Green Beauty Collab: Products I'd Repurchase

Before i get into my list, i wanted to send a big thanks to Brianna over at ILuvJesse444 for coming up with the idea and organizing! Also, thanks to all the other bloggers in the community here for being so sweet and inspirational. Be sure to check out the posts from all the other bloggers doing this collab, here's the full list!

Ok, so i don't really like to spend my money on "commercial" products because I have trust issues and they tend to be expensive. So most of the things i use are either homemade by myself or bought from a person on etsy/artfire. Every once in a while i will buy from a big company, and if i actually like it enough to be repurchased, it's probably either AMAZING or hard to duplicate...lol. So, on to the list.

#5. Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer in the shade of Strawberry - This is the very last thing on the list for two reasons. While i LOVE the stuff and wish i could just buy without having a care, i do care. There is lead in the formulation (according to the FDA). :O  Shocking for such a natural company. While it is apparently a very small amount, it still worries me. Other, normal, lipsticks are reported to have even more than Burt's Bees and still have only a tiny trace amount... None of these lipsticks are considered harmful though because there just isn't enough lead in them to consider them so. Apparently. Another thing that concerns me about this lipstick is that they aren't wholly cruelty free. I mean they are leaping bunny approved...but their parent company is not. This sort of reminds me of Tom's of Maine. See why i have trust issues...lol. But anyway, if i can look past those two issues, i would love to buy the lip shimmer in another color besides Strawberry. I really do love the consistence and amount of pigment. It also does AWESOME for chapped lips.

#4. Blush in the shade of Anger from RagdollsBeauty (artfire). This is the prettiest lil pink i've ever seen in a blush. I ordered the blogger review pack and this was in it (along with some other things i'll be mentioning). The color is very light with a bit a shimmer. I have really fair skin and this really does look awesome on my cheeks.

#3. Another item that came from RagdollsBeauty was a Lip Crayon in the shade Sweet and Sour. This is one of the most awesome products i found for my lips. The consistence is very dry and hard so when you wear it it looks very natural. It doesn't really shimmer or anything. It really just looks like your lips have changed colors...lol. Another thing i love about it is that it didn't come off on cups/straws etc. That's one thing that really embarrasses me. I usually wear a chapstick over night, then exfoliate my lips with a lip scrub them apply the crayon. It's awesome. :) This was in the blogger pack, so it was randomly choose. I def look forward to buying it in different shades.

#2. Yet another item i LOVE in the RagDollsBeauty line is the Esme eyeshadow. Yes, it's twilight themed! Amazing. Even if it wasn't i'd def buy it. Its a sparkling coppery brownish mauve color... Wow's, its hard to describe... but its gorgeous. She sent a eye primer and when used together, it stayed put for a long time and looked great!

#1. Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub in Almond Honey. Well this stuff worked pretty good... I mean it just did what all scrubs do...lol. There is nothing super special about it. The reason i would repurchase is because it's inexpensive, very accessible and it smells good. I just got this a Walmart but I've seen it at target too. So that means i can just buy it....no waiting 2-3 weeks for shipping or paying shipping costs. Scrubs are so easy to make i just don't like buying from online and paying double and waiting a long time. This tree hut one is cheap enough to justify buy it..its convenient! lol. I've heard that it smells very strong and sort of fake-ish...and i have to agree. I like the smell because it's like my fave scent...but i could def see how some people may find it too much. They have a different scent i'm buying when this one is gone: it's called Hawaiian Kukui. It smells amazing...less intense than Honey and Almond. I asked the sales person if i could open to smell it and she said yes..lol.

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With Love,
Margaret

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Product Review: Tom's of Maine Tooth Paste

At Tom's of Maine that means we use authentic natural ingredients. We use zinc citrate sourced from zinc - a naturally occurring mineral and xylitol, a natural ingredient derived from birch trees or corn. Plus, natural flavoring for a taste that will make you look forward to brushing! Fluoride-free formula: Some people do not want fluoride in their toothpaste. We produce this toothpaste without fluoride because we respect our customers' diverse needs and interests.

My Thoughts

Well, i should probably start by saying that this is all my bf will use. He loves it. I, on the other hand, im not even sure if i like it much. My first qualm is the taste, of lack there of. Our version is suppose to be peppermint, but i didn't taste much. I guess maybe i'm used to the explosive burning mint of regular toothpaste, and while that's probably the chemically reacting in my mouth, i sort of like the feeling...it feels clean. Tom's though, it doesn't not to me anyway. I'm not sure if maybe there isn't enough peppermint or if it's just not strong enough for what i want...but i just don't like the bland taste.

Beyond the taste of if though, it seems to "work" good. My boyfriend has used if for years and he never has teeth problems. I, on the other hand, have ridiculous teeth problems. My teeth are pretty sensitive, not terribly so, but enough that i'd rather use a fluoride toothpaste. And Tom's does carry these, but i'm not sure if i want to buy them if i cant stand the taste.

Another thing that concern's me is the brand itself. My boyfriend loved this brand and decided to go "all Tom"....lol. Anyway, he bought the deodorant and used if for a few days. Not only did it not work, but it made his skin peel under his arms.. :O  Whoa! Not sure what's in this deodorant...but doesn't seem good. Also, did you know that Tom's is owned by Colgate...yeah, its true. So why not just introduce a natural toothpaste to your already popular toothpaste line? Why, well i don't know...but i have my suspicions. I guess in general, i'd rather support a company who lives and breathes natural/organic...not a side shoot to a big company who that just want to make money off of the green "fad". I don't know if that's what they are doing, but that's what is seems like. 

All in all, i wouldn't totally ban this product. They have a "wicked fresh" flavor, and if i tastes more like Altoids, i might like it. Also, if you aren't too concerned with taste, well give it a try and see. Like i mentioned before, my bf has had great success with this toothpaste. He like it enough to even continue using it after the deodorant mishap! 

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With Love,
Margaret

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Goodbye To You, Google Reader

So have you heard the news? Google has been up to there old tricks...meaning they've gone and "improved" some things. Google def has a history of constantly changing and evolving. If you don't like on of there sites, just wait and there either change it or close it. This has happened with youtube, gmail, android and even Blogger. Their newest thing in that they are closing google reader! Really, why would they want to do that. I guess the logically answer is that it isn't paying for its sell anymore. To be a 1000% honest i never really used it a whole lot because i don't like the why it works. When you are a blogger you have to give and take. You read other peoples blog, you get inspired, you comment then repeat...using your new found inspiration however you'd like. Google reader leaves one step out...the commenting. Looking at the feed of an item makes the content accessible enough that you don't need to actually go to the blog....and not going to the site means no commenting.

Commenting is super important when blogging. Most importantly, it lets people know that you/your blog exists! It also helps set the tone of your blog. If your friendly and open people will think of your blog as welcoming, If your rude or pushy, people will probably skip your blog. But no matter how you'd like to comment, google reader doesn't give that option, you'd have to go to each separate blog.

So as you can see.... im not totally sad about it closing on July first....but i am wondering about what people will do if they do depend on google reader. Is google going to announce some sort of alternative or a new service?

Since i've started blogging, i've been using bloglovin. It lists all of the blogs your following and when you click to view, it bring you to the original post thats inside a bloglovin frame. So you can comment and etc, then just click next on the frame. It's much easier in my opinion. :) Here's my page if you're curios.

What are your feelings on Reader closing? What alternative are you going to use?

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With Love,
Margaret

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Tag: Confessions of a Blogger

When did you start your blog?

I started my Eco blog this year, about a month or so ago. I've been blogging in general for the last 10 years.



Have you had any past online presence before (other blog, YouTube)?

Yes, I have a pretty large online presence. I have a second blog (YA book blog), twitter, goodreads, youtube, pinterest, google+ and a few more. :)



Why did you start a blog?

Mostly, for my own reference. To keep track of the products and brands i like as well as to keep track of links. I also wanted a place for other green bloggers to contact me. I like getting recommendations and input from others.



When did you become serious about starting a blog?

On this Eco blog, about 3 weeks ago after i realized others might be interested in what i write. I started seriously book blogging about 3 years ago after i started helping Indie Authors get more exposure.



What was your first post?

A review of a body scrub. Well the first, first post was just a empty post with labels...i need the link to create my menu... :D I decided to skips the whole "About me" usual first post. lol



What has been your biggest challenge about blogging?

Blogging with no internet... I usually use my cellphones wifi hotspot... but its slow and the battery dies fast...so it's not ideal.



Where do you see your blog in one year?

Hopefully i'll have a good routine for posting. I also hope to have a review up for all my fave products. It also be great to a good readership/community going. :)



What is the most discouraging thing that happens to you?

My slow internet and the fact that it keeps cutting out. Also, i dont like rude commenters.



What's your lasting inspiration or motivation?

Exploring all the new products and discovering what everyone else is using.


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With Love,
Margaret

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Featured: My New Jewelry/Makeup Cabinet

Recently i've been looking for a storage solution for my makeup, jewelry and other beauty type stuff. I used to live in Phoenix and i had all my stuff sorted and organized. When i moved here (Louisiana) I only brought what would fit in my Volkswagen, which wasn't a lot. Since i've been here i accumulated some stuff and it's been driving me huts not to have a specific place to put it. We have the bathroom....but that honestly feels kind of gross... I dont want to sit in the bathroom and do make up... :/ So i've been on the lookout for some time of solution.

My first attempt, as always, was to look online at other peoples ideas. I watched a bunch of youtube where people talk about makeup/jewelry storage. (I love those sorts of videos!) From the inspiration there i sort of decided that i wanted a pretty vanity and some sort of acrylic draws. After looking online and stores like pier one and etc, i decided i'd rather go with antique or vintage. The styles just look better to me. I decided to go to the Antique Village here in town to see what they had to offer. After browsing for about 5 minutes, i found it!

This was the perfect piece. It was painted a Victorian grey with white accents. The mirror folded down to transform it into a desk. It was beautiful. To sweeten the pot, it came with a matching dresser, Jewelry armorie, and nightstand. Unfortunately, for all 4 pieces it was like $750... I honestly think it was worth that, but i didn't want to spend all my money at once.If i just bought the Vanity it was $250... Which was too bad. My bf however said that the furniture was "made for oompa loompas". Sigh, i guess with him being over six foot, they seemed pretty small. With much chagrin, i kept walking and didn't buy.

I felt pretty sad for the first day because i felt like i lost out on a great set. I checked craigslist a few days ago, just as fun, and found another amazing piece. This one was light oak and classified as a jewelry armoire. It had four large draws on the bottom as well as bigger open section up top. All the drawers were lined in velvet and the doors had little hooks for necklaces. Its was totally gorgeous. It took a few moments to ditch the idea of the vanity, but once i went to see it i knew it'd be perfect. It has plenty of space for all my makeup, jewelry, skin/beauty products, and raw supplies. So, i bought it....what can i say, it was perfect!

I haven't really been able to set it up and decide on my organizing yet, but im excited to get started! I don't keep an awful lot of stuff, so everything should fit awesomely. I'll post up some photos once i have everything setup. My favorite part is the little necklace hooks and the "hide-able" mirror.

Thanks for coming by! So, what kind of organization solutions do you use? :D




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With Love,
Margaret

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Beauty Haul: Walgreens Mini Haul

I was returning a redbox movie at Walgreens and decided to take a look at their hair care aisle. Since the Apple Cider Vinegar debacle, i've been thinking of testing a few new hair care items so i can find something i love. Up until now i've been Herbal Essence Honey I'm Strong... but not only has it not strengthened my hair, its also not as naturals as i'd like. I was thinking of doing the Coconut Oil 12 hour hair mask thing, but i wanted to check commercial products first.

While on the hair Aisle, i came across a few different things that interested me. The first was a Nubian Heritage Hair Mask. It looked awesome and was on sale for...i think $8. Next i saw the Ren Cleansing Conditioner (which is a generic of WEN). I also saw a few Argan Oil shampoos. Argan oil is like a new thing in hair care and i def wanted to try it. At the end of the next aisle, in the "ethnic" hair section, they had all the Shea Moisture products. I've actually heard about this brand from a lot of bloggers, so i wanted to give it a try.... And it came in a kit...I'm ADDICTED to kits! :D

The "Repair & Transition Kit" can with 4 items: Moisture Retention Shampoo, Restorative Conditioner, Reconstructive Elixir and Deep Therapy Masque. The key ingredients are shea butter, argan oil, sea kelp and avocado oil. I've actually never used any of these ingrdients on my hair so in excited to see the result! :D

I also just picked up a pulsating toothbrush and doggie treats! When i checked out the cashier gave me a voucher for a free Walgreens beauty box! WOOW wee. I guess it's just samples and such! I completed the order form, so i guess i'll be receiving it in the next few weeks! :)









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With Love,
Margaret

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Challenge: Well more like Contest!

Wow wee! Look what i found! :) I was browsing around on some of my favorite company sites and i noticed the Native Touch is having a Photo contest! Basically, you have to purchase there product and apply it to a problem area (rash, chapped lips, etc). Then you send before and after pictures and dates and your are entered! :D Click the photo to go to their link with the info. :D

 I haven't really mentioned this before, but i have a lot a Native Americans in my family and i'm 1/2 native myself. So i think its awesome to support them AND have a possibility to win! :D And if you were wondering, i absolutely love their products! :D 

Here's their full site.

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With Love,
Margaret

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Giveaway: $500 Giveaway and Blogger Opp

Details:

• Blogger will get a FREE Twitter or Pinterest link with Announcement Post or $5 .
• Additional links available
• Giveaway will start on 3/29
• Want more information, swing by and sign up for Jenn's Blah Blah Blog $500 Giveaway

Looking forward to seeing you there!

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With Love,
Margaret

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Wishlist: Amazon

While browser around on amazon i found some totally awesome stuff! WOW! I wish i could like...win the lottery or something! lol. Well, here is my list! :)
















Have you all used any of these? What's on your wishlist?

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With Love,
Margaret

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Eating Routine: Calorie Allotments

To be healthy, i think everyone knows about calorie counting. According to "the powers that be" the average adult needs anywhere from 1750 to 2500 calories a day depending on their personal goals, weight and activity level. One thing that everyone might not know is that how these calories are distributed throughout the day can also affect weight.

All the food we eat is either burned as energy or stored as fat (to be saved and burned later for energy). The concept of allotting calories works because, in theory, you should plan your calories around when you will need energy. In this method, all or most of your food is actually used for energy and less is stored as fat! Once you eat something, it goes through your stomach and small intestine to start the conversion to energy. After you eat, you can expect some energy to be "available" after on 15-30 mins. So, once you eat, after about 30 minutes your body has to decided, "will this energy be used now or shall i save it for later". With this understanding it is much easier how important "when" you eat is.

So lets talk about my actual routine. Well, im actually always changing this, but this is my current system. So my daily allotment of calories is from 1750 - 1850. I'm pretty thin as it is, so im not trying to lose weight, but since im not very active, i don't really need a lot of extra energy (aka potential fat). Ok first off, i always eat 5 to six times a day. I know the traditional thing is to eat 3 big meals, but that's just too much energy at once. I much prefer to eat smaller meals more often.

Here's my plan:
- Breakfast: 400k
- Brunch/Morning Snack: 250k
- Lunch: 400k
- Afternoon Snack: 250k
- Dinner: 300k
- Evening Snack: 250k

In my particular case, you can see that i use more energy in the morning and afternoon than the evening and night. If i was expecting to do something at night like to go bowling or skating or jogging, i would adjust to move more calories to a meal before my activity. With a routing like this, it's so much easier to plan food. When i look at food, i look at it in terms of 100 calories. Like "How much of that can i have for 100 calories". So i have a bunch or preplanned meals for each calorie amount. Like with spaghetti. I know i can have this much for 100 calories, and if my specific meal calls for 300 calories, then i can have 3 100's. Hope that doesn't sound too confusing. lol :D

If you have any questions, just leave a comment. :)

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With Love,
Margaret

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