The Manicured Monkey: Giveaway: Ends 10/16, Opened Internationally

The Manicured Monkey: Giveaway: Ends 10/16, Opened Internationally: Hey everyone! Today's post is as promised the next giveaway for TMM. I'm changing it up a bit, this giveaway includes some hot polishes righ...

Lawry's Southwest Chicken Skillet-BuzzAgent Review

I received this packet of Lawry's spices & seasoning mix along with two other ones and a full size bottle of seasoned salt, from BzzAgent. These were given to me to use in my cooking routine and to give my honest opinion on them.
I already have tried the Taco Seasoning mix, which I loved. The one that I used today was my first time ever using this seasoning mix.  The name of the mix was Southwest Chicken Skillet. The ingredients that were needed was chicken, black beans, corn, rice, diced tomatoes, water and cheese.
I like dishes like these because everything can be done in one skillet. That means less dishes to wash and a cleaner stove top. I was actually dreading to make this meal because I thought it was going to take a long time to cook. I was so wrong! The meal was complete in less that 30 minutes.
After completely cooking it and allowing the cheese to melt, I gave it a quick taste. It was very good. I was a little weary about giving it to my 4 year old because it was a little spicy. Apparently not to spicy for him though. He finished the whole plate. My husband had 3 servings (he missed lunch) and loved it. I really liked the taste too.
I will definitely buy this seasoning mix next time we go grocery shopping. I recommend Lawry's Southwest Chicken Skillet seasoning mix to anyone who has trouble making meals (like me) or anyone who just likes to eat!!
Thanks for stopping by.
Visit www.bzzagent.com for more information
I am a BzzAgent and I received these products to review and spread word of mouth.

Recycled Birchbox

Every Birchbox comes with a sheet of tissue paper.

ModPodged tissue paper

Finished box to put birthday gift

Cost=nothing

Last month was Green Month. BirchBox was asking to post photos of upcycled Birchboxes. I am a little to late but thought I would post this anyway. My moms birthday is right around the corner. Sometimes finding just the right bag and tissue paper can be a little expensive. There's usually never any coupons for that kind of stuff. I knew I had some zebra print duct tape somewhere hidden in my car. I think it was left over from Vacation Bible School projects. I opened up the trunk and found it under a blanket. I grabbed my empty Birchbox and began to cover the sides and top with the tape. I did not like the way the inside looked, so I decided to modpodge the insides with the tissue paper that every Birchbox comes with. I also modpodged the outsides of the box to give the box a gloss finish and to prevent the tape from coming undone. After letting the mod podge dry all night, I filled the box with my moms gifts and used a sheer purple ribbon to finish off the look.
I really like this because she can reuse this box to put whatever she wants in it. This duct tape can be found at Hobby Lobby, Michael's or Walmart. I hope you enjoy and recycle your box too.
xoxo
Christina

Derm E

 www.dermae.net

This is another product that I received in my Influenster VoxBox. I received the DermaE  Very Clear Cleansing Scrub exfoliant. It is suppose to help remove impurities and prevent breakouts. The tube is 4oz.
After using it a few times, I really did not want to use it anymore. The smell is really strong for my liking. I prefer a ,more subtle scent. This has a really strong scent of tea tree, willow bark,rosewood,lavender and chamomile.
My husband has a few skin problems. We are always on the look out for something that will help him. I told him to give this a try. I could not believe how soft the area around his nose felt. I was shocked. So was he. His face looks and feels so much better.
This scrub is not really grainy like the scrub that I prefer to use. You also do not need to use alot unlike the one I use. A small amount works really well. The directions also say you can use it wet or dry. I always used it wet and so does my husband. Then you massage gently and rinse. I am sure my husband will continue to use this and I will make sure to buy it for him once he runs out.
This product is not tested on animals, its paraben-free and eco-friendly. Make sure to visit their website for more information on their skin care line.

Juice Beauty Review



http://www.juicebeauty.com



Top swatch-one swipe
second swatch-3 swipes

Organic Fig

Packaged in this box .14 oz

This is one of my favorite products that I received in my Influenster VoxBox. This Conditioning Lip Color is by Juice Beauty. The color is Organic Fig. I think this color is great for fall. It's a really nice soft berry brown color. You can easily build up the color if you want. I like to use it when I am in a hurry to run quick errands which is almost everyday.  It moisturizes my lips and gives them just the right amount of color. This is also made with Certified Organic ingredients, which is an extra bonus. If you are interested in buying this product feel free to visit there website. I put the link above. Don't forget to visit Influenster for more information on VoxBox program. Here is their link http://www.influenster.com/influenster-overview
As always, thanks for stopping by.
xoxo
Christina

The Natural Dentist Rinse

The Natural Dentist Rinse

Probar HALO™ Bar

Probar HALO™ Bar

Saving Money Using Coupons

Walgreens-$6.66 total



Walmart-$6.09




CVS $14.92

 This is my weekly haul for September 25,2011. My total out of pocket was $27.67. I really like to set my budget for no more than $20.00. As you can see, I was $7.67 over. I really wanted to use two coupons that were about to expire and I knew Walmart would have the items lower than CVS and Walgreens. Over all, I feel good about this weeks purchases. Along with the items, I was able to get my mom a small birthday gift. I am pretty sure she will enjoy the Sally Hansen Salon Effects Nail Strips. I know I would.

Color Club Back to Boho Collection B

Once again, I found this collection at Ross.  The price was $7.99. Every color is so beautiful, but I like Collect A the most. I could not get a decent enough picture of the polishes. So the colors you see look a whole lot better in person. They actually had quite a few in stock. I asked an associate when their new merchandise was restocked and they tole me on Wednesday. It may be different in your area, but if you are looking for this collection maybe you can find it there. I looked on line at cosmeticgroup.com and they sold this for $48.00. The only difference that I did notice is that the one I bought at Ross did not come with the 0-60 clear top coat. The one I bought at Ross just came with a regular top coat. I have a few fast dry top coats that it really did not bother me at all.

Color Club-Back To Boho Collection A

This is my YouTube video of the collection that I bought at Ross. I lost/deleted the pictures.

I went to my local Ross for a quick peek of what they had. I came across this Color Club Collection but decided to not get it. I placed it back on the shelf and continued walking around for a while. After not finding anything else interesting, I decided to go ahead and buy the polish. There were 2 so I grabbed one. I payed and put the buggy away. As I grabbed the bag from the buggy the polishes fell straight through the bag!!! The polishes broke!!! There was a big hole on the bottom of the bag and neither the clerk nor I noticed it. Thank goodness there was one left. I let the clerk know that there was one left and I was going to get so there was no need for a refund!
As you can see in the pictures the colors are so creamy and true to the bottle color. There is no smudgyness. The colors are beautiful. I have the nude color on right now and I am in love with it. No doubt my favorite collection so far.!!

Look What $8.09 Can Buy You!!

This weekend coupons did not contain anything that I thought was of good value.There were 3 inserts but nothing really caught my eye. I was hoping to see more Air Wick coupons but they did not have anything. The only coupon I used for this weeks coupons was for the $1.00 off for the Aqua Fresh tooth paste. I used coupons that I  had from previous weeks for the items I purchased today.

These are all the coupons I used for my purchases

The first place I went was Walgreen's. Here is the list and  items of what I purchased:
Orbit gum $.79 each
Sin Full Nail Polish $.99 each
Pure Silk Shaving Cream $.19 each
Aquafresh Toothpaste $.99
Tampons $ 1.99
TOTAL-$7.60 rec'd $1.00 Register Rewards
SAVED-$20.00


At CVS, I did not buy much at all. I only bought a tooth paste.
Colgate Optic White Toothpaste $.49
TOTAL-$.49 rec'd $1.50 Extra Care Bucks
SAVED-$4.20

My total out of pocket was $8.09. At Walgreen's, I was charged double for the Tampons and I did not realize until I was already home. Thankfully we went to visit my mother in law and Walgreen's was right around the corner from her house. I was refunded my money without question.
I hope you get a chance to visit my YouTube channel-awifespeaks for coupon how to's.
Thanks for stopping by my blog.
xoxo
Christina

My First VoxBox from INFLUENSTER!!

ProBar-HALO Snack Bar

WEN by Chaz Dean Sweet Almond Mint Conditioner

The Natural Dentist-Pleasant-tasting Healthy Gums Anti gingivitis Rinse

Food Should Taste Good-All Natural Tortilla Chips

Derma E-Very Clear Cleansing Scrub

Avalon Organics-Nourishing Cherry Aloe Lip Balm-LOVE THIS!!!!

Juice Beauty-Conditioning Lip Color-Organic Fig

Jason Natural-Pure Natural Soothing Aloe Vera Hand Soap

This is my very first VoxBox from Influenster. Here is a quick rundown of what a VoxBox is-VoxBoxes are themed packages of products mailed directly to qualified member's homes. Boxes include a variety of products from top beauty, health, grooming, snack, beverage and lifestyle brands. Who gets a VoxBox? Influensters are selected for themed shipments based on the types and levels of badges they have unlocked, ensuring members receive products that match their lifestyles and interests. Members with high Influenster rankings are prioritized, so make sure to unlock as many Influence and Activity Badges as you can. Once you qualify for a VoxBox you will be notified. I was notified by email. When you receive a VoxBox make sure to log in to your account and check off that you received your VoxBox. Evaluate the products given and give honest feedback. If you liked a certain brand make sure to let all your friends and family know. Feel free to tweet or facebook about it too.

The first thing that I tried out was the ProBar HALO Nutty Marshmallow bar. I loved it. I usually like soft and chewy bars and this fits right into that category. The nutty flavor and marshmallow combo was so yummy. This is a certified organic bar, low in sugar and only 150 calories.
I can not wait to try the other products especially the WEN Conditioner.

For much more information and to register with Influenster visit their website:
http://www.influenster.com/

My Purse

Before I had my son, I never was overly cautious. Now a days, that's all that I am. I always peek outside my doors peephole before I leave the house. As soon as I get in the car, I lock the doors even though they lock automatically once I hit a certain speed. I am sure there are many others but I don't want to freak y'all out.
Long gone are the days when I flashed a nice handbag that I carried over my shoulder. Now I use cross body purses. I just feel safer that way. Today I bought this bag from JC Penny. Its by Relic and I can use it as an over the shoulder bag or cross body. It has a big center opening with a slot for my phone.It's big enough to carry a bottle of water. I especially like that it has a zipper closer. It has a big slot in the back. It also has three zippered compartments to store my camera,bloggie,taser and notebook.
This bag here will be my mommy mode bag. I'll use my other black studded bag when my husband is with me. This bag may not be the most fancy or beautiful bag ever but it sure fits my needs.
Thanks for stopping by:)
xoxo
Christina 

Lacquered Lover: LACQUERED LOVER HALLOWEEN GIVEAWAY!!!

Lacquered Lover: LACQUERED LOVER HALLOWEEN GIVEAWAY!!!: Good afternoon my fellow Lacquered Lovers! I've got a treat for you today! I was going to wait until 500 followers to do another giveaway bu...

Monster Nails

Finger Paints-Groovy Green

Black Shatter-before clean up

Monster Nails!

I am not a big fan of energy drinks. I will take a couple of sips but will not drink the whole can. I can always tell when Frank drinks one because his burps always smell fruity.

Last night I chose to color my nails this nice green color by Finger Paints called Groovy Green. I applied a clear 3mm rhinestone and surrounded it with black1.5mm rhinestones on the ring fingers. I really like the way it looked. I was going to stamp  a black design on it but did not like the way it came out. So I took it off and the nails were left a little stained. I did not have time to repaint them so I grabbed my black Shatter polish by OPI ( yes they sent me a new one!!) and applied it on all my nails.

After looking at them, I realized they looked like a can of Monster Energy Drink. I don't like the drink but I sure love the way my nails look.

Thanks for stopping by.

xoxo

Christina

If Only This Was a Lipgloss!!

I have never been a big fan of anything pink. When I was younger, I shared a room with my sister and since she was the oldest she choose pink for our bedroom walls. I could not stand it. I also had a pink blanket, but I actually love that blanket. It was so cozy. My grandma would tell my mom to take it away from me because I was too skinny! Kind of weird right, she would say the pink blanket kept me skinny. Must have been an old wives tale. Finally when I turned 18 and moved to my brothers old room and painted it purple, I finally started developing. The pink blanket was no longer with me. So maybe there was some truth to it.

Any ways, this is my latest manicure. The color is by Sinful Nail Polish and it is called Forget Now. It is such an amazing color. I wouldn't say its pink its more of a fuchsia color with shimmery pink sparkles. I love it!! I think I even remember back in my single days owning a lip gloss  this same color. It was so pretty and glossy and shimmery. I loved it. I think it was by Maybelline or Covergirl. I'm going to keep my eye open to find a gloss that matches this. If you see this polish, I recommend picking it up. I don't think you will regret it. I really did not think I was going to like it this much. I'm glad I picked it up! Thanks for visiting me today.

xoxo

Christina

Good Night

As you can see there are no pictures today on my blog. I seem to have missed place my memory card. Alex and I had a great day. He has been excited all week to go see SpyKids2 3D. I hate to admit, but I was a little excited as well, because of the scratch and sniff cards that were going to added to the movie. I  am not a fan of Jessica Alba or Jeremy Piven. The movie was OK but as long as Alex enjoyed it that was good for me. Before the movie we shared some orange chicken and fried rice. I think that's his new favorite. We had alot of time to kill before the movie started so after lunch we went upstairs and he played in the playground. Afterwards, we took a ride on the carousal.

When we got home he took a little power nap and I was able to catch up on some YouTube videos. Later in the evening I painted my nails with the last two polishes that I had bought from Sinful Colors. I will post pictures as soon as I find my card. Well you read this post, thank you and Goodnight!!! Sweet Dreams!!

TGIF!!!

So today is Friday!! YAY!! Well surprisingly my manicure actually lasted even after I cleaned my house. I know house cleaning can be a drag but honestly I thank God that I actually have a house that is mine to clean. I feel very fortunate for that. I changed my routine of cleaning my house. I usually do it on Mondays but decided to start cleaning it on Fridays, since I do not have much to do. This morning started off great. Frank and I had a chance to work out together. It was alot of fun. We did a Body Pumping class together. I thought I was going to pass out. But I tell myself  " I can do all thing through Christ who strengthens me". I actually say that with all of my challenges whether its cooking or driving and everything in between.  Today I had a chance to make it to Walgreen's. I bought 4 Sinful Nail Polishes since they were on sale for .99cents. The peachy pink one is called Hazard and it applies very good. I thought it was going to look streaky but it was not. My only advise would be to let coats dry for at least 5 minutes before applying the second coat. I was in a rush so I did not wait and the color looked a little funky/wrinkly. For the middle and thumb nails I used a purple color called Amethyst. This color is so pretty. I was going to sponge the tips this purple shade but it didn't look to good. To save time, I just painted them over the Hazard polish. Please excuse the messiness. After completing my manicure, I decided that it looked a little to much like Halloween colors. I grabbed Konad plate 77 and used Konad special polish in yellow to stamp a flower on the purple nails. I decided to leave the other nails as they were. I applied to clear rhinestones to the flowers and called it a day. Tomorrow, God willing, I will use the other two nail colors that I bought. I hope you have a blessed and fun filled weekend!!

                                                                       xoxo
                                                                     Christina

Peacock Wanna-Be

 I was really hoping that the look above would have resembled a peacock. I used Tres Risk in the Dark Green for the base color. After it dried completely i used BM plate in 212. I used China Glaze in Cherish to apply the stamp. This is one of my most favorite polishes to stamp with when I am using green as a base color. I used China Glaze in ??? I forgot the name of it to apply purple dots in the little circle inside the bigger circles. It did resemble a peacock if you happen to have forget your glasses or contact lenses and you were looking at it from far away.LOL.

This is what I painted my nails with tonight. I used Nail Tek Intensive care for soft and peeling nail. I love this stuff. I bought it a while ago at Ross. It came with a quick dry polish as well,but I did not like it so much. It did not dry quick enough for me. I was having alot of problems with my nails peeling so I started using this as my base coat and it has helped tremendously. I have also started taking vitamins as well so that can also be what has been helping. I then applied  two coats of Orly Velvet Rope. It's an okay color not one of my favorites but i just had to pick something out quickly.To finish, I used Diamond Dry. This was a free gift from Sally's Beauty Supply. I really can not recommend this because it seems to make your nail polish peel off quickly. I used it anyways because tomorrow I have to clean my house and I don't intend to keep this color on any longer than tomorrow. I hope!

On another note....if you are reading this post, I hope you get a chance to visit my new vlog channel on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/awifespeaks

I just want to share more of my daily life. As always, Thank you so much for reading my blog or watching my videos.

                                                                      Lots of xoxox

                                                                    Christina M