Dating the Wrong Men

The possibility found in this book couldn't have fallen into my lap at a more perfect time. Well, that's not entirely true, it might have made a difference in my personal life had I come across it much sooner, especially considering the few most recent frogs.

Dating the Wrong Men brought comfort to me in a time when confusion can, well, confuse. My situation is not the easiest to be in, but it's nowhere near the most difficult. The other part of this spectrum sure is far more difficult than that on my own end, with which I can't even imagine. Kelly Rossi "uniquely narrates her struggles in the quest to finding love and fulfillment, while learning how to avoid the pitfalls in today’s selfish, male-ego driven society."

I read the book in one day! Not necessarily one sitting, I did do a few random things in between here and there. I just had to know what kind of frog was next and what Kelly experienced with him, how it panned out, and most importantly I couldn't wait to find out how Kelly's story would end considering the table of contents made it very apparent she did in fact find her Right Man. PHEW! There's still hope for me. Haha.

I found that she has dated all of the types of men I've encountered in my life, and many more! Kelly adds humor, emotion, and offers places of help (addiction, abuse) when and where needed. While following along reading through the details that played out with each individual, Kelly makes you feel as if you are right there with her. I felt as if I was her friend, living through the times with her as she recalled frog after frog. Kelly writes from a very interesting perspective. She recounts her time with the particular frog she's describing, shares signs you might be dating one of that same type yourself, and gives final thoughts on this type of man frog. Her tone is that of a light, pleasant even when describing hardships, energetic vibe. It is a fun, easy read that you, like myself, won't want to put down.

I had a great experience, and enjoyed much entertainment while reading the book, and had an even better experience connecting with the author after the fact.

Reading the book prompted me the desire to know more, I had to know if the author had ever been in the shoes I am wearing right now. Kelly Rossi is so damn charming! I mean, I already knew that from reading her book, but she is equally as excellent online (social media) and conversationally (email). I greatly appreciate her response(s) and look forward to continued future communication. And if you're so curious to know about what she had to say, though it will remain private, I will share that it set my mind at ease, was enlightening, and encouraging. Kelly is cheerful, sweet, kind, polite, all around awesome.

This book makes for a great dating "bible" for anyone who is looking for tips/tricks, and even if you're not. It's highly entertaining for just about anyone, male or female, even if you aren't dating or seeking "advice." Basically, it would be a very enjoyable read for literally anybody! I'm sure I will revisit it when/where needed, and for fun, too!

Sidenote: I also had a lovely non-date recently, with a male friend who has kind of already been there, done that, completely from the same male perspective, only my friend's was much messier, longer, and far more complicated. The takeaway and reason for mentioning it? It helped my perspective, a lot, which is exactly why I enlisted his insight. Plus, it was really nice to catch up. And he's still with the lovely lady he started seeing when we first met, too.

Furthermore, being at #brandtwedding2015 last night brought some interesting "emotions" to surface. As if I could possibly feel any more empathy. But in closing on that, it might not be the simplest situation, nor easiest; I do know with absolutely no doubt whatsoever that I am extremely lucky.

By the way, I received my copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

Hello, Cutie

Tee hee hee... It's a mud mask. Yep. Hello Cutie Mud Mask.

I love that it comes with the foil seal because I didn't have a ton of product on the lid to have to try to scrape off so I could use rather than waste it. That is always the case when a product isn't properly sealed on the "inside."

Take a look at some of the goodies included in this magical mud mixture.

You can definitely smell the Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Mint, and Aloe.  You can't really smell the Green Tea or Pom (or charcoal) but I'm certain they're working their magical antioxidant powers. 

Here you can see what it looks like while it is hard at work partially wet, partially dry.

LOOK at this closeup of how it appears when dry. Weird!! My pores are nowhere near that large! lol...

What do I think? I love it! It's very invigorating and refreshing. It's good for skin of all types and ages (I mean consider the ingredients) no chemicals whatsoever, including sensitive skin.

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I received this product in exchange for my honest review.

Some more C?

Because apparently I needed another Vitamin C Serum. Nature's Best Blends came to the rescue!

In the past month or two, I've tried a few different brands of Vitamin C Serums, and you'll see more of that in the coming weeks, therefore I have a few various that I can compare to offer an interesting reviewing standpoint.

I like that this one came inside of a box, that was wrapped/sealed in plastic.  See?

The main ingredients include deionized water, hyaluronic acid, vitamins C and E, collagen, witch hazel, jojoba oil, and other anti-oxidants.  It is all natural, organic, and works to repair and prevent UV damage, stimulate collagen to restore elasticity and brighten.

I used it on a few pesky spots that would have probably taken a week or more to run their course on their own. The serum helped take care of the skin repair/healing itself process in two-three days!

It is easy to use, not greasy or sticky. The consistency is perfect in that it is not too thick, nor too runny either. It is colorless and odorless. It is fast absorbing, too, and you can almost instantly see and feel the benefits and results.

Micromanage, or microfiber?

I hate cleaning. Let me repeat... I hate cleaning!

I did some super serious mega hardcore spring cleaning Sunday. A perfect way to end spring break? I am not so sure about that, because I certainly didn't truly enjoy it, but it did feel good to throw some stuff away and make my place look not only sparkling, but dazzling. Yes, I cleaned the floor on my hands and knees... *jaw-drop*

Vibrawipe's Microfiber Cloths were super helpful when it came to dusting. See, I haven't really even been home in three weeks. Not only that, but I threw a big house party the night before those three weeks started. Hahahah yeah. I did have my work cut out for me.

They are composed of 80% Polyester and 20% Polyamide. They measure 14.20 inches x 14.20 inches. The 4 color economy pack, has eight cloths, two of each color. "Every piece of VibraWipe Microfiber Cloth cleans gently, removes dirt and grime like magnet. Super absorbent, holds up to 5-6 times its weight in liquid realistically, based on our testing." They leave lint-free and streak-free results. VibraWipe cloths have rounded, continuously and firmly stitched corners that do not frey.

I'm ashamed to say/show it but look at that!!

They work really well and I like them a lot! A lot, a lot! Maybe cleaning won't be so torturous henceforth. That's a really big maybe. I don't want to use them all and dirt all of the pretty pastel colors they are while so nice and new.

I received the product in exchange for my honest review.

Where's the beef?

Beef. It's what's for dinner.

Just kidding! You all know how much I love to cook! And cooking to me is play time! I've never used any sort of a thermometer before, be it an oven internal thermometer, or meat thermometer. When it's done, it's done. Sometimes give the chicken (or whatever) a little slice in the middle or thickest part to double check. I have always kind of wanted one, so I figured why not try it out.

 

The River Kitchen Digital Meat Thermometer is really handy. It's easy to use. It has a long metal stick so you don't have to be afraid that you might burn yourself. You can use it in the oven or on a grill (or a fake grill like my foreman hehe). I love that it's digital and super quick, unlike watching a needle rise.  You even get to choose if you want Fahrenheit or Celsius (no thanks).  30 is hot, 20 is nice, 10 is cool, and 0 is ice!! There are three buttons, and one is a hold feature, for just in case if you can't see/read the numbers until you remove the thermometer.  I like that it has a sleeve/case/holder to put it in, too, so it won't get all scratched up when items move around in the drawer, and in my kitchen drawers they do, a lot.

Check out the temperature guide below:

I received this product in exchange for my honest review.

Not A Word About Love

You can't do it, you can't say it, it's not allowed... not one word, about love.

Not A Word About Love is an intense story about a married woman who falls for another man. Hana Goldberg is a bestselling and critically acclaimed Israeli novelist and poet, an A-list lyricist with hundreds of popular songs and many #1 hits, and Lifetime Achievement Award winner from Israel's Association of Authors and Composers (ACUM).

"After eleven years of marriage, Maya falls madly in love with a mysterious man. Through alleys fragrant with the pungent smell of fried rice, amid child beggars and vendors of psychedelic fabrics, she makes surprising discoveries about the stranger, and about herself. How far will she be willing to go?"

You will find yourself traveling on Maya's journey of self-exploration: struggling, lust, and longing for happiness. Not A Word About Love is suspenseful, funny, emotional, and spicy (more ways than one).

The author is excited, eager, pleasant, and super sweet to communicate with. Thank you, Hana.

Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder

And here we go with yet another first! #somanyfirsts

There's a few things I have obsessions with and shameful collections of. One of those things is tea. But powder? This is something new. I must try it. I like green tea, so why not pop this cherry with Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder by Kiss Me Organics: see here.

The first time I tried it I mixed 1/2 tsp with my morning coffee.  I added a little sweetener and some almond milk. The flavor was rather unpleasant, at least in coffee. Bad move, Carissa. In my defense, on the back of the package it clearly states "Lattes" and shows an endearing picture of a green cup of goodness, garnished with a Serendipity foam/swirl heart. Maybe the tea powder is supposed to serve as a substitute for coffee? I'll try that next time.

It really does taste and smell (go figure) like green tea. And it is very enjoyable if you use it properly, unlike my first attempt. But why would you want to use this and consume this, rather than sip a cup of tea? Well, it's really very versatile (reference the if remark above). You can put it in smoothies, cook with it, bake with it, even make cocktails with it!

Still not sold?  It will help with your energy, metabolism, and skin health. This product provides you 137x more antioxidants than you get with a cup of brewed tea!!!! 0_0 And, to top it off, KissMeOrganics is so sure you will love the product they offer a 110% money back guarantee within 30 days.

The package has a little 'warning' card that says STOP! and advises you to read how to absorb 3x more antioxidants from Organic Matcha by using one common household ingredient.  Comment below if you have any guesses, maybe I will confirm/deny... maybe. This card also directs you to a website with which you can find 10 bonus recipes from KissMeOrganics. Some of the front runners include a mashed potato dish, pork chops, a seasoned salt, ice cream, cake, and a martini *score!* I'm definitely curious and eager to try some of these, and play around with some ideas of my own.  Just bought some orancicle cake mix on clearance at Target, hmm... I'll let you know how that turns out.

I received this product in exchange for my honest review.

Natural stress relief

Z- Zi- Zizi WHAT? All natural stress relief? Zuhhhh- Ziziphus Jujuba Extract by Reduxa, of course.

I just took one a little while ago because at the moment, I'm stressing out about all these reviews (no joke). A little overwhelmed, but it is of my own making and doing. Ha!

"Ziziphus jujuba has been used in Traditional medicine as an analgesic, tranquilizer and an anticonvulsant in Korea and China for over 2500 years. " Hmmm, yikes!! Why do you want something of the sort?? It promotes healthy sleep and increases relaxation. Studies show that ziziphus jujuba is a natural sleep stimulant and relaxant. The component jujuboside treats conditions of insomnia and acts a stress reliever, and reduce anxiety. Ziziphus jujuba has been used as a folk medicine to treat anxiety and sleep disorders in India. It is a safe dietary supplement that has been used for many centuries to improve mood and treat as described, with no side effects or prescription. OH, so it's an all natural, safe, healthy alternative. I'll take it! *literally, and figuratively*

Does it work? Well, so far, I'd say it does, to an extent, but not quite as powerfully as I had hoped. Maybe it is/was my mindset at the time, or alertness. The first time I tried it I was hoping to get a quality restful night of sleep. You're supposed to take it after eating when unwinding for the night. So, I did as directed. I decided to read while allowing it to take effect. It definitely made me calm and relaxed, but I was pretty engrossed in my book, so perhaps my brain was too alert to allow for it to make me sleepy. The reality of the matter is, yes, it does work, but what you are thinking and doing might help/hinder effectiveness.

I received this product in exchange for my honest review.

Fashionista! Fashionista tea, that is...

Are you a fashionista? Then you certainly have to sip on some Fashionista Tea! No doubt, it will certainly up your glam factor.  See for yourself!



Enter to win!

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I received this product in exchange for my honest review.

Island Vibrance~!

Triple whammy incoming.... NOW! Do you have #IslandVibrance? Well, Island Vibrance certainly gave me some! Summer here I come! I'll try to keep this short, detailed, but super sweet.

Let's start with Reservatrol because I've never heard of or tried it before now.

What is Reservatrol and why do you want to take it?  It is an antioxidant supplement that will help you feel and look better. Island Vibrance is 100% natural with zero fillers and contains a high concentration of Polyphenols, a helpful compound found in the skin and seeds of red grapes as well as some other fruits and berries. "Polyphenols are not only great for your overall heath but are also an effective supplement for anti-aging, rejuvenation of the skin, anti-acne, and weight loss. It has also been known to help with heart problems, diabetes, and aid in counteracting high blood pressure." Do you want to boost your immune system and overall health, and longevity? This formula claims to be maximum strength, and being my first time with Reservatrol I have no proof of that, but it is very high in potency, and has no side effects. A 2 capsule dose is 1000 mg, there's even some Vitamin C present, and other power-packed extracts, too (Maqui Berry, Acai, Grape Seed). Island Vibrance Reservatrol is a great all natural way to stay healthy and aide in your exercise attempts to get and stay fit.

Now, I have tried Raspberry Ketone prior to IV's, but have yet to share any experiences with you. This one even contains Green Coffee Bean Extract! It's like a two-in-one, alright!!  It contains 500 mg of Pure Raspberry Ketone and 200 mg of 50% Green Coffee Bean (so that's 100 mg active GCB Extract).  That's a pretty low amount of Green Coffee Bean Extract, but hey it was an added bonus, so any little bit is better than none. Now, I'm not quite sure what the best dosage of Raspberry Ketone for maximum health benefits is, but when I figure that out I'll be sure to make it known.

Are you tried of hearing about various explorations with Garcinia Cambogia yet? No. Excellent, because you will see more. Getting to the point, IV's is 75% potent, so 1500 mg gets you 1125 active mg of Garcinia goodness. It's pretty high up there!!

Basically -- I am concerned about my health as much as I am concerned about keeping my skin healthy.  An ounce of prevention, peeps! I'm aiming for many pounds of cure. I feel that proper use of combining the right supplements can work wonders.

I received these three wonders in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.

MeasuPro BPM-50W Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor

Are you a #MeasuPro? Measu- blood pressure, that is. It need not be said that blood pressure is important, and monitoring it is just as crucial. Keep track, quickly, easily, painlessly, and almost effortlessly with the Measu Pro Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor from #MeasuPro.

It comes with the two batteries that you need to operate it. You just wrap it around your wrist (not upper arm - yay) and press the little person button. It can store information for up to two people! You can view previous measurements to compare and track your blood pressure.

 

This little compartment here in which the batteries belong, is really, extremely difficult to open!

Mine came up a little bit high. That's a bit nerve-wracking for someone my age, size, etc. Maybe it runs in my bloodline? Pun intended. My blood pressure usually only spikes when I'm uber stressed. (Rib injury - case in point.) Because it gave me high numbers, I took it about three times, making sure to follow the directions verbatim. Keep the wrist at the same height level of your heart, or above.  I made sure I was relaxed and calm. All three were a bit on the high side.

 

My mother is a nurse, and both of my parents informed me that wrist monitors do tend to run their measurements a little bit on the higher side than with one that wraps around the arm, or using a cuff manually.

I would say that as long as you remember the number it gives you will most likely be a little bit higher than your blood pressure is in actuality, you're good to go; keep on measuring!

I like it, especially how convenient it is, just wonder about the accuracy, for obvious reasons.

I received this product in exchange for my honest review.

100% Pure Whey Protein Isolate

Lots of firsts since relocating to DC, lots of firsts. A lot of these firsts have been with one of my friends, so I always say it on purpose just to make her chuckle, "to popping cherries." I've never had a protein shake before! Yep, never!

So, my first in that sense is Summit Nutritions' 100% Pure Whey Protein Isolate which you can find here.

One convenient thing that I really like about these is that they come in super convenient one serving packets. You don't have to measure or scoop the proper amount, or anything at all. Rip and dump. Super quick and easy!

What's so great about this versus the others? From what I've learned...

• Summit Nutritions' protein is free from protein spiking or amino acid spiking and it gives you 90% Protein per Scoop (25/27.7g)
• Low fat, low carb, and low cholesterol.
• Non-GMO, lactose free, soy free, naturally flavored, and sweetened with Stevia.
• No fillers!

Basically, it's high quality and the most biopure you can get, without too much of the stuff you don't want.

It really and truly is 100% pure. You don't find that. Some companies (and I'm not just talking protein - all markets) claim purity, but you find when you examine labels there's definitely other crap present. Not here!

I selected chocolate. I mixed one with milk for breakfast one morning. It was good, but not at all filling. In all fairness, what did I expect? It's not meant to be a "meal."  For the second, I also consumed it in the morning, when tired/cranky. It actually helped. I mixed it with water, to see if there was any difference. It tasted the same, and the consistency was just a tiny bit runnier than with milk. The flavor is that of a chocolate milk shake, no matter what you mix it with. I like the taste. I haven't used up number three, yet, but I'll be mixing it with water, rather than using milk.

I received this product in exchange for my honest review.

NeoCell Biotin Bursts + GIVEAWAY

Everybody seems to be into taking (and companies making) chewable vitamins and supplements. NeoCell Biotin Bursts #BiotinBursts are awesome! What the heck is a Biotin Burst? The burst part is the soft, chewable aspect - it's almost like a little taffy or starburst, and who doesn't love starburst! Aha... burst, I get it now!  What is Biotin and why should I take it? Biotin is an important B vitamin that promotes healthy lustrous hair and resilient nails. Acai berry is present for protection from free radical damage.

NeoCell explains, "Having beautiful and radiant skin has never been so easy- or so delicious. NeoCell Biotin Bursts deliver high potency beauty nutrients in a delectable, gourmet soft chew. Formulated based off of scientifically proven ingredients NeoCell Biotin Bursts offer a delicious alternative to your daily biotin regimen. Each chew is low in sugar and was especially formulated to be as readily absorbable as possible in delicious Brazilian Acai Berry flavor. Healthy hair and skin were never this easy, or sweet! NeoCell Biotin Bursts, the best way to take your biotin. Period. (You’re Welcome!) Biotin is an important B vitamin supporting hair and skin health 10,000 MCG of Biotin per chew Scientifically formulated to support metabolism of proteins in the body promoting natural energy, luxurious hair and vibrant skin."

They're fun to eat/take, and are really tasty. Refrigerate after opening! 

Unwrap. Chew. Smile. Repeat.

I received this product in exchange for my honest review.