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Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Review: Gogolook 100 LED 33-foot Globe Fairy Lights

I love string lights. They are just so festive, delicate and happy. Now, you do not have to rely only on the Christmas season to hang string lights. I have string lights hanging around my house, but I primarily turn them on during the Christmas season. Or if we have company and I want to
change the atmosphere of the room - something more mellow or something more festive!
   I recently acquired these string lights, which definitely fit into a more mellow mood. I love the little frosted delicate globes covering each light. These string lights would be perfect for a patio party or a garden party. These warm lights poking out amidst various colorful flowers.
   This string has six different settings affecting the brightness level and the modes. Personally, I like the slower alternating mode. Every other light turns on every few seconds. It's calm and reminds me of fireflies. So far, none of these lights have burned out on me, either. And the fact that they are LED just makes it better - less energy is used and the electricity bill is not as high. Recommended.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Monday, August 29, 2016

Review: Shower Bouquet XL Lace Mesh Bath Sponge

I love a good bath sponge. It feels so soft and exquisite against your skin as you take a shower. This pack of bath sponges I recently acquired feel so much better than the standard bath sponge you obtain at general stores.

   These sponges are put together in a wonderful way. You know how a lot of sponges you get eventually start falling apart at the seams? That has happened to me so often and I recall it occurring as early as one week into getting a sponge. So far, there has been no wear or tear on this sponge. I have used it regularly since it came in and it still looks like it is brand spanking new.
   I love that these sponges came in a pack of four. That way, each person in my family can have their own sponge. Even though they are pastel colors with lacey accents, the males in my family all received one. It serves a purpose, even though it may look feminine. To help determine which sponge belongs to which family member, each person got a specific color. I got the purple. My daughter got pink. My husband got blue. My son got yellow. No one will be using another person's sponge.
   I recommend these and you can get 30 percent off of your purchase of these sponges by using the following promotional discount code: LOOFAH30. Just go to the link above and apply the code at checkout.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge, and received compensation, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Sunday, August 28, 2016

Review: Vita Pure Products Organic Flaxseed Oil

I have thick hair and a lot of it. Sounds wonderful, right? It could be, if my hair was not so unbelievably dry. If I don't get regular amounts of conditioner in my hair, it looks like I stuck my finger in an outlet.

   I have been trying to find some natural supplements that I could incorporate into my day that would help make my hair healthier. I heard about using flaxseed oil capsules, so I thought I would give it a try. Since I began taking this supplement, my hair has not shown much improvement, but my nails have. I try to regularly paint my nails, so I notice that they tend to be brittle. I cannot grow my nails too long or they start breaking left and right. Now, I have noticed that my nails are not as brittle. They have more flexible tendencies. Instead of breaking when I accidentally hit one against the washer or dryer, it bends. Now, there is a little bit of breakage on the edges, but it is not a complete break. Therefore, I can only assume the flaxseed oil capsules are working.
   I have not noticed an increase in my weight loss, which is a side effect that is touted, but I can only assume that is not too far behind. I mean, my nails have definitely improved. I would recommend this.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge, and received compensation, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review: Islands Miracle Ultra 50 Probiotics

I have not really been big into probiotics, but I thought I would go ahead and give it a try. You never know whether or not something works for you until you try it. To be honest, I have never really given a lot of thought about my digestive process. Food goes in and goes through the necessary process. If it doesn't hurt, why mess with it?
   Well, turns out, it's more important than what I previously thought. If I take better care of my digestive system, I might not have frequent bouts of constipation and I will certainly not have as much gas. I do not experience bloating from gas, but I certainly do experience plenty of embarrassing moments due to gas.
   I got some probiotics not too long ago to test it out. Upon opening the bottle, a smell emitted, but it was not unpleasant. It was certainly not an overwhelming health food store smell. It was almost like a tropical smell. Anyway, the directions were easy enough. Take two capsules daily, which I did. I am pleased to report that two capsules were not too much for me. If two capsules are too much for you, you will experience GI discomfort and you should then reduce it to one capsule a day.
   About two days after I began taking these probiotics, my gas noticeably dissipated. That is a pleasant report to give. The healthy bacteria the probiotics give my large and small intestines are definitely doing their job.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge, and received compensation, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Saturday, August 27, 2016

Review: LuminWiz Warm White LED Bulb

While I am frugal with the lights in my household, I do like to have a good supply of light bulbs on hand. You never know when one is going to go out or accidentally break.
   I recently acquired this light bulb to see how it compares to the standard light bulbs I usually buy. You know, the ones
that come in a pack of four that you can get at almost any retail store in America. I have to say that this one certainly does more than compare.
   I love that it is dimmable. You do not have to worry about getting blinded in the middle of the night. The light can be low and not obtrusive to your sleepy eyes. Also, it is an LED bulb, so you know it is going to be energy savvy. It will last longer and you will see a difference in your electricity bills as time goes on. The more LED bulbs you have, the better.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Review: Smart Scale Digital Square Glass Scale

I have a love-hate relationship with scales. As I am sure do most people in this country. Years ago, I upgraded from the weighted hand to a digital scale. However the digital scale I had, while accurate, was horridly ugly. Then I looked at the options I had in the stores. I did not want to spend an unreasonable amount of money on a scale just so it could look prettier.

   But then I found this scale and while it not be exactly what I was looking for aesthetically, it is certainly a huge improvement over my former scale. I like the sleek and modern look of this scale. The glass helps me in the quest of keeping it clean, which is simple with some window cleaner. No streaks, no mess, no footprints.
   So far, I would have to say the readings the scale has given me has been accurate. What my former scale gave is what this scale gave me on day one. I wanted to make sure I was getting the same reading before chucking my old scale. And I got that same reading. I have no complaints. The screen reads very clear. The batteries tend to be used up faster than my old scale, which is a downside, but I can contend with it for a while. I would recommend this scale to those who are looking for a more modern scale.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Review: Spa Life's Apple Cinnamon Handmade Soap

I am not usually one for bars of soap. As a lot of people, I love my body wash. I have a few bars of soap standing by for when I run out of body wash. Now, I have another couple bars of soap, but these smell SO much nicer!

   Imagine waking up in the morning to the smell of apple cinnamon buns, or apple cinnamon oatmeal. That is what these bars smell like - apple cinnamon. And when you open them up from their packaging . . . WOW! That smell hits you in the face. It is strong, but not unpleasant in the least bit.
   The scent was so nice, I wanted to give it a try the next time I took a shower. Indeed, my skin smelled like apple cinnamon after I was done. The soap did it's job, too. My skin was also squeaky clean. I don't think it did anything as far as moisturizing goes, though. My skin is uber dry, so I need a lot of moisturizing in my soaps and body washes. But, after a round of lotion, I was good to go.
   I would recommend these to anyone who is looking for an alternative to the bars of soap generally found in big box stores. So much better than the standard fare!
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Tuesday, August 23, 2016

Review: Maxam's 4-Piece 13 ounce Double Wall Stainless Steel Tumbler Set

We have a love affair going on with stainless steel in this household. We are actively trying to replace most things in our kitchen with stainless steel. I recently acquired a set of four stainless steel tumblers and thus, four glasses were donated to the thrift store.

   Personally, I love these. I know my son will not break them now that he is drinking out of big boy cups and they hold enough milk, water or juice to satiate his thirst. So far, he has dropped it and thrown to his sister in an effort to play catch. There are no dents or dings in these cups.
   I love how smooth the stainless steel is. They feel amazing in your hands. I also love how sleek and modern these are. These would look amazing in an industrial or steampunk themed restaurant or bar. For the time being, they look stunning sitting in my cupboard and on my table.
   I would recommend anyone getting these cups if they have young hands holding drinking containers, if you are looking for a more modern look in your home or if you just want some sleek, durable drinkware.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Monday, August 22, 2016

Review: Mitaki-Japan Clock with Hidden Safe

My husband has a love affair with safes. He loves them - all shapes and sizes and if one is made to look like something else, he falls even more in love with it.

   That is why I got this clock safe. It looks awesome, especially for the money it costs. However when it arrived, I was expecting more. I am okay with the fact that the clock looks like the standard clocks you find in almost every single elementary and high school classroom in the country. It is almost comforting. It kind of gives you the sense of non-change in an ever-changing world. That clock will always be around.
   Now, on to the not-so-great. This clock is not well made. It is made of cheap, thin plastic. You definitely do not want to store anything that has any weight on the shelves hidden behind the face of the clock. The shelves are ideal for paper money, some precious family rings, maybe a watch. Once, when I opened and shut it, I was afraid I broke it because I heard a crack. I could not find the source of the sound, though. I inspected all of the plastic and could not find the crack. I am assuming I weakened it somewhere and that it will show it's face sooner or later.
   This would be a good gift for a kid who is interested in spies, but definitely not for a spouse.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
  

Sunday, August 21, 2016

Review: OPUL Natural Air Purifier Bag

If you have a house like me, sometimes undesirable odors can invade. From the garbage or from the bathrooms. The bathrooms are usually the source of stinkiness for me. Now, I could spray some good-smelling stuff all over, but all that leaves me with is a mixed scent of flowers and yuckiness. Not very desirable.

   I recently received an air purifier bag to help get rid of the bad smells and it works wonderfully. In fact, I have two of them - one for each bathroom. I might get another one in the future for the garbage can.
   Anyway, after someone leaves the bathroom, instead of turning on the fan and wasting electricity, we give it 15 minutes. By then, the bag manages to do it's duty. If the scent is not completely gone, it is barely there. You can still go in there without gagging. I love these. They are not as invasive to your nose as sprays and they are not energy suckers the way bathroom fans are. I think every household should have these.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Saturday, August 20, 2016

Review: TripWorthy's Premium Outdoor Hammock

I finally have enough hammocks for everyone in my family! This hammock completes the set. We recently took a family camping trip to test it out. It looked wonderful as it hung between two trees.

   It was really easy to set up, especially since it came with two straps and ropes. It was up and ready for relaxation in the span of minutes. Since it holds up to 500 pounds, I knew that both of my children would be able to lounge in it if they wanted to spend some cuddle time together at bedtime. Sometimes sleeping outside can be frightening for children, so I wanted to make sure that they felt safe and secure. Heck, this hammock could hold both my husband and I, which is great because we don't have another hammock that could support both of our weights.
   It was very comfortable and indeed, I did not feel the hammock was going to fall as I tested it out. I relaxed completely in the hammock, letting the smooth rocking send me further into sleep mode. The only downside to this hammock is that it does not come with mosquito netting. So, I decided to use this hammock, instead of one my kids. But, I can buy some netting for it.
   All in all, it's a good hammock and will live up to any camping trip you might take.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Friday, August 19, 2016

Review: Baby Temper Child Safety Locks

When you have babies and toddlers, keeping things locked up is an important aspect of life. When we were living in our old apartment in Tulsa, we had some baby locks on cabinets and cupboards in the kitchen. But, we left them behind when we moved to Minnesota. That has left our kitchen drawers and cabinets, as well as our refrigerator vulnerable to little hands.

   I finally got some child safety locks that are very versatile. These can be applied to your drawers, cabinets, refrigerator, doors and toilet seats. Basically anything that you want to prevent baby from opening.
   My son can no longer open the refrigerator door to help himself to milk or jelly. That saves me money and plenty of messes to clean up. I have also placed one on the front door. He loves to open the front door. That makes me paranoid, thinking that he might get out in the middle of the night, so I put one at the top of the door. I have not placed one on the toilet, because he is in the middle of potty training.
   At first, I was doubtful these would work well because the locks are held to the surfaces with adhesive, but no one has been able to peel them off yet. That's a good thing. I highly recommend these safety locks for all household with small children.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge, and received compensation, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Wednesday, August 17, 2016

Review: Tantino's Cat Eye Chola Sunglasses

My quest for an awesome pair of sunglasses will unfortunately continue.
   I recently tried out some cat eye sunglasses. I love the cat eye look. I always have. I have never tried cat eye sunglasses, though. So, I figured I would give it a shot. How do you know until you try, right?

   I love the look of these particular sunglasses. They have a lovely gold-colored metal frame. I'm not a fan of plastic frames, so that was a boon. They also have mirrored lenses. I do not like my eyes to be visible when I wear sunglasses. I figure that if my eyes can be seen, then the lenses are not doing their job of blocking out the rays of the sun. The lenses have a blue tint to them, and it works even though I prefer black. The glasses are comfortable, as well. They sit wonderfully on my nose and my ears.
   So, what doesn't work? Well, they make me look like a bug. Sometimes, no matter how cute you think something is, it just does not work for you. These glasses just do not do my face justice. But, that does not mean they will not work for you.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

Review: AYL TC80 4-in-1 LED Flashlight

Having a magnetic flashlight is indeed handy - especially for a mechanic. My husband is an aviation mechanic and he loves that this flashlight provides him a source of light and both free hands.

   Hidden in the handle of the flashlight is a lantern. All you do is pull both ends of the flashlight and the lantern becomes visible. It provides a low lamp-style light, which is ideal for camping situations or when the lights go out. And since it is magnetic, you will be able to stick that emergency light on any magnetic surface and be assured that it will stay there. You will not have to hold onto that emergency source of light.
   There are two downfalls to this flashlight, however. One - it uses four AAA batteries. In my experience, AAA batteries are more expensive than AA's. Also, the flashlight does not offer any options of brightness. The option is does provide is low, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. If you do not want a blinding source of light in the dark, this might be just the ideal flashlight for you.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Monday, August 15, 2016

Review: Tantino Futuristic Double Bridge Aviator Mirror Lens

I find it challenging to find a decent pair of sunglasses. I dislike glasses that are extremely huge. I also do not like lightly tinted lenses. I like my lenses to be dark - so dark you cannot see my eyes. I prefer metal frames to plastic frames, as well.

   I recently acquired these sunglasses. They remind me of the movie Top Gun. And why shouldn't they? They are, after all, aviator sunglasses. They certainly do look awesome. They have a lovely gold-colored metal frame and even though the lenses are blue, they are mirrored. You cannot see my eyes through these babies. They also do a wonderful job in blocking out the sun.
   Now, the bad news - they do not look good on me. At all. They make me look consistently sad, or that I have hound dog eyes. Like Trusty on Lady and the Tramp. However, my face is rectangular - very long and right now - kind of pudgy. Just because these don't look good on me, does not mean they will not look good on you.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Saturday, August 13, 2016

Review: Escolite's Black Light 100 UV LED Flashlight

Never before had I thought that a black light would come in so handy. I had a black light with some black light posters on a wall when I was a teenager. That wall became my favorite. So, I always associated black lights with awesome colors and décor. Little did I know.

   I recently received a black light flashlight. Apparently, it is used to spot urine from pets. I do not have any pets, but I wondered if it could be used so spot other things. Boy, does it ever!
   A couple months ago, my son acquired a jar of peanut butter, and being the sneak that he is he took it into my bedroom and began painting the walls and the carpet with the popular spread. I scrubbed the walls and the carpet for hours, trying to get rid of all of the peanut butter and extinguish the smell. After I could not see or smell anything, I knew my task was complete and successful . . . until I shone the black light on the spots that I scrubbed. Those spots lit up like Christmas!! I found that to be fascinating, because the naked eye could not see any residual peanut butter.
   So, more scrubbing for me.
   This is an awesome gadget to have - especially if you want to make darned sure that your home is squeaky clean. Just be sure you don't shine it in someone's eyes. My daughter was playing with it, trying to find dirty spots, and accidentally pointed it at my face. The light did hurt my eyes. Just a word of caution.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Friday, August 12, 2016

Review: AhSleep from MFH Health

My husband has had bouts of insomnia for the past two years. He might get a couple hours of sleep, but then he pops awake and he cannot get back to sleep - no matter how hard he tries. We do not know what is causing it, but it is certainly making him grumpy.

   Then, there comes a time when he has gone so long without sleep that he becomes a walking zombie and falls asleep almost immediately after he gets home. He recently decided to go ahead and give some natural sleep supplements a try - AhSleep. If it was not natural, he probably would not have taken it. He has taken prescribed sleeping pills before and they made him feel terrible.
   AhSleep did not put him to sleep immediately, but I can tell you that he did not wake up in the middle of the night. He managed to sleep through the night and feel refreshed the next morning. It has not been every day he took a pill, though. I would say it happened two times out of the three days he has taken it. So, while he is not totally happy with it, he is still willing to try it again. Some improvement is better than no improvement.
Full disclosure: I was sent this product free of charge, and received compensation, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.