Birthday Haul 2015

Last month I turned 30.
Along with all my other birthdays, since I'm signed up for quite a few rewards cards, I was drawn into having Birthday Savings at a lot of different places, as well as receiving giftcards.

Here's what I got from...

Sephora



I got the Nars lip pencils as a Birthday Gift from Sephora for being a Beauty Insider.
I also treat myself on my birthday every year to something else from Sephora since I'm already there, and decided to get the Too Faced Natural Eyes palette. It is now one of my favorite palettes I have ever owned, and I find myself using it almost every single day. All the colors are so wearable for my skin tone, and are just gorgeous.
I also picked up a new Urban Decay eyeshadow in Lost, and it goes quite well in my Urban Decay palette.



I purchased Sin either last year or the year before (I honestly don't remember), and it was so lonely. Now it has a buddy, and they look beautiful together.


Ulta


A couple of friends of mine gave me giftcards to Ulta for my birthday, so I decided to use them to get some things I had my eyes on, but never bought with my own money.
The CoverGirl mascara was kind of a dud- it's definitely not up there with my favorite mascaras, or even ones I just tolerate.
The foot scrub and foot balm were a couple of products I had been eyeballing, and when I went in they were BOGO 50% off, so I decided to try them and give myself a pedicure. Okay, a pregnant girl giving herself a pedicure is like the funniest thing, ever. If only you guys could have seen me. I will say both the scrub and the balm worked great, and I'm definitely glad I have them for after my pregnancy, but for now I will either ask my husband for help or leave it to the professionals.
The Morrocan Oil Mask is something that is so incredibly hyped that I just had to give it a try finally. I had been holding out to see if maybe I would receive it in a subscription box, but no such luck. I now know that it's definitely worth the money, and I can see myself saving rewards points to purchase this in the future.
The Eucerin hand lotion is something I always have at my desk at work. It's non-greasy, and unscented. And incredibly moisturizing.
The Covergirl Ink It eyeliner is another thing I've heard a lot about, and even though I didn't really need a new black eyeliner, I bought it. And I'm glad I did- I really enjoy it. It's very black, and does not go anywhere.
And, finally, cotton pads. I bought these because I knew I was getting the Marcelle eye makeup remover in my February 2015 Birchbox, and I didn't have cotton pads.



This is my second Ulta purchase in the month of February. It was only after I bought everything above that I remembered I get a birthday gift with Ulta, but it doesn't come until your actual birthday. So, this year, they gave away that eyeshadow palette (which, okay, that's fine, but I really liked the CKOne Mascara from last year and wish it was a higher-end brand product), and since I'm a Platinum Member I also received $10.00 off anything. I combined that with about $20 worth of rewards dollars, and purchased the Matrix Oils you see above. I had received samples of them from the girl that does my hair at Ulta, and they are pretty great.
I also got a sample of the itCosmestics Universal Brow Pencil from an email coupon- it was free with any purchase.



Overall, other than that Covergirl mascara, I'm pretty happy with all of my purchases. I've been really careful lately to truly think about what I'm buying before I buy it, and if I'll actually use it. I actually impulse buy a lot less now that I do a couple of subscription boxes, and I actually research everything I buy before I buy it, at least in terms of cosmetics. With the kid on the way (and the cost of daycare in the front of my mind all the time), I know I need to watch my dollars as carefully as possible!


FTC: These products were either purchased by me with my own money, with giftcards provided by friends, as birthday rewards gifts for being signed up for loyalty programs, or as a gift-with-purchase. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Birchbox February 2015

This month, we again got the choice of three different samples, or a guest editor box. I chose Marcelle's Gentle Make-up Remover for sensitive eyes. This was also the Rent the Runway month, and all subscribers received $30.00 off a Rent the Runway rental of $75.00+! (Which I thought about using for my baby shower- they don't have maternity wear, but there are things that could work, but I didn't want to risk it and everything is also just a bit too fancy.)
I've changed the birchbox reviews up a bit, as well, like I did with ipsy.



Again, we get 60 points for this box- 10 points for every sample we review, and an additional 10 for sharing on twitter or facebook! This seems like a regular thing now, and like I said last month, this essentially makes Birchbox a $4/month box. I can't get over what an amazing deal that is!


And, I know... vertical pictures! I've made myself a note for next month to not take them vertical anymore. It's a learning process!
On to the box!




I really love this box, again! We were advised to keep our boxes all year, and I've already decided to repurpose mine to hold my samples in. I'll have to do an updated product organization blog soon to show you guys what I mean!




BeeKind Body Lotion
Made with honey and organic chamomile, this yummy UK fave sinks in to restore skin.
How To Use: Massage generously into skin.
Will I Use It?: I've been kind of obsessive about lotion lately- my skin has been pretty dry (a combo of pregnancy and winter), so I could always use another one! I haven't tried this yet, but it smells nice, and it's currently in line for me to try!




Eyeko Skinny Liquid Liner in Black
From the go-to UK eye makeup line, this user-friendly liquid liner goes on velvety smooth.
How To Use: Trace our upper lash line, or try your hand at a cat-eye.
Will I Use It?: I was so excited to see this in my box! I've heard nothing but good things about the Eyeko liners, and that they're fairly easy to use if you're a beginner with liquid liner, which I definitely am! 




Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Cleanser
Made with organic botanicals, this hydrating wash declogs pores and brightens skin.
How To Use: Twice daily, massage onto damp skin. Rinse well and follow with moisturizer.
Will I Use It?: I have added it to my growing sample stock of cleansers that I can't currently use (I'm sticking to mostly natural products or low-ingredient products), but I'm excited about this, too! 




Juice Couture Hollywood Royal
A floral scent with notes of candied apple, white petals, and cashmere wood.
How To Use: Spritz onto pulse points to feel walk-the-red-carpet glamorous.
Will I Use It?: I really, really like this scent. As a matter of fact, I think I have enjoyed every Juicy Couture fragrance I've ever smelled, and if you know me, you know I'm not much for perfumes. I plan on giving this a try on my days off (office policy is no strong scents, and I'm also a sensitive person myself to scents to I try to abide), and figure out if I should purchase it.




Marcelle Gentle Make-up Remover for Sensitive Eyes
Hypoallergenic formula that's tough on even long-lasting makeup, but gentle on the eyes.
How To Use It: Dispense onto cotton ball and wipe eyes to remove liner, shadow, and mascara.
Will I Use It?: This is the product I picked as my sample choice this month, and I am so happy I did! I've heard this was a really good product, but this was one-swipe good. And the day I tested this, I was wearing quite a bit of eye makeup, including waterproof mascara. And it didn't irritate my eyes at all. So far, I am super impressed and I already want to buy the full size. But I'll keep trying it first!


I am seriously so happy with this box! I like every product and can see myself using them all, and that hardly ever happens. Great job, Birchbox!


If any of you are interested in signing up for Birchbox, please click there and use my affiliate link! I receive points which I will exchange for products that I can review on this blog.

FTC: This box was purchased by me with my own money. All opinions are my own. All product descriptions were taken directly from the Birchbox card included in the box.

The only affiliate link used is the Birchbox affiliate link directly above. Any other links to the birchbox shop are just for reference only. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.

ipsy February 2015

I totally screwed up and took the vertical pictures again! What the heck. Maybe next month I'll remember!
I am also switching up the ipsy reviews just a bit! I am taking the descriptions directly from the ipsy website, and then just saying if I'll use it or not. 




This bag is cute, but I doubt I'll be hanging on to it after this month. It's a well-constructed bag, don't get me wrong, it's just not really me. 




City Color Cosmetics Creamy Lip Stain in Flirtini
A hybrid between a lipstick and gloss, our Creamy Lip Stain is a new kind of lip product that applies smooth and creamy like a gloss and sets with a matte finish. This creamy lip stain gives your lips long lasting color while keeping lips moisturized. Available in 6 fun flirty shades.
Will I Use It? I have tried this, and it's not for me. The color is fine, but this came off streaky on my lips and wore funny, and the night I was wearing it I was just sitting at home organizing my bathroom. So I would hate to see what it might do to my lips if I was actually out and about. I might pass it off to someone else, because a lot of lip products and me don't seem to agree, but I haven't fully decided yet.

Eva NYC Up All Night Volumizing SprayGet the ultimate blowout with this multi-tasking spray! The light-weight formula adds volume and texture to hair, while protecting against heat for healthier styling.How to Use: Apply to damp hair before blow drying for added texture and lift, or use on dry hair as a revitalizing spray.
Will I Use It?: I absolutely will use this at some point, but I'm a little backstocked on hair stuff right now, so it might take some time.

Mitchell and Peach Fine Radiance Face OilThe Mitchell and Peach Fine Radiance Face Oil is a highly effective face oil packed with powerful natural anti-oxidants and vitamins that are instantly absorbed to leave skin feeling plumper, firmer and glowing with radiance.Allergen Warning: May contain nut traces
Will I Use It?: I'm not really into face oils, but I'll try it out eventually. I'm trying not to use non-natural or basic products on my skin during my pregnancy, so this will be used afterward.

ModelCo BLUSH Cheek Powder in Cosmopolitan

ModelCo’s BLUSH Cheek Powder creates a beaming, rosy glow to brighten every complexion. The micronized color pigments and luxurious, pressed powder delivers a sheer, natural radiance that lasts all day.
BLUSH Cheek Powder's chic compact is easy-to-use and perfect for beauty touch ups on-the-go.
Will I Use It?: I've used this several times since receiving it, and the color is really pretty! It's not shimmery at all, but it definitely does create a bit of a glow. This will definitely be in my regular rotation.

Emite Make Up Professional Eye Lash Curler

The EMITE MAKE UP Professional Eye Lash curler has a special curved design which angles to suit all eye shapes, without touching your makeup base. Its silicone rubber pad applies the appropriate amount of pressure to curl lashes naturally. Your eye lashes will remain in perfect shape all day!
Directions: Align rubber pad at base of upper lashes. Press handles together and hold for several seconds. Gently release and remove curler from lashes. Apply mascara. (Warning: Use the eyelash curler before applying mascara to avoid damage to lashes. Use with caution. Keep out of reach of children.)
Will I Use It?: I've used this a couple of times, and it's okay. It's definitely not going to be my go-to curler, but it's nice to have this as a back up!

This is another box that was a little hit and miss for me. I really, really like the blush, but that's pretty much it. To be honest, I'm giving ipsy a couple more months to see if it gets better, than I might have to cancel.

FTC: This box was purchased by me with my own money. All opinions are my own. All product descriptions were taken directly from ipsy.

Book Review: Isla and The Happily Ever After (Anna and the French Kiss #3) by Stephanie Perkins

Description from Goodreads
Love ignites in the City That Never Sleeps, but can it last? 

Hopeless romantic Isla has had a crush on introspective cartoonist Josh since their first year at the School of America in Paris. And after a chance encounter in Manhattan over the summer, romance might be closer than Isla imagined. But as they begin their senior year back in France, Isla and Josh are forced to confront the challenges every young couple must face, including family drama, uncertainty about their college futures, and the very real possibility of being apart. 

Featuring cameos from fan-favorites Anna, Étienne, Lola, and Cricket, this sweet and sexy story of true love—set against the stunning backdrops of New York City, Paris, and Barcelona—is a swoonworthy conclusion to Stephanie Perkins’s beloved series.

Initial Thoughts
I'm assuming at this point that the Josh in this story is the same Josh from Anna and the French kiss that is friends with Anna and Etienne, but I am not sure. I am really excited to read this book, and finish out this little series! Though the reviews on Goodreads seem to have been a little mixed (even though the ratings are good), this book is still the reason I read this series in the first place so I'm definitely anxious to start it!

My Review
I was right- it is the same Josh! Even though some other reviews were mixed, and my own reviews were mixed about half way through the book, I had a hard time putting this down and I ended up really enjoying it! 
Isla is in Paris for school, and has had a crush on Josh forever. He is interested after breaking up with a long time girlfriend, and they start dating. Then the shit hits the fan, and they become a long distance relationship.
I think that aspect of the story was pretty realistic- at least to me. The desperation even after only a month of dating- I think a lot of us feel like we want to plan our future with someone that soon, even if it's not a good idea. So I felt for them in that aspect. But the more it went on, I felt like it was completely contrived and just continued on for as long as it did so the author would continue having something to write about.

However, once things started coming around with Isla and her realization about who she is, the story got really interesting to me again, and I really enjoyed it again. 
I also really, really enjoyed getting to see all the other characters again, especially since this is listed as the final book of the series. It was nice to see them continued on a bit, and I feel like all of their stories wrapped up nicely enough for satisfaction.


I gave this book 4 stars on Goodreads. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone who loves YA Romance. I do think you could read each individual book on it's own, but the whole is worth the read.

Disclosure: I borrowed this book from my local library. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Pregnancy Update: Weeks 21 - 24

This is going to be kind of short and sweet, as nothing much as been happening the last four weeks. Other that increasing movement from Michael, and increasing growing from me. To the tune of 10 extra pounds, for a total of 18. I'm still on track, and the doctor was concerned for me because of the extra weight, but he said if I hadn't gained it all at once he would not be concerned at all. But since I gained it all so quickly... I just don't know. I hadn't really been eating a lot differently, though it was my 30th birthday the week before my appointment and I did overindulge just a bit. But hopefully it was a fluke and doesn't happen again.
My blood pressure is still great (122/64), and my fundal height is 23, which is still right on track!

During my next update, I should be able to tell you guys all about the lovely Gestational Diabetes test. I've heard mixed reviews, so we'll see!







(I took this on my 30th birthday!)




Seeing all these pictures at the same time really does show how much bigger I've gotten. Wow!

Academy Awards Red Carpet 2015

So excited about the awards! And, as always, The Red Carpet!!! This year I'm laying in my bed with my Boppy 3-piece pillow, head piece behind my back and leg piece on my lap with my laptop on top, just resting and enjoying seeing everyone in pretty dresses!


Here are some of my favorites!


Love the white bow tie- I love unexpected details like this. Plus, this man looks great in a tux. 

One of my favorites of the night and one of the first ones on the Red Carpet. I just love her in these peachy tones, and this dress is just beautiful!


He's one of the few guys in a different colored tux tonight, and I just love it.


I just love this! So gorgeous!


I love the coordination here. I'm not a huge fan of her dress, but I love the way they look together. I'm so happy Steve was nominated!


I really like this color on her.


Red shoes and Red heels? Usually a bad combo but HOLY WOW does it look good here. She looks incredible and that dress is just beautiful.


I wish more men wore hats on the Red Carpet.


I wasn't sure about this at first, but in picking out my pics I came back to liking it more and more. This is definitely a "winners" dress.


I love this so much. And they're one of my favorite Hollywood couples.


Gotta love a lady that can rock Rubber Gloves on the Red Carpet! I admit, I probably love this because I just love seeing her on the Red Carpet- she's always a favorite of mine.


Simple and classic.


Put this girl in this color more often. She looks insanely gorgeous!


Love a woman that can rock a power suit!


So stunning!


They have that Just Married glow and look amazing. It's so rare to see a guy look so great in a white jacket, but he really, really does!


The color and the cut. I cannot get over it.




And here are the ones I just didn't get.


There is a whole lot going on here.


I don't like the structure of this dress at all. And there is way too much going on.


I'm way in the minority on this one, but I'm not a fashion expert. I just do not like this at all. I think the idea of a pearl dress is awesome, but I really hate the structure that this dress has.


I love the color of this dress on her. But I do not like the cut on her.


No.


I have no clue what they were even trying here. This must be a gown that people that LOVE fashion love, and the rest of us just do not understand.


Leto, this is not the kind of Blue Suit I want.


This dress would be so beautiful without that damn sleeve. Yuck.

Birchbox Brag Haul #2

Today I bring you another Birchbox Haul!



I decided to use some built up points to purchase the Color Club Zodiac Nail Art Kit in Aquarius, the Kate Spade Stationery Like a Book Thermal Mug, and the Beauty Protector Protect and Detangle Spray. The nail kit and the mug were fun little purchases, but the Beauty Protector Spray is something I've recently used a sample of and discovered that, as of right now, I cannot live without it! (I received it in my October 2014 Birchbox, which was one of the months I missed thanks to my lovely bout with morning sickness!)



Because my purchase reached over $35.00, I received a free sample pack. Honestly, I'm not very fond of these samples, and I also am not going to use them right now. So they've gone away where the rest of my samples go until I'm ready to use them.


The best part of this haul is that I spent $0.00. My total order came to $60.45, but I received a discount of 25% off for my 13 Month Box Anniversary (so cute they do this!), as well as Free Shipping because I'm a VIP member, and then I used 400 points for the remaining amount, and spent absolutely nothing! 


FTC: These products were purchased by me with my own money, and with the use of birchbox points which were received by doing reviews of samples received in my monthly subscription. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This post does not contain any affiliate links.