Apple TV from Staples Canada ~ #Review #Giveaway #2013ChristmasGiftGuide

Over the past 7 years, I haven't had cable for about half of that time.  I watched most of my favourite TV episodes on my laptop.  For a while it didn't make sense to pay for cable while only watching a few hours a week.  For months now, I am streaming shows on my laptop.  Watching a few anime and Dora episodes are fine and dandy but I prefer to watch my movies on TV.  I was not inclined to have an HDMI cable to run across the living room from the laptop to the TV. Anyone could accidentally trip on it (knowing with my 2 years kids, it will most likely happen). I will refuse to lose my laptop or the TV or even have them injure themselves.

The AppleTV is small and portable like a size of thick drink coaster.  It could be easily be taken from one location to another. Apple being Apple, they make their product simple that even my daughter might figure out how to use it. My husband hooked it up to the TV once I brought it home since he was very excited to try it. All he had to do was link it to our modem and login to our Netflix account and away we went. The first thing we tried was Netflix, by watching Avatar: The Last Air Bender (by Nickelodeon) because it is one of my daughter's favourite shows. It was perfect like it was on cable.  I also love the fact it could also stream Crunchyroll, best known for streaming animes - my other addiction.  On my laptop I am able to watch most of the series for free but I believe you need to purchase a membership to watch it on AppleTV.  However I was able to watch a few episodes in the meantime.  This AppleTV also could stream YouTube, Vimeo, latest and popular movie trailers, Crackle and even KorTV

Knowing some guys or gals this AppleTV might be on their wish list.  If so, hop over to Staples to pick one up.  It is still not too late to grab it since there are a few days left until the 25th!  Don't forget Staples has a huge range of electronic for the techie on your list.

Did you know Staples has a Price Match Guarantee.  If you find a item at a lower price, they will match the price. Another bonus is if you purchase an item from Staples and within 14 days and discover the price was lower somewhere else, they will refund the difference.  Please contact Staples for more details.


GIVEAWAY!

Curel Collection ~ #Review #2013ChristmasGiftGuide

One thing I hate is dry skin.  I get itchy and irritated skin.  Fall and Winter is the time I use most of my body lotions like there is no tomorrow.  I have found the office in my building is so dry I think I am drinking a gallon of water everyday.  I have a collection of hand cream all over the house and in the office where I work.  I like it already available whenever I need it and I need it often.

Among the Curel collection there is something just for your skin type and need.  They have the Original Lotion for dry skin, Extreme Care for extra dry skin, Itch Defense for dry, itchy skin, and then there is Fragrance Free for Dry and sensitive skin.  There is also Hand and Cuticle therapy for dry, rough hands and the Foot Therapy for dry, cracked feet.

Curel Daily Moistruizer Original Lotion
- Dermatologist recommended
- gentle enough to be used on the face
- offers 24 hours of continuous hydration
- enhanced skin's moisture barrier
- maintain healthy looking skin
- developed with Advanced Ceramide therapy
- non greasy
- won't clog pores
- absorbes quickly

I have to thank the people from Curel who know about my addiction and want to banish my dry skin this season.  They sent me a huge collection for me to try.  With this collection, I wont have to worry about dehydrated skin much, I hope.  I am already digging in to try their foot cream because as a girl could never get enough foot cream.  Who wants to see disgusting cracked heels?  I also enjoyed using the Extreme Care for my extremely dry hands and body.  The lotion is light and it absorbs quickly on my skin to give it healthy and hydrated skin.  It has no scent and non greasy feel.  I love the portable size where I would always carry one in my purse or nap sack.

This winter, my daughters and I will be properly hydrated and not be able to complain about being itchy.  The past few days we really needed it.  I don't mind mild cold winters but when you add the wind it just makes it harder to go outside.

Available at most retail chain SRP $9.99 (480ml)

If you are thinking of some last minute stocking stuffer ideas the foot or small hand cream would be a good idea.  Hand creams are ideal and everyone needs them especially during this season.  I know my mom would love to have one of these because she also is addicted to body lotions.

*Disclosure - The product in this review was provided to me free of cost for the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Great Stocking Stuffers Ideas ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #Review #Giveaway

Only a few shopping days left and I could smell Christmas in the air.  My stockings are hung by the chimney on the wall with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas daddy soon would be there.  I am patiently waiting for my husband to hurry up to make his purchases so the stockings are "filled with care".  They need to be stuffed to the rim with exciting products to try and use.  I think this Boxing Day I should purchase new stockings that are twice the size of the ones I have now.

Here are some last minute stocking stuffers ideas.  I like my stocking stuffers contain product to be more useful and practical products to own.  So in other words, gift cards and beauty products are the most ideal things I would like to see in my stockings. (*hint*hint*).

Ecotools are great.  I have been using the brush for a few months and I have not gone back to my old brush set, and most likely never will again.  They are super soft on my skin and do a perfect job applying cosmetics on my skin.  I also love EcoTools Bath Sponge and the Dual sided facial buffs.  They help leave my skin all squeaky clean after my hot shower.

What makes them eco-friendly? The brushes are 100% cruelty-free, the soft bristles are made of synthetic taklon and the handles are made of bamboo and recycled aluminum ferrules.  The Bath Sponge is 100% recycled sponge and could also be recycled.  The Dual sided facial buffs is made from bamboo.

The other great product to add in my stocking is soaps and lotions.  I think I will always love to continue to use a bar of soap.  I use both liquid soap and bar of soap depending on my mood.  Scented soaps are usually the ones I enjoy using.  I really like The Scottish Fine Soaps "Soap in a Tin".  They come in a pretty little tin I could reuse to hold my paper clips or change.  The soaps leave my skin squeaky clean and leaves a nice light scent.

After using the "Soap in a Tin" I like to use Au Lait Hand and Nail Cream afterwards to keep my hands hydrated.  I can't believe how soft it makes my hands.  I could not stop touching them.  The cream is light and gentle.  It absorbs quickly which gives me a matte dry finish.  There is no greasy feel or bad odor but a light clean scent.

Ecotools are are available in Walmart, Amazon.ca, Farleyco.ca, selected Brunet, Familiprix, Pharmasave, Proxim, Uniprix.

Scottish Fine Soaps are available at Winners, HomeSense, Amazon.ca and Farleyco.ca.

GIVEAWAY!

My Little Pony at Build A Bear ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #Review

"My Little Pony, My Little Pony, Ah Aah Aah Aah...My Little Pony, I used to wonder what friendship could be, My Little Pony, Until you all shared its magic with me!..."  Yes, let Build A Bear brings you the magic of Friendship to your little ones.  Yes, both my daughters can "sing" its theme song.

FlutterShy

CeraVe is a Great Stocking Stuffers Idea ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #Review

Every day at the office I think I drink about a gallon of water a day.  I am always so thirsty and dehydrated.  Even my co-workers were asking me how much water I drink since I am always going to the water cooler to fill up my water bottle.  My skin has become so dry and irritable that I can't live without applying some lotion or body butter.  I was introduced CeraVe and I have no idea why I have not tried this line before.  My hands and body are in love with the product.

Baking with President's Choice ~ #Review #2013ChristmasGiftGuide

I love to bake during this time of year.  I have no idea who thought up the idea that baking and Christmas goes hand and hand.  There are times when I am baking three different products to get it out of my system.  I think I make one of the best homemade chocolate chip oatmeal cookies.  They are even from scratch!  I love eating them with my morning tea...which reminds me I should be making a batch soon.  Sometimes I need the extra help during Christmas so I turn towards my trusty President's Choice in my usual grocery store's baking isle.

SIGG Cuipo ~ #Review #2013ChristmasGiftGuide

I try to drink water as much as possible. I rarely purchase water. The odd time I have was because I ran out or I was desperate. I think bottled water is very expensive and half the time the bottle does not get recycled and ends up in our landfills. I cringe when I think about it. We want to save our environment and also help our wallet, and the way to do that is to purchase water bottles instead. The best ones in the market I have seen are from SIGG.  I love SIGG water bottles.  They are widely well known for their chic, stylish, good quality water bottles.

Christmas at Build-A-Bear ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #Review

Yes, we can cue in the music "It is the most wonderful time of the year".  This is it!  The last few weeks left until the big day to see both kids and adults go mad unwrapping presents underneath the Christmas tree.  I just can't believe all the hustle and bustling will coming to an end as we to go back to our normal program.  When I had to purchase a stuffed toy for someone on my list, I will give them the best which means I am shopping at Build A Bear.

Clear Hair Products ~ #Review #Giveaway #2013ChristmasGiftGuide

Like I have mentioned in the past I have been growing my hair.  It has been over a year since I cut my hair.  This is my first time growing this long and I actually like it this long.  I have always seen my girl friends with long hair so I thought it was about time it was my turn.  Since I will be attending a few holiday parties I have a couple of hair dos I would like to try this season.

To maintain it this long and healthy is finding the best product that will do just that.  I was going through alot of products to see what works.  I have course and dry hair because I like to dye my hair and curl it.  During the winter it gets much worst because of the dry heat in the air.

This is not my first time using Clear hair products.  A few months ago I had some coupons on hand so I knew I had to try it.  I love testing out hair products.  I have been using these hair products for a few weeks and you will not believe how much I love it.  The Clear hair conditioners I have found actually works better than most hair conditioners I had tried in the past.  This conditioner is one of my top choice when I am in the drug store stocking up.  The Deep Nourishing Treatment Mask also works wonders on my hair.  My hair was dry and brittle.  Putting this on and leaving it for at least 5 mins actually works like a miracle.  None of the Clear hair products leaves any residue or bad odors.  It "cleans" my hair and making it healthy and smooth.

Clear Women Damage & Colour Repair Shampoo & Conditioner contain a colour-safe formula that offers advanced protection from damage, perfect when you're constantly washing and styling your hair during the holiday and going to one holiday party after another! The Damage & Colour Repair Deep Nourishing Treatment Mask, with a rich blend of vitamins and nutrients, will make hair 95% more damage-resistant in only 3 minutes. 

Don't forget the Men because Clear also has a full line for Men.  The Clear hair products would be a fantastic stocking stuffers.  It is a product they should try if they have not yet.  I do like the fact I don't need to go to a salon to pick these guys up because they are available in most grocery or drug stores.  I favour one stop shop method when I have two kids in tow.

 Available at mass merchandise, grocery and drug stores across Canada. MSRP: $5.68-$8.49.  They often go on sale and more than once I have seen great value coupons floating around.

GIVEAWAY!

Real Techniques by Samantha Chapman is a Great Christmas Gift Idea ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #Giveaway #Review

I don't know about you but I could not get enough make up brushes.  Before I always thought the applicators that came with the cosmetics are fine.  Boy, I was wrong because they are not the ideal tools to use.  I consider them emergency tools.  I have discovered that make up brushes are the way to go.  There are so many of them and I have found another set of brushes that I adore.  I have been using them each morning and it pleases me how well it gives me the look I desire.   Real Technique brushes have become a staple of my morning routine.

This brush line is designed by the infamous makeup artist and beauty blogger, Samantha Chapman.  The Taklon bristles are ultra-plush and smoother than other brushes.  It is synthetic, 100% cruelty-free.  It helps create the flawless look you're trying to create.  Each brush head is hand-cut for the perfect shape to give the application the perfect look.

The set includes:
Base Shadow Brush - applies a smooth, flawless foundation colour
Deluxe Crease Brush - soft, oversized design for effortless contouring
Accent Brush - designed for presicion detailing spotlighting, highlighting, and smudging
Pixel-Point Eyeliner Brush - tapered cut is ideal for dense or fine eyeliner application
Brow Brush - distinctive shape easily defines eyebrows
Plus a Panormic Case to hold all the brushes

I absolutely love my eyes/enhanced starter set brushes.  The plush brushes makes it easy to pick up the cosmetic and it is so gentle when I apply it to my eyes.  I really love there are step-by-step guide I could follow using the Real Technique brushes.  It is a great Christmas gift idea for a newbie just starting out.  However, I think they are perfect for anyone who uses makeup.  The videos are so easy to understand and follow to help to get the same look.  The set comes in a case and went bent it correctly it becomes a stand for easy access to the brushes.  It is a brilliant idea because my brushes have never been more organized.  Once I have tried these brushes I wish I have her whole collection because they are that good.  I can't live without them since I have have been using them.  The perfect beauty item to give for this Christmas season.

GIVEAWAY!!

Farleyco.ca would like to offer one of my readers to win their own Real Techniques eyes/enhanced starter set.

Bodum Yo-Yo Set is the Perfect Gift ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #Review #Giveaway

You all know I am a tea-a-holic drinker.  I have at least one mug a day.  I does not matter if my tea is in either loose or bagged.  However I do have a few favourites that are sold loose.  When I do have loose tea I don't like to bag them because they do cost extra.  They are great for on the go in a traveling mug.  I preferred to use a strainer to hold my tea leaves.  For awhile I did use the ball and the chain for a few years but one day I lost it.  No idea where it went.  Then I decided to purchase a mug with a cup strainer for easier cleaning and not getting lost.

I think this yo-yo set (cute name) is fantastic!  I love the tray could be double up as a lid and a trivent to prevent the strainer from dripping all over table when I take it out of the mug.  It is dishwasher safe and microwave safe.  I dont have a dishwasher so it will be mostly washed by hands.  I love when items are microwave safe.  I hate to find out it was not and gets me annoyed that I have to find another cup that is.  It holds 10oz so it holds enough for my morning tea but sometimes it might not be big enough when I am so thirsty...so I will fill it up again.  See problem solved.  The strainer works with any cup and works with any loose tea leaves.  I have seen other strainers and I think they were useless since the holes are large enough for certain tea leaves to pass through.  I hate to swallow tea with the leaves.  It is gross.  This strainer is perfect, something I was looking for to keep at home or the office.  This is a great Christmas gift for tea-a-holic or just starting out drinking tea.  I think this is a perfect gift for everyone.  Grab one of these mugs and add a bag of tea leaves = the perfect gift for this holiday season.  It is so affordable at MSRP $10 and it is available at The Bay.

GIVEAWAY!

Bodum would like to offer one of my readers their own yo-yo mug set.

This giveaway will run from December 4th, 2013 to January 1st, 2014 (midnight EST).  Winner, You have 72 hours to reply.  You must be 18+ Canadians Only.  Good Luck!



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*Disclosure - The product in this review was provided to me free of cost for the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Hallmark Christmas Collection ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #HallmarkPressPause #Giveaway #Review

Hallmark is one of my ideal places to shop during Christmas.  Over two decades I have bought so many Christmas cards, gift bags, and wrapping papers.  It was also one of my Mother In Law's favourite places to shop for Christmas ornaments.  I know I will need to replace some since my kids love to play with the ornaments.  This year they have so many great items that it is always fun to enter into their store and test out their new products.  My girls were very excited to test drive what Hallmark sent me.  There was much laughter and giggles and even fighting over who's turn to play with it was.  I think this year Hallmark has out done themselves to help us celebrate Christmas this year.

North Pole Communicator ($29.95 with any purchase, MSRP $39.95)
If your little one wants to talk to Santa this is the thing to get.  Even I am excited to pay with it.  Each day starting December 1st to Christmas, my kids could talk to a friend in the North Pole.  This would be so much fun and to spread a little Christmas joy in our household.  My kids can't wait for December 1st to get the party started.

'Blink-Along' Musical Scarf ($14.95 with any purchase, MSRP $24.95)
I was having so much fun playing with the scarf.  It plays a 5 different Christmas tune and flashes along with the music.  My youngest daughter was fascinated and kept on pressing the button over and over again.  She couldn't get enough of it.  I was thinking of bring this to the office to share some holiday laughter.

Totally Ticklish Goofy ($15.95 with 3 Hallmark cards purchase, MSRP $29.95)
From all the Disney character's laughter, I think the one that is most memorable is Goofy.  I think he laughs the most because he is just goofy.  Both my daughters enjoys playing with him.  As he is singing his song, the girls will tackle him with tickles.  His giggles are contagious that it even made me smile with him.

Yule-K-Lele ($19.95, MSRP $24.95)
I think I need another Yule-K-Lele.  Both of my girls were fighting over playing the Yule-K-Lele.  I even enjoyed playing with it to hear the tune as I "strum" it faster or slow.  My littlest one was having the time of her life playing it and was driving her older sister crazy because she wanted her turn.  I think this would be fun to pass around at a Christmas party and watching enjoying themselves.

"Let it Snowmen" 5 piece Mini Snowmen ornament set ($6.95 with 3 Hallmark cards purchase,  MSRP $14.95)  I love ornaments and I believe the ones I currently have are mostly from Hallmark.  I love to go and visit their ornaments section to see what I should purchase next.  These little snowmen are cute and they could be used as a gift decoration to make it look professionally wrapped.  After they have unwrapped the gifts they could hang the decoration up on the tree.

Pics 'n' Props Christmas Fun Kit ($14.95 Hallmark Rewards Offer, MSRP $24.95)  This prop kit would make each Christmas picture fun.  It includes masks and cute funny cut outs that would make picture taking alot more fun with the kids.  These will make the pictures very unique and interesting to look at a few years from now.  This kit could also bring so much fun at a Christmas party.  It could be a great start of a conversation or just a good laugh during the party.

Holiday Gift Wrap, Santa Approved Gift Bags and Christmas Cards, oh my!  For years I have used Hallmark's paper products because they were one of the best.  They were always pretty and high quality that I never second guessed myself when purchasing them.  I may at time over purchase them so I have a small pile I could use them over a few Christmases.  I say the outside should be somewhat just as nice as the inside.  I like to see pretty gift wrapped boxes and bags underneath the tree.  I also still enjoy receiving pretty Christmas cards in the mail.  I might be old fashioned but I get excited to find them in my mail box and I collect them and still have ones I received 20 years ago.

Do any of the items piqued your interest?  Just remember once they are gone...they are gone...so don't hesitate to avoid any disappointments.


GIVEAWAY!!

Once again, one of my favourite store, Hallmark Canada would like to offer one of my readers to win a "Let it Snowman" 5 piece Mini Snowman Ornament set.

This giveaway will run from December 2nd to December 25th, 2013 (midnight EST).  Winner, you have 72 hours to reply.  You must be 18+ Open to Canadians Only.  Good Luck!



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*Disclosure - I am apart of Hallmark Press Pause Panel.  The product in this review was provided to me free of cost for the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Christmas at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #Giveaway #Review

Warning.  This post might have you lick your computer screen.  Christmas is not Christmas without chocolate overflowing on our treat table.  In my case it is almost empty again.  Everyone in my family loves chocolate especially the three vultures.  Normally I would not give it to my youngest daughter but she has to have what her big sister is having.  There is not way around it.  The one chocolate store they all love to go and visit is the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Store.  The place that always makes my mouth drool.  Check out their Christmas collection because there is something there for everyone.

Need ideas for Stocking Stuffers?  Check out the traditional Christmas Balls ($7oz of milk chocolate) that tastes so good that you could never have only one.  My girls have been begging me for another one then again for another.  I had to limit them to three each.  They are hovering over me to see if I wave and give them more.  This package is great for sharing among co-workers, class mates, or all to yourself if you don't want to share.

If you want to jazz it up a bit, the Christmas Tree (3.4 oz, milk, white, or dark) is also a great idea.  This tasty solid chocolate shaped into a tree is perfect to include as a decorative piece to attach on the present.  The recipient won't be incline to share like the Christmas Balls.  However this is much better than a bow.

A great mini gift idea or another stocking stuffer would be the Chocolate Pretzel Pack.  It contains 6 Pretzel dipped in chocolate and rolled in candy cane bits.  This is a great Christmas gift idea who  likes sweet, salty, and peppermint taste.  Perfect to give to someone like a school bus driver, school secretary, and even to the lunchroom teacher.

If you are looking for something cute and is the "bomb", try treating someone to the Candy Cane Santa Bomb as another stocking stuffer idea.  It is very hard to describe it but I will try my best.  It is shaped into a ball, almost like a truffle and inside contains with candy cane bits inside.  It taste so good and I wish I had more.  Make sure you purchase a few since they are hard to resist.  You can't have just one.

You can't forget those who celebrate Chanukah because Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory made this 4oz hollow milk chocolate Driedle just for the occasion.  This treat should be included in their driedle game.  It would be a great prize I bet everyone wants to get their hands on this chocolate.

Sometimes giving someone the same box of chocolate might be redundant.  Image if a teacher with 30 kids give her chocolates and it might be all the same/similar.  So here is some great ideas I think the receiver will enjoy.

The 11oz Clusters Christmas Tree (white chocolate drizzled over milk) would be a nice little gift to give or to keep at home.  I think it could be a great center piece at a Christmas party if it lasted long enough for the evening. Guests will be breaking a piece of it off throughout the night and it will be gone before you know it.  It is that good.  The top is shredded coconut mixed with chocolate.  The rest of the body is solid milk chocolate with a hint of dried cranberries.  This did not barely last a day so purchase plenty because they will be eaten before you know it.  If someone received this all wrapped up, they would not have guessed it was chocolate.

Candy Cane Bark has become a tradition for me.  I seem to purchase this for many years.  My daughter loves eating chocolate and candy canes and loves to eat these together.  Who could say no to a large bar of milk chocolate with a layer of crumbled candy canes? Another chocolate treat my daughter kept on eating.  I think I have 6"1 male mouse who also has been nibbling it away and he thinks I would not notice.

If you have someone who is nut crazy like me, I bet the 18oz Nut & Brittle Tray would be the perfect gift you might be looking for.  My whole family including my mom and brother loves nuts and chocolate.  This tray consist of 6.5" small tray of 6oz deluxe brittle, 6oz bag of mixed nuts, 5.5 oz chocolate covered almond clusters and 3 pieces of chocolate foiled bells.  It was all good.  After a few days there is barely anything left.  I know a few people in my life would love to have this.  This would also be great to serve at a Christmas party.  Purchase enough for the evening and all you have to do is unwrap it.  Your are all set, don't even need to find a plate because it comes with a tray to use to display the goodies.

Rocky has gift packs that starts at C$29.99 that has a combination of items the receiver will enjoy.

The final verdict is that my family and I absolutely adored every chocolate that came to my house.  It was the hardest to pick and choose when selecting which one to sample.  Since my family and I devoured them in record time I have no choice but to restock with more Rocky Mountain chocolates.  Hop over to Rocky Mountain chocolate factory store and there is so much selection that you will sure not be disappointed and there is a possibility that you might pick up something for yourself.

There is a Christmas promotion that ends December 25th that inside in selected 14oz boxed chocolate might contain a Rocky Card value between $10 to $100.  Good Luck!

GIVEAWAY!

The infamous Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory would like to offer two of my lucky readers a $25 gift card each to their store.  That is chocolate heaven.

This contest will run from November 27th to December 25th, 2013 (midnight EST).  Winners, You have 72 hours to reply.  You must be 18+ Canadians Only.  Good Luck!


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*Disclosure - This product in this review was provided to me free of cost of the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Christmas at The Body Shop ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #Review #Giveaway

There are so many places I need to go for my holiday shopping.  I think each time I am at the mall I think I have to visit each store to see what they have to offer.  If you rewind about 20 years ago, before the kids, I would go on a shopping trip just me and my girlfriends and we would spend the whole day shopping until our feet ached.  The Body Shop was always on top of my list to visit and most of the time I would come out with an item or two because there are so many women in my life who love The Body Shop.

There are so many great gift ideas at The Body Shop including their collection Honeymania.  You can read how much I am raving about their body butter here.  I don't think I know anyone who does not like The Body Shop.  There is something for everyone including men.  I have purchased their men's aftershave and my brother absolutely loved it.

The chocomania mini cupcake $8 is a great stocking stuffer.  It includes 25g soap, 60ml shower cream, and a small loaf in a cupcake box.  This would be great little gift for the teacher or the babysitter.

The ginger sparkle limited time collection is back again.  This has a great scent of warm and spices.  The hand wash 240ml, $8 and lotion 240ml, $12 is a great combo as a hostess gift or a nice decro in the family bathroom.

You can't have Christmas without Cranberry Joy.  Another great collection that is back for the holidays. I think the Cranberry Joy shimmer lotion 250ml, $12 is a must have for this season.  It hydrates your skin and smells great.  There must be a code somewhere that we have to wear shimmer lotion during a Christmas party or a evening night in town.  The lotions makes your body vibrant and sexy.  I love how my skin shimmers in the light with this lotion.

A new collection called White Musk Smoky Rose will be launching in November 4.  Just in time for the holidays.  It has a nice floral scent that any women would love to have this season.

Check out the Special Edition, 4 step eye palette (plum or brown) $28 is a great stocking stuffer. It also comes with 2 mini brushes (flat & slanted) and directions which brush to use to give that smoky eye look every women desires. I doubt there are many cosmetics that come with a decent quality brush like this one. This is a great gift for all women of all ages who love makeup. I would love to have this in my stocking.

The Body Shop has a School Project they are working on that everyone should know. Their motto for the Holidays is “Give Joy to Every Body” and this Christmas they are giving back to the communities they trade with. $300,000 (CAD) from their gift sales around the world is going to build five new schools in Community Fair Trade areas. When you buy any one of their gorgeous gifts you will be helping to give children in India, Nepal, Honduras, and Ghana better access to an education for a brighter, happier future. For more information, please refer to our "Give Joy" dossier.  This is another good reason to shop at The Body Shop.

GIVEAWAY!

I am so excited to announce my friends that The Body Shop would like to offer one of my readers an assorted of items that is worth $100.  Your prize may differ from what I received.  Don't you just love me?


This giveaway will run from November 25th to December 23rd, 2013 (midnight EST).  Winner, You have 72 hours to reply.  You must be 18+ Open to Canadians only.  Good Luck!

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*Disclosure - The product in this review was provided to me free of cost for the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Vitabath Holiday Bliss Collection ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #Review #Giveaway

Can you believe the date?  32 days left until Christmas.  I just can't believe Christmas is fast approaching and it feels like I still have so much to do.  The malls are getting so hectic and I have noticed some have a frantic look trying to find the perfect gift.  If anyone is looking to give me a gift, I am easy to please.  I love anything related to cosmetics and bath and both items.  One of my personal favourites are products from Vitabath.

I love Vitabath and you can read it here but just for this season they released three new holiday scents - Spice is Nice, Sweet Pink Peppermint, and Cherry Red Apple.  I have the opportunity to try the Cherry Red Apple and the scent is so amazing.  The lotion is divine and it makes my skin so soft and smooth.  It leaves a great scent I could sniff my arms all day.  The body wash is also another of my personal favourites.  I feel clean and fresh and the scent of apples and cherry just makes my mouth water.  You can never go wrong with Vitabath and this set is sold as a pair (lotion and body wash).

This is a great gift idea for anyone who loves bath and body products and at such a great price of C$16.99 and getting 25% more for free!  They come a huge bottle and could easy last a while.  Both contains jam pack of Vitamins and antioxidant to revive the skin to feel wonderful.  After trying the Cherry Red Apple, now I want the rest of the limited of time holiday collection.

These items are for adult use only.  Available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Lawtons, Pharmasave, and online - www.myvitabath.com.

GIVEAWAY!

Vitabath would like to offer one of my readers their choice of one of the New Holiday Bath Set collection.

This giveaway will run from November 23rd to December 21st, 2013 (midnight EST).  Winner, You have 72 hours to reply.  You must be 18+ Open to Canadians and U.S.  Good Luck!



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*Disclosure - The product in this review was provided to me free of cost for the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

The Scottish Fine Soaps Company Christmas Idea ~ #2013ChristmasGuide #Review #Giveaway

I can't believe Christmas is fast approaching.   I am so close on finishing my Christmas shopping.  Usually when I am done I still have to find the time to sit down to wrap them up.  I also purchase extra gifts for "just in case" I have forgotten someone or a unexpected guest.  To keep it simple - they will receive a bath and body item.  It is practical and useful so they can't complain.  My co-worker gave me this idea awhile back.  Who knows you might need to thank someone during Christmas.

The Scottish Fine Soaps Company offers many great bath and body care items.  They have a wonderful scent and very affordable.  I would think that many would love to receive them as one of their holiday gift.

The Scottish Fine Soaps Au-Lait 2pc Hand Care Set (2 x 300 ml) SRP $16.29 is a great Christmas gift for a Teacher, co-worker, and even to a grandparent.  It sits in a wire basket that I thought was very chic and pretty.  I love the gentle clean scent and the hand wash leaves your hands squeaky clean.

The Scottish Fine Soaps Arboria 3 pc Travel Kit (3 x 50ml) SRP $9.99 is a great stocking stuffer for someone who travels alot or just loves beauty products.  I love how it comes with a clear travel bag so I could pack other items into it and able to see what is in the bag without pouring everything out.  This set comes with a mini shampoo, body wash, and body butter - the beginning of the essentials of a travel kit.  An idea is pack a surprise flight ticket in the kit for the next romantic getaway trip or use this to hint that a getaway is needed.

If you know someone who is addicted to lotions and body butter as myself, I think they would love. The Scottish Fine Soaps Arboria Body Butter tube (200 ml) SRP $7.99.  The scent is so lovely and mild.  I was sniffing it all day.  It is not as thick as the usual body butter and not as light as a lotion.  As Goldilocks would say, "it is just right".  This is a great stocking stuffer or a mini present to those who often have dry hands and needed a little TLC for their over worked hands.

GIVEAWAY!

Farleyco.ca would like to offer one of my readers to win their own 3 piece The Scottish Fine Soap Arbora travel kit.

This giveaway will run from November 22th to December 20th, 2013 (midnight EST).  Winner, You have 72 hours to reply.  You must be 18+ Canadians Only.  Good Luck!

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*Disclosure - The product in this review was provided to me free of cost for the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

L'Occitane En Provence Fleur D'or & Acacia ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide & #Review

There is one hand cream I absolutely love and it is by L'Occitane.  There is one location that is a short walk from my husband's office and I told him to shop there if he was thinking of purchasing me a present.  I told him there are hand creams I would love to have from that store, and once he did finally remember and bought me one.  However that is a distance memory and hoping for another purchase from him.

As I wait for my husband to clue in how much I love L'Occitane.  I discovered that L'Occitane has launched a new collection, Fleur D'or & Acacia recently.  This collection is created by Karine Dubreuil, perfumer for L'Occitane, has a scent of musky floral.

3M Canada helps you prepare for #Christmas ~ #Review & #Giveaway

I have always decorated my house for Christmas in the beginning of November and this year I have found it so much easier.  I don't have much expect for the lights, stockings and the wreath to put up this year.  Using Command products has made my Christmas decoration so easy.  After a few simple instructions, Voila!  It was so simple, easy peasy.

Usually I have the hardest time to hang my Christmas lights around the house.  For years I had used packaging tape and it leaves a sticky film on the walls and the lights.  This time it was so simple and it does not leave a sticky film behind.  The command products are so sturdy and once I place on the walls they won't budge.  When picking which hooks to use for the stocking, keep in mind how much the hooks could hold.  We don't want our stockings to fall because the wrong hook was used.

I actually found it enjoyable using the command products.  It is like magic seeing the hooks stay on the wall without hammer and nails.  It is only a little "tape" and it is so easily remove by pulling the tape down (and not towards you.)  Cleaning up will be also so easy.  My girls were happy to see the house decorated and my oldest daughter kept on saying "Happy Christmas".

Command products come in a variety of sizes and can be found in stores across Canada, including Staples, Walmart, Canadian Tire, Home Depot, Home Hardware and Target.  Command products can cost as little as $3.50 and as much as about $20.00 (for their value packs).

GIVEAWAY!

Brobo is a Great Christmas Idea ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #review #giveaway

Sometimes I find myself in a jam because I could not find the perfect Christmas gift for a particular person.  Usually it is for smaller kids who have not developed an attachment for any particular toy brand or a child that I don't see very often.  Then I look for items that are practical and still a toy they can play with.  I was stuck until I discovered Brobo who has come to answer my call.

Who is Brobo?  Whoever developed Brobo is a genuis.  It is a cuddly toy that acts like a night light.  They took the initial idea of the glow worm toy if you recall something from the 80s.  The characters are from from the future.  Wave Brobo's right hand to his chest to turn on the light for the brightest mode.  Wave the same hand again to the "Bedtime" mode which is the night light mode.  Wave the one more time or after 5 minutes it turns off.

My daughter loves Brobo: Trex.  She was carrying it around and would not share with her big sister.  I could not "install" a night light for my kids because the socket is under the bed and it was pretty much useless.  However, I thought this night light was a solution to my problem.  Many parents also agree that Brobo is a great product.  It has won many awards and a long list of raving reviews from other moms.

You have to imagine the excited and happy reaction my daughter had when she first saw Brobo.  Now, she has to have it beside her whenever she sleeps.  This would be so useful when she sleeps over at Grandma's house or when were are on a mini family vacation.  I feel like getting 2 for the price of one - a night light and a playable toy.  I could see this toy would last for many years and has become one of her favourite toy and most likely her more memorable toy she has received.  This would be a great Christmas present for any child for ages 18 months up.

Click here to locate a retail store near you.

GIVEAWAY!

Brobo would like to offer one of my readers to win their own Brobo.

This giveaway will run from November 14th to December 12th, 2013 (midnight EST).  Winner, You have 72 hours to reply.  You must be 18+ Canadians Only.  Good Luck!



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*Disclosure - The product in this review was provided to me free of cost for the purpose of conducting this review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Hush Puppies Fall 2013 ~ #2013ChristmasGiftGuide #Giveaway #Review

Getting ready for a Christmas party?  If you are like me, I like to make a new shoe purchase for the event.  I love shoes and I would be a shoe-a-holic if my feet are weren't so picky.   I wish I could wear 3 inches heels but alas it was never meant to be.  Most of my shoes consist of being comfortable 24/7.  Regardless if I could wear 3" heel, can you see me trying to chase my 2 year old around the mall or the isles of the store?  I would most likely injure myself more than anything.  I like to purchase shoes that are not only comfortable but also universal, which means I could use those the same shoes for almost any occasion.