Monday, January 21, 2013

Honey Cough Drops and a Thank You


 

Last week, I came down with a bit of a cold (sore throat, cough, congestion, and the other usual ick). These Burt's Bees Natural Throat Drops came to the rescue. Tasty honey flavor (with a hint of menthol and eucalyptus), soothing, and all natural. Individual wraps seemed unnecessary at first but it was nice to be able to throw a couple in my coat pocket when I needed to run out for more cough syrup.

A quick thanks to John who gave me a nice shout out on his blog simply-american.net last week. For other blogs about American-made products, see my blogroll in the right sidebar.

Friday, January 18, 2013

A Man's Wallet




There is something classic about a men's bifold wallet in a rich brown leather. I got this Tanner Goods wallet for my husband this past year. Made from vegetable-dyed leather that has been burnished and waxed into a velvety finish, it softened and took on an aged patina only after a short time. The wallet has four card slots, two hidden pockets, and a lengthwise pocket for bills. My husband says his favorite thing about it, besides that it's American-made, is that there is no nylon lining in the bill pocket to rip or wear out. Similar wallet here. Made in Portland, OR.

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Lemony Cuticles


The winter can be especially harsh on skin and hands. Recently, one of my cuticles cracked and bled. It was painful and annoying and I couldn't wait for it to heal. The remedy: Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream. The all-natural cream worked it's magic in just a couple of days, helping to soften and moisturize my cuticles back to their normal state. The lemony scent is not overpowering and doesn't last very long.

My only complaint is that the tin can be sometimes difficult to open, especially if you have longer nails. Burt's Bees, if you're listening, I would love some packaging that's easier to open. Thank you in advance.

Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links.

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Candlelight

De-luxe MAISON 100% Pure Soy Candle, Sweet Pea
As a fire survivor, I am very wary of having lit candles around my home. There are times, however, that I like a lightly-scented candle to refresh the air, provide relaxing candlelight, and add a little fragrance to my home. This candle from de-luxe is just the right one for me. The 100% pure, American-grown soy candle has no paraffin, preservatives, or artificial dyes. It is USDA approved, kosher, and has 100% cotton wicks. The reusable glass container is also American-made. This one has a light sweet pea fragrance, but it also comes in a wide variety of scents: amber vanilla, cucumber cilantro, exotic gardenia, festive holiday spice, lavender fields, red currant, white tea & ginger, and winter wreath. With a burn time of 50 hours, one candle should last forever. Well, almost.

Vintage matches also made in the USA by the Ohio Match Co.

Remember: As with any lit candle, please use caution and never leave unattended.

Monday, January 14, 2013

The Foundation

Jane Iredale PurePressed Base Mineral Powder

I tried this Jane Iredale mineral foundation for the first time on a hot, sunny day here in NYC a number of years ago. I was almost out of my normal liquid foundation and pressed powder and decided to search for an all-in-one product. I have, in the past, been allergic to some ingredients in certain face products so I was careful to find a product that wouldn't irritate my sensitive skin.

Friday, January 11, 2013

Lounging Around

Choctaw Ridge Charcoal Chambray Lounge Pant
I bought these gray lounge pants for my husband from Choctaw Ridge. He's been pretty busy lately and working hard. When he finally gets a day off from work, though, I know he enjoys being able to just laze around, especially when the weather is cold outside. These 100% cotton chambray pants have a button fly, elastic waist with drawstring, and even have side-seam pockets. Available also in indigo chambray and striped linen/cotton versions. Sold in a box that make it gift-ready. Made in NYC.