POPSUGAR Must Have Box - February 2013

So we are already in March.  Is it me or is this year flying by?  February is such a short month…you blink and it's March.  Didn't want too much time to be by before sharing the contents of my POPSUGAR Must Have Box for February - a celebration of romance, sweet goodies, and love.  POPSUGAR'S Must Have Box costs $35 plus tax (free shipping) and it includes a variety of must have products from the worlds of beauty, fashion, fitness, food, and home.

My February Box contained the following items:

Fashion - Brokedown Spa Wrap - Powder Pink - www.brokedownclothing.com; $84.00 - If you started off 2013 the right way and are working out, this great wrap comes in handy at the gym.  This ultra-soft wrap comes in one size and is luxurious and cozy.  An offer for 30% off a future purchase is included.

Fashion - Hanky Pankys - Apple Zing - www.hankypanky.com; $20 - These ultra comfortable thongs come in a variety of colors.  Perfect for special occasions or even for everyday.  Panty lines and discomfort are a thing of the past with these thongs.  A 15% off coupon code for a future purchase is included.

Food - MarieBelle New York's Trésor Box - Dark Chocolate Pearls - www.mariebelle.com; $12 - These decadent babies come in the cutest box.  MarieBelle, in SoHo, offers a whole host of goodies.  These are great all on their own.  I dressed up my heart-shaped pancakes with these babies on Valentine's Day.

Beauty - Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain - Romantic - www.revlon.com; .095 oz/2.7 g/$7.49-$8.99 vary by store; - As many of you know, I just love nude lippies.  I shy away from Red on my lips as I always feel like it looks as if my mouth is bleeding.  This lightweight stain offers just a hint of color and left behind a shade of red that I could live with.

Entertainment - Safe Haven Book and Song Download - www.safehavenfilm.com; Paperback/$7.99 - Nicholas Sparks strikes again with this love story that has been adapted for the big screen starring Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough.  The bookmark holds all the info needed to download "The Journey" from the film's soundtrack.

Home - Connoisseurs Quick Jewelry Cleanser - www.connoisseurs.com; 5 fl. oz./150 ml/$5.99 - Not sure if you got bling for Valentine's Day, but if you did or if you have a nice little collection, you can keep it beautiful and sparkling with this safe and gentle cleanser.  This gel comes with its own little brush to make cleaning easy.  Safe for gold, platinum and gemstones, it's great to have.

Special Extra:

Food - Conversation Hearts; 3 pack - $7.95; www.candy.com - This nostalgic pack of Sweethearts took me back to my elementary school days when a certain someone gave me my first taste of these cute treats and their messages.

Overall rating: Booyah!!!  If you have not yet tried POPSUGAR Must Have Boxes/Bags, you're truly missing out.  Each one gets better and better.  I've yet to be disappointed.  The value and selection of items are not to be believed!!!  The value of this box was over $100.  How can you beat that?

If you're interested in trying POPSUGAR, please click here.

My February Ipsy Bag - "Red Carpet Ready"

The February Ipsy Bag, themed "Red Carpet Ready," is a shiny, vinyl black zipper bag with a red lining loaded with a face primer, eyeshadow, gel eyeliner, mascara, lash cards and coupon codes from participating vendors.

Here's a review of the items I received and descriptions as reflected on the brand websites:

Pixi - Flawless & Poreless - Pore Minimizing Face Primer - 0.5 fl. oz./15 ml deluxe sample; Full size 1.01 fl. oz./30 ml/$29 - The Pixi Flawless & Poreless primer creates a beautiful no-shine finish for flawless, long-lasting makeup application. This shine controlling, oil-free primer smooths out fine lines and hydrates while making pores instantly disappear. It is the perfect skin primer for all complexions and all skin types. There is an offer for 20% off a future order on ipsy.com.

Coastal Scents - Eyeshadow Sample - In The Spotlight - Dark Goldenrod, Sunbeam, Golden Globe, Dark Golden Olive - Sample size .07 oz/2 g; Full size .04 oz/1.3 g/$1.99 each shade - This mini quad contains 4 complementary colors to create a quick eye look.  The sample is easy to travel with.  The shades included are:  Dark Goldenrod (a deep, gleaming golden hue with a satiny finish), Sunbeam (an alluring pastel yellow with a matte finish), Golden Globe (a glistening golden hue with a satin finish) and Dark Golden Olive (a shimmering, deep green hue with iridescent golden sparkles).  Each can be purchased on coastalscents.com.  There is a coupon code for 25% off a future purchase via ipsy.com.

Mica Beauty - Gel Eyeliner  - Appears to be Full size .18 oz/5 g/$30 - Micabeauty Ultra Smooth Gel Eyeliners make it easy for anyone to apply eyeliner without dealing with smudges, uneven lines, or fading. These Gel Eyeliners include 5 highly pigmented colors perfect for any occasion and are sure to last longer than regular eyeliners.  I couldn't help but notice that what is on the website comes with a brush, while what was shipped was just in a pot.  It is possible that they have changed their packaging.  The jar I received was not labeled for size but I believe it is full-sized.  There is an offer for 30% on ipsy.com.

Pop Beauty - Smoky Lash Kapow Mascara  - Smoky Black - Full size .17 oz/4.8 g/$14 - This mascara fattens each lash to give a maximum volumizing end result.  It delivers an ultra black, extra glossy finish that is tear (from laughing of course!), swim (go on, just jump in!), rub (well you never know?) and sweat proof (dancing is SUCH good exercise).  Fiber-free so suitable for contact lens & sensitive eyes.  Ophthalmologist-tested. Fragrance-Free.  There is an offer for 20% off on ipsy.com.

Lash Card - Mascara Shields - Sample package of 2 shields; Full size 10 cards/$6.99 - Ideal for protecting your shadow application from mascara smudges or if you're layering mascara, these shields protect your base from unwanted smudges and stray marks.  I love using these when applying mascara to my bottom lashes.  Shields are individually wrapped so they are hygienic. A Buy 2, Get 1 free is offered on ipsy.com.

Overall rating:  Booyah!  for value of the product contents and introducing me to new products brands that I now love.  I just love it when I can try a new product and locating a full-sized purchase is easy.  The coupon codes are listed on the ipsy.com site so if you lose your insert card, you're not out of luck.

My January Ipsy Bag - "Super Stars"

The January Ipsy Bag, themed "Super Stars," a Blue MicroFiber zipper bag with a star-studded lining, came loaded with nail polish, argan oil, body butter, hair spray, an eyeliner brush and coupon codes from participating vendors.

Here's a review of the items I received and descriptions as reflected on the brand websites:

Nailtini - Straight Up Color Nail Lacquer Flawless & Poreless - Frappe - Full size 15 ml/.5 fl. oz./$13 -  Pure all-premium nail color in sheer pale pink; Matching lip color available on tinibeauty.com. There is an offer for 30% off a future order on ipsy.com.

Josie Maran - Argan Oil - Sample size .17 fl oz/5 ml; Full size 1.7 fl oz/50 ml/$48 - This legendary, lightweight oil, grown organically in Morocco, is rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids. Use it as a fast absorbing daily moisturizer, or to heal and condition everything from cuticles to split ends.  There is a coupon code for 15% off a future purchase of $45 or more via ipsy.com.

Pacifica - Tuscan Blood Orange Body Butter - Travel size 2.5 fl oz/73 ml/$7 - Smell incredible with our nourishing and anti-oxidant rich ingredients.  Our body butter helps fight signs of aging while adding deep moisture and protection.  Made with nature's best moisturizers - shea butter, almond oil and safflower oil -  Pacifica's paraben-free Body Butter is a skin must-have.  There is an offer for 20% on ipsy.com.

Sexy Hair - Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray - Sample size 1.5 oz/50 ml; Full size 10.6 oz/$17.50 - Big Sexy Hair Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray gives your hair moveable and unbelievable volume, lift and hold. This firm, fast-drying volumizing hairspray leaves hair manageable and super shiny while defending it against damaging UV rays. Its extra strength won't diminish under humidity and it is great for any hair type.  A savings of $5 off a $25 purchase is offered on ipsy.com.

SOHO - Eyeliner Brush - Full size/$7.99 - The eyeliner brush has a compact, flat tip that makes it the perfect tool for applying single-stroke color, providing instant definition.  Each brush comes in a reusable tube with design tips.  Have I mentioned that the handle is ergonomically designed?  A savings of $3 off a Walgreens online purchase is offered on ipsy.com.

Overall rating:  Booyah!  for value of the product contents and introducing me to new products brands that I now love.  I just love it when I can try a new product and locating a full-sized purchase is easy.  The coupon codes are listed on the ipsy.com site so if you lose your insert card, you're not out of luck.

GLOSSYBOX - January 2013

To kick off the new year, GLOSSYBOX partnered with Leandra Medine for the special "Man Repeller" edition of GLOSSYBOX ($21; www.glossybox.com).  The insert card reads, "Hey friend!  Pleas enjoy this Glossybox even though you are so damn pretty, you don't need the aid of my fav. products. "Kiss", Leandra (MR)."

The contents of this shipment were as follows:

Estée Lauder - Sumptuous Extreme Lash Multiplying Volume Mascara - Sample size: 0.1 oz/2.8 ml/Full size: .27 oz/$25 - Three different high-volume fibers create audacious, false-lash effect.  Lustrous color leaves eyes brighter, wider, more seductive than ever.  Build bigger, bolder, more extreme lashes at the Estée Lauder counter today.

Fresh - Umbrian Clay Mattifying Serum - Sample size: .17 oz/5ml/Full size: 1 oz/$35 - Umbrian Clay, Fresh's proprietary ingredient, has a uniquely high mineral content that works to neutralize acidity, purifying and clarifying the complexion.  This treatment formula tones and hydrates while controlling shine and minimizing the appearance of pores.

Le Métier de Beauté - Replenishing Daily Solution - Sample size: .10 oz/3 ml/Full size: 1.17 oz/$225 - This rich, emollient formula protects, conditions and hydrates while it nourishes, rejuvenates and detoxifies skin, restoring a health suppleness to your skin.  Paraben-free.

Narciso Rodriguez  for Her Eau de Toilette Spray - Sample size: .03 fl oz/1 ml/Full size: 1.6 oz/$77/3.3 oz/$104 - A fragrant harmony of musk, intimately refined with a floral facet developing gently and slowly, rounding out into the feminine warm tones of sun-kissed skin, dusted in soft, velvet-like sensuality.

OPI - Can't Let Go Liquid Sand Nail Lacquer - Full size: 15 ml/0.5 oz/$9 - A unique matte purple shade with subtle accents of reflective shimmer.  This long wearing liquid sand lacquer dries to a matte finish which means no top coat is necessary!  Apply base coat and two coats of color for full opacity.

Sebastian Professional - Potion 9 - Sample 1.7 fl oz/50 ml/Full size: 5.1 oz/$19 - The ultimate versatile styling cream infused with nine botanical extracts to help restore lost moisture and rejuvenate the healthy look of your hair.  Perfect for styling your wet or dry hair into multiple looks with flexible hold.

tarte - Glamazon Pure Performance 12-hour Lipstick - Fierce  - Full size: .07 oz/$26 - Achieve vivd long-lasting color with a superb blend of emollient-rich butters (mango, avocado and shea) encapsulated in Tarte's 12-hour power formula.  Helps to minimize the appearance of fine lines leaving your lips with a perfect plumped-up appearance.

GLOSSYBOX Mag - Winter Beauty Edition - A mini-magazine with brief articles on The Man Repeller, Natural Beauty Tips, Trends, Q&A, and more.

Overall rating:  Booyah!  This was a great box jam-packed with great items so the retail value made this box well worth the price and the wait.

Have you tried GLOSSYBOX?  What  are your thoughts?

Birchbox- February 2013 Shipment

The February 2013 Birchbox, the "Red Carpet Ready" edition, is inspired by all the major award shows that February brings, not to mention that lovely holiday smack dab in the middle of the month.  Here is some insight into the picks that Katia, Hayley and the Birchbox team packed up this month.

This Birchbox included 5 items as follows:

• Beauty Protector Protect & Detangle (Sample size; Full size: $21.95) Great for all hair types, this nourishing elixir performs 7 hair-healing functions.  Among them: locking in color, adding shine, and instant detangling.

• Jouer Matte Moisture Tint in Nude (.07 fl oz/2.3 ml; full size $38) This SPF 15 oil-free tinted moisturizer blends in beautifully to even out skin and control shine.

• Kiehl's Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream (0.25 fl oz/7 ml; full size $52) The latest anti-aging treatment to rock our world, this new moisturizer is loaded with copper and calcium to restore elasticity and reduce wrinkles.

• Oscar de la Renta - Live in Love (Full size $25-78) Fragrance devotees adore this elegant floral, which layers ethereal notes of hyacinth and orchid over a rich base of sandalwood and cedar.

• Extra! Ghirardelli - Milk & Caramel Square - Thanks Birchbox for giving me my first taste of Valentine's Day chocolate.

Overall rating:  Booyah! for introducing me to a great hair care and skincare product.  Beauty Protector works wonders on my curly hair and the Kiehl's cream is a welcome addition to my night care regimen.

As always, Birchbox monthly shipments cost $10 (birchbox.com).  Access to the online Birchbox magazine is included with this month's features on Pantone's 2013 Color of the Year, Hollywood Hair, as well as insights on Red Carpet-Inspired manicures and insider tips on how to primp like a star.

Birchbox - January 2013 Shipment

The January 2013 Birchbox, the "Best Year Ever" edition, kicks off the year with some great items. Katia, Hayley and the Birchbox team packed up some items that I just couldn't wait to try.

This Birchbox included 5 items and a bonus 25 ways to make 2013 awesome guide:

• Frownies Eye Gels sample (.6 oz reusable set; Full size: $29.95) Fight puffy dark circles with these innovative undereye patches, which are soaked with cactus-derived collagen and hyaluronic acid.
• Frownies Rose Water Hydrator Spray (8 ml; full size $11.95) This two-in-one toner and hydrating mist balances ph levels while plumping up fine lines with hyaluronic acid.

• Juicy Couture - Viva La Juicy (0.05 fl oz/1.5 ml; full size $25-$90) Juicy's charming scent will bring out your inner girly girl.  Wild berries flirt with mandarin and soft floral notes for a fragrance that's fun and happy.

• My - Multi-Purpose Mattifying Moisturizer (0.3 fl oz/10 ml; full size $68) Rich with pili and moringa oils, this healthy moisturizer gives skin a velvety matte finish that lasts all day.

• theBalm - Put a Lid On It Eyelid Primer (.125 fl oz/3.7 ml; full size $18) Keep that pretty eye shadow crease-free with this stay-put primer, which also prevents smudges and smears.

• Birchbox Tips - 25 Ways to Make 2013 Awesome - Loaded with all kinds to tips on how to renew, refresh, rejuvenate and resolve to make 2013 a great year.

Overall rating:  Booyah! for the variety of goodies as well as featuring a My sample.  If you haven't tried My, you should.  I will be posting a review on some items I love soon.

As always, Birchbox monthly shipments cost $10 (birchbox.com).  If you haven't signed up yet, what's stopping you? It makes a great gift.