Influenster (22), (23), (24), (25), (26), (27), and (28)

It has been over a year since I've sat down to share with you some of the fun items I've been given through Influenster. This is something that anyone can do, you simply have to be willing to write reviews and possibly post about them. I have gotten some really awesome stuff throughout the year and I can't wait to share! I've been doing this since 2017 and I feel like I've gotten better and better stuff each year.  

Yankee Candle ScentLight -- Sage & Citrus Scent

The product itself is very pretty and it's incredibly nice that it is battery powered rather than having to be plugged in. The scent that they gave me (sage & citrus) was...interesting and I wouldn't get that particular scent again. But, the item itself is nice and I took it to school and use it in my classroom. It is very powerful and fills the room quickly. So, I have to turn it off after about an hour. It's nice to have but, not something I would buy for myself because they are about $40 and the scents are $10 for each one. I am trying to decide if I will buy more scents and keep using them in my classroom. I will see how long this scent lasts before deciding if it's worth it! 

Zotos "All About Curls" Duo

I liked this product. I don't use a ton of gel so, I didn't gravitate to that as much as I did the leave-in detangled. They both smelled good and I would definitely consider using the detangler again when I am out of this one. 

The Philosophy of Hope Moisturizer

I wasn't sure I was going to like this because I am picky about facial products. I am still using this after about 3 months of having it and I really, really like it. It is very hydrating and I love the way it smells. 

The Pur VoxBox Makeup

Okay, I really thought I wasn't going to like this make up because I already have my make up that I use and I'm very happy with it all. But, let me tell you about this 4-in-1 compact powder. It is amazing. The coverage is great, it stays on well. I have used BeautiControl since high school and they stopped making it. I bought as many as I could the last time I found it (about 4 or 5 years ago now) and I've been looking for a replacement ever since. I landed on BareMinerals but, when I got this, this blew the BareMinerals out of the water. It went on more smoothly and lasted longer. I will 100% get more of the 4-in-1 compact powder when I'm out. The mascara I was not impressed with. It's nothing special and it was hard to wash off at the end of the day. It took me 3-4 times before it was completely off--and I did not like that. The concealer was nice but, was not my right shade. Since I like the powder so much, I will consider the concealer in another shade once I'm out of my current concealer. All in all, I consider this one a big, big win because of the powder!

J.R. Watkins Foaming Hand Soap

I don't know how I only ended up with an out of focus picture but, here we are!

This one was fun and I actually ended up taking both of the hand soaps to school to use in the teacher restroom and to share with everyone. I am personally not a fan of rose scented stuff so I didn't love that one but, the lemon one was so good. Same with the dish soap and I really liked the way the dish soap was dispensed. 

Marc Anthony "Grow Long" Hair Product Line

So, overall, I likely won't use this line again. There was something about the smell that I didn't love and that's something I can't get past. Smell it in the store before you decide if you want it or not--it wasn't stinky, just wasn't for me. The actual products were good. I liked the leave-in conditioner the best. 

Too Faced "Shadow Insurance" + Sunset Eyeshadow Palette

How fun is this eye shadow palette? I haven't worn a full-face of makeup, including eye shadow in so long. So this was super fun for me! The colors were so pretty and I really liked using them. I will absolutely keep these on hand and use them from time to time. 

Yes, all of this for free all for a few reviews and some posting! If this is something you're interested in, here's their website, sign up and start getting fun stuff! If you sign up, let me know what kind of fun products you end up getting.

Influenster (15), (16), (17), (18), (19), (20) and (21)

Whewwwwww weeeeeee!

It has been a hot minute since I've done a post about some of the fun things I've received from Influenster to try out for FREE! Yep, you read that right. 

I've been subscribed to this since 2017 and I've received/tried out so many fun products that I wouldn't have purchased on my own. Here recently, I've gotten some really awesome products. A few of them, I will absolutely buy again once I'm out of my free ones from Influenster!

First up, Kristin Ess curly hair products. 

I really liked this little trio and I've repurchased them all again since using up the ones from Influenster. They smell really good and they make my hair less frizzy and then curl more defined. 

They area little on the expensive side so I only buy them every now and then now days but, they will stay in the rotation. The curl leave-in cream smells so, so good and doesn't make your hair "crunchy" (you know what I mean)--it's a good product!

 

Next up, these Revlon lip sticks. I have used the lighter shade (Nude Illuminator) multiple times now. It's a very neutral, pretty color. It is a glossy finish and even though it doesn't stay on long, that doesn't bother me because I like the color that much and let's be honest, no one is really going many places these days. I keep it in my purse because it's neutral enough to go with anything so when I need some color on my face, I go for that one. The other one is a pretty shade but, more for dressy nights. I haven't used it nearly as much as the other and I will certainly get more when I'm out of it.

I haven't gotten many food products so I was surprised when I received these Kraft Vinegarette Dressings. They were good but, not something I will buy again as there are plenty of dressing I prefer.

I'm always excited to get make up--always fun to try new lip colors and these Rimmell London lip glosses were fun to try out but, not something I will use anymore or buy again. They were a bit too glossy for me and had a little bit of that sticky feeling. Don't get me wrong, they were a nice product but, not for me. They definitely took me back to 7th grade school dances!

This one was a pleasant surprise. This Conair hair tool--I had no idea what in the world it would do to my crazy, thick & curly hair and I actually liked it. I don't do much with my hair so it never looks different and this took care of the frizz and almost....almost straightened it. I wouldn't have bought it on my own, but, now that I've tried it I am glad I have it and can change up my hair style every now and then. 

Here's your awkward bathroom "before"

and your awkward "after" bathroom photo--I need a good visual so, here we are!

So, these One A Day Gummi Vitamins were easy to take and quite tasty. I don't think I had enough to determine how they made me feel but, they are something I would consider taking consistently. 

And most recently, these amazing Smash Box lip sticks--my favorite lip sticks I've gotten thus far through this program and I like both shades so, so much! The "Level Up" shade is very neutral and has a matte finish. It's my favorite of the two. I like this brand and trying out these two lip sticks has made me want to check out more of their products. 

And there we have it! That's the last six boxes I've gotten from them and that's been over the span of a year--which isn't too bad if you ask me!

ANYONE can do this. You just have to be willing to complete some tasks (posts & reviews) sharing your thoughts about what you've received. There's an app and they make it easy to get it done--nothing crazy, I promise. If you're interested, here's their website. If you sign up, let me know what kinds of fun products you end up getting!

Snow/Ice Week (2/15-19)

I'm almost two months late but, here I am--recapping the snow/ice apocalypse that happened in February. 

Who knew when they said we were getting snow in mid-February that we would be iced in and have a week of virtual school? Better yet, who would have thought that would happen in Mississippi nonetheless!

It happened to be Valentine's Day weekend and thankfully, we were able to have a nice brunch out before things became dangerous. 

We went to The Manship and it was delicious! There brunch is so, so yummy and most definitely worth trying out if you haven't been there before. 

It's become a tradition of ours to take a polaroid during each snow day--I love the tradition and love looking back and each fun, beautiful snow day we've had. 

Also, can we talk about how stunning this quilt coat is? I had not even dreamed of a quilt coat until I saw a friend get one and I was taken with how unique and pretty they were! I decided to treat myself and get one when I laid my eyes on this beautiful, bright, fun quilt. I got it through 1000 Years and she was wonderful to work with. She was incredibly easy to work work, quick to respond, and was able to make the measurements exactly how I needed them. I was so pleased with the coat and will cherish it forever, and ever! Also, isn't she so pretty in the snow?

Papa Steve having to use the green screen for Sunday Morning

Let's not forget how cute nieces and nephews are in the the snow! I love, love, love getting pictures of them during such fun experiences for them. 

We ended up having to have a few days of virtual school due to the conditions. I read a few books about snow, ice, snow days for my kiddos on top of their work load. 

Can you believe this sunset? So beautiful!

Kicking off 2021

Popping in to share a few 2021 happenings that have taken place thus far. 

We spent New Years Day with my parents and we soaked it all in since we had been quarantined during Christmas. 

It was so nice to get out and spend time with family. 

You can't really see it but, it's my delicious poinsettia drink that I had to celebrate the new year.

We paired that with our black eyed peas, pork, cabbage (Hoppin' John) and corn bread--you know, all of the new year essentials. 

Poor Papa Steve & Mama Carol started off their new year with their mail box being hit...for like the (literal) 6th or 7th time. 

Although 2021 feels no different than 2020 thus far, we are thankful for a new year and 

looking at it with anticipation for change, growth, and grace. 

This pas weekend, we made our way to the coast to see Jason's parents for a belated birthday and Christmas get together. 

And then today! Today we had a snow day and while it was quite minimal, it's always beautiful. 

Anyone else feel 10 years younger when there's a snow day? 

I know I do. I feel so excited when we have snow days!

A Liturgy for the First Snow⁣

O Christ, King of Snow, ⁣

we bless you for bidding this blanket⁣

of white to cover us in holy hush, ⁣

that our hearts might be quieted at the sight, ⁣

that we might sense⁣

the emptiness of canvas⁣

over which your Spirit broods, ⁣

and upon which you would ⁣

create and recreate our hearts⁣

in the image of the one whose ⁣

word first spoke snow into existence. ⁣

⁣

Amen. ⁣

From: “Every Moment Holy”

I also got pictures of these little cuties on their snow day!

It was so sweet because Mary Claire said that Ann Hatten has been praying for snow--what an answer to prayer!

I know she woke up thrilled and is enjoying her special snow day! 

This one made me laugh so hard--Mary Claire said she did NOT like it once her hands got cold and this was her reaction to it. 

Enjoy your snow day, Mississippi, and maybe we'll see you again next year!

Promise Keeper

I was walking to the office this morning with my mask on, without my usual “errand buddy” to limit the amount of people in the halls, and it was pouring down rain just seconds before. ⁣⁣⁣

⁣⁣⁣

My teacher friends understand when I say this—it hits you at different times—how different this year is. Eating lunches in our classrooms, wearing face shields and masks, not getting to see our students smiling faces, having to plan virtual lessons, zones at recess—we’re working through a loss, honestly. ⁣⁣⁣

⁣⁣⁣

This first week with kiddos has been incredibly different than years past but, it has been sweet. Even amongst the changes, there are threads of familiarity throughout the day and we press on & continue to invest in, love, care for & teach these children. ⁣⁣⁣

⁣⁣⁣

You see, all of these changes and all of the unknowns, while difficult to navigate, haven’t changed our spirits. While today was dreary, The Lord so gently reminded me of His promises when I saw this rainbow. It reminded me of how as far back as when the first rainbow ever appeared (and even before), that He’s continued to be The Promise Keeper, The Protector, The Provider, and The Rock of Salvation for His children & that hasn’t changed just because the first week of school has. ⁣⁣

⁣⁣

This year, I’m choosing to look for the rainbows and clinging to His promises—and you know what, it could be the best year, yet. ⁣

Influenster (11), (12), (13), & (14)

It has been months since I've been able to post about my recent Influenster boxes I've gotten. 

I've been subscribed to this since 2017 and I've received/tried out so man products. Here recently, I've gotten some really awesome products. A few of them, I will absolutely buy again once I'm out of my free ones from Influenster!

From this box, I wasn't too impressed with the liner and the loose pigment but the highlighting elixir is my favorite thing I've ever gotten from one of these boxes! 

It is so pretty and adds a fun dimension to your make up look. I will 100% buy more of this when I'm out. It looks like this one isn't sold in stores around here but, you can get it on Ulta's website here. 

I was PUMPED about this. If you've ever used DevaCurl, then you know it costs a pretty penny which is why I use it ever so carefully and not every time I wash my hair. I didn't even know other brands had similar products but this is the closest thing I've ever found and I think it worked just as well as Deva. I'm not much of a gel or cream girl so the cleanser and conditioner were the main thing I was looking for. Although, I did try both the cream and gel and felt that they both worked well (weren't "crunchy") but, I still don't plan in adding in the extra step since I don't feel like it's needed. 

This line can be found at Sally's Beauty Stores and once all of my current DevaCurl is gone, I will certainly buy this seeing as how it's better suited for my budget. 

I have tried various brands of natural deodorant time and time again. I want to use it so badly but, every time, it breaks me out! I've read all about the detoxing stage and how it can take up to 30 days for your body to adjust and mine just doesn't want to adjust, LOL! Other than breaking me out though, this one smelled so, so good, went on easily, and just know, I wish I could use it. You can check out all their scents here (if you're one of the lucky ones that are able to use it!)

Target, Walmart, Walgreens, all the common places carry this brand. I use their shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and have tried some other things. I feel like it's one of the most budget-friendly brands and most certainly gets the job done! I liked this one--smelled so, so good.

ANYONE can do this. You just have to be willing to complete some tasks (posts & reviews) sharing your thoughts about what you've received. There's an app and they make it easy to get it done--nothing crazy, I promise. If you're interested, here's their website. 

Influenster (9) & (10)

If you've been following along for sometime, then you've seen my Influenster posts. 

They are a fun website where you can receive free, full size products in exchange for an honest review and a few postings about the product. Its been so fun and I've been able to try a lot of great products through this program. If you want to sign up--anyone can--just click this link here and give it a go if it sounds like  your thing!

About 5 months ago, Influenster sent me these cups for free to write a review and I'm just now getting around to sitting down and share them with you. I love the fact that I don't have a cup to bring home and clean (call me lazy but, I do) and that's one of the reasons I like using these so much. They are really nice quality and since then, Jason and I have bought more of them. They come in really neat prints/designs and they get the job done. Chinet really puts out high quality products and we will continue to use them! 

Then, about 2 months ago, I got these bad boys! What's better than complimentary lip color?! This is one of my favorite boxes I've gotten yet because I love me some lip color! I love the two neutral colors and then the pop of red. Overall, this product was really great. It didn't stay on as well as I'd hope but, the shades are so pretty and the application so easy. Not sure if it's something I would buy again on my own but, I am thankful to have them now!

Y'all, it's so much fun getting these boxes! Sign up and have some fun. 

Influenster (7) and (8)

For those of you that have been following along for a while, you know that I signed up for Influenster which is a website where you can earn free, full size products in exchange for an honest review and a few postings about the product. I think it's been a lot of fun and I've been able to try a lot of neat products through this program. If you want to sign up, anyone can, just click this link here and give it a go!

These are the two most recent boxes I've received.

I was so, so excited about this DevaCurl product. I've used their shampoo and conditioner many times and it does wonders for my hair. It's a little pricy, which is why I only buy it for myself at Christmas time. You can imagine how thrilled I was when I received the email saying I was getting this product! If you have curly hair, this wash day wonder...well, it works wonders. You use it in the shower before shampooing and it allows you to easily brush out the knots. I loved the smell of it and it did just what it said it would. Made detangling so much easier and, my hair was much less frizzy when I used it as well. All in all, something I will definitely use again.

This second box was something else. All four of these products were full size (which still blows my mind) and they smelled so, so good. Unfortunately, Jason can't use products that are scented so I wasn't able to get his opinion on them. But, I did pass them along to my brother-in-law and he said overall, the scent wasn't his favorite but, that he liked the products. Even with little participation in this one, I think it's pretty awesome they sent four, full size items. I was impressed. 

These last two boxes have been awesome, makes me excited for the next!

Influenster (5) & (6)

I actually ended up getting these things pretty close together--like, within a month of each other--which has never happened before so, I'm going to share both of them!

First up, we have the Maybelline Python Metallic Lip Kit.

Yes, I know what you're thinking--and yes, I was thinking it too. 

Metallic lips--on a grown up--what the heck?

 They sent me the red duo and let me be honest with you--it wasn't all that metallic and I actually liked it. Once I saw how...tame it really was, I had fun with it. The metallic--lets call it, powder--was pretty mild and just gave the deep red a bit of a shimmer. I ended up wearing it out for New Years Eve and no one was craning their neck to take a look at my "metallic lips" so for me, that was a win. I  most likely won't buy myself another kit once I'm out but, I am definitely going to use this one that I received for free. 

Now, this next one I was SUPER pumped about. 

A full size, free bottle of Bare Minerals Made-2-Fit "fresh faced liquid foundation"...WITH MY NAME ON IT! Yes, personalized just for me...for free ($50 value).

I don't use liquid foundation. I found the powder I liked when I was in 7th grade and I've never used anything else--LOL. But, when Influenster offered this, I had to snag it. 

First off, you use an app on your phone to literally scan your face (skin tone) and they make a foundation color to match you. 

I didn't have high hopes that it would be an exact match because, come on, you're scanning your face using your phone. But, I was pleasantly surprised when mine came in. It was not the perfect match but it was pretty darn close. 

Also, giving the benefit of the doubt here,  because I don't have the right tools to apply liquid foundation--I just use my fingers/hands. Now that I know I like this stuff--you guys need to share with me what type of applicator tool I should use!

As always, if you're interested in hopping on the Influenster train and getting some free stuff check our their website here.