Taking a Twist on Hairbands the Damage Free Twistband

Mar10

I received several samples for review. I was not compensated in any way, all opinions are my own and freely expressed.

Normally I prefer reviews be just that, my opinion, but honestly there is not too much to say about a hair band, is there? I will be upfront – hair ties that are tight and rubber band like do give me headaches, they pull on the roots of my hair, I experience breakage, etc. When I opened the delightful little carton for review I was not that impressed. When I stepped into a local boutique and saw similar items priced at $14 for 3 I was even less impressed thinking “WOW! How can I put a review together that does not discuss that these are 300 times the cost of hair ties you can pick up at any convenience store, or even *Gasp* the one buck shops?” But then I gave them a try. I may not personally spend $3 on one hair tie but I can honestly say the Twistband is not your average hair tie. I would bet that the headbands are also quite nice – not the squeeze your brain out of your ear feel I normally get. I could even see them being perfect for babies if you go in for adorning your little miss with bows – a flower or bow could easily be sewn on. The company also offers shoelaces, gifts, customization and limited edition pieces. These could easily become the new collectible for fashionistas.

Right now they are offering free shipping, loyalty points and even a monthly subscription service. These would make a great gift at baby showers, bridal showers, for the yoga lover in your life, as goody bag stuffers, giveaways and incentives! Check out a little more on how this woman owned company got its start:

Meet the Founder: Jessica Frandson

Like all great inventions, Twistband was born out of necessity. After having a baby, Jessica Frandson grew tired of having her hair tugged by the little one and quickly learned the least painful hairstyle for a new mom was a ponytail. She made sure to always have her hair up and kept a second band on her wrist as a backup. Traditional hair bands hurt her head and her wrist, so she twisted a soft piece of elastic trim to hold back her hair, thus creating the first Twistband. A few weeks later she was looking to write down a phone number and in the absence of a notepad, she wrote the number onher Twistband, and the custom message Twistband was born. In 2009 she officially launched the Twistband brand and began selling the product at retail stores nationwide. Jessica serves as the president of Twistband, overseeing all aspects of the emerging brand.

All about Twistband

We all remember the days of the hair scrunchy. Easy to wear, enough styles to match any outfit, and they slid comfortably on your wrist between wearings. But as style evolved, our once-beloved scrunchy became a fashion “don’t,” creating the need for a new breed of hair accessories. Elastic bands tug on hair, cause headaches and can leave dents in your hair when you take it down. But with the introduction of the Twistband that is all about to change.
Twistbands are ponybands and headbands made of elastic trim. They stretch to support any hairstyle, yet are slim and sleek enough to wear on your wrist when you want to let your hair down. Twistbands are available in a variety of colors, patterns and fabrics to complement any style. And with prices ranging from $5-12 for a set of three you can have one in every color!
Twistbands are offered in a wide range of styles and collections to suit anyone or any need, including couture and fashion, athletics, toddlers through tweens, and licensed and branded logos and messaging. In addition to the fashion Twistbands sold at retail, the line is also available for corporate and promotional branding. The ponybands and headbands can be printed with logos or messages, making them a perfectly unique and stylish way to spread your word.
Twistbands provide a slew of uses beyond a hair accessory. Wear it as a bracelet; wear a branded Twistband to make a statement; commemorate a bachelorette or birthday party with custom-printed bands … the uses are endless!

Twistband:

http://www.thetwistband.com

Price Range: $3-$12

Natural Summer Products to Keep You Looking and Feeling Super

Jun30

I received samples of products in order to complete this review. I was not compensated in any way and the opinions expressed are given freely and my own.

Summer finally rolled into our area and with it the need to keep hydrated both internally and externally – we all want to be comfortable in our skin. Don’t you want to look, feel and smell your very best? Check out some of the great new finds for summer.

Comfort starts with how we feel about ourselves and our bodies. In the last year I have undergone a lot of changes to health and found that I can not eat all of the things I used to love: including wheat, garlic and onions. When I do my stomach and intestines lead a revolt against me that has me curled in a fetal position and lacking sleep. That’s when I grab for juices or cleanses. I am not a fan of juicing – it leaves you with no fiber and lots of sugar, and I don’t believe that the population needs to cleanse but when my intestines are freaking out I like to go with something very basic with one or two ingredients that I know I can eat and get nutrients from without any of the inflammation.

Enter Kaeng Raeng

Unlike other cleanses, you can eat as many raw fruits and vegetables you’d like over the course of the detox, and you don’t have to change your exercise routine. Created by certified personal trainer Lindsay Reinsmith, Kaeng Raeng means “be healthy, be strong” in Thai. Each Kaeng Raeng pouch is a full meal replacement and contains more than a full serving of fruit and fiber, 15g of lean non-GMO protein, probiotics, essential amino acids and vitamins, so you can detox without depriving yourself of important nutrients—or of flavor.

Kaeng Raeng is vegan, gluten-free, caffeine-free, eco-friendly, and contains no artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, preservatives, laxatives or stimulants. Celebs such as Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Silverstone and Lauren Conrad are all fans. I followed the mixing instructions and even added a little extra water but there was an overall too earthy taste for me with the flavors not shining through enough. I also wound up with a paste in the bottom of each water bottle I used – it was nasty – like mushy flaxseeds. Other than the taste and texture at the bottom, it was quite filling and not unbearable. Again, I used it when I needed to eat “clean” for me – with a guarantee of nothing new to over stimulate my system, I don’t recommend using cleanses to lose weight or stay healthy – those goals should be achieved through moderation and a healthy lifestyle.

Along with IBS can come dehydration, especially in the summer. My younger son also has epilepsy and as part of his treatment we need to be sure he does not overheat or become dehydrated, that is where SOS+ steps in. In a nutshell SOS is a “drinkable IV,” the only drink to use the World Health Organization’s oral rehydration solution standard to provide the right balance of electrolytes and sugars for optimum hydration. It comes in single serving packets that are simply added to water, creating a drink with mild lemon flavor.

The Science Behind SOS

SOS is a complex, specially formulated blend of sugar, sodium, potassium, citrate and magnesium. When fluid arrives at the first portion of the small bowel SOS activates the body’s sodium/glucose co-transport system when one molecule of sodium is pulled from the small intestine into blood vessels by one molecule of glucose. Due to osmotic forces, water is absorbed because it follows sodium.

Many sports drinks attempt to hydrate and fuel, but higher sugar levels often leads to GI distress. Sugar increases osmolality (the measure of solute concentration), and instead of pushing water into the blood vessels, it pulls it into the gut, causing bloating or even diarrhea. For this reason SOS has only 25 calories per serving and a low osmolality of 230 Osm/L to more effectively transport water into the body.

SOS does have a very mild lemon flavor, it can be hard to get children to drink because it is quite salty tasting. I could not trick mine to believe it was lemonade, but when they were thirsty after running around they definitely enjoyed sipping this, especially handy to keep around during flu season to keep everyone hydrated. It is of course great for athletes and to use before, during and after exercise to keep yourself hydrated.

After Workouts Stay Sexy

With the weather warming up, people flock to the gym to get that beach body that’s been hiding all winter long. Rocking a summer body is in this summer, but those intense workouts can have you sporting a not-so clear complexion. The combination of warm weather and sweat can make skin even more breakout prone, which is not on any summer check list.
M3K’s Bare Face & Fabulous Face Wash/Toner and Make-up remover is a must have for summer facial routines. Bare Faced & Fabulous face wash is packed with wonderful supernatural ingredients such as Goji Berry, Acacia Berry, Aloe Vera, Grape Seed Extract, Peppermint Oil, Ginko Biloba Leaf and much more. This three-in-one foaming cleanser comes in a convenient no spill pump and is ideal addition to anyone’s gym bag.

I have been giving this a try over the last week and was instantaneously a fan of the pump and foam. I hate leaving facial bars in the shower to get mushy or attract errant facial hair from the hubs shaving. The first time I used this cleanser though I was disappointed by the smell, it was very medicinal and smelled much like over the counter acne products. Then I took I shower with my kids in the bathroom, they touch everything and pulled my cleanser off of the tub ledge and it rolled to the floor – getting all shook up. That did the trick. With a shaken liquid the foam that comes out smells of peppermint and leaves your face feeling tingly and toned. My skin has been looking brighter too.

Don’t Smell like a Workout

Would you ice an organic, low sugar cake with store bought tub frosting? No. Then why would you take such good care of yourself, eating, exercising and cleaning your body with the best products only to spritz on anything other than natural fragrances? Your scent should be as gentle on your body as the rest of your self care routine. Step into the smell of Pure Natural Diva. You can even test drive the smells with a sample set. I received a sample set and immediately my inner diva slapped a little Diva on. It was too cloyingly vanilla in its scent for me – but I’m not used to a pure vanilla botanical and may have slopped on instead of slapping on.

Natural was my favorite scent probably because of its notes of ylang ylang with hints of rose, along with the dilating scent of grapefruit.

Elixir was a favorite of my children who used almost the entire vial – which could definitely be too much when first applied. Before it evaporates it has the smell of household cleaner, but once on the scent lightens up into something unique and subtle, very familiar though I could not place the notes individually it reminds me of cooking smells – not quite the smells of baking like vanilla or cinnamon, but more like those of my favorite Indian restaurant – maybe jasmine?

I did not receive Pure but it is listed as sensually uplifting, like sunny day in a mixed field of lemongrass and Lavender. Notes include uplifting cassie, soothing chamomile, lemon, lime and an Egyptian neroli. I am a big fan of lemongrass so I may have to snag my own trio sample once we land in Portland so I can try it out.

New Collection Release Functional and Fashionable Fitness Apparel

May30

ZUMBA^® Fitness, the workout that has helped melt the pounds and inches off 12 million fitness enthusiasts, has an exciting new spring/summer collection that transitions easily from sweating it out in the gym to strolling the streets thanks to the vibrant colors and exciting silhouettes that have become a signature of the brand.

Dubbed the “Universe” collection, the pieces combine the vibrancy of the workout which it mirrors with light weight materials and free flowing designs to keep you moving through any warm weather routine.

ZUMBA^® Wear’s spring/summer collection features galactic prints, cropped silhouettes and asymmetrical cuts designed using licensed ZUMBA^® instructors as its models to represent the brand’s diverse and expressive community. Motivated by the energy and passion of these ZUMBA^® instructors from more than 185 countries across the globe, the “Universe” collection is an eclectic cultural mix of design inspiration and passion people feel when they experience ZUMBA^® Fitness. I have to say after almost 10 years in the Zumba community I am impressed that they have started adding variety to their models as far as size and shape.

They have also added variety to their clothing line. This has to be one of the largest lines released to date that Zumba has offered and they have revamped their shopping experience as well, made it easier, aesthetically pleasing and streamlined – just like their clothing. No longer is Zumbawear just for sporting to Zumba class, pieces can be worn outside of the gym too!

For example, the Solar Burst Top in white (Shine Bright in New Gear with the White Story) is a soft lightweight cotton blend that can be worn high on the waist or low on the hip thanks to the contrasting color waistband. Think comfy boyfriend top made a little more feminine and a lot more sexy, with kangaroo pockets and an off the shoulder wide boat neck. This shirt is so versatile I can wear it out with the kids and still breastfeed – that is a feat for fashionable clothing. Now you could pair this top with your favorite slim jeans or you could go full Zumbawear all the way and snag a pair of Hubble Hubble Leggings and show your Zumba Love all the way.

Don’t forget that Zumba has a full line of clothing and accessories, including iPhone cases, jewelry and even socks. From experience I can say that their socks can’t be beat with their velvety nylon microfiber material they are my go to pair of socks – in or out of a Zumba class. My kids actually steal my Zumba socks to wear for themselves and I always get questions about where I get my colorful comfy socks from when I pad around the studio in them.

Zumba really has hit the mark not just on fun fitness classes but on creating versatile clothing that is functional as dancewear and fashionable on the streets. Cost is also a big factor and before you look at the price tags and think they are a little more than you want to spend consider the cost of some of the top athletic apparel companies out there – Zumba is in line with, if not less expensive than, many well known athletic wear brands with the bonus of being Zumbawear offered from one of the hottest companies for dance classes, music and now clothing. Zumba has been around for over a decade and they are only getting bigger so shop the collection at zumba.com/shop to be a part of the party.

I received the Solar Burst Top and one pair of Zumba socks for review. I was not compensated in any way for my review, the opinions expressed are given freely. I have been a ZIN member and Zumba Instructor since 2007.

Where Are You Gok Wan Nothing Looks Good On Larger Than Size 2

May22

You don’t know Gok Wan??? I love the BBC and recently Gok was on “Would I Lie To You” one of my favorite comedy shows, he is normally the celebrity in charge of “How to Look Good Naked” a genius in non-surgical body transformation through fashion. Put it plainly I am in desperate need of new clothing and even more I am in need of help shopping for clothing. For the last 10 years my vocation has allowed me to live in standard Old Navy black yoga pants. At $14.99 they are a deal, comfortable and moderately flattering to my fuller frame figure. We are moving in little over a month to a state with no tax on clothing and I hope to replace some of my black yoga pants. I really need to. I mean I have worn some of these through two pregnancies along with my tank tops and to say that my 100 lbs per babe weight gain stretches the boundaries of elastic is an understatement. These pieces have been with me longer than some of my kids and the clothing needs to go.

So I have been paying closer attention to Facebook sidebar ads and Google ads aimed at garnering my non existent clothing budget. I have no idea what to wear or where to start shopping. Other than the once in a blue moon trip to ON to pick up a sale pair of black yoga pants I haven’t been shopping for a new wardrobe since my school days – let’s call it twenty years. The last time I tried I wound up crying in the corner of the dressing room – and I’m not exaggerating. Clothes shopping is torturous for me because I love the outfits on the tiny waisted mannequins but they never look right on me and I really have no idea how to combine clothing – same reason I never wear makeup. Yes, not ever. Never. I put it on and I look like a clown – the scary type.

Here are some interesting pieces I ran across but I feel I could never purchase them online because the models all look to be a size 2 and while I love the patterns and really want to be the type of gal who wears upbeat clothing I can’t see spending this much to look flubby and frumpy. I can’t possibly be the only one alone with this plight. What are some of your go to pieces? Where do you shop?

1. Teeki: Clouds Bell Bottoms $66. Teeki: Northern Lights Hot Pant $64

2. Ever/After: High Low Women’s Slub Skirt $58

3. Lur Apparel: Sweetpea Dress $56 Lur Apparel: Wisteria One Shoulder $40

4. Spool 72: Glazed Lace Dress $64 Sweet Thicket Ruffle Top $42

5. The J Peterman Company Brazilian Sun Dress $158 Stendhal Dress $199 Jaisalmer $199 She Does Dress $299

6.Sundance: Vanessa Sleeveless Tank $58 Stinson Striped Pants $88 Stretch Canvas BootCut Pants $128

I have no relationship with any of these companies, I just virtually windowed shopped their online stores. I would gladly review them if given the chance 🙂

Ditch the Joint Stress, Workout With Ease Giveaway CONTEST ENDED

May3

Up until October 2012 I owned a fitness studio and taught full time, a full schedule of fitness, dance, and yoga classes. Through two pregnancies, up until the day each was born, and back to work two weeks post partum. It is not something I recommend but in order to keep income coming in I had to work. Small business owners seldom get a day off from their daily grind.

Throughout the last decade I have taught a variety of formats; Zumba, Pilozing, Yoga, Ballet Bootcamp, you name it and even with all of my credentials I still make a wrong move, twist the wrong way, or forget to bring my dance shoes to class. Now, with Dancesocks you don’t have to worry about buying the “right type” of shoe for class. Several instructors that worked at my studio used slip-on sock products to teach on a variety of surfaces – from carpets that allow no slide to wood floors that can get tacky.

Why would you need Dancesocks? The average sneaker most people buy is a running shoe, turned up at the end with a high amount of grips on the bottom – these shoes are made for forward movement, not lateral movement, spinning or twisting. Now, you could purchase a pair of shoes for each exercise endeavor you take on, and there are cheerleading/dance shoes with pivot points for dancing, but; you could just as easily get a pair of Dancesocks for $10 and save yourself the cost of a new pair of $100 shoes that you will only wear in class. Dancesocks are economical and make sense, you can transition any pair of sneakers into aerobic dance shoes.

My Dancesocks arrived from http://www.cocoscloset.com/ , a website that invites you to shop in “your coolest friend’s closet” and offers a wide range of clothing, gift and accessories. I have a hard time finding cute tops and always seem to run into people who find the most comfortable looking trendy tees that I would want to teach yoga in. Cocoscloset definitely has few adorable tee shirts I wouldn’t mind owning. In fact, there are a lot of great items for trendy moms available in Cocoscloset. Here are my top three picks for mom (hint, hint, wink to my family!)

1. I happen to know another owl crazed mom so “ode to you my bellydance friend” it is the