August Julep Maven Box: Review & Swatches

I think at this point you all know well enough that Julep is by far, without question, my favorite monthly subscription service. This month is no different. They never cease to amaze me. As a thank you to their subscribers for their One Year Birthday they gave us a present! A cute little tote bag was included in each subscription box this month and it's perfect for carrying your lunch to work or storing some extra makeup. Becoming a Julep Maven gives you exclusive access to great nail polish. Each month they hand-pick trendsetting new nail colors, cult faves and cutting-edge beauty products that are just right for you based on a style quiz that you take when you sign-up. Commitment shy? No problem. you decide how often to receive your Julep Maven box, you can skip a month, gift it to a friend and you can cancel at any time! It's pretty amazing the product you get for $19.99.

This month Julep showcased so many different Metallic & Chrome shades but the style that stuck out for me most was definitely American Beauty. The rose gold metallic caught my eye and I couldn't pass it up. My usual style is "Boho Glam".

I could not wait to swatch these colors when I pulled them out. I am usually not a huge fan of metallic shades because they show every imperfection but I'm open to trying anything. Also included in this month's box was a bottle of Julep's Acetone Free nail polish remover so that was super fun to get to try out.

JULEP NAIL COLOR "STEFANI" - A superb gold flecked grey metallic. This color is definitely going to turn heads this Fall. VALUE: $14.00
JULEP NAIL COLOR "DAKOTA" - A rose-gold metallic chrome finish with the perfect penny like pop. VALUE: $14.00
JULEP ACETONE-FREE CONDITIONING NAIL POLISH REMOVER - A professional pump-action bottle for easy, one-handed use. This product is new to the Julep line and just launched this month. VALUE: $14.00

Total value of this box: $42.00 and I was able to get it with the subscription service for $19.99.

Julep Stefani Swatch

Stefani is a spectacular chrome that was completely opaque after just one coat but I like to add two for good measure, so that is what is pictured above.

Julep Dakota Swatch

Dakota applied like a dream and was completely opaque after two coats but like with other metallics still has that tendency to show the tiny imperfections if not applied perfectly. 

Are you a Julep Maven yet? If not you're missing out! Click HERE to sign-up and join me on the road to nail polish domination! Enter the Code "COLORS4ONE" at check out to get your first box for a penny. 

Organix Macadamia Oil Intensive Mask: Review

Organix has been a favorite product line of mine since it started hitting drugstores and when my hair hit it's driest, and most unmanageable state I decided to turn to it to see if there was anything that would help the effects of so much color damage and over processing. The macadamia oil intensive moisture mask definitely did the trick and helped my hair in more ways than one. The mask combines smoothing macadamia oils with exotic bamboo extract and sugar cane extract to hydrate dry hair while mending split ends.

What they say...

• Ultra moisturizing treatment 
• Hydrate hair and mend split ends
• Drenches the driest, most brittle hair
• Leaves hair soft, supple and touchable 

What I say...

• Smells amazing
• Thick hydrating hair mask 
• Moisturizes 

The Verdict...

The Macadamia Oil Intensive Mask is one of the many things that has helped in bringing my hair back to a much healthier state. I apply a generous amount once a week to my wet hair and leave it on for about 20 minutes before rinsing. I could tell from the first use that I was going to have great results with this. My hair was so extremely dry that this completely helped it the moisture department, my hair began to feel softer to the touch and not as dry after about three use. I don't have as many split ends as I normally would, which is a combination of this product and the fact that I cut my hair to get rid of most of the dead ends and unhealthy parts. This is definitely a luxurious spa like product at a budget friendly price. I am trying really hard to get my hair back to some sort of healthy condition and this is going to be a staple in my routine for awhile. 

This product retails for $7.99 HERE but can be picked up in most Walmarts, Targets and local drugstores.

FIND ORGANIX

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Nail Polish Swap Haul

I was lucky enough to do a little nail polish swap with the lovely Natalie from Natalie Roseanne's Nails and Beauty Blog. I was super excited since she lives in the UK and I have never tried any of the nail products from over there but have always lusted after posts I had seen with Model's Own or Barry M polishes. She really spoiled me and I am so lucky to have found such a wonderful person to swap with. I was so super excited with everything that I found inside the lovely box, I nearly ripped the box open before I had it in the house because I was so excited!!

Look at all those goodies!! I could not be happier. I wanted to go ahead and share with you all what I received. To start, just take a look at all that candy! I want to move to the UK and eat those Refresher's daily and I loved the Limited Edition M&M's.

My very first Model's Own polish! I'm so excited to try these out. She picked perfect colors for me.

I finally have my very own Barry M Nail Paint's! So grateful to Natalie for choosing all of these great polishes for me.

My husband may have judged me a little, ok a lot when I ran around the house yelling to him in excitement "Rimmel London, FROM LONDON", I'm fine with him thinking I am a crazy person he knew what he was getting into when he married me hah. You could not pay me to be more excited than I am right now over all these awesome new shades and brands I get to try out. I especially love that glitter, it's the coolest bottle ever.

Hooray, for nail art!! I can't wait to rock a British Mani. I love stickers and I'm excited to see what I can come up with for these decals.

I just again want to say a HUGE thank you to Natalie, I could not be happier this is all so amazing! Everyone definitely keep an eye out on some upcoming NOTD posts that will feature these colors.

On Wednesdays We Wear Pink

It's Pink Wednesday and I am SO excited about this manicure. It combines three of my favorite things, Pink, Glitter and Chevron!! I did an awesome swap with a lovely lady in the UK and she sent me some great stuff (post tomorrow) so I just had to try everything out and today I picked two of the colors, the pink is Rimmel London I <3 Lasting Finish which doesn't seem to have a name and the the glitter is Model's Own "Pink Fizz" and for the white accent nail I used Sally Hansen's "White Out" and skinny black chevron nail decals from Made By Munchies Mama Etsy shop, which you all know I LOVE!! I'll link her shop below for anyone who wants to get their own stickers!! Now let's get on to the manicure that I am LOVING.

I just love it!! I usually change my nails daily, but I have to say, this manicure may stick around for a bit! I want to give you a closer look at those gorgeous chevron nail decals and that eye popping glitter.

I'm so excited with how this look turned out!! Are you wearing pink for Wednesday? Tweet me your manicures!!

MADE BY MUNCHIES MAMA 

NAIL DECALS 

::ETSY SHOP::

Grand Central Beauty S.M.A.R.T. Skin Perfecting Mask: Review

I am super excited to tell you about this face mask today. The S.M.A.R.T. Skin Perfecting Mask is from a company that just recently launched called Grand Central Beauty. Grand Central Beauty prides themselves on having a "Classic Treatment" with "Modern Results" so I was happy to put them to the test. This is the only product in their line so far, but they have committed to launching more products every year for the next 4 years to grow the line. Each product they roll out will utilize their S.M.A.R.T Skin Perfecting skincare technology to deliver "multi-efficient results". Grand Central Beauty says "Our unique combination of active mask powder + our exclusive intensive booster (loaded with vitamins and minerals from fruits, botanicals, and marine seaweeds) delivers an array of clinically proven results in as little as ONE use."

What they say...

• Smooths
• Moisturizes 
• Anti-Aging
• Redness-Reducing
• Tones 

(Get it? The first letter of each word spells out S.M.A.R.T.. I didn't until I was typing this lol) 

• Designed for all skin types 
• Loaded with vitamins and minerals

What I say...

• Easy to follow instructions 
• Results immediately 
• Soothing and cooling 
• No harsh scents 
• Evens skin tone (within 15 minutes) 
• Brightened and moisturized skin with just one use 
• Diminishes pores immediately 
• Spa quality at home

The Verdict...

I absolutely loved everything about this Skin Perfecting Mask, I really don't think there is anything I could say that would be a con. I was a little intimidated when I first saw it but once I read the easy to follow instructions I was good to go. You mix the two parts together, apply it to your face, and wait 15 minutes before peeling it off. As soon as I applied the first the little bit I could already feel it working, you immediately get a cooling sensation and it feels great. I lounged around on the couch and waited the allotted 15 minutes for the mask to dry and felt wonderful the whole time, I compared it on twitter (I live tweeted my experience) to sticking your face in a freezer for 5 minutes it was the perfect treat for such a hot summer day. After the time was up, I began to peel it off, now the girl in the picture on the instruction seemed to peel her mask off in one swoop. I think I applied mine extra heavy and probably not as evenly as I could have so mine came off in pieces (i love peeling off facial masks) which was fine for me.

After I was finished, I could instantly tell that the redness that I usually have around my nose and cheek bones was reduced greatly. My skin felt super soft and I could almost promise you that I was glowing, as my husband mentioned as much, and he notices next to nothing. My usually large pores were almost unnoticeable and that result has stuck around as I write this 4 days later. Also worth a mention is that I have noticed since using the mask my other skin care products apply like a dream. I'm feeling extra moisturized, brighter and have noticed visibly less redness. This mask would be a great addition to any skin care regimen. It's meant to be used once a week, and comes with enough of the Active Mask Powder and Intensive Booster for 4 uses when you purchase it for $75. I know, sticker shock, and I know what you're thinking already... "How can someone who is so keen on budget beauty be suggesting a $75 face mask?" I'll tell you why, if you are someone like me, then investing in your skin care is something that is important to you. I know I don't want to age and be left lusting after Botox because I didn't care for my skin properly and have turned into a wrinkled, leather freak. I justify it now, because it will pay off later. Skin Care is so important to me and I look at this mask like this, most facials (that I have had) run anywhere from $75-$125 for an hour, now let's say you're doing that once a month, it adds up. So when I look at a mask, that I can do at home, looks, feels & has better results than any facial I have ever gotten, than I am all in. 

The Skin Perfecting Mask is paraben, sulfate, petro-chemical and phthalates free and is not tested on animals. 

The mask retails for $75 HERE but can also be found at Henri Bendel NYC and BeautyArmy.com (I hope I get to pick this in my next Beauty Army Kit)

FIND GRAND CENTRAL BEAUTY

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**Disclosure** These products were received from the company for review. I am not being paid to review these products and a review was not mandatory. As always my opinions are 100% my own.

My Favorite Manicure Tools

I wanted to share with everyone what my favorite manicure tools are, I receive so many questions about this so I figured the best bet would be to put it all in one place for everyone.

• e.l.f Cuticle Pen - I can't say enough good things about this, I use it probably 15 times a day and it really is the best things I have found for my cuticles. 
• Obey Your Body Cuticle Oil - I picked this up in one of those mall kiosks about two years ago and it has lasted me forever, I use this about 3 times a week and just rub it into my cuticles before bed. 
• Sally Hansen LA CROSS Eco Board - This is my go to nail file, it's for natural nails and is about $1 at Sally's and it works perfectly for when I want square or round nails. 
• Sally Hansen Cuticle Eraser + Balm - I use this once a week, I never cut my cuticles because I have an insane fear of infection so to keep them from getting to unruly I massage this into them and push them back and it works outstanding! 
• Zebra Print Nail Clippers - These are great, and tiny enough to keep in your purse just in case. It came as a double set for $1 at Walmart 
• Obey Your Body Buffer Board - This came in that same set from the mall kiosk, and yes I have been using the same one for two years. I have tried to buy new ones, but they never give me the same even finish that this one does. I use this before I polish my nails to smooth out all the ridges. It is, as you can see, falling apart though so I guess I have to suck it up and find a new one. Suggestions?

These are my daily/weekly manicure tools and what I use to keep my nails looking nice, I absolutely love them and you can see by the wear and tear on the buffer board. What do you use for manicure tools? Any favorites?

instaLIFE Link Up

Once again I am linking up with Brooke from Silver Lining for her instaLIFE link up which is my favorite post for some reason :)  For more pictures, and what I am up to each day go ahead and feel free to check out the Instagram button on my sidebar or the bottom of this post and follow along with me. Happy Monday everyone!!

::Pampered myself on Sunday with a face mask:: ::New fave nail color from the UK:: ::Swap goodies from the UK:: ::NOTD with Bikini So Teeny:: ::New blog header:: ::Princess chicken noodle soup for my zombie death flu:: ::Bacon caramel sundae:: ::A cute new bracelet:: ::Fun new nail decals:: ::Limited Edition Olympic M&M's::

Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment: Review

Healing Oil Treatment is the first product I have tried from Macadamia Hair. I have to be honest, I have no idea what I did before this product. I received this 1oz bottle in my July Beauty Army box (review here) and I was excited to try it out. I had been hearing such amazing things about this product for quite some time and had just not gotten a try to pick it up so far. I have been using this product after every shower for about three weeks now so I wanted to go ahead and review my new favorite hair product for you all.

What they say...

• Intense nourishment for tangle & frizz free hair 
• Hair that is ultra smooth, manageable & shiny
• Natural UV protection extends the life of color treatments

What I say...

• A great light smell 
• Reduces drying time 
• Alcohol free 
• Instant results (shiny, smooth, hydrated hair) 
• Lightweight 

The Verdict...

I was hooked the first time I used this on just the smell alone. I have seen almost immediate results, my hair has been so much softer to the touch and the frizz I usually have from having such color-treated damaged hair has been greatly reduced. A little bit of the Healing Oil Treatment goes a long way, I have barely put a dent in this bottle and I have been using it every other day. This treatment is super easy to use, you pour less than a pea sized amount into your hands and work it into damp or dry hair. For extra nourishment you can work a bit of into a masque or leave-in cream. I have used this both ways but found for the best results for my hair, working a small amount into my damp hair has proved to be a big essential. The Healing Oil Treatment combines macadamia ternifolia seed oil and argania spinosa kernel oil, two of the worlds rarest oils, to provide ultimate hair rejuvenation and nourishment. This lightweight oil is therapeutic for all hair types but especially beneficial to dry, color-treated and damaged hair. The moisture my hair receives from this product is phenomenal. If you tend to have oily hair and are worried about adding a oil treatment such as this to your hair care routine, I highly recommend pairing this with a dry shampoo and you will get the same results. Macadamia Hair Healing Oil Treatment will definitely be one of my new staple products in my hair care routine (I plan to feature it in my upcoming "Hair Heroes" post) and I am excited to explore the Macadamia Hair line further. 

The 1oz bottle of Healing Oil Treatment retails for $13.50 HERE but is also sold in a variety of sizes on the Macadamia Hair website, Target and Ulta stores. 

FIND MACADAMIA HAIR 

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Have you tried this product? What are your thoughts?

As always if you have questions, leave them below, and I would be happy to answer! 

NOTD: Mani Monday

As always I am super excited to be linking up with Glitter and Gloss and Just Love.ly for this weeks edition of Mani Monday! I went with two Zoya Nail Polish colors from the Beach and Surf collection that I won from @RealBeauties for their #manimonday series, don't forget to check out their twitter and tweet them your manicure's for your chance to win their prize that week. 

I love both of these polishes individually, together I'm not sure about. It kind of reminds me of Barney... I kept finding myself singing "I love you, you love me" as I was wearing this manicure.

What are you wearing this Monday? Link up your manicures HERE

Tweet me your #ManiMonday looks, I love to see what everyone is rocking!!

Biotin Vitamins: Quick Post

Hi Ladies!! I just wanted to do a quick post on a little something that I use daily. I am always getting questions on how I get my nails to grow so long and so quickly and the truth is it's as simple as a few vitamins.

Biotin is a B vitamin involved in the production of energy. It is said to be helpful for healthy hair, aid with acne, brittle nails and eczema.

I have been taking 3 of these every day for about three months now and I have been loving the results. I have definitely seen amazing results when it comes to my skin and nails. I haven't really seen anything when it comes to my hair growth but I assume that is more to do with the fact that it was already so unhealthy, now that I have cut it all off I am hoping to see some better results. I have absolutely noticed increased nail growth and I'm seeing that my nails are much stronger than they have been in recent years.  My skin has never been very acne prone but I have definitely noticed that my skin is more radiant and not as oily since I have started with these supplements.

I take them daily with food so my stomach doesn't get upset and it's the best thing I have found for my nail growth. If you're looking for something get your nails to grow quicker, I would definitely recommend this.

I would love to know if anyone has used this and saw results with their hair growth.

As always, if you have any questions leave them below and I would be happy to answer.

I Love A Good Party!

Hi Ladies, I had this post scheduled to go live at 8 this morning but I guess Blogger had other ideas because it seems that never happened. Strange. Anyway, I am so super excited to be co-hosting the Create & Inspire Linky Party this week over at Little Inspiration and I'll be sharing Angie's post below. This is a great place to link up any of your DIY projects that you have, or some nail art or anything that you have that will inspire others. I know I'll be linking up my makeup brush holders and my hair masks and I've found some great projects through this link up!! Make sure to stop by and say hey to Angie and follow along on her awesome blog by clicking the button below!! Most of all, be sure to link your projects up below and let's all inspire each other!

 Welcome to another awesome Create & Inspire Party! C&I is a party where you can come by and party along to share your creativity, projects or anything inspiring! You can link up as many projects you want w/no rules.

• Share on Facebook , Pin IT and/or Tweet about it
• I will feature TOP FIVE PROJECTS next week and will be directly pinned on C&I Pinterest Board.
• Linky is open all week-long.
• Link up as many projects as you want. Linking back is optional.
• By linking up, you are agreeing for Little Inspiration to grab one of your images to feature them with a link back.

Neutrogena Naturals Makeup Remover: Review

What they say...

• Completely cleans skin and removes makeup in one step 
• Pure, safe and effective 
• No harsh chemicals or parabens 
• Developed for gentle eye area 

What I say...

PROS 

• Completely removes all makeup 
• Gentle on your eyes 
• Unscented 
• Multi-Use makeup remover and cleanser 

CONS

• I honestly can't come up with one. 

The Verdict...

I bought this product originally just for a makeup remover for my eyes, because besides wipes (which sometimes don't work for eye makeup) nothing has been gentle enough to use in my eye area and I HATE that burning feeling. This works wonderfully for removing your makeup, even stubborn eyeliner but is also one of the best cleansers that I have used. It's one of my favorites parts of my skin care routine.Neutrogena says that it completely cleanses skin and removes makeup in one step without stripping your skins natural moisture, and I have to agree. If you're looking for something that is gentle, unscented and works well this is for you. 

This product retails for $7.49 HERE but you can also find it in any drugstore, Target and Walmart and most of the time for cheaper. 

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Have you tried this? Would you?

As always if you have any questions leave them below and I would be happy to answer!

NOTD: Bikini So Teeny

I wanted to play around with some of my striping tape yesterday and see what I could come up with. For those of you who follow me on Instagram you have seen this gorgeous baby blue manicure but I wanted to share with everyone.  I used Essie Bikini So Teeny with white and red striping tape.

This manicure definitely has a nautical feel to it which is my favorite theme ever so I really love this look! What do you all think? Would you wear this manicure?


Don't forget to click the button below and sign up for the nail polish swap that I'm co-hosting for a chance to win some free nail polish!!

As always if you have any questions leave them below and I would be happy to answer! 

NOTD: On Wednesdays We Wear Pink (and a few changes)

Happy Pink Wednesday ladies!! It's not so happy for me, I seem to have developed the flu. Who get's the flu in August? Not fair. I don't much feel like moving but I couldn't let Wednesday pass by without a pink manicure! I used a color that I just received in the mail today from Birchbox, it was free with my points (SO EXCITED) and perfect timing since I didn't much feel like moving off the couch. So today I bring you a simple manicure, but still a gorgeous pink color and I love the name of the polish!! 

I used Color Club nail polish in the color "Jackie Oh" and I love love love this neon pink!!

What do you think? Are you wearing pink for Wednesday? Tweet me your manicures!!

Ok ladies, as you can see in the title there me be a few changes around here in the next few days unless I hit the wrong button and somehow the blog spontaneously combusts (it could happen), this all started because my sidebar was getting super cluttered and it was driving me crazy. I went on a mission to find some social networking buttons and I did so you'll see them under my picture (which now links to my "About Me" section. I'm also toying around with the idea of an all white background (thoughts?) and a new header. I've been searching the web for blog designs but everything is so crazy expensive, so I'm wondering if I could trade someone advertising space for a header.. If you or anyone you know is interested let me know! I'm also thinking of adding a custom signature picture. What does everyone think? I would love some opinions. 

As always if you have any questions leave them below and I would be happy to answer! 

Don't forget to enter the All Lacquered Up: a Nail Polish Swap that I am co-hosting!!

Skin & Co Truffle Serum & Olive Sier Oil: Review

I have an awesome review for you all today, that I have been looking forward to writing since the first time I tried the products but I wanted to give them a few weeks so I could be as in depth with this review as possible.  For my birthday in June, a friend of mine gave me a gift certificate to Skin & Co which is a skincare company that has a wide range of products ranging from your face to your body and even some aromatherapy candles. If you want to know more about Skin & Co and how they started click HERE. I ordered two products from the line and I was super excited when they arrived with 8 samples in tow, I love when companies include samples, but this was extra special because they were so generous with the amount they sent. I have been sampling them and falling in love, adding things to my "must try" list as I go. Now, let's talk about the full sized products that I tried.

Sier-Oil 

What they say...

• Serum & Facial Oil in one
• Combination of olive oil, panthenol, bee's wax and pro-vitamin B5 
• Addresses dry skin 
• Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles 
• Shea Butter adds deep hydration 
• Deep conditioning, natural effect 

What I say...

PROS 

• Softens and hydrates skin 
• Absorbs quickly 
• Amazing smell 
• Lightweight 
• Diminishes pores 
• Firming qualities around the eye area 
• Easy application with a dropper (pictured below)

CONS

• I haven't noticed any firming qualities in my neck area 
• The price is higher than what I would *usually* consider

The Verdict...

Easy Dropper Application

This is one of those purchases that I could not be happier about, it is an amazing addition to my skin care routine. I have never tried anything that I have honestly loved this much. It's the best thing I have ever used on my face, It has completely helped with evening out my skin tone. It's working amazing for added hydration. It absorbs so quickly that you barely noticed that you have applied an oil to your face. I like to see where else things can work so I have also been trying this out as a cuticle oil with the residue left on my hands after applying it and it totally makes my cuticles softer. This stuff is amazing, and I definitely plan to repurchase, I am always a drug store girl, but when I find something that does magic I will absolutely put the money out for it. Holy Grail right here people!

Hydro-Truffle Face Serum 

What they say...

• Prevent and fight the signs of aging 
• Increases water levels 
• Tones and brightens 
• Moisturizes and Revitalizes 

What I say...

PROS 

• Absorbs quickly 
• Refreshing gel like feeling 
• Lightweight 
• Leaves skin plump looking 
• Firms around the eye area

CONS

• Bit of an alcohol like smell 

The Verdict...

This product is definitely not as "life changing" as the sier-oil but it is most definitely up there. It's super moisturizing and leaves your skin feeling refreshed and moisturized. It is lightweight enough to use in place of a liquid toner before applying your daily moisturizer and makeup. I have noticed that it has brightened up my skin quite a bit. I have been using this daily in the mornings and I am happy to have it as part of my skin care routine. 

The Sier-Oil retails for $32 HERE (currently out of stock)

The Truffle Serum retails for $36 HERE 

Have you tried this brand? Would you try these products?

FIND SKIN & CO 

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YOUTUBE 

As always if you have any questions leave them below and I would be happy to answer!

Linking up here with Naptime Review

July 2012 Empties

Compared to my June Empties post, I have barely made a dent in the things I have. This is most likely due to the fact that I have been trying out a lot of products but I did manage to get through a few things this month. I have been trying extremely hard to use up the things I have. I currently like 20 different skin care products that I have to try, I'm in the process of revitalizing my skin care routine so hopefully for next month, I'll have a lot more empties!!

• Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub - I have this sugar scrub in Coconut Lime and it smells absolutely amazing. I was using this once a week and it lasted me a good 3 months. I bought it at Walmart for $5, so for me that is great value. It was absolutely the best scrub that I have used thus far. I am currently trying out another but more than likely I will go back to Tree Hut. Repurchase? Yes 
• Aussie 3 Minute Miracle - This is BY FAR the best thing I have ever used. It has brought my dry, damage, over processed hair back to life. It adds so much moisture and it is completely budget friendly! About $4 in the drugstore. Repurchase? Yes
• Tresseme Split Remedy - I received this in my Target Beauty Bag, and while it smells fab it really didn't do much for my hair. Repurchase? No 
• Skin & Co Olive Oil Face Cream - I received this sample with an order I placed with Skin & Co for my birthday and I have to say the sample lasted me a full week and I was left in awe of how moisturizing it was. Repurchase? Maybe 

I can't believe I have only gone through 4 products this month, one of which doesn't even really count as it's a sample sized, I should start using more of the samples that I have as well and see if anything in the mix is a "must buy". 

What did you use up in July? Any new favorites or must try items?

As always if you have any questions leave them below and I would be happy to answer! You can also *like* me on Facebook and find me there or on Twitter! I love hearing what you guys think of the products!!

 Follow my life through pictures and find me on Instagram @angejim

xo, Jersey Girl

All Lacquered Up: a Nail Polish Swap

Who loves nail polish?

Meghan  and I do...and we know you all do, too!

That's why we've decided to host All Lacquered Up: a Nail Polish Swap.

We know there are quite a few nail polish swaps going on right now 

{you can check out this one that Meghan & I joined yesterday}, but who doesn't love even more?! 

We hope that after reading the guidelines for All Lacquered Up, you'll join us for a super-fun swap!

As a special Thank You for joining our swap, one lucky participant will receive a bottle of Meghan's favorite and my favorite nail polish so be sure to join and spread the word for your chance to win.

Here are the deets...

Timeline:

August 7 - August 24: Sign-ups will take place! Use the form below to sign up.

Monday, August 27: Meghan and Angela will send you your swap partner.

Monday, September 3: Packages have been sent!

Wednesday, September 12: Angela and Meghan will post a link-up, and participants can start blogging about their goodies that day.

Important Stuff:

- $15 Minimum Limit before shipping.

- Willing to partner with someone outside of the US? Let us know? Do you live outside of the US? Let us know!

- If you sign up, please be serious about this. We do not want anyone to feel left out, or end up empty-handed.

- You must have an active blog and post about this swap!

Help us spread the word!

We'd love to have as many people sign up as possible. If able & willing, we'd love for you to help us by adding our button to your blog (located in my sidebar), in addition to pinning, sharing, and/or tweeting about the swap? 

"Are you ready to lacquer up? Join @MeghanGranito and @angejim0531 for All Lacquered Up: a Nail Polish Swap! http://www.shineonblog.com"

Additional Information:

- Friendly Introductions: Please head over to your partner's blog so that you can get to know them. We recommend shooting your partner an e-mail to see if there are any brands/colors they're drooling over. Also, make sure to grab their mailing address!

- Be Prepared: If you are willing to partner with someone outside of the US, make you fill out a 'customs' form and mark 'cosmetics' as the items included.

- Package Nicely: Make sure to wrap the polishes up nicely, so that we do not have any casualties in transit. Use bubble wrap and plastic bags for the best results!

- Delivery is Important: We suggest adding some sort of tracking to your package so that you and your partner confirm they were sent and delivered. This is completely optional and at the discretion of you & your partner.

- Get Creative! These swap packages are not limited to nail polish - feel free to include other nail-related items (an awesome top-coat, or a super cute nail file...get creative).

Because of the assigned schedule, please adhere to these guidelines to ensure that you meet the deadline. Swaps are only fun when both parties participate, so please be sure not to leave your partner hanging!

If you do sign up and are unable to complete this swap, please let Angela & Meghan know ASAP, so that we can reassign partners.

Let's Sign Up!

instaLIFE Link Up

I usually link this up with Brooke over at SILVER LINING for the instaLIFE Link Up but it doesn't look like she is having it this week but  I want to share with you my week in photo's through Instagram anyway.  

My week always looks so much better when I do this!! Wine Wednesday, Aveeno Makeup Wipes as a free Klout Perk, the save the date card from my cousins wedding, a new Butter London polish from my husband, snacks!! and an awesome heel balm from my GlossyBox!! 

As always if you have any questions leave them below and I would be happy to answer! You can also *like* me on Facebook and find me there or on Twitter! I love hearing what you guys think!!

Follow my life through pictures and find me on Instagram @angejim.

xo, Jersey Girl 

NOTD: Mani Monday

As always I am super excited to be linking up with Glitter and Gloss & Just Love.ly for Mani Monday! I am really excited to share this manicure because it is a gorgeous Butter London color that my husband picked out and gifted me all by himself for no reason at all, he just wanted to make me smile. He actually went into Ulta (a place he despises lol) and found a color all on his own and brought it home for me, so I was ecstatic. It's such a pretty color that I couldn't wait to try it out and I have been wearing it all weekend. He definitely did a great job with this one!

This polish is a gorgeous creme teal finish that is great for Summer but will work it's way right into Fall as well, I finished it off with a glitter accent now to give it a little something special. I am obsessed with this color right now, I think I'll check it out on my toes.

What are you wearing this Monday? If you wanna link up with Mani Monday go check out the link up HERE.

Tweet me your Mani Monday looks!

As always if you have any questions leave them below and I would be happy to answer! You can also *like* me on Facebook and find me there or on Twitter! I love hearing what you guys think!!

Follow my life through pictures and find me on Instagram @angejim

xo, Jersey Girl 

Borghese Bath Soak: Review

What they say...

• Soothe, hydrate and moisturize skin 
• Revitalizes skin with natural minerals and salts 
• Soothes tense, tired muscles

What I say...

PROS 

• Soothes aching muscles
• Leaves skin feeling soft 
• Calms you

CONS

• A strong medicinal smell 

The Verdict...

I received two packets of these in my June Birchbox and I have since used both. I love adding things to a bath and I look for products that will soothe your muscles after a nice workout. I was happy with this product for the most part, my favorite was that it turned the bath water blue, which in itself calmed me and made it more relaxing. The only thing I would change would be the smell. The price is a little high but you only use a scoopful for each bath, so I think it could be justified because a full size would last awhile. 

This product retails for $35.00 HERE (it is currently sold out) 

Have you tried this? Would you?

FIND BORGHESE 

WEBSITE 

TWITTER 

FACEBOOK

As always if you have any questions leave them below and I would be happy to answer!

You can also *like* me on Facebook and find me there or on Twitter! I love hearing what you guys think of the products!! 

Follow my life through pictures and find me on Instagram @angejim

 xo, Jersey Girl

July 2012 GLOSSYBOX

I had been hearing awesome things about Glossybox once it hit the states, so I figured I would go ahead and check it out and see exactly what they had to offer compared to other beauty subscription services. If you aren't familiar with Glossybox, it's another beauty sample subscription service similar to Birchbox, Beauty Box Five and Beauty Army. Each month they send out a box of 5 travel-sized beauty products for the price of $21 which is higher than most beauty boxes. Even with such a high price tag monthly, I had to see what all the hype was about and find out if it really is worth that price tag. Let's take a look...

A peek at the post card: Summer Nights: "After a sizzling day in the sun, there is nothing better than a cool summer night. This month's GLOSSYBOX offers you the essentials you'll need to indulge in products that show off your sun kissed skin and hair and enhance sultry eyes. Afterwards, throw on your sexy sandals and dance the night away under the shimmering summer sky."

INSIDE THE BOX

ALESSANDRO PEDIX HEEL RESCUE BALM

As always with summer and flip flops comes dry skin on my feet and as a firm believer in at-home beauty routines rather than high spa prices, I'm always looking for something to battle that dry skin on my heels.

"This foot cream oil imported exclusively from Germany provides intensive protection and nourishes skin, leaving it soft and supple."

Full Size: $18.50 (Sample: $6.17)

FIGS & ROUGE LIP, FACE & BODY BALM

I am definitely excited to try out a balm that can multi-task! This one smells AMAZING. 

"This gorgeous tin is filled with a 100% pure and natural skin balm, a multi-use wonder product that will keep your skin feeling soft and beautiful throughout the day."

Full Size: $6.00

SEBASTIAN COLOR IGNITE MULTI-TONE 

SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER

I have such color treated/over processed hair that I am always looking for new shampoo and conditioner duos to add some life back into my hair. I can't wait to see how this fairs. 

Shampoo - "Smart color moisture complex that targets your color-treated strands, to deeply moisturize and restructure hair fibers wherever needed most"

Conditioner - "This micro-bubble conditioner whips, wraps and wows your strands leaving your hair with long-lasting color and vibrant shine."

Full Size - Shampoo $14.95 Conditioner $16,95 (Sample: Shampoo $3.02 Conditioner $2.57)

SENNA COSMETICS DOUBLE DOSE LIP LACQUER

I'll never say no to lip gloss, so this was a welcomed FULL SIZED product. I am a bit confused though because in the original post card message it talks about "sultry eyes" so I am kind of confused where the lip product fits in, I saw in some other boxes, girls had gotten eye shadow so I wonder if they ran out, either way, I'd rather have the lip gloss anyway.

"This extremely shiny gloss formula contains light reflecting pigments that make your lips appear fuller and hydrated. Vitamins and Jojoba Oil add extra conditioning to your pout"

Full Size: $22.00

Those were the 5 *travel* sized items for the month of July and I was thrilled that two were actually full sized. And much to my surprise GLOSSYBOX through in an extra surprise this month. 

BLUSHED BY RUDDY WATER

I haven't heard of this brand of fragrance before so I am quite happy to try it out, I'm super excited that it's a towelette because I have been wanting to try out a perfume this way for awhile. 

"A special surprise treat for you: BLUSHED fragrance by RUDDY WATER features notes of bright red currant and rich vanilla, wrapped around subtle sweet lemon, slightly spicy ginger, and kissed with a hint of sugar. Take, tuck or share this fragranced towelette. It's scent will make you blush."

Full Size: $22.00/24 Pouches 

Total Value of My Box: $39.76

That value shocked me, if the $21/month price tag is something that is turning you off, you can definitely rest easy that you are getting your money's worth. I also think that GLOSSYBOX is setting the bar with such amazing high end products, that I have to say it would be worth it each month. This is definitely a service I plan to stick with and I look forward to see what they have in store for their subscribers in the future. 

I would rate this box a 10/10. 

Want to sign up for GLOSSYBOX? Comment below with your e-mail address and I can send you an invitation. 

As always if you have any questions leave them below and I would be happy to answer! You can also *like* me on Facebook and find me there or on Twitter! I love hearing what you guys think of the product!!

Follow my life through pictures and find me on Instagram @angejim

xo, Jersey Girl