Every Love Story is beautiful, but ours is My Favorite!

No relationship is perfect, including ours. Meet Justin, my boyfriend/best friend/soulmate! We have been dating for nearly three years and our journey began during the Winter of 2011 when we met through mutual friends. We have a healthy relationship and continue to grow each and every day together. Last May we bought our first home and have lived with each other and have learned more about each-other the past 9 months then we have the previous 2 years of our relationship. I can't wait to see what our lives have in store for each of us as individuals and as a couple. 

I am only 23 years young and not an expert on relationships but I know that being in a healthy loving relationship can be the best thing to experience on a daily basis. Justin and I understand each-other better then anyone else. 

Here is a chart that represents some factors of healthy relationships:

Here is my best advice to others in regards to relationships:

1. Listen to one another

2. Agree to disagree

3. Express your emotions and feelings

4. Be true to one another but also to yourself

5. Respect one another 

6. Laugh together

7. Love together

8. Grow together

9. Never go to bed angry at one another

I found an interesting article that expresses some tips in order to live a healthy relationship! Check it out here for building a healthy relationship from the start.

I am happy to say that I think that this suites Justin and I perfectly! 

Love is a beautiful gift when you find the right one!

Healthy Food Choices

Who am I trying to fool? I am not a super nutritional person when it comes to my "diet". I have always been one of those picky eaters who enjoys the most un-healthy food choices. Carbohydrates are my weakness, but fresh fruits and vegetables are my strength. Pastas, rice, bread, and potatoes are some of my favorite food, and of course pizza. Some ask "well whats wrong with whole wheat pasta, rice and bread"? The answer is that whole wheat has a particular taste that doesn't mix with my picky taste buds. I am not attempting to change my entire diet over night or give up every single un-healthy food in my life. I think that small steps are what lead to better success. This week I plan to minimize my carbohydrate intake this week, and trying to find healthier snacks to eat through out the day.

I absolutely love fresh fruits and just about any type of fruit honestly. Nuts are not necessarily one of the items I would typically munch on as a snack, but have learned of amazing benefits from nuts. This week I bought a large bag of cashews and almonds to have on hand as snacks. I typically like making a small fruit salad to snack on during the day. This week I have cantaloupe, pineapple, and strawberries to enjoy! Remembering to make healthy substitutions for snacks is important as well. I have provided a You-Tube video with some of the simplest snack recipes, for those of us who have busy schedules and need quick recipes for healthy snacks.