Monday, June 30, 2014

Quote Of The Week

Think of all the beauty left around you, and still be happy. - Anne Frank


Thursday, June 12, 2014

Health Tip Of The Week - Nutritional Terms & What It All Means

There are so many health and nutritional terms that we hear on a regular basis, and honestly it is easily confusing.  I'm going to try my best to make it all a little easier to understand.  It is important to know where your food is coming from, how it is produced, and raised.  It is actually true....you are what you eat.  Whatever happens to that plant or animal, ultimately ends up in your body when you consume it.  Understanding what these terms mean, helps you to make more informed decisions about your health and body.

Processed Foods - Unless it came from the ground or plant, or has a mother, it is processed.  Processed foods are made in factories.  They are loaded with all types of artificial ingredients for flavor, texture, and a long shelf life.



Natural - Existing in nature, not man made.  This does not mean organic or that it isn't genetically modified in some way.  This does not mean that there is a reduction in calories.



GMO's - Genetically Modified Organisms.  An organism that has been genetically altered using engineering techniques.  Plants and animals are altered by scientists to insert or omit genes in their DNA.  Scientists developed techniques to create plants, animals, and bacteria that would never occur in nature.

Organic - Produce and other ingredients are grown without pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, GMO's, or ionizing radiation.  Animals that produce meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy are not given growth hormone or antibiotics.  This does not mean a reduction in calories.

Farm Raised - You will see this term used mostly with fish.  These fish are commercially raised in tanks, pens, and other enclosures.  They are fed corn meal, soy, genetically modified canola oil, and pellets of chicken feces.  They are also given antibiotics, growth hormone, and chemicals to increase their size at a faster rate.



Wild Caught - Wild fish mostly feeds on natural sources.  Wild fish have higher levels of Omega 3's, and they aren't crowded into disease infested pens.  They typically have less fat also.  One of the negatives of wild caught is that they may have higher counts of mercury.  Some fish naturally have more mercury than others.

Cage Free - You will see this term used with chicken and eggs. Eggs from birds that are not raised in cages.  They are kept in a floor system in a barn.  The hens have bedding materials, perches, and nesting boxes to lay their eggs.  Depending on the farm, they can still be in very close quarters, just not in cages.  These hens have less stress, which means they are less likely to be infected with diseases, such as salmonella.

Free Range - This term is also applied to chickens and eggs. Eggs that are laid by hens who can go outside.  They may travel in and out at free will or be let out for a portion of the day.  Free Range eggs also have less stress, higher level of vitamins, and less fat and cholesterol.



Grass Fed - Cows by nature are able to digest different types of grass that grow in their pastures.  These cows are most likely not given antibiotics and hormones, which makes them grow faster.  If a cow is not grass fed, it lives on a commercial feedlot, where it is given a diet of corn, grains, and animal by product.  They are typically given hormones and antibiotics, as well.  This type of production means bigger cows at a faster rate.  Farmers can quickly slaughter a full size cow.  Producing more product and at a faster rate means more money.



Sustainable - Renewing resources at a rate equal to or greater than it is being consumed.  Living within the resources of the planet, without damaging the environment.

Fat Free - I wanted to include this term, because over the years it has been very misunderstood.  Unless a food is naturally fat free, it is altered by man.  Typically when fat is taken out, sugar and/or sodium is added to keep the flavor as close as possible to a full fat product.  There may be a reduction in fat and/or calories in these processed foods, but they are in no way healthier.

No Sugar Added - This does not mean that this product has no sugar.  It means that during the process of making this processed food, additional sugar was not added.


Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Recipe Of The Week - Mexican Salad/Dip

This is a new recipe for me.  I changed the original recipe a bit (I usually do), to make it more to my taste.  You can customize this to fit your own taste, and preferences.


Ingredients
(use as many organic foods as possible)

- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained

-  1 can (15 oz.) sweet corn, drained

-  6 stalks of green onion, chopped (I used my ninja chopper)

-  2 jalapeños, chopped (ninja chopper)

-  2 Tablespoons garlic, minced

-  2 Roma Tomaoes, diced

-  1 teaspoon parsley, minced

-  2 Tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced (ninja chopper)

-  1 Avocado, diced

-  4 - 5 sweet small sweet peppers, chopped

-  1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

-  1/4 cup red wine vinegar

-  1 teaspoon cumin

-  1 teaspoon salt

Mix the first nine ingredients in a large mixing bowl.  In a small bowl, mix olive oil, red wine vinegar, cumin, and salt.  Pour dressing over salad.  Serve cold.

You can serve this as a salad side dish or as a dip eaten with organic blue chips.  This is very tasty and healthy.  I will definitely be making this again!

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Wet N Wild FOTD - Eyes, Cheeks, & Lips

While shopping at my local drugstore, I found 2 new Wet N Wild Products.  A new 8 pan eye shadow palette, and a bronzer/blush combo.


The eyeshadow palette is called Flirting At The After Party & the bronzer and blush is called Dusk Till Dawn.  I'm not positive, but I am thinking that these are going to be limited edition.  You should be able to find them at most of your local drugstores.  I found mine at Walgreens.  The palette was $4.99 and I believe the bronzer/blush was $2.99.




This is the look that I came up with.  I did no contouring, and didn't use any eye liner.  The only highlighting I did was with my under eye concealer.  It was a quick and easy look.  The lipstick color I used is Wet N Wild's Dollhouse Pink.  It is a very bold lip color, but I think it is great for the summer!


I love to show that you can get a great look with inexpensive drugstore makeup.  A few tips....use an eyeshadow primer.  I used Too Faced Shadow Insurance, but Milani has a great one, if you are looking for a drugstore alternative.  I do love the Maybelline Color Tattoos as a base, as well.  In a pinch, use a little bit of concealer.  Want to line your eyes, but don't have a purple eyeliner?  Use a smudge brush, and an eye shadow color from the palette to smudge along the lower and upper lash lines.  That's what I did!  Apply your mascara as close to the base as possible.  It will look like you lined your eyes also.  Need a lip liner, but don't have a color to match?  Use a small lip brush to line your lips with the lipstick you are using, then fill them in. 

As I've said before,  you don't have to spend a lot of money to achieve a great look.  My eyeshadows, bronzer/blush, and lipstick only totaled $10!  Experiment a little, try some new things, and have some fun playing dress up for the day.  That's what makeup is all about!!  

Monday, June 9, 2014

Nails Of The Week


Sinful Shine with Gel Tech - All The Rage & Revlon - Girly

I found the Sinful Shine at Walgreens.

Saturday, June 7, 2014

Recipe Of The Week - Taco Salad

I haven't made this in a long time, but I have been craving it again.  My family loved this dish last time I made it.  It is super easy, but doesn't keep as well, so only make what you can eat at one sitting.



Ingredients

-  1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef

-  3 cups shredded cheddar

-  1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, rinsed and drained

-  2 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped

-  1 large onion

-  half a head of iceberg lettuce & 1 bunch of romaine

-  1 pkg. (12 oz.) corn chips or organic blue chips

-  1 bottle light catalina dressing

In a large skillet, cook ground beef, drain.  Transfer to a large serving bowl.

Add the cheese, beans, tomatoes, onions, lettuce, blue chips/corn chips, and dressing.

*note - I do not use an entire bag of chips or entire bottle of dressing.  I use sparingly.  Make according to your own taste, and preference.  I love hot and spicy foods, so I also add some sriracha sauce to mine.

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Health Tip Of The Week - Keeping Your Heart Healthy - Diet, Exercise, & Supplements!

We all want to live a long and healthy life, but who wants to live to be 100 years old, if you are sick for the last 25 years, and not able to enjoy your life?  Unfortunately, many people aren't very concerned with their health or their heart, until there is a problem.  Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women!  So here are some tips that you can apply now, to help avoid future heart and health problems.

DIET

We all know that a healthy diet is important.  Most people focus on their diet from a weight loss perspective, but what should we be eating to keep our heart strong and healthy?  Most heart healthy foods you will find in your produce department.  Produce helps to eliminate free radicals in the bloodstream.  Foods rich with phytonutrients, help to eliminate and repair damaged cells also.  Here are some foods, that you should start incorporating into your diet for a healthier heart.

-  Blueberries

-  Carrots

-  Spinach

-  Broccoli

-  Sweet Potatoes

-  Red Bell Peppers

-  Asparagus

-  Apples

-  Avocados

-  Tomatoes

-  Acorn Squash

-  Cantaloupe

-  Papaya

-  Pomegranates

-  Bananas

-  Oatmeal

-  Salmon

-  Red Wine

-  Dark Chocolate

-  Brown Rice

-  Soy Milk

-  Tuna

-  Walnuts

-  Almonds

-  Ground Flaxseed

-  Black & Kidney Beans

-  Green Tea


EXERCISE

Experts recommend 150 minutes a week of moderate cardio exercise (walking) , or 75 minutes a week of vigorous (running) cardio exercise.  You can get your time in according to your schedule, it just needs to be done every week.  All it takes is 30 minutes of walking 5 times a week, and you are finished!  Very doable!  Excellent forms of cardio/aerobic exercise are

-  Walking
We were meant to walk, and it is super easy to do.  You don't need a gym or equipment.  All you need is a sidewalk, and some walking shoes.  Plug in your iPod, grab a friend or your dog, and make it a part of your routine!  Push yourself a little to make sure you reach a moderate intensity.

-  Running
Another great form of cardio exercise.  You will burn approximately 100 calories per mile.  Not everyone can run, due to injuries, but if you can, start out running one or two minutes for every five minutes of walking.  Gradually build your stamina.

-  Swimming
Swimming is a great total body exercise.  Not only will you increase your heart rate, but you will also tone and shape your muscle.  Swimming is a great alternative for people who have joint problems, that walking or running can aggravate.

-  Cycling
Another great alternative for those experiencing joint problems.  Cycling is a low impact cardio workout, that also strengthens lower body and core muscles.  Bike in the gym, on the road, or even to run errands in your town!

-  Interval/Circuit Training
Now, this is my favorite form of cardio exercise!  I find many aerobic exercises to be monotonous and boring, so I circuit train every week.  Circuits and intervals can be done in many ways.  1)  Walk for 3 minutes, run for 1.  2)  Walk for 3 minutes, then do a strength training exercise (such as push ups, squats, lunges, shoulder presses, etc.)  3)  Do a series of 8 - 10 weight training exercises (I like to alternate a lower body, then upper body exercise) back to back, with no rest, and then do 2 minutes of cardio.  The 3rd is the way I circuit train, and you will definitely be panting and sweating.  I usually run through my circuit 3 - 4 times.


SUPPLEMENTS

These are supplements that have shown to have positive affects on heart health.  Of course, always talk to your doctor before adding any vitamins or supplements to your diet.  Some can affect any prescriptions that you may be taking.

-  Fish Oil

-  Co Q10

-  Garlic

-  Niacin

-  Vitamin D

-  Magnesium

-  Reservatol

-  Asparin

Also, remember that smoking, stress, and anxiety are huge contributors to heart disease.  You only have one life and one heart, but many people who love and need you.  Take responsibility for your health now, and live the long, happy, healthy life that you and your family deserve!

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

My May Favorites!!


1.  Milani Matte Baked Blush - Delizioso Pink - I really LOVE Milani Blushes.  I think they are all beautiful, highly pigmented, buttery not powdery, and a great price for a higher quality drugstore product.  This matte collection is new.  They came out with 2 mattes.  All the other blushes, do have shimmer in them.  This matte color is of the same quality as the other baked blushes.  It did not disappoint, and was everything I thought it would be.  I also like the packaging of these blushes.  They are great for travel, because they have a mirror on the back side with is very convenient.  It also comes with a brush, but is too small for my taste.  It could be used in a pinch though!

2.  L'Oreal Butterfly Mascara - I did a review on this several months back.  I am still loving and using this one every single time I apply my makeup.  Good length and thickness.  I have to say I have never tried a bad L'Oreal mascara.  If you would like to read my full review, Click Here!

3.  L'Oreal Privee Collection Lipstick - J Lo Nude - This collection came out a couple months ago.  L'Oreal teamed up with some female celebrities to create that woman's idea of their perfect nude.  They also did the same for nail polishes.  I find myself wearing this nude a lot.  The formula is great like their other lipstick lines.  It is a nude that is more on the brown side, not pink or coral.  I usually pair this with a nude liner, and NYX Butter Gloss in Creme Brûlée, for a little extra shine.

4.  Maybelline Master Hi-Light Blush - Coral & Pink Rose - I am still loving these blushes, and grabbing them all the time.  Sometimes I wear them on their own, and sometimes I pair them with another blush.  I think they are a great two-in-one product.  The pink rose is the newest to my collection, and it is just as beautiful as the others I have.  To see my full review, Click Here!

5.  J Lo Glowing Perfume - I am a longtime fan of Jennifer Lopez's clothing line at Kohl's.  I have many of her pieces, but I had never tried her perfume.  I sampled Glowing from a display, and instantly fell in love with it!  I don't like anything too sweet or florally.  This is a perfect blend of musk and some sweet notes.  It isn't overpowering, and is a great summer scent for day or evening.  Plus, the bottle lights up when you spray it, which I have to say makes me smile!

6.  J Lo Jlove Perfume - I love glowing so much, that of course I had to go back and sample some other perfumes in her collection.  I found Jlove and really like it as well.  It is definitely a summer scent, but is much lighter than Glowing.  It has a little sweetness, but I smell fruity notes more than anything.  No musk in this one, which makes it a great daytime fragrance.  All of Jennifer's lines can be found at Kohl's.

7.  Jennifer Lopez Handbag - I know, I know.....another J Lo item!  Even though I have been buying her clothes since her line came out, this is my first handbag.  I have yet to try something from her that I don't like, so I keep going back for more!!  I really like the colors in this bag, because it goes with so much, but even more, I love the organization.  It has three compartments inside, plus a small zipper pocket and 2 cell phone size slide pockets.  On the outside is one zipper pocket on the back, plus two outside hidden pockets on the front.  I really need a lot of organization, because I do carry a lot of things, though I don't use a lot of it, I never want to be without something I need.  It makes me a bit crazy and panicked!  I got this as a gift for Mother's Day, though I have been eyeing her bags for the longest time.  My mom picked up a different bag, and she really likes hers as well.  I know I will purchase more in the future!
Click Here!



8.  L'Oreal Oleo Therapy Deep Recovery Mask (Sulfate-Free) - I really don't buy a lot of drugstore hair mask, but I like the L'Oreal styling products so much, that I thought I would give it a try.  I really like it, and use it twice a week in the shower.  After using my Wen Cleansing Conditioner, I apply and let set for 3 - 5 minutes, then rinse.  It leaves my hair soft, manageable, and smooth.  L'Oreal has several masks for different hair types and needs.

Well, that is what I loved and used the most during May.  I can't believe that it is June already!  I am currently testing out some new products, so be on the lookout for some new reviews.  Have you recently found a product that you are loving??  If so, please leave a comment below for all us beauty lovers!

                                                                                                 -XOXO Monique

Monday, June 2, 2014

Drugstore Beauty Deals - 6/01/14 - 6/07/14



CVS

RB = Reward Bucks

-  Osteo Bi-Flex - BOGO FREE

-  Sundown Naturals Vitamins - BOGO FREE

-  Nature Made Vitamins - BOGO FREE

-  Natures Bounty Vitamins - BOGO FREE

-  Ester C - BOGO FREE

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

-  Physicians Formula Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Revlon Cosmetics and Beauty Tools - BOGO 50% Off

-  Cover Girl Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Almay Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Neutrogena Cosmetics - Buy 2, get $6 RB

-  Clear Hair Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Dove Body Wash - BOGO 50% Off

-  Aveeno Facial Care - Hand/Body Lotion, Personal Cleansing, Sun Care, and Men's Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Suave Hair Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Axe Hair Care, Shower Gel, Body Spray, and Antipersperant/Deodorant - BOGO 50% Off

-  Tresemme Shampoo, Conditioner, and Stylers - BOGO 50% Off

-  Vaseline Lotion and Spray & Go - BOGO 50% Off

-  Caress Body Wash and 6 pack bars - BOGO 50% Off

-  Bic Disposable Razors - BOGO 50% Off

-  Gillette Body Wash and Clinical Deodorant - BOGO 50% Off

-  Secret Antipersperant/Deodorant - BOGO 50% Off

-  Old Spice Red Zone Deodorant - BOGO 50% Off

-  I caps - BOGO 50% Off

-  Centrum Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Dove Men+Care Body Wash - BOGO 50% Off

-  Dove Antipersperant/ Deodorant - BOGO 50% Off

-  Degree Antipersperant/Deodorant - BOGO 50% Off

-  Olay Regenerist and Total Effects Tone - $3 RB

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

-  Sally Hansen Cosmetics - Spend $12, get $5 RB

Rite-Aid 

UR = Up Rewards

-  Physicians Formula Bronzers, Foundations, and Powders - BOGO FREE

-  Nature Made Vitamins & Supplements - BOGO FREE

-  Almay Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Cover Girl Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Revlon Cosmetics & Beauty Tools - BOGO 50% Off

-  Maybelline Eye Shadows & Liners - BOGO 50% Off

-  Neutrogena Lip & Eye Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  John Frieda Shampoo, Conditioners, Stylers & Treatments - BOGO 50% Off

-  Eucerin Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  One A Day Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Flintstone Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Trubiotics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Citracal - BOGO 50% Off

-  Olay Skin & Bath Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Secret Deodorant - BOGO 50% Off

-  Gillette Deodorant - BOGO 50% Off

-  Old Spice Deodorant - BOGO 50% Off

-  Colgate Total Advanced, Total, Optic White, Dual Action, Sensitive, and CPR - $1 UR

-  Gillette Venus Razor - $2 UR

-  Dove Men's Deodorant - Buy 2, get $2 UR

-  Degree Men's Deodorant - Buy 2, get $2 UR

-  Degree Men's Body Wash - Buy 2, get $2 UR

-  Dove Shave Gel - Buy 2, get $2 UR

-  Bic Flex Razors, Hybrid, and Soleil - $1 UR

-  Natures Bounty Supplements - Spend $30, get $10 UR

-  Suave Hair Care, Skin Care, Body Wash, and Deodorant - Spend $6, get $2 UR

-  Tressemme Shampoo, Conditioner, and Stylers - $3 UR

-  Crest 3D White and Pro Health Oral Care Products - Spend $10, get $5 UR

-  Sally Hansen Triple Shine Nail Enamel - Buy 2, get $5 UR

-  Axe Body Spray - Buy 2, get $2 UR

-  Flexamin Supplements - Spend $30, get $10 UR

-  Gillette Styler, ProGlide, Fusion, Mach3, and Venus Cartridge Refill - Spend $25, get $5 UR

-  Crest 3D White Whitestrips - $15 UR

-  Irish Spring Gear Body Wash and Bar Soap - Buy 2, get $2 UR

-  Speed Stick Deodorant and Body Wash - Buy 2, get $2 UR

-  Dove Mens Shampoo & Conditioner - Buy 2, get $2 UR

-  L'Oreal Cosmetics - 40% Off

-  Gold Bond Skin & Bath Care - 25% Off

-  Aveeno Skin & Bath Products - 25% Off

WALGREENS

RR = Register Rewards

-  Instyle Impressions of Designer Fragrance - BOGO FREE

-  Nivea Body Wash & Scrub - BOGO FREE

-  Nature Made Vitamins - BOGO FREE

-  Osteo Bi Flex Supplements - BOGO FREE

-  Natures Bounty Vitamins BOGO FREE

-  Neutrogena Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Aveeno Baby, Skin, Bath & Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Emergen C Powder - BOGO 50% Off

-  One A Day Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Flintstones Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  L'Oreal Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Revlon Cosmetics & Beauty Tools - BOGO 50% Off

-  Neutrogena Sun & Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Axe Products - BOGO 50% Off

-  Dove Personal Care Products - BOGO 50% Off

-  Suave Products - BOGO 50% Off

-  Vaseline Products - BOGO 50% Off

-  Gillette Disposable Razors - BOGO 50% Off

-  Gold Bond Skin, Baby, and Foot Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Colgate Mouthwash & Toothpaste - Buy 1, get $1.50 RR

-  Crest 3D Mouth Rinse - Buy $10, get 5000 pts added to your card.

-  Bic Disposable Razors & Hybrid Advance System - Buy 1, get $1 RR

-  L'Oreal Preference Hair Care & Healthy Look Hair Care - Buy 2, get 3000 pts added to your card

-  Crest 3D White & Toothpaste - Buy $10, get 5000 pts added to your card

-  Garnier Hair Care, Stylers, & Treatments - Buy $15, get 3000 pts added to your card

-  Scunci Hair Accessories - Buy 1, get $2 RR






Sunday, June 1, 2014