Never Felt So Alive, So Wild, So Free

There are so many things that I love about this time of year- the holidays, end of the year reflection, time with family and friends, and the World Juniors. 

Like most Canadians, I spend the days after Christmas cheering on Team Canada at the World Juniors, which Canada also happens to be hosting this year. In honour of the tournament and all of the Team Canada players- past, present, future:

Roots by The Reklaws

We Are All Broncos

Since the inception of this blog, Dreams and Colour, I have posted a quote on (most) Mondays. Usually a quote that either reflected on what currently going on in my life, or a quote to focus on for the week. I have spent the past few days thinking about a quote to post today that would capture my thoughts and feelings, and/or be the perfect tribute to the Humboldt Broncos. 

I have come up empty handed. Like all of Canada and the hockey world, I am struggling to find the words. So, instead of a quote I decided to post a couple of images.

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On Friday, the Humboldt Broncos were on their way to Game 5 of a playoff series when the team bus was involved in a devastating accident. 29 people were on board and- as of this writing- 15 have died. The remaining 14 people are all injured. One of the players is currently on life support so his organs can be donated. Among the deceased are the head coach, team captain, and the radio broadcaster. You can learn more about members of the Broncos here.

Hockey teams from the NHL, AHL, ECHL, NCAA, and other leagues came together to show their support for the Humboldt Broncos- moments of silence, special tributes, donating proceeds from 50/50 draws. A number of teams- both in the NHL and other leagues- gathered at centre ice to show unity and support for the Broncos; united in tragedy, united in hockey, united as a team.

My heart hurts for this team, community, family, friends, billets, volunteers. In Canada, practically all communities are close-knit hockey towns. Teams are ingrained in our identity and community pride. The teams unity and give back to our communities. Canada hurts and mourns with Humboldt. We are embracing Humboldt and sending love, thoughts and prayers.

A Go Fund Me page has been set up to support players and families affected.

I'm going to end this post with blank space. The space can be a moment of silence, a place for thoughts, a tribute to the team and community, a spot for everything unsaid and things that have yet to be said.

Humboldt, we stand with you. We are all Broncos.

White Willow February 2018 Review

I have been subscribing to White Willow Box, a Canadian lifetsyle subscription box, for a few years now and it is still one of my all time favourite subscription boxes! Boxes are $49.95 each (plus tax and shipping) and ships every other month. There is still time to sign up for the April box, and White Willow currently ships to both Canad and the US. 

Each box contains 4-5 full size and sample size beauty, fashion, home decor, and other lifestyle products. White Willow curates beautiful and unique boxes, with quality products. 

Here's what was included in the February 2018 box:

• 1000 Roses Floral Toner by Andalou Naturals Certified Organic and made with fair trade ingredients, this product tones, moisturizes, and refreshes your skin. The mist has a rose scent, and I am not a fan of rose, but I love how hydrating it is on my overly parched skin.
  Retail Value $17
• Quilted Cross Body Purse Curated in two colours- black and beige- this faux leather purse can be worn over the shoulder or cross body, thanks to an adjustable strap, I love the quilted patterned, and I, surprisingly, don't own a cross body bag. I really love this! This is the first purse that White Willow has included in one of their boxes.
  Retail Value $37
• Rose Flower Mask by Kocostar There are a total of 12 patches that can be applied anywhere on your body for extra moisture. I most likely going to use this on my face, as I LOVE sheet masks. I think it's interesting that these are 'petals' instead of a traditional sheet mask.
  Retail Value $7
• 4-Piece Box of Handcrafted Chocolates by Karat Chocolate Boutique

How beautiful are these chocolates?! Too pretty to eat, but they are also mouthwatering! Handcrafted in Okanagan Valley, the four flavours are:
Merlot, Cherry, Black Current Riesling Ice Wine Chocolate Lava Creme Caramel
Retail Value $9

• Square Gold Lips Dish/Trinket Tray Super cute! White Willow has included items like this before, but I really don't mind because they are all so different in the way they look. This can be used as a catch all, jewelry dish, small serving dish, candy dish, and it can be displayed in so many different rooms in your home. This is a versatile piece!
  Retail Value $19

The February 2018 box has a retail value of $89 CAD, While White Willow is never a high value box, the value is always worth more than I pay. I also love the variety of products- beauty, fashion, home decor, and food were all represented in this box. They do a great job of encompassing "lifestyle" and I can't wait to see what's included in their April box!

February Favourites

February flew by- which means we are closer to Summer (my favourite), but it also means my birthday month is over. I had a great month, and got to do some really fun things- including attending a live recording of the podcast Grown Ups Read Things They Wrote As Kids! I also had a great time celebrating my birthday with family, friends, a relaxing day off, a fun night out, and a birthday donut!

But here we are in a new month, which means a new round of favourite things from the past month! Here are my favourite things from February:

Image Via

 Baths are just so cozy, warm, and a great way to spend a snowy Sunday afternoon. What's not so great is the unpleasant sound of water draining from your tub, or all of the warm water draining away from your body. Luckily I discover SlipX Solutions Bottomless Bath Overflow Drain Cover. Place it over your overflow drain, and enjoy a relaxing bath which now has a few extra inches of water, This has changed my bath game. 

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I have mentioned a billion times how dry my skin is and how I am always on the search of the magic moisturizing product that will keep my skin hydrated. Garnier SkinActive Moisture Bomb has become my lifesaving skin product. The gel like, water based product feel so amazing and hydrating on my skin, and it keeps my skin feeling super hydrated through out the day. This just might be that magic product I have been searching for!!

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I received this Homemade by Ayesah Curry mug in a subscription box a few months ago. Not only is super cute, but it's such a nice size! I can fit a lot of hot chocolate/coffee/tea in the mug, and I can easily wrap both hands around the mug for some added warmth.

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Like everyone else, I am obsessed with Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir. I want to be friends with them. And, like everyone else, am convinced they are the world's greatest love story. 

 

I'm just going to leave this here for you to watch and fall even more in love with them...

 

January //

Canada Day 2017

On July 1, we celebrated Canada Day and 150 years of Confederation. There were all kinds of celebrations to make this milestone, and I spent Canada Day in my hometown- something I haven't done in years! I am a little late in sharing how I celebrated the day, but better late than never!!

It was a jammed pack day with a ton of things going on!! I spent the day with my family, and we started at about 9am where my dad unveiled a clock and encapsulated a time capsule. 

 

Next we were off to a local park, which was where our City's celebration were taking place. The festivities were officially kick-off and included an appearance by our Town Crier! 

A portion of the street was shut down and filled with food vendors. The park hosted a variety of activities- face painting, arts and crafts, games such as bubble soccer, inflatables, and even activites out on the water.

And of course there was live entertainment- musicians, magicians, singers, and dancers. 

We took a break in out day to head down to the Flatwater Centre and take in some of the races for the Dominion Day Regatta. 

What is a Canada Day celebration without fireworks?! We finished the day on the bridge watching fireworks over the water. It was a spectacular show and a fantastic day!

Canada 150

Today is June 1. The start of a new month, the last month of school. the official start of summer. 

 

Today is also the one month countdown to July 1. On July 1, 2017 Canada- my beloved country- will be turning 150. Canada, as a country, is still pretty young and we have done a lot in our 150 years. 2017 has been- and will continue to be- a year long celebration. 

 

On Canada Day, I will be in my hometown celebrating this milestone. There are some fun things planned and I'm excited to participate and be part of the celebration. I will be sure to share the day via Instagram, and (eventually) here, on the blog.

 

From coast to coast to coast, there are so many different things planned to celebrate Canada 150. There are too many great things happening to list, but I wanted to share a couple of my favourites. 

 

ParticipACTION has created a list 150 activities to get people moving. What I like about this list is that the items have been selected because they represent Canada and Canadians.   

Hudson's Bay, a truly iconic and Canadian company, is doing the Grand Portage. This is a limited edition collection, where proceeds were go toward completing the last 2,200 kilometers of the Great Trail. The Great Trial, is a cross-Canada network of recreational hiking trails. They are literally connecting all Canadians. 

The Canadian Government has gifted Canadians with a Parks Canada pass. This gives Canadians free admission to all National Parks, National Historic Sites, and National Marine Conservation Areas. I have already visited Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake and I'm hoping to use my pass to visit Laurier House in Ottawa later this week, and I'm planning a trip with a friend to Peelee Island in early June. I'm looking forward to exploring.

I have also been selected by the National Ballet of Canada to participate in their 150 Pointes project. I was so surprised, and honoured, to be selected! I'm working with a couple of different people to really showcase my 'pointe' in Canada. 

There are so many fun, interesting, and cool things going on. I'm really trying to embrace and experience as much as I can.

White Willow February Review

I have been subscribing to White Willow for a year now and this is one of my favourite subscriptions boxes! I was surprised that I have only posted one White Willow review on my blog- the first box I received from them. 

White Willow is a bi-monthly lifestyle subscription box, based in Canada. The price is $49.95/month and the value of each box is around $80. The February box has a suggested retail value of $88.25. Note: All prices are CAD.

Their February box didn't disappoint!!

• Fragrance Medallion by D.L. & Co White Willow frequently introduces me to new products- including this one! The ceramic medallion is to be used in small spaces (drawers, closets, bathrooms) to diffuse scents. Place a couple drops of oil on the medallion every couple of weeks and you are good to go. The scent I got is Thorne Apple (the other scent is Lady Rhubarb). Since moving to my new place, I have been incorporating scents into my home, and I am looking forward to trying this out!
  Retail price $34
• Gold Foil Polka Dot Plate This is a multiple purpose item; it can be used to serve food, under candles, soap dish, catch all... This is super cute and I will likely use it as a catch all. About a week before receiving this box, I made a note to buy a catch all for my daily jewelry.
  Retail price $19
• Lip Macaron by MOR Australia made with a ton of great ingredients- Jojoba, coconut oil, papaya seed oil, beeswax, cocoa butter, and vitamin E- this product will hydrate and nourish your lips, while adding a light sheen. This item was curated in Rosebud, Passion Flower (which is what I got), Lychee Flower, Peach Nectar, and Cassis Noir.
  Retail price $14
• Caramello Pocket Chocolate Bar by URGE Chocolate White Willow frequently includes a food product in their boxes and it is always amazing! This chocolate bar will be no different- 55% Dark Belgian chocolate, creamy caramel layered centre, topped with sea salt. My mouth is watering!
  Retail price $5
• Playing Footsie Foot Soak by Barefoot Venus First of all, I was so excited to see a Barefoot Venus product! I am a fan of this company- I love their products and I love that they are Canadian! I was also excited to see this because a few days before the box arrived, I was thinking how great it would be if subscription boxes included a Barefoot Venus product! Finally, I was excited because this is a Barefoot Venus product that I had never tried!
  Retail price $16.25

How amazing is the February box?! I love everything! I feel that White Willow includes a great variety of products related to 'lifestyle'. The products are also good quality and unique. Every other month, they delivery a great subscription box and this is always the first subscription I recommend to people. 

A Note About Customer Service White Willow has the BEST customer service that I have ever encountered anywhere. Ever. Professional, polite, timely, willing to help. I had a couple of issues in December, no fault of White Willow, because I had moved:

1. My postal code for my credit card no longer matched their files, so the payment was declined. Not only did I get a personal email (instead of an automated form), but White Willow offered to hold my order until the issue was resolved, instead of putting it back in their inventory, where the item might still be available by the time I got the postal code sorted out.
2. The box was delivered to a Community Mailbox and it took me almost two weeks to get the package, even though it was in my building. This was a Canada Post/my Condo Management issue. The frustration I felt with Canada Post/Condo Management made me reach out to White Willow and ask them to mark future deliveries as 'do not safe drop'. This ended up being a complicated process and White Willow did all of the work. I appreciate them looking into this for me and make the necessary arrangements for me to pick up my box at the post office.

Hey, It's Ok!

With Amber from Airing My Dirty Laundry

That I did not watch the Oscars. I'm not the least bit interested. Besides La La Land, Ryan Gosling, and Emma Stone...I can't tell you any other movies, actors, or actresses that might have been nominated. And I don't even know if the above mentioned were nominated. 

To be counting down the days until Big Brother Canada starts! I love this show and I can't wait to watch this season! It looks like it's going to be an all-star season with teams. It also looks like it will only be airing two nights a week instead of three...sad. 

That I do not like How To Get Away With Murder ended their season. I was so sad that Wes was the one who died. What I especially don't like is how they blamed everything on Wes! He was a good guy who ended up in unfortunate circumstances, but he was not the monster they made him out to be. 

 

To, after the record breaking seasonally warm temperatures we had last week, not be looking forward to the snow, rain, and cold weather that is in the forecast for the next week or so. I want the sun back!

 

That I got a trip to Quebec City for my birthday! I'm not going until July, but I am looking forward to it. I've never been, but I know a lot of people who have and they all say how great it is.

Put A Bow On It February Deluxe Box Review

Put A Bow On It is a Canadian, monthly, lifestyle subscription box. I had subscribed to this box in the past and decided to give them another try. They offer two boxes, Premium (which I reviewed last week) and Deluxe, which I am reviewing today.

The Deluxe box is $36/month plus shipping. You will get 4-5 items a month that are lifestyle related and that fit the theme for that month. The Deluxe and Premium boxes have different themes and items. The theme for the February Deluxe box is Love and is said to have a retail value of $61.00

• Votive Candle Holder & Candle This holder came in 4 different colours, and I'm glad that I got red- It's my favourite colour! In general, I'm not a fan of candle holders...to knick-knack-y/dust collector for me. With that said, it is pretty and I'm trying to think of another use for it. 
• "If You Can Read This, Bring Me Some Wine" Socks How adorable are these socks?! I am not a fan of socks...I prefer bare feet and being able to wiggle my toes. Every once and awhile I do wear socks. Looking forward to wearing these!
• Cherry Pick Double Pearl Earrings- Matte Black While...this exact same product, but in white, was in the Premium box. This is the first time, I believe, that Put A Bow On It has had the same product in the Deluxe and Premium boxes. I was disappointed to see a repeat product, but I do like the black earrings better than the white earrings. These are labelled as "pearl" earrings, but they are actually black ball earrings. 
• Gold Feather Stemless Champagne Glasses- Set of 2 I. Love. These! I had never heard of stemless champagne glasses, but these are great! I'm excited to add them to my bar!

I don't necessarily think that subscriptions boxes need to have a crazy value, but I do think that the value of the box should at least equal the price of the box. I know the product cards (which does not list individual prices) says the box has an $61 value...I have a hard time believing that. I think, at best, this box has a $40-$45 value. I'm ok with this, because that's about what I paid. 

A lot of people prefer the Premium Box because of the 'higher value'. I actually prefer the Deluxe box- at least for February, I thought the Deluxe box was a better value and contained better items. I'm not really sure how the items fit the "Love" theme, but I still think there were some great items this month!

As a Canadian, I really want to support this Canadian Subscription and I really want to love it. for March, I canceled my Premium subscription and am just subscribe to the Deluxe. I'm going to try it out for a couple more months and see  what happens.  

The Storm In My Heart Has Settled At Last

Earlier this week, I was listening to some old playlists and came across this song, which I have since been listening to on repeat; I forgot how much I love it!!

Whole To My Half by Measha Brueggergosman feat David Myles

Hey, It's Ok

With Amber from Airing My Dirty Laundry

That I was selected to participate in #150Pointes!! This is a project initiated by the National Ballet of Canada to celebrate their 65th anniversary and Canada's 150th anniversary. I am so incredible excited and honoured to have been selected to be one of 150 people/groups/organizations selected for this!!

To not have watched the Super Bowl. I really am not interested. Not. One. Bit. I don't care about the game, the half time show, or the commercials- most don't even air in Canada due to broadcast regulations. 

That I am looking forward to my birthday next week. I have some things planned for the day. It will be low key, but I will be celebrating and doing things that I want to do. 

To finally be unpacked and organized from my move. It took me two months, but I did it. Everything is out of boxes/bags. Now I can focus on decorating and buying items that I need to make my place 'mine' and a 'home'.

That I am done with winter. I am done with the snow, cold, and sun-less days. 

Hey, It's Ok

With Amber from Airing My Dirty Laundry

To be so sad and scared for America. It seems that a lot of reckless decisions are being made and that America is not only going back decades, but positioning itself for a lot of hostility and becoming a country that is no longer safe. Becoming a country that is divided and freedom is limited.

That I am proud of the way my Canadian government has reacted to the Muslim ban. Our Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, tweeted:

To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength #WelcomeToCanada

To be looking forward to Canada turning 150 this year. There are a number of things being done to celebrate from small town celebrations to Northwest Territories giving away flights for people to go visit. One of the my favourite celebrations is 150 Pointes initiated by The National Ballet of Canada, where they are sending 150 pointe shoes across Canada to be photographed at various landmarks. You can learn more and see photos here or by searching #150Pointes

That I got tickets to a Harry Potter fan festival. Prior to the organizers making arrangements to release an additional 2000 tickets yesterday, 6000 tickets were sold and Harry Potter fans were having a meltdown if they didn't have tickets. I also realized and was disgusted by how entitled some people feel. For the record- I have never read a Harry Potter book or seen a Harry Potter film.

To love the Average Andy segment on Ellen. The most recent installment, where Andy plays hockey with the LA Kings, is probably my favourite.

Lest We Forget

Remember the sacrifices that our brave men and women have made fighting to give and preserve the freedom we share today. With bravery and strength they serve. With respect and gratitude we thank them.

 

In Canada, today is Remembrance Day. This is the day that we honour and remember members of our armed forces; those who have served, are serving and, especially, those who have fallen.

There is a section of highway in Ontario, which has been named the Highway of Heroes. All of our fallen soldiers travel this stretch of highway and many Canadian line the overpass to pay their respects. It's a very moving tribute and a way for Canadians to say one of their final 'goodbye' and 'thank you' to our fallen heroes. 

 

Highway of Heroes by The Trews

 

Lest We Forget.

Hey, It's Ok!

With Amber from Airing My Dirty Laundry  

To have a had a great Thanksgiving...it was great to celebrate with family.

 

That, after watching the first two debates, I beyond thankful that I live in Canada. 

 

To, after watching the first two debates, not understand how Donald Trump is candidate. It's a joke, right?

 

That I am crossing all of my fingers and toes in hopes that everything goes according to plan. 

 

To not be loving this season of How to Get Way With Murder. It seems kind of...anti-climatic after the first two seasons. And I have no idea who they are killing off...I don't really want to see anyone go. 

Hey, It's Ok

With Amber from Airing My Dirty Laundry  

To love #GordDowniesCanada...a fantastic tribute to the lead singer of The Tragically Hip and a beautiful tour of our country. 

That I cannot wait for season 3 of How to Get Away With Murder...September 22 premiere!

To be sad that summer is over...it went too quickly for my liking, but I do love September; it's my favourite month and it's going to be a fun one too!

That Hudson's Bay has finally started a blog! You can check it out here. 

To be excited for my Mind, Body, Spirit treatment today. It will be super relaxing and I'm excited to try Access Bars for the first time!

Put A Bow On It: August Box

Like many people, I love subscription boxes. I have subscribed to a few different ones over the years and have found a couple of favourites. I also like trying new subscription boxes- you never know which one might become a 'favourite'. I was recently introduced to Put A Bow On It, which is a lifestyle subscription box, and thought I would give them a try.

This is a Canadian subscription box, but they are now shipping to the US, and they offer two boxes a month; Deluxe ($48/month) and Premium ($74.95/month). The gift plans are 3, 6 and 12 months or monthly with no auto-renew. Besides the price point, I'm not 100% sure what the difference is between the two boxes. Looking at the past boxes on their website, it does show that Deluxe and Premium boxes contain very different items.

 

I had only seen reviews for the Premium box, so that's the one I ordered. The box was wrapped with pineapple wrapping paper and a bow- you are literally unwrapping a gift. A product card was included in the box and the box had a theme- I love subscription boxes have a theme! The theme was "Happy Glamping". I must say, the items we received fit the theme really well.

 

•  Citronella Candle- What a great item for a lifestyle box! As someone who spends a ton of time sitting on the patio, citronella candles are a must.
• LED Mason Jar Lantern- This is a cute item and I like when lifestyle boxes include a decor item. I can use this item both inside and outside.
• Batiste Dry Shampoo- I like that this is a full product size. Unfortunately, I have yet to get into dry shampoo; I hear great things, I've just yet to try it, even though I have received dry shampoo in subscription boxes before. I will likely gift this to someone.
• R Devine Sacred Earth Cleansing Clay- I am big on skincare and am always looking for new products to try, so I was excited to receive this. I also like that this is a company based here in Ontario! This product is a powder that you add water to and it can be used as a cleanser or a facial mask. 
• Mental Beats Power Bank- I have received a similar product in a previous subscription box, but I am happy to have another. We live in an electronic world and making sure our devices are charged is a real issue (#FirstWorldProblems). I recently changed phones from Blackberry to iphone and am in need of restocking different places (country house, my parents place, work, my car) with charges for my phone, so this product will come in handy.
• PocketBac Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel- I think this was a bonus item as it wasn't listed on the product card. I like when bonus items get included in a subscription box, it gives the feeling of added value. I can never have enough hand sanitizer and have added this to my travel bag. 
• Russell Stover S'Mores- I like when lifestyle subscriptions include a food item. Not only did this fit the theme perfectly, but it was delicious!

 

I have mixed feelings about this subscription. I like that it's Canadian and that it's a lifestyle subscription. I also like that they don't auto-renew and that they use a theme. I think all of the products fit the theme perfectly. I think that they had some unique products too. I'm not sure that the value is there. I paid almost $65 (plus $10 shipping) for this box and I'm not sure that this box has a value of $65; product prices were not included on the product card but I am familiar with all of these products and have an idea of what the retail prices are. This box also reminds me of another Canadian lifestyle box- that box costs less and offers, in my opinion, better products (higher value, better quality).

I also feel that it's not fair to judge a subscription by the first box- you might not catch them during their best month, or a theme might not appeal to you. I have ordered both their Deluxe and Premiere September boxes- I want to see the difference between the two and I want to give this subscription box a chance before I make a final decision on it.

The Greatest Band: The Tragically Hip

The Tragically Hip is the quasi-essential Canadian band. Everyone knows who The Hip are, and if you're not fan, you still appreciate their music and can acknowledge what they mean to the Canadian music industry, and Canada as a whole. When I was in University, I wrote paper on what The Hip meant to our National Identity and how they embodied Canada as a country and a culture. 

It was announced a few months ago that Gord Downie was battling cancer and that The Hip would embark on one final tour. The last show of the tour-the last Tragically Hip concert- is tomorrow in Kingston, Ontario. It is a sold out show, but it will be broadcast live on CBC and many communities are doing screenings. 

Like many Canadians, I am a Hip fan. My favourite album is My Music @ Work and in honour of The Hip and Gord Downie, I thought I would share the title track of that album:

My Music At Work by The Tragically Hip
Live at Rogers Arena in Vancouver BC- July 26, 2016

Happy 149th Canada!!

149 years ago, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick decided to form a nation, and thus (the Dominion of) Canada was created.

 

If you know me, you know I LOVE my country and you know that I LOVE being a Canadian. I am proud of everything Canada stands for and am in awe of the diversity and beauty of this country I call home. I honestly believe that Canada is one of the best and most beautiful countries in the world. 

Tourism Canada has a ton of fantastic videos that showcase this great country, which showcases Canadian experiences and Canadian destinations. In honour of Canada Day, I thought I would share this video with all of you:

Explore Canada- The best of the best of the best

House Box: February

A couple of weeks ago, A Year of Boxes hosted a giveaway for a 6 month House Box subscription...and I won! This was the same day that I was offered a full-time permanent position with my company AND I got to try a buttertart from the BEST buttertart place (according to my co-workers). It was a pretty great day, 

Allison (House Box founder) had an extra February box and sent it to me. House Box is a newer subscription box and I have not tried a  house/home subscription box before, so I wasn't sure what to expect. 

House Box is a Canadian subscription box that showcases Canadian products. This fact alone made me excited to try this box. There's also an emphasis on natural products, which is fantastic. House Box also has an online store where you can purchase past boxes and select products that were featured in boxes.

House Box ships every other month and subscriptions start at $21.95 plus shipping.

So, what was in the February House Box?

• Blue Wonder Try Me Cloth: Apparently, you just need to add water to this cloth to clean- no need to use additional cleaning products. The cloth can be used for household cleaning, including windows. I'm not one of those people who loves to clean, but I will give this a try,
  Value: $15
• Handmade Soystick by Earth Elements Farm Products: I like that this is all natural. It's basically chapstick made with soy. With the cold winters and humid summers, my lips are always chapped, so I can never have too many products like this. I've already tossed this product into my purse.
  Value: $5
• Kienna Cup by Kienna Coffee Roasters: These cups are Keurig compatible, which is great because I have a Keurig! The cups also came with some coffee packets to try out. I will admit that I love the idea of this product; being able to use my Keurig and cut down on waste. However, it seems that you have to buy Kienna Coffee packets to put in these cups; I don't think it can easily be used with other products. With that being said, I already have reusable Keurig cups that I can put whatever I want in; loose leaf tea, ground coffee, hot chocolate. Again, I like the idea, but likely will end up gifting it to someone.
  Value: $5
• Sugar Bears: This is the item in this box that I am the most excited about!! Sugar Bears keep your brown sugar moist for up to three months and can be used to keep other things moist, like cookies. This is a product that I will actually use, if it works. Can't wait to try this!
  Value: $6
• Elbow Grease by Live for Tomorrow: This is a coconut and citrus based all purpose cleaner. It does smell good! I will definitely be giving this a try. I liked to use as many environmentally friendly cleaning products as possible, so we'll see how this works. It;s $9.95 for 34oz
  Value: $0.30 for 1 oz (which is what I got)
• Soy Tealight by Earth Elements Farm Products: I am not much of a candle person, but this smells really good! This is a natural product (NGI-GMM free soy wax, pesticide and herbicide free, food grade quality, kosher certified) and soy burns 'cleaner' compared to traditional candle wax.
  Value: $3.50

Total Value: $34.80

The value of the box as compared to what you pay are pretty much on par (with shipping, you end up paying about $30 for the box). While this box might not have a high value, you do get an equal value for what you paid. This box reminds me of the now-defunct My Dream Sample Box, which I was a fan of. You get introduced to small business products and/or direct sales consultants, you get a great product to try out and the value of the box is on par with what you paid to get it.

I think there is a market for this type of subscription box, As someone who is a declared undomestic godess, I am not in that target market. With that being said, I think this box has some great products and will appeal to people. This is also a new subscription= the February box was only their third box- they are just starting out and I think they have a lot of potential!! It'll be interesting to see what their next couple of boxes are like.

White Willow: March Box

First of all, Happy St Patrick's Day!! Besides work and watching the season finale of How To Get Away With Murder, two things that are not very "Irish", I have no plans to celebrate this day. I will wear the only green piece of clothing I have, a cardigan, in the spirit of this holiday, and of course reflect on my Irish roots.

A couple of months ago, I heard about a new subscription box, White Willow. I saw a lot of positive reviews and liked the products that were being included in the box. I also liked that this is a lifestyle subscription box and that it's Canadian!! This is a monthly subscription and you will get 4-5 items with a value of at least $70. Subscriptions are monthly ($35), 3 months ($34), 6 months ($33) or 12 months ($32), plus shipping.

March was the first White Willow Box that I received...and I LOVED it!! They made a great first impression with their packaging- a crisp, clean white box with their logo. When you opened the box, it said "Unveil your surprise" with their hashtag underneath- which I loved, I didn't have to go searching for it. They also included a welcome card-nice touch- and a product card. Not all subscription boxes include product cards, even though they should! White Willow had pictures of the products, which were numbered and corresponded with the numbered description, making it easy to match everything up. 

So, what did I get?

• Lindo Konjac Sponge: This is something I have received in other subscription boxes, so I wasn't super excited about it. However, I do think it's a great product and something I will definitely use.
  Value: $15
• Organic Infused Basil Oil by La Tourangelle Artisan Oils: First of all I was so surprised and impressed to see this product included! I love the fact that they included a cooking product that I can actually use! I have never seen a product like this included in a lifestyle box and I think it's a fantastic addition! Plus it's GMO free, which is good. It can also be used in a variety of dishes: chicken, fish, pasta, pizza, salad, or with bread. I'm looking forward to using this!!
  Value: $12
• Mudlark Memento Boxed Notes: I am not crazy about the design- I'm not a fan of floral prints- but I hand write notes all. the. time. There are 20 cards in four different designs. I will be using these and I was happy to have more note cards to add to my stationary collection. What I like even more is that the box is pretty solid and magnetic, so it will make a great keepsake box too. Two products in one.
  Value: $18
• LOLLIA "Breathe" by Margot Elena Shower Gel: This is a "perfumed" shower gel...and it definitely has a scent to it! The scent-which is a little too much for my liking- is peonies and white lily. I'm hoping that when I use it in the shower, the water will bring the scent down a lot. It smells nice, if you like a strong floral scent. This was the "big ticket" item in the box and I'm not sure I would pay this much for a shower gel.
  Value: $30
• Oil Serving Dish: Another product that I was surprised and impressed to see included! Especially since it is something that can be used on it's own/with stuff you already have, and/or with a product (Infused Basil Oil) that was included in the box. I love getting kitchen products, especially practical ones that I will use! Even when not in use, this dish will be on display in my kitchen. You can't really tell from the picture, but there is a design of a bunch of grapes on the plate, which balsamic vinegar will gravitate too when mixed with oil. Love, love, love this!
  Value: $6
• Bonus item: Lindt chocolate. This is a well known and delicious brand and I was happy to see it included as a 'bonus' item. 

 What I paid: $42 (subscription + shipping)

Total value: $81 (bonus item not included)

  

The value is almost double what I paid! Even thought the value isn't as high compared to some other boxes (FabFitFun), it's still a great value. It actually has a higher value to me because I like all of the products and will use all of them. Even more value is added for me, because three of the products (oil dish, infused oil, note cards) are products that I have yet to see in a lifestyle box...the uniqueness of the products add value for me.

My first White Willow Box definitely lived up to my expectations and I cannot wait for my April box to arrive!!

Note: All prices listed in this post are CAD.