Ipsy Glam Bag Review April 2014

I got my third Glam Bag in the mail today!   I really enjoyed the items I received this month - Ipsy has made it so easy for this SAHM to enjoy wearing makeup!

Before I go any further, I want to share my referral link:  CLICK HERE to try Glam Bag for yourself! (Hint: Sharing Glam Bag on your facebook page allows you to skip the wait list.)

What is an Ipsy Glam Bag, you ask?

Michelle Phan started out doing Youtube video tutorials.  She was constantly asked the question: "What are the right products for me?"  I totally understand that question, since I've asked it myself.  Choosing the best items for your needs can be a challenge! That was why Michelle created ipsy. Michelle and her team of stylists have selected products they love, for you to try.

Each month, subscribers will receive a beautiful Glam Bag with deluxe samples and full-sized beauty products. Members can watch and play along with the stylists with the same products that they are using. All for only $10 a month.

When you sign up, you take a beauty quiz, asking all about your skin tone, beauty preferences, favorite brands, skill level, etc.  I love this service, because I never buy new beauty products.  I've used the same tube of mascara since I quit work and started staying home.  I never wear makeup, because it's not fun for me.  All of that has changed since signing up for Glam Bags!

I can't tell you how excited I am about primping a little, especially since I've got some nice new clothes from Stitch Fix (link) to wear too!

Ipsy is also very involved with social media:

1. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date.
2. Explore beauty Looks on ipsy.com and enter monthly "Look Challenges" to win prizes.
3. Subscribe to the monthly Glam Bag... it's just $10/month and packed with beauty products.
4. Reveal exclusive offers from leading brands in your personalized Glam Room.
5. Tell your friends about ipsy by using your unique ipsyPoints referral link.

 

The Review

I received an email the second week of April, letting me know that my bag shipped.  They provided me with a DHL tracking number, which was transferred for delivery by my local post office.   My Glam Bag was delivered three days after receiving my tracking info.  This is the stock photo of the April glam bag.  I knew that I would probably get different products than pictured, since each glam bag is customized for your needs, skin tone, product preferences, etc.

 

 

First Item: Navy record print cosmetic bag

I gave this bag away to a teenager in our church.   I am not a fan of 'rockstar' type stuff.  And this edgy design isn't really my style.  I much prefer preppy looking things.  But even though I don't care for the decorations, it was a nice bag!

Second Item:  Urban Decay - 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Eye Pencil Travel Size

I've never tried Urban Decay products, which is one reason I love IPSY.  It exposes me to new brands without breaking my piggy band.  This eyeliner goes on so smooth!  It looks great, and I really like using a makup sponge to blend it a little before I apply eyeshadow.

The product can be purchased here, and it costs $20 for a full-size pencil (I received a trial size). Since this item was in my Glam Bag, I get a free gift if I order $35 worth of products from urbandecay.com.

Third item: Coastal Scents - Medium Shadow Brush

 

The Coastal Scents Shadow Brush is a medium sized brush made out of natural fibers that is wide in shape and condensed to allow an even distribution of eyeshadow on the lid. This professional cosmetic brush can be used for shading the crease and highlighting the brow bone with complete precision.

You can buy this brush here, and it's $2.49 plush shipping.  Ipsy glam bag recipients also get 25% off their oder at coastalscents.com!

 

 Fourth Item: dr. brandt® - microdermabrasion

The dr. brandt® microdermabrasion gently sweeps away dead skin cells and softens skin texture, which enables better absorption of skincare products and helps diminish the appearance of fine lines, acne marks, and skin discolorations. A great at home alternative to professional clinical treatments. Safe to use for all skin types.

You can buy your own here.   Retail value for this is $78!!!  Even with my 20% promo code, this is out of my price range.  Although... let me tell you, this stuff is awesome.

 

Fifth Item: Elizabeth Mott - pop! goes the shadow in champagne

 

The Elizabeth Mott pop! goes the eyeshadow is the ultimate eyeshadow that's long lasting, easy to apply, and effortlessly blends. Buildable colors will take you from subtle highlights to dramatic smokey eyes. With pop! goes the shadow, eye shadow creasing is a thing of the past.

This product can be purchased here.  Retail value for this is  $12.99, and I got 50% off my order this month.

 

Sixth Item: Starlooks - Luscious Longwear Lip Pencil

 

Starlooks' Luscious, Longwear, Matte Lip Liner formula contains a Kiss-Off Resistant polymer that, when worn alone or in combination with a matte lipstick, offers an incredible 8 hour wear - with little no need for touch-up or re-application. Comes in one, brilliant shade of nude for all skin tones! 

This product can be purchased here.  Retail value for this is  $14, and I got 20% off if I decide to order it.

My Thoughts

This was an awesome experience.   For just $10, I got at least $35 worth of product, including three full-size items (eyeshadow, lip liner, shadow brush).  Plus I easily got double that amount in coupons and online discounts.

Is this worth my time and money? YES!   Will I continue to use this service?  YES, and I have no reservations about continuing this service indefinitely.

Safety Tattoos for Traveling With Little Ones

We go to Disney World at least once a month.  Sometimes we stay for a couple of days, and other times we just do day trips.   After becoming separated from our 3 year old in a crowded restaurant, we decided to find a way to make traveling safer.  (Yes, I know I could put my child on a leash, but that's not really a good solution for us right now.)


So, I found Lost & Found Temporary Tattoos on Amazon (LINK HERE).

I ordered the girl pack.  It came with everything pictured, plus a permanent marker for adding your phone number(s)  to the tattooo after it dries.

My daughter liked the fact that she could choose a butterfly, heart, or unicorn tattoo.

After using the cleansing towelettes that were provided, we applied a butterfly tattoo using water and a damp washcloth.  Singing 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" is the perfect timer - by the time your little one finishes the song, it will be time to remove the backing from the tattoo.

TIP - Make sure the tattoo is completely dry before writing your contact info on it.  Otherwise, your pen will tear the tattoo.  I used a photo editing program to remove the last 4 digits of my cellphone number, so I don't get random calls from internet people :)

The tattoos lasted for the entire 3 day trip, I just had to be careful to not put sunscreen on them.   I also took the permanent pen with me and freshened up our cellphone numbers each day.

I had SO MANY people stop me and ask where I got the tattoos for both my girls.  They certainly made me feel a little better about taking my kids into the crowds, since they aren't old enough to tell someone our phone number.

***I was not reimbursed in any way for this review.  The company does not even know that I am writing this.  I am just sharing an awesome product with anyone who might be planning a Disney trip with little ones. 

Ipsy Glam Bag Review March 2014

I got my second Glam Bag in the mail today!   I am a slacker and waited a couple weeks to post my review, but let me tell you.... that does not mean I'm not excited about what I received!!!   This month's bag was AWESOME!

Before I go any further, I want to share my referral link:  CLICK HERE to try Glam Bag for yourself! (Hint: Sharing Glam Bag on your facebook page allows you to skip the wait list.)

What is an Ipsy Glam Bag, you ask?

Michelle Phan started out doing Youtube video tutorials.  She was constantly asked the question: "What are the right products for me?"  I totally understand that question, since I've asked it myself.  Choosing the best items for your needs can be a challenge! That was why Michelle created ipsy. Michelle and her team of stylists have selected products they love, for you to try.

Each month, subscribers will receive a beautiful Glam Bag with deluxe samples and full-sized beauty products. Members can watch and play along with the stylists with the same products that they are using. All for only $10 a month.

When you sign up, you take a beauty quiz, asking all about your skin tone, beauty preferences, favorite brands, skill level, etc.  I love this service, because I never buy new beauty products.  I've used the same tube of mascara since I quit work and started staying home.  I never wear makeup, because it's not fun for me.  All of that has changed since signing up for Glam Bags!

I can't tell you how excited I am about primping a little, especially since I've got some nice new clothes from Stitch Fix (link) to wear too!

Ipsy is also very involved with social media:

1. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date.
2. Explore beauty Looks on ipsy.com and enter monthly "Look Challenges" to win prizes.
3. Subscribe to the monthly Glam Bag... it's just $10/month and packed with beauty products.
4. Reveal exclusive offers from leading brands in your personalized Glam Room.
5. Tell your friends about ipsy by using your unique ipsyPoints referral link.

 

The Review

I received an email the second week of March, letting me know that my bag shipped.  They provided me with a DHL tracking number, which was transferred for delivery by my local post office.   My Glam Bag was delivered two days after receiving my tracking info.  This is the stock photo of the March glam bag.  I knew that I would probably get different products than pictured, since each glam bag is customized for your needs, skin tone, product preferences, etc.

 

 

First Item: White abstract print cosmetic bag

I have to say, I am most impressed with these little cosmetic bags.   I can't get over how nice they are, especially at this price point.  The bag is a little smaller, but just by a teensy bit.  I have this bag already in my little cross-body purse that I carry to Disney.  (It's holding all my extra trading pins... but that's a post for another day)

Second Item:  Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in Get Ready - by Bare Minerals

I've never tried Bare Minerals products, and so was interested to see how this compares to other lipsticks I use.  The color is really nice with my skin tone, but it feels a little dry on my lips.  I prefer a smooth lip gloss, or tinted lip balm.

The product can be purchased here, and it costs $18 for a full-size tube (I received a trial size). Since this item was in my Glam Bag, I get free shipping when I order, plus a trial size mascara for free.

Third item: OPI Roughles Nail Enamel in "On What Grounds"

 

Once again this month, the first item I used from my Glam Bag was the nail polish.  While last month's color was very subtle, this month I got a bright, saturated, Tiffany Blue color. Plus, it's speckled with little textured bits, revealing a neat pebbled finish when dry.  I've had the same polish on for a week now, and it's held up remarkable well.

You can buy this polish here, and it's $9-$10 per bottle.  I was kind of bummed that I didn't receive any kind of discount on another bottle, since I would love to buy this in petal pink or lavendar.  I can't complain too much though, since I received a full-size bottle in my Glam Bag.

 

 Fourth Item: Bora Bora Eyeshadow Quad by Be a Bombshell

This was another full-size item in my bag.   I can't say too much about it, though.   These colors are not for me, and so I gave it to a friend who needed a little pick-me-up.  She really likes it though!  It's very long wearing, as it contains highly pigmented long lasting formula for all day wear.

You can buy your own here.   Retail value for this is $16.  Be a Bombshell is offering Ipsy customers 40% off their purchase, plus a fuschia lip crayon with every order.

 

Fifth Item: Pixi Beauty Flawless Beauty Primer

 

I've never tried a primer, but OH MY GOODNESS this stuff is amazing!! The Pixi Beauty Flawless Beauty Primer is loaded with skin loving ingredients.  FOrmula contains powerful ant-aging and skin fortifying benefits, and is suitable for all skin types.

This product can be purchased here.  Retail value for this is  $22 for full-size or $9 for a travel size (which is what I received).  And Pixi Beauty is giving Glam Bag recipients 25% off your order.

 

My Thoughts

This was an awesome experience.   For just $10, I got at least $35 worth of product, including two full-size items (eyeshadow, nail polish).  Plus I easily got double that amount in coupons and online discounts.

Is this worth my time and money? YES!   Will I continue to use this service?  YES, and I have no reservations about continuing this service indefinitely.

Stitch Fix #3 - March 2014

My third Stitch Fix has arrived!!   If you're not familiar with Stitch Fix, check out this post here to see what it's all about.  My stylist this time was Michelle, again!!! I requested that she do my March fix, since she did such a good job with my February box.

Check out the link for my first Stitch Fix here, and my second Stitch Fix here.

What is Stitch Fix?

Stitch Fix is a personal styling service. You tell them all about your style, size, and budget preferences, and your personal stylist sends you a box of clothing and accessories to try on at home. Each Fix is unique and hand-picked just for you.  You keep what you like, and return the other items for free!

My main reasons for using Stitch Fix:

1. I am a SAHM.  I cannot take a 3 year old and 1 year old shopping, while maintaining my sanity.
2. I live really far from shopping options.  I live 40 miles from Target and Kohl's.  I live 115 miles from Gap, Anthropologie, H&M, Dillards, etc. I can't just run out and find cute, good quality, unique clothing, unless I make a day trip of it.  And there's no way I could do it if both my girls are with me.  It would not be fun at all! 
3. When I factor in gas costs for a shopping trip, it's worth it to pay slightly higher prices through Stitch Fix.  Even if I could pay a few dollars less by shopping sale racks at the mall, the travel expenses and headaches to get to the mall aren't worth the savings.  Plus, Stitch Fix makes me go outside my comfort zone, and I need that!

I Did Not Cheat This Time!  (I actually forgot that I had a box on the way)

I actually meant to skip my box for this month, and wasn't even in town when it was delivered.  I was visiting my mom out of state, and my hubby called to let me know I had a box to look through when I returned.

Boy, was I totally IMPRESSED with what I received!!!  I had tons of color and lots of fun details.  I received a shirt that I pinned three separate times on my Pinterest fashion board.  I have to apologize for the photos this time.  I didn't have time to try everything for photos before my returns were due back to Stitch Fix.  Plus, we are in the middle of moving and renovating my husband's office space, which means my hair has been in a pony tail and I've been paint splattered for a solid week.

Before I move on to the review, I want to share my referral link.  I'm not compensated by Stitch Fix for this review.  BUT... if you use my link to sign up, I'll get a small credit to use towards my next 'fix.'  I would be really grateful for a referral credit!
https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3242453

The Review

So, here's a pic of the box I got in the mail.

And once again, my items were so nicely presented.

There was a note from my stylist, and cards that showed me how to style the items in my fix.  LOVE LOVE LOVE it all!!! Eeek!!!

 

 

First Item:  Yohan Distressed Cropped Skinny Jean by Kut From the Kloth- $98

I got white skinny jeans this time!  They're kind of cropped, hitting right above my ankles.  I guess I should have mentioned in my style profile that I don't wear distressed jeans.  And I definitely don't pay $98 for pants that have holes in the thighs.  They are cute and fit like a glove!  But I returned them.

The distressing started below the knee and ran all the way up to my thighs.  Not a fan of this style. 

Item:  Kut From the Kloth white distressed skinnies
Status:  Sent Back

 

 

Second Item: Mindy Ikat Print Key-Hole Sleeveless Blouse by Ezra - $48

This is the cheapest item in my box, and I really love the trendy coral and mint colors!  Plus I've really wanted to try something ikat print.  I was disappointed that this shirt was too roomy.  It was too big all over, and just hung off of me, kind of like that feather print blouse from my first fix, that I loved so much.  If it hadn't been quite so droopy all over, I would have kept it.

I loved the summery keyhole in the front! 

Item:  Ezra Ikat tank
Status:  Sent back

 

 

Third Item:  Miranda Embroidery Detailed Tank by 41Hawthorn.

I think I received an incorrect item again.  My invoice says this tank should be by 41Hawthorn, but the tank I received was by the brand Pomelo.  Regardless.... I love the color of this tank... cobalt blue.  And the embroidery detail and scalloped hem is so pretty.  The fabric is also very nice... a cotton gauze that will breathe well in the summertime.  Unfortunately, this shirt also must run a little on the large size.  There was way too much extra fabric at the hips, and the underarm area was too droopy, I guess because I have a small chest.

The entire hem is scalloped and embroidered.

There is a keyhole in the back, with a cute hemstitched detail.

Item:  41 Hawthorn (or maybe Pomelo) Miranda Tank
Status: Sent back

 

 

 

Fourth Item:  Priya Tribal Printed Knit-back Tank by Pomelo- $54

This is the tank that I pinned 3-4 times on my Pinterest board this past month.  It's tribal, it's mint green, and it's mixed fabrics.  I love it.  It fit everywhere except under the arms/in the bust.  It was too big.  So I had to send it back :(

 

Item:  Tribal tank by Pomelo
Status: Sent back

Fifth Item:  Adelyn Abstract Print Drawstring Waist Dress by Kensie- $68

I love the soft material of this dress.  And the mesh inset details.  And that the skirt is double layered and so very comfortable.  I wore it today, actually, with black leggings, ballet flats, and a denim jacket.  So very comfy!

See the mesh insets at the shoulders and V-neck?

Item:  Kensie abstract print dress.
Status:  KEPT!!

 

 

The Verdict

So, if I had kept all five items, I would have received a 25% off discount, plus the $20 credit from my styling fee, plus $5 leftover from a referral credit.  Which means I could have gotten five items for $221.50.  Now, this is significantly more than my first fix, which would have been $132 for all five items.  BUT - the items I received this month were perfect for me, and within the limits I set in my style profile.  I ended up keeping  just the one dress, and only paying $23 out of pocket.  Not too bad!!!

 Was my Stitch Fix experience fun, convenient, and delightful?  Sure!   Was it the right size and the right style?  Totally!  My stylist did a great job!  I probably would have kept every shirt, plus the dress, had they all fit.

I sent a quick email to hello@stitchfix.... I asked for them to let Melissa know how very pleased I was with her picks.  I have a sneaking suspicion that the next box might be the one where I keep it all!

10 Facts About Disney Magic Bands

We've stayed at Disney three times now, using Magic Bands and Fast Pass +.   And we have two more upcoming vacations using them.  If you're planning a Disney Vacation, take a minute to read about the Magic Band changes!

1 - No more Keys to the World.

Previously, you were issued a card at resort check-in that opened your hotel door, granted access to the parks, acted as a form of payment, and allowed you to obtain Fast Passes.  Those are now a thing of the past, if you are staying in select Disney resorts that participate in the new Magic Bands programs.

You will now be issued a nifty Magic Band, that will do everything the old Keys to the World did, plus more!

2 - Be sure to order your Magic Bands in advance

After booking your vacation, go to My Disney Experience (link).  You'll be able to choose your colors for your Magic Bands, as well as book dining reservations and make Fast Pass+ selections.  They also have a great app too!   If you fail to order your magic bands in advance, your entire travel group will receive standard gray upon check-in.  If two family members want the same color band, don't worry!  Each person will also have their name printed on the inside of the band.  You can also buy charms in the gift shops, making each Magic Band customizable

3 - Don't forget to check your mail!

Your Magic Bands will arrive at your house in a plain brown box prior to the trip.  Disney does send you an email and a pop-up notification on the My Disney Experience app, providing you with tracking info.   It's important that you not forget to pack them... if you have to get replacements while at the park, they will be grey.

4 - Make your Fast Pass+ selections as soon as possible

You are able to begin making Fast Pass+ selections via the My Disney Experience app or website up to 8 weeks prior to your departure.   Be sure to do it soon, as the best times fill up quickly.  You'll be able to choose up to three rides per day, and all three Fast Passes must be made in the same park.  So, you can't Fast Pass the Toy Story ride in Hollywood Studios, Enchanted Tales With Bell in the Magic Kingdom, and Kilimanjaro Safaris in Animal Kingdom all on the same day.  There are also rumors going around the parks that the moderate and deluxe level resorts may end up being able to Fast Pass more than three rides per day.  This has not been confirmed by Disney, that I can tell.

I'd like to pause here to say that a lot of people have complaints about the Fast Pass+ system.  BUT, I think it's nice that I can make my Fast Pass+ selections from my smart phone, while it's hooked up to the FREE park wi-fi.  I don't have to walk across a park to get to a Fast Pass machine, just to find that it's issued the max number of vouches for the day and covered up.

5 - The sizes adjust for little kids

These bands are one size fits all.  BUT.... they adjust to fit even the tiniest of arms.  My 18 month old's band fits just as well as my husband's.  If you child's band is too large, simply peel the colored portion of the band away from the grey backing, and voila!  It's small enough for any child.

6 - Don't forget to make your kids wear their Magic Bands for Extra Magic Hours

We stayed late for Extra Magic hours at Epcot, and ran into trouble.  In order to board any rides during Extra Magic Hours, you must scan your Magic Band as proof that you belong there.  We forgot one of our Magic Bands, which led to issues.  Thank goodness the Cast Members were very nice and allowed us all to ride using my husband's Magic Band.  But, I have a feeling as these become more common, this exception won't be made nearly as much.

7 - It's QUICK and convenient!

These magic bands are awesome for me, as a mom.  I don't have to fumble for a room key while holding a sleeping infant.  I don't have to dig out my credit card to pay for purchases.  I don't have to find my annual pass card to gain access to the parks.  I simply touch my bracelet to the little pad, Mickey's ears turn green, and I'm good to go.

8 - No need to remove the bands before swimming

Since these handy little bracelets are waterproof, there's really no need to take them off.  I am one of those people who has the WORST time keeping up with hotel room keys, especially when going to the pool.  I love that I can go swimming, and not have to worry about leaving my Key to the World on the lounge chair at the poolside, where it could be lost or stolen.

9 - Be sure to recycle them!

Back in early January, when I received my first Magic Band, I asked the front desk staff at Pop Century what I should do with it when my trip concluded.  She said I could throw it away, recycle it, or keep it until my next visit.  They are sometimes able to skip re-issuing a new Magic Band when you make a return trip.  Instead you have the option of reactivating an old Magic Band!

I'll admit though - our old Magic Bands go straight in the girls' dress-up trunk.  They love wearing their 'Mickey Mouse jewelry' when they play dress-up.

10 - Stay open minded.

We are only human - and oftentimes human nature is to resist change.  I hear a lot of complaints about the new Magic Bands... from Cast Members, resort guests, and especially on lots of the Disney forums and internet chat boards.  But, they are really a great iteration of the Disney Resort experience.  They are MUCH easier to keep up with, and the ability to sync it with my iPhone is awesome.  Give it a try, and I'm sure you will be surprised at how nice it is!

Have you used a Magic Band lately?  What did you think?

Top Stroller Picks under $60 for your Disney Vacation

We have Disney World annual passes.  And we have a massive double jogging stroller that does NOT work for us.  We were at Disney world a few weeks ago, folding up our huge heavy stroller so we could board the tram.  A dad rolled up to the tram, pushed a button, and his stroller folded up into this tiny little bundle.  He picked it up with one hand and threw it into the floor of the tram, and was aboard before we could even get on.

And we had stroller envy.

So I began shopping around for the perfect Disney stroller, and thought I would share my top stroller picks.  I spent A LOT of time online, reading reviews and searching websites for the best options.

The Requirements for our New Strollers:

We chose to purchase two single strollers for the girls, versus one double stroller.   The double is difficult to take into crowded stores, is difficult to get on and off busses and trams, and the girls tend to bicker when they are side by side and tired from a long day in the parks.  Plus, we anticipate splitting up at nap time, with my husband taking our older daughter to go on rides while I walk around and let the baby sleep in the other stroller.

• Under $75, since we would be buying two of them.
• 40+ pound weight limit, since the girls are no longer infants.
• Stroller weight less than 12 pounds, since we would be folding and unfolding them alot
• Folds up compact
• Child snack tray
• Adult tray
• LARGE basket
• Sun shade

Babies R Us Trendsport Stroller - Slate  (link)

This is the stroller that started us thinking that we might want to start shopping around for two singles.  It weighs 14lbs and has a 40lb weight limit.  MSRP $59.99

Pros:

• One hand fold
• Padded handles
• Fold away child tray, making it easy for your kid to climb in.
• HUGE basket.
• Rear wheel brakes
• Multi-position reclining seat

Cons:

• This stroller only comes in black.  Florida sun + black stroller = HOT baby!
• No padding in the seat.  It's very rigid and stiff.
• The foot rest is very narrow, and Caroline had a hard time keeping her feet propped on it.
• No shoulder straps with the safety harness.  Harper would climb right out of that 3-point harness.

 What I love about this stroller is the fold feature.  It only takes one hand to do it, and the child tray folds UP.  I don't have to worry about the child tray banging into the ground and getting scratched up.  BUT - the harness is a deal breaker.  My squirming 18 month old MUST have shoulder straps.

Graco Classic Connect Literider Stroller, Yield (link)

This stroller weighs less than 20lbs and has a 40lb weight limit.  MSRP $59.99

Pros:

• One hand fold
• Padded handles
• HUGE basket.
• Rear wheel brakes
• Cushioned seat, and lots of color choices
• 5 point harness on SOME models at Walmart.com
• Accepts all Graco infant seats!

Cons:

• The child snack tray does not fold or swing aside, it just pops off.
• The seat only has two recline levels.
• Horrible design for folding it up.

 What I love about this stroller is the color options, the cushy seat, and the 5 point harness.  What made me decide against this stroller was the folding design.  When you push the button to make it fold up, the stroller collapses forward, and the child tray bangs agains the ground, hard.  I knew we would be folding this stroller quickly while standing on pavement.  I hated to buy something that I knew would be damaged pretty quickly.

 See how the child tray, on the far left, is touching the ground?  When you fold this thing, the edge of that tray crashes down.

 

Jeep - Cherokee Sport Stroller, Siren (link)

This stroller weighs 11.8lbs and has a 40lb weight limit.  MSRP $59.99, but Walmart.com has it for $44.22.

Pros:

• One hand fold
• Padded handle
• It's PINK!  I justified the color to my husband by saying it would be easier to find a pink stroller when it's parked with 50 others. :)
•  There is a pouch hanging beside the seat, where your child can store her treasures
• Huge storage basket
• Extended length sun canopy

Cons:

• 3 point safety harness
• Reviewers complained about the durability of this stroller.  Instead of the fabric being riveted directly to the frame, it's attached differently.  A plastic pin is sewn to the fabric body.  The pin inserts into slots in the metal frame.  So, those plastic pins break and then your stroller seat won't be attached to the frame! 
• 3 position seat recline, not multi position seat recline.

 What I love about this stroller is the color, and the little side pocket that my girls can fill up with their toys and access all by themself.   I also am pleased that it folds the exact opposite from the Graco stroller... and reviewers said that it stood alone when folded.  BUT - it only has a 3 point harness, and the reveiws about the lack of durability meant it wasn't for me.

Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller (link)

This stroller weighs 11.8lbs and has a 50lb weight limit.  MSRP $59.99, but Target.com had a 15% coupon and free shipping.

Pros:

• One hand fold
• Padded handles
• Huge storage basket
• Extended length sun canopy
• Nice larger foot rest
• 5 point safety harness
• Multi Position recline
• Higher weight limit than any others I looked at in this price range

Cons:

• It's red.  Given, my husband likes red, and it's gender neutral while still being easy to spot.
• The seat isn't as nicely padded as some of the others.

This is the stroller we chose!  It's cheap, durable, nicely designed, and has a good safety harness.  We're taking it to Disney World on St. Patrick's day, so I'll post in-action photos after we get back.

It folds correctly, and looks like it will stand unassisted when folded.





Hopefully, this will help you decide on a nice stroller for vacation!  Thanks for reading!

Ipsy Glam Bag Review February 2014

I got my first Ipsy Glam Bag in the mail today!   I am so excited to tell you all about it, especially since it's only $10 each month to receive FIVE beauty products and a cosmetic bag in the mail!  Ya'll, that $10 even includes shipping!  I found Ipsy Glam Bags while checking out Stitch Fix reviews on blogs.  A blogger also reviewed a Glam Bag, and I used her referral link to sign up for my own.  Here's a tip:  There is a wait time before receiving your first bag after signing up.  But if you share your Ipsy account with your facebook page, the wait time goes away and you can get your first bag the very next month.

Before I go any further, I want to share my referral link:  CLICK HERE.

What is an Ipsy Glam Bag, you ask?

Michelle Phan started out doing Youtube video tutorials.  She was constantly asked the question: "What are the right products for me?"  I totally understand that question, since I've asked it myself.  Choosing the best items for your needs can be a challenge! That was why Michelle created ipsy. Michelle and her team of stylists have selected products they love, for you to try.

Each month, subscribers will receive a beautiful Glam Bag with deluxe samples and full-sized beauty products. Members can watch and play along with the stylists with the same products that they are using. All for only $10 a month.

When you sign up, you take a beauty quiz, asking all about your skin tone, beauty preferences, favorite brands, skill level, etc.  I love this service, because I never buy new beauty products.  I've used the same tube of mascara since I quit work and started staying home.  I never wear makeup, because it's not fun for me.  All of that has changed since signing up for Glam Bags!

I can't tell you how excited I am about primping a little, especially since I've got some nice new clothes from Stitch Fix (link) to wear too!

Ipsy is also very involved with social media:

1. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date.
2. Explore beauty Looks on ipsy.com and enter monthly "Look Challenges" to win prizes.
3. Subscribe to the monthly Glam Bag... it's just $10/month and packed with beauty products.
4. Reveal exclusive offers from leading brands in your personalized Glam Room.
5. Tell your friends about ipsy by using your unique ipsyPoints referral link.

 

The Review

I received an email the second week of February, letting me know that my February bag shipped.  They provided me with a DHL tracking number, which was transferred for delivery by my local post office.   My Glam Bag was delivered exactly two days after receiving my tracking info.  This is the stock photo of the February glam bag.  I knew that I would probably get different products than pictured, since each glam bag is customized for your needs, skin tone, product preferences, etc.

 

 

First Item: Pink cosmetic bag with pink cheetah print lining

I really expected this bag to be poor quality, since the entire Glam Bag was only $10, and that included shipping.  But, this is really nice!   I feel like it would hold up well to being carried in my purse.

Second Item:  Plump Pout Mini in Peony Petal

This lip gloss is so nice and luxurious!  It goes on very smooth, not sticky at all.  I usually don't wear lip gloss because the wind blows my hair onto my lips, and then my hair has gloss in it.   This feels so smooth and sheer, I don't think that would happen to me at all.   I feel like this is just right for my SAHM lifestyle.

The product can be purchased here, and it costs $16! Since this item was in my Glam Bag, I get 25% the retail price if I order this month.

Third item: Zoya Nail Enamel in Dot

 

This is the first item I used from my Glam Bag.   The color is very subtle, which I love.  I have stubby little nails, and don't care for dark polish on them.   I put on two coats, and after two days it looks as good as it did when it went on.  This polish is ultra long-wearing, vegan friendly, and contains no formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene, dibutal phthalate, or camphor.

You can buy this polish here, and it's $9-$10 per bottle.   Zoya is offering special discounts to Ipsy customers this month:  I get buy 2 nail laquers, get one free.  PLUS a $6.95 shipping credit.  PLUS a free bottle of remover.    AWESOME!

 

 Fourth Item:Tini Beauty Eyetini Cordial Cream Shadow + Base In One in Violette

I love this creamy eyeshadow.  I also love that I don't have to use a base to make it stick to my eyes.  I don't have time to dig around for two different eyeshadow tubes.  I received this in the color 'Violette,' which is an Ipsy Glam Bag exclusive color!  How neat is that?  Eye Cordial's revolutionary formula glides on beguiling creamy color and sets to a transfer-resistant finish that doubles as a wear-extending base under powder shadow.

You can buy your own here.   Retail value for this tube is $18.  Tini Beauty is offering Ipsy customers 50% off their purchase, plus a free nail polish with every order.

 

Fifth Item: skyn ICELAND Fresh Start Mask with Ice Age Mud

 

I'm sure I got this product because I indicated in my beauty quiz that I have extremely dry skin.  This 10-minute weekly treatment polishes and re-texturizes skin to reveal a luminous, youthful translucence for a fresh start.  Guys, you put on a clay mask, and then use an activating gel on top of that.  AND it effervesces with a warming sensation that oxygenates, clarifies and smoothes the complexion.

This product can be purchased here.  Retail value for this is  $39 for 6 treatments.  And skyn Iceland is giving Glam Bag recipients 50% off the first product, and 20% off subsequent products.  They also have free shipping on all orders over $25.  This is the discount I plan on using.

 

Sixth item:  J.Cat Beauty Eyelashes + Eyelash Glue

 

This is the item I thought I would never use.  It's not something I need, or care about.  BUT, I decided to expand my horizons and try it out for my Valentines Day date night.  Here is the nice thing about Ipsy:  I had no clue how to wear these, or apply these, or anything.  I was eyelash illiterate.   So I hopped onto my ipsy account and watched a couple of stylist video tutorials for applying them.  And it was so easy.  And fun!!!

You can buy these here, and you can take your pick from 30 styles that you won’t be able to resist.  Each includes an individual eyelash adhesive for endurance through a night on the town!  Each set of eyelashes is $3.99, comes with adhesive, and lasts for up to 10 uses.  Ipsy customers get 25% off their purchase, if they decide to buy these.  And I have to admit, it's fun to wear them!

 

My Thoughts

This was an awesome experience.   For just $10, I got at least $35 worth of product, including three full-size items (eyeshadow, nail polish, and eyelashes).  Plus I easily got double that amount in coupons and online discounts.  I've already ordered more face masque, and received half off my $40 masque set.

Is this worth my time and money? YES!   Will I continue to use this service?  YES, and I have no reservations about continuing this service indefinitely.