My dad recently brought me some sweet items my mom got for me to sell! Soon to be listed on PandaLoves.com and eBay. Check out a sampling of some of my favorites.
Simple, elegant dust plug for any device with a headphone jack!
Dangling, swinging ballerina dust plug.
Big, bold, and adorable ring.
Cute little bear head topper.
Little wolf perched up top.
Sweet little fox curled up around your finger!
What a fun turtle ring, complete with moving limbs!
Hahaha, fancy fox. 😉
Panda went browsing at the TOUS store the other day and came back with some free goodies! Don’t mind Missy, she was just admiring her new toys…
TOUS gift bag!
Inside the bag were two TOUS stockings and a copy of their catalog.
Ah, the anniversary box. This is what got me into this whole subscription box thing – a fateful email that I received telling me that if I subscribed for a year, I’d get free shipping on the boxes AND a bonus 13th special edition box.
blissmobox is just under $25 per month with shipping (or as discounted as just under $120 for 6 months – as you can see, they used to offer an annual subscription but that is gone) and comes with eco-friendly products in themes like beauty, snacks, home, pets, and more. Each month you choose from two or three themes, or skip if none of them appeal to you. They do not offer a referral program.
I just couldn’t resist so I decided to sign up for a subscription. Here’s what ultimately came in that anniversary box:
Not pictured: ecover dishwasher tablets
Peeled Snacks gently dried fruit, Apple-2-the-core – I’m not usually a huge fan of apples, but I ate these up pretty fast! I love that they’re just apples, plain and simple. They’re slightly sweet and so light that they’re really the perfect snack when you want a little something but don’t want too much sugar.
All Terrain insect repellent, Herbal Armor spray – As you can see, it comes out a rich milky white, but rubs on clear. There’s a strong herbal, almost medicinal scent that’s sure to keep bugs away. Maybe I just haven’t used it enough to loosen up the nozzle, but it always comes out more liquidy than misty for me.
Bayes water filtration bottle, blissmo branded – This is a fun water bottle with filter built into the cap. The nice thing is when you’re on the go, you just put tap water in and by the time it reaches your lips, the water has been filtered for you. That way you can bring an empty bottle wherever you go and just get water from any restroom sink. Or if you’re particularly impatient, you don’t have to wait and watch as the water trickles through your normal filter – just start gulping!
eco logical skin care sunscreen, for body – I didn’t realize it at first, but this product was actually on my “to try someday” list after I learned about it through Daily Grommet. I’m looking forward to using it on my day out or vacation since I don’t really get much sun otherwise. I haven’t opened it yet since I want to preserve it until I’m ready to use it, but I’d imagine its consistency to be something like toothpaste.
Neutrogena Naturals skincare, multi-vitamin nourishing night cream – I’ve been using this every night after I shower. It’s definitely a thick, creamy face cream that hydrates my skin. I also love the light, slightly sweet smell it has, which is soothing and relaxing. I had no idea that Neutrogena had a new line of natural products, so it was cool to be introduced to that and hopefully they’ll expand the line to take over the original products eventually.
ecover natural cleaning products, automatic dishwasher tablets – I don’t actually use the dishwasher to wash dishes, so I’m still trying to figure out what to do with these samples. I guess I could use the dishwasher just to try them out, but I’m not sure I even know how to operate the thing. Maybe I’ll just try dissolving them into the water I use to wash the dishes.
Overall this was a random box with no real theme, but it provided a nice introduction to more eco-friendly products in many categories.
Ah yes, the iPhone 5. I’ve had it for a month and a half now and I’ve loved every second of it. Not only does it fit better in my hand, it offers me just about everything I’m looking for in a phone/gadget/toy.
It comes in a nondescript box so as to not attract attention.
It’s so shiny and wonderful! If only I could keep it that way.
Underneath the phone you’ll find the key accessories – the new EarPods and charging plug with cable.
I like the new two-toned design that’s part iPhone 4, part iPad.
The newly designed EarPods do fit my ears better than the previous earbuds, but I wouldn’t mind a more cushy design.
Happily, it still fits into a clutch wallet designed for iPhone 4 and older models.
Ready for the belated August blissmobox low-down? Here goes! The options for that month were Skin ‘n’ Hair Care, Lunchbox Snacks, or Pristine & Clean.
blissmobox is just under $25 per month with shipping (or as discounted as just under $120 for 6 months) and comes with eco-friendly products in themes like beauty, snacks, home, pets, and more. Each month you choose from two or three themes, or skip if none of them appeal to you. They do not offer a referral program.
The three choices for the August blissmobox.
Since I had just gotten a box of snacks and I wasn’t particularly interested in excuses for cleaning, the beauty box was perfect! When I opened the box, I was greeted by a sampling of items for just about any skincare need, ranging from practical to pampering.
Wellinhand Action Remedies, Therapy Oil – The most practical of them all, this little oil is great for all kinds of skin conditions ranging from cuts and burns to soreness and pain. I haven’t really had any skin conditions that I can test it out on, but the soothing herbal scent with a slight hint of sweetness already indicates to me it has some of the healing properties of herbs. I almost didn’t see the sample when I was looking at the info sheet, so it would have been nice if there had been a more decent size included.
MyChelle Dermaceuticals Pumpkin Renew Cream, Unscented – This is a rich and creamy face and neck cream that is gentle and soothing. It has a thicker consistency than a lot of other moisturizers and even feels a a bit elastic. It’s really nice! I also love that the pumpkins they use come from their very own garden (or so it says).
Hugo Naturals All Over Lotion, Comforting Vanilla & Sweet Orange – Can you say YUMMY?! The combination of the sweet and citrus elements in this lotion remind me of a delicious orange cupcake! It gives me a warm, fuzzy feeling whenever I put it on and it’s almost like getting a dose of comfort food.
Giovanni Eco Chic Hair Care, Brazilian Keratin & Argan Oil Ultra-Sleek Shampoo – This shampoo has a really nice smell that I think is something like macadamia nut? I can’t quite pinpoint it, but it’s familiar and nutty. The shampoo is pretty runny as you can see, but it’s also creamy and rich. I love the subtle sweet scent that lingers and makes using this shampoo feel like a luxurious experience!
La Fresh eco-beauty, Instant Body Soother – I wasn’t too sure what to do with a “body soother” at first, but then I discovered that it is PERFECT for after a workout. The minty smell gets deep in your lungs to really refresh while it cools and soothes your skin! It’s downright pampering. 😉 These moist towelettes are just moist enough to gently clean away some of the grime on your skin, yet aren’t so wet that you have to wait for the residue to evaporate. La Fresh is really water-conscious in how they produce their products, which I totally love!
If you’d like more info on these brands, you can click below to enlarge the photo and read more.
I’ve been spending more time at Targets lately (Panda got me into it), and one thing I’ve noticed is that they have a lot of cool products that come and go quickly. In addition, it seems that a fair amount of limited edition items are offered there, including the two lip balm sets you’ll find below. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to grab the item if you really want it, because the next time you decide you’ll swing by and get it, it’ll probably be gone. Happened to me a few times, especially with that bungee chair! I sure do hope they bring it back next year for back to school.
Awesome bungee chair! Should have bought it when I saw it because now it’s gone. 🙁
Don’t be fooled – these sunglass picture frames are actually really large. What a cute way to display pics!
How adorable! Anytime is meal time, right?
Ah, the product that launched my eBaying beyond iPhone cases and into beauty products as well.
Gum in fun tubes that also contributes to a cause. Cool!
It’s a pillow – it’s a seat! There were owls and elephants too. 🙂
I frantically searched stores for these once I decided to buy and came up empty. Turns out most of them don’t have them out on floors yet!
Wondering about the second Yuzen box? Never fear! I’m here to show you what came in it and give you the low-down on each item. This time around, the color scheme was yellow and there were six fantastic brands included.
Yuzen is $26 per month and comes with around 5 or 6 eco-friendly beauty, skincare, food/snacks, and home products. Boxes are sent monthly with no option to skip. Sometimes there’s a waitlist to get the subscription. They do not offer a referral program.
Click on the pictures for the full sizes so you can enjoy all the details of each product! You can even zoom in to read all the messaging.
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day – Lemon Verbena All Purpose Soap Bar: As I was opening the box, I got a hint of this soap bar’s clean scent wafting up. It’s a huge full-size bar that will last me a LONG time! The wrapping was a nice smooth texture and it wasn’t glued too strongly together, so opening the packaging was actually a pleasant experience. I’d heard great things about Mrs. Meyer’s products, so I was pretty happy to get a chance to try it out. The soap suds nicely and gently cleans your entire body.
Cowgirl Skincare – Desert Recovery Cleanser: This is a fun new brand I hadn’t encountered before! The smell of the face wash is soothing and slightly sweet – maybe rose? It’s perfect for washing away whatever managed to accumulate on your face and doesn’t strip your skin of moisture. It’s meant for dry, aging, or sensitive skin but it’s useful for any type of skin. The container reminds me of elixirs from a Western (or maybe it’s just because their name is Cowgirl :-P). Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, anyone?
Organic India – Tulsi Original, Lemon Ginger, Sweet Rose, & Sleep teas: I enjoyed each one of these Tulsi teas! I’ve never heard of Tulsi before, so I was definitely intrigued by this “holy basil of India” that is incorporated in Ayurvedic practices. It’s apparently popular as an herbal remedy and has both general health and medicinal values.
It didn’t taste much different to me than normal teas, so it’d be easy to substitute them in while still enjoying the taste of tea, yet getting the added (healing) benefits of tulsi. With a name meaning “the incomparable one” how could you not give it a whirl too?
Coola Suncare – Cucumber Mineral Sunscreen for Face: Haha! Funny that just like the first Yuzen box, I happen to already use one of the products included. This is that particular product from this box and I’m more than happy for another! In fact, I happen to have one at Panda’s and one at my parents’ now so I can protect my face wherever “home” is. The cucumber scent is so relaxing and the sunscreen absorbs into the skin well, with no greasy layer to worry about. It’s perfect for your face and hands. Don’t forget to apply it to your neck too, if it’ll be exposed!
Olomomo Nut Co – Chai Bliss Almonds: Oh yum! Talk about wonderfully fragrant and oh so delicious. These almonds are covered in a sweet layer of vanilla and cardamom flavoring that is just delightful. I don’t normally like to eat nuts, but if they all came like this, I could definitely incorporate them into my routine! Plus, who doesn’t want a product made with love? (See ingredient list, hehe.)
Tilvee – Calendula & Comfrey Healing Balm: WOW. Not only do I love the usefulness of this product, it smells wonderful too! I can hardly get enough of it. It’s basically what you’d put on for anything adverse that happens to your skin, whether it be cuts and scrapes, rashes or sunburn, even plain old dry patches! Not long after getting it, I actually got a scratch and I applied it until my skin healed. Worked great, though it’s not meant for eliminating scars. Still, my skin would have scarred horribly had it not been for this healing balm. I’m obsessed and I use it on just about all skin conditions that ail me. Oh, and I absolutely love that it comes in stick form for easy application and ultimate portability!
This weekend, Panda and I volunteered for Green Festival and it was a grand old time! It’s the first time I’ve experienced a green conference outside of Opportunity Green and it’s quite the different experience. When we weren’t volunteering, we got a chance to go around to a bunch of the vendors/exhibitors and not only did I learn a lot, we managed to score some sweet freebies too.
Our first view of the convention center!
You get a full view of the place before heading down into the festivities.
This is what an eco-friendly mattress is made of!
I love this idea, but the price is rather steep. Still, one day I’d like to filter my water with something so natural.
I wish I had taken a picture of the chopstick art, but you can see their product line for yourself. The folding baskets are so clever!
I love solid lotions (I have a strawberry one from LUSH) so I eventually caved and got myself their awesome leaf-shaped ones.
Check out all that we managed to bring back after Day 1.
Day 1 goodies: Bright Green tote bag, Bright Green laundry detergent, Repax water canister, Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies, Maid Brigade nail file, Maid Brigade small reusable tote, apple sauce, bananas & apple, Dr. Bronner’s Magic All-One soaps (baby-mild, peppermint, rose), Yogi Chai Rooibos tea bags, Ford chapstick, Nature’s Path Sunny Hemp trail mix, Clif Kit’s Organic fruit & nut bar in Cashew, Yummy Earth organic pomegranate pucker, O Organics raisins, wood chip for casting Ford Grant vote, Ford keychains, Ford Chicobag, Jarrow formulas supplements (Phosphomega, Jarro-Dophilus EPS, Bone-Up), Pharma GABA tablets, Joyful Bath Co soap Citrus Buzz, Joyful Bath Co pin, Mind Body & Salt soap, Truly-life soap, & of course a cotton Volunteer t-shirt! The orange Chicobag and pens were actually from a LOHAS event the night before.
Let’s not forget all the marketing materials we managed to acquire, despite my best efforts to just get pictures and save paper.
After browsing tons of booths, this is the cute gift set that really grabbed me. I don’t know why, but I’m a sucker for a nice gift basket (and that includes the “basket” itself).
A neat art display of painted bottles.
I really wanted to win this super cool bike from Repax! Apparently, so did plenty of other people. 😛
The trappings of my second day. You can tell I got a little crazy with certain samples.
Day 2 goodies: Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies, Hemp Hearts hemp seeds, Dr. Bronner’s Magic All-One liquid soaps & bars (spearmint peppermint, peppermint, lavender), Yogi Chai Rooibos tea bags, Ford chapstick, Yummy Earth organic puckers (pomegranate, blueberry, sour apple), Bright Green laundry detergent, Truly-life soap, & a The Oink Pad pen.
Panda and I had a little unofficial competition going to see who could bring back the most goods. This was his share of the goods!
Panda’s Day 2 goodies: Hemp Hearts hemp seeds, Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies, Clif Kid Z bar crispy rice in Cookies ‘N Cream, Nature’s Path Sunny Hemp trail mix, Dr. Bronner’s Magic All-One liquid soaps & bars (spearmint peppermint, peppermint, lavender, baby-mild), Yogi Chai Rooibos tea bags, Ford chapstick, Yummy Earth organic blueberry pucker, Bright Green tote bag, Bright Green laundry detergent, Repax water canister, & Truly-life soap.
Oh, and you know, I decided to support some of the businesses there and buy their products.
Products bought: Bumboosa bamboo baby wipes, Hawaiian Moon Aloe cream, Berryplus liquid laundry soap, & Truly-life solid lotion leaves.
Source: Apple.com
Holding out on upgrading your phone to see if any issues crop up? Or maybe you’re just waiting for your previous 2-year contract to expire before you upgrade. Well, if you decide you want to get the iPhone 5 and would like to make sure you’ve prepared everything needed to get through the online ordering process without a hitch, here is a step-by-step of what to expect*:
1. In the Apple Store’s iPhone section, choose your color (black or white), storage capacity (16, 32, or 64 GB), and carrier (AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, or get an unlocked phone for a higher price point).
2. If you chose one of the three carriers with contract requirements, you’ll then need to indicate if you are creating a new account with the carrier or already have one. If you have one, you can either replace a current phone on your account or add a line. (Sprint options vary slightly.)
3a. If you create a new account: you’ll go through and pick out the details, including minutes, data, and text messaging options. Then you can choose to get a new number or transfer your current one.
– If you get a new number, you’ll enter your billing info, birthday, and SSN. The carrier will do a credit check on you, you will have to pay an activation fee, and you’ll be signing up for a 2-year contract. Here Sprint also asks for you to create a PIN.
– If you transfer your current number, they will ask for your current phone number, account number, and password for the carrier (if applicable).
3b. If you have an existing account (either replacing a current number or adding a new one): you will then be prompted to enter your wireless number, billing zip code, last 4 digits of SSN, and billing password, if you have one. At that point, see 3a if you’re adding a line, otherwise Apple will check your eligibility for an upgrade, which will determine how much the iPhone will cost you. You’ll then want to confirm the monthly plan you want, either keeping what you have already or changing it.
Note: With Verizon, upgrading to the iPhone 5 means changing to LTE service, which voids any grandfathered plan you may be on (i.e. an unlimited one). Therefore, you will automatically have to choose a different plan if you currently have unlimited data with them. With AT&T, you get to keep your grandfathered plan, but you will not be allowed to use the FaceTime on cell service feature. If you want to FaceTime while on the go, you will have to get a shared data plan, which means you forfeit your grandfathered plans.
4. Then you will be directed to sign in with your Apple ID. If you’re a new customer, you’ll need to create one.
5. You will now be able to review your order, including the phone model and phone plan that you chose. Confirm the shipping address and shipping method are the ones you want. During pre-orders, you will not be allowed to edit the shipping address at this stage, but you can do so once the order is placed. The shipping method for pre-orders defaults to standard free shipping and cannot be changed.
6. If you want to edit your cart, you can do so here. Otherwise, go ahead to checkout to complete your order!
*Note that some instructions may not be complete since I didn’t have the appropriate information to go forward. I will update if I do get access.
Not too long ago, I discovered Crack Caramel, thanks to the PureWow newsletterI got. Being a sucker for all things caramel, I just had to get my hands on some! Since they do overnight shipping to ensure the product comes to you fresh, it can get pretty pricey. Luckily, I was able to get in touch with them and arrange to pick mine up since they’re located in LA. I’ve gone through and devoured about a quarter of my Crack Batch in the first day. As promised, their caramel is amazing! Not only is it fresh, it’s made from such simple, awesome ingredients. None of that odd stuff you’d find in mass-produced candy. And boy does it make Crack Caramel divine. 🙂
They’ve got some really cool packaging that meshes well together!
I ordered the Crack Batch and Crack Bar. They threw in two lollipops as a bonus!
The Crack Batch comes with a tag that tells you about their ingredients on the back. Inside the pouch, the caramels come sealed in a plastic bag for freshness. There are over 40 individually-wrapped pieces!
The Crack Bar also comes wrapped in plastic for freshness. Then there’s this waxy paper so the caramel doesn’t melt into the wrapping! I went ahead and took a big bite.
Adorable little Crack Pop on a nice wooden stick, wrapped in wax paper and tied off with a bit of string.
