A goal of mine this year was to put my health first (consistently) and no longer diet, but instead make eating better a lifestyle. Since it’s hard to do this without some sort of milestone or goal in mind, I signed up for my first half marathon (10 weeks away!) to give me a push. Running is one of the best workouts anyone can do for a total body workout, but of course I don’t suggest a half marathon for someone who doesn’t workout or run regularly. Starting off with a 5K or 10K is also a great challenge. Shape.com is my favorite resource for all things health & wellness, and has tons of information on how to prepare for running events, if you’re up for the challenge.

Since eating is a MAJOR part of weight loss/health, monitoring my daily nutrition intake is a must. But, MyFitnessPal.com has been a life saver. The online tool (and phone app) allows you to track your diet/activity level and helps you meet your goal based on these factors.

Progress photos to come!

Rita Ora, Roc Nation’s latest signee, may be our next fashion “it-girl” to watch out for. The 21-year old, Rihanna look-alike (if you squint hard enough) has been making promo rounds for her new single “Party and Bullsh*t.” It’s a bit early to determine if she’ll have a unique image, but by the looks of her style she already seems to move to the beat of her own drum. Check out a few of her looks below.

They say every style that fades away, eventually comes back, right? Well, box braids is definitely one of them. I’ve been without a hair relaxer for almost 7 years now (still can’t believe it!), and I’m constantly looking for ways to switch up my look and avoid bordeom. Back in the Janet Jackson – Poetic Justice era, box braids were IT! But just like time, the trend passed. However, over recent months they’ve made a huge comeback with celebrity’s like Solange (the new boho/hippie icon) and Brandy (a former box braid diva) now rocking the look again. I’ve toyed with the idea of getting the braids for months now, and I’ll finally get mine in a couple of weeks, so lookout for photos!

Check out ILoveBoxBraids for more styling tips!

Find these pieces, and more at Francesca’s Collections.

I’m a sucker for accessories. And although I love statement pieces, I love simplicity even more. Enter: Alex and Ani. The eco-friendly company creates powerful, meaningful, and spiritual pieces, that are intended to uplift and inspire. While this concept is unique in itself, the story of the company’s creator and designer is even better. Launched in 2004 by, Carolyn Rafaelian, Alex and Ani (named after her first two daughters, cute!) was birthed with the idea that ”spirituality believing, one can infuse thought into material to recognize one’s power and unique essence in their everyday wear.”

I’ve already purchase three pieces from Alex and Ani, and my goal is to have lots more. I love the cute-factor of the pieces, and I love the story even more.

Check out their promotional video, below.

A close friend just put me on to new music artist, Lana Del Rey, and her debut album, “Born to Die.” Born Elizabeth Woolridge Grant, the New York bred singer/songwriter’s sound can be described as retro-’60s sounding pop. Her big buzz builder came when she performed on Saturday Night Live, becoming the first artist since Natalie Imbruglia in 1998 to perform on the show prior to her album release. Her atmospheric tone is like no other; refreshing and unique. And the chick is uber gorgeous! Check out some of her promotional photos.

Music’s biggest night is upon us, the Grammy’s. And although artistry is at the forefront of judging, fashion is and always will be as well. Very few cease to disappoint when it comes to Grammy red carpet looks, so taking history into account, there are a few ladies we can count on to hit the mark.

Known for following her own beat, I expect Rihanna to give us nothing less than shock value.

As my favorite look from country songstress Carrie Underwood (despite critics hating it), I’m hoping her feminine taste and risks are a huge hit.

Queen B. Classic, and timeless! Let’s hope she can break away from baby Blue Ivy to grace the red carpet and support her hubby on his Grammy nomination.

I try everything at least once… well, ‘most’ things. When the “Earth Friendly” Burt’s Bees brand was fairly new to consumers, I recall purchasing a body lotion that was neither great, nor bad. So, I decided to give it another shot, and scout for some product’s. And since the cold weather has done a toll on my skin, anything for moisturizing was at the top of my list!

I love body scrubs, and the line I used to purchase at Bath & Body Works was discontinued a few years ago **tear**, leaving me high and dry – literally. The Cranberry & Pomegranate Sugar Scrub from Burt’s may be my new replacement. First, it smells amazing, and the exfoliating crystals aren’t too harsh, which I’ve noticed with other brands. It seems to be just enough, along with the various oils to liven up my skin and give me a summeresque glow. I also picked up some Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream, because my nails take a beating during the winter. Again, the scent is uber-yummy, and although I’m not religious about applying the cream throughout the day, it definitely minimizes hanging and dry cuticles.

One thing Jennifer Lopez has brought to American Idol for the past two seasons is style (sorry, Paula!). Although our style gazes are quick, and mainly from the neck up, J. Lo has rocked hair, makeup and wardrobe styles ranging from girl next door to total diva-esque. Take a look at a few of my favorites…

Adorable bun, and Stella McCartney’s One Sided Black Sheer Polka Dot Lucia Dress

Loose waves, and natural makeup

Classic look; neutral clothing, low-key makeup and a red lip for accent

Jenny from the block; gold hoops, curly low maintenance pinup

Sparkles and side swept body wave hair

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WERK!

Am I the only one that feels like M.I.A. is a huge mystery? After laying low following the birth of her baby, and huge hit, “Paper Planes,” M.I.A. is back, and doing the most in her latest video for “Bad Girls.”

The song is catchy, and just what we’ve learned to expect from the 36-year old, South London rapper, singer-songwriter. This video debuts right before her super bowl performance for her bars on Madonna’s new song, “Give me all your luvin” that also features Nicki Minaj.

Digging M.I.A.’s navajo/tribal print leggings? Topshop has some great ditto’s you may like!