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Julia + Ayla and the Gang | #portraits #children

2013-06-17T08:00:00.000-04:00

Wahoo! Back to working out at 5am again. It was rough getting up this morning, but nice to be finished before the day even really starts. I appreciate the day more when I do something for myself first.

Today's workout was a full body weight session. I'm super thankful now that Chris makes my morning juice, so I can come home to something to eat right away!

And, I'm going to enjoy some peppa-dew peppers with feta for lunch. I am addicted to these things, thanks to Steph and Alex :P

Not only did we have a grand ol' time photographing Matthew this past weekend, but my nieces got in on the action. Our families have grown by leaps and bounds, with another one on the way before the end of the year. I can't believe how chaotic and fun every get-together is now. These cuties exhaust me!

Julia + big sis Ayla

Watch out, Miles wants in on the action.

Wowee... They all sat still for 0.2 seconds. Good thing I'm quick on my shutter!

Family is such a blessing.

I'll be back with more from our weekend soon enough!

Equipment used: Canon EOS 5D Mark II | Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L | Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L

A Snowbird Named Matthew | #portraits #children

2013-06-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

I can't believe Matthew is already over a year. We're so excited he joined our extended family last year. He's changed and grown so much, I know there is a lot in store for this little guy. He was up visiting from Florida this week, so we had to snag some beautiful shots with his Floridian Nanny, as well as with his Jersey grandparents. I can't wait until he's running around and playing with Miles. We're in for trouble when that happens!

Mommy and Matthew + Matthew and his Nanny, my Aunt Sandy.

Matthew + Grandma Patty and Grandpa Bob + Matthew.

The whole crew!

How cute are these two?

A few more before they fly back south.

I'm loving my camera again, can't you tell?

Happy Father's Day to all the Daddy's and Grandpa's out there! We're off for some exciting fun you'll hear about soon enough :)

Equipment used: Canon EOS 5D Mark II | Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L

Morning Miles | #moments

2013-06-15T20:21:00.003-04:00

A little Miles break to make you smile.

Equipment used: Canon EOS 5D Mark II | Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L

I'm a little over-protective.

2013-06-15T10:44:00.000-04:00

Did you know I'm a little over-protective? It took me four years before I'd let Chris touch my camera. I get it, I need to seek help for sharing. I promise not to pass this on to Miles.

I'm over-protective because I re-sell my tech gear once I'm done with it. So, for the most part, it's always "on loan" to me, before the next person gets it. The better condition, the more return. There hasn't been anything I haven't been able to resell for close to, or even more than, I paid for it.

I bought an iPod Touch 5G last fall. I had been patiently waiting for Life Proof to come out with a case that would solve all of my problems. Well, Miles no longer drools and spits up, so I don't need the extreme waterproofing. And, was I really going to take it for a swim? Probably not. And, well, Life Proof, I'm tired of waiting for you to get your act together.

I broke down this week and bought an OtterBox Defender.

I was using a thin plastic screen cover and a flimsy five dollar black rubber case. Miles pulls it apart all the time, and believe me, I do not share my iPod with him (see above)... somehow he finds it everywhere!

A few months ago a student suggested the OtterBox. I wish I would have listened earlier. I'm a little stubborn, and like to get what I want, when I want it. Duh, this thing is awesome. It doesn't add bulk like most other cases, it's perfect for my needs and makes me feel a little more protected. I've only had it two days, but I already love it.

Don't worry. I'm not as overprotective with Miles. I share him a lot with others. Maybe it's because I can't resell him? He'd probably fetch zillions, trillions when he has a tantrum. Plus, they don't make cases for those babies. If they did, I might be tempted to buy one.

Now that I have my new case, I'm not as afraid to leave my iPod on my nightstand. Really, I don't know why I was afraid to before. I kept thinking I'd knock it over, you know, because I flail around all night. Of course, doesn't everybody?

With my new found protective freedom, I can use my music alarms! I've read everything I can about getting up at 5am to convince me it's the right thing to do (because I fell off the bandwagon once I became injured). And, Friday I planned to wake to beautiful Amber by 311 and do yoga.

Miles had other plans. He woke up at 4:30am bright eyed and calling for Cah-key (Daddy). Can I say, I love that he says "Mom-me" so easily now, when his first word was Da-da. When you ask him to say Daddy, he laughs and says Cah-key to punk Chris. Love him. Love love love him.

So, we cuddled in bed until he fell back asleep and then Daddy had to wake him up to get ready to go. So much for a yoga workout. I didn't mind though, Miles isn't a cuddle-baby too often, so when it's not moving, I'm thrilled to cuddle with him.

You can find a bazillion suggestions for getting up earlier. Here is what works for me:

Just do it.

Get up at the same time every day. No difference weekday to weekend.

Go to bed when tired, but be aware of sleep cycles and get enough hours of sleep.

Have a reason to get up: workout, write, walk, meditate.

Design a morning routine and do the prep work (clothes, food, etc.) the night before.

Pick an awesome song to wake to.

Do it with a buddy. Chris has to get up at 5am to get where he needs to be, so I don't feel so attached to the bed.

What time do you wake up every day?

For more getting up early ideas:
Waking up early, 10 tips that work
How to Wake up Early: The Definitive Guide
Story Of A New Habit: How I Started To Wake Up At 5 AM
The Most Successful Techniques for Rising Early

Equipment used: Canon EOS 5D Mark II | Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L | Canon 600EX-RT Flash | Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L | Canon EF 24mm f/1.4 L | Canon S100 | iPod Touch 5G

Eating dinner at 4:30pm and in bed by 6pm + Something for the Weekend

2013-06-14T07:30:00.000-04:00

Our week has been hectic, hence the lack of Miles' photos! It's the last few weeks of the school year that despite how much I prepare mentally for them, end up being completely exhausting and draining. Whew, only a week to go before we reach the finish line!

Plus my aunt is up visiting from Florida, which was a complete surprise to everyone. So, we've been spending a few days visiting. Miles definitely fits in with the older crowd, since he wakes up at 5:30am, eats dinner at 4:30pm and looks like this come 6pm:

And, I look like this come 6pm :) Excited to put this baby guy to bed and have some mama reading and writing time.

On another note, I won something exciting this week which I'll write more about soon! It's a blessing that when you ask the universe for what you need, you receive. And you know I'm always asking for a lot.

Enjoy some light reading this weekend. I hear it's going to be gorgeous out!

| life |

Knowing many thing is better than being an expert at just one skill.

How Happiness Changes with Age I'm learning to become okay with being boring.

You are your own measuring stick. Don't let someone else's [financial] success be your benchmark.

It might be time to put our plans on paper.

How to change yourself.

| food |

Is Soylent the food of the future? This might be great for malnutrition, but food is a very social thing. I'm not sure many would jump on board to eat this only for life. How about whole, real food?

| fitness |

Losing motivation? Keep your mouth shut. This is a tough one for me :)

Knock off counting and think about how everything effects your time when it comes to happiness.

Habits are more than tiny things.

The Power of Mornings. Man, I need to get up earlier again.

| photos |

For the locals, here are great beach photography tips.

I love these tips for newborn photography; a nice reminder to keep it simple.

Equipment used: iPod Touch 5G

I never had a star fruit before, have you? | #food

2013-06-13T09:03:00.000-04:00

Have you ever wondered what a Star Fruit is? I have.

I'm exploring new fruits and vegetables this spring to expand the array of options in our house. I decided to start with the star fruit because it seemed like a tasty place to start. I never bought a star fruit before, because I wasn't sure how to eat it, what it would taste like or what to use it for. Thankfully, the deli lady at our market didn't think I was too crazy when I asked her about it.

A star fruit's real name is a carambola. I can see now why they call it a star fruit. Who wants to say, "would you like a piece of carambola today?" I didn't think so.

Star fruits are defined as: deeply ridged yellow-brown tropical fruit; used raw as a vegetable or in salad or when fully ripe as a dessert

If you google carambola, they have a nifty side bar of all the nutrition facts.

Here's a simple walk-through for how to prepare and eat a star fruit. This site also gives a few ideas for how to eat it, too.

Be careful if you have kidney problems to not eat star fruit. There are toxins that healthy kidneys can manage, but unhealthy ones cannot.

I actually liked it a lot. It wasn't too sweet, but it has the center that looks a little like a citrus fruit. Simple to cut and eat, no seeds or mess.

Have you ever had a star fruit?

Equipment used: iPod Touch 5G

Low Blood Sugar and a Fridge Full of Plants | #wellnesschat

2013-06-12T08:30:00.000-04:00

For the past two months I've been skimping on workouts and consuming large amounts of sugar; emotions out of check. It's time to change that reality, especially since it's affecting my health. I went to my doctor for an annual check-up a week ago and while mostly everything is far better than it was a year ago (BP is 108/68 woot!), my blood sugar is of concern for being too low.

I've been tired, cranky, hungry, and craving lots and lots of sugar. I thought something was up...

It could be a fluke, so they are retesting me in a few weeks. Or it could be more than that. I'm a little nervous as it can be a sign of larger issues. Though, I am also aware that I have lost a lot of weight in the past year, as well as started juicing a few weeks ago, and not always eating the healthiest since injured (i.e. M&Ms!). Plus, intensive exercise can cause this to happen, too.

To combat this concern, I'm going to refocus my eating habits and exercise in the right direction. I have to go back to eating six times a day, whereas I fell off that schedule and was eating maybe three or four times a day.

I'm reading, for the third time around, In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan. Whether or not you think he's right, you can't argue a common sense approach to eating. I've read the long 450 page Omnivore's Dilemma and I am thankful he condensed the book into a much shorter piece (as well as an illustrated version I bought for the library).

I love sharing this book with everyone who asks me for nutritional advice. I'm also awaiting Pollan's new book called Cooked of which I'm in line for at the library.

No matter how many times I read it, I always am reinvigorated to: Eat food. Mostly Plants. Not too much.

Each weekend I go to the market and overload on fruits and veggies. I stopped buying red meat (shhhh! don't tell Chris!) and we've been only buying chicken to have a few days per week. I've been incorporating more beans, greens, and grains into our meals, and Miles loves them!

This week in our fridge there is a lot of fruit. I bought way too much, but I was craving sugar and hungry when I hit the market (see above). This week we have grapes, a ginormous amount of strawberries, papaya, pineapple, apples, applesauce, star fruit, carrots, beets, broccoli, spinach, kale, zucchini, onions, and butternut squash I need to cook asap. We've restocked our milks (almond and dairy) and bought a few cheese items to boot.

Why does Chris want to go to the U-Pick farm this Saturday is beyond me. Although, I'm definitely looking forward to the trip and showing Miles where his food comes from. I love that he says "broccoli". He eats far better than I have been, that lovey baby guy.

In addition to all of the above, I picked up a bunch of nuts: almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds.

I asked Chris to roast the pumpkin seeds for me, since I didn't like them raw. They taste much better with butter and salt on them; you can tell I didn't pick the recipe. I would have opted for spices and coconut oil myself.

So, with all that above in our fridge you'd think I wouldn't have a hard time eating well. Instead, I've been grabbing my hidden stash of M&M's at night and sharing a bowl of ice cream with Chris a few nights this week. Hmmm... it's time to clean up this mess and get back on the wagon. I definitely don't have to re-stock or clean out to do so!

Have you ever had low blood sugar?

What's in your fridge?

Equipment used: iPod Touch 5G

Beating the Comparison Trap

2013-06-11T08:36:00.002-04:00

It never fails that when I compare myself to others I always come up short. Of course, I'm often comparing myself to the likes of someone like Warren Buffet or Kara Goucher. I don't let myself off the hook that easily, but I do find myself in the comparison trap sometimes even with family or friends. It's a hard road to travel, when you're always losing. I've come up with a way to beat it, though.

To overcome the comparison trap, there's only one person to compare yourself to: You.

You're the only one who has lived your life, has your genetics, your history, background, knowledge, skills, and abilities. No two people are alike. Maybe one person's parents paid for their college education, but you had to work three jobs to get through school. Maybe you were born into a family of fitness and long distance running. Or maybe you're the first in your family to ever have a gym membership and eat a star fruit. There's no way to compare every ounce of your being with another person. side note: I'm so glad I'm not a twin.

Lately, my blog feeds are a buzz with amazing runners jumping into ultra-marathons, photographers succeeding beyond their wildest dreams, librarians writing best-selling books, or financial gurus quitting their corporate jobs to stay home making tons of money blogging about their experience, debt-free and all.

How on earth can I keep up with all of these successful people?

Instead of wallowing in the why not me or the where did I go wrong mentality, I prefer to take a few moments when I feel like a total loser and see how far I've come in the past year. And, this year was a doozy of a year for me...

| life |
2012 - I was a new mom, unsure of what to do every single moment of the day.
2013 - I'm still a new mom, but more comfortable being "Miles' mom" and being in control of who I am in that role.

| net worth |
2012 - We were almost out of debt, waiting to pay off Chris' student loans. And little hope to sell our home in such a down economy.
2013 - We are again, almost out of debt, but did pay off Chris' student loans. Now, we're waiting to pay off Chris' new car loan, but we have paid more toward the mortgage in order to sell our house hopefully sooner.

| career |
2012 - I was unsure of going back to work and being a working mom. I just couldn't fathom it and hated it for many months.
2013 - I've got the first year under my belt as a "working mom". It wasn't easy at first, but it was better as time went on and now I completely appreciate being able to go to work and do what I love.

| food |
2012 - I ate whatever and whenever. I was eating emotionally. I was going through a rough time and completely lost in life.
2013 - I am still eating under stress some days, but I am mostly back to cooking healthier. I give myself a lot more slack and less guilt when I get off track. I enjoy eating a variety of foods, and don't beat myself up over junk - as long as I make it from scratch!

| weight |
2012 - Hm, yeah, I was the heaviest I've ever been in my life hovering around 178+lbs. I felt awful about the scale and was terrified it would never change. Terrified, I would never change. I was uncomfortable in my body, in my clothes, and it showed in every interaction I had with others.
2013 - I'm down 30lbs, hovering in the mid-140s and feeling normal again. I'm confident, and fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes easily. I can run 11 miles, when not injured. I still want more strength and endurance, but I am proud of myself for never giving up no matter how many times I've hit a plateau. About 20lbs left to reach my goal. Time for updated progress photos, too!

| photos |
2012 - I didn't even pick-up my camera if I wasn't asked to.
2013 - I can't seem to stop taking photos with at minimum, my ipod. And, I'm loving the work I've created with my 5dm2 this spring. I'm excited to take photos again and have come up with a few fun project ideas for the summer.

| business |
2012 - I felt so detached from it all, just going through the motions. I dreaded inquiries.
2013 - I feel invigorated and open to new possibilities. I've realized my passion is in newborn photography and have decided to zero in on that work going forward. If it goes well, awesome. If I fall flat on my face, I'll pick myself up, dust myself off, and find a new direction.

| projects |
2012 - I had none to speak of. Not even hope of one. I didn't want to be on this earth anymore.
2013 - I'm working on several projects related to designing a major road race event's website, another self portrait project, writing an eBook, more online tutorials about food, photography and fitness, guest blogging at Running Routes, and getting more active in the running and library communities.

So, remember: next time you feel like you've wasted your time to become a complete loser, create personal scale of measurement for yourself. Take notes, and each year reflect back on how far you've come in whatever areas of your life you want to change.

I am positive in another year I'll look back at this from an entirely new perspective.

How far have you come in the past year?

Max plays in the park | #portraits #photos

2013-06-10T08:00:00.000-04:00

It was a beautiful weekend for a portrait session and I was lucky enough to get to see Max again! I've photographed this little fella since his first few days. He is too darn cute, I wanted to take him home so he could play with Miles. I love seeing Max, as it's a preview of what Miles will be like in several months. Max had an awesome time playing in the park where we first took his mommy, Dana's, maternity portraits!

You can't beat this ball of energy to bring a smile to your day!

Equipment used: Canon EOS 5D Mark II | Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L

Cubby's Ribs were more than I could handle.

2013-06-09T16:31:00.000-04:00

Miles wants to win frozen yogurt for life (we wish!) and needs your help. If he wins, he's willing to share frozen yogurt with you! Like his photo on facebook!

This weekend we took a drive up to our friend's Brian and Alix's house in Hacksensack. We haven't been up that way in years, I mean years. Brian used to live in Los Angeles, but we're glad to have him back on the east coast, wife included!

On our way we drove past a super monster truck!

Miles was more interested in showing off his flexibility skills. "Eat your piggies!"

Haha, this boy has a good time in the car I tell you.

I'm finally liking self portraits a bit more, so expect to see a lot more me in the coming months!

The magic happened. We went to Cubby's for the most amazing ribs you'll ever see and taste. Miles got the hot dog. While we don't make hot dogs often at home I definitely wanted a calm eating baby so I could enjoy my ribs!!

And, Chris wanted the same. Miles liked the taste of the ribs, as well as the mac n' cheese, hot dog, and sweet potatoes.

Our friends, Brian and Alix.

I swear I looked more like an adult than I do here in my bummy college sweatshirt. Thank goodness I had it on, I left with a little sauce to go if you know what I mean...

The aftermath... Brian took my bread to go and we took the leftovers for the next day.

Chris finished off the last bit of my ribs. I ate more than I could handle. Three-quarters of a rack of ribs was way too much for me. But, it was Cubby's.

Oh no, toddler melt down time. Let's get Pop-Pop's order to go and get outta here!

This was about 5:30pm. Miles was hit by the sleep monster hard.

Ah, New York City. I will get back there one day soon enough. It's been far too long. Like two years too long. Miles must go to NYC this summer.

How was your weekend?

Equipment used: iPod Touch 5G

Something for the Weekend: Tested Pinterest Recipes

2013-06-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

| Recipes: Yay or Nay |
I use Pinterest to find and store recipes I would like to try or have tried and want to remember. Over time I delete the ones I don't like, so I have a pretty useful list of recipes to go from. Here are some that I've tried most recently and my take on them. If you want to find recipes you can count on, join me on Pinterest.

photo from How to Be a Vegetarian

- Breakfast -
Instant Oatmeal Packets | yay
I don't use sugar, but I put uncooked oats with dates and coconut flakes together. The possibilities are endless.

Almond Milk in the Nutribullet | yay
Super simple and easy to make. No artificial additives either!

Paleo Banana Muffins | meh
I wasn't sold on this the first go around, but I'm going to try them again with fresher bananas. Others really like them.

- Sides -
Prep your Pantry on Sunday Nights | yay
I do this all week long, but every time we go to the market I prep everything right away. Then, it's grab and go!

Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint | yay
Our friends made this last weekend and it was ah-mazing.

Sweet Potato Chips | yay
I can never get these right, but they taste awesome!

Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Sweet Potatoes | yay
Amazing way to eat sweet potatoes, even Chris liked!

Hard-boiled Eggs in the Oven | meh
I read somewhere the best method was the cold-water. These were a little burnt on the bottom.

Almond Joy Butter | meh
My almonds were over-cooked, so I'm keeping this to try again.

- Dinner-
Chick-fil-a Chicken and Sauce | yay
Chris can't stop talking about these, we love 'em!

Oven Roasted Salmon w/Parmesan Mayo Crust | yay

Grilled Avocados | yay
Best way to eat an avocado, never would have thought to put on sour cream/salsa!

Buffalo Chicken Tacos | yay
Easy simple idea.

Alabama Chicken with white sauce | yay
See above, super tasty!

- Desserts -
Almond Joy Nutribullet | yay
This tasted like a sinful dessert, but was full of health.

Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough Frozen Yogurt | nay
This wasn't for me. I'm not sure I liked the sour taste of the greek yogurt after having real frozen yogurt.

I'd just love to make everything on this page and live off of it. Can I, please?

| DIY |
Non-stick Cooking Spray | yay
This was simple and our go-to now. I just wish coconut oil was liquid year-round!

Have you ever made your own play-dough?

| Building Friendships |
Be a best friend to others first. How to Create More Meaningful Relationships

Be open-minded. 10 Useful Tips to Make New Friends

Best Friends Manifesto

How to Have More Best Friends in Life: The Heartfelt Guide

Life without Facebook / Returning to Facebook

| Inspiring |
"I'm not sure there's any number of Facebook likes that can replace a hug." Reality is Not a Show

I want to look like a runner. Me, too Dorothy. It's like I wrote this post.

I'm totally taking this Running Pop Quiz. I love Janae's blog! She's always so upbeat and inspiring. And, wow, does she eat a lot of good tasting food and look great for it.

I hope you enjoy your weekend! Have there been any recipes you've tried and loved from Pinterest?

I'll race you at 94 for a pizza, deal?

2013-06-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

I calculated my life expectancy and I am surprised to find out that I may live to be 94! I never thought I'd live to see 60, since many of my ancestors passed away earlier in their adult lives. I guess modern medicine has changed that, as my mom did outlive her parents ages when they passed and plans to live until 88 at the very least. And, I'm going to fight harder than ever to ward off the health issues that plagued my dad and several of his relatives. The deck is stacked against me, and you wonder why I am into being healthy... It's not all about the looks.

Life Expectancy Results
Life Expectancy: 94.01 years
Lower Quartile: 87.61 years (75% chance you will live longer than this)
Median Lifetime: 96.17 years (50% chance you will live longer than this)
Upper Quartile: 103.63 years (25% chance you will live longer than this)

So, I guess 100 isn't really that out of reach, and 94 seems realistic, right? Another reason that I remind you, I don't run to live a longer life, but I run to add life to those years. I always said I wanted to be that old lady running in her 90's knocking off the young whipper snappers in the age group. There's still hope!

On the other hand, what the heck am I going to do with myself for another 60+ years? I have only lived a third of my life thus far, so I better get to work making the second two-thirds even more exciting.

And you know what is exciting? Cooking, baking, and making everything from scratch!

I'm so thankful that we took up the task to learn to cook from scratch before it became the mainstream popular thing to do. It's so easy to walk around the kitchen and pull items to concoct our own recipes, or follow along with some of our favorites.

This week was a pizza week, on the grill and in the oven.

Although, we watched on America's Test Kitchen last night how to make the best thin crust Brooklyn pizza. So, we'll be trying a new method to make the best pizza dough we've ever had, right Chris?

And, I tried a recipe for Paleo Banana Muffins. I'm not sure I like the taste, but I believe my bananas were too ripe when I made this. Otherwise, my colleagues seem to like them!

I have a bunch of things on my mind today regarding life choices, friendships, and who I am at heart. It'll be a few days before I share my thoughts, but things are churning around in there.

What do you love to cook/bake/eat from scratch?

Equipment used: iPod Touch 5G

What the Three Stooges Taught Me that Changed My Perspective

2013-06-05T08:30:00.000-04:00

"We need to stop shopping for lightning bolts. The way out of our paralysis is simpler than that: It's about thinking small and thinking gradual... Amazingly, it was the Three Stooges who first codified this management technique: "Slowly I turned . . . step by step . . . inch by inch . . ." It worked for them, and it can work for us."

(Slowly I turned...Step-by-Step...Inch by Inch...)

Whenever I've been asked about weight-loss advice, I always remind others to take it slow. Small steps. One change at a time. We didn't become this way without gradual changes positive or negative.

Many days though, I forget this myself and lose patience when things are not speeding along in the direction I want to go. I have several pounds to go, but just as I think when on a long run, I'm going to keep putting one foot in front of the other and take it one pound at a time, or one mile at a time. Gradual, slow, change will get me to the end of the marathon.

I've been working on being awesome again, but I partially accepted that when I said I was going to be awesome, it was going to hit me like a lightening bolt and I'd be cured. Hey, we all make a few mental mistakes here and there. What I've been deep in thought about this past week has been what small steps I can take to rebuild my presence and fulfill my passions.

Speaking of passions, they've changed over the past several years. Looking back, I notice a gradual desire to move on from portrait and wedding photography. I am thankful for all that it has brought me, but when it became about making more and more money, I knew I needed to find a pathway out.

Slow, gradual changes to my business have made this exit more palatable. I've limited my availability, stopped accepting every type of session or event, and slowly winded down my meetings, sessions, and marketing. I appreciate all that this business has brought me, especially the funding to upgrade all of my equipment, learn an enormous amount about photographing people, and well, buying a car in cash a few years back. I achieved my goals, and it's time to move on. Photography isn't dead to me, I'll probably still shoot casting-calls, but being in business for others has faded.

You can apply this method financially, too. Getting rich slowly is the only path that most of us have to follow. Every month, saving a little more, adds up to a lot over a lifetime. We've worked our way through and out of hundreds of thousands of dollars in student, car, or mortgage loan debt; slowly, dollar by dollar. We've been made fun of for lowering our living expenses, but it has opened up so much more freedom than we've ever had before. Inch by inch...

What I want to do for others is share my experiences, good and bad, and hope that it brightens up someone's day or helps them find a way to their own passions, or unearths their personal talents. Running, writing, and self portraits are very therapeutic for me. Okay, I'm an avid non-fiction reader, too. These passions help me understand more about myself, which in turn helps me understand more about others.

I've been reading Po Bronsons What Should I Do with My Life? and all of those who have found their place in life did it slowly. It didn't just fall in their lap, but their destiny arrived over time, when they were ready for it after making changes throughout their life.

Gradually over the rest of this year, of which I cannot believe is almost half over already, I will be slowly turning... step by step... inch by inch... post by post... photo by photo... run by run... into the adult I want to be.

So, when you're thinking about changing your life, lifestyle, or reaching for your goals... reconsider a new way, the non-American way of slow, gradual changes. Step by step... inch by inch... [insert your passion here]

Who, What, When, Where, and...

2013-06-03T12:30:00.000-04:00

I've always had a few choice adjectives I've identified with what made up who I am. Over the years, they've just sat there, unexplained on every account I've owned online. Well, here I'm going to explain a little more about each one through trying to answer a little Who, What, When, Where, and... Why.

kate nesi | is a...

wife.
Chris and I met early 2003. I never thought I'd be a wife, even though I dated other nice young men. I didn't have that Cinderella or Disney Princess vision of meeting the man of my dreams and being swept off my feet to a beautiful wedding day and a Happily Ever After. Of course, I was wrong.

When I met Chris, I told him not to get too attached, that I was going to be moving to California once I graduated college. Then, we went on our first date. Hmmm... everything changed that night when I realized we were going to be together forever. I didn't believe in that sort of thing, but within a few months we were talking about that first date and how we both felt so comfortable together we knew this was it.

I write here about our antics getting into trouble and growing up together, now as new-ish parents. We were both in our early 20's when we met, and now we're embarking on our journey through our 30's. It's pretty awesome to have a partner in crime.

A co-worker told me once, when we were first engaged, that if you can't accept how they live now, it will only spell trouble. She accepted that her husband would never put his trash in the garbage, but it would always sit on the counter. I accept that my husband will never bring his socks upstairs to the laundry room and he accepts that I'll avoid loading and unloading the dishwasher for 90% of my life. Some days though, it's pretty hard to accept those little things... *cough* Chris, please clean the floors and stop snapping the plastic bits off of the hangers. *cough*

mom.
This is a pretty new role. A strange role that I'm not sure I fit into just yet, but it ranks at the top. There's a breaking in process it appears. I'm being broken, but being rebuilt into a more kind, caring, and compassionate person. Patience is a defining factor; I'm still working on that.

Miles was born March 12, 2012. It was rough beginning for us, after the first week of bliss. I learned a lot about babies in the past year and know when we're ready to grow, I'll be ready to rock-it for number two. Miles keeps us on our toes, he's so active and on the go. He's devious and has a devilish smile that I adore. He tests my limits, and I'm learning how to let things go and let him be a child, crazy toddler, baby guy.

runner.
I started running in the fall of 2002, at college. I had lost weight prior, rollerblading and lifting weights at the gym for a few months. One life-changing evening, I went to the university gym and stepped on a treadmill. I was annoyed at a personal situation and decided to just go for it. I ran ONE mile straight without stopping in probably 10 minutes. I was ecstatic! Hello, Me, Runner, No WAY! I did it, and from that moment on I never looked back.

Ten years later, I'm still passionate about running, even if I am sidelined with an injury right now. And, whoa, I thought I missed National Running Day, but fear not... it's Wednesday and I will be running!

writer.
This is kind of a funny adjective to describe me. I always wanted to be a writer. I've been writing in my journals since I was able to write, maybe around first or second grade when a sentence was coherent. I still have all of my old journals, every moment of my life logged. One day, I will use them to create a memoir, to look back and laugh at how ridiculously stressed out over the small things in life. I've already come up with a title and chapters for a memoir about our time in our current townhouse complex... once we move, you'll get to read it!

I consider myself to still be a writer, as writing is my greatest form of self expression. I am visual and love photography, but I always turn to pen and paper when I really need to explore my thoughts. I'll lump blogging in here, since I've been blogging over eight years on various platforms. Wow, that's a long time.

You can thank Chris for pushing me to blog, as I never was a public person with anything. Now, eight years later I feel like an open book, and it feels awesome to be me (most days).

photographer.
Professionally, business-wise, I've been the photographer you know since early 2009. It's been a long journey that may well be coming to an end as you currently know me within this realm. I have always been a visual learner, and feel in love with photographs from an early age. My mom used to take our photos a lot, and I'm thankful for those memories now. I never shied away from the camera, but instead loved to be the center of attention. Aside from the past year, I've been pretty much that way my entire life.

Photography is an expression, as well as an amazing way to capture memories permanently. Sometimes I wonder how I might explain photography to an alien visitor: a moment captured in time, a piece of a soul on paper for the world to see. I'm not sure, but I know how much it means to me.

librarian.
I don't write much about my librarianship journey here, but I intend to do so more often when I have something useful to add to the conversation. I decided to get my Masters in Library and Information Science way back in 2005 (I finished it in a year of intense study!). I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with my life, but I knew I liked information, organization, research, helping others, books, and well, libraries. I had never worked in one prior to my degree, but I have to say that it's been the best thing to happen to me. It's led me down a career path I never knew existed and introduced me to a LOT of amazing, strong, intelligent women.

I started working in libraries in 2006, right before I finished my library degree. I started as a Young Adult Librarian, who then moved into technology/website development for the same county system, and then delved into School Librarianship a few years later. Now, I find myself on the cusp of the latest technology and bring everything I've got to my work as a High School Library Media Specialist. What a mouthful!
__

Those are just a few pieces of the puzzle and what I share along with the rest of my life's journey here on my blog. I am so much more than these parts, but I feel the do define who I am in a myriad of ways. Where I want to go from here is only up. Up, meaning challenging myself to grow, learn, and change in every aspect.

I am not sure Why I do these things (other than being overly ambitious), or how life led me down this path, but somehow I am here. And, I am thankful to be here, wherever this is and wherever this leads me.

Who are you?
What defines you?
When did your life change?
Where do you want to go?
Why do you do what you do?

Good Reads for Your Weekend and Should I Self Portrait Again?

2013-05-31T08:00:00.000-04:00

Just when I thought the awesome was returning, I was told by my dr. to save running for another week at the very least. I have to agree with him, as much as I don't want to. Well, my running awesome is on hold for a bit, doesn't mean every other awesome has to be, right?

My friend Megan shared this with me, after my Choosing to be Awesome post, and I must say this woman is inspiring and amazing for putting together such a wonderful project. I only wish I'd have thought of it :)

I'm not sure I'm okay with living a boring life, but it would be nice to accept life as it is.

9 Things Happy People Do to Stress Less

You don't want to be typical. I know I don't.

I'm right there with Racing with Babes: find your path... Parenting is hard, hard work.

I'm taking back the authority over my life. You'll learn more how in the coming year ahead.

Oh, the tragedy of the healthy eater. I think we've all been there at one point or another.

And, I'm really thinking of doing another 365 Self Portrait project for reals this summer. I felt awesome when I did that project twice without making it past the halfway mark (but getting close!). I still love many of the photos from the experience, and believe it might help me to accept and love my body once again. I at least don't feel as awful being in front of the camera like I did last summer.

On another note, I definitely need to post some before and during photos. I do believe I look far better than a year ago, and I know despite my injuries, I feel far better.

What do you think, Self Portrait Project or bust?

Want to see more progress photos??

Being On-"Text" 24/7 | #30Awesome

2013-05-30T09:52:00.001-04:00

I received a text at 3:21am from an English teacher begging me to teach her students how to use Prezi and how to use video editing software today.

What did I respond with?
Absolutely. I will teach them, and if the library is booked, I'll go to your classroom.

This isn't the first time I've gotten a desperate text for day-of help.

Many of the teachers have my cell number so they can text me for help, answer questions, or quick support for lessons. I would love to implement a chat system like we did at another library, because it was far easier to provide services immediately than through email which staff may not always have open.

Of course one could always use the phone, but it appears text is a little less intrusive while still getting the quick response you need. Texting is also available during after-hours when teachers are going a little crazy planning their next move and need extra help.

So, I've taught those classes plus scheduled a few more first thing this morning. Then, students went to work on their projects due next week. I am sure they'll come up with something amazing for their teacher, and I'm glad to have been able to assist them in doing so. Maybe even a few of them will remember to use it in college or their next job interview; like I pointed out.

I brought Prezi to our district's awareness 3 years ago, when Prezi was just starting out and offered no templates and few samples to understand how it works. Now, it's am impressive system for creation and collaboration being used all around the world by major corporations and intellectual minds.

I love being on the forefront and finding the coolest tools to create and share with my colleagues and students. Learning and then teaching what I've learned is one of my favorite things to do.

Sometimes being awesome is just about a million little things that add up to a great library experience. This was my little awesome for today.

What's your awesome?

There are so many awesome things happening in libraries, I am thankful others are sharing their awesome and giving me a few new big ideas.

This post is part of the Show Me the Awesome: 30 Days of Self-Promotion blog series, started by Sophie Brookover, Liz Burns, and Kelly Jensen. Artwork by John Lemasney.

How to Make-up for Every Calorie Burned | #cycling #froyo

2013-05-30T08:00:00.000-04:00

Have you ever burned calories and then wanted to promptly make up for that loss? Here's how:

1. Ride your bike to the farthest frozen yogurt place. Skip the nearest one, it would make you ride up a huge hill you really don't want to have to pedal. The further one is mostly flat.

2. Consume a lovely fruit flavored and topped froyo to refresh you from the 90+ degree heat. Toss in some chocolate chip cookie dough for good measure.

3. Share some with your baby guy.

Who doesn't seem to like it.

This is a key lime face.

4. Then ride your bike home, for a round trip of over five miles.

5. You've gotten your exercise, and your yogurt. Negating the effects of both. Score one for, um, Chris? :)

This was a tongue-in-cheek post. I loved riding over to the frozen yogurt place. We go there maybe once a season, so it was nice to actually sweat off the sweets.

We also entered Miles in the Little Cutie Contest! Vote for him with comments and likes when his photo is posted :D

Do you love frozen yogurt? I was so glad I opted to go with my gut and get fruit flavors with fruits and almonds on top. It was super refreshing. Chris opted for a super chocolate peanut butter mash.

Equipment used: iPod Touch 5G

Choosing to Be Awesome | #Life #DoOver

2013-05-29T20:29:00.001-04:00

You have to choose to be awesome.

I used to be awesome. Something fabulous was bubbling up and out of me. Two years ago, I was being me, being awesome. Hell, I overused the word awesome way too much. I loved writing. I loved people. I loved my day job. I loved photography. I loved plugging away, day after day, trying to change the world. Me, I was damn awesome.

Then it all came crashing to a halt. Dream came true: we started a family. I was sick for months on end; pregnancy was not my friend. I pushed people away. I wasn't nice. I was rude. I was miserable. My body grew beyond belief. I struggled with finding my place in it all. I still struggle finding how I fit into this ginormous body and into the role as a mom. Our world came crashing down, then our world opened up. Then, my world came crashing down, and seemed to keep spiraling. I was awesome, but no longer.

Can I be awesome again?

I believe so. (explicit)

People can change. We can change. I can change. Heck, the time will pass anyway, right?

I was downright rude to people, often hating myself seconds later and still regretting words to this moment. It wasn't them, it was me. I hated who I had become. I hated my life. And I felt lost (sometimes still am) about what my purpose is on this planet, even if I have one to begin with. I am disappointed I deleted years worth of useful blog posts, because I no longer wanted to exist. Smack me next time I consider deleting it all and disappearing to live in the forest, or maybe on a nice warm beach.

Thank goodness others openly share their stories, otherwise I'm not sure where I'd be today.

I feel most alive when I'm helping other people. When I'm sharing information, watching others grow, and giving them a hand up. I love when someone says they read something on my blog that inspired them to workout, eat healthier or try something new. Now, that's pretty freakin' awesome!

I recently received an email from a nice young man about advice for starting a photography business. I gave him all I had, without writing an entire book, leaving the door open for more questions. A year or even two years ago, I would have deleted that email or wrote back with a few lines about not knowing much and move on. He would have been competition, or so I thought.

No one is your competition, when you're being yourself.

I'm here on this earth to help others. I want to be awesome again. I've just been lost as to how or when to get started. I've wanted to write about so many topics happening all around me, but have hidden myself away for fear of judgement.

Screw it. I'm shooting for awesome. The years will go by regardless, why not choose awesome instead of being mediocre? It's hard work to share yourself, but work worth doing.

Let's see what awesome-ness I can come up with this summer. I've already had several ideas burning in the back of my mind. Time to put the pedal to the metal and blow this popcorn stand.

Want to be awesome with me?

I'm juicing daily with @theNutriBullet

2013-05-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

For the past several days, I've been juicing at least a few times a day. I'm trying to eliminate certain foods for a few days/weeks to see if my health irritations heal up. I might go see a food allergist for more concrete evidence, but not sure about that yet. I have a hunch, and so far, it appears to be right.

These juices have been the best I've had thus far. Since buying the NutriBullet, I hadn't followed any recipes. I would throw in a few things and drink them. Let's just say, I'm not a natural when it comes to combining ingredients.

After choking down a few no-so-tasty juices, I decided to go to the market and shop for all the ingredients I'd need to follow a few recipes in the book.

Voila... the best tasting juices I've ever had!! And very filling, too.

The first photo the almond joy juice has been my go-to nighttime snack. I love that I'm getting greens in every day now. While I love to be crunchy granola, I don't always love to eat salads and fruit all day long. Now, I'm able to get all the vitamins (and pulp!) in great tasting juice.

So far, I've been using spinach or kale as my green. Then incorporating all types of fruits (some I've never tried before) and adding in chia, flax, almonds, walnuts, or other boosters.

So far, I feel like this has been the best investment in my health. I loved smoothies before, but they were always packed with dairy, whey, or other processed goods and a little fruit. Now, I'm getting straight-up fruits and veggies with water (or almond milk) and keepin' it real. Miles has been stealing a few sips here and there, too.

My body feels better and that's what's really been the best seller for me.

I just can't wait to run again!! I believe I'll make my return to running on June 1st, National Running Day! If I can wait that long... I'm going back to the dr. on Thursday, so we'll see.

Have you juiced before?

What's your favorite fruit/veggie mix?

Equipment used: iPod Touch 5G

Memorial Day Weekend Recap

2013-05-28T11:00:00.003-04:00

We started our Memorial Day weekend on Thursday with dinner out at Grandma's. It was lovely to see the baby guy hit the wall and fall asleep in his high chair. I didn't believe it was possible for him to stop moving, ever. Too bad he had to be woken up to get cleaned and put his pjs on!

On Saturday, we went to a first birthday party. Chris had the camera, so I'm not sure there is much worth sharing :) We did have a good time celebrating and loved the Noah's Ark of Candy as Chris called it.

On Sunday, we had no plans, so I thought we'd go bike riding. I picked up a child seat for Miles on Saturday morning and Sunday morning Chris said we needed a car bike rack. Wahoo! We drove down to the beach (my favorite place ever) and rode our bikes along three towns and back. It was packed, but I loved every minute of it. A great first journey with Miles in tow.

Aren't these two guys too cute?

After riding on Sunday, we went back out locally on Monday before heading to a party. Miles really enjoys the bike and constantly wants to go outside and says "bike" all the time now. My active baby guy rocks!

Here's a few moments of fun at the Memorial Day BBQ on Chris' side. His dad met someone on his cousin's fiancee's side of the family - who thought they could be twins. Quite comical.

And Miles topped of his long weekend of fun playing with his buddy JJ, never stopping until he hit the wall in the car on the ride home. At least he sleeps in the car and makes it easy to just put him up in his bed when we get home.

How was your Memorial Day Weekend?

Equipment used: Canon S100 | iPod Touch 5G

Something for the Weekend

2013-05-23T13:43:00.003-04:00

Since I work in a school and we made-up our hurricane Sandy days, while not using up snow days - we get a five day weekend! So, today, Thursday begins my long weekend. Let's hope it doesn't rain much, but cools off just enough to enjoy the outdoors a bit more.

I'm trying to add as much as possible from what I read each week. I am trying to figure out if I should categorize my links, or just keep them a mish-mosh. What is best for you?

Good News: Happiness Doesn't Exist via Raptitude

Check out the Heart and Soul Cup that my friend Keith shared with me. It's three 5k races this year given by Meridian Health. You accumulate points and there is prize money. I bet Keith wins some :)

How to walk across a parking lot via Raptitude

I need to buy this or make something like it: It's Going to be O.K. via Swissmiss

Uncommon Genius: Stephen Jay Gould On Why Connections Are The Key to Creativity via Brain Pickings

Why your disappoints you via Raptitude

What kind of Nerd are you? Stand and be recognized. via Nerd Fitness

Getting Back on Track via rUnladylike

My Week Without Social Media via Our Freaking Budget

It's Just Weight via Strong Inside Out

What Another Mother Runner looks like - super inspiring ladies via Another Mother Runner

No photos in my repertoire today, but I have a plan for something interesting combining photos and writing on the way...

Have a wonderful weekend, I'm sure I'll be popping in with our shenanigans!

Honorary @Wegmans Employee + Pizza and Cookies on the Grill

2013-05-21T20:29:00.000-04:00

I put Miles to work tonight cleaning the house. Actually, I'm not that horrible, he loves to get the broom out and walk around with it. Apparently he thinks he is a ninja or something. Check out that spin, over the head move.

Look at that reach! Who needs a swiffer?

Home is so much fun with Miles. He's so active and a little crazy baby guy. He's got such a personality, none of us can keep up with his antics. Check him out in the far corner, climbing into the bookcase.

Tonight after taking a family walk in this ridiculous heat, Chris and Miles decided to play blocks together. Chris built everything up, and Miles knocked it down. I guess we won't win "Bet on Your Baby" anytime soon!

Oh, and I forgot to tell you that Miles' is an honorary Wegman's employee. He visits the store almost daily, eating his way through with his Mar-Mar. They gave him his own hat the other day. Now tell me, when will he start getting paychecks?

You know summer is coming when it's time to break out my favorite pizza dough and go to town. I begged Chris to make the dough, he's the best at it. He always says no at first, but then I win out. Tonight, we decided to attempt pizza on the grill.

In the past, Chris has put the pizza stone on the grill, much to my dismay. I told him, just put the dough right on the grill! So, he cleaned the grill and did just what I said, and it worked!! I put hot sauce on my pizza, yum.

I finished off the night by making Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies - on the grill. Say that five times fast.

These were rather tasty. Not too sweet like a regular chocolate chip cookie, but just sweet enough so I felt devilish and healthy at the same time. Definitely will make these again.

And our poor Bambino hasn't been getting as much attention as she did pre-Miles. Poor thing was scratching at the door to come out and help us grill... or to disappear into the woods. I'm not so sure.

Ah, nights like this are the moments I live for. Fresh food, lots of fun, and filled with love. Who needs anything else?

How was your weekday evening?

What did you make for dinner?

Equipment used: Canon EOS 5D Mark II | Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L

Miles took a trip through Narnia at Julia's First Birthday Party

2013-05-20T08:00:00.000-04:00

Our niece, Julia, turned one on Sunday, but we celebrated her birthday at her other Grandma's in south jersey on Saturday. The theme was lady bugs, and she was the cutest bug of all!

Miles finally got to meet my sister-in-law's Corey's sister Jodie's baby guy, Connor, who was born on the SAME exact day, just a few hours later. Jodie was schedule for a c-section a few days later, but when into labor and these two now share an awesome birthday! Connor was little more chill, while Miles could not stop moving, all.day. Whew, I'm tired just remembering it.

My other nieces, Ayla and Gwen, got a little messy in the water fountain. Messy, as in soaked and had to change their clothes. I was just the journalistic photographer, not there to interrupt the wild animals. Well, that's my story and I'm sticking to it!

Chris kept saying Miles was in Narnia. Corey's parents have a backyard filled with garden paths. Miles couldn't get enough running around.

He did stop for a few pieces of broccoli. He makes me so proud :)

After eating a ton and running around, this guy wanted to let loose in his underoos. He refused to put his pants back on and was hitting the wall between life and bedtime - at 6pm - his usual sleepy time. And Max, the dog, was obsessed with sniffing Miles. We came to the conclusion it was the coconut oil on his tushee!

Wahoo, time for cake!

Isn't the cake super cute?? The girls were waiting patiently for their piece. I enjoyed a cup of ice cream with Miles.

And there is exciting news!! My sister is expecting :D At the end of the year, there'll be ~~six~~ five grandkiddos running around for my Mom. I know she's thrilled, proud, and so happy for all of us and our growing families! Yay, more chaos on the way come Christmas!

How many children are in your family? How many grandchildren?

Are you as exhausted as I am at family gatherings?

Equipment used: Canon EOS 5D Mark II | Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L

Pancakes, Almond Milk, and a Spinach Morning | #food #recipe @theNutriBullet

2013-05-19T13:00:00.000-04:00

Saturday morning Chris made fluffy pancakes for breakfast. We don't use any mixes anymore, but he used a Betty Crocker recipe he searched for online if you're interested.

Miles had a few cheerios while he was waiting for his flapjacks to come out from the kitchen.

While Chris cooked, I did my usual of getting in his way in the kitchen. I had soaked almonds for a day in water to make almond milk with the Nutribullet. I watched a YouTube video on it, so I just had to test it out for myself.

First I drained the almonds, then filled about half the tall cup with almonds and added water. I did this twice with the amount of almonds I soaked.

We blended it up for a few minutes. It actually got a little warm after several minds whipping around! After that, I put it through cheesecloth and a strainer. The cheese cloth annoys me, so after the first batch, I ditched the cloth and just used the metal strainer. Then Chris poured it into the cup to re-blend with a little vanilla and sugar. He's ingenious, I would have never thought to use a funnel!

When it was all finished, we put it in a container and then stared at the mess on our counter. Would you like to come over and clean-up for us?

Once my almond milk was complete, I couldn't leave Chris be to cook in the kitchen. I just had to have a juice drink with spinach, carrots, apple and mango. It was pretty tasty if I say so myself. I love this Nutribullet. It's the best way for me to use up fruits and veggies that might be going bad if I don't eat them!

Ah, I am sooooo happy to have my camera back in my hands. It was off visiting my mom's house for a few weeks. It's keeping me from feeling down in the dumps while I can't ~~workout~~ run.

After our fun morning, we spent the afternoon with family for my niece's first birthday!

What did you do this weekend?

Equipment used: Canon EOS 5D Mark II | Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L

Something for the weekend :) Links are back!

2013-05-17T14:19:00.003-04:00

Don't forget that you have a choice. Everyday is an investment.

A few years ago I committed to being un-busy. It was one of the best decisions. I've created more space in my life for what I want, time to create and grow, while eliminating the less important 'stuff'.

I recently watched this TEDtalk and realized that I'd like to create more work that would be Creative Common Licensed. Just yesterday I needed a photo of chocolate to go with my blog, and boy did I feel like a bum for not taking one myself. I was thankful though that the person's image I did use, allowed me to link to it under Creative Commons.

I enjoyed this talk because yes, at times, I'd love to remix video and music to create my own piece worth sharing my point of view. Lately, I've had a huge itch to create more video projects and, well, also to get my camera out and capture more creative photos. My iPod is cute, but it is not my 5dm2 at all.

While I didn't keep track of all that I read through this week here are a few blogs I love:

ProBlogger
Writing Prompts
Goins Writer
Lean Green Bean
Nerd Fitness
Get Rich Slowly

I haven't been writing as much because I feel torn in several directions. I want to write more, I want to photograph more, I want to cook more, and I want to share a lot more. It just can be confusing to try to find my voice, my content, and make it all make sense. I have so many passionate pieces in my life, I just want to share them all and share something worth reading that will help you, too :)

You've been with me this far, so I guess you must be used to all sorts of topics and content coming your way. Thanks for sticking around through all of my ups and ups and...

Keep an eye out for a lot more soon... as always, I'm up to learning, growing and lighting up a new fire in my heart!