- better yet HORRIBLE hair days. My hair is super frizzy, especially in this summer heat. Luckily, I was given the opportunity to try Schwarzkopf Professional OSiS+  Geltastic through my most recent voxbox from Influenster.  

It's described as “an ultra strong flex gel that provides all day definition and control and dries with a firm finish. Perfect for creating defined curls”  I was a little hesitant to try it because I have had horrible experiences with gels in the past, but I tried it anyway and I love it!

It is a  clear gel that is a little sticky, but is smells wonderful. Seriously it smells sooooo good.It  is the kind of product where a little goes a long way.  


I wanted to try it on my curls in a natural way so after I got out of the shower I brushed my hair , applied a little in the palm of my hands and worked it through my curls. I then tossed my hair up  and waited about an hour before I took it back down. I found that this sometimes helps with the frizz.


 I couldn't believe how well it worked on my hair. I had very little frizz, even in the summer heat! My curls were natural and didn't feel weighed down. They weren't hard like other products make them either- my hair was still soft!  I have really fallen in love with this product and will continue to use it. 


Benefits:
  • Ultra strong style control all day long
  • Dries with a firm strong finish
  • Lasting definition



Application:
  • Apply a small amount into damp hair and style as desired, or work into dry hair for additional separation
  • Create your style or add texture as preferred
  • Control Level 4/5.07 fl.oz


Purchase it!

 This product retails for about $18.00 at salons across America, and Ulta.com


Connect!

Disclosure: I received the above mentioned product at no cost to me for review purposes only through the  Spring Fever VOXBOX from Influenster. All opinions remain my own.

Lokai Bracelet Review + Giveaway!



Everyone knows by now that life is full of ups and downs. This past week has been a huge reality check in that aspect for me. It's all about keeping the balance though and Lokai is here to help remind us of that.





About Lokai
Have you ever experienced a moment that shakes you to your core? We all enter moments when we’re suddenly very aware that our lives can take a turn in an instant. That right behind challenges lie times of great happiness – and vice versa.

For Steven Izen, that moment was during his freshman year at Cornell University. His grandfather, “Papa,” was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. It was the first time he felt helpless, knowing he would have to sit back and watch his Papa’s mental faculties and body slowly deteriorate.

Days after he received the heartbreaking news, Steven found himself on the beach with his family and friends. He wondered - how could some parts of his life feel so aligned, while others were so broken?

It was this realization that was the driving force behind lokai, a bracelet that encourages one to be humble through the highs and hopeful through the lows. Drawn to the earth itself and its natural sensibility of highs and lows, Steven set out to give this sense of balance a physical form. Nearly three years later, after countless hours of research and development, lokai was born.

The bracelet is infused with elements sourced from the highest and lowest points on Earth. The white ball, carring water from Mt. Everest, and the black ball, holding mud from the Dead Sea, exist on opposite ends. A string of clear beads link the two, signifying that throughout life’s circular journey, your path is your own. As Steven puts it, “life is about the journey, not the destination.”

Life is marked by highs and lows. And without one, we could not appreciate the other. The lokai bracelet is a constant reminder that no matter how far the scale tips in one direction, you should always strive for balance. 

 
Wear lokai to remember that life sees many altering moments - it’s how you process them that matters most. Wear it as a reminder that your path is yours alone, or give lokai to someone who might do well to remember the value of his or her own personal journey.

No matter the setback, success or surprise, enjoy your story. Wherever your journey takes you, find your balance.

My thoughts:
I love this bracelet. It's unique and beautiful. I love  that it goes well with all of my outfits.  It fits nicely and  doesn't irritate me at all.  I love that it's infused with elements sourced from Mt. Everest and  the Dead Sea. It adds a coolness factor to it instead of it just being another bracelet. Now it almost makes me want to cut it open so I can see for myself, but it's so cute that I can't do that. Besides, my daughter is begging to have one as well so I can't bring myself to cut it open. We will just have to beleive them.
oh,  look on their instagram account- looks like someone did the hard work for us! That's super awesome!

Purchase it!
You can purchase your very own Lokai bracelet  directly from their website at $18.
10% of the proceeds will be dedicated to giving back to the community through a variety of charitable alliances..

Connect with Lokai!

Giveaway!
1 lucky TCMS reader will win a Lokai bracelet for themselves. Simply fill out the form below before 7/5!

Coco's Closet: Dance Sock Review!


There's nothing I love more than to dance. It can be hard to dance when your shoes seem to be glued to the floor and don't want to move as smoothly as you need them to. Luckily  Dance Socks from Coco’s Closet is here to help!

Dance socks simply slide over your sneakers and allow you to slide and glide across your hardwood floors or any other hard surface, so that you don't have to worry about your shoes getting stuck to the floor.  I noticed a huge difference after I put them on. I have a habit of dancing while I am cooking and Dance socks have not only made it easier, but more fun as well. My daughter even likes to get in there and dance with me while we cook and it makes it that much more fun.  I love that they even fit her shoes!

They are intended for dancing, but I love them so much that I wear them the majority of the time when I wear my sneakers. I find them to be super comfortable. After the first few times wearing them, you won't even notice they are there anymore. I found that it even made walking on hard floors more comfortable.

  • Turn Sneakers into Dance Shoes - Now you can dance in any sneaker!
  • NOT for carpet - NOT for concrete. For smooth surfaces only.
  • Easily twist and turn in sneakers for dance and dance fitness
  • For more grip-pull further onto your shoe exposing more toe
  • These are the best  for Zumba and Sh'Bam fitness





 About Coco's Closet:
 "Coco’s Closet is where you’ll discover all the great gifts and fashion finds that CoCo’s been collecting just for you. They want you to feel as though you’ve just stepped into your best friend’s secret gift closet and private dressing room. That is, your friend with a taste for cool finds, clever purchases, luxury and an eye for the latest pieces that make sense."- Coco's closet


Purchase it:
You can purchase your very own pair of  dance socks directly from coco's closet for $9.99.They are available in pink and in black.


Connect with Coco's closet!


Disclosure:I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Thursday, June 27, 2013

FakeBake 60 Minutes Self Tan Review!


Being a redhead, I have always dreamed of having the golden brown tan that the rest of my family could sport during the summer months. I've never been able to achieve one though and My natural red hair is the culprit here.


Luckily there are many options for sunless tanning out that and I have tons of them. I have yet to find one that really worked for me. I even burnt after 5 minutes in a tanning bed! *GASP* I know!!!  When I came across FakeBake, I was intrigued as it was a brand that I have never tried before.

You are bound to find a product or two that you love because FakeBake has many products to choose from. The options are really endless.

I chose the 60 minute self tan liquid because I thought it was the best product for me. You simply open the box to find a pair of gloves, a mitt, and the bottle of self tan liquid.  It's pretty self explanatory- you put the gloves on,  put the mitt on and spray the self tan liquid on to the mitt. Then you apply to your skin, making sure not to miss any areas. You can get dressed after it dries then go about your normal routine for 1-3 hours (depending on the shade of tan you want).  Once you have waited you can   rinse off to find a lovely tan that looks natural.


It is super easy to apply and while the liquid looked dark at first, it  went on nicely.It's simply amazing. The  lightweight and non sticky texture is  nice and I love the natural-looking tan it provides.  It didn't streak or flake. It didn't stain anything. It did just what I needed it to do- give me a lovely tan.

I love that I can control how dark of a tan I get.  Afterall, I'm still a redhead and don't need a dark tan because it would look very unnatural. I left it sitting on for just about an hour and it gave me a light tan, which was just what I was looking for.  I didn't want to turn into the gingerbread man, I just needed a sugar cookie coloring rather than the pale white I have always known.  It's just a light difference, but it was noticeable enough that my daughter noticed something was different.

This is a great product to have on hand whether you are looking for a nice looking tan without the summer sun, or if you need a quick tanning fix before you go out. Either way, I highly recommend  FakeBake  60 minute self tan liquid.

Purchase FakeBake products
You can purchase FakeBake products directly from their website. 



Connect with FakeBake


Disclosure: I received the above mentioned product at no cost to me for review purposes only. All opinions remain my own. 

ImPRESS Press-On Manicure by Broadway Nails Review



I love getting my nails done. As a busy mom, I rarely have time to myself and often times getting my nails done means a few minutes to myself. I love how beautiful it makes me feel and how feminine it looks. It's one thing that I really enjoy that makes me feel like me. I love imPRESS nails.  You have read where I  praised imPRESS nails before and I have come to give you another review on them!

Since my previous review I have come to love colors and designs on my nails. I love bold looks and embrace them. They make a statement and aren't in what used to be my comfort zone.

I love the container the nails come in. It looks like a nail polish bottle  with a lid that screws off easily. Once the lid is off you simply open the container to reveal nails of all sizes. You are bound to find the perfect fit.

I love that they are so easy to apply. You clean your nails with the prep pad that is in the package.Make sure to clean them well. There is a small clear tab at the end of each nail. You simply pull that tab off then apply the nails lining them up with your natural finger nail. They fit nicely and  go on smoothly. There are no gaps  or ridges.  


To make it easier I like to fit my nails beforehand and lay them out in order.  Once in order I  place the rest back in the package. Then I like to take the clear tabs off all at once. It can be hard for you to pull the tab once you start putting nails on if you aren't used to having longer nails. 

Sometimes a nail will pop off and in that case I just add a small drop of nail glue and replace it using the same nail if possible. If I need  to replace the entire nail I simply get one from the package and replace it. They only have a few of each size, but often times I can get one that is slightly smaller or bigger and pull it off  to where it isn't even noticeable. 



These nails are great for evenings out, prom, a date, or just day to day wear. I like to wear them for day to day use and love changing up the colors and designs. They truly are an amazing addition for any female because they give you the freshly done look at a fraction of the cost.



***BUY IT***
imPress Manicure retails for $5.99 for colors and $7.99 for patterns
It is available at CVS, Rite Aid, Duane Reade, KMart, Walgreens, Walmart and more.
To see a full list of stores and to get a $1 coupon, please visit imPRESS

***Connect with imPRESS***
imPRESS twitter



Disclosure: I received the above mentioned product at no cost to me for review purposes only through the  Spring Fever VOXBOX from Influenster. All opinions remain my own.
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Skinny Pop Popcorn Review!


The hardest part of watching your weight is avoiding the foods you love.  Pop corn is a family favorite in my home and often times it isn't the best for me because I have been trying to watch my weight.  Luckily Skinny Pop Popcorn is here to save the day!

Skinny Pop Popcorn only has 39  calories per cup of popcorn! Even if you are counting calories or trying to watch your weight- you can still enjoy your favorite snack! I love that it gives me more control of my diet even when I am snacking.   I have tried many varieties of popcorn, even ones that are supposed to be healthier for you and Skinny Pop is the best by far! It's light and fluffy and full of flavor without all the calories. 

Skinny Pop is:
  • all natural
  • cholesterol free
  • zero trans fat
  • preservative free
  • dairy free
  • peanut free
  • tree nut free
  • gluten free
  • non GMO
  • a good source of fiber
  • DELICIOUS!


    My daughter's favorite snack is definitely popcorn. I love that she can enjoy her favorite snack without taking in all the calories that she normally would with regular popcorn.  I love that is has a wonderful taste and that it is still healthy. 
    I love Skinny Pop and will continue to snack on it instead of the many other unhealthy snack options available out there. I can now snack worry free!

    Purchase it!


    Connect with Skinny Pop


    Disclosure: I received the above mentioned product at no cost to me for review purposes only. All opinions remain my own.

    Wednesday, June 26, 2013

    Diva Cup Review + Giveaway!



    The DivaCup is a reusable, bell-shaped menstrual cup that is worn internally and sits low in the vaginal canal, collecting rather than absorbing your menstrual flow. Menstrual cups have existed since the 1930s when women were searching for an alternative to the choices of the time. Yet, its breakthrough into the feminine hygiene industry is much more recent.
    Many women feel uneasy about changing their menstrual care routine. Years of dealing with the sights and odors of disposable tampons and pads cause the familiar reaction: “ick!”. The DivaCup empowers women to connect with their bodies and menstrual cycles like never before. Perfect for all activities (on air, land or sea), its easy care and use make for a better period experience. Wear The DivaCup for up to 12 hours without leaks or worry.




    The DivaCup Features:
    • 12 hour leak-free protection!
    • Made from the highest quality healthcare grade silicone to assure comfort and durability.
    • Does not contain any of the following: latex, plastic, PVC, acrylic, acrylate, BPA, phthalate, elastomer, polyethylene, and free of colors and dyes.
    • Reusable and eco-friendly – no waste, no chemicals.
    • Features extra grip ridges for easier removal.
    • Cleared for marketing by the US FDA and the Australian TGA and the only reusable menstrual cup allowed to be sold in Canada by Health Canada.
    • Diva International Inc. is the only ISO 13485:2003 certified menstrual cup manufacturer and head office in the world!

    Size options:

    The DivaCup is available in two sizes, Model 1 and Model 2. Your cup size is stamped on the inside rim of the cup. There is a small difference between the two sizes (Model 1 is 1/8″ (~0.3 cm) smaller), but it is important to use the recommended sizing to prevent leakage.

    Model 1:Recommended for women under 30 years old who have never delivered vaginally or by caesarean section.
     
    Model 2: Recommended for women over 30 years old and/or for women who have delivered vaginally or by caesarean section.


     When to Empty?
    The DivaCup must be emptied, washed and reinserted at least 2 times a day (twice in a 24 hour period) and can be worn overnight without concern of leaking. Most women need only to empty it in the morning and again in the evening.
    By monitoring the fullness of the cup over a couple of cycles, you will quickly learn how often to empty it according to your specific needs. Most women find that the cup is not even half full after 12 hours. For those with heavier flows, the cup is simply emptied more often.



    Still have questions?
    The Diva Cup website  did a wonderful job at answering so many of our questions regarding the Diva Cup . Make sure to check it out and  learn some cool facts!

    My Thoughts: 

    I have to admit, I was curious and skeptical at the same time when I first came across the Diva Cup.  I have had the same care routine for years now and the thought of changing it was intimidating, but boy am I glad I did! Diva Cup has allowed me to  continue my morning exercise routine without worries of leakage. I love that I don't have to worry about it at all and that it's super comfortable. I have not experienced any leaks. Actually, If I didn't know it was that time of the month- I would totally  forget. it's really that comfortable!

    I love that it's great for women of all ages. I have many years before I have to worry about my duaghter having her first cycle, but I plan to be prepared with the option of a Diva Cup when she does.

    With an SRP of $39.99, the Diva Cup can be expensive for some, but honestly it pays for itself over time- saving me hundreds of dollars along the way. Even with coupons, tampons and pads can be expensive and we just toss them out afterwards. I'd much rather use something that is more eco-friendly and in the end - cost friendly as well.

    Ok I know what you are all thinking.. It's going to create a mess when you empty it. Trust me, I thought it as well and was very surprised how easy and clean it is.  It's really no different that the mess that a tampon can create. Plus, I get to learn about my body and my cycle in the process.

    Purchase it!
    You can purchase your very own Diva Cup online or at a retail store near you.


    Connect with Diva Cup

    Giveaway!
    1 lucky TCMS reader will get the chance to try out the Diva Cup for themselves! Simply enter using the form below. Ends 7/5

    Boogie Wipes Review + Giveaway!


     We all know how hard it can be  when our little one is sick. Those are some of the hardest days as a parent. I know that first hand because I feel horrible when Des comes down sick and I always try to find  a way to make her feel better. Now my searching is over, thanks to Boogie Wipes!

    Boogie Wipes are  gentle saline wipes that help with stuffy noses. They are made with saline to dissolve boogies (mucus) caused by the common cold, allergies or otherwise booger-filled kid moments. Extra soft and scented in Great Grape, Fresh Scent, Magic Menthol (for extra stuffy noses), Simply Unscented and Boogieberry, Boogie Wipes are recommended by Pediatricians as a gentle, effective alternative to a dry tissue.

     These really come in handy when your little one is sick and the kiddos love the scent options. My daughter's favorite is the grape scent, which doesn't surprise me because it's mine too.- hey who said boogie wipes are just for kids....


    They are easy to use for little hands and dispense cleanly without any rips or tears.  They come in several sizes so you are bound to find a size that is right for your family. They have a 10 count,  30 count, and 45 count packs. They also have a 90 count canister that would make a great gift for a teacher.  The packs are great for tossing into your diaper bag, purse, or your kid's backpack. I also tossed one into my emergency car kit.


    Join the Boogie Bunch
    Join the Boogie Bunch and get a coupon for 50¢ off Boogie Wipes!

    Purchase it!
    You can purchase Boogie Wipes online at the boogieshop, amazon, and more.
    You can also find them at a retail store near you!

    Look for their newest product – Boogie Blasters – in a 12 count pack of Boogie Berry scented wipes, available at Walmart and Kroeger stores

    Coming Soon! 
    Cotton Candy scented Boogie Blasters. 
     Boogie Mist – saline mist with a twist!  
    Snot Your Average Kid contest winners to be featured on our 90 count Canisters, which will also include a 90 count Simply Unscented canister


    Connect with Boogie Wipes:

    Giveaway
    One lucky TCMS reader will win (2) packs of 30-count wipes (fresh, grape, menthol, or unscented– combination varies) Simply fill out the form below for your chance to win.  Open to
    US, Canada and Australia.  Giveaway ends 7/5

    Pampers Kandoo Review + Giveaway!



    Pampers is a well known, family trusted brand that we all know best for their diapers and wipes. I bought Pampers when Des was little and it  never failed me. I loved that Pampers provided me with a diaper that didn't leak, didn't rip, and was fully comfortable for Des. Now I can continue to love Pampers with Pampers Kandoo products!


    Pampers Kandoo has a huge line of products ranging from Flushable wipes , shampoo, and more!  They provide all the bathing essentials that we need to take care of our little ones.The  Kandoo Line of Kid Friendly products - Handsoap, Shampoo, Body Wash and Hand Sanitizer specifically designed to help children get clean on their own. They also have a detangler and bubble bath! I love that they thought of it all and that the products are kid friendly.
    • Made with natural ingredients to promote healthy skin and hair
    • Mild formulas with no sulfates, parabens or phthalates
    • Easy to use pumps and great scents that make kids want to get clean
    • Unique bottles that are designed to be fun and easy to use

    My daughter loves the pampers Kandoo flushable wipes and uses them daily. I know I can rest at ease because Kandoo wipes help keep her clean between baths and she actually enjoys using them.  I especially love their kid friendly packaging. She  thinks that Dynamo Diddit  is super cool.   

    They are easy to dispense and  the 42 count package is a great size to be able to toss in my purse for when we are on the go.   I love that Des can do it all on her own so not only does it provide a great clean - up to 30% better than toilet paper, but it also teaches her to be independent and responsible.  Kandoo flushable Wipes come in Sensitive (unscented and hypoallergenic) and Magic Melon. They are available in soft packs, tubs and refills.

    • Easy to Use - No rolling or ripping required
    • Perfect for Little Hands - About the size of two pieces of toilet paper
    • Moistened with lotion - ensures a thorough cleaning
    • Flushable and Biodegradable - safe for sewer and septic systems
     

    I'm also a huge fan of their personal care product line.  I was given the opportunity to try their 2 in 1 conditioning shampoo. Des and I both have fallen in love with it! It  smells wonderful and provides a great clean. Des loves taking a shower, but she has never been fond of washing her hair. Luckily, Pampers kandoo 2 in 1 conditioning shampoo has helped ease some of her hair washing worries.  She  still isn't a fan of it, but she doesn't fight it nearly as much as she used to.
    It has a perfect consistency and  it isn't wasteful.  It  lathered up nicely and  didn't leave any residue in Des' hair. I love that it rinsed out easily and that it's tear free.
    • Tear Free. Dermatologist Tested
    • Contains Vitamin E and Natural Fruit Extracts to clean and condition hair
    • Frog fits in corner of tub for easy use by kids
    • Hypoallergenic. No parabens or SLS

    I love the adorable clean crew! Pampers Kandoo has really thought of everything to engage our kiddos for a better clean.  Hurry on over and take the Oath to keep yourself super clean at www.pamperskandoo.com.  They  will be giving away 1000 Super Power Clean Kits each month!

    Purchase it!
    You can purchase Pampers Kandoo products online at amazon, diapers.com, and more. 


    Connect with pampers Kandoo

    Giveaway!
    1 lucky TCMS reader will win a Pampers Kandoo prize pack that includes  a pack of 42 count Kandoo wipes and (1) Kandoo Hand Sanitizer or Kandoo Hand Soap.
    Simply fill out the form below for your chance to win.  Giveaway ends 7/5