Vegan Girl Scout Cookies Unboxing and Review

Vegan Girl Scout Cookie Options

It's Girl Scout Cookie season, and I found vegan options to unbox and share in the video below. There were some great options if you enjoy a nice cookie with a cup of afternoon tea. The Toast-Yay cookie will be retiring at the end of 2025, so if you enjoy this one, stock up before they are gone.

Share in the Comments

Which Girl Scout Cookie is your favorite?

Valentine's Day Wreath Review | Amazon Find

Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to decorate for the loving, happy, joyful occasion. I recently purchased two 16.5-inch Valentine's Day Wreaths from Amazon and I love them for indoors and outdoors. They require two 'AA' batteries and have two options for lighting, constant and flashing light. I had them displayed indoors, but since we are finishing January in a couple of weeks, it was time to display them outdoors. They are full and the lights are spread evenly throughout the wreath. If you're not a crafty person, this is a great option for you. The lighting option adds another element to your Valentine's Day decorations. These wreaths are available on Amazon and they arrived nicely packaged and within reasonable time. I love them even after Valentine's day as a decoration in between some of the larger holidays in the U.S. In the video review below, I share a closer look at them. Enjoy!

Wagner Control Stainer 350 #ProductReview

I purchased a Wagner Control Stainer 350 to finally stain the fence panels that I built for the backyard. It's important to stain and seal them from the intense weather. I wanted a stainer that would be easy to use, easy to clean, and do the job efficiently and effectively. I hope the video review, below, helps you learn more about this Wagner product. In the video, I was able to stain one side of each fence panel. I will do the other side once they are all installed for less mess from the stain. If you have used this stainer in the past, let me know where you purchased your air filters because that's the only con I would say I have for this model. I couldn't easily find it at my local hardware store, but I know the Wagner website should have it to purchase. However, overall I was satisfied.

WAP-OZ Steel to Wood Fence Bracket #Review

I used the WAP-OZ Steel to Wood Fence Brackets over the weekend to install the fence panels I built about four weeks ago. I decided to give these galvanized fence brackets a try because of all the positive reviews, they already came with the screws, and I purchased a twelve pack for a reasonable price from Amazon. I installed metal posts instead of wood posts to support my fence panels and these are 2 3/8 inch brackets, perfectly-suited for my 2 3/8 metal posts. They arrived within two to three days from Amazon because I was working on my fence project only on the weekends so I needed fast, reliable, delivery. This was the weekend to finally complete the fence installation and I needed a bracket that I could maneuver by myself without help. In the video you will see a closer look at the product and how easy they are to install with a 1/2 inch hex head fitting. I used this fitting with a socket attachment on my electric drill. I'm so happy to finally have my new fence up. After a lot of sweat and body aches at the end of each day, I am happy with the final result. It was worth all of the hard work to get this project completed before Spring.

If you have any questions about the fence brackets just leave them in the comments below. Stay safe and be well!

ClosetMaid ShelfTrack Shelving System #Review #ClosetOrganization

Happy 2021! I purchased a ClosetMaid ShelfTrack Shelving System, a closet kit to give my closet a remodeling. This kit came with two four and two feet shelves, perfect for my six feet-wide closet space. Since 2014, I have been living a minimalist lifestyle. I enjoy only possessing what I need and use everyday, which goes for clothing and shoes too. In this video, I share my personal experience putting this shelving system together, some of my hiccups and advice. You can find this closet kit online or in Lowes, which is where I purchased it, but ordering online is good to if you are staying safe at home during these times. Don't forget to get cash back if you're ordering from Lowes with Rakuten. You can find a link to save below. LIKE and Subscribe for more reviews. Share your experiences using ClosetMaid Shelving Systems below to help others too.

Get your Cash Back with Rakuten ClosetMaid ShelfTrack Shelving System

Field Roast Hazelnut Cranberry Roast Review #Plantbased #HolidayDinner

I hope you had a nice Thanksgiving! For my holiday dinner, I tried Field Roast's Hazelnut Cranberry Roast, which is 100% plant-based and vegan. I usually get another brand for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, but this was the only one available so I jumped on it.

The pastry dough on the outside of this roast loaf really sets off the plant-based, vegan sausage, cranberry, and hazelnut filling. I had leftovers for three days after Thanksgiving. I also made some homemade cranberry sauce again, which elevated this roast even more. The sweet potatoes and sauteed Brussels sprouts were great too. I can say, I was impressed and I'm thinking about purchasing another one for Christmas dinner.

In this video, I walk you through the preparation process of baking this roast.

Below, are some other Field Roast plant-based options and resources you may enjoy. Happy Eating!

Field Roast: 101 Artisan Vegan Meat Recipes to Cook, Share, and Savor (Book)

Field Roast Vegan Fieldburger 3.25 ounces (Pack of 48)

Field Roast Plant Based and Vegetarian Frankfurter, 2.7 Ounce -- 72 per case

Field Roast FRuffalo Wings Review #VeganFood #MeatAlternative

Recently, I tried Field Roast FRuffalo Wings, a vegan take on hot wings, using vegan sausages instead. The sauce is authentic to what you would taste in a sauce from a chicken wing restaurant. However, the flavor of the hot and spicy sauce is tasty. You can find these at your local Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Market, and some Walmarts too!

In this video, I show you how I prepared them and what I thought about them overall. Enjoy! 





Disclaimer; This review is 100% my own opinion. I purchased this product to prepare for myself at home and wanted to share my personal experience. Your taste buds may give you a different opinion about this product. 

Beyond Meat Brat Sausage Review #Meatfree #VeganFood

I have noticed that there are more options to choose from when it comes to meat alternatives. When I decided to eat a vegan diet, I was always nervous about finding cheese and meat alternatives that did not taste like card board. Fortunately, I have discovered brands like Beyond Meat who work hard to bring a satisfying experience to meat substitutes. I absolutely love their vegan burger and decided to finally try their Beyond Sausage. They have a hot Italian and brat sausage, which can be found in your local grocery store's meat section. You can visit the Beyond Meat website, to locate a stores in your area and for coupons.

In the video below, I share my personal review of the Beyond Meat Brat Sausage. It should be cooked in a frying pan on medium-high to high heat and turned continuously for six minutes. They can be added to your favorite pasta dish, put on the grill, or eaten by themselves with mustard.

Botanics Organic Nourishing Facial Oil Review #FaceCare #ProductReview

I received a complimentary Botanics Organic Nourishing Facial Oil to test from Influenster. It is for all skin types. I tried this product for 7 days before sharing this video review with you below. The product is to be used in the morning and in the evening after you do your regular facial cleansing routine. When I first used it, the product soaked into my skin SO fast because during the winter months my skin is very dry. However, I used this product both day and night and my skin got used to it pretty quickly. I went from using eight (8) drops of this facial oil, down to four (4) and it provides great coverage. It can make your skin look oily if you apply too much so start with about four drops and then add more as needed. However, I have never looked oily and it works well on my makeup days as well as my makeup-free days.
I would say it is indeed for all skin types if your face gets thirsty...lol...like my own. You can find this oil at your local Walgreens, Target, Ulta, and Amazon. 

Watch my full video review below as I use this product. 



Have you tried this Botanics Organic Nourishing Facial Oil with Rosehip? 

If so, share with me below your thoughts on the product. It will also help other people watching this video. 

All the best to you! 

Teeccino Herbal Coffee Alternative Review

Recently, I tried Teeccino's Chicory Herbal Tea in Hazelnut and Dandelion Turmeric in my vegan snacks, monthly, subscription box. Both of these teas are made with organic herbs BUT also taste like a cup of COFFEE in Medium Roast! 

Teeccino has developed a Herbal Coffee Alternative using herbs and they are both caffeine free and acid free because the award-winning designer of the teas, Caroline MacDougall, was sensitive to both caffeine and the acidity of coffee. However, she still loved the flavor of coffee. Personally, I am quite the opposite, I have tried coffee and couldn't get past its bitter taste and I ended up putting so much sugar or milk in the cup. So, I stuck with tea instead. Teeccino surprised me because it had the taste of a cup of coffee but without the bitterness and SO flavorful. I thoroughly enjoyed both, the Hazelnut and Dandelion Turmeric, but if I had to choose one over the other, it would have to be the Hazelnut. It tasted even more richer when I added a little soymilk and blue agave. 

I love companies that pay-it-forward! Teeccino also helps to support impoverished families in rural communities, organic smallholder farmers, and the preservation of the rainforest, with the purchases of their herbal teas.

My favorite HAZELNUT - Herbal Coffee Alternative

Teeccino Chicory Herbal Tea - HAZELNUT

My favorite herbal coffee alternative! Has a rich, creamy, taste...According to the package, it has buttery hazelnuts enriched by golden roasted almonds, dates, and figs. Caffeine Free. Acid Free. Teeccino is produced right here in the U.S. and certified organic. 
Contains Almonds.






Teeccino Chicory Herbal Tea - DANDELION TURMERIC

It was pleasant to the taste and showcased the herbal ingredients more, while providing a coffee-like experience. According to the package, it has turmeric and licorice highlight dandelion. Caffeine Free. Acid Free. Again, produced in the U.S. and certified organic.







Disclaimer: This product review is 100% my own opinion. I purchased these teas to try in my vegan snacks monthly subscription box. Your tasting experience may vary. 

Simple Truth Meatless Crispy Tenders #Review #VeganFood

Today, I tried Simple Truth Vegan Meatless Crispy Tenders with a salad. This must be a new product because I did not know that Simple Truth was also preparing foods for the vegan-market. Here is my 100% personal video review after purchasing them while grocery shopping at my local Ralphs (Kroger in other areas).

e.l.f. cosmetics Radiant Gel Lip Tint #Review

Shop e.l.f cosmetics for new products like this Radiant Gel Lip Tint in the color Dewy Berry. I saw that it was new and decided to give it a try. It is a nice violet color and its not supposed to be heavy but a nice pop of color for your basic makeup days. Many times when I'm not wearing makeup I like a nice, natural look. So a pop of color on the lips would be just fine with me. 

In the following video I share my personal review of the e.l.f. Radiant Gel Lip Tint and my rating out of 10. If you have tried this lip tint too, leave your comment below!

Disclaimer: This review is from 100% of my own opinion. I purchased this product while shopping for other health and beauty goodies. Your experience may vary.

Daiya Dairy-Free Blue Cheeze Dressing Review #SaladDressing #ProductReview

I'm always excited when I discover new vegan products. While grocery shopping this week, I ran across Daiya Dairy-Free Blue Cheeze Dressing. It is also gluten-free, soy-free, and egg-free. They had three options: Ranch, Blue Cheeze, and Creamy Caesar. 


Since transitioning to vegan eating, I haven't had any creamy salad dressings. I would normally use apple cider vinegar, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, with herbs and spices. Then I would mix everything rigorously together for my version of "Italian dressing". So good :)

In the video below, I decided to purchase and try Daiya's Dairy-Free Blue Cheeze Dressing to see if it would actually taste like blue cheese dressing that we are familiar with already. I also wanted to see what the consistency of the dressing was like for salads and even coleslaw that I may use it for in the future.




Disclaimer: This product review is 100% my own opinion. Your experience may vary with this product. The post has affiliate links. Any purchase you make using these links supports this blog.

Ben & Jerry's Non-Dairy Frozen Desserts Review #Vegan #IceCream

We all scream for ICE CREAM! What's your favorite flavor of ice cream? It's one of the most tasty desserts to eat. So when I decided to transition from a vegetarian to a vegan I thought that I would not only miss cheese but ice cream too! However, after researching different products, walking and browsing through my local grocery store, Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods Market, I discovered that there were non-dairy alternatives. 

While shopping at Walmart recently, I ran across Ben & Jerry's Non-Dairy Frozen Desserts! I didn't know that they had taken on the challenge to make vegan-friendly frozen desserts. They use Almond Milk instead! I decided to pick up two flavors to try and review for you.

In the video review below, I share my initial reactions to two of their flavors, Cherry Garcia and P.B. & Cookies. 

9-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Gadgets Tools Set, Pizza Cutter, Can Opener, Peeler, Ice Cream Scoop, Melon Baller, Corer, Swivel Peeler, Cheese Shaver with Metal Stand

Disclaimer: This product review is 100% my own opinion. I purchased these products during my regular grocery shopping trip. Your experience may vary.

Daiya Vegan Dairy-Free Cheezy Mac #Review

Before I officially decided to transition from a vegetarian to a vegan, I thought that I would really miss cheese. I had already found some milk alternatives that worked well in my cooking but also tasted great by the glass. Macaroni and cheese is popular to people of all ages and makes a very tasty side dish or main course.

In the video below, find out how well my experience was with Daiya Vegan Dairy-Free Cheddar-style Cheezy Mac. Will it Pass or Fail my taste test?

Time to Share!
In the comments below, let me know a food or product that you enjoy, and would like to see it vegan-style. 




Disclosure: This post has affiliate links. Any purchase you make using these links supports this blog.

GoldThread HERBAL Tonics Review + #Giveaway Ends: 7.21.17 @GoldthreadHerbs #BetterForYou

Selena Thinking Out Loud was invited to try GoldThread Herbal Tonics. There are 9 different herbal blends to choose from and I had the opportunity to taste them all. They were created by founder and Chief Herbalist, William Siff and his team, who slowly brews small batches with whole organic herbs, no extracts or concentrates, found all over the world. They are Non-GMO verified, Vegan, Gluten-Free, and each 12 fl.oz. bottle provides 1 serving. That's a plus!

Each GoldThread Herbal Tonic provides help for the body and benefits to include:

• Energy
• Immunity
• Mood
• Mental Clarity
• Digestion

and more.

In the following video below, I share my detailed review of the herbal tonics and my Top 3 Favorites.

My Top 3 Favorites

Of all 9 of the GoldThread Herbal Tonics, I really liked Replenish, Hawaiian Ginger, and Honey Rose. If you prefer to read about my favorites instead of watching the video above, here you go!

#1 REPLENISH

GoldThread - Replenish

Replenish tastes like a green drink to me but in a lighter, tea-like, consistency. It is SO refreshing. This is my favorite of all of them. If you want an alternative to green smoothies, I would recommend drinking this one instead. It is formulated to uplift your body when it feels depleted. It has liquid chlorophyll, alfalfa leaf, and other organic herbs, just to name a few. I did find that chilling it in the refrigerator first brought out more of the herbal blend. Make sure to shake it and then drink it. I would purchase this herbal tonic again and again because I enjoyed it that much.

#2 HAWAIIAN GINGER

GoldThread - Hawaiian Ginger

My initial reaction about Hawaiian Ginger was “WHOA! That Ginger!”. It really showed up in this particular blend which I actually liked a lot. Sometimes you see certain ingredients advertised on a label or in the ingredients and you're wondering where it is in the product. That was not the case at all with this one. If you like ginger then you will like this one too. I have been trying to incorporate more ginger into my meals so this was another new experience for me. Fun fact: The ginger root is grown in the rich, sun-drenched, volcanic soil of Hawaii. Definitely Zesty as advertised on the back label.

#3 HONEY ROSE

GoldThread - Honey Rose

Honey Rose has a nice, smooth, taste. I was thinking because there was cinnamon in it, that it would stand out over the rest of the herbs but not at all. I have never tried Honey Rose before so this blend surprised me. It is also a native tonic of South Africa with powerful restorative factors.

Overall, I recommend that you try all of the GoldThread Herbal Tonics and find your favorites. They taste even better chilled before drinking, which brings out the herbal flavors. I was pleasantly surprised because I never knew how diverse herbs could be and taste so good, cold, in a bottle. I enjoy hot herbal teas and this is now another one of my favorite beverages. Plus, they are all sweetened with Lakanto Monkfruit.

Follow GoldThread Herbs on the following social networks and get to know them better.

• Facebook - GoldThread Herbs
• Instagram - @GoldThreadHerbs
• Twitter - @GoldThreadHerbs

Now...if you're excited to purchase these tasty tonics, you can shop on their website to your hearts content.  

You can also enter the giveaway, hosted by GoldThread Herbs below!

Welcome to The GoldThread Herbal Tonic Giveaway

Hosted by:

Selena Thinking Out Loud

Sponsored by:

GoldThread Herbs

THE PRIZE

One (1) winner will receive GoldThread Herbal Tonics in their assorted flavors

THE RULES

Open to US Only.

Must be at least 18 years old.

Giveaway runs July 7 - July 21, 2017, 12AM/EST

HOW TO ENTER

Please use the Rafflecopter Entry Form below to enter with your best email address or log in with Facebook. (The winner will be contacted via email) 

All entries are optional and will only be counted on this entry form. No purchase necessary to win. 

Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclaimer: Selena Thinking Out Loud is hosting this giveaway. The winner will be contacted via email after entries have been verified. The prize will be sent by GoldThread Herbs in the mail. No P.O. Boxes addresses for prize delivery. All entries are optional. No purchase necessary. No social media site, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube is a part of this giveaway event. The following giveaway is 100% the opinion of Selena Brown of Selena Thinking Out Loud, after a thorough review of all 9 GoldThread Herbal Tonics. Your experience may vary. If you would like to have your product reviewed on video or blog review, by this blog, submit here.

Febreze ONE Fabric & Air Mist #Review #OdorEliminator

Selena Thinking Out Loud was invited to a BzzAgent campaign for Febreze ONE Fabric & Air Mist. I was already a fan of Febreze and have plenty of their products in my cabinet to show for it. However, I had not tried their refillable Febreze ONE Fabric & Air Mist. They come in three air mist scents: Mandarin, Orchid, and Bamboo. I reviewed the Bamboo and Mandarin scents. 

I don't usually to use fabric fresheners but I do like a good odor eliminator. For the sake of testing, I did use it both ways, on fabric and with the left-over garbage that I left in the bin after cooking dinner one night.

In the following video below, I share my BzzAgent unboxing, AND my review and product demo of the Febreze ONE. If you like to purchase refillables then you will like this product and I show you how to remove the sprayer portion of the bottle so that you can reuse it. I didn't quite get that on the first try so I thought that I would show you how I removed it.

Want a Buy ONE, Get ONE Febreze ONE Refill Free!
Send me a message on my Contact me form here, with your P.O. box or mailing details and I will send you one while they last. I have two coupons that expire: 5/31/17

Aquation Moisturizing Cream #ProductReview

Do you prefer a cream or lotion to moisturize your body/skin? About a month and half ago I purchased the Aquation Moisturizing Cream from Walmart, with a coupon from my Influenster Virtual Voxbox. 

I have been using it ever since to get a good idea of how well it performs on dry skin. I use my hands to wash dishes, fix things, and to do creative projects, so I had plenty of obstacles for it to overcome. In my video blog below, I share my overall experience after using the Aquation Moisturizing Cream. Find out my overall opinion in the video ;) Have a nice weekend!

@ELFCosmetics Daily Face Cleanser & Daily Hydration Moisturizer Review | #BeforeBed #playbeautifully

During my last shopping trip to Target, I decided to purchase e.l.f. cosmetics Daily Face Cleanser and their Daily Hydrating Moisturizer. I have been using these two products together for about 5 days now and have liked the results. So I decided to see if I could use them at bedtime as well, especially the hydrating moisturizer. You can watch my before bed beauty vlog/review below!



My Product Reviews

e.l.f Daily Face Cleanser at Target

The e.l.f. Daily Face Cleanser provides a nice, light, lather when applied to dampened hands and face. You do not need too much so be careful because it is a loose-textured product and comes out easily from the tube. My skin felt really clean and soft during my day cleansing. So I expected the same results during the night-time application as well. It is a new product, I noticed from the packaging, so I like it a lot because it's lightly scented (smells clean) and cleans my face without leaving a soapy residue.

e.l.f. Daily Hydration Moisturizer at Target

The e.l.f. Daily Hydrating Moisturizer pairs nicely with e.l.f cosmetics daily face cleanser for day wear. The moisturizer is indeed lightweight, made with purified water, Jojoba, Aloe, Vitamin E, Cucumber, Shea Butter, Grape and Orange. It provides a subtle glow and moisture to my face that works well with or without makeup. I could see my face staying consistently moisturized throughout the day and it was naturally vibrant. After using it before bed, I saw that glow as well and when I woke up the next morning, my skin looked clear, rested, and still had a subtle moisture to it. It was not greasy at any time and being that it is lightweight, I recommend this for a day and night moisturizer. The two products work very well together, both are not harsh on the skin and provides the clean and moisture that you expect in your daily face care.



Disclaimer: Selena Thinking Out Loud purchased these beauty products for personal use. This blog review and vlog is 100% my own opinions. Your results may vary. This blog is also an affiliate of Target.

My @FarmFreshtoYou Delivery #BeforeChristmas Week | Your #Coupon Code

A new Farm Fresh to You delivery arrived today, just in time for me to plan out my Christmas dinner next week! I look forward to getting my boxes of organic fruits and vegetables because they are fresh and really inspire me to come up with interesting meals throughout my week. 

I get two (2) deliveries a month because each 'Monster' box lasts me for two weeks. I like to freeze my green vegetables: kale, chard, spinach, green beans, and broccoli. They saute nicely and I can prepare soups, stews, and hearty dinners with them. This year I decided to transition from a vegetarian to a vegan and these deliveries have made things much easier when deciding which vegetables to use for my meal, making sure that I am getting enough nutrients in my body on a daily basis.

If you live in California, Farm Fresh to You can delivery to your home or business. They will leave the box(es) on your doorstep or stoop and all you have to do is take it into the house. If you live in an apartment or condo, you can make arrangements with them, for your delivery. You can also customize the contents of each box of organic produce and leave out the fruits and vegetables that you don't like to eat very much.

USE CODE: SELE8487

Get $15 Off Your First Box of organic product from http://www.FarmFreshtoYou.com - Use Coupon Code: SELE8487

In this video, I share what organic fruits and vegetables I received in my new box from Farm Fresh to You. I also talk about what I will be cooking for Christmas dinner.