Saturday Link List #1

I'm starting a weekly Link List - here goes! (Let me know if you like these types of posts!)

1) This Sugar Free Orange Cake Bites recipe looks delicious. I'm a huge fan of cake pops, and these look just as good but without the caloric overload. Actually, this whole website is great if you're looking to get healthy; it's full of motivation and recipe ideas!
2) Super easy, super cute Knot Your Average Pony hairstyle. I want to wear it every day!

photo courtesy of The Beauty Department

3) StumbleUpon.com. I'm sure lots of you have already heard of this website, but just in case - it's great. Register with some interests - I have beauty and humor as a couple - and click "stumble" to be sent to a random site that you're interested in. I'm never bored anymore, and StumbleUpon is how I found the hairstyle above!
4) Sweaters from Urban Outfitters are to die for! Adorable. I really want one!

I love the color of this one - photo courtesy of Urban Outfitters

5.) Hulu. Okay, not a new one either, but it's a huge favorite of mine. All my favorite shows are there: The Office, Community, Parks and Recreation, Modern Family, New Girl, Up All Night, Biggest Loser... the list goes on!

This may be a little bit short, but with time my Link Lists will get better, I promise! Does any of you enjoy these websites too?
Love, Val

Grocery Haul?

Lately I've been on a health kick, so little things like going to the grocery store have become fun for me! Haha. I thought it would be fun to show what I got, giving you an idea of my meal plan.

If you have any questions about a particular food, go ahead and ask me in the comments! (I was too lazy to list every name.☺)
All for now! What do you get at the grocery store?
Love, Val

Health Kick!

  Hello dolls, well lately I've been on a health kick! As far as obsessions go, this is a good one. I've been trying to work out 3-5 times a week, avoid sugary/fatty foods, drink lots of water, and get good sleep. A bit of a wake-up call for me was when P.E. started in school and I felt weak after one lap around the track! Yikes! But after a month or so of my 'program,' I've been able to run 10 laps around the track (not consecutively, but in one workout). So here are some tips and tricks of mine!

• Drink lots of water. Not only does it keep your body going, but it fills you up, so you don't eat when you're actually thirsty. I aim for the recommended 8 glasses a day, and recommend you bring a water bottle with you everywhere!

• Eat small, balanced meals throughout the day. A good meal is high in protein (chicken, fish) and vegetables, but low in fats and carbohydrates (if you love breads, try whole wheat instead). Fiber and protein will keep you feeling full. Remember to take small bites, chew thoroughly, and drink water throughout to feel more full at the end!

• Get out there and exercise! It doesn't have to be running, but just make sure you're out there and moving. I like taking a walk or bike around the neighborhood, practicing volleyball in my backyard, swimming, jump rope, just whatever you like best! I try to exercise 3-5 times a week, an hour each time (outside of school). Stretch afterwards and hydrate!

• Treat yourself! Just because you're trying to be healthy doesn't mean you can't have dessert! Try a smoothie (plain yogurt, banana, frozen strawberries and blueberries mixed up in a blender is my favorite). They're sweet, delicious, and a great way to get that fruit in. Or, if you're craving ice cream, anything by Skinny Cow is low-fat and delicious!

Remember that I am not a nutritionist, these are just tips I've picked up that work for me! Good luck!

What do you do to stay in shape? Leave a comment!

Love, Val

P.S. I'm going to Sephora soon, any recommendations?!