Health and Fitness

Our girl Elle said it best

A Food Journal:

It may seem like a far fetched idea, or something that will take up way to much time, but it's not! I just went to Target and picked up a really cute small journal. Inside on each page I have written the date, calories, carbs, protein, fat, and sugar at the top. Now here's the hardest part: write down everything you eat. Everything. This isn't to say you need to have X amount of calorie intake a day, it's just to keep you aware of what you're putting into your body. The first day I did this I nearly cried at the end of the day. I was eating and drinking so much I swear I could have fed an army.

Measure Your Food:

I know it doesn't sound like fun, but it really will help. Serving sizes tend to be a lot smaller than the actual amount we eat and that's a problem. If you measure your food, not only will it be easier to log, but it will also continue to keep you aware of what, and how much is really being consumed.

Don't Be Cardio-Exclusive:

I am so tired of seeing girls in the gym spending hours upon hours on cardio machines. Yes, cardio is great for you and you should do at least 30 minutes a few times a week, but cardio alone is not going to make you lose dress sizes quickly. Think about adding in two to three strength training sessions a week. It's a proven fact that you will lose inches faster through strength training than cardio alone. This is because strength training promotes muscle growth and muscle burns more calories than fat. So, grab some dumbbells and get to stepping!

Don't Over Exert Yourself:

The biggest concern when starting a new weight loss program is going too hard, too fast. I remember when I first started running cross country in high school, my first day I tried to keep up with my friends. Those friends had been running for years and did races on the regular, none the less. My advice is to slow your roll at first. You only have to focus on yourself and what your body can handle. If that means starting from the bottom, so what?! You have to start somewhere and, lets be real, at least you're doing something. 

Also, don't forget to stretch. Not only is it important to keep your muscles flexible so they can recuperate faster, it will also give you a leg up in yoga and other trendy exercise routines.

Be Realistic:

If you're trying to lose weight you need to remember that you didn't gain that weight in a day, so you won't loose it in a day either. Give your body time to adjust to the changes you're making and keep in mind that you are perfect the way you are. Love yourself. If you do it will be easier to do this for yourself. The realistic weight loss is 1-2 pounds a week. Remember that. The same goes for if you're just trying to be healthier. Any result takes time, so be patient and keep pushing.

Now go eat a celery stick!

XOXO

-Ashely Wewers 

Summer Fashion Part 2

Each season new trends appear and, this summer, I've seen quite a few pieces on the trend train. Some clothing trends may only be around for a few weeks, but others last months or even years (I'm looking at you 1970s extreme flared bell bottom jeans). I spend most of my free time browsing Pinterest, looking at fashionistas' closets on Instagram (check out SarahBell93x), and online shopping for clothes I truly need but because “I’ll wear it one day with that one thing”. My personal style ranges from sophisticated/casual prep to leggings and a t-shirt, but I’m always on the lookout for new pieces that will push me out of my comfort zone and ultimately to add them to my overwhelming closet.

Here’s my list of must-haves (or at least must tries) for Summer 2014:

Parachute/Linen Pants

Best paired with a relaxed crop top for a comfy, yet put together look or a tight fitting tank/tee

Skater Skirts 

Best paired with a crop top or a light weight tank top

Crop Tops

 Best paired with maxi skirts, high-waist bottoms, or a lightweight cardigan/kimono

High Neck Tanks

Best paired with skinny jeans or cuffed shorts 

*try it tucked in for a less casual look*

Strappy Dresses

Best paired with your favorite statement necklace, wedges/sandals – it’s completely yours to dress up or down making it versatile and a great piece for summer

Bold Printed Pieces

Best paired with a simple statement accessory such as a large clutch or subtle jewelry

Two Piece Sets

Best paired with booties/wedges, arm cuff, or statement accessory

T-strap Metallic Sandals

Can be paired with literally anything! These sandals are basic, yet add just the right amount of flare to any outfit

Statement Earrings

Can be paired with anything to create a unique outfit - HOT TREND this  summer!

Arm Cuffs

Be best paired with strappy tanks or dresses that show off your arms

Colors to lookout for: 

If you’re ballin’ on a budget like most college students, be sure to check out places like Forever 21, Urban Outfitters, or Target for dupes of high-end merchandise and, of course, always be on the lookout for sales! Flash Sale Sites such as RueLaLa and HauteLook always have designer pieces at a fraction of the cost. 

XOX & LP,

Kaitlyn 

Fostering Animals

One of my mom's fosters; Atticus

Animals are one of the world's greatest treasures. They're cuddly, fun, loving and have a way of brightening your day in an instant. Most of us college students have a dog, cat, or other pet we left at home when we moved and we miss them dearly. If you're anything like me, you frequent stores like PetSmart on adoption weekends, stop on the sidewalk to pet every dog you pass, or feed the stray cats in your neighborhood all while wishing you could adopt each of them. Despite the best intentions, as a college student, owning a pet can be difficult. Many of us don't have the money, a living arrangement that allows animals, or the funds to take care of pet.

Fostering an animal can be a great alternative to ownership and summer is the perfect time to test it out! Most people have extra time during the summer months so they can be more committed. Fostering works differently for different shelters or cities, but the bottom line is usually the same: you sign up with the organization (which usually includes paper work and/or a background check) and when an animal comes available for foster that meets your criteria, you'll be contacted and asked if you're up for it. Length of time varies based on each animal, but you can take them back anytime if something comes up, it's too much work, or things just don't work out. Even one day helps because each day an animal is with you is a day they're not in a cage without companionship. Most shelters give you everything you need to care for the animal and you don't have to pay for anything.

My foster kittens; Beyonce and Jay-Z

My mom's foster fail; Gus

This summer, my mother and I coincidentally fostered for the first time and both became hooked. We have always been animal lovers and had some extra time. I realized that fostering involves a lot more than just playing with and cuddling kittens. I had to share my bathroom, clean up after them daily and get up at 7 a.m. when they decided to meow for attention at the top of their lungs. Every minute of sleep lost was worth it! It was fun and rewarding for me and it made a great difference in the lives of the cats. Even the best shelters only have so much room and they can save many more lives with the help of those who foster. It also helps the animals to be better socialized so their chances of finding a forever home are better. You may even end up like my mother and have what they call a 'foster fail' where you end up falling in love with your foster pet and adopting them yourself.  If you're looking for some company or a new adventure this summer, give fostering a try! If you have any experience fostering or adopting, leave a comment and tell me about it! If you have any questions please email me at melissa.litprobs@gmail.com.

xoxo Melissa

My Big Little Story - KateLynn

I went into my freshman year of college absolutely dying to join a sorority. I didn't know which one, but I was going to get in one way or another. I go to a small school with less than 8,000 people that has a small greek community. I already knew one of the Greeks, Sammie Jo, and she was an Omega Chi (greek counselor). I loved her to death and felt a special connection to her that I didn't with the others. Prior to our freshman orientation, Sammie Jo talked to one of her sorority sisters (my Big, Lauren) about me a lot. I met my Big to-be at an orientation function, and as it turns out, she was one of the leaders in my group!

First pic as temp Big/Temp Little

When we met we hit it off immediately. We both loved music and band, the color purple, and just talking in general. On the last day of orientation I found out that she was a founding member of the Alpha Omicron Pi chapter on campus. I didn't let that sway me on choosing the sorority I wanted, but it made me all the more excited to go though recruitment!

Snow-pacalypse 2013 

On bid day, I found out that Sammie Jo was an AOΠ and that I had gotten a Bid from them! I was so excited I cried my eyes out. Then, something even more exciting happened: Lauren became my Rose Bud! Rose Bud is a term we use for a temporary Big or special sister. She had me convinced that she didn't get me as a Little and made me cry for an hour previous to the reveal. Of course she was tricking me and we became Big and Little! I can't explain all the emotions I was going through that night. The rest, as they say, is history.

First post-initiation picture

When we won best Big/Little pair at formal

All in all, my Big is my best friend. We've been attached at the hip since we met. She's been with me through my extreme downs and my extreme ups, boy troubles, school trouble and just plain trouble. I wouldn't trade her for the world. I love you Biggie, with all my panda heart. 

Stay Beautiful, xoxo 

-KateLynn 

Crafty Corner

What do sorority girls love more than just about anything else? That's right...crafting! As an art minor, I spend countless hours finding new things to craft and I've compiled a few projects I have been working on lately.

Gripper Socks:

            What you'll need:

                     -Socks (whatever kind your precious heart desires)

                     -Puffy Paint

Step 1:

Lay out the sock bottom up. Think about the designs you want to do. I was thinking school and sorority spirit!



Step 2:

Get creative! The main thing to remember is just to have fun; that's what crafting is all about.

Step 3: 

Let them dry and then put them through a wash and dry, then they are ready to wear!



 Make-Up Brush Holder:

                 What You'll Need:

                          - Aquarium rocks/beads/sand

                                   - Spray Paint (I used gold and gold glitter)

                                   - Glass bowl or container 

       

Step 1:

 Empty the aquarium rocks into a box. I slipped a shopping bag over my box so that when I spray painted the rocks they wouldn't stick to the box.

 

Step 2:

Spray paint rocks and let them dry. Then shake and repeat until rocks are covered with desired color.

Step 3:

Once they dry, they may stick together. If this happens, just put your hand between the bag and the box and crumple until they are loose again.

Step 4:

Pour the rocks into a glass container of your choice. I got one at Walmart that is deep and has a square top. It goes with the theme of my other bathroom things.

When you're done, stick your make-up brushes in and place on the counter! This is a super cute way to keep your brushes separate so you don't have to constantly dig for them, and it doubles as a cute decoration.



These are simple but fun crafts to do this summer and the best part is, the materials used are usually bought in multiples giving you more reason to craft for your Bigs or Littles!

Hope you enjoy!

XOXO

-Ashely W.











Summer 2014... A Summer To Remember! Part 2

Finding activities to do during the summer can be difficult. If you've lived in the same area for awhile, chances are you've done everything it has to offer. That's where this summer to do-list comes in handy! Sometimes, you just need a fresh perspective on things. I have 10 more ideas that may spare you some money and help make this summer one to remember.

Bowling. I know what you're thinking: bowling is for old people. Surprisingly, if you get the right group of people together, it can be lots of fun. The local bowling alley in my city has a special discount days and many others do, too. Lots of chain bowling alleys don't really promote these things, so do some calling around and see what specials your own bowling alley has to offer!

Game night. Invite your friends over and tell everyone to bring a board game, cards, or game for a gaming system like Wii or Xbox. Any sort of game will do. Add some snack food and beverage and you're good to go! One of my personal favorite games is Cards Against Humanity. If you or a friend owns the game, you should definitely play it!

Make pizza. This is a bonding activity that my family tries to do every other week. It is actually a really good time, plus who doesn't love to bond over food? If you don't want to make your own dough, you can buy pre-made dough that comes in a tube (usually near the cookie dough in grocery stores) that works just as well! Then all you need is the pizza sauce, your choice of cheese and toppings. Homemade pizzas taste good, if not better, than an over processed or frozen one!

Dollar theatre. Not everyone has a dollar theatre in their city but for those that do, take advantage! You can't beat a $1.50 movie, especially when two months ago it would've cost you $10. The movies that they play may be a little old but honestly, it's the same sort of atmosphere to go see a movie at a much better price. How can you beat that?

Visit a flea market. I could spend hours upon hours in flea markets just rummaging through the piles of things that people don't use anymore. It's always interesting to see who can find the weirdest stuff while there. My family and I actually turn it into a game! We typically don't buy things (unless we stumble upon some interesting treasure) but it is the bonding that makes the visit worth it.

Wake up early enough to see the sunrise. Then DON'T go back to sleep after. It's probably one of the most rewarding things to watch the sunrise because not many people are up early enough to watch it. I understand summer is all about sleeping in and staying up late, but why can't it be the opposite for a change? Wake up early and see how rejuvenated you feel. I promise the feeling is much better than staying up all night then feeling groggy when you wake up the next morning.

Try something different. You want to get a tattoo? Go for it. Bungee jump? Do it. Never tried sushi? Eat at a Japanese restaurant! Now's the time when we're young and have the time and ability to try and do something we've never done before. Go do it before time runs out.

DIY High Waisted Shorts. You know you want too. Grab a pair of mom jeans from Goodwill (or just raid your moms closet) and start snippin'!

Jolly Rancher Vodka. If you're lucky enough to be of legal drinking age, this little project is one to remember. It's where your adulthood and childhood collide in a way that you and your girlfriends will always be able to reminisce on. Get everyone together and have a girls night with this delicious fruity shot! All you need is vodka (think cheap but smooth), a bag of jolly ranchers, and containers to keep the vodka in once it's all mixed.

Visit a local museum. There are always tons of random museums in neighborhoods that people don't normally take advantage of. If you live near a military base, they usually have days where civilians can get on base to see the different museums that are located there. They can range anywhere from a history museum to a naval museum! It is really awesome to see where our country actually came from.

Summer is about making memories that you'll remember for the rest of your life. Stay up late, eat whatever you want whenever you want (pshh, summer body?, hang out with good friends and get tan! Don't forget to take lots of pictures and just live in the moment, that's what summer is all about.

XOXO,

Kelsey

Summer Playlist

Now that we've given you plenty of options for fun summer activities (and you probably have a few of your own in mind), all you're missing is the music to go along with it. The soundtrack can make or break those long road trips or lazy days laying out by the beach, lake, or pool. I've put together a little playlist of some great 'all-purpose' tunes. It's made up of a range of different genres and there's no real rhyme or reason, just some favorites that I've personally had on repeat for the last few days.

1. Fancy - Iggy Azalea
2. Am I Wrong - Nico & Vinz
3. Wiggle - Jason Derulo
4. She Looks So Perfect - 5 Seconds of Summer
5. Island Song - Zac Brown Band
6. Summer - Calvin Harris
7. Falling - HAIM
8. XO - Beyonce
9. This Is How We Roll - Florida Georgia Line
10. Love Runs Out - One Republic
11. Chandelier - Sia
12. Chocolate - The 1975
13. Sing - Ed Sheeran
14. Classic - MKTO
15. Come With Me Now - KONGOS
16. American - Lana Del Rey
17. Birthday - Katy Perry
18. On Top of the World - Imagine Dragons
19. Boom Clap - Charli XCX
20. Latch (ft. Sam Smith) - Disclosure
21. Ain't It Fun - Paramore
22. Best Day of My Life - American Authors
23. Girls Chase Boys - Ingrid Michaelson
24. Rude - MAGIC!
25. Happy - Pharrell Williams

There are most playlists on the way, but if your favorites were missing or you'd like a playlist of a certain kind send me an email at melissa.litprobs@gmail.com. I also love discovering new music so comment below or email me some of your favorite music!

xoxo Melissa

Summer Beauty

Summer is all about being carefree and having fun, about trying new things and seeing where life takes you, about experimenting with colors, styles, and products...most importantly, summer is about owning you! This summer, trends are very noticeable, easy to try and easy to make your own. Here's to hoping you find something new in this blog post that's worth a try!

*To the left I am sporting the Pop of Color and to the right mom is sporting the Peek-A-Boo. Also modeled is a version of the beachy waves featured in this article.


Make Up:

Seeing as I work at a makeup store, I am constantly seeing "this season's hottest trends" and learning new color combinations that are always a sure hit. This season's color to try for eyes is blue. My favorite thus far in my search for the perfect blue is Glacier by Merle Norman.

There are always so many different ways to apply eye shadow, especially with such a vibrant color. Here are a few tutorials for you to try:

The All Over Color
          The colors used here are Glacier and Cloud 9 by Merle Norman, but any brand in similar shades can be used. Apply Cloud 9 to the under part of the eye almost as an eyeliner, along the brow bone to highlight, and fading from the inner part of your eye to the middle. Next, apply Glacier by blending through the crease and outer corner of the eye into the middle, opposite of what was done with the Cloud 9. To finish, apply black eyeliner to only the upper lid (another popular trend right now) and two coats of black mascara.

Peek-A-Boo Color
                The colors used are Glacier, Ebony and Ivory, and Oyster. Start by highlighting the brow bone with Oyster. Next, pack on the color by covering 3/4th's of your lid below the crease with Glacier. Blend Ebony and Ivory in your crease, be sure to blend well between the three colors until you reach the desired effect. Complete this look with black eyeliner and two coats of black mascara.

Pop of Color
           This is my personal favorite, and what I wear most of the time. The colors used are Oyster, Glacier, and Ebony and Ivory. Start by highlighting the brow bone with Oyster, then blend Oyster from the inner corner of your eye to the middle. Next, blend Ebony and Ivory into your crease and from the outer corner in toward the middle. Finally, for a pop of color, blend Glacier right above the crease toward the brow bone. I complete this look with Teal Soft Touch eyeliner by Merle Norman, but you can use any color you like. Follow through with two coats of your favorite mascara!

*If blue eye shadow is to far out of your comfort zone, you can always opt for a blue eyeliner or mascara for a more mild and subdued pop of color.

Eye make up is just the tip of the ice burg this season. To continue any of these looks, follow through with bright and colorful lip color. Some of my favorites include A Flare To Remember, Romance, and Bistro Berry by Merle Norman, and Diva by MAC.

Hair:

For summer, I tend to keep my hair light and flowy with beachy waves. The best part about light and loose beachy waves is that they can easily be dressed up with a headband or a little tease at the crown of your head. The best way I have found to obtain these high demand beachy waves are as follows:

1. Wash hair the day or night before you want to style it. If this is not possible, be sure to "dirty" your hair and give it texture with a mouse or dry shampoo.
2. Section hair into three layers.
3. Lightly hairspray each layer.
4. WRAP HAIR AROUND CURLING IRON BARREL. This step is crucial! By wrapping your hair around the curling iron you are getting more of a wave vs. a ringlet.
5. Only hold your hair around the curling iron for 10 seconds as anything longer is just burning your hair.
6. Brush out with finger tips and hairspray all over.
7. Complete the look by adding a head band or any other accessories if your heart desires.

For a different effect (such as what I sported in the picture at the top), make the bottom two layers bigger, and don't curl the top. The key is to just have fun with it and see what works best for you!

Good Luck My Lovelies!
Ashley

Summer 2014... A Summer to Remember!

It is about that time during summer when college students find themselves at a standstill with what to do. Go to the beach? Eh, done it. Swim at the pool? Lame. Shopping? Too bad we're all broke. Even though most everything costs money these days, there are still plenty of FUN things to do to shake up that boring summer routine (and hopefully save you a few bucks, too). I have created the ULTIMATE summer bucket list for you to accomplish with all your friends this year! While some of these things may cost a few dubloons, don't let that stop you for making this summer one to remember.


Attend an outdoor concert. In many cities, there are plenty of little coffee shops and restaurants that have artists playing there for free! While it may cost you a few dollars for coffee or an appetizer, finding opportunities where you can enjoy live, local music is awesome. There are also concerts like Warped Tour that are completely outside, but beware: general admission tickets range from $30-$70 and the concert happens rain or shine.

Bake something. Get your girlfriends together and bake something that you've been dying to try from one of your many Pinterest boards! Have everyone bring one ingredient and all pitch in to bake, but more importantly eat, the yumminess that will ensue. I will definitely be making the delicious Nutella brownies featured below soon (recipe: Chewy Nutella Brownies/).

Go karaoke'ing. Many restaurants and bars have an open karaoke where you don't have to pay anything and get to make a complete fool of yourself for free!

Hit up a local theme park. I know not many people are lucky enough to have a theme park in their backyard, but for those that are, go! I would even buy an annual pass. Theme parks are so much fun with friends, a significant other, families, or whoever! It's a great place to scream your lungs out and just have some good ole American fun. There are also several lesser known theme parks (like Wild Adventures in Valdosta, Georgia or Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, California) throughout the country that aren't advertised outside of the local community. Hop on the internet and search around to be sure you're not missing out on one!

Set off fireworks. More good ole American fun! Just remember to be smart and be safe! Plus, there are always random firework shops that have crazy good deals on fireworks in bulk.

Shaving cream Twister. Target and Walmart usually have sales on the game. Then you can go to a dollar store to get the shaving cream. It's such a fun game on a summer day, just be sure to have a water hose nearby! Picture of shaving cream twister featured below.

Volunteer. Summer is one a time when many of us have fewer commitments and lots more free time. Why not use that extra time to go volunteer in a local pet or homeless shelter? Giving to those in need is one of the best feelings in the world and it is an awesome way to meet new people. Though it shouldn't be your only reason for volunteering, those hours also look great on resumes

CRAFT. CRAFT. and craft some more. Whether you craft for your big, little, future little, family, or someone else, crafting is always the answer! I'm actually working on a TON of crafts and DIY things for my future little this summer. You can see some of the ideas I'm getting for my crafts on our Little Problems Tumblr or Little Problems Pinterest. Be sure to submit your works of art to us and you may see them featured

S'mores. Who says you can't cook s'mores in the summer? They're THAT much better on a cool summer evening around a bonfire!

Go to a local carnival, fair, parade, or other event. Most cities have events for holidays or other events (I went to a festival called the Pungo Strawberry Fest a few weeks). Check local calendars for cities surrounding your area and find out what fun events they may be having!

Be sure to check out the next ten ways to make this summer one to remember which will be posted next week. If you have any awesome ideas or pictures of you doing things on your summer list please email any and all to me at kelseyj.litprobs@gmail.com and you just may be featured in the next article! Thanks for reading and HAPPY SUMMER!