life as I see it

Family Photos

2012-01-16T19:31:00.002-06:00

December allowed for a few family photo shoots that I have to share!

I was forewarned that their little one was energetic, and let me tell you...I was not let down! If I only had half the energy this little one did, I'd be able to take on anything. We had a lot of fun and I was able to capture some fun moments with them. There are many more to come, but here are a few I wanted to share.

Then, when I was in Arizona for Christmas, I took the opportunity to do a mini shoot with my dad, step mom, and step brothers…even took a few with my little brother too! This is such a cute family, and I’m not bias! Ok, maybe a little bias, but still…cute family! We had fun spending time together, being silly, and taking photos!

I'm available for hire in Austin, Central Texas, Arizona, and California! Visit my website for additional information and travel dates: http://www.jenniferstampsphotography.com/

Mexican Inspired Chili

2011-12-04T18:46:00.001-06:00

I'll admit, I found this recipe on Pinterest from this site. I'm labeling this as Vegetarian as well since this would be just as amazingly tasty without the chicken. Just make sure your beans are vegetarian, but you already know that.

I bought the iPhone 4s last week and have been OBSESSED with Instagram...

It's been gross, rainy, and cold here, so I'm loving that I finally have a slow cooker. This chili was delicious and has less than 300 calories per serving!!! I don't know yet how many servings this makes, but I'll have lunch/dinners for the week. I'm guessing about 8 servings or so.

1 onion, chopped
1 16-oz can black beans
1 16-oz can kidney beans
1 8-oz can tomato sauce
2 cans of corn
2 cans of diced tomatoes
1 packet taco seasoning (less sodium kind)
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
4 boneless chicken breasts
1 jalapeno, chopped
chopped fresh cilantro (garnish)

Combine all ingredients, except for chicken and cilantro, in the slow cooker and mix. Place chicken breasts on top of the mixture, cover, and cook (high for 4 hours then low for 2 hours). 30 minutes before serving, remove chicken, shred, place chicken back in slow cooker, and mix. Once in bowl, add shopped cilantro on top of chili. Enjoy!

Tomato Olive Chicken

2011-12-01T16:17:00.001-06:00

I FINALLY bought a slow cooker. I cannot believe it’s taken me this long… We have two dogs and both hubs and I are paranoid about the dogs getting into the slow cooker while we are away, so, I made a gutsy move. I cooked in the slow cooker on Sunday, froze the meal, and reheated on Tuesday. I was nervous. Very nervous. Would it be gross? Stale? Mushy? Only one way to find out…

Here's what I used...

2 chicken breasts cut in 2” cubes (uncooked)
½ can of chicken broth
1 can of diced tomatoes
2 cups of sliced, fresh mushrooms
¼ cup of diced onions
1 cup of sliced olives (I bought pitted olives and sliced them myself)
1 teaspoon of cumin
Sea salt & pepper to taste
2 cups of brown rice

Directions – put everything into the slow cooker (excluding the rice) cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours.

If you’re eating right away, serve over a bed of brown rice.

If you’re freezing it, once it’s cooked, take the lid off for about an hour to let it cool down. Once it’s cool enough that it won’t melt your storing container, bag it up and freeze. I took the bag out of the freezer the morning of the day I was going to cook. That evening (still mostly frozen), I put the dinner back in the crock pot and cooked again on high for about 1.5 hours. Served it over the brown rice. It was DELICIOUS! And hubs liked it. So…easy, painless, healthy, AND delicious? To me…that’s a no-brainer!

The only thing I would have done differently was freeze in 2 separate bags for 2 different nights or used less ingredients. We wasted close to half of it because I unfroze it and re-heated it all at once. Lemme tell you…once you cook something, freeze, re-heat it, you don’t want to re-freeze or store and then re-heat again. I think food gets only 1 chance at re-heating, after that it gets thrown away.

27 Reasons to Give Thanks

2011-11-23T07:14:00.000-06:00

This year I turned 26, which meansthis is my 27^th Thanksgiving, so I thought…why not right down 27reasons I have to give thanks. I couldthink of way more than this, but these are some of the best ones (in no particularorder)…

I’m thankful that I met my bestfriend when we were 20. We’ve gotten togrow up together, grow more in love together, and take on the world together.
I’m thankful that this past Aprilwe got to celebrate the love we have for each other in front of 50 of our closestfriends and family as they witnessed us make the ultimate commitment to eachother.

I’m thankful for the 4 best girlfriendsanyone could ever ask for. You know whoyou are and I love you!
I’m thankful for Pinterest.
I’m thankful for my camera and lenses and all things photography.
I’m thankful for the color pink.
I’m thankful for the ability torun, dance, and all around move my body.
I’m thankful for Winston and Zona.

I’m thankful for my mom. She is sostrong and so brave. I could not haveasked for a better example of a loving, devoted, courageous, graceful woman tobe my mom and an example of beauty in every aspect of her life. She gave me confidence.
I’m thankful for my dad. He set a high standard of what to look for in afather, husband, and friend. He set meup for success. Gave me the guidance andsupport when I needed it. He let me fall when I needed that and was there to pick me right back up.
I’m thankful for my little brotherand all of the fun and strange memories we have over the years. He’s been my best friend my entire life. Such a goofball with the biggest heart ofgold anyone could have. I’m constantlylearning from him. He has such a goodsoul.

I’m thankful for music.
I’m especially thankful for LMFAO’sParty Rock this month.
I’m thankful for skinny jeans.
I’m thankful for my personaltrainer that helps me look good in said skinny jeans.
I’m thankful that my husband notonly puts up with my quirks, but encourages them.
I’m thankful for aviator sunglasses.
I’m thankful for Pearl.

I’m thankful for the ability totravel all over to visit our friends and family.
I’m thankful for Starbucks Via.
I’m thankful for my in-laws. They are kind, loving, and giving. They accepted me into their family with openarms.
I’m thankful for my "nephew". -- One of my best friends son...I'm "Auntie Jen"
I’m thankful for blue wigs.

I’m thankful to be living in a free nation.
I’m thankful for the city ofAustin. It’s a pretty cool town.
I’m thankful that I always feellike I’m home when I go back to Arizona and California.
I’m thankful for each new day thatI’m given.

What are you thankful for?

Wedding photos by Session Nine Photographers.

DIY Love

2011-11-20T18:27:00.001-06:00

I love Pinterest.

I love DIY.

I love craftieness.

I love bracelets.

This is what I did today...

http://www.sewcraftcreate.com/2011/05/rope-bracelet-tutorial.html

http://tripoverjoy.blogspot.com/2010/10/diy-accessories-from-t-shirt.html

What DIY craftieness do you love?

Pinterest, I heart you

2011-11-17T09:24:00.001-06:00

This is from my "Just Because" board...because it's awesome.

Follow my fabulous pins on Pinterest.

Couples Lifestyle Photography

2011-11-16T09:14:00.001-06:00

www.jenniferstampsphotography.com

52WPC: Week 2

2011-11-12T13:37:00.001-06:00

Half

I was eating raspberries when I remembered that I still needed to do this week's photo...half. I thought it would be a perfect opportunity to test out my new Macro Lens Adapter from Photojojo as well!

Join the 52WPC

52WPC on Flickr

Thank you!

2011-11-11T08:03:00.001-06:00

Thank you to men and women who served and who are currently serving our country. Thank you to the wives, husbands, parents, and children who support these men and women day in and day out. Your sacrifice will not go unnoticed. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Happy belated birthday to the United States Marine Corps! Thank you mom and dad for serving this great country in the USMC! Ooo rah!

photo from corpsman.com

Trash the Dress

2011-11-10T09:10:00.000-06:00

My latest project...well, one of them! I finished working on my trash the dress session from Arizona a few weeks ago. To view the full post, visit my photography blog; www.jenniferstampsphotography.com!

52WPC: Week 1

2011-11-04T16:57:00.001-05:00

Colorful

I had a different photo in mind, but when I went to get my camera out of my camera bag, this is what I saw. My hot pink & green Epiphanie camera bag (CLOVER), my retro pink & orange top hanging up, and my orange & purple tote bag next to my camera bag. If that's not colorful...I don't know what is!

Join the 52WPC

52WPC on Flickr

Burn baby, burn

2011-11-02T10:12:00.000-05:00

Why is it so damn hard for women to burn fat? The answer: I’m still looking into it, but Iknow that it’s different from men, and likely at least a little different fromwoman to woman. Join me on my fat burnerjourney? I’ll site and link my sourcesas I go along and will not claim that I know anything to be fact. I’m just a 26 year old who has literally triedeverything from boxing to bootcamp, marathon training to personal training,dieting to nutritional appoints bi-weekly. I lost 50 lbs like it was nobody’s business and am having the hardesttime loosing this last 30…What am I doing wrong?!

I started researching. Google is my new best friend. “Fatburning tips for women”, “women burn fat”,
burn belly fat”…you get the picture. I’mgoing to start documenting my findings here and label them. I cannot possibly be the only one having ahard time losing weight. Here is what Ifound to start with.

Change up the Routine

According to Women’s Health: Your Fat Burning Routine (http://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/burn-fat-now)“routine” is the bad word in “workout routine”. This is something that I’ve kinda known butchose to ignore. My trainer always says “confusethe muscles”. Well – what on earth doesthat even mean? It means change up yourworkout. Here are a few tips mentionedin the article…

Treadmill – “Challenge your muscles. At the end ofa workout, slow your speed to 2.5 to 3.5 miles per hour. Skip for 30 seconds,walk for 30; walk backward for 30, forward for 30; stand sideways and shufflewith your right foot leading for 30 seconds, walk for 30, and repeat with leftfoot leading.”

Elliptical – “Use intervals. During every thirdsong on your MP3 player or every commercial break, ramp up the intensity and goas hard as you can.”

Weight Lifting – “Minimize downtime. Allow 1minute between sets for maximum burn. You'll keep your heart rate elevated andyour metabolism juiced — both helpful calorie-burning boosts.”

Eat to Burn Fat

Since exercise is best accompanied by a good diet, Idecided to research some good “fat burning foods”. I never really realized there were foods thatexisted that specifically helped you burn fat. Once again, I’m drawn to Women’s Health, they say fiber is the key. Their FatBurning Food List (http://www.womenshealthmag.com/weight-loss/ways-to-lose-weight-with-foods-that-burn-fat)lists a few foods that help burn fat.

Berries – raspberries have 8 grams of fiber per cup,blackberries have 7.4 grams of fiber per cup, and blueberries have 3.5 gramsper cup…guess who’s buying berries at the store today?!

Turkey – the fewest calories per serving of animalprotein and also contain leucine which they say “may play a role in preservingmuscle mass during weight loss, keeping metabolism running at full speed.”

Enova Oil – “made from soy and canola oils — is made ofdiglycerides, a type of fat that's metabolized differently from triglycerides(found in other oils — even olive) and so not stored as fat as easily.”

Peanuts – curbs hunger

Low-fat Yogurt – they say that calcium might help fightfat, this is a good source of calcium. Iam lactose intolerant, so I won’t be indulging, but it makes sense for those whoaren’t lactose intolerant

Breakfast Cereal – I’m kind of surprised to see thisone. I was always told high protein forbreakfast is the best way to go…they are saying cereal because it’s lower infat than bacon and eggs and is packed full of fiber. Hmmmm WH Best Cereals for a Healthy Morning (http://www.womenshealthmag.com/nutrition/the-healthiest-breakfast-cereals)

I’m going to try this and actually document weight,inches, energy. Will it work? I sure hope so!

PS - if you're joining in on the 52WPC (52 week photo challenge), the first photo should be posted by Saturday and linked in the comments on this page. This week...colorful!

Accountability – or lack there of

2011-11-01T16:08:00.000-05:00

So, I’ve been struggling. I go through phases…

One phase I am completely 100% confident in my body. I know I’m hot. I know I’m gorgeous. I’m absolutely perfect. – so why work at it? Why work out today? Why shouldn’t I eat that?

Then I go through self-loathing phases where I pinch everythingon my body…even my elbows and knees…really? Really? And I think – well I’m sofar from my goal, why work at it? Whywork out today? Why shouldn’t I eatthat? Especially since the past year has proven that it doesn’t work…

Generally speaking, I can feel like this multiple timesin a month. Fun times…men, don’t youtotally wish you could experience this?!

For the most part, I have a very healthy self-body imageand I can honestly say that it is 90% because of my parents that I had itgrowing up and about 90% because of my husband that I still feel like this asan adult.

The common theme, however, is why do I have to work at it? Ihave especially been struggling with this because I tried it for a year and it didn’twork. The only time in the past yearthat I lost weight was a two month period where I was literally too busy to eatregularly…only eating about 900 calories a day those months. Not exactly the healthiest.

Part of my problem is…I don’t have any accountability. I mean seriously…my husband can only help somuch. What is he going to do? Make me feel guilty about not working out oreating something I shouldn’t? No! He’s not stupid.

So, I’m going to try to use this as a means of keeping myselfaccountable. I’m not going to promisethat I’ll post daily about my food intake or workouts, but I’d like to do it onat least a weekly basis…

I’ve been thinking about joining a gym for the groupclasses. I’m really interested in Zumbaand hip-hop dance aerobics classes, so I’ll think I’ll look into it. I’m also going to give Yoga a try since Jenn~~won’t leave me alone about it~~ keeps encouraging me to try it. I figure since what I’ve been doing hasn’thelped, maybe something a little less traditional for weight loss might work.

Fingers crossed…

nothing

2011-10-31T11:44:00.000-05:00

It’s about time for an update. I’ve been sporadically posting about my health and fitness. You can read details here:

Letting Go; Not Giving Up - http://runjenhrun.blogspot.com/2011/08/letting-go-not-giving-up.html

A Waiting Game - http://runjenhrun.blogspot.com/2011/08/waiting-game.html

Test Tomorrow - http://runjenhrun.blogspot.com/2011/09/test-tomorrow.html

But for those who want it in a nutshell…

I lost tons of weight training for half marathons and eating healthy. Then after about 2 years I stopped losing weight, even though I had about 25 to lose to be “fit” and 40 to lose to be “thin”. I starting seeing a nutritionist and still couldn’t lose the weight. Started different workout regimes and still couldn’t lose weight. So I decided to get blood work done. BOOM you’re all caught up.

After seeing specialists and getting multiple blood/urine tests, the results came back negative. On everything. Nothing is wrong with me.

Nothing.

The good news is…nothing is wrong with me.

The bad news is…nothing is wrong with me, so the lack of weight loss cannot be blamed on anything else but my own self.

That’s frustrating as hell.

Seriously.

It sucks.

So my plan A stopped working, plan B and C never really worked. Plan D fell through. I have no idea what else to do.

I refuse to believe that I’m going to be 25-35 lbs overweight for the rest of my life. How is that fair?

I’m thinking about yoga. Anyone have any good weight loss results with yoga? Anything I might be missing?

Not Quite Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-26T08:54:00.000-05:00

All photos from my phone.

We are going to Arizona this weekend for the ASU homecoming game and what was SUPPOSED to be the Suns home opener. Damn strike...

On our way to Germany for our honeymoon, we had a layover in Jersey. Saw this store. Thought it was hilarious. Didn't know "America" has an exclamation point!

Winston's favorite spot.

Zona, a few weeks after we adopted her. She still doesn't understand the "No dogs in the kitchen while mom is cooking" concept...

Currently on the "hopefully by summer" wish list...I want this camera so badly!

52WPC

2011-10-24T16:25:00.000-05:00

I’m going to try something. I might fail epically at it, but it’s something I’ve wanted to try for a while. I’m going to try a 52 Week Photo Challenge. I feel like the word challenge is used very appropriately here, because this will be a challenge. Taking photos comes naturally to me. I take at least one photo every day. Maybe with my phone, point and shoot, or my DSLR, but I take photos all – the – time. This is going to be a challenge, because there are topics for each week. And I’d like to keep it creative and make myself take a new photo for each topic. No cheating. Can't use a photo I took in the past. I didn’t want to wait for the New Year, so I have it starting the first week of November. I will post a photo by Saturday of each week both here and on Flickr.

I researched a bunch of challenges and found a few I liked. I combined their topics, deleted the ones I didn’t like, added a few I thought should be added and randomly sorted them and assigned a “due date”(with exception of: love, spring, summer, fall, and winter – those are strategically placed.)

If you’d like to join me, by all means, use the topics. If you do join me, let me know! I’d love to post a link to your blog so people can enjoy them too! http://runjenhrun.blogspot.com/p/52wpc.html

11/5 - Colorful
11/12 - Half
11/19 - Peaceful
11/26 - Relection
12/3 - Simple
12/10 - Rural
12/17 - Pink
12/24 - Alter Ego
12/31 - Joy
1/7 - Winter
1/14 - Person
1/21 - Purple
1/28 - Self
2/4 - Shoe
2/11 - Sign
2/18 - Shadow
2/25 - Down Low
3/3 - Curves
3/10 - Cloud
3/17 - Fly
3/24 - Spring
3/31 - Green
4/7 - Nature
4/14 - New
4/21 - Red
4/28 - Love
5/5 - Black
5/12 - Beauty
5/19 - Yellow
5/29 - Vibrant
6/2 - Urban
6/9 - Water
6/16 - Orange
6/23 - Surprise
6/30 - Tracks
7/7 - Technology
7/14 - Summer
7/21 - Small
7/28 - Old
8/4 - Happiness
8/11 - Book
8/18 - Blue
8/25 - Stile
9/1 - Health
9/8 - Macro
9/15 - Open
9/22 - White
9/29 - Game
10/6 - Sweet
10/13 - Fall
10/20 - Up High
10/27 - Texture

So Not Ready

2011-10-21T09:32:00.000-05:00

If you follow me on Twitter, then you know we recently adopted another dog. We named her Zona. She's a rottweiler that was formerly used as a breeder but will be living the rest of her days in our home as a member of our family! She is such a sweetheart (honestly, she is one of the sweetest dogs I've ever come across). In fact, if she wasn't such a docile sweetie, we would not have been able to keep her, because Winston (our other adopted dog of 5 years) is a little neurotic...he needs a sweet, submissive, calm dog to balance him out. They really are a perfect pair. She brings out a fun playful side of him that we don't see often (because he has a friend to play with) and he is helping to show her the ropes of being an indoor dog and member of a family!

I bring up the fact that she's a sweetheart, because she's not the brightest crayon in the box. Sweet - yes, smart - not so much. That might sound mean, but it's kinda true. If she were a person you'd say "It's a good thing you're pretty." ;)

She is just a reminder that we are so not ready to have human babies. Not only are two large dogs (Zona is 60lbs and Winston is 75lbs) a lot of work, but she gets into everything.

On Wednesday we caught her eating glass. Yes, glass. Not grass...GLASS! We broke a bottle on our tile floor over the weekend. When glass shatters it travels...far! I thought I got it all after mopping and sweeping, but she managed to find a rather large piece and proceeded to chew on the piece until we took it from her. Thankfully she didn't cut herself...but glass? Really?

Thursday afternoon she walked through the screen door...twice. The first time she ran straight into it after I opened the glass door (thank goodness she waited until I opened that one), then ran right through it. The next time she poked her head through the bottom corner until the wheels came off the track then proceeded to walk through it until the entire door fell off...again.

Then later that night, she managed to get herself all tangled up in speaker wires. I'm not even sure how she did that. They are wrapped around the base of the speaker and tucked under the sofa so there are no lose wires. I think she gets into things just to see if we'll notice.

I'm pretty sure if I brought a kid into the ER for chewing glass, splitting his head open on a door, or strangling himself on wires I'd be taken out of the running for "mom of the year award". So, for now, it's a pleasant reminder to enjoy this stage of our lives for at least a few more years, because I'm so not ready for the next stage.

Winston (left) and Zona (right)

Holiday Photos

2011-10-20T12:54:00.002-05:00

It just wanted to make a quick post about holiday photos. If you are looking to get your family photos done in time for holiday or New Year’s cards…NOW is the time to do it! I have a few more weekends left open:

November 6, 11, or 12
December 10 or 11

I am based in Austin, Texas but have been known to travel a little for photo sessions! I am currently having a special on my rates:

Mini Lifestyle Session – $85
Ideal for individuals, head shots, and senior photos. Limited to 1 or 2 people.
Session includes:

30 minute session in a natural light location
Pre photo shoot consultation via phone, email, or in person
Hours of custom photo editing
A disc of all the edited photos with the digital rights to print

Full Lifestyle Session – $150
Ideal for families, couples, newborns, and children.
Session includes:

60 minute session in a natural light location
Pre photo shoot consultation via phone, email, or in person
Hours of custom photo editing
A disc of all the edited photos with the digital rights to print

Prices listed are for photo sessions in the Austin, Texas area. I am available for hire outside the Austin area; additional fees may apply for travel.

Contact me if you’re interested! jenniferstampsphotography [at] gmail [dot] com.

jenniferstampsphotography.com

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T11:36:00.000-05:00

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62587359/camera-ring-silver-photographer

http://www.etsy.com/shop/SmilingSilverSmith

http://www.ninewest.com/Brantley/7559520,default,pd.html?variantSizeClass=&variantColor=BLACKLE&cgid=4216631&prefn1=catalog-id&prefv1=ninewest-catalog

things I love: new lens

2011-10-13T11:32:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I bought this bad boy; I'm in love with it.

My brand new Canon 50m F/1.4 lens!

weekend in dallas

2011-10-10T08:51:00.000-05:00

My husband and I went up to Dallas this past weekend for the Texas/Oklahoma games (yikes!). If you're a fan or even semi pay attention to college football, you know that it was bad, like really bad. Not much of a game, more like a punishment, but I digress...

While we were there, we made plans to see our good friends and have a photo shoot. The original plan was to go to a pumpkin patch or park to take photos, but due to the insane amount of rain, our plans changed slightly. We met up with my friend (her poor husband was sick, so he didn't join us), her son, and her mom for some fun indoor photos!

For more photos, visit the post on my portfolio.

jenniferstampsphotography.com

newport beach

2011-10-04T13:12:00.000-05:00

For those who know me, know that I love to travel! This past weekend, my husband and I made a quick trip (and I mean seriously quick) to Los Angeles. I grew up in Southern California, so it’s always nice to go back. While we were there for the 2 days, we managed to make a pit stop at Newport Beach. Of course, I pulled out the camera. It was such a beautiful day. I think it was something like 80 or 85 which is perfect to me (still triple digits in Austin!).

View more photos from my LA trip: http://jenniferstampsphotography.com/2011/10/03/newport-beach/

jenniferstampsphotography.com

been there - a guest post

2011-09-29T08:59:00.000-05:00

I (Jen with 1 ‘n’) recently went on my honeymoon and of course brought the PassingLEFT Austin shirts. I have loved all of the posts on where the shirts are being shipped and enjoyed seeing all of the different posts on the Facebook album Faces, Places, and Races. I thought it would be really cool to share with everyone where these shirts have been!

My husband and I started in Munich, Germany and road tripped to Strasburg and Reims in France, then to Spa and Liege in Belgium, and then to Nurburgring and back to Frankfurt, Germany. So technically, since the shirts were in my suitcase, they went to all those places. But I have some photos to prove it.

This is just a snippet of my guest post on PassingLEFT's blog today. To read more and see a photo of the speedometer while I was driving on the Autobahn, check out the post on their site here: http://passingleft.com/been-there

While you're at it, you can check out some of their awesome shirts! I know you runners and cyclists would LOVE their gear!

Tis the Season

2011-09-26T09:32:00.002-05:00

I updated my design portfolio with some fun Holiday Card designs that are available on Etsy! Here are a few of my designs. Definitely more to come!

Design Portfolio

Etsy Shop

test tomorrow

2011-09-23T12:58:00.002-05:00

So, a few weeks ago I posted two different times writing about my frustrations in losing the rest of this weight. After discussing with my nutritionist and doctor, they both agreed on having me take a list of blood tests. Well, tomorrow is test time. I've sort of forgotten about it. A little because I didn't want to dwell over it for 6 weeks and a little because I've just been too busy to think about anything like this.

I'm supposed to go in having not eaten anything, so it was recommended to go in first this in the morning. This stresses me out a little bit because my veins are difficult to find if I'm not very hydrated. How can you be very hydrated first thing in the morning? I'm going to drink tons and tons of water tonight so hopefully that will help.

After talking with a girl friend and researching it a little bit, my thyroid is likely 100% to blame for everything going on with me. Who knew that it controlled so much of your body?! Seriously! I think I have hypothyroidism which would explain many, many things: cold all the time, difficulty losing weight, being tired all the time, and all the aches I've been getting in my joints (mainly my knees). So, I researched treatments for it. Luckily, they have them and thankfully, they seem relatively easy. Just a pill. That simple. The hard part is finding the right dosage, I guess. Yay for guessing games!

Anyways...I'm getting a little ahead of myself. I haven't even taken the test yet, let alone received the results. I'm honestly just hoping that it is something and that the something is really easy to fix. I'd hate to think that I've put all of this time, effort, energy, and money to realize that this is as good as it gets. I refuse to believe it.

honeymoon

2011-09-16T18:20:00.001-05:00

Sorry it's taken me so long to post this. As you can imagine, after taking 10 days off from every day life, it takes a bit of time to catch back up.

Our honeymoon was AMAZING! Despite the worst night-before-traveling-to-a-foreign-country anyone could ever experience, once we got off the ground it was perfect!

For starters...we were supposed to leave from Austin to Newark at 6am on Saturday, August 20 - meaning we were supposed to leave our house at 4am (cab already ordered). At 9pm Friday night hubs got an email from AIRLINE WE'LL NEVER FLY AGAIN (AWNFA) saying "Your flight from Austin to Newark leaving at 6am CST has been canceled." That's it. Nothing else. No "it's been delayed, we'll put you on a later flight" or "we've refunded your card so you can book a different flight" or "we are working with A-BETTER-AIRLINE to put you on a similar flight"...nothing.

So naturally, hubs calls AWNFA trying to sort it out. After all, that was just ONE leg of our international flight. Of course AWNFA is bombarded with calls "We are experiencing a high volume of calls. If you would like a service rep to call you back in order of when we received the calls, leave your phone number." So he does. Mean while I call on my phone (I don't trust those call back things). I actually get a wait time of 120 minutes. Wow. After about 3 hours of being on hold and waiting for the call back, we finally get a hold of someone who straightens out our situation. We were booked on a leg a flights: Austin to Houston to Newark to Frankfurt to Munich. We finally got to be around 12:30am Saturday morning and set our alarm for 3:00, but whatever we got it figured out. I felt awful for the people who didn't find this out until they got to the airport...I would have lost it.

So...the fun part began! We were going on a 10 day road trip to 3 countries. The rest of the post will be mostly photos. Enjoy!

Double decker plane (PS this was NOT the AWNFA -- promise! Lufthansa was wonderful.)

We had enough AMEX points to be upgraded to business class and were served free booze...champagne before the flight!

Frankfurt Airport...one of my faves! It looks like a train station.

Munich, Germany

BMW Museum in Munich

Munich

This photo almost got me thrown in German prison. This is the US Consulate so naturally I wanted to take a photo of the American flag. The German officer assumed I was trying to take a photo of the building for sinister reasons. So he stopped me with his machine gun and asked to see the photo. Thankfully he let me keep it and I didn't get in trouble. Scared the living $%^& out of me though.

Beer and pretzel at the Hofbrauhaus (not exactly gluten free, but whatever)

Strasbourg, France

Reims, France

Champagne vineyards.

Old race track on the side of the road.

Spa, Belgium (The Formula 1 Race!)

i owe you a post

2011-09-06T09:37:00.001-05:00

And I promise I'll post it. We got back from our honeymoon last Tuesday and are still getting back in the swing of things. The post will come (soon) and it will be filled with fabulous photos, I promise!

PS - We are safe in Austin. Just watching the wildfires. They evacuated about 10 mi from our house, but thankfully the winds have died down and we are on the other side of the river. Praying for miracle rain! Thanks for all your tweets of encouragement and prayer!

honeymoon time

2011-08-19T10:37:00.004-05:00

Yes, our honeymoon begins in less than 20 hours! At 6am Austin time, we'll be leaving for Newark with a 7 hour layover then headed to Frankfurt. Don't worry, during those 7 hours, we'll be making our way into the City for a nice lunch! I love New York.

Anyways, we'll be gone 10 days. And am going to try to post as I get time. I'm bringing my laptop and of course my camera and lenses. This is a road trip across Europe, so there will be lots of experiences to share with you that I hope I'll get to post every so often!

Today, I'll leave you with my Twitter #FollowFriday suggestions. My special Honeymoon Edition Favorite-Twitter-Duos! If you're on Twitter, you should follow them. I love them!

@jesswilliams27 and @jaydubbs and their tag-team, totally-awesome photog biz @Session_Nine // this super talented duo did our wedding!
the witty @thegroomsays and his gorgeous bride @jofosterwilson // read his blog, just do it - http://thegroomsays.blogspot.com/
one of my besties @mrstarachatt and her adorable husband @Zack_Chatterton
two ladies who need to come to Austin so we can get pedis! @SueMac99 and @thatpinkgirl // They also blog: Sue - http://slmward.blogspot.com/ & TPG - http://iamthatpinkgirl.blogspot.com/
last but definitely not least @HellaSound and @pauloelias #fooduphouston

odd duck

2011-08-10T14:10:00.002-05:00

I love Austin. I've lived here for about 4 years now and each day, I really do think I fall in love with the city a little more. On Friday my husband and I headed out to one of the dozens of food trailers in Austin; Odd Duck. Never having tried it, but hearing tons of raves, we were anxious to go. The philosophy of the trailer is local and seasonal with the menu changing daily. The owner/founder also recently started a new restaurant in town: Barley and Swine, which is phenomenal!

The food was amazing! It's BYOB and they take credit cards...two note worthy facts to mention! Below is the: Pork belly slider with bread and butter jalapenos, arugula, and aioli // Grilled corn and zucchini salad, arugula, ricotta, thyme and garlic dressing // Pork shoulder on baguette. At the very bottom is the: Peter pan squash stuffed with rice and goat or lamb (couldn't remember).

jenniferstampsphotography.com

a waiting game

2011-08-08T13:16:00.003-05:00

So, for those who are following along, today was the day I was supposed to get my blood work done. I'll make this short and sweet because when I think about it too much it makes me anxious (which is something I need to work on).

After talking with my doctor, she has decided to test for a lot more than just my thyroid and hormones. With the symptoms I have, I guess they all add up to a semi-serious female hormone issue. I don't want to get into details but if it goes untreated it could lead to some very serious long term problems. The good news is that it can be treated but I may still deal with some of the long term problems just to a lesser extent. The bummer news is at this point it's a waiting game.

These new tests need to be taken during a certain time of month, which is 2 weeks from now. Well, 2 weeks from now, I'm in Europe, so it needs to wait until 6 weeks from now, with another 2 weeks waiting around for results. Yay...8 weeks for waiting. Awesome.

I'm trying not to dwell on any of this because it might not even be the case, although my doctor seemed to think it was.

So, the plan for the next 8 weeks? Keep eating right. Keep working out. Think about the positive things in my life, not the uncertainties.

letting go; not giving up

2011-08-05T11:16:00.005-05:00

Let it go.

Something I have a very difficult time with. I like to hold on to things. I like knowing what’s going to happen next. I like knowing that if I do XYZ then ABC will happen. Guess what? That’s not how life works. At all. And I feel like I’m getting an extra dose of that. I feel like I’m supposed to be learning something from all of this but am too damn stubborn to accept it.

Most of you know that I’ve been struggling to lose weight. I lost about 50 lbs a litter over 2 years ago and have been struggling with the last 20-25 pounds. Not something you should have to struggle with. 5-10 pounds? That’s something to struggle with, but not 20-25.

I started seeing a nutritionist about 11 months ago because of this massive frustration. Eating healthy and training for half marathons should lend to fat loss, but for me, it wasn’t.

We tweaked my diet to a gluten/dairy free diet which helped tremendously. I lost some weight in the first few months and felt great. We also changed up my exercise routine. I learned that long distance running isn’t always the best for fat loss (something I did NOT want to hear). But it’s been almost year and the rest just won’t seem to leave.

We then started calorie counting. Maybe I was eating too much of the good foods? Turns out, I was. Not way too much, just a little too much, so we adjusted it. I started tracking calories consumed and calories burned. Knowing FOR SURE that this would lead to fat loss. I don’t know how I could possibly burn 400-600 calories 5 days/week and eat 1500 calories* and not lose fat. Well, it’s happening. I’m not losing.

*Please do not compare my calorie intake to yours. I’ve been under the care of a professional, licensed nutritionist who has given me a unique body comp. Proper calorie intake for people will vary, drastically.

So, what’s next? We’re checking out my thyroid and hormone panel. Clearly there is something not right. Someone with normal levels should be able to eat what I’m eating and workout like I am and lose fat. There has to be an explanation to this.

Yesterday at the nutritionist was very difficult. I went in there anticipating being down at least 3 or 4 pounds of fat (it had been 4 weeks since my last visit). What were the results? Fat loss of 0.1 pounds. I’m sorry, but that’s shitty. Down.right.shitty! It really sucks to work your ass off in bootcamp in the 111 degree weather, do core until you feel like vomiting, run sprints on inclines, and pass on the chips every single time to see no tangible results.**

**I do realize that I am healthier than I ever was before. Cutting out gluten and dairy were probably the best things I’ve done. I’m getting stronger. I’m getting faster. I know I’m healthier, but I’m 26…I want to be thin too! I deserve that and it sucks that I’m still not there.

I cried. Then I pouted. Then I become furious. It’s so not fair. But like I said…I’m supposed to learn something here. I need to let it go. Clearly, this is not in my control. That doesn’t mean give it up. My nutritionist explained that I’ve been in a relationship with weight loss. I need to let it go and stop worrying over it. Stop obsessing. I’m supposed to stop counting calories. Stop tracking my calories burned. She explained that I already know what a 1500 calorie/day looks like. I already know how much I burn doing sprints and during bootcamp. Stick with it, and let it go.

So the next step is: stop obsessing and get blood work done. I have an appointment for Monday to get my thyroid and hormone panel tested to figure out what the hell is going on. Part of me hopes I do have a problem. Then I can just adjust my diet and/or take vitamins/medicine to fix it. The thought of being on prescription meds forever stresses me out. I try to “fix” things the natural way, but at this point, I think I’ve proven that they might be needed, at least for a little while.

So there you have it. A very real, raw, unedited, Jen. Really, I mostly posted this to vent. I can honestly say I have tried everything in my power to lose this fat and it’s not working. I’s so discouraging, but I refuse to believe that this is the end of the road for me.

I’m letting go but not giving up.

Thanks for reading.

go confidently

2011-08-01T13:33:00.003-05:00

"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined." - Henry David Thoreau

Yes. It’s true. Really, it is. And I could not be more excited!

This past year has been insane. INSANE! Good, but insane. I had decided to start up a one-woman-shop in June 2010 as a freelance graphic designer. At first, it was a little slow, but then got kind of busy, and then got a little slow again, and now it’s starting to pick up again. Such is life.

I had really started debating adding photography to that business. I shied away from it many times, but the thought, desire, curiosity, longing kept coming back.

A little back story…
Really, ever since I could remember (and I’ve asked my parents who have confirmed it) I’ve been obsessed with art. I used to draw all the time. For days. Just sit in my room and draw as a kid, like a little kid! I used to write short fiction stories…for fun! I remember finding my parents’ camera back in 2nd or 3rd grade and just taking pictures of EVERYTHING and asking them to develop the film. For my 11th birthday my parents bought me my own camera and I spent my babysitting money developing the film on that. When I was in high school I was the one who always had the camera taking pictures at parties, sleep overs, etc. In high school I also developed my own clothing line, which of course I never did anything with, but you get the picture. Art has always been a very significant part of my life.

For my birthday a few years back, I decided to finally purchase my first DSLR professional grade camera. Not having any real goals in mind, I started taking pictures, again, of EVERYTHING! My dog is a professional model now (just kidding, but he should be).

So this nagging at my heart really, has stemmed from a deep seeded love of art and creativity. I’ve decided to turn my passion into more than just a hobby. I’ve officially opened up my photography services to the public and could not be more thrilled about it! I’ve learned so much over the past few years in regards to photography and business. I’m even more excited that I have a few photo sessions lined up with some friends here in Austin and then in Phoenix when I go back to visit. Photography to me is just a means of freezing time for a split second to capture the beauty around me. I so enjoy photographing love and happiness. To me, it’s the ultimate beauty and I am beyond thrilled that I have the opportunity to share my passion with others!

Link Love
Jennifer Stamps Photography
JSP on Facebook

Thanks for reading!
Jen

went to alameda

2011-07-20T14:08:00.003-05:00

I made a trip out to Alameda, California this past week to visit family. It was a nice break from the 108 degrees of Austin, Texas. Here are a few shots I was able to get while visiting. Alameda is an island just off of Oakland (which is near San Francisco) for those who don't know...

I was born in Northern California (Santa Rosa...wine country!) and spent my summers up there after we moved to Santa Barbara (southern California). Yes, my roots are all over that state! So it really does have a very special place in my heart. I absolutely love, love, love San Francisco and even Oakland...yes, I LOVE OAKLAND and I'm not ashamed of it! It's such a cool town. Alameda actually in it's own quirky way is like Austin. A little less "young" but it certainly has the artsy, off-beat feel. It really is great and I suggest you visit! Seriously, do it.

The photo above and directly below was taken in Oakland at Jack London Square. If you ever make it up to Oakland (and not just San Francisco) I highly recommend going into the square. It's pretty cool and has a lot of neat character.

Steeped in maritime lore, Jack London Square is one of Oakland’s most identifiable landmarks and a symbol of the city’s history as a seaport. Fronting a natural estuary leading to San Francisco Bay, the site was the heart of Oakland’s port operations, linking the industries of shipping and agriculture. It remains a vibrant working waterfront. www.jacklondonsquare.com

I saw this warehouse and fell in love with it. Besides the little sign for passer-byers, I love the colors on the building. The random red door and curtain. See? Stuff like this is found in Oakland...love it! PS - this print is available on Etsy

My little brother and I decided to go out on the beach, even though it was about 60 degrees, windy, and cloudy. There he is trying to keep my mom's dog warm!

From the beach we could see the city off to the right...San Francisco.

adrinahdesign.com

through the trees

2011-07-17T16:45:00.003-05:00

Summer Photo Challenge - Week 4: Sun Flare

Through the Trees

adrinahdesign.com

freelance go-tos

2011-07-11T19:18:00.000-05:00

Summer Photo Challenge - Week 3: Books

Freelance Go-Tos

adrinahdesign.com

clouds on 6th

2011-07-03T17:27:00.004-05:00

Summer Photo Challenge - Week 2: Clouds

Clouds on 6th

adrinahdesign.com

i love you more

2011-06-30T11:35:00.005-05:00

I was designing a fun anniversary card for a friend and thought I'd design another cute little love card with a touch of humor. I don't know about you, but my shoe collection is OUT-OF-CON-TROL! Like seriously! Not only that, but I love each pair I have. So much so that I would never, ever part from them.

How cute would this be to give to one of your girl friends...or even a boyfriend or husband that understands your obsession for shoes!

This is up on Etsy for $3.50 if you wanna snag it! (www.etsy.com/shop/adrinahdesign)

adrinahdesign.com

hummus! What gets out hummus?!

2011-06-25T20:55:00.005-05:00

Do you remember that episode of Friends...The One Where No One's Ready? I do! It is one of my favorites...where Ross is trying to get everyone ready to go to this event to receive an award and no one is getting ready. Rachel is trying to find the perfect outfit. Chandler won't give Joey is chair back. Monica is thinking about calling Richard. Phoebe spills hummus on her dress and Ross starts screaming "Hummus! What gets out hummus!" ... Yeah, it's one of my favorites. I've seen it over a dozen times. Anyways...

I am sharing my hummus recipe with you and it reminded me of the episode!

Delicious Hummus

Naturally gluten free and dairy free

Ingredients

2 15oz cans of organic, drained garbanzo beans

3 oz extra virgin olive oil

1/2 cup of tahini paste (sesame seed butter)

1/3 cup lemon juice

4 garlic cloves minced

3 tablespoons parsley minced

1/2 tablespoon cumin

Sea salt & cracked pepper to taste

Put all ingredients in food processor and blend until smooth. I like mine a little chunky, so just blend until you get the constancy you prefer. Refrigerate. Flavors get better overnight!

something sweet

2011-06-22T08:35:00.002-05:00

Summer Photo Challenge - Week 1: Something Sweet

A Different Bowl of Sugar

bootcamp day 1

2011-06-21T20:16:00.006-05:00

Surprise! I didn't tell you guys...but if you follow my tweets then you know: I signed up for a 12 week fitness bootcamp. I did this for a few reasons:

They were running a 50% off special if you sign up for 12 weeks
I've been needing something to get my ass back in gear
I knew if I committed that much money to something, I wouldn't quit (50% off is still a lot)
One of my best friends is doing it too
I'm a glutton for punishment
I like doing things that are hard
I'm crazy
I thought it would be fun

So yeah...

Day one was today and HOLY HELL! that's hard! I'm a tough cookie. I boxed for 2 years. I completed 4 half marathons. I've trained in 105 degree weather. But OH-EM-GEE! This. Is. Hard! Damn! I literally had my ass handed to me, and I loved every minute of it. Ok, maybe not EVERY minute. Actually, probably none of it, but I feel AWESOME now! I feel like I'm the badest ass there ever was.

The plan is to go Mon/Tue/Thu evening and Fri morning. Yep...4 times a week...this should help me lose that 15 lbs in a heart beat!

Some things I will need to really work on:

Staying hydrated
Fueling properly
Not bingeing after bootcamp
Eating right...the idea isn't to work out like crazy so I can eat crap and not gain weight...the idea is to work out like crazy and eat right so I lose weight!

So yep, 1 hour of Rockbody Bootcamp in 101 degree weather...perfect Tuesday afternoon! I'm going to really try to blog after each workout (might not post each entry), but I want to track how I feel immediately so I can look back on my progress!

Have you ever done a fitness bootcamp? Love it? Hate it? Miss it?

traveling gluten free

2011-06-20T12:33:00.010-05:00

I'm really trying to prepare myself for our honeymoon in August. I've been mostly gluten free since September 2010, and have been totally* gluten free for about 1 month.

* In May I started getting severe allergic reactions every time I had anything with even a little bit of gluten in it. It wasn't too difficult to pinpoint that it was gluten, but the side effects I experienced while consuming gluten were enough to keep me from it forever! My nutritionist explained that while it's rare, people do experience an overnight severe reaction to foods sometimes. Apparently I'm lucky!

So, with that said, I'm really trying to prepare myself! We will be going to Germany, Belgium, and France. From what I've read, it's not difficult to find gluten free food in Germany...the beer is what I'm worried about considering we have a brewery tour lined up! :(

Anyone with celiac disease travel (or live) in these areas that might have tips for me? I'd be forever grateful!

We will be road tripping and I am obsessed with photography, so if you have any detours or little towns we need to visit, I'd love to hear about it! Specifically, the cities we plan to to/through/from are:

Munich
Stuttgart
Strasbourg
Reims
Bastogne
Liege
Nurburg
Frankfurt

I've started a "travel" page and will update my findings there!

Thanks in advance!

carne asada

2011-06-18T20:43:00.007-05:00

Gluten free

Apparently in Texas they don't call it carne asada. The guy at the grocery store said it was obvious I was from California because I called it carne asada. Said Texans call it fajitas. I know what fajitas are...these are not fajitas...it's carne asada! Call it what you want. What it is, is amazing!

Ingredients

1lb Sirloin "fajita" steak

2 limes (juiced)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

3-4 cloves of garlic (minced)

1 tablespoon ground Cumin

1/2 teaspoon sugar

1/2 c olive oil

Large handful cilantro (chopped: stems & leaves)

Sea Salt

Cracked Pepper

In a bowl mix all ingredients (except steak of course). In a large baking dish, put steak flat, pour marinade over the steak evenly (make sure every part of the steak is covered with marinade). Cover with plastic wrap, place in fridge. Let marinade 1-4 hours.

Remove and grill* 4 min per side. Let sit 5 minutes. Slice against the grain. Serve with warm corn tortillas. Enjoy!

*If you are an apartment dweller, don't own a grill, or don't want to grill in 110 degree heat, I have an alternative for you! Put your oven on Broil High. Put the meat on a broiler pan. Cook on the top shelf of the oven for 4 min per side.

This is easily a budget meal...I bought 20 corn tortillas and 1.5 lbs of steak. Fed 2 of us well, with left overs for us each to have twice and spent less than $8! (So basically 6 meals for medium eaters or 4 meals for heavy eaters).

bon appétit

peanut butter chocolate chip cookies

2011-06-18T18:45:00.009-05:00

Yes, they are gluten and dairy free! Sorry...not sugar free, but every once in a while, you gotta live a little!

Ingredients

1c Peanut Butter (make sure it's gluten free)

1c Brown Sugar

1 egg

1 teaspoon Baking Powder

1/2c Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

Preheat oven at 350 degrees. In a bowl mix all ingredients except for the chocolate chips. Mix very well. Add chips. Using a teaspoon, place drops of cookies on an un-greased cooking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Let sit for 5 minutes before removing from pan. Cookies will be soft. Serve with coconut milk ice cream for an extra little treat! DELICIOUS! (yields 24 cookies)

Enjoy!

Summer Photo Challenge

2011-06-17T10:52:00.006-05:00

Yay! Ari over at Stopping for Daisies started a Summer Photo Challenge...she read my mind! Totally looking forward to it now that I literally carry my DSLR with me everywhere I go thanks to my new Epiphanie Clover Bag!

I'll be posting my photo here, my flickr page, and the Summer Photo Challenge Flickr Group that Ari started.

Click here for more info on the Summer Photo Challenge.

PS...think I have enough links in this post? I don't. From here on out, you can view my photo challenge posts with this tag: photo challenge.

PPS...buy this shirt (or any other in it's line)...a portion of the proceeds go to Carolin Animal Rescue & Adoption!

Etsy Wedding Designs

2011-06-16T08:50:00.003-05:00

To showcase some of my print designs, I started and Etsy shop a few weeks ago. Everything on the Etsy shop is customizable. Completely customized print design is always available. My Etsy shop gives you the opportunity to have professional design for life's special moments! Visit my Etsy shop for more designs. Featured here and here.

Photos by: Session Nine Photographers

things i love: texas favors

2011-06-09T14:28:00.008-05:00

I've decided to start a "Things I love" topic/category/tag/whatever that I'll post from time to time to remind me (and share with you) of what I love! Maybe a poem, song, video, photo, thought, app, clothing, whatever is on my mind that day that I love.

Today: Texas Favors
These were for a friend's 30th birthday celebration. Perfect for Texas!

looking back for motivation

2011-06-06T14:09:00.006-05:00

I haven't been super motivated to do anything fit these days. I've been eating right and going to the nutritionist as planned, but working out has been like torture for me. I come up with every excuse in the book: "I just did my hair last night" (it takes about 1.5 hrs to blow dry & straighten), "I'm tired", "I have work to do", "I have a head ache", "I don't feel like it", "Let's just relax for a bit", and the list goes on...

Hubs and I have both been really wanting to get back at it. We are at the point where if we keep up with this not-working-out-thing, we are going to start seeing physical results that we're not going to like.

One thing I decided to do was read through some of my old blog posts. There are some good ones if I might say so myself. I've always loved writing. Anyways, it reminded me of just how motivated I was at first.

It's a Bitter Sweet Goodbye
I eat hills like you for breakfast!
The First Mile
Photos...Let's Get Real!
Getting Rid of That Security Blanket

You see, I started this blog the day I finished my first half marathon. And I used it to track my training, struggles, triumphs, and frustrations throughout training for the subsequent halfies and a few 5ks. Then I remember what I did, I always had a race I was training for. Up until I dropped out of the Chicago Marathon due to injury, I always had a race I was preparing myself for. Preparing physically and mentally...

So, what did I decide to do? If you promise not to get too excited and tell too many people, I'll tell you... I've decided to seriously commit to 2 more half marathons. This is big for me. After my patellar tendonitis (which I'm still nursing) I thought I'd never run long distance again. I say "seriously commit to" instead of "train for" because I need to see where my training will take me. I'm a badass, but I'm not an idiot. I don't want to permanently injure myself.

I would like to run in the San Antonio Rock 'N' Roll Half Marathon on November 13, 2011 and then do the Austin Half Marathon (my first race in 2009 and my personal favorite) on February 19, 2012.

I will be using the next 7 weeks to build my core and leg muscles to prevent further injury. If I can get to the point where 3 miles doesn't kill my knees (in the next 7 weeks), then official half marathon training will begin July 24, 2011 (which gives me 16 solid weeks of training).

Do you ever look back and read old blog posts? What do you learn from yourself?

Another beautiful chapter!

2011-06-02T11:35:00.009-05:00

Other considered titles: blog identity crisis (but I thought that it was a strange title for a post that was 99% dedicated to wedding photos...)

Yes, I know I just updated the look of my blog like a month ago, but whatever...I got bored. This is what creative people do when they get bored...they create things!

I feel so blessed. Yesterday I celebrated my 26th birthday and I couldn't help but think about how wonderful this past year has been. I am thankful for everything that I've been blessed with and cannot wait to see what 26 has in store (25 was pretty freaking sweet!)

Disclaimer: these are not all of the photos. You can view a larger sample (still not all the photos) on Session Nine's website: http://sessionninephotography.com/blog/a-wedding-story-steven-jen-austin/ (They did such a wonderful job capturing the story of the entire day!)

Sorry for waiting so long to post...

Etsy & t-shirt shop!

2011-05-31T21:21:00.006-05:00

YAY! I finally opened up my Etsy shop! It's something I've thought about for a while, and after a little encouragement from Jenn at PassingLEFT, I decided it was about time.

My Etsy shop is basically a way to showcase and sell some of my print designs. As many of you know by now, I'm a freelance graphic designer, specializing in print design and brand development. In my Etsy shop you'll find customizable birth announcements, wedding invites, and just moved announcements. Of course, I can create a completely custom print design (never to be designed or sold again) and I encourage you contact me for pricing! Below are my featured items, or you can view my Etsy Shop here: www.etsy.com/shop/adrinahdesign

Etsy
adrinahdesign

Also...I opened up a t-shirt shop. I had so much fun designing for PassingLEFT that I wanted to create more shirts. One cool aspect of the shop is the fundraising part. Animal shelters place a huge role in my life. I designed a line (more designs to come) dedicated just to animal shelters. 50% of the proceeds from this line is donated to animal shelters nationwide. The first shelter to receive the donations is Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption (CARA). They were one of my very first clients when I started my business a year ago, so I thought it very fitting to work with them again and help raise funds for their mission!

Visit the shop here: http://adrinahdesign.spreadshirt.com/

Visit the "Causes" line here: http://adrinahdesign.spreadshirt.com/causes-C89910

Thank you, Pinterest!

2011-05-26T10:13:00.003-05:00

If you don't know what Pinterest is, let me introduce you to my favorite new obsession (not to replace old obsessions, simply to add to them).

Pinterest is a place where you can pin all of your favorite things and then categorize them. Sort of like your own personal look book. It's awesome...trust me! Follow my pins.

Anyways, last nght I came across this awesome tutorial of a wicked cool cascading french braid!

Ignore the split ends, I'm getting my hair cut next weekend!
But isn't it cool? So simple and so pretty!

Here's the tutorial. My hair isn't as long as hers, so I didn't do the "cascades" that she talks about, but it gives the same effect I think! I tried it last night for the first time, turned out perfectly on the first try and only took about 3 minutes. This morning on the other hand, I had to do it 3 times, but still only took about 10 minutes or so!

Photo Obsession

2011-05-17T11:57:00.005-05:00

I’m obsessed with taking photos! Since I don’t have my sweet Epiphani!e bag yet, and I hate carrying my DSLR in my purse, I take tones of photos with my camera phone!

Photos from the Epiphan!e blog: http://www.haveanepiphanie.com/. Website: http://www.epiphaniebags.com

Side note: I’m asking for this totally awesome purse/camera bag for my birthday (exactly 2 weeks from today!). Is this sweet? It holds: 1 15" MacBook pro with battery cord,1 camera body with lens attached,1 long lens, 2 extra lenses, wallet, keys, cell phone, and other miscellaneous personal items. I’m totally stoked about it!

Anyways…here are some random photos from my camera phone that I thought I share with you!

Winston and I were having a “mommy & me” day. We took a car ride to the bank and to go get lunch.

I was at a restaurant for a Cino de Mayo party and saw this in the bathroom. Interesting.

Proof that I practiced my 19th and 26th amendment rights!

What I did last night after only a 2 mile run. I’ve got the knees of a 97-year-old marathoner. Patellar tendonitis is still lingering. At least frozen peas are good for something; right?

What I drank last night: proof that gluten free beer doesn’t have to substitute flavor or alcohol content! This weighed in at 8% ABV (by far the strongest gluten free beer I’ve seen). If you're a beer drinker and gluten free, I highly recommend!

What interesting photos do you have to share?

Get up and get moving!

2011-05-11T08:58:00.007-05:00

So, as most of you probably know by now, I'm a freelance graphic designer. I am proud of all of my work, because I literally pour my heart and soul into it, but I recently finished a project that is very special to me. It's special for a few reasons: the company supports all things "local" and getting up and moving around. Two things that I love dearly...I love Austin and their unique vibe; and I love being active.

PassingLEFT is a pretty awesome company with great beliefs; yet another reason this project was special to me. Here are their beliefs in their own words. PassingLEFT believes:

in getting out and exploring your surrounds the old fashion way, by putting your feet to work. Your heart will thank you!
that fitness apparel can be stylish, carry a positive message, and promote local pride.
in keeping things local. That is why we call upon the assistance of local graphic designers to create our t-shirts. Each t-shirt is designed by an artist living in the city it represents.
in supporting charities that promote fitness and make it possible to get out and explore.
in advocating running/biking safely and the responsibility to leave no trace behind.
in living life in the fast line, setting goals (fitness or otherwise), and making things happen.

Anyways, the founder/owner of PassingLEFT (the company who hired me) contacted me and asked if I could design a local themed running shirt and cycling shirt to sell on their website. They currently have a few generic shirts and shirts for the following cities: Austin, DC, Jersey, Detroit, and Pittsburgh. I thought, since most of you are athletes like me, you might like to take part and help support PassingLEFT's awesome mission; either that or rock one of my designs because you love me so much! :)

Without further adieu, here are my t-shirt designs.

Austin is the Live Music Capitol of the World and home of ACL (Austin City Limits). This graphic uses the guitar and unique Austin skyline. I worked with the Director/Owner of the company to create just the perfect graphic for the Austin running t-shirts!

Austin is the home of the largest urban bat colony. Several different bikes were used to create this Bikeman t-shirt design.

Link Love
Adrinah Design Portfolio
PassingLEFT
Austin Running Shirt for purchase
Austin Cycling Shirt for purchase
PassingLEFT Shop

Hope this is a reminder to get up and get moving!

Bacon Spaghetti Squash

2011-05-09T11:05:00.000-05:00

Once again, this is another recipe that I adapted from a different Gluten Free blogger. Chef Jess at ATX Gluten-Free invented this one.

This is a Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free recipe.

Ingredients

Ghee (or butter if you're not dairy-free)
Sea Salt
Cracked Pepper
Garlic Sea Salt
Spaghetti Squash
8 slices of Bacon (chopped)
Parsley
Garlic
Balsamic Vinegar
Green Onions (chopped)

Directions

Squash - Cut the spaghetti squash in half (long ways). Place in microwave safe casserole dish with 1/2" of watter. Place spaghetti squash face down in dish, cover with (microwave safe) saran wrap, microwave 10-20 minutes pending on how large your squash is. You will know it's done when you can pull the strings of squash away easily to give it a "spaghetti" feel.

Topping - Cut bacon in small 1-2" inch pieces. Cook in frying pan until cooked. Add 2 chopped green onions and 2 cloves of chopped garlic to pan with bacon. Cook until onions are translucent. Add 1 tbsp of balsamic vinegar. Add squash, salt, pepper, garlic salt to pan with toppings. Mix well. Add 2 tbsp ghee or butter. Add handful of chopped parsley. Serve in bowl. Enjoy!

Central Texas Air Show

2011-05-07T22:18:00.009-05:00

I'm a ~~wanna be~~ amateur photographer, so I jumped at the idea that hubs wanted to go to the Central Texas Air Show. What? I can bring my camera and take 644 (actual number) photos of planes today? I'm in! Here are some of the photos I was able to capture!

If you're interested, you can view my freelance graphic design/photography website here: http://adrinahdesign.com/ and you can view my Flickr photostream (with the rest of the Air Show photos) here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/adrinahdesign/.

Thanks for reading!

Newlyweds - Doing it Weird

2011-05-06T07:06:00.006-05:00

Did I get your attention? Good!

Both husband (I totally just geeked out writing that! - BTW trying to find a good/clever/cute nickname for him: DH, husband, hubs, hubby...something along those lines) have really buckled down the past few years to be healthy. Not just eating healthy, but BEING healthy which requires exercising! We were both really, really good about it. I took it to the next level and started running half marathons, but both of us ran on a regular basis. He'd go out for a mile, I'd go out for 7, but hey...who's keeping track? It's not a competition. Wait, what am I talking about? Of course it's a competition... I win!

Anyways...we were really good about it until about 3 months before the wedding. Life got INSANE! Not just with the wedding, but work, and family stuff. Literally, we were both dealing with so much stuff that we barely had time to breathe. By the time we'd get home and settle down, the last thing we wanted to do was work out. So...it was put on the back burner. But now, we're ready to get back at it!

We've decided to do the Keep Austin Weird 5k on June 25! This is huge because he has never done a race with me (see? who said things don't change after marriage?). Neither of us are "couchers" but I found a good Couch-to-5k program that we're going to follow. Considering that I'm still nursing patellar tendonitis, I figure it would be a good thing to start small and slow. Don't worry, I'm doing my leg exercises to help heal my injury.

I've decided to post my training schedule here in case there is anyone in the same boat or who has never run before and would like to run a 5k in 7 weeks! I got this plan from the Mayo Clinic website.

Week 1
On walk/run days: run for 15 seconds & walk for 45 seconds
Monday & Wednesday - Run/Walk for 30 minutes
Tuesday & Thursday - Walk for 30 minutes
Saturday - Run/Walk for 3 miles
Friday & Sunday - Rest

Week 2
On walk/run days: run for 15 seconds & walk for 45 seconds
Monday & Wednesday - Run/Walk for 30 minutes
Tuesday & Thursday - Walk for 30 minutes
Saturday - Run/Walk for 3.5 miles
Friday & Sunday - Rest

Week 3
On walk/run days: run for 20 seconds & walk for 40 seconds
Monday & Wednesday - Run/Walk for 30 minutes
Tuesday & Thursday - Walk for 30 minutes
Saturday - Run/Walk for 2 miles
Friday & Sunday- Rest

Week 4
On walk/run days: run for 20 seconds & walk for 40 seconds
Monday & Wednesday - Run/Walk for 30 minutes
Tuesday & Thursday - Walk for 30 minutes
Saturday - Run/Walk for 4 miles
Friday & Sunday- Rest

Week 5
On walk/run days: run for 25 seconds & walk for 35 seconds
Monday & Wednesday - Run/Walk for 30 minutes
Tuesday & Thursday - Walk for 30 minutes
Saturday - Run/Walk for 2 miles
Friday & Sunday- Rest

Week 6
On walk/run days: run for 25 seconds & walk for 35 seconds
Monday & Wednesday - Run/Walk for 30 minutes
Tuesday & Thursday - Walk for 30 minutes
Saturday - Run/Walk for 4.5 miles
Friday & Sunday- Rest

Week 7
On walk/run days: run for 30 seconds & walk for 30 seconds
Monday & Wednesday - Run/Walk for 30 minutes
Tuesday & Thursday - Walk for 30 minutes
Saturday - Run/Walk for 5k
Friday - Rest

Starting Monday, we're sticking to this plan. Should be a fun thing for him and I to do together!

Life as I see it!

2011-05-05T12:08:00.005-05:00

Welcome to the same blog, same blogger, but a new look, and new title! Over the course of this blogs life (since February 2009), it's changed. After my first half marathon, I started this blog as purely a running blog. A forum for me to share my triumphs and struggles. A place for other beginners to seek encouragement in knowing they aren't alone.

It then turned into a healthy eating blog as I started to really focus on my diet and incorporate other actives than running, such as boxing.

I went on hiatus a bit, posted here and there about my life.

Now, I don't want to have any restrictions. From here on out, I'm blogging what's on my mind. Whether it be my freelance design business, newlywed tales, awesome gluten free recipes, training programs, nutritionist updates, etc. This is (my) life as I see it!

I hope you guys enjoy the journey!

Southwest Chicken Salad

2011-05-04T17:09:00.005-05:00

Before I type any further, I must admit, this is not my recipe! I borrowed and adapted (I cannot copy a recipe to save my life...what can I say, I hate following directions). So this is only about 20% mine. You can thank Jen at Gluten Free Life for this delicious meal!

Southwest Chicken Salad (GF - could be vegetarian if you want it to be)

Ingredients

Chili Powder
Onion Powder
Sea Salt
Garlic Sea Salt
Cracked Pepper
Organic Chicken (about 2/3 lb) (chopped)
1 can Organic Black Beans (drained/rinsed)
1/4 c Ranch Dressing
1/4 c BBQ Sauce (I used a Memphis type sauce)
2 c Lettuce (chopped)
2 Roma Tomatoes (chopped)
4 Green Onions (just the white tips chopped)
1/3 c Red Pepper (cubed)
Organic Coconut Oil
handful chopped cilantro
1 organic lime

Directions

Chicken - In a pan on low/medium heat 1 tbsp coconut oil, chopped chicken, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1tbsp onion powder, sea salt, cracked pepper, garlic sea salt. Cook until cooked all the way through. It may seem like a lot of seasoning, but it really gives excellent flavor to the salad. Set aside to cool and place in fridge. You want the chicken cold.

Salad Mix - In a bow, mix red pepper, tomatoes, black beans, green onions, and cilantro.

Sauce - Mix BBQ sauce and ranch dressing thoroughly.

Mix the Chicken, Salad Mix, and Dressing together in a bowl. Serve over bead of lettuce with a slice of lime. Enjoy! Serves 2 large entrée salads.

Chicken

Salad Mix

Saucy!

Limes

Yum!

I've categorized this recipe as an "Easy Recipe" and "Budget Meal". To make it even easier and more wallet-friendly, buy a rotisserie chicken (usually about $5 at the store) instead of using organic chicken breast and cooking yourself!

Wedded Bliss!

2011-05-02T20:14:00.004-05:00

Full report coming soon with #LoneStarWedding twitter updates (which are pretty sweet BTW!), but until then, here are a couple of photos that one of my totally kickass brides maids took.

Day of! I stayed at the Driskill (the venue of the wedding) the night before with a bridesmaid. Then the other two met us there for some lunch, flower arrangements, mimosas, and FUN! I wore my "Bride" cover-up all day!

At dinner at our sweetheart table. The food was good, and despite what everyone said, we were both able to get in about 10 bites of our dinner! :)

My little brother and I cutting it up on the dance floor. He was twirling me around and everything!

My father-in-law and I. At this exact moment he said to me "You have so much energy!" I was bouncing around all night. I literally danced all night with exception of the cupcakes.

My HUSBAND and I giving each other each a bite of a delcious docle de leche cupcake. We were nice and didn't smear it all over each other's faces.

"Will What? Kate Who?" One of our photographers took this shot with her iPhone while we were doing the bride/groom photos! This idea is from the genius behind my favorite wedding blog who happens to be a comedic mastermind: The Groom Says.

Lone Star Wedding

2011-04-26T08:31:00.003-05:00

Well, my final days as an unmarried woman are coming to an end and all I gotta say is...it's about time! I've been planning this wedding for 14 months now and am ready to watch it all come into play. Not that the wedding is the best part, the best part is being married to your best friend, but still, I've been planning this party for a while, and I'm ready to enjoy it!

I know many of you follow me on Twitter. Since my wedding is the same day as the Royal Wedding (I picked it WAY before they did!), I'm asking all my followers to use hashtag #LoneStarWedding in reference to anything relating to me, my wedding, or even the royal wedding (or nothing related to anything like that, but use it just for fun and to confuse your followers!) I think it would be a lot of fun to read all the hashtags after the big day!

If I get enough of them, I'll make a blog post out of them and recap the big day!

So, what do you say? Want to join me in making the #LoneStarWedding more awesome than the #RoyalWedding?

PS - The wedding is Friday in case, by some miracle, you have no idea when the Royal Wedding is (I applaud you!).

Cheers!

DIY Wishing Cards

2011-04-15T20:46:00.008-05:00

I am trying to add as many little personal aspects to my wedding as possible. None are very significant or big, but each little thing gives our wedding that extra personal touch. One of the personal touches I'm adding, are wishing cards!

Instead of having a guest book, we are asking our guests to make a wish for us. There will be a small chalkboard with cursive writing that says "Silly, sweet, or sincere; make a wish for the newlyweds here!" Each guest will then write whatever their wish is for us (silly, sweet, or sincere) and put it in a vintage looking pale!

I made the wishing cards with double sided 12" scrap-booking paper and perforated business cards. I bought the Happily Lost package by Lily Bee Design on Amazon. The business cards I bought at Office Depot.

Using a paper cutting board, I cut the scrap-booking paper into 2.25" x 3.75" pieces (a total of .25" taller and wider than the business cards). I then used an adhesive to mount the business cards on the scrap-booking paper, leaving approximately .012" on each side of the card, thus leaving the other side exposed on the sides of the card. For adhesive I used scrap-booking (acid free!) tabs.

Front/back of the paper

Back side of the cards

Close up

Front/back of the cards

2 weeks from today!!!

27 days!

2011-04-01T13:12:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it's been 3 months since I last posted here! Wow...time sure does fly when you're planning a wedding! ;)

I just wanted to take a moment to update everyone here...I'm getting married THIS MONTH! Yes, after nearly 5 1/2 years of dating 13 months of engagement, I can actually say that THIS is the month we're getting married!

2010 in Photos

2010-12-31T15:30:00.002-06:00

2010 was overall a very good year. I kind of wanted to take some time to just reflect on it; mostly for my own personal reasons. A lot went on this year and I just wanted to remember it all. Good and bad.

January

We started off the year with a trip to Los Angeles for the Rose Bowl.

February

I completed my 4th half marathon. My (now fiancé) took a trip to New York City to celebrate a belated 4 year anniversary. He surprised me with a proposal and a beautiful ring! I, of course, said 'yes'.

March

A good friend had her baby. I was introduced to Jonas who his mom now refers to me as "Auntie Jen".

This is us with his Christmas present from us (in December)

April

Fiancé found a job in a law firm in Austin! We went back home for a Suns playoff game.

May

My fiancé graduated from Law School!

June

I turned 1/4 century and started my freelancing graphic design career.

July

My fiancé took the Texas Bar. We celebrated with a trip to Los Angeles!

August

We flew back to Arizona to have our engagement photos taken. Our families hosted an engagement party for us. A week later we lost a dear member of our family.

September

College football season started. I also started seeing my nutritionist.

October

We headed back to Arizona for the Suns home opener.

November

We found out that fiancé passed the Texas Bar! I voted for the first time as a Texas citizen (all other times were as an Arizona citizen). We hosted Thanksgiving in our home for the second year in a row. I become a Warrior.

December

We went back home to Arizona. Two dear friends became husband & wife. And we found out two of our friends were expecting! We lost a dear friend and mentor.

This has been an amazing year. There have been some hiccups and heart ache. While I will not forget the heartache, I choose to celebrate the wonderful things in my life. I'm very grateful for 2010 and look forward to 2011!

Warrior Paint

2010-11-24T10:33:00.007-06:00

This past weekend we got 3 girls together to do the Central Texas Warrior Dash. Ever heard of it? I hadn't, but it's crazy!

This is how it's described on their website:

Warrior Dash is the ultimate event for thrill-seeking athletes. This running series is held on some of the nation's most demanding and unique terrain. Participants will conquer extreme obstacles and celebrate their feat with music, beer, warrior helmets and muddy shorts.

Of course, being the person that I am, I thought "why not do it in costumes?!" After all, I did complete a half marathon with my bff in matching pink/green get-up including tutus!

Not thinking the other two girls would be into dressing up, I mentioned it to one of my friends. To which she responded "Let's do it! Come up with a fun costume and we'll do it!" After thinking long and hard, this is what I came up with...the Candy Cane Girls!

Yes, those are red/white striped thigh highs and candy cane headbands!

Everyone loved our costumes. We had random people coming up taking our photos. We even had a little girl about 7 ask her mom if she could take her photo with us...I'm sure that's going in a scrap book somewhere! Later I had someone I didn't even know tweet me that he saw us and loved our costumes!

I must say the obstacles added to the 5k make it much more difficult than I was expecting. I'm sad to admit that I was sore the next day, really sore. Amazing how adding walls, rusty cars, planks, rivers, tires, fire, and a mud pit will make you tired after only 3.2 miles!

We can see the finish line!

Getting closer...

Just past the mud pit was the finish!

We are now Warriors!

At the end, we could donate our shoes. Warrior Dash cleans and recycles old shoes. As always, it was a little bitter sweet giving these up. My shoes have so much history, but it's nice knowing they went to a good cause!

I Will Not Forget

2010-11-11T08:22:00.003-06:00

World War 1, World War 2, The Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom…These are wars that were fought and are being fought by Americans. In each of these wars, American Soldiers stepped up to fight and help keep this Nation free along with helping to give others freedom.

I hope my generation doesn’t forget about our Veterans. They are our husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, best friends, and classmates. To both past and present Veterans, thank you for giving so much of yourselves for our Nation.

I will not forget.

And as a daughter of two Marines, happy belated birthday to the United States Marine Corps. Semper fidelis

Transition

2010-11-01T12:32:00.004-05:00

Hey guys! I hope everyone is doing well. I know I've changed the feel of the blog a bit...going from a running blog to a health food blog, but I assure you, that's not the case. I just haven't had much time lately to blog about running and recipes are just really easy!

The feel of the blog will change tho. In the past I mostly blogged about running, well, I cannot run anymore. I haven't been able to run for a few months now. My knees have reached the point of no return with tendinitis in both knees. More on the knees later.

The blog will be a healthy lifestyle blog. Will include my gluten-free, dairy-free, sugar-free recipes; posts about boxing; and overall my journey toward a healthier me.

I started this journey 2 years ago. Boxing and I started dating in May 2008 and we added running to the mix October 2008 as I prepared for the Austin Half Marathon in February 2009. In the past 2+ years I've been on a pretty stead lose weight, maintain weight, lose weight, maintain, etc. This is also when I started being more mindful of the food I was eating.

Now that I've been seeing a nutritionist, I've had to put running aside, and I've picked up boxing again, it only makes sense to turn the blog into more of a "healthy living" blog.

A friend from high school reads this and asked me how much it costs to eat the way I do. I let her know that it isn't cheap, but with the proper planning, doesn't have to be super expensive either. I've started adding "budget meal" to the meals that can be made for $15 or less for 4 servings or more.

I hope that you're all ok with the transition of the blog!

Chicken Tomatillo Enchiladas

2010-10-26T20:48:00.005-05:00

This is the first time I've attempted enchiladas. They really aren't as difficult as I thought. I made these dairy-free (added cheese to my fiancé's after I put them on his plate). Let me tell you...they aren't missing the cheese, that's for sure! Next time, I will make my own tomatillo sauce. This is the first time in over 5 years that I've used a store bought sauce. It wasn't bad, but the ego in me thinks I can make it better. Plus, homemade is always healthier! Feel free to use store-bough sauce or make your own. When I do make my own, I'll post the recipe on the blog and link it here!

Chicken Tomatillo Enchiladas (GF, DF)

Ingredients

14 organic corn tortillas
16 oz tomatillo sauce
1 lb ground chicken
1/2 c diced onion
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1 can organic black beans - drained, rinsed, and dried
1 teaspoon organic coconut oil
few pinches of shredded fresh cilantro
sea salt
pepper
chili powder

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Sauté onions and garlic until onions are translucent. Add beans, cilantro, and chicken. Mix on low heat for about 5 minutes. Add a sea salt, pepper, and about 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder. Cook until the chicken is cooked all the way through. Place tortillas on a paper plate and microwave for 90 seconds. Once filling is cooked throughly, place about 3 tablespoons of filling in each tortilla and roll tightly (without tearing the tortilla). Note: if the tortillas tear, put the tortillas in the microwave longer. Place the rolled enchilada seem-side down in a baking pan. Fill pan tightly with enchiladas. Pour tomatillo over the enchiladas liberally. Place in oven for approximately 15 min. Enjoy!

Picadillo

2010-10-24T17:42:00.008-05:00

Per request by my fiancé, we had picadillo tonight! This is a traditional Mexican dish that I hoped I didn't butcher. I always get leery when we asks me to cook a childhood favorite that his mom has mastered, but turned out pretty well!

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free by nature.

Ingredients

1 1/2 pounds of grass-fed ground beef
3 organic roma tomatoes
1 organic yellow onion
1 roasted poblano pepper (I roasted my own - see below for instructions)
4 cloves of garlic
1 medium sized russet potato
coconut oil
chili powder
sea salt
pepper

Roasted Poblano Pepper Directions

Of course you can buy roasted poblano peppers, but if you want to do it yourself, it's actually quite easy... Take your pepper and hold it by the tip with a pair of tongs. Place over an open fire (or gas stove) until your start to hear crackles and pops. Rotate the pepper making sure that every part of the pepper is burned by the flame. Once the entire pepper is covered in burn marks, place in a plastic back and tie shut. Let it sit for 30+ minutes. Remove pepper from bag and gently remove the skin from the pepper.

Pepper over an open flame

Pepper after the flame

Pepper "sweating" in the enclosed plastic bag

Picadillo Directions

Chop onion, garlic, tomato, pepper, and potato. Set tomato and potato aside. In a large pan with coconut oil, place onions, pepper, and garlic. Let simmer on the lowest heat for about 5 minutes. Add about 1/2 teaspoon of chili pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix and let simmer for another 5 minutes. Add potato, tomatoes, and ground meat. Mix well. Cover and let simmer on the lowest heat for about 30-40 minutes. Serve in a bowl once potatoes are soft.

The verdict? The fiancé loved it! Guess I can master some traditional dishes! :)

Fruity Pancakes

2010-10-24T13:37:00.013-05:00

I had been craving pancakes. Not really sure why, probably because I knew that I'd just about never be able to have pancakes while eating out ever again, so I decided to search for good gluten-free AND dairy-free pancakes. The dairy-free made me get a little creative. Creative, but tasty!

Fruity Pancakes (GF, DF, Vegan)

Ingredients

Your favorite GF pancake mix (I chose GF Pantry)
Fresh, organic orange juice
5-6 Fresh, organic strawberries
1/2 c Frozen, organic blueberries
1 egg (or 1/2 mashed banana for a vegan version)
Ghee (clarified butter aka dairy-free butter) OR your fav vegan butter
Olive oil
Organic coconut oil

Organic Coconut Oil

Ghee

GF pancake mix

Directions

Finely chop strawberries and set aside. Follow the directions of your GF pancake mix except for the milk. Use the orange juice oz-for-oz instead of the milk. (So if your mix calls for 1c of milk, use 1c of orange juice instead). If you are opting for the vegan route, use 1/2 mashed banana for each egg the recipe calls for. (So if your mix calls for 2 eggs, use 1 whole banana and mash it instead). Mix all your ingredients in a bowl. Add chopped strawberries and blueberries to pancake mix. Mix well. Add coconut oil to pan. Use 1/2c measuring cup to scoop pancakes. Put desirable amount of Ghee on pancake immediately after the pancake is removed from the pan. Makes 6 very delicious pancakes.

I used a minimal amount sugar-free syrup. I probably won't use syrup at all next time, they really didn't need it.

Enjoy!

Stuffed Bell Peppers

2010-10-20T19:15:00.008-05:00

Stuffed Bell Peppers (gluten & dairy free)

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (I used red)
1lb ground turkey
1c cooked brown rice
4 slices bacon
1 c onion
1 tomato
1tbsp green onion
2 garlic cloves
salt & pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven at 400 degrees. Chop off tops of peppers. Remove guts and seeds. Set aside. Chop onions and garlic. Sauté until onion are translucent. Remove and add to large bowl with cooked brown rice. Brown ground turkey with slices of bacon until fully cooked. Remove and place in bowl. Chop tomato and add to bowl. Mix all ingredients in bowl adding salt & pepper to taste. Stuff peppers as full as you can make them! Place peppers on a cooking sheet or cake pan. Cover. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes!

If you have left over stuffing, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake along with the peppers. Serve extra serving with the finished stuffed peppers.

PS - sorry no photo. I forgot to take a photo of the finished product. They're REALLY good though.

Goin' to the chapel, and we're gonna get married...

2010-10-20T12:55:00.007-05:00

Ok, we aren't getting married in a chapel, but for some reason I just started singing that song!

I have some exciting news on the wedding front, it's been a while since I've updated you all on that!

The moment you've all been waiting for...will come AFTER the wedding day in case my fiancé looks at the blog, I don't want to show a photo of my dress! That's right, this modern, unconventional bride, is keeping a few "traditions" alive, we will not see each other until I'm walking down the isle (awwww!).

I will say tho, since my last wedding update, I have found a dress! YAY! I went shopping with my mom and maid of honor back in July and found THE ONE! I was excited to go dress shopping, but never ever would I think that I would care that much about this dress. I went thinking "this will be fun!" but it turned into "OMG, I never thought I'd FALL IN LOVE WITH A DRESS!"

They always say "When you know, you know." Kind of like when you find the one you want to grow old with, but I didn't think I'd ever "know" with a dress. It's a dress for crying out loud. Fabric sewn together...right?! Wrong...it was the 4th dress I tried on and I fell in love with it. For some reason when I tried it on, I just knew that it was the dress that I would say "I DO" in. The dress that I would become a Mrs. in. The dress that I would wear as I walk down the isle to meet the man of my dreams in! I can't wait to show you guys photos!

What I can show you photos of is our save-the-date post cards! I just received the proof from my printer today! I designed these myself, so they hold a very special place in my heart. I wanted a more hip, fun feel to the cards, and this is what I came up with! Wedding logo (seen on the front) was also designed by me.

Here is the front. Yes, we are inviting Mack Brown (coach of the Texas Longhorns Football team) and Alvin Gentry for that matter (coach of the Phoenix Suns)

Here is the back of the cards.

I'll leave you with this...one of our engagement photos (one of my favorites!)

Aren't we super cute?

Coconut Milk Goodness

2010-10-13T19:53:00.010-05:00

In searching for gluten-free, casein-free, sugar-free recipes*, I came across this blog/cookbook called The Spunky Coconut. Actually...what I was really searching for was a casserole recipe using coconut milk instead of sour cream, cheese, or other dairy.

*If you're new here or missed the post...catch up here on why I'm gluten-free, casein-free (dairy-free), and sugar-free.

I came across a recipe on the blog that fit the mold. However; if you've ever read my posts on cooking, you know that I refuse to follow a recipe. Typically I will read something just to make sure it's possible and to figure out how long to cook it for. (I wasn't even sure I could make a casserole with coconut milk).

So...here it is. I'll call it St. Patty's Day Casserole - the spinach gives it a green hue (gluten/casein free!)

Ingredients

2c cooked organic brown rice
1c raw/defrosted chopped spinach
1c organic, whole fat, un-sweetened coconut milk
1/2c chopped white onion
1/4c chopped green onion
1 chopped garlic clove
1c raw, organic broccoli (chopped into small florets)
10oz boneless, skinless salmon
1tbsp Chia Seeds
organic coconut oil
sea salt to taste

Directions

Sauté white and green onions with garlic in coconut oil until tender. Remove ingredients and place in bowl. Chop salmon into 1/2"-1" chunks. Place salmon chunks into same pan that sautéd the onions and garlic. Cook on medium heat for roughly 5 minutes (or until "medium"). Remove salmon. Place all ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly. Place in a rectangular casserole dish. Bake 1t 350 degrees (uncovered) for 40 minutes.

Mmmm, enjoy!

What's been going on lately

2010-10-08T16:49:00.002-05:00

Hey guys, wow has life been busy! It's funny how when life starts to take control of time, the things you once used to really enjoy are put on the back burner...such as blogging!

I wanted to drop in and say 'hi' and let you know what I've been up to...

One of the reasons that I've been so busy is because I finally decided to start my own freelance graphic design business! It has been very exciting and busy. If you or anyone you know needs graphic design services (logo design, wedding logo design, print design, etc) keep me in mind! You can view my website and portfolio here: http://adrinahdesign.com.

There it is...short and sweet. I'll be around more often these days!

Hope you all are well!

PS - like the logo I designed for the blog?

The Verdict

2010-09-10T14:15:00.003-05:00

So...

I had my third appointment with the most awesome nutritionist ever! If you're in Austin and want one, leave me a comment and I'll send you her info. She's awesome! Seriously...awesome!

10 Day Detox
Good news... I lost 10 lbs on my detox

Bad news... 8 lbs of it was muscle

Reason... I wasn't eating enough. Hear that? I wasn't eating enough! I've never heard that before, but it makes since. My body type* requires a combination diet that is heavier on protein. I wasn't eating enough protein. With the amount of muscle I have, I burn just over 1600 calories a day just doing nothing. That doesn't include working out, walking around, etc. 1600 calories of healthy food is A LOT of food. So I need to tweak my portions a bit by adding more protein to my diet. Easy enough...I think!

Maintenance
Obviously this is the next step and what will probably be the most challenging. You can get through a detox because you know it's 10 days. The next step is maintaining it for life. I am now officially on a dairy free, gluten free, sugar free diet. Luckily, she is giving me 2 freebies a week. This means that 2 times a week (not 2 days a week) I get to eat/drink whatever I want. It can be a bowl of cheerios, cupcake, 5 beers, bowl of queso, whatever. (She's fairly confident that I'll learn my lesson quickly and stick to the healthier freebie options instead of the bowl of queso).

This will be interesting at first. It really means that I'm going to have to be careful what I eat and plan ahead. I have a feeling after the first few weeks I'll get a really good hang of it and it will start to become second nature.

No caffeine (unless it's a freebie) and only 1 glass of alcohol every other day (unless it's a freebie).

Freebie?
The idea is so that I don't feel like I'm dieting. Since this is something that is for life, she believes that I do need to be allowed to have the occasional cupcake or fries. Also, this will limit from the picking (2 chips here, chocolate kiss there, cookie here, you get the picture...)

Goals
For the next two weeks, her goal for me is to put 4 lbs of muscle back on (which she says will happen easily if I eat the proper amount of protein) and lose 1.5 more lbs of fat.

Baby Steps
I'm going to achieve these goals by following the eating habits I'm supposed to and mixing up my work out. I haven't worked out much since my last run, but I'm starting back up next week. I'll run 3 days a week and lift weights 2 days a week.

Solicited Help
Since this dairy free, gluten free, sugar free diet will be for life, I'd like to find some good tips, recipes, or resources. Anyone out there have anything they'd like to share with me?

* Please don't listen to what I say as advice for everyone. My nutritionist is a professional who ran several tests on me to determine what is best for me. What's best for me probably isn't what's best for you. Seriously!

Almost there!

2010-09-07T13:53:00.001-05:00

Today is day 9 of my 10 day detox from my nutritionist. I mentioned that I needed professional help because I’ve plateaued (big time) in my weight loss. I have teeter-tottered with about 10 pounds for a few months and it was DRIVING ME CRAZY!

The nutritionist appointment went really well. She was so cool and easy to relate to. Overall she seemed impressed by my efforts and wants to help me lose the rest of this weight.

We did a body comp analysis. This was pretty cool. It gave me some happy information and some not so happy information – which helped determine what weight my nutritionist wants me to be at. Good news is…I didn’t tell her my goal weight and she came up with the same goal weight for me that I had for myself.

She told me one thing that I already knew and was hoping she wouldn’t say: women can’t loose weight long term by running long distance alone. I know, I know…ugh! (I’ve since started weight lifting, especially since my running is at a slow.)

Good news: I have above average pounds of muscle on my body for my height and weight. Yes, this means I’m ripped!

Not so good news: I have an (on the higher side) average amount of fat for my height and weight.

Our goal is to put me below average (or on the low end of average) for pounds of fat.

Temptation
The detox actually isn’t what you’d think. She doesn’t believe in starving yourself or filling your body with processed foods. My detox was simply lots of lean protein, lots of veggies, some fruit, detox drinks, and supplements.

The idea is to stay away from grain, processed foods, caffeine, alcohol, dairy, sugar, etc.

Not too bad right? Right! Well, until I traveled to Houston with the fiancé and some friends for the Texas football game. That was so much harder than I thought. Not only could I not drink beer or eat just about anything at the tailgate or game, but eating out was difficult! But, I stayed strong and didn’t cheat once! Not even when the Double Tree gave up warm chocolate chip cookies when we checked into the hotel!

Tomorrow is the last day. After that, I’m not quite sure what my plan will consist of. I have another appointment with the nutritionist Thursday, so I’m anxious to find out.

PS – thanks for all your encouraging words on my post about the Chicago Marathon. As I mentioned, it was a really tough decision, but one I knew I needed to face. It was either deal with it now and save myself from serious injury, or deal with it later after it’s possibly too late.

It's Finally Here

2010-09-03T10:15:00.001-05:00

Rub Some Dirt on It

2010-08-25T19:28:00.004-05:00

Growing up with Marines as parents, I was taught to be tough! If I fell down (at it was clear that I wasn't actually hurt) my parents would say "You're ok, just rub some dirt on it!" Because they didn't make a big deal about it, I often times would hold the water works after I fell. This sort of mentality was something I carried throughout adulthood. Being tough is something I take pride in. I will often soldier on, ignore the discomfort, suck it up...you get the picture.

Some things however should not be ignored.

Last week I set out for my long run. I was scheduled to complete 16 miles. Due to some planned and un-planned life/family events, I was unable to get a long run in since my 10 miler 4 weeks prior. "It's ok", I thought, "I'm tough, I'll be able to do it. Once I get this 16 miles in, I will feel great!"

After about mile 6 I was much more tired than I was expecting. Looking at my Garmin, I also noticed that my heart rate was a bit higher than normal. "Hmmmm, that's odd...oh well, suck it up! Marathons don't run themselves."

Mile 9 rolled around and I was unable to run. Physically my legs refused to move in a forward motion at anything faster than a 14 min/mi pace. With every step my knees screamed in agony (think hammer on both sides of your knee cap with a vice press on the front part of your knee cap).

I've experience knee pain before, but NEVER has it been so agonizing. And, it's not like distance is new to me, I've completed 4 half marathons in the past 16 months.

Mile 11 came and I couldn't move. Even walking was pure torture. "$h!t, I have to do 5 more miles today? If this were the race, I'd have to do 15 MORE miles?!" I was in such misery that I actually called my fiancé to pick me up because I couldn't even walk the 3 miles to my car.

I have never felt more defeated in my entire life.

That Saturday I made a decision. I decided to stop ignoring the pain. The reality is that I have never run pain free. I've tried the traditional cures: ice, new shoes, old shoes, new terrain, knee brace, stretch, weight lifting, you name it.

It was a difficult, painful, tear-filled decision, but I decided to step out of the Chicago Marathon.

You hear of runners who drop dead at mile 22 of a marathon, who mess their muscles up so badly they can't walk, who die of heart attacks... Want to know how that happens? It's because so often we forget what a strain we put on our body. We ignore the fact that we're asking it to perform over and over again. We completely stop listening to what our bodies are telling us. In this runner's case, I'm going to listen.

I feel that there are some underlying problems that I may need to deal with. Mainly I need to focus on my heart (find out what my healthy and dangerous bpm are) and focus on my knees. It's not normal to sit down for 15 minutes and not be able to stand back up because you're knees stop working (especially at my age!)

I'll still be here. I'll still be exercising , but I'll be doing it because I want to.

I mentioned that I've never run pain free, well I've never run just to run either. Every single time I've ever put on my running shoes, it was a training run.

I can't wait to go out and run...

just

for

me!

I am sad that I won't be doing the marathon, but once I finally made the decision, I felt like a huge burden was lifted off of my shoulders, which assured me that I did make the right choice for me. Running shouldn't be a burden. One day, 26.2 miles will be totally doable, but that day is not now, and that's ok.

I’m seeking professional help...

2010-08-17T10:42:00.006-05:00

…and it’s about time!

I’ve blogged several times about my weight loss. I’ve had some success, I’ve also been a little stuck (plateau effect). I lost tons of weight right away and then sort of stopped. I will occasionally lose 5 lbs, but will usually put it back on in a few months. Just back and forth.

Here’s the deal…

I’m always training. Meaning, I’m consistently logging at least 20 miles a week. Usually more like 25+ miles a week (especially when I bumped up from half marathon training to full marathon training).

obviously not me training, but I thought it was a cute photo

I eat healthy. I don’t diet and I don’t restrict myself but I do eat very well. My food philosophy is: eat when I’m hungry. Eat veggies, fruits, and lean meats. I eat red meat 1-2 times a week. I don’t crave red meat more than that (I believe that cravings are a sign that your body needs something).

I’m tired of burning thousands of calories a month, eating healthy, and not losing any more weight. I honestly feel like I have 30 more pounds that I could lose, so it’s not like I’m complaining about 5 pounds here.

I have a feeling that while I think I’m eating healthy, I’m probably not eating healthy for my body. Each person needs some foods and really shouldn't have other foods. They are going to be different for everyone…I hope I can find out what’s right for me.

So…

I’ve found a nutritionist and I’m visiting her today for my first appointment.

I am so excited! Today she will take a full body composition (which probably won’t be so exciting – I’ve heard that they are worse than you expect). I’ve filled out a bunch of surveys and questionnaires from her office. This is to help her determine what diet works best for me. (Diet meaning: eating habits).

After researching her and reading some testimonials it sounds like she is pretty awesome. It sounds like her philosophy is about finding foods that are good for you without making restrictions on food you love (but may not be the best for you). She’s all about living a happy, healthy life.

I’m excited to start the next chapter to a leaner, meaner, fightin’ machine!

Flavor of the Week

2010-08-13T15:37:00.006-05:00

I wanted to give you a quick "hello" and to let you know that I'm still here!

Since my last post, I have kept up with my training. It's been difficult at times (beyond busy...I've been in 4 states in the past 3 weeks), but I haven't given up.

I just noticed that the background I had before is no longer linked on photobucket, so I had an awful icon on the middle of my blog...yuck!

I am starting to see the light at the end of this marathon training tunnel. I cannot wait for Chicago.

Hope you all are doing well!

I'll touch base in a few days...

I'll leave you with this (thanks to Pandora): Flavor of the Week by American Hi-Fi (oh yeah high school days!) -- newest addition to the playlist (I totally forgot this song existed.)

The Art of Running

2010-07-09T20:22:00.005-05:00

Sometimes I want so badly to dub running as science and not art. I love art, I love design, I love the beauty of it but I really love science.

I love knowing right and wrong. I love having a yes or no. I love calculations. I love numbers. I love formulas.

Sometimes I want to know: if I do x and z while running then I'll be able to do y with no problem.

I obsess over time, laps, miles, calculations...so much so that I forget the beauty of the art of running.

I forget about the stride. I forget about the sweet rhythm. I forget about the sound of my breath. I forget about swoosh in my pony tail.

I get so caught up in the science behind running that I miss the aspect of running that I fell in love with.

On Thursday, I had a 4.5 mile run planned. One thing about Austin...it's been off and on pouring down rain for the last 2 weeks or so. Not ideal for running. Luckily, up until yesterday, the rain had mostly dissipated by the time I hit the trail. Well, Thursday was different. Thursday, the rain picked up by the time I was scheduled to hit the trail.

I left work dressed in my running gear, Garmin and all! There was a slight drizzle but nothing this future-marathoner couldn't handle. By the time I drove the 2 miles to get to my running trail it was full on jungle down pour. CRAZY rain...seriously, CRAZY! There were 3 other guys who parked next to me, all in running gear, only one of whom hit the trail.

After thinking about it 5 minutes I decided that I'd regret not running more than I'd regret at least trying. (When I miss a run, I feel so guilty that it's difficult for me to enjoy anything until my next run). Treadmill...not an option! I call it "death by steps" unlike Bananas and Toast (who love the treadmill!)

Due to Niagra Falls in Austin, I decided to run sans iPod. First time I've ever done this intentionally. In one word, it was...

amazing!

I was able to get back to the art of running! It was just me and the beauty around me. My heart beat, breath, slosh of the puddles and mud, crunch of the dirt, drops of rain on the leaves, chirps of the birds...everything...it was amazing!

By completely forgetting my time, stressing about the right tunes, I was able to focus on my run, my stride, my rhythm.

If you've never run in the rain, I would highly suggest it. It was amazing to get back to the art of running that I fell in love with. Just me on my trail...all alone!

The trail I get to run on! I was all alone in the rain, it was amazing!

Tomorrow? 8 miles...rain or shine! ;)

THANK YOU!

2010-06-25T08:52:00.005-05:00

Thank you, thank you, thank you so very much for all the wonderful comments of encouragement on my last blog entry: Chicago? Or no Chicago?

There were just so many stress factors involved that I felt overwhelmed and like I couldn't do the marathon. Now that I have the plan (thanks to Lauren and Juliette), I feel SO much better. I am a planner by nature (it's even what I do for a living) so feeling like I was floundering around in my training seriously added to my stress.

Not only do I have the plan now, but I've added it to my calendar and set a reminder on my phone to email me the day before reminding how many miles I'm scheduled to run...how's that for organized! Oh, I love organization!

Wedding News
We booked our band last night! The Unnamed Band in Austin, TX! They are going to be so freaking awesome. We're so stoked!

Running News
I ran my 4 miles on Tuesday and 4 miles yesterday just liked I planned. I have 5 miles planned for tomorrow; I'll run longer if I feel up to it! 6 or 7 would make me feel invincible, so we'll see...

I mentioned in my last post that I don't like running anymore. What I meant was that I'm not having fun anymore. I feel that the stress of training has taken the joy out of that. I hope I'm a runner for life. It's a great activity that can keep me healthy as long as I continue it, and as long as I'm not forcing myself to do crazy races all the time, it's not that time consuming.

I still plan on racing. I've said several times that I'd like to do the Austin Half Marathon every year...as of now, that's still my plan. With that said...after Chicago, it may be the only race I do for a while...but that's ok!

Running Outfits
Can you believe that I don't have a single running outfit? I've run 4 half marathons in the past 15 months and I don't have a single outfit. I have cute shorts, capris, and 1 cute top (not sleeveless tho). I've been running in running shorts and whatever tank-top I find in my workout clothes drawer. I read 5 Miles Past Empty's post today: Cast Your Vote! and decided that I needed at least 1 cute running outfit!

Since it's summer (read "hot, sticky, humid, sunny") I want a cute running tank top. So, this weekend, I might just go pick something up! Probably something matching and totally adorable (read: "pink!").

Hope you all have a fabulous weekend!

Chicago? Or no Chicago?

2010-06-22T11:24:00.009-05:00

So, I’ve been struggling if I should share this information for a little while now, but I figure, that in order to move forward, I need to be open and honest. Here goes…

I don’t like running anymore.

I don’t know what it is. I can’t pin point to any one event or run, but something broke in my brain. It sorta switched off.

How long has it been like this? Since February…my last half marathon actually. I don’t know if that’s the reason why or if something else happened, but it’s not fun and hasn’t been for over 4 months.

Thinking this was going to be just a phase (it happens!) I signed up for my first marathon. in Chicago. Yep, I signed up, booked plane tickets, and reserved hotel rooms…that’s how confident I was that I would be back to normal and loving running again.

Well, that was 4 months ago, and I still don’t like it.

Sure, there are days where I enjoy my run, but that doesn’t mean that I’m looking forward to the next run.

I was so envious of all of you who do race after race after race. You’re always training, so I thought I needed to be like that too. I figure there were two types of runners.

1 – the runner who runs a few miles here and there to stay healthy. They aren’t so much concerned with pace or distance really. They get their 2 miles in 3 times a week so they can enjoy beer and the occasional bowl of ice cream.

2 – the runner who is always training for a big race. They often consume the month or two between a marathon with 10ks just for kicks. They plan their life around the long run and are constantly concerned with their pace.

I didn’t want to be the first runner. Don’t get me wrong, there is NOTHING wrong with the first runner, but I wanted more. I wanted the thrill of the race. I wanted the plan. I wanted the consistency of knowing I’d log a certain number of miles each week because I was training.

Well, I’ve also proven that I no longer want the second runner either. I don’t know how some of you do it. Especially people who have kids…geez!

I’ve burned myself out.

Since I started running in October 2008 I’ve always been training for a race. I’ve never once been able to go out and run just to run. I’ve always been concerned with pace. It is a mental battle just to allow myself to stop and walk.

I had breakdown last night and almost called Chicago off. How could I do it? How could I possibly run 26.2 miles in 16 weeks when the longest run I’ve run since February was 4 miles? I wanted to do it. I wanted to be able to say “Yeah, I ran a marathon”, but I had absolutely no desire or will to do what it took to get there.

My fiancé and I had a really good discussion about it. (Have I mentioned that I’d be lost without him?) He assured me that I could do this. He actually said “I have no doubt that you can do a marathon!” He went on to say, but you have to be willing to do what it takes to get there. You have to decide if this is something you want to continue to pursue, and move forward.

Well, you’ll be glad to know, that this is something I want to do. I’m not a quitter, and I will be running the Chicago Marathon in October.

I’m sure I’ll need you’re help along the way, but I’m doing this! It’s sink or swim time, and I’m one who thrives on pressure, so, I’m sure I’ll be great! I'm hoping that if I stick to this plan the love for running will come back to me!

Below is my training plan. Please note that this summer is crazy for me with trips and work meetings planned, so some of my long runs are jumbled around.

Edit: I’ve made an adjustment since I posted this (yes, just 2 hours ago). Two of my favorite girls (also running Chicago) Bananas and Toast and Psychobabbles of a Running Fool suggested I plan for some "rest weeks" so my body can properly recover from the extra miles. Below is the new plan...including the link in case you want to view it in a spreadsheet -- Thanks ladies! :) (PS - this was modified from the Chicago Marathon Training Program)
Any other suggestions you have, let me know! I’m all ears!

You can view the excel spreadsheet version here.

So today, I will be running 4 miles, like it or not!

Wedding Plans: no sense fighting it!

2010-06-18T10:04:00.007-05:00

So, I’ve been reluctant to post here about my wedding plans for a few reasons:

This is a healthy living and fitness blog, so I didn’t feel it was appropriate
I thought I might lose your interest if I did

But I’m beginning to realize that it might be strange for a 25-year-old bride-to-be with a blog to NOT write about her wedding plans…at least a little…right?

So, I’ll compromise…

I’ve added a Wedding page to my blog. I’ll still post here, but then I’ll link them there. On that page you’ll find a brief story of the fiancé and I, the plan for our wedding, websites I’m obsessed with, our photographers, and my wedding posts (coming soon!).

So the planning thus far…

Since we are still about 10 months away, there isn’t too much set in stone. We have the date, reception location, and photographers. We are working on the band and should have that finalized in the next week or so. The ceremony location is up in the air (which is making me a little nervous). Printing – I’m designing all of our printed material (save-the-dates, wedding logo, invites, place cards, etc.) so that will be fun!

The question you’re all asking…does she have the dress yet?

Drum roll….

NO! Hahaha

I don’t know why that’s funny, but it is. I’m going dress shopping next month with my mom and maid of honor. Don’t even ask me what I’m looking for, because I have no clue. I look at photos of ball gowns, sheath, trumpet, mermaid…I love them all! I will say this though, I want an understated dress. No glitter, sashes, or tons of poof. (Watch, I’ll end up with the biggest ball gown we can find with tons of beading and sparkle everywhere!) Never say “never”….right?

We’ve been engaged exactly 4 months today (I’m not keeping track, honestly, I just happened to realize that!). These 4 months has FLOWN by so quickly – I know the next 10 will go by even faster!

Last night I looked at my fiancé and said “Hey baby, we’re getting married!” He replied, “Isn’t that awesome!?” Pretty sweet, pretty cool, we're both super excited!

So, that my friends, are my plans thus far. I’m not worried; I plan and manage larger events for a living, so I’m sure everything will fall into place nicely to give us the FUN orange and purple wedding we want!

I’ll leave with you this on this lovely Friday. Our wedding logo, designed by yours truly. (His name is Steven…hence the “S”)

Orange-y Orange Ruffy

2010-06-17T11:20:00.005-05:00

A healthy dinner the fiancé will enjoy! I'm constantly looking for ways to make chicken and fish tasty enough for the fiancé while still being healthy for both of us. Let's face it...I don't want to eat a steak every night and I don't want beer battered fish and chips either...

Fish used to scare me, but with a little bit of research and guidance, it can actually be really easy!

Ingredients

Fresh Orange Ruffy (ready to cook - aka, no bones or skin)
1 large orange
sea salt
cracked pepper
butter

Directions

Preheat oven at 450 degrees
Gently rub sea salt and cracked pepper on both sides of the fish
Slice orange slices to cover the bottom of your cooking dish
Place the fish on top of the oranges, cover with tin foil, place in oven
Cook for roughly 10 minutes depending on size (my fish was 1/2 lb)
Remove from oven and CAREFULLY remove the tin foil so that you don't burn yourself with the steam
Squeeze the rest of the orange over the fish liberally and place two pats of butter on top
Bake uncovered until butter is melted and the fish has a faint golden/brown color from the butter (about 5ish minutes)

For newbies and scaredy-cats (I was that way too!): this is how you know when fish is cooked.

I paired this with red new potatoes and zucchini for a tasty, healthy, light, fresh, summery dinner.

Enjoy!

PS - if you've missed a recipe or want to share your own, visit the Recipes page!

This is what I mean when I say "core"

2010-06-14T20:45:00.001-05:00

I've blogged about my core a bit. This stems from my boxing days. A few of you have asked exactly what my core workout contains and I'm just now getting around to posting it. Honestly...I didn't know what these were called so it was hard to find photos, but after some research, I've found them! YAY!

Marching Bridge
6 reps; 2 sets
Targets: hamstrings, lower back, and glutes

Begin on your back with feet about 12 inches from your bum and hands by your sides with palms up. Press your heels into the ground and lift your pelvis up until your knees, pelvis, and shoulders form a straight line.
Hold your bridge while you lift your right knee toward your chest, until your hip is at 90 degrees. Return the heel to the floor and lift the left knee. Do not let your pelvis sag or your back overarch while lifting and lowering your knees. This completes one rep.

Elbow Plank Donkey Kick
10 rep; 2 sets
Targets: glutes and hamstrings

Begin in an elbow plank with elbows directly under shoulders, abs engaged toward the spine. Don't let the pelvis sag down or pop up.
Lift right leg off the ground, bending your knee so the sole of your foot is toward the ceiling. Keep pelvis square to the floor. Don't let your pelvis twist.
Press your right heel toward ceiling as high as you can without moving pelvis or low back. The motion will not be huge, but concentrated on the booty and hamstring.
Lower the bent leg slightly and repeat for a total of eight to 10 repetitions. Then switch sides.

Plank
30 sec reps; 4 sets
Targets: internal abdominal muscles and back

Lie face down on mat resting on the forearms, palms flat on the floor.
Push off the floor, raising up onto toes and resting on the elbows.
Keep your back flat, in a straight line from head to heels.
Tilt your pelvis and contract your abdominals to prevent your rear end from sticking up in the air or sagging in the middle.

Side Plank
30 sec reps; 4 sets
Targets: rectus abdominus, transversus abdominus, and obliques (core)

Lie on your side with your right elbow on the ground or use an exercise mat.
Lift yourself up to form a plank with your right arm straight and your left arm on your side.

Bicycle Exercise
20 reps; 2 sets
Targets: rectus abdominus and obliques (core)

Lie on the floor and lace your fingers behind your head.
Bring the knees in towards the chest and lift the shoulder blades off the floor without pulling on the neck.
Straighten the left leg out while simultaneously turning the upper body to the right, taking the left elbow towards the right knee.
Switch sides, bringing the right elbow towards the left knee.
Continue alternating sides in a 'pedaling' motion.

Vertical Leg Crunch
20 reps; 2 sets
Targets: rectus abdominis and obliques (core)

Lie on the floor and extend the legs straight up 2. You can place your hands on the floor for support.
Contract the abs to lift the shoulder blades off the floor, as though reaching your chest towards your feet.
Keep the legs in a fixed position and imagine bringing your belly button towards your spine at the top of the movement.
Lower and repeat.

Reverse Crunch
20 reps; 2 sets
Target: rectus abdominis

Lie on the floor and place hands on the floor or behind the head.
Bring the knees in towards the chest until they're bent to 90 degrees, with feet together.
Contract the abs to curl the hips off the floor, reaching the legs up towards the ceiling.
Lower and repeat.
It's a very small movement, so try to use your abs to lift your hips rather than swinging your legs and creating momentum.

Balancing Seated Torso Twists
30 reps; 2 sets
Target: rectus abdominis and obliques

Sit on the floor at an incline with your feet about 6 inches off the ground and your knees slightly bent. Pull your knees to your chest for a slightly easier workout.
Either hold a dumbbell/medicine ball or interlock your hands.
Move your hands from left to right while maintaining your balance.

Keep in mind that while some of this may be difficult, make sure your form is correct. It's better to do less reps that are in perfect form that it is to do more reps that are rushed.

Enjoy!

Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Chips

2010-06-13T13:18:00.006-05:00

I got bored, craved something sweet, and wanted to test out my new ground flax seed, so...

Ingredients

1 oz of dark chocolate bar (the darker it is, the less sugar that is in it)
1 TBSP organic peanut butter (crunch or creamy)
2 TBSP ground flax seed
1 TBSP 25% less sugar chocolate Nesqik mix

Directions

Microwave the chocolate so that it is in liquid form.
Add peanut butter and mix thoroughly.
Add flax seed and chocolate powder and mix thoroughly.
Place mix on tinfoil in quarter to half dollar size portions (about 10) and freeze.
Let freeze for at least 10 minutes.

Delicious, low sugar, chocolaty treat!

Honey Teriyaki Lemon Zest Chicken

2010-06-12T13:35:00.002-05:00

Tasty, low fat, low sodium, all around healthy dish!

Ingredients

1 Chicken Breast
1/4 c Low Sodium Teriyaki Sauce
2 Tbsp Natural Honey
1 tsp Spicy Mustard
Lemon Juice (to taste)
Sea Salt
Cracked Pepper

Directions

Chicken Breast: pound the chicken breast so that it's about 1/4 inch thick throughout. Cut in half.
Sauce: mix teriyaki sauce, honey, mustard, and lemon juice in a small cup. If you like your sauce more tangy, add more lemon juice; less tangy, less juice.

Next, rub sea salt and cracked pepper into both sides of the chicken breast. Place in a zip lock baggie, add sauce, and refrigerate for at least 30min (the longer, the better!). Place chicken on grill or in oven until cooked. Pair with brown rice and steamed veggies (zucchini, broccoli, carrots, snow peas) for a delicious Asian inspired, healthy dish. (serves 2)

The Fight

2010-06-08T09:45:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, I'm a boxer. Or, well, I used to box (yikes!)...I don't really like the sound of that: used to.

Boxing is actually what kicked off my healthy lifestyle. Long story short: I wanted something that would be fun (hate to break it to you but running is NOT fun for a busty woman who had 80lbs to lose...shocking, I know!). I tried boxing and fell in love with it. I was boxing for about 1 1/2 years but recently put it on hold so I could properly train for the Chicago Marathon in October.

I just couldn't give both the time and dedication they deserved. It was hard to let go and I miss it dearly. I miss the jabs, hooks, upper cuts. I miss the whack-whack-whack of the speed bags. I miss the whistle and snap of the jump ropes. I miss wrapping my hands in those disgusting and worn, bright yellow wraps. I miss the spring in the ring. I even miss that old gym bag smell of my boxing gym.

I miss everything about boxing.

I watched the Mayweather v Mosley fight last month and decided right then and there: ok, after Chicago, I'm going back to the sport. I know what this means. This means I'm putting the racing days on hold. Well, not on hold, just at a limit. Maybe 1 or 2 a year, not 5 or 6.

I was looking at my poster this weekend (this is hanging in my laundry room)

That, my friends, is The Greatest, The Champ, the one and only Muhammad Ali and the quote is his. It reads:

The fight is won or lost far away from witnesses - behind the lines, in the gym, and out there on the road, long before I dance under those lights.

I love this quote. I was thinking about this all weekend...

The fight, my fight, my battle, whatever it may be at the moment, is won or lost on my own doings. If I don't try, if I don't give it my all, it's lost on my own. If I prepare, if I try, if I work at it, then I've won on my own. It has nothing to do with the actual fight and everything to do with how I've prepared.

It's a great reminder and very well spoken. I get back what I've put in behind the lines, in the gym, and out there on the road, long before I dance under those lights.

Lingering

2010-06-06T10:06:00.010-05:00

I'm sick of it!

Sick of it!

It's weighing me down; holding me back.

Literally.

It's time I do something about it once and for all!

December 2007 I decided that something had to give. I was fat. I didn't like it. You can read the story here. But the cliff-notes version is: I decided to start boxing, eating right, then trained for a half marathon. From December 2007 through July 2009 I lost 40 pounds, the hard way. I didn't "diet", I didn't take pills, I just started eating healthier and exercising. My goal was 140 (meaning I had to lose 80 pounds). In the past year, I've lost 10 pounds. View my photo journal.

Really?

10?

That's it?

I've proven that I can lose and maintain, so it's time for me to start losing again.

These last 30 pounds have been lingering...they are UNWANTED and most go now!

A few weeks ago I posted about the 6 week challenge. Well, due to some uncontrollable, and some controllable circumstances, I didn't stick to it 100%, so I'm starting from scratch. I've weighed myself and taken measurements so I can hopefully track my progress!

A rough schedule for the next 6 weeks*:
Sundays - push ups and core
Mondays - run and core
Tuesdays - run and core
Wednesdays - push ups and core
Thursdays - run and core
Fridays - push ups and core
Saturdays - long run

* The goal is 6 weeks...that's 42 days...by then, I'm hoping it's a habit that I stick with forever.

My goal is to post at least once a week about the 6 week challenge to keep you all updated and keep me accountable!

Hope you all are having a great weekend!

Miserable heat, rain, or the treadmill?

2010-06-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

So after my rant about the awful hot and sticky weather yesterday, it rained...all...day...long!

Awesome!

I wanted to go running...outside! Which do I hate more: running in the rain, running in miserable heat, or running on a treadmill? -- treadmill...for sure! It's death by steps.

Pros to running outside in the miserable heat: you get sun, it makes you tougher, you sweat a lot, you're prepared for a possible 100 degree race day (hey, it happens!)
Cons to running outside in the miserable heat: you sweat a lot, you can't run as hard/far, it sucks

Pros to running outside in the rain: it makes you tougher, it's not as hot (sometimes!), you're prepared for a rainy race day (it's happened to me before), rain cools you down when you're running
Cons to running outside in the rain: it's raining...they invented umbrellas for a reason

My conversation with my fiancé yesterday via email about my run (before I ran it):

Me: I have no desire to run in this weather.
Him: I'm sorry, baby. Treadmill?
Me: I'd rather die.
Him: Oh.
Me: I'm just complaining.
Him: LOL, so what are you going to do?
Me: Run in the rain then bitch about it later.

So...lucky you...here I am...bitching about it later!

Actually, by the time I started running, it had stopped technically raining. It was more of a misty, mucky, mess. Hot, humid, sticky...perfect condition for running! Right?

It was a fairly good run. I felt like I had a lot of energy. I ran 3 miles, as promised, then followed up with 100 crunches.

It's predicted to hit triple digits this weekend, so I will likely be up around 6 to hit the trail for my run tomorrow.

Tentative Training Schedule for next week
Saturday: 4-5 miles
Sunday: crunches and push-ups
Monday: 3 miles and crunches
Tuesday: 3 miles and crunches
Wednesday: crunches and push-ups
Thursday: 3 miles and crunches
Friday: crunches and push-ups
Saturday: 5+ miles

I will leave you on this Friday with this:

A view from the trail on Lady Bird Lake in Austin...my running spot!

PS - Hope you like the new digs! I felt it was time for a change!

Happy Friday!!

Get your groove on

2010-06-03T09:42:00.003-05:00

With less than 128 days until the Chicago Marathon, I’m finally starting to feel running again. I’m still not having the time of my life again, but at least I’m getting back into the swing of things and running on a regular basis.

My runs thus far have been short, like, really short. 3 miles is my longest in the past month, so I really need to start getting those miles up.

Living in the great state of Texas, I get the wonderful privilege of receiving the unbearable heat induced runs before much of the country. Some of you are thinking “Wait, didn’t she say she lived in Phoenix for a while? How is Texas worse?” Well, my friends, you are right. I lived in the Phoenix area for about 7 years, but it’s a dry heat…really, it is! I must say, I would take 110 degrees in the beating sun with 0% humidity over 95 degrees in the beating sun with 60% humidity any day!

Anyway…about that heat…

I’ve been running in it. Oh yes, running in that f***ing awesome 95 degree, sunny, 65% humidity weather! That’s right, be jealous! With that said, I’m pretty sure that’s why my distance has been lacking.

*-Disclaimer: I hydrate and listen to my body. I’m not a fool; I don’t want a heat stroke. If I’m dying, I stop.

“Why do you run in that crazy weather?” you ask! Well, I live in the outskirts of town with no safe place to run without driving closer into town, so getting up at 5am really isn’t an option because I wouldn’t have enough time to drive, run, drive home, shower, get dressed, then drive back into town for work – so I run after work. And, the dreadmill, at this point, is not an option. Plus I like the sun! I do, however, wake up early for my Saturday long runs!

Yesterday I hobbled my way through 2 miles…today; I’m determined to do at least 3 miles. Saturday, probably 5!

Cheers to marathon training in the summer heat! WHOOOOO!

PS – thanks for all the birthday wishes!!!

Quarter century in the making…

2010-06-01T09:27:00.005-05:00

Today, I am 25. Ah yes, the age where you feel like you should have something awesome to look forward to or celebrate, seeing how you’ve successfully made it a quarter century. 16 - you get to drive, 18 - you’re an adult, 21 - you can LEGALLY drink, 25…hmmm…I guess I get to rent a car without the ridiculous fees. So I got that going for me!

I was told after 21, “It’s all downhill from here, enjoy it while it lasts.” To me, that’s sad. I can honestly say that every year has been better than the last. Sure, there have been some hick-ups along the way, things haven’t gone according to plans, but I trust there is an ultimate plan, and I’m enjoying the ride.

21 – I graduated from Arizona State University and moved Austin, Texas. My (now) fiancé and I were all alone in the very large state of Texas. We found a home, I found a job, and he started Law School.

22 – I continued to grow my career in a city that I didn’t like. Yep, I haven’t always loved Austin. This year I proved to myself that I was strong. I grew a new found confidence and thrived while establishing my independence.

23 – I founded an organization called Help Save a Stray. This organization has been my outlet to give back. I now work with 39 animal shelters country wide. I also started running and challenged myself to a few half marathons. I would say that 23 was a turning point for me; a crucial year that made me who I am and who I want to be.

24 – I got engaged and my fiancé graduated from Law School. We decided to stay in Austin indefinitely. I raised thousands of dollars for shelters across the country and have played an integral part in several adoptions. I challenged myself to a few more half marathons.

25 – I will be getting married and completing my first full marathon.

Every birthday is a celebration. It’s a chance to look back and enjoy everything I’ve been able to experience. Honestly, if you had asked me when I was 12, “Where do you see yourself when you’re 25?” I would have said something like, “Married, stay-at-home mom, with at least 2 kids, in a house in California (where I lived when I was 12) with a cat and a dog.” Instead, I have an awesome career; I live in an apartment in Austin with my fiancé and goofy dog – and I couldn’t possibly be happier!

I know I’m not old, and I’m not trying to be ridiculous here, but I am so glad things didn’t go according to how I planned it. It’s funny, because I don’t think anything ever really does. In the past 25 years I’ve learned to take each day and live it. I’ve learned to be thankful for what I have and enjoy it. Everything in my life is a gift. I cannot wait to see what the next 25 years holds!

So today, as you read this, I want you to be thankful for what you have in life, whatever it may be. Things are not always easy (like my blog title says) but it’s the not easy things in life that make the great things that much better!

Cheers to life!

Marathon Tips - from an expert (not me)

2010-05-19T16:23:00.002-05:00

Some good tips from a person who seems to know what she’s talking about…

Just a super brief post for me today.

I know a lot of you are training for a marathon, many for the first time like me. This is now a favorite page in my de.li cious profile! I’m sure I’ll refer to it often!

4 Last-Minute Marathon Tips for First-Timers

Who's training for a marathon? Who's training for their first marathon? Who else is doing Chicago?