Birchbox:Holiday 2013.

Here it is December 18 (the PR's Birthday!! Wooo!!) and I'm posting my December open box Birchbox review/thoughts. It feels good to be on time, and damn, it feels good to be a gangsta. Anyway, I guess I should just go ahead and say that this will more than likely (well, pretty definitely) be my last Birchbox post for a while. I was feeling like the box contents weren't wowing me and I was receiving more things that weren't of use to me, whereas in the beginning everything seemed to wow me. Don't get me wrong in any way, shape or form, there are still amazing finds each box; I guess since I work in the industry I am bombarded on a daily basis with products of all sorts and I don't feel the need to Birchbox it up anymore. That being said, I am a girl, I am a makeup artist, I am a stylist so naturally I love all things pretty and shiny and new. So I signed up for ipsy (more on that another time). What drew me into their monthly box was it's not a box box, the products come in cute little makeup "glam bags". The PR also canceled his Birchbox Man, but not because he was dissatisfied with what he was receiving. There were always great things in the Man Box, but his subscription was $20 a month, compared to my $10. So, being a man, he thought it was more cost effective to opt out. Plus I tend to spoil him with products I come across for men too :)

Enough about that, let's talk about the December, Holiday 2013, Birchbox:

* BeeKind Body Lotion

Here's the description BB gave for this one: "This natural hydrator from the eco-friendly line softens with honey and organic chamomile". So I gather that this is all-natural and eco-friendly (let's state the obvious). But I also gather if you have any kind of bee allergy this probably isn't up your alley. It has a light floral fragrance (nothing overbearing, just a really fresh scent) and feel lovely on the skin. Something cool (do people still say "cool") about this is that a proceeds from the sale of BeeKind products support honey bees and sustainable pollination research, as the honey bee population is in a bit of a crisis right now. The product itself is actually a part of Gilchrist & Soames, based in London (you know I love the Brits), so you can visit their website at www.gilchristsoames.com. A full-size bottle of the bee kind lotion retails for $15.

*Eslor Skincare System

We all know, or at least we should, that the key to healthy skin is a proper skin care regimen. I have noticed that a trend lately, more so than before, is for skin care brands to market their products/line in the form of a system (just like in the November BB too). This system comes for Eslor and it is a 4-step system. It is said to deploy natural actives to purify and soften all skin types. You can use the cleanser and cream on a daily basis, the exfoliator is recommended for use twice a week, and the detox mask can be used as needed. The line, based in California, is hydrating due to a high content of aloe vera protecting thanks to safflower oil, which ensures the aloe vera stays on the skin, and overall is nature derived to promote skin rejuvenation. Their products range in price from $28-$65 and you can visit them online at www.eslor.com, or on Facebook.

*Number 4 Non Aerosol Hairspray

This is not my first rodeo with Number 4, I actually love their leave in conditioner, so how could I not love a hairspray!! Granted I prefer my aerosol hairsprays, but hey, I won't be too much of a brat about it. This is an Earth-friendly (are we noticing a green trend, guys?!), botanical-rich hairspray that gives flexible hold, and no crunchiness (speaking of no crunchiness, I also love Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Touchable so let me give them a shout out!!). It's hairspray guys and it retails for $30.

*Secret Agent Beauty Nourishing & Plumping Lip Gloss (shade: Foreign Intelligence Flirt)

Ok. I'm kind of a sucker for rad names, and this one is totally working from me, from the brand name to the product name. The color also looks very natural, with a hint of shine, on the lips (see swatch below). When you put it on you can feel the cooling sensation of the lip plumper, but it definitely doesn't "burn" like I know some can. The plumping factor comes from sach inchi oil, peppermint oil extract and menthol, so you don't have to worry if you have bee allergies. I have it on right now and the tingle is almost refreshing. I actually can't wait to try more from this brand so I'm glad to have come across it. Find them on Facebook at /secretagentbeauty and on Twitter and Instagram: @SAB Beauty. #FOREIGNINTELLIGENCEFLIRT

*Bonus Jonas

Emily's Chocolates Milk Chocolate Fortune Cookie

It's a chocolate covered fortune cookie, I expect it to be tasty.

Visit: emilyschocolates.com for more yummy snackies.

I'm off to finish up some things for PR's birthday but hope everyone has a happy hump day!!

If you are reading please make sure to follow/subscribe!! You can also visit my instagram: jacquelinecxo

And if you have any suggestions for posts in the coming year just comment below.

XO,
J <3

Birchbox: More Good

Keeping this short and sweet, as I am finding myself in the middle of all the holiday frenzy (despite thinking for once the Permanent Roommate and I had all gifts on lock down before Thanksgiving). Here's my open box review & thoughts on the November Birchbox, titled "More Good", featuring some of BB's most favorite charitable beauty brands.

The Contents

Here we go...

*Chella Ivory Lace Highlighter Pencil

I also love a good face highlighter/illuminator, so I was excited to try this one since it comes in a pencil, and I am more accustomed to using something more liquid or powder based. This one is described as great for contouring and brightening the face. Well, I don't "contour" with my highlighter so I feel the word play was a little off there. The color looks really pretty but I found after application (check out the swatch below), it was really heavy as far as highlight products go, and had more of a matte finish than I typically like. I also felt it was hard to blend and you really had to work the product. So, unfortunately this wasn't a "knocked-it-out-of-the-park" product for me, but, hey, to each his own. And if you were wondering, full-size is $18, so I feel you can get more for your money elsewhere.

Chella Ivory Lace Highlighter Pencil

*Color Club Nail Polish (shade: Dark'n Stormy)

Color Club pops up quite frequently in BB. Two coats is usually all you need to achieve the color as seen in the bottle. Full size is $8, so it's comparable retail speaking to OPI, Essie and the like. The colors they send are usually on trend and this one is a steel-gray color with a metallic sheen. Visit their website for more information and color selection. (I'm an Essie/OPI gal, but CC does offer a few shades that aren't so run of the mill).

*derma e Soothing Skincare Collection

I've never heard of this brand before. I prefer Origins, Kiehls or whatever my dermatologist recommends. This line, however, is all-natural and is advertised to calm sensitive skin while fighting signs of aging. You start with the cleanser, and then follow up with the serum and moisturizing creme. So, if it is a product you like, the trio includes all steps for a routine skin regimen, and can be used by all skin types. The cleanser contains the anti-aging Pycnogenol and green tea, as well as antioxidant agents such as chamomile and lemongrass. The serum helps to reduce redness, calm irritation, diminish blotchiness and relieve skin discomfort. It also contains Pycnogenol, as well as a complex botanical blend, including Canadian Willowherb, Olive, Arnica and Calendula. Finally, the moisturizing creme also containing Pycnogenol (catching the trend here??), and vitamins A, C & E to promote a smooth, healthy complexion. One thing I for sure already love about this brand (derma e) is that is's paraben free, eco-friendly and (my favorite thing) cruelty free!! Visit their website at www.dermae.com or call 1-800-933-9344 to request their full catalog of products. Full size products range anywhere from $15.50-$29.95.

*Juicy Couture Viva la Juicy Noir

Juicy Couture is another BB favorite. This scent is a take on Juicy's original fragrance, with notes of berry and honeysuckle. It smells lovely, but I can't help but to say that a stronger note of amber might lend more towards the "noir" name. :)

*Mox Botanicals Coconut & Vanilla Bean Bath Milks

Mox is also a new brand to me, but I was happy to try these guys out. If you know me personally, you know sea salt caramel is my jam, and this vanilla blend bath milk, albeit there's no caramel, mixed with the sea salt is amazing.You can let the bath salts ("milk") steep in a hot bath before you can get it (they come in a tea bad like pouch) or you can put them directly in the tub before you climb it. Regardless I dig Mox right now (if you love brands like Lush, you most likely will too!!) A 2-pack of bath milks is $12. Mox is based out of Portland, Oregon so make sure you check them out to see everything they offer!!

*Birchbox Bonus Jonas: a full size Ghiradelli chocolate bar. The one I received was a milk-chocolate and mint cookie feeling. Hello delicious and thank you Birchbox.

Hope everyone is enjoying the start of their week. Personally my Sunday was freakin' amazing and blog worthy (I had the opportunity to watch The 1975 perform a special acoustic set like they've literally never performed before audience before, and got to meet the guys afterwards. Can we say SMITTEN?!! There's photos and a video clip on my Instagram: jacquelinecxo).

XO, 

J <3.

Raise Awareness: Mesothelioma

Well, it's Decemeber. November went out with it's seasonal gusto. This time of year is always hard for me as I know that the anniversary of my dad's passing approaches; it will be 3 years on January 1. But this holiday season was met with even more of a sullen attitude as my grandmother passed on November 10, just a little over a month ago. Being without my best friend and prayer warrior is making this a particularly difficult season to celebrate with all the dazzle and flair one may expect in these weeks. I'm perhaps feeling more thankful than usual, and want to encourage others to really consider the holidays as a time to give back. There are so many amazingly wonderful causes I support and that many of you support year round. I want to address one in particular today: the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. Last month was Lung Cancer Awareness month, but really awareness is not confined to one month, as I have in past blogs mentioned when talking about my journey with Melanoma Skin Cancer. I want to talk about Mesothelioma because all of my grandparents were at some point affected by asbestos, and I'm sure everyone out there knows someone also affected. Did you know, however, that this is one disease that is 100% preventable??

Emily from the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance was helpful and kind enough to provide me with some facts that may surprise you. For starters, did you know that asbestos is still not banned in the United States?? Roughly 30 million (yes, million) pounds are still used every year. Think of all the contact our loved ones may make with this carcinogenic source, and how it could be prevented. Yes, again, this cancer is preventable under ideal circumstances. Asbestos fibers are invisible to the naked eye, so the best bet against exposure is for overall banned usage.

Birchbox: Beauty Buzz

     October came and went in some sort of crazy flash of a whirlwind. Halloween (I was both Spider"man" and a Vampire Victim....oooh fun) and celebrated my 6th Wedding anniversary with the PR (traditional Melting Pot dinner). So I guess you could say I had a lot going on festively speaking. Technologically speaking, the internet to the house doesn't work still, despite buying new net gear equipment, and I still can't figure out how to navigate my new iPhone to upload pictures to my blog posts. ::sigh:: I did just have a random OCD burst to clean closets and sort through clothes though. Random midnight action. Oh yes.
     So October was a mediocre box, at least mine was. I think I was slightly more excited about the PR's Birchbox Man box, which I keep asking him to give me more reviews on. This box is supposed to contain some of 2013's best, trendiest, stuff. Well then, there's a slight chance I got the wrong box. I do love my BB, and there was one little gem inside, but sorry Birchbox, sticky lip gloss is not a trend I'm aware of or want to be a part of.
Let's discuss...
*Joie Folle de Joie perfume mini...The thing I love about those little mini perfume sample bottles is there cute to collect in a little drawer on your vanity to allow you to mix up your scents every now and then. So, basically they are adorable and serve a purpose. We all have our signature, go-to fragrance but if something new smells good it smells good. This fragrance from Joie is a blend of mandarin, rose and sandalwood and it's actually quite lovely. Full size is $98, so pricey from my standpoint.

*Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser...I wish I didn't have to download Google+ to be able to upload photos to my posts, because these Liz Earle products are the gem of the box I was referring to previously. I'll make sure to do a review post that contains pictures, I pretty much have to!! Anyway, this is a UK brand cleanser that uses a 2-step process to purify and exfoliate. This one was a Birchbox exclusive, side note. You massage the cleanser into the skin and use a muslin cloth to wipe off in small circles. Full size is $21.50.

*Liz Earle Pure Muslin Cloth...these go with the aforementioned cleanser^^. These pure muslin cloths are meant to take the place of harsher exfoliators. They basically polish your skin in a gentle way, with a little warm water. $6 will get you 2 cloths.

*Miss Jessie's Original Creme de la Creme Conditioner...I feel like I've seen/heard of this stuff before now. Target maybe?? I know I'm usually kind of a hair product snob but I feel like I could use this one! Ever since I did the whole ombre thing to my hair, then less than a month later reverted back to my darker hair color, well my hair has felt sad & dry you could say. It's supposed to be really nourishing for color treated, dry hair so hopefully it will help me out. You can also use it as a leave-in treatment. So, earlier when I referred to the box as mediocre, bear in mind it's going off of my personal first impression of products...just thought I'd throw that little bit in there,

*POP Beauty Aqua Lacquer...Another British brand. I do love me some Brits but I do not love me some of this lip gloss :/ It's a sheer gloss (mine has a red hue) that plumps and hydrates with jojoba oil. It also looks like a squeeze tube but contains a little paddle/wand applicator like most other glosses. Well, that's all good and well, but the lip gloss is sooooooo sticky, almost uncomfortably so. A sticky lip gloss just irks me and I immediately wanted to wipe it off after applying. Do that was indeed a bit of a let down.

BONUS JONAS:
*Birchbox Find: Chapstick Hydration Lock...This was an extra in my box this month (perhaps to make up for the POP gloss?!?!) This new lip moisturizer from Chapstick has a "breakthrough" 8 hour moisture technology. It doubles as a lip primer and contains antioxidants like CoQ10 and Vitamin E to defend against damage. The "flavor " I got was vanilla Creme, FYI. I have not used this yet because I've been absolutely in love with my Vaseline Rosy Lips, but I really hope it lives up to the hype it's now been given!!

Thank you to everyone who does read my blog, and thank you further for your patience while I try to be more legit about this whole blogging thing. If you do read, or even if you just stumbled upon this page, please subscribe so you don't miss out!! I do have my act together every now and then ;)
As it is now November, make sure to remember to count your blessings and be thankful for all you've been provided for in this life, even when things seem less than ideal. Just like anyone else I've had and have my setbacks, but I remain hopeful, and faithful, that I will get to where I need to be with my little family.
XO,
J <3.

Birchbox: Heritage

     October eve...and the time I have deemed for my September Birchbox post. I love Autumn weather and I'm always anxious to see what products I'll find and love. I always seem to put in much more effort outwardly than any other season. That being said, this box has things off to a good start.

*amika Blow Up Spray...a lightweight must that adds lift and shine for a polished blowout. This can be used on damp hair before you blow dry or lightly on dry hair for a light hold. I work at a blow dry bar so I'm particular about what I use. I prefer, as far as blow dry sprays go, the 450 spray by Sexy Hair. It is perfect for taming frizz and getting the perfect amount of polish and shine. I thought this spray by amika was a little heavy oil-wise, so it really needs to be used sparingly. I also feel like it didn't give a lot of lift as it claims to. It's $24 for the full size bottle, so Sexy Hair is still a better deal!!

*Caudalie Make-up Remover Cleansing Water...I love a good makeup remover, I use them everyday!! This remover isn't a wipe though. You soak a cotton pad/ball and apply it wherever you need to take your makeup off. It contains botanicals to soothe the skin do it's really gentle, yet effective enough to remove mascara gently.

*Coastal Scents eye shadow...I think at this point we have all used, or at least heard of Coastal Scents. They have affordable palettes and the colors are really buildable and blendable. Plus, coupled with the right base you get great pay out and longevity. They sent me 4 mini colors that are great for fall (sn: I still don't know how to get pictures from my iPhone to the blog without using Google+)

*Ruffian Nail Lacquer in the color Hedge Fund... This was my first run in with Ruffian and I love it. The bottles are so cute and unique (please Google !!). I got a really pretty metallic green color (Hedge Fund). Ruffian is actually a fashion label and this polish is from their first lacquer line. Full size is $10...so more expensive than Essie and OPI but cheaper than, say, Butter.

*Egyptian Magic All-Purpose Skin Cream... I love my Origins so now I'm starting to be a little bit of a skin care snob, even more so since the melanoma. This cream is supposedly sworn by celebrities and health professionals for its all natural properties. It is marketed to moisturize, fight wrinkles and treats burns and bruises. So, in theory it seems pretty spectacular, and I think I'll do more research and maybe give it a try to see if it is as all purpose as it says.

Everyone gets a slightly different Birchbox each month so if you get one and want to share, leave a link or comment below. I hope everyone is enjoying this Autumn weather even though some days have been quite hot!!

XO,
J <3

Birchbox: Finishing School

     It really is no secret that I have been anything but friends with technology lately. I still can't figure out how to upload pictures from my new phone to my blog posts, my new camera takes rad pictures but I have no clue where the cord is to connect to the computer, and my old point and shoot camera keeps acting up and despite having the warranty, Best Buy is not being too helpful in getting it replaced. However, I can load to Facebook, so if you visit my business page (Pretty & Clever by Jacqueline Clark) there are pics from the AUGUST Birchbox there, along with a lipstick swatch. I'll get it all together soon and hopefully for the September BB (which I got in the mail yesterday) I will be back on track. So, regardless, here is the breakdown for the August Box.

Becca Radiant Skin Satin Finish Foundation

This is sitting right on my makeup table ready to try. Several shade samples were included too. It's a lightweight foundation that is supposed to have a sulky texture to brighten, perfect and soothe the skin with ejitsu rose. So, obviously there are some natural ingredients in this, but rose is one of those that, for me, is really hit or miss when added to products. This Becca foundation is also supposed to be buildable, which is good if there are days you need a more full coverage application. Full size retails for $42, so as far as foundations go this is on the higher end price point wise.

ModelCo Party Proof Lipstick

I really don't have anything bad to say about ModelCo. I like their lipgloss, even though it is sticky compared to others I use, and their mascara is actually pretty good for getting that ultimate combination of length and volume. ModelCo now has these Party Proof lipsticks ($24 for a set of 3), that have a semi-matte finish that hydrates your lips and provides a lasting pigment. As for hydrating, my lips have been really dry lately so I still put on a lip balm first regardless. But I do feel that the pigment does last a fair amount if time, longer if you are finishing with a gloss top coat.

Number 4 Super Comb Prep & Protect

This is a sulfate-free leave- in conditioner that protects color and blocks UV Rays. I believe everyone can benefit from a leave-in conditioner and this one retails full size for $32. My favorite is 7 Seconds by Unite, which is a slightly less expensive salon product. Comparable would also be the leave-in by Healthy Sexy Hair, which has a moderate price point.

Whish Exfoliating Body Wash

My extent of use for this one so far is to pop the top and smell it...which, it smells amaze; most likely due to the fact that it is a coconut-rich scrub that brightens and exfoliates with sugar cane and bamboo powder...pretty much everything I look for in a quality exfoliator, so I will be using this bad boy in the next few days. Full size retails for about $20

And finally...

Whish Hair Inhibiting Deoderant Swipes

Now this is certainly something I've never seen before!! These are wipes that not only fight odor like a Deoderant, but also slow hair growth. I really don't know how I feel about these, haha. You "sweep" a wipe across your arm pit in the morning, or whenever you need a refresher throughout the day. Personally, I would just much rather have my Degree take care of that department, but if something works, it works!! We shall indeed see.

Hope everyone had a fabulous summer and is enjoying September so far!! Since I didn't post yesterday I just want to take a minute to remember all those we lost on September 11, 2001. Always in our hearts and never to be forgotten. Stay safe all. Peace and Love.

XO,

J <3.  

Fight Like a Girl Pt. 3

For those of you that have been following my journey with melanoma this is part 3 of 3 of the story I had originally set out to share. Recovery at home after surgery was thankfully pretty comfortable. After day 2 of the excision procedure I was okay when I first came back home, then again I was also still numb from the local anesthetic. My best took off work to take me since the permanent roommate had a whole to do at work and they wouldn't let him leave, but that is a long story in itself and I'm over it at this point. So we watched Silver Linings Playbook and crashed on the couch. My pain level was okay and I believe I did take a dose of pain meds. Hours later when my husband was getting home he walked in to find me kneeled in the floor hanging onto the couch, pretty much writhing in pain. Needless to say, more pain meds, as would be the trend for the coming week. I took about a week off work to recover. My job involves a lot of up and down arm movements and my incision is on my upper left side towards my back, I needed to make sure I was able to function well enough to go back . Even after returning to work I had moments where I felt I just couldn't lift like I used to. Over the coming weeks it subsided but I still feel a burning sensation over the scar area from time to time, which only calls to mind Harry Potter and his lighting bolt scar that burned whenever he-who-must-not-be-named was near.

About a week after my surgery I went back in to have that top layer of stitches out, as the bottom 2 layers would dissolve on their own in those coming 6-8 weeks. Removing the stitches was actually painless, although I hear that can vary person to person.

I'm left with this scar now, about 6 inches in length. The doctor compared its healing to that of a cat scratch. It looks more like a lion got of hold me, but a lion is a cat indeed. I look in the mirror at that scar time to time and I can feel the tears building in my eyes. It is a flaw, and I think of how in attractive it must appear to others, as it did to me. I say did rather than the present tense of does because I look at it now not only as a reminder of everything it represents but also it's just plain bad ass, really, you should see it. I earned that scar, I pretty literally fought for it. I beat cancer. And you know what, I've never seen my husband ogle at it or even give the slightest indication it bothered him in any way shape or form. That's amazing to me. And if anyone else thought it as unappealing then that's solely their problem. It's a mark of survival and a mark of pride, which are some of the reasons I've opted not to have any laser treatments done. I might try some drugstore products meant to lighten scars and such but that would be the extent of that.

I had my second body check (first one since the surgery) last month and they didn't have to biopsy anything and the dermatologist wasn't concerned about anything this visit. My next scheduled visit is in December so I'll just keep hoping for more great results!!

And just to be 100% clear, I actually haven't tanned at all since January!! I haven't even spray tanned. I just again want to urge everyone to avoid tanning beds and prolonged sun exposure before you have to learn your lesson the way I did. Opt for sunless tanning or bronzers. Your skin will thank you now, 10 years from now and for life!! And in reality I'd rather be pale and look young into my years, than be tan, leathery and aged!!! I always feel like I'm missing a talking point or two when I tell of a story over extended time, so if there seems like a big blank exists in my account just let me know so I can accommodate any answers to other questions.

I do hope everyone had a fabulous summer now that fall is upon us. Autumn is my favorite season, which comes as no surprise to those who know me personally. Starbucks seasonal drinks, cute clothes, boots, Halloween, my anniversary...and so much more!!

XO,
J <3.

Review: Ernest Supplies Cooling Shave Cream

     The permanent roommate (aka my husband) decided finally to offer me feedback on a product from one of his Birchbox Man boxes!! This product came from his August box: Cooling Shave Cream by Ernest Supplies. It's a low-lathering formula that protects the skin with jojoba and macadamia oils, then cools the skin with menthol. I asked my P.R. to give me his thoughts on the product so I could put a little posty post together, and here's what he had to say...

"I shave every other day and I have dry skin sometimes because I have to work to get a close shave. I also get a lot of razor burn and bumps. I liked that this shaving cream still let me see the hair on my face so I could get a nicer, cleaner shave. My skin looked and felt smooth after using it, and looked and felt really healthy too. I also liked that the oils in the shave cream smelled really good, so that was nice. I would use this more often if it cost less".

So there you have the man's opinion and it looks like this product is a winner!! The full size is $25 so it is a little pricy compared to stuff you find at Walgreens and Target. But if your man is like mine, or you are a man like mine, then the price is worth it to not have to buy extra bump creams and aftershave and moisturizers I suppose.

Look for more PR Reviews, because I'm going to force them out of him, haha. Hope everyone is off to a great start this week, and look for my August Birchbox post soon!!

XO,
J <3
(& J!!)

Birchbox: Power Play.

POWER PLAY: Noun. \'pau(-e)r 'pla\

A move that puts an individual in a position of victory and strength...and/or maximizes one's happiness or confidence...and allows for extreme freedom.

((ok, so the phonetics may not have worked out correctly as I typed them, but I do fancy that definition))

Do you ever think you are starting to be on top of things...work, cleaning, organizing, what have you?? I totally had that moment and then when my August Birchbox came in today I was going to write my open box thoughts/review and realized that I never posted anything on July. I blame the Royal Baby...oh Royal Baby.

Then I remembered that I did in fact take pictures of the July open box, but that they were on my android and I now have the iphone...so the best I can do is offer my thoughts on this one, guys.

**CONTENTS**

*Kerastase Fondant Chroma Captive-Treat.Hair products...oh my indifference yet snobbiness to them. This one claims to use ionic technology to keep hair color shiny and vibrant for up to 40 days longer than if you didn't use it. Sorry, but I am a pretty much a creature of habit and already gave this to my mom.

*ModelCo FIBRE LASHXTEND Lenghtening Mascara

Mascara. Sweet, sweet Jesus I am a mascara whore. Yes, whore. This fiber mascara is actually really nice, and they sent me the full size which retails for $24. The formula is a little wet in comparison to my other daily mascaras, but it is also quite buildable and workable to get that separation and lengthening effect. I do like this better than Maybelline Falsies for the record.

*theBalm cosmetics InStain Long-Wearing Powder Staining Blush

I am forever smitten with theBalm cosmetics, so I always love seeing them in my Birchbox. This one is a long wear blush that really does last all day, even if you don't set it with setting spray!! A little goes a long way too, so a $22 full size price isn't too too crazy considering that. Oh a swatch, a swatch, my kingdom for a swatch. Check out their site to see all the radness...believe me, all of their products are amaze.

*BENTA BERRY G-1 Moisturizing Face Cream

This is a french brand, so I was excited to try, although I haven't yet. I actually just tossed it in my bathroom drawer to be next in line for use I do believe. It is supposed to both hydrate and purify because of the ingredients of blueberry and dead nettle...interesting combination, huh?? Full size is $22 so I may do further investigation on this. Right now I am so in love with my Origins Vitazing moisturizer.

*BIRCHBOX bobbypins

They're fun and glittery and who doesn't need extra bobby pins. ::especially ones that sparkle::

There you have it. I have already unboxed the August box and taken photos. My husband received his second Birchbox man box this month and let me tell you, the male boxes are incredible...so much good stuff and he uses almost all of it!!!! It's $20/month vs. the $10/month for BB classic, but seems so worth it so far. I'm hoping he will give me some reviews on some things too so I can post from a male perspective!!

Hope everyone is set up for a fabulous weekend.

XO,

J <3.

"Keep your head up, or else the crown falls"

The Royal Baby.

     I have been pretty exciteable, shall we say, over the birth of the Royal Baby pretty much since Kate's pregnancy was announced. If you know me, or follow my business page on Facebook, then you know I try to stay on top of my Royal news and kept everyone updated, whether they wanted to be or not, on the Royal Bump/Baby watch. So the day before yesterday when my royal baby app ((yes, of course there is an app) went a buzzing with news that Kate gave birth to the new Prince of Cambridge (4:24pm London time, 8lbs 6oz) I was markedly smitten and we all began the loose countdown until Kate & Will would appear on the steps of the Lindo wing of St. Mary's debuting their son (whose name will be announced later).
     I was watching E! for a good portion of yesterday afternoon since they were live streaming the event and I'm not going to lie, I was slightly emotional when Kate walked out holding that precious little baby. If you didn't have baby fever before, you surely do now!!
Sidenote: typing a blog post from your cell phone in the middle of a thunderstorm does not help upload all my Royal Baby photos!! I'm quite sure we have all seen them by now, they're pretty unavoidable.
     Anyway, the moment that Kate appeared carrying that baby, Will at her side, I was glued. She looked so beautiful and happy. I was surprised that they held a little impromptu press conference but it was refreshing to see them outside the royal light as just new parents. Kate's polka dot Jenny Packham dress was perfection, as was she and Will both wearing pale blue in honor of the new prince. Then when Will put the baby in his own car and actually drove it himself, I thought that was super presh!!
     Everyone continued to speculate when we would hear the baby's name. Charles and Diana waited a week to announce William's name and Elizabeth and Philip waited a month to debut Charles's name, so I was surprised when we all learned this morning that the baby was named George Alexander Louis, which I find to be quite a regal name. A lot of people were of course quick to offer their opinion of the name, and I don't want to get all historical but the name is quite significant!!
     So, I think we all are beginning to see the hype wind down, which I find to be a bummer because it was nice to have good news in the headlines. I will, however, remain a royal family follower. There are just a few more things I wanted to add to my royal baby write up: Kate went through natural childbirth as planned (and I haven't come across a source saying otherwise as of now), which I find to be quite admirable. I haven't given birth yet so I can't speak from experience, but this certainly speaks as to part of why she is my role model. Also Kate has been buying several nursing gowns/dresses pointing at the likelihood that yes, she is breastfeeding baby George. Of course she is! She's amazing!! Seriously though, it's really lovely to see her already being such a hands-on mom, especially when you look into the history of children born into the monarchy.
     News stands are going to be plastered with all of this this weekend, so you know I'll be all about that!! Call me a nerd for the things I fan girl over, but I can't help what I'm drawn too, haha. I've always been highly interested in British royalty, all through college and now, so my love of the royals, Kate in particular, is actually pretty fitting. I could go on and on, but I really did try to condense this post for my own sanity over attention to details. If you actually haven't seen the royal baby pictures so far released, they are on my business Facebook page (pretty and clever by Jacqueline Clark) and on my Instagram (jacquelinecxo).

Hope everyone is having a lovely week thus far!!
XO,
J <3.

Fight Like a Girl, Pt. II

   If you haven't read part 1 you might want to read that first... Picking up where I left off... On May 24 I had day 1 of 2 of my excision procedure. I went in full of anxiety despite the valium I had taken prior. My sister works at the office, as I mentioned before, so luckily she was able to come back with me and take me home that day. The first day was not as bad as I expected, they referred to it as a "glorified biopsy". They used local anesthetic injections and removed what appeared to be a silver dollar size amount of skin from the melanoma site. That sample was rushed to a pathology lab to check for clear margins and other things. They cauterized the area and packed it with bandaging to last me until the next morning when part two of the procedure was to be performed. To be honest I was not in a great deal of pain that day, just nervous for day 2.
   My best friend took off work to come with me day 2 ((because of my husband's new work contact they wouldn't allow him the time off to come with me either day)). We got three and they told me all the margins from the area removed came back  clear, meaning they got all the melanoma from the site. Good news. I had taken 2 valium before this procedure, but being numbed with the local anesthetic is still no walk in the park. Its lots of multiple little behind sticks that burn!! They even played John Mayer on Pandora to help relax me. When she began to make the incision (they have to remove an additional perimeter of the area as precaution), part of the anesthesia didn't take so I actually felt the scalpel!!! Yes, it hurt. I cannot express that enough. So, more anesthetic sticks. So, forthe rest of the removal I got along fairly well. Then as she went to cauterize I started feeling the burn again, and that combined with the smell of burning flesh... No good. So, more anesthetic. Next was the stitches, I hadvs row of 7 and a 2nd row of 9 stitches that would dissolve in time. I also had to have a third row of stitches... The long continuous stitch kind, that would be taken out about a week later. Again, when she started the last line of stitches I was feeling things again, cue more anesthetic. But, I did make it through. Thank you Jesus.
     After a lot of bandaging and administering of after care information and scheduling of follow up appointments I was able to go home, cancer free!!
     Luckily I have an amazing best friend who was able to keep me company the rest of the day, because the road of recovery was just beginning.
((part 3 coming soon))

Be safe in the sun guys!! You'll be doing yourself a favor, believe me!!

XO,
J.

Review: Khroma Beauty, Kim's Kardazzle palette

     I was rather excited months back when news hit of the Kardashian's make up line, Khroma Beauty!! Like them or not, the girls always have flawless faces. I also figured that they wouldn't put their names on products that would make them look bad. Kim Kardashian's makeup is of my most requested looks as a makeup artist, so I picked up the Khroma Kim's Kardazzle palette to check it out.

     The palette is smaller in comparison to say ones by Urban Decay, I would compare it more to the size of a pack of cigarettes (sn: I do not smoke!!). Kim is known for her edgy smokey eye and precision contouring and highlighting. So, as you can see, the palette contains 8 shadows suitable for creating more dramatic looks. The pull out compartment additionally contains a blush shade, and shades for highlighting and contouring/bronzing. Below I have swatched all shades in the palette for you to see. Note: each shade was swatched with one swipe of the finger in natural light, no filters.

I was immediately drawn to the last 2 shades on the top row of shadows, as well as the 

middle 2 on the bottom. I also really liked the highlighting shade. The more gray matte colors I felt were so matte they came across as looking dull. The blush was okay for a soft sweep of color, but the bronze shade did not feel very pigmented to me, which I was a little surprised about given that this is Kim's palette.

     Well, I've worn a few of these shadows on occasion since I've had the palette, but today I did a full on eye look (just realized I lost the picture from my phone, laaaame!), using all the darker shades I mentioned before as being drawn to. I used potion primer as my base and topped everything off with a setting spray. 10 hours later everything was still in place and just as pigmented. That is definitely aces in my book!!

     Overall I would say that if you are looking for better quality makeup that doesn't come at a prestige line price, then Khroma is a great choice. I do wish all shades had amazing payout color wise, but the shadow is buildable and blends nicely. The price is affordable and you can find the line at Ulta. I can't wait to try their mascaras, since I am a proclaimed Lash addict. Another added bonus, at least for me anyway, is the packaging. It's well designed and a lot of thought was put into visual appeal, which I do appreciate.

Have you tried any of the Khroma line?? If you have I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!!

Hope everyone had a safe and fun Fourth of July weekend, and make sure to follow me on Twitter for expert makeup, fashion and hair tips, as well as my random musings. I'm also on Instagram: jacquelinecxo.

XO,

J <3.

Birchbox: Wanderlust.

    Is it really almost the end of June?! Wow. I'll be 5 weeks cancer free tomorrow!! Last weekend my best friend and I took a little time off for a girls day to celebrate the 1 month mark. We got manis/pedis, took a Target trip, ate some yummy food, did a little shopping and got tattoos (I got some Royal Teeth lyrics on side of my leg)... Talk about an amazingly rad day. Speaking of talking...lets talk about the June Birchbox!!

New Box packaging.

**Birchbox + Color Club Wanderlust Collection nail polish**

There were four neon pastel shades released. I received the pastel green one named London Calling...which I was pretty stoked about, one, because it's a lovely shade, and two, I have what you might call a mild obsession with British things. This shade is comparable to Essie's Absolutely Shore and comparable price wise as well since a full size bottle costs $8.

**LAQA & Co Lil' Lip Duo**

This is essentially a lip color that comes in jumbo pencil form. It has a creamy texture when applied and there is a little minty "taste" left behind as a sort of afterthought. The color is actually quite pigmented. I love mine, in a pretty bright rosy pink shade, especially paired with my NARS Easy Lover lip gloss. A full size is $16 for 2, so definitely worth checking out.

**ORIGINS Clear Improvement Active charcoal mask to clear pores**

ORIGINS is always a brand I love to see since I really love their products. I'm a big fan of masks right now so I can't wait to try this out this weekend! It's a white clay and charcoal based mask that tightens your pores and draws out impurities, all while making your skin appear less dull. It's supposed to be a great once a week mask and the full size product retails for $23.

**Oscar de la Renta Something Blue perfume sample**

This is a new scent from Oscar de la Renta, but it smelled really familiar. A lot of designer fragrances carry such similar notes. It starts with notes of mandarin and linden blossom and picks up to notes of bourbon vanilla and white musk. It's definitely a warmer scent, something I would find more wearable for an autumn date night or the like. With a price point ranging from $85-$115, there are other very similar scents at more affordable prices if you are looking for something more economical. 

**ORIGINS GinZing Energy-Boosting Moisturizer**

Another ORIGINS product!! This moisturizer contains ginseng and coffee to combat lack-lustre skin. It's also supposed to make your skin look energized and radiant. Now, I don't know what "energized" skin appears like, but, my skin did have a radiant, dewy gloe! It also felt good, no greasy residue or anything!! Very lightweight and great for everyday use. The full size is $26.50.

****BONUS JONAS****:

Check out my new tattoo!! ((Royal Teeth lyrics))...and make sure to pick up the band's full-length album, "Glow", out this August!!

Check out my Instagram for more pics: jacquelinecxo

Hope everyone has awesome weekend plans in store!!

XO,

J <3.

Review: Victoria's Secret Hold Please Volume Shine Hairspray.

    Every now and then I come across a product that I, sadly, just don't like. I'm not a fan of writing bad reviews anyway,its more so of a let down when the product comes from a company I otherwise adore!! Today I'm reviewing the Hold Please Volume Shine Hairspray from Victoria's Secret. 

     I have actually had this hairspray on hand for several months, using it on and off when my favorite sprays were not accessible for whatever reason. I'll put it out there now, I am a hairspray junkie!! Now on the front of the bottle it says "Get bedroom romp hair, extreme body and lift"...well, we shall see about that!!

     WHAT THE HAIRSPRAY CLAIMS:

*brilliant shine

*incredible volume

*superior flexible hold

*anti-humidity complex

*UV protectant

     WHAT I EXPERIENCED:

*My hair didn't look at all shiny!! Even when 

I used just a little bit of the product my color seemed more dull if anything!! If the greasy feel was meant to appear as shine then someone in product development sure missed the mark.

*Incredible volume. Oh, I laugh. Yes, my hair did have amazing volume...before I used the hairspray. The minute the spray made contact with my hair it weighed it down, thus flattening out all of the volume I had achieved prior.

*I didn't experience any great hold with this product. My hair actually had a "mushy", almost "gummy" sort of feel to it...not exactly the feel of bombshell hair. So, i guess in regards to being humidity resistant it was okay at best. I mean, it was so mushed down that a little bit of humidity just might have helped things out.

*Now, I can't really speak to the UV protectant nature of this hairspray, but any product offering a UV protecting agent automatically gets at least one gold star from me.

     So, as you can see, my review for this product wasn't so hot. Did I get that bedroom romp ready hair?? No. Nor would i want anyone  I was climbing into bed with to touch my hair with this hairspray in it. Did I get the extreme body and lift as promised?? Again, as you read, no I didn't. So sorry VS!! I am otherwise quite smitten with you and all the other beauty products you retail!! My hair just didn't have that VS angel runway hair look.

XO,

J <3.

Fight Like A Girl, Part I.

     I have been wanting to put this out for a while now...as in earlier posts I alluded, I actually had quite the legitimate reason for being more absent minded with posts, other than my usual "was just too busy" excuse(s). On April 23, 2013 I found out I had melanoma skin cancer. Yes, cancer... And the most serious of skin cancers at that. I'm 28. I'm young. Yet, I, with youth on my side, was not immune to cancer.
     Let's back up a little... I had been tanning in tanning beds for like 12 years. This, although vain on my part, was not an everyday thing, but it was a part of my usual routine. For like the last 4 or 5 years I even had the actual membership that automatically withdrewv money from my bank account every month. Well, this past January I had a hold put on my membership because I thought I was pregnant and I didn't want to risk roasting a little embryo. Turns out I wasn't pregnant, which actually turned out to be a positive thing since I was about to endure so much. Anyway, as I began to get paler and paler from lack of tanning, I began noticing more and more patches of freckles and little moles here and there. There was one mole I noticed on my left side, sort of near my back. It was no bigger than the diameter of a pencil eraser, if that, and certainly wasn't immediately alarming in color or anything to my naked eye. My ocd self wouldn't let me forget it was there so I showed it to my sister who works at a dermatologist office. She didn't really think it was anything but told me she would get me set up with an appointment to have things looked over.
     I was at the dermatologist withina few days and they of course checked the spot out more closely. She decided to punch biopsy (you can google that for procedure details... Ouch!). She also told me I shouldn't lose any sleep over things, which is pretty hard to tell a severe anxiety sufferer to do!! A few days later, while I was getting ready to leave work, I get a phone call from the head doctor telling me not to panic but I needed to see a surgical oncologist because I had melanoma cancer. How can you use the words "don't panic" and "cancer" in the same sentence?! I hear the word cancer and panic ensues. I don't even remember how the rest of that conversation went, I just remember calling my mom and my husband crying"I have cancer, I have cancer!!". How I made it home that day crying like I was, I have no idea!! Thanks be to God... For everything.
     After medication induced calmnessv set in I was able to get more information/clarification. The melanoma was caught very early (thank you God...and never have I been so glad to have ocd) but yes, surgery was still necessary. The margins were clear depth wise but surgery was necessary to remove the width, plus an additional perimeter amount as precaution. I heard back from the doctor the next day (thank God my sister and friends work at this office, they really helped my treatment get expedited and took great care of me... They are amazing and I am truly blessed/forever grateful)... She had talked to the surgical oncologist and he agreed that my doctor was just as capable to perform the excision procedure as a 2 day procedure, under local anesthesia, as he was doing the same thing under general anesthesia in one day. I was so relieved to hear this, as anesthesia scares me. So, my surgery was scheduled for a Thursday and Friday last month, in May.

** part II will go up soon!!**

DID YOU KNOW that using a tanning bed can increase your risk of melanoma by up to 80%?!!!
I was so naive about my tanning habits, I cannot even believe I brought this on myself. Its amazing how we, as a society, can put vanity before our health. I, of course, will never use a tanning bed again, and I'm very careful about being in the sun in general. I'm amazed at how many people have reached out to me to say that my story has made them quit tanning too!! I feel touched that I can affect others through sharing my story; I'm very big on skin cancer advocacy now. We need to take care of ourselves and look out for each other whenever we can.

XO,
J <3.

Birchbox: Beauty Diaries

     When I got home just now my June Birchbox was waiting at the door!! Then I realized I still never posted my May box!! I'm telling you, my personal and work lives have been insane the past few months, and I can only give thanks to God for getting me through every trial and tribulation. I hope to expand in all areas of my life, but I also need to learn when to say "no", as I tend to take on more than I should at times...about this much-delayed May box though...

**The Contents**

May box contents!!

*BEAUTY PROTECTER
PROTECT & DETANGLE... A detangling elixir for all hair types. It locks in shine while instantly detangling and locking in color. I love the packaging of this little guy!! The product itself is okay, I typically use Unite's leave in conditioner. It's like $22 for a full size bottle, so it's definitely at a higher price point.

How cute is this packaging?!!

*CARGO LIPGLOSS... I love Cargo products so I was glad to see this gloss in my box, and its a pretty big trial size item too. I like this gloss because it's hydrating, not sticky and can be easily layered over any base lip color. A full size tube is $14, which is in the median price range for prestige cosmetics. (You can buy Cargo at Ulta). The shade I received is called "Route 66" and its a pretty, pink-watermelon color (see swatch below).

*CoTZ 

NATURAL SKIN TONE SPF 40... Let me just say, first and foremost, always, ALWAYS, say yes to SPF!! SPF 40 is pretty much my new best friend these days so this product is probably my #1 pick from the May box. Not only is this SPF non-greasy, it also has a tint to it so you are left with a natural looking glow, but with a matte finish. The full size product will run you about $20.

*LA FRESH

ECO-BEAUTY OIL-FREE FACE CLEANSER... I haven't tried this yet, but I've used their moisturizing wipes in the past and really loved them (I do love a good face wipe!!). These are biodegradable if you're environment friendly, as we should all pretty much be. They remove dirt, makeup and other impurities with jojoba oil to be extra moisturizing. 30 wipes is $10, so that's a really good selling point aside from all the good these bad boys are slated to do.

**BONUS JONAS**

An ink pen!! I'm a pen fiend, so I certainly wasn't hating this little extra!!

Hope everyone is having a great week. Its only getting hotter out there so stay cool, literally!!

XO,

J <3.

Birchbox: Women's Health

Birchbox + Women's Health = tiny tweaks, big results.
The last day of May and I am on my phone typing a blog post about the April Birchbox. I know I'm not the most punctual person as far as blogging goes (I haven't even opened May's box), but this type I have a highly legitimate reason for putting all this on the backburner, which I will be doing a series of posts about and I encourage everyone to read them when they're up and really think about things. This is one of the review posts I hate because I don't have my pictures to go along with... The other day, out of no where, all the pictures from my camera disappeared... Gone!! Now you see me (want to see that movie, sn), now you don't. I was emotionally distraught and livid... There were nearly 300 pictures from like 2 years. The best that verizon could conclude was that my sd card went bad and my phone wasn't reading it, therefore my backup assistant wasn't backing up the images. ::sigh:: I wanted to throw up, maybe I did. Pictures are quite the big deal to me, but moving on from that.

Let me just talk about this April Birchbox before it falls completely to the wayside...
***THE CONTENTS***

*NEXXUS HYDRA-LIGHT LEAVE-IN
CONDITIONING FOAM... This one came in my box as a full-size product,
which normally retails for about $17, so that's rather exciting. On the flip side, like I always say, I'm super picky about my hair products, especially since I have extensions and color treated hair. These sorts of things I usually pass on to family members (hey, Mom), or I use them in different giveaways. About the product... It's a glycerin infused styling foam, and I am loving foam hair products lately actually, that aims to tame frizz and reflect light to give hair a boost of shine. The science behind the hydra-light formula is a blend of deep sea minerals, antioxidants and hydrating
polymers, which work to nourish hair without weighing it down. Not sure how this would bode for color treated hair, but it sounds promising.

*SUMITA EYE SHADOW PENCIL... Another full size product!! Retails for $11. It's a glide-on eyeshadow pencil that can create versatile looks. The color I received was a deep Lilac color, which doesn't suit me with my red hair right now. I love eye shadow pencils as bases though, and this one by Sumita seems highly comparable to a NYX jumbo pencil.

*SUPERGOOP! ADVANCED SPF 37 ANTI-AGING EYE CREAM...I am a skin care lunatic now so I'm super excited to try this little gem out.  They just sent me the sample size but the full size retails for $45. This is an eye cream with some serious SPF in it...I love already!! The product's formula has an oat peptide complex cream to firm skin. I will be trying this out really soon, as I am more readily getting back into my daily skin/makeup routines.

*YES TO CUCUMBERS FACIAL TOWELETTES...I love all the YES TO lines and these towelettes are great. The cucumber acts as a skin brightening agent, and the wipes themselves also gently exfoliate and detoxify. And for all you eco-friendly folks, they are 100% biodegradable. They make my skin feel refreshed, even more so after I've washed my face at night. The full-size towelettes retail for like $5.99, and you can get them at Walgreens or Ulta, to name a few places.

*YES TO GRAPEFRUIT DAILY FACIAL SCRUB AND DARK SPOT CORRECTING SERUM... I actually haven't tried these, they were two little bonus jonases in the box. THE SCRUB is a milder one as far as exfoliators go, so it is gentle enough should you want to use it for everyday use. It contains lemon balm and grapefruit, which clarify the skin. THE SERUM (and I do love a good serum) works to reverse spots caused by acne, aging and sun damage, and let me just say you can totally have sun damage and not be able to see it just by looking in the mirror. Everyone should get an annual check at the dermatologist, after all our skin is our largest organ!! These products retail
between $10-$20, and you can pick them up wherever YES TO products are sold!!

Hope everyone is well!! Make sure to follow this blog for upcoming posts. You can also check out my facebook page (pretty & clever by Jacqueline Clark), my Twitter (@JalinMarieC) and my instagram (jacquelinecxo).

XO,
J.

Review: Not Your Mother's Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo.

This is the time of year when dry shampoo is a must have for me. In the summer, especially, I like to go as long as I can without washing my hair, so I need a good dry shampoo to keep everything looking fresh until I really get in there with shampoo and conditioner. I still don't get why some people think they have to wash their hair everyday; in fact, sometimes doing so can actually work against your hair, depriving it of natural oils because you are constantly shampooing. That being said, I've tried several different dry shampoos over time, both salon and drugstore, and the Not Your Mother's brand is the closest drugstore one I've found to be comparable to salon quality brands. Actually, it's my favorite right now of all brands.

If you are not familiar with how dry shampoo works, you spray it on your roots and basically all throughout your hair. It will show up white on your hair (like a powder) and as your brush it through the white color dissipates as it absorbs any excess oils. Now, I have dark hair so I really have to brush thoroughly so my hair isn't left looking gray!! BUT, with the NYM brand I don't have to go so hardcore working it through because there isn't a gray cast like with others. It does leave a matte finish to your hair, so I always make sure to follow up with with a hairspray that adds shine, after I've finished styling.

PROS:

* COST EFFECTIVE.

    I paid under $6 for mine at CVS, so it's definitely an affordable product.

* REFRESHES

    It not only smells refreshing, but it gives my hair a refreshed look and feel between washes.

* NO GRAY CAST

   Like other dry shampoo products I've tried, this one doesn't leave my hair looking gray after combing the

   product through.

*STYLE FRIENDLY

    After you've used the dry shampoo you can go on and style your hair as your would normally.

Like any review I have to throw in the "cons"...

CONS:

*MATTE FINISH

    This may not even be a con to everyone, but I should mention again that this does leave a light matte finish

    to your hair. I like shine to my hair, so that's why I always follow up with hairspray that also has a shine

    effect.

*OVERUSE CAN BE MESSY

     Like with any product, overuse can have a downside. If you are really pushing it and constantly using the

     dry shampoo when it probably is time to go ahead and wash it, then you'll start to notice your hair

     looking a little greasy, especially on top. At this point, Wash your hair!!

Hope this little review was helpful/informational/what have you...If you have any review suggestions or have opinions on this or other dry shampoos comment below!!

If you are reading this make sure you are following me on Blogspot, and my other social sites too!!

Twitter: JalinMarieC

Instagram: jacquelinecxo

XO,

J.

Royal Teeth

I cannot lie, I have been "fan-girling" over a few things lately. I can't help it, I'm smitten with so many great things lately and on that list is the band Royal Teeth. I had heard their first radio single "Wild" months back; it always seem to come on when I was on my way to a mua job, so it quickly became my official car jam. The more I looked into the actual band and their music, the more I began to adore. They had performed locally a couple times before but this past Saturday I had the opportunity to see them at a local club/restaurant. I will try not to go into mounds of details, because believe me I could and would, but it was all amaze!!

I got tickets a month or so in advance, and then a few weeks prior to the show found out that there was an opportunity to win passes to go into soundcheck and meet the band, so I was naturally all over that. I tried and tried and after what seemed like endless "bartering" my husband was able to get me on the list with the help of a local dj. I was ecstatic. We get there for soundcheck, and there was only a handful of people (surprising to me since one, this band rocks, and two, they had given away a considerable amount of passes). When I walked in there they were, on stage, sound checking away. I had the most stupid grin on my face, and I'm sure my husband thought I was out of my mind. Like I said, I am smitten by these people, particularly the 2 main vocalists, Gary and Nora. (pics are on my facebook that I took on my phone, but I'll post a few from my camera with this post). So we listened to the soundcheck and ate some dinner. Well, when I happened to look up, Nora was over at the bar just hanging out. After my husband convinced me I was stupid to not go over and talk to her, that is just what I did. She couldn't have been any nicer and we talked for like 10 minutes before she offered to sign a poster for me.

As she was signing it, the other lead vocalist (**swoon**) Gary appeared. I got to talk to him as well, and I just felt totally in awe.

Eventually the whole band was over and they signed my poster and CD, and I got to get a group photo with everyone.
The show itself was also amaze. There was one guy who opened, but to be honest I don't remember his name, he was local talent. Then The American Authors (another great band discovery) played there set, and then Royal Teeth. I was glad to be right up front in the action, singing along with the songs I already knew and then hearing new songs off their soon-to-be-released album. Of course, when they sang "Wild" that was their biggest hit, with confetti cannon and all!! Gary even came down into the audience with his drum, he was literally so close to me my camera wouldn't focus!



see how close!! Ahh!! xo

He was playing so hard he was breaking drumsticks left and right, so I was lucky enough to also take home a drumstick. I legit felt school girl giddy. Really the only other band I adore adore adore is 311, and they always put on a great, energetic show. Royal Teeth is definitely not short on the energy, or the normalness as people. I am thankful that before the show I got to meet them and talk with some of them; it only solidified my love for them even more. Their EP is out now, and the full length is anticipated to be released in June. They also have great designs on their merchandise, in fact, Nora does a lot of the design work so that's a bonus jonas personal touch you get!!
I'm excited for more music from them and definitely to see them again. If they ever come to your area check them out, or at least pick up a few of their tracks on iTunes. My top 3 right now are: "Stay", "Wild" and their cover of the Knife's "Heartbeats".
Happy Hump Day!!
XO,
J <3.





Pretty Little Liars: S3 Finale Top Ten

     I thought about this and thought about this, and ultimately thought about it so much I had to write about it...the Pretty Little Liars Season 3 finale from Tuesday night. I was totally going to write about this yesterday but my husband whisked me off to a surprise date to the Melting Pot (my fave) last night...totally sweet right?! Gold star for hubs. So, the finale definitely had me glued to my television screen, I couldn't have helped it if I wanted to. I was tweeting with others, and even my husband was watching avidly, haha. I figured I would go ahead and do a Top 10 to merely satiate my desire to talk about it all!! So in no particular order I present my PLL S3 TOP 10:


1. Troian Bellisario
In case you didn't know, she plays Spenser Hastings on the show. I love her. I'm smitten. Her character this season, amaze. She became so complex outside the scope of the "liars" and when she had her breakdown in the woods and entered Radley, wow. I was totally impressed with Bellisario's scope of acting, more so than any of the other girls this season. I love a character that is capable of such a range of emotions. Oh, and we all realize it was Spencer who picked up Malcolm before he dropped the dime on her right?!!
2. Toby
Ahhh!! He's alive! I kind of felt that he was, but didn't want to put my money on it at first. Twitter was a buzz with #TobyIsAlive. And the look on his face when he realized he was sitting across from Spenser, priceless. I figured Spenser had known he was alive,but to see them together again, YES!! In the hotel, when Toby cried and one thing led to another...YES. A lot of people were still questioning if Toby was genuine in saying he only joined up with the A Team to protect Spenser, but I do believe those were his intentions. He was too concerned and upset with Spenser for lying about A in the past. Love them together.
3. Mona
They have really set Mona's character up for an interesting next season. I was surprised when Mona said she didn't know who red coat was. I mean we all had pretty much figured that red coat was running the show, but I really thought Mona knew. And when Mona got the text at the end from A with the other liars it opened up the possibility that she is now a victim of A too. As whacked out as Mona had been, I personally don't think she would set herself up as a victim in this particular way. Thoughts??
4. Red Coat
Do we really think that Alli is red coat?! Mona saw her. Hannah saw her. Spenser saw her. It stands to reason that yes it is, but I feel like it is oh so much more than that. Now, let me preface this by saying I have not read the books, and I am content watching this all play out via the show. Here's my theory...it is Alli, but it isn't. They were so focused on seeing Alli's face, but we never heard red coat talk or anything. Now, Alli has appeared in dreamlike states to the girls before but she even eluded to herself as being dead at those times. Soooo, what if someway somehow Alli had a twin. It makes sense that it could be written in like that. Maybe it's too predictable, maybe it's too far-fetched and twisted to the story that already exists. Either way, I'm writing it off as red coat still unknown til we see more.
5. Who is in the Trunk?!
The question that is at the forefront of all questions after the finale. The last scene ends with all the girl's looking into the trunk of Wilden's car, which mysteriously found it's way out of the lake. So, who was in the trunk. I have ventured my own guess, but I shall refrain from putting it on here. I read an article, which I believe was an interview with Troian Bellisario, that said the trunk mystery will be revealed in the first seconds of the Season 4 premiere in June.
6. Who is being pulled out of the ground?!
Who was pulling who out of the ground at the end?! I don't even want to venture a guess I just want to know!!
7. Aria & Ezra
Other than the arrival of Malcolm into Ezra's life, and the whole debacle with Spenser being the one who picked him up and took him to the carnival, there wasn't much going on with Aria & Ezra. Still, let's discuss. Her parents aren't particularly thrilled with the whole baby mama thing, Ezra wants a teaching job (and let's face it, we all knew he would end up subbing Aria's class), and it took Aria two separate times to break up with Ezra before he accepted it. They are forever breaking up and rekindling their love, I have a feeling this will continue.
8. Eddie Lamb
Remember him??! Spenser's nurse at Radley...the one who told her about the problems with the badges (Toby had Lamb's name on his badge, remember). He knew a lot about Mona's time at Radley and was responsible for leading Spenser to Mona's game board map, and he obviously knows something is going on with Wren. Now, I know that this wasn't referenced anywhere in the finale, but I feel it is still obviously pertinent to things to come early on in Season 4. I was actually surprised that Wren, or Eddie, didn't surface in any way in the finale. Definitely curious about what's going on with all of that!!
9. Jenna
Let's handle this with some rapid fire questioning: Why was Jenna meeting with Shawna? Did Jenna know Toby was alive this whole time? Why didn't she clean all the mail and newspapers off the porch?!! This girl is a hot mess of motive questions already.
10. The Clothes
As always, can I just say how I love pretty much every single thing worn by the PLL closet. If only I could have my way in their wardrobe department. Want. Love. Swoon.

So, that is my "piece" on the PLL Season 3 finale. Who would have thought I would care so much. Not really care, in true sense of the word, but it simply entertains me and that's as good a reason as I need to have my mini fan girl moment. It provides me a nice little break from the stresses of the day you could say.
If you are a PLL fan and want to discuss or add to my Top 10 thoughts, then please comment!!
XO,
J.

Birchbox: March Madness

     How does time always seem to get away from me. Granted, I have been busier than usual, but sometimes I don't even know how I lose track of things the way I do!! I was trying to pull up the pictures from this month's box that I took when I was taking my first impression photos, but the program I use to upload pictures from my cell phone is not cooperating, thus no photos shall be attached. Sad face, especially since there was an eye shadow I swatched and some fairly cool packaging. So, if you truly are interested in something mentioned just think of lack of photo as more of an incentive to actually go and check out the product for yourself. This month's theme was March Madness (an all too common theme for this month as I'm sure you know), and it's supposed to feature products from "veteran all-star" brands and some from "up-and-coming rookie" brands. Without further adieu let's discuss the contents:

*MAKE Eyeshadow... This is a new brand, and one I have not heard of until receiving this box. Supposedly this shadow has mega staying power. Now, when I swatched this shade (mine was a really pretty chocolaty brown) it dusted right off. So, that being said, I'm hoping that with aid of a good eye primer, which is essential regardless of what shadow you are using in my book, that it at least has some longevity to it. Something super rad about this particular line (MAKE) is that 1/3 of all sales are donated to charity. I, personally, adore a company that gives back, so gold star to MAKE right away for that. Full-sized eyeshadow runs at about $18, so it's right along the price point of MAC or Urban Decay.
*MAKE Face Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 30... this primer by MAKE is a winner.One, who doesn't love a good primer?! Two, it contains SPF 30, and I love my face products to have right around that level. The primer itself is not greasy, it is fairly lightweight. The full size is around $30, so it is definitely worth checking out, especially considering 1/3 of that 30 dollars would be going to charity!!
*Nick Chavez Beverly Hills Color-Saver Sulfate-Free Shampoo... So, I'm assuming most have heard of Nick Chavez, especially if you are in the industry or have interest in; Nick is definitely a veteran player here. I always feel "mehh" when it comes to talking about different shampoos and conditioners I'm given opportunity to try, mainly because I'm picky about my hair care to a point, as I know I've said time and again. This is a sulfate free shampoo, which of course is one of the key things I look for in a good color shampoo. If you didn't know, sulfates are what strip your hair!! This shampoo also claims to boost the hue of your color and add volume. Now, from what I've seen out of most volumizing shampoos is that they tend to dry out your hair a little bit. (Too much moisture plugged in weighs the hair down and doesn't allow it to achieve super volume). I'm actually curious to see if a shampoo that in my mind could be drying, could also brighten your color. I'm very interested in the science behind things (take note of future posts to come), so perhaps I shall make a note to give this a try to see how it all balances out. The volumizing properties are supposed to come from the apple and lemon extracts in the shampoo, so that too makes me curious.
Whish Shave Crave Shaving Cream... never heard of this line either!! This is an organic shea butter-based foam-free shaving cream. Claims to allow for a close shave and soft skin, and has a blueberry scent. Immediately this called to mind the eos shave cream, so I have a feeling they are justifiably similar. A Full size is $20, which for shave cream seems like a little much, right?! eos is way more affordable, but since I was given a trial I will add it to my growing collection of bathroom toiletries.
Madewell for Birchbox Emery Board... these are always good to have on hand! It has a cute print on it that is from Madewell's Spring Collection, and you can pick up one of these guys for like $5.

There you have it guys! Now that summer is around the corner (I have a feeling here in VA we are going to skip over Spring and jump straight into the Summer months...I mean, yesterday was the first day of Spring yet today it is snowing) I am curious to see what new products will be coming out, especially with regards to skin care. I did get all my samples in my box this month and last month's little snafoo has been handled greatly by customer service over at Birchbox. The only mild let down I had with this box is that some people got Benetint in their box, the lucky dogs!! Hope everyone is having a great week so far, and here's to warmer weather!!
XO,
J.