Google Local Experts Santa Monica Beach & Crown Point Clean Up

A few months ago, Google Local Experts held their first event of the year at Santa Monica Beach and Crown Point.  I had fun meeting new members while helping to clean up the beach.  The weather was just right and we manage to cover a lot of ground with everybody clearing up different locations.  Shannon and Jess, the community managers, were awesome getting to organizing and engaging everyone.

Here are some photos of the events.

Adeline - Hyaluronic Acid Serum With Vitamin C & Retinol And Vitamin E - 1.7oz Airless Pump Bottle Promotional Review

Disclosure: I was provided a sample for reviewing purposes but a positive review was not asked for or promised or implied.

Every year that I get older, I end up using these beauty products to try to prolong my youthful appearance.  Needless to say, I'm not sure if using beauty products like this work.  I'm always reluctant to believe claims of beauty products diminishing surface lines and wrinkles especially when they don't contain retinol.  I tried Adeline's Hyaluronic Acid Serum to see the difference.  It did hydrate my dry skin but it didn't do much in terms of tighten or removing wrinkles.  I like that the serum is alcohol and paraben free so it won't dry or irritate your skin.  The serum is more like a gel like substance and it takes awhile to settle into your skin.  Overall, it's great product to moisturize your skin.  If you're looking easy ways to remove wrinkles, I think the best treatment is to avoid UVA/UVB rays and wear sunscreen.

Amazon specs:

• EASY TO USE - just apply twice daily and enjoy tighter, toned, younger looking skin in the morning. Just 60 seconds a day is all it takes to reverse the signs of aging and turn heads with your radiant, youthful skin!

• IMAGINE having a smooth, even skin tone and a glowing complexion... even when you're not wearing makeup! Age spots, fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes fade effortlessly with just twice daily usage!

• NATURAL NUTRITION for your skin - Hyaluronic Acid Serum contains Retinol, a blend of Vitamin A for elasticity, collagen formation, and sun damage repair; Vitamin C for improved moisture, elasticity, and tone; Vitamin D to moisturize skin and promote healing; Vitamin E for anti-oxidant protection and non-greasy moisture!

• GENTLE on skin - will not sting or burn when applied! This is the best anti wrinkle and anti aging serum available on the market. Great for even sensitive skin!

$35.25

http://www.amazon.com/Adeline-Hyaluronic-Vitamin-Retinol-Airless/dp/B00GMXIZE2

OZ Naturals Anti-Aging Solar Shield Sunscreen Promotional Review

Disclosure: I was provided a sample for reviewing purposes but a positive review was not asked for or promised or implied.

I'm very picky when it comes to applying sunscreen to my face.  I don't like the thick, sticky, smelly Banana Boat type of sunscreens.  They make me feel gross and dirty even after I've washed my face.  Usually I use a lighter texture sunscreen that doesn't smell for my face; that's easy to wash off and feels smooth.  OZ Naturals Anti-Aging Solar Shield is a 100% Vegan and Cruelty free sunscreen that provides lightweight, non greasy protection against UVA/UVB sunlight.  It doesn't have the weird sunscreen smell that you hate.  It's smooth to apply on the skin and moisturizes all day long.  You just need a dab to cover your face and it's all natural ingredients won't irritate your skin.  As Baz Luhrmann says "Always wear sunscreen."

Amazon specs:

Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces 

• OZ NATURALS SUNSCREEN contains Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide; minerals which provide broad spectrum protection and shield skin against harmful damage from both UVA and UVB rays
• THIS SUNSCREEN IS 100% NATURAL and includes soothing Aloe Vera which enhances sun protection, powerhouse antioxidants Vitamin E and Green Tea Extract, and nourishing Sweet Almond Oil
• SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES, this non-irritating, paraben-free sunscreen can be applied daily and can be worn under makeup
• OUR NON-COMEDOGENIC, SPF30 SUNSCREEN contains no chemical ingredients and is strong enough to protect, yet is calming to skin
• HELPS PREVENT PREMATURE SKIN AGING and protects from skin cancer from exposure to the sun

$17.49

http://www.amazon.com/OZ-Naturals-Sunscreen-Satisfaction-Guaranteed/dp/B00MF7321A

Destination Taiwan bound/Crescent Bay Beach

Kinda of bummed out that Taiwan will be raining the whole time I'm there. UGHHHH... Sucks having rain during vacation. I hope the photographers can turn it around by having the rain as a nice backdrop. At least less people will be in the photos that's for sure. Hopefully the night markets are open in Taiwan. I will be bummed out if they are closed. I want me some good authentic Taiwanese cuisine :D

A couple of weeks ago, J and I went to Crescent Bay Beach in Laguna Beach. A couple had mentioned to me how great the park was for a small wedding and I thought it would be a good adventure to check the place out. It was quite a drive but all worthwhile since it was so gorgeous and magnificent. We got to take 1000 steps down to the 1000 Steps Beach and see the sunset just in time at Crescent Bay.

Here are some photos

 

Omega 3 Fish Oil - Triple Strength Promotional Review

Disclosure: I was provided a sample for reviewing purposes but a positive review was not asked for or promised or implied.

I admit I don't eat fish often when I should.  I mostly eat carbs and meat which probably isn't too good for you.  Good thing there's Omega 3 Fish Oil to help me get some proper nutrition in my system.  Quality Encapsulations: Omega 3 Fish Oil is pharmaceutical grade Chilean fish oil.  With two softgels, you get 1,500 mg of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, 800 mg EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid), 600 mg DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and 100 mg of other Omega-3 Fatty acids.  The drug is well manufactured and easy to shallow.  It doesn't have that horrible fish aftertaste most fish oils have which I was surprised by especially since these are higher dosage.  I haven't taken enough to see long term affects but reading online eating fish oils help with your circulatory system, (EPA) lower inflammation and (DHA) help improve memory. 

Here is the Amazon specs:

Product Description

Package Quantity: 60

Highly Concentrated, Triple Strength Omega 3 Fish Oil-Pharmaceutical Grade, Rich in EPA & DHA, Featuring Proprietary Antioxidant Blend

Quality Encapsulations Highly Concentrated, Triple Strength Omega 3 Fish Oil is pharmaceutical grade packed with the kind of omega-3 fatty acids your body needs. Rich in brain and heart healthy EPA and DHA, this high grade Chilean Fish Oil is an easy to take soft gel tablet. Each serving contains an industry leading 1,500 total mg of omega-3 fatty acids with 800 mg of EPA and 600 mg of DHA. You now have a powerful way get the most from omega-3 rich fish oil, which dramatically improves health in a variety of ways including improving immunity, cardiovascular health, circulation and brain function and lowering bad cholesterol levels.

Key Features

-Pharmaceutical grade Chilean fish oil

-Triple strength formulation

-Proprietary Antioxidant Blend

-Packed with 1,500 mg of omega-3 fatty acid

-800 mg of EPA and 600 mg of DHA

-No aftertaste

-Specially designed to be easy to swallow

-Non-GMO

-PCB tested for safety

-Guaranteed to be within Prop 65 limits

-Made in the USA

$15.99

http://www.amazon.com/Omega-Fish-Oil-Aftertaste-Pharmaceutical/dp/B00LDUS8H8

BriaUSA Multi-Purpose Velvet Coat Hangers PINK Promotional Review

Disclosure: I was provided a sample for reviewing purposes but a positive review was not asked for or promised or implied.

Loving the pink velvet!  These hangers are great for my closet.  I have a lot of delicate clothes and it's always a pain when my hangers destroy them by stretching them out into weird shapes or breaking apart because my jacket/coats is too heavy.  

BriaUSA hangers are soft on my clothes yet strong to hold them in place.  The thing I love about these hangers are that they're so light and they have a space for straps that won't break them.  There's also a center part of the hanger where you can put your belts or scarves that go with your outfit. The quality is excellent and I'm not scared it will destroy my clothes.

Here are the Amazon specs: 

• 10 PCS PREMIUM QUALITY; slim construction saves space; your closet accommodates more clothes.
• NOTCHED SHOULDERS; prevents cloths from slipping, provide extra support for garments.
• SWIVEL HOOKS; sturdy steel swiveling design attaches to the shoulders for easy maneuvering.
• STURDY CONSTRUCTION; can hold and support most garments.
• MULTI-PURPOSE; great for hanging Suits, Jackets, Pants, Shirts, Dresses, Blouses Tie & Accessories. Backed by full money back guarantee.

Product Details Product Dimensions: 16.5 x 0.2 x 9 inches ; 2.2 ounces Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds $11.98 http://www.amazon.com/BriaUSA-Multi-Purpose-Hangers-Notched-Shoulders/dp/B00VCCXRAA

+LIFEGUARD MINI 1 Portable Charger Promotional Review

Disclosure: I was provided a sample for reviewing purposes but a positive review was not asked for or promised or implied.

I love this charger!  It's compact and light-weight.  Easy on the go when you need to charge your tablet, cameras, mp3s, or smart phones.  The design is so sleek and trendy.  I always forget to charge my phone and it really sucks when I can't take pictures or make a phone call.  Having the Lifeguard Mini gives me a peace of mind and is a life saver.  Anybody with portable electronics should get this product. 

It takes 4+/- hours to charge if it completely drained.  You can charge your electronics quickly with this portable battery 5V.  It's great to have especially when you don't have time to charge your device.  It comes with an Apple certified lightning cable (5.9 inch) for iPhones (6, 5s/5) which is pretty awesome since lightning cables can be so expensive.  You can charge it on the computer or plug it to a USB adapter.  It comes in various colors (black, silver, pink, blue).  I received a pink one and it's very styling!

Amazon specs:

Product Features

• CHECK THESE 4 GREAT REASONS TO BUY THE +LIFEGUARD MINI 1 PORTABLE CHARGER:
• 1. HIGH QUALITY BATTERY: +LIFEGUARD MINI 1 Portable Charger is a PREMIUM Power Bank that has a reliable Samsung battery 3000mAh Grade A Cell. Using this amazing mini portable charger you can fully charge your device and still have juice leftover.
• 2. SIZE AND DESIGN: The +LIFEGUARD MINI 1 Portable Charger comes in a convenient size and an attractive design. Using this power bank you can charge your phone even in your pocket without discomfort.
• 3. 5.9-inch LIGHTNING CABLE (APPLE COMPATIBLE) INCLUDED: When you buy the +LIFEGUARD MINI 1 Portable Charger you also get a lightning cable ($10 value). The convenient 5.9-inch lightning cable is Apple compatible and will charge and sync your iPhone 5, 5C, 5S, 6. Just the right size!
• 4. 18-MONTH MONEY-BACK WARRANTY - The +LIFEGUARD MINI 1 Portable Charger has an 18-month money-back warranty and it carries the trustworthy +LIFEGUARD brand. You can count on the +LIFEGUARD customer service crew anytime and anywhere.

Dimensions

• Size (LWH): 3.8 inches, 1 inches, 0.9 inches
• Weight: 3.36 ounces

Product Features

• Minimum Rated Talk Time: 9 hours
• Minimum Rated Standby Time: 48 hours
• Battery Type: Lithium Ion

$21.97

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KOVXWEQ

+LIFEGUARD Car Charger 2.1A Promotional Review

Disclosure: I received a +LIFEGUARD Car Charger 2.1A for free in exchange for writing a review.

When it comes to charging electronics in the car, it can be a hassle and can take a super long to charge.  The +Lifeguard Car Charger makes it easy with its sleek elegant design and Plus IQ Technology.

This is a great compact USB car charger. I use it to charge my cell phone and tablet while I'm on the go.  It works with any USB port and is very small 2.5 inches long/ 1 inch wide.  I love how it lights up blue when it's charging.  It's much nicer than the crappy USB chargers I've had and fits my cigarette lighter perfectly.  You can charge two devices pretty fast.  Price-wise it's a bit expensive but you get a lifetime warranty in case it breaks.  Would recommend this as a present for any techie.

You can find the specs here:

Product Description

Color: Black

SPECIFICATIONS:
Type: Dual USB Car Charger
Input: DC 12-24V
Output: 5V - 2.1A (Max)
Compatible Devices:
USB Output 1 (+IQ): All devices like iPad, iPhone, iPod, Tablets, Samsung Galaxy, HTC, Google Phone, Motorola, Sony, cameras, power banks etc.
USB Output 2 (1.0A): Cell phones and other small usb devices.

$10.97

http://www.amazon.com/Charger-LIFEGUARD-Technology-Electronic-Devices/dp/B00TMFWD8Q

SplashETech Selfie Stick Promotional Review

Disclosure: I received a SplashETech Selfie Stick for free in exchange for writing a review.

Yay I am so excited to receive the SplashETech bluetooth selfie stick in the mail today!

This stick is hecka of a lot better than the previous one that I had because it has bluetooth built into it and I don't have to do much work.  My old selfie stick I had to buy the stick and remote separately and I had to download a camera program to make my remote work which is a pain the butt.  It was a quick and easy setup and the stick is compatible with a lot of devices such as iPhone 6/6Plus/5/5s/5c/4/4s, Samsung Galaxy S5/S4/S3/Note4/3/2 Moto X, Droid 2, Google Nexus4/5, Android.  For testing purposes, I am using my iPhone 6 Plus.

The stick came in three pieces which is easy to setup.  You just put the camera holder on the stick and screw to tighten the grip.  The orange rubber part is for the tip of the claw; that way you don't scratch your phone.  Make sure you use the bigger hole in the orange rubber thing to put it on.  The smaller hole is for the end of the claw.  The holder can hold my iPhone 6+ with no problems and doesn't slip.

To extend the stick, you simply pull it out.  It's like an antenna.  Not sure how strong the stick is but seems durable. Might be a little hard to pull out all the way so you might need to add some oil to loosen the stick.  There are some screws at the mount of the stick so you can angle your phone to maximize your photo capabilities.

I had an easy time syncing up my phone with the stick via Bluetooth.  You simply turn the stick on, go to the settings of your phone, in the bluetooth option there should be a product called kjstar, click on it and it will connect the two devices together.  It should flash blue on the bottom of the stick once it is connecting.

To charge the stick, you connect the USB cable to your computer and stick  The stick should have a red light.  It will turn of once it is fully charged.

If you are running low on power to your stick, it will tell you by flashing red light slowly.

The SplashETech Selfie Stick comes with a soft carrying pouch, instruction manual and USB charger cord for the stick.  The package wasn't the most fanciest but it was straightforward.  I think the product is intended to be a gift since there's a bow drawn on the box.  The soft carrying pouch is fuzzy and useful for packing away the stick.

Probably the only small problem I have with the product is the short USB cable.  The cable is 6 inches long I feel could break if you jerk it suddenly. Also the cable can't fully connect to the stick but it does charge. I think just as long as you have it near your computer to charge is should be fine and you don't make any quick movements with the cord.  

So far, I haven't had any problems taking photos or syncing up the stick and the stick is very portable.  I took a couple of shots with the stick and they look great.  The stick does get slightly hot after charging so be careful.  So far so good.  Loving this product!

Here are the specs from Amazon.

Feature: 
1.EASY START-UP: 
Turn on, Pair it with smart phone via Bluetooth and Snap. 
2.BUILD-IN SHUTTER BUTTON: 
No shaking hand, get yourself a steadier and sharper picture. Ideal for travel alone and parties, 
no one will be left out of the picture anymore. 
3.PERFECT SHOT: 
Intimate shots or group photos, you name it! Adjustable holder with a fully adjustable extension of 
0.77ft - 3.4ft, a 180 degree arc allowing any shooting position you prefer. Capture all 
moments with everyone in the picture for precious memory. 
4.LIGHTWEIGHT AND STURDY: 
5.FIT MOST PHONES: 

Specifications: 
Max load capacity: 500g 
Net weight: 169g 
Flex section: 7 
Main material: 304 Stainless Steel, ABS Plastic 
Length of extension: 0.77-3.4ft 
Adjustable clamp fits phone width from 4.2-5.1inches, height from 2.7-3.3 inches. 
Battery capacity: 45mAh 
Charging voltage: DC 5.0V 
Charging time: 1 hour 
Standby time: more than 100 hours 
Autodyne frequency: more than 500 times 
Support system: IOS4.0 or newer, ANDRIOD3.0 or newer. Not compatible with windows smart devices. 

Package included: 
1 x SpalchETech Bluetooth Self-portrait Monopod 
1 x Smart phone holder 
1 x Rubber pad 
1 x Micro USB Cable 
1 x Carrying Pouch 
1 x User Guide 

Warranty: 
Every SpalchETech Bluetooth Self-portrait Monopod includes a ONE-YEAR warranty!

Get here at Amazon for $19.99 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00W1F7YBK

Yelp Elite Event: Pizza Studio

I had a great time making new Yelp friends at this event.  Ryan, the OC Yelp community manager, is so awesome and personable.  I love that guy!  I was so glad I could bring a plus one so they could mingle and get a feel of the Yelp community.

Pizza Studio in Mission Viejo was so gracious in hosting the event and provide us our own personal pizzas.  M and I were stuffed and could barely finish half of our personal pizzas.  I've heard of places like this but had never eaten there before.  I am thoroughly impressed!  Pizza Studio really went all out and their service was fast.

Look at that crust!  Loving that thin crust style pizza.

Clutter

When you're living in a one bedroom apartment, it can get really messy fast.  For me, I love getting stuff in the mail and free samples.  But at the end of the day, you're taking up space with all the stuff you bring into the house.  It's good I live in a small place.  It makes me realize catching material possessions aren't worthwhile and the best things in life are experiences you share with friends and family.