A Bit of Beautiful

(Source)

Isn't this gorgeous??  I want this.  I really want this!!  And it's on sale right now at Jewelry from Tuscon's shop at Etsy, so why don't I just get it?  Because I'm not a girlie girl, don't wear much jewelry, and rarely go places that give me reason to wear such things.

But dang, I still want it.

What do you think?  Isn't it pretty?  Should I go for it?

Giveaway News! And A Challenge . . .

I want to have a monthly giveaway.  Yay!  I've been kicking the idea around for a while and today decided to just do it.  Have no fear, the prize will not always be soap.  (Although maybe I should provide the option to trade the prize for a choice of soap.  Hmm.)  Anyway, I thought I would try to mix it up a bit and maybe have soap one month, tarts another month, gift cards from different places, just a variety of things.

I will try to have the giveaway posted on the first of each month.  Since January is rapidly drawing to a close I knew I had to get this posted NOW.  And this January 'giveaway' is going to more of a challenge anyway.  Are you ready?

(Image from the Bodycology Facebook page.)

You've no doubt noticed that I've been posting about Bodycology lately.  Well one product I just can not find is their lip glosses, and when something gets in my head I obsess about it.  This is where the challenge comes in . . . If you can find these in a store in your area, send me any or all of the three scents/flavors and I will send you one, two, or three bars of soap of your choice from my stash.  I have many soapmakers to chose from!

There is no deadline for this challenge.  If you do happen to find these lip glosses and want to participate, contact me through the handy dandy new Contact Me button that I've added in the sidebar.  I will swap up to three bars of soap to the first person who succeeds in finding these little buggers.  If you send one shade, you can pick one bar.  Send two shades, pick two bars.  Send all three, pick three bars.  That part is totally up to you.

Bodycology products can be found in many common stores like Walmart, Target, Kmart, Walgreens, etc.  I live in south-central Wisconsin and I can NOT find these lip glosses anywhere.  But I do know they ARE out there.  Maybe you'll have more luck!

This challenge begins . . . NOW.

***UPDATE - Jan. 26***

Bodycology answered my question on their Facebook page, saying these "are available in select Walmart stores."  Hmm, well, I'll have to check the Walmart that I rarely ever get to in another nearby city.  The challenge is still on though!

Ancestry.com and Some Ranting

Ok, I don't even know if I can accurately describe all the reasons why I hate Ancestry.com right now.  I've been interested in my family history for many years but I've only just recently taken the plunge and started a paid subscription with Ancestry.  We've all seen those commercials on TV where the people find these amazing things about their ancestors.  I've heard stories from many people who supposedly found tons of information in their searches on the site.

I guess my expectation were just way too high.

When I decided at New Year's to finally revisit my family tree project I knew I'd finally be starting a paid subscription this time.  First I spent several days just entering the information I already had into a free family tree program on the site.  I decided I wouldn't worry about my mother's side of the family at this time because there is already someone in the family who has that all figured out.  I decided I'd start with my dad's side, and then start working on my husband's family.  As for my dad's side of the family, I've never had much information . . . a handful of names and dates, mostly pulled from gravestones or obituaries.  I was so excited, thinking that with so little to start with I'd surely be finding tons of amazing new things once I started on Ancestry.com.

Wrong!

I couldn't find ANYTHING beyond what I already had.  Really?!  Where my dead ends begin are not that far back.  You'd think it would be easy to at least find my great-grandparents' details.  But no.

So I decided to leave that and start puttering around with hubby's family.  I had to upgrade my subscription to get access to all the international records but that was ok because I'd figured all along that was where most of my work would be anyway.  At first it was fun because I found small details about a couple of hubby's ancestors but then it all quickly dead ended again.  What. The. Heck?!

If you're at all familiar with Ancestry.com you know if a little green leaf appears by any of your people you can click on that and it takes you to a list of possible connections or information.  So far these have almost always been other members' family trees but these other people usually don't have any more info than I have, or there is no way to see more of the overall family tree.  You can also hover your cursor over a person in your family tree and it brings up a box with options, one being 'Search Records,' which I've done for just about every person in my tree.  It brings up a list of the most likely matching documents like census records or birth/death indexes.  I've gotten a few small bits of info from the census records, but in general these 'records' offer nothing.

Does Ancestry.com have copies of birth/marriage/death records or not???  I was under the impression they did.  Isn't it supposed to be the biggest genealogy site out there?  With the amount of money you pay for their subscription you'd think you'd be able to see such things.  But I have yet to find one.  I've only been taken to 'indexes,' which are crap.

This doesn't give me any more information than what I probably had to enter to get this.  It's a death *index* with no option for a death *certificate.*  Oh sure, there is a certificate number there at the bottom but what good does that do me?  If I have to go to the courthouse or wherever to see the actual certificate I'm pretty sure I could have done that with the same info I already had, and probably done it for free.

Ok, so I'm already angry and frustrated but I decide I must just be a noob with big expectations, and I take a deep breath and soldier on.  I go over the same people again and again, and keep coming up with the same few and rather useless results.  It occurs to me to try searching individual areas instead of the little 'Search Records' thing that pops up.  Heh, should have figured it would just pop up the same list of results as the other way does.  So really, what's the point?  This site is supposed to be so huge, hosting sooooo many files and records and things, yet after handing over a huge chunk of money I'm only ever directed to the same old census records and birth/death *indexes.*

So I decided to go back to the messageboards.  Years ago I'd played around with the free areas of the site and had posted on a couple messageboards.  Last night I posted, asking for info on one of hubby's ancestors, thinking it might at least give me a new bit to work with.  I did get a reply last night but it also reminded me why I hated posting those years ago when I'd first tried.  The people are snotty.  Seriously.  Every person I've ever had any contact with in regards to ancestry has been snippy and cold, like they're being bothered.  Well, snotty people, why put your info out there then?  Heck, if someone were to contact me about info I had, I'd be thrilled to talk to them!

Anyway, the person who answered did indeed provide a bunch of information but when I went to the link that was provided, nothing matched.  So really, I don't know if I can even rely on that new info.  And it makes me wonder how this person got soooooo much detail when I can't even find a stinkin' date or two.  Maybe I AM just a starry eyed noob?!  I'm already considering canceling my subscription and just continue plugging away at the free sites and messageboards.

What a huge disappointment this has been.

If any of you are seasoned pros at Ancestry.com, would you be willing to talk me down from the ledge and help me out?  I'd love you forever.

***UPDATE***
I did a bit of experimenting with people that I had plenty of information about and was still only getting referred to stupid census records and birth/death indexes. My dad was in the military. I know the years and where he served. I put every bit of information I could into a search of military records and NOTHING came up. It wasn't even giving me results for the surname in general, just a lot of stupid 'oh this is kinda close' names. Bunch of crap, that's for sure.

I came across a video on YouTube about a girl's love-hate (mostly hate) relationship with Ancestry and while she wasn't talking about the problems I'm having I did recognize some of the things she was angry about. And in the comments left on the video, I couldn't believe how many people hate Ancestry.com. I felt better about my own anger issues.

Soooooo . . . I rage quit. (Haha, gamer term.) I found that you can get a full refund if you are within the first seven days of your subscription, and I'm on Day 6 so I quit. I will still use the Family Tree Maker program to organize what info I have but I think I will now spend my time on the free sites and forums. If anyone has any recommendations, I'm all ears!

Review - Bodycology Body Cream & Shower Gel

I recently received a package from Bodycology with some products for review.  I'd been told I would be receiving "a package of samples," so imagine my surprise when I found two full size products!

I received a tube of the Bodycology body cream in White Gardenia scent.  I always say I'm not a floral fan, so at first I was a bit bummed by this scent choice but I must admit, this is something I quite like.  It's light and almost a bit sweet.  The description on the tube is:

'beautiful

The rich floral scent of fresh gardenias promotes love, peace and good spirits.'

And . . . 

'beneficial ingredients:

Moisturizing Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, and Nourishing Vitamins E & C.'

 

This is a thick cream, perfect for dry winter skin.  It spreads amazingly easy and smooth though.  A little definitely goes a long way!  And it absorbs quickly, with no greasy feel.  The scent lingers for quite a long time, but not in an overpowering way.  This White Gardenia scent is just a soft, pleasant presence, not at all perfumey.  Very nice, very fresh.

The full size tube of body cream is 8oz/ 227g, and sells for $3.97 at Walmart.

I also received a bottle of shower gel/bubble bath in Island Coconut scent.  I was very excited about this because I *love* coconut scents.  The bottle describes it as:

'tempting

The essence of the beach comes alive with the tempting scent of fresh cut coconut and sweet cream.'

It's a very sweet coconut scent, with that cream note being a definite presence in there.  It's not a heavy scent though.  It does linger on the skin well after you've showered but it's subtle, which makes it nice.

I used this as a shower gel, on a mesh pouf as always, and it lathered like a champ.  There was a ton of immediate and long lasting, creamy lather.  The bottle says there is honey and aloe vera in this product.  Nice!  It rinsed away easily and cleanly, and did not leave me feeling dry and tight.  The scent was nice in the shower, but again it was not overpowering.  A very nice product.

A full size bottle of shower gel/bubble bath is 16oz/473g and sells for $3.97 at Walmart.

Bodycology products can be found almost anywhere . . . Walmart, Target, Walgreens, etc. . . . and are extremely affordable.  They have many scents to choose from, and a wide range of products from lotions and body washes, to hand soaps and body mists.  They even have lip glosses, but those are extremely hard to find.  If you  'like' them on Facebook, there is usually a $1.00 off printable coupon available in the left sidebar.  I have enjoyed every product and every scent I have tried so far.  Sadly, my one small complaint is that their website is not at all current.  It would really be nice to have a place to go and see ALL of the products and scents currently available.  But oh well, I still enjoy the products and hope to work with them again for future reviews.  I've even signed up to be a Bodycology tester!  

I encourage you to try any of the very affordable, very available Bodycology products.  There is sure to be something for everyone!

Have YOU tried Bodycology yet?

Random Acts of Kindness - Milk

I had to make a quick trip to town this morning because we were low on milk and bread and a few other things.  As I'm cruising every aisle I come upon an 'extreme couponer' roadblock of sorts.  Her cart is parked cockeyed nearly in the center of the aisle while she's piling it full with boxes of cereal and her young daughter is dancing back and forth in the rest of the aisle.

Ok, when it comes to coupons I think the Extreme Couponing way of doing things is pretty much just hoarding.  I *did* see a story about a couple who learned the system and used it to donate the things they bought to shelters and food pantries and things like that.  Now THAT is cool.  But in general I think it's more awesome when you find ways to save big on your normal groceries.

So anyway, this lady was obviously on a strategic shopping mission.  I kinda laughed to myself and went on my way when she finally moved on.  Fast forward to the checkout line, where I find myself waiting behind this same lady.  She had broken her purchases down by group or something, and was doing several separate transactions.  I overheard her saying things about not applying whatever credit to whatever because something or other builds up and blah blah yadda yadda, and just being very precise about how the coupons and credits were used.  At one point she apologized to me for taking so long but said she was lucky this time because there were no problems yet with the many coupons.  But OOPS . . . spoke to soon!  On her final transaction she was a few dollars short of whatever goal she needed.  She was looking around the checkout area almost frantically, considering packs or gum or a magazine to make up those last few dollars.  And then . . .

"Scan her milk!" she blurts out, pointing at my gallon of milk.  She asked if she could borrow the milk, told the checkout girl she'd just go grab another after, and would that be enough to cover the amount she was short?  So they scanned my milk and it was indeed enough.  She turns back to me and smiles, "You're milk is paid for."  The bagger girl asked if she should run and get the second milk for her, and she says no, to forget it.  I started to pull out my money to pay her back and she flat out refused, saying she'd just saved way more money than what the milk cost anyway. 

Well thank you, Random Coupon Shopper!

Blogger's Block

I'm still around.  Might not seem like it with my lack of posts lately, but I'm here.  I just don't know what to blog about.  I'm trying to cut back on crazy shopping this year and I think I've been doing a pretty good job but that means there aren't a lot of hauls to post about.  I could start going back and doing actual reviews of things I've featured in past hauls.  I could do more book or movie reviews, but those don't seem to get much attention so it makes me think people aren't interested in them.  Or maybe just not interested in the ones I am?  I could write my thoughts about the Secret Circle episode each week but again, I don't think many people are interested.  I could write about my continued (and growing obsession) with the Tudor dynasty but  . . . again . . . not an area many people here seem interested in.

And then there is the daily life natterings that I used to do, and what I originally started this blog for.  People seem to like those and get a kick out of my ho hum life adventures.  It would certainly be a way to keep actively posting.

*frustrated sigh*

But yeah . . . I'm still here and would love to hear your thoughts, ideas, suggestions.

Haul - Candlelynn

Candlelynn is a brand new shop to me, but has been on Etsy since 2009.  I came across it recently in a very round about way . . . a comment on one blog led me to a post on another blog which had a link to the shop in a review.  My first reaction was 'Bleah, no soap here,' and I left the site without really looking around much.  Then I remembered I don't need any more soap, that it's lotions and other things I'm looking for now.  Doh!  So I gave the shop a second look, a much more thorough look.

I was excited to see she had body cream that appeared to be the light, fluffy 'frosting' type that I prefer.  Looking at the ingredients, and not knowing anything about this shop, I wondered if this was homemade or made from a base, but then decided I wanted to try it regardless.  The creams can be colored if requested, and there were so many scents I wanted, but since I'm looking for unscented lotions right now I just picked a small jar of unscented, uncolored.  I tried a little dab when I opened the package and found it's thicker than I'd expected, but still seems very  nice.  I'll see how it goes when I start using it like normal.

Lip balms are another thing I've been looking for.  There are plenty to choose from in the Candlelynn shop.  When I saw this caramel scent, I knew this was the one for me.  Mmmm, smells so. freakin. yummy!  I did one quick application when I opened the package, just to see what it was like, and found it is the soft type, the sort of 'wet' feeling kind where a little goes a long way.  I'll have to use it for a while to see how it works and how I like it.

This shop has tarts too!  I know, it seems everyone is making tarts now, but what the heck . . . since I was ordering anyway, I decided to add some tarts to the cart.  There are several size and package options available.  I chose a five tart 'littles' sampler and asked Jana to pick random scents for me, anything but floral.  She picked some good ones!  AND she included a freebie!  (Thank you, Jana!)

Zucchini Bread - Hot and fresh out of the oven, just like grandma's. Warm spices and sweet bread! 

 A very nice warm, bread-y scent.

 Gingerbread - A perfect holiday treat! A richly spiced gingerbread with just

the right hint of sweetness.

This is the sweeter type of gingerbread scent, like cookies.  I like it!  (Not sure about the odd looking spots or wax on top.  Hope it doesn't affect melting or throw.)

Carrot Cake - A buttery spice blend with hints of peach, coconut, carrots,

cinnamon and warm vanilla.

Not sure about the funky looking wax in this one either but hubby requested a carrot cake scent a while ago so I was tickled to see this one.  It's more spicy than cake-y.

Buttermilk Pancakes - Vanilla, Creamy Buttermilk, Sticky Maple Sweet Cream, Maple, White Cocoa Musk, Vanilla Bean and Golden Honey!

Had to chuckle at this one too after just writing about my other Buttermilk Pancake tart yesterday.  This one does have the maple notes that the other didn't have.  So sooooo yummy!

Apple Jack's Peel - Wonderful fresh apple aroma with spicy notes of cinnamon and clove.

An awesome fall scent that I'm well familiar with from my soaping days, and happy to have again.

Cupid - This one is a must-smell! It's a rich, cherry almond coconutty scent!

I'm guessing this is the freebie because of the name and the upcoming holiday.  This one smells so good!  At first it was so familiar to me, would have sworn it was some kind of candy, but when I saw the description I realized it is probably the cherry making me think that.  Very sweet, and very appropriate for Valentine's!

 

And that is my first order from Candlelynn, which can be found on Etsy.  She has many more things in her shop, like sugar scrub cubes, foaming hand/body soaps, candles, room sprays.  One thing I'm considering for next time is the solid perfume sticks.  I've never tried one.

Have you ordered from Candlelynn before?  Any recommendations or thoughts to share?  I'd love to hear them!  And, as always, if you'd like a more in-depth review of anything you see here, just let me know.

Haul - Nature's Art

I had some credit in my account at Nature's Art so I thought it was time to use it up.  Looks like Kimberly is changing her look a bit, but it's cute to see the pink and black ribbons that go with her pink and black business card.  So what did I get?

I've long been on the hunt for a perfect lotion.  I prefer the light and fluffy 'frosting' type lotions, and I'd tried the goat milk 'Body Whips' from Nature's Art before so I already knew I loved them.  Kimberly makes her lotions from scratch . . . no pre-made bases here.  And that's one of the things I like the most.  I'd always had the small jars before because I loved trying different scents.  I'm to the point now though, that I just want some good unscented lotions so I don't have to worry about scents clashing with whatever soap I've just used, or with the body sprays I seem to be accumulating.  So for this order I picked just a big ol' jar of unscented 'Body Whip.'  I think I'll even try using this on my face, and see how it does.

Well imagine my surprise when I found a freebie bar of soap in my package!  And not only was it just a free bar, but it was one I had 'liked' on my Facebook page a while ago . . . Buttered Maple & Oats!

I just checked and it no longer shows up in her shop so I can't get the description but since my sentimental favorite scent is Oatmeal, Milk & Honey, I thought this might be along those lines with the added perk of yummy nummy maple.  It was such a treat to find a bar in my order!  The scent is quite faint just sniffing through the hole in the wrap.  Hopefully it comes out more in the shower.  And even if it doesn't, I still send many thanks to Kimberly for the freebie anyway.

As always, if you'd like a more in-depth review of anything you see here, just let me know.

What goodies have you stumbled upon lately?

Review - Febreze 2oz. Candle

Maybe you remember a post from back in November when I'd just bought this set of Febreze candles?  Well, I've *finally* gotten around to burning one of them and thought I'd revisit this and do a bit of a review.

I was not even aware Febreze had such sets available until I'd seen a well known YouTuber mention them.  Even then, I was surprised that she liked them so much.  I guess I'd just sort of dismissed them because they are 'air freshener aisle' candles.  But the set she had in her video, and the only set I found at my store at that time, was the yummy sounding Spice Collection.  It contains three candles: Gingersnap Vanilla, Anjou Pear Spice, and Cinnamon Dolce.

The set costs $9.97 at Walmart.  Each candle is 2oz. and comes in a heavy glass mini jar.  The wax is a soy blend.  The packaging does not mention an estimated burn time but I did some Googling and found that 2oz. votive candles often fall into a 15 hour burn time, so I'm guessing this would be about the same.  I didn't keep track of how long we actually burned ours.

The one I chose to burn first is the brown one (left, back), the Gingersnap Vanilla scent.  Described as '...the spice of cinnamon in freshly baked gingerbread is balanced by creamy vanilla,' it was sort of a sharp gingerbread scent, not really like the creamy, cozy scent of gingerbread cookies.  The cinnamon made it extra spicy.  The scent was ok, a bit too harsh for my liking, but the throw was surprising.  I admit, I was not expecting much from this candle.  This little guy did a good job of scenting our huge living room and then some, but was not overpowering. 

When I first lit this candle I had it sitting on the top shelf of my desk, where my tart warmer sits, so I could judge the scent and throw like I would with a tart.  I suspect my desk does not sit level because I noticed the candle was burning to one side . . .

 

When I was sure it was just tunneling down more on one side I moved the candle to our normal candle burning spot on the living room coffee table.  After pushing some of that higher wax down into the wax pool, and getting things leveled out, the candle burned fine and even.  So yes, I do think the early problem was with the position on my desk and not with the candle itself.

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by this little Febreze candle.  I know there are other sets like this one in a variety of different scents, and I know there are other sizes and types of Febreze candles.  (I received a larger 5.5oz one for Christmas.)  The air freshener aisle is never where I think to buy candles but after trying this one I think it's at least worth taking a look now and then.  Who knew??

BH&G/Walmart Tarts - Spring Scents

While shopping at Walmart the other day I noticed a new aisle-end display of the Better Homes & Gardens wax tarts in what appears to be the spring line.  Of course I had to stop and sniff each one!  I had also noticed several weeks before this that my Walmart now carries the Scentsational brand of tarts, which is actually the same company that makes the Better Homes & Garden tarts.  While I did sniff each one, there were too many to remember details of so I will just list them here.

Better Homes & Gardens
- Mandarin Orange Zest
- Tranquil Garden Spa
- Orange Buttercream Cupcake
- Wild Island Fruit
- Enchanted Evening Walk
- Vanilla Lavender
- Twilight

Scentsationals
- Honeysuckle
- Soft Cotton
- Garden Cantaloupe
- Rain Kissed
- Strawberries & Cream
- Exotic Dragonfruit
- Apricot Vanilla

Since this is a spring line and many fall into floral, fresh types, I am not nearly as gaga over these scents as I was with the winter/holiday line.  Of these, just on my quick sniff, Enchanted Evening Walk was my favorite and Rain Kissed was interesting.  Exotic Dragonfruit and Apricot Vanilla smelled very similar to me, which was weird.

These are the clam shell packages, six little break away wax cubes, and I believe both brands are $2.00 each.  As mentioned, this was in a separate display away from the regular candle aisle.  There was a large variety of random scents over in the candle aisle . . . fall and winter leftovers, generic 'all year' scents, some of the spring type ones, just a mix over there.  Also in the spring display were $15 electric tart warmers in three styles.  There was a frog, an owl, and a Grecian Urn style that came in gold, red, or aqua colors.  Not nearly as cute as the winter ones, but still quite nice. 

Actually, looking back over this list, I wonder if this is more of a summer line.  Maybe they just do a spring/summer mix?  I'll have to keep an eye on this as we get closer to summer, see if they do come out with a 'summer' line.

So, if you are a fan of these affordable tarts and are anxious for some fresh spring scents, head over to your Walmart soon!

Haul - Country Home Scents (Tarts)

I have ordered from Country Home Scents many times but it's been a while.  My last order was for some yummy fall scents way back in late August.  As my tart stash has finally started to dwindle (gave a lot away at Christmas, hehe) and as CMS returned from a holiday break with some enticing new bakery scents, it was time for another order.  I went with the six tart sampler pack this time.

So let's see what I got . . .

Hazelnut Cream Coffee...A true hazelnut coffee aroma with a touch of

creamy vanilla. Nutty Goodness!

I have not melted any of the tarts in this order yet but just from cold throw, this little guy is STRONG!  I think I may have become tart sensitive over the holidays, with all my time off work, because I'd been burning tarts almost non-stop and was eventually getting headaches no matter what scent or vendor I melted.  Since I already know CHS tarts are strongly scented, I'm pretty sure I'll be cutting this one in half when I do melt it.  Anyway, there is a definite coffee scent to this but there is a rich creaminess to it as well.  We've been on a coffee kick lately so this will be perfect.

Butterscotch Zucchini Bread....We love our zucchini bread so much and when you add some butterscotch to it...WOW! 

This one just sounded interesting to me.  I know CHS has another zucchini bread scent that is hugely popular but this one called to me more.  Butterscotch is the top note here, but you also notice something else in there.  You might call it hints of bread scent, or maybe it's the zucchini that keeps this from being a straight butterscotch sweet candy scent.  Very nice.

Banana Caramel Cupcakes...The scent of ripe bananas drizzled in warm caramel and

a hint of vanilla cupcake....Mmmmmm!

Another one that sounded intriguing to me, I wondered if this might be along the lines of Candles By Victoria's Banana Pancakes.  Whether they are similar or not (I don't have CBV on hand to compare), I do like this scent!  Neither the caramel or the banana takes top billing, but they work together to create a softly sweet yumminess with background hints of that vanilla cupcake.

Buttermilk Pancakes...The mouth watering aroma of warm buttermilk pancakes hot off the griddle! A blend of buttermilk, baked cake, sweet cream butter and a touch of vanilla!

Now tell me that is not the freakin' cutest tart you've ever seen.  Or one of the cutest at least!  Cold throw, this one is on the weaker side.  I hope it blooms when warmed.  There is no maple scent as you might expect.  I had to go back and read the description to be sure I wasn't just missing it.  No, this is more just buttery pancakes.  But that's ok!  It's a nice, homey, scent.  I wonder how this would be with part of the Hazelnut Cream Coffee tart melting in another warmer?  Oooh, it could be like a perfect lazy weekend morning scent.

Tinsel...A refreshing holiday blend of winter berries, soft vanilla

and peppermint leaves...gotta try this one!

I should have ordered this one *before* Christmas, I know.  I will have to try and remember this one for next Christmas because it's a great holiday scent.  I love vanilla-mint scents like Jack Frost, and the addition of berries to this one gives it a hint of tartness.  When I first smelled this without looking at the description I almost would have told you there is a touch of pine, or something outdoorsy about it.  This is a unique scent that I'm anxious to smell when it's warmed.

Royal Cake...A cake aroma fit for a king or a queen! The wonderful scent of vanilla cake drenched in rich buttercream frosting with a hint of cherry!

Alright, call me a dork, but I had to have this one because of my obsession of late with British royal history.  And yes, I do have a mild fascination with William and Kate.  The fact that there is a hint of cherry to keep this from being just another cake scent is what sealed the deal.  According to the website these are made with either gold or silver crown/glitter.  Mine is obviously silver.  And I'm glad I ordered this!  You can definitely smell the cherry, with the cake and frosting following softly behind.  Can't wait to melt this one!

Holiday Eggnog...Smells just like the classic holiday drink that is rich

and creamy with eggs, sugar, cream and light rum! 

This was a freebie included in my order.  Perhaps they're just clearing out the holiday leftovers, but I was quite tickled to find this one.  I've loved other eggnog scents I've come across.  This one is little heavier on the rum, I think, and not as sweet and creamy as others I've had.  While I think I prefer the creamier ones, I have so many sugary sweet scents already that this will be a nice twist.  Thank you, CHS ladies! 

I'm happy with my little order.  If you'd like a more in-depth review of any of the scents or of Country Home Scents in general, just let me know and I would be happy to do one.  

See any here you like?  What are some favorite tart scents you've come across recently?

Movie Review - Apollo 18

Apollo 18
2011
PG-13
87 minutes

If you buy in to official statements, Apollo 17 was NASA's last manned mission to the moon. But what if found footage of a secret Apollo mission that had taken place the following year could prove otherwise -- and explain why we haven't gone back?

When I first saw previews for this on other DVDs I was torn on how I felt.  While it did look creepy in a Quarantine or Paranormal Activity kind of way, I also felt 'Really?  We have to take it to outer space to keep that scare tactic alive?'  Still, I decided I wanted to see it.

Hubby and I watched this on pay-per-view a couple nights ago instead of waiting for Netflix to get around to it.  One thing I'm not used to anymore is watching movies that are not on DVD.  I am so used to being able to pause a movie or rewind to double check something, and we couldn't do that with this movie.  Hubby doesn't care about such things.  He'll just talk and leave the room for food or the bathroom and not care that he's missed anything.  I have to be totally glued to what I'm watching.  And right away in this there was some text info at the beginning that I missed and I couldn't go back to check what it was.  Gah!  (And it might very well have been an answer to my biggest question, as you'll see later.)

This is done in the style of Paranormal Activity, or Quarantine where you only see things through less than perfect camerawork.  In this case it is handheld cameras the astronauts have, and the cameras onboard the spacecraft.  The whole idea of a Quarantine type story out in space is rather nerve wracking.  Not like you can just run or drive to safety!  Right away, I was examining every inch of the screen, determined to find all the creepy little things I just knew were supposed to be there.  And it's always so funny when I do that with this type of movie because I *know* that things won't be showing up immediately.  I can't help it!

So in the movie, NASA calls upon these three guys to go on this top secret mission to the moon.  I don't remember what information they were given, if any, but they were all bummed that they couldn't tell their families 'Hey, I'm going to the moon!'  When they got there, one guy stayed in the 'orbiter' craft (?) and the two others went in the other craft that actually landed on the moon.  Those two guys were supposed to explore and gather samples of rock or soil or whatever they did when they went to the moon.  Pretty early on they start noticing problems in communications with both NASA and the other spacecraft.  They start noticing strange noises and happenings around their own craft.  While exploring they come across something startling, and in questioning the guys back at NASA they figure out they've been lied to and have been sent here for much darker puposes.

The actual creepy, spooky thing behind it all was a bit of a let down but the tension was still there.  And the fact that they are on THE MOON and eventually cut off from all communication is rather terrifying.  What are you going to do???  When contact is restored late in the movie, and desperate decisions have to be made, one was so shocking that hubby's reaction was like he'd literally been kicked in the gut: NASA decides to leave these guys up there because they can't risk bringing them back.

But that leaves me with that one big question I mentioned earlier . . . how did they get all that footage back?
(Yes, I know it's not real.)

This was not a fabulous movie but it was still pretty good.  You don't really need to be a space fan to enjoy it.  However, if you don't like the whole handheld camera technique you might get sick of this one.  There are a couple gross scenes where one of the guys has an injury but other than that there is not much violence or swearing or anything.  Well, there are some violent bits but the way they're shown is so choppy.  And I suppose there was swearing but again, it's all sort of a blur in the 'realistic' chaos of the moments.  Still, not a movie for kids.

Have you seen Apollo 18?  Or are you bored to death with this type of movie?

Happy New Year!

And here we are in 2012.  Crazy how fast 2011 flew by, isn't it?  Did you do anything special last night, help usher in the new year?  Not me.  I was in bed by about 8:30pm, trying to finish the last little bit of the Secret Circle book I'm reading, but dozing off instead.  Oh well, it's been years since I've seen a new year come in, and I've gotten used to it.

Here in Wisconsin, 2012 is starting off with a Winter Weather Advisory for up to 2 inches of snow, rain, slush, mess possible, and a Wind Advisory with temps dropping down to the teens and gusts of 30-40mph.  It's cloudy and blustery, but we haven't really gotten any of that precipitation yet.  There is still sort of a dusting of snow on the ground from what we already had, and a bit of crunchy icy coating on top from this morning, but that's it.

I'll finally be going back to work on January 5.  Since Nov. 16, I have only worked 5 1/2 days.  Woohoo!  That has been accomplished through a series of vacation days and holidays, with a couple sick days, and all of my usual days off.  The last time I worked as a partial day on Dec. 17.  It's been great to have so much time off, but it also makes it really hard to go back.  I think it will be even harder this time because I was in an unhappy place work-wise when this whole break began.  We'll see how it goes, I guess.

I'm not really one do make New Year Resolutions but there are some things I want to do or change this year.  There are some attitude changes I need to work on, and there are some projects I want to work on.  In some ways I think they go hand in hand.  If I'm in one of my funky, low moods I can't for the life of me get myself to work on a project.  On the other hand, if I *CAN* get myself to work on any project, it lifts my mood dramatically.  What I want to work on is skipping that in-between point, where I come up with piddly reasons not to do what just moments ago I was gungho to do.

Hubby and I both want to get back to doing more things outside.  We've really become slackers when it comes to lawn care.  We tend to throw ourselves into big projects instead of becoming consistent with the things we've already started.  Our greenhouse for example.  We were so excited about it when we built it in 2010, but pretty much ignored it in 2011 because we'd gotten in over our heads.  Same with our garden, and with the huge flowerbed we built along the edge of the back yard.  We've decided this year we will stick with fixing THOSE projects up and not worry about expanding or adding to them.  We'd also like to start going for walks, and even simply going fishing now and then.

Hubby's workshop will probably be our big project of 2012.  We'd meant to do this in 2011.  We've decided to do as much of the work ourselves as we can.  Even if it means we only get one room in the barn rebuilt and weatherized, as long as it's something he can go out and putter around in, it will be a huge step.

I have tons of de-cluttering I want to do in the house.  Hubby wants to do the same outside.  For me it means getting rid of things I've been holding on to for sentimental instead of practical reasons.  Things like all the old baby items we had from when the boys were young.  I had thought we would have passed them on to friends or family who would be having babies after us.  Then I thought we'd just reuse them when we had our own grandbabies.  So far, neither has happened and those items are now so old and outdated that if I ever do have grandchildren I want to spoil them with new things.  So yeah, major cleaning like that.  As I've gotten older I've come to realize I don't want tons of clutter.  I can see now why older people prefer gifts of going places and doing things over gifts of clutter.  I could probably make some good money if I were to Ebay some of the things I have accumulated!  LOL

As for my blog in this new year, I'm not sure where I want it to go.  Sometimes I like posting personal natterings such as this, but then I think people who are reading for the soap hauls or reviews don't give a poo about my personal ramblings.  I don't want to limit this blog to just one area because I like ACTIVE blogs, and I'm sure if I focus on just one thing I'll have long stretches of nothingness in between posts.  I'm often jealous of bloggers or YouTubers who are sent free things to review, but I know I do not want to be one of those who is endlessly contacting companies ASKING for things.  (Although, having said that, I will admit that I just recently contacted one company and am still waiting to hear back, but don't have much faith that I ever will.)  Even for myself, in my own buying choices, I can't make up my mind if I want to find a good handcrafted bath and body shop and stick with, find a good tart shop and stick with it . . . or not limit myself and just keep trying new things.  It would definitely make the blog more active and fun if I were to just keep trying new shops!  In fact, just this morning I found new tarts, lip balms, and body creams that I'm extremely curious about.  So really, I guess I've answered all my own questions and the blog will plow ahead as is. 

I'd love to hear your thoughts on things.  :)

Christmas Recap

I've tried several times now to write a Christmas recap, and each time I give up and delete it.  I get too long winded.  I get too whiny.  I have too many pictures to add.  But still, when I delete and think I'll just skip such a post, it keeps nagging at the back of my mind to do it.  So I'll give it another quick try.

(You can see tons more of my Christmas pictures . . . HERE.  Check them out, leave some comments, share some love, hehe.)

Christmas seemed lacking to me this year, like I'm still waiting for it to happen.  There was nothing wrong with it really.  It was just . . . I don't know.  I had a ton of time off work because I had vacation days to use up before the end of the year.  We didn't put a tree up because of Minion, the ADHD kitty.  I didn't even get my tons of other decorations out, only a few minor, easy things to remind us it was indeed Christmastime.  We had our outdoor lights and decorations up early, just waiting to be turned on after Thanksgiving, but in the end were disappointed in how we did them this year.

Minion - The Grinch Who Stole Christmas

We made the decision to cut way back on who we shopped for and sent cards to.  This was hard for me because I love to do both, but it's gotten to the point where we were give give giving to EVERYONE and getting nothing in return.  I know, I know . . . it's better to give than to receive.  But I think you all know what I mean, when you wonder why you bother sometimes.  And I still LOVE Christmas cards, good old fashioned Christmas cards, but it seems so many people have switched to simple text greetings or e-cards, or nothing.  We did get a few more cards this year than we have the last couple years but it's still a bummer to see how this tradition is dying away.  (Or maybe it's just the people we know?!)

My favorite Christmas card this year.  The camera doesn't do justice to all the sparkly beauty.

I listened to more Christmas music.  I watched more Christmas things on TV.  I had my cards done and sent at a decent time.  I had my shopping done and presents wrapped with plenty of time to spare.  The lack of tree was, surprisingly, not bothering me.  I nibbled Christmas candy throughout the month instead of holding back until closer to Christmas.  I made Christmas cookies and a couple other Christmas treats.

Christmas Eve Day, we had hubby's side of the family over for ham dinner and exchanging gifts.  We haven't done anything with his family on Christmas for years.  I'm not overly close to my in-laws, have never really felt like one of them.  I always feel like they tolerate me only because of who I'm married to, even though hubby insists I'm just being mental.  Anyway, it was a nice enough afternoon and it did start to really feel like Christmas.

After the in-laws left, hubby and I took some things over to my mom's place, where my side of the family would be gathering for Christmas the next day.  We helped her set up some tables and things, then decided to take her for a drive around town and look at all the houses decorated with lights.  That was fun and I think she really enjoyed getting out and doing it.

Christmas Eve, we sort of just puttered around the house.  Our 'adopted' third son Matt was here, of course.  This is the second year he's stayed with us all the way through Christmas.  Last year it was a bit awkward.  This year it was just accepted.  I don't have a problem with him being here but it seems a little sad that he didn't have any desire to be at his own home for Christmas.  Seriously, he came over on the 23rd and stayed until late evening on the 26th.  I would have been itching to see if Santa left me anything at home!  But whatever, I guess, huh?

Even in their late teens, my boys would still get up in the night on Christmas Eve to check if Santa had come yet.  The last two or three years though, they stay up half the night anyway playing video games so Santa no longer comes until early Christmas morning (whenever I get up, hehe).  Doing it this way means I don't have to try and stay up longer than them anymore.  And I still think it's more fun to be surprised on Christmas morning than to just put all presents out before.

We were all commenting on what to do in place of a Christmas tree.  At this last minute, it just didn't seem right to not have one.  I joked that I would draw one on paper and tape it to the wall.  The menfolk thought this was an awesome idea so I found a coloring book type page online and printed it out.  Matt volunteered to color it.  This was scary enough that I dug one of the window decorations out of a box of decorations and taped that to the wall before Matt was done with hideously festive artwork.  So in the end we had TWO trees.  LOL!

Christmas morning, I was the first one up, of course.  I piled all the gifts under our two trees, then hopped in the shower, hopped online, and waited for the menfolk to wake up.  We actually had to wake Ty up later in the morning because we were all getting anxious to open our gifts.  He was cranky the first few minutes but quickly got over it.  We had fun opening everything.  Shopping had been a lot easier this year, more mellow, and everyone seemed to really like everything for once.  But then it was over and everyone was off to play with their new toys and it seemed like just another day.

 

My side of the family gathered at my mom's new apartment later Christmas Day.  This was her first Christmas in this apartment, her first back in our hometown, and her first year in a long time that she was hosting.  It just seemed like it should have been a perfect type of day.  Hubby and I got there a bit early and found most everyone was already there.  Ty and Casey were going to drop by later.  It was a huge shock to see my one brother there since he tends to be an anti-social hermit and we haven't seen him at a family gathering in years.  Not only was he there when we got there, but he stayed the hole darn time! 

It was a full house, 20 of us.  Tons of food.  People mingling and talking.  Pretty little Christmas tree.  People taking pictures.  We managed to get a family photo . . . my mom and all six of her kids . . . for the first time since, well, ever?!  That was pretty cool.

Gifts were exchanged.  More food was eaten.  Some people left.  Some of us dusted off the old family tradition of playing the board game Sorry.  There was laughter and merriment.

And then it was over.

It was in the days AFTER Christmas that the lack of tree and decorations really started to bother me.  Since I'm such a creature of habit, I wonder if all the changes we made this year changed the whole feel of the holiday for me.  Again, there was nothing *bad* about my Christmas season, so I just don't know why it feels like I'm still waiting for it to happen.  Even yesterday, hubby and I were driving to town and I would see that people still have their trees up and see the decorations on porches, and I would get that excited feeling in my stomach . . . exactly like Christmas is still just around the corner.

Weird.