May Conscious Box Review

At the beginning of this month I received a Conscious Box full of natural products. 

Conscious Box is a monthly subscription service that delivers a box of eco- friendly products to discover right to your front door every month.

I was surprised that there were so many samples in this box, and some for kids too.

Here's what I thought of the samples that I have tried so far.

Surf Sweets All Natural Sour Berry Sweets -  Similiar to what I call a sugar coated gumdrop, but these are made with grape juice, tapioca pudding and sugar cane juice that are all organic.  I was surprised that I really liked the taste of these.  Very yummy and healthy snack.

Orgain Healthy Kids Organic Nutritional Shake - This is an all-in-one nutritional shake made with organic fruits & veggies, packed with protein, free of GMO's, corn syrup or artificial junk.  I received the shake in vanilla and had my daughter try it.  She said it was okay, but she's never been a big fan of vanilla flavored foods.  So I tried it and thought it was pretty good.  I think it tastes better the more chilled it is.

Ecover Automatic Dishwashing Tablets - I prefer to use cleaning products that don't contain harsh chemicals.  These tablets are phosphate-free and biodegradable.  My dishes came out clean and no residue or spots.

These are the samples I still have to try.

Ultima Replenisher Everyday Health Drink

MRM Relax-All with Phenibut

Healthy Hoo Hoo Gentle Feminine Cleanser

Earthpaste Amazingly Natural Toothpaste

Yes To Cucumbers Natural Sunscreen

A. Vogel Herbamare Original Seasalt

Dream Water Sleep & Relaxation Shot

Bija Gentle Senna Tea

ZuKay Live Foods free product coupon

Mac-n-Mo's - coupon code for 15% off 3 dozen Morsels and a free e-cookbook (www.macnmos.com)

Ethical Electric - Next Conscious Box free when you switch to 100%  clean energy with Ethical Energy

$5 coupon to order the full size of your favorite products.

What products does a leading expert in fitness, wellness, and life transformation use on a daily basis? Discover Amanda Russell's favorite products in June's Conscious Box, packed full of healthy snacks and pure home & body products.



Disclosure:  I was not financially compensated for this post. I received a complimentary box for review purposes. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.  This post may contain affiliate link.

Wordless Wednesday (Linky) - Summer Is Here

Summer is definitely here in south Texas and flowers are blooming.  It was in the 80's and gorgeous weather over the weekend so we started some yard work.  My hubby and daughter also had to check out the tent and make sure we still had all the poles to set it up.  I love when they work so nicely together:)

This Week's Deals For The Whole Family

I love finding a great deal and zulily.com is an amazing online boutique for the entire family! This week through 5/31, zulily will offer great sales like Summer Swimwear: $14.99 & Under, Fergalicious by Fergie – up to 65% off, Mia Bossi & dapperbag – up to 50% off and many more!

Here is a look at this week's sales.  You'll find something for the whole family and more.

Tuesday, May 28th

Fergalicious by Fergie – up to 65% off
Mia Bossi & dapperbag – up to 50% off
Leveret – from $8.99
HOTmilk – up to 70% off
College Boys - up to 70% off
Plus-size apparel - up to 60% off
Sweaty Bands – from $9.99
...and many more!



 
Wednesday, May 29th

 Jelly the Pug: Boys
 Birkenstock sale
 JoJo Maman Bébé- Up to 40% off Maternity and Kids Styles
 Desigual- Women's Styles up to 50% off
...and many more!

 




Thursday, May 30th

SPANX sale
David & Goliath
patycake kids – up to 45% off
...and many more







Friday, May 31st

Cherry Stix- Kids Clothing
66 North- Weather-battling Apparel
Lotus Bumz – from $9.99
...and many more!






I really was impressed at the sale prices and love how the site is set up.  I get a lot of sale alerts, daily deals, etc. with lower prices, but most still aren't low enough to get me "sale excited".  zulily actually has awesome deals that I can afford.

Only members can shop zulily events, but membership is free and signing up is quick and easy. Don't miss your chance to shop today!  You can even invite your friends and earn $20 when their first order ships.





   

#RevoltNowFit - Week 4 Update

I have been doing the Revolt Fitness Program for 4 weeks now.   I may have started off slow, but each week I improve a little.  I have noticed that I have more stamina and don't get out of breath as easy as I did when I started this journey.

I still prefer the body sculpting workouts to the cardio workouts and that probably won't change.  Also after 4 weeks, I don't get as sore  and my thighs don't feel like they're going to fall off.  I do need to do more bicep curls with my left arm.  I was kind of surprised that my right arm is about 3/4 of an inch bigger.  I never noticed  this in the mirror until I measured myself at the start of the program.

Here are a few stats so far.  I have gained a pound, but I expect that.  It's a good thing to me and means I am adding muscle.  The main reason I started a fitness program is to tone and strengthen.   There isn't a big change in any of my numbers, but I can feel the difference.

Week 1 - start Revolt 

Weight - 100 lbs.
Biceps - 9 in.
Chest - 33 in.
Waist - 25 in.
Hips -   34 in.
Thighs - 16 1/4 in.

Week 4 

Weight - 101 lbs. (+1 lb.)
Biceps -   9 in.
Chest -  33 in.   
Waist - 24 3/4 in. (-1/4 in.)
Hips -   34 in.
Thighs - 16 1/2 in. (+1/4 in.)

My daughter came home from school the other day and asked me, "Did you Revolt today, mama?"  I told her yes and that I did the upper body sculpting workout.  She says, "Let me see your muscles."  She just cracks me up.  Anyway, I thought I would make it fun and told her to grab a camera and I would show her my little muscles:)

If you have been thinking about starting a fitness program, now is the time.  Join me for a new 6 week uprising starting June 3rd.  We could even help keep each other on track and at these prices it's a win...win!
There are 3 very affordable options.

• 1 month access - $10
• 3 month access - $27
• Annual access - $50  - that's only $4.17 a month to get healthy

 

Join 6 Wk Uprising at Revolt Fitness

In case you missed any previous weekly Revolt updates here are the links to catch up.

I Want To Revolt Now

Revolt Fitness Update - Week 2

#RevoltNowFit Week 3 Update

Tips For Choosing A Cleaning Company

Sometimes you just need to call in a professional to get the job done.  Whether you need help with finishing your spring cleaning or you need a cleaning service for your business, closing your eyes and picking one out of the yellow pages can be a scary game of chance.

When choosing a cleaning service, I like to look for a company with the following qualities.

• Offer a wide range of cleaning services - carpet cleaning, tile and vinyl floors, janitorial, upholstery cleaning, etc.
• Free estimates 
• Good customer ratings and reviews
• IICRC certified technicians - employees have education and certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification
• Offer use of green cleaning products

I also like family owned and operated businesses.  If you are needing carpet cleaning Grand Rapids MI, consider a company with over 20 years of training and expertise.   Commitment to meeting customer needs is why First Choice Cleaning & Restorations continues to grow and is a leader in their industry.

This is the time of year I hear many of my friends finishing their spring cleaning with having their rugs cleaned. I could never get mine as clean as a professional would nor do I have the time.  You can see the amazing difference in the pictures below.  

Before First Choice Cleaning

After First Choice Cleaning

Do you use a cleaning service or have any tips?  Feel free to comment and share yours as I love to hear from my readers.  Happy Cleaning:)

Disclosure:  This post was sponsored by Corporate Conversions, LLC. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.

Protect Your Child's Eyes - Real Kids Shades Review & Giveaway

When I moved to south Texas, sun protection became very important.  I keep various sunscreens in my house, truck and purse.  I am always telling my daughter how important it is to protect her skin from the sun.  Now before she plays outside or we go to the beach she says, "Time to lube me up, Mama."

While always worrying about sunscreen for our kids,  we sometimes overlook protecting their eyes from the sun.  Sunlight can permanently damage your child's eyes.   Did you know that children's eyes are at an increased risk of permanent eye damage from sunlight until they are 10 years old?  I didn't know this.  Real Kids Shades & Prevent Blindness America have teamed up to bring awareness about the need to protect kids eyes from the damage caused by harmful UV rays.

Real Kids Shades are affordable sunglasses made exclusively for babies and kids to age 12.  They are shatterproof, impact resistant and give your kids 100% protection from UV-A and UV-B rays.  They offer 10 different styles for different age ranges.  I received a pair of Glides and Fabulous for 7-12 years old for my nine year old daughter to try.

I have a hard time keeping a pair of sunglasses on Rachel.  She always complains that they flop around or slide down her nose.  She usually tosses them aside after a few minutes of playing outside.  I couldn't believe when she kept her new RKS on all afternoon playing with her friends outside.  These glasses are made to fit a kid's head so they don't slide or flop around.  The glide pair also came with an adjustable neoprene headband which is great for swimming and playing at the beach.   

Rachel loves both pairs of glasses.  She is an active little girl, but also a little fashionista.  She says they stay on her head and she looks good.  Rachel was getting a little too active in a tree a couple of weeks ago and broke her arm.  Though it was not a good day she still made me laugh when she said, "At least my sunglasses didn't fall off when I fell out of the tree."

Visit RealKidShades.com to learn more about protecting your child's eyes and 10 guidelines for buying children's sunglasses.  You can also find a store near you or order RKS directly online.  I think $15-$20 is a very small price to pay for protecting my one and only baby girl's eyes.

RKS is also allowing me to giveaway a pair of sunglasses to one of my readers. Use the rafflecopter form below to win a pair of your choosing.  Giveaway ends June 6th.  Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure:  I was not financially compensated for this post. I received a free product for review purposes. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.  Lil' Debi As Mama is not responsible for prize shipment.

Bloggers Get Paid To Sverve

Sverve has quickly become one of my favorite sites for connecting with brands.  I started getting accepted for product reviews and sponsored posts immediately.  Usually when I sign up to sites of this nature, it takes a while before I start receiving offers, if any at all.  I have been a member of Sverve for less than 2 months and have already participated in four brand campaigns.

   

Sverve is different from similar sites that offer bloggers to brands connections.  Sverve also helps to connect to readers.  This is the Sverve Solution:

Bloggers

• Share tips and content in your areas of expertise
• Earn a  Sverve score based on frequency of activity, content quality and reader endorsements
• Find paid opportunities and rewards from brands
• Attract new readers and grew personal brands

Brands & Marketers

• Find influential bloggers based on areas of expertise, location and score
• Get recommendations on brand opportunities with most influential bloggers
• With product reviews, brand ambassadors and guest blogging opportunities improve and optimize ROI

Readers

• Find and share great content all on one easy to use platform
• Connect with other moms on topics you care about most
• Promote favorite bloggers by endorsing them

Bloggers sign up for FREE here>>>Sverve  and start getting your Sverve on.   Let me know if you join so I can endorse you.

#RevoltNowFit - Week 3

I have completed half of my first Revolt Six Week Uprising.  I wish I could say how much improvement I've made or how proud I am of myself, but I didn't and I can't.  It makes we want to cry.  I am even late writing this week's post because I didn't know how to make my week 3 update not sound so bad.  So I'm not going to, as it has always been my personal motto to 'keep it real' on my blog.

This is an excellent fitness program and I actually do like the workouts.  So what is my problem?  I start off the week well, but then don't end the week so well.  I could blame last week's failures on getting ready for vacation and moving or me getting sick in the middle of the week, but these are just excuses.  I will tell myself that I'll do my workout after I do this or that and then it's late and I'm too tired.  I must find a way to  make myself workout in the morning, or it just won't happen.

I wish Nicole could reach through my computer screen and slap me around every once in a while.  Seriously though, I only have 3 weeks to get this body tone for vacation.  It's time for me to kick myself in the ass and start buckling down.


Goals For Week 4

• Complete every single workout
• Drink more water
• Interact with Revolt members group on Facebook more

I realized how much I missed the group this last week and will make it a point to take the time to check it daily.  This group is really fabulous for moral support and tips.  There is no negativity or bologna that I see in a lot of other Facebook groups.  

Now you can try the Revolt Fitness Program out before committing to a six week uprising.  Test drive it for a week for FREE.  We can even help keep each other motivated and trade notes. 

Sign up here>>Free Kickstart Week

Remember to check back next week to see if I got out of my slump and met my goals.....?  The suspense is killing me:)

Mother and Daughter Clothing And Giveaway

meNmommy has been adding new mother and daughter fashions to their site.  If you haven't heard me talk about meNmommy before, they sell cute mom and daughter clothes and accessories.  You're little girl will love to match mommy in a pretty dress or cute top.

I also like buying from a company that gives back to those in need.  Every item you purchase provides clothing to a child in need.  You buy one - they give one!  #ClothingThatCares

They have recently added t-shirts with cute mommy sayings.  These are a couple that I thought are so true.

meNmommy has something for every occasion.  You can find dresses, tops, swimwear and accessories.  If you and your daughter spend a lot of time in the kitchen together, you'll love the matching aprons. 

I love taking my daughter to the beach.  We have some great bonding time when we're walking along looking for shells or sand dollars.   Hit the beach in style with coordinating swimsuits.

I think the matching socks would make a cute and inexpensive gift.

Here's a peak at two of the six different styles that are sure to fit any mother and daughter's sense of style.

Now, how could you display those new pictures wearing your matching summer styles?..........  Enter the meNmommy May Giveaway and win a 7-in. LCD picture frame.  Giveaway ends 11:59 pm CST on May 30, 2013 and is open to the US.  Good Luck Everyone!

a meNmommy giveaway


Disclosure:  I was not financially compensated for this post.  The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.  Lil' Debi As Mama is not responsible for prize shipment.

 

Schwinn Windwood Women's Cruiser Bike Giveaway

Schwinn Windwood Women's Cruiser Bike Giveaway

Sponsored by: Mom Blog Society | She Informed | My Dairy Free Gluten Free Life | Frantic Mommy

Co-Hosted by: Jackie's Reviews | Geeky Gamer Mom | Swank Savings

The classic Schwinn Windwood women's 26-Inch cruiser evokes the simple style and grace of traditional bicycles, making it a great choice for cruising to the store, the beach, or around town. Designed for easy, relaxed riding, the Windwood boasts a sturdy steel frame with a low stand-over height, making it easy to get on and off the bike. The rustproof 26-hole alloy rims and rear coaster brakes, meanwhile, allow you to stop on a dime. And riders will love the classic chrome fenders and rear storage rack. Other details include a comfortable wide-spring saddle, a single-speed design, pneumatic tires, and curved back handlebars.

About Schwinn
Founded in 1895, Schwinn is an American icon that's long been synonymous with quality and innovation. The company has built some of the best-known and best-loved bikes of multiple generations, including the Aerocycle, Paramount, Phantom, Varsity, Sting-Ray, Krate, and Homegrown. Today, Schwinn continues to innovate with such releases as the redesigned Sting-Ray, Rocket mountain bikes, and Fastback road bikes. With a continued dedication to quality forever synonymous with the Schwinn name, America's most famous bicycle brand looks forward to providing another century of innovation, freedom, and performance to people of all ages.

I remember riding my bike everywhere when I was a kid.  We lived on a farm out in the country.  I would ride my bike 5 miles into town to see my boyfriend and then another 5 miles home.  On the 5 miles home, I was usually pedaling at mach speed to get home before the parents got home from work.  Oh, the teenage years......they do make me laugh.

Enter below to win your very own Schwinn.  Remember the more entries you complete is the more chances you have to win.  Good Luck Everyone! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own.  Lil' Debi As Mama is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.  

Wordless Wednesday - Budweiser Clydesdales (Linky)

We were fortunate enough to catch The World Famous Budweiser Clydesdales while they were in town.  You really don't realize what huge horses they are until you actually stand next to them. They are quite amazing and beautiful animals. 

I don't know what they are rubbing on the bottom of their legs.  If anyone knows about horses and what it is, please leave a comment and let me know.   

There are two of these huge semi trailers that they travel around the country in.

Ivory 2-In-1 Hair & Body Wash Review

Ivory has introduced the new 2-In-1 Hair & Body Wash and I have been trying it out.  This is a great product for families because everyone in the house can use it.    Normally my hubby, daughter and I, all have different bottles of body washes and shampoos all over the shower.  I really hate when one falls and slams down on my toe.  With the new Ivory, I can downsize to just one bottle for all of us and that saves a lot of money too.


Watch how Ivory 2-IN-1 Hair & Body Wash simplifies the showering experience for families everywhere in this video short from the Influenster Ivory video page.  Check out Ivory on Facebook and see what others have to say.



The Ivory 2-In-1 lathers up nicely and leaves you feeling clean without any soapy residue.  I do still have to add some separate conditioner to my hair.  I have very long and thick hair and can't comb through it without using conditioner.  It worked great on my hubby and daughter's curly hair.

Disclosure:  I was not financially compensated  for this post. I received a free product for review purposes.  The opinions are completely my own based on my experience. 

Revolt Fitness Update - Week 2

Revolt Fitness - Week 2

Well, I have made it through week 2 on Revolt.  If you missed my first week's post, you can catch up here>>I Want To Revolt Now!  

I did do better than last week, but I still struggle with the diet some.  I enjoyed the chicken breasts, salads and luckily I love raisins.  As for the smoothies,  I did cheat a little. I just made a fruit smoothie and left out the parsley and kale.  I figured that was better than skipping it all together.  

I do like that the Revolt diet, along with the approved foods list, also gives you a list of foods you can use to substitute for things you don't like.  You get some great recipes to help out too, such as lava cake.  That just sounds yummy.

I am getting better with the workouts.  I was at least able to finish them this week.  I try to keep up with Nicole the best I can.  Sometimes I don't get in as many reps, but this will improve the more I do it.  I also have to remember to breath.  It sounds silly, but when I concentrate on my breathing it helps me last longer.

I received my weights and exercise mat this week.  You can get these items fairly cheap.  I spent around $30 for two 5lb hand weights and a fitness yoga mat on Amazon.  Now I really feel like a workout chic.

I'm happy to say that I wasn't as sore as I was the first week.  I really like the upper and lower body sculpting workouts and I feel pretty good afterwards.  The cardio workout is the one that is harder for me, but I have faith that I'll improve. 

As I have said before, I don't need to lose weight.  I just want to tone and strengthen for a healthier me.  My measurements and weight have not changed, but I didn't expect them to right away.

This is really a great program for newbies or workout pros.  You can Revolt with me and start getting fit.  Click below and check it out for yourself.

Disclosure:  I was not financially compensated for this post. I have received free access to Revolt for review purposes. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.

 

Modcloth and The Great Gatsby

Will you be going to see the much anticipated movie The Great Gatsby?  I'm sure Leo's performance will be fabulous.    Luckily, ModCloth has curated a page with all of their fabulous Gatsby-inspired pieces to start you off!

 1920's Great Gatsby Fashion at ModCloth

Full of glitz, glamour, ornate details, and a true style all its own - what girl wouldn't want "The Great Gatsby"  look?  Whether you are looking to enjoy a casual Gatsby themed garden party or don your most glamorous look at a fabulous cocktail evening, there are plenty of ways with ModCloth to add a flapper-esque flair to any look this spring/summer.

Details, details, details. Epaulets, pearls, rhinestones, and sequins were highly used during this time period to add glitz to an evening outfit.

Slender silhouettes. While you could still see a full skirt, long hemline, and high neck, the robe de style dress featuring a drop waist and straight cut was the most popular style.


Hazelnuts About You Dress from ModCloth

Haute headpieces. To top off the entire look, add a whimsical & decadent headpiece from ModCloth. You can even DIY a fabulous headband with ribbon, feathers, and gemstones!


Chain the Rules Hair Comb from ModCloth

For more tips & tricks to achieve the perfect flapper-esque look, you can visit the ModStylists here: ModCloth ModStylists Will Style You Up!. The ModStylists can put together a look-book specifically for you!

Firmoo Online Eyeglass Store Review

Firmoo is a global online optical store offering high quality eyewear at very affordable prices.  It is one of the most popular online eyeglass stores.  Firmoo focuses on fashion and has the latest styles of frames in womens, mens, and unisex.  All of their eyewear comes directly from the factory so they can offer prices up to 90% lower than traditional stores. Get quality frames, lenses and an accurate prescription that will also look stylish.

I'll admit I was a little apprehensive about ordering glasses online, but I am so glad I got to try Firmoo.  They make the whole process of choosing which frames so easy.  You can virtually try on all the different frames.  Just upload your picture and click on a frame to see how they will actually look on you.  I think I tried on almost every pair.

I picked one pair of glasses and one pair of sunglasses.  It took me a little while to narrow my choices because of all the great styles. I wear a lot of black so naturally I gravitated towards some fashionable black frames.

fashion frame plastic sunglasses

fashion black sunglasses

           Unisex full frame acetate eyeglasses

I had my glasses within 12 days of ordering and they arrived packaged very nicely.  Each pair came with a hard case and cleansing cloth.  I also received a soft case and the eyeglasses come with a set of tools too.

I couldn't be more pleased with my new glasses.  I feel like a fashionista and believe me this mama needed that.  This is the first time I have tried plastic frame eyeglasses and I love them.  They are comfortable and don't leave those nose pad marks like my other ones.


The eyeglasses come with a standard 1.5 lens, but you can also order then with your prescription.  They are lightweight, durable and good quality.


Check out Firmoo's first pair free program.  Receive one pair per person for new customers and only pay shipping.  This is a great way to try out some new fashionable glasses.  You can also find Firmoo Eyeglasses on your favorite social networks and see what everyone is saying about these cute and very affordable glasses.

• Firmoo on Facebook
• Follow Firmoo on Twitter
• Follow Firmoo in Pinterest
• Add Firmoo to your Google circles

 I'm looking forward to getting some more.  i may even try a pop of color this time:)

Disclosure:  I was not financially compensated for this post. I received a free product for review purposes. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience.