Pet Gift Box December 2015 Review - Season's Greetings & Happy New Year!

I decided to get a Pet Gift Box for my dog because of the holidays, and when they offered me this month’s box at half price, I just couldn’t say no. Pet Gift Box is a monthly subscription box for your cat or your dog that ships straight to your door for only $18.99 a month. I ordered Bark Box for my dog before, and while I really liked the products and the themes, the value wasn’t there, and they tended to send me some of the same product over and over again. What I really like about Pet Gift Box is the reasonable price, the wide variety of items, and the value. Also, they have really cute and clever themes that always go along with the month, and the product go along with the themes too. It really is a great box, and my favorite of all the pet subscription boxes out there.

This month’s theme is Season's Greetings & Happy New Year! I am really glad that they went with a holiday theme, because to me this is what this month is all about. While many people are purchasing gifts for their family, children, and friends, I am always making sure that my dog has plenty of presents to open around Christmas.

Cloud Star Holiday Soft & Chewy Treats in Gingerbread Flavor

$5.95 - 5 oz

These gingerbread treats are the cutest thing ever, and they actually taste like peanut butter gingerbread. That’s what the package says anyway. I didn’t actually try them. These are a little smaller than I like for treat size, but they are the perfect size to take with you for a walk or to teach your dog a trick, anytime you need him to eat it quickly and move on, really. I really like these treats, and my dog likes them too. Also, they go perfectly with the holiday theme.

Pet Gift Box Gourmet Holiday Blend

$9.99 - 4 oz

These treats are closer to what my dog really likes. While they aren’t holiday shaped or themed, they are labeled with some nice holiday wrapping, so they feel like a special treat. These seem to be dehydrated, which makes them really easy to chop down on, so they unfortunately don’t last as long as a jerky or a rawhide, but my dog likes them just as much. There are two different kinds in this package, which makes it even more fun. I like this luxury item in this month’s holiday box, and my dog really likes it too. It really creates a variety of items, and this is also a real treat, because I wouldn’t have bought him anything like this before.

Bundle Up Buddy Moose Chew Toy

$9.99

This moose is one of the cutest dog toys I’ve ever seen. I really like his rougher texture, and his super puffy body. My dog hasn’t taken to this toy yet, but I know it is only a matter of time. He received quite a few toys over the holidays, so he is just working through them slowly. I really like this one and again how it goes along with the theme. The only thing that could’ve been better is a reindeer, or maybe Santa himself. This particular toy won’t be put away after the holidays, though.

Zippypaws Holiday Scarf

$5.99 

This is by far my favorite item in this month’s box and it is probably my dog’s least favorite. This scarf fits perfect around him, and stays on pretty well. I really like the green and red colors, because they work great for Christmas, but could be worn any other day of winter if I want him to. Seriously, this is so stinking cute, and I would have never thought of such an item. I’ve been having him wear this all the time to get him in the festive mood, and this will be a great thing for him to wear while his is at my parents. Everyone will love it.

One Fur All Holidays Fur All Pet House Candle

$3.49 - 1.5 oz

What I really enjoy about this pet subscription box is that they send more than just treats and toys. I’ve received so many useful items to use with my dog in their past boxes including wipes and paw cream. This candle is something pretty cool and definitely different. It smells like a Christmas tree and is supposed to mask pet odor. I’ve never really noticed my dog having a smell, but I enjoyed this candle anyways. It wasn’t the most aromic candle I’ve ever used, but it did fill the room with a nice, soft scent. My one complaint, it did burn pretty quickly. I feel like I was only able to use it twice before it ran completely out. This was a nice addition to this box, even if it was really more of an item for me. Like I said before, I really like these additions, and that is the main reason I stick with this box over all the other options.

Overall, I really enjoyed this month box. It had a great theme for December, and all the items went along with it perfectly. My favorite items were the scarf and the moose, but my dog really liked the Holiday Blend by Pet Gift Box. This box has a total value of $37.41. Since I received a half price offer, I only paid $9 for this entire box, and that includes the shipping. I think that is a really great deal, and I would have been happy to pay the original price too. I am going to cancel this box for now, but I will definitely jump back into my subscription once my dog is low on treats, or if I see another great offer.

If you would like to try Pet Gift Box for yourself, just click here. It is a great gift for your furry friend and a great way to stock up on treats and toys at a great price.

BoxyCharm December 2015 Review - Pop Fizz Clink!

My BoxyCharm has arrived for the month of December, and unlike most months, I haven’t seen a whole lot of spoilers, so most of these items will be a surprise. BoxyCharm is a monthly subscription box that delivers at least five full size beauty items for only $21 a month. It ranges from hair, makeup, body, and nail products, so it is a great box for everyone. Also, it always has a value of over $100. I am shocked and surprised every single time. Even though I am new to this box, I think it is one of the best out there. This box sends out the same items to everyone with one different item sometimes, and I have to say, they always find items that most everyone will enjoy.

This month’s theme is Pop Fizz Clink! I absolutely love the theme. While most other subscription boxes are focused around the other big holiday of this month, Christmas, this month is all about New Years. I really like that, because it is a big makeup night, and one of the only nights in the year that I really go glamorous. It also has a swinger theme that reminds me of The Great Gatsby. It really gets me in the mood to dress up, wear a lot of sparkle, and go big. Also, these items in this month’s box will get your ready for the holidays, and help you get ready for the big event. Hopefully, I will be able to use these for New Years and many days more. I can’t wait to see what this month has in store.

Jelly Pong Pong All Over Glow

$15.95 - 0.68 fl oz    (Full Size!)

I’ve actually tried this highlighter before after receiving it in another subscription box, but that was just a sample. Not only is this a full size item, but it is the best highlighter I’ve ever used. This made my skin glow, and added light to all those places where you need a little boost. I am not one to use a lot of creams on my face, but this one doesn’t make my skin greasy like many other products. Also, I think this brand is really fun. The products all have cute packaging, and the designs are great. They remind me of a mixture between the Balm and Benefit, which are two of my favorite brands. The quality is really great too. Now that I have a full size of this product, I would like all subscription boxes to stop sending it for a while. This will take a while to use up.

Nelson J Beverly Hills Argan Oil 7 Moisture Healing Mask

$23.00 - 3.4 oz    (Full Size!)

When I read mask, I was hoping this was a face mask. I really enjoy the one they sent us not too long ago, and I apply a face mask at least twice a week. When I figured out it was a hair mask instead, I can’t say that I was too disappointed. I love deep conditioners, especially during dry months, and they always seem to bring my hair back to life. This one is supposed to be used once a week while focusing on the ends. This one not only deep conditions, but it also helps demolish frizz and repairs damaged hair. I used this after my normal shampoo, and it went on so smoothly. I could easily comb through my hair with the product, which is a tough task. My hair dried so smooth and soft, and I love the coconut smell. My hair even looked healthier, and that includes my pre trim split ends. I really like this product, and I believe it is the best deep conditioner I’ve ever tried. I have so many to use up, and this is also a full size product, so I don’t know when I’ll have to purchase more, but when I do, I’ll keep this in mind for sure. A+++

BellaPierre Cosmetics Waterproof Gel Lip Liner in Cinnamon

$17.99 - 0.06 oz    (Full Size!)

I really like this brand, but I am not one to use lip pencils. I decided to finally give it a try. I have recently been trying new things, and I’ve surprised myself a few times on how much I’ve liked a few of them. While this colors isn’t really my favorite, it is a great color for the holidays and the winter months. It is warm, yet darker, so you hit both styles. I was really impressed on how this made my lipstick appear more professional, and it was much easier to stay in the lines. I have a problem with lipstick falling outside of lips, so this helped it stay and made it look put together. This is a great product, but again, just not the color for me. Now, I am interested in trying out other colors because I am starting to understand the great benefits of a lip pencil. I am going to hang onto this one just in case my color preferences change.

Tatcha Japanese Original Aburatorigami Blotting Sheets

$12.00 - 30 sheets    (Full Size!)

Even though this is so simple, this is the item I am most excited about. These sheets will soak up any access oil, and leave behind all that makeup that took time to place. When I first apply makeup every day, my face is perfectly matte, but as the day goes on, it gets pretty oily. It is due to stress or the elements, but either way, I don’t like it and it makes me look tired and no longer put together. These are the perfect size for your purse, and I will be able to take them with me literally everywhere. I was pretty impressed with how much oil these little sheets collected without rubbing off my makeup. I know that Asia cares a lot about their skin, and these are a great way to do it. I will be carrying these with me to all the holiday parties coming up, especially New Years. That way, I won’t be disappointed with my look late into the night after spending so much to look so glamorous.

NCLA So Rich Vitamin-E Infused Cuticle Oil

$18.00 - 0.5 fl oz    (Full Size!)

This is also the second time I’ve received this cuticle oil. The first time, I didn’t think I would use it all that much, so I handing it off to one of my sisters. This time, I am keeping it. My cuticles have been looking a little rough due to the cold weather, and constantly dealing with paper, which also dries them up and creates cuts. This oil has a great little dropper that allows you to use the perfect amount of oil without getting it everywhere. The oil itself is very soothing and smells great. I like that it dries quickly, and doesn't leave my hands feeling greasy. This didn’t seem like a product I would like or need at first, but I’m glad I was sent it twice. My one complaint, I wish it would heal all of my hang nails. Oh, well.

OFRA Cosmetics Laboratories Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick in Americano

$19.90 - 8 g    (Full Size!)

I’ve been trying to venture out of my pink and coral lipstick collection, and this brownish red is the perfect way to accomplish that goal. This liquid lipstick goes on pretty smooth, and dries to create some pretty incredible staying power. I like that it dries so it doesn’t get everywhere, but when it does, it tends to dry out my lips a little. I have super dry skin and I try to stick to moisturizing lip colors. To be honest, I don’t love the color on me. It is a little dark, which isn’t really my style, and I feel a lot older than I am. I really wish I could pull it off, but unfortunately, it just isn’t going to work for me. I really like the color, and the brand is nice. The formula isn’t my favorite, but I could see it working great for a lot of people. I know this time of year I am going to get a lot of dark colors, but that just gets me excited for spring, when all the colors that work best for my skin will come out and be back in style.

Overall, I really like this month’s box. I am all about that deep conditioner, those grease wipes, and the cuticle oil. I am definitely going to use the highlighter, especially for New Years, too. The lip liner and the lipstick aren’t really my color, but I will keep them in my collection if I ever get brave enough to wear them. This theme is really great, and I am glad that it didn’t focus around Christmas. All the products went along with the theme pretty well, too, which doesn’t always happen with other subscription boxes. This month’s box had a value of $106.84. That is just insane for a monthly box that only costs $21. The value of this box is the best I’ve seen from any single subscription box.

If you would like to try BoxyCharm for yourself, just click here. It would make a great gift for a makeup guru friend or your beauty loving family member. Or, it could be a great gift to yourself.

Walmart Beauty Box Winter 2015 Review

My Walmart Beauty Box has arrived, and while I tend to forget it is coming, it is always fun to see what samples are inside. Walmart Beauty Box is a seasonal subscription box that sends out drug store beauty samples over a wide variety of brands. They send you items for your hair, nails, body, and face. All that for only $5. I really like this box, because it lets me sample a bunch of new products at an affordable price, and because they are all drug store brands, if I fall in love, I know it will be cheap and accessible. I am excited to see what this Winter season’s box has in store for me.

The one thing that this box is really lacking is an itemized description card. They send out basically the same box to every single person, so I don’t know why they don’t throw one together. Most of these items are pretty self explanatory, but it would be nice to know what each item is, what it does, and how much it costs. Also, a lot of these items seem pretty basic, so it would be nice to know what is new about each one, and why I should purchase it over another. Either way, this box looks stocked full, and I am excited to see all the samples inside.

Pantene Pro-V Style Series Extra Strong Hold Hairspray

$9.28 - 11.5 oz    ($0.81 Value)

I don’t really wear a whole lot of hairspray, so I am already not too excited about this hairspray, but from what I can tell, it is pretty high quality. I am already a fan of Pantene Pro-V, and if I were to use hairspray, I would need the extra hold for curls or an up do. The smell isn’t the best, but it is pretty nice for hairspray, and the hold isn’t as strong as I would like. It is more of a sticky hold than a crisp hold. I don’t know what I would really prefer, but I do think that I would prefer the sticky over the hard when trying to keep my loose curls from falling. This is a pretty nice sample size, and it would be perfect for anytime that you would be traveling. I feel like I mostly do my hair for weddings, which are never close by, so this will work out perfectly.

Pure Silk Rich & Luxurious Shave Cream in Raspberry Mist

$6.51 - 8 oz    ($1.83 Value)

Again, I am not really one to use shaving cream, but from my dry, winter bumped skin, I think that I will have to try using it more often. This is a brand that I have never used before, because I thought it was pretty low quality, but I have definitely been proved incorrect. This is super smooth, and has the perfect amount of foam. Also, the smells is pretty nice, which is weird coming from me, because I really hate artificial fruit smells. This is a pretty nice size sample, too, and the perfect amount for me, since I won’t be using it too often. This would also be great for traveling. I am glad I was able to try this out, and I would consider purchasing it again if I ever need some shaving cream.

NSPA Exotically Creamy Coconut Rich Body Butter

$5.48 - 6.76 fl oz    ($1.38 Value)

This line reminds me of the Yes To brand, which is already a win for me. I really like when natural ingredients are the base to beauty products, and I find myself using products from my kitchen more often than not to cure different difficult beauty remedies. Coconut is ultra hydrating and also helps restore skin to its normal, healthy self. This is the perfect lotion for winter month’s because my skin is super dry this time of year, and it just wants to soak up every ounce of moisture I give it. I really like this container, and the sample size is pretty nice for a Walmart box. Also, the product is the perfect amount of thickness. It is not too thick, where it is difficult to rub in, but just thick enough to give a great amount of moisture. This is my favorite sample from this month’s box, and I am really interested in trying out other products from their line.

Dial 7 Day Moisturizing Lotion with Yogurt Protein

$3.96 - 21 fl oz    ($0.09 Value)

Dial is such a classic brand in my opinion, and while I’ve only really ever tried their soap, I am interested in using this lotion. It promises to supply seven full days of moisture, which is a hard feat for my dry skin. This formula is a lot lighter than I expected, but it did do a really nice job hydrating my entire body. I wouldn’t say that this lasted even close to seven days, especially after showering, but it did work for a full 24 hours. I don’t really understand how a product would be able to work that long, so I don’t know why they advertise that. This is a really small sample, so it is almost already gone, but this was nice to try out, and I will definitely go through the rest of this sample within the next few days.

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Boosters Facial Cleanser

$7.47 - 9 fl oz    ($0.42 Value)

Walmart Beauty Box has actually send this sample to me before, but I really don’t care, because I like the formula, the brand, and the sample size, which is perfect for throwing into my overnight bag anytime I am going out of town. This gel like cleanser lathers up pretty well, and I like how clean my face feels after using it. Since it is only a gel, I like to pair this with a scrub face mask or a primer to make sure that it cleaned every inch of my skin. While I prefer scrubs or creams to cleanse my face, I really like this product, and am always happy to use it. I think Neutrogena does a really good job getting their skin care right, and I am always reaching for their line over other brands.

Goody Slide Proof Soft Touch Silicone Elastics

$4.48 - 8 elastics    (Full Size!)

These slip proof elastics are definitely something that I have never seen or tried before. They have soft rubber gripes that hang onto your hair like I have never seen before, and makes sure that it doesn’t fall out, even the slightest. While these aren’t the prettiest hair ties I have ever seen, I really like this idea, and have noticed my hair falling from using your regular hair tie. I used these while working out, and while my hair usually falls down and gets in my way, this elastic made it stay in place the entire time. Even during jumping jacks. I really like these elastics, and while I don’t see ever having to purchase more in the future, because this size was so generous, I will definitely be telling my friends about them.

Ken Paves You Are Beautiful Volumizing Shampoo & Conditioner

$12.98 - 8.5 fl oz    ($0.82 Value)

This is yet another item that I had already received in a Walmart Beauty Box, but since it is just a foil sample, and I enjoyed it when I first tried it, I don’t really mind receiving another one. The shampoo is really lush and thick, and it doesn’t lather up all that much, but instead soaks into your scalp and really washes away all the grime and grease that has been collecting from the last few days. The smell is pretty nice, and it leaves my hair feeling refreshed. The conditioner is a little lighter than I normally like, but it did a nice job sealing my hair and leaving it shiny and manageable. Since this is such a small sample, I really only get one use out of it, but it was nice to try again and also a nice reminder on how much I liked it before. This was fun to try, and I wouldn’t be shocked if I ended up purchasing it in the future.

Centrum Vitamints Multimineral Supplement in Cool Mint

$6.76 - 60 chewables    ($0.23 Value)

These are kind of a funny sample to me, but I guess I receive Bulu Box, so I am not a stranger to supplements and vitamins. I know I should take my vitamins more often, but I really don’t like swallowing pills, and I also often forget. These vitamins are to be taken like a mint, so not only are they easy to take and pretty yummy, but they also leave you with fresh breath. These would be perfect to throw in my purse for after lunch, because I am always willing to chew on a mint, and that could easily replace my will to not swallow pills. This was a fun sample, and I am glad I was able to give these a try. Taking my vitamins might be my New Year’s Resolution, so these would be the perfect thing to purchase.

Olay Regenerist Luminous Tone Perfecting Cream Moisturizer

$22.74 - 1.7 oz    ($0.27 Value)

I am partial to Olay and their facial moisturizers. They are the perfect medium weight while being super moisturizing, and they also help take care of all your imperfections. This particular sample is for a higher end moisturizer they create, and one I wouldn’t normally splurge on. It will help tone and tighten your face all while keeping it moisturized. I tried this sample out on my freshly cleansed face, and I was surprised at the instant results. My face looked a little more toned and it helped rid my face of all that pink that comes with dryness. This sample is really tiny, though, and I only was able to get one use out of it, so I am not sure what the long term effects could be. I probably won’t purchase this full size item anytime soon, because it is still a little too expensive, but this was fun to try, and I really like the instant results.

Overall, I really like this season’s box. The shaving cream was a nice addition, and I really liked trying out the new coconut line moisturizer. The hairspray is just alright, but I will go through the rest of these samples pretty quickly. This box has a value of $10.33. That is pretty good for a box that only costs $5, but it really isn’t about the value for this box but more about the fun of receiving and trying out new products. As long as I still find the products to be new and usable, I will continue to receive this box. 

If you would like to try this box for yourself, just click here. It is a great way to try out new drugstore brands and products.

Ipsy Glam Bag December 2015 Review - For You With Love From Ipsy

My Ipsy Glam Bag has arrived for the month of December, and while I do love receiving my subscription boxes, some are less exciting for me than others. This is one of those cases. While the value is usually really good, the products just don’t fit me and my beauty routine as well as others, and I’ve even retaken the beauty profile quiz a few times. I do see that other people are receiving items I’d prefer, so I keep holding on and hoping that Ipsy turns it around for me. Ipsy is a monthly subscription that sends out five sample and full size beauty items in a themed makeup bag. That is all for only $10 a month. I do like that Ipsy delivers full size items, especially for a $10 subscription, but if those full size items aren’t something I would use, then it just isn’t worth it for me. 

This month’s theme is To You From Ipsy With Love. This month, the Ipsy team wants to give thanks and appreciation to all the Ipsy subscribers, because without us, they wouldn’t be the company they are today. That is a nice theme, but I think it would be better suited for November or February. Their themes aren’t always the best, and their products don’t really go with the theme all that well either, so I guess it doesn’t matter. The only thing that is impacted by the theme is the makeup bag, which I have to say is a different shape for the first time since I’ve received this bag. I don’t love the bag, but I do love the shape. I hope that this is a sign of new and cooler bags to come.

This month’s bag looks interesting. There isn’t anything that really fills the bag, but I do see an assortment of items, which includes some brands I’ve never heard of before. I really enjoy seeing new brands, but what I really like is seeing products from companies I already know and adore. I also see an item like that, too. All these different shapes and sizes gets me really excited to see what each of them hold. I can’t wait to try each of these items out and maybe fall in love with some new products or companies.

Pacifica Power Of Love Natural Lipstick in Nudie Red

$10.00 - 0.07 oz    (Full Size!)

I am already a huge fan of Pacifica, and when I saw this lipstick spoiler a few weeks ago, I was really excited to try it out. First off, this lipstick is super smooth. I hate when products dry out my lips, but this actually does the opposite. It goes on nice a moisturizing, but it also stays that way for hours. Unfortunately, this isn’t the best shade for me. It is a little too dark and mauve. If I were to go with a dark lip, I would need it to be a hip color, otherwise, I just don’t look like myself. Also, people complain about the scent of their products. Honestly, it isn’t my favorite, but it doesn’t bother me like many other people. I really like this product, but I am bummed about the color. I guess I will have to pass this product along to a friend. Oh, well.

Befine Exfoliating Cleanser with Brown Sugar

$10.00 - 1.5 oz    ($6.67 Value)

Out of all the items in this month’s bag, I am most excited about this one in particular. I really enjoy face cleansers, moisturizers, serums, really anything to help my completion. Recently, I’ve been struggling with acne and red blotchiness on my face. I’ve become an avid face washer since then, and I’ve noticed a big difference in just cleaning and scrubbing away dirt and dead skin. This scrub is made with brown sugar, sweet almond, and oats. These ingredients are both all natural and great for your skin. I tried this out, and it worked really well. I felt newly refreshed and overall clean. It did dry out my skin a little, but that wasn’t anything moisturizer couldn’t help with. I do really like this product, and I would be interested in trying out other items from their line. This is also a pretty great sample size, and it will last me about a month if I use it sparingly.

Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eye Primer

$20.00 - 0.35 oz    ($9.71 Value)

I have so many eyeshadow primers, and I seriously use them maybe once a month when I am really doing my makeup big and I want it to stick. The ones in the past I’ve used seem like they work. I do wear a lot of loose powder, so they do make my makeup stick and stay. I do notice some fall, but that is expected, especially with shimmer. This one comes in a really cute tube, and the brand is definitely appealing. I was actually really excited about this until I saw it was another primer. It did work really well, and helped my eye makeup stay in place. I also noticed that it gave my eyes a nice dewy sheen, so I could also just wear that alone if I were trying for the natural look. Overall, this product is nice, but it isn’t something that I love or would use on a regular basis. I feel like there is a trend here. These are all nice products, just not the best ones for me.

RickyCare Mini Egg 3D Blender Sponge

$8.00 - 2 sponges    ($4.00 Value)

This 3D blender is much like the beauty blender I’ve been send by Birchbox. I know that those are really popular beauty tools, and people love them to blend in their foundation with their highlighter and bronzer. For me, I use a lot of powders, because it helps dry up my oily face, so these tools aren’t really my go to. I much prefer brushes or even using my hands. Once in a while, though, I will pull out my Beauty Blender for those nights that I want to look my best. This particular one seems cheaper than the original, but the price is also much cheaper. I gave this a try, and it works like I’d expect. This is a good product for those of you that don’t want to spend top dollar, but want to get the same results. For me, this beauty tool will probably get used less than the name brand product, but this was nice to try. Maybe I’ll pass it along to one of my makeup loving friends.

FORMULA X Nail Polish in Revved Up

$10.50 - 0.4 oz    ($3.41 Value)

So, my beauty profile specifies that I do not care for nail products. I am not one to really paint my nails all that often, and I’d prefer skin products, so I made sure to not check off that box. Ipsy doesn’t pay too much attention to that, because this is one of many nail polishes I’ve received as a two year subscriber. The shocking part, I actually really like this. It is a nice natural color with a load of shimmer, which is perfect for me. I like that it doesn’t draw too much attention, but the color is still really festive. I already have a gold outfit picked out for the New Years, and this nail polish will go along perfectly. I do like this nail polish brand, too, and they really have every color under the sun. It is also a pretty great value. I am surprised, but Ipsy, you finally made me smile. So, thank you for not listening.

Overall, Ipsy failed me once again. I really won’t use the blender, the lipstick is too dark, and the eyeshadow primer is just an extra step that I really can’t afford most mornings. I do have to say, I really like the nail polish, and the small size means it might actually get used up. Another thing, that face scrub works wonders, and I really like the natural ingredients. This month’s bag is worth $33.79. That is pretty great, and it also doesn’t include the value of the makeup bag. Ever since Ipsy advertised their $50 plus value on each months goodies, I haven’t hit that mark, which makes me a little upset. You can’t advertise something like that when it’s not true. Oh, well.

If you would like to try Ipsy for yourself, just click here. It is a great value and makes a great gift. Even though it isn’t the best subscription for me, it may be the perfect one for you.

Birchbox December 2015 Review - All Wrapped Up

My Birchbox has arrived for December, and I am really looking forward to opening up an early Christmas present to myself. Birchbox is a beauty sample subscription box that sends out at least five samples currated to your profile. It only costs $10 a month, and after you review your items, you will get at least $5 to spend in their shop. If you save those points up, you caEven though they are just samples, and the value isn’t always the best, Birchbox is still my favorite beauty subscription, because they always send me the best products. It’s like they get me.

This box design is one of my all time favorites. I have a few clothing items with this pattern, and they are perfect to wear this time of year. It is super cozy and reminds me of this chilly time of year. This is also a great box design for December. This is the first month that it is really cold, and all I want to do is cuddle up in a blanket around the fire. This design takes me there. I can't wait to do something with this one for around the house. 

This month's theme is All Wrapped Up. I think this is a great theme for December too. This could be talking about all the presents under the christmas tree that are wrapped up, wrapping yourself up with layers of warm clothes, or wrapping up your skin with moisture and great colors for this holiday season. The box goes perfectly with this theme and I can't wait to see what items Birchbox has in store for me to wrap myself with. 

Every single Birchbox subscriber received a $10 gift card. This seems really great, and I was about to use it, but you have to spend $35 to get your $10 off. That is great if you were already going to purchase something, but for me, it isn't that great. Also, you can't mix this with any other codes. I could use me saved up points along with this gift card to really get some savings, so that would make for a great deal. I am not sure what I will be purchasing with this, but I know it will be something I love. 

Yu-Be Moisturizing Skin Cream

$16.00 - 1.25 oz    ($1.28 Value)

This Japanese skin cream reminds me of a generic drug store balm, but this is their number one selling product over there, so it has to be great. It is free of artificial dyes and fragrances, so that already makes me happy. The smell is definitely all natural, which makes it perfect your driest areas. My elbows, feet, and cuticles get extra dry this time of year, and this will be the perfect cream to really heal those areas. After just one use on my cuticles, I could see a major difference. My boyfriend was happy to use this too. It is one of my less feminine body products. I'm a little bummed about the tiny size of this sample. It will be used up quickly, but at least I can stick it in my purse for when I need a product like this on the go. I probably won't purchase the full size item, but this was fun to try out. I'd like to see more products from around the world. 

Serge Normant Dream Big Instant Volumizing Spray

$25.00 - 4.5 fl oz    ($10.00 Value)

While it was a difficult decision what I would pick as my sample choice, I decided to go with this volumizer, since I have plenty of eyeshadows, and my hair always needs a volume boost. I do wear a lot of beanies during these cold month's so being able to spray a volumizer in my hair to relift is perfect. This smell is nice and refreshing, but that is about all I really liked about it. It made my super soft, limp hair crunchy, greasy, and even left little white flakes everywhere. I didn't even notice any real volume enhancement. I am a little bummed about this product, because I thought it would be a game changer. Instead, it is something that I'd rather not use. At least I was able to sample it without paying the full price. Now, I just need to find a product that really works. 

Coastal Scents styleEYES Palette in Formal Eyes

$12.00 - 0.448 oz    ($0.62 Value)

This was also one of the products you could choose as your sample choice, and I had a difficult time choosing between this and the volumizer. Since I didn't choose this yet still received it, I feel so lucky. The Coastal Scents makeup line is hit or miss for me, but these two colors are a definite hit. The highlighter has the perfect sheer tint, and the brownish red is both beautiful and natural. The pigmentation is medium, which is perfect for me, because I hate heavy color on my eyes. I would like to try out some colors from their other pallets, and that will be easy since they are so reasonably priced. Even though this is just paper packaging, it has a nice magnetic closure, and is perfect for taking everywhere with you. This is much nicer than packing an entire pallet. 

(MALIN+GOETZ) clarifying clay mask

$48.00 - 3.4 oz    ($7.06 Value)

I absolutely love clay masks, and this one is extra special because of it's scrubbing formula. It promises to treat oiliness and pesky blemishes, which is right up my alley. I used this just once, and I could already see a difference. My acne faded, and my skin felt fresh and clean. I don't have the oiliest face, but I did see it clear up what oil I did have. I did have to lather on the moisturizer after this, because it did dry out my face just a little, especially during these colder months. I really like this mask, and this sample is a great size. The full size item is a little expensive, so I won't be purchasing it, which is a real bummer. I will enjoy this sample I have, though. 

theBalm cosmetics Frat Boy Blush/Shadow

$21.00 - 0.3 oz    ($1.40 Value)

I absolutely love theBalm brand. Their products are both really cute and high quality. Also, their colors are completely on trend, and their makeup all has lasting power. This is advertised as a blush and/or shadow, but I will only be using it as a blush. It is a little too rosy for my eyes. This color sweeps on my cheeks so nicely, and it gives them a soft, vibrant glow. Winter always makes me a little too pale, so this gives a little life to my face. This sample is a little small, but I have never gone through en entire blush in my life, so I know this sample is plenty. This is another great product, and I am so glad Birchbox included this in my December box.

Birchbox has done it again. There are so many items I love in this month's box, and the only one that I didn't love, it was just the quality of the product, not the type of product. I love that clay mask so much, and both the blush and eyeshadow will be used by me so often. The cream will also be used up by me, and I am throwing it in my purse right now. This box has a value of $20.36. That is not great for a $10 box, but since I love all the products so much, I really made out. Plus, by sampling these items, I will have $5 to spend in the shop. Maybe I will save up and splurge on some more of that mask. I love this box, and they always get the samples for me right. I can't wait to see what the new year has in store for me. It will be my third year of Birchbox.

If you would like to try Birchbox for yourself, just click here. It also makes a great gift for your makeup loving friend or sister.