PINCHme - Samples

Just a quick post here!  If you are quick you might still be able to get today's samples!  If not, there is always next Tuesday!

I just found out about another great site to get samples from!  PINCHme.com gives you the unique opportunity to discover new products and try them for free.

It's simple - you choose a product from one of their leading brands, and they then deliver it to your home or workplace for free.  But be quick, they'll reserve the products in your box for a limited time, to ensure that everyone has a chance of receiving the available products.  Once you've tried, tasted or touched the exciting products they offer, you can leave your feedback. Start pinching now!!

Not a member of PINCHme?  No problem!  Sign up here for FREE!!

Kiwi Crate Summer Adventure Series + 25% off

Join Kiwi Crate for a Summer of Fun with Kiwi Crate Summer Adventure Series

Summer is a very special time of year.  For a few short months kids are free from the everyday schedule of the school year and get to make special memories that will stay with them forever.  Whether it's staying up past bedtime catching fireflies, running through a sprinkler in the grass or making s'mores over a campfire summer is full of fun and adventure.  Summer is just fantastic!

We were never allowed inside to play if the sun was shining so we had to be creative!  My sister and I had the best time all summer thinking of new ideas to keep us occupied.  Some of the best times as a child were running around barefoot in the cool grass on a warm evening with the neighbor's kids.

This summer Kiwi Crate is doing something very special!  For the months of June - August, each crate will include exciting summer themed projects, bonus activities and fun surprises for the family!  Themes include:- June Camping Trip: Explore the great outdoors with a camping expedition- July Beach Day: Discover sea creatures & tide pools in Kiwi Crate's seaside adventure- August Amusement Park: Play & learn with a special trip to the amusement park.

June Camping Trip

July Beach Day

August Amusement Park

These themes really hit home because they are three of the biggest parts of my summers as a child.  We always went to sleep away camp for at least a week each summer and I have started taking my son camping every summer.  We also would always spend some time at my grandmother's in Connecticut.  She lived within walking distance to the beach and my cousins, sister and I would spend hours swimming and climbing the rocks "fishing" for crabs.  My family also would always make a trip to Knoebles Amusement park every summer.  It is a family owned and operated amusement park in Pennsylvania that has all the traditional games and rides.

Here is an exclusive sneak peak of what your child will be receiving!

Kiwi Crate offers a range of subscription levels, all shipped for free:

Monthly Subscription - $19.95 a month

3 Month Gift - $60

6 Month Gift - $110

12 Month Gift - $205

Special Offer: New subscribers can save 25% on a 1st month subscription with code SUMMER25 Click HERE!! (excludes sibling add-ons)

Don't forget to connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and Google+ for all their promotions!

So what are you waiting for??  Give your a child close to your heart the chance to make this summer extraordinary!

Kiwi Crate's award-winning, monthly subscription service makes a wonderful gift for kids ages 3-8. For less than $20 per month, your little one will receive multiple arts, crafts, and science activities – delivered right to your door.  shop now ››

Recently featured in InStyle, Parenting Magazine, and US Weekly, Kiwi Crate has also been awarded Dr. Toy 100 Best Children’s Products, Parent’s Choice Gold Award, and an Oppenheim Gold Seal Best Toy Award. Kiwi Crate is already a celebrity favorite, and is sure to delight the little ones in your life!

What is your favorite memory of summer as a child?

Hoppers® Peg Solitaire Jumping Game Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Hoppers® is a peg solitaire jumping game for ages 5 and up but my 3.5 year old loves it!  All he has to do is set the frogs on the pond, then jump frogs until only one is left standing.  There are 40 challenge cards that range from easy to super hard so he can start simple and grow as his skills increase.  It didn't take him long to figure it out and now he plays with it all by himself!  He has played the first 4 cards so far but hasn't been able to get past the 4th level.

I really love that it has storage for both the cards and the pieces right with the game.  It snaps shut tightly so all of it stays in place.  The solution to the puzzle is on the back of each card in case you get stuff too, which is nice.  My son is an analytic thinker so a game like this really peaks his interest.  I foresee this game being a go to for a long time!

This is a great gift idea for a kid who has everything!  Click here to get your own Hoppers® game from Amazon for $14.99


I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Wordless Wednesday: Touch-a-Truck

Even Glow Vitamin C Serum Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Vitamin C Serum is just now becoming popular for it's wonderful benefits. Valentia Even Glow Serum is the perfect antioxidant treatment for your skin because of fast absorption and pure qualities.  It never leaves my skin feeling greasy or oily.

The benefits of using Valentia Even Glow Serum are:

• Evens Skin Tone:  Vanquish dark spots and skin discoloration, replacing uneven and ill-textured skin with smooth, wrinkle-free skin that leaves you looking flawless and ageless.
• Increases Glow and Radiance:  Revitalize your skin with essential fatty acids that leave skin smooth and visibly brighter. Smooth skin capable of reflecting light will give your skin a youthful glow and a brilliant shine for that well-rested and refreshed look.
• Absorbs Rapidly:  Moisturizes skin due to the capacity of the hyaluronic acid to absorb water, thereby increasing fluid between cells, giving your skin a smoother and younger appearance. This intense water absorption means no more dry, peeling or cracked skin, even in extreme weather.
• Boosts Collagen Production:  The presence of Organic Rosehip Seed oil to support Vitamin C increases collagen production so your skin retains the elasticity responsible for a youthful appearance and prevents skin sagging associated with aging. Enjoy smooth and supple skin that takes years off your appearance.
• Reduces Wrinkles and Fine Lines:  Reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles with the help of our foundation 20 % Vitamin C. Special ingredients such us Hyaluronic Acid and Organic Sea Buckthorn oil work to plump up the skin, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles in the skin so it is smoother, clearer and younger.

I love that this product has 98% natural key ingredients.  I have really been trying my best to rid my beauty supply of things like parabens and sulfates so this product fits right in.  I love the way this serum smells too.  It actually smells just like a fresh cut orange.  It is so invigorating and refreshing!

• Vitamin C: With a 20% concentration does more than boost the body’s immune system; it also provides many benefits to keep the skin tight, smooth and looking ageless. Vitamin C has been scientifically proven to reduces the effects of sun exposure on the skin, including sunburn, sun spots, redness and wrinkles.  In addition to helping reduce the signs of aging, Vitamin C is essential for everyday maintenance to strengthen and smooth out the skin, as well as neutralizing free radicals before they can damage the skin. 

*Their additional key ingredients below were all selected for their ability to enhance and support Vitamin C's effect on the skin.*

• Organic Rosehip Seed Oil & Organic Sea Buckthorn Oil:  These oils promote skin hydration and lock in moisture to protect your skin from signs of aging and improve its beauty and youthfulness. Rosehip Oil specifically has been used in medical communities around the world for those with serious skin ailments and only recently has North America learned to embrace natural solutions from our ancestors. These two organic oils are full of antioxidants and therefore act as the perfect supporting cast for our best friend - Vitamin C.
• Resistem (Plant Stem Cells):  This provides the perfect mix of protection from stress-related aging and promotes skin detoxification. Resistem will help your skin regenerate faster while protecting it from environmental stressors.
• Hyaluronic Acid (Botanical):  Holding up to 1000 times its weight in water and drawing moisture out of the environment and onto the surface of your skin ,there is not a more effective moisturizing agent on the market today. Penetrates deeply, and actives collagen production for a fresher, younger, firmer, and brighter complexion.
• Green Tea Extract: The catechins in green tea are a potent antioxidant which also contribute to the overall anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant benefits of this ancient health and beauty secret.

A little bit of this product goes a long way too.  I only need s few drops.  I will have this bottle for a very long time!

You can click here to buy your own bottle of Valentia Even Glow Serum from Amazon for $35.00 with free Prime shipping!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

OvenArt Bakeware Silicone Muffin Pan Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

As you probably know, metal muffin pans have frustrating drawbacks.  Metal rusts, warps, and wears down with use.  Stuck-on food is annoying and a nightmare to clean.  And then there are the chemical nonstick coatings that eventually scrape off and only leave you wondering if it all went into your food.

I decided to make a batch of boxed corn muffins to go with dinner in my new muffin pan.  I placed the muffin pan on a cookie sheet for stability and gave each cup a quick squirt of non-stick spray as suggested since it was the first time using it.  The muffins did slide out effortlessly and bake perfectly.  OvenArt's silicone muffin pan is made with pure 100%, high quality European silicone.  I really love that it's BPA-free and filler-free so I know that nothing seeped into my muffins while they were baking.

Now, no one likes clean up and it is so annoying to have to soak and scrub a pan.  This muffin pan really cleans up easily.  You can clean them with a little detergent and water or you can toss the pan in the dishwasher like I did and it came out squeaky clean.  It's safe for the freezer and microwave so the possibilities are endless.

Even if you are new to silicone you will love the results.  You can enjoy healthy homemade treats and save on store-bought packaged goods. This muffin pan is also protected by the OvenArt "Better Muffin" Guarantee for lifetime assurance against defects and performance issues which is nice to have.

I did have one muffin that didn't come out perfectly but it is possible I just didn't spray that cup as much.  As you can see the others came out fine.  I think that 1 out of 8 isn't bad though because the other silicone muffin pan I have is terrible!  I can never make things in it with out liners so this pan is the winner!

You can buy your own OvenArt Silicone Muffin Pan on Amazon for $12.95 with free Prime Shipping! CLICK HERE!

Do you cook with silicone bake ware?

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Spicy Subscription Deluxe Spice Box Review

I was so happy to hear from Spicy Subscription that they had a new box for me to review!  This time I received another Deluxe Spice Box to compare to my previous Deluxe Spice Box.  They recently have changed what they put in the boxes and I was happy with what I received!  I have to admit this is still somewhat awkward to talk about but I am going to push through!  I received the April 2014 Deluxe Spice Box and I wanted to make sure I got a chance to use a little bit of all of it before posting my review.

Just as it did before this box came very discreetly packaged and nothing on the outside hinted to what was inside.

The Simply Sensual Massage Candle smells wonderful and gave the bedroom a warm and inviting aroma.  I played with the melted wax some and was surprised at how it really did turn into a massage oil.  It wasn't too hot for the skin and was absorbed nicely and left my skin smelling wonderful too. Retail Price - $16.99

The Lip Fetish lip gloss was the first thing I tried (of course) and thought it looked really nice on.  One of the biggest factors I look for in a lip gloss is if it tastes good.  I licked my lips to find out and was shocked when my tongue started to tingle!  Just as my husband walked into the room I realized that my lips were now started to tingle as well.  I quickly grabbed the box it came in looking for some explanation and saw that one of the ingredients is capsaicin!  I thought it was going to be cinnamon extract because that is what I know they put into lip plumping products.  I kissed my husband hoping to transfer some of it so he could see that I wasn't making it up but it wasn't enough and he thought I was crazy.  Retail Price - $16.00

I love the Lusty Lacquers nail polish color and plan on wearing it when the weather starts to warm up some.  I think it is going to look great when I have touch of a tan.  I know that my husband says doesn't really care if my nails are painted but I know he does like it when they are.  Retail Price - $12.99

I was completely surprised to see that there was a real full size device in this box.  My first box had a small one which I still have and a disposable one that was good for starters but lost it's power quickly.  This was like the big leagues to me.  It is much more powerful than anything else we have.  It has many functions so each time can be different if you want.  They call it the Spicy Rabbit but it looks like other Rabbit's I've seen.  It came with a discrete pink velour pouch to keep it in.  Retail Price - $49.95

I also got a full size bottle of Wicked Aqua Candy Apple flavored lubricant along with two samples that we are still having fun trying out but for this price you can't beat what came in this box!  Retail Price - $17.99

You can get your own Spicy Subscription with Spice Boxes starting  $29.95/month by clicking HERE! .
If you want to receive an additional 5% off your subscription make sure you enter "laurellikesit" at checkout!

*I received the products above free for review purposes, however I always give my honest opinion good or bad.*

Life and Food Garcinia Cambogia Review and Giveaway!

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Garcinia cambogia is a small, pumpkin-shaped fruit, sometimes called tamarind. Though native to Indonesia, it is also grown in India, Southeast Asia, and West and Central Africa. Adding this ingredient to meals is considered to be effective in making meals more “filling".  In some villages in Malaysia, garcinia is used to make a soup that is eaten before meals for weight loss because of garcinia’s appetite-blocking abilities.

The HCA extract from garcinia cambogia supplement aids in weight loss by doing two things: It helps to block fat, and it suppresses your appetite. Read more on Life & Food's site!

For this review my I had my mother test these for me.  I decided the best way to get her feedback was in an interview format.  Below are my questions and her answers.

Laurel: How long have you been taking these supplements?

Alison: 30 days

L: This product boasts that it is stimulant free and also promotes a balanced, lighter mood by boosting Serotonin levels without giving you the jitters as some weight loss supplements do. Do you think that is true?

A:  I have been taking 2 in the morning (as per directions) and have noticed a definite coffee-like boost but not jittery. I was concerned that they might affect my sleeping at night but that hasn't happened at all. Balanced lighter mood? yes, I'd say it does get me out of the early morning doldrums - better than a cup of coffee. I've taken them on an empty stomach - no problems.

L: Calling the product allergen-free, they use a vegetable capsule with no fillers or binders, mixing Garcinia Cambogia fruit rind with calcium and potassium for added absorption your body needs. Did you have any adverse digestion problems?

A:  No digestion problems at all.

L: They say that the single biggest factor contributing to weight-loss benefits are dependent on the potency of the Garcinia Cambogia extract used. Since Life and Food uses a strengthened 800 Mg per capsule, as opposed to most 500 Mg capsule products out there, the upgraded strength formula enhances the effects and accounts for reduced absorption rates when taken by various individuals. Did you experience any weight loss while taking these supplements?

A:  I don't get the mid-morning blahs - maintains the energy level, thus keeping me from snacking. I have lost about 5 pounds without trying in the month that I've been taking the capsules.

L: Do you intend to continue taking this brand of Garcinia Cambogia?

A:  Yes I do! I am surprised and pleased with the results!

Click here and you can grab a bottle for $19.99 with free Prime shipping but...

Here is your chance to get your own bottle of Life and Food Garcinia Cambogia for FREE!

Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Nature's Bounty® Hair, Skin & Nails Challenge!

I received a gift package from Smiley360 to review Nature's Bounty® Hair, Skin & Nails by taking their 30 day challenge!  I have to say I am honestly impressed at how nice my nails have been since taking these.  I can't say that my hair or skin changed much but I don't think that 30 days is enough time to be able to judge that.

The gummies are delicious!  Everyone I gave the samples to agreed that they were like candy.  They didn't have any after taste or leave any strange feeling in my mouth once they were gone.  They also didn't get stuck in my teeth which was great because that really annoys me!

I found these easy to work into my daily routine of taking my multi-vitamin and probiotic.  Below is a picture of my nails!  I have not been able to grow all my nails nicely at the same time since I was taking prenatal vitamins!

I am hooked on these and will be buying more!

Click here for more info on Nature's Bounty Hair, Skin and Nails!!

Adovia Dead Sea Mud Mask

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

As I continue on what seems like a never ending search for something that will consistently keep my skin clear, I had the chance to review Adovia's Dead Sea Purifying Mud Mask.  This will actually be the first in a few facial mask reviews that I have planned.

Some details about the product:

• Facial Mask Tightens and Purifies Pores leaving Clear, Younger Complexion
• Dead Sea Mud Quickly Reduces Acne and Pimples
• Over 21 Minerals Present in Dead Sea Mud Mask help to keep skin healthier and act as acne treatment
• A Facial Dead Sea Mud Mask Facial Treatment in Spas cost from $70-120. This Mask contains 30 Sessions!
• Can be Used as Spot Treatment & Blackhead Remover

Made with Pure Dead Sea Mud with the highest concentration of minerals - vital for facial skin treatment glow. This mask is made in Israel - by the Dead Sea experts and contains the highest and freshest concentration of Dead Sea Mud.  Reduce Oil and Blackheads and get more clear and radiant skin.  Works great for Eczema and Psoriasis as well due to Dead Sea salt and mud known properties that help relieve Eczema, Psoriasis and acne symptoms.  Apply a layer to clean, dry skin once per week or as needed, as a facial mask for the whole face or as spot treatment for blackheads or pimples.

I have been using this mask twice a week and have noticed much smoother skin and any blemishes that appear have been small and seem to heal quicker.  The mask itself smells nicely and has a slightly gritty texture just as you would expect from mud.  I found that rubbing it in gently before allowing it to dry felt nice and each time left my skin feeling very soft.  Even though I have oily skin, I tend to have that tight feeling after washing but not after this mask.  I was warned, however, by my good friend who is an aesthetician.  She said not to let a mask like this dry on your skin, to either wash it off before it dries or mist your face with water to keep it damp.

And I know you all want to know what it looks like on so here ya go!  I had fun sneaking up on my husband with this on.

You can grab your own tube of Adovia Dead Sea Mud Mask on Amazon for $31.00.

If you break it down that's only about a $1 a facial!!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.