Reflecting on 2018.

I think 2018 was a year filled with many happy memories in my personal life. I feel like there is a lot that happened this year that I haven't shared on the blog! I definetly want to get better in 2019!

Let's look back at 2018 and round up the year in this blog post!

01 Travel. We spent our summer vacation in Cape May, NJ and that was an amazing time. I can't wait to go back. We spent our days lounging at the pool or beach and spent our nights walking the beach. We also went on day trips to Boston and NYC! 

02 Adoption. In June, we adopted our kitty Mia from a local animal shelter. She is such a sweetheart and so glad we are able to give her a loving home for a lifetime of happiness.

03 Grad School. In March, I enrolled in Clarkson University's Hybrid MBA program. 

I managed to complete four classes in 2018. 

04. Home. We had a few home improvement projects done this past year. Last winter, we had our upstairs bathroom renovated. This summer, we had the exterior of our house painted and we also had the furnace replaced. It was the original furnace, so it time to invest in a new one! We also bought a brand new dining room set that I absolutely adore.

05 Experiences. I got to see two musicals this year - Les Miserables and Anastasia. I saw them both at Proctors Theater via their National Tours. I have really been getting into seeing more musicals and hope to be able to see a few more in the new year! 

2018 was overall a pretty good year I would have to say. Lots of memories made, visited some great places, and embarked on some new journeys.

Let's hope for an even better 2019! What were your favorite memories of 2018? 

FabFitFun Winter 2018 Subscription Box Review - Was it Worth it!?

This post may contain referral/affiliate links. If you buy something, Elizabeth Kathrynx may earn a commission. Read the full disclosure.

The FabFitFun Box is a quarterly subscription box from FabFitFun.com where you get a seasonal subscription box filled with over $200 dollars of items in categories of makeup, beauty, lifestyle, etc.

Every season the box gets a unique design and this one is so stinking cute with the girls sitting by the fireplace. Each box comes with a fabfitfun magazine with describes each of the box in the box and its monetary value! 

So, this is what the books looks like once you open it up! It was stuffed full with some AMAZING goodies!! Now, time for the items! Everyone who received the box got five of the same items and the rest were randomly distributed.

The subscription box: FabFitFun Fall 2018

The cost: $49.99 per quarter

Get 10$ off your first FabFitFun box using my link! http://xo.fff.me/jVrEG

Box contains the hottest season items selected by the FabFitFun team!

Ships to: Canada and USA

Thrive Cosmetics Brilliant Eye Brightener in Stella - Retail value $24

I keep hearing things about this brand on social media so I am excited to try something! This eye brightener is infused with macadamia and meadowfoam oil.

(All subscribers received this item)

Ahava Hydration Cream Mask - Retail Value $33

I just ran out of my last face mask, so this box came at the perfect time! My skin gets so dry in the winter, so I am super excited to try out this mask. It is enriched with mineral spring water, shea butter, and vitamin E.

(All subscribers received this item)

Blaq Hydrogel eye Mask with Hyaluronic Acid - Retail Value $29

I have never heard of the brand before receiving this eye mask. You get four sets of eye masks to detox and depuff your under-eye area. I think this is a great deal for the price and look forward to trying out this holiday season.

(All subscribers received this item)

Mark & Graham Colorblock Throw in Natural/Ivory - Retail Price $49

This is so soft and is perfect for those cool winter nights! Can be worn as a scarf or used as a blanket!

(All subscribers received this item)

BearPaw Combo Set: Headband and Pop-Top Glove Duo - Retail Value $45

This combo set of gloves and headband will be perfect to beat the winter chill! I have heard great things about this brand from various YouTubers and influencers!

Lele Sadoughi Silver Circle Necklace - Retail Value $49

This simple circle necklace could be worn to spruce up any outfit! It is minimalistic yet a statement-making piece suitable for any wardrobe! 

Sherrie Matthews Acupuncture Jade Stone Roller - Retail Value $45

The jade roller helps stimulate energy and promotes a feeling of facial relaxation. Use after applying moisturizer and gently wipe clean with an alcohol pad after each use.  I have seen many influencers talk about jade rollers in the past few month and eager to see what it can do for me!

Brook Burke Body Sliders - Retail Value $18

This are great for at-home workout as they will slide on carpet! They are perfect for working your lower body and abs! I am also in love the Tiffany Blue color!

Way of Will Elevate Essential Oil Set: Sweet Orange & Eucalyptus Oil - Retail Value $31

Essential Oils are all the rave nowadays for at-home remedies from headaches to sore muscles! Sweet orange helps ease stomach aches, cramps, and headaches. Eucalyptus helps with sore muscles and cold symptoms.  I don't have a diffuser yet but will find alternative ways to use these oils!

My final thoughts: My box has a retail value of $323 dollars!! I am so impressed with this box because it only cost me $49.99 dollars, so it's worth more than 9 times the price I paid!! I am SO happy with everything in this box and will definetly consider picking up the next seasonal box!

If you re thinking of trying FabFinFun, do it!! Get 10$ off your first FabFitFun box using my link! http://xo.fff.me/jVrEG

What did you think of the Winter FabFitFun box? Which items did you pick up?

*This post was not sponsored.  I use MagicLinks for all my ready-to-shop product links. Check it out here: https://www.magiclinks.org/rewards/referral/elizabethk/

December Monthly Goals 2018

December is going to be a great catch up month for me because I don’t have any classes for grad school until January so I have put together a list of things I want to accomplish this month!

1. Reorganize my office/craft room
My office has become a dumping ground basically since we moved into our house. I want to get all new furniture and completely redo my office this month. I have some extended vacation time at end of month, so I am hoping to get this done so I can share it with you all!

2. Exercise
My goal for December is to get to the gym at least 2-3 times a week. I have been very lazy the last couple months, so now is the perfect to get back into a routine before all the new people join in January.

3. Read
I have many books on my to-read list that I really want to try and read 5 books this month. I have really enjoyed getting back into this reading when I was on vacation, so it’s the perfect time to snuggle up with a good book.

4. Spent time with friends and family
This is a no-brained for the holidays but since I have some extra free time I want to try and make it a habit to spend more time with friends and family.

5. YouTube/ Blog
My goal for YouTube is to upload 2-3 times a week this month while I have extra time. I would also really like upgrade my filming camera but we will see about that. I would also like to blog at least once a week since I recently upgraded my layout.
What are your goals for this month?

Cyber Monday 2018 Deals

Rounding up the best Cyber Monday deals I could find across the Internet!

Bath and Body Works

• 40% off everything plus free shipping on orders over $40 using code SHOPCYBER

Victoria’s Secret

• 20% off $125 and free shipping on $30
• Bras 40-50% off
• $20 Yoga
• 40% off Sport
• Cyber Monday tote free with $75 purchase

Target

• Extra 15% off top deals
• BOGO 60% clothing, shoes and accessories
• Up to 40% off home

Loft

• $20 select sweaters
• Free shipping + 50% off your purchase with code CYBER

Yankee Candle

• 5/$60 large candles
• 6/$50 medium candles
• 8/$40 small candles
• Take additional 30% off gift sets

Madewell

• 25% off your purchase online

Gap

• 50% off everything including new styles with code Cyber

Old Navy

• 50% off everything 

I’m sure there are many more deals but these are the ones I saw in my inbox that caught my attention!! 

Are you shopping today? What are you buying?

Black Friday 2018 Sales: Amazon, Target, Best Buy, etc!

Quick rundown of some of the best Black Friday deals I could find when looking through the flyers!

Items in bold are my tops picks! I will do separate posts for Cyber Monday and planner related deals!

Amazon:

• Echo dot $19.99
• Echo $69
• Echo spot $89
• Echo Show $179.99

Best Buy:

• Apple iPad Mini 4 $249.99
• Microsoft Surface Pro 12.3" $599.00 (save $360!!)
• Dell Inspiron 15.6" Touchscreen Laptop $399.99 (save $200)
• iPhone X save up to $200 off
• Sony 1000MX2 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones $199.99 (save $150)

Bath & Body Works

• Buy 3, Get 3 Free
• $30 Tote with $30 Purchase
• Hand Soaps $3 Online Only
• All Wallflowers 2-pack refills $5.75  Online Only Thursday

Express:

• 50% off everything!
• Cozy Sweaters $19.90
• 1MX shirts $19.90

Target:

• Fitbit Versa smartwatch $149
• Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 6 pt pot $69.95
• Apple watch series 3 $199.99 
• Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones $179.99 (save $120)
• Canon T6 DSLR Bundle Doorbuster $399.99 (save $350)
• Sony Playstation 4 1TB Doorbuster $199.99
• Women's and men's tees starting at $4 Doorbuster
• Shark Navigator Powered Lift-Away Vacuum Doorbuster $149.99 (save $150)
• Rubbermaid 28pc Easy Find Lids Food Storage Doorbuster Set $7.99

Kohls:

• $15 Kohls Cash for every $50 spent
• Garmin GPS Doorbuster $89.99
• JBL Flip 4 Bluetooth speaker Doorbuster $59.99
• Ring Video Doorbell 2 $139.99
• Google Home speaker $79
• Nintendo Switch Bundle w Turtle Beach Headphones & Carrying Case $329 
• Fitbit Ace $59
• 70-75% off Fine Jewelry
• 30-35% off Watches
• 50% Off Lauren Conrad Accessories
• $9.99 small kitchen appliances
• 30-40% off Under Armour
• 25-30% off Nike
• 25-40% off Adidas
• 25-40% off Levi's 
• 60-70% off Outerwear for her

Walmart:

• Sony Playstation 4 1TB Doorbuster $199.99
• Hover-1 Liberty Hoverboard Doorbuster $99
• Fujifilm Instax Mini 7S Camera Bundle $55
• Xbox One X 1B Console $399
• Playstation 4 Controller $39
• Tasty 30 pc Cookware set $99 includes Google Home mini
• Instant Pot 8 Qt Pressure Cooker $59

Macys:

• Women's boot $19.99 
• 60% off Women's Coats
• 50% off Designer Styles
• 60-75% off Kids Coats
• 50-60% off Men's Shoes
• 25% off Ugg & More
• 60% off Girls Dresses
• 20% off Sunglasses
• 30-50% off Dresses
• $199.99 Dyson Vacuum
• 50% off Handbags & Wallets
• Nike 25% off

JCPenney

• $19.99 boots for the family
• Up to 30% off Nike
• Fitbit Versa $149.95
• Kitchenaid Artisan 5-Qt. Stand Mixer $279.99 (reg $449)
• NutriBullet 600w Blender $49.99 (reg $109)
• 60% off select Holiday decor
• Home Expressions Down-Alternative Comforter $19.99
• White Goose Feather Down Comforter $57.99
• Up to 40% off major appliances
• Up to 70% off men's outerwear
• Up to 70% off women's activewear
• 60% off Liz Claiborne

Victorias Secrets

• Sleep Tops & Bottoms Buy 1 Get 1 Free
• Free Tote with $75 Purchase
• Sped $150 and get Free Blanket with Tote
• $39.50 PJ Sets
• Free Slippers when you buy a PJ Set
• All Bras 40% off

Old Navy

• 50% off entire purchase
• Tees $5
• Jeans $15 Adults $9 Kids
• Sweater $12
• Sleepwear $6
• Outerwear Adults $25 Kids $20
• Winter Accessories $5

Ulta

• $10 each select mascara
• 40% off Anastasia Beverly Hills
• $10 Bareminerals Holiday Sets
• 50% off Hot Tools
• 50% off Yes To entire brand
• Buy 1 Get 1 Free Batiste
• 20% off Clarisonic Holiday Sets
• 30% Pacifica entire brand
• 30% off Smashbox holiday sets
• 40% off The Body Shop entire brand

Sephora

• Urban Decay Distortion Palette $24 (reg $48)
• Urban Decay Naked Petite Heat $14.50 (reg $29)
• Murad Clarifying Cleanser $15 (reg $30)
• Philosophy Forever Favorites Set $49 (reg $69)
• Drunk Elephant The Big Reveal Kit $88
• Tarte Pineapple of my Eye Collector Set $59 (over $300 value!)
• First Air Beauty Skin Summit $48 ($112 value)
• Too Faced Under the Christmas Tree  Set $49 ($230 value)
• GlamGlow Problem Solver Set $79

These are my top picks for Black Friday shopping!

If you shop online, don't forget to shop with EBATES!  Earn cash back for shopping!

Do you like shopping in-stores or online over the Black Friday weekend?

Erin Condren 2018 Holiday Gift Guide

Happy Monday! Today I am excited to bring you a Holiday Gift Guide for one of my favorite companies, Erin Condren. I have purchased from Erin Condren many times, probably too many, and I love supporting a woman-owned business! Erin Condren is the perfect place to grab a gift for everyone on your shopping list!

This post contains affiliate links. All images are courtesy of Erin Condren. 

All opinions are my own. Please see my disclosure policy for further details.

Gift Guide

Erin Condren is know for its Life Planners but they have many more products and gift options now. I have combed through their website to bring you my top picks for the 2018 Holiday season!

1) Erin Condren Life Planner $55.00

This wouldn't be an Erin Condren gift guide without including the ultimate gift - the Erin Condren Life Planner. The Life Planner comes in three different layouts: Vertical, Horizontal, or Hourly. It also comes in two color schemes: Neutral and Colorful. You can also choose from a variety of interchangeable covers. This perfect to get the planner lover in your life or a great way to introduce someone to the Erin Condren brand!

2) On the Go Folio $20

The On the Go Folio is a new product to Erin Condren. It can hold up to four PetiteJournals or Notebooks for on the go organization! You can also get these personalized, just like the Life Planners! 

3) Planny Pack $20

The planny pack can hold all of your favorite planner accessories and must haves while traveling on the go! Is has a strap that slip over the cover of your Life Planner, it's like a fanny pack for your planner! 

4) Luxe Weekly Schedule Pad $20

This is also a new addition to Erin Condren. This would be perfect your somebody who works in an office setting , whether a home office or a more traditional away from home job, you can plan out tasks from Monday to Sunday. It is also undated, so you don't have to use this every week!

5) Designer T-Shirt $26

These t-shirts come in multiple colors and size and I think they would make a great gift for the planner lover in your life! They have a very simple design featuring the signature designer asterisk.

6) Notepad Set - $15

You can never have too many spare notepads and these come in so many different patterns. They can also be personalized so I think these are great addition to any gift! 

7) Sherpa Throw - $55

I mentioned these in my 2017 Gift Guide and I think they are still an excellent gift option. They are a little bit more on the pricey side and also come in two different size options. They have many more options this year, including the option to personalize, like many other Erin Condren products. Everyone love a soft, cozy blanket int he cold winter months, so these are perfect for anybody on your shopping list! 

That wraps up my Erin Condren 2018 Holiday Gift Guide! I hope have enjoyed my top picks for the people on your shopping list and helped give you some holiday shopping inspiration! Erin Condren typically will have a sale for Black Friday/Cyber Monday, so make sure you follow their Instagram to stay up to date on any coupon codes or special deals! 

What is your favorite Erin Condren product? Let me know in the comments!

My updated hair care routine

If you guys haven’t been following me on social media, then wouldn’t have seen that I chopped off my hair in September! I am loving this new hair cut and my stylist did a fantastic job!
Now, I thought I would share with you what products I have been using to manage my frizz and control my flyaways with this new shorter style!
I have been using all natural, vegan hair products by a brand called Monat, which I also make a small commission from selling!
The products I use on a daily basis are:

• Smoothing shampoo and conditioner to fit frizz
• Hair spray to control flyaways
• Champ dry shampoo for those crazy days!
• Leave-in conditioner to help nurture my hair
• Unicorn hair oil to help promote healthy hair and growth! 

And that’s it! I keep it pretty simple and also have not been using any heat on my hair, I usually let it air dry!
So, if you are interested in learning more about these products, leave a comment below or feel free to contact me via email or on any of my social media platforms!
P.S. you can sign up as a VIP customer this weekend for free!! You’ll get 15% off retail price plus a number of awesome perks! It’s the perfect time to start your Christmas shopping early while also getting a discount on products 😁
If you want me to post more about these amazing luxury hair products in the future, just let me know!!

Cerebral Palsy – What to Expect if Your Baby is Diagnosed

Cerebral Palsy – What to Expect if Your Baby is Diagnosed

No parent wants to hear anything other than that their newborn is perfectly healthy. Unfortunately, though, many find out that their child has been born with a disability. Cerebral palsy is among the most common childhood disabilities, but if you hear that your baby may have this condition it can come as a shock. Knowledge is power, though, and getting more information will help you understand what your child needs and how to provide the best possible life, in spite of disability.

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy is a disorder related mostly to movement. It affects muscles throughout the body in different ways, which means that symptoms and degree of disability varies widely by individual. Neurological damage in the brain underlies the impact on muscles and movement. This condition does not get worse over time, but it also has no cure. 

Different types of cerebral palsy include spastic, dyskinetic, hypotonic, ataxic, and mixed. They are characterized by the different ways muscles are impacted by the condition. Muscles may be stiff, causing exaggerated reflexes, which are characteristics of spastic cerebral palsy, the most common type. Other types cause difficulty controlling muscles and movement, poor muscle tone, impaired balance and coordination, or a mix of effects. 

Causes of Cerebral Palsy

The ultimate cause of cerebral palsy is brain damage. The causes of the brain damage can be a number of factors: genetics that cause abnormal brain development, infections in the pregnant mother, a fetal stroke, a traumatic brain injury, or asphyxia, lack of oxygen getting to the brain. The damage that leads to cerebral palsy most often occurs during fetal development, during childbirth, or soon after a child is born. 

Sometimes the cause of cerebral palsy is unknown or was not preventable. Unfortunately, though, there are also cases in which the damage could have been prevented. Mistakes made during delivery, for example, may be medical errors or malpractice. In these cases parents may want to turn to a lawsuit to get compensation for their child’s future care. 

Symptoms and Potential Complications

Cerebral palsy is not always diagnosed immediately, but early interventions are important so knowing the early signs in babies is important:

• Stiff muscles or floppy muscles

• Delays in physical and motor development

• Difficulty feeding or swallowing, excessive drooling

• Favoring one side of the body

• Muscle spasms

• Frequent irritability

• Difficulty cuddling or holding, baby stiffens or pushes away

• Medical treatment. Treatments vary widely, depending on an individual’s symptoms and needs. Medical care may include surgery and medications. Doctors can also help fit children with mobility and adaptive devices, like braces and walkers. 

• Therapy. A variety of therapies can be useful throughout the life of someone with cerebral palsy. Physical therapy, for instance, can help an individual gain mobility and improve muscle strength, balance, and flexibility. Occupational therapy helps a child learn to function with a disability. Speech and language therapy helps with eating, swallowing, speech, and language development. 

• Other interventions. For children with learning or intellectual disabilities, early work with educational specialists can help with learning and academics. Behavioral therapists work with children to help them learn appropriate behaviors and emotional responses and to develop good social relationships with peers. Many kids with cerebral palsy will struggle with depression or anxiety, and mental health professionals can help them cope with these feelings.

As a child with cerebral palsy develops and grows, the symptoms may continue and new ones may develop. Other symptoms of cerebral palsy include tremors, involuntary movements, poor coordination, difficulty walking, difficulty with fine or gross motor skills, speech difficulties or delays, and seizures. 

There are also many complications that can develop in someone with cerebral palsy. Many of these will continue to be issues as a child grows and becomes and adult: vision or hearing impairment, cognitive or learning disabilities, mental illnesses, behavioral challenges, gastrointestinal issues, incontinence, and oral diseases. 

Treatments and Interventions

It is important for parents of a child with cerebral palsy to know that, although there is no cure for this condition, treatments do make a big difference. First, be sure your child is given a diagnosis as soon as possible. Earlier interventions may help even more than those that are delayed. Expect that your child will need a variety of medical treatments, therapies, and educational, behavioral, and mental health interventions:

The Outlook for Children with Cerebral Palsy

If your baby has received a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, know that the outlook doesn’t have to be grim. By getting the diagnosis now you are in a position to help your child get the necessary interventions and treatments. Work with a team of specialists, including your pediatrician, a neurologist, dieticians, education specialists, physical therapists, and others, and you will find that your child can live a productive, satisfying, and even independent life as he or she grows into adulthood. 

Review: GLAMGLOW Bubblesheet Oxygenating Deep Cleanse Mask

I tried out the GlamGlow Bubblesheet Oxygenating Deep Cleanse Mask and here are my thoughts!

I received this mask as part of the Fall FabFitfun Box that I purchased and finally decided to try it out because I am getting some breakouts around my chin. My skin is very sensitive so i am always overly cautious when trying out new skin care products. I tend to have combination skin - oily in the warmer months, dry in the cooler months. 

This mask starts out as a very thick, slimy face mask when you first put on your face but then after about 10-15 minutes it start to literally bubble and foam on your face! You do need to wet your face prior to applying the mask or else you will not get the bubbling effect. Once removed, it left a good amount of moisturizer on my face. I rinsed off and my face felt fresh and renewed! It wasn't as moisturizing as other masks I have tried, so you will need to use a moisturizer after you rinse off the mask. 

Would I repurchase? It costs $9 dollars at Sephora, so that is pretty pricy for a sheet mask. I would say this makes a nice gift for somebody or a nice stocking stuffer but I don't think I would repurchase as I prefer other sheet masks to this one! 

Recent Amazon Purchases + Favorites

Soooo...I am addicted to Amazon Prime! Free two-day shipping is life! For today's post, I thought it would be fun to show you some of my recent amazon purchases and favorites! I will also mention I have been using Amazon rentals for my textbooks and it is such a great service! Let me know if you want a separate post about it, otherwise here are some of my most recent Amazon purchases!  *This post is not sponsored by Amazon.

1) Hand Blender - I got this because I am going to be drinking a meal replacement shake everyday, so I figured this would be way easier to use everyday than our traditional blender.

2) Cat Tunnel  - We have a smaller cat tunnel that ours cats have basically destroyed so we bought a new one. This one has two cubes with a connecting tunnel and they love it!

3) Slice Precision Cutter - This little crafting tool is amazing! I got this for cutting planner stickers and washi tape! It is a MUST HAVE if you are into decorative planning!

4) Stackable clear organizer - Although this is meant to be used for storing your sunglasses, I got this to store all my washi tape and it's fantastic! It is the perfect size for holding all of your washi tape while nicely displaying them for you to see on your desk! It keeps your washi nice and organized so you know what you have!

5) Foot and Pedicure Spa - We ordered this because my husband hd a nasty toe infection over the summer, so he could soak his toe with epsom salt. It has low vibration and it nice for soaking your feet and getting them ready for an at-home pedicure. The drawback, is that it doesn't really keep the water very warm.

That’s it for today! Let me know if you want me to do one at the end of every few months!  xx

ERIN CONDREN ON THE GO FOLIO REVIEW & FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Yes, you guessed it right. Erin Condren finally has released their own version of a Travelers Notebook! Introducing, the new On The Go Folio!

There are two different color options: Charcoal and Champagne! They made out of a faux leather material and come embossed in the upper right corner with the signature Erin Condren symbol. The folio also came packaged in a very nice dust bag for when you are not using the folio

Each folio has four elastic strands. The folio is pretty floppy when there are no notebooks inside it. Oh the possibilities! 

Each folio fits four notebooks. Here, I have the brand new daily planner notebooks but it will also fit the Petite Notebooks!

I am really interested to see if Erin Condren comes out with even more layouts and notebooks for the On The Go Folios!

The is an example of two days on two pages in the Daily Planner! I have already seen some people using them, just whiting out the months!

Each notebook also has a pocket in the very back with a sheet of stickers! 

Here is a size comparison to a B6 Travelers Notebook from Oh, Hello Stationery Co!

As you can see, the Daily Planner notebooks are wider and taller than the B6 TN. 

What a perfect time for Erin Condren to jump into the TN world, right before the upcoming holiday season! The Folios do not come with pen loops or extra pockets. They are nicely priced at $20 dollars, so they are a perfect gift for the planner in your life! A set of four daily planners will cost $40 dollars, which averages $10 dollars per notebook! I would to see some more colorful designs and additional layouts to the notebooks!

I am looking forward to getting my On The Go Folio setup and diving into the world of daily planning!

*This post is not sponsored. 

Breathing Deeply: Information on Mesothelioma

Breathing Deeply: Information on Mesothelioma

The lungs provide a pathway for oxygen to saturate the blood. These molecules fly around the body as it rids itself of carbon dioxide. Breathing out is the culmination of a successful inhalation process. Because October is Healthy Lung Month, everyone should take a closer look at ailments that significantly affect breathing. Discover the details surrounding mesothelioma and how to deal with this serious diagnosis. 

A Different Type of Lung Cancer 

In some circles, mesothelioma isn't defined as a lung cancer, states the Cancer Council Victoria. It's referred to as a pleural cancer. 
Mesothelioma develops in the pleural lining. There are two linings surrounding the lungs. Tumors might grow on either section of the pleura or within the cavity between them. 
This ailment is different than typical types referred to as lung cancer. Smokers who develop lung cancer are seeing tumors within the air sacs. The lung lining isn't normally part of an initial diagnosis. People with mesothelioma are dealing with a rare disorder. 

Checking the Symptoms 
A mesothelioma diagnosis depends on a clear evaluation of the symptoms. Because the tumors expand within the lung lining, breathing deeply is a problem. Patients might describe a pressure around certain areas of the chest. 
Losing weight without any effort is a classic sign of a cancer diagnosis. The body uses its energy reserves to fight off the growing tumors. Patients also experience fatigue, coughing and possible blood in the saliva. 
At first, a patient might think that there's a respiratory issue going on. Shortness of breath and fevers may be present. A trip to the doctor will clear up the concerns. 

Clear Causes 
Researchers are clear about the threat of mesothelioma among certain groups. People who live and work around asbestos are the most at-risk group. They breathe the fibers in and bring them home on the skin and clothes, states Penn Medicine. Asbestos is a natural substance formerly used in buildings, airplanes and ships, but it's clearly harmful to people. 
The vast majority of people who deal with mesothelioma today were previously exposed to asbestos. Rarer causes, such as genetic disposition, are still researched too. However, ending asbestos exposure will ultimately lower the rate of mesothelioma diagnoses among the population. 

Defining the Treatment Pathway 
Mesothelioma is tough to treat. Doctors won't mince words with patients because the prognosis is often a difficult one to face. Treatment typically includes chemotherapy. Surgeries to remove the growths are possible for some patients. Removing all of them, however, isn't always ideal. 
The European Respiratory Society reports that immunotherapy is being explored for mesothelioma patients. Although it's in the beginning stages, there's hope for patients in the future. Using the human body as a weapon against mutated cells is one of the best strategies for patient longevity. 
Lean on doctors and loved ones if mesothelioma is the current diagnosis. It is a serious disease, and doctors are treating it as such. Time will tell if there's a viable way to fight off these tumors. Science and dedicated caregivers will forge a path to possible recovery.

FabFitFun Fall 2018 Box Review - Was it Worth it!?

The FabFitFun Box is a quarterly subscription box from FabFitFun.com where you get a seasonal subscription box filled with over $200 dollars of items in categories of makeup, beauty, lifestyle, etc.

Every season the box gets a unique design and this one is so stinking cute with the fall leaves, scarfs, books, umbrellas, and more! Each box comes with a fabfitfun magazine with describes each of the box in the box and its monetary value! 

Disclaimer: I did purchase this box with my own money, this post is not sponsored by FabFitFun.

So, this is what the books looks like once you open it up! It was stuffed full with some AMAZING goodies!! Now, time for the items! Everyone who received the box got five of the same items and the rest were randomly distributed.

The subscription box: FabFitFun Fall 2018

The cost: $49.99 per quarter

Get 10$ off your first FabFitFun box using my link! http://xo.fff.me/jVrEG

Box contains the hottest season items selected by the FabFitFun team!

Ships to: Canada and USA

Luna Rica Salted Caramel Nut bar - Bonus sponsored item!  

It is gluten free and Non-GMO. I just received this box yesterday, so I haven't gotten the chance to try any of these products yet! I have never tried any Luna bars, so I am very interested if I will like this! 

(All subscribers received this item)

Skin & Co Roma Blue In Capri Shower Gel -  Retail value $22

This shower gel has notes of Alpine Rose, Sage, Wild Basil, and Autumn Blossom, I have never heard of this brand but am excited to give this shower gel a go!

(All subscribers received this item)

 Touch in Sol Metallist Liquid Foil Lipstick Duo - Retail value $25

This was one of the customizable options for the Fall 2018 box.  I found this product on Sephora's website for $25 dollars. This is a dual-ended lipstick, with one end having a matte finish and the other being metallic. I look forward to trying this product. 

GlamGlow BubbleSheet 2-Pack - Retail value $18

I have used GlamGlow masks in the past and LOVED them but never repurchased because of the price point. I recently ran out of all my face masks, so I am SO excited to try this out over the labor day weekend! 

(All subscribers received this item)

Simply Whimsical Tea Towels - Retail value $14.99

Not a very exciting item to receive but a staple in anyone's household whether you rent or own a home. I definetly needed some new tea towels, so I appreciate this item! 

(All subscribers received this item)

Grown Alchemist Polishing Facial Exfoliant - Retail value $67

Only certain subscribers received one of three products by this brand. This facial exfoliant exfoliates dry skin to reveal a radiant and moisturized complexion. This is perfect for the fall/winter season when my skin tends to be more on the dry side. I was actually looking for a new exfoliant the other day at Target, so again perfect timing!!

Catherine Malandrino Umbrella in Black/White Floral - Retail Value $39.99

I recently broke the umbrella I keep at my office, so this will be the perfect replacement! Umbrellas are a staple wherever you go, so definetly an essential item to get!

(Members either got this umbrella or a pair of bluetooth earbuds.)

BeautyBlender - Retail Value $20

I have been using a makeup sponge , very similar to BeautyBlender, for years to apply my face makeup and am so excited to finally get the OG! Makeup just applies seamlessly using a BeautyBlender as opposed to using makeup brushes - it looks so natural! 

(All subscribers received this item)

Vince Camuto Luck Tote in Red Desert - Retail Value $128!!

OMG OMG OMG! I did not expect to get a gorgeous tote bag in this box!! This is a stunning everyday tote with a soft interior and a slip pocket to store you keys, phones, lip balm, and more. It is made from a pebbled vegan leather, styled with a contrast strip! Because it is made with vegan leather, you must use a damp cloth to wipe off dirt. Simple, yet stylish enough to use as an everyday carry for school or work! Way to go FabFitFun!!

(Members either received this tote bag or the Crown Brush 6 Piece Brush set)

Alfred Teapot - Retail Value $26

This teapot has a stainless steel lid, a wide-lipped infuser, and a dripless spout to make tea time more enjoyable. I do not currently own a teapot and love drinking tea once the cooler fall weather arrives! Also, can we talk about this adorable blue and floral design!?

(Members got to choose the teapot or a french press)

My final thoughts: My box has a retail value of $361.98 dollars!! I am so impressed with this box because it only cost me $49.99 dollars, so it's worth more than 10 times the price I paid!! I am SO happy with everything in this box and will definetly consider picking up the next seasonal box!

If you re thinking of trying FabFinFun, do it!! Get 10$ off your first FabFitFun box using my link! http://xo.fff.me/jVrEG

*This post was not sponsored.  I use use MagicLinks for all my ready-to-shop product links. Check it out here: https://www.magiclinks.org/rewards/referral/elizabethk/