Foundation Samples from Spirit Beauty Lounge

I am currently enjoying the mineral foundations I'm using. However, having been a liquid foundation girl for most of my makeup life, I was excited to see that there are natural liquid and cream foundation options. Unfortunately, most companies do not cater to women of color. Even those that are considered inclusive tend to have 5 shades of beige and 1-2 dark shades at the end. Those dark shades are usually way to dark for me. So it's quite difficult for a lighter skinned woman of color to find a good match. I decided to order some samples of popular natural foundations from Spirit Beauty Lounge Here are the swatches below:

Battle of The Balms

I know winter has ended, but I forgot to share with you all the skin balms that I use when the weather is extra harsh and my sometimes dry skin is in need of extra protection. Pictured here are the Restorative Skin Balm from CV Skinlabs and the Argan Infinity Cream Intensive Oil from Josie Maran. Click on the title of each product to be taken to their website. 

ACURE Cell Stimulating Facial Mask Review

I got this in the Whole Foods Beauty Week bag. I'm still on the hunt for the perfect mask so I was excited to give it a try. 

Description 

Work over your cells with the power of Moroccan Argan Stem Cells and Chlorella Growth Factor, a true synergy of cell revitalization. French Green Clay draws out impurities while Moroccan Argan Oil, CoQ10 and Seabuckthorn Oil provide moisture. Serious cell repair!

Natural Women's Sanitary Items

As I phase out all of my current household/lifestyle products to safe/healthier options, I've decided to also switch to safe sanitary items. I'm unable to wear tampons, so a DivaCup is not an option for me. Reusable pads are making a comeback, but it's just not practical for my life. So, at a recent trip to Whole Foods, I decided to try out a few of the brands they offered. 

Petit Vour January 2015

I love subscription boxes. However, I've grown pretty disappointed with my Ipsy. I never get the things I would have wanted. Most of the products are things I'd never use and a lot of them don't meet the ingredient quality I desire. I don't cancel it because it's only $10 a month, but I'm bored. Eco Emi, my favorite subscription box, filled with natural and organic goodies is still great, but I came across Petit Vour on Vegan Beauty Review and wanted to try. I am happy with my first box. See photos below. 

52 Week Money Challenge Revamped

I posted on my Instagram that I would be doing several savings challenges for the year. The first up, is the traditional 52 Week Money Challenge. However, I revamped it to fit my own needs. I could not find any with 2015 dates, so I filled those in. Also, I changed it to bi-weekly for Fridays since that is when I get paid. Finally, I will be doing this challenge in reverse, so that the largest amounts are saved first. I will be making other versions of the spreadsheet (once a week, monthly, etc.) Let me know which ones you'd like to see. Additionally, many of you were interested in the $5000 plan. I will be uploading this with the 2015 dates. I have attached a link to a PDF version of the challenge. Let me know if you have any problems with the link.

52 Week Money Challenge Revamped

GlamGlow PowerMud DualCleanse Treatment Review

This morning I tried the GlamGlow PowerMud DualCleanse Treatment. I was hesitant because I heard not so great reviews about this for those with sensitive skin. However, the mud to oil property really intrigued me. Nothing like a gimmick to get people to buy. Lol. However, my best friend actually bought this for Christmas, so I had to give it a try. 

CV Skinlabs Rescue+Relief Spray Review

While looking up tips for wearing mineral makeup online, I came across this product on a blog. The blogger used it as a setting spray. I immediately looked it up because I am always looking for something for my sensitive skin, and it seems this product was created just for me.  

This product is free of the things I do not use I do not use in my face:

The ingredient list is amazing. Full of organic and soothing ingredients:

Product claims:

So it sounds great, but real question is, does it work? I'm here to tell you YES! This product has far exceeded my expectations. 

TND Bun Challenge Reflection and Simple Routine for Bunning Natural Hair

Having taken a short break from the majority of social media, I would like to update you all on the TND Bun Challenge that ended yesterday. Since I was taking a break, unfortunately I did not take very many photos. In addition, I didn't really go anywhere besides work, where I see no one, so I threw my hair up into a top knot, no gel, no scarf to slick my edges, I was just trying to make sure the hair was up and I was keeping up with the challenge. Needless to say, this style wasn't exactly photo material. Nevertheless, I did find the challenge to be very effective. My hair was kept stretched and my ends off my shoulders. I did not take a before and after photo, however, being that the challenge was only a few weeks I was not expecting to visually see growth or length retention. I do intend to continue incorporating bunning into my routine, although not consecutively, during the fall and winter seasons. Below is the routine I use when bunning my hair. It is a simple routine that can be done by anyone and modified to fit your specific needs. Hope you find this helpful.

Natural Hair Brunch Affair

As I have been natural for almost 5 years now, I've settled in so much so that I've grown somewhat bored with "natural hair events". I mean, ultimately I'd like us to get to a point where natural hair is so normal that it doesn't have to be talked about so much, but I know that day isn't likely to come anytime soon. Nevertheless, the enthusiasm I've had for the movement has diminished. I love my hair more than ever, but I don't always feel the need to shout that from the rooftops. Mine is a quiet, yet genuine love. And while the product junkie in me always will want to try new things, and I still scour YouTube and Instagram for style ideas, it'd been a while since I'd attended a "natural hair meetup" My good friend Ashley (@deepimpact403) encouraged me to attend the Natural Hair Brunch affair hosted by the sisters behind the Instagram page Natural Hair Does Care. Having followed their page, and never wanting to turn down brunch, I decided to bite the bullet and pay the $45 to attend. I must say that it is was $45 well spent. 

Winter Is Coming...

Winter is coming... and so are cracked skin and dry lips. And while you may be tempted to pull out the Chapstick, there are some alternatives to consider. 

Curls Passion Fruit Curl Control Paste

The #TNDBunChallenge is still going on! Today I'm showcasing one of my FAVORITE products for slicking down your edges. 

TND Bun Challenge Day 1

What If I'm Not Natural?

This challenge is NOT limited to natural hair. #teamrelaxed (and those with naturally straight hair) are welcome. As fall and winter approach and y'all (cuz it ain't cold here lol) pull out the blazers and pea coats, remember how damaging they can be to your hair if it's in between shoulder and arm pit length. Bunning the hair can be beneficial no matter the hair texture because it helps keeps your ends off your shoulders. And if you do live in a colder climate tucking your ends away help them not be subjected to the harsh environment. So this is bit just a #naturalhair challenge it's an #allhair challenge. Let me know in the comments if you'll be joining 

Why is the bun challenge so short?

So you may be asking why is this challenge only 21 days. Wellllllll, the way my ADD is set up... Lol. Seriously. I see 6 month, year long challenges all the time. They seem like good ideas sure. But ain't nobody got time for that. Lol. Just kidding. Hey if it works for you great. I just know myself. I always start things like that and don't finish them. I've learned it's better to set smaller attainable goals and accomplish them and move on to something else. Also, I can get bored with my hair very easily and I can't imagine wearing the same hairstyle over and over for so long. So, I intend to do a series of challenges that range from no more than a month (brace yourselves wearing my hair straight. Yes straight hair can be a protective style. Spare me the naziism. But more about this later) to two months (ex. Braids, Havana twists). I think the best thing about being natural is the versatility. I didn't start wearing my hair in it's natural state to put limits on what I can do with it. Natural hair = freedom 

One more thing... a lot of you mentioned that you already have your hair in another style and won't be able to do it on the dates I provided. Well that's totally ok. You don't have to do those specific dates. You can complete this challenge at any time. Just make sure you do it for at least 21 days. Annnddd be sure to keep me posted on your results! The best way to do this is to post on Instagram and use the official hashtag for the challenge #TNDbunchallenge 

21 day bun challenge!

So despite what my photos on Instagram indicate, because I choose to wear my hair in super curly styles, my hair has grown. To the point that now my twist outs (done without any rods) hang on my shoulders. This is great, however at this point wearing my hair out could lead to breakage as it rests on the shoulders of sweaters and jackets. I really want to see my hair get over this little hump. Furthermore, having colored my hair and seeing my roots grow out but my hair not getting as long as it should I want to really make sure I'm retaining all the length that I can. I actually have 4 colors in my head right now, but this will be key in determining how much my hair is growing and how much I'm retaining. My roots will show the rate at which my hair is growing. The blonde tips, should they "go away" which I am praying they do not, will show me how much length I'm retaining. At no other point in my natural hair journey has length been my focus. The length my hair is now, if it never got any longer that would be ok. In fact, I have lots of hair plans in my future including a second big chop and have contemplated pics. I am honestly just curious to see how long my hair could actually grow. I have never really had "long growing" hair, so it will be interesting to see how that goes. There will be 3 phases to my growth challenge but the first is bunning. To keep this post short (well shorter lol), I will explain why in a future post, but i'd like you all to join me. The challenge isn't just about growth but also low manipulation protective styling. Whatever your goals are, this can benefit you. If you are interested comment below. I'll post other info and rules in the coming days. 

Eco Emi May 2013

Eco Emi is by far one of my favorite subs. Natural products, many of which are full sized. For only $15 a month. You can't beat it. While my other subs are $10 I don't mind paying extra for better ingredients. Plus they pack their boxes so cute. So much thought and care. I love it. This box was no exception.

1. Mascara by Suncoat

2. Nail polish by Suncoat (I love the color they sent me!

3. Mongo Kiss Honey Vanilla Lip Balm (spells soooo good)

4. Athena Greek Yogurt Bar

5. All Terrain Sunscreen (I already use their spray version for my body on a daily basis. So I was super excited about this in the box!)

5. All Terrain Insect Repellant (I have the full size of this too. Used it in the Costa Rican jungle and it worked!)

7. Beauty Without Crueltly Body Lotion (great to put in my purse. Very light scent so I can layer with perfume. Yay)

7. Lauren Brooke Eyeshadow (kind of tired of these. I have so many from different subs. Doesn't mean they are bad though. I actually haven't tried. They look like too much hassle with all the glitter)

8. Seaweed Powder Bath ~ Lavender (smells very nice. I've gotten a few of these before and haven't tried. Will let y'all know when I do)

Birchbox vs Ipsy May 2013

Conscious Box January 2013

Here are the items I received in my first Conscious Box.

34 Degrees
Bite into the more natural, thinner, crispier cracker. Perfect with your favorite cheeses or just on their own, 34 Degrees crackers are delectable treats suited for any culinary creation. Made with unbleached wheat flour, a hint of natural cheese flavor, sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt. Yum!


Chia Shots
The Chia Co is proud to pumping out chia seeds all day long. Why’s that? Because Chia seeds are one of the richest plant-based sources of omega-3, dietary fiber, protein, and antioxidants. The Chia Co also works with nature to ensure sustainable agriculture; this means strategically timing crops, using the best soil, and enacting smart methods of growing, like gravity fed irrigation and chemical-free mechanical harvesting.


LARABAR
We’re excited to be trying out the Uber. What’s different? This bar has got big texture (along with big taste!). This gluten-free, non-GMO, all natural, and Kosher scrumptiously succulent bar is packed with a flavor profile that’ll stick to your memory without sticking to your teeth. No refined sugar and made with dry-roasted nuts (no oil added).


Pamela’s Products
We fell in love with Pamela’s Products within the first bite. These wheat-free, gluten-free brownies are not only delicious, but they’re also super quick and easy to make. Pamela’s also regularly supports autism and celiac organizations, and is a member of the American Celiac Disease Alliance. Go Pamela’s!


Q.Bel
Don’t say we didn’t warn you. These crispy mint wafers are incredibly delicious and deserving of a savory taste bud addition. Non-GMO, whole grain, dairy-free, and made with 70% cacao makes this a healthy alternative to any cookie that might be stocking the pantry.


Teeccino
Looking for a seriously superfood cereal? Check out Teechia, the high performance super seeds that pack a serious punch of fiber and protein. A bowl of Teechia will provides lasting energy with lasting satisfaction. Whip up a bowl and take your first spoonful of chia, quinoa, amaranth, ramon, and pumpkin seeds!


Sahale Snacks
All natural ingredients + culinary magic = a great tasting, healthy snack that is deserving of serious celebration. Sahale Snacks blends scrumptious whole almonds with orange blossom honey, dried cranberries, toasty sesame seeds, and sea salt. Made in a 100% wind-powered facility makes sure Mother Earth is just as happy as your taste buds!


Tea Forte
Refresh yourself with this invigorating mint from Tea Forte. With a taste that will make your taste buds tingle, Tea Forte is the perfect follow up to lunch, the morning coffee, or anything else that might make your coworkers’ olfactory wonder what’s up. Fortified with antioxidants makes this a mint that helps support your body’s defenses too.


Waxalene
Drop the old petroleum jelly and go with something more natural. Organic Soy oil, Beeswax, natural vitamin E, and organic rosemary oil makes this a healthy, nourishing moisturizer and base for everything from dry skin to make up. No petroleum, not greasy, completely biodegradable and free of animal testing.


BONUS! Nordic Naturals
Fish oils are great for supporting brain function, memory, and mood. The benefit comes from omega-3 and omega-9 oils, which have anti-inflammatory alongside anti-clotting benefits. Nordic Natural only uses the finest fish oils, third party tested for environmental toxins like heavy metals and dioxins. As a result, they produce fish oils that far surpass international standards.

Hail Merry
Don’t worry—you’re not breaking any New Year’s resolutions by enjoying these delicious choco macaroons. Gluten-free, vegan, and dehydrated at low temperatures to protect the raw extra virgin coconut oil, these tasty treats are as healthy as they are delicious. They’ll also help you kick down your sugar habit by instead being lightly sweetened with organic maple syrup. Three cheers for Hail Merry!


Peeled Snacks
Who said snacking can’t be healthy? With 1 serving of fruit per bag, completely gluten-free and 100% organic, Peeled Snacks set the standard for healthy munching. No fat, no preservatives, and of course, non-GMO. A healthy serving of fiber will also help keep you full - move over potato chips!


Dale’s Raw Protein Bar
Dale has been whipping up some of the best raw food around for quite some time, and boy are we excited to be loading you up with one of his incredible bars. Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and loaded with protein, Dale knows what it takes to make an awesome treat. No artificial preservatives or sweeteners. Simple ingredients for a simply awesome snack. (PS. Don’t sweat the refrigeration suggestion. Dale suggests refrigerating to prevent falling apart in warmer climates.)


MAAKOA
Koopuwa. Just say it a few times. It’s fun! Koopuwa! What is it? It’s a super food, super antioxidant, super-stimulating blend of phytonutrients with deliciously distinctive flavors coming right from fruits. Drink right from the pouch or mix with the morning smoothie to get all the Cupuaçu, Acai, red grape, pomegranate, and berry berry goodness inside!


Nutiva Hemp Seed
Hemp Seed is one of nature’s wonders, just now becoming re-celebrated by so many in the health community. These seeds are an incredible 33% protein and are filled with omegas perfect for building a better brain and body. Eat plain, add as a condiment, or mix in a shake.

Ipsy January 2013

Josie Maran Argan Oil
Big Sexy Spray & Play
Pacifica Blood Orange Lotion
Nailtini Polish in Frappe
London Soho NY Crease Brush
Blue makeup bag with white stars inside