I miss the water, the smell of the clean air. I just miss the seclusion, the quiet. I miss being able to sit with my thoughts without someone watching me.

I'm pretty home sick today.  I know it's been 6 years, but I miss the water, the smell of the clean air.  I just miss the seclusion, the quiet.  I miss being able to sit with my thoughts without someone watching me.  

I wanted to show you a few photos I've taken, of places that mean the world to me. I'm not a photographer, but I am an avid lover of beautiful things.  I like to take pictures of things that stand out to me.

This is looking up from the back swing in my Parents yard. One of my favorite go-to spots when I was younger.

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge,  We used to drive over this bridge almost everyday to see family.  The view is just amazing on it.

Driving back trails that most don't even know about is love. This is historic James Town. You don't need to pay for tours.  There are many areas that are free to the public, that the public doesn't even know about.  I used to live across the river from this.  

Sunrises on calm water can put any one at ease.  These are the things I miss.  The simplicity of life.  The wait of the ferry to cross the river.  The pace is completely different than City living. 

Secret spots, that are hidden.  Still clean from this worlds trash.  A clean beach?? Some do exist.  This was one of those spots.  

I miss the quiet walks around a town that's population was only in the 300's.  Historic buildings, and no pollution.  No tourists. 

Sitting at the town beach with my dog as he runs up and down the beach, while I watch a fish kite dance in the wind.  Cool sunset breezes.

Driving onto the Ferry with family, and loved ones to just enjoy the nothingness on the other side.

Weird attractions that you just have to pull over for, and talk to the older generation that owns the store.

Fate bringing you to that store, because it's name is your Dog that's with you.  And the older lady thought you had a healing aura about you, and gives you a $100.00 natural amethyst necklace because she likes you.

While sometimes, the simple things, like a flower in the middle of the woods, around no other flowers,  is a beautiful thing.  

Finding reflections in the photos you've taken, and thinking it's the most beautiful thing ever without having to even touch a photoshop.

Loving the water, and all fish life.  Sometimes I wonder why we don't try harder to find what's exactly hidden in our oceans, like we do in space.

Why? because I love the lines, and underwater plants.  I would like to live under the sea.  I like how just reflections on glass, can make ones imagination roam. 

When a tree calls out to you right at sunset, and looks like the only sunlight left brightens it's red flame.

And, this is why I miss the water, and need to move back.  Don't get me wrong.  The City has some nice Metro Parks, and we have other things .. like the Franklin Park Conservatory, The Zoo & Aquarium.  We've even camped in Athens, Ohio, been to Ash & Old Man's Cave.  It's still not the same as being sea level. 

I'd pay anything to be able to smell that fresh air, right before it rains, when you just know it's going to rain before the storm clouds even roll in.  

*All images are my own.  

Teen Works Binder ( From the 1980s) Photos of myself, growing up from Tom Boy to now.

I'm feeling a little nostalgic today.  Growing up my cousin Terri Jean gave me a Teen Works binder.  I was a huge Tom Boy.  Instead of Barbies, I wanted GI Joes. Instead of going to Girl Scouts, I would cry, and want to go swimming in the creek with my male cousins, and swing from vines over the ravines.  Beauty just wasn't anything to me.

Don't get me wrong, I wasn't an ugly kid.  I was actually quite adorable.  I just didn't feel "Girly."

My mom also allowed me to be myself.  When I didn't want that Cricket Doll, she took it back, and got me the Storm Shadow I had to have.

That's me!  I even cut my hair short.. 

& Yes, I rocked the Heman's too.  I still wear a pair of Masters of The Universe Pj's to this day.

I could also be extremely cute!

When my older cousin gave me the book (she was into hair, and make-up.) I read it.  I didn't think I was ugly, but I liked the artistic aspect of the pages.  The eyebrow section especially was to teach you to set them up to arch with your face shape.  Through the awkward teenage years it helped me a lot.

I am 19 years old here.. that was 11 years ago. 

I really think that binder helped me grow into my looks.  I didn't do anything drastic to my eyebrows, and I knew how important skin care was because of it.  I didn't do anything to damage my skin, and I mostly used natural, greentea lotions, and oatmeal baths. My mom had bad allergies so we didn't use perfum-y chemical based products.  Even at almost 31 today I still get told I don't look my age.

This photo is when I was pregnant with my Son, right before my 30th birthday.  

I just did a search for the Teen Works Binder, and Kostia on Flickr has uploaded some of the images, http://www.flickr.com/photos/kostia/2449856623/in/set-72157604781562612/

Hilarious! Some of the styles back then, but still loving the tips. I wanted to do a huge, Thank you to my cousins, both of them,  Terri, and Liz (They are sisters.) For them not telling me what to do as for looks, but for Terri giving me that binder.  And Liz always giving me Make-up she didn't like anymore, Lol! I Love hand me downs.  Especially when she'd use it like once, and didn't like it.  Hehehe. Now I have so much make-up.  Loving the natural, earth friendly products out too.  Things have really changed.

Any one else a total Tom Boy that changed as they grew older?  I still like certain things that aren't deemed "Girly." but overall, I really think books like Teen Works are needed, and are great role model material for young women.

Did any of you have the binder too?

NEW Toms of Maine® Wicked Cool! Toothpaste for Kids 8(Or Adults!)

NEW Toms of Maine® Wicked Cool! Toothpaste for Kids 8: Looking for Toms of Maine natural ingredient products? #TomsWickedCool #freesamp http://bit.ly/WRjdjY

I received a sample for free for being a Smiley360 member for the new! Tom's Of Maine Natural Wicked Cool! Flouride Toothpaste.  It fights cavities, strengthens enamel, and freshens breath.  It's also dye free.  The Tooth paste says it's for ages 8+.   I gave my extra away to my nephew, and he says it's "Minty Wicked Cool."  I enjoyed the fresh Mint too. I don't think this toothpaste is just for kids,  I bet a lot more adults will enjoy it's mild mint too. Overall, I am very pleased with it, and so is my nephew. Our teeth are clean!

What toothpaste do you use?? Natural, or? Would you consider changing to something more natural?

Candle Voyage Review

I'm a huge fan of candles.  Not only do each of these candles play with the senses, they are also artisan hand-made. When I unboxed my samples from Candle Voyage I was happy to discover aromas I already like, mainly the Gingered Citrus, and Eucalyptus.  The box itself was extremely well packed, and I could smell the different oils inside.  It also comes with a list of the different candles, and artists websites.

A candle is meant to be lit!

I say it all the time.. that I like a variety of things.  I really do mean that.  Even with candles.  I think one can never have too many!  A different aroma for each mood.  Also one of my biggest peeves are people that don't light their candles! Candles are made to be lit! Enjoy them! Oh, and candle peeve #2 would be husbands that say you have too many!! Shhh, husband, shhh.

Candle Voyage is a monthly candle subscription box that contains candles from different artists.  Maybe you'll find a candle you can't live without, or you are just like me, you like to try new things all the time. Either way, it's also nice to support different artists, because candle making is an art!

The monthly plans can even be purchased as gifts.  The boxes retail for around $25 plus shipping & handling.  The soy jar candle, and the 3 aroma layered one would retail for about that in the store alone so I consider this a reasonable price.

So, Light your candles! Relax! Go on a Candle Voyage of your own.  We allllllllll deserve some calm time.  These candles were even better when lit.  

If you'd like to check Candle Voyage Monthly Candle Subscription Box out, you can find them online at CandleVoyage.com, and at their social media outlets below.

http://www.facebook.com/candlevoyage

https://twitter.com/candlevoyage

http://pinterest.com/candlevoyage/

Betty Lou's Inc. Gluten Free Review. Yum!!

Yum! Yummm!! Yummmm!!! Can't type.. too busy chewing.. I am enjoying this Betty Lou's Inc. Gluten Free Review!  

As much as I'd like to sit here, and eat the whole box of samples Betty Lou's sent me, I have to refrain myself.  Since I've been living a healthier lifestyle, and learning portion control I've sworn to my self, and to my health that I will only eat a snack when a snack is needed.  The food plan I am on allows me to add two snacks a day of my choice, long as I am smart about it in moderation.  Betty Lou's snacks makes a great addition to the life style I am trying to achieve.  

All Products Contain Absolutely NO Wheat, Refined Sugars, Hydrogenated Oils (No Trans Fat), Genetically Modified Ingrediants (Non-GMO) 

• Fruit Bars
• Angell Candy Bars
• Just Great Stuff  Bars
• Just Great Stuff Powdered Peanut Butter
• Vanilla Rice Protein Shake
• Nut Butter Balls

I received the above products from Betty Lou's Gluten Free Snacks to sample.  The first item I tried was the 9 1/2 veggie/fruit serving Just Great Stuff Chocolate Green Dream Bar  The chocolate coating on the bar is sweet, and the green inside is moist, and earthy tasting.  I actually like that taste.   It is after all a vegetable bar.  I then tried the Cinnamon/Apple Fruit bar, as I was enjoying myself, little grabby toddler hands stole the other half of my bar.  Usually he does not eat "sticky" things but he tore the fruit bar up.  I still needed my midday snack too, so I opened the Cherry Fruit Bar, and gave him half of that as well.  The bar reminds me of a better alternative than a fig newton.  It is squared shape, and the fruit filling is extremely full of flavor. Totally helped my sweet tooth craving.

I am going to be posting weekly on my Weight Loss Journey with what exactly I eat.  You'll be sure to see more Betty Lou's there.  

The fact that my 2 year old  is eating, and enjoying the bars means a lot to me.  He is extremely picky, and I always have to get creative with his fruit, and vegetables.

Oh, and how cute are the Candy Bars.. Angell.. they were meant for me! This is the beginning of a beautiful foodie friendship.   I like to eat, and Betty Lou's Inc. makes delicious snacks to eat. By the way, the Angell White Chocolate Bars are heavenly. 

Don't forget to check Betty Lou's out on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.  Never know, might find something you'd like to try too.

Plus, how great would these snacks be for an Easter Basket? Or anyday, just because I love you gift bag?

Easy Entries For Current Life According To GreenVics Giveaways for February - March

Healthy Surprise Box Review.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

HBL Hydrating Hair Care System Review.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Glee Gum Make It Yourself Chocolate Review.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Eco Store USA Ambassador Review.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Save1 meal for someone in need while shopping for things you already buy online! Coupons, and promotional codes too!

I absolutely believe in the concept behind Save1.com.  The majority of us already shop online for most of our major purchases because of some type of discount promotion.  Save1.com has thousands of coupons, and special promotional offers from stores  that I bet you already purchase from.

Did you know about Save1.com? 

I'm just learning about them too, and from now on they will be one of my first go to sites for promotional discounts.  Who doesn't like to save? AND! Give back!

What makes Save1.com different from the others, is, they give back.  For every purchase, they provide a meal for a hungry child.  I don't know about you, but that makes me feel like I did make a difference. It really is that easy to make a difference!

It's as easy as going to the website, finding the stores you shop at already, and then seeing what promotional offers are listed.

For example, My 2 year old out grew his beloved Shark Bath Towel Hoody.  I searched for Kmart on Save1 since they are right down the street.  I chose the in store pick-up, which means, no shipping fee!  I helped supply a meal for someone in need, and I bought the towel for Sy for $13.00.  I was completely satisfied with this transaction.

This is a sponsored post,  It does not change how I feel about the concept behind Save1.  I wish I knew about this company in November/December when I was Christmas shopping.  Now I do, and so do you! 

May your next online purchase make a positive difference!

You can also talk to Save1 directly on Facebook, to help fight child hunger, and reach their goal of 100,000 meals fed.

$200.00 Paypal or Visa GiftCard from Tophatter Giveaway!

We’ve just discovered an addictive new auction site called Tophatter, where buyers bid for sellers’ unique goods in fast-paced virtual auction rooms. From crafts and DIY projects, to antiques, jewelry, home décor and much more, there’s no limit to what you can discover on Tophatter.

With live auctions every day, sellers get to showcase their wares from around the world to a community of thousands of buyers, and answer questions via chat as the clock ticks down. Each lot sells in an average of two minutes, so buyers must bid quickly!

Tophatter’s auctions become interactive live events where buyers and sellers can hang out, chat, and win. Led by the esteemed Sir Wendell Wattington and his animated family, Tophatter auctions keep the fun rolling in.

Also, for readers of Life According To GreenVics, Tophatter wants to give you $10 off your first $11 purchase!

One winner will receive $200 via Paypal or Visa Gift Card {winner's choice}!

Giveaway ends March 9th at 11:59pm, open worldwide, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. Life According To GreenVics is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. Please contact teri@mompoweredmedia.com with questions or to see your business or blog featured on the next big event!

Violent Lips Review.

Violent lips makes temporary lip tattoos.  I had so much fun trying to cut down the temp tattoo lips to fit my size.  I messed up the first one (my bad.) But I knew exactly where, and how to place the second one.  Luckily each pack comes with three. What I am wearing in the picture is called Honey Dew.  It's part of the Glitteratti Collection.  Can you tell I like the color green? 

Applying the lips are as easy as cutting it down to fit,  you then peel off the plastic film, and line up on your lips.  The glitter side down.  Then you wet the outside where the white paper is (Yep, just like temporary tattoos.) But these have a special vitamin formula.  

I think Violent lips pretty awesome.   The dual toned look makes it unique.  I'm saving my last one for Saint Patties Day.  

I received these samples for free for my honest opinion.  As you can see! I did wear them, and I think they are unique.

From my friends at Cascadian Farm!

Love this! This is a box I received today from my Friends at Cascadian Farms! Lifefactory Glass Reusable Bottle, PeopleTowels "B.Y.O. Towels to save trees!", Seventh Generation dish soap, and Neutrogena Naturals, eMeals, Bento-Ware Laptop Lunchables. Loving the Eco-Friendly, Organic love!

Glee Gum Do It Yourself Candy Kit Giveaway!

These kits are fun, and educational! You can see my reviews for the Do It Yourself Chocolate Kit, and the  Do It Yourself Sea Weed Gummies Kit.  I haven't tried the Do It Yourself Chewing Gum Kit yet, but I bet it's as equally great if not better than the other two. I do enjoy Glee Gum.  My favorite flavors they make are the Cinnamon, and Spearmint Not only are the kits made with natural ingredients, they also tell a history about the ingredients used.

One lucky follower will have the chance to win a kit of their choice.  These are great for upcoming holidays, birthdays, home schooling(there are Educators Guides), and just because you feel like a treat days.

This is the Chocolate Kit I used to make some delicious dark chocolate cups with blueberries, and walnuts. You can add whatever extras you enjoy, or just leave them chocolate. I bet even natural peanutbutter, with oatmeal, and coconut would be a sweet treat. Really the possibilities are endless.

The Sea Weed Gummies kit was really fun to use. You can take any item you deem cool enough to impress into the starch to get your mold for the Gummies. I used an old star teether of the babies. I also just poured the extra onto a plate to let set up, and used scissors to cut out shapes, and his name.

Giveaway is open to the U.S. Only.  Begins 2/20/13 12:01AM Est, Ends 3/05/13 12:01 Est. Winner is chosen at random Via RaffleCopter. If winner does not respond back within 72 hours another winner will be chosen at random via RaffleCopter. Prize Est Retail Value: $13.95. Prize is mailed directly from the sponsor. Life According To GreenVics is not responsible for prize fulfillment. If you agree to these terms you may enter! Thanks, and good luck.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Eco Store USA Bathroom Cleaner Giveaway!

Enter to win the same Glass Cleaner, All Purpose Spray, and Toilet Cleaner I reviewed in my Cleaning with Eco Store USA in the bathroom review!  Retail Value of combined products: $9.95.  All products are chemical, eco-friendly formulas.  Safe around pets, babies, and YOU.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open to the U.S. Only, Begins 2/20/13 12:01AM Est, Ends 3/06/13 12:01AM Est.  Prize Pack is mailed directly from the sponsor.  Life According to GreenVics is not responsible for prize shipment.  Winner is chosen at random Via Rafflecopter.  Winner has 72 hours to respond to winning email, if no response is made, another winner will be chosen at random by rafflecopter.  By entering you agree to this! Thank you, and good luck!

Healthy Surprise Box Giveaway!

Healthy Surprise boxes are monthly subscription boxes that come with a variety of snacks. I loved mine, and the wonderful people over at Healthy Surprise would like to offer one lucky follower a chance to win their own Starter Box.  These boxes are packed full of natural full size items that would cost a lot more than what the price is for the monthly subscription.  Your box may be different from mine but believe me, you will not be disappointed.  The Starter box is $33.00/month on HealthySurprise.com.

Don't forget to check out my Healthy Surprise Box Review, and to give Healthy Surprise some love.

Giveaway begins 2/19/2013 12:01AM Est, Ends 3/05/2013 12:01AM Est.  Winner is chosen at random via rafflecopter.  Winner has 72 hours to respond to winning email, if no response is made, another winner will be chosen at random via rafflecopter. Prize is mailed directly from sponsor.  Life According To GreenVics is not responsible for prize fulfillment.  U.S. Only! If you agree to these terms, please enter below!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

HBL Hair Care Hydrating System Review & Giveaway

Hair care is very important to me.  Not only do I like when my hair is smooth, and shiny but also when its hydrated.  I've been washing my hair with HBL Hydrating System the last few weeks  The shampoo, and conditioner, and hair masque all have a clean smell.  The shampoo lathers nicely.  The conditioner also had a nice thick consistency to it.  The hair masque was just perfect,  What I enjoyed most about the masque, was the thickness, and convenience of the little comb into to use while in the shower.  What makes this system even better is that it is paraben, sulfate, gluten, and allergn free.  

HBL Hair Care Hydrating System Includes:

• HBL Hydrating Shampoo
• HBL Hydrating Conditioner
• HBL Hair Masque

This will be the fourth time I have grown my hair out and donated over 10+ inches to Locks Of Love.  I don't dye my hair, or use any harsh irons, or treatments on it.  Finding a rare gem like HBL Hydrating Hair System really means a lot to me, and knowing that does hydrate, and keep my strands beautiful. I thought the product worked wonderfully!

I received these items for free to review.  Opinions are my own, and may defer from yours!

If you are interested in HBL Hair Care System you can find them online, twitter, and facebook.

Here is your chance to win the same hydrating hair care system I'm using! Retail Value $62.90. U.S. Residents Only.  Giveaway begins 2/18/2013 12:01AM Est. Ends 3/04/2013 12:01AM Est.  Winner will be chosen at random via RaffleCopter.  Once winning email has been sent, winner has 72 hours to respond, or prize is forfeited and another winner will be chosen at random.  Prize is mailed directly from sponsor, and Life According To GreenVics is not responsible for prize fulfillment.  If you agree to these terms, you can enter below! Good luck.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Happy Valentines Day! Hope its full of Glee!

Glee Gum is not just all natural gum, but they also have Do It Yourself Candy Kits.  I loved the Sea Weed Gummies (You can read my review here.) And, now I just tried the Make Your Own Chocolate Kit

The Chocolate can either be doubled boiled, or microwaved.  I microwaved mine in a glass pyrex bowl.  I have a two year old, I  really don't have time, well mostly the patience to clean and use the double boiler.  Plus the only double boiler I have, I use for making soap.  

Making the chocolate in the microwave is as easy as melting down a pack of organic cocoa butter. I then added the cocoa powder, and sugar to the melted butter.  I also added a little bit of Vanilla to take away from the dark chocolates bitterness.  Once that was mixed, I checked the temp of the chocolate with the indicator stick before I added the starter crystals, stirred again before scooping into the candy wrappers.

I added blueberries in the middle of my dark chocolate treats, and put Walnuts on top too. Really you can add whatever you want. I think next time I want to add a little bit of oat meal, and some sugared coconut. The blueberries, and walnut are more for my husband. Tho Sy, and I loved the dark chocolate too!

See how easy the directions are? It really is an easy, delicious treat. There is even a side of the box that is educational about how Aztec Legend says Quetzalcoatl brought the cocoa tree from paradise to earth. ;

Glee added a few whole cocoa beans, I don't think I have ever had a whole cocoa bean.  So that was pretty cool! The texture reminded me of a coffee bean.

You can check Glee Gum out online, or give the Glee Guy some love on facebook, and twitter.  They really are a great company with all natural treats (If you've never tried their candy kits, or gum.. You really should! they make all flavors imaginable in the gum, even with sugar free.)

I received these items for free to review.  Opinions are my own and may defer from yours.