Beauty | April 2015 Birchbox

This month's Birchbox theme was Fresh For Spring: the picks for this month will put a bounce in your step and help shake up your look for the new season. Those are some pretty big promises, my look does not shake up often. The box itself is stunning; Birchbox partnered up with Rifle Paper Co this month and the floral décor on the box is gorgeous. A nice way to lead us into springtime indeed.

As always, when I opened up the box it was beautifully packaged and there were no damaged products. I was pretty happy with the samples I received this month, I got some hair stuff, face stuff and makeup. That's pretty much all you need in life, right? Wrong, but it sounded nice. If you're interested in learning more about birchbox, feel free to click here and gain some knowledge. I am a huge advocate and fan for life. FOR LIFE YOU GUYS. It's that real. Let's get to the products.

 

 

1. Beaver Professional Hydro Nutritive Moisturizing Shampoo full size $15

I know some people hate getting shampoo and conditioners in their boxes, but I am a fan. I have a lot of hair and having the opportunity to try some higher end products without breaking the bank is great for me. So, this shampoo is supposed to help repair dry and damaged hair gently. It uses avocado oil and aloe vera extracts to repair and rebuild hair. The scent isn't overpowering, but pleasant and I'm looking forward to seeing if this shampoo will help out some of my dry strands.

 

2. Liz Earle Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion full size $25

This is a soothing, cooling lotion for your eye area, it has a blend of ultra calming and de-puffing ingredients such as witch hazel, cornflower and aloe vera. It is safe for contacts wearers. This product intrigues me because I'm not really sure why this is a necessary product? I guess maybe I could give it a whirl in the evenings and see if I notice any sort of difference. I think this will be fun to try, but won't be a necessity.

 

3. Beaver Professional Hydro Nutritive Repairing Conditioner full size $16

This is obviously the conditioner made to go with the shampoo that I also received. It's a nourishing and strengthening conditioner and I can't wait to try it out. My hair is super dry right now, so I'm anxious to see if this does anything for it.

 

4. MDSolarSciences MD Crème Mineral Beauty Balm SPF 50 full size $38

 This is a lightweight formula that is designed to be both sunscreen and primer. It also apparently does a whole lot of other things such as brightening your skin tone, diminishing the appearance of fine lines and it leaves skin with a flawless matte finish. It does all of this by using a bunch of fancy pants ingredients. I don't really care about all of the fancy stuff, but if it's a good sunscreen then I'm in - I am super sensitive to the sun. Can't wait to give this a whirl.

 

5. Jouer Tint in Poppy full size $22

 This is a two-in-one product for your lips and cheeks and it's super creamy and moisturizing. It goes on pretty sheer, and gives a nice dewy finish. I got it in the shade Poppy which is a coral-tinged pink color that I think will be quite flattering on my pale, freckly skin.

Another great birchbox, I can't wait to dive into my samples and find something awesome to do with this beautiful box.

Recipe | Chicken & Asparagus with Zoodles

 

Ingredients

• 1 boneless/skinless chicken breast
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp basil
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/4 tsp thyme
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1 large zucchini
• 1/2 lb asparagus, cut into 2 inch pieces and steamed
• 1 1/2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp. flour
• 1 3/4 cup milk (I used almond, I think you can use whatever)
• 1/4 cup half and half
• 3 oz cream cheese
• 1/3 parmesan cheese

Instructions

• In a small bowl mix together basil, oregano, thyme, salt and pepper. Sprinkle half of the mix even over top of chicken.
• Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add chicken to skillet, herbed side down, then add remaining mix to the top of the chicken.
• Cook chicken until fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes, be sure to flip chicken occasionally.
• Once cooked, transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes and then dice into pieces.
• Meanwhile, using an iFit Spiral Slicer  (or something like it), make noodles with your zucchini.
• In a clean skillet, large and deep, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute whisking constantly.
• While whisking, slowly pour in the milk and then cream. Continue whisking to break up any clumps.
• Once mixture reaches a boil and thickens, reduce to medium-low heat and add cream cheese and parmesan cheese and cook, stirring frequently until the cheeses melt.
• Toss in the zoodles, cooked chicken and steamed asparagus and toss to evenly coat. Serve immediately.

Book Review | We Are Called to Rise by Laura McBride

 

The Plot

 

 

We Are Called to Rise follows four different Las Vegas families; an immigrant boy and his family who are struggling to assimilate, a middle-aged couple who are dealing with an trouble son along with a marriage that is ending, a social worker who feels more at home in the darkest corners of Los Vegas and a wounded soldier recovering from injury. All of the people have different backgrounds, but the story is set with alarming similarities. When presented with the much easier option of sinking into despair and desolation, these people choose to rise above the situations and attempt to rescue themselves. This is a novel of redemption and unexpected love. 

 

My Thoughts

 

The intricate and subtle linking of all the characters in this novel is done with such care and preciseness that it makes it a joy to read and experience. All of the characters in this book are so layered, you become invested in their outcomes. This book is a bit sad, just a warning, but like the description says they are faced with some of the darkest things people face and rise up to the challenge. I found this book to be incredibly inspiring, especially given the circumstances going on in my life at this moment. I give this book 5 stars and recommend it to anyone who needs some inspiration in their lives or just wants to read a good story.

 

Five Things Friday

Five Things I Did:

1. We went and visited my mother in law in the hospital, she is out of ICU and into a different unit now so that is great news. It's slow and steady recovery at this point, but we are thankful she is still with us.

2. We went for a walk both Saturday and Sunday mornings. On Sunday morning we saw a crane, 3 deer and a muskrat. All in our little neighborhood duck pond.

3. This delicious crème soda.

4. I found out my last day of work for the school year, finally. There was some confusion because I am in a different type of classroom this year, but my last day of work is May 15. I have a lot to get done before then! 

5. Catching up with friends over food, is there anything better?

Five Things I Ate:

1. I made zoodles for the first time! To with it I made chicken and asparagus and a creamy sauce. I made a bit too much sauce, but it was still good. A recipe will be up next Tuesday, you know #recipetuesday.

2. The hospital having a Jamba Juice machine is a problem. I had a triple berry  juice while we were there. I'm addicted.

3. Italian Bean & Sausage Pasta is another family fave. I don't think I have shared that recipe, so I will be doing so in the coming weeks. It's SO easy, and no it's a crockpot meal! ;)

4. Crockpot lentil chili. 

5. I tried an acai berry purée packet in my smoothies this week. It was AMAZING.

Five Things I Read:

1.Where the iconic Detroit "D" comes from

2. Can't believe this is what is being taught in a HS Sex-Ed class. For shame!

3. Facts are Friends re: vaccinations

4. The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters
Full review coming in a few weeks. This book is long in pages, but I was still sad when it was over!

5. The Wonder of All Things by Jason Mott

As per usual, I am going to be linking with Fitting It All In and her Five Things Friday. I am also going to be at the High Five for Friday link up over at Coffee with Caitlin, Cup of Tea, Bright on a budget and Della Devoted

 

Travel | Saint Andrews Hall | Detroit, Michigan

I love living in Michigan, being from Michigan and pretty much everything about my home state. My husband and I love to explore all the outdoor things along with some really cool cities. Obviously, Detroit is one of them. Don't listen to what people say about Detroit - Detroit is great. The city is full of people who are fighters and who are not giving up and it shows. There are SO many cool things happening in Detroit now, so you should probably give it a whirl.

photo courtesy of detroityes.com

Anyway, one of the things we love to do as a couple is attend concerts. One of our favorite venues to do this at is Saint Andrews Hall in Detroit. Built in 1907, Saint Andrews was originally the meeting place for the St. Andrew's Scottish Society of Detroit. This venue has three different meeting sites in one building; the Main Ballroom, The Shelter and The Burns Room.



The Main Ballroom, photo credit to saintandrewsdetroit.com

The Main Ballroom features a hardwood dance floor, a large bar and in-house sound and lighting. The Shelter has a private bar area, a stage, cabaret seating, DJ booth, red curtains and private rooms. The Burns Room includes hardwood floors, chandeliers, lounge furniture, a small raised stage and floor to ceiling windows overlooking Congress Street and the RenCen.

We absolutely love this site and it's one of Detroit's many historic buildings. If you ever get the chance to check it out, we couldn't recommend it more. Go Detroit!

Saint Andrews Hall has no idea who I am. I just love the historic building and genuinely enjoy attending concerts there. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I was not compensated in any way for writing this post.

Beauty | Empties #2

 

 

I suppose it's only been about a month or so since my last empties post, but for some reason I went through things a bit faster than usual this past month. So here we are...my thoughts on the products I have used up recently!

1. VO5 Herbal Escapes Kiwi Lime Squeeze Conditioner
I didn't actually buy this, my husband did. I did use it occasionally though after a clarifying shampoo or something. It smelled like key lime pie and hydrated my hair nicely. It's nothing too incredibly remarkable but for the price, it's a pretty decent conditioner.

2. Bath and Body Works Aromatherapy Body Lotion in Lavender Chamomile
I am obsessed with the B&BW Sleep scents. I find the lavender, vanilla and chamomile smell to be so incredibly relaxing and delightful. Nearly every Christmas by Grandma gets me one of these lotions and I put it to immediate use. This is a definite repurchase, because I always have one on my dresser.

3. Herbal Essences Honey I'm Strong Shampoo and Conditioner
I have used Herbal Essences since high school, but I DID NOT care for this set of products. I felt like shampoo left a residue on my hair and the conditioner didn't hydrate very well, my hair felt brittle and frizzy along with kind of greasy? I don't know how that happens, but it did. I will not be repurchasing this specific set.

4. Bath and Body Works French Lavender & Honey Shower Gel
Another lavender scented product. I liked the way this smelled, but I felt like it didn't last long on the skin. While I was soaping up in the shower, it was a pretty powerful scent but as soon as I stepped out I felt like I couldn't smell it anymore which was a disappointment. I like my shower gel scent to linger, so I smell fresh and clean (tmi?).

5. Mitchum for Women Powder Fresh Clear Gel Deodorant
All time fave deodorant. Gets the job done if you know what I mean. Have already repurchased.

6.  Malin + Goetz lip moisturizer
I used this right after exfoliating my lips at night before bedtime. I kept it in my nightstand drawer and layered the stuff on before sleep. I loved it, my lips felt smooth and hydrated all winter long. My only complaint is the packaging and that it was a squeeze tube. I just don't like that kind of packaging because I always make a mess. Definite repurchase in the future, after I use up the current lip conditioner I have.

7. bh cosmetics eye and lip makeup remover
There wasn't anything too special about this makeup remover. It removed even the most stubborn of makeup without irritating my sensitive skin. Probably won't repurchase because I can only do so online and that's kind of annoying at times.

8. Juara Skincare Turmeric Antioxidant Radiance Mask
I honestly feel like this mask didn't do anything. It was a sample I received from Birchbox, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to use it. I won't be purchasing it because, like I said, I don't really feel like it did anything.

There you have it, round 2 of empties! Anything you have finished up lately that is a definite repurchase?

Book Review | Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

I had heard pretty good things about this book, and it had been on my to-read list for a bit. I saw it on my library shelves and quickly grabbed it.

The Plot

The book opens with actor, Arthur Leander, having a heart attack on stage during a performance of King Lear. An EMT, Jeevan Chaudhary, is in the audience and jumps on the stage to help. While this is all happening a child actress, Kirsten Raymonde, watches as Jeevan attempts to save Arthur's life by performing CPR. That same night a lethal flu begins to spread causing the hospitals to overflow. Jeevan and his brother barricade themselves in an apartment watching as the freeways clog, gunshots ring and civilization disintegrates.

Fifteen years later, Kirstin is a part of The Traveling Symphony; a group that moves between settlements in this altered world performing Shakespeare and music. When the group arrives at the settlement St. Deborah by the Water, they encounter a violent prophet.

This book cover decades, jumping back and forth in time depicting life before and after the pandemic. During this we see the links and twists of fate that connect them all through time.

My Thoughts

I'm not sure I depicted it well in my synopsis but this book is really quite dark. There is some love, but it's mostly loss. Loss of love, loss of life, loss of a way of living, loss of civilization; it's just all over the place. But yet it's not a depressing book. There are people who survive the pandemic, and make new lives for themselves. They figure out how to survive in this new way of life. The way of linking all the characters together is not obvious as well, which I like. It's subtle and tantalizing. I absolutely adored this novel, giving it a well-deserved 5 stars.

Five Things Friday

 

 

Five Things I Did:

 

1. Spent the weekend at the hospital with my MIL - keep the good thoughts coming. My bestie and her husband were kind enough to let us crash in their guest bed for a few nights so we could stay down here with them.

 

2. Went back to work. Happy to have some semblance of normalcy back in my everyday life. We are going to be going back and forth between home and the hospital for the foreseeable future.

 

3. Met up with some friends and ate at The Emory in Ferndale. We had brunch and just chatted, then walked over to The Cupcake Station and bought some mini cupcakes.

 

4. My sweet puppy girl died on 4.15.15, at almost 15 years old. She lived a great long life, where she made everyone around her smile. I am thankful to have had her. RIP princess Shiloh. You will be missed.

 

5. Beautiful weather on Tuesday, we went for a 4 mile walk around our neighborhood.

 

 

Five Things I Ate:

 

1. A Mango something or other Jamba Juice. At the hospital they have two Jamba Juice machines and I am definitely taking advantage. I flippin' love JJ and we do not have one near where we live.

 

 

2. Caramel Apple French Toast, 'merican omelette and brunch fries at The Emory. I had breakfast at brunch with a side of beer and I don't regret it.

 

3. CUPCAKES 

 

4. Had some chili for lunch, it was pretty legit.

 

5. Starburst jellybeans. So delicious.

 

Five Things I Read:

 

1. We Are Called to Rise by Laura McBride

Really enjoyed this book, a full review will be coming at the end of the month.

 

2. Daughter by Jane Shemilt

 

3. This is absolutely crazy

 

4. The Midwife of Hope River by Patricia Harman

 

5. Kid Rock did what?

 

As per usual, I am going to be linking with Fitting It All In and her Five Things Friday. I am also going to be at the High Five for Friday link up over at Coffee with Caitlin, Cup of Tea, Bright on a budget and Della Devoted

 

Beauty | FoxBrim Vitamin C Moisturizer

I love a good moisturizer, obviously. A lightweight moisturizer is an absolute must have for me, I hate feeling like I have layers of product all over my face. So naturally when I am given opportunities to try new moisturizers, I feel hesitant. So I accepted an opportunity to try out FoxBrim's Vitamin C Lotion.

 



I was pleasantly surprised, it's a lightweight formula that absorbs into the skin quickly and doesn't leave any sort of gross residue. It also doesn't really have a scent, which is nice. It, as the name suggests, has Vitamin C for quality skin protection - so it's great to apply in the morning so you have the protection as you go about your day. Since it is so lightweight, it wears really well under makeup. Another key ingredient is aloe vera, so this moisturizer is very soothing and helps promote skin elasticity.

I definitely love this moisturizer; it's formula and the ingredients. I will continue to use this in the mornings to help my skin stay protected and healthy all day long!

This review is sponsored by Tomoson.com and I received this product free of charge from FoxBrim in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own.

Recipe | Crockpot King Ranch Casserole

Another day, another crockpot meal. This was a favorite by me - my husband wasn't around to eat it. So, if you make it let me know if you like it because...I'm curious.

 

Ingredients

• About 20 tortilla chips, your preference
• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel w/green chilies
• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

• Spray slow cooker with non stick cooking spray.
• Spread a layer of tortilla chips on the bottom of the pot, it's okay if they overlap.
• In a medium sized bowl mix together the chicken, Rotel, soups and broth.
• Place half of the mixture on top of the chips. Then top with half of the cheese.
• Repeat layers; chips, mixture and cheese.
• Cook on low for 6 hours.



Book Review | Hidden Girl by Louise Millar

 

This book was dubbed a psychological thriller. I am not entirely sure that is accurate, but it was (at times) a bit suspenseful. I have read two other of Louise Millar's books before diving into The Hidden Girl, and I enjoyed them both so I was excited to read this one.

 



The Plot

 

Hannah Riley is hopeful that a move to the Suffolk countryside will be a fresh start for herself and her husband Will. Hannah is desperate for a child, and it has become her obsession and it's beginning to drive her and her husband apart. So, a move to the idyllic countryside manor Tornley Hall seems just the ticket.

A snow storm strikes though, and Will gets stuck in London and Hannah is cut off in their remote village. The townsfolk are acting strange, there are threatening figures lurking near the property at night and their neighbors seem really keen to get them to leave. As Hannah begins to ask questions and poke around more to answer these questions she begins to uncover a terrible crime. She wants to do the right thing, but at what cost?

 

My Thoughts

 

 A lot of times with mystery or suspense books, I can figure out where the plot is going but with this one I was definitely confused. Which is a good thing, keeps you wanting to continue reading the book to what happens - that is definitely what happened with this book. There are a few creepy parts, but I am a grade A scaredy cat and read this book before bed and was fine. If you're looking for a book to keep you guessing, then I recommend this to you.
A few things I did not like about the book is that some of it just doesn't seem to make any sense - it's not believable. The key to a mystery/suspense book is to have a level of believability to it so then the reader feels it even more. I gave this book 3 stars on Goodreads.

 

 

 

 



Five Things Friday

 

5 Things I Did:

1. My Michigan State Spartans made it to the Final Four! Unfortunately we lost to Duke, but everyone counted us out and we had a great run. Now I will be rooting for the other Big 10 team for the National Championship; Wisconsin! On Wisconsin!

2. We went for a walk on Easter morning and spotted these ducks doing their thing. Including a cool white duck; I have never seen one before. Is it albino? I don't know but it was cool to see. 

3. Husband went away for a few days this week. Took him to the airport and bid him farewell.

4. I went shopping with my mom, my grandma and my brother at Birch Run. I mainly bought chocolate. 

5. My MIL is still in the hospital, please send good thoughts her way.


5 Things I Ate:

1. Been experimenting with my smoothies this week. If you're interested in me doing some smoothie recipes in lieu of my food recipes let me know in the comments!

2. I attempted making some homemade beef and broccoli; after my success with the Pad Thai I thought I would give this a whirl. It was really good and next time I make it I will take pictures and share the recipe.

3. I ordered breakfast at Bob Evans at 1:30 in the afternoon and it was decadent.

4. Since I'm on Spring Break I met my grandparents for lunch; it's always great to spend time with them.

5. I received an obscene amount of Easter candy, it's fairly disgusting. So I have been trying to avoid eating that and failing.

5 Things I Read:

1. Another Night, Another Day by Sarah Rayner
A pretty good book, I gave it 3 stars on goodreads.

2. I find this to be accurate

3. Paddling Your Own Canoe: One Man's Fundamentals for Delicious Living by Nick Offerman
This book was alright. I love Nick Offerman, but this book was not my favorite.

4. This will be awesome

5. The Secret Speech by Tom Rob Smith (Leo Demidov #2)


As per usual, I am going to be linking with Fitting It All In and her Five Things Friday. I am also going to be at the High Five for Friday link up over at Coffee with Caitlin, Cup of Tea, Bright on a budget and Della Devoted

Beauty | Petunia Skincare Products

So I got an email awhile back asking if I was interested in trying out some of Petunia Skincare's products. I agreed, and I was sent their eye serum, their hyaluronic acid serum and a derma roller. I was hesitant about the derma roller, because it sounds terrifying, but I agreed and as soon as I received the package I ripped into it.

 

First, the Hyaluronic Acid Serum; I opened it and the smell was terrible. I was not impressed immediately because I don't necessarily get excited about rubbing something that stinks all over my face every day. But I rubbed into the back of my hand and it soaked in nicely, didn't leave any sort of stiffness or residue. So besides the smell, it was a typical serum. This one in particular is great for anti-aging and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. This product is also vegan and cruelty-free.

Next was the Revitalize Eye Serum, and it too had a terrible scent. I am really disappointed about the smell of these two products. This eye serum isn't too liquid - it's more of a gel formula which I prefer for nighttime. It's definitely silky smooth and absorbs right into the skin, which is a definite bonus. My eyes do feel a little bit less heavy after using this product and it does a great job moisturizing that sensitive area around my eyes.

Lastly, the terrifying Derma Roller. Derma Roller's are supposed to help promote collagen production, accelerate skin regeneration, reduce wrinkles, fade stretch marks and cellulite. What the what?! The derma roller is literally a roller made up of stainless steel microneedles and you roll it across your face encouraging your skin to regenerate because of the tiny little injuries (holes) it is making. Your serums, creams, etc should also absorb faster because of the opening of the pores. It makes sense, but it sounds scary too. So the order of operations would be: cleanse, derma roller, toner, serum, moisturizer. In case you need to be told, you should NOT use this in the area around your eyes. That area is incredibly sensitive and poking it with a ton of little needles would not be good. So, I tried it and it definitely hurt a little bit. Nothing major, but it was irritating. I have noticed a difference though. I only did it on spots where I was having some breakouts, and they were cleared up by the next day. That is amazing. A tiny, little bit of irritation is worth a next day clear-up! Definitely use this at night though, because it might turn your skin red if you're pale or have sensitive skin.

All in all, I am very happy with Petunia Skincare and their products and I definitely recommend them to anyone who is interested!

This review is sponsored by Tomoson.com and I received this product free of charge from Petunia Skincare in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own.

Beauty | YSL VoxBox

So I have been a part of Influenster for a few months now, I did the snaps and all but had never gotten a VoxBox campaign before. I was cool with it, I figured I would just wait it out and if nothing ever came my way then so be it. So I was VERY excited when I found out I was getting the YSL VoxBox with the Mascara Volume Effect Faux Cils. Whatever that means, it's YSL! (It means it's a false lash mascara). I knew it was going to be fancy pants stuff and I was irrationally excited. From what I can gather, this is a new and improved formula that doesn't dry out in the tube. Sweet, and since it costs $32 I am glad to hear that it won't be drying out anytime soon!

 

So when my box came in the mail, I immediately tore in and the beautiful gold packaging was stunning.

 

The mascara felt so fancy. I felt like an important person when I held it and when I used it. That does not really play into my purchasing habits, but it's a nice feeling nonetheless. As you know, I have a love-hate battle with mascara. Love as in, I love to use it because it makes my eyes look better. Hate as in, I cannot find one that I love and that doesn't make me look like a raccoon at the end of the day. If this fancy pants mascara doesn't make me look like I got beat up, then I may be a high end convert. Lord help my bank account.

 

I opened the tube to look at the wand. It didn't look spectacular to me, just a mascara wand. That's fine by me, anything to curvy and crazy and I might accidentally stab myself in the eye. Classic is better and definitely safer.

 

I applied it on my super light, not so amazing eyelashes, and there you go. The proof is in the pictures below.

 

I can definitely see a difference. It went on great, it gave my lashes so much volume and it dried quickly. I hate when the lashes stay kind of wet, because I like to move on with my day and immediately forget about my eye makeup. The last stage was to see how it lasted all day long, and what it looked like after a 9 hour work day and a dusting session of my house...

A little bit of smudging under the lower lashes, just like I always get. What a bummer. But the top lashes, heck even the bottom lashes, still look super voluminous and stand out. Thanks YSL and Influenster!


I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.

Recipe | Zucchini Black Bean Skillet

 

Sometimes I do cook, not using my crockpot! This is one of those times, when instead I bust out my trusty electric skillet. This is a great recipe, pretty filling and makes enough for some leftovers. It's super quick to make as well, because who wants to spend a bunch of time cooking dinner after a long day at work? Not me.

Ingredients

• 1 medium to large zucchini (or 2 small ones), sliced into quarters.
• 15 oz (1 can) black beans, drained and rinsed.
• 14.5 oz (1 can) Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes, undrained.
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 cup instant brown rice
• 1/4 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese.

Instructions

• Heat up electric skillet (or regular skillet on stovetop) over medium heat.
• Add quartered zucchini and cook until becoming soft, about 5 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally.
• Add beans, undrained tomatoes and water. Give a mix.
• Increase heat and bring to a boil.
• Add rice, stir well. Cover and remove from heat and let stand while rice cooks.
• Let stand for about 10 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
• Sprinkle with cheese.

Books | On My Nightstand

Here we are, into April already. I can't even believe it, it's currently my Spring Break and while I do not have any travel plans - I am going to be doing some spring "cleaning". I have some organizing to do around the homestead, and my car needs a good cleaning from the winter. Of course, I plan on doing some reading as well. Here are the books that are currently on my nightstand awaiting to be read.

 

(from top to bottom)

The Midwife of Hope River by Patricia Harman (Hope River #1)
This book follows Appalachian midwife, Patience Murphy. She begins by taking on cases that no one else wants or will do - those most in need and least likely to pay.

Daughter by Jane Shemilt
Jenny is a family doctor, mother of three teenagers and married to a neurosurgeon. When her youngest daughter doesn't come home after her school play, Jenny's life begins to crumble. A nationwide search begins, and their lives are forever changed.

The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters
London in 1922 is tense; ex-servicemen are disillusioned and the poor and unemployed are demanding a change. Life is about to be changed for impoverished widow Mrs. Wray and her daughter, Frances. They are forced to take in lodgers.

Another Night, Another Day by Sarah Rayner
This is about three people who are all crying out for help and each has ended up at Moreland's Psychiatric Clinic. It follows their stories on how they ended up there and how they are going to get out.

The Secret Speech by Tom Rob Smith (Leo Demidov #2)
 It's the Soviet Union in 1956, after Stalin's death. The society that is left behind is one where the police are the criminals and the criminals are innocent. Leo Demidov is a former MGB officer; the two young girls him and his wife have adopted have yet to forgive him for this part in a tragic story. They are not alone; their family is in grave danger - someone has held onto a grudge against Leo.

We Are Called to Rise by Laura McBride
This book follows the lives of people from different backgrounds and how their lives intersect and collide in stunning coincidences. When these characters are given the chance to despair, they all rise - hence the name.

Five Things Friday

 

Five Things I Did:

1. Well after just being sick a week or so ago, I came down with a cold. I felt absolutely fantastic, and then BAM! It hit me. A sinus infection and ear infection. This has been a terrible school year for getting sick, and I am just plain OVER IT.

2. My mother in law had surgery on Monday, things did not go as smoothly as planned. Please keep her in your good thoughts.

3. The weather on Wednesday was gorgeous - we took the kids outside and just let them run wild for a bit. They napped like little angels.

4. I fell for a lot of April Fools jokes on social media. I kept forgetting it was 4.1 and being like, what?! and clicking on links. Then realizing after the fact that it was a prank. #gullible

5. I went through the bathroom cabinet and threw away all expired medications and sunscreen. There was an absurd amount. I am on Spring Break next week and some serious spring cleaning is going down.

5 Things I Ate:

1. Yogurt covered raisins. They are the perfect combo when you need/want something sweet.

2. Good ole blue box Kraft Mac & Cheese. Sometimes, it's just what you need.

3. Lots of peppermint tea to help clear up my sinuses. Is there anything better than curling up with a good book and a cup of tea in bed at the end of a long, worrying day?

4. Crockpot King Ranch Casserole. Surprisingly good. Recipe soon, I promise!

5. Can I have a week where I don't eat pizza? Didn't think so. 

5 Things I Read:

1. The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell
I feel like this book was over my head and I can totally admit this. It jumps around a lot and I was easily confused. I have read great reviews on this book though, but maybe Mitchell's style and my preferences just don't jive. I am contemplating giving Cloud Atlas a whirl, but we shall see.

2. The Precious One by Marisa de los Santos
I did a full review on this book that you can find here! But spoiler alert - I liked it!

3. The Hidden Girl by Louise Millar
There will be a full review of this book coming in the next few weeks, but just to tide you over until then - it's a pretty decent mystery/suspense read.

4. April 2015 Book Page

5. Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
Yet another book that will have a full review coming soon! I read a lot of good books this week, and ones that I liked to boot!


As per usual, I am going to be linking with Fitting It All In and her Five Things Friday. I am also going to be at the High Five for Friday link up over at Coffee with Caitlin, Cup of Tea, Bright on a budget and Della Devoted

Beauty | New Radiance Naturals Vitamin C Serum





I have tried a lot of serum's in my day. I love playing around with beauty and skincare products, that's one of the reason's I do this blog. It's incredibly exciting and enjoyable to try new things. I have recently tried a new serum; New Radiance Naturals Vitamin C Serum.

 

Like a lot of skincare products, this serum promotes anti-aging due to the amounts of Vitamin C and Vitamin E that are present in it. It also says it will fade any discolorations, acne scars, freckles and it will also firm up sagging/wrinkled skin. I have freckles, and I don't want them faded. This serum is also 98% natural, 72% organic and 100% plant based. Those are all great things.

This serum comes in a little glass jar with a dropper, like a lot of the Vitamin C serum's I have tried. It's kind of a pale yellow-orangey color which made me skeptical at first because I have used a VERY orange serum in the past and it tinted my skin that color...under the guise of making it look "radiant". I can say with 100% certainty that this DID NOT tint my skin a weird color. Thank goodness for that.

While this product did not tint my skin, I also did not really notice any huge changes. I have only been using it for a little over a week or so, and while my skin does feel soft - I haven't noticed any fading of discolorations, etc. Which is actually fine by me, because I don't want my freckles to fade - but I do have some spots that could be evened out.

I really do like this product, and will continue to use it in hopes that it will my impending aging effects, along with helping my few spots of discoloration. I give this product a hearty 4/5 stars!


This review is sponsored by Tomoson.com and I received this product free of charge from New Radiance Naturals in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own.