PopSugar Must Have March 2014 Review

This is my first PopSugar MustHave box. March 2014. Like I've said before, I kind of like getting boxes of "stuff" that I might not have tried or bought for myself. I ordered my box in the last half of the month, so I was anxious for its arrival. I had already seen previous reviews and was really excited when it arrived. I had been stalking my mailbox for days. So, here goes.

It's like a Christmas stocking in a box every month. PopSugar MustHave is a monthly subscription box of hand-selected items in beauty, fashion, home, fitness, and food. It's not a box of sample items. I love the variety . . .it's not just make-up or food or whatever.  Everything is full-sized. Price is $39.95 per month, and they have 3-, 6-, and 12-month plans that lower the effective monthly box. Seems that almost every month there is a $10OFF code that can be found on-line. So, you could un-subscribe and subscribe on a regular basis to get the best deal, while not missing out. They also offer single-purchase premium boxes at different times of the year.

My box finally arrived

 The items are loosely packed in tissue paper and a brochure is included which details the items. Yes, I did pop the bubble wrap!!! . . .in case you were wondering.

Before I unpacked

How it looks inside

Brokedown Blue IKAT Scarf

Brokedown Blue IKAT Scarf: I really need more color in my wardrobe, and this is a nice start. Since I wear a lot of black, it also gave me the security blanket of some black and white accent. It is very light and soft. Perfect for Spring. I call this a score and since I've spent >$40 on a scarf before, this made the whole box worth the price. I love it. Suggested retail $72.

Herbal Recovery Advanced Serum

Jurlique Herbal Recovery Advanced Serum: Just in time since I had run out of the serum I was using. Yes, I like "product" and anything that says it will fight aging. It has a nice clean scent and goes on very smooth. I also like that the product is botanical based and does not test on animals (except when required in China . . .boo, hiss). Full size at 0.5 ounces. Suggested retail $27. Also came with a code for 15% off next on-line purchase.

Lucky Horseshoe Make A Wish Necklace

Dogeared Lucky Horseshoe Make A Wish Necklace: This is a cute, tiny, gold-dipped horseshoe-shaped charm on a choker length silk  string. The idea is to make a wish when you put it on and wear it until the string wears out and your wish will come true. I know my wish, and I hope it comes true in about 6 months. It's cute and sweet charm and the links are big enough that it could be placed on a chain if you don't lose it when the silk breaks. Suggested retail $30. Also came with a code for 20% off.

Baublebar Elephant Ring Tree: OK . . .so this is super cute. I already have a ring holder on my bedside table, but it's not as cue as this one. I have my replacement. Super adorable. Suggested retail $12 with a promo code for 20% off your next order.

Mini Exercise Ball

ActiveForever Fusion Exercise Ball: This is a mini-exercise ball that comes with a straw-shaped pump for blowing up. Only takes a few puffs. I'm not really sure how to use it, but another subscription box included a DVD, so that helps. Also, there are tips and tricks for using the fitness ball to tone thighs, abs, and arms on the MustHave blog. Since I need work on these areas, I'll probably use it in front of the television. Suggested retail $9.95.

Harvest Snaps Snapea Crisps: SCORE!!! This might just be my favorite thing in the box. These are baked, salted whole snap peas. Since going plant-based, I have missed my favorite junk food, and these have a taste and texture similar to Cheetos. Yea!!! I'm ashamed to admit that I ate the entire package, but at 120 kcal per serving, it was only 440 calories, so I could have done worse. Suggested retail $2.

Nature's Baker All Natural Strawberry Fig Bars: 2 bars came in my box and I love them. I already buy these tasty treats in bulk, so getting a few extra makes me very happy. These are grown-up and modern version of fig newtons. LOVE THEM!!! I've bought them for $2.99 each. Even though the brochure didn't have a retail $$, I would guess about $5.98.

Overall, I'm pretty stoked about this subscription. I paid $89.95 for a 3-month subscription (which will auto-renew at $99.95) if I don't cancel and re-subscribe. That comes to about $33.32/box. And, since you know I like a bargain, I was pleased that the box contained $158.93 worth of items. If you want to get a similar bargain . . .and a surprise . . .next month, using my link http://popsu.gr/qVQg gives me additional bargain pricing. You can use the code APRIL10 for $10 off. Happy subscribing!!

(This post contains affiliate links. These opinions are my own and are unsolicited. I have not received any compensation for my comments.)

FabFitFun VIP Spring 2014 Box Review

FabFitFun was my first introduction to Subscription Boxes and may be what got me hooked. I love to receive packages in the mail and surprises make it even better. The box is curated by Guiliana Rancic and is guaranteed to contain at least $175 full-size, premium products in beauty, fitness, fashion, and Wellness finds. There is a wide range of items included, so for me, it's a lot of fun. . .not a bunch of the same. And, I try things that I might not have otherwise sampled. The cost is $49.99 per season, but there are discount codes available. 

 There are a few things about this box that make it a different from the rest and I really like that.

1.       You can purchase an annual subscription to receive 4 seasonal boxes, or you can purchase individual boxes.

2.       It doesn't auto-renew monthly, but does auto-renew quarterly or annually. The annual pricing saves about $25/year. You can also purchase extra boxes (until they sell out) without having an extra commitment. My communication with customer service has been good. 

3.       The products are all plant-based and cruelty-free. I am not giving away food to friends (like I do with other boxes), although my friends appreciate me for it.

So . . .on to the reveal. I had been seeing spoilers for this box for almost a month, but really was dying to see what was inside. As usual, it's like opening a birthday present and has a brochure describing the items included.

Kai Perfume Oil

Cover FX SPF 30 Protection Primer

Kai Perfume Oil: This is a roll-on oil perfect sized to carry in my purse. The package says it's different on everyone. On me, it smells like a fresh spring day--clean with a hint of floral. I think I love it.  Retail $48

Cover FX SPF 30 Protection Primer: Vegan, paraben-free, fragrance-free, gluten-free, mineral oil-free, and talc free. What does it contain? Clear, smooth, water-proof, sun protection that provides a really nice feeling primer for make-up. Another win. Retail $38. Comes with a coupon for $10 an order of $65 or more. Might consider another product trial.

Cult Gaia Tur

Cult Gaia Turband: It was different than I expected for a "headband." It has a wire structure, so there is some versatility in how you wear it and it does hold the shape securely in place. You can wrap it so the ends are on top like a floppy bow, wrap the ends around for a little texture to a headband, or keep the ends under the back of your hair like a headband. My husband said it made him smell pancakes and syrup when I tried it on . . .not sure what that means (Aunt Jemima), but what are you gonna do? I've actually worn it a few times and LOVE it. I don't wear it as a turban, but wrap it like a headband and even mu husband thought it was cute.  Retail $48. Comes with a coupon for 20% off your next order.

Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo Invisible Spray

Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo Invisible Spray: I haven't used dry shampoo before, so don't have a comparison. Maybe I'll use it traveling? I've heard complaints about the smell, but it just smells soapy to me. Retail $25. There is a code for 20% off your next order.

Level Naturals Shower Bombs

Dermasuri Deep Exfoliating Mitt

Level Naturals Shower Bombs: Love these 4 bombs. I didn't know what they were, but they smell amazing . . .because I love eucalyptus. I love long hot showers and these promise to steam up in the shower and fill the area with amazing spa-smell. They smell great in the package. I can't wait. I think I love these. Retail $7.99.

Dermasuri Deep Exfoliating Mitt: It's a nice body microdermabrasion for use in the shower. It is not for the face and would be a little rough. Recommended for use every 2-4 months and replace in 6 months. I love a shower scrub, so this will be great for me. Retail $19.99 and code for 25% off your next order.

Marrithew Mini Stability Ball and DVD

Marrithew Mini Stability Ball and DVD: Glad it comes with a DVD because I wouldn't know how to use it properly. It seems durable with thick material, and seems easy to inflate. I need to improve my core strength and posture, so I am looking forward to trying it out. The ball is 7.5 inch diameter. Retail $28.94 and comes with a code for 15% off your next purchase.

The Better Chip Spinach and Kale Chip

The Better Chip Spinach and Kale Chip: What a pleasant surprise!!! I love kale chips, but have been disappointed in a lot of the packaged chips. They are often fragile and almost powder by the time you open the bag. I make my own. These were AMAZING!!! They tasted fantastic (as I knew they would, because who doesn't like a kale chip?) But the big surprise, they were thick like a real chip and not a crumbly mess!!!! it wasn't until I read the label more closely that I noticed they are a corn chip with some kale and spinach. A little disappointed, but not enough to make me not run out and buy some more. Sold, now to find more. Retail $1.99 and a coupon for $1.00 off 2 bags. This coupon will get used immediately.

Overall, I'm so happy with this box. Total retail value $217.91. I have the 1-year subscription for $175 so the box cost $43.75. Pretty good bargain since I love almost everything in the box. Are you jealous? Do you want one? Here is a link: http://vip.fff.me/ldVF. Use the code SPRING5 for a $5 discount.

(This post contains affiliate links. These opinions are my own and are unsolicited. I have not received any compensation for my comments.)

Escape Monthly March 2014 Review--Ireland

I have recently entered the world of subscription boxes. I tried a few in the past and didn't last long, but I'm finding some I really like. I'm embarrassed to admit that I am NOT a minimalist. I do like surprises and I do like trying new things. Subscription boxes are a way to try things that I wouldn't have gone out and bought on my own. I also do like a bargain, so if I don't think it's worth it, I am not willing to spend $$ on it.

Escape Monthly March 2013--Ireland

 Escape Monthly is a destination-inspired monthly delivery of luxury products to help you relax, renew and escape! Indulge in experiences inspired by luxurious spas, tropical getaways, cultures of the world and more! - See more at: http://escapemonthly.com. If I can't take a real vacation every month, at least I can pretend with a vacation in a box. One monthly box includes a trip to the destination. Or, you can purchase a trip on their site for a discount. If you just can't live without any extras of items in the box, you can buy them at escapemonthly.com/offers for a discount.

This is my first subscription box review. I have been stalking my e-mail in-box to watch shipping details and anxiously awaiting the FedEx delivery guy today. This box is usually $49.95 including shipping, but I had a $24.99 Groupon so I thought I would try it out. It auto-renews monthly for $49.95 and ships around the 15th of the month. If you cancel before the 10th, you won't be charged. I redeemed my Groupon voucher on March 17 and received my box on March 21. Fast!!!

When the box arrived, I was dying with anticipation. 

It is like opening a birthday present with pretty wrapping. The box came with a brochure explaining the products included. I did NOT win a free trip to Ireland.

I kind of like Travel Guides. Gives me an idea of where I want to go. This one wasn't the travel guide pictured, but instead a book about living abroad in Ireland. I like it. It doesn't have the vast amounts of hotel, museum, and restaurant options, but lots of great information about the culture and about interesting towns. With a travel guide in every box, I will one day have quite the collection. $19.99 retail.

Bewley's Irish Creme Coffee

Bewley's Irish Creme Coffee. This tin makes a single 48-ounce pot. I'm more of a single serve gal, so I tried it in my Keurig. The grounds were beautiful and dark. I brewed a cup in my Keurig immediately to finish this post. It was not as bold as the grounds made it look, but I enjoyed the smooth flavor. The Irish Creme flavor wasn't strong, so I added some of my own. :) $2.99 retail.

Bewley's Gift of Gab Irish Tea

Tea Bags

 Bewley's Gift of Gab Irish Tea. These 10 tea bags are not your average tea bags. They have such a lovely scent. I really can't wait to try it, but right now I'm enjoying my coffee. I wonder if I will have the gift of gab when I drink them. I sure could use it, to give me courage to speak up sometimes. $3.89 retail.

O'Neill's Shamrock Shortbread Cookies

Butler's Milk Chocolate Truffle

O'Neill's Shamrock Shortbread Cookies. I used to love a good shortbread, but since I'm now eating plant-based, I have to pass on these. I'm sure a friend will enjoy them. Made with 30% butter, you know they are decadent. $2.79 retail.

Butler's Milk Chocolate Truffle. I love a good mint chocolate, and mine was DARK chocolate, but alas, milk is in the ingredient list. I'm betting I will be popular with my friends who enjoy dairy. $3.99 retail.

Human+Kind Family Remedy Cream

Human+Kind Family Remedy Cream. This is a full-size tube of 75mL. Plant based, no added colors, no parabens and chemical free, no added perfume, no animal testing . . .what more could a girl want. It has a very clean, but a little earthy, smell that I like. It feels good, not oily. It's supposed to help heal skin burns, acne, scars, etc. I will use it. $31.49 retail.

Hogan's Brown Irish Soda Bread Mix

Hogan's Brown Irish Soda Bread. Very few ingredients, but it does have whey powder (i.e. milk-based), so I will gift it. I bet it smells divine and I wish I could enjoy a warm bite with a crunchy crust and soft middle. I just closed my eyes and fantasized a bit. $8.99 retail.

BONUS ITEM: Auld Sod Shamrock Seeds. My husband will kill me if I put them in the yard, but maybe in a cute pot? Maybe, just maybe, I could get a 4-leafer out of them. $3.95 retail.

Overall, the box value was $78.08. I will become super popular with my friends when I give away the non-vegan items. So far, pretty happy with my first box. If you want to try it out, you can sign up at this link. http://mbsy.co/3vJhV?s=e Use the coupon code YOURESCAPE and receive 20% off the lifetime of your subscription. That means, for $39.99 a month, all this could be yours too. 

(This post contains retail links. These opinions are my own and are unsolicited. I have not received any compensation for my comments.)