RazorPit Review

When items such as the RazorPit filter into my inbox I have a tendency to look the other way. It seems gimmicky.  Then I go to my local Target to pick up some razor blades for myself and my husband and I feel like I need to take out a loan.  Hello, people at RazorPit?  I'm ready for my review now.

The RazorPit is a razor blade sharpener.  Plain and simple it works with all razor blades and can increase the use of a single blade up to 150 times.  Using friction technology (that stand has give to it like skin) it removes residue, hair, soap and skin from the blade letting you use the the blade a whole lot more.  I tested it out this weekend after realizing my razor needed to shave my leg three times in one spot to get a clean, close shave. 

To use the RazorPit you need only to apply your shave cream, gel or soap to the RazorPit's flat surface.  Run your razor forwards about 4-5 times.  Rinse both the RazorPit and razor clean and you are done. Pretty simple and fast.  It worked too!  I immediately took my razor and went down the front of my calf.  The whole line was smooth and clean with no need to retrace. I'm ridiculously happy I don't have to replace my blade again! I ran it through the RazorPit a few more times for good measure. My husband tested his out too and it seems that the more blades you have (Mach 3 Turbo) the less success you might have. His worked out but not as noticeably sharpened as my dual blade. 

The RazorPit Razor Blade Sharpener (about $25) is sold online at Amazon (pink, black and white colors available) and the company website. 

MPR Rating:  Four Stars (out of five).

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

Sun Ridge Farms Organic & Natural Foods

Powered by 70% solar energy (at peak usage) and located in Pajaro, CA, SunRidge Farms is an all natural, organic snack food company.  Founded in 1982 and a certified green business this is a company that pays its employees if they bike to work.  That's wonderful! I wish there were more places that operated this way. 

But what about the snacks, right? 

I tried the Organic Cranberry Harvest mix ($4.65) which has a great combination of dried apples, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, cranberries, giant almonds and even some dark chocolate chips.  It's a nice mixture that I loved to eat right after I left the gym or was running errands and getting a bit hungry.  I thought there were a bit too many chocolate chips for my taste but then again it is January and I'm trying to eat less sugar.  Overall, I thought the combination of sweet and tangy was great and I would definitely eat it again. 

I also had the Thai Curry Cashews and the Dark Chocolate Almonds. Swoon, to both!  The Thai Curry Cashews are a great source of protein that also have no artificial dyes, additives or colors.  Packed with curry seasoning but not overpowering I really enjoyed this different, crunchy snack.  The same goes for the Dark Chocolate Almonds.  A few at a time has become the answer to my mid-afternoon snack attack.  When I want something sweet the dark chocolate is perfect but I still get a bit of protein and sustenance from the almonds. 

SunRidge Farms makes a variety of snack mixes, in-house roasted nuts and even confections.  You can purchase them online at their website.

MPR Rating:  Four Stars (out of five).

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

Clairvoyant Perfume by Clairvoyant Beauty

It's a new year! Why not a new scent?  I'm a huge fan of citrus-based scents. In fact,  my husband actually thought I naturally smelled like Origins 'Spring Fever' when we first met. Silly boy.  Beyond that I tend towards perfumes with a peppery scent, like Theorema by Fendi.  I typically wear Hermes "Un Jardin Apres La Mousson" on a daily basis. So I was excited to learn about Clairvoyant Beauty and its new scent, "Clairvoyant". 

Created by Lexie Masterson (yes, she's related to actress Mary Stuart Masterson) Clairvoyant is deliciously crisp, floral fragrance that has a hint of citrus to it.   Like the products in the luxury Clairvoyant Beauty line the perfume is hand-crafted using natural and organic ingredients.  Produced in small batches it is an all-natural fragrance that can be worn alone or to enhance ones own fragrance.  I love that! When I put it on it is light and a bit sweet but if I add to it and layer it with my citrus lotion the scent changes and becomes deeper.  It's a small thing but perfume is so rarely versatile in this way and this unique quality sets Clairvoyant apart. 

I also love that each small batch contains base notes of Tabacco Absolue, Green Cognac with top notes that include Mexican lime and bergamot. All things I look for in a fragrance.  It's light but the more you add the more the scent changes and continues to bring out its layers.  The 100% natural formula is pure fragrance too. No unnecessary chemicals here, even the alcohol is made from organic corn alcohol. 

Clairvoyant perfume ($45-100, sizes vary) and other Clairvoyant beauty products are available online and at some salons and boutiques. 

MPR Rating:  Four Stars (out of five).

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.


*Image from cherelynn.com

Mini Kittour by Vonda Just in Case Collection

If you travel a lot then the mini kittour Just in Case individuals and refillables are something you are going to love.  I really could have used this collection when I was traveling so much in the last few years.  While you can pick up a pill case or travel-sized bottles at many drugstores you won't find such a high-quality set like the pieces from mini kittour. 

In beautiful chocolate brown and accented with gold each item holds up well and is the right size for air travel.  They are leak-proof, refillable and customizable.  That last one is one of the best parts to this set.  The recyclable, flexible set of bottles ($6-7), sprayers, vitamin case, jars with screw on caps, and 3 piece dual-ended makeup brushes ($35) comes with a memo pad with 80 waterproof labels and a mini-sharpie ($10) to label each one.  I love it!  You can put your conditioner, shampoo, eye cream, lotions and even makeup remover in these bottles without fear of them breaking and leaking all over your other luggage.  I also love that the four well Vitamin case ($5) is square and flat instead of a bulky rectangle.  You can also get a set of 3 of the clear PET bottles (like the sprayer or lotion pump) for $8. 

I also happen to like the mini kittour Daily Kit ($50) for storing things like makeup and brushes inside my gym bag, diaper bag and car.  I don't have to worry about powers smudging, lip gloss stains or any of those yucky accidents when I carry this.  The outside wipes clean and has a large mirror that many of these cases just don't have. The three brushes inside are super soft and luxurious.  They are long lasting and won't scratch your skin like many cheaper versions do.  In addition to holding two bottles and jars you can add other makeup, a cell phone or even your credit cards.  The outside is nice enough to carry as a clutch too.  It's so perfect!

Created by Vonda Simon a mother, lover of beauty and fashion and business mogul, mini kittour is based on aesthetics, function, portability and convenience.  You can purchase mini kittour items, there are larger cases and so much more, online and stores like Beauty Bar. 

Tilvee Argan & Sea Buckthorn Age-Defying Creme

I had never heard of Tilvee skincare products until they sent me a request for review.  After reading the press release I was intrigued.  Tilvee is eco, ethical skincare.  Made from organic, fair trade ingredients Tilvee's products are a natural luxury skin care product line.  Free of parabens, petroleum and fragrances the ingredients work to repair sun damage and fight the harsh winter weather.  Their anti-aging properties from Moroccan argan oil, Vitamins A and E and protective kokum butter keep skin calm and safe from UV rays. 

Tilvee Argan & Sea Buckthorn Age-Defying Creme ($34.99, 2 oz.) is an age-defying creme made specifically to repair summer-damaged skin for a more youthful appearance. It helps fight red, rosacea-like spots, fine lines and wrinkles.  Sea buckthorn oil heals skin from pigmentation, aging and acne.  You are supposed to apply it twice a day, however, I only did it once since I am in the middle of another skincare routine that has a heavy duty nighttime moisturizer.  When I did use the Tilvee Argan & Sea Buckthorn creme I immediately noticed its lack of fragrance and its thick texture.  Despite that it melted into my skin quickly and applied evenly and smoothly.  It didn't interfere with the whitening system I've been using or cause any irritation or redness.  My skin really did feel calm.  It also felt soft both day and night after only using it about four days.  I was really surprised.  It was such an effortless but fast working creme.  It's impressive.

Tilvee Argan & Sea Buckthorn Age-Defying Creme received the “best anti-aging award in 2010” by Delicious Living Magazine due to amazing anti-aging benefits of Moroccan Argan Oil and Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil.

Tilvee Eco Ethical Skincare has a full line of luxurious, toxin-free skin care, outdoor, and hair care for women, kids, and babies. Tilvee products are formulated with 100% natural and sustainable ingredients sourced from fair trade cooperatives.  I love that!  The products are also packaged in sustainable materials. Tilvee items are available nationwide at Whole Foods Market, Vitamin
Cottage, other natural stores and online.

Top Trainers DVD Collection

Some call it the ultimate holiday workout but I say it is a great way to squeeze in a workout anytime of year.  The Top Trainers DVD ($60) set is an awesome collection of ten DVDs that mix cardio, yoga, Pilate's and other workouts like the Bar Method all in one package.  It's fantastic!

I love that I can use this to change things up when I don't want to hit the gym or go for a run.  There at my fingertips is a Pilate's workout with 10 of the top fitness professionals in the country.  Using the Blend Method you can always change things up and focus on areas you really want to target. I loved Ellen Barrett's Yogini workout.  For 45 minutes I was stretching, sweating and getting a great bun, thigh and ab workout without having to leave my house.  Two days later my body actually felt like it was craving that workout again.  Yes, really.  Want more?  Top Ten has Latin Dancing, Kickboxing, ballet and interval training too.  Included in the kit was a schedule for optimal results too.  Love it!

You can purchase the Top Trainer DVD collection at HealthyFitBodies.com and there is a 30 day money back guarantee.

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 

Reuseit Skoy Paper Towels & Earth Tote

Reuseit is a fantastic website that I love to shop on whenever I need to replace something in my house. For example, a few weeks ago my Cuisinart coffeemaker needed a new cup to hold the coffee grounds. The mesh had torn and was coming away from the plastic frame. Reuseit had a perfect fit replacement that can be used in my coffeemaker and many others. The Reuseit one is actually a better quality and a finer strainer than the company brand too.

Reuseit recently sent me some Skoy Paper Towel replacements ($4.95). These can be used to sop up a mess and for everyday cleaning. For a set of four in four colors (blue, green, yellow and natural) you can be wiping up messes and cleaning for a week.  One Skoy cloth replaces 15 paper towels, which is great for the environment.  When the Skoy Paper Towel replacement is dirty just toss it in the wash.  Made from 100% biodegradable wood pulp cellulose and natural cotton Skoy is non-toxic and chlorine free.  You can even clean it in your dishwasher, which I find to be easier and faster.  It's also dryer safe.  If you are trying to conserve paper towels, be more green or save money then the Skoy Paper Towel is a good product to buy from Reuseit.

We all have a variety of reusable bags in our homes these days.  Companies stick their logos on them and hand them out all the time.  The reuseit Earth Tote, Original ($9.95) is a notch above all those other reusable shopping bags.  For one, it is bigger and a nice tall rectangular shape.  It has sturdy handles and a very handy and deep front pocket that you can put lists, notes or other additional items in.  I love it!  

Reuseit is the perfect place to start when you are thinking of going green. It can help you eliminate waste like using plastic utensils, straws, plastic baggies, use-and-toss lunch containers and more.  I love browsing the site to figure out ways that save me money in the long run and the earth right now.

MPR Rating:  Four Stars (both products).

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

sweetriot Chocolate

Fun Find- sweetriot chocolate company is human, globally responsible, irreverent and built for a new generation.  That is the company's mission.  Founder Sarah Endline found cacao during her travels and realized that not many people knew that in countries like West Africa, South & Central America and Asia, cacao is a celebrated food. It is considered spiritual and magical.  With that in mind sweetriot was formed by the riot team with the idea of supporting social causes like fair trade.

One of the things I love about sweetriot is that they use only all-natural, high quality inredients.  The chocolate is intense, rich and lovely.  They are known for their smooth dark chocolate varities and sweetriot nibs, which have a celebrity following.  The flavor of a sweetriot chocolate bar is deep, varied and all around a premium experience.  I loved every savored mouthful of my chocolate bars.

"Welcome to sweetriot.  Join us. Life is a riot. Sweet."

sweetriot products are available at Whole Foods, Zabars, World Market, Publix and many other fine retailers nationwide. 

Dr. Oetker Frozen Pizza

Dr. Oetker pizza is Italy’s No. 1 frozen pizza brand.  Ristorante style gourmet pizza features an Italian-style thin-crust using fresh ingredients, a thin crispy crust and flavors that are signature of an Italian restaurant without having to leave your home.

Dr. Oetker pizza is available in six varieties ($4.49-$5.99):

·         Spinaci
·         Mozzarella
·         Funghi
·         Vegetale
·         Speciale
·         Quattro Formaggi

I tried the Spinaci and Quattro Formaggi and loved them both.  My favorite being the Quattro Formaggi.  I found the Spinaci with its deep green spinach to be tasty but a tad on the salty side.  There was quite a bit of spinach which is fantastic but on a frozen food that has to remain crispy it can sometimes not heat up and lose some of its water at the same rate as the rest of the pizza.  The garlic sauce was great on it as were the sundried tomatoes.    However, the Quattro Formaggi with its addition of blue cheese crumbles, Edam, Emmental and mozzarella is tantalizing and tasty.  The combination of the cheeses and basil seasoning is quite good.

Dr. Oetker pizza is available in the frozen food section at Harris Teeter, Giant and Weiss stores nationwide.  The website also has an online store with the Dr. Oetker desserts and baking ingredients that are fantastic. 

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

Carmex Healing Lotion & Cream Giveaway!

I received a Carmex Healing Lotion set to get my skin winter-ready.  The people at Carmex know a thing or two about moisturizing too. Just like their fantastic lip balm the healing lotion and cream are thick but not greasy.  They absorb into your skin quickly and leave behind no residue just soft, smooth skin that doesn't become dry again in no time.  I love that there is no menthol scent either.  Just a light, slightly vanilla scent to them.  The healing cream is best for those really rough areas like your heals too.  It's done wonders with mine after a long summer outdoors.  The set includes-

1 Carmex Healing Lotion
1 Carmex Healing Cream
1 Travel size Carmex Healing Lotion
1 Travel size Carmex Healing Cream

I love that it comes with two travel size pieces because as busy as I am this is a great way for me to test out a product.  I can keep one in a purse and another in my car. The full size tubes are slim and don't take up a lot of room in my bathroom drawer, cabinet shelf or in my gym bag.  It's perfect!  I think that the set makes a great teacher gift too. 

Check out the Carmex website for more healing, moisturizing options as well as coupons!  You can purchase the Carmex Healing products online at drugstore.com or at your local Walgreens, Target and other fine retailers nationwide. 

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

GIVEAWAY!  I'm giving away ONE full set of from Carmex Healing!  Just like the one I reviewed above!  Enter to win by following Mummy's Product Reviews.  Already follow MPR? Additional ways to enter by Tweeting this giveaway or following The Mummy Chronicles. Winner will be chosen at random by December 5, 2011. US Residents only.

Benefit's Stay Don't Stray

It's a concealer that makes your eye makeup last and last. No, really! Benefit's Stay Don't Stray ($26) is amazing! I was skeptical because I've always used my cream concealer to make my eye shadow stay put but Stay Don't Stray does something more.

This ia a dual-action primer that works for your lids and your under eye area. It works perfectly as a dark circle concealer that does not crease and it keeps your shadows in place without creasing as well. Sodium Hyaluronate hydrates and fills in fine lines while Vitamins C & E help fight the signs of aging. While I can't attest to that last part I do know that my eye make-up goes on all day and until I take it off. It isn't hard to remove when I want to either. I'm so in love with this product! A little goes a long way too. One pump is all you need for both eyes and then some. I like to use half a pump and still find I have a bit leftover and complete coverage.

Benefit's Stay Don't Stray is availalble at Ulta, Benfit stores and Sephora. For a limited time Stay Don't Stray is also available at the cute, stylish boutique, Cake Plate in Napa Valley. 

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only.

Jouer Cosmetics Mad About Fall

What is it about film stars and television shows that can be so inspiring even when it is a blast from the past?  You see an old movie magazine photo and suddenly you want to Brigitte Bardot your hair. In Jouer Cosmetics case their new fall line is all about taking inspiration from the show Mad Men on AMC. 

Just like the women from the 60's the Jouer Liquid Shimmer eyeliners ($22) create that certain look we have all been looking for this fall.  I adore the Mink Liquid Shimmer eyeliner.  I am never able to apply liquid eyeliner but I can with this one.  It is so easy and mess free with real staying power. I was suitably impressed.  Paraben-free with Vitamins A & E the set comes in Fox (navy), Mink (taupe) and Sable (sheer aubergine). It is a water-based formula that dries fast and doesn't crease. The subtle shimmering shine is beautiful! I'm in love! 

You can purchase Jouer Mad About Fall eyeliners and any other Jouer cosmetics online.

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

Schick Intuition Naturals Razors

Fun Find- In one easy step you can lather and moisturize your skin while shaving!  The new Schick Intuition Naturals razors (4 blades to a razor) is not just fragrance-free and hypoallergenic it is made with 100% natural aloe that provides a close shave without the need for shaving cream, lotion or body wash while shaving.  I love that! A solid conditioning bar at the top of the razor takes care of everything and doesn't leave your skin feeling slimy or soaped up.  The box comes with one handle, one shower hanger and 1 travel cap.  The travel cap is perfect too!  I've had so many razors that I can't put in my gym bag or in my toiletry bag because of the lack of travel cap and many women's razors do not fit into those plastic razor cases they sell in the travel section.  It's so frustrating.  The Schick Intuition Naturals razor solves this pesky problem.

You can purchase them anywhere- grocery, drug or big box store.  I love the 100% recycled packing too. Visit them on Facebook for coupons too. 

Skindinavia Make Up Finishing Spray

Skindinavia's Original Makeup Finishing Spray ($29) extends your makeup for hours at a time while maintaining color and preventing makeup from slipping, melting and creasing. The Original formula is recommended for normal to combination skin types.  For oily skin check out the No More Shine formula.  Both are "kind of genius" as described by NBC's Today Show.  I have to agree.  I tested out both on dry and rainy days and found that my makeup looked fresh all day with each one.  While it is not something I normally would even think of using it is perfect for days when you need to look your best or yes, even rainy days.  That in particular was quite impressive. 

A bit more about Skindinavia's Makeup Finishing Spray- it was first used on movie sets to hold makeup under hot lights.  The need to minimize the need for touch ups and control excess shine is great in these scenarios. It is still used in Hollywood and on Broadway stages today.

Features and benefits:

• Fewer touch ups throughout the day.
• Stops makeup meltdown in summer and drying out in winter.
• Holds eye shadow, foundation, blush, and concealer perfectly.
• Leaves a translucent, smooth finish.
• Hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, and oil free.

One thing I did notice with both, less with the No More Shine spray, was that initially there is a shiny finish just after spraying.  The product needs a few minutes to absorb and then you are good to go. 

20% OFF AND FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS OVER $40.
USE COUPON CODE: SAVE20

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

Hello Paper Dolls

I have always been a fan of paper dolls.  One of my favorite toys from my own childhood involved a Victorian paper doll set.  hello hanna 'hello paper dolls' is a sweet, simple take on the paper doll sets I loved. There are four royal princesses to choose from -Violet, Buttercup, Rose and Daisy. Each doll comes with one large paper doll, a pet, outfits and sticker accessories.  A stencil is included to create one-of-a-kind designs too. 

Each sturdy hello paper doll ($12.95) is 6" and made from heavyweight paper.  Two sheets of punch-out clothing and 1 sheet of sticker accessories are in the kit as well.  I love that the stickers can be used multiple times.  Each set is made from FSC-certified uncoated recycled paper.  Always a plus in my book.  My girls loved the endless combinations they could create with their own hello paper dolls and spent hours making fashions and playing with their individual paper dolls sets.  I think they make great gifts for the holidays as well as any upcoming birthdays you might be attending soon. 

hello paper dolls are available on hellohanna.com and fine stationary stores everywhere. 


MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 

Lee Jeans Slender Secret Fit

I wear jeans a lot. I wear them to set a tone in my outfit, for practical reasons, on date nights, out with the kids or my friends. They are incredibly versatile but for many it is hard to find a good fit. When I saw the Lee Jeans booth at Blogher this summer I passed it by initially. I hadn't worn Lee Jeans since I was a kid. However, I stopped by the booth the second day and tried on a pair of the Platinum Label Naturally Slimming Bootcut Jeans ($56, now $28!!).

It was a fast fitting and I thought nothing more than, "Yeah! New jeans!" Well, my Lee Jeans arrived in the mail a few weeks ago and I promptly put them on. In about five minutes someone actually asked me about my jeans. Truthfully, they were way too long and I had rolled them up and they looked ridiculous, but they were looking at the fit, not the cuffs. They wanted to know where I got my jeans. In fact, a few more people asked the same question that day. They couldn't believe they were Lee brand jeans either. No one knew that Lee had such great jeans.  I've since had mine shortened (they do run a bit long, even in short length) and I love wearing them. Why?

They never change shape! I don't have to worry that they will droop, sag or get that too tight feeling just coming out of the dryer. The jeans are 98% cotton, 2% spandex so they are slimming but also retain their shape. Makes me happy! I prefer the dark wash denim and the fabric is super stretchy but it isn't uncomfortable. It is the opposite.  They are the most comfortable jeans I've ever worn.  I love wearing them!

Lee Jeans Slender Secret Fit jeans come in a variety of styles and washes for men and women.  You can purchase them online at Lee.com and Kohl's stores nationwide. 

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 

GIVEAWAY! I'm giving away a pair of Lee Jeans to one lucky reader!  You pick the style and size and Lee will send them to you.  Visit Lee.comwww.lee.com and comment on the style you would like best!  Contest ends on November 11, 2011. 

Molton Brown Home Fragrance Collection

Molton Brown has recently re-launched their candle collection. Redesigned in new candle sizes and fragrances the Molton Brown collection is ready for the upcoming holiday season.
So what's new with this fabulous collection?  The glass for one.  Each one is hand-blown and hand polished making each one unique.  The candles themselves are hand-filled in Suffolk, England with paraffin wax.  Each candle has a low melting point that makes burning bright, even and with superior fragrance distribution.  An Aromalite cored wick (medio and grande candelas) is made of 100% natural fibres.  No more puddles of wax absorbing and taking over the wick either.  An omni-directional flame handles this typical candle problem. 

The colors, designs and fragrances are rich and bold.  Scents like Heavenly Gingerlily, Golden Solstice, Imp's Whisper, Firefly Embers, Night Tempest, Naran Ji, Re-charge Black Pepper and many more.  For whatever mood or ambiance you want to create you can with this new Molton Brown Home Fragrance Collection. 

Sizes include: 
Piccolo box of four mixed fragrances (two types): $58.00
Medio Candela (single wick): $49.00
Forte Candela (three wicks): $74.00
Grande (six wicks and boxed with own snuff lid): $265.00
Medio and Forte Candela Snuff Lids sold individually: $25.00/$38.00

The new Molton Brown collection is available exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue stores.

FireFly Toothbrush

Fun Find- Created by a Dad and his daughter the FireFly toothbrush who wanted kids to take control of their brushing habits it is one cool toothbrush.  The FireFly toothbrush is easy to use and lights up for sixty seconds at a time, which is the perfect time for a child to spend on each row of teeth.  Simply press the button and the timer blinks.  Want something even easier?  Your child can hit the bottom of the brush on a surface and the timer will start.  Your kid will think it is one cool toothbrush. 

That's not all. 

The FireFly toothbrush comes in cute Barbie, Spiderman and Hot Wheels designs.  There are many styles and sizes available for a variety of ages too.  From ages 4 months to 8 years on up there is a toothbrush recommendation for any child.  Each brush has soft bristles and is gentle but effective on kids gums and teeth.  I think the FireFly toothbrush selections are a great way to introduce good oral hygeine to kids.  The Sparkly FireFly toothbrushes are a wonderful alternative to passing out Halloween candy or get your kids excited about brushing away all that candy after a night of trick or treat bingeing! 

FireFly toothbrushes can be purchased online, Walmart, Walgreens, Drugstore.com and many other stores nationwide.

Wei Golden Root Purifying Mask

Made from Golden Root extract, a natural exfoliate, and pure China clay the Wei Golden Root Purifying mask ($42) comes with an application brush and eight small containers of mask for individual application.  Used to clean pores, calm skin, counteracts cell damage and remove dead skin cells I found this mask to be non-drying.  I have a tendency to have oily skin but another review revealed the same results. 

What I loved about this product is the application. The brush was so soft and worked so well. It was a real treat to use this mask and made a nice change to my usual slathering on of the weekly mask with my fingers.  The Wei mask is smooth and a deep reddish-brown color.  It goes on quickly and covers well.  I left it on for ten minutes and found it dried evenly and not in patches.  When I washed it off in the shower it came off quickly and didn't leave any residue behind.  I love that!  Afterwards, my face felt clean and not stripped of moisture. 

I would definitely use the Wei Golden Root Purifying Mask.  I think my skin looks a bit brighter afterwards too.  Even the next day!  My pores look a tiny bit smaller too.  I like how each time I use it feel a bit like a ritual and something more special in my day.

Wei Golden Root Purifying Mask is part of the Purify-Chi line in the Wei collection.  Available online and SpaceNK.apothecary.

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 

Big Apple Circus - Dream Big!

Got plans this weekend?  If you are in the DC Metro area then you might want to pick up some tickets ($15 and up) for the Big Apple Circus at the Dulles Town Center.  It is Grandma's farewell tour after all!  From September 22 - October 10, 2011 the DC area is happy to host this intimate circus that is fun for the whole family.  Really, it is one of the kid activities I actually look forward to and it blows other circus acts away.

The theme this year is Dream Big!  Loaded with trapeze flyers, a singing Ringmistress, horses that dance and frolic and even a capybara the Big Apple Circus is full of imagination and feats that will astonish anyone.  I particularly loved the juggler, Dmitry Chernov.  I can't even put into words how cool that innovative one person act was to behold.  There is even an eleven-man human juggling show!

If all that isn't enough then come for Grandma! From the US, International Clown Hall of Fame inductee Barry Lubin, and his unforgettable clown Grandma. She/he is the star of the show! Kids and adults alike love Grandma and her antics. 

As a family of five we have a lot of people to please and the Big Apple Circus does not disappoint. A smaller ring and fantastic seats (anywhere you sit) make for a spectacular show.  From our smallest child who is one to the two and five year old they were all happy and laughing and wanting to participate the entire time.  The staff is friendly, helpful and the air-conditioned or heated venue can't be beat! 

Following the Dulles engagement, the Big Apple Circus will play its annual season at
New York City’s Lincoln Center (October 20 - January 8, 2012). Additional venues and
schedule will be announced at a later date. Get your tickets now!

Get Dulles Town Center tickets here! 

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  Attendance was for press and review purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.


*All Photos by Maike Schulz/Big Apple Circus.