zoe jane says...

Mystery Plant

2016-04-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

Does anyone know what type of tree or plant this is? Please and thank you for your help.

Do they make floaties for dogs?

2014-09-01T08:25:00.000-07:00

"Unless There's A Fairy Godmother already on it." Veronica Mars

2013-03-15T12:25:00.000-07:00

I'm always saying, "If I was extremely rich I would pay whatever I had to, to whoever I had to, to get Veronica Mars back on the air," even all these years later. But I'm not rich so I donated $25 dollars to The Veronica Mars Movie Project by Rob Thomas for the possibility of a movie being made.

If this video is any indication, the movie is going to be thoroughly entertaining.

If you are interested or curious go here: The Veronica Mars Movie Project by Rob Thomas Kickstarter Page

Garnier Skin Renew Dark Spot Overnight Peel-30 day trial

2013-03-03T10:25:00.000-07:00

http://img.bzzagent.com/image/darkSpot.png?Type=activity&Activity=1292521100&Campaign=9247878483&Uid=330173&token=919f90677fe5a385589ce48f3cc67999

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I was asked to join the Garnier Skin Renew Clinical Dark Spot Overnight Peel BzzCampaign (BzzAgents get to try a product, share their opinions with others and then let us know what happened, and create and share a variety of content, from reviews to videos to Facebook posts) and I said "yes, please." As part of the BzzCampaign I was sent a free 1.6 ounce bottle of the serum to use nightly for 30 days and then review. I decided to post update photos of the progress/improvement (or lack there of) of my skin. I actually started using the Peel on February 12, 2013, but have been dragging my feet about writing this post.

The Garnier Skin Renew Clinical Dark Spot Overnight Peel is meant to:

Fade dark spots
Even skin tone
Brighten skin
Smooth texture

It promises that "In 4 weeks: Dark spots and discoloration are diminished and skin looks more uniform and feels smoother."
But I also saw on their advertisement video and in my BzzGuide (A printed educational booklet with info about the product and suggestions on how to spread the word) that it takes up to 12 weeks for full results.

The peel is gentle enough to use each night and is not harsh and irritating like traditional facial peels. This is the first time I've used any type of peel. It goes on easily, absorbs into the skin quickly and you can't detect it on your face once it dries. Two pumps of the serum is usually enough to cover my face and neck in a thin layer. If I move quickly enough before it starts to absorb/dry in my hand. If not then three pumps.

I use Proactiv Solution (3 steps) on my face but while using the Overnight Peel I only used the Proactiv Cleanser at night and followed with the Garnier Overnight Peel and nothing else. In the morning I wash off the Peel with the Proactiv Cleanser and also use the Toner and Repairing lotion and either Olay Complete with SPF 15 or Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunblock SPF 70 (which I received as a free sample from... I can't remember where.) My skin was not irritated by the peel or any dryer than it usually is. I haven't had any major adverse reactions to the Garnier Peel.

Now for my favorite part of this BzzCampaign- sarcastically speaking- the before picture. I have marks left behind from pimples, uneven skin tone and "freckles" around my nose that I didn't have when I was younger so I'm guessing they are probably age spots or sun damage spots.

BzzAgent.com says that you should see improvement after one week of use (namely, brighter skin) so I'm posting this "one week later" picture. I don't notice too much difference. And I wasn't expecting to but this does make me skeptical about what my results will be at the end of the 30 days.

Still, I'm going to keep using the Garnier Peel and post the "after" picture at the end of the 30 days.

It is suggested that you use the Garnier Dark Spot Corrector along with the Overnight Peel for faster results and added moisturizing.

Garnier Skin Renew Dark Spot Overnight Peel has a suggested retail price of about $16.99 and is available at "mass retailers."

I got the Garnier Skin Renew Dark Spot Overnight Peel free from BzzAgent.com and I tried it out and I gave my honest opinions.

MorningStar Veggie Burger - Review

2013-02-28T10:25:00.000-07:00

As a part of the MorningStar Farms BzzCampaign, I received a coupon for a free item to try and then share a review. I also received about four $1-off coupons to pass along.

I chose the veggie burgers in two of the six varieties, Grillers Prime and Garden Veggie Patties.

find them in the frozen food section

The Grillers Prime seem to be an attempt at making the veggie patties as close to the texture of beef meat patties as possible. They also have a very slight smoky flavoring which again is meant to be reminiscent of a hamburger. I found the Prime Grillers to be a little bland and a bit stringy in texture. You will not be fooled in to thinking you are eating a beef patty. However, I think these burgers might be a good stepping stone or transition for someone wanting to ease their way into eating more vegetarian options.

There are four recommended ways to cook the MorningStar Veggie Patty, by microwave, in the oven, on the grill and in the skillet (or as I call it, the pan). I fried the patties with a teaspoon or two of vegetable oil. It gave it a nice crispy texture which made the patties seem more like a breaded, fried chicken patty then a hamburger, which works pretty well.

Prime Grillers w/grilled onion, lettuce, tomato, pepper jack cheese, mayonnaise. Side of oven baked carrots and potatoes.

I also tried the Garden Veggie Patties. These I really enjoyed. They have a lot more flavor than the Prime Grillers and aren't really "pretending" at being a hamburger. The Garden Veggie Patty is its own food and a pretty tasty one. It also had the texture of a fried chicken patty when cooked in the pan.

Garden Veggie Patty w/lettuce, tomato, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise. Side of tortilla chips and pepper jack cheese dip (not pictured).

MorningStar Farms Veggie Burgers are a healthier alternative to beef hamburgers and taste pretty good. They are also quick and easy to make. So, I would and have added them to my "diet." But they definitely won't be a replacement when I'm craving a hamburger. Except on the days when I want a hamburger and am feeling too lazy to go through all the steps of making and cooking a beef patty. Those days I can just grab a Veggie Patty from the freezer and have it ready in less than ten minutes.

MorningStar Farms Veggie Burgers also have Spicy Black Bean Burgers, Grillers Original, Tomato &Basil Pizza Burgers and Mushroom Lover's Burgers.

MorningStar Farms has a huge line of frozen vegetarian food options check them out here: MorningStarFarms.com

And just so you know, I am a BzzAgent and I received a free sample of this product. The above opinions are my own and they are honest.

Review: Kellogg's Crunchy Nut Cereal (Golden Honey Nut)

2013-02-19T14:25:00.000-07:00

I was reluctant to try Kellogg's Crunchy Nut Cereal because the thought of peanuts mixed in with my corn flakes was not an appealing one. But the offer of trying something for free really does tend to change a mind quickly. And thanks to BzzAgent.com I got to do just that.
I really liked this cereal. It is crunchy and sweet. Crunchy Nut tastes a lot like Kellogg's Frosted Flakes except it has more of a honey flavor rather than the frosting taste. There aren't as many nuts on the flakes in the box as there are pictured on the box. This works for me because I don't think I'd like the texture of the cereal if peanuts were more prominent in the recipe. But for people that are choosing this cereal in hopes that the nuts will be abundant you'll be disappointed. Everyone in my house liked this cereal and we have since bought a second box. So, I recommend that people give it a try. Especially, if you are a Tony the Tiger fan and looking for a small change up for breakfast time.

In my BzzKit I received a free box of cereal and several 50 cent off coupons.

Kellogg's Crunchy Nut cereal also comes in Golden Honey Nut and Caramel Nut.

http://www.kelloggscrunchynut.com

I received this product free from BzzAgent.com in order to try it and share my honest opinion about it.

Suave Professionals Moroccan Styling Oil Review

2013-01-18T20:25:00.000-07:00

Firstly, I don’t use styling oil on a regular basis. I used to use oil sheen and oily pomades when I would straighten my hair. I stopped as soon as I found an alternative because I hated how messy and greasy my hair always felt. So I was interested to try the new Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Argan Styling Oil because it claims to be “ultra-light.” I received a free 3 ounce sample from BzzAgent.com to try the product and give my honest opinion.

To be fair, I must mention that at the moment my hair is in pretty bad shape. It is really dry so Suave Professionals had its work cut out for it.

I was a bit worried that it would have a strong “perfumy” scent that would give me a headache. However, it has just the right amount of fragrance and after a few minutes on my hair I didn’t smell it anymore. (Actually, that’s when I wore my hair pulled back) When I wore my hair down I did catch a whiff of the styling oil here and there but it was not overpowering. But it did get annoying after a few hours.

It is easy to apply and I really like the pump dispenser. The directions say to use 2-3 pumps but for my dry, poofy hair 4-5 pumps seemed more appropriate.

The styling oil is light. My hair didn’t feel oily or heavy. It did add some shine but not as much as I expected. After using the oil for a week, my hair does seem a little healthier but nothing dramatic. It was not a quick fix for me. I think it will continue to improve the health of my hair with prolonged use.

The price is about average and it worked well enough but since I’m not partial to styling oils I don’t know if I will buy more Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Styling Oil once my sample bottle runs out.

Also available in the Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Argan Oil line are; Shine Shampoo and Conditioner, Color Care Shampoo and Conditioner and Deep Conditioning Shine Mask.

Find more information about the line here: https://secure.suave.com/moroccan-infusion/argan-oil-products/default.aspx

Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Argan Oil is sold at select mass retailers, drug and grocery stores for a suggested price of $5.98

Future Bzz

2013-01-11T10:25:00.002-07:00

I am currently in three new BzzCampaigns; Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Styling Oil, Kellogs Crunchy Nut Cereal and Morning Star Farms (veggie burgers.)

I have only received the Suave styling oil so far. I will try it out this weekend and then post my review.

I will review the Cereal and Veggie Burgers when I get them.

BzzAgent.com also invited me to the Redbox Instant by Verizon BzzCampaign - one month free trial. I declined this one because my internet connection isn't fast enough. You can check out this offer for yourself here: https://www.redboxinstant.com/rbgatekeeper/

And since there is not much else going on in this post... another picture of my dogs.

Stella Artois Chalice

2012-12-07T13:51:00.001-07:00

I got a free Stella Artois Chalice from Bzzagent. Apparently, it is the "best" way to drink a Stella Artois pint.

Along with the Chalice it is recommended that Stella Artois should be served using The 9-Step Belgian Pouring Ritual :

The Purification
The Sacrifice
The Liquid Alchemy
The Crown
The Removal
The Beheading
The Judgement
The Cleansing
The Bestowal

(These websites ask you to verify your date of birth. You must be 21 or older to enter the sites.)

See The 9-Step Belgian Pouring Ritual here: http://www.stellaartois.com/?p=506

Buy a Chalice of your own here: http://www.budshop.com//webstore/store/budshop/product_list.do

I am a BzzAgent. I recieved a free product from BzzAgent.com to review and share my opinions honestly.

If you smell what the Rock is... nevermind: Glade Expressions - Review

2012-10-04T00:25:00.000-07:00

Glade Expressions Collection "classing up" my linen closet.

I received a booklet of coupons from BzzAgent, because they love me. Or maybe just because I'm a member and was accepted into the Glade Expressions BzzCampaign. You decide. Anyway, the booklet had one free coupon for Glade Expressions Fragrance Mist starter kit and one free Glade Expressions Oil Diffuser starter kit so I could try them and give my opinion. There are also ten $4 off coupons for the Oil Diffuser starter kit and ten $2 off coupons for the Fragrance Mist starter kit for me to pass along.
I found both products at Fry's while I was grocery shopping. The price at Fry's was $4.29 for the Fragrance Mist starter kit and $8.49 for the Oil Diffuser starter kit. I'll just be honest right now, I don't think I would purchase either of these without the coupons or a major sale price cut.
I chose the Oil Diffuser in Pineapple & Mangosteen and a Fragrance Mist starter kit in Fuji Apple & Cardamom Spice. I got these two free with the Bzz/Glade coupons. I also purchased a Pineapple & Mangosteen Fragrance Mist Starter Kit.
The Glade Expressions Collection is designed to have an appearance that will fit with most home decor. That way you don't have to hide sprays when you have guests come to your house.

I replaced my scented candle with the Oil Difusser.

Another interesting feature is that the Fragrance Mist and the Oil diffuser are both refillable.

Unscrew the bottom to replace can when empty.

Oil diffuser pieces easily snap together and oil is replaceable

I initially put the oil diffuser in my bedroom. My bedroom is small and so after about 30 minutes the scent in the room was too strong and overwhelming. I moved the oil diffuser to the living room where it worked much better.
For about 2 to 2 1/2 weeks there was a noticeable scent from the diffuser when I walked into the living room but after that I could only smell it when I was standing close to the diffuser.

At first, the Fragrance Mist is a bit hard to squeeze but after I used it several times it seemed easier. However, I did hear a cracking sound once or twice when I used it which makes me worry a little that it might eventually break. We'll see.
The spray comes out in a light, even mist and has a pleasant aroma. The Pineapple & Mangosteen Fragrance Mist smells like pineapple flavored Lifesavers candy. Which I kind of like but I know it's not for everyone.
The Fuji Apple & Cardamom Spice is a very similar scent to Apple Cinnamon but the cardamom is a "spicier" more potent scent. The Fuji Apple & Cardamom Spice scent lingers in a room for a long time. On the other hand, in my experience the Pineapple & Mangosteen dissipates quite quickly in the air.
I plan to try the other two scents when these run out. (If I find them on sale.)

Other fragrances available are Lavender & Juniper Berry and Cotton & Italian Mandarin.
Glade Expressions Collection can be found at most grocery stores and mass retailers. For more information about the fragrances go here: http://www.glade.com/en-us/Collections/expressionsCollection/pages/default.aspx

I am a Bzzagent. I receive free samples and coupons for products that I try out in order to share my honest opinion.

Review - Nerf FireVision Football

2012-09-17T13:25:00.000-07:00

I received a free Nerf FireVision Football and Frames from BzzAgent.com - of which I am a member- to use and review. Nerf FireVision is intended for ages 6 and up.

(For the purposes of this post and for their online anonymity I will refer to my neice and nephew by nicknames. Bubbie age 10 and Kettle Corn age 8 - she chose that one herself. They aren't really ready for fame yet.)

The football is a good quality, well made product like we'd expect from Nerf. The Frames are hard plastic with two led lights and fit comfortably above your eyes.

When we tried on the Frames in a slightly darkened room, the silver "reflective material" lit up in the color the of the Frames. It was pretty neat. Nerf calls this Microprism Technology.

When playing with the FireVision Football, only players wearing the FireVision Frames will be able to see the light effect. This Football set comes with two frames and you can purchase additional frames separately for around $5.99 each. Frames come in red and green.

Bubbie and Kettle Corn aren't the most athletic kids on the planet and to top it off it's been well over 100 degrees everyday, so it took a bit of convincing from me to get them outside to try the Nerf FireVision. The kids played outside at about 4 pm. It was still sunny out and they played in the shade. Neither of them could see light reflecting on the ball so it needs to be a bit darker in order to light up the ball outdoors.

Once they started playing catch - and I use the word loosely because neither of them actually caught the ball - they had fun with it.

Bubbie wears glasses and he had no trouble wearing the FireVision Frames over his glasses.

Kettle Corn decided to go with the "if you aren't very good, scare your opponent into thinking you are" approach to the game.

The kids had fun with it and I suspect they would have even more fun at night when the light effect comes into play. And if it was Autumn and not as hot outside.

The Nerf FireVision Football is about $19.99(SRP) and comes with two FireVision Frames. The frames use 8 A76 alkaline batteries which are included. Nerf FireVision also comes in Nerfoop with one pair of FireVision Frames $14.99 (Suggested Retail Price) and Hyperbounce Ball with one pair of FireVision Frames $9.99 (SRP).

Nerf FireVision is available at Amazon.com, Target.com, Walmart.com Toysrus.com and more.

Disclaimer, full disclosure and whatnot: I received this product free in order to use it, review it and spread the word about it. The above opinions are honest and they are my own.

"The Nothing Grows Stronger"

2012-09-14T13:25:00.000-07:00

Fionabelle does her best impersonation of Gmork from The NeverEnding Story. Luckily, she didn't ask me to play Atreyu.

I Review Unreal Candy, Really

2012-09-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

There was also Unreal 41 but it was eaten before I remembered to take a picture

For the Unreal Candy BzzCampaign I received an envelope in the mail from BzzAgent that contained one coupon for a free Unreal™ candy and five buy one get one free coupons. The thing about the Unreal candy company is that they wanted to create a candy that is made without all the preservatives and extra ingredients that make junk food bad for you and still let it be tasty and affordable. Unreal candies do not contain hydrogenated oils, corn syrup, artificial colors or preservatives, or GMOs. If you have no idea what the Hades a GMO is like I didn't, it stands for Genetically Modified Organisms: plants and animals that are created by gene splicing, merging of DNA or genetic engineering. And if you already knew that well, here's a gold star for your good noodle chart. I heard about GMOs when Emma tried to get the cafeteria to stop serving scorpion/tomato hybrids at Degrassi... Not that I watch that show or anything.
So, back to the review. "Junk food, UNJUNKED™," if you will.

I found a display of Unreal Candy in the front of a CVS store. CVS had 5 types of Unreal candy; Unreal 5 (chocolate caramel nougat bar), Unreal 8 (chocolate caramel peanut nougat bar), Unreal 77 (chocolate peanut butter cups), Unreal 54 (candy coated chocolates with peanuts), and Unreal 41 (candy coated chocolates).
Now I've got Candy Rain by Soul for Real stuck in my head and you've probably no idea what that is. (a bit of history lesson if your interested Candy Rain) Right, moving on.

I'm going to go on record as not being a fan of the Unreal candy names. Maybe over time I might remember the numbers and who's who and stop referring to them as "the one that's like M&Ms," and "the Snickers type," but I doubt it.

I bought all five types but unfortunately, I only got to try Unreal 8 and Unreal 77 and one piece of Unreal 41. Because I was feeling generous or my family's "oh, good for you" glances felt more like "you're really not going to offer us any" stares.

Here is what I thought of the candy.
Unreal 41: It has a really light texture. Not as hearty as an M&M. It was sweet enough. It had good chocolate taste and a crunchy candy shell. I thought it was pretty good and wouldn't mind having them again.
Unreal 8: It is not sweet enough for me. The chocolate tastes a bit like dark chocolate. (I don't fancy dark chocolate.) The filling is tasty especially the peanuts which comprise most of the candy bar. The caramel and nougat layers are quite thin. It's not bad but there are better options available i.e. Snicker's.
Unreal 77: The chocolate is not as sweet as a Reese's Peanut Butter cup but the peanut butter in Unreal 77 makes up for it with its sweetness. This makes the overall sweetness just about right. (I need a thesaurus.) I like Unreal 77 it tastes good, has a good texture and I would buy it again.

Honest opinions of Unreal candy from other people in my house.

Unreal 41: It tastes like dark chocolate and almost like coffee. It's okay but not as good as M&Ms.
Unreal 5: It is chewy all the way through. There is not enough contrast of texture. The caramel is gummy or chewy and gets stuck in my teeth. There is a slight after taste of dark chocolate. It's okay if you don't like crunch.
Unreal 54: Not quite sweet enough but tastes pretty good. The peanut is pretty big and adds a nice crunch.

The consensus: I think my family would buy and eat some varieties of Unreal candy again but it wouldn't replace our favorite brands.

You can find nutrition information on each candy and some background about how this company and candy came to be on their website: getunreal.com
You can find the candy itself in CVS. I also hear it is available in Kroger, Walgreens, Food4Less, Fred Meyer, Michael's, Ralph's, Riteaid and Staples.
Beginning this summer more than 30,000 stores around the country, will also carry UNREAL™
candy.

Full disclosure, disclaimer and all that good stuff: I am a BzzAgent and Bzzagent sends me free samples and coupons of products in order for me to review them and share my honest opinions.

<img src="https://img.bzzagent.com/image/unrealCandy.jpg?Type=activity&Activity=6106959830&Campaign=1567983861&Uid=330173&token=bbe89c4bd7ef4663a16af68e0a682145" alt=""/>

More New Bzz

2012-08-27T12:25:00.000-07:00

So far this month I am signed up for three BzzCampaigns. I haven't received or tried them yet. When I do I will post my reviews.

The first is for Unreal Candy.

gentunreal.com

Description from getunreal.com:

The question became a mission.
Unreal^™was born

We've just unjunked America's favorite candy and true to Nicky's dream, we think it tastes better without the corn syrup, the artificial ingredients, and the partially hydrogenated oils. Not to mention less sugar. We even added more cacao, real caramel (not corn syrup dyed to look like caramel), more peanuts, protein, and fiber. All this is the product of the UNREAL™ culture. We’re building an eclectic mix of people from different walks and experiences. A Kashi guy. One from Google. An interior decorator. A P&G’er. A guitarist from Glaceau. A guy from Mars. An actual Oompa Loompa. A dog named Lola. You’d never find these people together in any other company in the world. But it works. Why? Because we’re drawn together by a common mission. To challenge what we’ve come to accept in our food and its effect on our health. To change the way junk food is made here in America and around the world. To unjunk the world™.

The second is Nerf FireVision Sports.

hasbro.com/nerf

Product Description form Hasboro.com:

FireVision Sports features Microprism Technology, which creates a glowing streak of light, day or night when you wear the FireVision Frames. Choose your team, and change the color of the glow with red or green FireVision Frames with a range over 100 feet/30 meters. Whichever color you choose, that’s the color your Football will glow.

Includes: Football with Microprism Technology, 2 pairs of FIREVISION Frames, and instructions.

x8 A76 ALKALINE BATTEIRES INCLUDED.

Features: • Bright blazing light

• FIREVISION Frames activate your ultra-bright glowing ball, day or night!

• No charging

• Battery-powered FIREVISION Frames let you play for hours without stopping to charge up the glow!

• The ball glows a different color depending on whether you wear red or green FIREVISION Frames!

Ages 6 and up.

CAUTION: Discontinue use if reflective material begins to separate.

NOTE: Not for play in complete darkness. Know your surroundings and clear the area of obstructions before each use.

And the third Glade Expressions^®

glade.com

The Glade Expressions Collection includes a Fragrance Mist and Oil Diffuser.

The Fragrance Mist and Oil Diffuser are refillable with Glade Expressions fragrances; Cotton & Italian Mandarin (available for mist only), Fuji Apple & Cardamom Spice, Lavender & Juniper Berry, Pineapple & Mangosteen.

The Mist holder is designed to more easily blend into your home décor. The Glade ExpressionsOil Diffuser holder is available in bamboo or white to matche home décor.

Visit glade.com to learn more about Glade Expressions^® products and to explore all their scent collections. Fragrance satisfaction guaranteed or your money back*

*Visit glade.com to learn more about the Glade Expressions^® Money-Back Guarantee.

I'm a BzzAgent and I get free samples and coupons from bzzagent.com in exchange for my honest opinions of the products.

Logo Brings Misfits To American Viewers

2012-07-01T16:25:00.000-07:00

For the first time in the U.S., viewers get the chance to check out this British, supernatural comedy/drama/thriller. Well, the first time for those of us who haven't already seen the show on Hulu.

I'm pretty excited about this because I like the show enough to watch it all over again. And even better because my TV doesn't freeze and pixelate while I'm watching like my laptop does. Who am I kidding? I have Cox Communications digital cable, yeah it does.

Misfits is a daring, entertaining and addictive show that takes a familiar genre and comes up with clever ways for the characters to play it out each week. Five young people, strangers to each other, doing what I would call court appointed community service. What it's called on the show is Community Payback. The main characters are caught in a freak storm and resutlts in them developing a unique "super powers." Which eneviatbly leads to entertaining misadventures.

Misfits premieres Tuesday, July 19th on Logo.
For a list of the cast and schedule for the show go to the Misfits show page on LogoTv.com.
In case you want to see all the seasons now and because I'm not sure how much Logo is going to edit this show go to http://www.hulu.com/misfits. Misfits has "strong language" and nudity and I don't think Logo is into that.
For information on the series and all three seasons and (upcoming fourth season), clips, pictures, interviews with cast members and more. Find it here Misfits E4.com site.

Review -- Smooth 'N Shine® Keratin Power Semi-Permanent Hair Tamer

2012-06-25T12:25:00.000-07:00

The last time I used a hair relaxer was about four or five years ago. I only used them when I cut my hair extremely short in hopes that I could achieve the popular pixie cut styles. Of course, I have a hair type that can’t pull them off and hair that does what it wants to do no matter how much I plead with it.

I gave up on relaxers because they are harsh on my hair and leave it feeling like straw. I also stopped using flat irons after my niece; just in kindergarten decided she hated her hair because “it wasn’t pretty like everyone else’s.” Because it wasn't straight and didn't sit flat. I realized that my encouragement to “love yourself the way you are because that is the exact way you are meant to be.” and “Your hair is awesome and cool,” Would be more effective and believable if I didn’t turn around and flatten away my own curls. So two years ago I also gave up flat ironing my hair, well…mostly. I’ve flat ironed my hair about six or seven times in the last two years. Each time getting a sideways look from my niece and feeling guilty. However, lately she seems to be embracing her hair a bit more (albeit slightly) and I, on the other hand am tired of my standard ponytails and braided hairdos. When BzzAgent offered the Smooth 'N Shine^® Keratin Power Semi-Permanent Hair Tamer BzzCampaign I wanted in.

However, when my older sister found out I got a Smooth 'N Shine^® Keratin Power Semi-Permanent Hair Tamer BzzKit to try she wasn't content to just accept the coupons. She volunteered herself to test the kit. She relaxes her regularly and I haven't used one in years. So it made sense.

I got the job of applying it to her hair. The Smooth 'N Shine^® Keratin Power Semi-Permanent Hair Tamer has two steps. Three, if you use the Smooth ‘N Shine Polishing Olive and Tea Tree RevivOil that came in the box -there are so many words on the conditioner label that I’m not sure if that’s its complete name but close enough - which we did.

Step One: The Protein Smoothing Treatment was pretty easy to apply. It comes in a tube with a twist off cap. The gel inside is clear and thick. It smelled at first like rotten eggs then later a similar scent to relaxers. When the kids walked into the room they asked, “Why does it smell like it does after the dogs take a bath?” But what can you do? There was no burning or tingling of the scalp or any other irritation. The ends of her hair were already breaking off before we started the process but we did not see an increase of breakage due to using the Smooth ‘N Shine. We didn’t notice much of a difference to my sister’s hair during or after step one. I was even a bit worried because her hair didn’t feel very healthy as I was rinsing out the Protein Treatment.

Step Two: The Neutralizing Milk also a tube with twist off cap, luckily there is not much scent to this one. The Neutralizing Milk is a light cream and it was easy to apply as well. When it came time to rinse off the Neutralizing Milk my sister and I both got a surprise. Her hair felt really soft. We even continued rinsing past the recommended time because we weren’t sure if it was Neutralizing Milk still left on her hair or her hair itself that felt so soft. Here is a direct quote from my sister after we rinsed the neutralizing milk off her hair, "Wow, My hair feels good."

Step Three: Smooth ‘N Shine Polishing Olive and Tea Tree RevivOil instructs you to leave on for one minute and rinse. My sister put the conditioner on, a shower cap over and applied heat from the blow dryer for about five minutes for extra conditioning.

The box says two steps but the instructions want you to blow dry and then flat iron your hair making it more like four to five steps. I somehow forgot to mention the two times you have to wash your hair before you start, so… seven steps. So make sure you have several hours for this. You can opt to just air dry and go curly. But we did blow dry and flat iron her hair.

Long review short, the Smooth ‘N Shine Semi Permanent Hair Tamer seems to be a pretty good product and if it can really continue to improve her hair with prolonged use, then my sister will keep using it. I think she might also have to use relaxers every now and again because I don’t know if the tamer on its own will give her the results she wants but we’ll see. After seeing her results I might try Smooth 'N Shine^® Keratin Power Semi-Permanent Hair Tamer myself.

In the before picture she has oil sheen on her hair but not in the after, that’s why the before appears shinier and smoother. In reality her hair felt softer after the process.
In the after picture, I think the flash makes it look like her hair is suddenly highlighted. It doesn’t look that way in person.

Before: Hair was relaxed several months ago, blow

dried, flat ironed and curled with a curling iron

After: Smooth 'N Shine Tamer used, blow

dried and flat ironed.

Full Disclosure, Disclaimer, the truth and nothing but the truth: I am a BzzAgent. BzzAgent sends me free samples and coupons to try out and share my opinions -and the coupons- with others. These are my honest opinions.

http://img.bzzagent.com/image/smoothNshine.jpg?Type=activity&Activity=3552773727&Campaign=0046798219&Uid=330173&token=4bffc51fc45cb5b965ffe324c25b8f1f

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Smooth 'N Shine® Keratin Power Semi-Permanent Hair Tamer BzzCampaign

2012-06-23T12:25:00.000-07:00

The BzzKit (There were also a $5.00 off coupon and four $2.00 off coupons to use at Walgreens)

I got invited to the Smooth 'N Shine® Keratin Power Semi-Permanent Hair Tamer BzzCampaign. I haven't used any relaxers or other chemical treatments on my hair in years so this might be interesting. Review to follow.

To get information about this product now go here: SmoothNShine.com. For a how to video click this: http://smoothnshine.com/video2.html

I am a BzzAgent. I receive free samples and coupons of products to use, review and share with others. All opinions are honest and my own.

Veronica Mars Marathon!

2012-05-26T23:25:00.000-07:00

SOAPnet will be airing four episodes from season one Sunday, June 17. In honor of one of Keith Mars most memorable lines (much to Veronica's dismay), the marathon is being dubbed, "A Veronica Mars Marathon: Who's your Daddy?"
SOAPnet will be airing four episodes that highlight the awesome adventures and relationship of this very entertaining Father/Daughter team.

The shows regular schedule is Monday-Friday at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.; Saturdays from 1-4 p.m.; and Sundays 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

HuffingtonPost.com SOAPnet

Flora By Gucci The Garden: The review

2012-05-15T16:25:00.000-07:00

I received a sample of the new Flora BY GUCCI’s The Garden Collection because I am a member of BzzAgent.com and was chosen for the BzzCampaign to use and review the product. This is my first ever perfume review so bear with me.

Flora by Gucci The Garden Collection consists of three different fragrances inspired by three flower blossoms and the House of Gucci's flora pattern.

I really like the look of the collection itself. The bottles are a simple yet classic design. They are clear glass bottles in hexagonal shape the lets you see the tinted liquid inside. Each has its own pale delicate hue. All are finished off with a cute little bow around the neck of the bottle.

First, I tried Gorgeous Gardenia (the “pink one”). According to the booklet included in my BzzKit, the elements of the fragrance include red berries, pears, frangipani flower, patchouli, brown sugar and of course, the main ingredient gardenia blossom. When I smelled it in the bottle it was strong and I sensed a bit of a citrus scent. I am not a huge perfume wearer and I especially don’t like to be an overwhelming ball of scent floating from room to room. So, I only dabbed several drops of the perfume on the inside of each wrist and the crooks of both my elbows. After I applied it to my skin it was very light and I was no longer to detect whatever the citrus scent was. Gorgeous Gardenia is not overwhelming, it is definitely a floral scent unfortunately, I can’t speak to whether or not it does justice to the scent of an actual gardenia. I was able to smell the perfume now and again as I went about my daily routine. It would faintly waft into the air when I moved my arms. By the evening I could only smell the perfume if I put my nose to my skin. I think if you apply it a bit heavier initially it will probably last longer. I was not wowed by Gorgeous Gardenia. It seems like just an average floral perfume.

Next up is Gracious Tuberose (the "green one"). The tuberose flower is joined by violet leaf, cistus (a flowering plant in the rockrose family) and white cedar wood in this scent. When I apply it to my skin it is a light floral scent with a bit of a sour citrus scent. I'm not loving Gracious Tuberose. There is an aroma of something like a lemon or orange blossom. The description says violet leaf but I have no idea what that smells like. I don't think Gracious Tuberose smells as high quality as the Gorgeous Gardenia. It definitely reminds me of nature, outdoors, and greenery but not in a way I would like to smell like. If I wasn’t wearing it for review, I would have washed it off. By the evening I could still smell the perfume on my skin and faintly in the air as I moved.
I’m stuck with the words sour, citrus and floral when I think about Gracious Tuberose. Surprisingly, Gracious Tuberose is my sister’s favorite of the three. That just goes to show how subjective fragrance can be and how perfume smells different on everyone’s skin.

I saved Glamorous Magnolia for last for a couple reasons. I liked it the best when I took a quick sniff of the three from the tester vials and most importantly I’m partial to anything blue. Glamorous Magnolia has the sweetest scent of the three. Some of the components of Glamorous Magnolia are freesia, peony, magnolia and sandalwood. It is a clean powdery type scent. The sandalwood is also a big presence in this one. Glamorous Magnolia is light yet bold enough to command attention. Glamorous Magnolia is the one of the three that most makes me think of the bouquet of assorted flowers the collection is meant to represent. Glamorous Magnolia is a happy playful fragrance that actually elevated my mood when I put it on. This one I looked forward to wearing for the day. I easily choose Glamorous Magnolia as my favorite of the three. Still I don't like any of them enough to buy the full bottle for $70. If I got it as a gift or came across more samples, I would wear it on occasion when the mood struck me.

For more information and to learn of two more scents that are a part of The Garden Collection click away, Gucciparfums.comDisclaimer, Full Disclosure and what have you: I am a BzzAgent. I received this product sample for free in order to spread the word and share my honest opinions and I did.

I’m not that good of a photographer and I don’t have model friends hanging out in my garden so the photographs are a part of GUCCI’s Flora The Garden Collection advertisement and belong to them. Model: Abbey Lee Kershaw Photographer: Solve Sundsbo

SoBe Pomegranate Nectarine Lifewater Review

2012-05-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

After doing a bit of light yard work, I thought it was a great time to try my SoBe Lifewater with Coconut Water Pomegranate Nectarine sample. I have had other flavored waters and vitamin waters before and did not like the taste. They don’t have enough flavor or sweetness for me. I feel like you get just a hint of flavor or the essence of the fruit. It is more like a tease. I would rather have plain water than the flavored or vitamin waters I’ve tried in the past.

I have had SoBe juice on several occasions and do enjoy a few of the flavor options. This is the first time I’m trying SoBe Lifewater.

Firstly, SoBe, Why are your bottles so hard to open? When I did get the bottle open, with a bit of effort and few seconds of nursing my hand, I noticed that the Lifewater had a pleasant, sweet, fruity scent. Almost like candy. Before, I took a sip I was expecting not to like this drink. But it was plenty sweet and smooth on the tongue. It was not too tart. SoBe has found a good balance of making the drink sweet enough to be more exciting than water but not too sweet that you feel like you might as well have reached for a juice or other sugary drink.

I don’t really taste the coconut itself but suspect it is probably the ingredient that gives the drink its smooth almost creamy texture. Of course, I’ve never had coconut water before so maybe I can taste it and just can’t tell.

I do feel hydrated after having several sips of the drink. I think it would be good to have on hand during the summer when the weather gets hotter. I would buy SoBe Lifewater in the future (when it’s on sale.)

Disclaimer, etc. I am a BzzAgent. As a BzzAget I received free samples and coupons to review the product and give my honest opinion and spread the word about a product.

Fionabelle trys out a new grass toupee...

2012-05-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

I told her I prefer her natural look but she tends to get bored with the same old fashion
and insists she can't do a thing with her real hair.

New "Bouquet" for Perfume Enthusiasts...

2012-05-10T00:25:00.000-07:00

Flora by GUCCI The Garden

The Flora Garden Collection consists of three distinct floral inspired scents: Glamorous Magnolia, Gorgeous Gardenia and Gracious Tuberose. Lucky me, I get to try them all.

My BzzKit for the Flora by Gucci The Garden Collection finally arrived yesterday morning. Yay! I really liked the overall look and presentation of this particular BzzKit. I felt like I was receiving gift that someone put a lot of thought into. It is really pretty. The sample size bottles are super cute as well. I think Ill have a hard time tossing them when they are empty. I'll have to start thinking of some way to reuse them or a crafts project they would work with.

The box was stuffed with quite a bit of stuff. Including a booklet that describes each scent in detail as well as each element used to compliment the main flower for each scent. There are three mini bottles (5 ml) of each scent. Also, for me to pass along there are six (2 ml) vial samples, three of each fragrance. The booklet itself even has three .071ml samples in it that you peel of the page to reveal a small sponge that you use to apply the fragrance.

I think the mini bottles will be part of my Mother's Day gift to my mom this year. I'll use the smaller samples to try out and review the perfumes.

If you want to "explore and express the depths of your emotions" or just try out some new pretty floral scented perfumes, Flora by Gucci The Garden Collection is on sale now at Macys.com with a price range of about $70 for 1.6 oz eau de toilette spray and $100 for 3.3 oz. There is also a 6.7 oz body lotion available for $50. Sephora.com is another place to find The Garden Collection.

I'll be trying out the perfumes in the next few days and will post reviews shortly thereafter.

Disclaimer, full disclosure or what have you: I am a BzzAgent. I was sent these samples for free and was asked to try them out, review them and let the world know what I think. These opinions are my own and they are honest.

New Bzz

2012-05-03T16:25:00.000-07:00

I am enrolled in three separate BzzCampaigns at the moment. Unfortunately, I have not received a BzzKit for any of them, yet. So, I may not be able to share my opinions or reviews about the three yet. However, I figured I could at least let people know that these products exist. Maybe you can try them out on your own and let me know what to look forward to. I am really trying to wait patiently but I am very excited to try:

This one might be a good Mother's Day gift. I know a lot of woman that really enjoy their fragrances. They also enjoy changing things up every now and then. My guess is that the Gucci Flora Garden Collection will be very popular with them. I can't wait until the samples arrive.

I do get tired of drinking soda and/or water everyday. SoBe Lifewater will be an interesting change. On top of that it has healthy ingredients. I've been noticing the growing popularity of something called coconut water. It was even mentioned on an episode of Parks and Recreation (Watch It!). I myself have never tried coconut water and now thanks to SoBe Life Water, I will be trying it soon.

We eat pork pretty regularly at my house so the Pork Be inspired BzzCampaign is going to be a big hit. I can tell already.
For anything pork related that you ever wanted to know including and especially recipes click here: PorkKnifeandSpoon.com - the National Pork Board's official blog. If you're into that new-fangled contraption called Pinterest, go here: http://pinterest.com/PorkBeInspired/

Reviews and follow-ups to... well, follow. Stay Tuned.

Disclaimer: I am BzzAgent. I do receive coupons and/or samples of products. I am asked to spread the word about those products and give my honest opinion. And I do.

Fionabelle's First Hail

2012-03-27T17:25:00.000-07:00

Fionabelle experiences her first hailstorm and then enjoys a yard slushie.

veronica MARS on SOAPnet...

2012-03-06T15:25:00.000-07:00

The best show ever cancelled (and in my opinion, that ever lived) is getting another run on SOAPnet. Yay! Unfortunately, SOAPnet channel has also been cancelled. Boo. SOAPnet will be airing the Veronica Mars series on their station starting in April. However, the channel is set to be replaced by yet another Disney channel aimed at preschoolers. Beginning in some areas as early as March 23 the channels will slowly be swapped out until SOAPnet is no more. I was already bummed because no SOAPnet means no Season 4 of Being Erica. Which thankfully I found on youtube. Maybe I shouldn't have said that... Please don't make them delete the episodes until I've seen them all , youtube powers that be. Anyway...
It's exciting to see this awesome show get some well deserved recognition and also a let down that it will again be cut short.
But any chance Veronica Mars gets to have new viewers and fans is okay with me. It is my favorite show and I still take any chance I get to bring it up and encourage people to check it out because if you haven't seen it you are truly missing out. And If SOAPnet goes Donald Duck before we've had a chance to enjoy the whole series...well we'll always have the DVDs and possibly the movie... But definitely the DVDs, buy the DVDs.

http://sn.soapnet.go.com/news/article/veronica-mars-coming-to-soapnet