What I learned from being with my kids 24/7 in NYC last week. OH and some amazing new beauty brand discoveries.

I took both kids to my mom’s in NYC for a good 9 days. It was the best week I’ve had in – I don’t know how long. Something about having no choice but to full take over and just immerse myself with my kiddos was incredible. I didn’t do a lick a work. Maybe a beat here and there but that’s it. I feel empowered, a much better parent and my patience and tolerance muscles were so seriously flexed, that I feel like I can parent with total calm in any situation. I was stress-free, relaxed and gave my kids the best parenting they’ve had from me – ever. Something to say for throwing yourself in the fire and going away alone with kids. DO IT. And you’ll be a pro. That being said, I came home to boxes of goodies on my desk to report on and some stuff I have been dying to share with you! Some gorgeously packaged goodies from the GOLDFADEN skincare line. (PACKAGE CRUSH) I cannot wait to try. They have been raved about big time. High end. Good stuff. The real deal.

The new flavors from QUEST NUTRITION (the bars I am not only addicted to, I can honestly say I have a “habit” and the new flavors like COOKIES AND CREAM are downright psychotically addictive, just ask the girl at the gym – I spend a ridiculous amount a month on them ). If you are bar-crazed then you may have caught wind of the RAVE about these. People are fff-reaking out about them. Go online and look. They are SICK! OH, and some other goodies from themarrived – their new gulf free pasta line!

Two beauty nectars you drink TAUT and BEAUTY NECTAR from Ashieda jammed packed with .

I am speechless about Verso Dark Spot Fix from Stockholm. First of all it WINS my packaging and website awards of 2014. Check out their website. Perfection.

Hey VERSO, if you are hiring a designer, let’s talk. It’s so outrageously stunning it’s hard for me to get past the beauty of the bottle (yes, I kept the box too). And, it’s a fantastic product. Get it. Stare at it. Bring it out at parties. But most of all, use it.

Oh, this Bite Beauty Agave lip mask – let’s just say, I took it out during a branding/client meeting, and the two women were ordering it via their iPhones within ten minutes.