Cotton Candy Fro

Aunt Jackie's Don't Shrink Flaxseed Elongating Curling Gel Review

2026-10-21T14:15:08.384-04:00

I bought the new Just Dance over the weekend..which is a little bit early for me since I usually wait until Black Friday to buy it. But I saw it available to purchase and decided to just go for it. The new adventure mode really reminds of the story mode in Dance Central Three..with dancing through the decades. They really ripped it off...and you would think they would have made it better. But NOPE. I played all the way through it and it was struggle because it was so boring. As are most of the songs. They should have just kept the same concept or went back to how they did 2023. I'm currently playing through the songs again. But so far..definitely my least favorite. I guess that will clear me up to purchase Grand Theft when it drops next month- I already pre-ordered it for my sister as her birthday gift. I've just been debating on whether I want to buy it when it drops for myself.

But...we are here to talk hair gel.

Aunt Jackie claims:

Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Don’t Shrink Flaxseed Elongating Curling Gel gives beautiful stretch to shriveling curls without flaking or caking. This special blend of moisturizing conditioners, flaxseed, shea butter, and extra virgin olive oil will give dry, shriveled up curls and twists a nice, elongated stretch. With nourishing omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed has been widely used as a natural remedy for hair growth, anti-thinning, and overall scalp health. Regular use leaves hair soft without a crunchy, tacky feel.

Helps achieve beautiful stretched and defined curls

Prevents dryness and flaking Won't weigh hair down

For wash-n-go styles, apply as needed, raking through hair with fingers, then finger-styling hair into place. Air dry or use a diffuser on a light setting.

For twist and coils, apply to sections of hair, distributing to each area and combing through from roots to ends (use more for thicker/longer hair). Prepare each section according to desired style (twists, braid outs, Bantu knots, etc.). Allow hair to completely dry, then take down each section. Style as desired.

Most of Aunt Jackie's products I would avoid for one ingredient or the other. I try to avoid micro-plastic ingredients. It is hard to avoid them because most ingredients are up for debate whether they are micro-plastics. From what I can tell- this doesn't have any.

Another thing I like to look up when purchasing hair products from the "ethnic" hair aisle is if the products are black owned. This is not. The founder and creator of the line is a black woman however.

This line kinda reminds me of Miss Jessie's. The curl la la curl custard just looks like a Miss Jessie's product- especially being that it is called a "custard" and the product is purple. Of course the price point of Aunt Jackie's is cheaper.

Also...Aunt Jackie has a LOT of product. I didn't realize quite how many until I went to their website.

I thought I would start with their best selling hair gel.

One of the most important things to me in a hair gel or any hair product is the scent. Scent can make or break a product and luckily this one smells nice. It's a fresh scent- not terribly unique. I feel like I have smelled this exact scent in other hair gels. But it's pleasant, it's fresh. I like it. It's not strong though and I don't notice it lingering around.

It doesn't dry my hair out. Some gels you use can literally feel like they are drying up your hair as you are applying and I have not had that problem. Even when it dries my hair doesn't feel crispy and dried. I do usually use a leave in conditioner with it though.

As for curl definition. Sometimes. Sometimes I use it and the curls are stretched out and defined. Which is nice. Most gels encourage extreme shrinkage. I can see the elongation with this and I appreciate it. On the other hand- there are some days I apply this and it doesn't do much of anything. You really have to get the foundation right. What you did beforehand matters. I'm sure I would get consistent results if I sectioned the hair and combed it through with a curl defining brush. But...I rarely ever do that.

I've had some decent hair days with it though. And then some not so great hair days.

I havne't noticed any flaking- which I did watch reviews from other people and they did have problems with that. It might make a difference what you are using underneath it though. It may call for some experimentation.

Another thing I've seen people point out- if you are expecting a real flaxseed gel this isn't it. You probably need to get in your kitchen for that. This just has flaxseed oil in it. It's not the same.

Ingredients:

Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Carbomer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, PVP, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, EDTA, Potassium Sorbate, Polysorbate 20, Parfum (Fragrance), Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Amyl Cinnamal, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Orange) Peel Oil, Hexamethylindanopyran

Overall, it's not bad. Not bad at all. Especially for the price. I see it right now on Amazon for under $7.00 and I am positive I paid less than $10.00 in my local store. Definitely worth trying!

Molton Brown Neon Amber Bath and Shower Gel Review

2026-10-20T11:49:53.462-04:00

I was off today so I thought I would take another ride around to see if I could find the new iPhone in Burgundy. This is the second trip I've made out and I have had no luck whatsoever. I'm so tired of looking at my cracked phone screen at this point and I am so ready for an upgrade. Hopefully I can get my hands on one before Christmas. In the meantime -I got through another Molton Brown shower gel from my sampler kit.

Molton Brown claims:

Add intriguing warmth to your bathing ritual with our dynamic opulentbody wash, distinct with bright elemi, a sensual overdose of tonka absolute and contemporary twist of salty ambroxan.

Usually you can tell what a Molton Brown scent will be from the name- but Neon Amber doesn't really tell me a whole lot. So I had no idea what to expect. There is a descirption- but you can never really get a sense of what something will smell like based on the description. At least not in this case. It's supposed to be elemi (I have no idea what that smells like), Tonka, and ambroxan. Ambroxan is everywhere and in everything and I don't think it's a note that does anything for me.

What this actually smells like is a men's cologne. Not a generic men's cologne. It's unique- at least to me. I don't have a lot of experience with men's cologne. I'm not sure how to describe it. It just smells like a nice men's cologne with a little dustiness to it (not in a bad way.)

It's a nice scent. And very intoxicating in the shower but doesn't really hang around afterwards. It's not for me at all. I like a unisex scent in the shower...but not really so much into cologne type scents. But that's OK. Not everything has to be for me. It's a good quality scent and I imagine it would make a nice gift for those that love these type of scents.

Other than that...it's Molton Brown. So it's pricey. But it works well, lathers nicely and rinses clean. It also sticks to the skin a little bit which most soaps do not.

I have the tiny size which is good for about 2/3 uses since I bought the sampler pack. It's the perfect way to try a bunch of their scents without committing the cash on the scent I may or may not like. I really like the size and the bottle has the same feel as the full size- just at a better price.

Ingredients:

Water/Aqua/Eau, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Fragrance/Parfum, Propylene Glycol, Coco-Glucoside, Glycerin, Laureth-7 Citrate, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Citric Acid, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Polyquaternium-7, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Tocopherol, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Ppg-2 Hydroxyethyl Cocamide, Sodium Hydroxide, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Coumarin, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Limonene, Blue 1/Ci 42090, Caramel, Red 4/Ci 14700.*

Overall, nice quality. The scent is nice...it just isn't for me.

Maybelline Great Lash Classic Mascara in Very Black Review

2026-10-18T11:22:06.331-04:00

I really thought I had reviewed the most classic and iconic mascara of all time. But recently discovered I hadn't. I've reviewed remix versions..but never the OG . Maybelline Great Lash was the very first mascara I ever bought. I think I was in the 6th or 7th grade. I faithfully applied it every day and had no idea what the point was. I didn't know what mascara was supposed to do. I think I only bought it once though and then...I guess at some point I moved on to other brands.

Maybelline claims:

After 40 years, Great Lash is still America’s favorite mascara.

Maybelline Great Lash Mascara is your timeless go-to for natural-looking volume.

Small brush, big control. The small mascara brush is easy to control to target hard-to-reach corners and long and short lashes alike for buildable volume for every lash.

Lash-doubling formula. Our lash-doubling mascara formula lengthens and conditions lashes for an easy, everyday makeup look.

Hypoallergenic mascara. The hypoallergenic formula is ophthalmologist tested, allergy tested, and safe for contact lens wearers.

4 natural-looking mascara shades. Choose from Dark Brown, Brownish Black, Very Black, or Blackest Black for a volumizing mascara shade that suits your natural lash color.

Once you swipe on Great Lash Washable Mascara, you’ll see why there's been billions of Great Lashes since 1971.

Made in USA

I have used tons of mascara from Maybelline. They make great mascara. But Great Lash is not one of them. You can get much, much better for the price. It's a water based mascara that's supposed to be easily washable, It's been around since 1971...though I'm sure the formula has been changed and it's not what you might have bought in 1971.

It comes in the easily recognizable pink and green packaging. Classic. Although I think the old tubes look better than what is being sold now.

Before Great Lash- there was Ultra Lash from the 60's which I just found out about. I thought Great Last was the first mascara in this format. And even before that the brand was responsible for the world's first mascara all the way back in 1913.

But I think this is the worst mascara I have ever tried and it's going in the trash after I review it. I think a better name for it would be Bad Lash. Or Sad Lash. Even Make You Mad Lash.

It's so wet. It doesn't build up. It never dries. It does a whole lot of nothing for my lashes. No volume, no length. My main issues with this is it always seems to get in my eyes and then my eyes HURT for days after. It stings my eyes for the rest of the day and causes so many problems. Happened to my eye the first time I used it. And then again yesterday- so now I'm over it.

It's so easy to get into the eye due to how wet it is. I like to start at the roots but with the problems this has caused me I am scared to start at the roots and it's pretty much guaranteed to drip into my eyes. Usually I hate throwing anything away and will try to work with products and find other ways to use them. But this is not worth it.

Usually with this mascara type- I would try to wait until it dries out but I can't keep messing up my eyes.

The only positive thing I have to say about it is how black it looks. It's also a bit more on the "glossy" side which I don't normally notice in any other mascara I have bought.

I almost forgot to take about the brush- which is so tiny. I really don't like the brush. Nor the way the handle feels when I'm applying it.

So into the bin it will go.

And now a look at some of the ads- which I always find fun.

Also a commercial- the very obviously fake lashes are taking me out.

This was a fun post for me. But I really hate this mascara. I haven't disliked a product this much in quite awhile. I guess there are some people this might work for- and so maybe it's still worth trying. It just was not for me.

Trouble Funk

2026-10-18T10:39:32.755-04:00

Quick music post today. Of a group that i feel everyone has heard their music but most people are not familiar with the group. And if you haven't heard the OG song- you have definitely heard it sampled somewhere especially if you listen to a lot of old Hip Hop.

Gotta keep the classics alive!

Sally Hansen Color Therapy Nail and Cuticle Oil Review

2026-10-16T18:16:14.335-04:00

Less than two weeks before Halloween so I am just now starting a Halloween movie marathon. I just googled a random list and I'm gonna try to make it through as many movies as I can in the next two/three weeks. While the movie is playing...figured I would knock out a review or two.

Sally Hansen claims:

Instantly makes nails and cuticles look healthier, restored and rejuvenated.

Treat your nails to the ultimate in therapy! Sally Hansen's Color Therapy Nail & Cuticle Oil™ instantly restores nails and cuticles, with our exclusive moisturizing, nourishing Argan Oil formula.

When you want strong, resilient, healthier-looking nails, finish your Color Therapy™ manicure with Color Therapy™ Nail & Cuticle Oil™ .

Overall, cuticle oil is kind of a waste of money. That doesn't stop me from buying it though. I keep at least one and another back up on hand.Usually I only use this particular one when I do my nails. I like to feel like I am spoiling and pampering myself sometimes.

This product doesn't really feel that luxurious though. Really you can use just about anything to hydrate your cuticles. My choice is usually whatever hand cream I am using. When I put on hand cream I try to remember to massage it into my cuticles too. Usually that helps with nail growth and prevents my nails from splitting as much. These days I only really reach for a cuticle oil after I have done my nails. Mostly because I don't really love this one.

It has a strange smell. It smells like it's supposed to smell better but just doesn't. Now that I've done this review I will probably add some essential oils to it to make it smell better as I use the rest up. Easy enough. But since it is on the higher end of Sally's cuticle oils- I expected that it would have smelled better as is.

Next up- it feels a little strange. It feels like it's coating my skin rather than sinking in. It really reminds of me of fractionated coconut oil. I prefer other oils as my cuticle oil like jojoba, almond, apricot. This one does eventually sink it...but I just don't really love the way it looks/ feels going on.

It looks hydrating enough though. I wouldn't say my cuticles feel any softer overall. But I guess maybe it's better than nothing.

The packaging it really nice though. Comes in a nice thick glass bottle. Seems you get a ton of product. And I like the brush much better than any other brush I've had in similar packaging. I even like it better than the Essie cuticle oil brush.

I do feel like it helps to dry my nail polish a bit quicker. It reminds of drying drops. I am using a really quick dry top coat though...so not sure if it's actually drying the nails quicker or just placebo effect.

It has a LOT of ingredients. I think unnecessarily so. I think simple ingredients like pure jojoba or shea/cocoa butters really make the best cuticle oils.

Ingredients:

BUTYL ACETATE, ETHYL ACETATE, NITROCELLULOSE, ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE, TOSYLAMIDE, EPOXY RESIN, ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL, SILICA,SYNTHETIC FLUORPHLOGOPITE, STEARALKONIUM BENTONITE, TRIPHENYL PHOSPHATE, ADIPIC ACID, TRIMELLITIC ANHYDRIDE COPOLYMER, NEOPENTYL GLYCOL, CAPRATE, ISOSORBIDE DICAPRYLATE, STYRENE, ACRYLATES COPOLYMER, RICINUS COMMUNIS SEED OIL (CASTOR), CALCIUM SODIUM BOROSILICATE, ETOCRYLENE, DIACETONE ALCOHOL, HEXANAL, KAOLIN, AQUA (WATER), PHOSPHORIC ACID, STEARALKONIUM HECTORITE, ARGANIA SPINOSA KERNEL OIL, OENOTHERA BIENNIS OIL (EVENING PRIMROSE), EUTERPE OLERACEA FRUIT OIL, N-BUTYL ALCOHOL,HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL, CARTHAMUS TINCTORIUS (SAFFLOWER) SEED OII, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, MACROCYSTIS PYRIFERA EXTRACT (KELP), HYDROLYZED CONCHIOLIN PROTEIN, TOCOPHEROL, METHYLPARABEN, TIN OXIDE, -: MICA, MAY CONTAIN +, TITANIUM DIOXIDE (CI 77891), ULTRAMARINES (CI 77007), DC RED NO. 6 BARIUM LAKE (CI 15850), MANGANESE VIOLET (CI 77742), BISMUTH OXYCHLORIDE (CI 77163), DC RED NO. 7 CALCIUM LAKE (CI 15850), FDC YELLOW NO. 5 ALUMINUM LAKE (CI 19140), DC RED NO. 34 CALCIUM LAKE (CI 15880), IRON OXIDES (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), FERRIC AMMONIUM FERROCYANIDE (CI 77510), ALUMINUM POWDER (CI 77000), FDC BLUE NO. 1 ALUMINUM LAKE (CI 42090), DC VIOLET NO. 2 (CI 60725), DC BLACK NO. 2 (CI 77266), DC YELLOW NO. 11 (CI 47000).

Overall, I wouldn't buy it again. I just don't like it much.

Raisin Spice Bread and Feta and Tomato Baked Pasta

2026-10-16T16:39:53.806-04:00

I did it. I ordered the newest Danessa Myricks palette. I feel like I was waiting all year for the palette to drop. Visiting her Instagram for a sign of the colors to come. Now that's it's dropped- I have some opinions. I'm not sure I'm thrilled about the pinks- I just feel like the past releases have a lot of pink or pink leaning purples. But maybe they will be a different tone and look different in person. I'm also not excited about the neutrals. What drew me to her palettes were they were all special colors- and now she is throwing in neutrals. Bummer. But I am excited because there are new finishes. But before I go on and on about eyeshadow- here's what I made in the kitchen this week.

I was excited for this raisin bread- it had potential but overall it was a meh for me. I think I'm just a simple girl when it comes to raisin bread and the only spice I really want is cinnamon. It was overly spiced to me. And I don't think it had enough yeast. Also mind stuck to the loaf pan. I ate it...but it wasn't my favorite and has me considering making a batch of raisin bagels to make up for it. But I'm also feeling kinda lazy so I probably won't.

Doesn't look very appealing. But it is what it is.

Next up a feta baked pasta. Kind of inspired by the pasta recipes I saw on Tik Tok- and also kinda inspired by a Harry Potter recipe that I don't really want to make. I just bought some feta and grape tomatoes and let them bake with some seasoning, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. Once it was all melty and the tomatoes were roasted I just added chicken and pasta and dinner was served. I don't think feta makes my favorite pasta cheese sauce but it was edible.

And that's all. Very easy week in the kitchen for me. I think this coming week I am going to be ready to really cook something.

Oars +Alps Superfoliant Bar Soap Review

2026-10-14T14:34:23.315-04:00

Got another soap review today. I have quite a few in reserve which I want to use up and then switch to trying out some shower gels- mainly from Molton Brown. And I also want to buy a few of the bar soaps from Lush because it's been a minute since I've ordered anything from them. Anyway--- this is the first of a lot of soaps I need to get through. I've tried a few soaps from the brand- which is a men's brand- but I don't really discriminate when it comes to soaps.

Oars claims:

Our most exfoliating bar soap yet pairs powerful grit with nourishing plant oils for the ultimate one-two punch. Jojoba Esters scrub away dry, dead, flaky skin while a trio of Shea Butter, Coconut Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil moisturize and soften. We also pack in Spirulina and Witch Hazel to balance and clarify.

Just one use will leave your skin feeling super.

Our Superfoliant Bar Soap is for guys looking for a super deep clean. This bar is best suited for those looking to exfoliate away dry, dull, and rough skin. Say hello to hydrated and softer skin.
Due to the ingredients used in this exfoliating soap bar, there is some variation in the size of the exfoliators. Please use caution.
Our blue Jojoba Esters are not only biodegradable, but provide the exfoliation for more refreshed skin.
This clean ingredient bar soap uses a triple moisturizing blend of Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, and Sunflower Seed Oil to provide lasting hydration to combat dry, tight-feeling skin.
Coconut and Sunflower Seed Oils provide lasting hydration and combat dry, tight-feeling skin.
This Sandalwood bar soap features our Eucalyptus Woods fragrance: a mix of Eucalyptus, Sandalwood, and light citrus notes.

Eucalyptus Woods Scent: A blend of Eucalyptus, sandalwood, and light citrus notes.

Made in USA

This is probably one I should have skipped. The last two bars I bought from them were pretty unisex- this one isn't. It kinda smells like every single mens cologne with a hint of mint/eucalyptus that gets stronger when you use it. The scent is not really for me...although it is pretty nice. It just really isn't my type of thing. I can't really fault the product for that..since it is a men's line.

I did really like that's is an exfoliating bar though. You can get clean and exfoliate at the same time. It is more on the scrubby side- so I wouldn't recommend for those that have sensitive skin. I didn't mind it but it is a bit scratchy. It is what they say- super exfoliating.

Other than that it works well. Lathers nicely, rinses cleanly and isn't drying. The only thing is it seems to melt a little quicker but most bars that you scrub back and forth to get exfoliation from do. I wasn't too bothered by it. Also the scent wasn't for me- so I didn't really want it to last and last.

One thing I do really like about the brand are the ingredients. They use things like coconut oil, shea butter, and biodegradable jojoba beads amongst other goodies. I always like to see a nice ingredient list.

Ingredients:

Sodium Palmate, Sodium Cocoate, Water, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, Fragrance, Pumice, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Oil),

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Jojoba Beads (Simmondsia chinensis), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Spirulina Maxima Extract, Cladonia Stellaris Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Larix Sibirica Wood Extract, Pentasodium Pentetate, Tetrasodium Etidronate.

.Overall, I think the brand makes solid mens products. Or soaps at least. I haven't tried anything else by them. This scent just wasn't for me. I would probably still try the others though....

Siblings Clean Candle Refill Kit No. 01 Bergamot White Rose Oakmoss Review

2026-10-12T12:26:27.447-04:00

It's candle season and I had this kit waiting all summer- just ready to pull out and finally make a refill with it. This is not my first candle refill type product- I have used the ones from Voluspa- which are a lot easier and fuss free. This is a candle refill kit for those that want to have the experience of making a candle without fussing around with scents. And maybe want a little more freedom is the vessel the choose to refill.

Siblings claims:

Lagom — Swedish for just right. A summer garden in bloom. Wild roses reaching for the sun as the forest sneaks into the trädgård. Delicate yet grounded, with bright blackcurrant and the quiet depth of oakmoss.

Top: Bergamot, Blackcurrant Berries
Heart: White Rose, Geranium
Base: Oakmoss, Patchouli, Musk, Tonka Bean

If you like: Diptyque Baies, Maison Louis Marie Antidris Cassis

This is a new to me brand- I just saw it pop up on Nordstrom and it looked interesting enough so when it went on sale- into the cart it went. I don't think they carry it anymore. I don't think candle refill kits are popular in department stores. But I do like the product enough that I will probably purchase from their website.

The kit itself is packaged so nicely. It comes in a nice box and everything you need -except the candle vessel- is included. I was a little suprised to see it was a wood wick. I've made a few candles before but this was my first time making one with a wood wick. Same general idea- but exciting to me nonetheless. Woodwick candles tend to be a little more costly but they can be a little nicer to burn since sometimes you can hear them crackling.

Before I trimmed the wick.

The kit was mostly great except the baggie you are supposed to warm the wax in. I didn't have a good time with it. I felt like the wax leaked out the bag and the bag felt like it was breaking down although it didn't bust. Usually I used an old tea container made of metal to heat up my wax and that works a lot better. I think I would prefer the wax to come in beads or a different form so I don't have to deal with the baggie.

Other than that you just pick your vessel, place the wick, melt the wax, pour and let it cool. And then you have a candle.

I didn't read the description of the candle before I bought it so I wasn't expecting it to smell like Dyptique Baies. But it really does smell exactly like it- if not better. I think it might be slightly stronger. The more I come across this scent- the more I like it. I'm not typically a fan of rose unless it's blended with something and this is the perfect blend of green, fruity berries, and rose.

I really enjoy the scent...and I got it on sale. So I really enjoyed the price. But also in comparison to the Dyptique brand- I would be more likely to buy this and enjoy the scent and save my coins.

Almost forgot to mention- the brand is free from Paraffin. It uses a blend of coconut and soy. I haven't had any issues with the burn of the candle. The wax burns very cleanly. I used my Bridgerton vessel and it was a little too small and wide- I had leftover wax but it still burns down to the edges as it burned down. So although it wasn't perfect I would still use it for the next candle I made from them.

Overall, I would buy it again. Making the candle isn't something I am always in the mood for- sometimes I just want something I can light up. But I enjoy the scent (wish they made it in a shower gel), so I could see myself getting this one again and also trying more from the brand.

Neom Uplifting Hand Balm in Wild Mint and Mandarin Review

2026-10-11T08:03:37.037-04:00

I'm really supposed to be having a way more productive Sunday than I have been having. I have been marathoning the Toy Story movies. Toy Story is my childhood. I have seen the first one about a billion times. No joke. I've seen the second one a handful of times- and the third twice now. I thought the 3rd one would make a great ending to the series. But I was open to the fourth one- which I thought was hot garbage. The journey of the movie was cute at times but I abhorred the ending. I mean, I really hated it. I hated it so much I went on the Internet to find out if others felt the same way..I looked up who was responsible for the movie so I could avoid watching their movies ever again. But now that I want to watch the first movie I decided to watch them all and I still HATE the fourth one just as much as the first time I watched it. Now after this post I'm gonna start five. I don't have high hopes...

But anyway-- hand cream. It's dry hand/lip season so I have the hand creams and lip balms on deck.

Neom claims:

An uplifting experience in the palm of your hand. Nourishing with rich cocoa butter, softening with skin-loving shea butter and expertly blended to help lift your mood.t

Smells like crisp fresh air with a hint of sweetness – juicy and joyful. - Alice du Parcq, fragrance expert

Wild mint & mandarin plus 4 other essential oils
92% felt they had soft, hydrated & nourished hands*
TSA-friendly. Perfect for vacation or a wellbeing boost on-the-go.
30ml (1.01 fl oz) / 100% natural fragrances

*Consumer research trial involving 65 people.

Neom is a UK brand- I tend to be really like UK brands. This one is a more natural brand- scented with Essential Oils. I had one of their candles before...and also some of their lotion. I don't love the brand- don't hate it. But I'm open to trying more.

The idea of an aromatherapy scent in a hand cream appeals to me. This is your typical mint/citrus offering. It's not a unique combination to me. But pleasant enough. You get just enough of the citrus with a hint of the mint. Actually I think it's majority mint. It's pleasant enough but definitely smells like essential oils and has an underlying scent that all Neom seems to have. I like it. But at the same time- it's nothing to write home about.

The hand cream itself is on the heavier side. I tried to use it where I use the tiniest amount- but I don't like it like that. I find this balm works best when I use a generous amount. It takes a little while to sink in but when it does my hands look and feel really soft and hydrated.

It definitely is a balm as opposed to a lotion/cream.

You don't get much for your money. I went back to look it up and I got this one one sale for $7.50. Which I think it a better price for it than the listed price of $12.00. Which is pretty pricey for just 1 ounce of product.

Ingredients:

Aqua (Water, Eau), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Glyceryl Stearate, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Glycerin, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Sucrose Stearate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Limonene, Benzyl Alcohol, Parfum (Fragrance)*, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil, Xanthan Gum, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Coco-Glucoside, Citric Acid, Coconut Alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citral, Tocopherol, Citronellol, Sodium Phytate, Geraniol, Linalool, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Glucose, Alcohol. *Made with 100% natural essential oils including spearmint, peppermint and mandarin

Overall, I wasn't so impressed with it that I would recommend it nor buy it again except to try other scents.

And now I'm off to start Toy Story 5.

Troop

2026-10-11T07:44:15.841-04:00

It's already that time for a quick music post.

Starting with All I Do Is Think Of You. I grew up with Troops version of the song and was absolutely shocked when I heard it was originally done by the Jacksons. I love both versions though and Troop definitely did the song justice. They didn't really change it up much...but it- much like the OG- is a classic.

Why are the views so low on this? Maybe it's radio staple and we don't watch the music video? Actually I find most of their songs have lower views on youtube. Crazy

The Dancing is taking me out- all that was not necessary on a song like this. They also probable aren't the strongest live performers. They seem like they need just a little more practice.

Most importantly- they weren't a one hit wonder. There is one other song in the playlist. I usually forget about this song until I play it again. It definitely fits the vibe of their songs.

Solid group. They have a few other really nice songs to just chill out to but I always only share my faves.

Zucchini Pineapple Bread and Teriyaki Salmon

2026-10-09T11:44:10.903-04:00

I had an easy week in the kitchen. Which is always a nice break from the times where I have to spend hours in the kitchen. Sometimes the effort is really worth it though.

I have made tons and tons of zucchini bread recipes. Years and years ago. It's one of my favorite quick breads to make. You can't taste the zucchini- but it's there making everything a little healthier. I didn't follow directions completely on this one.It's a Vitamix recipe and I just didn't think it was necessary to blend everything up because I like the see in the ingredients. And I didn't want a "green" bread. This was also my first zucchini bread recipe that uses pineapple chunks- and I'm a fan. I also switched out the almonds for walnuts because that's what I have on hand. I wish I took a picture of the inside. The only thing I would change is adding less sugar. I didn't just shy of 2/3 of a cup and could have definitely use less. But overall, it was good. One of my favorite quick breads I have ever made.

Then I made Teriyaki salmon. The original recipe calls for a different type of fish which I'm not sure where to find- so I just subbed Salmon. And pan fried it and glazed it with the sauce. It was very good. I don't know if the sauce was necessarily Teriyaki but it was better than anything you would get in a bottle. Then I just made zucchini as a side and dinner was served. I wish it looked better on the plate- it was good though...

And that's all!

Kirk's 100% Premium Coconut Oil Castile Soap Review

2026-10-09T11:30:13.205-04:00

It's a cold, rainy, and windy day...way to start the holiday weekend. I was going to go outside for a bit- but not in this weather so I figured I would knock out a post or two. I always keep a more affordable bar soap around and sometimes when I want to save my liquid hand soap- I use it on my hands. Or I use it to wash my makeup brushes.

Kirk's claims:

We're proud to provide your family with high-quality cleansing products at an exceptional value. Our products are all clinically tested under dermatologist supervision and certified non-irritating and safe for sensitive skin. Our plant-based fragrance-free bar soap creates a gentle and creamy lather, even in hard water, leaving skin feeling soft and healthy.

Woman and Family Owned

Made in America

This soap was created in New York and the brand has been around since 1839- which makes it one of the oldest soap brands in America. I've tried Cstile soaps before I don't think I've used one based entirely on Coconut Oil. I like Coconut Oil soaps- but they tend to be drying.

Which this one is. I was using it to wash my hands and it makes my hands feel dry and flaky. Hand cream or some type of lotion after is not an option. Because of that I opted to not try it as a facial bar. Or in the shower. Well..mostly I didn't try it i the shower because it's unscented and I don't like unscented soaps in the shower. It's boring.

Otherwise it lathers nicely, rinses clean.

But it's on the softer side and tends soften up considerably. It also melts away quite quickly so it's definitely not like a triple milled or hard bar. You definitely cannot leave it sitting in water or it will melt away.

It kinda reminds me of a more natural alternative to something like Ivory.

Ingredients:

Sodium cocoate, water, glycerin, sodium chloride, sodium gluconate.

Overall, I might pick up the other varieties just to try out. But I don't see myself picking this particular on up again. It might be good for those that are truly sensitive to fragrance and just want simple natural ingredients.

Mac 137 Brush Review

2026-10-07T14:12:15.128-04:00

I just ordered myself some cookie cutters- in case I wanted to make some Christmas cookies this year. I have always wanted to do it..but laziness and I haven't had the tools. I bought a few Halloween ones and a decent sized pack of Christmas ones. Maybe this will be the year I make some. I even bought a few Halloween things- mostly dishes. I think each year I'm gonna give myself a budget and slowly build some holiday items to feel a bit more festive.

But back to the review. I really thought I have reviewed this brush years ago. Then I was going through my collection- and nope. I did not.

I bought this when MAC was slowly changing to all synthetic brushes. I prefer my brushes to be non-synthetic. Mainly because I am sick and tired of absolutely everything being made of plastic. I don't need plastic brushes. But I should thank MAC because once the brushes went synthetic, I stopped wanting to collect them all.

These days you can still get the brush- it's just synthetic.

MAC claims:

An ultra-soft tapered blending powder brush for a light dusting of any powder.

I can already tell you I have had it for years and I don't usually reach for it. I mostly stick to my favorites and then occasionally force myself to rotate other brushes in.

I think this brush is more useful to those that are heavy handed and need to use a lighter hand in application. Have you ever seen the bronzer helmet look where someone applies so much bronzer in the wrong shade and it ends up looking like a helmet or dirt on their face? I very much dislike that look. Bronzer should just make you look sun-kissed without looking like a patch of makeup. But yeah..this brush helps with heavy handedness. Or maybe you have products that are a bit too pigmented. Mainly because the brushes are a bit more floppy than others and it doesn't pick up too much. I don't have that problem. I think mostly because my skin is pigmented and melanated and it's harder for me to apply too much.

It works ok for bronzing/blush/ maybe a really light dusting of powder. But it's never been my go to or one I think of grabbing. I was looking for a video I remember seeing of the brush from MAC where they used it for highlight. I tried it with highlight and I didn't particularly like it. But maybe it's a skill thing. And I don't wear much highlight anyway....

It's a very unique shape and I don't really have anything too similar to it. Maybe only the Royal and Langnickel Omnia Highlighter brush.

Overall, it really isn't a must have in my collection- but maybe iI'll run into a bronzer or a blush one day where it becomes the go to. I'm not mad that it's in my collection..I just very much so prefer other brushes over it.

Molton Brown Orange and Bergamot Body Wash Review

2026-10-06T14:58:15.794-04:00

I wasn't sure if I was going to watch- but I'm kinda happy I did. I'm a big fan of the original show- and I did go to "Hillman" University. It really was a walk down memory lane and some memories I had long forgotten about came flooding back. Also..I'm really happy that we have another show highlighting HBCU's and hopefully the show can do what the original did back then and get more youth interested in attending. Also...I very much so enjoyed the handsome men in the show. Although...well I won't finish that thought.

Let's talk Shower Gel.

Molton Brown claims:

Our original iconic shower gel, vibrantly filled with uplifting notes of fresh orange, blossoming neroli and enduring musk.

I almost forgot that Molton was a brand I really wanted to revisit. I really enjoyed the scents I tried before and when I saw the sampler kit- it was an immediate add to cart and check out. This particular set gives me 10 to try- or 7 since I have used three of them before but I'm happy to have them again.

I recently wanted to treat myself to a nice hand wash so I ordered the Orange and Bergamot Hand soap. I LOVE IT. So I was really excited to test out the shower gel version.

They definitely smell different- but I still really like them both. The scent is literally orange and bergamot. The orange note is so nice because it smells like authentic orange. So many orange scents tend to be candy-like. I like those too- but I love how authentic this is. Then there is the bergamot. I've gone through a few bottles of Bergamot essential oil and the middle/base note is real and authentic bergamot. It's a very calming, uplifting and relaxing scent. I really, really enjoyed it..every last drop. And I would definitely purchase a full size one day- after I finish the sample set and also try out some of the other scents. The Tea Ceremony and Rose Dune scent are especially tempting to me.

The scent is a medium strength. If I use enough it will linger around the bathroom. I kinda wish it was just a bit stronger though..

But it lathers nicely, doesn't dry my skin, and rinses clean.

It has a lot of ingredients in it- shower gels usually do. It does have actual orange peel oil in it..always nice to see.

Ingredients:

Water / Aqua / Eau, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Limonene, Fragrance / Parfum, Sodium Chloride, Coco-Glucoside, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Polyquaternium-7, Laureth-7 Citrate, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Amyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Eugenol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Tocopherol, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Peg-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Ppg-2 Hydroxyethyl Cocamide, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides Citrate.

If I ever opened up a bed and breakfast- this scent is what I would choose to stock the bathrooms with. At least as the daytime scent. I would probably stock Lush Sleepy as the PM shower gel. Idk why I think that- I would never open up an actual bed n breakfast but it's fun to imagine.

Lanvin Eclat D' Arpege Eau De Parfum Review

2026-10-05T13:58:56.147-04:00

I had a most goofy day yesterday. I did a load of laundry only to discover when the load was done that I had forgotten to add detergent. So I had to rewash it. Then I made orange chicken (my favorite) and forgot I had already added chili paste to it, so I also added red pepper flakes and made extra spicy orange chicken. It was good..just kinda shocking how hot it was. Luckily that was mostly the end. I think I just need to catch up on sleep. Anyway...today I have a perfume review. I bought this one while I was in the states and brought it back with me. I always try to bring one back with me- not that I couldn't have ordered it here.

Lanvin claims:

Eclat d’Arpège by Lanvin is a Floral Fruity fragrance for women. Eclat d’Arpège was launched in 2002. The nose behind this fragrance is Karine Dubreuil-Sereni. The fragrance features Green Lilac, Tea Leaf, Peony, Peach Blossom, Musk, Wisteria, Petitgrain, Chinese Osmanthus, Cedar and Amber.

Eclat d’Arpège is classified as fruity-floral. Lanvin revives the musical theme of his legendary Arpege perfume. The composition is delicate, fragile and angelic. Eclat d’Arpège’s first accords are green lilac and Sicilian lemon leaves which transports us to the first day of spring. Summer’s near , flowers are in full bloom, the scent is more intense, it’s a wisteria blossom that blooms at perfume’s heart, accentuated by lush peach blossom and sensual red peony. Airy green tea leaves are refreshing. The base’s white cedar of Lebanon, gentle musk and precious amber are like an enveloping caress. The nose behind Eclat d’Arpège is Karine Dubreuill who created this perfume in 2002.

I don't know too much about the brand- except that it's been around for quite awhile- 1889.

I paid a lot more for it than I should have- I just noticed that on the website I usually buy from they have the bottle for just shy of 50 euro while I paid upwards of 100. It pays to shop around which I wish now I would have done. Because I think the 50 price range is about all it's really worth.

This has been around a bit longer than I expected. Came out in 2002. For some reason I thought it was newer. According the notes- it's a floral. Kinda reminds me of Marc Jacobs Daisy. It's a floral but it doesn't immediately scream floral when I got to put it on. Maybe because it's a very fresh floral. Not a category I feel I come across a lot.

When I first got it, I really liked it. But as I kept wearing it, it really kinda fades into the background and just becomes...there. I think it's very inoffensive though and very easy to wear everyday.. Ifyou like a light fresh floral scent maybe this could be worth a try. Just don't pay as much as I did.

It has a lot of notes to it that I am sure I have never come across before....like Green Lilac, and Wisteria. Other notes I am sure I have seen before.

I'm not sure if it has lasting power or if I just go nose blind to it. But usually around the 3-4 hour mark I don't really smell it anymore but it's very much a "skin" scent and doesn't really project. It can be a little generic and forgettable but also the safe choice for everyday. It's not headache including whatsoever.

The most unique about it is the packaging. I was surprised when I saw it...almost everything I have bought so far comes in a box. And while I like the packaging, it's very unique...it's probably a waste of plastic so I would still prefer a box that I can chuck in the recycle. I will probably keep this along with the bottle because I don't want to throw it out quite yet.

Overall, I do still want to get my hands on the original Arpege. That's the one I was supposed to try---I do still plan on trying it eventually but I wouldn't buy this again. It's just not really the kind of perfume I go for.

A Tribe Called Quest

2026-10-04T06:18:10.556-04:00

I wish I was more of a hip hop head. I know a little bit...but the songs I know really barely scratch the surface. I really like A Tribe Called Quest. They have a lot more songs than just this one song I'm sharing today...but this is my favorite, favorite song by the group

What a time, I really miss this period of music......

Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Pasta and Chicken and Ham Pie

2026-10-04T06:05:27.020-04:00

This past week was a week of cooking food, food. Which I always appreciate because then I don't struggle trying to think of things to make.

Starting with pasta. I love making a big pasta dish because it makes so much and the leftovers mean I can skip cooking a few extra days. I didn't follow the instructions exactly. But this dish was just..OK. Fine for a weekday dinner but not something I would make again. It didn't even begin to touch the Alfredo I made a couple of a weeks ago. But that also took a lot more work since I made the pasta myself. This was fine though...

Next up...Chicken and Ham Pie. Except...no ham. Just chicken. And I really just did my own thing when I made this. Basically I made a chicken pot pie...with leftover puff pastry I made a couple of weeks ago. Maybe not the best looking pot pie I have ever made- but it was really good. I always try to make at least one every fall and winter. I got this recipe from the Unofficial Harry Potter cookbook. And now I am finally moving on to the next section- which is desserts. It has a few candy recipes- which seem like they would be fun- but I don't love to make candy and I don't really have any candy gloves that would prevent me from burning my hands. So I'll probably skip those.

And...I have finally started making matcha. It's something I wanted to do for years. My first matcha was from Starbucks and I thought it was absolutely disgusting. A few years ago I bought a set with the bowl, a whisk, and the scoop. But I didn't buy the actual matcha. I ended up buying Hojicha first- which I think I like more than matcha. But I've been having fun discovering exactly how I like my matcha made and actually drinking it. Yay me. I think I'll take a break and go back to traditional tea but I'll definitely try to rotate in and explore different matcha.

Kalastayle Soap Co. Swedish Dream Seaweed Soap Review

2026-09-29T08:18:46.111-04:00

Actually I'm not too sure what the brand name is supposed to be on this...it's confusing. But here we are trying a new brand...of which I have done an excellent job of this year. I bought this off Anthropologie- I think I was trying to make the minimum shipping as well as I was just very interested in giving this brand a whirl. It uses Swedish marketing (and some bars use Icelandic marketing) but it's definitely a US brand.

Kalastyle claims:

Active marine algae extracted from select seaweeds act as a protective moisturizer for the skin. Seaweed is a gentle clarifier, removing impurities while leaving the skin ultra-fresh, clean & soft. These skin-boosting properties combined with our lightly floral, beachy scent make this a classic, top-selling bar.

Seaweed is: hydrating + nourishing

Notes: a warm summer breeze with a hint of gentle florals

Key Ingredients: sustainable palm oil (RSPO certified), red algae, seaweed extracts.

made in usa

Many of their bars have a star ingredient that they seem to revolve around. This one being seaweed. You can find quite a bit of Seaweed skincare things- The Body Shop has a seaweed line for oily/combination skin that has been around ages. Lush has/had a seaweed mask, bath bombs, and a few soaps that used it. It's really supposed to be an amazing ingredient for the skin.

I'm not sure how much it really does for your skin in a rinse off product- but I did notice my skin was really soft using this and not very dry at all.

The only thing I didn't much care for was the scent. Floral beachy sounds like something I would love but it really reminds me of a baking soda carpet refresher I had from Arm and Hammer. It's not a bad scent at all...it's just not my cup of tea and I don't want to be reminded of carpet refresher. Mostly I would end up going nose blind to it anyway- it just seems to fade into the background after you bubble it up. I really wanted to love it though..and I wouldn't be surprised if most other people do. I can just be very picky sometimes.

Ingredients are fine. It is very annoying that they don't list the ingredients on the website- which they definitely should do...I would be interested in ordering from their website if I could see what the ingredients were supposed to be.

Ingredients

sodium palmate, sodium palm kernelate, water, glycerin, sodium gluconate, red algae extract, seaweed extract x2, sorbitol, sodium benzoate, salt, parsley powder, palm acid, sodium chloride, palm kernel acid, titanium dioxide, fragrance

It will run you 9 dollars for 4 oz...it's not cheap. But I do like that it's under $10. Wouldn't be a repurchase for me---but I am still looking forward to trying other variations from the brand. I also really need to try to get my hands on some actual Swedish beauty brands- I think that would be fun.

Maybelline Express Nails Acetone Free Nail Polish Remover Review

2026-09-28T14:09:06.685-04:00

I'm all caught up on The Guilded Age. Lucky for me it kinda picked up a little in the third season. One thing I am loving- the costumes. My favorite being this one that Miss Scott wears. There is just something about the blue and orange combined and then the way they look on her skintone.

Then again, I think she just looks stunning in just about all the costumes in the show.

But anyway...back to a pretty basic and boring nail polish review.

Just some Maybelline.

Maybelline claims:

Whether a glittery top coat or an elaborate nail design - the Express Nails Nail Polish Remover Acetone-Free from Maybelline New York removes any residue and ensures perfectly cleansed nails that are excellently prepared for the new manicure. The acetone-free formula is particularly gentle and does not stress nails and cuticles, but gives them rich care and valuable moisture thanks to the avocado oil it contains - also perfect for artificial nails.

made in France (bought in Germany- the US version is probably made in the US)

I didn't know it was Acetone free when I bought it. I didn't read it. Actually as I'm doing the review I am just now realizing it's acetone free. I usually prefer Acetone removers because I find them to be most effective. I don't like removers that take a lot of rubbing to remove nail polish- or ones that feel so harsh like they are damaging your nails by drying them up. And usually I find that's what Acetone free nail polishes do.

Except this one.

This one is pretty amazing. It melts the nail polish right off. I'm not left with much- if any under the nails or caught in the nail line. And it does all that without excessively drying my nails or causing them any damage.

And it smells so nice and leaves a pretty nice scent. Or at least it smells nice when you consider that it is still nail polish remover and has that underlying smell.

I saved my Zoya remove nail polish bottle which I just refill. The packaging is not bad but I tend to pour too much and I just prefer the Zoya pump bottle. I'll probably keep and refill it forever.

The only thing is it's pretty expensive for the amount you get- so I wouldn't buy it all the time. I think I might alternate with the the store brands local to me and I am definitely more willing to pick up and try the Acetone free versions now.

Ingredients:

ETHYL ACETATE, ALCOHOL, AQUA / WATER, GLYCERIN, PARFUM / FRAGRANCE, PERSEA GRATISSIMA OIL / AVOCADO OIL, BENZYL SALICYLATE, BENZOPHENONE-1, BENZYL ALCOHOL, HEXYL CINNAMAL, LIMONENE, EUGENOL, LINANOL, HYDROXYCITRONELLAL, GERANIOL, CI 42090 / BLUE 1

Overall, I love it. It could be one of my favorite removers and bonus is that it is usually available pretty local to me.

Lush Good Karma... Everybody Needs Some Shower Gel Review

2026-09-26T06:40:48.849-04:00

I'm finally back to rotating in my Lush Shower Gels. I hauled a bunch quite a long time ago but I've been so focused on using all the bar soaps- I sometimes forget about the Lush. I've been doing a better job of using them- mostly because they have some other scents I would love to try but I can't justify buying more until I use some of what I have. I have mostly the extra large bottles left and they are all still pretty full.

Lush claims:

Cleanse your body with this heady patchouli, refreshing orange oil, and zesty lemongrass shower gel for an uplifting experience. One of Lush’s most iconic fine fragrances, Karma has been a much loved scent at Lush for over 20 years, inspired by the sunny days and hippy vibes of a 1970’s London summer. Translate this feeling into good deeds for even greater Karma.

Made in Canada

What's in it for you?

- Fresh orange juice brightens and cleanses skin

- Many of Karma Kream's sister products, such as perfume, soap, and body lotion, can be layered to create a heavenly signature scent

- Patchouli, pine and Brazilian orange oils blend to create this iconic scent

Leaving the world Lusher than we found it

- We've made our recyclable bottles thinner to further reduce unnecessary plastic

- This self-preserving product is formulated to stay fresh and effective without added synthetic preservatives

- Our dark Sumatran patchouli oil comes from a remarkable producer, the Gayo Lues Permaculture Center in Indonesia. Their practices are designed to support the health of Sumatra and Borneo islands’ ecosystems, protecting the primary rainforest and its inhabitants, like the noble orangutans.

The Karma scent is really a classic Lush scent and one of my favorites that Lush do. Which is not surprising. They really know how to do a patchouli. I've tried a few things from the Karma line- the re-useable bubble bottle, the bar soap and now I am finally reviewing the gel. It took them a few years to come out with the shower gel- but I'm really glad they did. It last's longer than the bar soap will and even though it's very expensive, I think you get better value vs the soap. But I do think I prefer the scent of the soap over the gel. It just smells a bit better.

But this still does capture the Karma scent well. I love the scent- it's Patchouli- Orange. And maybe a few more scents blended in. I love it so much I have played around with making my own blend with essential oils. And I have gotten pretty close too. I even tried dupes off Etsy- but they are never as good as the scent from Lush. It's a very unique gel- I haven't smelled anything really similar enough from any other company. It's nice and strong in the shower and when my bottle was newer it really lingered around too. Not so much now that my bottle is getting a bit older though

I don't think the scent would be for everybody but I do think it's one everyone should experience just once. Even if you aren't a patchouli fan I would say this is worth sampling.

Otherwise it works just like any other shower gel- lathers well, doesn't dry my skin (at all), rinses clean.

Probably the best thing about Lush Shower gels- the ingredients. It has typical ingredients- but they always throw in some goodies which is pretty unique to Lush. It has actual Patchouli oil, a bit of Orange Juice, Lemongrass...just all the good stuff that I like to see in an ingredient list.

ingredients:

Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, glycerin, lemongrass infusion, laurel betaine, fragrance, fresh orange juice, dark sumatran patchouli oil, Brazilian orange oil, lavandin oil, pine oil, lemongrass oil, elemi oil, lactic acid, citral, citronella, geraniol, hydroxycitronellol, limonene, linalool, red 4,

Overall, even though I prefer the bar soap scent over the gel...I still really love the scent. It's something that I could see myself purchasing again and it's definitely making my year end favorites!

Vitamix Cranberry Nut Bread and Turkey Meatloaf

2026-09-26T06:04:41.682-04:00

We are knocking the posts out early today since I have a list of things I want to get done today. This was an ok week in the kitchen.

I made a Cranberry Nut Bread. It came from the Vitamix cookbook and you are supposed to use the Vitamix but I couldn't bring myself to do it. You really don't need to Vitamix to make a quick bread. So I just made it like I would make any other quick bread. It was OK. I think my whole wheat flour is getting a little old- but I finally used up the last of it so I'm happy about that. I also used dried cranberries instead of fresh because fresh is not in season. Overall, it was OK. I also forgot- I reduced the sugar to about 3/4 cup instead of a whole cup. I do that in any bread I make. But yeah..just OK. Wouldn't make this particular recipe again. It made a decent snack for work though and I froze a few pieces for net week too. This isn't the exact recipe but similar enough...

Then....meatloaf. I looked it up and the last time I made meatloaf was 13 years ago. I hated meatloaf dinner night as a kid. I''m finding it's not as awful as I made it out to be ( I was a very dramatic kid about food I didn't like) - but still not something I would make regularly. This was a Turkey meatloaf. I just processed Turkey Breast in a food processor for mine since I didn't feel like traveling far to get already ground Turkey. I also skipped the beef bacon...because I didn't think it would add anything for me. Oh..I also used shallots and used Panko instead of actual bread. It came out really, really smooth. I'm sure that's because we used the food processor. It wasn't bad, just a little dry but I think that's my fault. . Great lean and healthy protein option for dinner. But I'm still not a meatloaf person....

And that's all! We shall see what next week brings up...

Trey Songz

2026-09-24T12:12:00.482-04:00

I used to be Trey Songz biggest fan. I still remember when his first music video hit and they would play it on BET. It wasn't until he cut his braids and got a little thicker, that I did a little double take. And the smile. Can't forget the smile.

Luckily he's pretty talented too so I do have a few songs (songz?) in the Trey rotation.

Starting with Dive in- because we are about to Dive in with these songs.

Next...Gotta Make it. Our intro to Trey. Cute little song that took a few years to grow on me. But I like it now. A lot.

Next up, Love Faces. We love a brotha in a suit. But looks aside- this is my jam.

Ah, it's Mr. Steal Yo Girl. He's not the original. I think Joe was. Maybe Mr. Steal Your Girl Part 2. I go back n forth with whether I like this song- then I put it on and start vibing and it stays in the playlist.

Next up, Panty Droppa. A staple in the after hours playlist 😬 Of course a lot of these songs are in that playlist. It's the type of music he does best.

Neighbors Know My Name is when I noticed the Trey glow up. I've watched this video a few million times- back to back. It's the smile (lips, body, everything really). I was bit obsessed. Good Times. 😍😍😍

Scratching My Up was like Neighbors Know My Name Part Two. Shoulda been released as a single.

Yo Side of the Bed- classic. And made even funnier by the vid posted below it. Still cracks me up. Yo Side of the Bed is very Prince sounding...Per Google it samples Purple Rain. I just learned that today. That's crazy.

I have both the remix and OG version of this song. I'm kinda surprised at the views being so low because I thought it was a big song. I can't post the vid cause I guess it's a Parental Advisory.

I'm kinda shocked- there are more songs than I really expected. I love this one, once I listen to it's stuck in my head the rest of the day. Sounds like a Mario kinda song, right?

Last Time isn't memorable until I listen to it again and then I put it on like- Hold Up. I like this. And then I like it all over again. Even though it's a lil trife.

I'm a bit surprised this was a single- even though I love the song...it's another one I forget until it starts bumping. I should listen to it more.

This is probably the last album I listened to by Trey. I think it was back when I listened to Apple Music- but it was free? The music video is also restricted so can't post here. I hope she left him though, I bump with the song but writer here is definitely trash.

Last song, Touchin Lovin. I suddenly have the urge to glue a bunch of gemstones to my lips. Maybe with some blue lipstick? I just need to find some gems.

Long post...but I had fun taking a little trip down memory lane.

NYX Long wear Slim Eye Pencil in Brown

2026-09-22T14:31:32.072-04:00

I should probably take a break from NYX liners. Really seems like that's all I know how to buy. In the meantime, although I always want vivid shades of liner- I decided to just go with brown. I thought I could add a small amount of definition to my eyes instead of all out black. And I've been wanting to make a salty smoky warm smoky eye look. It's almost impossible to do on my complexion since the only brown shades that stand out on my skin-tone tend to be on the cooler side.

But back to the NYX.

Claims:

Slim, trim, but never prim. Our Slim Eye Pencils come in a variety of entrancing shades—from seafoam green to black shimmer. The creamy long-wearing eye liner formula goes on easily and resists bleeding. Available in 31 stunning shades!

Made in Mexico

I love the color. It's a very warm brown- I think it has a lot of reddish tones mixed in. So it looks exactly like what I wanted- but it just doesn't show up enough on my eyes to make a difference. Not even a subtle difference. I also think the color could have a little more dimension to it or maybe I'm asking too much from a drugstore liner.

So the color didn't work on my eyes like I thought.

And I also don't like the texture. I wanted it to be more creamy but it tends to tug on the eyes and take a bit of pressure to get it on. I've had much creamier and easy to work with liners. Wear time is ok. It's not a liner that sets. So not long wear- definitely not waterproof. It seems to wear fine on my eyes- but then again not sure how much I could tell since I could barely see it.

I wasn't impressed with it as an eyeliner. So it's been repurposed to a lip liner. And I LOVE it as a lip liner. It's dark enough without being too dark. It makes all my lipsticks blend better. It also isn't as waxy as a lip liner so I find it wears away evenly with whatever lipstick and I'm not left with a line. It goes well with my skintone and it goes well with whatever I pair it with.

Not my favorite eyeliner. But I would still try it in other shades if only just to play in other colors without dropping a lot of money. For this one, I'll happily use it up with my lipsticks and see how much I miss it once it's gone. It's possible I may buy it again for the lips.

Oars + Alps Alps Bar Soap Review

2026-09-20T05:23:14.964-04:00

One more post for the day- dabbling in soaps marketed to men. Created by women that were tired of their husbands stealing their stuff- so they created an entire line. Diabolical. I respect it though.

Oars+ Alps claims:

With ingredients from alpine and forest terrains, our Moisturizing Alps Bar Soap provides intense hydration for dry and dehydrated skin.

Shea Butter and Alpine Caribou Moss™ deeply moisturize, while crushed juniper berries sourced from the mountains of the Pacific Northwest mildly buff away dead skin cells. To help remove impurities, we include clay from the Amazon Rainforest. Larch Tree Extract creates a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture.

Light, clean scent. Suitable for every skin type, so lather up and #taketotheoars.

Shea Butter provides intense moisture for dry and dehydrated skin.
Crushed juniper berries mildly buff away dead skin cells providing ultimate cleanliness.
Amazonian Clay sourced from the Amazon Rainforest helps remove skin impurities.
Larch tree extract creates a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture.
made in usa

I am finding most soaps marketed to men to be unisex. I just like soap and will buy them regardless of who they are marketed too. It works out if you like woody or more outdoor type scents in the shower. I really loved the scent of the first soap I used from them and I had high hopes for this one.

I think the scent is nice. It's high quality and smells really good. Very much so a unisex scent. It's not my type of scent- but I did still enjoy using it. It's just not a scent I would seek out in soap form again. I feel like it kinda reminds me of a scent you might get in a baking soda carpet refresher but not really. That sounds bad, but I mean it in the best way possible. Nice scent- just not my cup of tea in particular.

This is supposed to be the moisturizing bar. As opposed to the many exfoliating options they offer. It was drying at first but my skin seemed to get used to it and hasn't been as dry as when I first started using it.

It does have juniper berries that it says are good for exfoliation. No. There aren't enough and the one that makes contact with the skin can feel a bit scratchy.

It lathers well though. Cleans nicely. Rinses easily.

It has very interesting ingredients. I almost feel like bars marketed to men have way more interesting ingredients in them. It says it has handcrafted shea. Handcrafted is better than machine made anyway. I just hope it's fair trade. Clay from the rain forest. I think all their bars have clay though. It has actual moss (extract) in it which is also supposed to be very beneficial for the skin. It also has larch tree extract. Whatever that is.

Ingredients:

Sodium Palmate,

Sodium Cocoate (Or) Sodium Palm Kernelate, Water, Glycerin (Plant-Derived), Coconut Acid, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Fragrance, Sodium Chloride, Galactoarabinan, Sodium Gluconate, Pentasodium Pentetate, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Cladonia Stellaris Extract (Alpine Caribou Moss), Kaolin, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Juniperus Communis Fruit (Juniper Berries).

Overall, it's a very nice bar. The scent wasn't my particular cup of tea although I still very much enjoyed it. I've really been enjoying the brand and looking forward to opening up the last one I have in the collection and even getting a few more later on.

Broccoli Fettucini Alfredo with Chicken and Sausage Roll

2026-09-20T04:44:56.056-04:00

So I started watching The Guilded Age. I'm a fan of Downtown Abbey and I was ready for the American version taking place in New York but the first time I watched it, I just couldn't get into it. That was months ago. Actually maybe an entire year. I decided to give it another go- and I made it through the first season at least. But I still find the show really hard to get into. I love that we have POC characters- which wasn't a thing in Downton. But the characters are just so boring. I think they are meant to be more gray characters and I feel like they are written in a way where they do "good" things so the audience will like them? Idk. I also feel the show is just so slow paced. Waiting a whole season to find out what Ms. Scott's secret. And the most boring couple to ever grace TV: Mr. Raikes and Marian. I might try to struggle through the rest and see if it gets better but so far...meh.

In the meantime- I been cooking, cooking this week. I'm actually so glad that this recipe came up because I have been craving an Alfredo. I decided to go all out and make my pasta. I try to use the pasta machine at least once a year. To try and get my moneys worth. That probably took the most time. The Alfredo sauce was easy. And I added chicken because I like a bit of protein with my Alfredo. I almost bought fresh broccoli but in the end went with frozen which I just warmed in the oven until it was time to throw it in. And there it was....one of the best dinner's I made this year!

Next up, Sausage Roll. I guess it's supposed to be a pretty iconic British pastry. I lived in the UK and somehow never heard of them. But..I don't really eat pork either so that makes sense. Mine are definitely far from authentic. I did make the puff pastry. I hadn't made a puff pastry in YEARS so I was a little nervous to do it- but I went for it. I even used the recipe from the Harry Potter cookbook that was in the earlier pages. Came out perfect! I was so relieved when I cut into it and saw the layers of butter and dough. I took a lot of shortcuts too because I didn't feel like fussing through all the turns. The recipe for the sausage roll was from the HP cookbook too. I used a chicken maple breakfast sausage from Applegate. Because that's the sausage I usually buy when I do buy it. I completely forgot to roll them up with the spicy brown mustard though so I just dipped the completed rolls in a mix of ketchup and mustard. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

And I even have some puff pastry leftover that I threw in the freezer to use later on. I'm thinking maybe I'll do a homemade toaster strudel or something.

And that's all. A very labor intensive week- but very satisfying!