2013 Launch!

So far I have piddled with this blog. I have such good intentions for kicking this thing off and sticking with it. I'm really excited about it! But I can't seem to get ahead right now. So I have decided that January 1, 2013 will be my official launch of Geek Glitter. I haven't really promoted myself yet or put it out there that this blog exists, so I don't think many people are even reading what I'm writing at the moment.

I have taken on a holiday job at the same company I used to work for. Between that and the holidays, I just haven't been able to put much time into getting this started. But I will still be reading and planning during the month of December. This way, by the new year, I will have some reviews to put up and hopefully some meme's to participate in. And also, a few DIY projects as well!

So bear with me! I will be back in 2013 with a new look, new content & a new schedule to go by! I hope that you'll be here to check it out!

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BOOK REVIEW {Inhale (A Just Breathe Novel) by Kendall Grey}

Title: Inhale (A Just Breathe Novel #1)
Author: Kendall Grey
Publisher: Howling Mad Press
Publication Date: May 1, 2012
ISBN: 0984887806

Strangers in reality, inseparable in dreams…
After years of suffocating under her boss’s scrutiny, whale biologist Zoe Morgan finally lands a job as director of a tagging project in Hervey Bay, Australia. Success Down Under all but guarantees her the promotion of a lifetime, and Zoe won’t let anything—or anyone—stand in her way. Not the whale voices she suddenly hears in her head, not the ex who won’t take no for an answer, and especially not the gorgeous figment of her imagination who keeps saving her from the fiery hell of her dreams.
Gavin Cassidy hasn’t been called to help a human Wyldling in over a year, which is fine by him. Still blaming himself for the death of his partner, he keeps the guilt at bay by indulging in every excess his rock star persona affords. That is, until he’s summoned to protect Zoe from hungry Fyre Elementals and learns his new charge is the key to restoring order in the dying Dreaming. He never expects to fall for the feisty Dr. Morgan…nor does he realize he may have to sacrifice the woman he loves to save an entire country.

GoodReads - Barnes & Noble - Amazon

This book was incredibly written. Ms. Grey has a way with words. From the world building to the character building, it did not lack in the least. The only complaint I had with Inhale was how it started. It forces you to jump right into the double worlds of the Dreaming and Realis almost instantly. It left me quite confused for the first couple of chapters, but once it clicked, it all made sense.

I really enjoyed the relationship between Zoe and Gavin. They meet in the Dreaming and instantly fall for one another. Although, Zoe just thinks of him as a "dream guy" and doesn't believe that he really exists outside of the Dreaming. I wish they could have met in Realis sooner than they did but I completely understand the reasoning behind it not happening. I'll just have to read book two to dive into their relationship more!

I also loved reading so much about the wales. Zoe is a Whale Researcher, so Ms. Grey really dips into the whole marine life scene and it was interesting! Towards the end, there is one scene where Zoe actually talks with a wale ... and it talks back. That was a little overkill in my opinion, but it did fit the story. As for Gavin, yum. The way Gavin is described (rocker, tattoos, bad boy) allowed me to fill my imagination with my favorite guitarist. Now reading this book and picture him in my head the whole time ... perfection.

The Fyres (bad guys) do everything they can to destroy the relationship between Zoe and Gavin, but they always find their way back to each other. One way or another. Love conquers all right? I am so eager to get my hands on the next book! I can't wait to find out what happens next!!

FYI: This book does have lots of language and a couple of graphic sex scenes. So if that isn't your thing, you probably won't like this book. And I wouldn't recommend it to anyone under 18.

As a bonus, The author will donate all profits from the sale of the JUST BREATHE trilogy to programs that educate people about whales and the challenges they face.

*I purchased my e-copy from Amazon when it was on sale for FREE!! (Check it out, it may still be available!)

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BOOK REVIEW {Skid by Doug Solter}

Title: Skid
Author: Doug Solter
Publication Date: May 20, 2012
ISBN: 1477432655

Can a small-town girl with a big attitude balance a boy and a demanding racing career in Formula 1, the biggest racing circus in the world?
Samantha Sutton drove the car that killed her dad. Now the seventeen-year-old can’t rest until she becomes the racing champion her dad molded her to be. Samantha exploits the system and earns a spot on a German racing team struggling to be relevant against the elite teams of Formula 1.
Samantha pushes herself, pushes her car, pushes her luck at 200 miles per hour. She battles Emilio Ronaldo, seven time world champion and Ferrari racing god. A hero to young girl, but now a rival to a young woman.
To keep herself sane, Samantha relies on her best friend Manny. But she doesn’t know quite what to do about his deep feelings for her. She would love to ask her sisters for advice, but they won’t talk to her. Not since Samantha told them the truth about Dad’s accident. The truth about that dark and rainy night.

GoodReads - Barnes & Noble - Amazon

Skid is a story that revolves around racing. Personally, I'm not a fan of racing but my husband is. He even races himself. Because of this, I jumped at the chance to read this book. I thought that it might teach me a thing or two, and it did!

Samantha is just a normal, small town girl who is struggling with the death of her father. A death that was caused by her driving. She jumps at the chance to become a real race car driver. A chance to make her fathers dreams for her come true. She becomes best friends with a boy named Manny. As her career in professional racing grows, so do her feelings for Manny.

I really like Samantha's character. She had a bit of a temper but she stood up for herself. Manny seemed a bit nerdy to me and I couldn't ever quite envision him in head. They're "love story" frustrated me a little. I don't want to give to much away but they both just seemed a bit to stubborn about revealing their feelings to each other. It was a tad bit overkill. 

The writing was really well done. Mr. Solter really drew me into this story. And that is saying a lot coming from a girl who doesn't enjoy racing! The ending held a small let down. I just anticipated it being a little more dramatic than it was. But it completed the story line very well. It even brought a few tears to my eyes.

Even if you aren't into racing, I'd recommend this book. It was a fun read. It surely didn't "blow my mind", but I enjoyed the time spent with Skid.

*I received an e-copy of Skid from the author in exchange for an honest review.

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BOOK REVIEW {Faded by Chloe Miles (The Faded Trilogy #1)}

Title: Faded
Author: Chloe Miles
Publication Date: August 24, 2012
ISBN: 9780987392312

After seventeen-year-old Savannah Fraser and her three friends are killed in a car accident, they are given a second chance at life by a group of hundred-year-old teenage earthbound spirits who need their help.
Savannah and her friends learn that they are The Chosen Ones, which means they can switch between human and spirit form, heal people and control the weather. And they are also now invincible.
The Chosen Ones are the only ones who can defeat The Forces - a group of evil spirits who are slowly destroying the perfect little town of Fort Everwick with violent storms and not-so-natural disasters - and stop them from harming everyone they care about.
The Forces are set on destroying everything Savannah knows and loves, but they also have another plan - they want a new member to join them. They aren't willing to give up until they get the one they want...and they have Savannah firmly in their sights. 

Goodreads - Barnes & Noble - Amazon 

Ghosts, evil and some romance makes for a pretty nifty read. I've never been a huge fan of reading about ghosts, but this story was interesting. The biggest issue I had was the formatting. I received an e-copy and because my Kobo died, I had to read it on my cell phone. I figured that might have had something to do with the way it was displayed. Once I got through several pages, I got used to it and it didn't bother so bad.

I thought Ms. Miles did a wonderful job with this one. It has an excellent story line that I was instantly drawn into. I wasn't crazy about some of the wording she used through out the book. Lines such as, "Crazy storm we're having, hey?" tended to bug me. Maybe it's just where I'm from but we don't say "hey" at the end of all our questions. That aside, I really enjoyed reading this book!

She did a pretty sweet job with the characters. I felt as though I knew them all quite well as I was reading. And there were so many to keep up with! I liked that about it though.  Savannah seemed a tad "goody goody" but it did fit her. Some of the romance scenes were a little mushy but nothing over the top. Hunter seemed like the perfect gentleman. The kind of guy every girl dreams about. And I'm anxious to find out how his and Savannah's relationship will progress!

The ending felt as though it was over to quickly. Like it was just to easy, but I also got where Ms. Miles was taking it. And that last scene really blew me away! I must say that I can't wait to find out what happens next!!

I would have to say that the only thing I didn't like about this book was the cover. It just seems kinda "ho-hum". It's not something that would catch my eye if I was in a book store, or even browsing a website. I will admit, I'm a cover whore. It's definitely true what they say though, "Don't judge a book by it's cover!".

If you are into a little romance, some ghostly spirits with some evil happenings on the side, then I would suggest reading Faded. It won't become one of my favorite books but I'm glad I was given the chance to read it. And I did get interested enough to want to finish out the trilogy!

*I received an e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

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BOOK REVIEW: Downside Girls by Jaine Fenn

Title: Downside Girls
Author: Jaine Fenn
Publisher: Clarion Publishing
Publication Date: September 24, 2012
ISBN: 9781909016156

The floating city of Kesh rests above the uninhabitable planet of Vellern. For the Topsiders life is about luxury and opulence, while for those of the Undertow day to day survival takes precedence. Kesh City is a democracy by assassination, where the Angels - deadly state-sponsored killers - remove those unworthy to hold office.
When Vanna Agriet accidentally spills her drink over an Angel it could spell death, but instead it leads to a rather peculiar friendship. The downsider Geal hopes for a better life topside, only to find herself embroiled in a 'removal' by the Angel Thiera. Downside, Isha's brother Rakul brings a little black box home with him, and sets Isha on a journey that takes her to a meeting with the most powerful man in Kesh City. Larnia Mier, a talented topside musician and instructor, is injured after witnessing a removal first-hand. As her abilities diminish, new possibilities open up. With a foreword by Alastair Reynolds (author of ‘Revelation Space’ and the recent ‘Blue Remembered Earth’, as well as ’On the Steel Breeze’), 'Downside Girls' is a standalone collection of interlinked stories by Jaine Fenn, that also shines new light on characters from 'Principles of Angels’, Jaine's first novel in the 'Hidden Empire' series. ('Principles of Angels', ‘Consorts of Heaven’, Guardians of Paradise’, ‘Bringer of Light’, and 'Queen of Nowhere').

Goodreads - Amazon 

This is a collection of 4 short stories that make for an amazing novella style read. Before reading Downside Girls, I had never heard of Jaine Fenn or her "Hidden Empire" series. I am now hooked. I can't wait to get my hands on more!

Ms. Fenn's style of writing is captivating! I was drawn in from the first couple of paragraphs. She does an amazing job at world building. It's one of those stories where you can actually envision yourself right there in the middle of it. Of the 4 stories, "Collateral Damage" was my absolute favorite. It's based on such a simple storyline. Two strangers meeting by "accidental" chance, becoming friends and then enemies (in a sense.). The twist ending I did not see coming!

Each story is completely stand alone but yet they intertwine with each other. There are some characters who make repeat appearances in the different stories. They give you just enough of a taste of their world that you can't help but want more and more.

I am super excited to give Jaine Fenn's "Hidden Empire" series a read! I want to know more about this world of Topsiders, Downsiders and Angels. I highly recommend you all check this one out as well! Especially if you like a quick read. An amazing way to "test" a book series without jumping in head first!

*I received my copy from the Library Thing's Early Reviewers Giveaway program.

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BOOK REVIEW: Monad 12.21.12 The Awakening of Stella Steinar

Title: Monad 12.21.12 The Awakening of Stella Steinar
Author: T.Anderson
Publisher: Sunbury Press
Publication Date: August 22, 2011
ISBN: 1934597635

Stella Steinar isn't concerned with the rumored menacing date of December 21, 2012 looming just around the corner. The adopted but privileged daughter of two renowned scientists is embarking on a new chapter in her life. Ignoring her steadily increasing headaches and visions, Stella is anxious to leave everything in Minnesota behind and anonymously begin again. Headed for Berkeley, fate has other plans for her. What's about to happen in California will change everything she knows about herself and the world--forever.

MONAD, the largest scientific research firm in the world, seems to be hiding a top-secret project. And who is in charge? Stella's adoptive father and Berkeley alumni , Dr. Erling Steinar. On her quest for the truth, Stella finds herself deeply entwined in the project--but is it too late? Will she have time to change the future and escape her inevitable destiny? From meeting the family she's always wished for, to exploring her spiritual beliefs surrounding life and death--follow Stella's story as it takes mysterious loops through time and reality.

GoodReads - Amazon - Barnes&Noble 

Wow! I'm not even sure how to begin! I loved, LOVED this book. I will admit, it took a couple chapters to really draw me into the story. This book is very fast paced and it was never at a loss for something exciting happening.

Stella just wants to live a normal life. She leaves home to attend college expecting to finally be free of her parents. She soon realizes that a "normal life" just isn't in the stars for her. She discovers she has a completely new family, including a twin sister named Aron. She slowly begins to remember bits and pieces from past lives and realizes just how involved she is in her fathers research. Will she figure it all out in time? Or will she be forced to start all over again in a new life?

I felt like we could have learned a little more about all the different characters. This book dove so fast into the plot of the story that it felt a little lacking with Stella and Aron's backgrounds. I have read that we will learn more about them in the next book though! I can't wait for that!

Monad is unlike any book I've read before. It touches on so many different spiritual aspects. Buddhism  Reincarnation, Folklore. While these things are fascinating to me, I've never been able to actually sit through an entire book that focuses on those subjects. The way that Ms. Anderson intertwined these into the story line was brilliant! I felt like I learned so much about the different cultures.

I was in no way prepared for the ending. It came as a complete shock to me! And what a cliffhanger! It feels like one of those crazy, twist endings to the first season of your favorite tv show. The torture of the following months (let's hope only months!) until we can find out what happens next! Amazing work!

If you have not read The Awakening of Stella Steinar yet, what are you waiting for?! This is one of those books you can't pass up! I guarantee you will not be disappointed!

*I won my copy of The Awakening of Stella Steinar from Goodreads First Reads giveaways.

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Blog Update!

I have finally finished copying the few specific posts over from my old blog. It wasn't much, maybe ten of them. 5 of them were product reviews that I have done in the last couple months. I am starting new, but I didn't think I should have to completely forget about those. The rest had to do with my 101 challenge. Speaking of, I need to jump on that! A year has already passed and I have only checked off very few things.

Now I can get to what I intended this blog to be. As I'm just getting started, I can't guarantee that I'll post every day, or even every other day. I'm currently reading my first book to review! And I have about 5 more after that. So it shouldn't be to long before I actually have some "book content".

I haven't really started putting myself out there yet. I figured it best to build up some reviews and content before I start linking up anywhere. So if you just happen to stumble upon this blog, that is why I have no "following" yet. I hope that will change soon tho!

I'm really excited to get this going and meet all of the other great bloggers out there! And some authors too!

If you did happen here by chance, say hello! I'd love to hear from you! :)

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PRODUCT REVIEW {unreal candy}

EDIT: These images are from my old blog. I can't seem to find the original pictures any longer so I'm unable to change my logo/watermark. Apologies!

I was given the opportunity to try Unreal candy for free through BzzAgent. The following is my own opinions based on my experience trying this product. I am not being paid in any way other than a free candy product.

At first I was skeptical. I mean a lot of healthy or good for you snacks taste like cardboard. I was hesitant to even accept this campaign offer from BzzAgent. But, considering it was my very first offer ever, I figured I probably should take it. Well, I am happy to report that I was wrong. I am now glad that I tried Unreal candy. It was really good! And that means something coming from a girl who doesn't care much for chocolate or sweets. 

UNREAL 54 - CANDY COATED CHOCOLATE PIECES
Let's just say these are the healthier version of M&Ms. My pictures are a little less than drool worthy. My candy melted before it made it home. I put them in the freezer for a couple hours and well.. I got that. Looks aside, this candy was good. Marc and I split the bag and even he thought that it was pretty awesome. I love the fact that they used natural ingredients for the coloring. (BEETROOT JUICE, TURMERIC ROOT EXTRACT, PURPLE CABBAGE JUICE) Which explains why they aren't bright like M&Ms. All in all, I would definitely buy these again! 

UNREAL 77 - PEANUT BUTTER CUPS
I am and probably will always be a Reese's fan. They are the best. After trying these I still think they are the best. But .. these are good. A really close second. I like that the chocolate doesn't taste funny. I've tried plenty of cheaper versions of peanut butter cups and some of them are pretty disgusting. These are pretty good. I can't say that I'll never eat another Reese's again but I can say that I will eat these too! Again, pictures are not so hot. But the taste was yummy! It's nice to know that you can get the yumminess of a peanut butter cup without all the junk. 

The above photo is Hershey's face while we were eating our candies. It was to cute to not post. He's wishing for a dog friendly version! Overall, I am very impressed with Unreal candies. I suggest you all go out and try some for yourself! You might just be as pleasantly surprised as I was at how good they are!

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PRODUCT REVIEW {5 hour energy}

I received 2 bottles of 5 Hour Energy from Smiley360.com for free. I am not being paid to write this post. These are my honest opinions, good or bad, on my own personal experience testing this product. If you are interested in more information on Smiley360, then jump over to there website {here} and sign up for free! You could be testing out products next!

Finding the energy for work and family responsibilities is hard enough. Throw in a second job, go back to school, or simply have a sleepless night and you’re bound to hit the wall. So what do you do when that afternoon lull strikes? Run for more coffee? Grab a soda? But how long does that last before you need a refill? Try this instead – take one 5-hour ENERGY®. It’s the quick, simple way for hard working people to feel alert and energized for hours

The key ingredients in 5-hour ENERGY® are also available in every day foods. It contains zero sugar, zero herbal stimulants, and four calories. It also contains about as much caffeine as a cup of the leading premium coffee.

Believe it or not, this was my first time trying 5 Hour Energy. Of course I've seen these around for years, I've just never had one. I've had other energy drinks in the past and well, I've always thought plain old coffee was more effective. And to be honest, I still do.

The Berry Flavor. The first sip gave me shivers. It didn't really taste that great. But after a couple more sips, it wasn't so bad. I don't think I could handle drinking it if it wasn't a "shot". I decided to try this flavor 5 Hour Energy around mid afternoon. And while I did manage to finish up my house cleaning, I don't believe it was due to this energy boost. I really didn't feel anything. The bottle says, "Feel it in minutes!" I'm not sure what I was supposed to feel, but I didn't notice anything different. But I didn't give up.

10 reasons to try 5-hour ENERGY®:

Groggy mornings

The afternoon lull

Long hours on your feet

Shift work

Long drives

Busy weekends

Action-packed vacations

Workouts

Overtime

                      Business travel

The Pomegranate Flavor. This flavor was... not so good. Normally I love pomegranate but mixed with that "energy drink" taste, not so much. I would definitely prefer the berry flavor over this one. As before, I didn't feel much of anything with this one. I think energy drinks are just a lost cause with me. I guess I'll have to stick with my plain ol' coffee.

7 reasons to trust 5-hour ENERGY®:

People choose 5-hour ENERGY® over 9 million times a week

Key ingredients are available in everyday food

Packed with B-vitamins and nutrients

Contains about as much caffeine as a cup of the leading premium coffee

Manufactured and bottled in the USA

Complies with the provisions of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act as regulated by the FDA

5-hour ENERGY® is in its 8th year of helping hard working people feel alert and energized.

So, overall, I'm not that impressed with 5 Hour Energy. But maybe I'm just one of those weird people who doesn't profit from energy boosters. Next time my husband and I take a road trip, I might give this another shot. Maybe in a different situation, it may effect me differently. I always get super sleepy on car rides, so that would be the perfect 2nd test. I have tons of friends that swear by this stuff. I would definitely recommend it to someone who is interesting in finding something to give them a boost! Maybe it will work for you! 

*Visit Smiley360.com to read about their program. For a free signup, you can qualify to test out products and give honest feedback! What are you waiting for?! Go, Go, Go!

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PRODUCT REVIEW {sally hansen magnetic nail polish}

I was given the opportunity to try the Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail Color for free. It came inside my Influenster Summer Beauty VoxBox 2012. I was not paid for this review. The following is my honest opinion based on my own experience from using this product.

I think the idea behind the whole magnetic nail polish craze is pretty cool. It's neat to play around with this stuff. I was pretty happy that I received the color Silver Elements. It comes is several other colors, but the silver is most appealing to me. I have used this a few times already and I know it will become a staple in my nail painting.

It is super easy to apply. Just like normal nail polish, you apply one thin coat and let it completely dry. Then you go back and, one finger at a time, apply a thick coat. Immediately place the magnet (which is found on top of the lid) over your nail for 10 seconds. I found that it helps to kind of roll it side to side. This way the design isn't just in the middle of your nail, but all over. It's a little tricky at first to do this without touching your nail and messing up the color. It didn't take long to get the hang of it tho.

It's a nice, thick polish. It goes on really smooth. No clumping, or brush strokes. I am totally impressed with this product Sally Hansen! I do think that $10 is a little steep for nail color but given how this stands out from normal polish, I'd say it's worth it.

I can see myself using this all the time. I especially like the idea of making this your accent nail design. 4 clean, simple colored nails and then 1 really snazzy nail. The ideas are endless!

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PRODUCT REVIEW {hawaiian tropic silk hydration lotion}

With its ultra-luxurious hydrating silk ribbons, Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration™ lotion sunscreen nourishes and pampers skin while providing broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection, and 12-hour moisturization when out in the sun. Also available in SPF 12, 30, 50! You can find Hawaiian Tropic products at most major retailers.

Suggested retail price: $8.99 for a 6oz bottle. (taken from the Influenster Product Review page)

I received the Summer Beauty VoxBox a few weeks ago. Inside was a trial size of the Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Lotion/Sunscreen. Influenster is a free service that sends out sample boxes of products for you to try out and review. If you are interested in signing up yourself, then click here! It's absolutely free! 

I haven't been able to use this product as much as I'd love to because it seems as tho we've had rain for weeks now. But from what I have gotten to try, I love. This stuff is seriously so, so good! Let me break it down a little bit:

The Protection: I am a super pale skinned person. I burn easily and it seems that I hardly keep any color. I tend to stay away from sunscreens, just because I haven't found one that I like yet. Yes, I'd rather burn than wear something on my skin that feels kinda icky. But, no more. This is amazing SPF protection without all that heavy feeling. And with it being available in 3 different SPF's, there's the perfect protection for every skin type!

The feeling: The ribbons of lotion in this stuff is awesome. It truly feels like your putting on lotion. It's moisturizing and creamy. It leaves your skin feeling hydrated and soft, not greasy. Honestly, I almost want to just switch out my normal lotion with this! It's that good!

The scent: Smells like summer. I am a huge fan of fruity scents. This one has a blend of coconut and floral. I'm not a lover of floral scents, but this blends so nicely with the coconut. If they could bottle this scent into a body spray, my summer would be complete!

So, my overall opinion of the Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration is fantastic. If you haven't gotten to try this product yet, do it! Go out right now and get some! You won't be sorry, I swear it! Bring on the sun!

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PRODUCT REVIEW {neosporin eczema essentials}

 First, let me start off by saying that I was not paid for this review. I was sent a free trial pack bySmiley360 for me to try out and share my opinions. The following are my honest thoughts on this product from my own personal experience, good or bad. If you would like to know more about Smiley360 and how you can get your own missions to test out products, then read my previous post here. Ok, let's get to it.

The first item is the Neosporin Daily Body Wash. I have been using this for the past week and while I do really like it, there is one thing I don't like. After using this, I have that "squeaky" feeling on my skin. Does that make sense? It only lasts for maybe 10 minutes after my shower, but that is one of my worst feelings. I tend to stay away from body washes that give me that sensation. I do, however, really love the fact that this is unscented. It is also very moisturizing. It has a thin, creamy feeling when your lathering it on. I do notice that my skin feels much softer since I've started using this. I'm not sure if I will continue to use this regularly, just because of the squeak. But I definitely recommend this product for anyone who loves a good moisturizing body wash! (I would give this 3 stars!) 

Next up is the Neosporin Daily Moisturizing Cream. Love, Love, Love! This is good stuff. It is a thick, creamy lotion that really locks in the moisture. I've used this all over, but especially on my feet where my skin gets the driest. I really lathered it on and then put some socks on before bed at night. It is ridiculous the difference it has made on my heels! And we all know that is a must for the summer. Who wants dry, cracked heels showing in your cute flip flops?! Recently, I managed to get major sunburn on my chest and shoulders. Before receiving this, I used another type of lotion in the hopes that I wouldn't start to peel. No such luck. Once I had this guy, I started using it where I was peeling... Amazing. At first there was a slight sting, probably from the fresh new skin, but it really helped! Instead of looking like a scaly lizard, it took it all away! Just for this fact alone, I will definitely be putting this on my summer must haves! (I would give this 5 stars!) 

Finally we have the Neosporin Moisturizing Anti-Itch Cream. Honestly, I have yet to use this one. I just haven't had a dry, itchy spot to test it out on yet. I do frequently get dry spots that look sort of like a round ring on my skin. The first few times this happened, I had crazy panic attacks that I had ringworm. LOL. Yes, I'm one of those people. Finally, with much convincing, my husband made me see that it was just dry skin. I know it won't be long before another one of these "spots" pops up again and this time I will be ready! I can't wait to try this out because nothing I've used before has helped. (I would give this no stars, but hopefully that will change soon!)


Now, after reading all that, if you are dying to try one (or all!) of these products out, I have something to share with you. Neosporin is offering a $3 off coupon for anyone who wants to purchase these products. All you have to do is CLICK HERE and download the coupon and print it out! Easy Peazy. You can also sign up through that same link to receive emails on future offers, news and skin advice! Also, don't forget to check out Smiley360 and join in on the fun. Soon you could be the one testing out a new product!

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101 CHALLENGE {16. get a new cell phone}

EDIT: HinWblog was my old blog. I don't seem to have these original pictures any longer so I can't update my logo.

I actually got this phone for my birthday back in January. Yeah, I'm a little behind on updating my list. But #16 on my 101in1001 list was to get a new phone. I can now check that one off! I got the HTC Inspire 4G from ATT. I love it. This is my first smartphone and I couldn't be more addicted. The one thing I love most about this phone is that the camera is 8mp. That is equal to my digital Samsung camera. Plus with the auto focus and settings, it works much, much better! M has had an iphone and now an atrix, so I've played with smartphones for years, just never had one of my own. I have officially joined the bandwagon.

I know. There's nothing to exciting about this post. Just me updating my list a bit. So I thought that maybe I'd share some of my favorite apps with you! If you guys have any of these as well, feel free to follow me/add me!

• INSTAGRAM - I am obsessed with IG. I use it multiple times a day. My user name is: hollyinwonderland. I'm always looking for new friends to follow!
• RELAX & SLEEP - This one I downloaded a while ago but just recently started to use it. It has a list of sounds (a LOT of sounds) that you can play at night as your falling asleep. I'm one of those people who can't sleep if it's too quiet. It has a timer on it, so that after a certain time it will shut itself off. I use this every single night now!
• DRAW SOMETHING - Super fun! I don't play as much as I used to. I tend to go through phases where I'll play something obsessively for a while and then not touch it for a while. I usually log into this through my facebook account, but I believe my username is hollymade if you want to play me!
• AIR HID - M and I both have this one. It allows us to be even more lazy! :) We hook our laptop up to the television almost daily, so that we can watch our tv shows on a bigger screen. Well this lets you have a mouse on your phone. So you don't have to get up and walk over to the computer to change something. You also have to download an app for your computer, but it's free and we love it!

I've tried multiple photo editing apps and camera's but just recently went through and deleted almost all of them. I'll try to do another post sometime if I find some more apps that I just can't live without! Do you have a favorite app? Let me know so I can check it out!

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101 CHALLENGE {12. cut my hair short}

About a week ago I got my hair cut. Normally, not a big deal. Except this time I got 12 inches chopped off! Kind of a big deal. (yes, I donated it!) For the past, uh forever, I've had really bad headaches. My mom insisted if I cut my hair it would help. I always thought since my hair is so thin and fine that it wouldn't. Well it's been over a week and I haven't had one headache. I hate admitting my mother was right! I figured I'd show a little before and after. The best before picture I could find was from my wedding. And the new ones I snapped with my phone so they aren't the best quality, but it shows what it needs to show.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

With a little curl!

Without a little curl!

I have no idea what kind of disease is under my eye in this one. 

I love it. It's so much easier to brush, wash, style. And going from having a borderline migraine about 4 days a week to having none is amazing! Also, the sweater came from Belk and I wear it with everything. Seriously.

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