Influenster Pumpkin VoxBox Reveal & Review!

It's that time again!

Time for another Influenster Pumpkin Vox Box!

This is the THIRD Infuenster Vox Box I've received and I really enjoyed opening this one! You can see my first box here and my second box here.

On with the show! I made you guys a video so you could be a part of the excitement! But really, this is a video that you can get a good laugh at because I'm TERRIBLE at videos! Ha!

Anyway, here ya go! I had no idea what was inside!

Ok, so let's get down to the details. I'll let you in on how these bad boys stacked up!

What I got:

Pop Chips in Sea Salt flavor
Mr. Sketch Scented Marker
Werther's Original Soft Caramel
Downy Fabric Softener
Coupon for a free Yucatan Guacamole
Coupon for a free Alexia frozen food
Coupon for $1 off Mr. Sketch marker

Pop Chips

The Verdict: Super crispy and super tasty. Only 100 calories in this little bag. It was a great snack with low calories. I will definitely choose these again when I'm looking for a chip but don't want the heavy greasy feel.

Downy Fabric Softener

The Verdict: I liked it. I was hoping for a much bigger fragrance that was left on the clothes after I got them out of the dryer. So that was a little disappointing. I'm so used to my Scentsy laundry add in's that I'm probably a bit spoiled. As for softness, I did notice the clothes were soft. Will I buy some more? Meh. Maybe. Like I said, I love my Lavender scented Scentsy!

Goodness Knows snack bar

The Verdict: Yummy. This particular one was apple, almonds, peanuts, and dark chocolate and was 150 calories for all 4 squares. Since it doesn't have all the nasty things like high fructose corn syrup you could definitely use this as a replacement for a candy bar. I will definitely pick this up again when I have a hankering for something sweet. Which is a lot.

Mr. Sketch Scented Markers

The Verdict: Not really a fan. I didn't think it smelled like anything much less orange. The color was good. 

Werther's Soft Caramels

The Verdict: YES! So tasty. Just like you knew they were going to be. Never disappointed with Werther's! 

I picked up my free Yucatan Guac and my Alexia side item. I chose the 98% fat free french fries for my side item. I'll let you guys know how those taste!

And there you have it! It was a fun box!

*I was given this box full of goodies for testing purposes from Influenster. All opinions and reviews are my own.*

Health & Beauty {Pura d'or Argan Oil Review}

Recently I found a wonderful product and I thought I would share it with you guys. I had been using organic, cold pressed coconut oil for my body lotion and my face lotion. It was very moisturizing but at the same time was proving to be very pore clogging. I read this article on Wellness Mama and fell into the rabbit hole of finding the right oil to use on my face. I landed on Argan Oil. I also found a great deal on amazon and at that point, it just didn't hurt to try.

I noticed an immediate change in my skin after using it for just a few days. I wasn't getting as many breakouts as I had been. I also noticed that it moisturized my skin a lot better than the coconut oil. It felt like it was really sinking in ya know? I noticed that it helped my laugh line wrinkles as well. I mean, nothing can take those babies away except something surgical but this stuff sure did help them to look less severe!

In case you're wondering...I'm in no way affiliated with Pura d'or Argan Oil! No one asked me to do this post. I just wanted to share it with you in case you are like me and have a terrible combination of dry skin AND acne. I bought this bottle for around $20 and there is still more than two thirds of the bottle left. I've been using it for about 4 or 5 months.

I also use the Proactiv system at least 3 times a week just to stay on top of my acne. Since I am no longer on birth control because of the Essure procedure I had back in 2013, I really see my hormones come through my skin in the form of breakouts. It's worse at different times of the month and also gets worse if I eat unhealthy foods. I still have lots of other methods I want to try that Wellness Mama lists on her website to ween myself off of Proactiv.

I still use my coconut oil. I just stick to using it on the rest of my body immediately after I exit the shower. My body oil/lotion formula is half coconut oil half cocoa butter (in oil form). If I just use coconut oil it doesn't moisturize enough. But my skin is far too dry to just slap some drug store lotion on and go. I need to step up my water drinking game to help my dry skin. Sometimes I feel like it is so dry it hurts! Sheesh!!

You could use this on the ends of your hair after you get out of the shower too. I've really cut down on the blow drying time on my hair since I don't go to an office everyday. I really don't need deep conditioner much anymore. I only shampoo my hair twice a week. Doing those two things together leave me with pretty healthy hair already.

Ok guys and gals! Just wanted to share a great product with you! Try it! I know you would love it. Even if you just used it on your hands!  

#LoveYourGuts H2PRObiotics AND Gingerbread Cookie Smoothie Recipe!

I don't know about you, but I have a tendency to pack those fun little holiday finger foods in my mouth like a chipmunk storing food for the winter. It's fun while it's happening, but my gut suffers the next day or so. We won't even mention all of the coughs and sniffles that go around at those parties too. That's why when H2PRO contacted me to ask if I was interested in trying their probiotic + vitamin supplements, I was immediately on board! It's time to get my gut back in order AND fight off all those holiday germs!

Just what are probiotics and why should you care? You should read this!

According to Dr. Baumgarten, family physician and founder of H2PRO Probiotics + Vitamins:

"The good bacteria living in your GI tract support many important body functions including digestion, metabolism, immunity and some functions of your brain. They assist in the breakdown of the food, support the absorption of important nutrients, and can even influence your metabolism, thereby helping you maintain a healthy body weight.

The GI tract is also responsible for up to 80% of your immune function to fight infections.”

H2PRO has released the first of its formulas, which was designed specifically to support immune health. It comes in packets of flavorless probiotic and vitamin powder that can be added to any beverage or food of your choice that's under 102 degrees and an Acai Berry powder that can also be mixed into water or other drinks. H2PRO is a gluten-free, sugar-free, dairy-free, 100% vegan and zero calorie option for making probiotics a no-hassle part of your daily routine.

I eat a majority Paleo diet. I may cheat once a week on a special meal but I'm mostly gluten free, dairy free and legume free. The H2PRO formula fits my requirements perfectly. I was able to sample both the flavorless as well as the Acai Berry, which is lightly sweetened with Stevia. I mixed the Acai Berry with about 12 ounces of water and added some frozen raspberries for a little extra sass. I am not a huge alternative sweetener fan, but this was very refreshing without being too bold. You could mix it with only 8 ounces of water if you wanted a bit more flavor, or go up to 16 ounces for a more watered down taste, which is kind of how I like it.

I can definitely tell that I do get a ever so slight energy boost from the mixes. It's not like a jolt you would get from drinking coffee, but definitely a subtle, healthy way to shake off the afternoon blahs. The good bacteria that has been added to my gut with this supplement does not leave me in the bathroom like yucky food does. 

I love supporting local businesses, and if you're here in Asheville or the surrounding areas and want to give it a try, H2PRO is available bottled and in packet form in nearby stores, yoga centers, pharmacies! Cool, right?

You really need to take time out and #LoveYourGuts, and I’ve created a tasty Gingerbread smoothie recipe to get you started. It is a great way for you to incorporate probiotics into your diet!

I have been craving gingerbread cookies so I thought this would be a great way to tackle that craving! 

Here's what you will need:

1 packet of H2PRO Probiotic+Vitamins flavorless

1 cup almond milk

1 Tbsp almond butter

1 frozen banana

1 Tbsp honey

1/2 tsp fresh grated ginger

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground clove

1/2 tsp nutmeg

1/2 tsp ground ginger

pinch of salt

(you can add more or less spices to suit your taste level)

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Serve in a festive glass and garnish with cinnamon or nutmeg.

Delicious! It was nice and spicy! Just what I was hoping for. Not only was it tasty to drink it was packed with wonderful vitamins and healthy probiotics!

Shop for H2PRO products locally with this store locator or online at their Amazon Store: H2PRO


*As always, all reviews and opinions are my own. Samples c/o H2PRO*

eShakti Girl {Product Review}

I definitely jumped out of my seat with excitement when eShakti contacted me and asked if I would like a custom made clothing item from them. YES PLEASE! I've seen other bloggers enjoy their Eshakti pieces and I am glad I got invited to eat at that lunch table! Ha! Let me tell you; choosing what I wanted was the hardest. They have so many choices! Dresses, skirts, tops...I was so excited! After much deliberation I decided against a dress and went with these pants so I could use them throughout the fall with ease. There were only two options for pants so I kind of felt like I was unearthing a treasure. I was not disappointed with my choice! 

What makes eShakti so special is you give them your measurements when you order so your garment is CUSTOM MADE for your body! I liked the fit of my pants. They are meant to be slouchy so I was ok with the roomy fit. Although I do believe they could be a bit slimmer in the thigh and I would be more comfortable with that. I chose my hip shape as "curvy" which I am but I think that caused it to have too much room in the hips. I love the pattern and the high waist. The length is perfect to wear with heels. If I wear them with flats they are just a tad too long. If you choose to order these and want to wear with flats, I would take your measurement and subtract an inch or two. 

I am in love with the pattern! I chose to pair it with white right now because the weather was gorgeous and still slightly warm and I could get away with this sheer top. I have a navy sweater that is just waiting to be paired with these bad boys for the winter! Isn't the pattern gorgeous?

They are super comfy and the fabric is sturdy. It isn't flimsy and see through. I got lots of compliments on these! The pockets are roomy and usable. You can opt to have no pockets but I love them. The drawstring is long and doesn't slip through the openings. I can't really find a negative about the construction or fabric! If you are looking for a more closer fitting trouser pants then choose slim or average for your hip shape.

Overall I am ecstatic about my eShakti pants! They are such a welcomed breath of fresh air to my wardrobe! I love that I can pair them with darker colors for the winter. Comfy navy sweater....brown boots...chunky scarf! Yes! Oh and since we're talking about the future, next summer they are getting a crop top paired with them for sure. 

Head on over to eShakti and order your custom clothing RIGHT NOW!

**I was supplied a clothing item via eShakti for product review purposes. All opinions are my own!**

Angela & Roi

I have partnered with Angela & Roi handbags in the past and they recently contacted me to share with you their brand new clean and crisp website and a two brand new handbag designs! 

A little bit of a refresher course about the who and what of Angela & Roi:

Angela & Roi combine fashion and philanthropy by color. Meaning, each bag can coordinate with a color that, in turn, coordinates with a cause. The Donate by Color mission means they will donate a portion of each handbag sale to chosen non-profit health organizations. From their website..."For example, Lung Cancer awareness links traditionally with the color white. When customers purchase a white handbag, five dollars will automatically be donated to Lung Cancer Alliance. Our company works together in total with eleven non-profit organizations."

To see the complete list of causes and their colors click here. 

They are rolling out their brand new Minimal Bucket Bag and Moa Tote! I don't know about you but I have been on a kick for simplifying my wardrobe lately. I'm drawn to neutrals this fall season.

Another new design this season is the Moa Tote. Check it out: 

Both designs are made from soft, vegan leather. The Minimal Bucket Bag will give you an easy going, casual look while the Moa Tote brings a sophisticated, elegant style to your wardrobe. Both excellent choices! And as always, their colors available match up with a excellent platform for promoting awareness to very important causes. 

Product Review: Bouqs

What girl doesn't love fresh flowers? Ok, so maybe there are a few out there but this girl, little ole me? I love fresh flowers! So when The Bouqs Company contacted me about receiving a delivery it was like spring all over again. Their flowers are grown on an active volcano in South America! Say Whaaat? I thought for sure they were lying but sure enough that's where the shipping label showed. Well la-tee-da! Here's their adorable video on how it all works over at Bouqs! (A minimalist way to say bouquet)

Here's just one of the specials they are having right now

Spoil your special someone. 24 roses, just $50 and FREE SHIPPING! Shop The Bouqs Co. Flowers now!

On with the show!

I went to their website and perused their selection. What I noticed first was all of the brightly colored flowers. A great selection! I loved how they were wrapped in kraft paper too.

I made my choice and went with the "Treasured" bouquet. 

I loved having fresh flowers in the house! I adore the quirkiness of Bouqs.com.

Head on over to Bouqs and check out their selection! I don't think you'll have a hard time finding something you like. I know I didn't!

*disclosure: my affiliate links with Bouqs.com are present in this post. I was provided the flowers free of charge but all opinions are my own.

First Aid Kit with Neo-to-Go

I have been so terrible and so far behind on getting my travel first aid kit ready. When I got my Neo-to-Go in my TLCVoxbox I realized that would be the perfect start to getting my butt in gear and putting together a travel kit ready! Here's a few things that I want to throw into a cute box or bag. I love this tin swiss cross box!

I found this one on amazon that is just too cute! All the hard work is done for you!

If I was of the sewing nature I could make a super cute one myself!

or buy this one from etsy because its adorable

**disclosure: I received Neo-To-Go complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes. All opinions are my own