New Age Mama

Check out the Phantom Audio Book & Get the eBook Free!

2026-07-28T21:00:00.000-07:00

The Phantom was a musical phenomenon that Rebecca had always found enchanting. She had no idea that her life was about to mirror the play that was her obsession. When her high school drama club chooses "Phantom" as their annual production, Rebecca finds herself in the middle of an unlikely love triangle and the target of a sadistic stalker who uses the lines from the play as their calling card. Rebecca lands the lead role of Christine, the opera diva, and like her character, she is torn between her two co-stars-Tom the surfer and basketball star who plays the lovable hero, and Justyn, the strangely appealing Goth who is more than realistic in the role of the tortured artist. Almost immediately after casting, strange things start to happen both on and off the stage. Curtains fall. Mirrors are shattered. People are hurt in true phantom style. They all seem like accidents until Rebecca receives notes and phone calls that hint at something more sinister. Is Justyn bringing to life the twisted character of the phantom? Or in real life are the roles of the hero and the villain reversed? Rebecca doesn't know who to trust, but she knows she's running out of time as she gets closer and closer to opening night. Only when the mask is stripped away, will the twenty-first century phantom finally be revealed.

Get your free copy of Phantom on Amazon. Find the audiobook on Amazon or Audible.

Bar & Bar Shampoo Bars

2026-07-28T17:16:51.431-07:00

Bar & Bar is a small, eco‑focused haircare company known for their solid shampoo and conditioner bars. Their mission centers around reducing plastic waste, using clean ingredients, and creating salon‑quality formulas without the environmental footprint of traditional bottled products. Their bars come in recyclable, low‑waste packaging and are designed to last far longer than a standard bottle of shampoo, making them a favorite among people looking to switch to greener haircare options.

Unboxing & First Look

In my unboxing video, you’ll see my first reaction to the bars. Let me tell you, the scent hit me as soon as I opened the box. The fragrance I received was Cashmere & Shea Flower, which has this earthy‑fresh blend that feels both cozy and clean at the same time. The bars themselves are a nice size, solid and substantial. The packaging is eco‑friendly, simple, and recyclable. Exactly what you want from a sustainable brand.

The scent alone made me excited to try them, but the texture and weight of the bars also gave me confidence that they’d hold up well in the shower without crumbling or melting too fast. If you want to compare scents or formulas, check out Bar & Bar product options.

Taking the

@authorlauradeluca Take a peek 👀 at the unboxing I did last week for Bar and Bar shampoo bars and check back tonight for my full blog review! #unboxing #BeautyEssentials #HairCare #shampoobars ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca

Hair Quiz

Before choosing my bars, I took the Bar & Bar hair quiz, which helps match you with the right shampoo and conditioner based on your hair type, concerns, and styling habits. Since I dye my hair, the quiz recommended the Bond & Repair set, a formula designed for damaged hair, split ends, and color‑treated strands. The Bond & Repair bars are meant to strengthen hair, reduce breakage, and improve overall texture. They also smell amazing, which is always a bonus.

One‑Week Test & Results

I used the Bond & Repair shampoo and conditioner bars for one full week, and I noticed a difference almost immediately. My hair had more volume, looked shinier, and felt lighter, without that waxy or coated feeling some bar shampoos leave behind. A few things worth noting for anyone new to shampoo bars:

They lather really well. Some bars barely foam, but Bar & Bar creates a rich, creamy lather that feels like traditional shampoo.
They rinse clean. No residue, no heaviness, no weird film.
They’re concentrated. A little goes a long way, so the bar lasts much longer than a bottle.
They’re travel‑friendly. No spills, no TSA issues, no bulky bottles.
They smell incredible. The Cashmere & Shea Flower scent stays subtle in your hair without being overpowering.

By the end of the week, my hair looked healthier and felt smoother, especially at the ends which is always the hardest part when you color your hair regularly. If you’re curious about formulas for color‑treated hair, explore Bond & Repair options.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been thinking about switching to bar shampoo, Bar & Bar is a fantastic brand to start with. Their bars are long‑lasting, eco‑friendly, beautifully scented, and genuinely effective, especially if you struggle with damage or dryness from coloring your hair. The Bond & Repair set gave me noticeable results in just a week, and I’m excited to keep using it. For anyone wanting a greener haircare routine without sacrificing performance, these bars are absolutely worth trying.

Connect with Bar and Bar

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Unclaimed Mail — Mystery Box Inside a Mystery Box!

2026-07-27T17:14:02.144-07:00

My mom opened a few more boxes today, and this round of unclaimed mail from Surprise Chest kept us guessing. The first item was some kind of seat covers. We think they’re seat covers, anyway. They’re shaped like seat covers, they feel like seat covers, but we still have no idea what kind of seats they’re supposed to go on.

The next box turned out to be a subscription craft box, and it was packed with tons of craft supplies. It felt like we opened a mystery box inside a mystery box!

Check out the video below to see everything we uncovered. If you want to explore more unclaimed‑mail adventures, check out Maryann’s funniest finds or compare today’s haul to Fernando’s pirate‑themed unboxing.

Making Real Money with Apps — Fetch Rewards

2026-07-25T11:32:24.795-07:00

Welcome to the first post in my new series where I test out apps that claim you can earn real money just by using them. Today we’re starting with one of my longtime favorites: Fetch Rewards.

Fetch is a free app that lets you scan your receipts to earn points, which you can then exchange for gift cards. It doesn’t matter where you shop — grocery stores, gas stations, pharmacies, dollar stores, restaurants — if you get a receipt, you can scan it. Every receipt earns a minimum of 25 points, but the real fun comes from the bonus points you can get when you buy certain name‑brand products. And Fetch makes those bonus moments entertaining. When you hit a bonus, their little mascots pop up and act out tiny animated shows that kids will love.

My Experience Using Fetch

I’ve been using Fetch for about two years, and in that time I’ve cashed out $150, all from receipts I would’ve thrown away anyway. I always choose Amazon gift cards, but Fetch offers tons of options: restaurants, retail stores, travel, entertainment, and even Visa/Mastercard prepaid cards. You can also link your Amazon and Walmart accounts so Fetch can automatically scan your digital receipts.

Fetch also has:

Sweepstakes entries you can redeem with points
Referral bonuses when you invite friends
Special brand challenges for extra points
Seasonal promotions that boost your earnings

If you want to explore more apps like this, check out real‑money earning apps or jump ahead to the next app review.

@authorlauradeluca
Want to make real money just for scanning your receipts? Download Fetch today! I already paid $150! Link: https://fetch.com/?af_reengagement_window=7d&is_retargeting=true&af_dp=fetch%3A%2F%2Fdiscover&shortlink=referralqr&source_caller=ui&code=H65F69&pid=Referral%20-%20QR%20Cod #appsthatpayyou #makemoneyfromyourphone #moneytips #freegiftcards #fyp
♬ original sound - Laura Deluca

Why Fetch Works

Fetch is one of the easiest earning apps because:

You don’t have to activate offers
You don’t have to clip coupons
You don’t have to shop at specific stores
You don’t have to track anything

You just scan receipts. That’s it. It’s simple, consistent, and fun, especially when those mascots start dancing. If you’re looking for a legit, low‑effort way to earn gift cards, Fetch Rewards is a great place to start. It’s beginner‑friendly, kid‑approved, and rewarding. Whether you’re saving up for holiday shopping or just want a little extra spending money, Fetch makes it easy. Stay tuned for the next post in this series, where I’ll test another app and see how it stacks up. If you decide to sign up, please use my link or invite code: H65F69.

Amazon Mystery Box #4 — Part 2

2026-07-24T18:12:38.674-07:00

We’re back with part two of my fourth Amazon mystery box from ResellablesMA.com. Regular price is $55 each, but they are having a Christmas in July sale this weekend and all their boxes are $5 off.

This half of the box was just as random and entertaining as the first. There were a few dish drainers made from porous stone. Then came a bundle of artificial tulips from a company called Viking Panda.

The most random item I received was book from 1994 titled “How to Make Love to Your Wife.” I’m not sure what algorithm decided that belonged in my box,. Vintage relationship advice from the 90s? Sure. Why not. Check out the video below to see everything else I pulled from this half!

Another Amazon Mystery Box from Resellables Part 1

2026-07-23T17:16:53.415-07:00

I think this is my fourth Amazon mystery box from ResellablesMA.com, but who’s counting at this point? As usual, the box was way too packed to fit into one video, so this post covers just the first half of the unboxing and it already delivered a great mix of surprises.

Right out of the gate, this batch included nails, earrings, and pillowcases, just to name a few things. It was one of those boxes where every item felt totally different from the last — beauty supplies, accessories, home goods — the full Amazon roulette experience. Check out the video below to see everything I pulled from the first half.

This week they had an amazing deal: 3 boxes for $120, plus $28 shipping per box (they’re heavy, so it makes sense). Regular price is $55 each, so the sale was too good to pass up. I'll have another box to open soon. My friend Heather from I'm in a Zen Garden State of Mind will have one as well!

Between the great pricing, the variety, and the sheer amount of stuff packed into each box, ResellablesMA continues to be my favorite mystery‑box seller. Even when I think I’ve seen it all, they still manage to surprise me.

Scrooged is FREE for Christmas in July

2026-07-21T21:00:00.000-07:00

Stan Hope never cared much for his son-in-law Justyn Patko.

His black clothes and body piercings were bad enough, but the ridiculous notion of dragging Rebecca off to Broadway with a new baby on the way pushes Stan over the edge. How much can a father take?

After losing his cool at a holiday party, Stan gets a visit from three unexpected spirits. Can they help to change his close-minded ways?

Available exclusively on Amazon.

***Spoiler Alert! Don't read this before reading the first three books in the series. It will give away all the endings!**

Unclaimed Mail Unboxing — Bup Boxes with Heather!

2026-07-21T16:24:06.135-07:00

Bup Boxes is one of the newer unclaimed‑mail companies on the scene, started by two brothers who wanted to bring the thrill of mystery‑mail hunting to everyday shoppers. Their boxes are packed with random returns, lost packages, and subscription surprises. Since they’re still growing, every box feels a little different, which is half the fun.

This time, I teamed up with my friend Heather from I’m in a Zen Garden State of Mind to split a box together. Instead of dividing everything at the end, we decided to open one package each, side‑by‑side, so we could react together and make it a whole event.

My package was two matching t‑shirts and we decided we’re wearing them to the office for Wacky Wednesday. Heather’s big pull was a glass for her nonexistent daughter‑in‑law. Check out the video below to watch the full unboxing and see our reactions in real time.

If you want more unclaimed‑mail adventures, explore my Surprise Chest hauls or dive into Resellables mystery boxes.

Surprise Chest Unclaimed Mail — Pirate Fernando & Pipe Cleaners for Days!!!

2026-07-20T17:22:37.714-07:00

The next batch of unclaimed mail from Surprise Chest was opened by Fernando, and he took the pirate‑treasure theme very seriously. The moment he saw the pirate hat and eye patch included in the package, he put them on like he was about to commandeer the living room. Full commitment. Zero hesitation.

His haul was surprisingly practical this time. First, he pulled out two resin molds, which he inspected like they were ancient relics. Then came a package of what had to be a thousand green pipe cleaners; no exaggeration. My mom claimed those and said she’s bringing them to the grade school where she works, elementary‑schools can never have too many craft supplies.

Finally, Fernando unearthed about a dozen canvas gift bags in all different colors. We still have lots of packages left in this treasure chest, so stay tuned for more unboxings!

Winning Moves Giveaway

2026-07-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Winner's Choice New Games and Puzzles from Winning Moves Games – $40 TOTAL MAX ARV

This giveaway is part of our Back To School Gift Guide - Stop by to see all the giveaways and great products.

HOST IS

VERSATILEER

My co-hosts for this giveaway are Deliciously Savvy, Home Jobs by Mom, It's Free At Last, Giveaway Gator, The Frugal Grandmom, Beautiful Touches, The Crazy Pet Lady & Shabby Chic Boho

Below is a list of all the bloggers involved in the Back To School Gift Guide.

A Rain of Thought, Beautiful Touches, BonneVivante, Contest Corner, Deliciously Savvy, Giveaway Gator, Home Jobs by Mom, MarksvilleandMe, Pink Ninja Blog, Sarcastically Yours, Jen, Sweeps Madness, The Stuff of Success, The Frugal Grandmom, This Frugal Family, Versatileer

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This giveaway's Sponsor is:

WEBSITE ~ FACEBOOK ~ TWITTER/"X" ~ YOUTUBE ~ INSTAGRAM

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1 Winner wins choice of any combination of the New Games and Puzzles of the selection of Boggle® Jr. Numbers, Crazy Canoe™, Deluxe Pretty, Pretty Princess®, Hell No Hell Yeah™, Rack-O® Jr., That Color Speaks To Me™, Yahtzee® Words, Ouija® Salem Edition, Boggle® Jr. & Instant Insanity® from Winning Moves Games: $40 MAX TOTAL ARV. ~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ More information: See my New 2026 Games and Puzzles from Winning Moves Games review HERE.

Now To The......

This giveaway/sweepstakes is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site. The giveaway consists of winner's choice of $40 maximum between the choices from New Games and Puzzles of the selection of Boggle® Jr. Numbers, Crazy Canoe™, Deluxe Pretty, Pretty Princess®, Hell No Hell Yeah™, Rack-O® Jr., That Color Speaks To Me™, Yahtzee® Words, Ouija® Salem Edition, Boggle® Jr. & Instant Insanity® from Winning Moves Games. This Giveaway is valid to Continental United States residents (Lower 48 contiguous states) only, Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter. This giveaway event will end at 11:59 PM EST (10:59 PM CST) 08/31/2026. The winner will have 48 hours to email their information back to versatileer at gmail dot com or a new winner will be drawn, you may want to put this email address as safe as it could go to spam. The giveaway is not valid where prohibited! Once a winner is drawn and confirmed, the name will be announced on the Giveaway Tools form. Winning Moves Games will be responsible for sending the winners their prizes. Versatileer has been compensated to assist in furnishing the prize in this giveaway. By entering you are authorizing us to collect the information on the form below, this information is used only to contact the winner! No purchase necessary, Void where prohibited by law, and the number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Winners are chosen randomly by a random winner selection method. More giveaway terms and conditions are listed: HERE. The sponsors are each responsible for shipping of the above prizes. No blog associated with this contest are responsible for prize fulfillment. If you would like to become a sponsor in a giveaway like this please email Jerry Marquardt at versatileer at gmail dot com. If you take an entry you must stay following for the entire contest or you will be disqualified.

Sponsors interested in joining our gift guides can see the information HERE.

Entry -Form

Tomorrow Maybe by June A. Wilder - Narrated by Micaela Harper

2026-07-17T21:00:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, Maybe is a warm, funny, emotionally honest romantic comedy about what happens after the first kiss—when love stops being hypothetical and starts being real.

Harper Leigh survived the beginning.

She said yes to love.

She kissed Ethan Reyes on a rooftop.

Now she’s facing the harder part: the middle.

The middle is where anxiety flares, routines form, arguments happen, and love becomes a daily choice instead of a spark. As Harper and Ethan navigate first dates, honest conversations, awkward mornings, and the terrifying vulnerability of staying, they discover that real intimacy isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, repairing when things break, and choosing each other anyway.

Told with sharp humor, deep empathy, and tender realism, Tomorrow, Maybe explores anxiety, emotional safety, and the quiet courage it takes to let someone stay.

Perfect for listeners who love:

Slow-burn, emotionally intelligent romance
Romantic comedies with heart and humor
Stories that center communication, healing, and real relationships

This is a story about choosing tomorrow—even when today feels uncertain.

Available on Amazon!

July Amazon Mystery Box Part 2

2026-07-17T16:45:34.710-07:00

After the amazing finds in part one of my third Amazon mystery box from ResellablesMA.com, I dove back in for round two, and this box still had plenty of surprises left. I’ve thought about trying other mystery‑box sellers, but their prices can’t be beat. At $55 regular price, $45 on sale, and $28 shipping, ResellablesMA continues to give me the best value for the most fun. I just wished they were local so I could buy even more!

Unboxing Part Two

Part two of the video kept the excitement going with even more great items. There were still lots of goodies, including a sleek sports water bottle. Then came three boxes of beautiful silk flowers, perfect for crafting, decorating, or adding a little color around the house Check out the video below to see everything up close and watch my reactions as I dig through the second half of the box.

Why I Keep Ordering

Every time I open a box from ResellablesMA, I’m reminded why I keep coming back. The mix of practical items, collectibles, and fun surprises makes each unboxing feel like a mini adventure. And with prices this good, it’s hard to resist grabbing another one. Explore more with ResellablesMA mystery boxes or revisit part one of this unboxing.

July Amazon Mystery Box Part 1

2026-07-16T17:24:55.737-07:00

I’m back with my third Amazon mystery box from ResellablesMA.com, and I have to say, they continue to impress me. I’ve looked into other liquidation stores, but their prices are still the best I’ve found anywhere. The boxes are normally $55, but I snagged mine on sale for $45, and shipping runs about $28. Even with that, it’s still a great deal for the amount of fun and value packed inside.

Unboxing Part One

This is part one of my video series for this box, and it’s already full of surprises. Some of the top picks so far include a pair of tan boots from Madden Girl, super cute and just my size! I also pulled out a bunch of Beetlejuice Funko Pops which made my kids happy.

It’s always wild to see what ends up inside these boxes, sometimes practical, sometimes collectible, always entertaining. Check out the video below to see the full unboxing and my reactions in real time.

Why I Keep Coming Back

ResellablesMA has become my go‑to for Amazon mystery boxes because they deliver consistent value and variety. Every box feels like a mini treasure hunt, and even when I get something unexpected, it’s part of the fun. Between the great pricing and the thrill of discovery, I can’t help but keep ordering.

If you want to explore more, check out ResellablesMA mystery boxes or see my previous unboxings.

2026-07-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

Joshua Hanover had it all. He was handsome, rich, athletic, and had always been popular with the ladies. Yet, until he gets paired up with his beautiful but shy lab partner, Rosa, he never allowed himself to fall in love. As the chemistry between them grows, Josh realizes that his player days have come to end. But it seems his change of heart has come too late. Not only is Rosa leery of his bad boy reputation, he has four vindictive ex-girlfriends who are on a rampage. At first he doesn't take their threats seriously, but then his tires are slashed, someone tries to poison him, and one of the girls turns up dead. Josh doesn't know who to trust, but one thing is certain. It definitely isn't worth the price he's paying to be a player.

👉 Listen now on Amazon & Audible.

Surprise Chest Unclaimed Mail — Tiffany Necklace!!!

2026-07-14T17:19:10.276-07:00

Today’s batch from Surprise Chest was only two items, but the first one threw us straight into detective mode. My mom opened the box and pulled out what appears to be a sterling silver Tiffany necklace, complete with the Tiffany bag and box. It’s stamped 925, and according to their website, a similar piece runs around $1300.

Now listen, I am highly skeptical. Return mail has given us everything from robot dogs to 5XL bras, so a luxury necklace feels a little too Cinderella‑at‑midnight. At some point I’m going to take it to a jewelry store or pawn shop just to see what they think. If it turns out to be real, I may actually pass out.

The second item was much more on‑brand: a pair of rose‑tinted sunglasses that gave me Rocky Horror vibes. Rose tints my world! My mom put them on and looked like she was ready to break into a musical number. Stay tuned for more goodies from our Surprise Chest treasure box!

Mystery Comic Bags From Ollie’s

2026-07-13T17:11:35.511-07:00

While we were at the dentist today, Spencer and I made a little detour to a store called Ollie’s in Mays Landing, NJ. It’s mostly an overstock treasure hunt, but their book section is always worth a peek. That’s where we spotted mystery bags of comic books for $5.99, and since Spencer loves comics, we grabbed a few.

We took them home and filmed an unboxing, and the selection was way better than I expected. Each bag had a mix of DC and Marvel, with some newer issues and a few gems dating all the way back to the early 1990s. For six bucks, it felt like a total score.

Check out the unboxing video to see the full lineup, and if you’re into this kind of thing, check out Ollie's.

@authorlauradeluca Comic Book Mystery Bags from Ollie's #UnboxingVideo #comics #marvelcomics #dccomics #fyb ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca

Chat with Phantom Narrator Micaela

2026-07-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

With Phantom, Book 1 of the Dark Musicals Series, officially released on audio, I thought it was the perfect time to sit down with our narrator, Micaela, for a fun chat about the series, her theatre background, and what it was like bringing these characters to life.

Before the audiobook came out, we hopped on a video call to talk about everything from musical theatre to the challenges of narrating a story filled with dramatic scenes, emotional moments, and songs. I was so excited when I found Micaela. She has a gorgeous voice and was able to sing the musical scenes, which adds a whole new dimension to the audiobook experience. Hearing those moments performed instead of simply read is truly magical.

Sit down with us and enjoy this behind‑the‑scenes chat. Phantom is only Book 1 of 16 in the Dark Musicals world, and I’m excited to continue working with Micaela for many years, and many books, to come.

Watch the video below, and if you want to explore more, check out Phantom on audio or dive into the full Dark Musicals Series. Grab a copy on Amazon or Audible!

DARIUS ROSS – THE ROLL UP KINGPIN SHARES EXIT STRATEGIES FOR SMALL COMPANIES

2026-07-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

In a world where adversity can either break or build, Darius Ross stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. Known as "The Roll Up Kingpin" for his expertise in smaller acquisitions, Darius Ross is a renowned motivational speaker, author, and life coach. He motivates business professionals, investors, young men, divorcees and many readers to overcome obstacles and create lasting financial legacies.

Darius Ross’s journey began amid hardship in Auburn Park, Chicago. Following a devastating fire that left him unhoused, as well as the loss of countless friends due to rampant gang violence, Darius refused to surrender to adversity. Instead, he channeled his struggles into motivation, relentlessly pursuing education and personal growth. His unyielding tenacity led him to achieving entrepreneurial success and inspiring others with his books and motivational speeches. His resilience transformed his life and established a foundation for national impact, proving that anyone can rise above their circumstances.

Drawing from his extensive experience in business acquisitions and entrepreneurship, Darius Ross offers the following five key suggestions for small companies looking to develop a successful exit strategy:

· Start Planning Early - Develop your exit plan well in advance. Early preparation allows you to maximize company value, address potential pitfalls, and position your business for a smooth transition.

· Understand Your Value -Conduct a realistic assessment of your company’s strengths, market position, and unique assets. Knowing your true value helps you negotiate effectively and attract the right buyers.

· Build a Strong Team -Ensure your company operates efficiently without you at the helm. A strong management team adds value and reassures buyers that the business will thrive post-acquisition.

· Maintain Clean Financials: Keep accurate and transparent financial records. Buyers are attracted to companies with clear, well-documented financial histories, which facilitate easier due diligence and valuation. Avoid aggressive tax avoidance or overly creative tax strategies, as these can deter buyers and complicate the sales process.

· Creative Financing Options and Strategies: Explore innovative financing structures that benefit both you and the buyer, ensuring a smooth exit with maximum profit and future potential. Consider options such as seller financing, earn-outs, deferred payments, or equity rollovers to make the deal more attractive and flexible for all parties involved.

· Seek Professional Guidance - Engage with advisors experienced in mergers and acquisitions. Legal, financial, and business experts can help you navigate the complexities of exiting, ensuring you secure the best possible outcome

Darius Ross’s legacy is built on his dedication to helping others create lasting financial legacies. His suggestions reflect a deep understanding of both the challenges and opportunities facing small business owners. By following these strategies, entrepreneurs can position themselves for successful exits, unlocking new possibilities for growth and prosperity.

Today, Darius, who resides in New York City and Maine, is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to empowering others and his tireless focus on creating financial legacies for regular folks that will transform their lives. Ross has authored six books, including Mastering The TPS BluePrint: Transforming Trauma into Triumph and Leadership DNA: Building a Thriving Business Culture. His latest venture, Dating at 50, which chronicles his experiences with love and romance as an older man, is expected to be released soon. He has successfully launched ventures across various industries and advises high-net-worth clients, specializing in finding opportunities in challenges. Through coaching, mentoring, and his writing—including his Forbes blog and podcasts—Ross shares insights on transformation, wealth creation, and resilience. He focuses on multifamily real estate, supports innovative startups as an angel investor, and inspires audiences worldwide to confront challenges and strive for greatness.

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Learn more about Darius Ross in his interview here or look for all his books on Amazon.

Surprise Chest Unclaimed Mail - Camera & MORE BRAS

2026-07-10T15:46:13.814-07:00

Today’s unclaimed mail haul came from a new company called Surprise Chest, and it showed up just in time for my mom Maryann’s birthday. Naturally, she insisted on opening the first three packages herself because at this point she’s basically the queen of return‑mail content.

The first box kicked things off with a knock‑off GoPro. Next, she got a sign that read, "Please Keep Pets off Landscaping.

And then came the grand finale: even more bras, this time in 5XL. Both of us combined wouldn’t fit into those things! Stay tuned for our next batch of treasure from Surprise Chest!

Rocky Horror Picture Show Mystery Box — Stylin Boxes Unboxing

2026-07-09T17:30:24.629-07:00

If you’re a fan of cult classics, the Rocky Horror Picture Show Mystery Box from Stylin Boxes is a total treat. Stylin Boxes is known for curating fandom‑themed mystery boxes packed with officially licensed merch, artwork, collectibles, and fun surprises you never see coming. They specialize in pop‑culture deep cuts including movies, TV, comics, gaming .

I filmed a full unboxing, so definitely check out the Rocky Horror video to see my reactions in real time, but here’s a closer look at everything inside this gloriously theatrical box.

What Was Inside the Rocky Horror Mystery Box

The box was packed with bold, colorful, over‑the‑top goodies, exactly what you’d expect from anything Rocky Horror themed. In the photo, you’ll spot:

A large Rocky Horror Show poster with that iconic shocked face and dripping yellow lettering
A sheet of character stickers featuring Frank‑N‑Furter, Janet, Rocky, and the rest of the cast
A DVD/Blu‑ray case notebook with classic Rocky Horror artwork
A bright red Rocky Horror mug
A circular print featuring The Criminologist
A framed “Don’t Dream It, Be It!” art print
A handful of pins and keychains perfect for collectors

Horrified, Dark Musicals Book 7

If you love Rocky Horror as much as I do, you might also enjoy my book Horrified, Dark Musicals Book 7, which was directly inspired by the wild, irreverent energy of Rocky Horror. It’s packed with the same blend of camp, chaos, and dark theatrical fun — just with my own twist. You can explore more about it here: Horrified, Dark Musicals Book 7.

Watch the Unboxing

To see the full breakdown and all the goodies up close, watch my Rocky Horror unboxing, complete with me dressed as Columbia. And if you missed it, make sure to check out my previous video on the Labyrinth mystery box, another fantastic Stylin Boxes adventure.

@authorlauradeluca Rocky Horror Mystery Box 📦 from StylinBoxes #mysteryboxes #unboxing #unboxingvideo #rockyhorrorpictureshow #fyp ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca

Phantom eBook is FREE to Celebrate the Release of the Audiobook!

2026-07-07T21:00:00.000-07:00

Get your free copy of Phantom on Amazon. Find the audiobook on Amazon or Audible.

Celebrate Summer with Hi Mountain Seasonings' Western Grill Bundle

2026-07-07T16:03:00.338-07:00

About Hi Mountain Seasonings

Hi Mountain Seasonings is a Wyoming‑based company known for crafting high‑quality rubs, marinades, brines, dip mixes, jerky kits, and specialty blends made for outdoor cooking and backyard grilling. Their products are designed to help home cooks elevate everyday meals with bold, western‑inspired flavor. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd, smoking ribs all afternoon, or experimenting with new recipes, Hi Mountain Seasonings offers blends that make it easy to turn simple ingredients into something unforgettable.

My Unboxing Experience

For the Fourth of July, I unboxed the Western Grill Bundle, and it felt like opening a treasure chest of flavor. The bundle includes six of their customer‑favorite seasonings and rubs: Cajun Campfire Seasoning, Original Burger Seasoning, Garlic Pepper Rub, Rib Rub, Alaskan Salmon Seasoning, and Zesty Western Gourmet Burger Seasoning.

I was excited to try them out at our holiday barbecue. Each blend smelled incredible right out of the bottle, and the variety meant we could season everything from burgers to ribs to fish without repeating a single flavor profile. Check out the video below to watch the full unboxing and see my first impressions.

@authorlauradeluca Hi Mountain Seasonings Unboxing! #seasoning #barbeque #unboxingvideo #4thofJuly ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca

My Full Review

We put every seasoning to the test at our Fourth of July cookout, and each one brought something special to the table.

Cajun Campfire Seasoning — I don't do spicy, but my stepfather used this on chicken and grilled veggies, and it added the perfect bold, smoky kick. Not too spicy, just enough heat to make everything pop.
Original Burger Seasoning — This one became an instant favorite. It made our burgers juicy, savory, and perfectly seasoned without overpowering the meat.

Garlic Pepper Rub — We tried this on steaks, and it gave them that classic steakhouse flavor — garlicky, peppery, and delicious.
Rib Rub — We used this on a rack of ribs, and it delivered exactly what you want: deep, rich, championship‑style flavor that caramelized beautifully on the grill.
Alaskan Salmon Seasoning — This was perfect on fresh fish. It added brightness and depth without masking the natural flavor.
Zesty Western Gourmet Burger Seasoning — We used this on a second batch of burgers, and it gave them a tangy, bold twist that everyone loved.

Every seasoning was easy to use, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to work on multiple dishes. The bundle made our Fourth of July spread taste like a full‑blown cookout feast. No guesswork, no complicated recipes, just great seasoning doing its job.

Final Thoughts

Hi Mountain Seasonings made our Fourth of July meal unforgettable, and their Western Grill Bundle is perfect for any summer barbecue. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just cooking for your family, these blends make it easy to serve food that tastes amazing. Stock up before Labor Day so you’re ready for every cookout, camping trip, and backyard dinner coming your way.

Connect with High Mountain Seasonings.

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Potion & Twig Diffusers Review & Giveaway

2026-07-06T17:02:01.775-07:00

About Potion & Twig

Potion & Twig is a company built by people who care about scent, wellness, and creating a cozy home environment. They specialize in modern, non‑toxic diffusers and thoughtfully crafted fragrances designed to elevate your space without overwhelming it. Their products lean into clean ingredients, sleek design, and smart technology, making them perfect for anyone who wants their home to smell amazing without the hassle of traditional candles or chemical‑heavy sprays.

My Unboxing Experience

I recently unboxed the Sienna Plug‑In Cold Air Diffuser, and I was so excited to try it out. The Sienna came with three scents: Waterfall, Retreat, and Luxe Garden, all beautifully packaged and ready to test. The whole setup felt high‑end and gift‑worthy, and I couldn’t wait to plug it in and see how it performed. Check out the video below to watch the full unboxing and hear my first impressions.

@authorlauradeluca Potion & Twig Diffuser Unboxing! #HomeDecor #essentialoils #unboxingvideo ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca

My Full Review

Once I started using the Sienna diffuser, I was surprised by how simple the whole process was. You just add your fragrance oil to the reservoir, plug it in, and you’re ready to go. There is oil involved, but the design makes it easy to pour and even easier to close securely. Nothing messy or complicated.

I was worried about the app since I’m technologically challenged, but it turned out to be incredibly user‑friendly. It synced right away and let me control the scent strength, set schedules, and adjust how much fragrance is released throughout the day. If you’ve ever been intimidated by smart home gadgets, this one is beginner‑friendly, and the scents are amazing!

Waterfall is crisp and refreshing, like stepping into a cool breeze.
Retreat feels calming and spa‑like — perfect for winding down.
Luxe Garden is lush, floral, and elegant without being overpowering.

A little truly goes a long way. I was shocked that just one diffuser filled my entire 800‑square‑foot house with a fresh, clean scent. It wasn’t too strong, it wasn’t artificial, just a perfect, balanced fragrance that made the whole space feel brighter and more inviting.

Other things I loved:

The oils last a long time because the diffuser uses them efficiently.
The unit itself is sleek and modern, blending right into your décor.
You can switch scents easily depending on your mood.

If you want to try out a diffuser for yourself, be sure to visit there website and see all they have to offer.

Connect with Potion and Twig

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The Giveaway

Potion & Twig is giving one of my readers their very own diffuser! One lucky winner will receive the Spire Cold Air Diffuser Bundle, which includes a full‑size diffuser and three premium scents; a complete starter set valued at $225. To enter, fill in the Giveaway Tools form below. This giveaway will end on 7/31/26 . The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Open to the US only!

Entry -Form

Dark Musicals Fan Art Spotlight

2026-07-05T16:29:59.939-07:00

Every once in a while, a reader connects with a book series in a way that becomes part of its history. For the Dark Musicals Series, that reader is Stephanie Piro, one of the cartoonists behind Six Chicks and the creator of the book review blog The Militant Recommender. Stephanie is a lifelong Phantom of the Opera fan, and years ago she stumbled across Phantom, Book 1 of my series. She’s followed the books ever since, and for each installment she’s drawn a sketch of one of her favorite scenes.

I loved her artwork so much that I ended up writing her into the Dark Musicals world. The fictional Stephanie Piro appears in Haunted, where she plays a soap opera star who joins the cast of the Woman in White movie.

With the release of Phantom on audio, it felt like the perfect time to revisit Stephanie’s beautiful illustrations. Check out the slideshow below to see her interpretations of some of the most iconic moments in the series.

Be sure to visit Stephanie on her blog, The Militant Recommender, and explore more of her stunning artwork on the Six Chicks Facebook page.

Grab a copy of the Phantom audio book on Amazon or Audible!

@authorlauradeluca Some of my favorite fan art of the Dark Musicals series by Stephanie from Six Chix! #amreading #fanart #cartoons #fyp #booktok ♬ The Incident - Maebi

Unclaimed Mail - Robo Dog & Mystery Cow

2026-07-02T13:06:57.173-07:00

Today my mom Maryann opened the last three boxes from my pallet of unclaimed mail, and she went out with a bang. At this point she has fully entered her main‑character era.

She started off strong with a robot dog. Then she pulled out what we thought were Skittles, only to discover the whole box stuffed with fashion necklaces which we didn't learn under after filming.

But the real star of the show was the cow statue. We were admiring it, trying to figure out if it was décor, a planter, or maybe just a paperweight. It wasn’t until later that we learned it was actually a liquor dispenser.

Between the robot dog, the surprise jewelry haul, and the cow that secretly moonlights as a bartender, this was peak return‑mail fun. If you want to relive more of her greatest hits, you can check out Maryann’s unclaimed‑mail moments or compare her to Fernando’s legendary reactions.

New Age Mama

Check out the Phantom Audio Book & Get the eBook Free!

Bar & Bar Shampoo Bars

Unboxing & First Look

Taking the @authorlauradeluca Take a peek 👀 at the unboxing I did last week for Bar and Bar shampoo bars and check back tonight for my full blog review! #unboxing #BeautyEssentials #HairCare #shampoobars ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca Hair Quiz

Final Thoughts

Unclaimed Mail — Mystery Box Inside a Mystery Box!

Making Real Money with Apps — Fetch Rewards

My Experience Using Fetch

Why Fetch Works

Amazon Mystery Box #4 — Part 2

Another Amazon Mystery Box from Resellables Part 1

Scrooged is FREE for Christmas in July

Unclaimed Mail Unboxing — Bup Boxes with Heather!

Surprise Chest Unclaimed Mail — Pirate Fernando & Pipe Cleaners for Days!!!

Winning Moves Giveaway

HOST IS

VERSATILEER

My co-hosts for this giveaway are Deliciously Savvy, Home Jobs by Mom, It's Free At Last, Giveaway Gator, The Frugal Grandmom, Beautiful Touches, The Crazy Pet Lady & Shabby Chic Boho

Now To The......

Tomorrow Maybe by June A. Wilder - Narrated by Micaela Harper

July Amazon Mystery Box Part 2

Unboxing Part Two

Why I Keep Ordering

July Amazon Mystery Box Part 1

Unboxing Part One

Why I Keep Coming Back

Surprise Chest Unclaimed Mail — Tiffany Necklace!!!

Mystery Comic Bags From Ollie’s

Chat with Phantom Narrator Micaela

DARIUS ROSS – THE ROLL UP KINGPIN SHARES EXIT STRATEGIES FOR SMALL COMPANIES

Surprise Chest Unclaimed Mail - Camera & MORE BRAS

Rocky Horror Picture Show Mystery Box — Stylin Boxes Unboxing

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Horrified, Dark Musicals Book 7

Watch the Unboxing

Phantom eBook is FREE to Celebrate the Release of the Audiobook!

Celebrate Summer with Hi Mountain Seasonings' Western Grill Bundle

About Hi Mountain Seasonings

My Unboxing Experience

My Full Review

Potion & Twig Diffusers Review & Giveaway

About Potion & Twig

My Unboxing Experience

My Full Review

Dark Musicals Fan Art Spotlight

Unclaimed Mail - Robo Dog & Mystery Cow

Taking the

@authorlauradeluca Take a peek 👀 at the unboxing I did last week for Bar and Bar shampoo bars and check back tonight for my full blog review! #unboxing #BeautyEssentials #HairCare #shampoobars ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca

Hair Quiz