How to Be a RedHead October 2015

I need another subscription box like I need a hole in my head. But, sometimes something comes around that is just irresistable. Thanks to my fellow INKnBURN Ambassador, Eleanor LaRouge (also a Ginger and  PinUp model), I learned about How to Be a Redhead. The website has all kinds of fun and useful information for redheads and sells red-head approved products. So, when they released a box just for red-heads, how could I resist? They only released 500 boxes. I purchased the annual subscription for $180, so it comes out to $15 per box prepaid. I have no idea how much the monthly subscription is because it is now sold out and I can't see the pricing. After the September box, they did open up 20 more boxes for October, but those are also sold out. 

My box arrived while I was still getting settled (I'm not yet) from my hectic September.  I was kinda excited. I love the red box and the red paper. The box included a card with details of the 7 items included. And, a card for taking and posting a selfie ... but I haven't done that. 

I get lip colors in other subscription boxes. Some work. Some don't. For example the color I chose today did not. I must remove it from rotation. And, I admit, when I saw COVERGIRL, Colorlicious Lipstick in Decadent Peach shade, I was unconvinced. Until I put it on and it's great. It really has a great color that goes nicely with pale skin and red hair. This is why I trust H2BAR ... they know what they are doing for redheads. Retail $7

I am pretty religious about sunscreen but sometimes I'm not successful, or I just can't get to it. And, I sometimes just get irritated skin. So, I really appreciate My Body "Calm After the Storm" Soothing Treatment. It smells good and it feels good. It actually feels pretty luxe. Retail $94 

Pureology Reviving Red Illuminating Caring Oil. Thanks to subscription boxes, I have discovered I love hair oil. Shiny and calming on my frizzy curls. This has a red color too, to enhance my natural color. What a score. And I have to say, it also smells nice. Retail $32

This was totally new to me, but what a great idea for bike ride days and beach days. Sunburn Alert UV Stickers. This has only 2 stickers, but I love the idea. You put the sticker on your skin and apply sunscreen. When the sticker changes color, because it is exposed to harmful UVA/UVB rays, you need to re-apply. No more guessing. No more over-lathering (I hate that when I feel like I have so many layers on). Retail $6                                                                                                                                                       More color changing technology. One of the highest rated sunscreens on the market. No chemical absorbers. Goes on clear, but 10% zinc oxide and 5% Titanium oxide. Blue Lizard Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin is amazing. The bottle top changes color with UV exposure, so you have an idea just how intense the sun is and sometimes you just need to be out of the sun. The deeper blue the top becomes, the more harmful UV rays are out. Retail $12

I love masks. BioRepublic Aloe Rescue Revitalizing Sheet Mask. Collagen boosting, Aloe, Vitamin E. Sheet masks seem to be all the rage right now and I understand why. They just feel good and soothing. I have sensitive skin and really enjoy sheet masks. Retail $5











And, Organix OGX Moisture + Vitamin B5 Shampoo & Conditioner Sample Set. I used this on a recent overnight trip. Smells amazing. Great lather from the shampoo. Great smoothing from the conditioner. Supposed to infuse moisture and provide protection against environmental damage. Hard to tell after a single use, but I'm getting highlights in a few weeks and may  be looking for something to protect the color. Retail $5

So, what do I think? I am pretty impressed with H2BAR's first box. It really is redhead-centric and I will be able to use everything without worrying about color. The value was great at $161. I can't wait until October box. My ginger friends need to get on board if they open more subscriptions.

FabFitFun Fall 2015

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. And, subscribers can purchase extra boxes (usually $39.99) for gifts. I purchased an annual subscription last year for $179.99 and it automatically renewed (annual) at the same price for next year.

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. When my subscription was up and it was time for renewal, I was renewed at the annual rate instead of reverting to the quarterly rate.

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.

This month, in support of Domestic Violence Awareness month, FabFitFun partnered with Allstate Foundation Purple Purse, so the box was also purple.

Instead of the usual foldout card with details, the box included a magazine-like description of items. But, it was more than that. Items were described with the theme and purpose behind the choice of item. A description of the cause. Interviews with artists and designers. I'm not sure if this is unique to this month or if it is ongoing, but I liked it. It is more than a box, it's a thoughtful curaton. And, I admit, I sometimes feel guilty about receiving boxes, but when the curators are getting behind an important cause to support, it makes me feel better because I feel like I'm helping a bit, too. And the awareness stimulates me to provide more support. 

I wanted to start out with the Purple Purse Charm included in every box. Just like an arm band or a ribbon, the idea of wearing the charm on your bag or key chain demonstrates a personal commitment to raising awareness of the issue of domestic violence and financial abuse against women worldwide. Value ... priceless, but you can buy it for $10

I'm a fan of masks. I think I've said that before. So, the Gold Radiance Luxury Facial mask with Collagen and Rose Oil by Passport to Beauty is a winner for me. There are 2 mass in the package and I love the gold color. Sheet masks make me feel just a little decadent. Retail $65

One of the items I had an option to select was the color of this FabFitFun X Tappan Collective Umbrella. This was designed by FabFitFun and has a cute quirky print. I always appreciate umbrellas and this one is sturdy. I did have some trouble putting it back in the wrap, though. I chose yellow (pink and blue were options) because it reminds me of one of my favorite TV shows that recently ended. Retail $32

I'm trying to increase my glam-factor by wearing make-up slightly more often. But mostly I wear a lip color and mascara. Lucky Lip Stain by Manna Kadar Cosmetics has a nice light color with a glossy finish. It's supposed to act as primer, gloss, and stain and add moisture all at once. Since layers sound challenging to me, I'm down with an all-in-one. The color does seem to last. Retail $24

I love receiving moisturizers in subscription boxes. New brands to try. Flawless Skin Fluid by Doctor D. Schwab is lighweight and is supposed to help balance uneven tones and give a healthy glow. It felt nice and smooth, so should be good under my mineral makeup. Retail $39

Next item that I had a choice was the Glass Cyrstal Bead Bracelet by Tribe Alive. I am a fan of Tribe Alive as they employ poor women from around thee world to provide livable wages. This delicate bracelet was handmade in Honduras. I chose blue. I like the delicate bracelet because I can layer it with other items. Retail $49

I also had the option to choose a color on the HISY Battery Pack. Who doesn't need a portable charger? I don't need to say much more, except maybe that it's kind of nice to have a charger that is feminine. Retail $24.99

















I am not always a fan of gift cards in subscription boxes, because they almost always require you to spend money to use them. The Gift Card by Jeweler's Wife was $15. There isn't a lot on the site for $15, but I did find these cute Pandora sterling and cubic zirconia earrings and I only paid $1.24 for shipping. The Gift Card by Picture It On Canvas was worth $75. I have to find a great pic from a recent vacation and I can use it in it's entirety.

I am always a fan of exercising at home. Less excuse not to do it. And, my running has suffered because of hip weakness. I have no more excuses. The Strength Tubing Ankle & Total BodyTone with Tubing: Lower Body &Core DVD by Merrrithew will be useful if I can get off my butt and use it. There was also a discount coupon for 20% off a $50 purchase at Merrithew if you want to buy more DVDs or equipment. Retail $33

Sponsored item was 3D White Brilliance 2-Step System by Crest: I use whiteners and I use this brand. So ... I will use it.

 So, what do I think? I really love the theme of this box. I love the support of a cause. I like the information about the artisits and the reason behind the choice in curation. I will get use out everyhing. It was very full with lots of items of a wide variety. And, for a retail value of  $366.99 including gift cards, I think the value is definitely there. Looking forward to winter.

PopSugar MustHave September 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 super late in my postings. It has been a hectic many weeks with a long vacation ... that I haven't blogged yet, and then some crazy family and work stuff. My October box is arriving, so I have to share my September surprise. This was waiting for me when I got home from vacation. I admit, I had peeked at spoilers, I always do. 

 

As usual the tri-fold card with the item descriptions is always helpful.

 

I really like the Hudson + Bleecker Labyrinth Onyx Travel Trio. The plastic pouch is TSA friendly and I can vouch for that as I have already used it. The bags are labeled for shoes and lingerie, but they are the same size so can really be used for anything. I like tidy and organized packing and I have used these also and was satisfied. It's nice opening an organized suitcase that has pretty sectionals. Retail $42

I really like the Kris Nations "XO" Stud Earrings. I'm kind of into the mis-matching these days, so a pair of earrings that coordinates, but doesn't match is fun for me I like the bras and 14-goldd plate. It shouldn't cause discoloration and will last. Retail $35

I have wonky pale eyebrows. I'm kind of excited (and a little intimidated and nervous) about trying the Too Faced Cosmetics Brow Envy Shaping and Defining Kit. The kit comes with stencils and a guide for the ideal brow shape for eye shapes and instructions for defining the arches. You color inside the stencil and groom what's outside the stencil. As a chronic over-plucker, this may help be stay balanced between waxes. And, as someone with pale brows, I like the ability to add a hint of color to enhance the definition. I have actually used the brow tint and really liked it. Retail $39

Briogeo Rosarco Milk Reparative Leave-In Conditioning Spray. I read the ingredients. No milk and all plant-based with coconut oil among other things. I'm often quick and on the go after the gym, so this will go in my gym bag to increase the speed of my post-workout ritual. It smells nice, too. Retail $20

NCLA So Rich Vitamin E Enriched Cuticle Oil: This is great for me. I can't wear polish, so I don't do manicures very often. But, I work with my hands and it is important they look decent. I love cuticle oils to keep the cuticle soft and the nails shiny. Retail $18

No complaints at all from Nourish Snacks Almonds to Cherries.  I admit, I ate this as soon as I took the picture. Salty and sweet with a little tart. Perfection. Although this is honestly the right proportion. 200 calories and 6 grams of protein. My only complaint is I wanted MORE. I did check the ingredient list and there was nothing added. Just roasted almonds and tart cherries. Retail $2

So, what do I think? I think that PopSugar MustHave has been getting better and better. Total retail $156, so I also really appreciate the value.

The Elephant Camp--September 22-24

Elephant Camp: Elephant Camp is next to Zambezi Wildlife Preserve.

 It serves as a preserve itself. They have rescued elephants that are used to people and have handlers that care for them. They sort of come and go to the watering hole as they please. There are herds of hoofed animals. And they have very famous, Sylvester the Cheetah. We were greeted by Bradley and Annie. Bradley and Annie used to work at Imbabala. Bradley is the son of the owner of Wild Horizons. I was so out of it, but they were so kind. We did take a quick shower and change of clothes. An elephant encounter had been arranged for us and I couldn't miss it, no matter how sick I was. So, we ambled to the meeting place and we learned about Jambo and the other elephants who were all rescued from poaching events, which is very sad. But, they are safe on these lands for the remainder of their lives. C'mon though ... after seeing these animals, gentle souls ... look at their eyes, who can consider killing them. We had opportunity to take photos with Jambo, but on his schedule.

When he was tired, we were done. I went back to the room and became unconscious on the bed.

The Musician went out for a sunset drinks overlooking Rapid #9. He said it was another beautiful African sunset.

He also got to have his first meeting with Sylvester.

 Sometime in my haze, I was brought soup and housekeeping closed the tent windows and pulled down the mosquito netting.

I was still pretty puny the next morning, but better. Unfortunately, everyone else was beginning to feel puny. We were scheduled to go to Victoria Falls National Park, but we were all moving slowly and hoped we would have time the next day before departures. So, we had a leisurely morning and met Sylvester. Sylvester was found as a baby. Some rangers saw a Cheetah being chased by a Lion. When they investigated, they found 4 cheetah cubs only a few days old with their eyes still closed. Only Sylvester was alive. The others had been killed by a lion. They waited for a day and watched The female Cheetah never returned. They think she gave her life saving her baby. So, Sylvester came home to live with people. As he aged, he became too big to be a house-cat, but he thinks he's a person. Apparently Cheetah's are 80% cat and 20% dog, who knew? So they have features of both. Sylvester now lives on the preserve with his handlers that he has known since a cub. He doesn't know he's big, so they have to be careful as he doesn't realize that his claws scratch deep. He gets regular walks and is off leash on the preserve. He is afraid of big animals and if he runs and chases a herd, the herds have been known to turn around and chase him and he runs crying to his handlers who now face a herd of stampeding wildebeest. They say sometimes he takes down a small deer, but nibbles on it slightly. When the stunned animal realizes it's not dead, it hops up, kicks him in the head and runs away ... and he runs back crying to his handlers for protection. Silly boy. He purrs like a machine and allows people to pet him, but he handlers watch and can tell if he's getting tired and don't let him get too much attention.

After meeting Sylvester, we had the opportunity to go to a local market to buy trinkets. OMIGOD!!! It's a madhouse. That's all I can say. We then had lunch and were taken across the border to Zambia.

We saw Jambo and his herd on the way out. Just going where they want to go. Crossing was same as Botswana ... Visa and Passport leaving, walk across, Visa and Passport entering. New car and new driver. And of course, baboons. Then off to Livingstone Hotel, which is a luxurious old style hotel that looks exactly as you would expect an old British hotel in a colony to be. I was certain I took pictures, but I sure as heck can't find them. At the hotel, we boarded jet boats to Livingstone Island and swam to Devil's Pool at the top of Victoria Falls.

 We saw a spectacular double rainbow and had the chance to sit in the pool. This is an eddy at the very top, overlooking the falls, but the water doesn't flow over the falls. Some weird geophysical thing I don't understand. Anyway, we had to make a bit of a swim to get there and once there, we were actually on the edge. I was willing to look over. I was willing to sit on the rocks , but I could not screw up the courage to lay across the rocks and look over. My head was already swimming with the heights.

Then back to Livingstone Island for high tea and warming up. And, back to the hotel to meet our vans. While waiting, we saw monkeys ... of course. But ZEBRAS!!!! Up close and personal. I almost started jumping up and down clapping like a little girl.

We did the double border crossing and then back to "camp."

So, let's talk about this "camp." As I was feeling better, I could really appreciate it more. We did have to call the front desk if we wanted to leave our tents at night ... you know, predators and other big animals that can cause harm. The tent had a 4-poster king bed with mosquito netting and a large sitting area with a couch and coffee table and minibar. From the bedroom or sitting area, there were two sliding doors out to the deck with a spectacular view of the plains and a plunge pool. There was a full bath with great amenities including a separate shower and claw-foot tub and another sliding glass door to a deck with an outdoor shower. I had to ensure that I used each of the bathing facilities and showering outside felt a little (ok, a lot) decadent and devious. But, I was clean.

They also had free laundry service, so all the grunge from sleeping 3 nights on the river was washed away. While we were rafting, Prom Queen had gone to South Africa for a wine tasting tour with her friends that live there. She brought back wine for a tasting and teaching session. I was still too under the weather to enjoy it and I napped. The Musician stayed for awhile, but he began feeling the "crud." When we were ready, we went to the Boma for dinner. This was the first time the Boma at Elephant Camp was serving, so we felt special.  It was a buffet and we had plenty of options. I declined the worms this time. I also declined the local game dishes. How could a person think of eating cute warthog or beautiful kudu or graceful bushbuck? And again, great dancers, but where are my pictures?

We had to call an early night after the dancing was done. Not us (no dancing, too tired), but the local dance troupe. The next morning, it was breakfast and finish packing. We tried to leave early to visit Victoria Falls, but "Africa time" doesn't follow a tight schedule. We didn't have time as we had to deal with the border crossing to get to Livingstone Airport in Zambia for our return home. This is the view we missed.

How I was not ready to leave. There is so much more to see and do. The people are so friendly. The landscape is beautiful. I suppose, we have to make another trip.