Care & Courage Campaign

CELEBRATING & SUPPORTING
BETWEEN FRIENDS OF CHICAGO

March 27th-May 31st

Between Friends is a nonprofit agency dedicated to breaking the cycle of domestic violence and building a community free of abuse. 

This agency provides a safe, violence-free, supportive, self-help environment for individuals and families in crisis. Between Friends' counselors empower individuals to make their own decisions and choices, rather than making choices for them. Between Friends helps victims and children to recognize that their experience is shared and that the problem of domestic violence is social and political.

Between Friends recognizes that sexism is a root cause of domestic violence, and as such, women are disproportionately the targets of this form of oppression. We also acknowledge that domestic violence is intrinsically linked to all systemic forms of violence, including heterosexism, cis-sexism, classism, racism, ageism, ableism, and sizism. Domestic violence affects everyone and our programs support all persons, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, marital status, national origin, language capacity, or ability.

JAMBERRY'S CALL TO ACTION

As a Jamberry Independent Consultant, I am inspired by my company's recent founding of the Fight Against Domestic Violence Foundation to get involved by supporting the work of a local Chicago-area agency that supports individuals and families in crisis and survivors of domestic violence. That's when I found Between Friends of Chicago.

CARE & COURAGE CAMPAIGN GOALS

To empower individuals to make a direct and positive impact on the lives of others by celebrating the courage of the clientele at Between Friends and financially supporting the continued work of Between Friends. And to partner together to create a community without domestic violence where equality, safety, and justice exist for all.

Goal #1 To provide 20 clients of Between Friends with Hand & Nail Care Kits that include:

*Manicure Kit
*Nail Oil

*Nourish Hand Creme

 

Goal #2 To raise funds to benefit Between Friends and support their comprehensive programs and services.  These programs and services include:
*A toll-free Crisis Line (800-603-HELP)
*Individual, Family, and Group counseling for victims and their children
*Court advocacy
*Prevention and education efforts that include: healthcare education and our extensive teen dating violence prevention program, REACH (Relationship Education: A Choice for Hope). 

SUPPORT
CARE & COURAGE CAMPAIGN

Option #1 Please donate!
$36 sponsors a Hand & Nail Care Kit for one client

25% of all proceeds will directly benefit Between Friends as part of Jamberry's Fundraising Opportunity and my consultant practice of matching Jamberry's donation. I will send you an electronic receipt.

Option #2 Order your favorite Jamberry products through the Care & Courage Campaign Fundraiser on my website. 25% of proceeds will directly benefit Between Friends as part of Jamberry's Fundraising Opportunity and my consultant practice of matching Jamberry's donation.

Option #3 Share the Care & Courage Campaign with your friends and family who might be interested in supporting us using this convenient webpage!! (feel free to share the image below as well as the link to our campaign page)

CARE & COURAGE CAMPAIGN
PROGRESS TRACKER

Please come back to check in and keep up with our progress!

Realizing I had Fallen Into a Hole When Everything Got Dark

Perspective: Being able to look up & the sun, doesn't mean that I'm not actually in a hole.

This isn't your average, sorry I haven't been posting in a while update.

A couple of weeks ago, I was in a very dark place. Hubby & I were staring down a very difficult decision about money, living expenses, and the realities of continuing to reside in CA. I couldn't focus on comps; I couldn't focus on much of anything except bringing money into the budget.

From a very young age, I listened to my mom fret about money. I knew that she was putting money into retirement, into emergency funds, into every nook & cranny you can imagine. In the 1980's, my mom was like a squirrel prepping for a Canadian winter.

I feel compelled to take care of my household. I don't always know how to squirrel it away very well; I'm still learning. But I have a deep desire to make money. Being in graduate school and having everyone around me who loves me constantly taking me by the shoulders and pointing my nose towards the books is making my provider-instinct crazy.

A couple of weeks ago, everything hit critical mass. I started a new business as a Jamberry Independent Consultant. I've been throwing parties on Facebook (wonder what that is? send me a message), and selling nail wraps like a crazy person (wanna know more? message me!). In the middle of all that insanity, hubby and I decided that it would be a great idea to completely rearrange our living room.  Mind you, our living room is also our dining area and my study. So, it was like moving around 3 rooms in the space of one small living room. 

Then, the sun went down. And I realized that just because I saw the sun during the day, didn't mean I wasn't buried in work and stress, which in many ways, I piled on all by myself.  Now, I'm in the midst of crawling out of the hole.  Apparently I fell in and didn't realize it until the sun went down, and everything got dark.

Maybe I suck at life? Maybe its just that I chase butterflies, because I'm afraid of the female-in-the-academy-box that will become my fate if I'm not careful? Maybe I'm just tired of being a poor grad student?

A Perfectly Natural Way to Cleanse!

I always have my hands in some kind of hair product, makeup, etc., and I have found that not every soap is created equal when trying to get my skin clean!

I've been using Foxbrim's Perfect Natural Soap for a few weeks, and I'm in love. This is my new go-to hand soap!

Foxbrim's Perfect Natural Soap Product Description:

- 100% Natural & 98% Organic: utilizes only exquisite hand-picked botanical ingredients. 

- Safe for the most sensitive skin types. No synthetic agents!

- Perfect for face, body & hair! Removes makeup, excess oils, evens skin tone!

- Absolutely NO fillers, fragrances, detergents, lathering agents, parabens, phthalates, silicones, sodium lauryl sulfate, or triclosan.

- Backed by an Amazing, No Questions-Asked Guarantee!

What I Love about Foxbrim's Perfect Natural Soap:

- I enjoyed using this as a facial cleanser; I'm still going to remain loyal to my oil cleanser, but this works really nicely!

- I love that the soap lathers nicely without additives!

- It quickly dissolves my hair styling products, washes away makeup that gets on my hands during application, and gets my hands clean without drying out my skin!

- The pump dispenser is lovely!

- Its a soap that even my hubby can love since there's no scent!

- I highly recommend this soap & wash!

You can find Foxbrim's Perfect Natural Soap & Wash on Amazon!

Affiliate Link

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Tomoson.com and made possible by Foxbrim.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

Influenster Refresh VoxBox Products Review!

I had a lot of fun with my very first Influenster VoxBox!  Here are my thoughts on the products inside!

Beanitos Chips:

My Thoughts:

- I LOVE the Nacho Cheese Flavor!

- Perfect snack food!

- Sea Salt Flavor is not really my thing at all! I can really taste the beans, and I don't like that. :-(

Orgain Protein Shake:

I'm super bummed that I couldn't find this product at my local grocery store! *sad face*

CoverGirl Ultra Smooth Foundation:

Thoughts:

- Impressively smooth!

- Great coverage!

- Surprised by how much I like the applicator!

L'Occitane Shea Butter Light Comforting Cream:

Thoughts:

- Light & creamy!

- Highly Moisturizing without feeling super greasy!

- Smells wonderful!

- A little bit goes a long way!

- Beautiful packaging

- LOVE the size of this deluxe sample!

I had a total blast at the L'Occitane Free Mini-Facial Event through Influenster! I even scored my free gift with $50 purchase!

Montagne Jeunesse Facial Masque:

Thoughts: 

- Easy to open & apply

- Smells divine!

- Cleans out my pores!

- The peel off nature of this mask makes for very easy removal and cleanup!

- My skin feels totally soft afterwards!

SkinnyGirlDaily Nutrition Bar:

 

Thoughts:

- Holy Sh*t this is good!

- Perfect mix of sweet, nut & salt!

- Will buying a box asap!

Listerine PocketPacks:

Thoughts:

- Fresh Breath, FAST!

- Long lasting!

- Easy to carry!

DenTek Comfort Flossers:

Thoughts:

- Easy & Painless Flossing

- Soft, Durable & Effective Flossing Tape

- Nice & light minty flavor

- Fantastic Pick End!

Interested in joining Influenster? I'd love it if you used my referral link! 

#SuzanneSaturday ~ Taking a Day to Rest

Sundown to Sundown is how many celebrate a day of rest, the Sabbath.  Whether one rests on one particular day each week, or whichever day one can possibly get some down time for the practice of rest, I think we can all agree that rest is very important.

Rest looks different, feels different, and is practiced differently from person to person, community to community, across the globe.

But we all need rest.

Need some suggestions?  Here are mine:

Take some time to pamper yourself! Try out a face mask, draw a hot bath, listen to some music!

    

Go take a walk!  Enjoy the sun and the scenery where you live!  Get a little exercise and some fresh air.  Take pics as you go so you remember how much fun this was!

      

Sunshine is a great way to fight depression!  Exercise can help relieve anxiety!

Spend time with your family & friends!  Do something together you all enjoy; walk together, play a game, go bowling, play a round of mini-golf, visit a museum, or just cuddle on the couch!

     

Whatever you do today, I hope that you can take some time to rest, or at least put "Rest Time" on your calendar for this week!  We have to take care of ourselves!

Hugs,

Suzanne, the Laughing Scholar

Uplifting Beauty's Resurrect Anti-Aging Moisturizer

I am a huge fan of finding your absolute best moisturizer for your skin right now.  I think its very easy to get bogged down using the exact same products over and over again.  Its important to branch out and try new products, especially as your skin ages and develops new needs!

That's why I'm so excited about this Anti-Aging Moisturizer, Resurrect, by Uplifting Beauty!  I feel like its the perfect moisturizer for skin that is in that stage where preventing fine lines is key!

Product Description:

- Helps reduce the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles

- Specifically formulated to provide skin elasticity and structural lift

- Premium ingredients help the skin absorb and hydrate at a deep level

- Non Irritating Skin Rejuvenation Cream safe for all skin types

- Brights your skin to produce a healthy glow

- May help enhance skin's defenses and prevent future damage

- 100% Money Back Guarantee!

What I Love about Resurrect Moisturizer by Uplifting Beauty:

- Lightweight and nongreasy formula is great for daytime use under makeup or for nighttime use when paired with a serum!

- Fantastic pump dispenser and attractive bottle!

- Pleasant scent from ingredients such as Peppermint Oil, Green Tea Extract, and Witch Hazel Extract!

- Leaves skin feeling fresh, moisturized, and rejuvenating!

- My skin loves this moisturizer!  Its just heavy enough without being too heavy!

You can find Resurrect Moisturizer by Uplifting Beauty on Amazon for $29.95 for 1 fl oz bottle.  This might feel a bit on the more expensive side; however, if you're looking for something light weight to prevent or address fine lines, this is definitely a product I'd recommend considering!

Final Verdict: Yay! (but a little expensive for me)

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Tomoson.com and made possible by Uplifting Beauty.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

Youthful Glow from an Ancient Source!

I have recently gained a greater appreciation for a skin care practice that I regularly have neglected: the facial mask.

I've enjoyed other mud masks, so I was very excited about the opportunity to review Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask.

Product Description:

- This ancient mud mask from the Dead Sea contains 100% natural and certified organic ingredients!

- This Dead Sea Mud Mask tightens pores, reduces wrinkles & lines, promotes youthful, healthy skin naturally.

- Weekly use diminishes blemishes, acne, breakouts, pimples, blackheads, eczema and psoriasis.

- Free of sulfates, phosphates, parabens or chemicals of any kind.  Cruelty free and Certified Vegan.

- Free eBook Bonus included with your purchase!

How It Works:

"As this luxurious mud mask gently dries on your face, it draws out excess oils, impurities and grime from your skin.  At the same time your skin is infused with ancient Dead Sea minerals and essentials oils."

What I Love about Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask:

- My skin feels clean and fresh after using this mask!

 - Even days later, my skin still has a healthy glow! My makeup looks better, and skin care products seem to be more effective.

- This product smells very pleasant, and feels very refreshing when applied!

A Few Critiques of Pure & Essential Minerals Mud Mask:

- The Eucalyptus Oil is particularly strong, but it does fade while you're wearing it.

You can find Pure & Essential Minerals Dead Sea Mud Mask on Amazon for $24.77 for a 6 fl oz jar!

Final Verdict: Yay!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Brandbacker and made possible by Pure & Essential Minerals.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

I'm Launching a New Venture!

I reviewed them, I loved them, I threw a party for them, 

and now I'm hooked!

So, I signed on!

I'd love your support as I launch my new Jamberry business!  If you're interested in more information, please request an add on my launch party!

Just want to check things out on the down-low?

My Jamberry Website is already up & running!

Friday #DIY! Instant Luminous Glowing Skin!

I have recently become a fan of Radha Beauty after reviewing their wonderful skin care regimen. I'm impressed with their high quality products, so I was quite excited about testing out their Argan Oil for a review!

Product Description:

- Only one ingredient! 100% Pure Argan Oil!

- Cold Pressed Virgin Oil to ensure best quality and highest-grade oil for the ultimate healthy glow.

- High quality dropper and ebook included with purchase

- Natural, Unscented, and Lightweight Moisturizer that is perfect for hair, skin and scalp!

- Lifetime Hassle Free Money Back Guarantee!

What I Love about Radha's Argan Oil:

- Argan Oil has so many uses!  
 Apply as Moisturizer after Showering for All Day Moisturized Skin, and use in various DIY recipes for salt/sugar scrubs.

- I appreciate knowing that this is high quality Argan Oil from a company I trust.

- I love the beautiful, cobalt blue bottle that is both attractive and practical.  The dark glass protects the oil from light exposure.

- This oil has a very light scent of argan nuttiness, which is quite pleasant.

- I think that Radha's price for a 4 oz bottle of high quality Argan Oil is very good!





How I Use Radha Beauty's Argan Oil:

 Add to BB Cream for Instant Luminous Glow!

Mix a Pea-Sized Amount of BB Cream with 1 Drop of Argan Oil on your sponge/beauty blender/ blender dupe.

Apply and look effortlessly amazing!

Final Verdict: Yay!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Brandbacker and made possible by Radha Beauty.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own.