Flora's Life

How to Wash a Beard

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 12 Sep 2016 22:04:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

This is a picture of my husband and me. One of my husband’s most notable features is his big beard. At first, it started out as a goatee, which my husband maintained for several years. My husband then decided that he didn’t like shaving anymore, so he grew out his beard. I don’t mind it as long as he maintains it well.

Maintaining a big beard means keeping it clean. This mean more than picking out the bits of food that almost always seem to land in it whenever he eats. It is a matter of taking care of the facial hair and skin beneath it.

What to Use to Wash Your Beard

Some men use facial soap, which is great for cleaning skin, but not necessarily hair. Others use traditional shampoo, which is good for cleaning your hair and scalp, but not the skin on your face. While you can use facial soap or shampoo to wash your beard, the best thing to use is beard shampoo. This product is specially formulated for facial hair, which is different than the hair on your scalp.

My husband received a bottle of beard shampoo from Beardsmen Spirit in exchange for a review and this blog post. My husband used the shampoo several times and told me that enjoys it. He said that he likes using the beard shampoo for his facial hair better than regular shampoo because it makes his beard feel a lot cleaner. The “Bold Forest” scent come from the eucalyptus and tea tree oil, which help nourish and protect skin.

When telling me about the beard shampoo, my husband stated he has to use beard oil or a beard conditioner after shampooing his facial hair because the product tends to strip the natural oils.

How to Wash a Beard

Wet your beard with warm water. It is a good idea to do this in the shower.
Place a small amount of beard shampoo into the palm of your hand, like you would traditional shampoo.
Rub your hands together to distribute the shampoo. Then rub your hands in your beard so the shampoo starts to lather.
Use your fingers to spread the shampoo to your skin, mustache and the lengths of your beard. Keep your mouth closed and take care to avoid getting the shampoo up your nose.
Rinse your beard with warm water to remove all the shampoo.
Dry your beard with a towel.
Close the pores on your face using a facial toner. Or, splash cool water on your face before drying your beard.
Apply beard oil or conditioner to your beard. Since you closed your pores in the previous step, the conditioner or oil is less likely clog them and make your skin breakout.

How Often to Wash a Beard

Shower daily. Wash your beard twice a week. Like the hair on your head, washing facial hair too often will cause it to dry out, become brittle and lose its shine. On the days that you shower but don’t wash your beard, simply rinse it with water. However, if you sweat or get your face dirty, you may need to shampoo your beard more often.

What are your favorite beard care tips?

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com.

Words Online Last Forever

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 23 Aug 2016 01:45:00 +0000

A couple evenings ago, four bikers wearing motorcycle club vests approached my husband as he drove along the highway in Port Orchard, Washington. He had not previously passed them on the road. One of the bikers, who rode a blue Harley Davidson, came up to the driver's side of the car and punched out the side mirror and dented the area around the wheel well for no apparent reason. Maybe he doesn't like white SUVs. The bikers then proceeded to surround the vehicle. The ones in front of the car slammed on their brakes, which was silly because the injuries to the bikers would have been significantly greater than the injuries my husband would have sustained. My husband stayed calm and did his best to control the vehicle in an effort to avoid a collision. His efforts were successful. The only thing damaged was the car and our nerves.

After the incident, my husband pulled over to a safe spot, called 9-1-1 and filed a police report. He only had a partial plate number for the man who vandalized our vehicle. The officer said that my husband's experience wasn't an isolated incident.

Because of the partial plate number, I thought it would be a good idea to post in some community Facebook group to see if there were any witnesses who might be able to help identify the rider. This idea backfired on me, as I was met with hostility in every group. The worst was the Port Orchard group. I don't understand why individuals like Kimberly Durham, Matt Antrim, Stephen Lamm and Joey Coulter felt the need to write such hateful comments. These are cyber bullies that you read about in news articles -- trolls who haunt forums just to be mean. This is what happens when people become adults but don't necessarily mature. You can find the post here. At the time of publication, this Facebook group is a public group, so I am not sharing any secrets.

I am posting screenshots of the thread below. After having enough rocks thrown at me, I turned off the comments to my post. I deleted the posts in the other groups because they were just a waste; not worth anyone's time. I didn't delete the post in the Port Orchard group, per the administrators' request. I am very grateful to those who stood up for me despite the possibility of getting stuck in the crossfire. After I turned off the comments, I learned that one of the individuals who defended me reported Kimberly Durham to the group's administrators. They banned her from the group. This is too bad for her. She might be an otherwise nice person who made the mistake of showing the worst side of herself publically. Or, maybe she's just a mean, hateful person. I don't know. It doesn't really matter.

So, why am I posting this screenshot? For revenge? No, I don't gain anything from it. To make the bullies look bad? No, they do that on their own. I am doing this to demonstrate that when you are online, you are not anonymous. The words you post will follow you forever.

When someone is mean to you online, you have the choice to react in-kind. This is too easy. The better yet harder option is to show grace and respect. After all, I posted because I wanted help. Being mean would have defeated the purpose. In the end, I couldn't end the thread of posts with a bully having the last word. I had to speak up and take a stand against violence and the poor behavior of my fellow community members. I don't know if my comment was effective or made an impression, but I posted it in the other groups. I hope that it gives others the courage to stand up for what it right.

My final comment reads:

To those of you who added helpful comments and stood up for me, thank you! To those of you who felt the need to show the ugliness in your hearts, I hope your lives aren't as miserable as your words. I hope that if you or a family member ever needs help and you reach out to the community, you are not met with the same hostility or blame that I received.

My husband and I know that a person on a motorcycle will not generally act aggressively "willy nilly." We also know that some people have road rage that is triggered by innocent actions. Even if a drivers makes a mistake, violence and aggressiveness are unacceptable. No one deserves it. No one (l hope) would say that a person attacked on the street while walking around town deserved the abuse. This is a similar situation. Justifying a motorcyclist's actions because you assume the driver inadvertently did something wrong gives the perpetrator of this crime POWER. You are telling the community, your children, the world that it is okay to act violently (much different than defensively) toward others if you have a good enough excuse. This is what bullies do. It is wrong.

Sometimes bad things happen for no good reason. The next time someone reaches out for help, please consider how you can set a good example and shine a positive light on your community (and yourself). All the hostility related to this post did was show the worst versions of the respective commenters. It is unfortunate that this is the side of them that they chose to make public.

The following are screenshots of the thread in sequential order. I tried to do one big screenshot, but the text came out too small. (Warning: The comments contain obscene language.)

Low-Carb Orange Julius Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Aug 2016 05:00:00 +0000

It was a hot day. I really wanted to drink something cool, like a milkshake, but everything is so high-carb. After a bit of tinkering in the kitchen and remembering a happy accident that involved pouring a drink mix into the wrong cup (the one with my morning protein shake), I came up with this low-carb drink recipe. I think it tastes similar to an Orange Julius.

I used a mason jar because I can screw the bottom of the blender, the part with the blade, to jar's mouth.

Ingredients:

4-cup mason jar filled half-way with crushed ice
1 scoop protein powder (I use the bulk whey protein powder from Winco)
1/2 packet orange Crystal Light
Unsweetened vanilla almond milk, fill to the 4-cup line of the mason jar (I use the Costco brand)
Sweetener to taste

Preparation:

Place all the ingredients in a 4-cup mason jar.
Screw the bottom of the blender -- the O-ring, blade and bottom cap -- onto the top of the mason jar.
Blend until smooth.
Enjoy!

I don't have nutritional information for this recipe. Sorry. The carb count depends on the almond milk and protein powder you use, as the other ingredients have zero carbs.

The Benefits of Iodine

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 25 May 2016 00:43:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Iodine is a controversial subject. While medical professionals and organizations state that the trace mineral is vital for one’s health and wellbeing, there is no agreement regarding how much is enough. I am not here to tell you how much you should take or about the type of iodine that is best for you. I’m not a doctor or a medical professional. I’m only going to post facts that I learned.

Where Iodine Comes From

The main source of natural iodine on the planet is its oceans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It enters the air as iodine gas or from sea spray. When iodine-rich air mixes with water, such as rain, it falls to the ground, on surface water or on vegetation.

To make iodine supplements, manufacturers generally extract it from seaweed or kelp. In 1829, Dr. Lugol, a French physician, discovered that he could make iodine water-soluble by bonding the element with potassium. This is why some refer to potassium iodide solutions as Lugol’s iodine.

Benefits of Iodine

Disinfectant
Antiseptic
Purify water
Promote thyroid health
Promote healthy brain development in fetuses, infants and children
Treat fibrocystic breast disease
Improved insulin function
Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, according to Dr. Edward Group
Elevate your body’s pH
Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression
Improved results when undergoing a pelvic instillation sclerotherapy, according to the National Institutes of Health
Treat fungal skin conditions, such as cutaneous sporotrichosis
Treat some eye infections
Promote wound healing
Reduce the effects of radiation exposure
Treat leg and foot ulcers
Reduce the risk of infection in those using catheters
Reduce pain related to mastalgia
Reduce sores and swelling in the mouth caused by chemotherapy
Treat gum infections
Prevent cancer and kill cancer cells, according to Dr. Mercola and Dr. Sircus

Dangers of Too Much Iodine

Hyperthyroidism
Negative interactions when taking antithyroid drugs, Amiodarone, Lithium, ACE inhibitors, ARB blood pressure drugs, water pills

Are You Getting Enough Iodine?

The best way to tell if you are getting enough iodine is with a blood or urine test, which your doctor can order. The good thing about lab results is that you'll know how much iodine is in your body. The tricky part is determining if you really are iodine deficient.

The National Institutes of Health, CDC, World Health Organization, publications in the National Academic Press, and doctors’ websites state different lab ranges and amounts of iodine to take. The best thing to do is work with your doctor to determine the optimal level for your specific needs.

Good sources of iodine in food include eggs, iodized salt, fish, green leafy vegetables, and sea vegetables.

Sources that deplete iodine in the body include bromine (found in soda, pesticides and processed foods), fluoride and some medications.

The Best Type of Iodine to Use

There are several types of iodine supplements available on the market. Different people respond better to different types.

Some physicians recommend using potassium iodide (Lugol’s iodine) as a daily supplement. Others, like Dr. Mercola, recommend eating spirulina or toxin-free sea vegetables (i.e., kelp or seaweed) to increase your iodine intake naturally.

Both Dr. Sircus and Dr. Group both recommend using nascent iodine because it is the same type of iodine that the thyroid produces, so the body absorbs it well. However, Dr. Sircus states that while he personally prefers nascent iodine, he does recommend Lugol’s iodine in pill or topical form to those who are on a budget.

Dr. Group recommends against using alcohol-based iodine solutions because the alcohol might be an endocrine and hormone disruptor. He also states that alcohol’s drying effect does not allow the body to absorb the iodine well. He prefers vegetable glycerin-based solutions.

Doctors will always have differing opinions about the best type of iodine to use. In the end, some iodine is better than no iodine.

What I’m Using

I never used an iodine supplement until now. Basics4Balance sent me a bottle of Lugol’s iodine, a 2 percent solution. I haven’t really felt a difference since using it. However, I have not been using it that long (a little less than a month). It can take several weeks to feel the effects. I have high hopes for it.

The owner of Basics4Balance is very proud of her product. She credits iodine for curing her cancer, as have other patients. I am so happy that she had great results with a safe, natural remedy. My sister had leukemia twice and received a bone marrow transplant, so I know how special it is to find a solution that works well.

I posted a review regarding this product on Amazon last week. At the time of publication, the product description stated that Dr. Sircus recommended this brand of iodine. Curious about this, I investigated his site and found that Dr. Sircus does recommend Lugol’s iodine (the same type of iodine), but does not necessarily endorse the Basics4Balance brand. I posted my findings in my review, only stating facts.

The owner of the company, concerned that readers would infer that I thought the product description was misleading, sent me a message about my review. She asked me to adjust it, so I did. I updated the review to reflect that the Amazon description no longer had the statement about Dr. Sircus.

The owner of the company asked me a second time change my review because of what the reader might infer. I told her that I would not change my review. I did not have any concerns about the product, so I did not express any concerns in my review. I never thought that the product description was misleading, so I did not state anything about the product description being misleading. I stated facts. I cannot control how a reader interprets facts. Product reviewers receive items in exchange for an honest assessment, which is what I provided.

I know the company’s owner was worried about her business’ image and reputation. I appreciate that. I welcomed her to comment on my Amazon review. I gave the product four out of five stars, not because of the Dr. Sircus statement, but because of the product’s high cost compared to other brands of Lugol’s iodine.

I’m brutally honest in my reviews. Most businesses like this because it helps them improve. This is the second time that a company has asked me to change my review. While the iodine seems like it’s a high-quality product, the overall product experience was not as enjoyable as most.

Three Life Optimization Techniques that Can Make You Healthier and Happier

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 20:32:00 +0000

The following is a sponsored guest post from renovationexperts.com via LinkVehicle.com. The opinions reviewed are not necessarily the same as my own. This post contains affiliate links.

If you've recently become dissatisfied with your life, it's time to implement behavioral changes that can get you on the road to profound health and happiness. While there are many strategies you can utilize to make it happen, you may find the following wellness techniques particularly efficacious:

1. Optimize Your Private Living Space.

Your private living space plays a profound role in shaping your mood, and this is why optimizing your home is infinitely important. Luckily, there are a million ways to get your residential property in excellent condition. Whether you want to focus on functionality or aesthetic appeal, you can get the process started by locating a top notch renovation contractor in your local region. You can get estimates now by visiting www.renovationexperts.com. Another option available to you is hiring an interior designer.

2. Enhance Your Diet.

Another life optimization strategy you should definitely deploy is diet enhancement. This strategy is a wonderful way to boost immunity, improve metabolism, stabilize mood, fight disease, and improve digestion and elimination. These are just a few of the numerous health benefits that you can obtain from eating well, so get the process started now. You can begin by keeping a food journal to get a better understanding of exactly what you're eating each day. You can use online resources such as www.cronometer.com to accomplish this objective. It may also be a good idea for you to have a professional nutritionist or health coach put together a meal plan on your behalf if you lack basic knowledge about nutrition.

3. Start Meditating.

One final technique you can deploy to improve the quality of your life is meditation. In today's world, many people lead a fast-paced life that entails ongoing stress. If this stress is never countered, it can make one susceptible to a wide range of diseases and weight gain. Thus to keep yourself calm and promote mental health, tap into the power of meditation. There are several ways to get started, such as by quietly repeating a positive mantra inside your head. Some examples include "I love myself," "What a wonderful world," and "I am free."

Conclusion

If you're serious about leading an extraordinary life, you need to get serious about behavioral change. By utilizing the wellness techniques outlined for you above, you'll likely find that your life becomes the exciting, excellent entity you always wanted it to be!

This guest post was sponsored by renovationexperts.com. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I may receive a small commission if you click on the sponsor's link.

'Bridal Veil Falls, Yosemite' by Albert Bierstadt

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 08 Apr 2016 19:27:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own.

2016 had a less-than-ideal start for me, hence the reason that I haven't posted an update since the end of January. On the night of my previous post, my father died unexpectedly. With all the hardships that I've experienced in my life, I have never known a pain like this. Little by little, I'm picking up the pieces.

When FramedArt.com asked me to review a piece framed traditional decor, I welcomed the opportunity. I moved into a new home toward the end of 2015 and need some pieces to liven up the walls, which mostly stand bear.

This is what I chose:

Bridal Veil Falls, Yosemite in my dining room

A closer look at the painting that I received. Do you see the deer?

The painting is Bridal Veil Falls, Yosemite by Albert Bierstadt, one of the best North American landscape painters. Bierstadt is known for his glorious, luminous landscapes of the American West. He participated in journeys related to the American Westward Expansion the was one of the first to capture iconic western landscapes. His paintings of Yosemite in the early 1870s helped convince Congress to pass the Yellowstone Park Bill in 1872, making it the first national park in the world. Congress even purchased one of Bierstadt's paintings. Unlike Van Gogh, Bierstadt enjoyed the popularity of his works during his lifetime.

Here are some other paintings by Bierstadt:

Rocky Mountain Landscape; Source: Wikipedia

Among the Sierra Nevada, California; Source: Wikipedia

The painting that I selected has "Museum Quality Glass." This means the glass has a protective coating that blocks up to 99 percent of ultraviolet (UV) rays, which would otherwise fade the print with time. Choosing this type of glass adds to the framed art's expense, but it ensures that it will look great for a longer period. The frame and mat give the print a touch of elegance that complement the hand-finished details in my dining room. All in all, I'm happy with the product that I received.

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review.

How to Use a Tibetan Singing Bowl

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Jan 2016 21:51:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

I recently received a Tibetan singing bowl from Geshe's Dharma to test and review. At first, I didn't know how to use a Tibetan singing bowl, but I figured it out after half a day of trial and error.

In this video, you'll see the singing bowl that I received and will learn how to use it.

Copper Mugs are Cool

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 07 Jan 2016 21:54:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

When guests come to my house and they help themselves to any beverage, they bypass all the fancy glassware that I own. Instead, they reach for my copper mugs. Why? They tell me, "It just looks so cool." They're right. Copper mugs are cool. In addition to looking great, they're great at keeping drinks cold.

Inspired Basics gave one of their hammered copper mugs to review. Check it out:

While you can use any type of cold beverage in a copper mug, these are popular for Moscow mules. Check out this recipe.

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com.

New Year's Resolution: Learn to Dance

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 01:55:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

I spent most of 2015 in a cast with a broken foot. While this sucked, I was fortunate enough to not need surgery. This year, I'm getting on my feet and learning how to dance. I already know basic salsa and merengue, but I'm not that good at them. I'm that person on the dance floor who just goes with the rhythm ...or tries to.

DanceCrazy recently let me try its Ballroom Dance Mastery System and Dance Lessons Starter Kit -- Swing Dancing, Salsa Classes, Merengue & Bachata videos. Check out my video review:

What is your New Year's resolution?

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com.

Natural Insect Killer

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 29 Dec 2015 22:53:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

For the last few weeks, I've been using the Killer Green All Natural Insect Killer on my indoor and outdoor plants. I like the idea of using a natural bug spray, especially on my indoor plants because I don't want to make the air in my home toxic. Also, my cat sometimes likes to nibble on my plants, so I don't want to use something that will make her sick.

Check out my video review to learn how the All Natural Insect Killer did to control fungus gnats.

SAMe Benefits and Dosing

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 13:56:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Diagram of a SAMe molecule; image from Wikipedia

When you tell a doctor about symptoms of stress, anxiety or depression, many are too happy to pull out the prescription pad. What prescribing antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, what doctors fail to emphasize are the horrible withdrawal symptoms that many patients experience when trying to stop the medication, even when tapering down their doses. For some, the withdrawal symptoms are so severe that they resort to believing that they’ll be on the medication their whole life.

SAMe for Depression, Anxiety or Stress

S-adenosylmethionine, or SAMe (pronounced sam-ee) is a molecule that the body produces from the amino acid methionin and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) for several of its functions. SAMe molecules in the body support methylation as they donate part of themselves to the tissues and organs in the body to promote cell repair and growth. It also helps the body maintain adequate levels of glutathione, an antioxidant. In individuals with an MTHFR mutation, naturally occurring SAMe in the body may not function as well as it should.

In addition to cell repair and growth, SAMe forms important compounds in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine. When taken as a supplement, SAMe may help relieve symptoms of depression. According to MentalHealth America, many clinical trials have found SAMe to be as effective as some forms of antidepressants. Unlike prescription medications, SAMe does not produce unpleasant side effects or withdrawal symptoms if miss a dose or decide to stop taking it.

Other conditions that SAMe helps relieve the symptoms of include chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, back pain, fibromyalgia, liver disorders and some neurologic disorders.

How Much SAMe to Take

The amount of SAMe to take varies by person. It’s always best to start at a low dose and then taper up until you notice results. For example, start with a 200-milligram dose twice a day for a few weeks. If you’re your symptoms do not improve, take the supplement three times as day. Continue to taper up the dose as needed every few weeks. Work with your doctor to determine the best way to start taking SAMe.

When taking SAMe, take a vitamin B complex with it to avoid a buildup of homocysteine molecules.

Because SAMe can make you feel energetic, it’s best to take it earlier in the day.

For the best absorption, take SAMe supplements with an enteric coating on an empty stomach.

ALWAYS talk to your doctor before taking a new supplement. Keep in mind that SAMe may not be appropriate for those who take MAO inhibitor antidepressants or those who have bipolar disorder.

My Experience with SAMe

I recently had the opportunity to try BoostCeuticals SAM-e. Each capsule in the bottle has 500 milligrams of SAMe. I was interested in trying SAMe to help my body detox, as I have an MTHFR mutation.

The first thing that I noticed when I opened the bottle was the smell—it smelled like rancid milk. I contacted a representative from the company about this issue and was told that the smell was natural because SAMe is sulfur-based. I have suspicion that capsules do not have an enteric coating, but did not confirm this with the company. The Whole Health Chicago website recommends that individuals take SAMe supplements that have an enteric coating.

Instead of following the direction of taking two capsules three to six times a day, with a meal, I started at 500 milligrams once a day for a week and then tapered up to two pills a day. Most experts recommend that you take SAMe on an empty stomach so your body absorbs it better.

Unfortunately, I cannot say that I recommend the SAMe supplement from BoostCeuticals. For one, I did not notice a difference in how I felt while taking the supplement. I also feel as if the company should provide instructions on how to safely start taking SAMe if they are first-time users to prevent homocysteine toxicity. In addition, so many resources say to take SAMe on an empty stomach, so I’m not sure why BoostCeuticals says to take the supplement with a meal.

I am not a doctor or a medical professional. If you experience symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety or other conditions, discuss them with your physician. In addition, talk to your doctor about supplements of interest to learn how to take them safely.

Sweet Little Boxes

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 21 Dec 2015 22:38:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

I just moved and find myself using small boxes for everything to reduce clutter. I don't want to use any ol' boxes, though. I want to use some that add to the room's decor. These embossed nested boxes from Valdler are perfect. I've reviewed a handful of Valdler's products and have liked them so far.

The wooden boxes have faux leather-type of material surrounding them with images of embossed flowers. The hardware is like oil-rubbed brass, which looks nice. The larger box houses my rock collection, which includes petrified wood, agates and pyrite. The smaller box holds loose earrings. They both look great on my dressing table.

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com. I received one or more of the products mentioned above in exchange for review from Giveaway Service website. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. (https://www.giveawayservice.com/p/e1a4a3e1/f5e2f9a0) (c3f8e6a3c8b1)

Origami is Cool

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 22:46:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Origami is one of my favorite things in the world. It is fun, relaxing (most of the time) and versatile. It also has everyday applications. For example, scientists use origami to fold airbags into cars and to fold satellites that go into outer space.

Recently, the Orchid Origami Paper company sent me a pack of origami paper. This is a huge pack of paper with 500 sheets that are 6 inches square. In the origami world, folders call this type of regular paper kami.

Here are some of the things that I made with it:

Basic origami lotus with leaves on a barrette

Origami lotus with leaves on a barrette

Learn how to make an origami lotus flower on my site Aspiring Folder.

Origami stationery; design by Michael LaFosse

Origami panda

These items were all simple to fold and fun to make. With a pack of 500 pieces of paper, you could make ornaments to fill a whole Christmas tree.

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com.

Golden Paste and Golden Milk Recipe with Turmeric

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 13 Nov 2015 00:48:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

In the past, I’ve tried turmeric powder (the spice from the supermarket) and turmeric capsules to naturally reduce pain and inflammation. From my experience, turmeric powder works the best. Now, you can just sprinkle a bit of turmeric on you food to get the full effect. You should have about 1 teaspoon of it in the form of golden paste. I find that it tastes great when you make golden milk.

Golden Paste Recipe

Ingredients:

½ cup ground turmeric (look for an organic product that has high levels of curcumin
1 cup distilled water
1 ½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
¼ cup olive oil or coconut oil

Preparation:

Add ½ cup of turmeric and 1 cup of distilled water in a stainless steel saucepan.
Heat the ingredients over medium heat and stir until a thick paste forms. This can take up to 10 minutes.
Add 1 ½ teaspoons of pepper and ¼ cup of olive or coconut oil to the paste and mix well.
Allow the mixture to cool.
Store the paste in a glass jar. (Turmeric will permanently stain plastic containers.)

Golden Milk Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup of warm milk (I like a mix of whole milk and cream, but you can use any type of dairy or non-dairy product)
1 teaspoon of golden paste
½ teaspoon of almond or sesame oil
Honey, maple syrup or the sweetener of your choice to taste

Preparation:

Add the ingredients to a mug and stir until the golden paste dissolves.
Enjoy.

The Best Turmeric Powder

If you’re in a pinch and want to make golden paste, but don’t have organic turmeric available at your local store, go ahead and make it with the turmeric powder that you find. I’ve done this and found the plain turmeric to be quite helpful.

When shopping for quality turmeric, look for an organic product that has at least 3% percent curcumin. I recently tried the OrganicTurmeric Root Powder by Iza Organics. This product has 5.8% percent curcumin, the most I’ve ever seen in a ground turmeric product. The spice comes in a re-sealable bag and a nice wooden spoon. When you order the turmeric, you also receive a complimentary e-book with recipes.

While the turmeric powder may seem pricey, it’s important to remember that a little goes a long way. A small bag will last you a while.

An Honest Product Reviewer Giving an Honest Product Review

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Nov 2015 20:59:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

I like to wear earbuds with built-in microphones when I use my cell phone. They allow me to be hands-free, which is important when I'm on the phone with clients and need to type or write. FSL gave me the opportunity to review its Xylem Wood Earbuds.

The earbuds look nice, as they're made of wood. The wood does not seem that strong, though. When I removed the plastic tip to replace it with a smaller one, I noticed that part of the ear bud was broken. Fail. The cord also seems to tangle easily. Fail. The tips, regardless of the size, fall out of my ears. Triple fail.

The only wins with this product is that the sound quality is okay. The earbuds also come in a nice pouch.

At least the earbuds have a three-year warranty so I can replace this broken pair.

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com.

'We Love Disney' Album Review

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 04 Nov 2015 19:59:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links. I participated in the 'We Love Disney' album review program as a member of One2One Network. I was provided an album to review but all opinions are my own.

Disney songs ...yes, I like them. I'm not ashamed to admit it. Even though I don't have kids, I was excited to hear the new compilation album, We Love Disney. Produced by award-winning David Foster, the album has songs from various movies -- from Cinderella to Frozen-- sung by different artists.

My favorite songs were "Ev'rybody Wants to be a Cat," "I Wan'na Be Like You" and "Friend Like Me." While I'm not a huge Fall Out Boy Fan, their song ("I Wan'na Be Like You") was surprisingly great.

The choice to go with a country twist for "A Spoonful of Sugar" and "Let it Go" also surprised me. I don't know why, when Kacey Musgraves sings "A Spoonful of Sugar," all I picture is Annie Oakley from "Toy Story" singing it. The interpretation of "Let it Go" worked surprisingly well. I'm not a big fan of country music, but Rascal Flatts did a good job with it. I think I like their version of the song better than Demi Levato's.

Personally, I didn't think that "Colors of the Wind" needed a re-do. I liked Vanessa William's version of it just fine.

The track listing for We Love Disney is as follows:

NE-YO “Friend Like Me” (Aladdin)
Jessie J “Part of Your World" (The Little Mermaid)
Jason Derulo “Can You Feel the Love Tonight / Nants’ Ingonyama” (The Lion King)
Gwen Stefani “The Rainbow Connection” (The Muppet Movie)
Ariana Grande “Zero To Hero” (Hercules)
Jhené Aiko “In a World of My Own/Very Good Advice” (Alice in Wonderland)
Fall Out Boy “I Wan’na Be Like You (The Monkey Song)” (The Jungle Book)
Tori Kelly “Colors of the Wind” (Pocahontas)
Kacey Musgraves “A Spoonful of Sugar” (Mary Poppins)
Charles Perry “Ev’rybody Wants To Be a Cat” (The Aristocats)
Jessie Ware “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” (Cinderella)
Lucy Hale & Rascal Flatts “Let It Go” (Frozen)
Various Artists “It’s a Small World”

Here's a video for one of my favorite songs:

Links for your enjoyment:

I-Tunes: http://bit.ly/WeLoveDisneyMusicO2O
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1MAjCQ3
Official "We Love Disney" website: https://www.welovedisneymusic.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/welovedisney
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WeLoveDisneyMusic
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/WeLoveDisneyVEVO
Instagram: https://instagram.com/WeLoveDisneyMusic/

Andrea Bocelli 'Cinema' Review

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 20:59:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links. I participated in the Andrea Bocelli “Cinema” album review program as a member of One2One Network. I was provided an album to review but all opinions are my own.

I'm a big Andrea Bocelli fan. I own several of his albums, so I was excited for the opportunity to review his latest album, "Cinema." The songs are from popular movie soundtracks, such as West Side Story, Breakfast at Tiffany's, Evita, The Godfather, Love Story and more. Show tunes and Andrea Bocelli, I thought the album would be an instant winner.

Cinema Track Listing (deluxe edition):

1) MARIA from West Side Story

2) LA CHANSON DE LARA from Doctor Zhivago

3) MOON RIVER from Breakfast at Tiffany’s

4) E PIU' TI PENSO duet with Ariana Grande from Once Upon a Time in America /Malèna

5) BE MY LOVE from The Toast of New Orleans

6) THE MUSIC OF THE NIGHT from The Phantom of the Opera

7) BRUCIA LA TERRA from The Godfather

8) POR UNA CABEZA from Scent of a Woman

9) NO LLORES POR MÍ ARGENTINA duet with Nicole Scherzinger from Evita

10) L'AMORE È UNA COSA MERAVIGLIOSA from Love is a Many Splendored Thing

11) MI MANCHERAI from Il Postino

12) CHEEK TO CHEEK duet with Veronica Berti from Top Hat

13) SORRIDI AMORE VAI from La vita è bella

14) HISTORIA DE AMOR from Love Story

15) OL' MAN RIVER from Show Boat

16) NELLE TUE MANI (NOW WE ARE FREE) from Gladiator

'Cinema' Review

I'm sorry to report that this album left me a bit disappointed. The songs that I disliked the most were "Don't Cry for Me Argentina" and "Cheek to Cheek" because of the singers chosen for the duets. The women didn't enunciate the words well (I heard "chee to chee" instead of "cheek to cheek") and had nasaly qualities to their voices.

I am impressed with the variety of languages used in the album, which included English, Spanish, Italian, Sicilian and French. One of the most surprising songs was "Ol' Man River" because I had no idea about Bocelli's range. While he doesn't have a baritone voice, he hit those low notes with ease.

One of my favorite things about the album is that the songs are showtunes -- they're songs that I knew or recognized. It was fun to hear Bocelli's interpretation of them. While I didn't like all the interpretations, I still think that Bocelli has a great voice and I look forward to his next album.

You can find Cinema on:

iTunes: http://bit.ly/BocelliCINEMA
Amazon: http://amzn.to/20rVsBN

Trying a New Workout

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 29 Oct 2015 18:57:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

I spent about eight months in a cast with a broken foot. It was a pretty sedentary eight months. Soon after I received the "all clear" to go cast-free, I signed up to review the Air Bar Exercises workout video, volume 1.

Air Bar Exercises are low-impact. Basically, you do exercises while holding a stick. I used a 40-inch dowel that measured 40 inches in length. The point of using the bar is that it promotes good posture and engages your core more. By itself, the bar weighs about 1 pound. When you're working out, it sometimes seems as if it weighs 30 pounds because your muscles get tired.

My results, some baby abs

With the Air Bar Exercises program, you're supposed to workout six days a week for 60 days. I have a problem, though. I get bored. Doing the same thing every day makes a 60-minute workout seem as if it is 2 hours long.

What I do like about the video is that there are two people in it, so you get different angles, or views, of the exercises. This helps me make sure that I'm doing it them correctly.

My biggest gripe about the Air Bar Exercise program is their lack of an online presence. At the time of publication, the DVD has a website, but all of its social media accounts are suspended or deleted. Personally, this doesn't give me much confidence.

All the Right Equipment

As I worked out, I also tried the Aleratec Multi-Tier Swivel TV Stand. The stand has three tiers, but I felt as if the stand was too short. I had to look down too much when I worked out. I did find, however, that the stand is the perfect height when I use it as a night stand with my air mattress.

Here is my video review:

Product Reviews Don't Always Go as Expected (or, My Cat Has Other Plans)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 19:44:00 +0000

My extremely photogenic cat

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

I love doing product reviews. I especially like when I can review pet products. Sometimes my cat really likes a product, sometimes she hates it. This time, she's not cooperative.

The product in question is the Window Mounted Cat Bed by Pets and More. The idea is that you assemble the cat bed, mount it on the window and your cat loves it.

My cat had other ideas. She did anything but sit on the bed while it hung from a window. I tried it on a bunch of different windows, too. The most success I had was after I mounted it on a sliding glass door; she sat under the bed. She also sat on it when it was on the floor.

Not my cat

The window-mounted cat bed itself seems good. The first product that I received came with a broken pipe and the stitching along the bed was too tight, so the non-broken pipe didn't fit through it. I contacted the seller and they sent me a new bed without any problems. The new bed was in good shape. My cat didn't care.

Cats never care. Cats are jerks.

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com.

Ergonomics at the Office

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 18:32:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

As a writer, I spend a lot of time sitting. I should probably do the standing desk thing, but standing is too distracting. It makes me want to move. If I'm moving, I'm not writing.

Even though I sit all day, sitting can take a toll on the body if you don't practice good posture and ergonomics. I've learned this the hard way (even though I knew better). Here are some tips to help you sit pretty and remain pain-free as you work at your desk.

Graphic from MySpringDay.com.au

Office Ergonomics

Keep your ears aligned with your shoulders. Doing this will help you keep your spine straight. As you align your ears with your shoulders, remember to draw your shoulders back so they're not rounded.
Keep your feet flat. Crossing your legs un-aligns your hips, which can cause back problems. It also reduces circulation. Keep your feet flat on the floor and you knees bent at a 90-degree angle. To facilitate this, you may need an adjustable foot rest. Foot rests aren't just for short people. I'm 6-feet-tall and feel more comfortable when I prop up my feet.
Get some extra support. It may be difficult to find a chair that feels comfortable all the time. If you have pain in your lower back, you may benefit from using a lumbar support pillow. If the chair has a wide back, a soft decorative couch pillow may provide you with the support you need at a reduced cost.

My main problem is tailbone pain. Yeah, sitting is literally a pain in the butt. I have a cheap office chair. On it, I use a dining chair pillow and an orthopedic coccyx (tailbone) pillow. My old was flat and on its last days when Okwu Comfort sent me its Coccyx Orthopedic Pressure Relief Seat Cushion. The pillow uses memory foam, which is shaped in a manner that keeps me off my tailbone as I sit. I think the pillow feels nice, but I still use the seat cushion under it. One thing I've notice since doing my video review is that the foam is really squishy. It seems to squish almost flat, but it still feels comfy.
Move. Get up and stretch. Shrug your shoulders up and down. Go for a quick walk, even if it's just up a flight of stairs.

Click to enlarge; Image from Cleveland.com

How to Grind Your Own Herbs, Spices and Seeds

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 21:21:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

I often find myself needing to grind my own spices, herbs and seeds. This summer, for example, I ground comfrey leaves, flax seeds and pennyroyal. So far, I haven't found a single solution that works for all my needs, so I used several different items in my home.

Grinding Your Own Herbs, Spices and Seeds: What Works Best?

Mortar and pestle: A mortar and pestle works well for grinding dried herbs and spices if you're willing to put in the elbow grease needed.

Image from Wikipedia.
Manual coffee grinder: Always use a separate coffee grinder for your coffee and spices. The oils from the two don't taste good when blended together. I use the Cozyna Coffee Grinder. This grinder works well for large spices, like chunky salt and sugar, as well as larger seeds and beans. It does not work well for grinding small flax seeds or dried leafy herbs, like crushed comfrey leaves.
Immersion blender attachment: An immersion blender attachment, like the one seen here, looks like a mini salsa maker. It's basically a small food processor. This is the best for small seeds, dried herbs, and fresh herbs blended with olive oil. I use this one the most.
Manual herb grinder: A small manual herb grinder is perfect for dried leaves, like comfrey and basil. You place the herbs at the top, replace the lid, twist the lid, and find the ground herbs in the bottom compartment. The process is time-consuming if you have a lot of herbs. I like that it separates the leaf from the stem or twig. I used this to make comfrey poultices.

What tools to do you use?

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com.

Whey Protein Powder Shake Recipe and My Morning Routine

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 19:40:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Per my doctor's recommendation, I drink protein powder shakes for breakfast. I like them because it feels as if I'm drinking a milk shake every morning. In the following video, I review the Zahler Reach Whey Protein Powder, in the Cookies & Cream flavor.

In my shake, I add 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground flax seed. For the liquid, I use about 1/2 cup whole milk and 1/2 cup cream. The result is a creamy, thick shake.

Sometimes, I also like to add 1 tablespoon of spirulina to my shake. When I don't add spirulina, I take a chlorella supplement, like Ultra Chlorella Extract from Vibrant Life Nutrition. I like that the supplements don't smell or taste bad, like the powder form of algae.

To give myself a boost in the morning, I take a magnesium supplement, like the magnesium citrate from Bri Nutrition. Magnesium is essential for bone health, as well as the health of your muscles, nerves and endocrine system. I use different forms of magnesium throughout the day for sore muscles and to help relieve headaches.

Another essential supplement that I take is omega-3. In general, I take several large capsules per day. This is annoying, which is why I'm a fan of Triple Power Omega 3 Fish Oil from AlgaeCal. This supplement has no fishy flavor and has some turmeric in it to enhance its anti-inflammatory properties. The syrup is mango flavored, but I thought it tasted more like peach. One of my favorite things about this supplement is that it has high levels of EPA.

What do you do to give yourself a boost in the morning?

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com.

Fall Skin Care Guide

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 01 Oct 2015 21:50:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Last fall I posted a guide about how to moisturize your skin when the weather is dry. This year, I'm loading up my beauty arsenal with some new products that I recently tested and am bringing you my best skin care beauty tips.

Keep Your Skin Looking Great this Fall

Hydrate: Healthy skin starts with a healthy diet and adequate hydration. Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to keep your skin hydrated. When people ask me how I keep my skin looking so nice, this is always the first thing I say.
Wash: I wash my face at least twice a day, in the morning and at night. In the morning, I just use a facial cleanser and my hands. At night, I apply the facial cleanser using a small brush to remove all the dirt and accumulated oil in my skin. If I do an activity during the day that makes me sweat a lot, like gardening, I splash my face with water.
Exfoliate: In addition to the small brush that I use at night, I exfoliate my skin every other morning. This helps remove dead skin cells and stubborn dirt and oil in my pores.

For the skin on my body, I use an exfoliating glove about once a week. Instead of wearing the glove and scrubbing, I put small pieces of soap in it (they're basically the last bits of formerly large bar soap). I then use the glove as I would a sponge. This works well for removing dead skin.

For my feet, I like to use the Bella Natural Electronic Foot File. It's more effective than traditional foot files and safer than using razor blade contraptions to remove tough skin and calluses. Here is a video review that I did:
Tone: To reduce the size of my pores and wipe away any leftover dirt and oil, I use a skin toning product after I shower or after exposing my face to hot water (like a steam bath). If you like to use natural products, witch hazel is a good toning product.

Moisturize: Always moisturize, even if you have oily skin. When the skin on the face doesn't have enough moisture, your body produces more oil, making you have an oily complexion. In the morning, I use a moisturizer with SPF, even on cloudy days. (Sun protection is my #2 skin care tip.)

Right now, I'm using 30 SPF sunscreen from OZ Naturals, a company for which I've done several reviews in the past. They sent me a regular and tinted sunscreen. The best thing that I like about the sunscreens is that they do not smell like sunscreen. You can also use the creams on your face and body. I thought the tinted skin would be too dark for my fair skin, but it's not. It looks natural, evens out my skin tone and and prepares my face for makeup.

At night, I use rosehip seed oil. Yes, oil! It never makes my skin feel greasy and it never causes acne.

How do you care for your skin during the fall?

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com.

How to Use Activated Charcoal

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 25 Sep 2015 19:16:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Activated charcoal is wood, bamboo, rice, coconut shells or other organic products that are burned past the point of combustion. Oxidizing gases then activate it. The result is a product with pores that bind, trap and absorb chemicals and toxins. I had never used activated charcoal until I received a bottle of supplements from Natures True Medicine. The capsules are white and the powder inside is dark grey.

Image from Great Plains Apothecary

Activated Charcoal Uses

Calm gas in the body
Absorb odors
Soothe upset stomaches
Teeth whitener
Promote tissue healing when used as a poultice
Take the itch and sting out of bug bites
Help pets with food poisoning
Naturally detox

Image from Great Plains Apothecary

Note: Use activated charcoal 2 hours before or after taking medication or supplements. Just as it absorbs toxins, activated charcoal may absorb the ingredients, vitamins and minerals in drugs and supplements.

Keep in mind that activated charcoal may temporarily stain your skin. It is also a good idea to talk to your doctor about your ailments before using activated charcoal. Consult a veterinarian before administering it to a pet.

I received the products mentioned in exchange for an unbiased review. This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I receive a small commission if you click on a product link and make a purchase through Amazon.com.

A Camera Bag for Serious Photographers

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 23 Sep 2015 22:12:00 +0000

I received the following products in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed are 100 percent my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Kewl Systems gave me the opportunity to review its sweet Cantrek Pro DSLR camera bag, which is a comfortable sling bag. Check out my review in the video below: