{BirchBox} Decked Out – December 2014

Posted on December 22, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

Decked Out – December 2014

“With apologies to Scrooge, we find it hard to feel anything but buoyant this time of year. There’s the anticipation of a pile of brightly wrapped presents, the glow of a family gathering, and of course the fizz of excitement before a big soiree.”

I love this time of year. Everyone is a little kinder to one another and the element of surprise is constantly hanging in the air. I have a pile of carefully wrapped presents under and around my tree, I cannot wait for my family to open them. On Saturday the boyfriend and I had our very first early Christmas, there is nothing like new love to make the holidays bright. He definitely put the sparkle in my holiday with a gorgeous necklace and matching earrings. I am one lucky girl.

My Birchbox was definitely a surprise this month as I did not get my sample choice item. My choice was not recorded on their website, however a few calls and a bunch of emails later the Manna Kadar Lip Stain was sent out separately from my box. I tried it this morning and I love the color and the texture, the stain is more gloss like than stain. I loved it and will be ordering the full-sized version soon. Now on to my actual December box.

“Hey! What did you get in your BirchBox this month?!”

Decked Out – December 2014

amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo: Weightless spray in the brands signature obilphica scent that refreshes hair sans residue.
—————————> I have never been a fan of dry shampoos until now, this this smells amazing and it did not leave any white residue in my curls. I will definitely be buying the full-sized version.

Dr. Jart+ Black Label Detox BB Beauty Balm: tinted cream brightens, blocks UV rays, and calms blemish prone skin.
————————> I really liked this product, the BB cream covers like a foundation and it was very light and not greasy. This is going to be my new weekend beauty routine go to.

Mirenesse – Mattfinity Lip Rouge in Sydney: velvety color with a modern matte finish. No need for lip liner, this stain stays put.
————————> OMG this color is really really bright and it is going into the gift pile. If I wore this people would think I was a clown, plus it seems kind of gunky in its container.

SeaRX Anti-wrinkle Facial Lift Treatment Serum: with dead sea minerals and potent hydrators, this formula fights wrinkles and fine lines.

Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream: all over hydrator heals and softens everything from rough heels to chapped lips.

BONUS! GET YOUR BONUS! BONUS!: Miss Jessie’s® Original Jelly Soft Curls – Wheat proteins condition hair for soft, shiny curls, and the lightweight formula provides lasting definition without leaving any residue or stickiness behind.

My Decked Out box was pretty great. Some of the samples were super tiny thou, but hey its BirchBox so that can be expected from time to time. I hope all of you enjoy your December Box and have a very merry holiday!

Birch Box is a beauty and lifestyle subscription box program that costs $10.00 per month. For every dollar you spend in the shop you can earn 1 point. 100 points will get you a free birch box or $10 towards a purchase in the shop at birchbox.com. I know you’ve got friends so why not refer those friends to Birch box and earn a few points for doing so. If you would like to learn more and get a Birch Box of your very own go to http://www.birchbox.com for more information.

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{BirchBox} Giving – November 2014

Posted on November 26, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

This month isn’t just about pumpkin pie and gifting, though we support both traditions. It’s also about giving back and giving thanks—whether that’s joining us in raising money and awareness to help fight AIDS with (RED), or being grateful for life’s delights, big and small.

My Facebook feed has been flooded with “thirty days of gratitude” posts and photos. I never take part in such things because I wake each day with a thankful surviving heart. I believe in saying thank you on a regular basis to those who have touched my life, saved it, and continue to stand by my side. November is just one month out of twelve and Thanks Giving is just one day out of 365. Give back each day and karma will reward you. Say thanks more times than you can count and you will be a humble soul.

Humble souls love choices and Birchbox gives me the ability to chose one of my samples every month. I have been in a ten year long love affair with the UK and jump at the chance of trying a British brand. One of the samples you could chose from was from Royal Apothic. I was lucky enough to nab one before they ran out. One gets to chose their sample around the 25th of each month and then the waiting begins. Your box doesn’t show up until the 15th of the next month. That’s a long time to wait, I bide my time and stalk the crap out of my tracking code until the box magically shows up on my doorstep.

“Hey! What did you get in your BirchBox this month?!”

amika – Nourishing Mask: Paraben-free treatment that conditions and repairs with superfruit sea buckthorn berry
—————————-> I have no idea what a sea buckthorn berry is, but this this is the stuff folks. It smells amazing and made my curly hair super soft. Best part it didn’t weight my curls down, instead it was nice and light.

Cynthia Rowley Beauty – Creamy lip stain in Heartthrob: a long wearing lip stain that gives moisture and unbeatable shine
————————–> Truth: “I really want to try this product. The color is so pretty. However the package is really tiny and I can’t get the fucking safety plastic seal thingy off! I’ve tried and failed numerous times. We’ve had words with each other and it still will not come off!”

Gilchrist & Soames – Spa Therapy Body Lotion: antioxidant rich moisturizer that smooths and softens with botanical like grape seed
——————————-> I took one whiff of this and it reminded me of a Grandma so naturally I gave it to my Mama. She is a Grandma after all and she actually loved the scent and texture of the lotion.

Royal Apothic – Cuppa Cuppa Firming Tea Treatment Mask: made with antioxidant rich tea this mask firms and brightens the skin in just eight minutes.
—————————> You know you want to, come on now say “Cuppa Cuppa” out loud. Its fun and makes me giggle every time. This is the British Brand that I was excited to see in the sample choice options this month. I love the smell of this mask and bonus it does a dandy little job on my skin in just eight minutes flat. I will definitely be ordering the full-sized product when my sample runs out.

theBalm – Cindy-Lou Manizer” this shimmery, soft pink highlighter perks up your features with a natural looking glow
———————————–> OMG you all ready know I have made love for theBalm and I was excited to get another theBalm sample in my box. This sample is super cute and I love that the highlighter doubles as a shimmer eye shadow. Come on now the product name is just plain gosh darn fun!

****BONUS****
Dang Coconut Chips
—–> what can I say they are dried pieces of coconut and they are very tasty.

This months box was pretty darn great and I have used almost every sample. Well except for the lip stain, we are still fighting and my Mama she put the lotion to good use.

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{Favorite Brands} Not Soap, Radio

Posted on November 19, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

Leave it to BirchBox to create an EveryGirl affordable luxuries box that included this amazingly lemon scented soap. The soap was so lemony that it was like my puff magically transformed into a lemon and my worries melted away. Not to mention the tongue and cheek label had me giggling like a mad woman as I soaped up.

I had to know more about the tongue and cheek make a girl giggle like crazy in the shower labels. Turns out that Not Soap, Radio is a good old home grown company that is the brain child of sisters, Laura Cabot and Suzanne Cabot. Laura and Suzanne have created an aromatherapeutic line of products that are affordable and deliciously scented. The Not Soap, Radio product line is free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates and are never tested on animals. Which you totally know is an A+ in my book, I don’t do chemicals nor do I support animal testing.

Soap is no longer getting the short end of the stick and your shower has just become the hottest spot in town. Well at least my shower is the hottest spot in town. You can ask the muppet like dog, he will vouch for me as he has to put up with my giggling. I have very sensitive skin and I have to be very careful with the soaps that I use as many ingredients can trigger an auto-inflammatory response. No one likes red splotchy skin and it always makes me second guess my outfit. I thought I was doomed to a life of boring unscented bar soaps. Dropping the soap and slipping is for the birds. That all changed the day my August BirchBox showed up on my doorstep and I haven’t looked back.

I traded in my bar and grabbed Not Soap, Radio. My skin, it sent me a thank you note. I bet your body wash doesn’t make you giggle, I know mine does. Oh and my body wash gives me advice and positive affirmations. Each formula is cleverly crafted and scented, each scent is designed to boost your overall sense of well being. How amazing is that!? A body wash that improves your well being all while cleaning you – now that is what I call multitasking!

Let’s talk about Not Soap, Radio!

When life gives you one too many lemons (and you’ve misplaced your happy place…).™
—————————> Joy inducing, if my happy place had a scent this would be it. I am the girl who goes to IKEA and buys a pallet of the lemon scented candles. I love lemon scented things. The scent of lemon reminds me of home and it makes me happy. This body wash definitely puts a bright spot in my day. You need to buy this! Go to: http://www.notsoapradio.com

Liquid Freud (when you need to turn up the volume on your inner voice of reason).™
————————-> This wash is scented with coconut milk with a dash of mango and it is infused with St. John’s Wort for an immediate mood boost. This is the first full-sized Not Soap, Radio product I purchased and it is amazing. I love the scent, it reminds me of tropical beaches, cabana boys, and tiki drinks. If you live in the frigid north then this is a staple for your shower. Go buy it here: http://www.notsoapradio.com I will be checking your shower to make sure your Liquid Freud is front and center.

The Phoenix (when you need to rise from the ashes–yet again).™
———————————>Instant optimism in a bottle! I love plums almost as much as I love lemons. I was intrigued by the scent description: persimmon plum infused with optimism-promoting Bergamot. Oooo that sounds like a bottle full of optimistic nice and I needed it in my life. It smells so good. I catch myself popping the top off and just taking a whiff when I need a little boost. Trust me – it’s that good! You need a boost in your life, go get a boost and rise from the ashes at http://www.notsoapradio.com

Not Soap, Radio Original Hand/Body Lotions TO GO
———————————> Not Soap, Radio’s amusing and delicious scents in a portable pocket sized bottle. I ordered this set because I could not make up my mind and I wanted to try them all. I needed all of the Not Soap, Radio scents in my life and this affordable set did the trick. Holidays are coming and you need a cute little lotion for your purse. Go get it at http://www.notsoapradio.com

I am a Not Soap, Radio fan girl for life. Laura and Suzanne believe in there brand and if you tweet @notsoapradio they will be the ones responding to you. How do I know? They responded to my tweet the other day and I about died with excitement! I told the lady next to me on the bus “OMG Not Soap, Radio just responded to my tweet and they re-tweeted me.” She just looked at me like I was nuts and snarled. I hands down love this brand and I cannot wait to try every single product in the line. Go on now, go get yourself your own Not Soap, Radio. I promise it will change the way you look at showering and leave you feeling dandy!

***I was no compensated for my post. Opinions are my own***

{BirchBox} FANFARE – October 2014

Posted on October 25, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

Forget we ever said couch potato was a dirty word. This is the best time of year to settle in for some quality viewing, reading, or listening. Whether you’re excited about blockbuster season, geeking out about fall TV premieres, or searching for a new soundtrack, everyone has a fan in them.

Hello October! Did I ever mention that I have a deep love for the month of October and fall. The air changes from warm to crisp, bright colors replace green leaves, and I grow older with each passing year. October is my birthday month and it is also my survivor anniversary month. October is about celebration, celebrating life, my friends, my family, and Halloween!

Speaking of treats BirchBox once again allowed subscribers to pick a sample. I absolutely love sample choice and I eagerly waited for the email. This month I chose the Mally High Shine Liquid Lipstick in Pedal to the Metal and everything else was left up to chance.

“Hey! What did you get in your BirchBox this month?!”

Fanfare – October 2014

dr. Brandt – Pores no more vacuum cleaner: award-winning gel that degunks pores for fewer blackheads and smooth skin.
————————–> This product is perfect for the month of October. Why, because it plays a trick on you. When you first apply the gel it goes on opaque and when it is done working it turns a bluish hue. How cool is that? A product that actually tells you that its done. I used this the first night I got my box and it left my skin feeling so soft and smooth.

Essentiel Elements – Wake Up Rosemary Shower Gel: infuses skin with nourishing honey and softening rosemary and mint oils.
————————> The body wash smells very herby and to me the scent is more suited for someone of the male variety. I will be putting this little bottle of manly smelling goodness in my gift pile.

Harvey Prince – Petaly Noir: lush floral scent that evokes a midnight stroll among blossoming orchids.

Mally – High Shine Liquid Lipstick in Pedal to the Metal: the ultra shiny formula acts as a lip gloss, lip primer, and line all in one.
———————————> This was my sample choice for the month of October. I full on thought that I would receive a sample sized liquid lipstick in my box. My oh my was I surprised when I lifted the lid to find the full-sized Mally in my box. The Mally is worth $20.00 which is double the value of my box. I am in love with the color of this lipstick. You can use a little or a lot, build up the color, and best of all its not sticky.

ModelCo – Powerlash High impact Black Mascara: with a unique brush this Australian brand’s mascara adds length and volume to every lash.
—————————-> Thanks to subscription boxes I have a never ending supply of mascara.

My October box was pretty darn good!

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{BirchBox} Fresh Paint – September 2014

Posted on September 19, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

Fresh Paint

This month kicks off a new season, and with it, an invigorating burst of new colors, trends, and inspiration (not to mention apple cider doughnuts and autumn leaves). It’s also our anniversary month, and a reminder to celebrate all the surprise and delight of the past four amazing years! With that in mind, we’ve dressed up our Birchboxes with gorgeous patterns inspired by fall.

Fall? Like hells yes I am ready for fall! Fall is my favorite time of year, the air is crisp, ripe apples and candy corn are abundant and not to mention its birthday time for me. I love snuggling up on my couch with s cashmere throw, a cup of hot cider, and a scare the pants off of me movie. You know the kind, where every creak and shadow make you jump and you second guess everything around you. Those are the best kind of scary movies. Well unless talking dolls and giant spiders are involved, then I’m not down with watching. I rather run for those movies and things.

Fall means pulling out the heavy weigh cardigans, socks, mixing up my skin routine to ward off the not so pretty scales, and fine tuning my makeup so I don’t look like a ghost. In Minnesota we hunker down and prepare ourselves for the inevitable always reliant snow. Snow, yup I said the “s word,” soon the warm days will slip into cold winter nights. I like to embrace the cold head on and kick it in the knee when its not looking.

BirchBox mixed it up this month with colorful patterned boxes, sample choice, and new products. I love sample choice, I think this was the best thing to ever happen to BirchBox. Who the heck doesn’t love choice? The right to choose is like your God given right. One sample caught my eye and thank goodness I was able to nab it!

“So Lady? What did you get in that pretty patterned box of yours? Oh, Let’s unbox it & find out!!!”

Acure Organics: – Day Cream: Made with gotu kola stem cells, this anti-aging moisturizer firms and protects skin.
—————————> I am in love with this brand! Last month I received the Acure Organics Brightening Facial Scrub with Sea Kelp in my BirchBox. Funny thing is I have been eyeing the day cream and bam BirchBox gives it to me. The size of the sample is deluxe so it will be a while before I need to order the full-sized product. I love the light weight formula and the citrus scent of the cream. It leaves my skin feeling soft and I am not to sure on the firmness. I haven’t noticed any changes in the firmness department yet.

Atellier Colonge: a fresh lively blend of vanilla, jasmine, and lime notes.
—————-> I have yet to try out the sample. I want to try it the description of the scent sounds like heaven in a bottle. However I am unsure on how to open the vial or yea, so there’s that. The sample is smarter than me.

Davines Oi Conditioner: Loaded with apricot butter and roucou oil, this detangler protects and softens hair.
—————-> This is the sample that sparked my fancy and I had to have it the moment I saw it in the sneak peek video. This conditioner smells awesome and it is so light weight, yet nourishing. Not to mention the sample size is huge! Once my sample runs dry I want to buy the full-sized product. I anticipate that this sample will last me a month or more, a little bit of product goes a very long way.

**BONUS! Get Your BONUS SAMPLES RIGHT HERE!!**: I have yet to meet a human being that didn’t like receiving a bonus item or two. Come on the American way has taught us that MORE is better! Any ways back to my bonus samples!
————–> Oi Shampoo foil packet and Oi Oil for smoother shinier strands!

Liz Earl – Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser starter kit: a two-step ritual to purify and exfoliate.
—————–> Did I mention that this brand is British? Yes! Its a UK favorite and if its good for them, then well its definitely good for us. A friend actually gave me this sample a while back and it left my skin a little bit to dry for my liking. So this brand new never been used sample is going to find its way under the Christmas tree. Oh who shall I give it too? Time will certainly tell us.

Pixi – Shea Butter Lip Balm in Ripe Raspberry: Dual-purpose balm that hydrates and gives lips bright, buildable color.
—————-> I freaked when I saw that I was getting this in my box! I have always wanted to try the Pixi Balm. Except I am a girl on a budget and $8.00 is a little much for a balm that I will most likely misplace. I love that the color is buildable, sometimes a girl just needs a hint, other times she needs full on bam color in your face lips.

Jack Pot! I hit the BirchBox jack pot this month! Hell yes, I did. When I picked up my box it felt heavy and I eagerly ran up the stairs to my apartment and ripped the damn thing open. I got so distracted by the amazing sample sizes that I almost forgot to go to a water color painting session with my BFF. They definitely wowed me this month and I just hope they can keep the momentum going. All of my samples were high quality and gigantic for samples. Well except the foil packets, but those packets are just a minor detail. I hope all of you got an amazing box too! If not then well maybe next month will be your month!

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{BirchBox) for CEW – Mass Appeal Box 2014

Posted on August 15, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your drugstore’s beauty aisle offerings, here’s something to help you cut through the clutter: the Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW) Insiders’ Choice Beauty Awards. Dubbed “the Oscars of the beauty world,” this annual event gathers over 6,000 industry pros to vote on the year’s best and brightest products. Every all-star in this box was a finalist in this year’s awards.

The CEW Mass Appeal Limited Edition box is packed with the best-in-class products from this year’s finalist brands. The box features mass market brands, that once you’ve fallen in love, you can hop on over to your local drug store/mass retailer to stock up. As soon as I got word of the CEW box I knew I had to have it.

BirchBox for CEW – Mass Appeal Box

Burt’s Bees – 100% natural lip Gloss in Spring Splendor: This nourishing gloss offers pearly-pink color and shine.
———————-> I was stoked to see Burt’s Bees in the box and I happen to own a few of the glosses already. I love the color and it keeps my lips moist with a touch of shine.

Dove – Go Fresh Restore Body Wash: This gentle cleanser leaves skin soft and revitalized, with a fruity scent that will perk you right up.

L’Oreal Paris – Voluminous Butterfly Mascara: A silky formula, paired with a breakthrough volumizing brush, makes for gorgeously thick, winged-out lashes.
——————–> I all ready own this mascara, it was in the Target Box this spring. I like the formula and it does exactly what it claims to do.

Simple – Protecting Light Moisturizer with SPF 15: Gentle enough for sensitive skin, this oil-free, vitamin rich hydrator creates a lightweight shield against UVA and UVB rays.

TRESemme – Keratin Smooth Keratin Infusing Serum: This lightweight formula fights frizz for salon-rivaling sleekness and shine.

Vaseline – Lip Therapy Rosy Lips: this balm deeply moisturizes lips and adds a lovely rose tint.

This was a great box! As in 5 out of the 6 products featured are full-sized products. The cost of the Mass appeal box is $15.00 plus shipping. I used 20 BirchBox points and paid $0.00 for the box, I love getting things for free.

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{BirchBox} The EveryGirl Box

Posted on August 15, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

“Between low starting salaries and skyrocketing rent, there is rarely extra cash in our bank accounts to treat ourselves to the finer things. But that doesn’t mean we’re going to forgo treating ourselves to life’s little luxuries. That’s why The EveryGirl has teamed up with BirchBox to create a special collection of affordable beauty essentials.”

In July BirchBox allowed us to pick one product for our box and the rest would be left up to fate. The August selection window allowed us to pick from several products or you could select The EveryGirl Box. The EveryGirl Box includes samples from affordable luxury brands. The full-sized version of each sample will run you $35.00 or less. Which is amazing, seeing how all of us, well most of us are budget conscious these days. The selection window did not go without a hitch, once again we broke the website. I needed to have an EveryGirl Box in my life and when the website failed me, I took to the phone. I was on hold for about 20 minutes and was able to snag one of the last remaining boxes.

Let’s Break into The August 2014 EveryGirl Box!”

The EveryGirl Box 2014

Number 4 – Super Comb Prep & Protect: A Sulfate free leave in conditioner that safeguards color, strengthens, and nourishes hair. Full-size $32.00

Benefit Cosmetics – They’re Real! Push-Up Liner: Innovative gel liner pen that hugs the lash line and easily smooths on a waterproof swoop. Full-sized $24.00

Acure Organics – Brightening Facial Scrub: Paraben-free, botanical-rich cleanser that gently exfoliates and boosts skin’s radiance. Full-sized $14.99
———————–> I used the scrub last night and it is AMAZING! It left my skin baby smooth and dewy. I am totally going to buy the full-sized version.

Harvey Prince – Hello: Best-selling spritz that mingles cheerful citrus with floral notes. Full-sized $26.00
———————–> I have read so many reviews about Hello, a lot of women are stating that it is crisp and fresh. They are absolutely correct! I had a hard time getting my first spritz out of the sample and ended up spraying the manhuman in the face. On the bright side he smelled crisp and fresh. Hello is the perfect summery scent.

Not Soap, Radio – Happiness Inducing Body Wash: This aromatherapeutic cleanser will brighten your outlook while you lather. Paraben-free. Full-sized $16.00
——————-> This product is the reason why I chose The EveryGirl box! I am a huge fan of anything lemon scented and this, this definitely fits the bill! Its like you are bathing with a lemon. You can’t help but smile while lathering up. As soon as this product is in stock, I am going to buy it from the BirchBox shop.

This was a great box and I love that all of the products are actually very affordable.

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{BirchBox} POWER UP

Posted on July 26, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

BirchBox teamed up with Women’s Health Magazine to bring us July’s Power Up box. There aim was to amp up our summer, starting with your beauty stash. Get ready to discover products that will boost your routine—and your confidence too. Every box came with a mini magazine of 12 bite-sized challenges to inspire us to make positive changes. The magazine and box were super cute this month.

BirchBox did something out of the ordinary for the month of July. In late June we received word that we would be able to make a choice. Yes, you read that right, BirchBox allowed us to pick one of our samples. One could choose between a Ruffian polish or a Cynthia Rowley lip gloss. We even got to choose the color we wanted. This did not go down without a hitch, the website broke a few times, but with a little determination one was able to get through. I decided to add on the Ruffian polish and by the time I got the site to work the only color left was Ambrosia. I was happy with that color, so I clicked select and let the internet gods take over.

In addition to the product choice we were able to upgrade our boxes with a BirchBox Plus item. BirchBox has had this option for a while now, I just never did it until this month. There were three items for us to chose from ranging in price from $13.00 to $36.00. I chose to add on the Coloud Pop tangle free headphones. BirchBox makes it seem like the add on product will be included in the same box as your monthly samples. This isn’t so it actually ships separately. I had to call BirchBox and email, because I did not receive mine. It turns out they never sent them out. Luckily they still had some in stock and shipped them right on out to me. The cost of the plus items is in addition to the cost of the box, so you are looking at $10 + the cost of your plus item.

Now let’s power up and unbox this thing!

POWER UP

Power UP – July 2014

Caudalie – Divine Oil: an antioxidant-rich blend that naturally nourishes and softens skin, cuticles and even hair.

Costal Scents – Revealed 2 Eye Shadow Paette in Ballerina: From the just launched palette, these matte and shimmery shades will have you tickled pink.
——————–> OMG this sample is to die for cute. If a Mama Palette got together with a Daddy Palette, this adorable sample would be their baby! The colors I received a very versatile and are perfect for summer.

Ruffian – The Rapture Collection – in Ambrosia: streak-free metallic polish in a trendy summer-perfect shade.
——————-> I am in love with this color and the quality of he polish is darn right awesome. I only needed one coat and called it a day. Now my toes are styling in a metallic hue.

St. Tropez Tan Self Tan Bronzing Lotion Face: Multitasking, lightweight lotion hydrates and leaves beautifully bronzed glow.

Wish – Shave Crave Shaving Cream in Acia Grapefruit: A shea butter-packed shaving cream.
——————> All I gotta say is, this isn’t no coochie cream. I am a coochie cream fan girl for life! However the size of this sample is perfect for travel, its just a girl needs a little coochie on her legs and not a wish!

Every box came with a mailer card for 10 free issues of Women’s Health Magazine a $9.99 value. If you did not want the magazine you could return the card with your proof of purchase and they will issue a refund. Basically if you choose to opt out of the 10 issue subscription, you will get $10 back, which makes your July Box free. I chose to get the magazine, 1. because I actually like reading it and usually buy it while I am standing in line at Target, and 2. Its free, I don’t pass up free things!

I hands down loved my July box. Everything except the Ruffian polish was a new to me brand and that is exactly why I love BirchBox. I get to try products before I hunk down a wad of cash for the full-sized item. Not to mention I earn points for taking a few minutes and posting product reviews to their site.

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

{BirchBox & Ipsy} Girls Be Bitchin

Posted on July 12, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

As you know I love a good subscription box or bag, hell I like any mail that isn’t demanding payment from me. For me BirchBox and Ipsy allow me to explore the beauty market place and try new things before I hunk down a chunk of cash for the full-sized product. How often do you get to try before you buy? Not that often, especially when it comes to men……. I kid, I kid. BirchBox and Ipsy have essentially the same concept, they send you a box/bag full of deluxe sized samples or sometimes full-sized products to try in the comfort of your own bathroom. I don’t know bout you but that is where I try mine out, my mirror lives in the bathroom, so ya know I gotta go where the mirror is. Cause it sure as hell isn’t jumping off the wall and coming to me.

All humor aside. While riding the 7:15 am #4B into work, I became irritated by how entitled and ungrateful BirchBox and Ipsy subscribers are. Each month Ipsy opens the “glam room” it allows subscribers to see what is coming in their bag that month. BirchBox does the same thing, you can unlock your box after it ships to see its contents before it arrives at your door. I like, love this concept, 1. I get to see what’s coming and I get super excited and start stalking my packages online. 2. I hate surprises and I like knowing what will be arriving. This concept is a great thing and it is also a horrible ugly thing.

Why is it ugly? Girls are all over the internet bitchin about what is or isn’t in their boxes. First lets look into “Ipsy Gate.” It seems that with Ipsy every month subscribers complain about the quality of the product or the type of item they receive. February’s bag included a mini POP Plumping Lip Gloss, it came in two colors and it had a smell. We are not talking about the normal lip gloss smell, but apparently a very bad smell and some said it burned their lips. Facebook was full of the following posts:”I complained to Ipsy and now I am getting a full-sized Pop gloss to replace my stinky one.” Some women even double dipped by contacting both Pop Beauty and Ipsy ending up with 2 free full-sized glosses. Everyone likes free things, however when free is involved everyone should be honest.

People complained that May’s bag had too much skin care and very little makeup. Apparently Ipsy is supposed to be all makeup all the time. All makeup and no skin care, makes for terrible skin. I happened to love May’s Fresh Picks bag and enjoyed sampling new skin care products. Hey that shit isn’t cheap and if I can try it before I buy it, that’s a bonus. If the skin care complaints were boggling your mind things got even better, soon there were rumblings of broken Pacifica Eye shadow. Before you knew it everyone was complaining about receiving a broken shadow. I got the shadow and mine arrived in one solid piece. Just as before, Ipsy kindly sent out a replacement shadow. Its my understanding that you can apparently put the shadow back together again. Sort of like humpty dumpty. I’ve never done it, so I am not sure how it works.

Now lets look at “The BirchBox Scandal!” Woohooo everybody loves a good scandal! Hell I know I like the sound of the world scandal, that’s why I am using it. Every dang month, girls be bitchin “BirchBox you suck, you didn’t send me anything I wanted! I can’t use any of this! I’m canceling on you! Well, I would cancel but I like the points system, cause I can get free stuff in the BirchBox shop. Yea, I can, I just stay for the points.” <—– People actually say these things on BirchBox’s social media sites. I just laugh at them and usually make some snarky comment. You know because I am kind of snarky. Anyways it gets old really quick. I am not always happy with the Big "BB" yet I keep my unhappiness to myself and I don’t publicly blast them on their social media sites.

Well there was this one time where I did complain on the BirchBox Facebook page. But it was legit, they sent chocolate in my box and I am allergic to chocolate so I couldn't use anything in the box. But I complained in a nice way and through social media they prompted me to call in. So I did, their awesome customer service rep took care of me and hooked me up with a new chocolate free box. Concerns like the fore mentioned are legitimate concerns and should be brought to the company's attention.

Every month a new "Ipsy gate" and "BB Scandal" unfold in my social media feeds. One can literally pop themselves a bowl of popcorn, pour a glass of wine, sit back and read the drama. It's highly entertaining! I love how grown women throw hissy fits over receiving the wrong shade of makeup, tanning oil, hair products, and so on and so on. I am starting to believe that women think that the BirchBox and Ipsy warehouses are like Santa's workshop. You know a workshop filled with magical elves that can read our minds and that every girl in the world has her own personal elf that picks out amazing products just for her. Lady, its time to get real. There isn't a magic workshop and no one is pulling products just for you. It's a random system and they do their best to match products to what you put in your beauty profile. YOU signed yourself up for a sampling service and if you didn't properly read the fine print, then that's your own damn problem. There is no guarantee that you are going to get exactly want you want every month. No where in the fine print does it say "You will only get makeup in your glam bag." Nope I checked the site, it says you will get 5 beauty products in your bag. Same goes for BirchBox, you will get 4 to 6 deluxe sized samples each month and it does not mention that you will “only get makeup”. If you don't like a product, don't bitch about it, give it away or trade it away to someone who will love it.

You are not driving the beauty box bus here, you are just a passenger, and you should be grateful.

Why should you be grateful?
Its easy, you can afford a $10.00 box/bag each and every month, while someone out there can't. Stop and think about the following before you bitch about Ipsy and BirchBox: Think about the woman who is standing with her children at the grocery store cash register searching for just 10 more dollars so she doesn't have to ask the cashier to take something back. For her that is embarrassing and it breaks her heart knowing that her children will have a little less food on their plates. Think about the woman who walks miles to work, because she doesn't have $10.00 for gas. Think about the woman who searches the ground for spare change, because all she needs is another $10.00 to pick up her child's medication from the pharmacy. Think about them, think about their lives and you will see that your petty complaint is just another over-entitled first world problem.

{BirchBox} Away We Go – June 2014

Posted on June 27, 2014 by NinjaInTheCity

Away We Go – June 2014 First Look

“Dust off your suitcase! This is the season for road-tripping, destination-hopping, and, of course, staycation-ing. That’s why we’re bringing you lots of travel-ready samples and on-the-go inspiration this month.”

Yay! Summertime has finally arrived in the Minnie apple and summertime is the perfect time to take a road trip. Minnesota is filled with so many fun things to do and see. Not to mention a few mythical characters and a giant ball of twine. An my all time favorite “Grand Rapids” the hometown of the one and only Judy Garland. If you claim to be a Wizard of Oz fanatic then you must go to Grad Rapids and visit the Judy Garand museum. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy we have over 10, 000 lakes and one of those is the largest of the great lakes. Duluth in the summer time is magical, the north shore is lined with waterfalls, lighthouses, and the famed witch tree. Minnesota summers are the reason we put up with nine months of winter. Our summers are the best hands down!

As you can tell I am in love with June’s theme and the idea of “away we go.” I will go anywhere as long as there is an adventure to be had and well as long as it won’t kill me. It never hurts to try new things and to visit new places. For me personally this is oh yes I am willing to finally call it “THE BEST BIRCHBOX TO DATE!!!” BirchBox finally got it right and sent me a slew of awesome products! I am in love with BirchBox for the first time in a long time.

Away We Go – June 2014

Benefit Cosmetics – They’re Real! Mascara: Kiss clumps goodbye—the smooth formula glides on easily, while the unique definition-enhancing brush lifts and separates each and every lash, even the tiny ones at the corners of your eyes.

Catherine Malandrino Fragrance: This multifaceted perfume has citrus top notes that open up to aromas of lush orange blossom, sweet jasmine, and fresh gardenia. The fragrance rounds out with hints of amber and musk, leaving behind a lovely blend that captures a flirty but refined mood.

Caudalie C15 Anti-Wrinkle Defense Serum: An oil-free antioxidant serum that evens out and plumps skin while preventing wrinkles.

Davines Love Smoothing Shampoo, Conditioner, and Ol All in One Milk: This strand-smoothing trio softens, detangles, and tames frizz for remarkably sleek locks.

Perlier Body Cream – Shea Almond: From the Italian skincare brand, this nourishing cream rehydrates sink for a silky finish.

***I was not compensated for this post. Opinions are my own***

Have Bear Will Travel

She had to break, so I could shine

Category Archives: Birch Box

{BirchBox} Decked Out – December 2014

{BirchBox} Giving – November 2014

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{BirchBox} FANFARE – October 2014

{BirchBox} Fresh Paint – September 2014

{BirchBox) for CEW – Mass Appeal Box 2014

{BirchBox} The EveryGirl Box

{BirchBox} POWER UP

{BirchBox & Ipsy} Girls Be Bitchin

{BirchBox} Away We Go – June 2014