The summer has come to an end, and I just sent my son Jacob off to his first day of the fifth grade. I'm already missing him and counting the minutes until he gets home. At least my daughter Hayden doesn't go back to preschool for another couple of weeks, and the two of us can enjoy some special girl time.
Speaking of girl time, Hayden talked me into doing today's Eco Emi post and video. Already bummed about the start of the school year, I wasn't in the mood to vlog our unboxing, but my camera-loving sidekick insisted we tape it. She also hopes we use some of the end-of-summer picnic items from the box to have a picnic of our own. I think we'll do that this afternoon, after I share our thoughts on the products we received in this month's box.
Gluten-free Double Chocolate Chip Mini Cookies by Home Free Treats: Hayden was so excited to find these gluten-free vegan treats tucked inside a tiny decorative brown paper bag (that we plan on using in our next DIY). She's been a fan since we received the brand's basic chocolate chip cookies in a past box. It's amazing that I actually got a picture of one of the cookies, as she polished them all off before I could snap a pic last time and ate most of them before the video was over this time (I guess they won't be making it to our picnic). They are definitely Hayden approved.
Wooden Spoons - Pick your color by The Bakers Confections: Aren't those the cutest mini wooden spoons in the cookie photo? They have Hayden's name written all over them (not literally). They are an eco-friendly alternative to plastic spoons, perfect for picnic-packing. I just love the colorful designs on them, too.
Raw Organic Walnut Butter by Artisana: Most of you know I'm a big Artisana fan, especially of the company's coconut butter (not to be confused with coconut oil). Not only do I love all the different flavor options, but I also like that you can buy them in both full-sized jars, as well as individual packets that are just right for travel.
Edible Green Tea by Eat Green Tea: If you opt to eat your walnut butter with the little wooden spoons, Christine (founder of Eco Emi) recommends pairing it with this edible green tea. She also adds this tea to sandwiches and salads. Being that I didn't have something to sprinkle these dried tea leaves on at the time, I opted to eat them right out of the palm of my hand on camera. I thought they tasted grassy or earthy, much like matcha green tea powder. They also got a little stuck in my teeth, so I wouldn't advise eating them on video. Oh, I have to add that only a tiny pinch of the tea leaves kept me very energetic the rest of the evening.
Natural Eye Shadow in Gun Metal Gray by Gourmet Body Treats: This loose powder shadow is gray with some sparkle, which reminded me of the movie, "Stardust." It really does look like dust from a fallen star. It would be an excellent color for creating a smoky eye.
Tiffany Color Nail Polish by Coco LacQuer: Hayden seemed to know this was nail polish, even before she removed the tissue paper that was wrapped around it. This sample size fit perfectly in her hand and painted smoothly onto her nails. I like that it is quick-drying, but I wasn't fond of the smell (maybe I'll stick with Suncoat for her nails). The color is pretty, though. What girl doesn't adore Tiffany blue?
Carrot, Grapefruit & Egyptian Geranium Rose Body Lotion by Valenti Organics: I have to admit that I have yet to try this one. I've tossed it in my purse for hydrating my hands on the go. I can't wait to rip this packet open, though, as that fragrance combination is right up my alley.
Cafe Machiatto Body Oil by Valenti Organics: Again, I haven't ripped open this packet yet either, but I just might sample it soon. I have a headache today, and for some reason, the smell of coffee sometimes helps. I haven't drank coffee in years; however, I do enjoy its aroma.
Natural Lemongrass Soap with French Yellow Clay by Craftsmansoap: This natural soap smells just like lemon PEZ candy. It reminds me of a soap I used to buy from Trader Joe's. Obviously, it had me at one whiff.
BTW, it's Hayden's 4th birthday tomorrow. Happy b-day little lady!
