Moving Moving Moving

The day is here - moving day. My husband and I are on our way from Lansing, Michigan (my hometown) to Grinnell, Iowa for a year for his work. We have lived in McAllen, Texas and Little Rock, Arkansas together as well - so moving isn't really a new thing for us. 

I just wanted to throw this post up to let you all know that if I go a little radio silent over the next week or so that it's because we are in full on moving mode. On top of moving, once we get to our new place we have to turn around and come back to Michigan about a week later - my husband is in a wedding on the 8th of August. 

I hope to keep up with my blogging, I am pre-writing and scheduling a few posts so it won't be too quiet on here. 

See you in Iowa!

Beauty | Regenepure Luxury Hair Loss Shampoo

I am sure I have mentioned it on here before, but I have a fair amount of hair and it falls out CONSTANTLY. I leave a trail of long, blonde hairs everywhere I go. It tumbleweeds through my home, my parents home, my car...EVERYWHERE. It's annoying. But my hair is not thinning, at least that I have noticed. Regardless, I received this Regenepure Luxury Hair and Scalp Treatment shampoo for hair loss and was excited to give it a try.

This shampoo is sulfate and paraben free and includes no harsh chemicals. It does contain 1% ketonconazole - which is the only clinically proven ingredient for hair loss shampoo. Plus, it's a powerful anti-fungal which will help to defeat any dandruff issues that you may have. This shampoo also has aloe vera and jojobo oil to help ease any inflammation or irritation that may arise.

I really enjoyed using this shampoo, but to be honest I didn't notice any less hair loss. But to be fair, my hair is not thinning out so maybe it was never going to work for the natural type of hair loss/regrowth that I have. Regardless, I really enjoyed using it - my scalp never felt irritated or inflamed, it smells good and my hair felt nice and clean. 

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

Book Review | Language Arts by Stephanie Kallos

 

Charles Marlow is a high school English teacher who believes in teaching his students that language will help to expand their worlds. Unfortunately, these beliefs that help him to connect with his autistic son, college bound daughter or with his ex-wife.  He has been living on auto pilot for years, until a series of events forces him to look outside of the routine he has been in. He is forced to look at his past decisions that have brought him to where he is today. 

When reading the synopsis for Language Arts I was pretty sure I knew how this book was going to read. My main complaint for this book is the timeline is a little jumpy. Sometimes it is unclear right away from whose perspective you are reading from. But once you get to the end of the book you will realize it's all by design. I promise you, it's for good reason and try to muscle through it - it will be worth it. 

In this book they talk a lot about the Palmer Method for handwriting, I had never heard of it but it gets discussed a lot - especially near the beginning. It's pretty interesting (and from what I can tell - what they say is true) includes examples, facts, etc. I looked into it enough to deem it at least partially accurate so that's always fun. I like when books include real life tidbits and such.

I really enjoyed reading this book and I gave it 5 stars on goodreads. Have you read this book? Do you want to now after reading this review?

Beauty | July Birchbox Review

The theme for July's Birchbox was Go Bold. Summer is a time to Go Bold - to wear those bright colors and not hold back. 

1. Whish Three Whishes Body Butter
full size $24
I received this body butter in the scent blueberry, and while that is not my favorite scent the product itself is pretty great. This body butter is super creamy and smooth, and it rubs into the skin like a charm. No icky residue or greasy aftermath. I would definitely purchase this in another scent; it comes in almond, lavender, pomegranate, lemongrass, coconut and acai grapefruit. I want to try to the lemongrass, personally.

2. Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
full size $42
This is a cult favorite texturizing spray; used to soak up oil and give your second day (or third or fourth) hair some bounce back. Using a spray like this isn't in my normal hair routine, but I'm not against trying it out. It smells super fruity and sweet, but the spray nozzle was kind of hard to push down. I was really pushing on it when it finally sprayed and it scared me. I am looking forward to trying this out and seeing if its one I finally enjoy.

3. StriVectin-AR Advanced Retinol Eye Treatment
full size $75
This is a gentle retinol eye treatment that targets fine lines and sagging, without causing irritation. I don't think I have ever used a retinol treatment on my eyes, so I'm interested to try this for awhile. It's a tiny bit greasy, so I will definitely be trying this at night. 

4. Stila Look At Me Liquid Lipstick
full size $20
I received this lipstick in the shade Bella, which is a bright pink. It comes in a trio which includes Bella, Beso and Venezia. Beso is a classic red color and Venezia is a bright coral color. The formula for this liquid lipstick is terrific - it glides on like a gloss but stays put and dries like a stain. I'm a huge fan of this formula and can't wait to wear this bright pink for the remainder of the summer.

5. theBalm cosmetics Balm Desert Bronzer/Blush
full size $21
This is tiny little sample size, so I'm not entirely sure how to grasp whether I am a fan or not. I love the brand and this color of this bronzer is stunning; but I think it may be a bit too dark for my pale skin. I'm still going to give it a whirl, taking care to use a light hand. 

There you have it, my July Birchbox! Have you guys ever tried any of these products and what did you think?      

Recipe | Burrito Bake

 

I have had the ingredients for this dinner in my pantry for MONTHS. It took me getting down to the last pound of venison before I attempted it - for whatever reason. But, on a positive note, we finished all of our venison before we moved! Success!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (we used venison, ground turkey would probably work too!)
• 1 package taco seasoning
• 10 oz can of refried beans
• 1 cup bisquick
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup cheddar cheese

Instructions

• Brown meat, adding in taco seasoning
• Mix bisquick, water and refried beans in a small bowl.
• Place the bean mixture into a greased 9 x 13 dish
• Sprinkle taco meat on top
• Add cheese
• Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees

There you go! My husband doesn't like refried beans, so this recipe was just for me! Happy eating!

 

Book Review | My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman

 

One of my favorite books that I read in 2014 was A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman; it was amazing. If you haven't read it yet, I HIGHLY recommend it. So when I saw Backman had another book out, I quickly snatched it up from my local library.

First off, let me say that Backman is Swedish (my people!) so these novels are translated but (in my opinion) nothing is lost in translation. I mean, I'm not reading it in his native Swedish to really compare but I don't feel like I'm missing anything when I read his books. Plus, I love that they take place in Scandinavia.  It's different and refreshing.

So My Grandmother Asked Me To Tell You She's Sorry follows seven year old Elsa (not of Frozen fame); Elsa is often told that she is "different". Her best friend is her seventy-seven year old grandmother who is described as "standing-on-the-balcony-firing-paintball-guns-at-men-who-want-to-talk-about-Jesus-crazy." At night, Elsa takes refuge in a world of her grandmothers creation - called the Land of Almost-Awake; where everyone is different and there is no need to be normal.

When Elsa's grandmother dies, she leaves behind some apology letters to those that she has wronged. She leaves the task of delivering them to Elsa. What follows is a tale of monsters, attack dogs, fairytales, kingdoms and the story of a unique and beloved grandmother. 

My Thoughts

So I didn't LOVE this book like I LOVED his other one. This book was a bit more dreamland-y and fantasy-esque than I generally enjoy in a book (Harry Potter not included). It was still an enjoyable book, I gave it 4 st

Five Things Friday

Five Things I Did:

1. My MIL had another surgery but it seems to have went alright and we were able to go down to the hospital and spend some time with her before we move in two weeks.

2. Went to The record lounge and browsed for a bit. 

3. We did some Detroit exploring - finally made it to the Eastern Market and Slows Bar BQ. We are trying desperately to cross things off our Michigan Bucket List before we move to Iowa at the end of the month.

4. I got a haircut. Didn't do anything interesting, just cleaned up the ends and such but it still feels so much lighter!

5. Started packing up stuff for the move. Blargh.

Five Things I Ate:

1. We ate dinner one night at Sweet Lorraine's Mac and Cheez and it was fantastic! All sorts of different types of Mac and cheese, I got plain ole bacon and cheddar. Hubs got Philly cheesesteak and loved it.

2. The husband made some banana bread French toast that was LEGIT. 

3. Got some Maize 'N Berries ice cream from MSU's Dairy Store. Pretty much tastes like blueberry pie, complete with crust-like chunks in it. Darn delicious, guys!

4. Pannu Kakku. I can't even. My husband has been on a cooking spree this week and I am loving it.

5. Got some beef brisket at Slows. I love me some brisket!

Five Things I Read:

1. Language Arts by Stephanie Kallos

2. Euphoria by Lilly King

3. Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen

4. Engagement pictures with a burrito

5. First Frost by Sarah Addison Allen

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 | Empties #4

 

Here we are again, with another set of empties. Somehow I ended up with the nice, even amount of 10 products! It's the little things, people, that make me happy. 

1. Klorane Clarify and Shine Rinse with Chamomile

This product is designed specifically for blonde hair and to help bring out the natural highlights. It's also supposed to help prevent blonde hair from turning brassy and from residue developing. I don't feel like it did really anything, and the smell is terrible. It smells pretty much like you're rinsing your hair with vinegar. Which would be totally fine if it did anything.

2. Acure Organics Day Cream Gotu Kola Stem Cell

This day cream helps to protect against all sorts of environmental damage; made with an infusion of chlorella growth factor and gotu kola stem cells. I don't really know what any of that means, but what I do know is that this stuff is the bomb. It smells great, it locks in moisture all day long, firms up your skin and evens out skin tone. This day cream is a big, fat win in the book of Es.

3. Meijer Oil Free Acne Wash

Basically this is the off-brand version of Neutrogena. It's not impressive, but it did clean my face...I think?

4. Lashiq Natural Eyelash Enhancer

The makers of the product contacted me after my review went up and apologized for my lack of results. I understand that not every product can work for every type of person and I was never mad about my lack of results, just disappointed. Because who doesn't want nice, thick, full, beautiful eyelashes?

5. The Body Shop Olive Body Scrub

A glorious exfoliater that I use weekly all over my body. This is my favorite scent from The Body Shop and this is one of my favorite products. Can't recommend this enough and it lasts for months and months! 

6. MDSolarSciences MD Creme Mineral Beauty Balm SPF 50

This is a mineral based, UVA and UVB blocking beauty balm. It works as both a sunscreen and a primer, along with lots of other benefits. This stuff is as smooth as silk; plus it leaves a perfect matte finish on your skin. I was highly impressed, but the price is a bit higher than I would usually spend. But I'm not saying that I won't.

7. Bath and Body Works Night Time Tea Body Wash

With relaxing lavender, vanilla and chamomile this body wash is an absolute must have to help relax at the end of the day. Since I shower at night, this stuff works it's magic right before I climb into bed. I almost always have some version of the Sleep line in my shower or on my nightstand - it's an absolute must have for me.

8. SAGE + fasten Onward Eau de Parfum

This perfume is described as an "energizing, juicy scent" which makes it sound way less appealing than it actually is. I'm not a big perfume person, but I LOVED this stuff. It smelled sweet and fresh but without being overbearing. As soon as I save up enough Birchbox points I will be purchasing the full size.

9. Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash with NutriumMoisture

I got this sample size with a conditioner purchase. It was super moisturizing and is definitely something I would purchase in full size in the dry, winter months.

10. Macadamia Healing Oil Spray

My hair tends to be on the dry side, but in order for this stuff to work I felt like I had to spray about a million and twelve sprays. Wasn't worth it for me, personally. But I do have LOTS of hair. Like, LOTS. 

 

Recipe | Teriyaki Zoodle Stir Fry

This dish was a hit in our household, even my husband liked it and said it was a keeper. He is rather skeptical of zoodles, but enjoyed them in this dish so that makes us both very happy! So here is the recipe for this super delicious, super easy and super healthy stir fry meal!

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup broccoli florets
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3 tsp sesame oil
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 3-4 jumbo shrimp or 4-6 smaller, peeled and deveined
• 1 medium zucchini, spiralized

Instructions

• In a large skillet, or wok, on medium heat - spray lightly with cooking spray and add in broccoli. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, tossing frequently.
• While broccoli is cooking, place a small skillet on medium-low heat. Scramble the egg and then set aside.
• Add in red pepper and 2 tsp of the sesame oil to the broccoli. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until peppers begin to soften.
• Add in red pepper flakes to the veggies and toss to combine.
• In a seperate bowl, mix the soy sauce, 1 tsp of sesame oil, rice vinegar and honey together. Whisk to combine and set aside.
• Add shrimp to the veggie mixture and let cook for about 2 minutes, flip over and then add in the soy sauce mixture, spiralized zucchini and the scrambled egg. 
• Toss to combine and stir frequently for about 2 minutes or until the shrimp is cooked.
• Pour into a bowl or plate and enjoy!

Book Review | Me and Earl and the dying girl by Jesse Andrews

 

So, once again, I saw that this book was becoming a movie and bumped it up on my to-read list. It was a pretty quick read, but let's get into the plot before I share my thoughts on it.

Plot

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl follows Greg Gaines in his senior year of high school. He has mastered the social scene of school by not associating with any one clique. He has only one friend, Earl, and together they play video games and make movies. Until one day Greg's mother forces him (as only mother's can do) to rekindle his childhood friendship with Rachel. Rachel has leukemia. Greg and Earl decide to make Rachel a movie, as she is the only one who really appreciates their movies anyway. 

My Thoughts

I did not like this book. I didn't care for the writing style, I didn't care for the "humor" and I didn't really feel much compassion for the characters. Which is a pretty terrible thing to say considering one of them had CANCER. I had heard that this book was kind of Fault In Our Stars (ish) but it is not and should never be mentioned in the same breath as that tear-jerker. I don't understand all the rave reviews, maybe I missing something. This book felt immature, half-hearted and was a complete waste of my precious reading time. Utterly dissapointed.

Five Things Friday

Five Things I Did:

1. We bought a beautiful roll top desk from a local antique store. Can't wait to have it in our new loft in Iowa.

2. Went out to my parents for the 4th and had a bonfire and some beers. Perfection.

3. On Sunday we went for a walk around Lake Lansing and got some ice cream. 

4. I made a hair appointment for Friday; probably won't do anything interesting but we will see.

5. Went to Bath and Body Works to stock up on some wallflowers before the move. The nearest BBW to where we are moving is about 45 minutes away. Which is a big difference from the 3 minutes now.

Five Things I Ate:

1. Nothing says 4th of July like gorging on some takeout Chinese food. America, f@$* yeah!

2. Frozen yogurt (lemon and key lime) with cheesecake bites, mango boba, fruity pebbles and sour patch kids. Ridiculous.

3. We bought some taffy from our local market and I was reminded again of how much I love taffy! 

4. Husband made some omelettes for breakfast - complete with goat cheese! So delicious!

5. A walk up to the taco cart is a perfect summer night activity.

Five Things I Read:

1. my grandmother asked me to tell you she's sorry by Fredrik Backman

2. The sharks are confused

3. Just Friends by Robyn Sisman

4. The Astronaut Wives Club by Lily Koppel

5. The Lola Quartet by Emily St. John Mandel

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 | Faces Beautiful Brush-on Mineral Makeup

I like make up, but I don't like taking 20 minutes to PUT on make up. I like to sleep, so when given the choice between waking up and getting ready or sleeping for another hour I will ALWAYS choose sleep. So, when I was given the opportunity to use this Faces Beautiful brush-on mineral makeup I jumped on it cause it seemed SO easy and effortless.

The first challenge was, what shade am I? Picking out to match my skin tone over the computer never ends well for me. But Faces Beautiful has a handy little guide to help with this dilemma.

How to choose a color.

This is skin enhancing technology. You don’t have to match the color.

• If your skin tends to be a bit sallow – choose Radiant Beige
• If you have excess pink in your skin – choose Healthy Nude
• If your skin is very tan, indian or hispanic toned – choose Sun Glow

I chose Healthy Nude since I am PINK to the max. Then I patiently waited for it to arrive. Which it did while I was in Florida. Boo. So the first day I was back, I applied this. First off, it has the brush attached. All you do is squeeze a bit of product and then apply to your face.

It honestly went on like a dream. It provided great coverage, and really gave my skin a nice dewy finish. It looked incredibly natural, but covering up the blotchy spots. I wore this all day - lunch out on a patio, a few beers and a sweaty concert - and it lasted all. day. long. It was amazing. I have literally never been more pleased with a product. 

Also, since this product does include the brush it could just be thrown into your handbag for a long day out or for traveling. The applicator is turned to ON or OFF so you don't have to worry about makeup squeezing out all over your bags. Aren't they absolute genuises?
 
This review is sponsored by Tomoson.com and I received this product free of charge from Faces Beautiful in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own.

Recipe | Taco Lettuce Wraps

So the husband and I are trying to make healthier food choices. We fail at this sometimes, obviously. Recently we wanted tacos, who doesn't love or crave tacos occasionally? To make this delicious meal a bit healthier we decided that instead of using taco shells or tortillas to use lettuce! GENIUSES

Seriously guys, it was so obvious it is almost sad. It tasted just like a regular taco and it was just as easy as making a regular taco too. 

Prepare your taco stuff the way you normally would. 

Instead of putting it on a taco shell or tortilla put it on a leaf of lettuce. (We used iceberg)

Wrap up and eat.

Duh! So good and easy - pretty much my two rules of eating.

Books | On My Nightstand July 2015

 

It seems like everyone is saying it, so I will as well. I can't believe it's July already! The year is half over and I'm not entirely sure where it all went. July 2015 is going to contain a road trip to Virginia to see one of my besties, a move to Iowa and lots of reading. Here's a little synopsis of the books currently waiting to be read; going from top to bottom.

The Rainmaker by John Grisham 

Rudy Baylor is in his final semester of law school where he is required to give free legal advice to a group of senior citizens. In the group are Dot and Buddy Black who have a son, Donny Ray. Donny Ray is dying and the insurance company is refusing to pay for his treatments. At first Rudy is skeptical, but upon delving further into the case he realizes that he may have stumbled into one of the largest cases of insurance fraud that anyone has ever seen. One problem: Rudy hasn't even passed the bar yet, is flat out broke and is about to go head to head with one of the best defense attorneys AND one of the most powerful companies in America. 

I know, I can't believe I haven't read this book yet either. Or even viewed the movie. What the heck. I have enjoyed every single John Grisham book I have read, so I'm super looking forward to reading this classic...finally.

Just Friends by Robyn Sisman

Freya and Jack have been "just friends" for more than ten years; despite their apparent differences. When Freya is dumped by her lawyer boyfriend, she moves into Jack's apartment and tensions begin to arise. Things get especially sticky when Jack agrees to act as Freya's significant other at her step-sister's wedding.

This book just seems like a nice and simple read. I will probably cram this one in when I need something light and fluffy to disappear into for a few hours.

Euphoria by Lily King 

Andrew Bankson is an English anthropologist who has been alone out in the field for many years. He is studying the Kiona river tribe in the Territory of New Guinea. He is haunted by the memories of his brothers' death and is growing increasingly frustrated with his research and isolation. Bankson, on the verge of suicide,  has a chance encounter with colleagues Nell Stone and her husband Fen. They are looking for a new adventure and when Bankson introduces them to a new tribe that is female dominated he ignites and intellectual and romantic firestorm.

The Lola Quartet by Emily St. John Mandel

Gavin Sasaki is a young journalist in New York City, at least until he fired disgracefully. It's 2009 and the world is in an economic downturn; the last thing Gavin wants to do is return to his hometown in Florida. Luckily, he is offered a job by his sister, Eilo, as a real estate broker who deals in foreclosed homes. Eilo recently visited a home that housed a child, ten years old, who looked suspiciously like her brother and shared the same last name as Gavin's high school girlfriend Anna; whom Gavin last saw ten years ago. 

I really enjoyed Station Eleven by this same author, so I have decided to slowly make my way through her works. 

The Astronaut Wives Club by Lily Koppel

As America's Mercury Seven were launched on a death-defying mission, the cameras were focused on the brave smiles of their young wives. Overnight, these women were transformed into American royalty. 

Isn't this being made into a movie or a television show? I thought I saw a commercial or heard something?

My Grandmother asked me to tell you she's sorry by Fredrik Backman

Elsa is a different seven year old, her crazy grandmother is her best and her only friend. When Elsa's grandmother dies, she leaves behind a series of apology letters to the people she has wronged. Her grandmother's letters lead Elsa on her biggest adventure yet.

A Man called Ove was possibly one of my favorite books that I read in 2014, so naturally when this one came out I snagged it ASAP to devour it. Expect a full review on this one, and I hope it's as good as I am imagining it to be.

First Frost by Sarah Addison Allen

Claire Waverly has started a new venture, Waverly's Candies, that is her own handmade confections. Though these confections are effective; promoting them and crafting them are costing her the everyday joys of her family. Sydney Waverly is also on the verge of losing her balance as she longs for a baby boy; a namesake for her Henry. The more she tries, the faster she is losing out on the life and joys that are right in front of her. Sydney's daughter, Bay, has lost her heart to a boy - but he doesn't know it. 

There you have it, the current reading list! What is on your nightstand to read this month?

Five Things Friday

Five things I did:

1. I was intended to go to a wedding shower on Saturday but I fell ill. So instead I slept all day and watched Hulu.

2. Spent some more time at the hospital. My MIL was admitted for the 5th time since her surgery three months ago. Needless to say, lots of discouragement and exhaustion from all.

3. Alan and I bought a new throw pillow. I know it sounds lame, but it's a very cool pillow.

4. I started watching Orange Is The New Black on Netflix. I read the books many moons ago, so I decided I better give in to the societal pressure to watch the show. :)

5. We made our first ever Craigs List purchase! It was successful and we didn't die. Victory.

Five things I ate:

1. Husband made some banana bread that was yummy. I loathe bananas, but the bread was top notch.

2. I made a teriyaki zoodle stir fry that was DELICIOUS. 

3. I started using plain yogurt in my smoothies and I added a little bit of honey - absolute magic!

4. I have been eating greek yogurt covered raisins as a little "sweet" treat. So delicious.

5. Obsessed with triscuits lately, not sure why but they taste better now than they used to.

Five things I read:

1. Gay marriage made legal in the United States!!!!!!!!!

2. Agent 6 by Tom Rob Smith

3. Michigan #1 state in the United States

4. Me and Earl and the dying girl by Jesse Andrews
Full review coming up on a soon-to-be determined Monday.

5. July Book Page

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 | The Loft | Lansing, Michigan

The Loft in Lansing, Michigan is a super intimate space for a concert or event, it can only hold about 500 people. It came to be in 2010, and is located right in downtown Lansing. The location couldn't be any more perfect, it's right by some really great bars so you can snag a good parking place early and then have a few drinks and dinner before you go to your concert. It's on the second story, hence the name of The Loft.

 

 

Recently, my favorite artist actually came to The Loft to perform. It was a sold out show, and I can say that it didn't feel too crowded - which was great. I had read some reviews that said they often oversold shows so it was jam packed. I am pleased to say that was not that case for the concert I attended.

Photo courtesy of Amber Stokosa Photography. This was NOT the concert I attended

 The lighting and sound were great. They have a bar that is pretty well stocked and a few different beers. They did run out of the beer I was drinking before the show even started, so that was disappointing but nothing to get upset about. It did get a little warm in there, but that's to be expected in June with 500 sweaty, singing, jumping bodies. I'm not sure how glamorous this venue is for artists, but as a fan it couldn't be better. You are RIGHTTHERE with the artist and it feels amazing.

The Loft has no idea who I am. I purchased my tickets on my own and all opinions are my own. I am not being compensated for writing this post at all, just wanted to share my fun experience with anyone who wanted to read about it!

Beauty | June Birchbox Review

I was gone for most of June, so coming home to my Birchbox made my homecoming just that much more special. The theme for this month was Adventure and the products that were chosen for this month are all about being adventurous. 

coTZ Sensitive SPF 40 full size $20

This is sensitive mineral sunscreen that is designed to protect and soothe even the most sensitive of skins. It goes on sheer, has a bit of medicinal scent and is not noticeable underneath makeup at all. I'm a fan, it's a possible purchase.

W3LL PEOPLE The Expressionist Mascara full size $23.50
This is an all-natural mascara that lengthens and lifts lashes without the use of chemicals or dyes. The packaging on this sample is super sleek, and the wand doesn't appear to be anything too special. Probably will not purchase, but am happy to have the sample!

Emi Jay Solid Hair Tie 5-Pack full size $11
I have approximately 100 million of these style hair ties around my house, car, bags, etc. I'm always happy to have more!

Klorane Shampoo with Mango Butter full size $19.50
This shampoo is made with creamy, rich mango butter to help nourish, smoothe and hydrate your locks. It's supposed to be SUPER hydrating so I'm looking forward to giving in a whirl. It smells divine, and the consistency is pretty thick. I am looking forward to using this shampoo after a few rounds in the pool or lake.

Klorane Conditioning Balm with Mango Butter full size $16
This conditioner detangles, moisturizes, adds shine and improves softness. It goes great with the shampoo mentioned above. My main complaint is that the sample came in a packet and I HATE those. I assume the scent is similar to the shampoo, and I'm looking forward to trying this out in conjunction with the shampoo.

La Mav Green Clay Detox Mask full size $29.95
This mask is infused with fruit extracts and is used to treat impurities, minimize pores and help brighten skin. It's a pretty small sample size, but I think I will be able to squeeze two uses out of it. It smells very fresh and the consistency is smooth and creamy so it should be easy to spread around on your face. 

Marcelle Waterproof Eyeliner full size $11
This is a blendable waterproof eyeliner that goes on smooth and stays on all day. I got this eyeliner in the color Mulberry which is a rich purple color. I really don't see myself using this eyeliner, ever. So unfortunately, this one is a bust for me.

There you go, the wonder of adventure with the June 2015 Birchbox. Now that I am thinking about it, the eyeliner would be adventurous for me. Maybe I should take a hint and give it a whirl one day...