02 Sep 2016
by linettefm
in Food, Product testing, Review
Tags: 2013 Skater Girl Wines, Amazon, Amazon Wine Store, ASIN: B01EJZ30T4, Cherry pie, pomegranate, cinnamon spice, coomber ranch family, coomber ranch family wines, Coomber Wines, Dinner, Food, Gift Ideas, gourmet, Lamb glaze, Limited Edition, Los Angeles International Spirits Competition - BRONZE MEDAL 2016, napa valley, OC Fair and Event Center Commercial Wine Competition - SILVER MEDAL 2016, Perfect with Fall Foods, Pinot Noir, Red Wine, Red Wines, Review, San Francisco International Wine Competition - BRONZE MEDAL, Skater Girl 2013 Pinot Noir, California, skater girl wines, wines, Wines with Pups

Being in California, we get that perfect weather that yields beautiful grape crops. You name it, it can be grown here because the weather is not too wet, where the grapes get a fungus and hot enough, to stress the plant just a enough to get the best flavor. Not all wines are equal and I learned that very early on and that myth that a so-so wine can be saved by cooking with it……well I debunked that when I used a wine that was barely drinkable to make a pasta sauce. So, definitely buying well is now something I take into consideration over the price tag.
Buying blindly is hard. You can’t always taste the wine unless you visit a winery and you can’t even smell it and most times even see it (unless it’s a white or rose variety). Region matters but when it comes down to everything that is made, pride matters. Caring about what you produce and sell.
Verdict:
When Coomber Wines offered for review the Skater Girl limited edition Pinot Noir, I must admit it, I read a little about the wine because it was an instant love for the pup in the picture. I love companies that have a sense of humor and take a different approach because it can get boring with wines. Yes, many companies make super fancy bottles but I want the wine and like perfumes, the fancier the bottle, the more you are paying towards it. The Skater Girl Pinot Noir is made in California and the notes are sweet and fruity. Very welcoming with any meal and especially a nice stuffed chicken breast to a roast, but I found it best with lamb. The pomegranate glaze is something I already make that gets a nice kick from the acid in the balsamic vinegar I add. I enjoyed the Skater Girl Pinot Noir so much, that next time I am making my glaze (really a reduction sauce) from this wine exclusively. I will just need to add the savory notes and done. It’s perfect and what’s best, it does not break the bank and that makes me smile twice.
Retail Price Point: $29.99 per bottle via
Amazon
Connect with Coomber Family Ranch at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Coomber Ranch Famuly Wines/ Skater Girl Wine Collection. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. I received no other compensation in exchange for my review. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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18 Jul 2016
by linettefm
in Arts & crafts, crafting, Decorating, Gadgets, Home, Product testing, Review, Tomoson Product Reviews, Tools
Tags: #usartsupply, Amazon, Amazon Art Supplies, Amazon Prime Deals, Amazon Products, amazon reviews, amazon.com, art, Art projects, Art Supplier, art supplies, art tools, ASIN B01F6BKMRI, Craft Projects, crafting, Crafts, creating Art, family, Family Events, Framing, framing tools, Gift Ideas, Holiday Gift Ideas, Holiday Gifts, home, Item model number MC-340, mat cutter, matting, matting cutter, photos, picture projects, pictures, professional quality, Review, Sketching Pencil, Tomoson, Tomoson Reviews, tomoson.com, U.S. Art Supply, U.S. Art Supply Review


U.S. Art Supply has single-handedly re-awoken my crafty nature. From painting to framing, airbrushing and more, the only thing I needed to have done professionally was my matting. No more, because U.S. Art Supply has made a mat cutter that puts the one I saw being used at Joanne’s to shame.

With solid, strong aluminum hinged guide rails and aluminum mat channels (with 2 production stops) mounted securely to a solid, heavy premium MDF backer, it’s build like a tank and designed for heavy-duty use for years and years and years. There’s also a fold-able 27″ 90 degree 27″ squaring arm to keep things even and straight, and you get both straight and beveled cutting heads that use a simple razor blade to cut, so keeping a fresh, sharp blade in there is a breeze and the cost is minimal. It’s so simple to use that I can’t imagine I ever having paid someone to do this for me. Quick, sharp, precise cuts every time, and perfectly square too. And I love that I can set the bevel I want and not just have flat edges. The unit comes mostly assembled, so the box is huge, and even though I saw that it’s a 40″ unit I was still in awe of the sheer size of the system. You’ll need an extremely long counter or table to operate it on, and thankfully it has non-marring feet on the bottom as well.

Gone for me are the days of hoarding framing discount coupons for my art projects, because with U.S. Art Supply’s Professional-Quality 40″ Mat cutter, I’ll never need to rely on someone else to cut mats for me, or pay an exorbitant or ridiculous price for pre-cut mats. after a few projects, this mat cutter pays for itself, and with U.S. Art Supply you’re also getting top-notch customer service, soup to nuts. They only want 100% satisfied customers, and always go above and beyond to get you there. I recommend this product highly!

Connect with US Art Supply at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from US Art Supply. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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07 Jul 2016
by linettefm
in Food, Product Samples, Product testing, Review, Samples
Tags: Amazon Foods, ASIN: B00458D6YU, candy, Century-Old New Orleans Recipe, chocolate, Chocolate Pralines, Classic Pralines, Confection, Creamy Pralines, Creole Treats, Disneyland Park Treats, Gift Ideas, gifts, gourmet foods, grocery, Hand-Made Fresh in New Orleans, Individually wrapped, Louisiana, New Orleans Famous Praline - Box of 10 Original Pralines, New Orleans Famous Praline Company, New Orleans Foods, Pecans, Pralines, Pralines are the Authentic New Orleans Candy, sugar, The New Orleans Famous Praline Company, treats, UPC: 853244002220


We have always loved anything that is “New Orleans” related from the food to the decor, we have enjoyed it. There is a reason why New Orleans Square at Disneyland was our favorite place to hang out when we had the park’s passports. I make everything at home trying to mimic and bring back that piece of memory from making Beignets, Gumbo, to even Red Beans and Rice with Andouille at home. Most things I can make and hit the mark but the one thing I can’t imitate, is those pralines! You can imagine my excitement when I had the opportunity to review them.

The New Orleans Famous Praline Company has been sharing their delicious clusters with us since 1996. Calling them a candy is just too simple. Candy to me is a piece of gum drop, to a sour patch straw. It’s just not enough of a justifiable name to what really is a treat all of it’s own. This is a delicacy that you make it right or wrong, no middle ground here. The N.O.F.P Company (as I call them), offers you 3 different types of Pralines to choose from:
- The Original “Classic” Praline
- The Creamy Praline and
- The Chocolate Praline
Three things done right means you can get away with a short selection but do not discount them!

Verdict:
I received the box and let me tell you when I opened it, it smelled like the store at Disneyland. That store that stocks all the items you can’t find anywhere that originate from New Orleans. My goodness, did I spend my pay check at that store! It was such a joyful scent of sweetness and butter, with a hint of nuts. New Orleans Famous Praline Company packs a gorgeous little box that even serves as a souvenir itself because it’s that adorable. The box’s image is a drawing of a the shoreline. You see the city and the ships, plus the colors give it that vintage feel; very much like the century old recipe the company uses to produce these beauties. The company only uses real quality ingredients that is why these differ from the rest. Each praline is lovingly sealed in it’s own wrapper, so you have guaranteed freshness and let me get started on how they taste. You have the pecans that are chopped into pieces and floating in a buttery and sugary filling that almost resembles the inside of a pecan pie. The confection is crumbly but not dry or hard, it literally melts in your mouth. Not grainy at all but smooth and it has that classical cluster texture where it’s creamy but not gooey. Just perfectly blended and the proper thickness too. Enjoyable to the last bite and I first devoured this praline as is, but then crumbled some on ice cream (Southern Pecan of course) and it just made that bowl of ice cream pure happiness! These are a must and especially from a company that takes care and pride in what they produce. I hope in the future to taste their other creations, the creamy and the chocolate pralines!

Connect with New Orleans Famous Praline Company at:

I received the above product(s) free of charge from New Orleans Famous Praline Company. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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21 Dec 2015
by linettefm
in Decorating, Family, Home, Living, Product Samples, Product testing, Review, Tomoson Product Reviews
Tags: #usartsupply, Amazon Art Supplies, Amazon Prime Deals, art, Art projects, Art Supplier, art supplies, art tool and sketch boxes, artists box, ASIN: B015YL7YSK, Birthday Gifts, brushes, com, Craft Projects, crafting, Crafts, creating Art, family, Family Events, Gift Ideas, Holiday Gift Ideas, Holiday Gifts, home, kids, multi-function box, organization, painting, real wood box, Review, Sketching Pencil, storage, Tomoson, Tomoson Products, Tomoson Reviews, tool box, U.S. Art Supply, U.S. Art Supply Review


To say that I’m a fan of U.S. Art Supply would be a gross understatement. Everything they make is quality, affordable, and they provide everything that a professional artist, or a weekend art warrior like me, could ever want or need. And it’s all just a click or two away. And then they go and offer me this amazing Wooden Artist Tool and Brush Box and make me fall in love with them all over again.

Hubby, bless his heart, has fully embraced my rediscovered crafty-ness. He’s bought me brushes, pencils, pens, paints, and tools, and I was just about out of places to stash them all. He even donated his old plastic art supply box from high school, but it was woefully under-equipped to handle my supplies. And you could probably imagine the “decorations” a bored 13-year old might doodle on there in art class. So it didn’t exactly look stunning in my little craft closet. Thankfully, U.S. Art Supply’s Wooden Artist’s Tool & Brush box looks so spiffy, I don’t think I want to hide it away in the closet anymore! With 4 separate easily-accessible sections, 3 of which are accessible from right outside the box, you have plenty of room to store all your supplies but also keep them within easy reach! The top hatches slide open, the bottom drawer is generous, and the compartments that are under the top hatches are deep enough to hold just about anything! Made of 100% solid wood, no particle board or verneers, and with wonderful craftsmanship, it’s built to last for years and look awesome doing it. The leather-wrapped handle on top is really a gorgeous accent as well, and the brass fittings and hardware are a nice touch.
My first box was slightly damaged from shipping and the bottom drawer was permanently, hopelessly stuck. Not to worry, U.S. Art Supply’s staff is so courteous and helpful they had a new one out and in my hands in a matter of days. No muss, no fuss. I love U.S. Art Supply’s products and service, and this Artist’s Brush and Tool Storage Box is a winner!

Connect with U.S. Art Supply at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from U.S. Art Supply. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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30 Sep 2015
by linettefm
in Clothing, Family, Fashion, Product Samples, Product testing, Review, Styling, Uncategorized
Tags: 100% cotton, 100% pre-shrunk Cotton, 100% Preshrunk Cotton, Affordable wear, Amazon, Amazon Fashion, ASIN: B0145P6ZKY, AW Fashion, AW Fashion's, AW Fashion's The Unstoppable Wolverine Silhouette X-men - Men's T-Shirt, AW Fashions: X-Men Wolverine Silhouette Men's Cotton T-Shirt Review, clothes, clothing, Comic Book Heros, Comic Books, Cotton T-shirt, fashion, Fashion Trends, Gift Ideas, Gildan Heavy Cotton, Gildan T-shirt, Holiday Gift Ideas, Holiday Gifts, Men's Fashion, Men's T-shirt, Men's Wear, Novelty t-shirts, Printed in the USA by AW Fashions, Review, Screen-prints, Wolverine, Wolverine Shirt, Wolverine Silhouette T-shirt, Wolverine T-Shirt, Wolverine Wear, X-Men


My Husband likes t-shirts with movie themes and/or characters, however most are done over the top and look too busy. The images are over done and you end up with t-shirt that looks more geared towards kids than adults. Simplicity is lost!
In comes AW Fashion’s with a 100% cotton t-shirt that is simple when it comes to the image. You like Wolverine, you get Wolverine and that’s all!

Retail Price Point: $18.99 and we ordered the red colored shirt in a size large.

Verdict:
AW Fashion makes t-shirts and tanks for the family and most are based on simple logos and images. The prints range from novelty, presidential candidates to shirts with quotes and so forth. What I liked best was the quality of the shirt. The material is 100% cotton that is pre-shrunk, plus the thickness is moderate. Not too thick to be bulky but not too thin that you wonder if it will hold well after the first wash. The cut of the t-shirt is also nice, none of those odd “vintage cuts” that are for men with no arms and chest. The sizing is normal and I opted for a size Large for my Husband to accommodate an athletic physique. He was very happy with the t-shirt’s style, however he did comment the cotton was not the soft type of fabric and more towards being a little on the scratchy side (pre-wash). The sleeve is not binding across the arms, plus he commented the shirt was comfortable when wearing (pre-wash) and he could overlook the scratchiness of the material since we had not washed it yet. The screen-print of the image (Wolverine) is also solid and smooth. A thick black silhouette that will not peel or flake once washed. Overall, for when it comes to comic book hero’s and shirts of this kind, this one is nice and simple where an adult can wear it comfortably without the image looking like it’s just geared towards younger kids.
Connect with AW Fashions at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from AW Fashions. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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14 Sep 2015
by linettefm
in Family, Home, Kids, Living, Outdoors, Product Samples, Product testing, Review, Styling
Tags: #2, #6, #8, #usartsupply, 12 Acrylic Paint set, 3 canvas panels, 4, 4 Brushes, 9" x 12" Canvas Panels, Amazon Art Supplies, Amazon Prime Deals, art, Art projects, Art Supplier, art supplies, ASIN: B00LUZSXMG, Birthday Gifts, brushes, Canvas Painting, Canvas Panels, Crackle Finish Paint Projects, Craft Projects, crafting, Crafts, creating Art, Each tube contains 12 ml of paint, family, Family Events, Gift Ideas, HB Pencil, Holiday Gift Ideas, Holiday Gifts, home, Item model number: USA PS-011, kids, Oil Painting Set, Paint Media, painting, Palette Knife, Plastic Palette, Plastic Palette & Palette Knives (Acrylic Paint Kit), Review, Sketching Pencil, U.S. Art Supply, U.S. Art Supply Review, US Art Supply® Wood Table Box Easel Painting Set with 12 Colors, Watercolor Set, Wood Table Box Easel with a slide out drawer for storage

U.S. Art Supply did it again in sending out a starter kit that is welcoming sight for new artists of all ages, or nicely supplements what an established artist may have. Paints, is something that I always run low on, so I always welcome a set whenever possible. The acrylics supplied in this kit are fabulous and have a smooth texture that is not too thin or thick. The colors can be moderated from bright to mute, depending on how you mix the media. What I love most is the pigments are rich in color, so I don’t have to keep squeezing out product to get the color I want (i.e. intensity) but end up with too much material and/or layers applied.

The Kit does not end there and this is all you get from U.S. Art Supply:
- 1 Wood Table Box Easel with a slide out drawer for storage. The case also has a handle for easy carrying
- A 12 Acrylic Paint set and these are actual size tubes to use, no sample sizes! Each tube contains 12 ml of paint.
- 3 canvas panels for the artist to start creating with. They measure 9″ x 12 ” in size.
- An HB Pencil to outline and sketch with.
- A Palette Knife made of Plastic for easy cleaning.
- A Plastic Palette that makes it easy to wash and clean after use because the paints peel off if they dried onto the surface. The palette has 16 wells that are circles and square in shape. The amount of space was wonderful because I did not run out of room and was able to makes custom color washes all in one sitting.
- Also, 4 Brushes of various sizes and made with wooden handles (#2,#4,#6,#8).

Retail Price Point: A ultra fair price of $24.96 and ships free with an Amazon Prime Account. You can choose from an Acrylic set (the one I received), A Watercolor set or an Oil Painting set for the same price point.

Verdict:
I can’t say enough and absolutely love this kit. It has everything you need and/or want, that I was overwhelmed with the amount of content. I looked at the price point and kept trying to find where I was shorted but could not find one thing wrong. The drawer that pulls out slides with ease and even has two metal hinges that lock it in place. The carrying case serves as a stand, so this is perfect for an artist on the move and if you want to visit a park and feel inspired to paint, all you need is to bring a bottle of water for you and your paints and you are set.

I was able to create a painting and all I used was the paints provided by U.S. Art Supply and a cracking media. I wanted to create background for pocket watches I will be making and framing, they will have a vintage look, so I went with an antique crackle finish that you add to paints to create the look. Once the paint set and dry, I was ably to apply the second step that actually creates the crackle. I sealed the work with polyurethane once I was finished. My Husband liked the painting so much, that he wants me to frame it as-is and make another background for the pocket watch project! This kit is great for kids to adults because the products that U.S. Art Supply gives you, come with zero frustrations! I had brushes that worked and no loss of bristles while painting. An easel that stayed in place and paints that allowed me enough time to work while I painted but dry beautifully with no crackle………..well, except where I wanted it!
Connect with U.S. Art Supply at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from U.S. Art Supply. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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15 Jul 2015
by linettefm
in Coffee, Cooking, Food, Home, Product testing, Review, Uncategorized
Tags: #PureCopper, 100% Lifetime Guarantee, 100% Pure Copper Mugs, 100% Solid Copper Mule Mugs, 16 ounce Mugs, affordable copper mule mugs, Amazon, ASIN: B00UMNP64A, ASIN: B00YBDXVMG, authentic copper mug, Bar, Bar Glasses, Bar Tools, Beer Mugs, BONUS RECIPE CARDS INCLUDED, Cocktail glasses, Cocktails, Cups, Dining, Drinkware, entertainment, Gift Ideas, gifts, Glasses, Glassware, HAMMERED 16oz DESIGN, HAMMERED Mug, HAMMERED Mule Mug, Hand-crafted Mule Mugs, Handcrafted Copper Mug, Item model number: PCB-1, Item model number: PCB-MM3, kitchen, Kitchenware, Mint Julep Cups, Moscow Mule mug, PureCopper Brand, PureCopper Mugs, PureCopper Mule Mugs, PureCopper on Amazon, Solid Copper Design, solid copper mugs, solid copper mule mugs, Steins, Unique Gifts, Wine, Wine Glasses


I love copper from it’s color to how the metal lasts. I was looking at these mule mugs when they became popular and knew I wanted them until I saw the price tag for just one mug! I thought I will wait it out until the price lowers and that did not work in my favor as then quality went down. I started seeing what I call “painted mugs”, that are just coated with a copper layer or some even stated “copper like” when you searched further into the description. Price kept going up and I figured I better just walk away until……….PureCopper brand offered me a set to review!

The name says it all and it’s pure 100% solid copper! Sounds so simple when you think about it but there is always the imitators and gimmicks out there, that like cloning themselves but never as true as the real original product. I prefer to wait and afford the real item versus spending a percentage towards a purchase that will leave me unsatisfied. I can easily say that PureCopper is not only crafting beautiful copper mugs but I was more than satisfied with the set I received. You know when you imagine a purchase and sometimes it falls short? Well, this one is a purchase that you will be able to enjoy visually and also when pouring yourself a drink. It’s a Mule mug but doesn’t require a mule! You can make desserts to even as I have done, I stick it in the freezer and let is get ice cold, so it keeps everything from ice cream super cold.

Retail Price Point: $21.97 for the hammered mule mug and $18.97 for the smooth finish mug via Amazon.

Then comes something that I can’t overlook because presentation is a bonus and I don’t mean from the copper glistening in the light, but what PureCopper does. My mugs are beautifully shipped and they added these glossy recipe cards, plus the cutest paper clip that is also shaped like a mug! Who does that anymore? PureCopper makes any person receiving this gift just smile and I do every moment I use them and have even put them in my curio because when the sun starts setting, the rays hit those copper mugs and I end up with the most gorgeous looking light effect in that room. I don’t have to worry about wearing them out as it’s pure copper and like food, you don’t want fillers but a clean product. My copper with time will get a beautiful patina and you can choose a smooth finished mug or a hammered effect. Perfect for gifting or just rewarding yourself because the applications are there when it comes to how the metal conserves coldness. It’s not just a beauty but it serves it’s purpose and in the end this is the stuff we keep that can multitask and also be distinctive at the same time.

Connect with PureCopper at:

I received the above product(s) free of charge from PureCopper Brand. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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09 Feb 2015
by linettefm
in Beauty, Health and Beauty, Home, Product testing, Review, Styling, Uncategorized
Tags: #hairdryer, 2015 Hair Products, 2200 Watts, Allure, Allure blow dryer, Allure Hair Dryer, Amazon, Amazon Beauty Products, Amazon Codes, Amazon Hair Products, Amazon Promos, ASIN: B00SKQFT4I, attachment, beauty, beauty products, blow dryer, Blow dryers, blow out, blowout, blowouts, Bouncy Curls, Ceramic Tourmaline Technology, Curlers, curling, curls, curly hair, fashion, Gift Ideas, Great Gifts, great starter kit, hair, hair care, Hair Control products, Hair do's, hair dryer, hair dryers, Hair looks, Hair rods, hair styles, Hair tools, haircare, health and beauty, home, Lightweight, Product testing, Professional 5-in-1 Curling Iron, Professional 5-in-1 Curling Iron – Hair Curler – Curlz (Black) by Xtava TM, Review, shut-off safety function, SKU: B00P2PKATE, Styling, Styling products, styling tools, Styling Units, Tight Curls, Tomoson Product Reviews, UPC: 616320999261, Valentine's, Valentine's Day, Valentine's Day Gift Ideas, Valentine's Day gifts, Volume, Waves, Wavy hair, Xtava, Xtava Hair, Xtava: ALLURE 2200W Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic Professional Hair Dryer


Last week, I shared the Xtava Professional 5-in-1 Curling Iron and this week I’m sharing another one of Xtava’s products, the Allure Hair dryer. You will notice if you visit Xtava’s website, their hair dryer line is really what put the company on the map and this one is no different!
The Allure hair dryer is light in weight but powerful. You have 2200 watts that delivers air quickly in both heat and cold options. Power does not mean this blow dryer will not be kind or gentle to your hair either. The Allure hair dryer uses Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic technology, meaning you get even heat distribution and the ceramic is gentle on your hair’s cuticle. The negative ionic technology also prevents frizz to build-up, giving your final do’s that smooth and very desired shiny appearance. The above technology is also perfect with all the new hair oils hitting the market because you will achieve ultimate penetration meaning you will reap all the benefits quicker and better.
The Xtava Allure features:
- A Ultra Lightweight housing for better control
- Triple Baked Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic
- 2 Speeds with 3 Heat setting modes.
- A “Cold Burst” Button to aid with styling and setting
- Concentrator Nozzle is also included
- The “filter” easily removes on back for cleaning when needed
- 1 year manufacture warranty
- Card for up to 50% off (with code) to their site
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I tried the Xtava Allure hair dryer for 1 week to get an idea how well it performs. I was surprised how quickly the element delivered heat and the burst of air is that perfect flow where you can still control your hair while it’s drying. My hair’s length is at my waist and I have a lot of hair, which is fine to medium in texture but dense when it comes to amount. I was happy at the 5 minutes mark with the quickness in drying time and softness in feel. By 7 minutes, my hair was dry and ready for me to style. I did not experience any frizz or static from the dryer, which is a major plus for me because “dandelion head” is yet a look to catch on! On the second use, I used my typical leave-in mix of oils (2 drops of Argan oil with a small dollop of Living Proof Perfect Hair Day). I achieved great results and my hair was super smooth in feel and it had that natural gloss you get when you get that perfect blow out. I was satisfied with the performance of Xtava’s Allure hair dryer! The box comes with everything you need from the attachment…..you just need a hair brush and you are set.

Retail Price Point: $34.00 via Amazon and $30 via Xtava’s website

The only Con I could Find:
The “cool shot/burst” button pinches when you use it or if your finger tends to slide up. It also caught my hair once but I knew enough to not pull, so I did not lose any strands or caused any damage. The button is really not a button or a rocker switch, it’s made from the plastic frame the dryer is made from. A button shape is molded but the movement is made from the cut-out in the plastic’s frame. My only worries is durability with this button due to the fact plastic can only bend back and forth so often before breaking and/or cracking. Not a biggie but worth mentioning because it does pinch your skin when you use it and especially soft skin that you get from just showering or bathing. I don’t use this option often, so for me it would be insignificant when thinking of overall use or performance.
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Xtava Insert
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Insert has directions, care instructions and more
Connect with Xtava’s Great Styling Products at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Xtava. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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31 Jan 2015
by linettefm
in Beauty, Fashion, Health and Beauty, Home, Product testing, Review, Styling, Tomoson Product Reviews, Uncategorized
Tags: #Curler5in1, 0.3"/0.75" (tapers down), 0.7"/1" (tapers down), 0.75"/0.75", 1"/1", 1.25"/1.25", 2015 Hair Products, 360 degree Swivel cord, 410 degrees maximum, 5 different ceramic barrels, 5-year Warranty, Amazon, Amazon Beauty Products, Amazon Codes, Amazon Hair Products, Amazon Promos, ASIN: B00RFY3C2C, beauty, Bouncy Curls, Ceramic Tourmaline Technology, Curlers, curling, Curling Irons, curls, curly hair, Gift Ideas, Great Gifts, hair, hair care, Hair Curlers, hair iron, Hair Irons, Hair looks, Hair rods, hair styles, Hair tools, haircare, home, Irons, Model #XA0041, Model No. XA0041, Professional 5-in-1 Curling Iron, Professional 5-in-1 Curling Iron – Hair Curler – Curlz (Black) by Xtava TM, shut-off safety function, SKU: B00RFY3C2C, Styling products, styling tools, Styling Units, Tight Curls, UPC: 616320999193, Valentine's Day Gift Ideas, Valentine's Day gifts, Waves, Wavy hair, Xtava, Xtava Hair, Xtava's 5-in-1 curling, Xtava: Professional 5-in-1 Curling Iron


With all the hair wands, curlers, rods, irons and so forth, I went from having my hair care items stored under the sink, then assigned a drawer to them, to later having a shelf in the closet dedicated to them. I’m about to move them into a box until Xtava’s 5-in-1 curling iron arrived!

Xtava was the answer to my needs and their 5-in-1 professional curling iron does it all and then some. The best part, everything attaches to a singular wand. Think of it like having a drill and you would not buy a drill to go with just one drill bit…..that would be silly even though that is exactly what I did with my styling tools.
Xtava’s 5-in-1 curling iron, Model #XA0041 Features:
- One wand
- 5 different ceramic barrels
- 1.25″/1.25″
- 1″/1″
- 0.7″/1″ (tapers down)
- 0.75″/0.75″
- 0.3″/0.75″ (tapers down)
- Ceramic Tourmaline Technology
- 360 degree Swivel cord, which is a comfortable 8 feet in length
- Shut-off safety function in case you get busy and forget
- Also a nice storage bag to keep everything again in one place and easy to grab

The 5 barrels vary in sizes from the larger one producing nice bouncy waves, to the one after giving you tighter curls. You then move on down to smaller circumferences, which allows you to add detail, volume, and nothings gets missed. You can style any length of hair and Xtava’s 5-in-1 curling iron can handle it all. This is perfect for me because I like to change how I wear my hair and that means my needs change by my hair-do. I was able to comfortably curl my hair quickly and safely, with ease and produce a style that I was absolutely delighted with. I don’t have to make excuses now on why I don’t have time and/or want to curl my hair, because Xtava’s 5-in-1 curling iron could handle my very long strands with care and what was best…..super quick and this was for a full hair down style. I was done in 10 minutes!

Retail Price Point: $39.99 via Xtava and also available on Amazon
The wands easily connect with a simple twist on and stay in place (locked) until you are finished. I found them easy to use and change while styling. The barrels of each attachment are smooth and flawless, so no hairs were pulled or yanked on while I used the product. The heat output is nice and has a maximum temperature of 410 degrees. The output seems to depend on the size of the attachment you use and the unit does not allow for heat temperature selection, so you go by “time curling” when styling. Once plugged in, you can begin styling in 2 minutes! Told you it was fast. Also, the unit comes with a 5-year warranty because Xtava stands by it’s products.
Instructions with promo card
Promo Card
Code included for up to 50% off
Final Verdict:
Probably one of my shortest verdict’s and to the point, I now have this one iron because it replaced and added more than what I had before. I just have a flat iron and my blow dryers, so back to the drawer where I can use them regularly they go! One very happy girl and this would make an perfect Valentine’s Day gift!
Connect with Xtava’s Great Styling Products at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Xtava. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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10 Jan 2015
by linettefm
in Home, Living, Product testing, Review, Uncategorized
Tags: #RedBrickCandle, 10.9 oz. of hand-poured, 100% Money Back Guarantee, 100% Satis, Amazon, Amazon Codes, Amazon Products, Amazon Promos, ASIN: B00JGT09PM, candle, Candle holders, Candles, Gift Ideas, high-quality soy-based wax candle with lead free all natural wicks, home, Home Decor, Homegoods, kitchen, Lighting, living, Maple and Vanilla candles, Maple Candles, Red brick Candle Loft Collection, Red Brick Candles, Scented Candles, single-wick candles, soy candle, Soy Candles, Soy Products, Valentine's Day, Vanilla Candles, warm vanilla


Everyone loves this time of the year. The sights, the sounds, the tastes and the smells. Oh, the smells. Rich, buttery, spicy. Sometimes the smells alone put 2lbs on you. But then, as with all good things, the holidays come to a close and sometimes, the smells remain. Not scents, mind you…smells.
Enter the good folks at Red Brick Candle and their line of ultra-premium products. The were kind enough to send me a sample to try, and in my house, we put the spurs to it, because we cook. Every day. From scratch, mostly. Which means we get all the smells, good and bad, that go with that and it takes a powerful candle to foot the bill.
This candle took everything we had to throw at it, laughed, and said “Thank you, ma’am, may I have another!”. We got to try their No. 1, with deep, rich, inviting blend of maple and vanilla. Once you get over the absolutely darling packaging, you’re suddenly overtaken by the luxurious scent packed into every molecule of this candle. You almost feel bad about slicing the red labels to open it. Almost.

Once inside you get a “Thank you” dust cover with a 15% off offer, and an adorable box of matches. All this and we STILL have to get to this wonderful candle! And then you see it. It comes in a heavy-duty glass cup that you have ~0~ fear will crack with heat. Labeled “Loft No. 1”, you start to fall in love and just about feel bad setting it aflame. Until you do. In 10 minutes my home was drenched in vanilla & maple, every room, every hall, every nook, every cranny. So this is how the other half lives, huh? I’m liking… No, I’m loving this. While at 10.9 oz. (309 g) of premium grade soy based wax (which provides 75-80 hours of clean, even burn time, btw), this guy is no heavyweight, he’s hitting far above his weight class and I’ll put this little one against your big ‘ole 3-wick jobbie any day.
Retail Price Point: 32.00 for a 10.9 ounce candle and all products come with a Satisfaction Guarantee

My gripes with candles have always been that so many are all sizzle, no steak. Fancy packaging, exotic names, drop dead scents that don’t spread further than a foot away once lit. This one? Every other candle company should hang their heads in shame. Not only does it look like a million bucks, it smells like it too. But, if I had one reservation going in, it’s the cost. $32 is no small amount for one candle, but if I hadn’t tried it, I’m not sure I’d believe it was worth it. But I did, and I do. And I’m thankful for the opportunity. Now almost 1 month in and I still have almost half the candle with near daily use. Even burning with no tunneling, so you don’t feel like it’s not being used completely, no crackle from the all natural, lead-free wick, quick lighting and a with soft, calming glow. With 2 other Loft scents available (spicy cinnamon with orange, nutmeg & clove notes, as well as lilac with sweet vanilla & jasmine notes), and more collections on the way, there is definitely one for you!
Red Brick Candle also donates a portion of each sale back into the community to help benefit urban revitalization and community development initiatives. A small business with big goals and a dynamite product to boot. I wholeheartedly recommend this product, and I’m ever so thankful for the opportunity to shine a light on them. Now, the only question is, which one to try next? 😉

Connect with Red Brick Candles at:
I received the above product(s) free of charge from Red Brick Candle Company. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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