Candlewick Press Children's Books for 2018 and Giveaway

Can you believe it's 2018!? I am still waiting for that flying car I was promised. Anyhow I have some wonderful children's books to share with you so that your kiddos can start the new year right, by reading instead of playing on their tablets. Don't you think we should all make a resolution to spend less time on electronics? Reading is a great past time for adults and children alike, unfortunately with all the distractions of today I think children are reading less. If there is one thing I have always tried to share with my daughter it is my love of books and reading. So here are a few book suggestions for 2018, from Candelwick Press, that I hope your kids will enjoy. 

A World of Information by Richard Platt is a book of knowledge that kids will appreciate. It answers many of the questions that parents get asked but sometimes don't know the answer to. My nine year old daughter was very excited about receiving this book. She is very inquisitive and this book explains things in a way that is easy for kids to grasp. 

How much do clouds weigh? Who invented the pencil? How many ways can you tie a knot? Discover the answers to these and many other questions in this elegant and absorbing miscellany of general knowledge. From music notation to Roman numerals and from the skeleton to the solar system, essential facts are brought to life by stylish infographics and fascinating commentary. Perfect for all ages, this book is sure to amuse and intrigue even the most curious minds.

From Morse code to the bones in the human body, this visually stunning collection of facts and figures puts a world of information at your fingertips.

Where's Waldo? Destination: Everywhere! by Martin Handford is another find and seek book featuring the infamous Waldo and his striped shirt. My daughter has another Where's Waldo book on her bookcase but since she has already found the sly guy in all the photos I thought this would be a fun book for her to spend some time with. She found Waldo in every scene and it only took her about 20 minutes! This might be a better fit for a child a few years younger. While this is not a reading book it will still get your child using their brain.

Everyone’s favorite bespectacled explorer has been many places — the land of dragon flyers, a Jurassic arena of sports-loving dinosaurs, the set of black-and-white movies in Hollywood. Join Waldo as he handpicks his favorite journeys of all time, revisiting twelve of his most fantastic travels in a new format that includes a surprise at the end of the book. New eye-boggling games await Waldo-watchers alongside every scene in this fresh tribute to Waldo’s many years wandering the world.

Have you ever wondered which of his many adventures Waldo loved best?

Harry Potter: Magical Film Projections: Quidditch by Insight Editions is another  book with little reading that will keep your kids away from the TV and lost in the magical world of Harry Potter. Any Harry Potter fan will love this! My daughter is not a huge fan so she gifted this to a friend of hers who absolutely is and I was told she absolutely loves it. 

The wizarding world’s favorite sport, Quidditch is a magical game played high up in the air with Quaffles, Bludgers, and broomsticks. This interactive book allows fans to project their favorite Quidditch scenes from the Harry Potter films on a wall or ceiling using a flashlight. Read along and experience extraordinary moments from the movies like never before, like when Harry catches the Golden Snitch in his first-ever game of Quidditch.

Using black line illustrations on framed acetate pages, this unique book allows fans to project their favorite scenes from the Harry Potter films at home with a flashlight.

Knightology by Dugald A. Steer is my favorite of the lot. It is filled with everything you ever wanted to know about the world of knights and knighthood. Filled with stories and pictures, it is a beautifully made hardcover book that boys and girls will love. My daughter thought this book was the coolest!

What does it really take to be a knight? Peruse this lavish novelty volume and be surprised.

Norse Myths Tales of Odin, Thor, and Loki by Kevin Crossley-Holland is the book that has the most reading. 220 pages of tales so your child can escape into a fantastical world of gods, dwarfs and giants. My husband has actually taken it upon himself to read this book and learn all about Norse mythology. 

A collaboration by two talented creators provides the perfect means to delve into Norse mythology and pore over the enthralling exploits of all-powerful Odin; mighty Thor and his hammer, Mjolnir; and Loki, the infamous trickster. From the creation of the nine worlds to the final battle of Ragnarok, Carnegie Medal winner Kevin Crossley-Holland details the Viking gods as never before, while Jeffrey Alan Love's lavish illustrations bring the mythic figures to life on the page. Readers will be caught up in the seesawing struggle for power between gods, dwarfs, and giants, punctuated by surprising love matches, thrilling journeys, and dazzling magic. With its well-researched, lyrical prose and its dramatic and powerful artwork, this wonderful gift edition makes the perfect book for both the staunchest fans of mythology and newcomers with no knowledge of Viking folklore.

Long-recognized master of Norse mythology Kevin Crossley-Holland pairs with award-winning artist Jeffrey Alan Love for an exceptional look at the Viking gods.

You can find these books wherever children's books are sold. 

I have a great giveaway to share with all readers too! Two of you will win a copy of all 5 books!

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Coobie Seamless Bra Review and Giveaway

What's a Coobie Seamless Bra?

It’s simply the most amazing bra you’ll ever buy. Ultra comfortable, supportive, and inexpensive – it’s the perfect combination. The Coobie Bra provides shape and support and can be worn in place of a camisole or tank top. The Coobie Bra fits almost every body!

I received  a Coobie Scoopneck Bra for review in Royal Purple and it really is one of the most comfortable bras I have. With adjustable straps and removable pads this soft bra can be worn as your every day bra, in place of a camisole or tank top and even to sleep in! Yes, I am one of those women that likes to wear a bra while I sleep. Don't ask me why but I have always worn a bra to bed, it's usually a sports bra or some kind of bra without padding or an underwire. The Coobie bra I received is not only comfortable but offers support without those metal wires that dig into your skin. It comes in a variety of colors and sizes. Coobie has several bra styles you can choose from, they even have nursing bras! 

You can check them out by visiting The Coobie Store. I have a great deal to share with you too! You can use the code USFG to receive 30% off at checkout. 

I have some even better news to share with you! 

The people over at Coobie are allowing me to host a giveaway for a chance to win a Coobie bra of your choice 

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*Holiday Gift Idea* Watch Ya Mouth Review

I have a hilariously fun game to share with you that kids ages 8 and up will be excited to find under the tree this year. Watch Ya Mouth Throwdown Edition is a game of Head-to Head- Mouthpiece Challenges that is going to change the way you see family game night.




The object of the game is it interpret word phrases and earn points. The only problem is, it's not quite easy making out what someone is trying to say when they have a plastic mouthpiece in their mouth, making them look and sound ridiculous. Their are also zany game challenges throughout the game making it an absolute laugh fest. 

My husband and tried the game and were an absolute hysterics trying to get the mouthpieces on, while they are quite uncomfortable at first you get used to it and the fact that you are genuinely having a good time while you are playing makes it all part of the silliness of this game. I know my nine year old daughter will absolutely love this!

Watch Ya Mouth comes in this Throwdown Edition as well as other expansion sets you can check out here. Use the code 15THROWDOWN at checkout to receive 15% off your order. 

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

Rodan + Fields Review and Giveaway Opportunity

Closed

Winners #16 Helga #17 Gabrielly #26 Jeremy

Hey Girly Girls! I have no doubt that Rodan + Fields has been making it on your Facebook feed a lot lately. You probably even know someone who is a consultant and raves about their products constantly. I am hear to tell you there is a reason for all the buzz, the stuff works! So let me tell you a little bit about my introduction to Rodan + Fields. My good friend Tracy, you may remember her as a Girly Girl contributor awhile back. Well, she called me one day and told me about this new business opportunity she had started, selling skincare. She mentioned how great all their products were and she was eager for me to give them a shot. At the time I checked out her website   and like I am sure many others have, thought holy cow this skincare line is pricey. Needless to say I did not buy anything at this point. Than a few weeks later I met a woman at church, her daughter and mine became friends so we introduce each other so we could plan a playdate for our girls. She handed me a card and lo and behold she was also an R + F consultant. Small world! As weeks passed I started hearing and seeing more and more about this "Life-Changing Skincare", my Facebook feed was on fire with the most unbelievable before and after photos, and one day this photo popped onto my feed. 

This photo was different because I actually knew this person, my good friend Tracy. She was promoting R + F's top seller Lash Boost.

A nightly eyelash-conditioning serum that features a unique proprietary formula that improves the appearance of lash volume and length for lashes that are 100% real, 100% yours. In weeks, you’ll be wondering if you need mascara at all. 

My first thought was no way are those her lashes, I mean I know Tracy, when we lived in Alaska I saw her daily, these are not the lashes I remember. So immediately called her up to ask her if she was lying of course, Tracy and I have that kind of relationship. After hounding her for several minutes I decided she was telling the truth and yes, I broke down and bought some Lash Boost. Guess what?! I don't regret it. My eyelashes literally started touching the tops of my eyelids after only a few weeks of using this product, I got so many compliments and people asking me if my eyelashes were real.

They are long see! Here is a closeup I just took, they are loooong. Let me tell you I have now had a change of heart when it comes to R + F prices. When you think about  all the products us ladies spend on skincare  from cleaners, toners, night creams, day creams, eye creams, etc. R + F prices actually make sense, especially when you are getting high quality products that really work. Not to mention I have several friends that started using a R + F skincare regimen and are now spending less money on makeup because their skin looks so great they just don't need it. I am planning on trying their Reverse Brightening regimen next. 

It normally retails for $190 but if you become one of Tracy's preferred customers you get it for $171! 

I have some great deals to share with you if you have been on the fence about trying Rodan + Fields. 

Tracy would like to give away 3 mini facials and 1 sample Hydration Serum to three Girly Girl readers. 

To Enter: Leave a comment on this post. You can get an extra entry You can get an extra entry by trying out her Solution Tool. Make sure you post an additional comment saying you did.

This giveaway will end on December 6, 2017. I will choose the winners using Random.org. Please leave a valid email address if it is not visible in your profile. US entries only. 

In addition if she gets 3 people to order as a Preferred Customer (make sure you tell her Girly Girl sent you) I will set up another giveaway for a Lash Boost valued at $150! Anyone who places an order as a Preferred Customer will also get a $20 rebate. So go check out what all the R + F buzz  is about!

Stay tuned because I will be posting 12 Days of Christmas Rodan + Fields specials right here!

Although I am posting on behalf of product consultant,  all opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

Surya Brasil Henna Cream, Healthy Hair Color Review

I first became familiar with Henna hair color as a teenager. My mom let me use it to dye my hair because it was a better version of hair color, natural without all the added chemicals. I could experiment with my hair color as teenagers often do, without any harmful effects. Plus being semi-permanent it would eventually wash out after several shampoos so I never had to commit. Recently I was sent some Surya Brasil Henna Cream for review. I had been meaning to dye my hair after I noticed a couple of gray strands pop up, I thought this was the perfect test and reintroduction to Henna hair dyes. 

Surya Brasil Henna Cream is the winner of the Best of Natural Beauty Awards.  If you are wondering what Henna is, it is a flowering plant that has been used to dye skin, hair, leather and wool for centuries. Surya Brasil Henna Cream is derived from the Henna plant and formulated with added botanicals and natural extracts to create a hair dye that not only colors but nourishes your hair. 

This anti-oxidant rich semi-permanent hair color infuses hair with lush, vibrant color while nourishing and conditioning with sustainably harvested botanicals. Every shade of Surya Brasil’s sophisticated natural color contains vegetable extracts including herbs and fruits from Brazil and India, which offer a simultaneous coloration and deep conditioning treatment for the hair as well as intense treatment for the scalp. While coloring gray on first application, Surya Brasil Henna Cream Color does NOT contain ammonia, PPD, parabens, peroxide, resorcinol, heavy metals, artificial fragrance, mineral oils, GMO’s or gluten. Like all of Surya Brasil’s products the Henna Cream is 100% vegan and cruelty free.

·        Covers grays and changes your hair color using natural ingredients instead of chemical dyes

·        Colors and conditions using a sophisticated blend of vegetable extracts, herbs and fruits

·        Boosts hair growth

·        Strengthens hair and improves elasticity

·        Locks nutrients into hair and encourages a healthier scalp

·        Helps reduce dry scalp conditions like dandruff

This stuff is really easy to use too! The Henna cream comes in a bottle that does not need to be mixed. You simply open it up, use the plastic gloves that are included with the dye and apply from roots to ends. You leave it on between 30 to 60 minutes depending on how rich of a color you want. My hair was a brown and I wanted it a very dark brown so I used the dark brown shade and left it in for 60 minutes. The result was a deep dark brown almost black. It also completely covered up the gray strands and left my hair super soft. Best of all there was no icky chemical smell! Since my hair is short I did not need the entire bottle but what is great about this Henna Cream is you can replace the cap on the bottle and use it again when you need to. Surya Brasil Henna also comes in a powder version that includes 8 different shades. 

You can purchase these online and they currently have a sale going on from now until November 27. Using the code BLACKFRIDAY you can get 40% off your order of $30 or more. 

he featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

All Your Hair Needs

From dealing with the hair frizzies to hair breakage to just plain dull hair, I have some products to share with you that will help tame and fix your hair woes. 

Has humidity got you singing the hair blues? Here's a  product from göt2b to help. 

Volumaniac Bodifying Hairspray

This volumizing spray immediately locks in volume with enough hold for that drama that you crave.  How to use: Hold 8-10 inches from hair. Spray evenly over hair for an all over hold or spot spray and use hands to create extra volume. Re-spray after styling to hold dry finished style.

I received a bottle of this for review and it was quickly apprehended by my husband who spends more time on his hair then I do. He is a big fan of  göt2b products so he was anxious to introduce this product to his hair. This does just as it says, it is not only great for added volume but it tames the flyaways and even does a great job of keeping my husbands high hair in place. You can also pick up a bottle of Volumaniac Bodifying Mousse if that's more your thing, both are humid hair savers. 

Tired of dealing with hair frizz? Try this shampoo and conditioner duo from Live Clean.

Live Clean Argan Oil Restorative Shampoo and Conditioner

Live Clean Argan Oil Restorative shampoo gently cleanses while restoring natural luster. Enriched with 100% pure Argan Oil, certified organic Grape Seed, and Olive oils for enhanced long term conditioning and shine.
Live Clean Argan Oil Restorative Conditioner hydrates and nourishes without adding any excess weight. Enriched with 100% pure Argan Oil, certified organic Grape Seed, and Olive oils for enhanced long term conditioning and shine.

I have been loving my hair while using this duo. My hair is not only clean but so smooth. It also leaves it feeling soft and not weighed down. Looking to give a new shampoo and conditioner a go then try these, you won't be disappointed. 

Are tangles making your hair an unruly mess? Schwarzkopf Gliss to the rescue. 

Schwarzkopf GLISS™ Ultra Moisture Express Repair™ Conditioner

Daily stress can dry out your hair until it reaches a breaking point. It needs deep repair from the inside and surface reconstruction from the outside. GLISS™ Ultra Moisture Express Repair™ Conditioner contains a special complex with Keratine Care-19 Complex and leaves your hair touchably soft. 

You can find this and other Schwarzkopf GLISS products at mass retailers nationwide. 

Summer Travel Essentials

This summer has been a hot one! The beaches here on the California coast have been packed with people trying to escape the summer heat, while still enjoying the summer sun. If you are getting ready to pack for your summer trip or hitting the beaches for the weekend, I have some summer travel essentials to share with you. These products are great for your summer getaways and will take up little space in your suitcase or beach bag. 

MALIN+GOETZ essential kit

Set includes: grapefruit face cleanser, vitamin e face moisturizer, bergamot body wash, vitamin b5 body moisturizer, peppermint shampoo and cilantro conditioner. 

This set is perfect for travel, it's small size will fit conveniently in your bag and it is FAA compliant and carry-on approved so no need to check your baggage with TSA. It includes everything you need to freshen up while enjoying your vacation. These high quality products are made with natural ingredients. I especially love peppermint shampoo and cilantro conditioner!

Scünci spiral ponytailers

Nobody wants to mess with their hair while on vacation, especially if you are planning to lounge on a sunny beach or take a dip in the ocean . These spiral pony tail holders are a must! I love that these don't pull your hair like traditional rubberband pony tail holders. They are also dent-free so you can go from having your hair pulled back to down without it leaving a crimp in your hair. 

Conair Ultimate Root Booster Mid-Size Cushion Brush

You can't leave home without your hair brush! Conair's latest Ultimate Root Booster line of brushes are the perfect traveling hair brush. The Triangle Airflow Bristle™ design lifts hair right at the roots. Bristles and vented cushion allow up to 50% more airflow* to reach hair for big, beautiful volume fast! I tried the paddle brush and love it. I use it while blowdrying my hair and it shortens my dry time because the air blows right through the brush. 

Now go enjoy your last few weeks of summer!

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

Rituals for the Samurai in Your Life!

For centuries, the ancient Japanese Samurai warriors paid great attention to their personal appearance. Their careful grooming traditions were aimed at creating an appearance that builds power, control and confidence to support their battles and challenges. Inspired by these warriors, Rituals created the Ancient Samurai collection for men that will help you face the challenges of everyday life by being groomed to perfection.

Your beau can follow suit with Rituals Samurai Collection. 

The Perfect Shave Set includes: 

Magic Shave- A mild and caring shaving cream that provides extra protection and care for his skin during and after shaving. Ideal for skin that’s irritated after a shave and helps to make shaving easier. Enriched with basil and ginseng for moisture, the name speaks for itself – he’ll get a truly magical shave.

Samurai Scrub- Enriched with the purifying properties of Japanese Wakame, Bamboo and exfoliating scrub particles, this 2-in-1 scrub and wash promotes a fresh complexion and a smooth shave by removing dead skin cells. Suitable for both normal and oily skin, Samurai Scrub helps prevent ingrown hairs, restores the softness of his skin and leaves it looking refreshed.

Samurai Shave Repair- Don’t let him miss the last step – this light lotion is quickly absorbed leaving the skin calm and hydrated after shaving. With basil, tiger grass and hydrating properties, his face will be relaxed and ready to take on the day.

My husband was sent this set for review and he absolutely loved it! Not only is the packaging totally hip and manly but what man doesn't wish he was a Samurai? The products absolutely smell amazing, clean and woodsy, and my husband who has some of the most sensitive skin, did not have a problem with any of these products. In addition he was also sent a bottle of Yuzu Shower Gel and Cool Hair Shampoo. Also products that he was impressed with. I especially liked the Yuzu Shower Gel which has a citrus-y scent to it and one  bottle should last you approximately 50 washes! He particularly enjoyed the Cool Hair Shampoo that has a minty zing and left  his scalp invigorated and his hair super soft. 

These are just a few of the products in Rituals Samurai Collection. Go check it and share with the Samurai in your life!

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

Kneipp Products for Mother's Day

Mothers Day is just around the corner and Kneipp's natural bath products make wonderful gifts for all the hard working mothers out there. With a wide range of natural products from bath salts to body oils to help moms indulge, relax and pamper themselves. To make your decision about which Kneipp products to purchase here is a list of their top sellers. 

                                                            Kneipp’s Fave 5

Kneipp Arnica Herbal Bath Oil Joint & Muscle

The arnica extract found in this oil is known as a revitalizing agent for achy joints and muscles.  The formula also includes natural essential oils of cabreuva, rosemary and pine species.

                                           Kneipp Lavender Body Wash Relaxing
With natural lavender oil, the soap-free and pH balanced formula cleanses gently, leaving skin soft and supple. The plant-derived formula improves the feel of the skin, and gives a balancing effect for mental or physical exertion.

Kneipp Lemon Verbena and Avocado Hand Cream Soft in Seconds

The plant-based and nourishing formula contains avocado butter, jojoba oil and lemon verbena to help you get velvety smooth hands in seconds.

Kneipp Red Poppy & Hemp Aromatherapy Bubble Bath Pure Bliss

Made with natural oils of red poppy and hemp to provide you with a sense of well-being and moments of joy. It’s perfect for those days when you need to de-stress and relax.

Kneipp Eucalyptus Aromatherapy Bubble Bath

Ideal for cold and flu season, the natural essential oils of eucalyptus and mint work together in this Bubble Bath to help with symptoms of congestion and a sore throat.

I received both the Lavender Body Wash and the Lemon Verbena Avocado Hand Cream for review and I loved both products. The body wash smelled wonderful, the lavender wasn't too overwhelming. This is a soap free wash so it is very gentle on the skin and leaves it feeling amazing. My daughter constantly sniffed my arms and told me how good I smelled! The hand cream is so rich but does not leave your hands feeling greasy. Instead your hands are left super soft! This is a great cream to keep in your purse. 

All of the products and more can be purchased online, buy today to receive in time for Mothers Day!

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

Devera Naturals Review

About Devera Naturals 
Devera Naturals is a woman-owned business created in 2008 by Linda Joffe as a result of a serious bout with breast cancer.  Linda is passionate about enhancing the beauty of every woman…naturally. Devera Naturals offers only those products that will benefit consumers according to the company’s uncompromisingly high standards, containing only natural and organic ingredients. 
 
Devera Naturals functions to benefit their consumers, employees, community, and brand.
Their eco-friendly packaging comprised of recyclable glass containers and environmentally safe ink labels contribute to the sustainability of our community. A portion of the proceeds is donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation which helps provide mammograms and follow up care for disadvantaged women throughout the U.S.

I was sent two products from the Devera Naturals beauty skincare line, Snow Flower Creme and Miracle Eyes. The key ingredient in these and other Devera Natural products is a super flower called Edelweiss or known also as Snow Flower. 

This flower is said to contain powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and science has found a way to use Edelweiss plant stem cells in skin care to help prevent collagen loss, firm skin, prevent sun damage and even minimize wrinkles. You can read more about the benefits of the Snow Flower and Devera Naturals on their blog post.  

Now for my opinion...

Snow Flower Creme is an anti-aging cream that is meant to be used morning and night after cleansing your face. It contains the Edelweiss plant cells to help fight wrinkles as well as Goji Berry extract for soothing, lifting and firming. I have been using this product religiously for the last couple of months. I waited to write my review because one of the claims that is made about this product is that it can decrease wrinkles by up to 15% in 22 days. So I wanted to give it a fair try. I am soon to be out of my 30's and I have noticed that my skin is not as youthful as it once was. While I do not have noticeable wrinkles I have noticed that when I look very closely at my skin, it isn't as smooth as it used to be. Since using this cream I have noticed that my skin is softer and smoother. I love that it absorbs quickly and does not leave my face feeling greasy. You are told to use sparingly because it is a very rich cream, I found that 2 pumps is all I need to moisturize my skin. But seriously, my skin really does look better then it did prior to using Devera Naturals and I am not just saying this because I received a sample for review. In fact Girly Girl does sometimes receive products for review, that do not live up to their claims. Most of the time you won't hear about these as I try to only post about products I like. This cream is one of them! 

Miracle Eyes is an eye cream that contains Edelweiss plant cells, Goji Berry extract, hyaluronic acid and marine extracts to smooth and firm around your eyes. It also contains green tea and cucumber to reduce puffiness and dark circles. Prior to starting this eye cream I noticed that the area under my eyes was becoming really dry. This eye cream does a great job of moisturizing the delicate area around your eyes and smoothing out creases. I found that I need to use a teeny amount of this stuff, when I use more I notice the area under my eyes starts to tingle a bit. However I was assured that this was normal, and when I only use a small dab as suggested, I do not have the same sensation. This little jar goes a long way! I really have noticed positive results from this eye cream, the dryness under my eyes has gone, the creases are less noticeable and the dark circles are getting lighter!

Devera Naturals are now available on Amazon as well as their website. Be sure to like them on Facebook as well. 

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.