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POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX JANUARY 2015!!

January 21, 2015 & 3 Comments

Hi there! Happy Wednesday!

I finally got my hands on my PopSugar Must Have Box for January! My sweet friend (hey girl hey you know who you are! Don’t spit out your coffee if you’re at work!) got her box a whole week before me and we live in the same state. Hmm! So, the dates of delivery really seem to vary, but *usually* the PopSugar box usually arrives between the 10th-15th of every month for me…it ships from California via FedEx Smart Post, which means it goes out FedEx but arrives to my P.O Box.

If you don’t know, the box contains full size, premium quality items in all different categories: food, beauty, fashion, home, and sometimes an extra goodie too! Each box boasts a retail total of $100 or more. You can check out my review of the PopSugar Must Have Box for December 2014 here.

I didn’t get the sheet with information about what inspired each product, which was a bit of a bummer because I like jumping into the box and being surprised but then reading about each item. I looked up this months inspirations for the box and it said, “Rejuvenate, Fresh Start, Snow, Glimmer, Energize and Refresh”.

January 2014 Must Have Box:

Pom Pom Hat by Jack + Lucy

I love this!! It’s a bit slouchy and more “hipster” than what I normally would wear, but it is super cute on!! I looove to wear gray and the pom pom is right up my ally! We got tech gloves Jack + Lucy in the January box for 2014 that I wear all the time and they’ve held up really well.

$32

12 oz Brew Glass Coffee Cup by KeepCup

I love this! First of all, it fits under my Keurig which is great because a lot of travel mugs do not. The idea is that you can take these cups to your favorite coffee shop and they are the correct size for consistent proportions. I am curious about taking a cup like this to Starbucks…has anyone done this or tried to? But let’s be real, I usually am drinking/making coffee at home, and so I can definitely get a lot of use out of it.

$26

Skin Jewel Tattoos

I started seeing these last summer, and I’ll be honest the first time I saw them is when all of the girls on the total guilty pleasure of a show, Bachelor in Paradise, were rocking them. I think they’re fun, and would definitely wear a few on my wrists in the summer when I have a bit of a (fake) tan. Also, where were these when I was in college?! How freaking cute! I would have definitely worn these alllllll summa long at the pool.

$18

Protein Gronola in Peanut Butter N’ Dark Chocolate by Nature Valley

I am breastfeeding a newborn, so I am constantly needing simple snacks because I get so hungry so fast, and I think this will be a great option. I tried it and it tastes good, I bet it will be amazing with milk or almond milk!

$3.70

eQua Yoga Hand Towel by manduka

I am excited about this one! Once I get the all clear from my doctor to workout again after baby, I can’t wait to get back into shape, and this will be an awesome gym towel!! It says yoga but I can see myself using this after the treadmill or machines.

$16

Ice Water Eyes by ToGoSpa

I love these! Did they know that I just gave birth?! Look for these in an upcoming Empties post where I let you know how they worked for me. I am hopeful ; )

$12.50

Ultra Repair Cream by First Aid Beauty

I keep seeing First Aid Beauty, and this product in particular, mentioned on other blogs I read and on YouTube videos that I watch but until now I haven’t had anything from the brand. I am thrilled to have this and can’t wait to try it out. And this is the big size, so it’s pretty nice that they gave us that and not the smaller $12 tube that is also avaliable.

$30

This box had a retail value of $138.20 and I think I will get use out of every single item in the box! I love PopSugar because it is a nice way to pamper yourself with things you probably wouldn’t buy yourself otherwise or may not know about otherwise. Do you subscribe to PopSugar? If you’d like more information you can find that right here! If you subscribe, did you enjoy your box? Please *COMMENT* to let me know!!! : )

PopSugar Must Have Box November 2014!!! BONUS POST!

November 20, 2014 & 2 Comments

Hi there! Happy THURSDAY! Or Happy Friday Eve ; ) Because that sounds much nicer to me!

I usually post on a Monday and Wednesday schedule but when both my PopSugar Must Have Box AND My Ipsy Glam Bag showed up I knew I had to squeeze one of them in right away for you guys!!

If you don’t know, the box contains full size items in all different categories: food, beauty, fashion, home, and sometimes an extra goodie too! *Usually* the PopSugar box usually arrives between the 10th-15th of every month for me…it ships from California via FedEx Smart Post, which means it goes out FedEx but arrives to my P.O Box.

November 2014 PopSugar Must Have Box:

The Secret Recipes by Dominique Ansel from Simon & Schuster:

This is such a beautiful baking book! This is written by the creator of the Cronut (YUM!) and has recipes for everyone, no matter your skill level so it says. It looks complicated honestly, but I still want to try some recipes out! I really enjoy baking, and I do have some baking books but none as fancy smancy as this! I think it would look gorgeous sitting in your kitchen or on a table, but with little kids mine is up with all of my other cookbooks.

$35

Saffiano Wallet On a Chain by Sorial:

I love this! I think it’s a fantastic idea and although I usually am carrying a big bag or diaper bag because I have little kids, this could be great for a girls night out or date night!! One concern is that I do *not* think this will fit larger phones like the iPhone 6. Quality wise this seems nice, but someone told me that the zipper on theirs came broken : / I am sure PopSugar will get it replaced quickly, but it does make me question the quality a bit. Still, very cute and functional! *Note: Lipstick shown in picture is for size reference!

$49

Ambergis Shea Butter Cream by K. Hall Simpatico:

I say this every time PopSugar sends luxury lotions…I LOVE IT! I don’t splurge on lotions but I definitely love them! The packaging of this is very luxe, but I don’t like the metal style tube because sometimes when you squeeze it they can crack…basically it is stylish but just doesn’t seem as functional this way to me…is that just me?! I opened this right away, but I had to do so with a pen because it doesn’t have that little part some caps have to poke it open. I love the light scent of this and have already been enjoying it!!

$22

Thoughtful Heart Stationery by Tiny Prints:

I just mentioned in a recent post how much I love sending snail mail to loves ones! And I *adore* pretty stationary, so this will definitely get used.

$15

Custom 3-Pack for POPSUGAR Must Have by Wine Glass Writer:

Oh my goodness! These are fantastic!! I am super pregnant, so I’m not currently consuming any wine, but I love wine and all the little accessories to go along with it! These are so much fun!!

$9.95

Chicago Mix Popped Corn by G.H Cretors

THIS. IS. UNREAL!!!! Are you paying attention?! UNREAL! Seriously!! I saw it an was kind of “meh” about it at first. I knew I would eat it, I do like carmel corn and popcorn, but it isn’t something I gravitate to if I’m in a chocolate shop or anything. But this?! Stop, seriously, stop! It is THE BEST SNACK I HAVE TRIED ALL YEAR! Hands DOWN! I know I sound sort of like a crazy preggo, but both my mother in-law and my friend who are also PopSugar subscribers have confirmed my feelings, this is the bomb.com! My husband doesn’t like carmel corn, and isn’t much of a snacker (it’s truely unfair actually!), but even he thought this was pretty amazing. I am buying a case of 12 bags on amazon for $35! That should last me a good two weeks ; )

$3.69

TOTAL BOX VALUE:

$134.64

After feeling lukewarm about the October PopSugar Must Have Box I am so happy with the November box! I love everything and everything will get used! I am super excited for the December box and hope that it ships plenty early so we can enjoy the goods before Christmas!

Do you subscribe to PopSugar? If you would like to you can sign up here for $39/month! I love subscription boxes and will be reviewing my November Ipsy Bag next week!! If there are any other subscriptions that you think I need to try, let me know in the comments or find me on social media! It’s always LeahTackles : ) Have WONDERFUL weekend my loves!!

Popsugar Must Have Box September 2014!

September 22, 2014 & 4 Comments

Hi there! Happy Monday!

It’s POPSUGAR TIME!!!! Today I am reviewing the September 2014 PopSugar Must Have Box.The box contains full size items in all different categories: food, beauty, fashion, home, and sometimes an extra goodie too! The PopSugar box usually arrives between the 10th-15th of every month for me…it ships from California via FedEx Smart Post, which means it goes out FedEx but arrives to my P.O Box. I am LOVING this months box, so let’s get into it!

September 2014 Must Have Box:

Stereo Earbuds by Nicole Miller

$20

I needed a new pair of earbuds, and I can’t wait to use these! I love the dark blue color that I received, though I’m not sure if everyone got the same color. If you are subscribed to PopSugar Must Have Box, what color earbuds did you get? Let me know in the comments!

Superfine Purse Size Hairspray by Orbie

$21.50

I like the sleek packaging of this hairspray, and I will definitely use this for travel! It smells pretty nice, too.

Almond Brownie by Urban Remedy

$6.99

I thought this might be kind of strange…it’s a 100% raw and organic…but it was REALLY good!! It wasn’t the same as biting into a chocolate fudge brownie or anything, but it was a nice dense bar with a nice dark cacao chocolate-y taste. That said, would I pay $6 for one of these? Probably not.

Gold Foil Arrow Pencils by Letter C Design

$7.50

I *looove* the sleek black pencils with the gold details! I haven’t used these yet, but they look gorgeous on my desk! I love that they threw in a small pencil sharpener too, because I haven’t used a pencil that wasn’t mechanical in ages.

Modal Gradation Scarf in Raisin by Tilo Scarves

$125

This is far and away my favorite item in the box this month!!! I looooove this scarf! When I first glanced at it, I only saw charoal, but once opened it is a beautiful mix of grays and a raisin brown…GORGEOUS! Seriously, stunning! This makes the most basic tee look beautiful.

Garance Doré Assorted Girls Set by Rifle Paper Co.

$18

I love having blank notecards to send to friends and loved ones! I also will use these for giveaway winners : ) Super cute!

Special Extras:

Milk Chocolate Sea Salt and Almond Minis by Ghiradelli

This was an awesome “extra”! I am ashamed to say how quickly these disappeared, but hey at least I can blame it on the pregnancy…right??! SOO yummy!

$20 Nike Giftcard

I don’t reeeeally count this, because you have to make a purchase to use this, but I will definitely hang onto it and it’s nice to have on hand.

This is one of my favorite PopSugar Must Have Boxes in awhile! And with a total of $198.99 it is clearly WELL worth the $39 price point since I have already been using most of the products! As usual : ) Have you subscribed to any subscription boxes or bags yet? I would love to hear about them in the comments! I finally caved and got my first Ipsy Glambag and I will put a review up on Wednesday, so be sure to subscribe to see that if you haven’t subscribed already : )

PopSugar Must Have Box August 2014!!

August 18, 2014 & 4 Comments

Hi there! Happy Monday!! Annnnd Happy PopSugar time!! This is one of my favorite posts of the month to share with all of you!!

Before we get started: Don’t forget to check out my column Leah’s Friday Five on the Pearls and Pastries Shop Blog! This past Friday was all about my favorite fall boots and where I shop for them!!

Today I am reviewing the PopSugar Must Have Box for August 2014!! The box contains full size items in all different categories:food, beauty, fashion, home, and sometimes an extra goodie too! The PopSugar box usually arrives between the 10th-15th of every month for me…it ships from California via FedEx Smart Post, which means it goes out FedEx but arrives to my P.O Box. I am really enjoing this months box so far, so let’s jump into it!

August 2014 Must Have Box:

I want to mention that I did think that the packaging was not done very well this month : / And I have heard from others that there boxes also were not packed very securely. I thought for sure one item that is made of glass would be broken, and the most delicate thing in the box had slipped out of it’s packaging and was loose : ( I have only ever had 2 boxes with a damaged item in the 20 months that I have had the subscription, and PopSugar is always great about replacing things, but I hope the packaging is back to normal next month!

Celebrate Cookie Mix from The Mason Jar Cookie Company:

$12

My 3 year old LOVES to bake in the kitchen with me, and sometimes it is so nice to have the mix pre-made so that I save some clean up and time!! My daughter still gets the joy of mixing and working in the kitchen, so it’s a win-win! We haven’t tried this one yet, but I love the packaging and with sprinkles and chocolate what’s not to love?!

Lush Fruit Lip from Bite Beauty:

$22

I have been swooning over the Lush lipsticks for months now, so I was super excited to find this lip gloss in my box! The color was created especially for PopSugar subscribers for the 2 year anniversary of the Must Have Box. It is a nice hint of color, and it is a bit sticky but I actually like that to a point because it stays on the lips longer. I love that this lip gloss is naturally nourishing with strawberry, coconut, and avocado oils.

Purple Meal and Dipper Set from Goodbyn:

We already have one of these bento style boxes, but it gets tons of use, and with my daughter starting pre-school (ah!!) soon we are happy to have another. This is dishwasher safe, and I love the seperate little compartments.

Ocean Tide + Sea Salt Mini Jar Candle from Paddywax:

$10

I have burned this several times already and I am really impressed!! I usually gravitate towards 3 wick candles exclusively because I want a candle that will have a throw that will really fill the room, but this is a powerful little thing! It smells SO good, it’s hard to find a beachy scented candle that doesn’t overwhelm you with suncreen or coconut, and this candle is able to with the nice sea salt scent.

At Last Perfumed Shower Gel from Lollia:

$22

I haven’t tried this yet, but I always love getting fancy bath products in my box : ) This smells nice and I am excited to try it out.

Elle Earrings in Slate from Kendra Scott:

$52

This are easily my favorite item in the box which is really saying something since I rarely wear dangly earrings (2 little kiddos and another on the way…so maybe in 3-4 years I can wear them more!) but these are stunning! I think they’ll look great with so many things and can’t wait to wear them for a date night with Stephan : )

Special Extra:

Brownie Crunch High Protein Bar from thinkThin:

I originally tried a thinkThin bar because of Pop Sugar back in February of 2013, and they are a great option for a high protein bar. I haven’t tried this one yet, but I love tossing these in my bags for those “I-need-energy/food-now!” moments! Having a healthier option stops me from making a bad decision (ahhhhm candy bars!).

Overall I am really excited about this months box! I am so excited for fall this year, so I am hoping that next month has some fun things as well that are more fall geared. I was disapointed by the packaging, but the items made up for it! And as always, this box is WELL worth the $39 price point! This box totals $126 not counting the special extra.

Do you subscribe to PopSugar? What other subscription boxes do you enjoy? I love hearing what other people subscribe to and what they are loving!!

Before you go, don’t forget to enter the TWO giveaways that are currently running on the blog!!

#1 Arbonne Sea Salt Scrub

#2 Chloe + Isabel Jewelry

I hope you have a wonderful start to your week!! Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blog : ) XOXO

POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX JULY 2014!

July 16, 2014 & Leave a Comment

Hi there! Happy Wednesday!!

Today I am *SO* excited to be reviewing the PopSugar Must Have Box for July 2014!! The box contains full size items in all different categories:food, beauty, fashion, home, and sometimes an extra goodie too! The PopSugar box usually arrives between the 10th-15th of every month for me…it ships from California via FedEx Smart Post, which means it goes out FedEx but arrives to my P.O Box. I am LOVING this months box, so let’s get right into it!!

JULY 2014 MUST HAVE BOX:

Beach Hat from Michael Stars

$48

I LOVE Michael Stars and I was thrilled to see a fun sun hat in this months box. I have several beach hats and floppy hats now, and I really need to find more opportunities to wear them! This is a nice hat becasue it isn’t too huge and oversized (which is fabulous also!), and that makes it wearable on a more frequent basis.

Sunscreen and Lotion from Sun Bum

$20

First off, these smell AMAZING!! I love that coconut, sunscreen-y scent! I always wear sunscreen, and I am always happy to have some more on hand. Also, the packaging is so cute!!

Toasted Coconut Chips from Dang Foods

These are so tasty! I shared a few with Stephan because we are both huge coconut fans, but now I am going to have to get some more of these! I love that the only ingredients are coconut, sugar cane, and salt.

Jump Rope With Soft Grip Handles from TKO

$13

I have been wanting an athletic jump rope for awhile now, and I am really excited to try this out. And I’m not sure how fast you’d have to jump to burn 170 calories in 15 minutes…but it claims that it is possible, so SIGN ME UP!

Chevron Paper Straws from ACME Party Box Company

I love paper straws and these ones are so cute!

Ziggy Salad Servers from French Bull

$12

These are so cute! I love that PopSugar includes so many fun kitchen gadgets because they are all things that I typically wouldn’t buy myself, but absolutely adore! Summer is the perfect time to show off such fun serveware!!

Bold Lacquer Length & Volume Mascara from Revlon

This is the special extra this month and I am glad that it’s an extra. As you all know, I love makeup! But I would prefer and eye shadow, a lip product, or maybe a blush. Ohh or nail polish…but that’s not quite makeup ; ) I know mascara is easy because there isn’t a color-match issue, and I will definitely try this one out!

This box has a total value of just over $110 and I am VERY happy with it!! Do you subscribe to PopSugar or any other subscription boxes? As always, I would love to hear about them!! I hope that you have a WONDERFUL rest of your week! And don’t forget to enter my Ell and Emm bracelet giveaway!!

POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX JUNE 2014

June 13, 2014 & Leave a Comment

Hi there! Happy Friiiiiiday!!

Today I am very excited to be reviewing the June PopSugar Must Have Box!! The box contains full size items in all different categories:food, beauty, fashion, home, and sometimes an extra goodie too. The PopSugar box usually arrives between the 10th-15th of every month for me…it ships from California via FedEx Smart Post, which means it goes out FedEx but arrives to my P.O Box.

The box and insert have been revamped and I love the new look!

You can see my post on my May PopSugar Box here and if you have questions on how I ended up liking any of those products please comment to let me know and I would be happy to answer : )

JUNE 2014 MUST HAVE BOX:

Lemon Wet Wipes from You Smell

These probably aren’t something I would have bought, but they are in adorable packaging and I’ll happily carry them in my purse.

Hawaiian BBQ Chips from One Potato Two Potato

I really like these! They have a nice little kick and have a nice full BBQ flavor. I was worried they would be really sweet, but they aren’t much sweeter than a normal BBQ chip.

Beach Towel from Turkish-T

$32

This is so pretty and soft!! I love the idea of using it as a wrap or maybe even a sarong. Love love love!

The One & Only by Emily Giffin’s

$28

I have been hearing so much buzz about this book! I am hoping I can find the time to read it! I love to read, but can never seem to find the time to read! Maybe I’ll see if it’s on Audible : /

Basic Hair Ties from Lollies

These are SO cute!! And I think they’ll look adorable as bracelets, too.

Shiny Citrus Body Lotion from Sacha Jaun

$24

I started using this right away! I *love* fancy body lotions, and this one is lovely. It smells so fresh and wonderful!

Special Extra: $15 Gift Card from Native Union

This website has a lot of cool tech-y gadgets (although I don’t think any for $15!) and I am giving this to my husband : ) I like tech accessories too, but I think my sweet hubs deserves a little something too.

I am NEVER disapointed with my PopSugar subscription! This month added up to $104 not counting the $15 gift card. I STILL haven’t subscribed to anything else in the subscription box world, but I am sososososo close! I hope that you enjoyed this post and that you have a wonderful weekend! And don’t forget to subscribe : )

POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX MAY 2014

May 16, 2014 & 1 Comment

Hi There! Happy Friday!

Today I am very excited to be reviewing the May 2014 PopSugar Must Have Box! Some people read spoilers…maybe that is why you are here reading this?!…but I prefer to be surprised! The box contains full size items in all different categories:food, beauty, fashion, home, and usually an extra goodie of some kind, too. The PopSugar box usually arrives between the 10th-15th of every month for me…it ships via FedEx Smart Post, which means it goes out FedEx but arrives to my P.O Box.

I will quickly go over the items from my April 2014 PopSugar Must Have Box first, and then dig into the May box!

Product titles are also links for more information or to buy online.

APRIL MUST HAVE BOX MINI REVIEWS:

Must Have Food:

PopSugar Must Have Mix from Nature Box

Verdict: I LOVED THIS!! I wish I could buy this at my local grocery store. YUM! I still haven’t gotten a subscription for Nature Box yet, but I want to!

Must Have Home:

Caldrea Rosewater Driftwood Liquid Hand Soap

$10.50

Verdict: I haven’t used this yet because we have been using up what we have, but it smells lovely and I can’t wait to try it.

Must Have Beauty:

Too Faced Natural Eyes Palette

$36

Verdict: My orignal palette came with a broken shadow, but PopSugar quickly replaced my palette. I love this little palette, and have been getting a lot of use out of it.

Must Have Fashion:

(XO) Echo Shopper Collapsable Tote Bag from Lauren Conrad for Blue Avocado (*Similar)

$24.99

Verdict: I really love this! It still hasn’t made it to the farmers market, but as soon as ours opens up, this bag will be heading there : )

Must Have Home:

Pocket Notes from Graphic Image

$20

Verdict: I used this immediately! It is so adorable and I love it.

Must Have Home:

TOTALLY AWESOME: 80’s Sayings Tea Towel Set by Fresh Pastry Stand (an etsy.com site)

$18

Verdict: I have used these a little bit, and they are pretty cute! I like the summery colors!

MAY 2014 MUST HAVE BOX:

Must Have Beauty:

Smell Bent St. Tropez Dispenser

$45 Value

This smells just like sun screen, salt, coconut…basically a day at the beach in the bottle! This may not be a favorite for everybody, but I LOVE it! It doesn’t seem to last super long on the skin, so that is a bit of a downside, and the bottle is glass so if you wanted to take it in your bag you’d have to consider that. I can’t wait to wear it this summer!!

Must Have Home:

Kerry Cassill Eye Mask (*Similar)

$24 Value

This is really pretty, and I needed a new eye mask, so I will happily use it!

Must Have Fitness:

Tone It Up

$15 Value

I really like workout DVDs because with two little loves running around, I don’t get to the gym very often anymore! I use our treadmill the most consistently, and I like to change up my DVD workouts. This DVD features the ladies from Bravo’s Toned Up, which I have never seen but have heard about. Has anyone watched Toned Up? Have you tried the Tone It Up DVDs? I would love to hear from you! Please comment and let me know : )

Must Have Home:

Zing Anything Cirtus Zinger

$17 Value

This is my favorite thing in the box!! I was *so* excited when I saw it!! In my April Beauty Favorites I mentioned that I have been drinking lemon water every morning recently, so the timing on this couldn’t be more perfect. You can press lemons, limes, or other citrus fruits into your water. Love!

Must Have Beauty:

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Pool Boy Nail Lacquer

$10 Value

This is such a pretty color for spring and summer! This is 100% vegan and cruelty free. I already put it on my nails and I love it!

Must Have Food:

Hi I’m Skinny Sticks Multi-Grain Sweet Onion

I was excited when I saw these, but I unfortunately really didn’t like them. They do have adorable packaging though! I think that if these were savory flavor I would have liked them, but a sweet flavor just wasn’t doing it for me. I sent these to work with my husband, so they hopefully won’t go to waste!

At first glance, I thought this was a fairly small box, but that being said I really enjoy the items in this months PopSugar Must Have Box! This box has a value of $115 and besides the Hi I’m Skinny Sticks, I know that I will use everything in the box. As always, well worth the $39. Do you subscribe to PopSugar? Do you subscribe to any other subscription boxes? Please comment (click the link by the title of this post) or find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! Please subscribe by entering your email into the subscription box on the right hand of this screen and you’ll only get emails when I post something new : )

PHEW! SUPER LONG!!! But thank you for reading : ) Also, don’t forget to check out my column, Leah’s Friday Five, on Pearls and Pastries Shop Blog! There is a new post up today!!

POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX APRIL 2014!!

April 14, 2014 & 5 Comments

Hi There! Happy Monday!!

I hope you’re having a wonderful start to your week! If you want to make my day, be sure to follow me on social media! The pink button links are at the top of this page! It’s LeahTackles everywhere!

Today I am very excited to be reviewing the April 2014 PopSugar Must Have Box! I have been receiving this subscription service since December 2012 and it is like Christmas every month! I personally love being surprised by what’s in the box, so I steer clear of spoilers! If your April box hasn’t come yet and you want spoilers, keep reading! Here is a little bit about Pop Sugar: The box contains full size items in all different categories…food, beauty, fashion, home, and usually an extra goodie of some kind, too. The PopSugar box usually arrives between the 10^th-15^th of every month for me…it ships via FedEx Smart Post, which means it goes out FedEx but arrives to my P.O Box. Today I will quickly go over the March items so you know what I loved and what was maybe so-so for me. When I go over the May box in a post next month I will do a mini review of the items from this month and talk about what I used, didn’t use, liked, or maybe didn’t like as much.

Product titles are also links for more information or to buy online.

Okay, here we go…

MARCH 2014 POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX OVERVIEW:

Must Have Food:

Snapea Crisps from Harvest Snaps

$3 Value

Verdict:

I ate these up quickly and really liked them! I was happy to find them shortly after receiving them in my box at my local grocery store. The listed value is $3, but I found them for less than $2, so keep your eyes peeled!

Must Have Beauty:

Herbal Recovery Advanced Serum from Jurlique

$30

Verdict:

I really like this serum! It is a very thin consistency, but I find that only 1-2 pumps is enough to cover my face, neck and décolleté. I have only been using it every few days at night, but I think I am going to be brave and test it during the day on my combination/oily skin to see how it goes! The serum seems to absorb into the skin quickly, so maybe it would work on me for daytime as well.

Must Have Fashion:

Lucky Horseshoe Necklace from Dogeared (*Similar)

$28

Verdict:

I love it! Very cute! I need to remember to wear it more often.

Must Have Fashion:

IKAT Scarf from Brokedown

$72

Verdict:

This is such a fabulous scarf! I have been reaching for it a lot lately, and it’s a great transition piece for spring!

Must Have Fitness:

Mini Stability Exercise Ball from Fusion Pilates (*Similar)

$9.95

Verdict:

I used this only once, right before writing this post so that I could tell you all at least a little something about it. The workouts for this Mini Stability Ball were fairly basic, but as most workouts not quite as easy as they looked! Now that I know how to use it, I need to grab this and give it a try with my exercise routine! I tend to get in exercise slumps where I do the same type of work out over and over! Time to change it up!

Must Have Home:

Elephant Ring Tree Holder from Bauble Bar

$12

Verdict:

I love this still! It looks so cute sitting on top of my jewelry box, and I have two little rings sitting on it looking pretty.

Special Extra:

Whole Wheat Fig Bar from Nature’s Bakery

Verdict:

This was yummy and came in handy when I needed a snack on the go! Would I run out and hunt down this exact bar? No, but it was tasty and I would consider grabbing again if I saw it at the store.

Okay, now onto the good stuff!! This months box!!

APRIL 2014 POPSUGAR MUST HAVE BOX:

Must Have Food:

Pop Sugar Must Have Mix from Nature Box

$5 Value

I have been curious about Nature Box for quite awhile now and was really excited to see something in this PopSugar Must Have Box to try from them. The mix is dried cranberries, corn, soybeans and almonds in it, and it wasn’t something I would have reached for myself, but I really liked it! I almost always have a snack while watching our favorite TV shows with my husband after our kids go to bed, and having healthy snacks like this around keep me from wanting chocolate or other not-so-healthy treats! The fat content is pretty high, it is a trail mix/energy snack after all, but otherwise it’s definitely a healthy option. They also included a coupon for a $9.95 trail month of 5 items, and I am definitely tempted! If you subscribe to Nature Box, do you like it? I would love to hear your thoughts! Let me know by commenting (click the link on the title of this post! Super easy!) or find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!

Must Have Home:

Caldrea Rosewater Driftwood Liquid Hand Soap

$10.50 value

I love seeing things like this in the box! I would feel guilty spending too much on hand soap, it’s a spot where I can cut corners or at least get the deals at Bath and Body Works, but I LOVE the little luxury of using them! It is a very nice rose smell, not too overpowering and not at all a fake floral smell that some soaps have.

Must Have Beauty:

Too Faced Natural Eyes Palette

$36 Value

I was SO excited when I saw this in the box!! I love Too Faced bronzers, lip products, and mascara but I have never tried the eye shadows! Speaking of their eye shadows, I am currently lusting over the Chocolate Bar Palette and know that eventually that must be added to my collection! Has anyone tried either of these palettes? Let me know by leaving a comment (click the link by the title of this post) or find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram ! Anyways, I love neutral eye shadows and was super excited until I noticed powder covering the box while I was opening it : ( One of the eye shadows broke! I know I could try to repair it, but I also sent PopSugar an email to see about sending it back and getting a replacement. It wasn’t wrapped at all sadly, which I was surprised about because I haven’t had that issue in the past. I have only had one other issue in the 17 different boxes I have had since December 2012, so as long as it’s replaced I am not concerned about it, and PopSugar has always had great customer service.

Must Have Fashion:

(XO) Eco Shopper Collapsible Tote Bag from Lauren Conrad for Blue Avocado

$24.99 value

I wasn’t thrilled initially with this bag because I figured it would just be another bag that wasn’t any different than others that I have. However, upon further inspection it’s simple to use and an adorable print! This bag makes me so excited for warmer weather and hopefully heading to some farmer’s markets with my family! So many bags advertise that they fold up “easily”, but this one really does fold up without a struggle. I think it will be functional for so many things, for day trips or barbeques I always have extra stuff I want to bring along and this is a great way to look stylish while doing it. The company Blue Avocado works with other companies and they upcycle by using plastic bottles to make the Blue Avocado products. The Lauren Conrad line from Blue Avocado also has lots of beauty and travel items that are just adorable! She can seriously do no wrong!

Must Have Home:

Pocket Notes from Graphic Image (*Similar)

$20 Value

I LOVE this so much! It says “Run The World” (how CUTE!) on a small periwinkle leather notebook with silver glit edged pages and a little ribbon bookmark. I am already using this, and it’s a perfect addition to toss into my bag or have displayed on my desk.

Must Have Home:

TOTALLY AWESOME: 80’s Sayings Tea Towel Set by Fresh Pastry Stand (an Etsy.com site)

$18 Value

These are cute, and I will definitely use them a lot this summer in the kitchen. They are big enough unfolded that they can be very multi-functional, which I love! I think they’re a fun way to liven up and lighten up the kitchen for spring.

All in all it is another great box from PopSugar! The total value was about $115 (each month $100 value or more is promised!) and for $39 it is well worth it since I will use the products. I am not as excited as I was about last months box (I LOVED last months box, so pretty stiff competition), but I still think I will enjoy and use all of the products in the box! I will keep you posted and put a note at the bottom of this post when I hear from PopSugar about my broken Too Faced palette. If you liked what you saw here, you can subscribe to PopSugar Must Have Box and join in the fun too! It’s the only subscription box I have tried so far, but I am *SOCLOSE* to trying more! Everybody loves fun mail, right?! If you subscribe to any subscription boxes that you love, tell me about it commenting (click the link next to the title of this post), or find me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram! As always, thank you so much for reading this and please subscribe! It’s easy, just enter you email and receive emails only when I upload a new post, and it’ll make my day!

***UPDATE*** PopSugar has emailed me back and are replacing my Too Faced palette! I am SO happy with the customer service and once I have my palette in my hands I think this will bump up to being one of my top boxes so far!! Makeup? Eeek! Too Faced makeup? EEEEEEK!

***ANOTHER UPDATE*** PopSugar sent my replacement and it arrived carefully packaged this time! So excited : )

PopSugar Must Have Box March 2014

March 14, 2014 & 2 Comments

Hi There! Happy Friday!

Today I am very excited to be reviewing the March 2014 PopSugar Must Have Box! I have been receiving this subscription service since December 2012 and it is like Christmas every month! Some people read spoilers (is that why you’re reading this?!) but I personally prefer the surprise! The box contains full size items in all different categories…food, beauty, fashion, home, and usually an extra goodie of some kind, too. PopSugar is one of my favorite websites and I also love their youtube channels for fun diy projects, style tips, cooking, interviews…all sorts of stuff. The PopSugar box usually arrives between the 10^th-15^th of every month for me…it ships via FedEx Smart Post, which means it goes out FedEx but arrives to my P.O Box. Sometimes I get my shipping notice on the day the box arrives…but I’m not complaining! I am always happy to see the box waiting for me!!

When I go over the April box in a post next month I will do a mini review of the items from this month and talk about what I used, didn’t use, liked, or maybe didn’t like as much if any of you are interested (comment at the top of this post!)

Product titles are also links for more information or to buy online.

Okay, here we go…

Must Have Food:

Snapea Crisps from Harvest Snaps

$3 Value

I saw these, and I won’t lie, I was thinking no way!! At first glance, they reminded me of one time back when my husband was my fiancé and we bought snack sized baggies of “veggie chips” and they sat unopened for months because after one bag was opened we never touched them again! But I tried these Snapea Crisps and they’re GOOD! Really good! If you close your eyes, they taste like a healthy, crunchy and nicely salty chip. They however did not pass my almost 3 year olds taste test…but I am betting that has more to do with the look than the taste.

Must Have Beauty:

Herbal Recovery Advanced Serum from Jurlique

$30

I tried this serum right away and it’s very floral/herbal smelling, but I am not bothered by that and actually enjoyed the perfume, but it is quite strong when you initially apply it. I am happy to give this a shot because it claims to help with the beginning signs of aging, improve dullness and give the skin more radiance, all things I can definitely get on board with! I will probably use this exclusively at nighttime.

Must Have Fashion:

Lucky Horseshoe Necklace from Dogeared (*Similar)

$28

I was very excited to see something from Dogeared in box because I have been interested in the brand for a while now. I am interested in their custom necklaces online, has anyone had experiences with those? Anyways, the idea of this necklace is that you wear it until the silk thread breaks and then whatever wish you made when you put the necklace on comes true. I think it’s a cute idea and fingers crossed my wish comes true.

Must Have Fashion:

IKAT Scarf from Brokedown

$72

I LOVE getting scarves in my PopSugar box because as much as I love them, they aren’t things I would usually pick up on my own. This is just so pretty and is definitely one of my favorite items in this months box!! This scarf is soft, lightweight, and beautiful for spring.

Must Have Fitness:

Mini Stability Exercise Ball from Fusion Pilates (*Similar)

$9.95

This looks like an itty-bitty exercise ball…and that’s basically what it is! There is a website with exercises that I still need to check out. It comes with a straw to inflate it easily without a pump and I put a pen next to it in the picture below for a size reference. This isn’t my favorite item right off the bat, but I want to try to use it! We have a treadmill at home, and that along with exercise videos has become my “gym” since having kids. Speaking of kids, I am sure they will try to “borrow” this! I like the fact that it is small and won’t be an eyesore or something I have to hide away. If anyone is interested, I will try it out and be sure to do a review on this! Just let me know.

Must Have Home:

Elephant Ring Tree Holder from Bauble Bar

$12

This is my favorite item without question! I just can’t help myself; I am powerless to the cuteness and pretty much anything from Bauble Bar, I love! It is just so adorable, plus it is functional. It has black velvet on the bottom so it won’t scratch your tabletop or vanity. I don’t wear a lot of rings besides my wedding bands and engagement ring, but it’s such a sweet way to display some of my other rings on my vanity. I think this would be an adorable gift for woman from 10-110 years old! This just makes me happy!

Special Extra:

Whole Wheat Fig Bar from Nature’s Bakery

This is a nice little extra that I’m going to toss into my bag for a snack in a pinch. I am hoping it tastes like a Fig Newton. I love having a healthy snack available at all times to try to cut down on junk food cravings.

I am very happy with this months box! The total retail value was over $150 and the items were all things I think I will use, so it was well worth the $39 monthly cost to me. Do you subscribe to PopSugar? If you don’t subscibe yet and are interested you can find out more from here. Do you subscribe to other monthly bags or boxes? So far I have only subscribed to PopSugar, but I’m itching to try ipsy or birchbox! Let me know your thoughts in the comments at the top of this post or find me on Facebook, Twitteror Instagram! If you enjoyed this post please subscribe!