[Fitness, Health and Happiness]

One Little Word Blog Hop || June

One Little Word | Embrace [who I am]

One little word can have a big impact on your life. A journey shared.

A glimpse of One Little Word 2011. June.

"Get Out Of Your Head" (I had to laugh when Ali said this in the June video.
I thought to myself, how do I do that?)

 

One Little Word Captured

52 Week Project (self-portraits)

June. I started training for the Chicago Marathon, kids are home for summer break, summer school, cheer practice, sleepovers and just life in general. It's been great! Yes, June was a busy month but my OLW, Embrace [how I am], continues to be a focus. Even if it's not in the forefront of my mind, it's not forgotten. I'm keeping up with my One Little Word Captured photography challenge and weekly self portrait challenge, 52 Week Project. Happy about the sustainability of both of these. And lastly, I'm noticing change. I'm seeing progress. I'm not sure of the whats, whys or hows, but I'm a different person.

So, relax, grab a favorite beverage and visit the blog hop blogs for a glimpse of One Little Word 2011.

If you started here, at my blog, and want to start from the beginning, go to Margie's blog at http://xnomads.typepad.com/blog.

Your next stop on the OLW Blog Hop is Jamie at http://jmpgirl.blogspot.com/.  

Thank you for visiting. Look for the July OLW Blog Hop on August 1.

Here is a complete list of blogs participating in todays blog hop! (Note: the blog hop will go live by all participants no later than 8 AM PST (Pacific Standard Time). Allow for adjustments in time zones.

1. Margie  http://xnomads.typepad.com/blog    
2. Rebekah http://istampscrapcraft.blogspot.com/
3. Kelly http://kellyxenos.typepad.com/
4. Julie Ann julieannshahin2.blogspot.com
5. Jill http://jillconyers.typepad.com/<----- YOU ARE HERE
6. Jamie http://jmpgirl.blogspot.com/
7. Cherie http://cheriandrews.blogspot.com
8. Nikki http://www.inkyart.com.au/
9. Amanda http://scrappnbee.blogspot.com
10. Melissa S http://blog.mshanhun.com
11. Monica B http://questtoperfectimperfection.blogspot.com/
12. Lisa A http://backtoallen.com/writers_blog/
13. Sam http://learncreatedo.wordpress.com/
14. Karen womenontractors.blogspot.com
15. Lynn www.crafty-creativity.blogspot.com
16. Jenn www.studiojenn.blogspot.com
17. Kathryn http://www.katlodesigns.com.au/
18. Cindy http://seriousplay.typepad.com

One Little Word || Captured

Week 24

This week I've been thinking about how my word, EMBRACE [who I am], is so closely tied to my passion for running, health and fitness. At 43 years old I am stronger and healthier than I have ever been. I began to wonder which came first, the concept of my word or the health and fitness. I saw a photo of myself and actually thought, "Hey. I have nice legs. When did that happen?" I was shocked that one, I actually do have nice legs and two, I acknowledged that about myself. That is monumental! My guess is the self concept and fitness are not mutually exclusive. It's taking health and fitness beyond the physical.

I'm enjoying the month's creative prompt and I have the photo to show it :) Creating. And getting messy. As Ali said, getting out of my head and not over thinking.

I hope everyone is finding success with their OLW for 2011. I would love to hear where your journey has taken you. 

 

One Little Word || Captured

Week 23

val-i-date verb \ˈva-lə-ˌdāt\
b : to recognize, establish, or illustrate the worthiness or legitimacy of 

On my mind....

Validation. More specifically the need for it. At the moment I can't remember how this concept came to mind or why but it has in a big way. So many questions. Is the need to feel validated healthy? Is it a need everyone (or at least most people) have? I want to understand more about this concept and the role it has or hasn't played in my life and who I am. Who I want to be.

Guess what's next? The link up :)

 

Guest Post || 52 Week Project Self-Portrait Challenge

Visit 52 Week Project for my next self-portrait challenge. 

Even if you're not a 52 Week participant give the challenge a try. The details are here 52 Week Project.

This week's challenge...Celebrate Who You Are

1. I AM BEAUTIFUL - Jill (1), 2. i am strong., 3. Untitled, 4. I am beautiful, 5. The I am Beautiful Project, 6. i am beautiful, 7. i_am_enough, 8. 43 :: 52, 9. I Am Beautiful Project

For more information visit Kim at 52 Week Project Self Portrait Challenge. Challenge details will be posted around 9:00 a.m.

Capture Your 365 Blog Hop | May

Another month of Capture Your 365, inspired by Katrina Kennedy. Using Katrina's May Project 365 Idea List, my not-quite 365 photography project for this year is to look through the lens with a more creative eye and to focus a little more on the technical aspect of photography.

A few things I noticed while capturing and editing images for the month of May:

• While I enjoy playing with some of the more trendy effects of photo editing my preference (particularly for images to be printed) is crisp bold colors with contrast, detail and texture.
• A goal for this month was minimal editing and no actions. As close to SOOC as possible. Simple levels adjustment and sharpen. 
• I like fill-the-frame shots and white space.
• Checking the levels and needing minimal adjustment, if any, makes me smile (literally).
• Next month I will continue to strive for SOOC with an emphasis on improving focus and clarity.

Some of my CY365 favorites for the month of May:

Prompt: Flowers

After the long and dreary winter seeing the beautiful colors is an extra special delight.

Prompt: Fiesta 

Ingredients for my guacamole recipe. A favorite in the Conyers' home.

Prompt: Part or Piece

The parts for one of my favorite protein smoothies.

Prompt: Dinner

One of my favorite dinners, Spice Rubbed Shrimp Tacos.

Prompt: Edible

Alec's favorite breakfast, strawberry pancakes at Waffle House.

Prompt: A Portion

A just-right portion size for a sweet treat.

Prompt: From the Garden

Fresh herbs.

Prompt: Strawberries

A summer favorite.

Prompt: Nature

Alec and I enjoyed a day at a Go Green festival. Something he feels strongly about.

Prompt: Memory

Alec's last year at LJS. He's ready for high school.

Here is a complete list of blogs participating in todays blog hop! (Note: the blog hop will go live by all participants no later than 8 AM EST (Eastern Standard Time). Allow for adjustments in time zones.

 

1. Jill  http://jillconyers.typepad.com/ <---- YOU ARE HERE

2. Laura http://www.mom2nick.typepad.com

3. Tracy  http://www.tracyannelittle.com/

4. Sharon http://sharonlinnefaulk.com/photo

5. Tammy  http://lens-and-pens.blogspot.com/

6. Christi http://randomactsofchristi.blogspot.com/

7. Kathleen http://jkplusthree.blogspot.com/

8. Katrina http://captureyour365.com/category/blog/

9. Kate http://www.katehadfielddesigns.com/blog/

10. Anne http://limeblog.net

 Take some time to visit the other blog hop blogs for a glimpse of Capture Your 365. You won't be disappointed.

Your next stop on the CY365 Blog Hop is Laura at http://www.mom2nick.typepad.com/.

 

 

 

 

 

One Little Word Blog Hop || May

One Little Word | Embrace [who I am]

One little word can have a big impact on your life. A journey shared.

A glimpse of One Little Word 2011. April.

This month's OLW class inspiration focused on documentation of ideas, tasks, missions and "word" stuff to accomplish this year. A to-do list of sorts. A deliberate approach to accomplishing certain tasks. As an avid list maker this made so much sense to me. A plan.

My tasks:

1. Continue weekly self portraits with minimal Photoshop editing. Observation: notice that so far very few of your self portraits actually show your face.
2. When you look in the mirror notice the positive. Comment: If you feel the need to to see the negative in your reflection at least acknowledge the positives first.
3. Research vulnerability and the role it plays in my life.
4. Develop a better understanding of guilt and how it fits into the grand scheme of my personal journey. Comment: Remember the 5/26/11 reality check Alec and Alyssa gave you and rightfully so.
5. Read 2 of Brene Brown's books again. Observation: a different perspective compared to 5 months ago.

I will probably be using this prompt (inspiration) several times throughout the rest of the year. 

I continue to document my word with a weekly photo (One Little Word | Captured) and a weekly self portrait (52 Week Project). Photos are being printed as we speak so for now I'll share 3 of my favorites from the month of May...

One Little Word Captured Week 19

 A running shoe ad hanging in one of my favorite running stores. Personalized with word art. Perfect.

and 52 Week Project Week 19

Chad and I ran a 10.3 mile trail race. The thick slippery mud and fallen trees made this one of the hardest races I've ever run. It was awesome!

And last but not least. My latest for One Little Word Captured was a "Photo Coming Soon" post. This is the photo. Week 21 captured seeing first hand the devastation in Joplin, MO. My in-laws live in Joplin and without hesitation we went to help. An experience I will never forget. Repeatedly I kept wondering...how does an entire city begin to recover? And after several days of thought...faith and one day at a time.

If you started here, at my blog, and want to start from the beginning, go to Margie's blog at http://xnomads.typepad.com/blog.

Your next stop on the OLW Blog Hop is Amanda at http://scrappnbee.blogspot.com.  

Thank you for visiting. Look for the June OLW Blog Hop on July 1.

Here is a complete list of blogs participating in todays blog hop! (Note: the blog hop will go live by all participants no later than 8 AM PST (Pacific Standard Time). Allow for adjustments in time zones.

1. Margie http://xnomads.typepad.com/blog
2. Jamie http://jmpgirl.blogspot.com/
3. Cherie http://cheriandrews.blogspot.com
4. Jill http://jillconyers.typepad.com/ <----- YOUR ARE HERE
5. Amanda http://scrappnbee.blogspot.com
6. Lynn W www.crafty-creativity.blogspot.com
7. Rebekah http://istampscrapcraft.blogspot.com/
8. Melissa S http://blog.mshanhun.com
9. Lisa A http://backtoallen.com/writers_blog/
10. Sam http://learncreatedo.wordpress.com/
11. Jenn www.studiojenn.blogspot.com
12. Junelle http://yesandamenblog.blogspot.com/
13. Jen S www.byjen.com 
14. Monica B2 http://questtoperfectimperfection.blogspot.com/
15. Cindy http://seriousplay.typepad.com
16. Nikki www.inkyart.com.au
17. Karen D http://womenontractors.blogspot.com 

One Little Word || Captured

Week 21

I will be capturing my OLW Captured photo later today. Instead of snapping a photo just to get it done I'm waiting. Waiting for the perfect photo. 

And because I refuse to give up and just maybe there are a few participants still hanging in there, here's the link up :)

Have a fabulous weekend!

 

Guest Post and 52 Week Project Self Portrait Challenge

Visit 52 Week Project for my first guest post. For 19 (or is it 20) weeks we've been sharing weekly self portraits on flickr. For an inspiration kick I've challenged the 52 week project participants. 

Even if you're not a 52 Week participant give the challenge a try. The details are here 52 Week Self Portrait Challenge.

A hint to what the challenge is...

[Photo Credits]
Self-portrait, 2. I'd like to get away from earth awhile and then come back to it and begin over., 3. Day #363 - It's A Beautiful Day - (Nothing is impossible), 4. Week 15, 5. Self-Portrait by Lake., 6. Kait by window light #1, 7. self portrait, 8. Self-portrait in Winter Light, 9. window light., 10. Self Portrait 365 project | Day 144 [Explored], 11. Self Portrait - Laptop Light, 12. self portrait, 13. Self-Portrait, at 15, 14. Self Portrait / EXPLORE #3, 15. Self portrait

This 52 week project has taken me out of my comfort zone of being behind the camera. Check out some of the weekly mosaics.

It's never too late to join 52 Week Project. Whether you're just starting or you can even incorporate the self portraits into you're existing photography projects. If you're interested check out the 52 Week Flickr Group.

One Little Word || Captured

Week 20

I've had She... by Kobi Yamada for years and always wanted this particular quote to apply to me. Now it does.

Capturing my word each week has become routine. An image that captures my eye. Words that inspire me. 

Link up here! 

 

30-Day Clean Eating Challenge

Week Three

The end of last week was very low energy for me. I wasn't eating enough to workout 7 days per week and run 4 of those days. This week I'm adding more calories. For anyone familiar with P90X nutrition I'm moving from the Fat Shredder to Energy Boost meal plan.

On the Menu

Sunday
Breakfast: Whole Wheat Bagel, 1 tbs almond butter (pre-race)
Snack: dried fruit, almonds
Lunch: Chipotle Chicken Bowl - grilled chicken, pico de gallo, salsa, guacamole, corn salsa (a post race favorite)
Snack: Kashi Honey Almond Flax Chewy Granola Bar
Dinner: Turkey and Cheese sandwich - 2 slices Ezekiel, 1 oz swiss, lettuce, tomato

Monday 
Breakfast: Protein Fruit Smoothie
Snack: whole grain pretzels, 1 tbs almond butter 
Lunch: Grilled Chicken Burrito
Dinner: Chicken Pita, green salad

Tuesday
Breakfast: 2 Kashi Whole Wheat Waffles, Greek Yogurt, 1 1/2 c strawberries and blueberries
Snack: Black Bean Chips, guacamole
Lunch: Tuna Roll Up
Snack: Kashi Honey Almond Flax Chewy Granola Bar
Dinner: Grilled Chicken with Spinach and Mozzarella, 1 c broccoli

Wednesday
Breakfast: Protein Fruit Smoothie
Snack: whole grain pretzels, 1 tbs almond butter 
Lunch: Chicken Pita with green salad
Snack: Kashi Honey Almond Flax Chewy Granola Bar
Dinner: turkey, avocado, lettuce and tomato sandwich

Thursday
Breakfast: Protein Fruit Smoothie
Snack: whole grain pretzels, 1 1/2 oz string cheese
Lunch: Grilled Chicken with Spinach and Mozzarella (leftovers)
Snack: Kashi Honey Almond Flax Chewy Granola Bar
Dinner: Grilled Chicken Burrito

Friday
Breakfast: Protein Fruit Smoothie
Snack: Black Bean Chips, guacamole
Lunch: Tuna Roll Up
Snack: Kashi Honey Almond Flax Chewy Granola Bar
Dinner: 3 oz chicken breast, 1 oz mozzarella, marinara, green salad

Saturday
Breakfast: 3 egg white scramble, 2 slices Ezekiel, 1 tbs almond butter (pre-long run)
Snack: Post Run (?)
Lunch: Chicken Pita
Snack: Greek Yogurt, 1 1/2 c strawberries and blueberries
Dinner: Italian Meatloaf (ground turkey), green salad 

A favorite from today's menu:

After Chad and I run a race together we almost always go to Chipotle (it's tradition). The perfect place for clean eating. My favorite is the Chicken Bowl. Lots of chicken, pico de gallo, salsa, corn salsa and romaine. Spicy and delicious.

I had to tweak my workout schedule too. Now that I'm familiar with P90X Plus I'm better able to plan workouts with 4 days of running. 

Workout Schedule

Sunday: 10.6 mile trail race (It was awesome!), X Stretch
Monday: Interval X, Abs/Core
Tuesday: Upper Plus, Ab Ripper, Run
Wednesday: Total Body Plus
Thursday: Upper Plus, Ab Ripper, Run
Friday: Kenpo Cardio, Abs/Core
Saturday: Run, Yoga X