February Ipsy Bag Review

I got my Ipsy Glam Bag for February last week, and I wanted to share my thoughts on the products. First of all, if you're not familiar with Ipsy, it is a subscription-based service that costs $10 per month with free shipping. There is no contract and you can even mute your subscription temporarily if you want. You receive 5 beauty items based on your personal profile, and the makeup bag of the month. I have been a customer for 2 years and I am obsessed with Ipsy! 

So this month's bag is called "unzipped"

Here's what's inside the bag:

• PÜR Mini Fully Charged Mascara
• Sand & Sky Brilliant Skin Pink Clay Mask
• Mellow Cosmetics Precision Liquid Pen Eyeliner in Black
• Beauty Basics Eyeshadow in Lavish
• Luxie Beauty Blending and Shading Eye Brush 249

The bag itself is so pretty, and super feminine. I love the shade of pink paired with the black lace. 

The eyeliner really wasn't anything special. I think I am sick of liquid liners in general. I may need to adjust my profile so I get fewer of them. That mascara though? It is so good! I love how full they make my lashes look without being clumpy of stiff. I am such a fan of premium mascaras. However, if you don't like using mascara then I would definitely check out magnetic lashes (they are super easy to use!).

The face mask was nice. I loved the scent and how my face looked. The downfall was that I felt it was a bit drying for my normal skin. If you tend to have oily skin, this would probably work well for you. I probably need to research and see if they carry a moisture-boosting version.

I am such a fan of makeup brushes so I was happy to add this blending and shading brush to my mini-collection. The eyeshadow is a pretty shade that has a shimmery finish. It lasts all day, so that's a plus for me.

I tell everyone that my month Ipsy Glam Bag is the BEST $10 I spend each month. It's so nice to feel like I am getting a treat that's just for me. What is amazing is that most months, I will get 1-3 full size products. It is such a good value.

If you are considering an Ipsy subscription, you meed to go for it! Also, you earn points towards more products when you do the online reviews (which takes very little time). I have 535 points that I am about to cash in for a freebie!

Thanks for stopping by. Have a great week!

Updates And Our 11-Year Blog Anniversary

Hi there! It has been a while since I have posted a personal update. Like most households, we had a bout of the plague run through here, so I have been taking care of sick family members for almost 2 weeks. Thankfully everyone is healthy again and back to work/school. The littlest one wasn't affected for which I am so grateful. We worry the most when the younger ones get sick.

I have been getting a lot done at home for the most part. We have quite a few small house projects we are working on, and hope to get them all done before the end of the year. The husband and I have been DIYing a lot of things. YouTube is a life-saver when you're not quite sure what you're doing. Unfortunately home-ownership means you are forever repairing or replacing things. As soon as you fix one thing, something else wants to fall apart. You can't win, but that's life!

With all of the crazy life-stuff going on in the past few weeks, I almost forgot a major milestone. Mom Files is officially 11 years old! *throws confetti*

I would not have imagined that I would keep it up for this many years. I won't lie, I've wanted to shut down shop time and time again. Somehow, this blog and my social media connections have kept me going for so many years. It's nice having my itty-bitty piece of the vast virtual-world where I have made so many friends. I want to thank you all for sticking around for so long. I guess we will see what happens next. Stay tuned...

xoxo

4 Reasons You Should Start a Skin Care Regimen in 2018

Not only is your skin the largest organ in your body, but it's also the most visible, which is why you need to treat it with care. Pamper your skin, and it will pay you back with a gorgeous glow that no makeup product in the world can mimic. A skin care regimen doesn't take a lot of time, and you end up with so much more than what you put into it.

Time Flies When You're Having Fun

Your age is practically irrelevant. It's never too early to prevent the signs of aging or the damage caused by free radicals, indoor and outdoor pollutants, and daily stressors. The sun, for example, affects your skin whether you're 16 or 60. Practice healthy skin care habits early. Start young, and your routine will become a preventative measure that can save time, money, and heartache down the line.

The things you do to your skin in your youth will out you as you age. Late nights, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking cigarettes, not getting enough sleep, and never drinking enough water will catch up to you and slam into your skin like a ton of bricks. 

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Skin Care Is Self-Care

It's the year of self-care. You have to do things that make you feel good and relieve your stress. That's not to say that applying serum, toner, and moisturizer every night will relax you. Applying a face mask can reduce your stress level, though. Browse a selection of face masks to find a style that appeals to you. 

Sheet masks from LuLuLun are all the rage, and clay masks never go out of style, either. You'll also experience an unbelievable amount of satisfaction if you use a blackhead mask designed to pull the gunk straight out of your pores. Search the blog for tips about which masks are best for different types of skin and when to use them.

The Seasons Affect Your Skin

Winter typically brings dry air that can sap moisture from your skin. You're more apt to wind up with flaky, dehydrated skin because of the crisp weather outside. How you heat your home can have an effect, too. In the summer, high temperatures and humidity make you sweat, which leads to oily skin and saturated pores. A seasonal skin care regimen protects your skin in any climate, regardless of the temperature.

You Shed Your Skin Every Day

Every day, you shed old skin cells. However, many of those cells remain on your face, giving it a dull, lifeless appearance. They clog your pores as well, resulting in a rough appearance and an excess of oil. The least you can do is buff and polish your skin daily with facial scrubs, cleansing serums, penetrating toners, and moisturizers suited to your skin type.

Make this the year that you take care of your skin in earnest. Don't wait until it's too late because by then, you'll have to scramble to undo the damage. It's better to take a proactive approach that puts you in control of your skin.

The Fresh Market Sampling Events To Spice Up Valentine’s Day

The Fresh Market is a specialty grocer focused on providing fresh, delicious food with friendly service in a warm and inviting atmosphere. From seasonal produce and exceptional meat and seafood, to signature baked goods and thousands of organic options, The Fresh Market is dedicated to offering guests the most delicious ingredients and inspiring meal ideas.

WHAT/WHEN:
For a deliciously romantic dinner without the hassle of restaurant reservations, The Fresh Market is offering its signature Valentine’s Meal for $49.99, now available for pre-order in stores and online until February 11 at 2 p.m. EST. Orders will be available for pick up February 12, 13 and 14 at most store locations (stores in New Orleans and Metairie, Louisiana will be closed on February 13, so meals may be picked up on February 12 and 14). Choose between two Chateaubriand-cut premium choice filet mignons, two North Atlantic cold water lobster tails – or one of each – and serve with Yukon gold whipped potatoes alongside asparagus tips, ready to be perfectly seared. Complete the event with one dozen chocolate dipped strawberries and set the mood with one dozen roses. To place an online order, please visit thefreshmarket.com/valentinesday.

The Fresh Market’s February happenings

The Fresh Market’s 176 store locations warmly welcome guests to experience the following sampling events and meal deals this February:

Custom Sweetheart Ribeye Cutting – February 9-14
Those looking to cook up the romance at home can get help from The Fresh Market’s premium choice Sweetheart Ribeye, available exclusively from February 9-14. The Fresh Market’s expert butchers hand-cut and butterfly each ribeye into the shape of a heart to ensure love at first bite!

Valentine’s Sampling Events – February 10 & 11 from noon-4 p.m.
The “loveliest” day of the year is right around the corner, and The Fresh Market is preparing with samples that will inspire those looking for a “sweet” deal this February 14! From breakfast in bed to a date in the dining room, these decadent tastes are sure to help create memorable moments this Valentine’s Day.

Sampling stations in each department will offer mouthwatering meal ideas: 

• Bite into The Fresh Market’s exclusive swirl breads in seven different flavors, including cinnamon, cinnamon raisin, chocolate chip, cranberry, tomato basil focaccia, Italian olive focaccia and parmesan garlic focaccia. Top cinnamon swirl bread with caramelized nuts and The Fresh Market’s maple syrup for a flavorful French toast.
• Sip on Harney & Sons hot cinnamon spice tea made from a blend of black teas, three types of cinnamon, orange peel and sweet cloves, with no sugar added.
• Sample creamy take and bake hot pepper bacon brie bites on top of Firehook crackers – derived from healthy, simple ingredients. Terrapin Ridge Farms hot pepper bacon jam adds a savory kick to an appetizing snack.
• Enjoy a light dessert of trufru dark chocolate covered strawberries – 100 percent real fruit dipped in sustainably sourced premium dark chocolate.
• Delight in chocolate-dipped strawberry cupcakes to finish off the night! A vanilla cupcake stuffed with strawberry preserves and topped with house-made strawberry buttercream is sure to please. Garnishes include rich dark chocolate shavings and a fresh strawberry hand-dipped in store.

The Fresh Pick Citrus Sampling Events – February 24 & 25 from noon-4 p.m.
Colder weather results in sweeter, juicier citrus fruit – and when picked at its peak, citrus is ripe for blending into everyday meals! To celebrate these tangy tastes of the season, The Fresh Market will offer chef-inspired samples using varieties of oranges, lemons and limes to add zesty flavor to ordinary dishes – while boosting immune systems!

Sampling stations throughout the store inspire cooks to add a variety of flavors to meals:

• Taste sweet, all natural Kennesaw juices comprised of freshly squeezed oranges and pureed strawberries. Pair with Sumo mandarins, heirloom navel oranges and blood oranges for a delightful treat.
• Savor slow cooker Italian pork sausage topped with Stonewall Kitchen rosemary garlic citrus sauce – a versatile and vibrant addition great for marinades, glazes and dipping sauces, or the perfect accent to chicken, rice or vegetable salads.
• Relish in a veggie noodle salad prepared with zucchini and yellow squash noodles – made fresh in store and a healthy substitute for low-carb diets – along with O Meyer lemon olive oil, O citrus champagne vinaigrette, lemon and parmesan cheese for a zesty snack or light bite.
• Try The Fresh Market’s exclusive honey lemon bowtie salad – a refreshing blend of bowtie pasta, sweet mandarin oranges, honey, red and green peppers, red onion and sunflower seeds.
• Indulge in the killer combination of sweet and tart with a key lime pie, made with fresh Nellie & Joe’s lime juice. For the perfect lemon and lime delicacies to finish off a meal, a key lime cake bar or a lemon bar are sure to satisfy any citrus cravings!

New York Strip Cutting on the Floor – February 24 from noon-4 p.m.
For guests seeking a delicious entrée to pair with a citrusy side, The Fresh Market’s New York strip steak is perfect to prepare for a homemade dinner. Located in the meat department, half or whole strips can be custom cut to any desired thickness by any of The Fresh Market’s in-house certified butchers.

Guests may visit thefreshmarket.com for more information and event updates.

WHERE:
The Fresh Market’s 176 store locations nationwide
For local store information, please visit thefreshmarket.com/locatemystore.

Staying Healthy On A Diet

When your favorite jeans feel tight, or you feel exhausted all the time, you may decide it's time to lose weight. When you commit to shedding pounds, get motivated to stay healthy too. When you cut calories, be careful not to eliminate nutrients that fuel your body. Enjoy a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats each day. Following a few simple ideas will help you lose weight and stay fit.

Lose Weight Slowly to Keep It Off

When you change your eating habits, you want to see immediate results. Be careful not to lose weight too quickly, though. Fad or crash diets that let you drop more than a few pounds a week are unhealthy and hard to maintain. Crash diets often cause water and lean muscle loss. Slow weight loss allows you to lose more fat and maintain muscle mass.
Fast weight loss can also cause long-term health problems including liver damage and gallstones. Stick to a diet that will give you the number of calories you need each day for your height and goal weight.

Choose Low-Calorie Foods Packed with Nutrients

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Limiting your food intake doesn't mean you can't stay healthy and be full of energy. Your body needs proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to function properly. Without proper nutrition, you won't have the energy to work out and enjoy life.

Eat quality foods to get the nutrients your body needs every day without adding extra calories. Fill your plate with leafy greens to get your allowance of fiber, potassium, and folate. Fruits offer nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, and various B vitamins. Choose lean meats, beans, and legumes for your low-calorie protein sources.

Beware of Diet Foods, Artificial Sweeteners, and Natural Syrups

Foods touted as diet or low in fat are often heavily processed and may contain chemicals. While diet foods may lack sugar and fat, such foods can be far from healthy. Some low-fat foods are packed with sugar to replace the missing fat. Sugar-free foods often use artificial sweeteners. Sugar substitutes can leave you craving more sugar, and even raise blood sugar levels and cause diabetes.

Eating natural foods is healthier than consuming processed foods. However, foods labeled natural and organic aren't always low in calories. Note that natural sugars still count as sugar in your diet. Agave syrup, coconut sugar, and honey are all sugars.

Stay Hydrated

Image via Flickr by Rubbermaid Products

Your body needs fluid to run efficiently. In fact, over half of your body is made up of water. Since you lose fluid each day through sweat, evaporation, and urination, you need to drink filtered water more often to replace lost fluid. To make it easier to drink water, take a bottle on the go and keep a water bottle handy at work. Use a refillable water bottle to save money. If you get bored with drinking water, add some lemon, lime, or cucumber slices to add flavor.

Remember to focus on proper nutrition when you cut calories. You can lose weight and stay healthy and vibrant when you choose quality low-calorie foods and drink plenty of water.

How Wildlife Control Works At Terminix

Having unwanted animal guests in your house is not only annoying, but can also be dangerous to you, your family, and your home. Wild animals can carry diseases, contaminate your food, and even cause physical damage to your home’s foundation and wiring. If you are dealing with wildlife infestation, the professionals at Terminix can help. Here is how wildlife pest control San Antonio works with Terminix:

Wildlife Control Near Me: Terminix has been in business for nearly a century and has a variety of locations throughout the United States and Canada. There is a good chance that Terminix will have trained professionals in your area.

The Initial Visit: A Terminix professional will come to your home to investigate and assess the problem to create a plan of action. The plan may vary depending on the size of your residence and the nature of the pests. If you suspect pests in your home, you can call Terminix and have your home inspected free of charge.

The Treatment Plan: After the initial visit, your Terminix professional will proceed to trap and remove unwanted wildlife from your home. Terminix hires a variety of experts to help deal with common pests like squirrels and skunks, as well as unique pests that may have accidentally been introduced in your area.

Prevent Future Infestations: In addition to removing the pests, your Terminix professional will help secure your home from future invaders. If you live in an area where wildlife pests are a common nuisance, consider calling in a Terminix professional to help secure your home from invaders and stop infestations before they start.  Some examples of “pest security” include sealing crawl spaces and minimizing gaps in pipe openings.

Whether you have an unwanted wild animal in your home, or are looking to prevent a future invasion, the professionals at Terminix can help keep your home safe from animal intruders.

It's Our Anniversary!

Another year has gone by, and today we celebrate 24 years of marriage. It really is so hard to believe that it has been that long since the day we said I do. Marriage isn't the easiest thing, but I feel like it gets sweeter with time. This last year was a bit a test. I lost both of my parents, and felt like I wasn't fully present most of the time. My sweet husband has been so supportive and definitely put me first. I guess in reality, that's how marriage is supposed to work. You have to be strong when the other is weak.

I am thankful to have someone to catch me when I fall, and that I can do the same right back. You don't question anything, you are just there. I tell younger or newer couples to never give up on each other. I'm sure that's easier said than done, but I believe in putting in the work. So many of the arguments that couples have can be worked out. I wish for everyone to have the kind of marriage that I have. It's a wonderful feeling knowing that I don't have to face anything alone.

Happy Anniversary to my wonderful husband and best friend of 24 years. Cheers!

Celebrate Entenmann’s® 120th Birthday! (Giveaway)

Today's post is sponsored by Entenmann’s®. The opinions expressed are my own and do not reflect the opinions of Entenmann’s®. 

**CLOSED**- Winner is the attic girl.

I am fairly certain that almost everyone has, at one time or another, enjoyed a snack cake or treat from the well-known brand Entenmann's®. From the delicious danish pastries, to the donuts, poundcake or mini cakes, Entenmann's® is all about quality. My family's favorites range from the Little Bites, cheese danish, and chocolate frosted donuts. Whenever they are on sale, I stock up. It's hard to believe that Entenmann's is celebrating its 120th birthday! Yep, they have been around that long!

To celebrate, Entenmann’s® invites fans to enter the “I Sing on the Cake” national sweepstakes for a chance to win sweet prizes.

Prizes include:

• An Ultimate Birthday party featuring a performance from the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters for the winner’s friends and family
• Four days and three nights of family fun in New York City with four Grandstand Tickets to the 2018 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
• 120 winners will receive free Entenmann’s® for a year
• 3,000 winners will receive a coupon for one free Entenmann’s® product

From now until March 31, fans can enter, and see official rules at,  www.entenmanns120birthday.com.

To receive a second entry and to make the milestone even more memorable, fans are invited to sing “Happy Birthday” to Entenmann’s® on Instagram or Twitter using #entenmanns120 and #promotion or uploading directly onto the Entenmann’s® Facebook page.

For every video submitted, Entenmann’s® will donate $1 to the Give A Note Foundation, up to $10,000, to share the gift of music with children across the country.

Look for information about the “I Sing on the Cake” sweepstakes on specially marked packages of Entenmann’s® fan-favorites including Entenmann’s® Donuts, Entenmann’s® Little Bites® and Entenmann’s® Minis Golden Cakes.

We hope you enter to win one of the many great prizes. Just for our Mom Files readers, we have a sweet giveaway of our own. One lucky person will win a prize pack that includes a $25 digital Visa gift card and (3) coupons, each valid for a free Entenmann’s® product. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and ends on February 5, 2018. Must follow rules in Rafflecopter. One winner will be chosen randomly. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Things To Do In Orlando That Are Cheaper Than Theme Parks

Are you considering a trip to the Central Florida/Orlando, Florida area this coming Spring Break? You might want to check out these great ideas for places to visit and things to do that won't break the bank they way the theme parks can easily do. 

SAVE MORE AND DO MORE DURING SPRING BREAK IN ORLANDO NORTH

When planning a Spring Break getaway to the Central Florida theme parks you can save more and double the fun by selecting lodgings and add-on recreation in “Orlando North, Seminole County.”  Here your guestroom averages 40% less than those by the attractions, all hotels offer free parking, there are no long restaurant waits, and you're a short drive away from: 

• Walt Disney World® - 45 minutes
• Universal Orlando® - 30 minutes
• Sea World® - 30 minutes
• Wet ‘N Wild® - 30 minutes
• Kennedy Space Center - 60 minutes
• Daytona Beach - 45 minutes
• Downtown Orlando - 20 minutes

And throughout Orlando North Seminole County there’s lots of family-friendly fun that’s a fractional cost of a day at the theme parks:

• At Planet Obstacle, kid-friendly activities include a kids’ ninja course, trampolines, bungees, ball pits and bumper cars, while adults can enjoy an aerial ropes course, an extreme zip-line, an adult ninja course, a giant rock-climbing wall and more. Planet Obstacle, 1150 Emma Oaks Trail, Lake Mary, FL. http://planetobstacle.com
• Little girls will love Judy’s Dolls Middleton Newborn Nursery Adoption Center, with an adoption ceremony providing a chance to bond with her new infant baby doll, pick out its first outfit and feel the joy, of becoming a new “parent.” Judy’s Dolls, 280 W. Warren Ave. Longwood, FL. https://judysdolls.com/.  
• Stargazing and interactive shows at the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College in Sanford. For info on planetarium events visit Facebook.com/SeminolePlanet.
• U-Pick Strawberries at Pappy’s Patch. 700 Florida Ave., Oviedo, FL. Check out their Facebook page: Pappys-Patch-U-Pick-Strawberries.
• Reach new heights at the Aiguille Rock Climbing Center. 999 Charles St., Longwood, FL. http://www.aiguille.com/
• Artistic talents emerge at Hot Pots, where kids paint and decorate their own ceramics, from piggy banks to figurines, cups, vases and more. Hot Pots, 1071 WP Ball Blvd., Sanford, FL. http://www.hotpotssanford.com/
• Enjoy a thrilling airboat ride with Black Hammock Adventures, on Lake Jesup and learn about the eco system and the birds and beasts who call it home. 2356 Black Hammock Fish Camp Rd., Oviedo, FL. www.blackhammockairboatrides.com
• Cool down at Wekiva Island where the river is a constant 72 degrees. Swim, canoe, kayak, paddleboard, volleyball, fish or just plain relax. Wekiva Island, 1014 Miami Springs Rd., Longwood, FL http://wekivaisland.com/
• Get up close and personal with wildlife at the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, where you can even participate in giraffe feedings. Also at the zoo is ZOOm Air Adventures a zip line adventure course that allows guests to explore perfect natural habitats from an animal’s perspective—in the air traveling from tree to tree by zip lines and suspended rope bridges. 3755 US 17, Sanford, FL. www.centralfloridazoo.org.
• Enjoy the playground and watch youth, collegiate and non-professional teams playing at the 102-acre Boombah Sports Complex at Seminole County. 3450 E. Lake Mary Blvd., Sanford, FL. www.PlayOrlandoNorth.com.
• Seminole County is also home to some of Florida’s best natural attractions, including the Wekiva River, one of only two National & Wild Scenic Rivers in the entire state of Florida, the St. Johns River, Wekiva Springs State Park and Lake Jesup to name just a few. With more than 30 parks and preserves the area is a favorite destination for hiking, biking, bird watching, wildlife study, nature photography and more. There’s something for everyone whether you are a nature lover or adventure seeker.

About Orlando North, Seminole County:

A short drive from all the major attractions of Central Florida and home to Orlando Sanford International Airport, Orlando North, Seminole County offers first-rate accommodations for less, varied meeting & event venues, and diverse dining and shopping in its charming communities. Known as “Orlando’s Natural Oasis,” the destination offers visitors a wide array of thrilling outdoor activities from an aerial adventure course with zip lining to paddling alongside manatees in clear freshwater springs and rivers. Long known as an exciting and affordable meetings/groups destination, Orlando North also offers an array of sports and training facilities, including the new 102-acre Seminole County Sports Complex. For destination information call 1-800-800-7832 or 407-665-2900 or visit www.DoOrlandoNorth.com.

Remington College Columbia Campus Offers 50% Off One Salon Service

If you live in Columbia, South Carolina or the surrounding area, you might want to check this out.

Love fills the air in February and Remington College hopes to help Columbia area residents fall in love with their look.

The Salon at Remington College Columbia Campus is offering 50-percent off of one service during the month of February.(1)

Remington College’s Cosmetology Diploma program teaches students the art of hair, skin and nail care through traditional classroom instruction and hands-on training in the Remington College School of Cosmetology, which allows students to work with real clients.

Some of the services offered in the Salon include:(2)

• Cuts (including shampoo and conditioner), starting at $11
• Thermal Style, starting at $12
• Shampoo and Style (includes shampoo and conditioner), starting at $11
• Deep Conditioning Service, starting at $6
• Chemical Services, starting at $27
• Hair Color, starting at $27
• Hair Lightening (includes finishing style), starting at $27
• Specialty Styles, starting at $22
• Plain Manicure, starting at $8
• Pedicure, starting at $11
• Skin Care and Hair Removal, starting at $6
• Facial – Plain, starting at $16
• Machine Facial, starting at $21
• Eyebrow or Facial Wax, starting at $6
• Children’s Cut, starting at $6

The Salon at Remington is located at 607 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29210. Appointments are recommended. To schedule an appointment, call 803-214-9062.

The salon is open:

Monday: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Friday: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Saturday: Call ahead for availability

For more on the Remington College Cosmetology Program, visit remingtoncosmo.com or call 1-800-448-6405.

(1) Available through February 28, 2018. First come, first serve. Appointments are recommended. Cannot be combined with any other offer.(2) Prices are base prices and may vary depending on length and style. Services and/or prices are subject to change.

About Remington College: Non-profit Remington College, headquartered in Lake Mary, FL operates 16 college campuses throughout the United States offering career focused diploma, bachelor and associate degree programs in a variety of career fields. For more information, please visit remingtoncollege.edu. For the latest news about Remington College, visit facebook.com/remingtoncollege. Remington College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs and other school administered programs.

January Ipsy Glam Bag Review #IpsyGameFace

Every month I look forward to receiving my Ipsy Glam Bag in the mail. I subscribed about two years ago, and I'm hooked! I tell everyone that it is the best $10 I spend. You get a cute bag, 5 beauty products, and FREE shipping for ten bucks! I can easily spend $10 on dumb stuff, so this makes good sense. Also, makeup. Over time I have received products from some of my favorite brands like: Tarte, Smashbox, Urban Decay, Bare Minerals, Caked Makeup, and Doucce to name a few. 

My glam bag subscription has become a part of my self-care routine, and it's nice to look forward to something that is just for me. My older daughter has her own subscription and often gets different products than I do. We have so much fun sorting through our goodies and sometimes trade items. I am digging the January "Game Face" themed bag. The bag itself it so cute. It has a sporty, retro feel. 

Inside the bag: 

• NYX Professional Lip Lingerie in Beauty Mark- goes on creamy with a matte finish. I do love the color, but it has a slight sticky feel initially. Once it wears in, it feels a whole lot better. 
• CIATÉ LONDO Fierce Flicks Liquid Eyeliner- I actually gave this to my younger daughter because I have tons of liquid liners already. This one is supposed to dry quickly and not smudge. Perfect for the cat eye look. 
• BellaPierre Cosmetics StayPut Brow Gel in Licorice- I love the way it is packaged. The brush is on the top of handle and the product is in a jar on the bottom. I tried it and don't really care for it. The gel didn't apply as well as my normal brow makeup. I gave it to my older daughter and she seems to really like it. 
• BeFine Skin Care Exfoliating Cleanser- made with all-natural ingredients brown sugar, almond, and oats. It leaves your skin crazy smooth, and soft. It also moisturizes. I will definitely be buying this in a full-size tube. 
• BioRepublic Skincare Sheet Masks- I got two: Aloe Rescue & Pomegranate Crush. I haven't tried them yet, but the product description makes them sound promising. Here are the details: These eco-friendly masks are 100% biodegradable. Aloe Rescue has phytocollagen, aloe vera extract, and Vitamin E to soothe and moisturize dry skin. Pomegranate Crush is loaded with antioxidant-packed pomegranate extract and vitamin E to hydrate, brighten, and smooth *all* skin types.

I am happy with my January glam bag overall. Even though I couldn't use all of the products myself, my daughters were able to. It makes it worth it. I can't wait to see what I get in February. If you are interested in receiving your own monthly Ipsy Glam Bag, you can use my sign-up link. I will get 250 points for every sign-up I receive to use towards products. If you become a subscriber, you can refer friends and get points too! They add up quickly since you get more points if you do a quick review on the Ipsy site. So far I have cashed in so many points that gave me around 6 freebies. 

Ipsy is a great way to try products out before you consider buying the full size. Do you have a favorite monthly beauty subscription? I'd love to know! 

Birth Injuries To Baby: What You Could Do About It Legally (Guest Post)

Disclaimer: the following information presented in this article serves only as a general guideline as to what one may experience legally following birth injuries to a baby. If you have further questions, need clarification, or find yourself in this unfortunate situation, it is recommended that you seek the services of an attorney familiar with these types of cases.

Having a baby is one of the most beautiful things in the world. No words can describe the feeling you’d get when you first hold your baby in your arms. However, all your dreams and aspirations for your child would get crushed if you’d find out that he/she is ill-equipped for the rest of his/her life. And to make things worse, you’ll discover that this is caused by someone who you trusted to deliver your child safely into this world. But, there’s no point in letting yourself become devoured by heartache and sorrow. Instead, you should get up and fight for your baby who can’t.

 

So, what could you do about your child’s birth injury legally?

1. Gather information.

You need to gather information as this can help you file your case and claim for compensation.

The information you should gather:

• About your healthcare provider (if there are any previous lawsuits against him/her)
• Names, phone numbers, and addresses of people present during your delivery
• Medical procedures performed on you (such as ultrasound and maternal serum tests)
• Medications you took before and after conceiving (if there are any)
• Medical devices used

Make sure to keep all of this information. Don’t show this to anyone, unless your lawyer tells you to do so.

2. Get a second opinion.

As soon as you noticed your baby’s injury, you should immediately have him/her checked. Go to a different pediatrician, to make sure that you get an unbiased opinion. Ask him/her what’s wrong with your baby and if there’s something that you can do to correct it.

Make sure to take down notes of everything that the physician tells you, as you can use this evidence later on.

3. Hire a birth injury lawyer.

Look for a lawyer who can help you file for compensation for your child. He/she must be experienced in these kinds of cases.

Your lawyer can help you recover for the following damages:

• Medical expenses
• Physical and emotional distress
• Healthcare costs
• Loss of companionship and enjoyment
• Lost wages

You should remember that when talking to your lawyer, you should be honest at all times. Show him/her every piece of evidence you have and information you’ve gathered.

4. File your notice of intent to sue.

If you’re filing a lawsuit against anyone, you would be required to file a Notice of Intent to File a Lawsuit first. This will give you and the defendant a chance to reconcile the case without the involvement of the court.

You should remember to send this to your defendant before filing your case. If you fail to do this, there’ll be a chance that your lawsuit will be dismissed.

5. Complete your complaint.

Make sure your lawyer assesses your case critically. He/she should help you figure out what claims you can file for and will also help you draft the complaint that you can use to file the lawsuit. He/she should also make sure that you understand the case and what you think the court should do.

The complaint will identify:

• You (the complainant)
• Your doctor/health practitioner (the defendant)
• Your doctor’s insurance company
• Hospital or facility that you’re suing
• Your allegations
• Facts that make you entitled to monetary damages
• Legal theory which proves that you’re qualified to the costs
• List of the losses that resulted from your doctor’s negligence or actions

6. Make sure your complaint is delivered.

You should remember to deliver your complaint to the defendant/defendants after you’ve filed the complaint. Make sure that your doctor, your doctor’s insurance company and other health providers involved have the copy of the complaint. This will ensure that the defendant/defendants are well aware of the charge and have the opportunity to respond.

7. Wait for your defendant/defendants’ response.

Usually, the defendants will counter your complaint and file a motion to dismiss it. You shouldn’t be surprised if they do this, as this is part of the litigation process. However, if your case is secure and your evidence is complete, your lawsuit should survive.

 

8. Get ready for the settlement.

After your lawsuit survives the motion to dismiss, the defendant/defendants will try to offer you a settlement. When this happens, you have to consult your lawyer before deciding on what to do next. Ask your lawyer how much would put your child’s best interest forward. You can also ask other doctors for help. The doctor can help you understand the total costs that you will most likely face as your child grows up.

9. Be prepared for the trial.

If you and the defendant/defendants are unable to resolve the case through settlement, the next step is presenting your case to the court and prepare for a trial.

Be sure to attend the trial, and have your completed documents ready. Never forget to always be in contact with your lawyer, as he/she will be able to guide you throughout the process.

During this process, you should never forget the reason why you are fighting: your baby. Though no amount of compensation can ever pay for what your baby is going through, you should still put your baby’s welfare on top. And remember that you’re also doing this for others, so that they may never go through what you’re going through right now.

Dianna Charles

Dianna Charles is a promising young law enthusiast that hopes to bring her youthful spirit in her field. She tries to add a refreshing modern take to topics on the legal world that people can learn from. Dianna enjoys her free time with friends and family, and loves to cook for them.

Easy Chicken Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If you are stuck on what to make for dinner, I have a great idea for you. I make a chicken broccoli casserole that is not only delicious, but it is super easy. My daughters love having leftovers to take to lunch the next day. This is one dish that never gets wasted, and is a great option to make for a friend or family member who could use a home-cooked meal that will last a few days.

Before I share the recipe, I wanted to mention that you can substitute some ingredients for fat-free or low-fat if you are cutting calories. It will still be just as delicious.

Easy Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients:

3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 small can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 8-ounce container sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
16 ounce bag of frozen broccoli florets
3-4 cups of cooked rice
2-3 thinly sliced green onions
salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika
cooking spray or butter for baking dish

Directions:

1. Place chicken breasts in pot of water with desired seasonings. Bring to a boil and cook about 25 minutes. Drain water and chop chicken in small pieces (or shred). Set aside in fridge to cool.
2. Mix soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, half the green onions, and half the shredded cheese. Add in chopped chicken and season to taste. Garlic powder and red pepper flakes add a nice kick. 
3. Quickly boil broccoli in salted water for 1-2 minutes and drain. 
4. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray or coat casserole dish with butter. Layer rice on bottom of pan evenly, then layer broccoli on top of rice. Next, layer with the creamy chicken mixture on top of broccoli layer. Top with remaining cheese, green onions, and a sprinkling of paprika. 
5. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy! 

Tips:

• You can substitute chicken breast with chicken tenders. I find that tenders are less "stringy" and are well, more tender. 
• You can omit the green onion if you are not a fan of onions, but I like the flavor and color that it adds to the dish. 
• You do not have to use frozen broccoli. It just makes it so much easier, and is a time saver.
• The paprika is optional, but it really adds nice color and minimal flavor.
• If you want to make a casserole to share, just separate into two smaller baking dishes.  

I hope you make this recipe for your family. Let me know if you do. Thanks for stopping by.

5 Places to Meet New Mom Friends in New York City

New York City is one of the most popular places on earth. The hustle and bustle of the Big Apple never stops. Traffic rages, pedestrians travel, and the city lights burn right through the night. Raising a baby in New York City is no easy feat, doing it requires a support group.

Photo by Ralph Chang from Pexels 

Many new people that have relocated to New York City fond it challenging to meet new friends, so finding your new mom squad may be tough. However, if you know your way around and where to go, then there are plenty of places you can visit that will present you with the opportunity to make new mom friends. Here are five ways you can meet new friends in the world’s most famous city.

#1 Parks and Playgrounds
Bridge Park Pier 6 in Brooklyn, Union Square Playground, Bleecker Playground in Manhattan, and Hudson River Park Pier 25 are great places to meet new moms. Remember to keep your eyes on your child at all times but when they are digging in the sandbox or playing on a swing set, take the opportunity to strike up a conversation with a mom nearby. Some of the most fabulous friendships are made in the playground.

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#2 Online Mom Chatrooms
Social media has connected us in a way that gives us instant access to social groups at the click of a mouse. Join up with some local New York City mom’s groups. Astoria parents, UES Mommas, and Madison Square Park Moms are all fantastic Facebook groups filled with hundreds of friendly moms that are always willing to help out. As you get to know people, you will discover moms that live nearby, and you can arrange to meet for coffee and discuss a playdate for your kids.

#3 New Mom Support Groups
There are many pre-birth classes available across the city. Signing up for a course will expose you to new moms that are thrilled to be experiencing the miracle of childbirth as much as you are. You will all have something in common already, and if you make a friend your kids could end up growing up together as best buddies. Check out your local listings online or visit the nearest YMCA for a class schedule.

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#4 Get Social at Playgroups
Getting your kids into playgroups as early as possible will have tremendous benefit for their social development. Children love to watch and learn, so if you get involved at the playgroup chatting with other parents, you are laying the foundation for your child’s personality to be open and friendly.

#5 Make Friends at the Pediatrician’s office
If you’re waiting at the pediatrician’s office for your child’s latest checkup, start a conversation with the moms sitting around you. Before you open your conversation, ensure you read the body language and facial expressions of the parents sitting around you. This brief assessment will give you a good idea of their emotional state; not everyone is at the pediatrician's office with good news.

The Final Tip
It’s important to get out with your child, so if you are struggling to meet your household obligations and spend quality time with your kid, consider hiring a cleaning service to assist you with the housework. Cleaning services are experts at cleaning good for health purposes, giving you more free time to spend with your kids.

The Best Banana Bread Recipe

A few days ago, I shared a photo of a banana bread I baked on Instagram. I almost always get the comment, "Recipe, please!". I figured I need to start adding more recipes on the blog. I actually found this banana bread recipe years ago, and have tweaked it slightly to my taste. It's so good because you don't need a mixer, and it can all be done in one bowl. Less cleaning is always a good thing! 

Ingredients:

2 to 3 very ripe, large bananas
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup sugar (adjust to your taste)
1 large egg, beaten
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare a regular sized loaf pan either by buttering, using cooking spray, or lining with parchment. Mash bananas and add all wet ingredients, followed by dry. Mix until fully combined and spoon into pan. If you are using walnuts, add them to the top of the batter. Bake for 45-60 minutes. Insert a wooden toothpick in center to test if it's baked all the way. Toothpick should come out clean. Fifty minutes usually does it for me.

Helpful Tips:

I like lining my loaf pan with parchment because you don't have to worry about sticking, and there is almost no cleanup. I also prefer adding nuts on top instead of mixed in for better crunch, and texture. They get nice and toasty from baking.

This banana bread is a winner and my family loves it. Next time you have some overripe bananas hanging around, you should try this recipe. Enjoy!