Breakfast:

I pretty much have the same thing for breakfast everyday, but I love it! I make my porridge with just oats, cinnamon, chia seeds and coconut milk (I usually have almond milk but this was on special at the supermarket). On top I have banana, blueberries (frozen, heated up) and since strawberries are coming in season I've been having them most mornings too. And of course I have my morning coffee to go with it.

Post-gym:

I always have a protein shake after my workout at the gym, which I normally finish around 11am. If you saw on twitter you'll know that my legs were absolutely killed this week when my personal trainer gave me a new workout. This is where protein is a godsend for building my muscle back. I'm also a vegetarian so I need all the help I can get to make sure I'm fit and healthy. It's also chocolate flavored so it just feels like I'm treating myself! I usually make it with calcium enriched milk, but today I just had to use trim. I also had a glass of water today since I was feeling a little dehydrated.

Lunch:

Another salad bowl for me today! I usually just wing-it and use whatever I can find in out fridge/freezer. Today I had corn, raw zucchini, salad leaves, hummus, bean sprouts, and I cooked two vegetarian sausages for some bonus protein. For a dressing I just used some lemon juice and little bit sesame oil. Yum!

Coffee time while I get my work done!

Snack:

Around 2pm I always make myself a smoothie. Let me tell you, buying a Nutri-Bullet was well worth it! It's pretty much my way of packing as many super-foods into my diet as I can. I use pretty much the same recipe most days, but oh how I wish mangoes were still in season! I know it seems weird to use protein powder again, but this only has 10g per serve and I love how it thickens up the mix. Today I used:

 Half an orange

 A stick of celery

1/3 cup cucumber

1/2 cup of frozen berries

1 tsp LSA

1 tsp Maca Powder

2 scoops protein powder (berry flavor)

1/2 cup coconut water

A little coconut milk

A little pineapple juice

Another coffee while I take a break from my work and do some reading. Coffee breaks are always necessary. Always. Especially with a book in hand!

Afternoon Snack: 

Around 4pm I usually have something small to eat. Today I just had one of my all time favorites, Vegemite and cheese on crackers. I think I'm one of the minority who prefers Vegemite to Marmite...we just never had Marmite in the house growing up! Oh and I had another glass of water.

I had someone helping me prepare this one.

Dinner:

So tonight I made pizza for dinner, but I made a carrot and zucchini base for it. It's super easy! Just blend it up, add 2 eggs, some spices and Parmesan cheese. Flatten them on a tray and bake for 15min, then put your toppings on and bake. I think a cauliflower base is nicer but this was good too. For the toppings I just put some roast vegetables, pesto, peppers, corn and mozzarella cheese. Yum!

To go with it, I had some home-made iced green tea. I just put the tea bag and some lemon in a jar with hot water and left it in the fridge for a few hours. I only made this one at lunch time so I could have left it for longer, but it was still quite refreshing.

Supper:

I was feeling a bit peckish around 8.30pm so I thought I would make something quick. It was just a piece of wholemeal toast and some peanut butter. I sometimes have Greek yogurt and fruit as a dessert, but I wanted something a little heavier to fill me up. That will teach me for avoiding carbs all day!
Ok, so after this I was still a bit hungry, and since my legs are still so painful after my new workout the other day I was feeling sorry for myself, so I had some mint chocolate ice-cream. Oh well!

 How did you like my first What I Ate Wednesday? 

Slightly controversial question: Do you prefer Vegemite or Marmite?

Let me know in the comments!

Pretty Please x. 

Bloglovin' - MarvelSteph

Twitter - @MarvelSteph91

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10 Things II Week 5

Hello Everyone! How has your week been? I felt quite unmotivated blog-wise this week, probably just need some new topics to write about. Nevertheless, it was still a great week. Here are my top ten things that made me happy:

1. Rosehip Oil - My latest skin savior! After watching the lovely Shaanxo on YouTube I decided it was time to add this to my skin care routine. From day one my redness from acne scars were almost gone and my skin was so much smoother. I will swear by this stuff now.

2. Sacconejoly's Jelly Bean Challenge Video - This actually had me in tears! Mainly because Anna was laughing so hard. It's an older video but it seriously cheered me up. Poor Jonathan...

3. Colorful Salad Bowls - I've been on something of a health-kick lately since I'm also working really hard on my fitness. I know salads aren't always fun to eat, but I do love my veges! Who doesn't want to eat something that looks like a rainbow? Plus, they're super filling!

4. Hey Everybody! - I'm loving the new 5 Seconds of Summer song, which will probably become my summer anthem. I've actually been listening to this a lot at the gym since it's so fun.

5. #BOSSBABE Quotes - I went on a bit of a pinning frenzy this week after finding this tag on Pinterest, since it had some of the most bad-ass advice ever. Turns out it's an incredible community for young creative women to connect and grow their businesses! Check out the website here.

6. The Amazing Book is Not on Fire - Dan and Phil were the ones who started me on my YouTube odyssey, so of course I was going to buy their book! It's actually really cool and I'm loving learning about all the behind-the-scenes stuff. I think my favorite pages so far are the fan-fictions Dan and Phil wrote. Absolutely hilarious!

7. Inecto Pure Coconut Scrub - You know when a smell takes you back to a nice memory? As soon as I put this on in the shower it took me straight back to the beaches of Hawaii. It also made my skin super soft and lovely!  

8. Another Sneaky 1D Realease - I knew One Direction were releasing "Perfect" sometime this week, so it was a nice Friday-night surprise to find it already on my playlist. I'm in love already. Is it November 13th yet?

9. New Cookbook - So my local bookshop was having a sale, and I actually bought this for my Mum for us to share. It's so much more than a normal cookbook; the lovely Lola has written bonus pages about health and wellness topics such as cravings, exercise and even mental health. If you're looking to improve your lifestyle, I would definitely recommend you pick this up. Also, all of the recipes are gluten-free and sugar free! Check out her website here.

10. Fitness Level Up - I think I progressed to a new gym-junkie stage this week. I went to the gym 5 days in a row, and on two of those days I left the gym to go for an 8km run with my Mum. I think I just wanted to see if I could do it, which I could. Also it's nice to overcome a challenge!

What was something that made you happy this week? Let me know in the comments!

Don't forget to always enjoy the little things

Until next time x. 

Bloglovin' - MarvelSteph

Twitter - @MarvelSteph91

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Affordable ASOS Picks to Update Your Look!

Hello Everybody!

Updating my look has been something that I have been meaning to do for a while now, especially since it's a new season. I also love online shopping (who doesn't?) since I struggle to find clothes that I like in the limited stores we have here in New Zealand. As well as being on a budget (I've got an exciting trip to LA/Seattle/Hawaii next year!), I needed to find some staple items that I could mix and match as I please. I went on ASOS with a mission to find items under $50 that would help me update my wardrobe. Here are my favorite picks:

ASOS Asymmetric Bodycon Dress NZD $48.24

ASOS Cold Shoulder Cami Top NZD $39.47

Boohoo Floral Embroidered Playsuit NZD $43.86

ASOS Maple Pointed Cut Out Lace Up Shoes NZD$39.47

New Look 3D Flower Box Bag NZD $43.83

 

ASOS Cami Top with Scallop Neckline NZD $30.70

 ASOS Crop Top in Turtle Neck NZD $30.70

ASOS LYRIC Lace Up Ballet Flats NZD $39.47

 ASOS Sleeveless Swing Dress NZD $43.86

ASOS Stone Multirow Necklace NZD $17.54

Oasis Ombre Shimmer Flower Stud Earrings  NZD $21.93

ASOS Vintage Spinning Long Necklace NZD $13.16

Reclaimed Vintage Feather Print Watch NZD $43.86

Where are your favorite places to shop? 

'til next time x. 

Bloglovin' - MarvelSteph

Twitter - @MarvelSteph91

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Gym Tips for Beginners- Ways to make it easy!

Hello Everyone! 

It might sound weird, but I absolutely love running and I am completely addicted to going to the gym. I haven't always been an active person and it's taken a while for me to find a routine that actually works. I started running over a year ago with my Mum and that pretty much kicked off my fitness journey. When my work hours got changed and it was too dark to run by myself, I made the best decision ever to join a gym. I started out as a rookie, but I've since been able to learn a lot of tricks for both getting to the gym and making it a fun experience. 

I thought I would share everything that I have picked up along the way and show you ways to make starting out easier!

What's in my gym bag:

• Drink Bottle
• Small towel
• Lip Gloss
• Makeup wipes
• Phone + headphones

(I should point out that my gym is only a 5-10 minute drive from my house so I don't bother showering there).

My number one tip: Get a personal trainer!

This is the best thing I could have for my fitness. It was very daunting the first time I entered the gym, saw all of the machines and what looked like gymnastics equipment, and knew that I had no idea what I was doing. A trainer will give you a workout based on what results you want, your own fitness level, and can show you how to use all the cool stuff!

I had a session the other day with my trainer and I just said "Give me something fun to do." Now he has me doing push-ups while I'm attached to resistance bands, which is like being in a bungee cord. The point is, he gives me stuff I look forward to coming in and doing. He's a pretty cool guy too, so it's like working out with a friend! Best money I could ever spend.

Plan days of the week you want to go, then don't think about it!

This is a big one for me. If I start thinking about going to work out, I will ALWAYS find an excuse not to go. Always. You have to push those thoughts away and just get in the car and go! Never start talking yourself out of it. Just remember that you'll never regret going, but you will if you don't.

Start slow!

Fitness takes it's sweet time to build up, so be patient, be persistent, and keep working hard. I promise you, it will all pay off in time. I've known so many people who rush into it, get hurt and then give up because of it. Last year it took me months and months to be able to run 5km, And you know what? I ran a half marathon this year (22km) so I am living proof of hard work paying off. This is also where a personal trainer comes in handy!

Fuel Yourself

This is super important to maintaining your fitness. A car can't go far with a low tank of petrol, right? Same principle. Make sure you have a good breakfast and then refuel afterwards with a high-protein snack. I have a chocolate protein shake after each workout, or run, to build my muscle back. It's pretty much me rewarding myself with a milkshake! Protein is actually great for weight-loss, so it's a win-win! I also try to keep to "Clean Eating" by cutting out processed foods. I still allow myself a whole damn pizza every now and again, but fitness and nutrition need the same amount of devotion. 

But what about other people?

I know it's intimidating when the person on the next treadmill is running faster than you. BUT the most important thing to remember is that everyone at the gym is at a different fitness level to each other. There is absolutely no use in comparing yourself to anyone else. Just the fact that you showed up is awesome!

It's also a great idea to find a time to go that suits you. Personally, I'm very put-off by a busy gym. I usually go around 10.30am or 3-4pm when it's lovely and quiet! It's not that I'm insecure, my brain is just easily distracted when there's heaps of people around and starts to freak out. The joys of being introverted.

 The Buddy System really does work!

I know, every single fitness advice column tells you this. But it really is an effective way of going to the gym regularly. You don't even have to go to the same gym, just send texts to each other saying "Did you work out this morning? I did!" I started doing this with my Mum last year and it's been great motivation since we don't want to let the other one down.

Other tips to remember:

• 21 days makes a habit, so stick with it for three weeks and you'll be set!
• Invest in good shoes and take your time choosing them. Trust me, you'll notice a difference.
• Avoid wearing tight tops that make you re-adjust them every 5 minutes.
• If your workouts start getting easy, it's time to challenge yourself again.
• Buy new work out clothes every so often to make you excited to go to the gym and show them off.
• Always reward yourself. Shout yourself a coffee or a new lipstick. You deserve it!
• Listening to music is great for zoning out and making you forget you're doing exercise. 

 Just aim for a 30minute work out, 3-4 times a week and you'll do great!

So those are my words of wisdom to anyone who wants to start working out at a gym. It really is such a small part of your day, and you'll be rewarded for it too. I never thought I would become a gym-junkie, but here I am! Feeling healthier and stronger than ever. You won't regret it!


Tell me what your fitness goals are in the comments! Let's help each other out.
Until next time x. 

Bloglovin' - MarvelSteph

Twitter - @MarvelSteph91

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My Lazy Day Makeup - Just 5 items!

Hi Everyone!

Now, I'm someone who will put on a full face of make-up even if I'm not really leaving the house that day. I do it because I love it! I'm quite an artistic person, so I find it as satisfying as sketching a picture. Obviously, there are some days (usually a Sunday) where I have to go out, but I'm in lazy-mode so I can't be bothered with a full-look.

I have refined my collection down to the basic products that I can reach for on these kinds of days. Just enough for some coverage and a bit of definition, and enough to make me look like less of a zombie. And it's also a really good idea to let your skin breath a bit on the occasional day.

Rimmel 9 in 1 BB Cream 

This is an absolute favorite of mine. It gives a really nice cover, but it's still light and breathable. Just enough to cover some red patches and a few spots. Plus it's SPF 25 so I know my skin will still be protected from the sun.

Benefit Gimme Brow

 This is by far the quickest way to get some definition into your brows. I will admit that I haven't been wowed by this product, I'm not sure it's worth the hype (my personal opinion!). But it's pretty good to use when you are in a hurry. 

Australis Liquid Eyeliner

Eyeliner is an absolute must for me if I'm leaving the house that day. This one is a recent find for me and I absolutely love it. It's super easy and quick to use, even for an amateur like me!

Covergirl Full Lash Bloom Mascara
This is my new favorite every-day mascara. It doesn't leave your lashes feeling clumpy or heavy like other products can, which makes it perfect for a lazy day routine.

Fresh Sugar Tinted Lip Treatment "Tulip"
These lip balms are probably my all time favorite. Ever. The few times I've been allowed to go into Sephora, I have always picked up one of them. They're super moisturizing and leave such a pretty color.

And that's it!
What products do you reach for on a lazy day?

  Bloglovin' - MarvelSteph

Twitter - @MarvelSteph91

Instagram - @marvelsteph
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October Reading Challenge!

Hello Everyone!

A while ago I set a challenge for myself to read one book per week, and I actually did well. For about a month. I then went on holiday, my work hours changed, and it all went out the door. Reading is my absolute favorite hobby, but I always forget to leave time for it everyday. And since I need to spend more time away from my laptop, I couldn't ask for a better distraction. It's a new month and I damn well miss reading, so lets do this!

Challenge: Read one book per week in October, four in total. I'm not being particularly strict on when I finish each of them, since some are longer than others. Just as long as I do my best to finish them around October 31st.
The order of these could very well change, I just never know what I'm going to feel like reading.

The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan

It's been far too long since I've read a Percy Jackson book. I feel a little old reading them, but I love a good adventure story.

#GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso

I don't usually go for books like this, I'm a massive lover of fiction. But I also love searching for inspiration and due to my current mindset, this one seemed perfect. For someone like me, who is determined to become an entrepreneur but doesn't feel like they fit the usual role, I think Sophia's story will be very helpful and reassuring.

The Dream Thieves by Maggie Stiefvater 

I absolutely loved reading Th Raven Boys, so of course I bought the sequel straight away. Maggie does such an amazing job when it comes to creating characters so I can't wait to see what happens in this one.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Don't worry, I have actually read this book before! It was just three years ago and I can't quite remember everything that happens. I really want to read it again before the film comes out in November since I always get a kick out of certain moments/quotes being brought to life.


My progress so far: I decided to start with Mockingjay. I've been allowing myself to have half an hour or so between my blog work and my part-time job to read for a bit. I've also been reading before bed as well, since I've been having a bit of trouble getting to sleep I find it helps.

I will update you guys as the month goes along!

What are your favorite books to read? Leave me some recommendations in the comments!

Until next time x. 

  Bloglovin' - MarvelSteph

Twitter - @MarvelSteph91

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September Beauty Favorites 2015

Hello Everyone!

I have to say, September was a great month for finding new beauty products. I've managed to pick up quite a few new items that have made it into my everyday routine. There were a few newly-released products that I really wanted to try as well. Although, I'm quickly developing the habit of using blogging as an excuse to buy new makeup. Does anyone else do this?

Milani Lipstick  #43 Pretty Natural 

I just have to say that I LOVE Milani lipsticks! I always pick up a few when I visit the states. This was a purchase from a recent trip and I fell in-love with it quickly. It's a beautiful rose/nude color that would suit most skin-types. I've been using it for everyday wear and on the weekends as well.

Goodness Every Morning Moisturizer

This stuff is seriously like a smoothie for your face! It's incredibly nourishing and feels so lovely on your skin. It's also certified organic, so there's none of those horrible chemicals inside. I wrote a review of this and their face scrub in a previous post. Read it here!

Rimmel Exaggerate Full Color Lip Liner #5 Pure

I will admit that I'm still fairly new to lip liners, so this one has been perfect for me as a beginner. The formula for these are amazing and really pigmented. I've been using it as an all over base, then putting my Fresh Sugar Tulip Lip Treatment over top for a lovely everyday look. It's been a perfect combo for Spring weather!

Lush Shampoo bar- Seanick

Now, I am a proud Lushie but it's been a while since I've tried a product that's blown me away. My hair is naturally straight and flat (a blessing and a curse!) so I asked one if the girls for help buying a new shampoo bar. Let me tell you, this gives me crazy volume! It's basically the bar version of their sea spray. Love it!

Covergirl Full-Lash Bloom Mascara

Earlier in the month I wrote a review of this mascara saying how much I enjoyed it, so of course it was going to make my favorites! It just does everything it promises: full lashes, soft to the touch, and they don't clump together like a lot of other mascaras do. Well done, Covergirl!

Maybelline Fit Me Foundation

As soon as I saw this advertised I just had to try it. The words "Matte" and "Poreless" got my attention and I just thought Yes! That's the finish I want in a foundation! Even though the formula is a lot thicker than I usually go for, I still love how this looks. It doesn't feel too heavy and even a light coat makes my skin look amazing.

Maybelline Big Eyes Liner

Since the Winter weather has finally moved onto some Spring sunshine, I've been trying to soften my makeup look. I've been using this double eyeliner pencil quite a bit since the white side makes my eyes look wide awake and soft when I apply it to my bottom lash line. It's my new favorite look!

Australis Liquid Eyeliner

Eyeliner is NOT on my list of talents at all. I had been using a Maybelline liner, but it was just not working for me. So, I decided to switch formula and applicator to see if it made and difference and it did! This has been so easy for me to use and it's great practice. I will be doing perfect cat flicks in no time!

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

I know I'm one of the last people to try this, but at least now I know what all the fuss is about! This is a must in my everyday routine now. Whether I just need a quick cleanse in the morning, or when I'm taking my makeup off, this stuff is great. It just does exactly what it promises and it doesn't have a horrible chemical feel to it either.

How was your September? Tell me what your favorite beauty find was in the comments!

Pretty please? 
 
Until next time x. 

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Twitter - @MarvelSteph91

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