October Empties

1. Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes
I got this little sample/travel sized one for free in a Target Beauty Bag some time this summer. I have reviewed this product before HERE, and HERE.

2. Fekkai Essential Shea Butter Shampoo & Conditioner Samples
I received these samples in my September Birchbox and I really liked them. If I remember correctly, I liked the conditioner better than the shampoo, but it could have been the other way around (I used them up at the beginning of the month). Would I buy the full size? Probably not since Fekkai is so expensive. Will I hope that one day they show up at TJ Maxx for an amazingly cheap price? Heck yes, because I loved the smell, and I feel like long term results wouldn't be disappointing.

3. Beauty Fixation Makeup Remover
I received these three swabs in my September Birchbox as well and I loved them so much I bought the full size (check out my haul HERE). They are super convenient in quick mornings before work when I make a makeup error that needs to be corrected or else I would look sloby for work. Each swab has just enough fluid that it sin't drippy or anything, but you also don't have to rub and rub to make it work - just a swipe or two and you are ready to go. I find they are perfect for the accidental mascara on the brow bone or eyelid. Buy full size? Already have!

4. Miss Jessie's Quick Curls Sample
I received this in my August Birchbox. I liked it, but I'm not sure if I love it enough to buy it because I feel like other brands can do the same for cheaper. It had a nice smell, and it wasn't really fatal if you over used the product, which is nice. However, I feel like it didn't do miracles for my hair, just de-frizzed a little. The sample size was huge though so that was fantastic, and I have always wanted to try this brand out because I keep hearing about it online.

5. Schick Quattro for Women Razor Blades
I got this from my mom when she stumbled upon them in her stash and she realized she doesn't really use the brand so she doesn't even know how she got them, LOL. Fine by me though since I used the Quattro. However, I did find that I like the sensitive version of this blades, which is what I have always bought myself. It was nice to confirm to myself that the sensitive is indeed better though. These blades are nice, but I am totally a "razor with gel stripe" princess and love a nice gel-y lube-y razor over a simple one like this one. Buy myself? Probably not unless I was desperate because the sensitive ones were out of stock or these were hugely cheaper or something.

6. Nivea Creme Tin
I don't like the smell and the formula is nothing special. The smell reminds me of a hospital, and it moisturizes just as much as you would think a really thick cream would, aka, a little bit greasy. I used this at night for a hand cream as well as an occasional calf, or foot cream. I have a second one of these because I bought them to fulfill a promo deal at Target one time, but I probably wouldn't by them again unless I was similarly trying to fulfill a promo via the cheapest means possible (because these tins are under a dollar if I remember correctly). Buy full size? Nope. Buy the mini again? Not unless it was for other reasons than for wanting the product, haha.

7. Grand Home Furnishings Hand Sanitizer
The size of this hand sanitizer is just plain adorable! And you could actually put it in a nighttime clutch if you wanted because it is so slim. I used this up at work because I now have the inspiration to finally use all my sanitizers that I have seemed to aquire. This one was fine, and it was simple. It lasted a couple days with 4-6 times daily use (my office has a few cold bugs going round so I am now one of those obsessive people haha). Buy again? Can't because I got it for free at a Grand Home Furnishings Store. I doubt they still have them out as I got this a few years ago. I am happy I have a second one though so i can experience the cuteness again! haha.

8. Bath & Body Works I Love Shopping Peach PocketBac
The world wanted me to have this hand sanitizer because I got it for free when I found a coupon for a free hand sanitier just laying around on a shelf in a B&BW one time. Then the "I Love Shopping" name just called to me, and the peach scent was the icing on the cake. Like the other hand sanitizer I used this up at work. And would you believe that this was my first B&BW PocketBac? Needless to say I understand the hype now... scented hand sanitizer is just way more fun and the prices of PocketBacs are always 5 for $5 so I am pretty sure I will be buying more of these super soon!

9. L'Occitane Dry Skin Hand Cream
I got this for free when I was at the L'Occitane outlet in Florida (See my haul post HERE). I had always heard about this hand cream being good, and my mom loves L'Occitane, but this is the first time I've ever owned it. I've gotta say, it is just as good as the hype makes it out to be. Its just the right amount of moisture without being greasy, and it always does it's job. I never was much of a hand cream person but now that I have an office job I am washing my hands all the time and there is nothing worse than the feel of dry hands, eww! (well maybe dry feet is worse, haha). This lasted me a bout two and a half weeks use when I used it many times per day at work. Buy full size? Well I have a second one in this size that I got for free with a Facebook promo/coupon, so we'll see if I want to drop the money for it after I used up that one.

10. Origins Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash Sample
I can't remember how I got this sample again, but my opinion hasn't changed since the first time I reviewed it HERE.

11. Simple Soothing Eye Balm
This thing lasted FOREVER! I got this in the beginning of the year and it lasted me until now! WOW! HERE is my previous review of the product itself, which hasn't changed.

12. L'Occitane Precious Eye Balm Sample
This was one of the many L'Occitane samples that my mom gave me that she had been hording for some time. This eye balm just didn't meet my needs after using the Simple Soothing Eye Balm. This one stung my eyes a little bit upon first application, and I didn't notice that it did any better of a job at hydration than the Simple one did. It did have the nice Immortelle scent, but that was about the only thing it had going for it. Buy the full size? Not likely given my experience and I'm sure the price point isn't something I would want to pay for an eye cream at this point any way.

13. L'Occitane Brightening Essence
I liked this product. It was light, smelled nice, and didn't feel sticky or leave a residue. My only problem, that isn't really a problem, is the fact that it was a one time use size. I have not idea if it really brightens my skin after just one use. I would love to try this out but as a L'Occitane serum that costs $56, my purchasing it doesn't seem likely unless I get to try it out for a longer (via a gift set maybe?) and actually think it gives results. I so love the Immortelle scent though and I forgot how much I loved it since I used up my cleanser already.

14. Australian Gold Tan Extender Moisture Lock Moisturizer
I bought this when I was on vacation in Florida while I was getting my tan on. I love the fruity smell, I like the slick texture, and I felt that it did extend my tan. At the very least it was a nice moisturizer because it never felt greasy, it sunk in pretty quick, and it never really left me wanting more. This was my first Australian Gold product and if they are all this good then I understand why the brand is loved so much. Buy again? Definitely!

15. Lush Noubar Soap Sample
I got this as a sample at Lush when I bought a different item. I like the smell ok (it smells strongly of pistachios), but everything else about it wasn't that fabulous. It has these weird chunks in it but I wouldn't say that makes it srubby at all, which it claims it does. It makes you squeaky clean, which some people may like, but I prefer feeling moisturized. It was fun to have the sample, but I know I would never buy it. Still love Lush though! If I wanted a scrub soap I think I would try their Buffy Bar or that other one that is blue and has the sand in it that my Gay BFF swears by.

16. Tretinoin Cream
Another tube down and I am still in love! I found that now that I wash my face morning and night, and continue applying this at night, that my face is doing WAY better than when I was only washing my face at night (thanks Mom for the tip!). I don't wanna jinx myself and say I might be almost clear skin 24/7 until I see the results remain for more than these last couple weeks, but I know that it is significantly better even if I do break out later this month during the "lady time" of the month. Any spots that I have had recently were super small, not really that noticeable and went away after a day or two. The proof? I have been using my Laura Mercier Mineral Powder Foundation at work! My skin is so clear I can get away with it, and I am not reaching for my foundations! I love love love my skin this month :)

17. VMV Hypoallergenics Re-Everything Cream
I have reviewed this previously HERE.

18. Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter Mini
I got this for free via a gift card via the app called Wrapp which legitimately gives you free giftcards to give to friends! I convinced my sister to send me a $5 Sephora one and I went and got this, all I had to pay was the few cents of tax. Woo hoo I love social Media! I have reviewed this product previously HERE and my opinion is still the same. I am contemplating purchasing one of the gift sets for myself so I can try other products by Soap & Glory! :)

My October Birchbox!

My Birchbox posts are back! (why were they gone? CLICK HERE to find out) Check out what I got in October's Birchbox and what my first impressions are:

1. Harvey Prince Hello Perfume Sample
I've spritzed this a few times so far and I really like it! Citrus florals are my favorite kinds of scents (case in point: my love of Kate Spade Twirl). I also really like that this is the kind of sample that comes in a sprayer vial. I hate when Birchbox sends the skinny glass ones that don't have a sprayer. I kept sniffing my wrist all day and just can't get enough of this scent! I might just have to buy the small size of the perfume when I accumulate enough Birchbox points!

2. theBalm cosmetics Mary-Lou Manizer Mini
I've always wanted to try this so I am stoked that I got it in this month's birchbox. The mini size is just plain ADORABLE, and really just looks like an eyeshadow. I am totally going to use this for work tomorrow since it is casual friday and can get away with this if it ends up more shimmery than I expect, haha.

3. Mox Botanicals Lip Butter Mini
I have used this twice so far and the scent and texture remind me of the Burt's Bees lip balm I had this summer (reviewed HERE), which I LOVED! While this is more expensive, I can see myself really loving this lip butter!

4. Benta Berry G-1 Moisturizing Face Cream Sample Tube x 2
I haven't tried this yet, but I am super impressed by the luxe feeling of the packaging! I hope the product is just as impressive.

5. Luna Protien Bar in Chocolate Peanut Butter
I also haven't tried this yet, but I anticipate liking it. I have liked all the snack bars that Birchbox has selected for me in the past (have even gone and purchased them in the grocery store too!) so I hope I like this one too. Also, how much can you mess up chocolate peanut butter flavored anything, right?

What did you get in your Birchbox this month? Comment below and let me know! :)


**some affiliate links may be used**

Birchbox Rewards Points Haul

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Hey everyone, who loves a haul? ME! Who loves a super good deal? ME! Who loves a super good deal haul? YOU GUYS! After free shipping + a 25% off code + $40 in rewards points I got all this for only $11.75 from Birchbox. Not to shabby eh? If I was more patient I could have gotten it for $1.75 if I waited to collect like 50 more points, but I was afraid the 25% off code would expire before that happened. $11.75 is still a good deal for $69 worth of makeup, eh? Here is a list and links for everything that I got:

Juice Beauty Oil-Free Moisturizer
NUXE Reve de Miel Ultra Nourishing Lip Balm
theBalm cosmetics Stainiatic in Beauty Queen
Beauty Fixation Make Up Remover

(There was a promptly fixed shipping error of the makeup removers not being shipping with the original order, hence the separate picture. Birchbox was so on top of it that they had sent it before I fully realized that I was missing an item! Go Birchbox! :) )

*I am a Birchbox affiliate so some affiliate links are used, but this purchase was made with my own personally earn rewards points from surveys of my personally paid subscription. I was not paid or required in anyway to write this post*

Spring Cleaning II (21 Empties!)

That's right! Even more empties! The first post became excessively long and I got tired of typing so I needed to break up the posts! Haha.

1. Sensodyne Pronamel Travel Sized Toothpaste
This is my 2nd little tube of this toothpaste (see here for my review after finishing the first tube). My opinion there hasn't changed much. Would I buy this stuff? I think I would, because I find that it does do its job for sensitive teeth and the texture of it doesn't weird me out anymore. But it's toothpaste so I'm not excited about it or anything, and I could be easily persuaded to try out a different one when I am in the market again for toothpaste.


2. Tresemme Nourishing Rituals Rejuvenating Mud Masque
I liked this, but didn't love it. I thought it did an acceptable job, but didn't necessarily do anything noticeable. I did LOVE the awesome smell (which was kinda like sour candy apples!), which was refreshing to smell while it sits in your hair. I think it, at the very least, maintained the moisture of my hair, but I don't know if it really "rejuvenated" it, haha. I don't know if I will buy this product again, but I am intrigued enough to try something else in the line!


3. Jouer Lipgloss in Birchbox Pink
I received this back in my December Birchbox and wasn't super excited about it at the time because adding a lip gloss to my collection was not something I needed, haha. After using it anyway I learned that I loved the crazy bright color! It also taught me that lip glosses, in fact, do not have to be sticky like most of the ones I have experienced over the years, and they can actually be hydrating! I loved wearing this over a NYX lip cream that I got in the December Glambag because it made the perfect mauve color without being too dark and mature. Will I buy the full size? I am suuuper tempted! Because I am trying to reduce my lip product collection I can not justify the purchase at this time, but come that (hopeful) day in the future when I can justify buying a lip gloss, this one is sure to be at the top of my list!


4. Softsoap Travel Sized Moisturizing Body Wash in Juicy Pomegranate & Mango Infusions
I bought this for a trip and decided to use it up instead of saving it for my next trip because it seemed too far off to justify. I loved the smell because it reminded me of my childhood for some reason (can't quite figure out why though), but that was just about all I loved. It was ok as a body was, but I didn't find it moisturizing at all. Not sure if I will buy it again, but if I do it will because I am craving the smell, or just need a travel body wash. Won't buy the big huge full sized version that's for sure!

5. Vichy Lift Activ Nuit
This was reviewed in the post dedicated entirely to the Vichy products I got from Birchbox so you can check out my review there.

6. & 7. Mini Sized Bath and Body Works Candles in Flower Shop and First Bloom
I will admit that I bought the Flower Shop because Sarah Hawkinson said it was her ultimate floral fragrance of all time and she literally went out and bought like 7 of the bigger candles in this scent, haha. After all kinds of hype over BBW candles on Youtube I figured I'd bite the bullet and buy some since I was digging some of the new spring scents! I have to say I am a little underwhelmed. I have gotten better scent payoff with candles from Target! I like candles that can fill the whole room (and since I live in a 1 bedroom apartment, I want it to fill the whole apartment), and these definitely are a halfroom-er. Maybe it's because of there teeny size that they didn't fill the room as much, I dunno (I bought 2 medium sized BBW candles too in the same trip so we'll see how those compare to these). It might be sacreligious but I think I liked the First Bloom scent a teensy bit more than Flower Shop (Sorry Sarah Hawkinson! haha), but that's probably because it has a hint of peony (that Flower Shop doesn't have), and I can never get enough peony! Will I buy these again or a bigger size? At this point, I would say no, but I did enjoy them, and the small size is cute, fun, and a great way to try out new scents even if the scent payoff is meh.


8. Garnier Nutritioniste Nutri-Pure Daily Exfoliating Gel Cleanser
Funny, I don't think I have really mentioned this product before, but this cleanser is what started my obsession with skin care which then inspired my make up obsession which inspired this blog! Haha. Something so monumental in my life, and yet it took me this long to write about it! So what is so great about this product? I does it's job fabulously, leaving skin feeling clean and refreshed without over drying (though after trying out other cleansers I find this a little big drying, but nothing you wouldn't expect from it)! It was this cleanser that I realized that cleansers can actually get results for your skin acne-wise, and it got be started with a daily skin care routine (though at the beginning that simply consisted of cleansing with this 2x a day, and moisturizing afterwards if I felt like it, haha, but hey, gotta start somewhere). After I forayed into skin care land I learned that there are other exfoliaters and cleansers out there that I am interested in trying out (though most aren't really as good for daily use like this one) but I always had some of these on hand because I had quite a little stash of this cleanser haha. While I was on a mission to use this up so I can move on to other cleansers so I won't be repurchasing this right away, this will always be my standby in a time of crisis! And, bonus, it has that Garnier smell which i love! :)


9. Crest Complete Deep Clean + Whitening Toothpaste Sample
When I first squeezed this out, which was awkward because I have never had toothpaste in a little foil sample, haha, I wasn't sure how I would feel about it because it has a gel texture which I haven't used before, but I decided to use it anyway. I found that I loved the texture because after rinsing my mouth felt SO fresh and clean, and I didn't feel like there was a film of stuff left in my mouth to keep rinsing out like most toothpastes make me feel (and I figured was normal til now!). I love the mint flavor and the way it foams up so I see myself buying this in the future after I use up the 2 toothpastes I have right now.

10. Shiseido Pureness Oil-Control Blotting Paper Sample
I got this as a sample in my March Birchbox and words can not describe my love of this product! If it was being sold through the Birchbox store I probably would have already bought the full size, haha. If I remember correctly the information about the product said that it was "patent pending" which as a law student I would find fascinating if they found a new way to make oil-control papers that is patent-able! That aside, these papers perform the best out of, I think, any oil-blotting papers I have ever used! With these I never had to use more than one (many other brands I would need 2 sheets). So, even though these sheets are probably more expensive than other brands, in the long run they might be equally economical, maybe? (Or maybe I just want to tell myself that just to justify the future purchase? haha). Buy the full size? Heck yes! Probably from Sephora this summer or something.


11. Evolution of Smooth (EOS) Shave Cream in Vanilla Bliss
I will admit to 2 things... 1. I didn't realize that EOS stood for Evolution of Smooth until making this purchase, and some how knowing the full name makes the lip balms more appeal of a purchase (Can't explain why, haha, but just as EOS lipbalms, I am meh, but Evolution of Smooth Lipbalms? Sounds so much sleeker and awesome... now if only they would make them in less lame shapes...) and 2. I wasn't expecting to be wow-ed by this because I have the belief that EOS should be over rated because the hype over the lipbalms annoyed me, so I would have rerived some joy by being able to rightfully say I didn't like this product... but that would be a lie, because it did wow me, and I am impressed! I bought this because it is basically the only brand that has a pump style dispenser shaving cream. The product itself too is awesome! I loved the smell, which is weird for me because normally I hate vanilla, but this one works somehow. I think it's because its more of a real vanilla smell rather than the fake scent that is put as the fragrance in everything! I loved how moisturizing this was too! Buy again? Yes! I almost don't even want to try something new yet because I liked this one so much! I think I will buy the other scent when I go out to the store just for the fun of trying out both scents haha.

12. I Love... Lemons & Limes Bubble Bath & Shower Gel
I have reviewed this product in another scent in my previous empties post. Unlike that one, I loooved this scent! It first smells like yellow gatorade (which I LOVE), and then has this like bitter limey after smell, which was odd at first, but I found that I loved it! I think I would buy the full size of this one!

13. TIGI Rockaholic Livin' the Dream Sulfate-Free Shampoo + Energy
I posted about this product a bit ago when I initially hauled it at a super good deal. The smell was fine, the results were fine, it was all just fine. I don't know what this "energy" nonsense is about, but otherwise I think it did well as low foaming shampoo. I do wonder why they call it "Sulfate-Free" when its second ingredient is "sodium c14-15 olefin sulfonate" which sounds like a sulfate like derivative or something, which I wouldn't doubt that is is because these kinds of terms aren't really regulated in the beauty industry, but whatever. Still a fine product. This definitely is more of a low-sulfate product than truly free of all sulfates because it does foam more than I anticipated. Buy again? Probably not, if only because it is super expensive, and I wasn't wowed. Would still try other TIGI shampoos though, just not Rockaholic ones.

14. Giovanni Frizz Be Gone Anti-Frizz Hair Texturizing Balm
I can't believe this product is finally out of my life! I still remember vividly the day I got this product... my Dad bought it for me at Whole Foods, and I was super excited because I was pretty sure if my Mom had been the one shopping that day I never would have gotten it. Yay for shopping with Dad! :) Anyway, this was one of my first serums (and I think it might actually be my first, even before the Garnier serum... that lasted me forever). I know I used this in the past as a de-frizzer on dry hair, but for my using up quest I used it on wet hair as my first product out of the shower, and I think it did a pretty great job at de-frizzing. I was afraid that it would make my hair static-y, but surprisingly this is not the case! I also love the fresh smell, it's smaller size, and that it's organic! Buy again? I think so! Plus, the new packaging has a pump unlike mine. Awesome! Just will probably try out other Giovanni products first :) I have my eye on the High Gloss Hair Mist (because it sounds kinda like a spray version of the Balm) the next time I am somewhere that I can buy Giovanni hair stuff (no Whole Foods in VT or NH!)

15. Bath and Body Works Candle in Poppy Sunshine
Like the mini sized candles above, I was underwhelmed by the strength of this scent while the candle was burning. With this scent in particular I also found that I enjoyed the scent less while it was burning that how it smells at first wiff. Also, this candle burned the least clean of all of them. The picture above doesn't do the gross mess justice; there is just all kinda of wax unevenly stuck up on the side! Buy again? Nope, and not in this scent!

16. Bath and Body Works Candle in Gingham Apple
I know, you are probably as shocked as I about the green ratting of this candle. But I loved the scent of this one SO much that I think I would even repurchase it despite the inferior scent strength qualities. I did find that this candle scent performed the best out of the batch though when it came to scent strength. I really wish that this scent in forms other than the candle because I would run out today and get more stuff! Soap, body spray, bubble bath... I would buy it just to be enveloped with the scent! Haha. Plus, this one burned really cleanly too! Hardly any wax evidence of the sides. Repurchase? If they had the huge 3 wick one... I'd go buy it right this second actually, but the $9.50 price tag on this medium size... little over priced for how short of a time it burns. Anyone know any dupes for this scent? I will love you for ever and ever and ever if you would clue me in on them! :)


17. Tresemme No Frizz Ultra Light Shine Spray
This is another one of those products that I have had so long it has just been omnipresent in my collection, but now it is finally out! This does a great job for quick fixes of "bad hair" into "good hair" most days! Occasionally it will make matters worse and make your frizzy hair turn into non-frizz but now greasy looking hair, but that was usually on days where I had used too much of other products or I was over due for a shampoo. I know lots of people will probably be against this product because it is basically silicone in a bottle, but I love it :) Buy again? Yes, and this bottle here is actually my 2nd! After I try out other shine sprays first, because, surprisingly, I don't think I have used any other brands.

18. Scope Dual Blast Fresh Mint Blast Mouthwash
Like the toothpastes, this is also kinda random, but I got this as a sample from the P&G saver thing, and loved the generous size! Haha. However I wasn't hooked. I liked the results it gave because my mouth did feel super duper fresh afterwards but the negatives outweighed this. This was a super burny mouth wash! Plus, even though it says "fresh mint" and is green... I swear there is cinnamon going on in there! And I HATE HATE HATE cinnamon mouth products! Haha. Buy the full size? Nope!

19. Annick Goutal Petite Cherie Perfume Sample
I got this in my March Birchbox, and was prepared to hate it because the description didn't sound like something I would like. However I was pleasantly wrong! It kind of reminds me of what my mother wears (and has worn all my life knowing her, haha) which is usually Wind Song, or White Diamonds. I think it's the musk aspect that reminds me of my mom. However, despite the musk (something I usually don't go for), the main thrust is a sweet little innocent floral that isn't fruity, and then the musky is just a lingering after smell. I love it. Makes me feel like I am a younger version of my mom, and I like to imagine it is something my mom wore when she was younger even thought this isn't true, haha :) Buy the full size? I think I might, but it is actually a super expensive perfume. :( If I come across a smaller size than the standard 1/1.7 oz that is too pricey, I would totally snatch it up! 

20. Philosophy Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti-Aging Concentrate
I wasn't sure what I would think of this because I don't really know or care much about anti-aging serums. I received this in a goodie bag at an event at my mall (one that was open to anyone that signed/showed up, haha, not anything special for bloggers... I wish my blog was that big of a deal! haha :P). I figured since the sample was small, why not just test it out and see what I think of it instead of passing it along to my mom. I found that I really loved the texture of it! It was a serum that left me feeling quite moisturized which I didn't expect after other serum samples. Would I buy the full size? Probably not since I didn't really notice any anti-aging stuff going on, and it's too pricey just for minimal moisturizing needs (wouldn't cut it in the winter I am sure), but I am open to the idea of it, and the brand in the future when I am looking for anti-aging stuff!

21. Softsoap Clean Protection Hand Soap
I got this as a super good deal at Ocean State Job Lot, after never seeing it before, but now seeing it in stores (and appreciating my good deal!). The smell is kind of a normal non-scent of regular soap smell, but I liked that. Also, it didn't leave my hands super dry like regular soaps do! While it didn't super moisturize or anything, what it says on the bottle... "light moisturizers" is pretty accurate. It slightly moisturizes but leaves you hands feeling super clean afterwards! Repurchase? Yep I think so! Just wanna try a more moisturizing one, and fun scented one next :)

Review: Kate Spade Twirl

This perfume was first mentioned back in August 2011 when I received it as a sample in my first Birchbox, and I have been in love with it ever since. I was so much in love that come Christmas I bought it for myself with my Christmas money and have never regretted the purchase (especially since I bought it suuuper cheap in a set that was on sale that I paid for mostly with giftcards, heck yes!).

Why: I originally was intrigued by this perfume when I got it in my first Birchbox ever, and I will admit that description had me hooked before I even smelled it. Then when I smelled it I couldn't get enough of it! What I loved about the description was that it said it was kind of a modern "Holly Golightly" scent, which is the name of the girl in Breakfast at Tiffany's. I have always loved that movie and semi want to be Holly Golightly, haha, so I really wanted to love the fragrance just knowing that. Then when I smelled that it was a fruity floral that is kind of cirtus-y, I was doubly sold because that is the kind of scents that I love! Had it been a sweet fruity floral I might not have enjoyed it so much.

This fragrance also has some personal meaning to me beyond the Holly Golightly-ness because I bought it at a time where I was going through quite a few personal things, and trying to figure out what kind of person I was, blah blah blah, which probably sounds cliche, but it was true. 2011 was a hard year for me, and I don't know if this will sound whiny or stupid, but I had a lot of bad experiences with men last year, and I learned a lot of things about myself because of it, and in December was when I was really learning from it all and I emerged with an identity that I don't need men, but of course don't hate them. What I really did was redefine my values and gained the strength and confidence to stick with them rather than abandoning who I am as a person just to be a guy to have a man in my life even if it felt like settling. So when 2012 began, me and this perfume became best buds and it kind of stands for my new "Miss Independent" identity and whenever I spray it on it kind of serves as a reminder to not forget all the things that I learned.

Notes: The Kate Spade official description says there are notes of watermelon, blackberry, red currant, musk, and french macaroon. I think this makes it sound sweeter than it really is. I think the top notes have more of a fresh orange and blackberry smell that turns more musky and mature as it ages through the day. When this is described as day-to-night fragrance I do think it is true because it has a lighter funner fragrance at the start and ends more sultry by the night.

Repurchase: Would I buy this again when I run out? I can't really say for sure at this point because I don't know where I will be in life when it runs out. Depending on where that is my identity might be calling for a new fragrance friend that identifies with who I am then. But I will always have a place for this in my heart :) What is probably more likely is that after I use up this big bottle I will probably purchase the little roller ball version so I have it around, but my next full bottle purchase will probably be something else.

Vichy Overview Review

So back in February Birchbox sent out this email where you could sign up and get a bonus box (like a whole separate box from your regular monthly box) for free! All you had to do was sign up, so of course I signed up. It was a box sponsored by Vichy, a brand I had kinda heard of but never tried. I am always in the mood to try new skincare so I was ecstatic for the opportunity. Now, I will admit that the box came in February but I have been waiting to get through a good deal of each product before reviewing them as a whole, hence the delay in the reviews.

It came with 5 samples and I will discuss each in turn below along with a review.

Vichy One Step Cleanser
I kind of like this cleanser. But, I feel like I love the idea of it more than it's execution and its price. I love that it is creamy, and it hasn't every left my skin feeling tight (my number 1 cleanser pet peeve!). However, it did leave me wanting more exfoliation every now and then. I know that this shouldn't really be a fault because most people have separate cleansers and exfoliators, but I want an all in one super cleanser haha. If that quest proves fruitless, I would consider buying this cleanser as my daily non-exfoliant cleanser, but I just am not 100% sold on the idea yet. And at $19.50 a bottle, I am going to try out some more cleansers first before that investment.


Vichy Cellu Destock Intensive Treatment for Appearance of Cellulite
I'm not sold on this product either, but that simply is because this was only a one use size sample so its hard for me to fully form an opinion on it. I love the idea of it. It has a great fresh smell and feels nice on the skin. I liked that the product requires you to massage it in so it can get at your cellulite because after I did that step my legs felt awesome! Of course, this feeling wasn't because of the lotion necessarily, but my massaging, but I wouldn't have done it unless the lotion told me too, haha. My hesitation lies in the fact that I can't form an opinion about the Cellulite reducing aspects as the product says it takes 4 weeks to see results. The full size is $39.50, which maybe is a good price for such a product, but at this point in my life where I don't really have a problem with the texture of my butt, hips, and legs, I will pass. But when I am older and feel the need for such a product I won't dismiss this product as an option.


Vichy Aqualia Thermal
Me and this moisturizer began as a love/hate relationship. I love how moisturizing it is, and it truly may even last the 24 hours it claims it does! The small problems? Sometimes it stings a little on application, but it is a quick sting and goes away super fast (unlike other lotions that have done this and the stinging persists longer). The other little problem? It is so moisturizing that it can leave you oily in the morning. However, even with both of those little problems, I could deal with them just so I could have this product. I love how moisturizing it is, even when used in crazy snowboarding conditions. It's a $29.95 product, so will I buy buying it right away? No, I want to try out some cheaper alternatives first. But when I get a nice job after law school (crosses fingers) and have an income where I won't feel super guilty about a $30 moisturizer, I would definitely put this on the short list of the products I would probably buy.

Vichy Lift Activ Nuit
Being only 22, anti-aging products only serve a preventative function for my skin rather than as something that I would see result with right away. Given this aspect it can be hard to tell if a product is doing its job since I won't ever really know, haha. That being said, I am still going to use this up because it couldn't hurt haha, but I don't think I'll buy it again because of the price and the fact that I can't tell its working at my age. I love the texture of this stuff. At first it surprised me because I thought it would have a lotion-y texture like the Aqualia Thermal did because the both came in the same kind of container, but this product actually has a much firmer balm-like texture. At first this kinda weirded me out, but after using it for a week the texture grew on me and I discovered I quite liked it because it meant you could use less product without sacrificing the feeling that you are using enough. Will I buy this when I am older? I am not going to dismiss the idea because even though it costs $49 now, which is actually quite a good price for an anti-aging product these days, and the fact that I think it would last longer than other products given its firm texture, I think I would definitely consider this in my future.

Vichy Soothing Eye Make-Up Remover
Like I've said about other make-up removers, I am not really one to use an eye make-up remover unless it is the rare occasion that I am wearing eyeliner. That being said, when I do have a remover on hand I will use it every day anyway just to use it up and get it off my counter. What I loved about this product was that it didn't sting my eyes, which is amazing for me because even removers targeted at sensitive eyes have stung my eyes. What I didn't like? I didn't think this was the best at removing mascara if you are in a hurry. I found that if you let this sit and soak on your eye for like 10-20 seconds it didn't have as much of a problem, but if you are of the style (that I generally am) that you just wanna wipe and not have to wait, then it doesn't get all of your mascara. All in all this is a good remover, maybe even great, but given my cleansing habits I don't think I will buy it.

Review: Beauty Blender

HOW: I received this a little while back in my February Birchbox and have been playing around with it ever since.

WHY: I had always heard about this in the blog/vlog-osphere but always was skeptical about how good it really was because it IS a sponge, which just always seems so low-tech to me, but guru's that love brushes also loved this, so when i received it I was pretty happy to try it out. Now, the price always scared me away, $19.50 for ONE FREAKIN' SPONGE! Which I think is insane, but because I got this for free/ for $10 I'm not complaining.

PROS: I have been using this with my Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua foundation that I bought this summer and loved then but kinda stopped using it once fall came around. I had been previously been applying that foundation with my fingers after I decided I didn't like the look a brush gave. I have to say, I love the finish the Beauty Blender gives it. It makes the application really even and at the sheer/medium level I strive for but don't always achieve when applied with fingers.

CONS: The price, the price, the price. Plus, it is really annoying to clean. I don't have the cleaner that they sell and I refuse to buy a cleaner just to clean one implement, haha. I tried using my brush cleanser, various face washes, and different liquids soaps that I currently have and none of them could get the foundation out, which is annoying. Also, in the cleaning process I seemed to have faded the cute pink color some as well as create or reveal some damage/wear to the sponge. I read some where that the sponge lasts/should be used for 3 months, and from what I have experienced that it probably how long it will last me.

CONCLUSION: I don't think I will ever buy this simply because of the price compared to how long it lasts, as well as the annoying-ness of cleaning it. I do like how it applies foundation though so would welcome any more free ones with open arms, haha. I wouldn't be adverse to trying out one of the cheaper drug store "dupes" of this, especially if those are easier to clean!

Have any of you tried to Beauty Blender? Or one of the drug store versions? What did you think?

Where have all the Birchbox posts gone?

Hey guys, some of you may be wondering why I don't do Birchbox posts any more (when I first signed up I used to post a picture and list and reviews for each item that I got each month). Well, I'll be lame and admit that I am busy with school. But, do not fret! I will be graduating this year, and after I sit for the Bar exam in July, there is a good chance that they could be coming back!

Also, keep an eye our for a Birchbox store haul soon because my reward points are building up rapidly and I think I might make a purchase soon. Eek, so excited! I am thinking Stila Cloud eyeshadow? But what else....?! Any suggestions for what to get? Comment below and let me know!

January Birchbox

January Birchbox! I had some issues this month with this getting here, hence the lateness of this post (the delay was my fault really though, not Birchbox's and they were still super nice and accommodating about it!). As usual I will post little mini reviews of each product as I get a feel for them or use them up.

1. Juicy Couture - Viva La Juicy
I'm kind of meh about this perfume but I don't hate it. I don't think I would ever buy this, but I wouldn't be upset if someone randomly gave it to me as a gift or anything. I am slightly disapointted that I don't find it amazing or anything because I know a lot of people love this perfume. I think its because I more of a cirtrus sweet and sour kind of girl rather than a true fruity floral like this is. Also, for having vanilla musky undertones, I'm surprised I don't hate it because usually I hate that, but with this perfume it just work well with the rest of the notes.

2. VMV Hypoallergenics - Re-Everything Face-Hand-Body Lotion
I don't think there is anything miraculous about this product as a body lotion (I did not try it on my face) in light of its high price tag ($45!). I did notice that my skin was nice and smooth, and better than other lotions I have used. But, for the cost, I don't see myself ever buying it.

3. Lara Bar - Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip
This was fun to try. It was a nice taste and even though it was kinda nutty, which I am not sure I like, I do like that because of the nuts it doesn't make you feel bleh like some candy bars can make me feel afterward. I don't know if I would go out and buy these, but I would eat them again. I hear there is a chocolate-y one... I wouldn't mind trying that one next!

4. Origins - Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash
I can't decide how I feel about this. I like that it is nice and creamy, but I'd prefer it to have some kind of scrubby-ness to it. I particularly enjoy using this mixed in with another face wash because it keeps my skin nice and happy with the creaminess, and nice and clean with the other not-as-creamy cleanser. It is possible that I may grow to really love this product by the time I finish it up, and I will let you know if that happens, but at the time I like it, but I'm not sure I love it more than other cream cleansers I have tried, namely the Ahava one I tried.

5.FULL SIZED Stila - Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in Peacock
The color is something I would have never picked up for myself but after using it to test it out I realized that I really like the consistency of it and wouldn't mind seeing the other colors of this product. Using this as a classic eyeliner or for winged eyeliner looks strange, in my opinion, but I'm going to play around with it some more because it could make a lovely lid color because the shimmer/shine to it is just gorgeous!

6. BONUS Birchbox Magnet
I think this little magnet is just adorable! A perfect bonus to get in a birchbox. No complaints here.

Blue Birchbox Nails

I don't think I ever owned blue nail polish in my life until this year when Birchbox sent me two different blue polishes! And, as life would have it, I wore them both at the same time! Haha. A girl from no blue polish to blue polish mania! I waited to try these both out until after my internship was complete because I didn't feel they were work appropriate colors. Now that I am on vacation and in Florida I knew the colors would be appropriate and feel right at home! Haha

On my fingers is Incoco Nail Polish Appliques in an unnamed super sparkley light blue color (it reminds me of the litter mermaid, haha). I received these in my September Birchbox. For more info see here. I found these appliques semi-easy to apply once I got the hang of it. Because my nails are short I was able to cut each applique in half! Now I have 2 manicures worth of this polish! Yay :) Maybe I'll save the last one for Spring Break?

On my toes is Zoya Nail Polish in Noel. I received this in my November Birchbox. For more info see here. I really like the application of this polish as it is nice with one coat but gets even better with a second coat. I also love the little sample size bottle because I know I would probably never use up a full sized bottle in this color! Haha. The only polishes I have every used up were strengtheners, and one Walmart (Ice brand?) nail polish in a thin iridescent white color (these supplemented by the couple polishes over the years that killed themselves via spilling and drying out, O:) )

I apologize if the picture isn't the best because it was with my phone because I forgot to bring my camera on vacation, oops!

What are you guys wearing on your nails? Do you have an colors that you feel are better suited for vacation or certain events/locations? Comment below! :)

November Birchbox

Yay my November Birchbox! Happy birthday to meeee!
Don't know what Birchbox is? Or wanna join? Click Here

1. Klorane Soothing Eye Makeup Remover with Cornflower
I'm not one to use makeup remover often as I only really need it if I wear eyeliner and that is a rare occasion. However, I did test this out on my regular makeup and it seems to be quite nice! No really residue left over after that I noticed; eyes didn't feel dry or anything either. I did find that while this product claims to be sensitive safe, if you over use the product it can still sting your eyes. And by over use I mean knocking the container over on the counter so feeling I had to use what I had knocked over which was way too much. haha. If I were an everyday eye makeup remover user I think I would definitely consider purchasing this. And I dunno what the birchbox people are talking about, I think it smells weird haha.

2. LaROCCA Skincare Champagne & Shimmer Body Polish
Hardly has any scrub too it. Feels like sugar and petroleum jelly. It reminds me of the body scrubs from The Body Shop but even oilier. I like the body show scrubs because it has a good scrub to it but at the same time leaves you quite moisturized because it is as if there is a layer of oil oil left over after you are done. This LaROCCA though was just TOO moisturizing and I just didn't feel clean afterwards. Plus I didn't like the champagne smell at all and didn't notice anything shimmery about this product. Not worth the price of the gold inside.

3. Oscar Blandi Jasmine Protein Mist
I like the smell of this product but that is about it. I don't really think this product does much. I have been using it as a pre-blowdrying spray and I don't notice any result different than my regular Heat Tamer spray. Wouldn't repurchase. I do enjoy how forceful the spray is though!

4. Zoya Nail Polish in Noel
A lovely mermaid-y color. I don't consider this a holiday color at all but I do enjoy it. Some how the shimmer is silver without detracting from the teal base. Much more interesting than a predictable blue reflect. I dunno if I would repurchase it because I have never repurchased any nail polish, but I wouldn't be against the idea at this point if I were to run out some how. Looks adorable on toes! :P

5. TREAT Chuao Chocolatier Firecracker Chocopod
I loved the idea of this. The sensations were quite interesting but I don't think I would like to repeat it. The chipotle feature was what turned me off. It was an interesting zing and I appreciate the creativity. However I think I would have enjoyed trying their potato chip one better.

6. PRIZE BaubleBar Black Wood Pop Bracelet
I'm not really sure how I feel about this yet. I like it. I might wear it every now and then. However I feel like the price is steep given that as long as I could track down the sparkle-y bead, I could make these myself. If I could sell mine for $20 and people bought them I'd be rich!

As I get an opinion/use up these products I will update this post with reviews of them.

Also, I appologize for not posting an October Birchbox blog. I was super busy (lame excuse I know). However, as I use up each product you can check out my review of them in the Purge Posts that they fall in. Click Here, and Here for reviews of October Birchbox items. I will update this post when I review the last two items from that box.

What did you get? Leave a comment below and let me know! :)

September Birchbox!

Yay September Birchbox!
Don't know what Birchbox is? Or wanna sign up? Click Here

Here is what I received: (As last time, will update with reviews and I try and form opinions on products)

1. Incoco Nail Polish Applique in a Sparkly bright blue color
Because of where I work I have yet to have the opportunity to try these out, but I am still excited to! If not sooner, I will definitely try these out by the holiday time when I am done with my internship and I can get away with fun nail polish. While I could probably use these on my toes just fine, I feel that would be a waste because then I couldn't look at the fun color all day. It's like a party on your nails!


2. Jouer Lip Enhancer
I like this lip product. It has a good scent, no bad taste or anything either. It doesn't dry out my lips but I wouldn't say it is super moisturizing either. It definitely does maintain the current moisture level of your lips, and never stings. But, that's just it about this product: it kind of boring and eh. I don't think I'd ever buy this full price because the price doesn't seem worth it to me for something that is just fine. Especially when I can get the same reaction from something cheaper. 


3. Liv Grn Earth Eau de Parfum
I wouldn't buy this product either. It has a lovely scent, but is just too sweet and green apple candy like to me. It's refreshing to smell after my floral heavy summer, but I wouldn't buy something this scent in a perfume, this is a scent better left to cheaper body sprays and the like (like maybe a Bath and Body Works scent that is similar to this one? I wouldn't mind this scent in a shower product! In fact... I might love that.)


4. Pangea Organics Facial Cream for Normal to Combination Skin
I would never buy this product. The cream itself is fine, seemed to moisturize my skin nicely. However, I wasn't super convinced by its moisturization due to the runny nature of the cream; it's definitely a lotion, not a cream in my opinion. But what really turned me off from this product was the smell. Thyme and Lavender alone or together (like here) are not scents that are meant to be in moisturizers in my opinion. Because moisturizers go on the nose and the scents may linger for a bit scents of my moisturizers are important to me. I love thyme in food, and I love lavender in sachets, but that is how I want to keep those scents. Get them out of my moisturizer!


5. BONUS Birchbox Friendship Bracelet
While cute, I think this bracelet is kinda lame. Maybe it's because I feel like I could definitely make a bracelet like this myself, or maybe its the low quality and thin feel of the charm, but I don't like it and I'll never wear it. I'm going to see if I can sell it on ebay or something. The bracelet itself is nice quality though (unlike the charm), but that doesn't save it for me. Plus, I'm not really into that whole bracelet stacking and clothy bracelet trend that is going around, I did that when I was 13 and when I worked at summer camp so I've been over that look for years.