Melanie Meditates

Beauty Box 5 December 2014

2014-12-26T05:30:00.000-07:00

Beauty Box 5 is a beauty subscription box that costs $12 a month. It's one of the less expensive beauty boxes around.

They usually send 4 to 5 deluxe and full sized beauty and makeup products.

Lucky Brand Lucky Number 6 Perfume - Sample Size

Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Moisturizer - .26 oz, Value $10

Absolute Nail Polish Remover Pads in Spring Fresh - Value $3

Jaqua Pink Champagne Hand Cream - 2 oz, Value $12.50

Nanacoco Nail Polish in Emerald -Value $3.95

$30 Jewelry Gift with any subscription from Meet Lilee

Total Value (excluding jewelry gift) - $29.45

This box has a good value for the cost but I wasn't super excited about anything in this box. The only thing that I am looking forward to trying is the nail polish remover. I haven't ever really been excited by their boxes and this is the last one I'll be getting. I'm glad I tried it, though. It gave me a good sense of what I prefer and what I don't like in my subscription boxes.

Have you ever tried Beauty Box 5? What did you think?

This post contains affiliate links.

From Our Family To Yours

2014-12-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

And The Winner Is . . .

2014-12-24T08:30:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Toni Marie C!

You've won the Box of Beauty!

Please contact me at melmck2@gmail.com

so I can get your prize to you.

Everyone else, thank you for entering!

Keep checking back for new giveaways!

The 2014 Wantable December Collection

2014-12-23T05:30:00.000-07:00

Look at the gorgeous beauty I found in the mailbox today!

Wantable is a service that offers monthly subscriptions to their 4 different collections: Makeup, Accessories, Intimates, and (NEW!) Fitness. They hand-pick luxury items that are tailored to your preferences after you complete a short style quiz. I chose the makeup collection.

I love seeing "Packaged Especially for Melanie McKinnon." It really sets the tone for a thoughtful and luxurious experience. On the back of this first card, they talk about their app where you can share pictures of your collection with other Wantable members. It's available for download from the iTunes store.

They send a paper that details your order, shows you the items you Love, Like and Dislike according to your style quiz and has a blank label on the back to make it easy to return anything you don't like. That's one of my favorite parts about this service.

The products come packed in foam so they're completely protected during shipping.

YourMinerals Champagne Gold EyeShadow - I've tried this product in other shades before and I love the texture of this shadow. I'm so happy to have it in another shade. From the order details: "...With it's soft and creamy texture you will find it easy to apply. . . All of our eyeshadow is made by 100% minerals." - Retail $22

Spellbound Nail Lacquer by Liberty Republic in Legend - I've never owned green nail polish before! At first I was worried, but the color is rich and deep and so gorgeous. From the order details: "These polishes bind to the nail for a gel-like wear that lasts up to 2 weeks! The entire line of Spellbound Nail Lacquer is 5-free, cruelty-free, vegan, long wearing, quick-drying, and chip-resistant!" - Retail $14

Lord & Berry Mascare Treatment Mascara in Black - I'm really looking forward to seeing how well this works. You can bet this product will take top priority among my mascaras. From the order details: "An extraordinary 2-in-1 treatment mascara that loves as it lengthens with added Vitamin E to strengthen. . . A mascara that works hard to keep lashes fit and full!" - Retail $23

Eddie Funkhouser Luxlight Illuminator Candlelight - I've recently gotten back into highlighting my face just above my blush. I'm really excited to try this product. From the order details: "Instantly brightens skin and enhances your natural features. . .Beauty Tip: Apply to the inner corners of the eyes, along your cheekbones, in your cupid's bow, or anywhere else you'd like a brightening affect. Blend out with your fingers for a natural look." - Retail $11.99

Total Retail Value: $70.99

For a monthly subscription of the makeup collection it's $36 and $40 for a one time purchase. The value of is pretty amazing! They really did a great job of putting together my collection this month. I'm so impressed with the quality and diversity of the products, while still being functional and easy to add to any beauty routine.

It's easy to subscribe to Wantable. Just go pick one of their 4 collections and take their style quiz to get your own! It's quick and easy and totally worth it. I think I want to try the fitness collection next month!

Have you ever tried Wantable? What did you think?

I received this product in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.

My Makeup Routine

2014-12-22T05:00:00.000-07:00

After a LOT of trial and error, I finally feel like I have perfected my makeup routine. I have products I love and a specific system of applying them. All that adds up to a method that makes me feel pretty and now I'm going to share my favorite products with you. (Hover over the name of the product for more details.)

So Susan Dual Brow Powder- I have unwieldy eyebrows that are sometimes the scourge of my existence. Managing and maintaining them can be a chore but it's always worth it when I do. I like to get them waxed every few months and just pluck in between visits. Even though they're full, when I trim them they can be pretty patchy, which is where this wonderful product comes in.

I used to use an eyebrow pencil that did the job but I wasn't really happy with. Then this baby came in a Wantable subscription box and I was hooked. It fills in without being too much and the darker shade matches my eyebrow color perfectly. The very first thing I do in my routine is fill in my eyebrows.

Mary Kay Brow Gel- This stuff is THE best. I've tried multiple brow gels and this is the only one I've found that lasts all day long. I just brush it slightly upwards on my eyebrows and don't have to think about them the rest of the day. I love not having to worry about what my eyebrows are doing before someone takes a candid picture. It's wonderful.

Benefit Cosmetics Erase Paste Concealer - Next comes the concealer! I love this stuff. It comes with a little instruction booklet that shows you the proper way to apply concealer and it was so helpful. This stuff does it's job and does it well. I use my ring finger to dip into the paste then smudge it into the back of my hand to make sure it goes on even, then apply from in inner eye out, then the outer eye in. I've never been happier with a concealer.

Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eye Primer- This has become key in my routine. I honestly don't know how I ever lived without it. It goes on smooth and adds a little extra shimmer underneath my eyeshadow. Once you apply the eyeshadow you don't have to worry about it creasing or fading the rest of the day. This stuff takes care of all that for you. It's such a great product to have.

MAC Eye Shadows - First I start with the top right shadow, Honey Lust, using the top brush below, I put it all over my lid and a make it a little bit darker in the crease of my lid. Then I use the far left shadow, Dazzlelight, with the bottom brush below for highlighting right underneath my eyebrow and on the inner corner of my eye. Finally, using the square head brush and the bottom eye shadow, Embark, I press it on as as an eyeliner just on my top lid (the bottom only if I'm feeling fancy).

MAC 217 Blending Brush, MAC 212 Flat Definer Brush, and Crown Deluxe Infinity Shadow/Crease Brush (comes in a set with 10 brushes). These three brushes are the ones I use every time I apply my makeup. I don't think I could live without them.

Dior Maximizer Lash Primer- After curling my eyelashes, I start with this primer. It's one of my favorites. It goes on smooth and really helps extend the look of my lashes. I think there are probably better ones than this out there but I'm not ready to spend the money on them quite yet. This one does it's job pretty well.

MAC Studio Sculpt Superblack Lash Mascara - And finally, we come to the mascara. I try a lot of different mascaras but I always end up coming back to this one. It's really easy to apply and I like the consistency of the liquid. I'm not over the moon about it so I'll probably keep experimenting until I find the right one, but this has been an old reliable for almost a year now.

So there you have it! All you could ever want to know about my makeup routine!

What are your favorite products to use in your beauty routine?

This post contains affiliate links.

How To Keep Mom From Becoming a Grinch This Christmas: A Post For Your Kids

2014-12-21T16:19:00.001-07:00

Are you guilty of under-appreciating the mom in your life this Christmas season?

There's still time to turn it around and make mom's heart grow 3 sizes by Christmas Day!

1. Assist with Christmas decorations. She's decorating to help her family feel the Christmas spirit and it sure would increase that spirit if mom had some happy helpers. You could even make some decorations for her to proudly display!

2. Help her gather and wrap presents. Christmas shopping can be fun, but doing ALL the Christmas shopping and wrapping ALL the presents can be a little exhausting. Ask her what she needs help with and try to smile while you're helping.

3. Bump up the Ps and Qs. Manners make all the difference this time of year. Mom works hard to keep her family happy, especially around Christmas. Make sure you are extra polite and extra helpful.

4. Be grateful and appreciative. Whining doesn't help anyone and it's super annoying. Showing mom some extra love and sweetness could go a long way in the present department.

5. Be a Christmas spirit advocate. Mom works hard to keep the magic of the Christmas season alive. Don't ruin it by making unfounded accusations about the existence of Santa.

6. Support Christmas traditions. If mom wants to see Christmas lights or go caroling, do it with a smile on your face and a song in your heart. It will be so helpful and mean the world to her.

Once you've followed these simple steps you'll be able to see your mom's face glow with love and appreciation. Then get ready to have the best Christmas of your life!

Citrus Lane December 2014 Box & Coupon Code

2014-12-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

Citrus Lane is a subscription box for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Each box is personalized for the stage your child is in. It starts at $29 a box and decreases the longer you subscribe. This box is personalized for 3 year old Pearl.

Citrus Lane also has a shop where you can purchase products. I've had great experiences with their customer service and shipping services.

Pizza Stacker - Value $15?

Little Hoot Book - $6.95

Plum Organics Jammy Sammy in Apple Cinnamon - Approx Value $0.75

Melissa & Doug Princess Stamp Set - Value $9.95

Total Value - Approx $33

Overall, I was a little underwhelmed this month. There were so few items and the value is not as great as I would hope. I also feel like the stamps are a little ahead of where Pearl is right now, especially since it says 4+ on them. I was hoping for a more customized box but it's not terrible. I'm sure we will use all these things. Pearl actually already ate the Jammy Sammy and I had some and it was definitely delicious and the highlight of this box.

Go over to Citrus Lane to see their box options and what's in their shop. If you want to subscribe, use the code SAVE40 to get 40% off your first box!

Ipsy December 2014 Bag

2014-12-20T05:30:00.000-07:00

This was the first month I tried Ipsy. I've heard a lot of great things about them so I thought I'd try it out for myself. And it's only $10 a month.

It's my understanding that they send a makeup bag every month and I really liked the one they sent this month. That little bag can hold a lot more than it seems like it would be able to.

Bumble and Bumble All-Style Blow Dry -.5 oz, Approx Value $3

Nourish Organic Eye Cream - .5 oz, Approx Value $8

NYX Butter Lip Balm in Parfait - Full Size, Value $4

Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes Mascara - .1 oz, Value $8

Crown Infinity Crease/Shadow Brush - Value $17.50, can buy for $6.99

Total Value (with discounted brush) - $29.99

Overall, I thought this was a great bag. I love that most everything is a staple in my beauty routine and I'll be able to use all of it. That is really what I look for in the subscription boxes I get.

Do you subscribe to Ipsy? What do you think of it compared to Birchbox?

#CelestialTea Tasting

2014-12-19T14:30:00.000-07:00

I don't consider myself a tea enthusiast but I do enjoy a cup of Peppermint every now and then. When I got this Candy Cane Lane Decaffeinated Holiday Tea in my #FrostyVoxBox I was so excited to try it. There is nothing like a warm cup of tea on a cold winter day and Celestial Seasonings has so many amazing flavors to choose from.

This tea was delicious! It wasn't quite as peppermint-y as I was expecting but that didn't take away from the fact that it was yummy. I always add a little milk and two packets of Equal to make the taste of my tea perfect. Try this Holiday blend! It'll get you in the mood for Christmas next week!

I received this item for free for reviewing purposes from Influenster. All opinions are 100% mine.

Birchbox December 2014 Review

2014-12-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to get my December box so early!

This month they sent a $10 gift card to Gap!

Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream - .1 oz, Value $1.33

Sumita Color Contrast Eyeliner - .024 oz, Value approx. $4.39

Essential Elements Wake Up Rosemary Body Gel - 1.5 oz, Value approx. $3.45

Davines Replumping Hair Filler Superactive - 50mL, Value $19.75

COOLA Tinted Matte SPF 30 for Face - .17 oz, Value approx. $3.60

Davines Replumping Shampoo and Conditioner - Foil Packets

Total Value - Approx $34

I really like this box, especially the value! I used the Replumping Hair Filler from Davines and it was amazing! It completely changed the texture of my thin hair. It actually looks thicker after one use! I was very impressed with that and can't wait to try the replumping shampoo and conditioner. That product alone makes this box for me, the rest are just bonuses.

I love Birchbox. If you want to try it, subscribe here. It's only $10 a month and always totally worth it.

What did you think of this month's box?

#Rimmel London Eyeliner & Makeup Remover

2014-12-18T18:23:00.001-07:00

I never used to wear eyeliner. I thought it was a hassle and unnecessary for me. But earlier this year I got a makeover and they showed me the best eyeliner technique using a flat head brush and a dark eyeshadow. That's usually what I use and it's been a really long time since I've actually used a pencil so I was interested in trying the Rimmel London Scandaleyes Eyeliner that came in my #FrostyVoxBox.

I was pretty happy with it overall, but it reminded me why I prefer a brush to a pencil. This one was fairly easy to use, however, and I really like the color and once I got it just right I thought it was great. As far as pencil eyeliners go, this is a good one.

Then I tried the Rimmel London Eye Makeup Remover to remove their waterproof eyeliner. That was a bit of a challenge. It took some time to get it all off and after I quit there was still a little leftover, but my mascara was completely removed which I was really happy with.

The biggest problem I had with this makeup remover was how dry the skin around my eyes felt afterwards and I've never had that happen with an oil free makeup remover before. But it didn't sting or burn my eyes at all which was a huge plus for me. Overall, it's a good makeup remover for the price.

I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes. All opinions are 100% my own.

How I'm Recovering From The Death of My Son

2014-12-17T05:30:00.000-07:00

I lost my son, Gus, to SIDS 7 and a half years ago. It is by far the hardest trial I've ever faced in my life. And recovering from his loss has been a real challenge and one I feel will be ongoing throughout my life. I've been doing a lot of thinking recently about what it was that helped me crawl out of the deepest hole of grief that has ever consumed me and how I became, once again, a functioning human being. This is what I've come up with:

1. Time- This is the hardest yet most effective tool for overcoming grief. It amazing and frustrating at the same time. I remember the first week after my family left I was lying on the ground underneath our kitchen table, crying and wondering how long I would have to feel that way. In my case, it took about 3 years before the pain in my chest really started to ease.

2. Medication- I have to keep my Major Depressive Disorder under control. I have to regularly see a psychiatrist and stay balanced. Whenever I think I don't need the medication anymore, I have to remember that I'm only thinking that because the medication is working. The right anti-depressants saved my life.

3. Writing- I've done a lot of writing about Gus and to Gus. It is a very effective tool but it's also extremely emotional. It's hard, when I spend most of my days trying not to think too much about how I miss him, to go to a place where I'm spending a concentrated amount of time remembering him and the pain and sadness.

4. Therapy- The psychiatrist is not always enough. I have to have yearly therapy check ins with a counselor that I have a running relationship with. It makes such a difference to have a good counselor that I trust.

5. Distraction- Being sad would have consumed me had I not taken the time to distract myself from the pain every once in a while by reading a book, watching tv or going out with friends. It's still something I use when absolutely necessary.

6. Allowance- There are times when it's appropriate and accepted to think and be sad and I have to embrace those times. I let every bit of emotion pour from my body until there's nothing left. And it is so helpful.

7. Limitation- I learned early on what would trigger me into a vortex of sadness so I knew I needed to steer clear of those things if I wanted to maintain my sanity. Boundaries were set in place for my own protection and most of them I still abide by.

8. Decision - After a certain amount of time (3 years, in my case), I was tired of being sad and ready to be proactive about overcoming the constant pain of losing a child. Things really started to look up from there.

(To be clear, I don't think there is every a point where someone is "recovered" from the death of a loved one. I think it's a constant struggle that is dealt with during someone's life, there are just different ways of managing it.)

Have you ever lost someone close to you? What are some strategies you use to maintain your sanity?

#FrostyVoxBox from Influenster

2014-12-16T09:41:00.000-07:00

I belong to a community called Influenster where I review products online, connect my social network profiles and they send me free products to review from time to time. It's a great program. In the past year I've been a member I've received 3 different VoxBoxes, just to give you an idea of how often you could receive products. I've also won a prize for a Virtual VoxBox where you take a picture of yourself with an item in a store and submit it.

This VoxBox is called the #FrostyVoxBox and it's filled with tons of practical goodies! Follow me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see full reviews of each product. Just click the links or the little stamps on the top left of this page.

They include a card with everything in the box and the different hashtags you should use when writing your reviews. Here is what was included in this VoxBox:

Celestial Seasonings Candy Cane Lane Decaf Green Tea - I cannot wait to try this. As a Mormon, I can only drink decaffeinated tea so this is the perfect tea for me!

No7 Protect & Perfect ADVANCED Sachet - I'm also looking forward to trying this. A full-size bottle of this retails for $22.99.

NYC Expert Last Lip Color in Sugar Plum - This color is close to one of my favorites. I'm excited to see what it will look like on. Retails at $1.99.

Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner - I'm more of a wet/dry eyeliner type of gal but I'll be interested to see how this works on my eyes. Retails at $4.49.

Rimmel Gentle Eye Makeup Remover - I am almost through a sample size of some eye makeup remover that I'm not very happy with so I'm really looking forward to trying this. Retails at $7.49.

EcoTools Hair Brush - Gracie has the gnarliest curly hair and we are always looking for new brushes to help make hair brushing time a little less stressful. Hopefully this will be helpful. Retails at $10.99.

Fruit Vines Bites - My family has an addiction to Red Vines that I do not subscribe to. These look like they should be delicious though. Retails from $1.28 - $1.79.

McCormick Gourmet Thyme - I can always use extra spices in the kitchen. I'm excited to use this Thyme for some holiday cooking! Retails at $4.79.

Total retail value is around $32. This is a great VoxBox! I'm always impressed with what they send me and this box is no exception. Stay tuned for more reviews!

Do you want to become an Influenster too? Click right here for a personal invitation from me!

I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.

FabFitFun Winter 2014 Box Review

2014-12-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

My FabFitFun Winter Box came last week!

It was like Christmas morning! The box was packed with goodies!

Daniel Stone COCO Candle in Red Currant - Value $42

Passport To Beauty Tibetan Goji Berry Intense Anti-Aging Eye Serum with Retinol - Value 88

Organic Valley Organic Balance Milk Protein Shake - Value $2.99

yourMinerals Assorted Eye Shadow Duo - Value $44

Half United Fighting Hunger Necklace - Value $34

Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel Sensitive - Value $39

Lather AHA Hand Crème with Evening Primrose - Value $30

Special K Snack Bar - Value $2.62

Justin's Classic Almond Butter - Value .63

$30 Fashion Project Gift Card with Free Shipping - Value $30

Salted - 3 Months of Free Membership - $29.97

Zumba 60-min DVD "Max" and $25 Gift Card - $55

Total Value - $383.59

I love the value of this box! It always amazes me. Overall, I'm pretty happy with this box. I should be able to use most everything in it but I'm especially looking forward to trying the Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel and the Tibetan Eye Serum. They look like great products.

Have you ever subscribed to the FabFitFun box? Do you think you'll try it next season?

Sample Society Subscription Box Review & Coupon Code

2014-12-15T05:30:00.000-07:00

The Allure Sample Society is a subscription box I've wanted to try for a long time. So when they had their Black Friday deal, I had to go for it. I'm so glad I did!

I love the packaging!

I comes with a booklet outlining everything in the box, what it is, why they like it and how much it costs.

Burberry Beauty Fresh Glow Luminous Fluid Base in Nude Radiance - 5mL, Value $8

Crabtree & Evelyn Ultra-Moisturizing Hand Therapy in Verbena and Lavender - 25g, Value $8

Butter London Lippy Tinted Balm in Strawberry Field - Full Size, Value $20

Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye - 5mL, Value $19

RGB Nail Polish in Oxblood - Full Size, Value $18

Total Value - $73!

I was so happy with this box, the value alone was amazing! I'm excited to try everything, especially the night repair eye gel. I've been happy with my nighttime eye gel but I'll always try a new one.

This box is $15 a month. To get $5 off your first month, enter the code 5FORYOU at checkout.

Have you tried the Sample Society before? What did you think?

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Happy 9th Birthday Gracie!

2014-12-13T12:08:00.000-07:00

Today is my first-born's birthday.

She's 9 years old!

We sure love her and are so

happy she's part of our family.

Target Beauty Box Review

2014-12-12T06:30:00.000-07:00

Target is my most favorite store on the planet and when I heard they had a beauty box I knew I had to get one. I got one a few months back for $7 but the box I'm reviewing is the $10 box they were offering.

First, it comes with a list of all the products inside, including a 20% off coupon for women's apparel, $3 off a beauty department purchase of $15 or more, and an extra $10 off coupon to Dermstore.com.

Hair Food Thickening Solution - 3.2 oz, Value $11.99

CoverGirl Eye Enhancers Kit - Value $4.49

Laneige Water Sleeping Mask - .6 oz, Value $5.75

ChapStick Total Hydration Lip Care, Peach - Value $2.99

Boots No7 Protect & Perfect Advanced Serum - .1 oz, Value $2.99

L'Oreal Butterfly Intenza Mascara - Value $7.99

Pixi Endless Silky Eye Pen - Value $12.19

Revlon HD Lacquer - Value $7.99

Total Value - $56.38

What an amazing value for just $10! I love trying new things and can't wait to try out all the fun things in this box. I love that they included every day items that I know I'll be able to use. That's one of the best things about the Target beauty box. I'm super excited about the hair thickening solution. My hair is abysmally thin, especially after having Wallace. Overall, this was a great purchase and I'm extremely happy with it.

Did you get one of the Target beauty boxes this time around? What did you think?

Little Passports Review and Coupon Code

2014-12-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

Little Passports is a subscription box geared toward kids and teaching them about the world. They have 3 different subscriptions: The Early Learners for ages 3-5, The World Edition for ages 5-10, and The USA Edition for ages 7-12. I'm reviewing The Early Learners.

The first box has everything you need to get started with the program and it all comes in an adorable kid-size suitcase.

Also included are:

A Passport to the World which is also a book with activities
Stickers for the passport and suitcase
A luggage tag
A map of the world

Pearl was over the moon about that little suitcase and all the stickers inside! She carried it around with her all day. Pearl will be 3 next week but I still feel like this is a little too advanced for her so I'm not sure if I'll stick with this or not. But overall this seems like a great subscription and would be so fun for kids who understand it a little more.

The subscription starts at $14.95 a month and decreases the longer you subscribe. Click here to go to their website and use the code CHEER15 for a 15% discount on your order!

Have you tried this subscription box before? If not, do you think you'll try it?

Birchbox Review

2014-12-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love Birchbox? It's one of my favorite subscription boxes. It's always pretty and always has great items. This month's did not disappoint. Each month you get a variety of sample beauty products for $10 a month.

They include a card listing each product, what it is and how to use it.

Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo - .75 oz, Value $6.75

Borghese Fango Purificante Purifying Mud Mask for Face and Body - 1 oz, Value $7.40

Cynthia Rowley Beauty Creamy Lip Stain - Dahlia - .079 oz, Value around $2.50

Eslor Firming Collagen Day Cream - .34 oz, Value $17

Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint - .17 oz, Value around $3.80

Pop Corn ChocoPods - 1, Value $1

Total Value - Around $38

I was very happy with this box. I think I'll be able to use everything in here which doesn't always happen so I am excited about that. I especially loved the ChocoPod. It was delicious and fun!

Do you subscribe to Birchbox? What did you think about this month?

GlamST App

2014-12-09T06:30:00.000-07:00

I'm always looking for new ways to do my make up and wondering what looks would be best for me. I feel pretty clueless about beauty products but I'm always trying to learn new things. I was so glad when I came across this new app called GlamST. It allows you to try hundreds of different looks on your face to see which ones you like best without having to purchase the make up.

You just take a selfie, adjust the dimensions on your face so the make up goes in the right spot, and that's it! Browse the different looks they have and try on whichever ones you want! When you find one you like, they show you which products were used and give you the option to buy the look. It could not be easier!

Download their app from the iTunes store now by clicking this link!

See what they're all about on their website here.

Then, go like their facebook page, and follow them on instagram and twitter!

This is such a handy app to have. I've been trying out new looks since I downloaded it and it's been so much fun. Hurry and download the app! You won't regret it!

This is a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% mine.

Box of Beauty Giveaway!

2014-12-08T06:00:00.001-07:00

We're officially into the Christmas season and, if you're like me, you're probably running around doing all sorts of things for you family, your home and others. I thought it might be nice to reward you for all your hard work with a Box of Beauty Giveaway!

One lucky winner will get everything you see here:

bella pierre pink cheek and lip stain

Spellbound Nail Lacquer by Libery Republic in Voodoo

Sally Hansen Toe Spacers

Model Co Power Lash Black Mascara

A $25 Gift Card to Le Tote

and

$5 off your First Box at LipMonthly

Total Value: $59!

Enter below to win!

You have until 11:59pm on December 23rd!

Good luck!

Welcome to the 'Tis the Season Giveaways Hop, brought to you by The Hopping Bloggers & Up All Night Blogging! We are a group of bloggers that specialize in giveaway hops - so stay with us and you will have many chances to win some amazing prizes! Each blogger participating in this hop has a giveaway with a prize value of at least $15 - and some are much more than that! Be sure to visit them all - there is no limit to how many prizes you can win! Good Luck and Have Fun!

Info and Tips for Mothers with Postpartum Depression

2014-12-06T14:01:00.000-07:00

Being a mother is hard, there's no way around it. No matter how precious or how perfect our children may be, sometimes depression creeps into our lives and we have no control over it. I am just coming out of the throes of some deep Postpartum Depression. While I'm grateful to see the light at the end of the tunnel, I can't help but think there are so many women who are still struggling with this and I want to help them out of it so badly. It's miserable.

A couple months back I participated in a study about mothers and depression. As a wrap up of the study, I was given some material with tips to help women who are suffering from this type of depression and I feel I have to share it. The information is so valuable to those who need it. If you or someone you know is dealing with Postpartum Depression, please pass this on to them.

Tips for Dealing with Depression: What Can You Do?

Get Support and Focus on Supporters

Whether women perceive their partners as supportive has an impact on their experience of depression.
Communicate and work with your partner to get the support that will be most helpful.
Focus on people who can support you if your partner is unavailable or seems unsupportive.
Struggling and hiding your depression creates a "double burden" on you making it harder to feel better, so stay connected to others and reach out for help from a health care professional.

Realistic Expectations of Yourself

Women with unrealistic expectations of themselves struggle more with depression.
Focus on your experience of motherhood and avoid comparing it to your picture of what you expected or what others expect and have suggested you should be experiencing.
Avoid focusing on how other perceive you and your experiences as a mother.
Recognize that some of what you are experiencing is natural and normal. Changes in appetite, sleep, energy, and sexual drive are expected changes for many women after having a baby.
Focus on what you are doing well, including getting through the day, keeping yourself safe and healthy, and your baby safe and healthy. Being a mother is a big job even when it seems you are not doing much, you have accomplished some very important things.

Enjoy Your Baby

Feelings towards your baby and depression influence one another: Bonding with baby affects depression and depression affects bonding with baby.
Spend some time each day enjoying time with your baby trying to put other worries aside.

Exercise and Relaxation

Exercise affects your mood and state of mind: Try walking, stretching, or swimming.
Focus on what feels good not on other goals such as losing weight. Keep your expectations/goals small so that you feel good when you have accomplished a little step instead of disappointed when you can't reach a huge goal you have set up. Little steps add up!
Be proactive about relaxing: Spend a few minutes each day focusing on calm breathing, visualizing something that is pleasing, listening to a song that creates a positive mood, or smiling, which can affect your mood even if you don't feel it in the moment.

Sleep

Research shows that treating sleep problems such as insomnia increases the chances of recovering from depression.
Use your support network and working with your baby's routine to try to get more sleep when possible.
Monitor and identify patterns between your sleep, eating, and mood. They are all connected and might give you clues about how in increase either the quantity or quality of sleep.
Try to accept, not resist, fight, or become frustrated about sleep. Acceptance reduces the added exhaustion resulting from energy put into emotional resistance. Try meditation which impacts energy even if you cannot get to sleep.

Most importantly focus on what helps you. Depression is not your fault, there is help, and it can get better.

- Michelle Choch, M.A., Motherhood and Depression Study, University of Manitoba, Department of Psychology.

I hope you found this as helpful as I did and I hope you can see me as a resource if you need to reach out for support but don't know where to start. I've been there and know how difficult it can be. Sometimes just having someone to listen to (or read) your problems is all that's needed.

Also, if you think you might qualify for the study or just want more information, let me know and I will get you in touch with Michelle.

Liberty Belle Nightgown for American Girl Dolls Review

2014-12-04T17:09:00.001-07:00

Last year, Gracie got a Samantha American Girl Doll for Christmas and she was over the moon about it. She also got all the books in the set so she could read all about Samantha's adventures. It was a huge hit. But after a few months, the way Christmas presents do, Samantha was forgotten and so were the books.

Wondering how I would get Gracie excited about Samantha again, I decided we should get her a new outfit. A Liberty Belle Nightgown for American Girl Dolls was just what we needed to get back into the American Girl spirit and remind Gracie why she loved that doll so much to begin with.

They're best friends again! Gracie was so excited to put this nightgown on Samantha and the two have been inseparable since. We are so grateful to this company for making such a high quality nightgown that fits Samantha perfectly! I've even heard talk of a sleepover!

I was very impressed with the quality of the nightgown and ribbon that came with it. I was also impressed with how well the nightgown fit. It took no time at all for Gracie to dress her without any difficulties.

If your looking to reignite the spark your daughter once felt for her American Girl doll, consider buying this nightgown from Liberty Belle. It'll remind your daughter why she loves her American Girl doll and give her a good excuse to have a "sleepover" with her doll. With wonderfully soft material and a beautiful ribbon, you won't be disappointed with this nightgown.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

A Little About Me

2014-12-03T09:39:00.000-07:00

I've had this blog for almost a year now. I started it hoping it would be helpful for me to write about the things going on in my life. I've never formally introduced myself to the "blogosphere" so I thought I would do a quick "About Me" post for those of you who might be new here and just give you the "need to know" points about my life.

1. I have an amazing husband, Robby, and 3 great kids, Gracie-8, Pearl-2 and Wallace-2 months. I've been married 10 years and I'm still trying to figure out this wife/mother/homemaker thing. It's been quite a roller coaster!

2. I suffer from Major Depressive Disorder and anxiety. I've struggled with these since I was 15 and I'm basically always trying to find ways to cope with these issues. The best thing I ever did was start seeing a psychiatrist regularly. Mine manages my medications and helps me find ways of dealing with specific issues that come up in my life. That's when I started noticing big changes for the better.

3. I lost my 5 week old son, Gus, to SIDS in 2007. That was the biggest trial I've ever faced in my life. I was blogging during that time period so if you're ever curious about how I publicly handled it, you can visit my previous blog over here.and go to the archives starting in August 2007. I will be posting about him and the experience soon so you can look out for that, too. I'm extremely open about the whole experience and would be happy to answer any questions you might have or offer any advice that I can. Just contact me by using the links on my sidebar.

4. I teach barre fitness at Karve Studio Gilbert in Gilbert, Arizona. Barre fitness is a mix of ballet, yoga and Pilates and is the most effective work out I've ever tried. Before I had Wallace I was down to my wedding weight and I'm currently working on getting back to that goal. I love teaching and have a lot of fun doing it. If you live in the area, come by for a class! Your first one is free!

5. I'm not crafty, creative or stylish. It's something I'm constantly trying to work on but my instincts do not include making things pretty or having an eye for what's fashionable. I'm amazed and inspired by those who come by these things naturally and so wish I had that ability. But it's something I really have to work at and use my friends and the internet for any inspiration I can. Basically, I'm a function over fashion kind of girl who tries to be fancy sometimes.

That's all you really need to know! Please email me at melmck2@gmail.com if you ever want to get in touch. I usually respond quickly and love getting to know new people!

Thanks for coming by!

Discover Christmas

2014-12-02T09:47:00.000-07:00

We are having a little trouble getting in the Christmas spirit over here. Yesterday I got out all the decorations but was having a hard time feeling motivated. I knew a good Christmas book to read with the girls was all I needed.

So last night before we left to go get a Christmas tree, we sat on the couch and read through "Discover Christmas." It's an early readers book but it was on the perfect level for both my girls. It talks about the different things that are done traditionally during the Christmas season. It was especially great for Pearl since she's just getting to know what Christmas is all about.

This is a great book for an early reader or if you want to read it with your kids, it's perfect for that too. It was great for getting us in the Christmas spirit last night with excellent pictures and great descriptions of each tradition. This book really set the tone for our Christmas season.

So now we have a tree that needs decorating. Time to turn on some Christmas music and get to work!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.