Aveeno sample review

Hello!  As a member of Crowdtap, I was selected to try & review 2 Aveeno lotion samples.  As always my reviews are 100% my own.

Aveeno protect + hydrate lotion sunscreen with broad spectrum SPF 30

Super long title but awesome lotion.  It has such an interesting smell.  It reminds me of your typical summer tanning lotion and baby lotion mixed together.  Sounds odd but smells really good.  It goes on really smooth and absorbs almost instantly so you don't have to wait to get dressed.  You can use it not just on your body but your face too.  Bonus!  I love that it's only SPF 30 because I do like to get a little color during the summer months but I'm still protected.  I'm so pale. *sob sob*  I definitely recommend it.

Aveeno daily moisturizing lotion sheer hydration

I'm going to be honest.  I'm not a fan of unscented lotions but I will make an exception for this one.  There's just something about it I really like.  Like the other lotion, it absorbs almost instantly so no time waiting to get dressed.  It's really smooth and just leaves your skin feeling amazing.  It's also nice and light, which is perfect for the warmer months.   It doesn't feel heavy at all.   I also recommend this one.

There you have it.  I never tried Aveeno lotions before but they are definitely worth checking out.

Great Website ~ 100% legit

Hello! Happy May! It was 80°F here today. What happened to spring? My favorite season and it's gone like that. *snaps fingers*

Anyways, I have to tell you about this awesome site called instaGC. My friend told me about it in December and I checked it out but was like eh.  After the new year, I kept seeing her post gift cards that she got through the site to her FB wall and decided to check it out again.

OH MY GOD!!! I love this site.

See the above pic?  That's all the gift cards I've gotten since I started.

They have free offers like surveys, watch videos, click on links.  Yes, click on links.  You just click and get points.  It's amazing.  They also have offers where you can sign up for free trials or buy something with a credit card.  Don't want to use your credit card?  No problem!  See the above pic?  All done with the free offers.  

They have 11 pages of gift cards.  Amazon, Applebee's, Playstation point cards, Wii U point cards...etc.  They have something for everyone.  You can even redeem points for cash to your checking account or just get a check.  I'm pretty sure it's worldwide too since I saw someone redeem points in rupees!  

I'm telling you, this site is 100% legit.  Interested in learning more?  Click the link below to sign up and start earning.  ^_^

http://www.instagc.com/536648

No surprise here

You Are a Dreamer

You are primarily concerned with possibilities. You tend to be a fanciful person. All of the world's opportunities sometimes overwhelm you. You are obsessed with ideas and tend to be a big thinker. Theories interest you greatly. You crave intellectual stimulation. You are drawn to a philosophical way of life.

Are You a Dreamer or a Doer?

Blogthings: 100's of Fun, Free Quizzes!

So peaceful

I have had this blog for almost 10 years.  August 9th will be ten-year blogiversary!  ;)

Anyways, it's gone through quite a few changes but one thing that will always stay the same is my wind chime.  I just love it.  Sometimes I'll open my blog in another tab just so I can hear it.  It's not constant but it's always so peaceful.  I really hope it never goes away.

Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Review

Hello!  I'm back with a new review that I got from Influenster.

Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils (Luxurious Mascara For A False Lash Effect)

Long name, even longer lashes.

When I first heard of Influenster giving this mascara away to a few lucky subscribers, I never thought I would get one.  Yes, I love make-up.  Yes, I love mascara but, I'm more of a drugstore make-up gal than a high end one.   I just don't have the funds for the high end stuff.  *sniff sniff*  Anyways, so I was super surprised when I got the email that they had chosen me to test it.  Thank you make-up Gods!  :)  Okay, on to the review.

This mascara screams high end before you even open up the box.  It's not even just the name but the fact that the box is a nice shiny gold color.  The tube is also a nice shiny gold.  The wand is full and just perfect in getting every lash coated.  It comes in a few different colors.  They sent me High Density Black, which is perfect for my little lashes.

Here is something I thought I'd never say about a mascara.  It smells amazing.  It has this nice floral scent and it's light but you can smell it when you're walking and even occasionally when you're sitting down.  I love it.

The above pic is of me and it shows the before and after for this mascara.  My right eye (your left) doesn't have any on while my left eye (your right) does.  I did do two coats but you could tell a difference even with one coat.  This mascara is just amazing.

Here is a pic w/ both eyes done.  I don't put mascara on my bottom lashes because then it just gets all over my skin.  

The one thing I don't like is that it's not waterproof.   It's not a deal breaker for me though since it definitely gets my lashes nice and long but it would've been nice if it was. 

I received this YSL Mascara from Influenster for testing purposes.  Opinions are 100% my own.  ^_^

Emergen-C Review

Hello!  This is my review for Emergen-C.

Emergen-C, for those who don't know, are little drink mix packets that you add to water that are filled with Vitamin C.  They also usually have other vitamins and essential nutrients in them.  It varies from flavor to flavor.

The taste is pretty good.  I tried the Strawberry Kiwi packet and was pleasantly surprised.  It still has a vitamin taste to it but you can also clearly taste the strawberry kiwi flavors.  I actually tried Emergen-C before, when it first came out years ago and back then, it had more of a vitamin taste, so they definitely improved in that aspect.

You can only have 1 packet a day.  It's not intended to "boost" or "enhance" your immune system but provide support to your immune system.  It's kind of like a multi-vitamin in liquid form.  I'm no doctor but I think it would be a great alternative for people who have a hard time swallowing pills.  It's not a complete multi-vitamin but it has a pretty good mix.  They all have a lot of Vitamin C which is great for fending off colds.

I did receive these packets for free from Smiley360 for review purposes but as always, the words written above are 1000% my own!

Click for coupon & free sample!

Brookside Dark Chocolate Crunchy Clusters Review

Hello!  This is my review for Brookside Dark Chocolate Crunchy Clusters in Berry Medley Flavors.

What is with the long names for food & drink products?  hahaha

Anyways, I will start off by saying that I am not a fan of dark chocolate.  It always tastes so bitter to me but I loved these.  LOVED!!!  I could totally polish off the whole bag.  It's only 5 oz so that's not too bad, right?  Right?  Thankfully though, I had my Mom and brother around to share with.  I have some leftover.  I might share the rest with my Dad.  Maybe.  lol

They are seriously that good.  The description on the package reads "Clusters of crispy multigrains and soft fruit flavored centers, all covered in smooth dark chocolate".  What is not to love about that description?  It is right on.  You can definitely tell it's dark chocolate but somehow it doesn't have that bitter taste.  Maybe because it's done right?  Not sure but I will definitely be buying these in the future.

I received this bag from Crowdtap for review purposes.  Reviews are 100% my own.  One of my challenges, if you will, was to pair these with another snack or drink.  I decided to go with a glass of Chardonnay since this chocolate seemed more grown up.  Very nice pairing if I might add.  The lightness of the wine balanced out the darkness of the chocolate.

Another user added hers to vanilla ice cream which looked amazing.  I would definitely do that.

If you are a fan of dark chocolate, you have to try these.  If you are not a fan of dark chocolate, you still have to try these.  You will NOT be disappointed.  My only complaint is that the bag is too small but maybe that's a good thing.  hahaha

#DiscoverBrookside  #sponsored

Celestial Seasonings Candy Cane Lane Green Tea Review

Hello!  This is my review for Celestial Seasonings Candy Cane Lane Green Tea Decaffeinated.

That is one long title for a tea.  lol

Anyways, this tea is different.  Not in a bad way though.  The best way to describe it is you know that sensation you get when you have a cough drop, mint or candy cane in your mouth and then you drink something cold?  That's exactly what this tea is like except for it's hot. I guess it's the mint of the candy cane doing it.  It just fills your mouth with minty freshness.

I didn't care for it at first but after a few sips, I really liked it.  It grows on you.  I like it so much, I wish they sold it year round.  It's one of Celestial Seasonings Holiday Teas so get it while you can.  I know I will.  Hahaha

I received this product complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.  Reviews are 100% my own.

Rimmel London Review

Hello!  This is my review of  Rimmel London Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal eyeliner in black and Rimmel London Gentle Eye Make Up Remover.

My experience with the eyeliner did not start out too good.  I had a hard time getting the cap off and when I finally did, this happened.

Yeah...not good.  After I cleaned my hand off, I managed to find a sharpener and sharpened the pencil.  Unfortunately, I never seem to get as good of a point as I start with but it wasn't too bad.  I was able to use it and that's good enough.

I love the way it glides.  It's like skating on ice.  So smooth, it doesn't tug on your skin at all.  I really wished the cap came off easier.  Be careful.  The black is really black.  Very intense.  Perfect for a smoky eye look.  As far as pencil eyeliners go, this one is the best.  You won't be disappointed.

The eye make up remover was so-so.  It definitely removed my mascara and eye shadow perfectly but the eyeliner was a different story.  It just seemed to smear it.   No matter how hard I rubbed, this eyeliner was NOT being removed by this eye make up remover alone.  I looked like a panda and my eyes were red from rubbing.  The eyeliner didn't fully come off all the way until I washed my face with Noxzema.

I would use the eye make up remover for basic mascara and eye shadow but not eyeliner.  Not worth it.

I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.  Reviews are 100% my own.

Nescafé w/ Coffee-mate Review

Hello!  Finally had a chance to try the Nescafé w/ Coffee-mate.  In fact, thanks to Smiley360, I had a chance to try all 3 flavors.  It comes in French Vanilla, Hazelnut and Sweet & Creamy Original. 

The Sweet & Creamy Original kind of reminded me of the original Maxwell House International Cafe.  I do feel that the Necafé w/ Coffee-mate Sweet & Creamy Original is a better deal since instead of 4-9ounces, you get 12 ounces for pretty much the same deal.  You definitely should try it out if you like the Maxwell House International Cafe. 

he French Vanilla was nice and mellow.  The vanilla flavoring was perfect, not too overpowering at all.

My favorite though has to be the Hazelnut.  The hazelnut flavoring was just right.  Goldilocks would definitely approve...lol  It was as if I was having a regular coffee with hazelnut creamer.  It was perfect! 

Seriously though, all 3 flavors are great.  It really depends on what you like.  No matter what you decide, I'm sure you won't be disappointed.

To make it, all you need is hot water and 2 tbsp. of your preferred kind.  Easy, right?  The measurements are for a 6-8 oz mug.  My mug was a little bigger so I added an extra tbsp. and it was awesome. I also added a bit of half & half to it to cool it down a bit.  You definitely don't have to add any milk since it's already added but it doesn't take away from the flavor.  It just cools it down.

If you already had the chance to try it, what flavor was your favorite?

All opinions are my own.  I received these products for free from Smiley360 for testing and review purposes. 

Please copy and paste the link below to get a $0.75 coupon off Nescafe w/ Coffee-mate and join in on the fun at Smiley360!

http://h5.sml360.com/-/fmyy

Influenster Frosty VoxBox

Hello!  I'm so excited to tell you about this VoxBox.  It is full of goodies.  Look look look!  :D

Before I begin, I'd like to say that I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.

Okay, on to the good stuff.

1. NYC Expert Last Lip Color in Sugar Plum 
2. Rimmel London Gentle Eye Make Up Remover
3. Rimmel London Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal in Black
4. Red Vines Fruit Vines Bites in Strawberry
5. McCormick Gourmet All Natural Thyme
6. EcoTools Sleek & Shine Finisher 
7. Celestial Seasonings Candy Cane Lane Decaf Green Tea sample plus coupon
8. No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Serum sample plus coupon

So many goodies, right?  As I finally dig into these items, I will be writing full reviews so please look forward to that.  Thank you!  

Also, if you would like to sign up for Influenster, please click the link below.  It is totally free and lots of fun.  www.influenster.com/r/652929

Nescafe w/ Coffee-Mate

Thanks to Smiley360, I'm going to be able to try this product for free!  Can't wait.  I've been seeing ads for it and since I'm a coffee lover, I've been wanting to try it.  Copy and paste the link below for a coupon for $0.75 off.

http://h5.sml360.com/-/fmyy

I'll post a blog after I try it and let you know how it is.  Fingers crossed.  ^_~

How to make a portable sew kit

Here's what you'll need: tape, box cutter, thread, old floss box, needle and a pair of scissors.

Open the floss box.

Take out the white cylinder that was holding the floss.

Using a box cutter, cut a notch into the top of the cylinder to hold the thread.  If you aren't comfortable using the box cutter, you can just use a piece of tape and tape the end of the thread to the cylinder.

Put the thread into the notch and put the thread around the cylinder.  Put as much or as little as you want.

Put the threaded cylinder back onto its post and take the end of the thread and put it under the cutter on top of the box.

Take a piece of tape and tape the needle to the back of the box.

Close it all up and voila!  A mini portable sew kit.

Feel free to label it so you don't accidentally floss your teeth with thread.  :)

Preparation H Medicated Wipes for Women

Lovely title right?  I got a pack of these for free for testing purposes from Smiley360.  I really liked them.  They were cool and refreshing.  Plus, I love the fact that they are individually wrapped so I can pop one in my purse.  That way, well, you know why.  lol

They are especially formulated for women and are particularly good for those who have just given birth.

Click on the link below to receive a $1.50 coupon off and learn more about them.

http://h5.sml360.com/-/18se

Update!!

It's been so long.  That should seriously be the name of this blog.  "It's been so long"  lol

I changed some things out.  Time for a fresh start.

I was going under an alias but I'm done w/ that.  I don't post any bad things so why hide?  I don't think I have anyways.  Sorry people I know if I have.  You know I love you!  ♥

I changed my url to more fit me.  My old url was just something cute & whimsical but almost all my accounts have the same name so I thought my blog should too.  And, instead of starting a whole new blog, I'd just revamp this one since I've had it since 2005.  Wow!  Has it really been almost 10 years?

I just feel like I can be myself more now and share things that I couldn't before.  You actually don't have much freedom when you are under an alias.  Maybe you do but for me, it was holding me back.

So, welcome to the new "A Gal & Her Blog"!

♥ Animal Crossing ~ New Leaf ♥

I love it, love it, love it!  My brother brought it for me since he knows how upset I am at Pet Society closing. It's on sale this week at Kmart for only $30!  $5 cheaper than everywhere else.

Things I love:

1. can donate more than one item at a time
2. can have Blathers identify more than one fossil at a time
3. items you have already donated are now grayed out so no more accidentally donating items twice
4. art can now be hung up on the wall
5. by pressing the left or right button on the d-pad, you can view your room from all sides
6. you can unlock stores so the game won't get old and boring
7. you can pretty much put your house wherever you want
8. you're the mayor now!  which unlocks more things to be done in the game...even less of a chance of getting bored.

Things I don't like:

1. 2 days playing & not one gyroid has been dug up yet.  i really love them and i hope they are in the game.
2. that's it.

This game is pretty much perfect and I haven't heard of them NOT being in the game so they must be hiding. I can't wait to unlock the QR code machine and all the other fun stores.

If you are a fan of this series, do not pass on this game!  It's awesome!  I highly recommend it.  I could even see non-fans playing this game.

I did post something like this on my tumblr so if you see it twice, that's why.  Gotta share the love!  lol  (^_^)

New blog?

Thinking of it.  I really, really, really love anime!  It's pretty much all I watch.  I was thinking of starting a side blog and just posting reviews of all the shows I've ever seen.  I know there are a bunch of personal anime review blogs out there but there's always room for one more, right? 

Letting go but not just yet...

As sad as it is, I've pretty much come to the conclusion that Pet Society will not be saved.  EA just doesn't want to do anything for us.  I mean, I would be thrilled if they just kept the game up as it is w/out ever updating it again but no, nothing.  It's so sad because even though there are other pet simulation games out there, none are as good as Pet Society.  Believe me, I've tried them.  EA is coming out w/ new games and they are pushing them on us but we love Pet Society because it's simple, cute and truly a social game.  Plus, it's a pet simulation game.  As much as I like Plants vs. Zombies, it's not now or ever will be, Pet Society. 

We only have 10 more days to play w/ our little virtual pets.  It's silly but I'm really sad about it.  It's so cute when you log on and they wave to you.  It might be virtual but it's friggin' adorable! 

Maybe like the Grinch, EA's heart will grow and decide to leave the game up.  We have 10 days for a miracle!  (^_^)

Speaking of learning...

As I said in my last post, you can learn a lot of things online.  I belong to a few groups on facebook and was introduced to this site by one of them.   https://diy.org/skills 

There they have a bunch of skills and badges you can earn.  For some reason, I love earning badges and no, I was never in girl scouts.  I just feel more accomplished if there is a goal.  I was thinking of signing up and tackling some of these skills.  I mean, why not, right?  It'll be fun!  Learning new things is always fun.  (^_~)

I'm just not sure which one to go for first.  hmmm...  If and when I decide on one, I'll let ya'll know.  ♥

Internet...then & now

While cleaning my room, I came across some old papers from when I had a website at angelfire.com.  These papers are like 15 years old.  All my html codes.  Sigh...I miss those days.  I had such a cool Sailor Moon fan site.  lol  Remember midis?  I had them on my site too!  My mom and I would go to the midi site and play them and have the other guess what the song was.  So fun 'cause some you could tell right off the bat and others, not so much.  lol  We definitely had fun w/ that. 

I remember when we first got online.  It was so magical.  My grandparents had brought us a webtv for Christmas one year.  I was so excited.  It was like a dream being able to go online and just search for whatever you want.  Webtv was really cool.  Just hook it up to the tv and go.  It was the first internet tv.  That's why I'm kinda confused as to why internet tv's cost so much.  Anyways, I miss it.  They had a chat called Talk City and it was so fun!  They had a trivia room.  That was so awesome.  I would spend hours in there and the Sailor Moon one.  You know what was weird...people were so nice back then.  Now, if you go into a chat room, it'll be nothing but creeps.  

Don't get me wrong, I still love the internet.  There's so much you can do and learn.  Seriously, I swear there is a tutorial video for anything you want to learn on youtube.  I've learned to make a few polymer clay items from videos on there.   :D

The one and only thing I hate about the internet: looking up things you use to love & have warm memories about only to discover, it really, really sucks.  Some things are better left as memories.  This usually only happens w/ old music that I use to jam to.  It's like, what was I thinking?  lol  (^_^)

I guess the internet is pretty much the same only faster and less private.  Yay?