Darphynia's Diary

Since having a spinal fusion I have needed to use a laptop stand to keep from constantly looking down.  For years I took one with me, the folding table type, everywhere I went.  I still use it, but now it stays put in the house.  When I would travel, the biggest issue was with its size.  I always had to be mindful of where I sat.  During conferences I would have to make sure using it would not get in anyone's way.  Because the legs angle out, it takes up far more room than it should.  That being said, I loved that the computer would be at the perfect height and that it was relatively portable.  Yes, it was bulky, but it did the job.  Ultimately, I needed one that was more travel-friendly and space-saving.

Our friends at Ethique sent us some amazing zero-waste, sustainable, eco-friendly hair and body care.  Everything they offer comes in compostable/biodegradable packaging, making their products truly zero-waste!  And, a portion of profits go towards charities, such as The Orangutan Project and International Animal Rescue .  If only all companies were as transparent.  Now, on to the review. 1.   Glow Solid Deodorant in Lavender and Vanilla For those of you who are looking for a natural alternative to deodorant, or something new to try out, this block is worth a shot.  This deodorant kept me odor-free all day, and the scent sticks-- well, it did for me.  The soothing lavender and warm vanilla adds to its positives.  The bar also travels well.  I have an old square tin that I pop the bar into when I head to the gym or wherever I travel.  Some natural deodorants don't last.  I've used sticks, pastes, and unpackaged solids. ...

I had seen advertisements for quip everywhere, and after visiting their website, decided to give them a shot.  Normally, I keep using the same toothbrush for ages, which probably affects its efficacy.  I have tried Sonicare, Colgate (my absolute favorite manual toothbrush is the Optic White ), REACH, you name it.  Most recently I had been using a bamboo toothbrush, which I bought as part of my Zero Waste challenge .  I loved it... but I love quip just a little bit more.  My only gripe, and this goes for most toothbrushes, is that the brush head is flat.  That makes it a bit more difficult to reach behind and around back teeth.  I wish the top bristles were angled a bit to ensure that every bit of the tooth is covered.  Quip offers electric and manual versions of their slim toothbrushes.  Each toothbrush is slim and comes with a holder that doubles as a brush head protector when you travel.  You can purchase sets or individual brushes ...

This little box o' happiness  came sooner than I expected. A look inside the box. I recently made a purchase through the Lush UK site.  Even with shipping the products can be cheaper.  Things have changed, so the difference isn't as good as it used to be, but I digress.  About a week ago I bought a few things, and the parcel arrived exactly 7 days after it was dispatched. I'm not sure if every product is unwrapped when it ships, but everything was this time (except for the soap).  When I have placed orders in the past, products were usually wrapped in a cellulose film with an ingredient list sticker.  I digress...  What's in the box?  Well, let's take a look!

In case you didn't know, I L-O-V-E Razer.  They make wonderful, efficient gaming gear among other products.  I have pretty much everything Chroma.  Is it necessary?  No, but it's aesthetically pleasing; plus, there are millions of color options.  Who doesn't love customization?  When the Razer Blade Stealth was unveiled at CES, it won a "Best of CES; Best PC" award.  They then made history, as Razer won their sixth consecutive "Best of CES" award.  I am so proud to know the people behind the brand.   Image courtesy of razerzone.com Image courtesy of  razerzone.com The Stealth currently on sale, which varies in price (i.e. $1,599.99 reduced to $1,449.99 for 512GB, UHD).  Side note:  If you have the student discount, save it.  The current sale price is a better option.  You also get FL Studio 12 included with your purchase.  I was fortunate enough to get one, and all I can say is, "WOW!" ...

LUSH Cosmetics recently launched new hair care .  There are more solid conditioners to choose from, as well as a new solid shampoo and a solid leave-in conditioner.  When I was last in the shop I purchased a piece of Avocado Co-Wash  (3.5oz/$15.95) and Queen Bee  (3.5oz/$16.95).  The shampoo is quite soft and pliable-- much like the old version of Big Conditioner.  You can either pinch a small piece off ands it, or use a whole chunk.  I find that using a larger piece is far easier.  It has a sweet, fruity (almost like Froot Loops or Trix), vinegar smell, but the smell once it is rinsed out is light and slightly sweet.  My hair was left soft, hydrated (not oily), and shiny.  I will definitely repurchase this.  Since it's in the shower and contains a lot of oils/butters, it might melt.  It may also not last as long because of the same reason.  I suggest keeping it in a container and pinching off a small portion.  Lather...

Image courtesy of valentia.com Valentia has some pretty effective products that are made in the USA and are also vegan friendly.  Their Royal Rose Hydrating Serum is one of them.  It is a lightweight, lightly-fragranced serum that delivers soothing hydration to skin.  I have been using this product day and night for the past 30 days, and am quite pleased with the results.  One pump is all my face needs.  After cleansing and toning I applied one pump of the serum, patted it all over my face, then rubbed it in.  The formula is fast-absorbing and virtually weightless.  I noticed a hint of rose scent, but that quickly dissipated.  Damask rose essential oil is one of the ingredients in the serum, which is known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.  Vitamin B, which reduces sunspots and hyper-pigmentation, is also included, as well as primrose oil for moisture along with its other quality ingredients.  Within the secon...

A friend of mine introduced my to YSL's Touche Eclat complexion highlighter years ago, and I was instantly a fan.  The product is a splurge at $42.00 a pop, but works extremely well.  YSL recently released a line of color neutralizers in violet, green, and bisque ($38.00/each). Image courtesy of sephora.com Image courtesy of sephora.com Image courtesy of sephora.com I received a neutralizer in green, courtesy of Influenster, to try out.  The creamy, unscented formula is not sticky and will stay put all day.  It is also matte, so no extra oiliness, and it is very lightweight.  A little goes a long way, and my under eye circles and redness nearly disappeared.  You can see how well the product mutes out my skin tone, so imagine that on problem areas.      Sorry for the fingerprints! I kept cleaning the package, and still... The tube out of the package. Click the button at the bottom to dispens...

Valentine's Day is in 4 days, and whether you are celebrating with your sweetheart or friends, gifts always add a nice touch.  They may not get them on the day, but (1) It's the thought that counts, and (2) It'll be a nice little extension of the day.  Gift cards & handmade gifts are always nice as well.  Anyway, here are some ideas for everyone.  For the Gamer Razer Naga Epic Chroma Mouse , $129.99 Image courtesy of razerzone.com Add some life into your gamer's set-up with this mouse.  Complete with a 12-button thumb grid and over 16.8 million colors, it works wonderfully alone or in conjunction with other Razer Chroma accessories.  It will also sync with other Chroma products, lighting a desk in a "wonderful world of color". Gunnars Gaming Glasses , $59.25 & up Image courtesy of gunnars.com The frames of the gaming glasses are specifically designed for headset compatibility.  Gunnars also makes outdoor and ...