Cancellation spree!

As you may have guessed from the title, I have cancelled a number of my subscriptions. Which ones, you ask? 

• Escape Monthly

I only subscribed for the Paris box, and it was fairly disappointing. Not worth trying for another month.

• Love with Food

I like the concept, and that they donate meals to those in need, I just never love the items enough to keep subscribing.

• Beauty Box 5

I liked this subscription, but the brand quality is fairly sub-par. I'd rather stick with the Allure Sample Society box for awhile.

• Julep Maven

I did it! I cancelled. I logged in to the September window and picked a box, but luckily talked myself out of it. I immediately emailed my cancellation notice. So happy I didn't have to call.

So, what does that leave?

• Birchbox

I went through a rough patch with birchbox but they are rocking it lately and I love the sample choice. Birchbox Plus has been nifty too.

• Ipsy

I am on the fence with this one. I really enjoyed my first few, but lately not so much. This may be headed for a cancellation too.

• Allure Sample Society

I have only experienced one month so far, but I like the spoiler for next month. The box is also a really good value overall too.

Oh, and I did sign up for a new box...

• French Box

This is a new subscription of five things from France, all from different categories. I got a deal on the first nonth's box, and we'll see how I like it from there.

Escape Monthly: August 2014

I have a plan. This plan will be some time in the making, but it ends with a trip to France. My planning has led me to develop an obsession with all things French. To that end, I couldn't resist trying out Escape Monthly when I saw that the next destination was Paris.

Inside the brochure was fun facts about the City of Light.

As well as product information.

First look:

Rick Steves'

Pocket Paris

$12.99

"Rick Steves is known as America's leading authority on European travel, and his pocket-size guide to Paris will make it easy to plan your trip. Colorful and compact, you'll quickly figure out what you can avoid...and what you simply can't miss."

I knew from the spoilers that a Rick Steves book would be included, and really it decided me on ordering the box. I was disappointed, however, that it was only the pocket travel guide. I wanted the full-sized one. C'est la vie.

Pierre Biscuiterie

French Butter Cookies - Lemon and Almond

$4.25

"Since the 19th century, Pierre has been crafting some of the finest cookies in France. Based in Normandy, Pierre follows traditional recipes, with simple, natural ingredients, patience, and a dedication to pâtisserie baking!"

I like butter cookies so was excited to try these. I liked them but would have preferred the plain flavor, rather than the lemon and almond ones. I'm a bit disappointed that this is a product I can find in local shops.

Institut Karité Paris

Shea Butter Hand Cream

$26

"Based in Paris, the Institut Karité was the first French brand to exclusively sell Shea butter-based beauty products. In the past 10 years, it's become a favorite of Parisians (and Parisians at heart across the world!)."

For those paying attention to my Instagram you will notice this isn't the original lotion I received. My box arrived with the Lily of the Valley scent. Being that I am not a fan of the lily smell I swapped for this neutral one. However, I  am still not loving it so it will probably be swapped again.

Les Anis de Flavigny

Mints - Lemon

$5

"Candy flavored with anise is one of the oldest treats in France, mentioned as early as 872 AD. Whereas in the past it would take up to 6 months to layer each coating of sugar, this modern twist completes the delicious process in 15 days."

I have tried mints similar to this in the past and wasn't much of a fan. I think I will be swapping these.

Edmond Fallot

Tarragon Dijon Mustard

$6.25

"The first jar of this fine mustard was created in 1840. It soon became a favorite in Paris eateries, winning an award from the city in 1903. Now based in Dijon, the company still grinds their mustard seeds in the same way, and is still winning awards."

I am not a Dijon mustard fan, so this will be gifted to my grandmother.

Nuxe

Body Scrub & Shower Gel

$16

"Founded in Paris and dedicated to combining nature and luxury, NUXE is the leader in anti-aging, firming body skincare. Enjoy these rich Orange & Almond Blossom petal, 100% plant-based recipes - a thick exfoliant and soap-free shower gel!"

I saw online that many people received two of one item, rather than one of each so I am fortunate to have received both. I like the smell of the body scrub, so I'll be trying that out. The shower gel will be swapped away though.

Bonus! Bonne Maman

Preserves - Strawberry

$3

"This time-honored recipe creates an exquisite strawberry preserve, as if you'd just made it yourself. No artificial colors, higher fructose corn syrup, and no preservatives. Spread it on a fresh baguette, lay in the grass, and enjoy!"

I like this brand, but it is another product I can - and have - purchased at Safeway. I was hoping for something more unique to France.

Next month's destination is Puerto Rico. I'll be passing.

Summary: this was first, and probably last, Escape Monthly box. I like the idea, but just didn't love the products. Of the items I am only keeping the travel guide, body scrub, and little jam. The rest is off to the swap shop.

Birchbox vs ipsy: August 2014

Time again for another birchbox vs ipsy match-up!

What came in my birchbox?

amika dry shampoo, Laura Mercier eye cream, Supergoop! Hand cream, ModelCo bronzer, and lifestyle extra Hello breathspray.

What did my ipsy bag contain?

Manna Kadar Cosmetics Sheer Glo, GlamGlow YouthMud, Lord & Berry eye pencil, Jersey Shore Sun lip conditioner, and Urban Decay mascara.

The winner: birchbox.

Birchbox wasn't so much a winner as ipsy wasn't a contender. I am swapping away the majority of my ipsy items, whereas birchbox at least sent me a dry shampoo. Been wanting one of those for ages.

Birchbox: 4, ipsy: 4 - it's a tie!

My referral links are below, should you like to sign up and give me free points:

Birchbox:

https://www.birchbox.com/invite/hv6ks

ipsy: http://www.ipsy.com/r/4xwr

Beauty Box 5: August 2014

This month the theme is: Radiant and Remarkable.

Product details are included on the back (complete with correct company hashtags):

First look:

Pür-lisse

Pūr~Protect SPF 30

Sample size: 0.5 oz (Full size: $55)

"Shield your skin and soak up some rays, without guilt or greasiness! This lightweight moisturizer has the perfect amount of SPF to protect your pretty face and want upset sensative complexions--bring on the sunshine!"

I like moisturizers, and I like this brand, but I am going to try and swap with my friend for a Keims Shampoo she got in her Birchbox.

LA Fresh

Travel Lite Makeup Remover Wipes

Sample size: 8 wipes (Full size: $19.99 for 48 packets)

"We love to pile on the products, but when it's got to go, there's no need for a delay! These wipes take away all out favorite makeup fast-even waterproof formulas!-without irritating our faces or leaving any residue behind. Ahh-quick, easy, and refreshed."

I like this brand, but I have a number of face wipes right now so this will be off to the swap shop.

Nanacoco

Lip Gloss - Mysterious

Full size sample! Sample size: 0.22 fl oz  (Full size: $3.99)

"Your lips deserve a rush of color and shine with no stickiness attached! We adore Nanacoco's gloss because it's packed full of pigments and vitamin E to keep your sassy pout poppin' and nourished at the same time."

Love lip gloss, and love this color! I haven't applied it yet, but I'm hoping it isn't too sticky.

Novex

Brazilian Keratin

Sample Size: 1.05 oz (Full size: $19.50 for 2lbs)

"Is your mane hungry for nourishment? This intensive treatment works on all hair types, so you can renew and reinforce your strands right away. BB5 tip: massage this into your tresses post-shampoo, leave in for 25 minutes, then rinse for smoothness and shine."

Um, 2 pounds?! That is a lot of hair treatment! I'm torn on whether to keep this one or swap it. I have a lot of hair products to sample right now.

Style Essentials

Nail Polish - Teal

Full size sample! Sample size: 0.25 fl oz (Full size: $7 for 4 polish set)

"Bored with plain polish?" Wave hello to shiny, exciting nails! This lavish lacquer adds a pretty dash of color and fun finish to your digits, and the easy-to-apply brush makes switching to a new hue simple."

This polish is available as part of a set called A Touch of Teal. I love the color and plan to put to use it in a pedi soon.

Summary: another good box! I like the mix of products, I just wish the brands were a bit more high end. Some of them don't seem to even be at a drugstore level.

Anyone else tried Beauty Box Five??

Ipsy: August 2014

This month the theme is: Beauty Schooled.

The reverse has the logos of the possible brands sampled in the bag, as well as details on how to win a one-year free ipsy subscription.

The bag is another meh for me. I wish they didn't do so many plastic ones.

First look:

GlamGlow

YouthMud TinglExfoliate Treatment

Sample size: 0.5 fl oz (Full size: $69)

"Designed as a 10-minute professional ‘facial in a jar’ for behind-the-scenes use in Hollywood’s Entertainment, Music, Fashion & Award industries, YOUTHMUD ^® provides immediate camera- ready glowing skin. NEW Patented TEAOXI ^® technology with real Green Tea Leaf is the ‘magic’ behind our powerful anti-aging and anti-wrinkle results, delivering fresh antioxidants directly into the mud to hydrate, balance oil production and fight free radical damage. French Sea Clay works to detoxify & awaken the skin by drawing out impurities, while Ivy helps tone, tighten and lift the skin. Revitalize dull, dry skin with Volcanic Rock multi-level surface exfoliation & experience smoother, brighter, softer skin. Get your Youthful Sexy Glow back in just 10 minutes."

The description is intriguing! Looking forward to trying this product.

Urban Decay

Perversion Mascara

Sample size: 0.1 fl oz (Full size: $22)

"Bigger. Blacker. Badder. Urban Decay's ultra-creamy, lengthening and volumizing mascara features triple-black pigments and a deeply nourishing ingredient blend. Perversion Mascara gets you sexy in one stroke, yet it won’t quit until you say when."

This mascara was one of two possible Urban Decay sample this month. I was really hoping for the Plushie eye liner - a deep purple color. Of course that is a hot ticket item, so I've been having a hard time finding one to try and swap for. I'm torn with whether to keep or swap the mascara...

Jersey Shore Sun

Mongongo Lip Conditioner

Full size sample! Sample size: 0.15 oz (Full size: $5.50)

"Slather on this balm for soft lips all year long. Mongongo oil has hydrating, regenerating and restructuring properties and offers a unique protection from UV and environmental pollutants in skin applications. Mongongo oil is rich in calcium, magnesium, zinc, cooper and anti-oxidants. 

Jersey Shore Sun® Mongongo Nutrient Dense Lip Conditioners are 100% natural and USDA certified organic. Fresh organic flavors. No petrochemicals. Nothing artificial. No petroleum. 

Mongongo oil is derived from a fruit which some consider a tree nut."

This product is meh for me, so it is off to the swap shop.

Lord & Berry

Silk Kajal Eye Pencil - Black

Sample size: 0.02 oz (Full size: $15)

"Sensual and exotic, that's the effect that Silk Kajal Kohl Eye Pencil delivers. Just like the traditional Kohl, but with the modern ease and control of a pencil. Giving a semi-matte finish that is also smudgeable, Silk Kajal Kohl's soft tip is ophthalmologically-tested and gentle enough to be used on the inner eye. Also available in Nudo and White."

I like the sounds of this eye liner but it is so gosh darn tiny! I'm be swapping this away. Also, would have like a non-black color.

Manna Kadar Cosmetics

Sheer Glo

Sample size: 0.27 oz (Full Size: $29)

"Sheer Glo is an incandescent liquid that lights up skin with all over radiance. Mix with foundation or wear alone to provide a luminous glow for all skin types. An especially amazing product for mature or dry skin. Sheer Glo provides a youthful glow and dewy finish. Use on face and/or body and get glowing.

Key Benefits:
• Universal Shade
• Mix with foundation for a dewy glow
• Use as highlighter on cheeks
• Mix with lotion for an all over body glow"

I've received this product before, in a past Birchbox, and have yet to use it so this one is off to be swapped.

Summary: three, maybe four, of my five items are going to be swapped away. Not a good ratio. That combined with the cheapy, plastic bags are making me re-consider my ipsy subscription. Especially since I have the new Allure Sample Society box.

ipsy: http://www.ipsy.com/r/4xwr

My referral link, should you like to sign up and give me free points.

Allure Sample Society: August 2014

Yeah, it's true. I subscribed to a new box...however, I have cancelled two and will soon be canceling another!

After seeing my friend's awesome box last month I immediately went and signed up for the Allure Sample Society box. It is much like the other beauty boxes, but there is one sample from each category: nails, hair, lips, skin, and lashes. The cost is $15 a month, plus any applicable taxes. Subscribers also receive a code each month for $10 off a purchase of at least $50 on www.beautybar.com.

Each box comes with a little magazine detailing the products:

First look!

Ciaté Paint Pots

Nail Polish - Cha Cha Cha

Sample size: 0.17 fl oz (full size: $15)

Wow, is this orange! And, per the magazine, it is even brighter on the nail.

Being that I don't love orange, this will be off to the swap site.

Oribe

Surfcomber Tousseled Textured Mousse

Full size sample! Sample size: 2.5oz (full size: $21.50-$37)

This product was the spoiler and yet another convincing reason to subscribe. I've heard good things about the brand, so I am excited to test it out. This is the "purse size" which retails for $21.50 - worth more than the cost of the box!

I'm hoping the beachy waves look works for me!

Two Faced

Melted Liquified Longwear Lipstick - Melted Peony

Sample size: 0.16 fl oz (full size: $21)

I love lip products, especially pink ones, so this was a great item for me!

I haven't tried this yet, but the matte finish is intriguing.

Kate Somerville

Dilo Oil Restorative Treatment

Same size: 0.1 fl oz (full size: $65)

So, um, yeah. At first glance I thought this item had an interesting name. Then I looked more closely. Dilo. Strange word. I'm not sure how I am feeling about this sample, mostly because I don't quite get how to use it.

The sample doesn't have a dropper, so do I just put some in my hands and rub onto my face? Or drip some into my face and work in? I may just swap this away...

Jane Iredale

Longest Lash Thickening and Lengthening Mascara - Black Ice

Sample size: 0.1 oz (full size: $33)

Based on the packaging I totally didn't realize this was a mascara at first! Not super thrilled for another black mascara, and the magazine description isn't helping...

Caterpillar brush? Fibers? A dozen passes? This may also be headed to the swap shop.

Summary: I didn't love this box as much as my friend's box from July. That said, I like the concept of the categories and the little magazine with detailed information. I'll definitely be keeping this subscription for a few months and see how I like it.

Love with Food: July 2014

This post is so late! August is half over and my new box should be arriving soon. One advantage of a late review is that I have had a chance to try some of the snacks.

This month the theme is: Happy Camper. Again, this company has some of the cutest info cards!

The backside has the list of food items.

I love how they carry the theme onto the other info cards:

On to the food!

2 Degrees

Bar - Cherry Almond

Sample size: 1.6 oz

"Not only is this delicious bar packed with fruit, grains, and more, but 2 Degrees promises "One Bar = One Meal" to feed hungry children."

This bar looks delicious! Plus, I love that this company is also working to feed hungry children. 

An informational card was included with a code for 20% off your order:

If I like it, I may order some to keep in my desk at work. These type of bars make great snacks.

Mediterranean Snacks

Sea Salt Lentil Crackers - Sea Salt

Sample size: 0.75 oz

"Baked with protein rich lentils and naturally gluten free, these lentil crackers will help you live a balanced life at home or in the wilderness."

I was so excited when I saw these crackers. I love lentils and thought these would be right up my alley. Sadly, they were not close to being as good as I was expecting. I dipped them in cream cheese to improve the flavor.

Included was a $0.50 off coupon:

I wouldn't purchase these crackers, but maybe some other product is better?

Zouq

Curry Crunch Sweet and Sour Trail Mix

Sample size: 1 oz

"Trail mix goes international with this savory gluten-free snack."

I think this trail mix sounds delicious. Fingers crossed it lives up to expectations better than the lentil crackers.

ginnybakes

Butter Crisp Love Minis

Sample size: 1.25 oz

"These gluten-free, organic, non-GMO cookies are the perfect reward after a long hike or day."

These were delicious! I could have eaten twice this many. They reminded me of the holiday shortbread cookies that come in tins. Yum!

Honey Stinger

Kid's Organic Chews - Mixed Berry

Sample size: 0.8 oz

"Snackers of all ages will get a skip in their step from the Vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and protein in these delicious chews."

First, Honey Stinger is a strange company name. Just had to point that out. I haven't tried these yet, but I am hoping they are like fruit snacks. 

Somersaults 

Dutch Cocoa

Sample size: 0.5 oz

"Seeds are the new but! These little nuggets are both packed with protein and will satisfy your sweet tooth."

Cute packaging, but and a delicious product! Not quite as tasty as the ginnybakes cookies, but I would definitely enjoy them again.

Madyson's Marshmellows

Chocolate Chip Fluff

Sample size: 1 square

"Roast this gluten-free, gourmet, chocolate chip marshmellow over a campfire for the ultimate s'mores experience."

I like the recommendation of a delicious s'more. If it was winter I would cut it up and add some to hot cocoa! Sadly I seemed to have misplaced this, so it will go unsampled. Sad panda.

Beanitos

Puffs - White Cheddar

Sample size: 0.7 oz

"With 5 grams of protein these preservative free White Cheddar Puffs are bound to keep you energized during your next excursion."

I'm hoping these are a healthier kind of Cheeto. They look really yummy!

Also included was a coupon for $1 off:

And a couple other product cards:

Love with food is also rolling out a new box:

I'll be passing on that box. I like my gluten.  :-)

Summary: another tasty box with a good variety of snacks. I haven't seen any spoilers for August yet, so I am looking forward to seeing what the theme is!

My referral link, should you wish to sign up and give me points: http://lovewithfood.com/invite?m=r&ref=Jog