Pet Gift Box March 2015 Review - March Mutt Madness

I decided to give Pet Gift Box a try. My dog had already received BarkBox and Happy Dog Box in the past, and while I really liked them, I was starting to receive a lot of the same items and for close to $30 a month. This box costs only $17.99 monthly, and with my coupon code you could get your first box for only $12.99. I hope this one lasts, because my dog really appreciates all the treats and goodies, and it is so affordable each month. 

This month's theme is March Mutt Madness. Every item goes along with the basketball theme and aids in your dogs inner athlete. Each of the item description cards comes with a pet tip. This month is how to get your pet an adequate amount of exercise in the winter months. My dog definitely gains some winter weight from the lack of activity outside, and it could be as easy as playing fetch with a plush toy inside for him to burn off those extra calories. I love this pet tip and I love the theme. Now my dog can join in on the bracket fun. 

Bubba Rose Hoop Star Biscuit

$3.99 

What fits better with the March Madness theme than a basketball biscuit. I normally never splurge on gourmet items like this for my dog, so this was a real treat. I like the local, organic, and fresh ingredients, so I don't feel bad letting my dog eat this sweet. I also am a big fan of this company. It is full of really cute decorated items. It has great treats, birthday cakes, and cupcakes all for you pup. I really want to get my dog a birthday cake for his next birthday. They aren't exactly cheap, but reasonably priced, and something I would love to splurge on my my dog's birthday. 

Spot Plush Basketball

$4.99

Another basketball fits perfectly with the theme, and this will definitely last longer than the treat. This plush basketball is super cute, and perfect for playing fetch inside. I wish that we would have gotten the brown one, because it looks more like an actual basketball, but I am sure that my dog appreciates the brighter colors. My dog has already torn most of the insides out of this toy already, but surprisingly, it is still holding up. While watching all the basketball games this season, my dog will have a new toy to play with while joining in on all the fun. 

Pride Bites Hip Sneaker Dog Toy

$9.99

This is the second toy in this month's box. I love how this is still a plushy inside safe toy, but it is completly different than the first. The basketball shoe fits in with the theme, and even better, these are my school colors. This toy is durable, yet soft, and can even be used in the pool or lake because it floats. You can use this as a tug or fetch toy inside, or use it as an outdoor toy when the weather gets a little warmer. Don't worry about getting this dirty, because it is machine washable. My dog has yet to tear this one open, which is surprising, but I know it is only a matter of time. The best part of this toy? It squeaks. My dog can not resist.

FFD Pet Fou-Stick Soothe

$4.99

This is an item that you wouldn't normally see in another pet subscription box. You normally get treats and toys, but never a handy item like this. My dog gets rough paws through the spring and summer from long runs days a the lake. This soothing balm goes right on their paws to help with the chapping, itching, and cracking. You can use it on other parts of their body too. This product is suitable for dogs and cats. Also, your pet will probably lick this up, but don't worry, that will not harm them. Plus, it still works. I will use this entire tube eventually, but it will take a while because it is such a large tube. There are other products with this brand that I will be happy to swoop up. 

Zuke's Power Bones

$6.99 - 6 oz

This is a huge bag of treats, and it is something different than I am used to seeing in stores. These small square treats are packed full of natural energy to keep your dog going all day long. With ingredients such as chicken, peanut butter, barley, oats, and rice, you won't have a problem feeding these to your dog. My dog is still a puppy at heart, so he normally doesn't have a problem with keeping his energy up, but these will be perfect for a hike or right before we go on a long run. We both have a lot to look forward to this spring and summer. Also, I love how these goes well with the theme. Absolutely and plus, plus. 

Spot Muttz-Rrr-Ella Dental Chews

$13.99 - 15 oz

This is the one item that doesn't go along with the theme, but I am really happy with it anyways. I love dental chews for my dog, because they remove all that tarter and plaque that builds up over time. Also, they leave my dog with fresh, kissable breath. This is also a huge bag of treats, and they will last a really long time. Also, the inside of each treat is filled with a yummy cheddar cheese inside so my dog always comes back for more. This bag of treats is a great deal, because dental chews are usually really expensive, and this bag along costs almost as much as the entire box. You really get your money's worth. 

Licks Athlete 

$14.00 - 5 pack      

My dog never wants to take his pills. I literally have to shove it down his throat and hold his mouth shut until he swollows. I don't even think the treat afterwards helps. This liquid vitamin packet was easy to get him to eat so it must taste good. I also think that this is so new to him so he thinks he is getting a real treat. His muscles will for sure be sore after the first few times running around, because he has been stuck inside for so long, so these will definitely help. The vitamins inside will help with endurance and expedite muscle recovery. This also goes great with the theme.  

I am super happy with this month's box. It is full of items that my dog loves, and comes with things that I will love using with my dog. I estimate this box to be worth $47.74. That is $34.75 more than I paid, because I got $5 off my first box. I am going to keep getting this box for my dog, because there is nothing that I don't like about it. Plus, my dog is so happy with all of his treats. 

If you would like to try Pet Gift Box, just click here. You will get $5 off your first box. That's all this for only $12.99. That is a great deal. I really like the value and the assortment of goodies. The theme keeps me coming back for more. 

Ipsy Glam Bag March 2015 Review - Flower Power

My Ipsy Glam Bag for March has arrived, and I am so excited to see what is inside. I did take a small sneak peak, so I knew the pattern of the makeup bag, but what is inside is a complete surprise. Maybe if it arrived earlier each month, I wouldn't have to sneak, but it is here now so I am happy. Ipsy is a monthly subscription box that delivers five samples and full size items to your door in a cute makeup bag for $10. It is always filled with a ton of great value. 

The theme this month is Flower Power. Like I said before, I sneaked a peak at the makeup bag this month, so I knew what was coming. This bag is so cute and fits perfectly with the theme. I think this theme is better for May, but I appreciate the hopes for Spring. It gets me excited for warmer weather ahead. I hope the items inside are perfect to pare with the new pastels and lighter clothes I'll be wearing for the next few months. 

At first look, I am not sure I like all that I see. The colors aren't what I expected and the items seem small. I am used to my Ipsy Glam Bag being full to the max. I hope that my impression changes after this first look. I could definitely see myself ending up loving all these items. 

Evelyn Iona Natural & Organic Concealer in Flawless

$18.75 - 3 g   

I love receiving concealers in my subscription boxes, because they are so expensive and they are usually a great deal. This is a great example of that, but it does come with some problems. This didn't blend perfectly with my skin, but it did hide some imperfections. I did have to use a lot, though. This is a pretty nice sized sample and will definitely last me a long while. I am also all for the natural and organic ingredients. Plus, this formula is very light. Perfect for Spring. 

Pur-lisse Pur-delicate Cleanser and Makeup Remover

$36.00 - 5.6 oz       

Face cleansers get used so quickly with me, and I am always excited to try new brands. I've used this brand before, but never as a cleanser. This formula was very gentle on my skin. It is super light and feels like lotion on my skin. I didn't remove makeup as well as I hoped, mainly the hard stuff. It also left my skin a little dry. Otherwise, I am really happy with this cleanser and the natural ingredients. 

Marsk Mineral Eyeshadow in Fifty Shades

$22.50 - 1.2 g

This is a full size item, which was a little surprising, because it is a little small. I am always saying that I am tired of getting the same color in my subscription boxes, so this was fun to see. I am a little nervous about wearing this still, though. It is a little darker than I usually wear, but I could see this being perfect for a girls night out. Again, these are used with all natural ingredients, which makes it easier to put on my skin. 

NYX Cosmetics Butter Lipstick in Hunk

$5.99 - 4.5 g

I knew as a spoiler that everyone would be getting a full size NYX product, so I knew something like this was coming. I am completely in love with this lipstick. It covers well and it leaves your lips super soft. Unfortunately, I am not in love with this color. I am really bummed I got this color. Not that it is pretty, I am just not brave enough to wear this out of the house. I am a little dissapointed with Ipsy because I said I wasn't brave with color, and this color seems brave. Wish I would've gotten that light pink for Spring. 

Acure Day Cream for the Face

$18.99 - 1.75 fl oz  

I wear face lotion every day and night, so this is a perfect item for me. It says day cream, but I would have know that with just using the product alone. It is on the lighter side, and the citrus smell completely wakes you up. This formula is perfect for spring, and because the lotion is light, I am glad that this didn't come during those cold, dry winter months. This is a deluxe sample, so this might actually last a while. 

I was starting to think every item in my bag was organic or all natural until I saw the lipstick. I definitely like to see that these products are more on trend. We should all pay attention to what is inside the items we put on our body. At first sight, I wasn't too excited about this month's bag, but after the second look I am really liking the products. There are two full size items and two deluxe sample size items. That is great for $10. I am also happy with all the items, except the color of the lipstick. I estimate this month's bag to be worth $52.11. So much value with such a small bag!

If you would like to try Ipsy for yourself, just click here. You will jump straight to the front of the line, so no need to wait. 

Birchbox March 2015 Review - Creativity

Birchbox is my favorite subscription box, so I always look forward to it every month. I find the most items that become everyday basics, and the value is always great. For $10 a month, Birchbox delivers at least five samples of beauty items curated to your profile. I can't wait to see what this month offers. 

The box is normally just a light brown cardboard, but this month is super special. I think this is the cutest box I have ever seen. I like the greens with the pink and the mix of prints. I especially like the green for March, because it goes so well with St Patrick's Day. I am going to leave this out on my dresser for months to come. 

The theme for the month is Creativity. The season is changing once again, and what better time to mix things up a little. This month is all about being different and trying new ways to wear the same old things. The box is already super creative, I hope the items inside will be fun and new ways to can change up my look. 

Cargo Swimmables Water Resistant Blush in Los Cabos

$26.00 - 0.37 oz     

This is the first item I pulled from this month's box, and I am already in love. I am always looking for a great blush, and I think that I just found it. This peachy pink goes perfectly with my complexion, and it blends into my temples so well. It is also waterproof, which is another plus, but I don't know how much I will be out in the rain and requiring this addition. This is a sample size, but its a jumbo sample. This will last forever. 

Number 4 Clarifying Shampoo

$32.00 - 8.5 oz      

This is one of the best smelling shampoos I have ever smelled. Good smelling shampoo makes the entire day better. I was really hoping that it would love everything else about this shampoo, but I am not entirely impressed. I had to use a lot of shampoo, because it didn't sud up that well. On the other hand, my hair felt really clean afterwards. When dry, I couldn't really smell the yummy fragrance anymore, and my hair didn't feel as soft as normal. I like this sample, but I won't be purchasing the full size product.   

Number 4 Reconstructing Masque

$58.00 - 5.1 oz     

Again, I love how this smells! It is so yummy. This masque works like conditioner, and I loved the creamy formula. I left it in my hair for a couple minutes and let it do it's magic. Unfortunately, this didn't leave my hair as moisturized and as soft as I would like. For such a nice brand, this wasn't my favorite masque. I definitely liked it enough to use it again, but not enough to pay the full price. Also, I am not a fan of the foil sample. This at least feels like an extra, because there are six samples in the box. 

Supergoop! Advanced SPF 37 Anti-Aging Eye Cream

$45.00 - 0.5 fl oz      

I am a huge fan of all eye and face creams. I love having a great complexion, because then I can wear less makeup. Supergoop! is such an awesome brand, and they really care about your skin. I've been using this for a few days now, and haven't really noticed any big difference, but I know that these take a while to work. It is a tiny sample, but you don't have to use a lot each time, so I think this will last me a while. I love the added SPF and the pure ingredients. I may have to purchase the fill size item when I'm out. 

Oscar Blandi Hair Lift Mousse

$19.17 - 6.3 oz        

I used to use mousse all the time growing up. I have super limp hair, and mousse promises to lift and volumize. This one has an added thickening and strengthening formula. I like how this smells, and I also think it does the job. My hair looked more volumized and thicker, but I didn't like how it was crunchy and felt full of product. I will use this when my hair needs a little lift, but I am not going to purchase the full size when this is out.  

Mirenesse Glossy Kiss in Angel Kiss

$22.00 - 3 g          

I've received this brand before in another lip color, and while I changed my mind about the brand being a lot nicer than I originally though, I am not too happy with this particular color. This product allows you to use it as a glossy color or a matte tint. I love matte lips, so this is great for me. On the other hand, this color reminds me of my mother, which is a little too old for me. I could see myself using this every once in a while, but I have too many lip colors, so I won't grab this one instantly. 

This box was full of complete hits and nearly misses. I am all about that blush and eye cream, but I wish the rest of the items were a little different. There were a lot of deluxe sample sized items in this month't box. I prefer all full size, of course, but I know that these brands are a little nicer, so full size isn't always an option. I estimate this box to be worth $37.23. I only spent $10 on this box and get back $6 in reward point to use at their shop, so this box is more than worth it.   

If you would like to try Birchbox for yourself, just click here. You will get an extra 100 points which is good for $10 in the shop!

Julep Maven February 2015 Review - Valentine's Day Box

My Julep Maven box has arrived for the month of February and with the Valentine's Day theme, I am hoping for a some colors that would be perfect for the big date. I love the value you get from each Julep box and the extra beauty item you get with the nail polishes. 

This box is so well curated. Not only do the products all go with the season, but it is all safely transported. I love the paper confetti that creates a nice bedding for the products. I've rewrapped many presents in this box. Why not reuse, right?

I didn't expect my Valentine's Day box to be anything but pink and red. I see some nail polishes that I know that I am already going to love and some others that I'm excited to try. I am usually really excited about the extra beauty items, but I've never been a fan of lip gloss. I hope that this isn't the normal sticky, drying lip color. Knowing Julep and their products, I doubt it will be. 

Julep Lip Gloss in Charming

$80.00 - 5 7.5 ml tubes       

Again, I'm not a fan of lip glosses, so I wasn't overjoyed to receive this item. The color is a little "old" for me at first glance. After trying it, the color went so well with my skin tone. Plus, it is perfect for a nice date night. It was a little sticky and drying, though. I prefer something with moisture, so I won't be wearing this on a daily basis, but I will definitely include this for a fancy night out. 

Julep Nail Color in Hartleigh

$14.00 - 8 ml

I have never been a huge fan of confetti nail colors, because they feel really cluttered on my nail and are impossible to apply. Julep's confetti polish actually spreads out across the nail and doesn't dry before application. I don't really care for the girly hearts and colors, but I could definitely sport this on Valentine's Day. That would probably be the only day of the year, though. 

Julep Nail Color in Myriam

$14.00 - 8 ml

Everyone needs a classic red in their nail polish drawer, and this color is perfect. I love Julep colors. Everything from the perfect color mixes, the easiness of application, and how long the color lasts. I will be wearing this on Valentine's Day and for months to come. This color goes perfectly with a little black dress. 

Julep Nail Color in Fifi

$14.00 - 8 ml

Pale pinks are so me. They offer the slightest amount of color that is both edgy and girly. I can wear this color all the way through spring with pretty much everything. Pale pinks are one of my favorite colors to wear on my nails, because it is so versatile. I only wish that they had a matte top coat to make this color even cooler. 

Overall, I am pretty happy with this box. Two of the nail polishes are such classics, and I won't stop wearing them. I am a little indifferent about the glitter nail polish and the lip gloss, but I am happy that they are in my vanity to mix it up one in a while. I estimate this box to be worth $58, which is great considering it costs $24.99. 

If you would like to try Julep Maven for yourself, just click here. This subscription box is perfect for the nail polish lover!

Bulu Box February 2015 Review

I used to receive Bulu Box before, and I gave it up after a few months. I wanted to get back into a solid workout routine, and I thought Bulu Box would be a great way to help. I am excited to see what my first box back has in store and how it can help with my new routine. 

Every Bulu Box comes with a description card, which fully details each item, and a sample journal to write down how you feel before and after. I always like to see how each product works. This month also came with a card that lists 28 ways to be more heart healthy. It has some really good advice. 

The Good Bean Roasted Chickpea Snacks in Sea Salt

$19.98 - 8 2.5 oz packages          $.75

I love chickpeas, so I was excited to try this snack. I am a little irritated by food in my box though, because when I completed my personal survey for them to curate my box, I always unchecked food items. I don't care for food, because I am cutting calories, but at least these snacks are healthy and will hold my hunger between meals. At first, I didn't really care for these. They seemed to not have much of a taste. But once I was halfway through the package, I was hooked. They have a nice crunch and crumble in your mouth. I would be interested in trying different flavors.

K-Pax Pharmaceuticals Energy 

$44.95 - 60 tablets        

I am an energy whore and drink caffeine all day, so these are something I would definitely be interested in. I took one of these on an empty stomach, so I felt like I had a little bit of low blood sugar, but once eating I felt great. It is really cool that these are a complete multivitamin on top of being packed full of natural energy. I might have to purchase a few more of these. 

Smarty Pants All-In-One Adult Complete + Fiber Gummy Multivitamin 

$47.95 - 180 ct bottle     

I am not much of a pill taker. I will let my vitamin sit by my water glass trying to build up the courage to take it. Smarty Pants gummies are actually really yummy and make taking vitamins no longer a chore. These have added fiber, which I didn't notice an effect, but it helps regulate the body's use of sugars and helps curb your appetite. I have been meaning to purchase some of Smarty Pant's gummies, but they are just a little too costly for me at Bulu Box. I might have to just pick them up at target.

Balance Bare Bar in Sweet & Spicy Nut

$33.99 - 15 bars               

I was feeling really hungry and low on energy before a workout so I ate this bar, and it really helped. This bar was the perfect amount of sweet and savory, plus it had an added spice. It filled me up just enough to get on with my workout. I love all the natural ingredients, and it doesn't make me feel gross after eating. I would love to grab some more of these so I can always have a yummy and healthy snack to grab when I am feeling a little hungry. 

Mediterranean Snacks Lentil in Cracked Pepper

$2.99 - 4.5 oz              

This is the third snack, which is a little too many, especially for a box that I asked for zero snacks. These have a weird texture and taste, but I learned to like it after a few crackers. I like the healthier alternative and the cracked pepper taste. I don't care to buy these anytime, but I guess it was a nice snack to try. 

Zestra Essential Arousal Oils 

$9.99 - 3 wipes

I think these were a little weird of an addition to a heath and fitness box. I didn't really care to use this, and I don't think it really worked. Not really for me.

SPORTea Hot Tea

$19.99 - 40 bags              

I don't normally don't think of tea when I think of a sports drink, but this is supposed to get you the right energy and nutrients to perform your best. I did feel more energized, but I felt like I'd rather relax after drinking a hot drink. This was a fun thing to try, but I don't think I'd want to purchase anymore. I'll stick with water or Gatorade. 

I am pretty happy with this month's box of samples. There are some items that I would be interested in purchasing, but I am a little disappointed in the amount of food. I am trying to eat less processed foods. There are a lot of samples, which is great for such a cheap box. Also, I like trying all these different items. I estimate this box to be worth $10.42, which is great for me, because I only paid $5 with the half price coupon, but just about even if you paid full price. But, with the survey points, it becomes worth it.

If you would like to try Bulu Box for yourself, just click here. You'll get half off your order!

Love With Food April 2014 - Derby Days

This is my second Love with Food box and it is just in time, because I am in need for some smart snacks. Love with Food is a monthly subscription box that sends you a box full of snacks around the theme of the month for as little as $10 per box.

This month's box is Derby Days which is perfect for the month of April, because this kicks off the horse derby season and the triple crown. I also went to my local derby this past weekend, so I am totally in the mood for some derby themed snacks

Giddy Up & Go Granola

$22.99 - 16 / 1.5 oz bags         

This snack was completely healthy and I love the horse theme. I like to add granola to yogurt, but this was good enough to eat all by itself. So yummy! Also, this is completely organic. I wish this came in a larger box style so I could use it more sparingly. I probably won't be purchasing this item, but I was really happy with the sample!

Key Lime Cookies by J&M

$14.99 - 7 / 1.5 oz bags                  

Lime cookies are so fitting for spring and the horse derby. They pair perfectly with the mint juleps you'll be drinking all day. These cookies are light and crunchy with a powdered sugar coating. They reminded me of the lemon girl scout cookies. I seriously could not stop eating these. I am trying to eat less sweets, or I would have already bought these. 

Honeybush Caramel, Southern Mint, and Tropical Green Teas by Revolution Tea

$12.99 - 16 / 3 pouch boxes     

I am not a huge fan of receiving tea in any of my subscription boxes, because they tend to be cheap additions, but these packets appear to be really nice, and the flavors are different then I am used to. I like the southern mint flavor, especially, because it fits so well with the theme. Also, green tea is my favorite tea so this was easy to drink up. I wasn't as thrilled about the Honeybush Caramel, but it really was pretty good. I would suggest to drink that whenever you have a sore throat. I could get used to tea in my boxes if they are as high quality as these three.  

 Sweet Potato Chips by One Potato Two Potato

$24.99 - 12 / 2 oz bags             

I am a big fan of sweet potatoes. They are a yummier and healthier alternative to any products with regular potatoes. These had a little bit of a weird texture, but once getting past that I really liked them. They weren't as satisfying as you average salty potato chips, but I felt a lot better after eating these. I probably won't go out my way to purchase these, but I would be happy to grab them if I see them in the store. 

Tropical Peach Drink Mix by Flavrz Organic

$22.99 - 18 pouches              

This is a nice addition to the spring box with the fruity flavors and the tropical touch. It feels almost like spring break. I am not usually into adding anything into my drinks, especially when they also add calories, but this was really yummy. It added just the right amount of flavor. I am still not happy with the amount of extra calories, so I would only like to add these once in a while. These could always help brighten a dark and gloomy day.

Tarallino Snack with Extra Virgin Olive Oil by Rerre Di Puglia

$14.99 - 12 / 1.4 oz bags          

I couldn't believe how good these were. These horseshoe crackers are the perfect amount of crisp and softness, and they have a nice buttery taste. I loved these so much that have already purchased more. They are also pretty reasonably priced. I think I have found my favorite new snack. 

Hickory Smoked and Italian Black Truffle Salt by The Spice Lab

$5.99 - 50 packets           

These are a cool addition to the snack box. I am a lover of spices, but unfortunately not such a fan of salt. I tired these both on the next steak we grilled, and it added so much flavor. I don't know if I would purchase these single use packs, but these would be the perfect for a gift to the grill man or the foodie.

Sea Salt Caramels by Le Caramel

$8.99 - 25 pieces           

I feel like I always get caramels in my subscription boxes, but I really can't complain. These were really yummy, and a nice treat for when your craving something a little more sweet. Caramels are something I wouldn't usually buy, because they are pure sugar, but it is nice to get a few in my snack boxes to snack on every once in a while. 

I really liked so many of the treats in this month's box, and everything about the theme. This was my first year to the derby, and I have really started to enjoy horse races and the betting that goes along. Plus, the snacks went so well along with the theme. Themes always make boxes a little more fun.  Love with food is such a well curated box, and I can't wait for my next box to come. I estimate this box to be worth $10.32, which isn't great because a monthly subscription is $12, but it could be worth it if you get the yearly subscription. 

If you would like to try Love With Food for yourself, just click here. You can get it for as little as $10 a month.