FabFitFun--Summer 2014

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 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.      I like quarterly. Not too much $$ a year and I'm not filling up on too many products. 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....Well, they used to be this way...

Something I noticed recently, I don't see Guiliana Rancic's name on the site anymore, so I'm not sure she is affiliated with them still. A little disappointed (more on that later) because when I originally signed up for this subscription, items were all animal friendly and vegan. Not so much in this box. Just a few items, but still . . .It was nice having a box that had great products, but didn't have to scream vegan . . .some people think vegan means crazy, but there are so many things in the world that are accidentally vegan. I would like to see more people discover those things. 

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.

Sonya Dakar Flash Facial: OK, I admit, I haven't used it yet, but it promises to be something I will love. Developed for the stars. Let's hope it's a miracle worker that it says it is. I could use softer, plumper, younger-looking skin. Couldn't we all? Retail $95. 

pur-lisse pr-protect SPF 30: My second sunscreen this month, but this one designed for the face. I can always use sunscreen because my pale skin doesn't like any sun. It's light and moisturizing, so it doesn't fill my pores. Retail $55

Thursday Friday Away Mini Clutch/Makeup Bag: I saw several designs and didn't get the one I was hoping for, but still pretty cute. I love having little bags. They help me organize bigger bags. And, this is probably the cutest make-up travel bag I now own. Also came with a $30 gift card if I want another design. 

 FabFitFun Water Infuser BPA-free Water Bottle: My second infuser bottle of the year from subscription boxes, but I'm not complaining. I drink lots of water and prefer to carry my own bottle instead of purchasing plastic bottles. And I love adding flavors to help me drink more. The brochure suggested cucumber and mint . . .it's like they know me!!! My favorite combination this summer. This one is different than my other one and I love the saying "Grab life by the exercise balls!" Thanks for that advice, I think I will. Retail $15




Zoya Nail Polish: I'm guessing there were multiple colors of this also. I'm on the fence about Maya...coral color. It's not a color I usually wear, but I have branched out this summer to other colors, so I'll give it a try. It is vegan-friendly and supposed to be long lasting. I can't wear it on my fingers, so I'll try it on my toes. Retail $9

KissSTIXX Lip Balm. Contains sunscreen so I'm happy because I think all lip balm should contain sunscreen. Also, saw different varieties on other reviews. I'm happy with the Chocolate and Strawberry combination. I don't think I will ask my husband to wear one flavor while I wear another to get a flavor explosion when we kiss. I think that seems a little junior high to me. Contains beeswax, so not vegan. Retail $5.99. Included a coupon for 25% off an on-line order.

 Next on the not vegan list is POPchips in Sour Cream & Onion flavor. I've had POPchips before in other flavors, and liked them. Gifted these to a grateful friend. Retail $1.29

 Balanced Guru No Frizz Oil. I think the universe is trying to tell me something. In 40+ years of curly frizzy hair, I've never heard of hair oil to smooth things out. This is my second hair oil this month. I think I'm supposed to use it and I think I will. This smells amazing!!! Retail $25

The final items were sponsored. So, I'm guessing the companies paid to have them put in the box, or donated them. Although the values listed total $4.49, I wouldn't really include them in the value of the package. Also, I really like that FabFitFun includes really high-end products that feel luxurious and these just seemed to cheapen the box. I suppose if it keeps the price down while allowing the value to stay high, then I can live with it. I will use the shave gel. I have no need for the liners so I gifted them. The Slimfast bar is a new flavor, but contains dairy, so not vegan friendly. Gifted that also.

Overall, I'm so happy with this box. Total retail value $241.28 (not including the sponsored items). I really like that there are a few really high-end items. Seems luxurious and decadent to me, and makes me already anxious for fall.  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: Use the code 5779985 and get a $15 discount. It's good for the first 3 people who use it. If you like my review, it also helps me out because I get a discount, too. 

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

PopSugar MustHave-July 2014

PopSugar Must Have boxes are like a Christmas stocking in a box every month. Last month my box came late in the month. So far, I have really liked almost everything in the boxes. They are filled with little things I might not purchase for myself, but that I enjoy. That's how a gift should be. This is a gift I give myself, but I don't have to do the shopping. I was excited to receive my box. I was out of town with the box shipped and I saw reviews on-line before I had a chance to open my box, but I was still excited to see what was in store. I was happy to see the box in my mailbox when I got home. 

PopSugar Must Have 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. Every box comes with a card detailing the items.  July was inspired by HOT SUMMER NIGHTS, eating al fresco, LONGER DAYS, LEMONDADE, SUNSHINE, VACATION, OUTDOOR WORKOUTS

Michael Stars Beach Hat. Darn it, I just bought a beach hat. I suppose you can't have too many. I have been wearing hats more this summer than in the past. I've had some cool vacations that hats came in handy, and then the Texas sun . . .I like this one. It's different from my others. It's light and airy, cute. I really like the wire band in the brim that helps with the shaping. Sadly, I have been trying to avoid items made in China, but that's a long story. Most hats seem to be from China (my others are Italian and Ecuadorean, but I had to search for them). Retail $48. 

French Bull Ziggy Salad Servers. Super cute. I love thh fun colors and chevron pattern I'm not known for my entertaining and style. In fact, boring might be a good word to describe my style. I don't think boring will be the description the next time I go to a pot-luck. These are dishwasher safe, so key to my very easy and relaxed version of life. Retail $12.

Sun Bum Sunscreen and Lotion. Just got back from Hawaii, and was using tons of sunscreen. None smelled this good. It feels great and smells great. I guess I have to find extra excuses . . .maybe a day on the lake with friends. The aloe lotion smells like cocoa butter. Most of my sunscreens smell medicinial because cocoa butter seems reserved for suntan lotion, not sunscreen. Might be my "go to." Retail $20

More summer fun with entertaining colors. ACME Party Box Company Chevron Straws. I love the colors and I've been using straws a lot this summer. Everything just seems more chilled from a straw. I love them. And I was happy to see two layers of straws with multiple colors. Yea!!! Retail $7

TKO Jump Rope with Soft Grip Handles. I just keep loving this box. I did a few CrossFit classes before I decided I didn't like it. But, I did enjoy the jumping rope. It reminds me of childhood and is actually a pretty decent workout for cardio and for coordination. Helps those fast-twitch muscles, so maybe my running turnover will be better. And because I don't have to jump high, not so bad for the impact. I probably wouldn't have gone out and bought a jump rope, but I sure enjoy having one. And this one is pretty nice. Retail $13.

I do like food and Dang, I like these. DANG Foods Toasted Coconut Chips. These are great. Crispy with good sweet coconut flavor. Not like the chewy dried coconut used for cooking, but a little closer to fresh coconut meat that has been dried crisp. I especially love that they are Non-GMO and Vegan. Score!!! YUM, send me some more because I ate the whole bag. Retail $3

And the final item looks like it was sponsored, meaning Revlon paid (or donated) it put in the box for distribution and marketing. So what? I like it. Revlon Bold Lacquer Length & Volume Mascara. Who can have enough mascara? Not a red-head who has to wear mascara or her eyelashes appear non-existent. Also a $1 coupon. No value was listed because I don't think PopSugar counted it in the value of their packaging. I respect that.

Overall, I'm pretty happy about the July box. It was very summery and felt right for summer vacation. I paid $39.95 because I haven't been canceling and joining with a discount code. I suppose I could, but that would take effort and I'm feeling a little lazy. I like a bargain and the value of the box was $103, maybe a little more if you add the value of the mascara. I've seen some reviews complaining that the value has been going down, despite the increase in price for the subscription. I will keep an eye on it. So fa, it's double the value I paid. Sure, maybe some things I wouldn't have purchased for myself, but I like surprises and I'm getting products I will use. 

I'm looking forward to August, which is right around the corner.

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

Escape Monthly-July 2014 India

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. 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. All you have to do is enter your email address and they will send you a coupon code for the discount. They are now offering a less expensive (but no discounts) on a mini-box. It has fewer items (4-5 instead of 8, and no travel guide), but still full-size products and costs $24.95. 

I was out of town when my box arrived, so it was a pleasant surprise to see it waiting for me. I am always happy when I see the blue chevron. It's just pretty and lighthearted. Alas, I did not get the golden ticket, so no trip to India for me . . .at least not right away. It's on my list one day because it seems so exotic and filled with history. The box always comes with a brochure to explain the contents.



The regular box comes with a travel guide, the mini without. I like the higher number of contents in the regular box, and I thought I would really like travel guides, but I am amassing quite a collection and I worry about them being dated by the time I ever take a trip to the locations . . .and I'm not sure I will ever make it there. I might appreciate more things and less travel guides in the future. Retail $19.99


Lots of food items in this box. That sometimes happens with this subscription. First was Maya Kaimal Kashmiri Curry. The brochure said it was Madras curry. I honestly don't know the difference. I love curry, and it smells amazing. Made in New York. Can't wait to try this in my cooking. Retail $7.39




Next food item was Organic, Grass-Fed Ghee. Never heard of if before, but it's sort of a butter/fat, I guess. It's supposed to cleanse and promote well-functioning organs. But, since I don't eat animal products, this was gifted to a friend who is an amazing and creative cook. I'm sure she will do something with it. Made in New Jersey. Retail $2.95




Third food item was Saffron Road Korma Simmer Sauce. The brochure said it was Tikka Masala. Completely different sauces and flavors, but I'm not complaining. I like both and I suspect the Tikka Masala also cotains milk, so I would have gifted it also. Gave it to the same creative cook. Made in New Hampshire. Retail $3.99

Finally, in the food category: Masala Pop Chai  Masala Popcorn. I had heard complaints about the popcorn being stale and hard and clumpy. I don't really have high expectations of coated popcorn, and I wasn't disappointed. Sure, it was stale and clumpy, but not hard. And popcorn in the mail (unless it is in a tightly sealed tin) is usually stale. Coated popcorn is usually clumpy. At least for me. I like the flavor, so not going to complain about it. It was sweet, but not too sweet. Maybe because it wasn't "perfect," I didn't eat it too quickly. Also, happy to see a label that notes it is Non-GMO and VEGAN. Made in Oregon. Retail $5.49

Now the spa, vacation, beauty items. Banyan Healthy Hair Oil & Soap.The soap is a trial size, so I'm sort of thinking the value is overestimated. The soap is peppermint andthe oil has a strong, bot not too heavy scent that for some reason, to me, just smells like I expect India to smell. A little exotic, and a little funky. I have curly, dry, frizzy hair and for the first time in 40+ years of life, I've heard about hair oil to smooth out the frizz. I've received hair oil in other subscriptions this month, so I am taking it as a sign. I will try to calm my hair. Made in New Mexico. Retail $12.95 and $6.95 (but since the soap is trial size, I'm thinking not $6.95). 

Next item is Nemat Amber Perfume Oil. It's a tiny little bottle, I think it's the 5mL bottle, that will be perfect for putting in my purse. I like the amber scent. It's less floral than some others I use and I'm not tied to anything, but rather, like variety. I don't have a signature. Made in Fremont, CA. Retail $9.00. There was a tiny bonus sample oil in Sandlewood, which is one of my favorite, non-floral scents also included.

And, finally, the bonus item. Indian Bindi. I'm not sure if/when I'll wear these, but they could be fun. I have been to a few Indian weddings, so maybe I'll keep these for next time. I've seen reviews with different colors and different patterns. Mine was simple, but that's what I would prefer. Retail $2.00

I was looking forward to products FROM India, and I was a little disappointed that the items were all U.S. made.  Don't get me wrong, I LOVE supporting U.S. Companies, but it just seemed odd. I guess I expected my escape to be from the country it represents.  

I'm still on the fence about this subscription box. It's pricey at full price $49.95. I have 20% off for life, so I pay $39.95, which is similar to other boxes I get. The value of this box was $70.71 including the travel guide and the price of a full-size bar of peppermint soap, so it's probably less. It is one of my more expensive subscriptions and has lower value than similarly priced boxes, so I'm debating. It's fun and different, though.  I would like to see higher value as my other boxes are valued at double (or more) than their price point making me feel like I got a bargain. Next month is Paris, so I'm not ready to give up just yet. I'm also kind of curious because they had a deluxe box one-time order this month that I ordered for $69.99. It is supposed to have a >$150 value. 

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