Hoots of a Night Al

Herbal Essences bio:renew Naked Volume White Grapefruit & Mosa Mint Shampoo and Conditioner

January 10, 2017 No Comments

Herbal Essences bio:renew Naked Volume White Grapefruit & Mosa Mint Shampoo and Conditioner was recently sent to me to test out, and I can’t say enough good things about it!

Herbal Essences has been around forever, and I have always loved it. This new line is just the next step in making their brand even better. The bio:renew line is crafted with antioxidants, aloe, and sea kelp to help add new life and volume to your hair.

There are actually nine different collections in this line, but I need all the help I can get in the volume department, so I selected the Naked Volume shampoo and conditioner.

I was happily surprised with the results! It didn’t give me Dolly Parton hair (thankfully), but it definitely pumped up the volume! (Pump of the volume, pump up the volume, dance, dance.)

Any little bit helps with my hair, since it’s generally very flat. Like flat as a pancake flat. Even as I was rinsing out the shampoo and conditioner in the shower, I could already feel more volume. That may sound silly, but I promise, it’s true!

My favorite part is probably the scent. It’s a delicious layer of grapefruit, peach, and mint. I love mint-scented anything, but the addition of citrus really pushed it over the top!

I know I got this for free to sample, but I will definitely be buying it again in the future. I must mention that I generally don’t use this every time I wash my hair. I think it makes my scalp have itchy buildup more frequently (TMI? Sorry.). That said, it definitely lives up to its claims of increasing volume.

I don’t have color-treated hair, but it claims to be safe on color-treated hair, as well. If you’re looking for a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up the Herbal Essences bio:renew Naked Volume White Grapefruit & Mosa Mint Shampoo and Conditioner next time you’re at the grocery store! Thankfully, it sells at drugstore prices, so if it doesn’t work well for you, you aren’t out much!

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on these links or make a purchase using these links, I may receive a small percentage of the profit at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting Hoots of a Night Al!

I received this product for free to review, but, as always, all opinions are my own.

Food, Recipe

How to Make the Juiciest Chicken EVER!

January 7, 2017 6 Comments

I love baked chicken breasts as a healthy weeknight meal. However, my chicken breasts always used to come out dry, which drove me crazy. That is, until I discovered dry poaching. It’s a basic cooking technique that is used to keep the chicken moist and juicy during baking. Read on to see how easy it is!

All you need is a baking dish (I use and love this one), parchment paper, and olive oil. Pour around a tablespoon of oil into the baking dish, and use a pastry brush to spread it on the entire dish.

Once your dish is coated in olive oil, place your chicken breasts in. You can marinate them beforehand, or add your chosen spices at this point. I have been loving the Grill Mates Mesquite marinade lately.

Next, tear off a piece of parchment paper that is roughly the size of your baking dish. Pour about a tablespoon of olive oil on the parchment paper, and spread it out with a pastry brush.

Finally, place your parchment paper (olive oil side down) into your baking dish and tuck it around the sides of your chicken. It doesn’t have to be tucked too tightly, just enough so the moisture won’t escape during baking.

Bake your chicken at 400 degrees for around 40 minutes (more or less depending on the size of your chicken breasts). Once your chicken reaches 165 degrees internally, remove it from the oven and enjoy!

I have used this method time and time again, and every single time it results in moist, flavorful chicken. I promise if you’re sick of eating dry chicken, this is the answer to your prayers!

Do you have any other easy cooking techniques I should try?

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on these links or make a purchase using these links, I may receive a small percentage of the profit at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting Hoots of a Night Al!

Entertainment

10 Motivational Movies for the New Year!

January 4, 2017 8 Comments

Happy New Year! Every year, most people come up with goals or resolutions they hope to accomplish throughout the year. Whatever your plans for 2017, I wanted to share some movies I find inspirational, heart-warming, or just plain enjoyable to watch. If you’re having trouble getting started with your goals, maybe these will help! Or they can just be an excuse to break one of your resolutions (you can’t watch a movie without buttery popcorn and a soda, right?)…

Without further ado, I present 10 motivational movies for 2017!

If you want to be more adventurous this year…

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

It is impossible to watch this movie and not be struck with a desire to travel more, explore the world, or at least step out of your comfort zone. From cheering on Ben Stiller’s lovable Walter Mitty character to admiring the beautiful scenery, this movie will push you to jump off the couch and book a flight somewhere new.

If you want to be more thankful for each day this year…

About Time

I literally cannot watch this movie without crying. The premise sounds a bit silly, but this movie is anything but. Amazing acting, a phenomenal soundtrack, and moments that tug at your heart strings, means everyone will love this one. Warning: it will make you want to hug your parents ASAP.

If you’re hoping to find love this year…

When Harry Met Sally

This movie is a classic for a reason! Full of funny moments, it will remind you that almost every love story has a few twists and turns before happily ever after.

If you want to improve your culinary skills this year…

Chef

“Healthier lifestyle” resolutions mean many people will find themselves spending more time in the kitchen this year. While Chef may not showcase the healthiest foods, it’s still an enchanting movie that will leave you wanting to pull out your skillet and knives.

If you’re hoping to overcome something this year…

The King’s Speech

Unexpectedly hilarious, perfectly portrayed, and based in fact, this movie shows that even royals in the public eye have struggles they must overcome. Only an amazing film could make you feel sorry for a king.

If you want to read more this year…

Pride & Prejudice

Considering this is one of the most beautiful, romantic movies of all time, it may just nudge you to pick up the book version after you finish it. The soundtrack alone makes this one worth watching.

If you want to embrace being yourself this year…

Little Miss Sunshine

Quirky, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny are all perfect to describe this one-of-a-kind movie. It’s the perfect movie to watch when you’re doubting the importance of your individuality.

If you want to be more courageous this year…

The Help

Unlikely alliances, a desire for change, and courage are the themes of this book-turned-movie. They’re themes anyone can relate to, which leaves everyone rooting for Skeeter and the maids she’s trying to give a voice to. (Full disclosure: the book, as usual, is even better than the movie!)

If you need encouragement to Keep Moving Forward this year…

Meet the Robinsons

The Disney film got lost in the shuffle somehow, and I so wish it hadn’t. We follow orphan Louis on his journey as an inventor with the dream of finding his birth mother. The eccentric characters he meets along the way teach him it’s okay to fail as long as he keeps moving forward with his goals. The ending will undoubtedly leave you crying happy tears.

If you’re hoping to start fresh this year…

Good Will Hunting

Emotional, gripping, and hopeful, the journey Matt Damon and Robin Williams take the audience on proves it’s not your past that defines you and that it’s never too late to start fresh. It may be just the push you need to start a new chapter in your life.

There you have it, ten very different movies that all offer a different source of motivation. If you have a favorite inspirational film I left out, let me know!

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on these links or make a purchase using these links, I may receive a small percentage of the profit at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting Hoots of a Night Al!

Beauty, Fashion, Food, Travel

Last Minute Christmas Gift Ideas!

December 16, 2016 No Comments

CHRISTMAS IS NINE DAYS AWAY. Yes, you read that right. It’s rapidly rushing towards us with no signs of slowing down, and I have about 33.7% of my shopping done and NOTHING gift wrapped. Yes, I know the true meaning of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus, but I also love the spirit of giving surrounding the holiday.

If you’re like me, and Christmas snuck up on you this year, I’m here to save the day. Below are 20 gift ideas on Amazon that should suit many of the people in your life. I grouped them into categories to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Thank goodness for Prime 2-day shipping, am I right? Happy Shopping!

For Someone Who Needs to Relax…

1. Bath & Body Works 3-Wick Candle, Eucalyptus Spearmint

2. Toms Women’s Slipper Loafers

3. Dr. Teal’s Pure Epsom Salt Soaking Solution

4. Spa & Resort Terry Velour Bathrobe

For the Fashionista…

5. Burberry Scarf

6. Zicac Women’s Fur Collar Batwing Cape

7. Sam EdelmanWomen’s Petty Ankle Boot

8. Fossil Jacqueline Stainless Steel Watch

For the Wannabe Chef…

9. Adjustable Bib Apron

10. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet

11. KitchenAid 6-Qt. Professional 600 Series Mixer

12. Cook it in Cast Iron

For the Beauty Lover…

13. Tarte Limited Edition Tarteist Toolbox Brush Set

14. Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette

15. Pink Chevron Cosmetic Bag

16. The Original Beauty Blender

For the Jetsetter…

17. Eccolo Faux Leather Passport Case

18. Jessica Simpson Jewel Plaid Hardside Spinner Suitcase

19. Beats Studio Wireless Over-Ear Headphone

20. Eccolo World Traveler Style Journal

There you have it! 20 gift ideas at a variety of price points that will hopefully cover some of your shopping list! Regardless, remember it’s the thought that counts! Merry early Christmas!

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on these links or make a purchase using these links, I may receive a small percentage of the profit at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting Hoots of a Night Al!

Beauty

L’Oreal Pure Clay Masks

December 6, 2016 3 Comments

L’Oreal Skin recently released 3 Pure-Clay Masks, and I was lucky enough to be sent some to try out. Each of the masks are $12.99 and are supposed to treat different types of skin issues or concerns. I have tried out each mask a few times, so I wanted to share my opinions with you.

L’Oreal launched these pure-clay masks with the already popular concept of multi-masking. Basically, you use a different mask on different areas of concern on your face. For example, if you have an oily T-Zone and dry, patchy cheeks, you’d apply one mask to your T-Zone and a different mask to your cheeks. You can see an example of me multi-masking below.

The red algae pure-clay mask claims to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog and tighten pores using three pure clays and red algae. This mask takes 10-15 minutes and is supposed to leave your skin glowing and smooth. I think this is the least transformative of the masks. It works fine as an exfoliant, but don’t expect any huge differences from using it. I think it may work best over the long term as a gentle exfoliant 2-3 times a week.

The black charcoal pure-clay mask claims to use three pure clays and charcoal to improve dull and tired-looking skin. This is supposed to work as sort of a detox mask and help draw impurities out of the skin. My skin definitely didn’t react well to this mask. I have fairly sensitive skin, and when I washed this mask off my face was BRIGHT red. Like Rudolph’s nose red. It was very tender for quite awhile afterwards also. I would use this mask in moderation or if you know you don’t have sensitive skin.

The final mask is the green eucalyptus pure-clay mask and is my favorite. This mask uses three pure clays and eucalyptus and is recommended for oily and shiny skin. It is supposed to help purify and clarify your skin if you have clogged pores and leave your face looking matte but refreshed. This mask didn’t over dry or irritate my skin, and I saw an immediate improvement in some of my breakouts. This mask is my favorite because it definitely improves my skin, while being gentle enough to use multiple times a week.

Overall, I’m very pleased with these L’Oreal Skin Pure Clay Masks. At just over ten dollars, they’re a great value considering I’ll be able to get roughly twenty to thirty uses out of each jar. Also, the glass jars feel more luxurious and well-made than many other drugstore products.

While I was sent these for free, I could see myself repurchasing the eucalyptus mask in the future. Have you tried these before? What were your thoughts? I know masks seem to be all the rage right now; are there any you recommend?

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you click on these links or make a purchase using these links, I may receive a small percentage of the profit at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting Hoots of a Night Al!

I received these products for free, and all opinions, as always, are my own.