Serendipity July 2015 and Little Lace Box August 2015

Little Lace Box is a subscription box for women. It's curated for women by three sisters and isn't really described as a "lifestyle" box, but curates their boxes around particular themes. They used to be a monthly box and that is changing after the April box. I think because of their popularity, they grew really fast. They put so much thought into the curations, it has been challenging keeping up. After April ... the subscriptions are going to every other month ... six times a year. I had an annual subscription ... so it extends it out 18 months for the remaining 9 boxes. No complaints.

You can purchase a bi-monthly subscription for $59.99. 3 boxes over 6 months for $149.97. 6 boxes over 12 months for $269.99. If you have a recurring subscription, you can email them to suspend subscription for any reason and then resume when  you are ready.  I purchased mine when the annual (12-box) subscription was $383.90 ($31.99/box). Shipping is between the 20th-23rd each month and they bill monthly just before shipping.  If you like items you receive and want more, they have an on-line boutique where you can purchase more. For every dollar you spend in the boutique or on the purchase of the box, you get a loyalty point.  50 loyalty points is one dollar to spend in the boutique.

In the process of searching for items for their curated boxes, they come across items that just don't fit the theme, but that they love and want to share. So ... the luck that takes the form of finding valuable or pleasant things ...found itself as theSerendipity pouch. The Serendipity pouch will be sent on the months that the Little Lace Box is not. The cost of the subscription is $9.99 per month. While they are working out the kinks, the sisters are sending this to current subscribers for free. It's these things that really show the personal touch, and that they really care, that make all the difference. And, all the products and related items are available on the website.

As Serendipity is new, also some growing pains, or kinks. The sisters really care and want things to be right, so this message was put on Facebook. I knew it would be worth the wait. It has been so far. 

A little more excitement on Facebook was this post that showed up in early August also. The English Breakfast box was amazing, so have all their boxes been. I knew they were working to hit it out of the park. 

First look at the box

Finally, I received an email to expect my box. And I waited anxiously until it arrived. Serendipity and Elizabeth & Mr Darcy were combined into a single box. Since Serendipity was supposed to come first, We'll look at those first. I really do like that they write a story with the insert that explains why they chose certain items for their boxes. 

Get Dirty Mud Bar by Mindful Minerals: There is a trend for natural beauty products to be pricey. These are made of all natural ingredients without some of the bad stuff, like Parabens and Petrochemicals. And although exclusive and hard to find (spas and Little Lace Box website), they are not overpriced. I really like the smell of this. Very fresh. Can't wait to try it. Retail $4.00

Steep &Go by the Tea Spot: this is super cool idea. It's a small cold-brew infuser. It works with regular water bottles (which I hate to buy, but sometimes have to). Just add a pinch of loose-leaf tea and let it sit for 10-minutes. Voila ... Iced Tea on the go. Retail $5.95

And they were kind enough to complete the idea with Chill Out, Organic Loose Leaf Tea. What a great pairing. This is actually specially formulated for cold-brew so works great with the Steep & Go. It's naturally sweet with licorice root, hibiscus, and peppermint. No need to add sugar. Retail $1.29

I love receiving something that is vegan on purpose and not by accident. Malibu C Miracle Repair Hair Constructor. Just a sample, but my hair hasn't been cut in many months and the ends are getting well ... frizzy ... after a summer of sun and chlorine. I am looking forward to trying this, but haven't gotten around to it yet. It sounds amazing, adding shine and moisture. I could use that. Retail $3

 

And, final item ... the perfect ending. Evite.com thank you notes. Because I really do want to say "Thank you" for the curation. The cards have a nice heavy feel and texture. Perfect to say "thanks" with meaning. And, an invitation to check out Evite.com to create your own custom stationary. Retail $5

Retail for Serendipity: $19.24. Good value for the $9.99 price point. Better since right now, it's free to previous subscribers. Well worth the wait. Now ... On to Elizabeth & Mr. Darcy

The big ticket item in the box was the Elizabeth & Mr. Darcy Flower Vase. This is a small vase that is really suited for a few flowers, but it's very high quality. It is hand-made by Mary Rose Young and it's a one-of-a kind design just for Little Lace Box. This makes it even more special. I love that in support of small companies and artists, they included not just their thoughts for including this vase with the theme, but also why the artist created the design. I love the blue vase with etched flowers and the rose design on top. It feels feminine, and delicate, and strong all at once. Retail $124. 

 What vase would be complete without a bouquet? And Little Lace Box, with their own personal touch, also gives the subscribers the chance to personalize every single box. Shortly after the box arrived, an email followed with a code for $40 towards a bouquet from The Bouqs.com. I've already checked out the website and know exactly which bouquet from their sustainably grown flowers from a Volcano on the equator. I'm assuming that means Ecuador. Last year I learned that one of the largest exports from Ecuador is flowers, because they really are so amazing. Retail $40.

For feminine and unique and trendsetting women, Defineme fragrance. I received Clara. Very floral, but fresh scent. Some florals are heavy and matronly. This feels fresh and light. I love that it has a rollerball application, but in a square traditional old-school shape perfume bottle. Retail $36

Another great feature that sets Little Lace Box apart from the rest. Not just the support of small, local businesses and artisans. Not just that they curate by themes of things that the sisters love. (By the way, you feel like you are part of the family.) But, the search for things that they love and sometime have things made just for them to send just to us. The My Shea-Rona Shea Butter is created just for Little Lace Box. 30% Shea butter has the potential to be heavy, but it's just creamy and heavenly. Because of the density, a little goes a long way. There were several scents, and I received You Leave Me Peachless. I really want to taste it. It smells just like a perfectly ripe and juicy sweet peach. Retail $19.99. I actually think that the retail could be higher based on similar products I've seen.

All contents

 So, what do I think? I love that the box is, as usual, filled with thought. It's unique and you never know what to expect. The number of items varies as the items are based on themes and the value of the items varies based on the theme. I love the way it feels personal like I'm getting a glimpse into the lives of some really amazing women. I love the way it feels personal because I get the chance to create something unique in every box. Something that speaks to me and isn't someone's idea of what will be most appealing to the masses. Retail value $219.99

 October's Theme is Authentic Autumn-Be your authentic self. It talks about fashion and expressing yourself, so I'm very curious to see what they will find for us. I can't wait.

Eating through Austin-Counter Culture

Austin is a short 90-minute drive away from San Antonio. But, that seems so far for a meal. Even if Austin is the Vegan Capitol of the World. But, when CurlyKate, a friend from high school, told me she was flying in to Houston and was willing to drive 2 1/2 hours to meet for brunch "half-way" in Austin, how could I resist? Although she is not vegan, she is more than willing to go to vegan places with me. So, my job was to find the location. I've eaten at a few places, but c'mon ... there are so many to choose from. I have to find a new place for brunch and I came across Counter Culture. 

Located at 2337 East Cesar Chavez (on the corner of Clara Street), Saturday and Sunday Brunch is served from 11 AM to 3 PM. They are open 7 days a week from 11 AM to 10 PM.

Counter Cultures started in July 2009 as a food trailer. They serve internationally inspired vegan comfort food. They focus on organic, locally grown food and maintain as much of an environmentally friendly impact as possible. 

When we arrived, what we noticed first was the fun artistic pictures of dogs on the wall. Next was the eclectic diners. From earthy to upscale. Singles, couples, and families. And we had to check the chalkboard for daily specials. I'm a fan of specials because it usually means they got something local to use. It was going to be hard to decide what to order. Thank goodness, the Musician came, so I could snack of his plate, too. 

While we waited for CurlyKate to arrive, we sampled the Lavender Lemonade and the Mimosa. We had a mimosa option of orange juice or fresh tropical fruits. We chose tropical fruits. Both were cool and refreshing.

The service was friendly and casual. CurleyKate ordered the East Side Quesadilla with Cashew cheese, Seitan, potatoes, spinach. It was very tasty. Cheesy. The salsa was smooth and full of flavor, but not too spicy. And we liked the extra cashew cheese on the side. This is a winner for breakfast or lunch.

I ordered the Daily Special Omelet. I admit, I have no idea how to make a tofu-based omelet, but they did. It was stuffed with spinach, broccoli, and cashew cheese again, with pesto on top. I had no hesitation finishing it off. I could order a side and my lifetime favorite breakfast item is biscuits and gravy. So, that's what I had. OMG!!! There is another place where I get vegan biscuits and gravy. This is better!!! This will satisfy that desire every time.

The Musician went with Tofu Ranchero. Salsa, black beans, poblanos, avocado. A true Texas breakfast full of amazing flavor. He was undecided about Tempeh Bacun (yes, that's how it's spelled), or Seitan Sausage. The server made a recommendation for sausage and he wasn't disappointed. Omnivores out there wouldn't know the difference.

So, what do I think? I can hardly wait to go back for dinner sometime. We found another winner in Austin. The company was best of all. Thanks CurlyKate for making time in your busy schedule for me. And thanks for making the drive. And thanks for encouraging us to find another great place to eat. Miss you already. Can't wait for the next time we can meet up.

Metamorphosis is "my" Metaphor

If you wonder why I love INKnBURN clothes so much, I would say it's because they "get" me. The new Metamorphosis line is a metaphor for who I am.

In person, I am an introvert. Quiet, watching, thinking, planning. That's also how I used to run. Quiet, slow, determined, hoping not to get noticed. Chenille is French for Caterpillar --  not known for speed (like me), but great focus and determination. But, with time, I had the ability to transform and change. We can turn over a new leaf and re-invent, and change, and re-discover. 

The Chenille Racerback is a new fabric for INKnBURN. It still feels silky soft, but is resistent to snags and has an SPF 30 rating. The capris are amazing as always. 

But, with time, I had the ability to transform and change. We can turn over a New Leaf and re-invent, and change, and re-discover. 

The New Leaf Shorts are the Dry I.C.E 2.0 Fabric.
2 hidden pockets in front are big enough for a couple of gels or even a phone

After discovering INKnBURN, however, I started to get noticed. Still not for my speed, but for my amazing and colorful clothing, art on fabric. I joined a running group and became a social butterfly. I also became a social butterfly at races. Sure, I'm still back of the pack, but I'm not afraid to talk to the other back-of-the-packers. I am not embarrassed when someone tells me "good job" when I know I look like I'm barely moving. And, I'm not afraid to start up a conversation with the people I pass (rare) or the people who pass me (frequent). I am not shy about telling that person who looks like they are wiped, how awesome they are. Sure, it may be a struggle, but what a remarkable feat of strength and endurance ... they are out here, out of their comfort zone, doing it. And, no matter how they (I) think they (I) look, they (I) look beautiful ... (they) we are moving our bodies and celebrating life.

And just like that, a little caterpillar can tranform into a Monarch! Celebrate life and fly!

PopSugar MustHave August 2015

 PopSugar MustHave is a monthly lifestyle subscription box. I call it a Christmas stocking in a box and I look forward to it every month.  It's filled with items that I might not purchase for myself, but that I will use and love. Just a bit of luxury.

The usual subscription box is $39.99/month, but if you purchase 3 or 6 month subscriptions, there is a little discount. And, they have discounts every month if you find the codes. The current discount code is MUSTHAVE5 for $5 off your subscription.  Black Friday they had a special for $75 off a 6-month subscription. So, my $214.70 ($35.78/box) came to 139.70 ($23.28/box). Not a bad deal when you consider all that's in it. 

I'm always happy when I receive my email notifying me the box has shipped. I stalk the tracking number like a hawk. And, I'm happy when the box arrives in the mail. I usually open it right away, but sometimes it takes me some time to take pictures and do a little test to see what I like and what I love from the box. So, here we go. 

I really like the theme this month. It's perfect for end of summer/back to school

First look inside the box. Nicely packed. 

Handy card detailing the contents

First item that you see in the box is the Happy Jackson Yay Lunch! Lunch Box: Since I take my lunch to work most days, lunch box items are always appreciated. Putting a sandwich in here just seems a little more grown up. I really love the fabric elastic that wraps around to seal. It just adds something to it. Retail $10

Next item that caches my eye is Southern Culture Shortstacks Pancake and Waffle Mix in Birthday Cake flavor. I already use this product. It's actually vegan and if you use non-dairy milk, it stays vegan. One of my favorite weekend breakfast indulgences, so I won't say no to having a little more of it. Retail $7.99

You notice a brown box in the box. This contains the Pastel Best Day Ever Mug. I am a fan of fun coffee mugs. I'm usually the Debbie Downer and a little dark and twisty, so it actually adds a little whimsy for me. I kind of like using it like the day after I use my Zoloft mug. And it fits well with my Life is Good mug. I enjoy sipping coffee from a mug on weekends instead of rushing out with a thermos. So, thanks. Retail $12

And, then we start going deeper. I am always a fan of trying new products. Royal Apothic Tea Balm Firming Eye Treatment smells gentle and clean. It has a nice thick creamy, but non-greasy, texture. I will enjoy adding it to the rotation of eye cream. And, really, the packaging is adorable. Retail $36. 

Meri Meri Toot Sweet Pink Stripe Napkins have a little more of a spring/summer party feel than what I think of for the end of summer. But, they will come in handy for festive occasions likee birthdays and baby showers. I'm not excited, but not disappointed. Retail $5.95

American Colors Mediterranean Plaid Scarf. This apparently came in a variety of colors. I really love the blue and pink. It's 100% cotton gauze and super soft. It's also huge, so can be worn in so many ways. Some reviews weren't a fan of the plaid, I think it's a perfect fall accessory. And, I never can get enough scarves. Retail $79. 

MyYogaWorks 3-month trial. I like yoga. I hate getting in the car and going to the gym. They don't ask for a credit card, so I don't have to remember to cancel if I don't want to continue using it. I am going on a long vacation soon, without Internet access, so I don't want to miss 1/3 of the value of this, so I'm trying it out when I get back in October. Retail $45.

Special Extra: Folgers Iced Cafe Caramel Macchiato Flavored Coffee Drink Concentrate. There are lots of artifical ingredients in this and some are just listed as artificial flavor and color. I can add it to non-dairy milk, but I haven't gotten around to trying yet. The label says "may have dairy." So ... what do do? I may gift it. Retail $4.99. 

My verdict:I like the box. I'm not over-the-top excited, but it's a good solid box that fit the theme. I'm not disappointed and I will use almost everything in the box pretty regularly. And, I'm not disappointed with the value of $195.94 (not including Special Extra Item).