Friday, January 31, 2014

Health Tip Of The Week - Vitamins & Minerals That Improve Your Skin


We all want to look as young as we can for as long as we can.  Taking care of yourself and your skin will make the biggest difference.  Exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight, not smoking, and not overindulging in alcohol are also very important for keeping the skin younger looking.

-  Vitamin A - Reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles, helping the skin repair itself, decreased acne, and reducing dry skin are all benefits of vitamin A.  Most people get enough through their diet, unless they have certain dietary restrictions.  Vitamin A is found in eggs, grains, and milk.

-  Vitamin C - Improves collagen production, slows the affects of free radicals, reverses DNA damage, and even helps heal sunburns and cuts.  You can get vitamin c from your food and supplements, but applying it topically to the skin has the most benefits.  Look for a lotion or serum with vitamin c.

-  Vitamin D - Helps with cell production and a higher turnover rate.  This helps the skin to rejuvenate, keeping you younger looking.  Most people are vitamin D deficient, especially if they live far from the equator.  With as little as 20 minutes of sun exposure a day, you can get what your body needs.  A topical cream is also very beneficial.

-  Fish Oil - Studies have shown that fish oil helps with skin conditions, such as rosacea and eczema.  It also benefits the overall health and look of your skin.  It helps alleviate dryness that leads to wrinkles and even dandruff.  It also keeps the hair stronger.  Eat 2 - 3 servings a week of fish with high omega 3's such as mackerel,  trout, salmon, and tuna.

-  Selenium - Helps heal the skin from burns, and regenerates vitamin c which helps reverse the aging process.  It can be found in Brazil nuts, poultry, seafood, oats, and brown rice.

It is always best go get as many vitamins and minerals from your food as you can.  If you do need to supplement, please talk to your doctor first to make sure it doesn't interact with any of your medications.  You also need to discuss exactly how much you should take daily.




Thursday, January 30, 2014

Recipe Of The Week - Shrimp Tacos

I love shrimp tacos, and my husband loves to cook.  He made this for me last friday.  Every friday for the past two years, we have had what we call "bed dates".  We usually get dinner from a restaurant and eat it in bed, while watching a movie or catching up on our favorite DVR'd tv shows.  It is something that we look forward to every week.  Last week, he decide to cook instead of our usually take out.  He had never made shrimp tacos, and neither have I.  They were so good!!  If you like seafood, you should definitely give this a try!!

Ingredients

8 - 10 inch Whole Wheat Flour Tortillas

1/4 cup Honey Butter (he used this amount, but I would have used a lot less)

1 tsp salt

1 lb. medium to large uncooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)

1 Avocado - peeled, pitted, & diced

1/2 cup chopped fresh Cilantro

2 tsp. Minced Garlic

1 Mango - peeled, seeded, & diced

1/2 Red Onion

2 Vine Ripened Tomatoes - diced

2 Tbsp Lime Juice

Directions

1.  Toss the mango, avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, onion, 1 tsp garlic, salt and lime juice together.



2.  Melt the honey butter and 1 tsp. minced garlic in a skillet over medium-high heat.  Add the shrimp.  Cook and stir until pink and opaque, 2 - 3 minutes.



3.  Serve shrimp on a warm tortilla, top with mango salsa, and fold.


I am a sour cream junkie, but this mango salsa was so good that it wasn't even missed!





Monday, January 27, 2014

Review - Maybelline Elixir Lip Gloss


I really wanted to try this new lipgloss from Maybelline.  I am a lipgloss/lipstick junkie!  I probably have more eye shadows and lip products than anything else.  With that in mind, let me tell you the specifics on this product.  Maybelline says that they have the color of a lipstick, the cushiony care of a balm, and the glass shine of a gloss.  There are 20 shades in total, and the MSRP is $8.99.


From the look of these and the description, I thought that the color would be more opaque.  It was on the sheer side.  I prefer an opaque gloss to a sheer one.  There was a good amount of shine to the gloss, but the formula is so thick and heavy feeling on the lips!  That's an annoyance for me, and makes me want to just wipe it off.  The gloss does have a perfumed scent, but doesn't seem overwhelming.  Almost immediately after putting it on, I got this horrible perfume taste in my mouth.  It only went away if I would remove the lipgloss from my lips.  I don't recall ever having such a strong taste in my mouth from a lip product.  I have worn this 4 times, so plenty of testing it out.  I forced myself to wear it one of the days longer than I wanted just to test out the staying power.  It lasted 2 - 3 hours without reapplying.  The packaging is small, and easy to throw in your bag when leaving.  I do like the applicator.  It has a pointed tip that helps with precise application.


They have pretty colors to choose from, but obviously this lipgloss isn't for me.  Even if some of the other colors are more opaque, I can't get past the taste or heavy feeling.  I hope everyone has a great week!

-XOXO Monique

Quote Of The Week

Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together. - Elizabeth Taylor


Saturday, January 25, 2014

BEAUTY DEALS - CVS, Rite-Aid, and Walgreens 1/26/14 - 2/01/14



CVS

RB = Reward Bucks - Coupons that can be used on your next visit.

-  Neutrogena Facial Moisturizer, Facial Device Products, and Hair Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Almay Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  John Frieda Hair Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Softsoap, Irish Spring, Speed Stick, and Colgate Items - Spend $12, get $6 RB

-  L'Oreal Face, Eye, and Lip Products - Spend $12, get $4 RB

-  Revlon Cosmetics - Spend $12, get $4 RB

-  Crest 3D Rinse - BOGO 50% Off

-  Cover Girl Lip & Eye Products - Spend $15, get $5 RB

-  Nexxus Shampoo, Conditioner, & Styler - Spend $20. get $10 RB

-  Physicians Formula Cosmetics - 40% Off

-  Alive Vitamins - 25% Off

-  Gillette Venus Razor, Fusion Proglide Razor, Disposable Razors, and Fusion Shave Prep - Spend $30, get $10 RB

- Natures Bounty Vitamins - BOGO FREE

-  Sundown Naturals Vitamins - BOGO FREE

-  Nature Made Vitamins - BOGO FREE

-  Osteo Bi Flex - BOGO FREE

-  Vitafusion Gummies - BOGO 50% Off

-  Lil Critters Gummy Vites - BOGO 50% Off

-  Centrum - BOGO 50% Off

-  Caltrate - BOGO 50% Off

RITE-AID

UR = Up Rewards - Coupons that can be used on your next purchase.

-  L'Oreal Cosmetics, Skin Care, Hair Care, or Color Item - Spend $20, get $5 UR

-  Gillette Styler, Bath and Body Wash, ProGlide, Fusion, Mach 3, and Venus Cartridge Refills - Spend $25, get $5 UR

-  Nexxus Shampoo, Conditioner, and Styler - Spend $20, get $10 UR

-  Physicians Formula Cosmetics - Spend $15, get $10 UR

-  Maybelline Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Neutrogena Skin Care, Sun Care, and Hair Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Clean & Clear Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Aveeno - BOGO 50% Off

-  Neutrogena Lip and Eye Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Revlon Nail, Face, and Eye Products - BOGO 50% Off

-  Natures Bounty Vitamins - BOGO FREE

WALGREENS

RR = Register Rewards - Coupons that can be used on your next purchase.

-  Organix Hair Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Nivea Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Biore Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Maybelline Face & Lip Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Clairol Herbal Essences Hair Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Neutrogena Cosmetics & Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Almay Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Centrum - BOGO 50% Off

-  Caltrat - BOGO 50% Off

-  L'Oreal Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Revlon Face and Lip Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Jergens Lotion - BOGO 50% Off

-  Curel Lotion - BOGO 50% Off

-  John Frieda Hair Care, Select Stylers, and Treatments - 20% Off

-  John Frieda Hair Color - Buy 2, get 2,000 pts added to your card.

-  Vidal Sassoon Hair Color - Buy 2, get 2,000 pts added to your card.

-  L'Oreal Skin Care - 20% Off

-  Clairol Nice N Easy Hair Color - Spend $15, get 3,000 pts added to your card

-  Schick Quattro, Intuition, and Hydro Razors and Refills - 25% Off

-  Gillette Venus and Fusion Proglide Razors - Buy 1, get $2 RR

-  Natures Made & Natures Bounty Vitamins - BOGO FREE

*These are national deals and can vary from state to state.

Review - Live Love Dew Natural Body Wash

Live Love Dew has some new products they are launching and this is one of them, their first body wash!  The wash that I have been using is their Lemongrass Lavender scent.  It is made from essential oils, and it has not aggravated my psoriasis or eczema at all!  I was so happy to be able to find a scented body wash that I could use (I have psoriasis and eczema).  I haven't been able to use a scented body wash for a long time.

Crissy and Lori have been working on their body wash for a year now, trying to get the formula just right.  It is all natural, paraben-free, alcohol-free, and formaldehyde-free.  If you have ever used natural body washes, you may notice that if they do have a scent, it is quite weak and has very little lathering.  You just feel like you are missing out on all the super lathering, fancy scents from some of the popular brands.  I used to buy a lot of body washes, lotions, and body sprays from the same line in my favorite scent, before I got my psoriasis.  I enjoyed scent layering, especially in the summer. All of that had to stop.  So, when Crissy brought me their new lemongrass lavender body wash, I was more than happy to try it!

Immediately, I noticed the scent.  It was potent, with the intensity of my previous body washes that I used to use.  I also put quite a bit on my loofah, which was unnecessary.  It really lathered and felt so moisturizing on my skin.  My entire master bath and bedroom fills with the scent for an hour or so after my shower.  The fragrance also stays on my skin.  My son uses my bathroom, and he has fallen in love with the body wash, which has never happened before!  This is going to be another Live Love Dew product that I am never going to want to be without!!  And now that I know that the lemongrass lavender scent doesn't irritate my skin, because it is an essential oil, I can go back to scent layering!  When you have a skin condition/disease, you feel left out because you can no longer use certain products.  It is so nice to know that there is an entire line of products that I can use, without the worry of skin irritation.




The natural body wash comes in essentially lavender, love bites, natural grace, vanilla lilac blossom, lemongrass lavender, and unscented.  You can also contact Crissy or Lori, if you have a special request and they will do their best to meet your needs.  You can purchase a 4 oz. size for $8 and an 8 oz. size for $14.  If you have been looking for an all natural alternative for you and your family, give it a try.  You won't be disappointed!  To place an order, go to www.livelovedew.com.  You can also email Crissy or Lori directly at crissy@livelovedew.com and lori@livelovedew.com.  They deliver in town (Grove City area), or they can ship straight to your door.


Friday, January 24, 2014

Recipe Of The Week - Carrot, Apple & Ginger Juice



I have two juicers, and I have juiced in the past, but it never really stuck for me.  I guess I really never liked anything I tried long enough to stick with it.  A few weeks ago, my husband found a recipe, so we tried it.  It only had a few ingredients, so I thought it would be quick and easy.  I like to make mine in the morning or early afternoon.  It tastes really good, and I like knowing that I am putting good things in my body.  It is a chore for me to eat fruit.  I am much more likely to eat veggies.

Ingredients:

- 1 apple
- 2 carrots
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- ginger



I juice the apples and carrots, and pour the juice over ice.  Then, I add the coconut milk, and grate some ginger on the top.  You can juice a small piece of ginger if you like.  I have done it both ways, but I prefer to grate it on top instead.  I love the taste of ginger, and it does have a stronger taste when grated.  I recently made this juice after a work out and added my vanilla protein powder to it.  I used more ice than usual and blended it.  It was really good as well.  So, if you are looking for a quick and easy breakfast or snack, give it a try!  It will be a healthy addition to your diet.  If you have a juice that you enjoy, please feel free to leave the recipe in the comments :)

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Review - L'Oreal True Match Lumi Foundation



I have always wanted to try this foundation.  I like all finishes, depending on my mood and look I'm going for.  Although I typically wear a satin to matte foundation, I do so because I usually  have very oily skin.  A luminous finish would just make me look like a big oil spot!  Now that it is winter, my skin has become quite normal, so it was the perfect time for me to try this foundation.


This is a very comfortable and lightweight formula.  You don't feel like you have makeup on your skin.  It gives a light to medium buildable coverage.  I did put on two layers, and applied it with my Sigma F 80 brush.  It blended easily into my skin, giving it a natural look. One of my favorite things about this foundation is the bottle.  It has a high end look, and a pump, so no mess when applying.   I did not use a primer, but I did powder my face to set it.  Even with powder, it still had the luminous finish.



I put this foundation to the test, wearing it on days that I was doing my typical stay at home wife & mommy duties.  I was cooking, cleaning, running errands, and working out.  It had good staying power, but after 6 hours my t zone started to get a little too shiny for my taste.  I just blotted with a blotting tissue.  The foundation did not break down, and I did not notice any oxidizing.  I don't know what it is about my skin, but even without a primer or setting spray, my makeup always seems to hold up well throughout the day.  Others have noticed this as well.  I think I am maybe more conscious about not touching or rubbing my face.  Anyways, I was happy with this foundation, and think it is a great everyday makeup.  It does not claim to be long wearing, like a Revlon Color Stay.  It says it has 8 hours of coverage, and an SPF 20.  I would definitely repurchase this, and will enjoy it while my skin is "normal".  If you want a lightweight, light to medium coverage, dewy finish foundation, and have dry to normal skin, I think you would be happy with the True Match Lumi.  If you are oily, I would definitely pass on it.



L'Oreal has an entire True Match line....foundation, concealer, powder, and blush.  They come in cool, warm, and neutral skin tones, ranging from light to dark.  I bought w6, and it matched very well.  Once you determine your color, you then know which colors in the other products coordinate with your specific shade.  There are 15 colors in all.  With antioxidants, vitamin c and vitamin e, True Match Lumi claims to improve your skin's condition within one month.  It is safe for sensitive skin, which I have and have had no issues.  It retails for around $12.95.  You can find L'Oreal at your local discount, drug or grocery store.  If you have been curious about this foundation, I hope this review helped.  Have a great week everyone!!

-XOXO Monique


Monday, January 20, 2014

Health Tip Of The Week - The Benefits Of Coconut Oil





There has definitely been a rise in the popularity of coconut oil in the past few years, and for good reason!  Coconut oil has so many beneficial properties.  Unlike other fats, coconut oil has medium chain triglycerides, which means that the body uses this fat instead of storing it.  The body uses it to boost energy, raise HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), and to level out blood sugar.

Some of the benefits of coconut oil - It's antimicrobial, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, and it is also an antioxidant.  Sounds like a super fat to me!  With all of these benefits, it can be used in a number of ways for great health benefits.

Here are some of my favorites:

-  Acne:  Dab a little on the inflamed pimple to help it heal faster.

-  Dandruff:  Massage into the scalp to relieve flaking and itching

-  Cold Sores:  With it's antiviral properties, it will speed the healing process.  Just dab on the sore.

-  Age Spots:  Dab on the area to help with fading.

-  Eye Cream:  It will help relieve puffiness and dark circles

-  Wrinkle Fighter:  Apply to the face like any other moisturizer.  It will leave you with smooth, silky skin that is hydrated, helping to plump out fine lines.

-  Eczema & Psoriasis:  Using this as a lotion, it will help relieve itchiness, flaking, and the dry patches.

-  Hair Mask/Conditioner:  Apply to hair for ten minutes to use as a conditioner.  Leave in for an hour or overnight for the most benefit.  I wrap my hair, and wash it out in the morning.

-  Earaches:  Just a few drops will help alleviate the pain.

-  Shaving Cream:  Smooth on and your razor will glide overtop, while leaving your skin soft and smooth.

-  Appetite Suppressant:  Take a spoonful before meals to keep from over eating.

-  Lip Balm:  Coconut oil will moisturize the lips, and it also has a natural SPF of 4 in it.

-  Fitness:  Coconut oil increases metabolism, boosts energy, improves thyroid function, improves stamina, and aids in weight loss.

When choosing a coconut oil, look for an organic, virgin, unrefined oil.  Check your local grocery store, Whole Foods, or Trader Joe's.  I found mine at my local Kroger, in the Natures Market section. Coconut oil has so many healing properties, plus it's easy to find, is all natural, and inexpensive.  Do something good for your body and skin by giving it a try!

Quote Of The Week

You are never too old to set another goal, or to dream a new dream. - C.S. Lewis


Sunday, January 19, 2014

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Beauty Deals - 11/19/14 - 11/25/14 CVS, Rite-Aid, & Walgreens

CVS

RB = Reward Bucks - Coupons that can be used on your next purchase.

-  Nivea Body Lotion and Cream - Buy 2, get $5 RB

-  Biore Cleanser, Pore Strips, and Mask - Buy 2, get $4 RB

-  Nivea Mens Skin Care - Buy 2, get $5 RB

-  Garnier Nutrisse Hair Color - Buy 3, get $5 RB

-  Olay Regenerist & Total Effects Tone - Buy 1, get $2 RB

-  Eucerin - Buy 2, get $3 RB

-  Neutrogena Mens Skin Care - Buy 2, get $5 RB

-  Aveeno Anti-Itch - BOGO 50% Off

-  Garnier Olia Hair Color - Buy 2, get $5 RB

-  Jergens Lotion - Buy 2, get $4 RB

-  Centrum Womens, Mens, Silver & Pro Nutrients - BOGO 50% Off

-  Caltrate 120 & Gummy Bites 50 count - BOGO 50% Off

-  Nature Made Vitamins & Supplements - BOGO FREE

-  Revlon Cosmetics - Spend $15, get $7 RB

-  L'Oreal Cosmetics - Spend $15, get $5 RB

-  Maybelline Cosmetics - Spend $15, get $5 RB

-  Almay Cosmetics - Buy 2, get 1 FREE

-  Cover Girl Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Rimmel Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Schick Hydro 5 Razor, Quattro for Women Disposable Razor, and Hydro Silk Water Activated Moisturizing Serum Razor - Spend $25, get $10 RB

RITE-AID

UR = Up Rewards - Coupons that can be used on your next purchase.

-  Natures Bounty Vitamins - BOGO FREE

-  Flexamin Supplements - BOGO FREE

-  Nature Made Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Clairol Herbal Essence Body Wash - BOGO 50% Off

-  Rimmel Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Wet N Wild Cosmetics - 30% Off

-  Sally Hansen Cosmetics - 30% Off

-  Cover Girl Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Maybelline Eye & Lip Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  L'Oreal Lip & Eye Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Almay Face Care & Makeup Removers - BOGO 50% Off

-  Olay Skin & Bath - BOGO 50% Off

-  Ivory Skin & Bath Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Clairol Herbal Essences Body Wash - BOGO 50% Off

-  Simple Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Biore Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Noxzema Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  St. Ives Skin & Bath Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  L'Oreal Ever Hair Care, Preference Hair Color, Advanced Hair Care Treatments, Root Rescue Hair Color, & Feria Hair Color - Spend $20, get $5 UR

-  Gillette After Shave, Foamy Shave Prep, & Gillette Disposable Razors - BOGO 50% Off

-  Schick Disposable Razors - BOGO 50% Off

-  Suave, Dove, Tresemme, and Clear Hair Care - Spend $15, get $7 UR

-  Burts Bee Skin, Bath, and Lip Care - Buy 2, get $3 UR

WALGREENS

RR = Register Rewards - Coupons that can be used on your next purchase.

-  Clairol Herbal Essences Body Wash - BOGO 50% Off

-  Old Spice Bar Soap & Body Wash - BOGO 50% Off

-  Eucerin Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Aveeno Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Gold Bond Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Olay Total Effects Moisturizer, Regenerist Skin Care, & Smooth Finish Facial Hair Remover - Buy 2, get 4,000 points added to your card

-  L'Oreal Skin Care - 20% Off

-  Gillette Venus & Fusion ProGlide Razor - Buy 1, get $2 RR

-  Gillette Fusion Shave Gel, ProGlide Refills, Venus Refills, Mach 3 Refills & Deodorant - Buy $30, get $10 RR

-  L'Oreal Cosmetics - Buy $20, get 5,000 points added to your card

-  Almay Face & Eye Cosmetics, and Makeup Remover - BOGO 50% Off

-  Maybelline Eye Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Revlon Face, Eye, and Nail Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Garnier Hair Care & Select Stylers - BOGO 50% Off

-  Emergen C Powder 10 or 30 Ct. - BOGO 50% Off

-  Garnier Olia Hair Color - Buy $15, get 3,000 points added to your card

-  Biotene Oral Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Nature Made Vitamins and Supplements - Buy 2, get 1,000 points

-  Centrum, Caltrate, and Icaps Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Citracal 60-200 ct. - Buy 2, get 2,000 points

-  One A Day Vitamins 30-200 ct - Buy 2, get 2,000 points

-  Natures Bounty Supplements - BOGO FREE

-  Osteo Bi Flex and Sundown Vitamins - BOGO for $3

*These are National deals and can vary from State to State.

Friday, January 17, 2014

Recipe Of The Week - French Dip

Ingredients:

-2 lb. Beef Top Roast, trimmed

-3 Cups Water

-1 Cup Light Soy Sauce

-1 tsp. Dried Rosemary

-1 tsp Dried Thyme

-1 tsp. Garlic Powder

-1 Bay Leaf

-3 Whole Peppercorns

Place roast in slow cooker.  Add water, soy sauce, and seasonings.
Cover.  Cook on high 5 - 6 hours.
Remove meat from broth.  Thinly slice or shred.  Keep warm.
Strain broth and skim off fat.  Pour broth into small cups for dipping.
Serve beef on rolls.

*Per Serving:  260 calories (60 calories from fat)  7g total fat  630mg sodium  20g total carbohydrates  1g sugar  26g protein


Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Quote Of The Week

There is no definition of beauty, but when you can see someone's spirit coming through, something unexplainable, that's beautiful to me. - Liv Tyler


Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Review - L'Oreal Voluminous Lash Out Butterfly Mascara


The Butterfly Mascara claims to stretch and extend your lashes like wings, extending the outer corners.  It comes in 3 colors....black, black brown, and blackest black.  It retails for around $8.99.


The mascara has a rubber wand, with a unique design.  You can see that the bristles start small and get bigger towards the bottom of the wand, which also flares out.  This is designed to give extra length at the end of the lash line.  



My lashes without any mascara.



After using the Butterfly Mascara.  I have 3 coats on the top lashes, and one coat on the bottom.  I had plenty of length and volume after 2 coats, but wanted to see if it would clump.  It did not.  The design of the wand really allows you to coat the hard to reach lashes at your inner corner, while the flare at the end does not get in your way or lead to messiness.  I used the back side of the wand on my lower lashes.  I did not curl my lashes, and this mascara did not weigh them down or flatten them out.  They kept their shape all day.  

I was very happy with the look this mascara gave.  I initially didn't expect too much (I don't buy into the hype), but I was pleasantly surprised.  I would definitely repurchase this, and I look forward to wearing it again.  The staying power is great as well.  I wore this on a typical day of cleaning, cooking, running errands, and working out.  It did not run or flake, yet it was easy to remove with my regular makeup cleanser.  I wore it for 12 hours, without any problems.  It looked the same all day.  If you are in the market for a new mascara, I would definitely recommend this one!  I have come to realize that L'Oreal consistently makes great mascaras.....definitely worth a try!

Monday, January 13, 2014

Sunday, January 12, 2014

Beauty Deals - 1/12/14 - 1/18/14 CVS, Rite-Aid, & Walgreens

CVS

RB = Reward Bucks - Coupons that can be used on your next purchase.

-  Alive Vitamins - 25% Off

-  Natures Bounty Optimal Solutions - BOGO FREE

-  Osteo Bi Flex - BOGO FREE

-  Ester C - BOGO FREE

-  Icaps - BOGO 50% Off

-  Vitafusion Mulitvites - BOGO 50% Off

-  One A Day Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Trubiotics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Citracal - BOGO 50% Off

-  Flintstones Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Centrum - BOGO 50% Off

-  Caltrate - BOGO 50% Off

-  Lumene Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Neutrogena Facial Care, Hair Care, Mens, Sun, Sunless, and Hand Cream - BOGO 50% Off

-  Olay Facial Cloths, Cleansers, Hydrating Lotion, Cream, Complete, Age Defying, Pro X Brush Heads, and Anti-Wrinkle - BOGO 50% Off

-  L'Oreal Skin Care - Spend $30, get $10 RB

-  ROC Facial Care - Buy 2, get $12 RB

-  Suave Body Lotion, Mens Shampoo + Conditioner, Keratin, Moroccan, Kids, and Stylers - Spend $12, get $4 RB

-  Physicians Formula - BOGO 50% Off

-  Revlon Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  L'Oreal Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Almay Cosmetics - -  Cover Girl Foundation, Powder, Blush, Concealer, and Eye - Spend $15, get $5 RB

-  Sally Hansen Cosmetics - Spend $10, get $3 RB

-  Maybelline Cosmetics - Spend $15, get $5 RB

-  L'Oreal Skin Care - Spend $30, get $10 RB

RITE-AID

UR = Up Rewards - Coupons that can be used on your next purchase.

-  Maybelline Face Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Cover Girl Eye, Lip, & Nail - BOGO 50% Off

-  NYC Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  L'Oreal Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Almay Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

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* These are National deals and can vary from State to State.





Saturday, January 11, 2014

Health Tip Of The Week - Portion Control

Over the past 50 years, portion sizes have doubled.  It started in our restaurants and worked it's way into our homes.  Our view of what is a "normal" or "average" portion size is very distorted.  Due to this, and other varying factors, our obesity rate in America has more than doubled since the 1970's.  


Above is a diagram of what your dinner plate should look like, when it comes to portions. One of our biggest problems is that we are usually putting way too many starches on our plate, and not nearly enough veggies.  Another trick I like to use at home, use a salad plate instead of a dinner plate.  The smaller size will automatically give you smaller portions.


Here is a guide for portions, when it comes to snacks.  This can help a lot, because like our meals, our snacks are also way too large.  

These portion sizes will probably look very small to you at first, but you will get used to them.  So next time you are preparing your meal, keep the diagram of the dinner plate in mind.  These little changes over time, lead to big results.  When dining out, ask for a take home container immediately and put half of your food in it.  You will find that at the end of the meal, you are comfortably full, and you really didn't need all of that food.  




Thursday, January 9, 2014

Review - December Ipsy Bag




1.  Pop Beauty Bright Up Your Life Eyeshadow Trio - Smokin Hot - This is the look I put together using all 3 of these shadows.  They are all shimmery.  I typically would not do that, but I wanted to use all the colors in the palette.  I liked these shadows.  They were nice, and blended well.  I liked this look.  Definitely more of a going out or holiday look.  I wore it on Christmas Eve.  They lasted a long time also.  Pop Beauty can be found at Ulta.


2.  Andrea Strip Lashes - 33 - I am wearing these lashes in the above picture.  They were very full, pretty, comfortable, and easy to apply.  I find these very similar to the Ardell brand that I typically wear.  I would definitely buy more of these.  You can purchase these at Walgreens and Ulta.

3.  Julie G Textured Nail Color - Sugar Plum Fairy -  If you like glitter polish, then you will definitely like this one!  I used it as my accent nail for this Nails Of The Week post.  Unlike some glitter polish, where the color is clear and all you see is glitter, this is a polish that has an opaque color with glitter.  It is very pretty.  The bottle says not to use a top coat over it.  I'm assuming it would take away all or most of the sparkle. It really does sparkle in the light.  Unlike most glitter polishes, this was quite easy to remove, but had great staying power.  Julie G is made by Jessie's Girl, and they can be found at Rite-Aid.  I would definitely buy more of these!



4.  Be A Bombshell The One Stick - Flustered - I was a little unsure about this product.  I usually am when it comes to duo purpose products.  I find that they are usually good at one thing, but not the other.  Not true in this case!  I don't use many cream blushes, and this color is pretty intense.  I dabbed small dots from the apples of my cheeks and along my cheekbones (lightly), and then blended it in with my Real Techniques Buffing Brush.  It came out looking so natural!  Like I had been outside in the cold, and my cheeks naturally became this color.  I also applied it to my lips.  It had great pigmentation, and the moisturizing feeling of a balm.  I work this on a day when I was running a bunch of errands around town.  I only wore this product, foundation, and concealer.  You could also wear this with a completely made up face.  Very comfortable and versatile.  The cheeks did not feel sticky or greasy at all.  I would purchase more of these.  You can purchase these at www.beabombshellcosmetics.com

5.  NYX Lip Smacking Fun Colors Lipstick - B52 - I am wearing this lipstick in the pic below.  This is not my first NYX lipstick, but it is the first of this kind.  NYX makes such great products, especially for the price!  They have drugstore prices, but most of their products have a higher than drugstore quality.  This is a great color that is neutral enough that it can be worn everyday, but it isn't so neural that it has no color.  It was very comfortable on the lips also.  If you want to see how I created the entire look below, Click Here!


I was very happy with this month's Ipsy Bag!  I loved the black bag also!  If you have been on the fence about this beauty subscription, what are you waiting for?!!  It's only $10 a month, no contract, cancel anytime.  You will receive 4 - 5 products a month, delivered right to your door!  You will also get discount codes for the makeup brands that Ipsy features that month. I look forward to mine every month, and my friends do too!  If you would like to sign up, go to http://www.ipsy.com/r/1iz6

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Recipe Of The Week - Crockpot Apple Crisp

I know that many people are on diet plans for the new year.  Many of you may be missing your sweets, so here is a lower calorie and lower fat crockpot dessert.  Put this on in the afternoon, and your after dinner dessert will be ready and waiting.

Ingredients:

6 cups cooking apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

1/2 cup dry quick oatmeal

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup flour (unbleached, whole wheat flour is best)

2 Tbsp. Butter

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Place apples in slow cooker, sprayed with nonfat cooking spray.  Combine remaining ingredients in a mixing bowl until crumbly.  Sprinkle mixture over apples.  Cover cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.

*Per Serving:  260 calories (40 from fat), 4.5g fat, 55mg sodium, 53g total carbohydrates, 3g protein


Tuesday, January 7, 2014

How To: Smokey Eye & Neutral Lip

I've been meaning to do a pictorial for awhile now.  Since it has been so cold, and my son and I are stuck in the house anyways, I thought this was the perfect time to get it done.  The way I did my eye makeup is the way I typically do it, I just always use different colors.  For me, this is an everyday look, though I know this may be dramatic for many of you.  I chose colors that I thought would be flattering on most everyone, and I also used all drugstore products.  I figured if you would like to recreate any part of the look, the products would be easy to find and budget friendly.  Typically, I do contour and highlight, using additionally products, but I wanted to make this look an easy everyday look, using as few products as possible and not making it too complicated.  I will do a separate contouring and highlighting pictorial at another time.





Here is everything I used:

- Rimmel Fix & Perfect Primer
-  Maybelline Fit Me Stick Foundation -230
-  Revlon Photo Ready Concealer - Light/Medium
-  Maybelline Dream Lumi - Nude
-  Cover Girl - Instant Cheekbones - Refined Rose
-  Maybelline Color Tattoo - Bad To The Bronze
-Physicians Formula Matte Eye Shadow Palette - Classic Nudes
-Rimmel Scandaleyes Eye Liner - Brown
Maybelline Define A Brow - Medium Brown
-  Cover Girl - Lash Blast Luxe
-  L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara - Black
-  Rimmel Exaggerate Lip Liner - Addiction 018
-  Wet N Wild Mega Last Lipstick - Bare It All



These are all of the Face & Eye Brushes that I used


Step 1 - After applying my moisturizer, Rimmel Fix & Perfect Primer, Maybelline Fit Me Foundation, and my Revlon Concealer, I was ready to start my eyes.  I applied the color tattoo as a base on my lids.  I did not use a brush, just my ring finger for application.  This keeps your shadow from creasing and deepens the color of the shadows a bit.


Physicians Formula Matte Eye Shadow Palette


Step 2 - I applied the second lightest color (color #2) on my lid, on top of the color tattoo.  I used my flat shadow brush from Coastal Scents to apply (it's the 5th brush).  Using a tapping motion for this.  Don't swipe across the lid.  


Step 3 - Using my Bare Minerals Crease Brush (brush #6), I applied the second darkest color (color #1) to my crease.  I used a wind shield wiper motion across the crease.  Then, I used my E.L.F. Blending Brush (brush #7) to blend out the top line of the crease color.


Step 4 - I used the darkest shadow (color #4) on my crease, in the outer corner only.  I used the E.L.F. Blending Brush (brush #7) for this application.  Then, I applied the lightest color (color #3) to the brow bone and inner corner.  I used the flat Coastal Scents Brush (bush #5).  


Step 5 - I applied brown liner to the top and bottom lashes.  I only went about two-thirds of the way in on both the top and bottom lash line.  


Step 6 - Next, I applied the darkest shadow (shadow #4) over the eyeliner, using my Sephora Pencil Brush (brush #8).  I smudged this shadow over the entire top and bottom lash line for a smokey affect.


Step 7 - I filled in my brows (HUGE DIFFERENCE), and applied mascara.  2 layers of the Cover Girl on top and bottom lashes, and 2 coats of the L'Oreal on the top lashes.  


Step 8 - I applied the Maybelline Dream Lumi under my eyes, in an upside down triangle.  I like to do this step after my eye makeup in case there is any fall out.  This cleans that up.


I use my Sigma F80 brush (brush #1) to stipple this into the skin.  You could also use your ring finger to tap it in.  Just don't swipe it across.  It can disrupt everything you applied before it.  I love the brightening affect.


Cover Girl Instant Cheekbones Blush

I have been using this Cover Girl Blush since high school.  I have talked about it before.  I think this is a great blush for everyday, when you don't want to spend a bunch of time contouring and highlighting.  Everything you need for the cheeks is in one palette.  Of course, I don't contour and highlight my entire face with this, just the cheeks.  



Step 9 - I applied the darkest color in the palette to the cheekbone, where I would normally contour.  To figure out where you should contour start on your cheek, where the top of your ear attaches.  Brush in a diagonal motion.  I like to use my Real Techniques Contour Brush (brush #4), but any small face brush could work.  


Step 10 - I used my Real Techniques Blush Brush (brush # 2) to apply the middle color in the palette.  I started by applying the blush at the back of the cheek and blending it towards the apple of the cheek.  


Step 11 - I used a smaller blush brush (brush #3) to highlight the tops of my cheekbones, using the lightest color in the palette.

And Last, but not least...Lips.


Step 12 - I lined my lips and applied my lipstick.  This is a beige nude color. 


Step by step, this is exactly how I created this look.  This is an everyday look for me, though I know it may be more dramatic and have more steps than you may want to do.  Scale it down and customize it to fit your taste and time availability.  This is just a guide.  No matter the colors that you choose, just follow the steps from the lightest to darkest, and how I applied them.  You will get the same look, just with different colors.  I hope this pictorial helps and answers some questions you may have.  If you have any questions, please message me or leave a comment below.  

-XOXO Monique