tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91625248282152489192024-03-05T00:09:17.832-08:00Fair and SquareUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger181125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-79139382412584226932014-06-23T20:31:00.002-07:002014-06-23T20:31:51.259-07:00A NEW START<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-Id8H9H3mN7LH7v1_PbegNVxlfXmgrY6DoQd_KatGufQgaW0lxiB_JPFxp97zn0DsBTPmLuQ0zu4qoiuuln9jb5mBUclr7T1aOTxOyxC1zR7xP_s0pJlpS-jpp6luyTBmo5i8DYAUuOh/s1600/MeetJanae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-Id8H9H3mN7LH7v1_PbegNVxlfXmgrY6DoQd_KatGufQgaW0lxiB_JPFxp97zn0DsBTPmLuQ0zu4qoiuuln9jb5mBUclr7T1aOTxOyxC1zR7xP_s0pJlpS-jpp6luyTBmo5i8DYAUuOh/s1600/MeetJanae.jpg" /></a></div>
Ohhh heyyy! I know, I know, its been awhile- lots of crickets over here. But its only because I have slowly been piecing together that new site I mentioned in posts before ... and now you can head on over to <a href="http://janaechristopher.com/"><b>janaechristopher.com</b></a> and check it out for yourself!<br />
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I am super excited to have a new place, that's clearly my own (my own name as a domain, how fun is that?!) There isn't a whole lot there yet but I did share a recipe and a new meditation practice- and I have plenty planned for the near future.<br />
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I am so excited- I can't say that enough!- and I hope you join me <a href="http://www.janaechristopher.com/" target="_blank"><b>there</b></a> ♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-3644018768436767092014-05-25T18:31:00.001-07:002014-05-25T18:31:09.417-07:00...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I know its cliche to say this but ... <i>where has this month gone??</i><br />
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I wish I could say I have been busy working on the new site ... because I haven't really. Today I got a large chunk of it done and I am so excited for a new clean space to start fresh with new ideas. I have mostly been working my bread and butter job, practicing getting bendy, taking the time to read new books and explore new venture ideas, and spending as much time as I can experimenting with raw food and being outside with my little family.<br />
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This season has been busy- I don't imagine it will slow down, especially as I get back into the swing of consistently creating content. But I am excited. Maybe I needed a little mental break from everything to recharge. Hopefully you have still been following along on <a href="http://instagram.com/janae_c#" target="_blank"><b>Instagram</b></a>, I am at least consistent there!<br />
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I hope this spring has treated you well and I will hopefully be officially launching the new site here in the very near future!! ♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-38301075817897190062014-04-21T12:02:00.001-07:002014-04-21T12:02:26.372-07:00THE FUTURE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Do not dwell in the past,</i></div>
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<i>do not dream of the future,</i></div>
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<i>concentrate the mind on the present moment</i></div>
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<i>-Buddha</i></div>
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If there is anything I try to stick to with blogging it is to never apologize. Its been quiet on here- much more so than ever in the past. Sometimes purposeful, sometimes for lack of time. When I set out to post I want it to always be genuine, honest, and purely stemming from somewhere in my life. These days we have been soaking up spring, enjoying living life, and working on what will be my new web venture. Its taken a lot of energy! I still love this space but I can only spread so thin, you know? </div>
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I love this quote- I love it because I need this reminder daily. I am a dreamer at heart. One of my more notable shortcomings is that I like to dream, make plans, set goals, and then forget the follow through ... oops! At this time in my life I could easily be blogging here 5 days a week, building a new site, working full time, keeping up with obligations, and then completely forget that what matters is I have a healthy happy family and a beautiful season to enjoy. </div>
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It is easy to look back and regret on things not done, to keep dreaming of everything we want in the future and then completely neglect everything that is in front of us today. </div>
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So while there may be crickets on here, I am busy living the present. And preparing for some really exciting things to come! </div>
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Happy Monday all, I hope your Easter weekend was beautiful ♥</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-73678586284135231292014-04-14T11:57:00.004-07:002014-04-14T11:57:57.734-07:00HOW ARE YOU FEELING?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today I got to thinking about feelings. Humans are a very emotional sort, we have a feeling about everything. We all feel so differently and about so many different things. We allow our outside world to so greatly impact our emotional state that we can find ourselves riding a constant wave of highs and lows. When was the last time you looked inward to see how <i>you</i> really <i>feel</i>? <br />
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What we focus on plays a tremendous role in our constant state of feeling. Are you dwelling on the guy that cut you off in rush hour traffic or are you reflecting on how good it felt to receive a thoughtful text from a friend? How we cultivate our thoughts and the ones we choose to train our focus on create who we are on our deeper emotional level.<br />
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For years I allowed feelings of anxiety and fear manifest within. I would always think that happiness would come later once I worked hard enough for it, peace would follow and things would be better down the road. I wasn't letting moments of bliss to settle in my soul, I brushed them off as fleeting moments of things to come. Little did I know that in every moment of everyday there is an opportunity for peace and happiness if I only acknowledge it. It has been there all along, I just chose to focus on other things.<br />
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A practice I like to put into play is to <u>heighten my awareness and recognize my feelings in the moment</u>. Its a practice I need to do more often- I find it easy to do on the weekends when I am with the ones I love- so I am challenging myself more this week to do it continually. Not only does this work on mindfulness but it helps to reinforce those good feeling vibes.<br />
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And obviously we don't always have good feelings- last night I was suuuuuuuper frustrated because 3 things in a row went wrong for me. I was getting grumpy. I was letting that frustration take over and change my feelings about the end of what was a pretty nice day! Reflecting inward, asking myself how do I want to feel, I continued on with my night and made choices of things that I know make me feel good and are pretty hard to mess up! I worked out and wrote in my gratitude journal and went to bed feeling a lot better than I did 2 hours before. See? <i>Acknowledge, assess, and refocus to what you want to feel. </i>I could have stuck with the pouty grump feelings, but I chose to do things to lift myself up. Consider it the higher road for your emotional being. <br />
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So today I hope you take a moment to feel. Feel gratitude for blooming flowers, appreciation for the person who held the door open for you, peace when something that troubles you works out, and love for someone who shows you love. <i> </i><br />
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Over time you'll notice these feelings bubble up without effort and who doesn't want more effortless happiness and gratitude?? ♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-34649005406730249592014-04-09T18:50:00.000-07:002014-04-09T18:50:14.910-07:00SHOP IT: iHERB<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpDAoVS76evraIviyPDWMc0nwlSh7N6w9_EyHzOyAnWOjWMXejxMUEXJvimWAM8d4U_RL71iViYnOWg2jD09aXgPO2KxxG5CtEqisRl_oP5fQofVg_gb5VshTJn-ywGjGjTxrI9RBIf0lk/s1600/iHerb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpDAoVS76evraIviyPDWMc0nwlSh7N6w9_EyHzOyAnWOjWMXejxMUEXJvimWAM8d4U_RL71iViYnOWg2jD09aXgPO2KxxG5CtEqisRl_oP5fQofVg_gb5VshTJn-ywGjGjTxrI9RBIf0lk/s1600/iHerb.jpg" /></a></div>
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I love love LOVE talking shop! If you need a great supplier of natural anything, <a href="http://www.iherb.com/" target="_blank"><b>iHerb</b></a> has fast become my go-to site. Through all my reading and research I have compiled quite a list of things to try- many of which I had never heard of and definitely had not seen on the shelves. So I was pretty excited to check out this site and find everything and more. I started with skin care since this crazy winter left my skin wanting, but my wish list keeps growing with teas, foods, candles, and products for home. <br />
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Above are the products I am currently using and loving- my favorite is probably the <a href="http://www.iherb.com/Now-Foods-Solutions-Certified-Organic-Jojoba-Oil-4-fl-oz-118-ml/900" target="_blank"><b>jojoba oil</b></a>! All of them are noteworthy though, so if you are looking for masks I love the Ayurveda <a href="http://www.iherb.com/Auromere-Rejuvenating-Mud-Bath-Mask-4-oz-113g/15547" target="_blank"><b>mud mask</b></a>, <a href="http://www.iherb.com/Lily-Organics-Inc-Rejuvenating-Enzyme-Mask-1-66-fl-oz/35390" target="_blank"><b>enzyme mask</b></a> and healing rough spots all over with straight <a href="http://www.iherb.com/At-Last-Naturals-MSM-Cream-Moisturizer-with-Vitamin-E-2-oz-56-7g/4649" target="_blank"><b>MSM cream</b></a>. <br />
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Happy Shopping ♥
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-82427647493240375922014-04-07T12:18:00.004-07:002014-04-07T12:18:47.888-07:00CURRENTLY ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Currently ...</i><br />
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I am loving tea roses- they come in the prettiest of colors and for half the price of regular roses.<br />
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April showers are in full swing but I like to think they just remind us to be super grateful for the sunny ones.<br />
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Daffodils are blooming and Easter is just around the corner- this time of year makes me really nostalgic for childhood days playing outdoors.<br />
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I am dreaming up a new, bigger, bolder website ... it scares me and thrills me at the same time! The process has been slow and who knows when it will launch but I am enjoying the process.<br />
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We are working on major spring cleaning- we have gutted our spare room and are working on piecing it back together ... with a lot less pieces. Purging is so gratifying.<br />
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The most fun projects at hand in our apartment? Painting two 'pop' walls and one is going to be black- I am so exited! And we are clearing a big white wall for all my yoga photos- no more shuffling furniture around to clear space, huzzah! <br />
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I am trying to figure out how to have a minimal wardrobe. This has never been a goal of mine in the past and I have to admit I am intrigued by it. Again, purging is gratifying!<br />
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I found myself at the used bookstore <i>again</i>. I found three good reads to share with you all later this week. Its becoming a hobby really.<br />
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Reading up on Ayervedic medicine- have any of you out there experienced this practice? I have a few chronic issues that Western medicine has failed to help and am intrigued by this more natural but effective approach- I'd love to hear your experience if you have!<br />
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My love affair with sweet potatoes is <i>out of control</i>. I love them so :) Incorporating them into almost every meal.<br />
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Considering doing a 21 day Raw food challenge via Kristina on <a href="http://www.fullyraw.com/#!21-day-challenge/cmx5" target="_blank"><b>FullyRaw</b></a>. Obviously I have made this unofficially the season of challenges!<br />
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Wondering what you would like to see more of or are curious about with this here blog? Direction of posts and content has been rather sporadic lately- so I'd love to know what you love to read!<br />
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Happy Monday ♥ Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-89725680825559154282014-04-04T09:44:00.001-07:002014-04-04T09:44:32.172-07:00ORANGE SMOOTHIE <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This week has not been an easy one so today I am recharging my energy center with nourishing food, crossing things of my long to-do list, and spending time doing what feels good. It is always good to step away from a stressful day/week/moment and reflect on re-centering. I know I tend to just keep plowing forward through life's madness and I burn myself out. So quiet days like today are a little healing for the soul! One of the things I have been waiting to try is a sweet potato smoothie- sounds weird right? But I love sweet potatoes so this sounded like a little glass of heaven!</div>
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Ingredients:</div>
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1 banana</div>
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4 slices of baked sweet potato</div>
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cinnamon (to taste)</div>
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hemp seed </div>
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1 cup coconut milk</div>
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It was frothy, light and delicious- I will definitely be working this one into the mix more frequently.<br />
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And for an update on my <a href="http://thefairandsquareblog.blogspot.com/2014/03/from-girl-who-faked-illness-in-phys-ed.html" target="_blank"><b>30 day pilates challenge</b></a>- I am happy to say that this week was my half way point! I am feeling amazing and noticing that the routines that were kicking my tail a few weeks ago are feeling less challenging <span style="font-size: x-small;">(as in, I can get through them a little more gracefully and with less cave woman noises and cursing)</span>. I am down 5 inches total and I can actually <i>see</i> a difference. I think the before and after photo reveal is going to be a lot of fun!<br />
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What are you looking forward to this weekend? <a href="http://thefairandsquareblog.blogspot.com/2014/03/banishing-baggage.html" target="_blank"><b> Phase Two </b></a>of spring cleaning has been calling my name, I am thinking some more purging is in my near future ♥ <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-26729194539390497232014-03-27T19:53:00.002-07:002014-03-27T19:53:44.733-07:00GET MOTIVATED!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMaOHaqWNRGPWp3MjtNuBIQfRNT1lDxukPdjkyVSYtvv2JwiUb91wguvLnjqb0s6asNhT_IniuRsm1fwbQkLcEwbu4LxCKE3FQ7i5sQAJFqEd_XtxrMpcs7CEnRhr0JY-FAq1TrrXc6TWf/s1600/Motivation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMaOHaqWNRGPWp3MjtNuBIQfRNT1lDxukPdjkyVSYtvv2JwiUb91wguvLnjqb0s6asNhT_IniuRsm1fwbQkLcEwbu4LxCKE3FQ7i5sQAJFqEd_XtxrMpcs7CEnRhr0JY-FAq1TrrXc6TWf/s1600/Motivation.jpg" /></a></div>
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Happy Thursday! Its like my Friday so I am super pumped for a day off tomorrow. I am also super pumped because I hit a new goal today, I am on day 11 of my month long Pilates challenge and the scale is heading in the right direction! So today I rewarded myself with some new work out clothes :)<br />
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Motivation is a funny thing- it comes and goes in such powerful waves. It is as easy to lose as it is to find and sometimes keeping ourselves afloat seems hard when our goals seem so far away. Working out is <u>not</u> one of my favorite things and after a long day of work sometimes all I want to do is sit and watch Netflix but I don't- why? Because I have my sights set on something better. Here are some goal achieving methods I am currently putting to use to keep my motivation intact ...<br />
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1. <b>Set small goals within your large goal! </b>My ultimate goal is to be down inches and pounds by April 15, but every Thursday in my planner I have marked a place to write my progress. Set a small goal of any applicable increment that will lead to your ultimate goal- its like crossing multiple finish lines!<br />
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2. <b>Reward yourself!</b> Under my progress reports on Thursdays I have a place to designate a reward. Today was some new athletic wear, next week might be to treat myself to some pretty flowers- it doesn't have to cost money or be fancy, it just has to treat you to something special for all your hard work!<br />
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3. <b>Find inspiration and look at it daily!</b> Is there a person you admire, a beach you imagine yourself on, or a destination you see yourself arriving to? Find photos, write it down, do whatever and place it in a visible area or put it on your phone where you can view it daily. If you feel like wandering off the path that leads to your goal, look up your inspiration and affirm to yourself why you want whats in that picture or described in those words. <br />
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4. <b>Share your success with someone who is excited for you!</b> I hope you are blessed enough to have an accountability partner, a spouse, a BFF, or a family member who is super pumped for you to reach your goal! Nate is always the first to hear my successes and I know he is excited and proud of me and that affirms my own dedication. <br />
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5. <b>Start everyday fresh!</b> Last but not least, yesterday was yesterday and tomorrow is yet to come so focus on today. We all slip up and stray from our path from time to time, we are human after all- just get back on track ASAP and move forward!<br />
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Do you have any go-to strategies for staying motivated? I'd love to hear them! Remember that anything worth having has hard work behind it- that is what makes life so rewarding ♥ Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-13390135966653052362014-03-25T18:31:00.000-07:002014-03-25T18:31:26.216-07:00THIS V. THAT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJU78H49A6QZ6Hooid95iP6W46JLTIMFvhPf9WIGlwwsaif1kpnuM0uJKvSS3j3OXldBFYd0c9ut5jZ44sURyoGWDp1A7LbtOMV8SNo5pqvEPWedZwcFJG9F-At25fezcwoW6lfNJC40jj/s1600/ThisVSThat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJU78H49A6QZ6Hooid95iP6W46JLTIMFvhPf9WIGlwwsaif1kpnuM0uJKvSS3j3OXldBFYd0c9ut5jZ44sURyoGWDp1A7LbtOMV8SNo5pqvEPWedZwcFJG9F-At25fezcwoW6lfNJC40jj/s1600/ThisVSThat.jpg" /></a></div>
Today I posted a picture on<a href="http://instagram.com/janae_c" target="_blank"><b> Instagram</b></a> of my 'Splurge' meal from the weekend. Whats my definition of a splurge? Pretty much any meal that has a higher calorie count, and maybe a naughty food, like fries! My meal consisted of a vegan black bean burger with a big salad and fries- when I calculated all of the calories and nutritional values I got curious at how it would measure up against fast food. My big plate full of food was only 50 calories more than a single Big Mac! Crazy! and Awesome!<br />
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It got me thinking about the food choices I make- and the choices that everyone makes! Every piece of food that passes our lips is a choice. Even though my splurge meal was larger and heavier than a lot of my dinners through the week I still <i>felt good</i> afterward. Now had I swung through the drive thru would I have felt as awesome? Probably not.<br />
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Since changing my diet over to a cleaner one my body reacts a lot differently to processed foods- its an almost immediate discomfort. I am acutely aware when I have strayed too far from my healthier habits, and I am so grateful that my mind and body are on the same page. I wasn't always so intuned, I ate all sorts of crap and never realized that feeling crummy was directly related to the foods I had ate.<br />
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So what choices are you making these days? Are you choosing processed, fatty foods or are you actively seeking healthier alternatives? Do you think about what you are eating and how it makes you feel afterward?<br />
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I challenge you this week to be mindful of how you feel after your meals- you don't even have to change your diet, just think about how that food has made you feel and how it has nourished you. Did it nourish? Or do you feel heavy and tired afterward? Then try adding in a light healthy meal, maybe its vegetarian or maybe you choose a leaner meat than usual, balance it with a grain and veggies and watch your portions. Pay attention to how that meal makes you feel. <br />
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Once I started noticing differences between the foods I was eating it became a lot easier to maintain a healthier lifestyle, saying no to processed foods at the grocery store was no longer a challenge. I actually crave fruits now and salad is hands down one of my favorite meals! I'm not saying I am perfect- I still have moments of weakness. But when I stray it is a lot easier to get back on track these days. Let me know your choices these days, and if you play along with this little challenge I would love to know what you discover! ♥<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">clockwise from top left:<a href="http://mcdonalds.com/" target="_blank"><b> 1</b></a> / <a href="http://canyoustayfordinner.com/" target="_blank"><b>2</b></a> /<a href="http://lumbertonoutpost.com/" target="_blank"><b> 3</b></a> / <a href="http://theshiksa.com /" target="_blank"><b>4</b></a> / <a href="http://livelovefruit.com /" target="_blank"><b>5</b></a> / <a href="http://www.fanpop.com /" target="_blank"><b>6</b></a> </span> Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-70742708762279422782014-03-24T12:15:00.004-07:002014-03-24T12:15:48.504-07:00 ♥<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSi9XF_n2R2cf8Q0oI1KTMOnHQ2m54NQJ49yDcTcO2PhMbDobHuS12e-HmNYcH6fVP-kqAmcsZgEjeBe3UII0Ma6ip2j5PIzWvvR3iGkJhokpgcpLImXeIzfbAnEfnsGar2bf9woHxap_M/s1600/Pinterest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSi9XF_n2R2cf8Q0oI1KTMOnHQ2m54NQJ49yDcTcO2PhMbDobHuS12e-HmNYcH6fVP-kqAmcsZgEjeBe3UII0Ma6ip2j5PIzWvvR3iGkJhokpgcpLImXeIzfbAnEfnsGar2bf9woHxap_M/s1600/Pinterest.jpg" /></a></div>
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After the past few soul-searching posts I thought I would keep the mood light this Monday with some of my favorite recent pins! I go through waves with <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/janaechristophr/" target="_blank"><b>Pinterest</b></a> but lately I have found so many inspiring things- one of the main reasons I love modern technology ♥ ♥ ♥<br />
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Follow me<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/janaechristophr/" target="_blank"><b> here</b></a> and let me know- I'd love to see some of what you are pinning too! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-37938472516020240362014-03-22T19:33:00.002-07:002014-03-22T19:33:41.646-07:00GLACIER V. WAVE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7YC6Q7Khs-U2uNjScq6xERLEJN0fRrUHCluhOnYv1_gwLa-pgIsfeNMwbX21AG4QQD-whjTaQX4VlhE1JxzYLpWujTuKd5_32q_snHnDkEK-yuCCXPaBZzjkaJhQZFiK20CaBnCUg4LYk/s1600/WhatsNext1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7YC6Q7Khs-U2uNjScq6xERLEJN0fRrUHCluhOnYv1_gwLa-pgIsfeNMwbX21AG4QQD-whjTaQX4VlhE1JxzYLpWujTuKd5_32q_snHnDkEK-yuCCXPaBZzjkaJhQZFiK20CaBnCUg4LYk/s1600/WhatsNext1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrhQDykZIABJJJp2PZDkdm_bTTq9_QWVxYDu1Bu8H_BMZ36g2HKgwM_FFm77U8Le7N-4-BF_-EnM5NHTx-sUVi6aWJgBwEXIVOBcQLqMDcaSGSrzdYgqbmbQkUNSUNO-xFG4o2NDXR1QJ/s1600/WhatsNext4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJrhQDykZIABJJJp2PZDkdm_bTTq9_QWVxYDu1Bu8H_BMZ36g2HKgwM_FFm77U8Le7N-4-BF_-EnM5NHTx-sUVi6aWJgBwEXIVOBcQLqMDcaSGSrzdYgqbmbQkUNSUNO-xFG4o2NDXR1QJ/s1600/WhatsNext4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Over the years I have found that I am a chronic sufferer of the 'Whats Next Syndrome'. It has proven to be both a blessing and a curse. I am a person who likes change, sitting in one place for too long makes me antsy. Whether its a physical place or a mental state my natural disposition is to evolve. The issue is <i>I don't always know what to evolve towards</i>. I have also found over the years that this can be a rather emotionally painful conundrum when the answers are coming more slowly that the desire wants.<br />
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When I look at these pictures I can't help but think ... <i>who is this?</i> who is posting these photos of super food smoothies, bendy yoga poses and Pilate's challenges on my blog?! A mere 8 months ago I had not done a back bend in years, 12 months ago I never thought I could give up dairy let alone cheese! 10 months ago I was posting personal style photos and crafts, 7 months ago I started a healing journey that I had no idea how it was going to work. 14 months ago I had a melt down about the seemingly directionless state of my life.<br />
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And there is today. I am happier. I am stronger. I am more bendy. I am healthier. I have a brighter look on life. Thankfully this space has grown with me- my life has expanded to welcome new experiences and as I keep working towards my 2014 goal of living more fearlessly I know there are more uncharted territories to be discovered this year. But lately the issue hasn't been the lack excitement of starting something new or the willingness to let go. Its been that <i>I don't know what to do.</i> Which direction do I take? Whats my next big adventure? How do I know?<br />
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In 2014 I have already joined an instagram yoga challenge, a 30 day Pilate's challenge, faced my aversion to blenders and started playing with super food smoothies, tried a handful of new foods, changed the pace of this blog, and am gratitude journaling daily. I have fearlessly faced my inner issues and failure, inadequacy, and insecurity, though a daily battle, I am facing them. So whats the next conquest? Where do I leap, how do I grow more?<br />
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Everyone's life journey is so different. They go at different paces, different directions, develop different perceptions. To find your own voice can be scary in itself, let alone find it among a billion other people. You can follow others for only so long before you realize your legs are strong enough to carry you on your own- they have a spring in them ready to launch into the unknown.<br />
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Today I don't know what is next. I know I am ready for bigger things, face something a little larger, get a little more out of my comfort zone. Acknowledging I am ready for a challenge is a solid first step- it grounds me. The answer may or may not be simple- maybe I am meant be more like a glacier and slowly change through life and not so much like a wave crashing from one thing to the next. <br />
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These are just some open ended questions that have been swimming in my brain the last few days- growing pains are a bummer but they in fact lead to much greater things. Patience and humbleness are key to waiting for answers.<br />
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But in the meantime, if you are waiting for answers like I am here are some super easy recipes for you to try/change/make your own- the foods are pictured above! This is pretty typical fare for my days off and are easy, quick, and delicious!<br />
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<b>Super Smoothie</b><br />
1 Banana<br />
1 cup Coconut milk<br />
1 cup Blueberries (or any berry on hand, really)<br />
2 tbs Hemp seeds<br />
1 scoop Amazing Grass Superfood powder (any flavor)<br />
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<b>Fruits n' Greens Salad</b><br />
2 cups mixed greens (pictured is kale, spinach, romaine)<br />
1 cucumber, cut<br />
1/2 cup strawberries, sliced<br />
1 kiwi, sliced<br />
2 tsp Hemp Seed<br />
2 tsp Chia Seed<br />
2 tbs Non Dairy Ranch (<i>because its soooo good</i>) <br />
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Happy Weekend, friends ♥ Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-70049383276280954902014-03-19T17:59:00.000-07:002014-03-19T17:59:57.393-07:00NEW READS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBhYn59AlOIaoavTTJaqcyyzdAGeh1K1sOTJ7ZvfeUI21IkVtXLYSXcSh_ay32VR1OH5vBgT4GabSnPyxYLOnSqLRQV4tfIKEaETwE43KonfqAn0U5w-Y5ii0TKYc7z_cBRzMV7Q6MRcXK/s1600/NewReads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBhYn59AlOIaoavTTJaqcyyzdAGeh1K1sOTJ7ZvfeUI21IkVtXLYSXcSh_ay32VR1OH5vBgT4GabSnPyxYLOnSqLRQV4tfIKEaETwE43KonfqAn0U5w-Y5ii0TKYc7z_cBRzMV7Q6MRcXK/s1600/NewReads.jpg" /></a></div>
Happy Hump Day! Its windy and rainy outside so I jammed my workout early so I could get cozy in pajamas with a good book ASAP- its the little things in life, right?<br />
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I love buying new books. As much as I love the luxury of my Kindle there is nothing that beats the feeling of a new book. And lately I have been loving the books that get me highlighting and marking up the pages that inspire me. Two new ones I picked up over the last week are both by my favorite Zen Master, Thich Naht Hanh- one day I hope to attend one of his retreats! I find his style of teaching so clear and concise- easy to follow and apply to my own life.<br />
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What brought me to book shopping is the fact that I have been feeling a little defeated in the positive thinking department. Some of my old habits of negative thoughts- though not drastic- are creeping in as I am facing some new decisions and choices. They are negative thoughts that are rooted in fear, the type of fear that acts like quick sand. Once I am in it seems impossible to get out of that mindset. I needed some inspiration! <br />
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So when I saw this book with the simple title of <i>FEAR</i>, I took it as a sign. So far it has been amazing. It starts from the beginning of our fears and works through all the stages. I know a lot of my own fears are rooted in past experiences that went wrong, left me hurt, and now I am terrified of that same painful vulnerability happening again. But it is this same fear that keeps me from progressing forward. It is a strange realization when you begin to accept and acknowledge a feeling, you are able to break it apart and become bigger than it. Fear is not always rational so you almost have to belittle that little bully to get it to go away. Finding time to meditate on my goals and dreams has been a lot of help to me this week in making my fear smaller. Having the vision of achieving what I want most and<i> feel</i> what it feels like to have it. Try it, its pretty exhilarating! No obstacles, no fears, just you and your achievement!<br />
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After I finish <i>Fear </i>and I will be moving on to <i>Happiness</i> because who can't use a little more coaching in happiness? Don't let ruts get the best of you, pick up a book, read a blog, search pinterest for artfully designed quotes that touch your soul and lift you up. Its hard to be in our own struggles everyday consumed by our innermost fears so looking at our situation from another perspective can give enough light at the end of the tunnel ♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-81364078991880328052014-03-18T14:52:00.002-07:002014-03-18T14:52:54.959-07:00BANISHING BAGGAGE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.sheilazellerinteriors.com/articles/its-a-mystery-and-i-want-its-history" target="_blank"><b>via</b></a> </span></div>
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This past weekend Nate and I did what I call Phase One of a major purge in our space. We have been blessed with a rather large apartment but the walls were starting to feel awfully closed in. Both him and I are notorious for hanging on to sentimental items- anything with a memory attached is hard to part ways with. I went through about a decade of accumulating way too many clothes/shoes/accessories and as we are transforming ourselves from the materialistic versions of ourselves the things around us just start resembling <i>stuff</i>. </div>
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It can really be a cathartic exercise to release the objects around us. To let go of the past to make room for the future. High School mementos that I have long forgotten the meaning of, the books from college I thought I <i>might</i> use again one day (ha!), the hand-me-down kitchen items that were given out of love but never used. I may have a slight case of hoarding and am just good at hiding it behind closet doors and cabinets! </div>
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As we were going through closets, drawers, bookcases, and everything in between I felt lighter. Seeing the pile for donations growing wasn't just objects but also the guilt of not using the items, the hassle of shuffling them around, the reminders of some bittersweet memories that needed released. I was recently listening to Deepak Chopra's <b>Magical Mind, Magical Body</b>, which, <i>so good</i>. Mr. Chopra touched on how we can never grasp the highest value of ourselves if we base our value on the objects around us. <i>Things do not define us</i>. We define us. </div>
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To see the floor of the closet was like opening a whole new space in my life for something new, a space for just being. I am excited to go through even more in the coming weekends- sometimes letting go is a little painful, but ultimately it is liberating! To see the donation center worker clearing out my car I didn't even remember each item that was boxed up and that was exhilarating! </div>
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I challenge you to try clearing a closet, a shelf, a drawer. I challenge you to banish the baggage that weighs you down! What is holding you back? Release the emotions with the items and feel that sense of freedom. Freedom is the ultimate gift and you have the power to make it happen! </div>
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Bet you will never think of Spring Cleaning the same way ;) ♥ </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-35404956929169289652014-03-17T12:22:00.002-07:002014-03-17T12:22:38.371-07:00FROM THE GIRL WHO FAKED ILLNESS IN PHYS ED<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Good afternoon and Happy Monday! This past week flew by, it had its ups and downs and in-betweens. I have been spending a lot of time reflecting on areas of my life that could use some improvement. I don't know about you but I tend to tackle one thing at a time- get one moving in a better direction and then start on the next. Diving in all at once tends to overwhelm me mentally. That is why I find journaling so incredibly helpful- it helps me sort out my thoughts and prioritize what I want to work on next! I have been so focused on healthy eating and rebuilding my spiritual strength that I had kind of let my goals for fitness fall by the wayside, and I had it all in black and white to prove it. <br />
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As the season is changing my energy is coming back, I have more of a productive vibe going, spring cleaning in full swing, and new challenges are begging to be created! Of course this time of year magazine racks, news stories, blogs, and everything in between are all about getting that 'bikini' bod and finding that 'slimmer thinner you'. These always get me thinking about my own state of being. Fitness comes and goes in my life- from the days of feigning illness to get out of P.E.- my parents are nurses so I came up with some pretty fancy ones! To times of insane commitment <span style="font-size: x-small;">(7 days of activity, the one time my thighs didn't touch!)</span> and times where my only activity was the meandering walks with Stella <span style="font-size: x-small;">(she is pretty lazy)</span> but what I would really like in life is a workout routine that I love enough to do consistently throughout the week, a routine that falls somewhere in the middle of a crazy gym rat and couch potato :)<br />
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I have been slowly integrating several different activities into my workout week- no cries of boredom from me! Yoga has been amazing for me since starting it in November. My initial goal was to practice 6 days a week but realistically I get 5- 6 days is a good week! I have been participating in the Backbend Madness challenge for the month of March on <a href="http://instagram.com/janae_c" target="_blank"><b>Instagram</b></a> and it has <i>definitely</i> been a challenge. Sometimes too much of one. The thing with Yoga is to accept where you are in the present and just let it flow. I have let a few poses get the better of me and one ended in a not so pretty pout party. Its definitely a lesson in humility and mindfulness. I can't deny myself though that my flexibility, strength, and comfort in my own skin has improved since starting this journey!<br />
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Now that the weather is better Nate and I have started running again. We do the C25K app and practice different intervals about 3 times a week- we are <i>not</i> training for a 5k. I thought we may develop a passion to, but by week 4 we realized we didn't really care to 'train' we simply wanted the joy of running in a way that made us happy!<br />
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So with these two under my belt I was feeling pretty good. But I am not quite where I want to be. I know that over the years that I was stressing over work, emotionally eating, sleeping away unhappiness, and not taking care of myself physically, I was allowing pounds to creep on slowly but surely. The number on the scale does not define us but feeling fit and healthy is priceless and a large part of how we convey our self worth. Now that I am in a place of loving myself more and enjoying life more fully- <span style="font-size: x-small;">and actually not taking naps everyday!</span> I am in the place where I am ready to shed those extra pounds. Yoga and running have been great, I am excited about my flexibility and I love getting my heart pumping but I felt like there was another element missing. So this weekend I finally committed to doing a month of Cassey Ho's <a href="http://www.blogilates.com/" target="_blank"><b>POP Pilates</b></a> too! Hello toned bod- I'm coming for you! <br />
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For 30 days I will be doing some sort of physical activity, monitoring my calories with My Fitness Pal, and tracking my progress in my planner. I am excited! I am excited to see change. More than anything I want to feel strong- for the first time in my life I would take stronger over thinner <span style="font-size: x-small;">(funny how that changes, huh?)</span> Why I am sharing this here is for accountability. I have a tendency to have 'secret' projects of self improvement that don't pan out and a large part of that is I keep it to myself. Telling all of you is an ultimate motivator. We all have struggles in our growth, be it fitness or otherwise and I hope that by sharing my ups and downs of this challenge will help motivate you towards your goals! Even if you were the kid who sat out in P.E. today is a new day and you are a new person, just as I am- and it excites me everyday to think about the growth potential of myself in any given 24 hours!<br />
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Do you have big goals you are thinking about tackling or have already started working towards? ♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-40812019988337632832014-03-12T15:58:00.000-07:002014-03-12T15:58:13.173-07:00SERIES | TOES TO TIPS | TOES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">>> Introducing a new feature to F+S with Series.
These will be any series of informative, how-to, instructional posts on
an array of topics <<</span></div>
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Lets face it- we've all worn those heels for simply the sake of looking good, stood in line for hours for those concert tickets, and worn flip flops all summer for years putting stress on our arches and lower legs. Our feet have put up with it all. One of the best benefits I have gained from my yoga practice is a sense of rejuvenation in my tired feet. I never really thought about having strong or flexible feet until recently and now I work these simple poses into my practice multiple times a week.<br />
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<b>1. Thunderbolt // Vajrasana</b><br />
Sit with knees bent and feet touching, big toe to big toe and heel to heel- overlapping your feet for a deeper stretch. With spine straight and hands on the thighs breathe 5-10 times. Feel the release in the top of the foot and ankle.<br />
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<b>2. Squat with bent Toes</b><br />
Start from a kneeling position and curl your toes under. Lift your knees to be perpendicular to the ground, finding your balance. With a straight back, place hands on your thighs and a breath 5-10 times- feel this great stretch in your arches and toes.<br />
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<b>3. Downward Facing Dog // Adho Mukha Svanasana with curled toe variation </b><br />
On all fours lengthen the buttocks to the sky keeping knees slightly bent and widening your fingers for support. Lift up on your toes from your core and roll toes under. Hold for 5 breathes. An easy transition into upward facing dog that stretches the top of the foot and toes.<br />
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<b>4. Legs up the Wall // Viparita Karani</b><br />
Sit with your buttocks as close to a clear wall as possible and lift legs up the wall. Engage your legs muscles slightly, flex your feet and spread your toes. Slowly relax your body and 'melt' into the floor. This pose is great for lower back pain, getting fresh blood into the legs and stretches the back of the leg. <br />
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♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-35998397382416538772014-03-11T14:25:00.000-07:002014-03-11T14:25:13.170-07:00KICKING OLD FOODIE HABITS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every now and then I have a <i>terrible</i> time with eating clean. I seem to endlessly crave foods I have long cut out- like mac n' cheese, and I'm not talking about the kind made with Daiya ;) I am always in a state of progress- not perfection- when it comes to eating and I know that I am way better than I was even 6 months ago, but it doesn't make days like these any easier. Since changing my food habits in August of last year I have had plenty of opportunities to practice techniques to get me through the rough spots. Sometimes old habits just die hard but here are my go to's to keep on track... <br /><b><br /></b>
<b>Address <u>why</u> you are craving- </b>Is it a situation? Emotions? Sometimes we find ourselves really wanting a cheeseburger and beer when we are out with our friends because that is what we used to do together. The comfort of the familiar and emotions tied to people and situations can be powerful. A lot of times simply acknowledging how we are being affected gives us enough power to make changes.<br />
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<b>Try a new healthy snack option-</b> peruse the aisles of your health food store, find a new recipe for clean sweets, or try a new fruit. <br />
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<b>Have a stash-</b> have one at home, the office, your car, wherever you find yourself getting cravings. Put healthy snack options that are your favorites and you know will help satiate the want to 'go crazy'. Don't let unhealthy options be easier to obtain than the healthy ones. <br />
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<b>Have a small serving of what you are craving- </b>not everyone will agree with this, but I have had successful experiences with this method. Are Cheetos your weakness? Get a small serving, eat them slowly, and as you do, pay attention to how this junk food makes you feel compared to your healthy snacks. I guarantee you that you will not feel awesome after this- it actually helped turn me off to some of my old favorites!<br />
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<b>Find clean food/ healthy habit inspiration-</b> Thank goodness for Pinterest, Instagram, Tumblr, and blogs. Sometimes flipping through a Yogi's instagram feed or searching clean food photos on Pinterest are enough to motivate me and inspire me to stick to it. Especially when you find a role model that consistently inspires you- this can help remind you of what it means to you to eat clean and take care of yourself. <br />
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Whatever method I go with to kick a craving I always go right back to clean eating! Its not about guilt tripping yourself. I used to be very critical of myself when I would fall off the bandwagon and that honestly made me slip up even more! I have to love myself during the good and bad and remember that every day is a step closer to being a happier and healthier me ♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-61064771735412975742014-03-10T11:29:00.001-07:002014-03-10T11:29:56.191-07:00MY DAILY LIFE LESSON<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Lyrics by One Republic</i></span></div>
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The past few weeks have been full of dreaming and scheming if nothing else. Dreams of better things to come this year, plans of how to get there, and faith that all we need for it to work out will come.<br />
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For me personally, I know my #1 set back of all time when it comes to achieving goals is myself. I am the type who plays it safe, inhibitions paralyze me, doubt and fear of the worst case scenarios riddle my brain. For example- I have made my share of mistakes in the past with finances, I have been burned, and felt foolish for these mistakes and it has planted a seed of timidness and feelings of lack. Our goals this year are going to push me to face these fears head on, open old wounds, and learn to have some faith when it comes to money. Changing my old thought patterns of ...<br />
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<i>There simply isn't enough money for what I want</i><br />
<i>I have to work really hard to earn my money ... and then it seems to disappear!</i><br />
<i>This endeavor will probably take more money than I have or can imagine having- why bother?</i><br />
<i>Why will this situation be any different from the others? I am no good at balancing a check book- inevitable failure. </i><br />
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Ok, so slightly dramatic but you get the idea. I set myself up for money failures before I even begin! Booo! Any time these negative thoughts cross my mind or I want to start obsessively monitoring my accounts I take a breath and realign my thoughts with my goals. Its not easy. But eventually the negative thoughts are a little more quiet and the positive ones bring peace and balance back to my mind. I use statements like ... <br />
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<i>Our account has more than enough for what we need and want</i><br />
<i>The universe will provide what we need and when we need it. </i><br />
<i>I make wise decisions with our finances and therefore we are taken care of and comfortable. </i><br />
<i>I am grateful for the abundance I already possess!</i><br />
<i>I deserve the financial freedom I desire, and I already have it!</i><br />
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I am not saying throw all caution to the wind. No no, what I am saying is don't let money be a ball and chain. Since practicing these 'thought switches' I have found I am simply smarter about my money and see a difference in my habits both outwardly and inwardly. Do whatever you must to get that feeling of abundance back. I read once that if you are feeling broke, go out and buy something! Feel that freedom of abundance. Even if that freedom is a $1 coffee at McD's.<br />
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So instead of counting the dollars to my name, I am going to be counting my blessings. Anticipating the great adventures ahead and have faith that I deserve and am ready for this next chapter in life. The lesson to be learned everyday is to not let things that intimidate us keep us from being the best we can be, we are all infinitely amazing- we just have to believe it and let everything else fall into place ♥<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-13975656141875303512014-03-04T14:52:00.000-08:002014-03-04T15:00:32.122-08:00NATURES BOUNTY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAelM3ehkdevYBm30tqlDcKyRYYcwIKuXObtshKSd809kvTZnjxA94Wx5OyYtn534EI9pK3s91WnWdvgASfhizk8a3oauPJvZ36K8xKjZbDRw_F5lamgO9OMZDIPpSVogP1ywv-_hvq5lU/s1600/Raw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAelM3ehkdevYBm30tqlDcKyRYYcwIKuXObtshKSd809kvTZnjxA94Wx5OyYtn534EI9pK3s91WnWdvgASfhizk8a3oauPJvZ36K8xKjZbDRw_F5lamgO9OMZDIPpSVogP1ywv-_hvq5lU/s1600/Raw.jpg" /></a></div>
I thought changing from vegetarian to vegan was a big adjustment- it took a lot of thought, pre-planning, and research... and clearing of the pantry. Lots of clearing of the pantry! But as the obsessive evolver that I am, I obviously was looking for the next step to better health despite my just feeling comfortable with veganism. So in comes <i>eating raw</i>. I do it in the simplest of manners- no dehydrators, nothing fancy. Just me and natures bounty. I get organic when possible, and have been branching out to try things that intimidate me- starting with tropical fruits.<br />
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I never want to <u>not</u> try a fruit or vegetable because it intimidates me- I come from the corn, potato, and meat region of America and I never want to find myself pigeon-holed into that mentality. Picking up a new fruit every time I am at the store, like passion fruit or a papaya has slowly opened my mind and expand my palette for a new array of flavors. I found that I really love passion fruit, it was an amazing surprise <span style="font-size: x-small;">(and here I was intimidated by its looks! Goes to show, don't judge a book by the cover)</span> and I learned I really am not a papaya fan- however I am looking forward to using it in summer smoothies!<br />
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Not everything is readily available for me that I want to try but I will travel a distance to obtain it, simply for the joy of trying it! I am on the hunt for some durian, fresh figs, dragon fruit, star fruit, fresh coconut, and I definitely want to branch out to some new greens- I tend to purchase kale, romaine, and baby spinach on the regular. There are so many options out there! Being more open minded and willing to taste a variety makes me more grateful for nature, feel nourished, and honestly, I just feel better from the inside out! <br />
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What are some fruits and vegetables you have tried that were not the norm for you? Loved them or hated them? And I will gladly accept recommendations! ♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-36642541517103743712014-02-28T14:36:00.000-08:002014-02-28T14:36:15.065-08:00NATURAL BEAUTY: DRY BRUSHING<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv56zZsPtCu4Vvzb9dSgnToHqemW8VSozR6dWmquyg9GBGntOruTROQ5qv29y2AqM2bSsOoRUf7GnX_-Ld9gEZtrsRKlL93lSWwUkUd21R8WnCzgSNt8qM5go5yCGPZ56wDTCBxR0BBWnj/s1600/DryBrush1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv56zZsPtCu4Vvzb9dSgnToHqemW8VSozR6dWmquyg9GBGntOruTROQ5qv29y2AqM2bSsOoRUf7GnX_-Ld9gEZtrsRKlL93lSWwUkUd21R8WnCzgSNt8qM5go5yCGPZ56wDTCBxR0BBWnj/s1600/DryBrush1.jpg" /></a></div>
For a long time I allowed dry brushing to mystify me. It sounded too 'granola'. But, I would like to have it on the record that I have tried and I am now a believer! There are multiple benefits to having a daily dry brushing routine like reduced cellulite, increased blood circulation- benefiting the lymphatic system which impacts your liver and digestion, clears dead skin to open pores- in turn leaving you glow-y and clear of those pesky winter dry flakes.<br />
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So how to?<br />
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<b>Buy:</b> A natural bristle brush- the bristles should be stiff. There are different styles of brushes, I chose the long handle for the reach-ability.<br />
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<b>When: </b>Some dry brush enthusiasts recommend brushing twice a day. I personally brush once in the morning before my shower. Because your are clearing off dead skin I recommend you do it in the shower before you turn the water on.<br />
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<b>How:</b> Brush in long sweeps starting at your feet and working your way to the heart. Clockwise on your stomach and smaller strokes on your arms and shoulders. You can brush extra on your knees and elbows- just insure you are brushing firmly but your skin should not be red or irritated (a light pink is normal)<br />
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<b>After:</b> Shower off and follow your bathing with a good natural lotion or oil.<br />
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I already see a difference and I have been consistently brushing for about two weeks- it has saved me from this winter dryness! <br />
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What is your experience with dry brushing? ♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-74140733633011475832014-02-25T11:30:00.000-08:002014-02-25T11:30:28.859-08:00GREEN THUMB DREAMS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht2zBSIdW9V92OFEiJKohR4VPpx2OF6AR9uZJ8qBjhzf0gTWTVjvdbyneM-5rfIgLJa1WzbphCuRZjBf1Q4PD35C84RjTF9CEQBZ0dp1l9_XhfTQMaExbzpIqFtv20Yeg2rFFIjP6jDLHj/s1600/Plant1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht2zBSIdW9V92OFEiJKohR4VPpx2OF6AR9uZJ8qBjhzf0gTWTVjvdbyneM-5rfIgLJa1WzbphCuRZjBf1Q4PD35C84RjTF9CEQBZ0dp1l9_XhfTQMaExbzpIqFtv20Yeg2rFFIjP6jDLHj/s1600/Plant1.jpg" /></a></div>
My hands on experience with plant life has been minimal and mostly of the oohing and awwing sort when my mom gives me an annual spring tour of her gardens. I come from a family of gardeners- my grandmother, parents, even my sister has a gifted green thumb. Me? Well I managed to kill a bamboo shoot once. So I chalked it up to having a black thumb and with a small sad sigh I went on my way, plant less. <br />
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<i> cactus // aloe vera // money tree // bonsai // jade</i></div>
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Lately though I have been wanting to try bringing plants back in the house. Thanks to <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/janaechristophr/" target="_blank"><b>Pinterest</b></a> and this <a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2014/02/learning-about-indoor-plants.html" target="_blank"><b>post</b></a> on ABM I mustered the courage to get to Home Depot. I had originally planned on just picking out two- but then in the excitement of the moment, well, you can see I ended up with more than just two!<br />
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I chose some deliberately- I have been wanting my own Aloe Vera plant for its <a href="http://sacredsourcenutrition.com/top-12-benefits-of-aloe-vera/" target="_blank"><b>medicinal benefits</b></a>. Nate always thought a Bonsai would be pretty cool, I couldn't agree more! The Jade plant filled the spot of succulent, I love the way they look. The cactus and money tree were purely impulse- I mean, a money tree? That has to be like the ultimate feng shui addition to any home. <br />
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So far they are alive and healthy- I am following their instructions very closely, talking to them, and this weekend I plan on re-potting them. I am seriously channeling positive energy their way and believing I have a green thumb!<br />
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If you have any tips or advice send them this way- I am determined to keep this little plant family alive ♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-66949494446468464202014-02-24T11:49:00.000-08:002014-02-24T11:49:32.480-08:00GETTING BETTER ALL THE TIME | E-SQUARED<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Happy Monday!</i> And no, that is not sarcasm- that is a true deep from the bottom of my heart verbal gesture of love and hope that your week is starting off on the best foot ever!<br />
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I also hope that the title of this post immediately put the Beatles song in your head. It has been playing on repeat in my own for oh, about 6 hrs now. You are welcome.<br />
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New blog designs are so fun, it can be the simplest of things that make your outlook fresh and excited to revisit a space over and over again. I am not much of a process person and always tell myself <i>'pace yourself, Janae. A blog design does <u>not</u> in fact need to be done over night. Think about it, let ideas marinate.'</i> And then what happens? 48 hrs later I have a new blog design up! Ha ha well at least I know my nature!<br />
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On a totally different note and the point of this post- have you read the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_9?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=e%20squared&sprefix=E+squared%2Caps%2C445" target="_blank"><b>E-Squared: Nine Do-It-Yourself Energy Experiments that Prove Your Thoughts Create Your Reality</b></a> by Pam Grout? No? Well you should. I am starting on the third experiment this week and I am looking forward to it because the last two have worked!<br />
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Coming from someone who used to commiserate that I was just a very unlucky person <span style="font-size: x-small;">(terrible mentality to have)</span>, I used to wonder why bad things always seemed to come my way. The bank account would be low and my car would breakdown, I had somewhere important to be and I would get stuck in traffic, I had fun plans and I would be called into work. I just assumed I was unlucky. I wasn't born with the proverbial silver spoon, I have never found a four leaf clover. And then I decided not that long ago that <i>so what?</i> What is luck anyway? Well apparently it is energy. And that is what this book is all about- we are all energy, that is a scientific fact, and depending what frequency we send out, that is the frequency we receive in return.<br />
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High frequency? Positive vibes and good things come your way. Low Frequency? Well your car will break down in a traffic jam during a downpour the day before you get paid. <i>On the bright side you have control over your frequency.</i> <br />
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I apparently have spent most of my life on the low frequency wave- through learned behaviors, limitations I set for myself, perceptions I allowed to manifest, I unknowingly set myself up for a bumpy ride. So over the past few months I have been changing my frequency, it is a process, I am learning a new way of thinking after all but I can genuinely say its fun!<br />
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<u>The first experiment</u> in the book is to ask the universe for a sign- a blatant, can't miss it sign that it is there and waiting. So for 48 hrs I watched for a sign. Around hour 40 I happened to pop on twitter and guess who started following me? The Law of Attraction. I couldn't help but laugh! So thank you universe for that.<br />
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<u>The second experiment</u> directs you to focus your focus. Pay attention to your surroundings- an exercise in mindfulness. Since our brains like to filter out what does not seem important we miss a lot! The experiment is to focus on seeing a certain type of car- I chose green. In a day I recognized 26 green cars (during about 2 hrs of driving). Part two of this experiment was to look for yellow butterflies. I was a little more skeptical of this one, because, it <i>is</i> winter after all and not conducive to butterfly sitings. But I had faith and yesterday afternoon on instagram lo' and behold there was a yellow butterfly.<br />
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So I don't know how you would react but I got pretty excited- I still am excited! To be affirmed that I can take control of my thoughts and energy and attract what I want to attract. I think thats pretty cool.<br />
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Don't feel unlucky anymore- there really is no need. Have a little faith. Try a little experiment. Read this book and have fun opening up a new way of thinking. There is nothing to lose and so much to gain, if even just a better perspective! ♥ <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-84790611959849379612014-02-21T11:55:00.000-08:002014-02-21T11:55:19.144-08:00BAKED APPLES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQPbHRBVf2kUHOwfKiyiwRuOb2fGpaumjRn3Xi_ZY_9JF-LcjESZAXo3hVIFZZs335vDAm0ndPEmjc9DLQqOhyphenhyphennSFTeg91lAaUH75HJ7DWoJtgLz4h1NKGeb5dXUiVpLX7xS8yRO8gzsy/s1600/BakedApple1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghQPbHRBVf2kUHOwfKiyiwRuOb2fGpaumjRn3Xi_ZY_9JF-LcjESZAXo3hVIFZZs335vDAm0ndPEmjc9DLQqOhyphenhyphennSFTeg91lAaUH75HJ7DWoJtgLz4h1NKGeb5dXUiVpLX7xS8yRO8gzsy/s1600/BakedApple1.jpg" /></a></div>
A few weekends ago I was craving something sweet but still healthy. I had a basket full of apples and thought it might be time to try baking some! After a quick google search I found a simple, low maintenance, almost no clean-up recipe thanks to <a href="http://wenderly.com/2010/10/06/brown-sugar-cinnamon-baked-apples/" target="_blank"><b>Wenderly</b></a>. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJ8rmcG0FR3Yi8V-Denq0UgS3jqA8EMJxPWF4H2x71rGtblFuPw_WY573eOqhRsUPFyBQwaCYavA_m5J_kMCQY-ZG2bzZsCZwIZWz3WQZTfrdy6FjsrGk-T6c3qsWptAQ7FyhPERtHITx/s1600/BakedApple2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJ8rmcG0FR3Yi8V-Denq0UgS3jqA8EMJxPWF4H2x71rGtblFuPw_WY573eOqhRsUPFyBQwaCYavA_m5J_kMCQY-ZG2bzZsCZwIZWz3WQZTfrdy6FjsrGk-T6c3qsWptAQ7FyhPERtHITx/s1600/BakedApple2.jpg" /></a></div>
Here is how to make your own:<br />
-Preheat oven to 400 degrees.<br />
-Slice apples into thin slices- I used my slicer and then thinned them some more<br />
-Place apples on individual squares of foil<br />
-Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. I did this with out measuring but the original recipe uses 1 tsp cinnamon, 2 tablespoons brown sugar. <br />
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Wrap up the apples into little pouches and place on your baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes until apples are soft and glazed. <br />
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And that is it. Simple, delicious, and much better than a candy bar ;)<br />
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Happy Baking ♥Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-44972878520466725652014-02-20T19:23:00.004-08:002014-02-20T19:29:20.680-08:00GOOD VIBRATIONS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftb5imltdpcz-uEu63hSSbDRnyvWkdZVehYT4qQae1S24v4EkN46G4JmrCcNfnwp1EmI_dVeobHNsipM21tq936Gd8duEhhF2f1fy-B_LTcBF8wJ5FhN6JhAvup47ZlvX5LkLhDJZdl1S/s1600/LetsGo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftb5imltdpcz-uEu63hSSbDRnyvWkdZVehYT4qQae1S24v4EkN46G4JmrCcNfnwp1EmI_dVeobHNsipM21tq936Gd8duEhhF2f1fy-B_LTcBF8wJ5FhN6JhAvup47ZlvX5LkLhDJZdl1S/s1600/LetsGo.jpg" /></a></div>
This week I've had an itch I can't quite scratch. The need to change, to move, to grow, to adventure. Maybe its been the consistent double digit temps, the rays of sunshine, the sound of nature stirring, that has got my gears going and thoughts racing toward the future. An impulse that says <i>lets go! anywhere! do something! anything! Imagine it and do it!</i><br />
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Visualization has been such a fun tool for me lately. I have always prided myself on a great imagination <span style="font-size: x-small;">(thus, I do not watch scary movies)</span> and visualization has worked its way nicely into my daily meditation. This week I had a real breakthrough with them, they just felt so <i>real</i>. Checking things off my bucket list, setting off for new adventures and experiences, growing on this little blog, expanding my life in a thousand different ways- I could see it all. And not just see it, I could <i>feel</i> it. In all the literature I have read on visualization, authors and gurus all agree that feeling your visualizations is the key to transforming your life through this practice. It seemed like I finally got both pieces of the puzzle and I have a vibration of excitement underlying my thoughts everyday.<br />
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So though its been quite here on the blog, my journals are filling up with ideas and inspirations. I am excited to move on from things that feel stale, both here and in my day to day. I feel inspired to pour more time/passion into what I love right now and make real plans for real change. I am feeling more at home in myself. The easy part is always saying you want to create change- the hard part is acting on it. But I can honestly say that these good vibrations are leading me on a different kind of creative path and I am excited to see where I go ♥ <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-22804365140459369632014-02-17T19:16:00.000-08:002014-02-17T19:16:42.411-08:00OUTFIT No. 40<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i> Target Hat // Old Navy Blazer // Sincerely Jules 'Sorry We're Cool' tee // Chucks</i></div>
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Today I had a serious case of the Mondays. Its like an every other Monday thing for me- the goal is consistency on being at the 'awesome' side of the Monday scale <i>buuuutttt</i> 50/50 is still an improvement. There is always that day that just seems to be our thorn. The day that tests your positive spirits. The day where those positive thoughts don't come so simply and it almost seems like the neg chatter is trying its hardest to drown any of that turn your frown upside down business. <br />
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Maybe it was because I was coming back after a 3 day weekend of bliss, maybe it was because every muscle in my body hurts from a killer workout yesterday. And maybe it was because it was sleeting, gray, and dismal all day. But in the end- I am super grateful to have a job to come back to after a long weekend, I am stronger today than I was yesterday, and today was the only dismal day on the forecast for the week and we are now through it!<br />
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How do you tip the scale towards positive when your negative thoughts are swarming? Flip them? Accept them and move on? Vent in a journal?<br />
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Tonight I will be racking my brain for any extra ounces of gratitude to fill my journal page and focus on affirmative thoughts for a fabulous Tuesday- I have faith the universe will pull through for me ♥ <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9162524828215248919.post-11458677123029873372014-02-15T16:28:00.000-08:002014-02-15T16:42:36.655-08:00TWO FOR THE ROAD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijxcpznh27JSzz62ypjJN4wDRSzp3uIKhWNrX3iIgTonii-DExg8M-OPaTpPqi2RSOArfljQirut1at3uGBickxEJMns0sdgJ5rdp1fnM2xL2mOSPKMzh1rjxgr4vBeqH8mGjG_cuiw4xI/s1600/hearthands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijxcpznh27JSzz62ypjJN4wDRSzp3uIKhWNrX3iIgTonii-DExg8M-OPaTpPqi2RSOArfljQirut1at3uGBickxEJMns0sdgJ5rdp1fnM2xL2mOSPKMzh1rjxgr4vBeqH8mGjG_cuiw4xI/s1600/hearthands.jpg" /> </a></div>
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<i>Au Revoir Valentines day ... until next year ♥ ♥ </i></div>
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Well we made it back safe and sound from snowy northern Ohio and it feels oh so good to be home. We are homebodies by nature, slightly introverted, and enjoy the simple pleasures of being in the familiar but sometimes its good for us to venture somewhere new! </div>
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Cleveland had been on our to-go list since we have been married- we were briefly there in 2012 for a Neil Young concert but with little time to explore we knew we wanted to go back and experience the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and city sights together. </div>
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I am super glad I booked this trip- I was hesitant because of the weather we have been experiencing (you never know when a snow storm might trap you in) but I took a leap of faith and booked us an incredible hotel room in the trendy Flats District. We wined and dined and fell asleep to the luxury of cable TV (ha!) and then there is always the fun of long conversations while making a 3+ hour drive. </div>
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One of my favorite things about being married is having the joy of knowing someone so intimately- on a level that no one else knows your partner. Nuances, mannerisms, thought patterns- these are all things you pick up when you live and spend exponential amounts of time with a person. N and I got into a conversation about our Astrological signs, which in turn had him googling descriptions, and then us laughing and pointing out all the characteristics of our signs that rang true to each other. I don't put a lot of stock in signs but I think they hold some truths, so we had fun running through all the parallels! And knowing that few could pin point these things I found in Nate and he in mine was the perfect reminder of how special our relationship is. </div>
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V-Day 2014 is definitely one to remember, we had so much fun I didn't even once pull out my camera- only my phone (for a <a href="http://instagram.com/janae_c" target="_blank"><b>bathroom mirror selfie</b></a>, so chic!) But as I am getting older I realize that sometimes it is best to leave the technology bagged and be happy just <i>experiencing</i>.</div>
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I hope you all had a beautiful 14th and great start to your weekend- I think the rest of ours will be spent cozy indoors watching movies, making good food, and enjoying home. ♥ </div>
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Highlights of our trip ...</div>
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Hotel: <a href="http://deals.alofthotels.com/Aloft-Cleveland-Downtown-Hotel-3606/special-offers?PS=LGEN_AA_DNAD_CGGL_TPRP" target="_blank"><b>Aloft Cleveland Downtown </b></a></div>
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Food: <a href="http://lagoeastbank.com/" target="_blank"><b>Lago Restaurant and Wine Bar</b></a></div>
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Drink: <a href="http://www.francisfordcoppolawinery.com/wine/sofia/mini" target="_blank"><b>Sofia Mini by Francis Ford Coppola Winery</b></a> (cutest effervescent wine in a can!)<b> </b></div>
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Sights: <a href="http://www.rockhall.com/" target="_blank"><b>Rock and Roll Hall of Fame</b></a> (Rolling Stones exhibit going on now- so glad we caught this one!)</div>
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