Need some holiday self care? Look no further than 7th Heaven!

Pamper your friends with  7th Heaven’s  cruelty-free, vegan and EASY peel-off masks! Available in several ‘ flavors,’ such as  Coconut & Clay, Tea Tree and Dead Sea,  these de-stressing masks use luxurious  natural  ingredients to reveal glowing, fresher, cleaner skin.

Each mask comes in a generous single-serve sachet and retails for $1.99 - a real stocking stuffer steal!

My Thoughts:

I love the products from, 7th Heaven! I have used their face masks over the last few years and have always found relaxation and beautiful skin afterward! 7th Heaven was kind enough to let me try three of their awesome "flavors". Each mask was left on for about twenty minutes and all had a unique purpose. I was happy with each mask and can say they are the perfect stocking stuffers for those who love and/or are in need of a good treat yourself day.

If you're looking for a mask perfect for getting into the problem areas like the t-zone, I'd highly recommend the Tea Tree Peel-Off Mask. Witchhazel, Tea Tree, and Willowherb are the three main power ingredients in this all-natural mask. When I applied the product, it felt very cool and tingly on my skin. It hardens as you relax and comes off with ease. Having combination skin, I felt this a great fit for me because it left my skin looking smooth, shiny, and cleaned up in my problem areas. 

This mask was such an interesting experience. It is thick and creamy and yet hardens just like 7th Heaven's traditional masks. I would say this mask had a much tighter feel as it hardened. Though it wasn't uncomfortable at all. It felt like it was firming my skin in a good way. This mask is truly a wonderful one for multitasking. It has hydrating coconut oil and the healing benefits of seaweed and natural clay. My skin felt so soft and bright afterward. It also pulled out some blackheads as well. 

I've always been a fan of dead sea products. I was excited to try this mask out. It smelled amazing upon opening the packaging. The three primary ingredients are dead sea salt, seaweed, and chamomile. If you're something looking for something good for cleansing and purifying the skin, this is the mask for you. The chamomile also adds a soothing element so your skin won't dry out from the cleansing. This is a great choice for acne-prone skin or those looking to up their skin cleansing routine. 

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Ugly Christmas Sweaters for 2019!

We love the holiday season. And what's more to love than an Ugly Christmas Sweater? Whether you're attending an Ugly Sweater Contest or just going to your family Christmas dinner, you should definitely check out our wide variety of sweaters to choose from. We create original designs for everyone.

My Thoughts:

I love the holiday season. Nothing says Christmas time like an awesome sweater! UglyChristmasSweater.com has always had some of the most unique styles I've ever seen. But when .I stumbled across their line of 3D sweaters, I was hooked! Their 3D line comes with a gorgeous and festive sweater accompanied with a stuffed animal to attach to the front and the back. I chose the 3D Unicorn and was thrilled with the quality!

Just like the photo, the sweater is mystically designed and oh so soft! It's nice and thick. You'll be toasty in it for sure. Attached to the front and the back of the sweater are velcro to secure the front and back of the stuffed animal. There are also pins if you need to secure your plush to the sweater more than the velcro can hold. They are safely hidden so no one will see if you do need the pins for extra help. I felt my unicorn plush was a bit more pastel blue than the display picture, though it's hard to grab on camera. Other than that, it is true to the photo and just as lovely in person!

If you are looking for a fantastic gift for yourself or a loved one, I highly recommend Ugly Christmas Sweater. Their site has something for the whole family to enjoy from character sweaters to comfy pjs and onesies. Everything is high quality and fun. You will not be disappointed! 

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The Chaperone DVD

Louise Brooks, the 1920s silver screen sensation who never met a rule she didn’t break, epitomized the restless, reckless spirit of the Jazz Age. But, just a few years earlier, she was a 15 year-old student in Wichita, Kansas for whom fame and fortune were only dreams. When the opportunity arises for her to go to New York to study with a leading dance troupe, her mother (Victoria Hill) insists there be a chaperone. Norma Carlisle (Elizabeth McGovern), a local society matron who never broke a rule in her life, impulsively volunteers to accompany Louise (Haley Lu Richardson) to New York for the summer.

Why does this utterly conventional woman do this? What happens to her when she lands in Manhattan with an unusually rebellious teenager as her ward? And, which of the two women is stronger, the uptight wife-and-mother or the irrepressible free spirit? It’s a story full of surprises—about who these women really are, and who they eventually become.

My Thoughts

The Chaperone is a historical drama set in the 1920s. It centers around a woman named Louise Brooks who was a real actress with a bit of a wild side. When she first heads to New York as a teenager, her mother makes her travel with a chaperone named Norma who is a very conservative matron. The two bump heads at first, but a companionship eventually forms between them, and they both learn a lot about who they really are.

I really enjoyed this mini series. The roaring twenties is one of my favorite time periods and this film brought it to life with the realistic costumes and sets.  I was especially excited to see Orlando Bloom in it. If you'd like to grab a copy, you can find the DVD in stores nationwide or online at Amazon. It would make a great stocking stuffer for anyone who enjoys historical films.

Holiday Gift Guide #Giveaway- New SmartControl Fuel Can System.

New SmartControlTM Fuel Can System

              Just in time for the onset of winter chores and sports, ScepterTM has introduced a new, easy-to-use fuel can system. Crafted with a unique push spout, the rugged SmartControl™ containers are designed for fast fills without spills.

            “The innovative spout design of the SmartControl system makes it easier than ever to fuel equipment like portable generators, lawn mowers and leaf blowers,” says Daniel Marshall, vice president of marketing and business development with Scepter. “Whether filling the snow blower or the snow mobile, the SmartControl system makes fueling easier, faster  and cleaner.

          “This isn’t anything like your grandfather’s old clunky, leaky metal gas can. The SmartControl fuel container is ideal for homeowner use, because it’s simple to use and store. This container is so reliable that landscapers, builders and other professionals can depend on the container day after day for workplace situations requiring continual refueling without spilling a drop.”

            Available in one-, two- and five-gallon sizes, the SmartControl line includes containers for gasoline, diesel and kerosene. Recipient of the “Best in Class” Award at the 2018 National Hardware Show, SmartControl containers are constructed of durable and safe high-density polyethylene.

SmartControl Features

            “One of the most exciting features of the SmartControl line is the ease of use,” says Marshall. “The spout provides a clean, fast, and hassle-free pour to fill everything from pressure washers to leaf blowers. With a single motion, the user simply presses the lever up to unlock the child safety feature with the palm of the hand, and then squeezes the large button. This first squeeze is done when upright to vent the container. Then, place the nozzle over the tank and simply squeeze again to pour just the right amount of fuel.”

The SmartControl container helps save gas for where it’s needed by eliminating messy spills. The user-controlled flow makes it easier to direct the amount of fuel being dispensed, and because the container stores with the spout on, hands always stay clean.           

            “SmartControl is an extension of our best-in-class products known and trusted around the world,” says Marshall. “From cutting the lawn to navigating emergency weather events, the containers we manufacture provide consumers with peace of mind and ease of use when handling, transporting and storing their fuel. Our company is known for providing rugged and easy-to-use containers. SmartControl now joins our family of trusted products.”

Safety First

            The rugged SmartControl containers are Made in America and designed to substantially exceed ASTM and CPSC minimum standards. Each product includes a child safety lock and flame mitigation device for added protection.

            “In any situation where a person uses or stores fuel, extra precautions must be taken,” says Marshall. “Portable fuel containers should never be used on or near a flame, coals, embers, or any other source of ignition. Additionally, children should not use or play with the containers.

            “SmartControl containers are designed in compliance with safety standards. However, people should always use a good dose of common sense when storing or using any fuel container, whether it’s holding gasoline, diesel or kerosene.”

            With operations throughout North America, Scepter has manufactured containers for the consumer, marine and military markets for almost 70 years. SmartControl and other Scepter products are available at major retailers and home improvement centers throughout the country. Visit www.scepter.com for more information.

My Thoughts:

My dad is an arborist as well as a talented auto mechanic. When he isn't running a chainsaw, he is fixing something and making it run again. He has used manual fuel containers for so many years that I knew this would be the perfect holiday gift for him. Not only would it be more concrete for ensuring the amount is correct, but it would be safer for my dad with the features included. 

Although my dad knows about most tools, he did not know about SmartControl Fuel Cans and could not wait to use it! It was and easy and smooth process to set up and made such a difference. Rather than potentially spilling fuel and making potential mistakes in filling up machines, this helped him be more precise while staying safe. He loved the ease of use, filling, and ultimately how much more effective his work was. This will be his go to item for years to come! 

The Giveaway:

Scepter has provided an awesome opportunity for one of our lucky readers to win a SmartControl Fuel can for themselves! I know you will love it as much as my dad and I do! Thank you so much, Scepter!

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Holiday Gift Guide- Ugly Christmas Sweater Review and #Giveaway.

We love the holiday season. And what's more to love than an Ugly Christmas Sweater? Whether you're attending an Ugly Sweater Contest or just going to your family Christmas dinner, you should definitely check out our wide variety of sweaters to choose from. We create original designs for everyone.

My Thoughts:

The Ugly Christmas Sweater trend has been popular for years now. Nothing is more fun than making memories with loved ones, coworkers, and family over funny outfits and holiday cheer. UglyChristmasSweater.com has one of the largest assortments of fun clothing I have ever seen. 3D, movie, cartoon, and music themes are just a few of the great selections you will find on the site. They were kind enough to provide me with my favorite item from the site and I can't wait to share it with you!

I'm a huge classic Christmas movie lover and could not help but adore this Women’s Yeti to Party Light up LED Ugly Sweater. It has everything a Christmas sweater should have. What I loved the most though was the high quality of it. The sweater's acrylic was so thick and soft. The Yeti on the front was made with comfy white cotton like fabric. I ordered an XL to assure it fit perfectly. It was a little big, but I adore a longer/larger fit with my sweaters during the cold seasonal changes. Plus, who wouldn't love the fact this sweater lights up?! I'm so excited to wear it for holiday contests, get togethers, and seeing my family.

Giveaway:

UglyChristmasSweater.com wants to ensure one of our readers is ready for the holidays too. Thank you so much to them for providing me with my dream Christmas sweater, and for providing this opportunity for one of our readers!

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Holiday Gift Guide- A Stocking Stuffer for Art Lovers.

Description-

The instructions are quick visual exercises in Pocket Art: Portrait Drawing, the first book in the new Pocket Art series.

This lively, graphic approach to explaining concepts will have you looking and learning with step-by-step illustrations and expert tips straight from London-based artist Joanna Henly (aka Miss Led). This compact 112-page book is just right for carrying in a backpack or pocket for when you’re learning on the go.

Henly begins by guiding you through your initial set up, then moves on to "Understanding the Face." She takes you through every detail of capturing facial features and expressions, and mastering the rendering of hair and skin. Her exercises demonstrate and reinforce everything you learn as you go along.

The author-

Joanna Henly, well known by her professional name, Miss Led, is an illustrator, artist, and art director based in East London. As an illustrator, she works by commission for corporate brands, products, packaging, and advertising campaigns with specific experience within fashion, beauty, and technology sectors. As an artist, she works on projects from portrait commissions to large scale complex works. These are often in public spaces or live performances. In addition, she creates personal work, which is exhibited globally, and sells beautiful prints and originals online.

Jo is a strong promoter of professional practice within her art and illustration, including as a Global Ambassador for Liquitex paints and European Ambassador for Wacom. She is also a passionate educator, promoted via social media and podcasts to her online audience, which reaches 1.3 million people.

Specs-

Format: Paperback / softback, 112 Pages

ISBN: 9781631594694

Illustrations: 200 color images

Size: 5 in x 8 in / 127 mm x 203.2 mm

Published: April 24, 2018

My Thoughts-

As an art teacher, one of the projects my students struggle with the most are portraits. There's something about looking at a face and drawing it that make artists more critical of their work. Every year I usually assign a self portrait and a classmate portrait for them to work on their skills. When I heard of this book by author, Joanna Henly, I knew this would be the perfect addition to my classroom. 

Henly really did a fantastic job covering every area of portraits. Whether it is drawing facial structures, noses, lips, etc, it is covered in this book. Reading through it, I felt even more aware of better ways to do them myself and how to teach them. The imagery is absolutely beautiful with both black and white and colored images. The directions are easy to follow and provide a step by step guide for artists of all experience levels. It is the perfect size to carry around wherever you go too! 

If you are a budding artist or know someone who is, this is perfect for your holiday gift shopping. I can't recommend this book enough! 

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Holiday Gift Guide- Brigadeiros by tinyB Chocolate.

Brazil. Bossa nova. Beaches. And now brigadeiros!  That’s the essence of tinyB chocolates. We capture the excitement, romance and richness of Brazil in the magic of its favorite national chocolate treat. Luscious chocolate brigadeiros. Available now for the first time ever in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Made fresh to order with two-day delivery guaranteed anywhere in the continental US, tinyB offers the hands-on care and service of a local family-owned business blended with international charm and panache.

But at its heart, tinyB is about the happy love story between Renata, a beautiful Brazilian chocolatier, and Andrei, a San Francisco tech entrepreneur. They fell in love, got married and started tinyB in their kitchen as a way to share their love for each other and for brigadeiros with San Francisco and the world.

Renata’s special recipe heightens the chocolate intensity, without the bitterness of dark chocolate or the sweetness of extra sugar. Hand-dipped coatings offer a variety of sensational taste treats.

Perfect for sharing, giving and enjoying. Client gifts. Wedding favors. Personal presents.

Each tinyB is handcrafted and gently placed in gift boxes that are detailed with care because we want you feel that they're made just for you - which they are.

My Thoughts:

I recently learned of brigadeiros while browsing for a gift for my mom. She has always been a chocolate and sweet lover. Ever since trying them, I have been a huge fan of the delicious creations! I have to say that tinyB has been one of the best brisadeiros I've ever had. Not only is their packaging beautiful, the flavor varieties they provide are incredible.

In my pack I received were the flavors dark chocolate and almond, milk chocolate with sprinkles, coconut and cream, and strawberry cheesecake. Each was uniquely creamy, soft, and packed with flavor. The milk chocolate with sprinkles had a nice sugary crisp bite along with the softness of the chocolatey brigadeiro texture. I was surprised at how nicely thin the almonds were cut in the dark chocolate and almond choice. I'm a huge almond fan so that was an awesome addition. If you are a coconut fan, I highly recommend coconut and cream. It was velvety smooth and so rich. My all time favorite though was strawberry cheesecake. It is so reminiscent of a nice slice of cake. What a wonderful treat! 

If you are looking for the ideal gift for a loved one, your coworkers, or even yourself, I highly recommend tinyB chocolate. It'll truly make your day! 

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Holiday Gift Guide - Review: Crazy Curly Beef Chew by Bravo!

Bravo offers a variety of all-natural chews so parents can provide their pets with a safe, healthy, grain free treat. A “good chew” helps keep your pet’s teeth clean, helps promote gum strength and reduce stress. For your complete peace of mind, these dry-roasted chews are USA sourced and made.

NEW Bravo Crazy Curly Chew Beef Bully Sticks for dogs

NEW Bravo Dry-Roasted Pork Rolls for dogs

Bravo Dry Roasted All-Natural Bully Sticks for dogs

Bravo Dry Roasted Beef Trachea for dogs

Bravo Bonus Bites® Dry Roasted Duck Feet treats for dogs

Why feed a raw food diet?

More and more animal health and training professionals are advocating a second look at what we feed our dogs and cats, and caring pet parents are taking notice. 

There is emerging evidence that dogs and cats are healthier when fed a raw, natural diet, because that’s what their ancestors craved and thrived on. Dogs and cats are essentially carnivores. In the wild, their perfect meal would consist of fresh, raw meat, some uncooked bones, some raw organ meats and green vegetation.

There is also a growing belief that commercial pet foods cannot supply all the nutrients dogs and cats need to thrive. Pet parents tell us that switching their dog or cat with a health issue to a raw diet has helped improve their conditions. Those with healthy pets feel that feeding raw food has helped them avoid some of the illnesses that are becoming common in our companion animals.

Regardless of the starting point for your pet, a high quality raw diet can help promote a long and healthy life. For the full story, you’re invited to read Beginnings, an informative booklet available exclusively from Bravo. To download a free copy, click here.

Bravo is a family-owned business located in Manchester, Connecticut. Our parent company has been providing high quality meats to fine dining establishments throughout New England since 1942. Leveraging our expertise, we pioneered the raw pet food category by introducing our Bravo Blends line in 2002. So you might say our focus on super-premium nutrition runs in the family.

Today, Bravo offers over 125 different products for dogs and cats. All are made from the finest, most nutritious ingredients such as antibiotic-free poultry, responsibly harvested fish and select cuts of meat. And you can rest assured that our multi-step process meets strict food safety guidelines while keeping our food as close to natural as possible.

As our pet parent fan club continues to grow, our commitment to quality and purity will remain the simple idea at the heart of every Bravo product. Because we firmly believe in giving pets the best so they can be at their best. That’s what our make good happen™ slogan is all about.

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www.bravopetfoods.com

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Purchase Bravo pet food products at a retailer near you, or at online retailers such as Amazon. 

Our Thoughts

We've been raw feeding our dogs for about 7 years now and I'm always on the lookout for good, natural chews and treats. Our dog, Bella, is a chewer.  I'm always happy to give her beef tracheas, bully sticks, cow ears, etc.

Bravo sent me one of their NEW Bravo Crazy Curly Chew Beef Bully Sticks for dogs.  

A beef bully stick is, quite simply, a beef pizzle (aka the dried penis of a bull). It's a fantastic chew treat for any dog.  Bravo's curly chews are approximately 5 - 7" long and are nice and fresh; a good quality chew.  Sometimes these types of chews have their own scent (which can be mild to overwhelming!) but Bravo's chews have been scent-free in my experience.

As soon as I opened the package, Bella was RIGHT THERE. She knew what that package contained!

Please mom . . . 

I did make her work for her treat by running her thru a bunch of commands, including "sit" and "wait".  And yes, there was some drool involved. LOL. 

Bella is more comfortable in the safety of her kennel with a prized chew treat, where it only took her about 10-15 minutes to completely demolish and devour her curly bully stick. When she was a small puppy (rather than a 70lb dog!) bully sticks of this size could keep her occupied for a good long time.  Generally speaking, the bigger the dog, the faster they chow this thing down. I do notice Bella has a bigger need to chew when she's feeling anxious about something. Squirrels get her all riled up, so giving her some quiet time with a bully stick is a nice break from her chasing from window to window.

As a raw feeder, I appreciate all of the information on Bravo's website regarding raw feeding, and especially the max percentages listed for the treats & chews.  Raw feeding relies on getting your pet the correct percentages of a variety of raw foods so your pet gets the correct nutrition they need.  Thanks, Bravo!