Archive for the ‘Health & Fitness’ Category

2012 Resolutions

Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012

It seems like just yesterday I wrote out my 2011 goals whilst tending a hangover on Alex‘s couch. Fast forward 365 days (give or take a few), I’m setting new goals beachside from my window and reflecting on last year’s. Did I meet all my goals?

In 2011 I rode Mt. Hood, photographed Avenged Sevenfold, traveled to New York, moved to Los Angeles, started volunteering, saw Prince at the Forum, suffered a dry spell, expanded my photography portfolio, wrote for Refinery29, road tripped to Vegas, kicked off a career and met amazing new friends. How could 2012 top that!? Well…

Finish One Book Draft- Ok so this was a 2011 goal that didn’t get finished. Alas, I shall carry it on to 2012. Progress was made, so not all is lost.

Photo Exhibit- Between volunteering at MADE and living in Los Angeles, the homeless capital of the world, it’s safe to say these people, their stories and struggles fascinate me. Helping others feels good. Taking amazing photos feels good. Why not combine the two? In 2012 I hope to have my first photo exhibit featuring the faces of LA’s homeless. Ideal situation? I find a local printer/framer to publish some of my work, show it, and donate 100 percent of the proceeds back to the Downtown Women’s Center. I’ve already started snapping shots, and they are goooooooood.

Healthy Body, Healthy Mind- Who doesn’t like to look good? We all do. What about feeling good? This is why I work out. The mental escape I get from yoga, the time to reflect, ponder, analyze and be in the moment, is something I plan to do more of in 2012. My mind runs a million miles an hour. I plan to sweat out the stress, fat and negative energy at least five days a week in hopes of mentally decompressing. Best ass at the pool isn’t bad either…

Become (More) Politically Active- In 2011 I gave financial donations to a political candidate for the first time ever. With the government’s strong hand, and IMO a soon-to-be censored Internet, I plan to take my political ways old school. I’ve brainstormed a few ideas and hope to recruit like-minded freedom fighters to partake. If you see someone in tie-dye holding anti-government signs over the 405, tweet me.

Get Off the Internet- The older I get, the more I’m on the Internet. Work. Friends. Family. Document. Post. Tweet. Upload. I’m sick of it! Does anyone else feel less enjoyment from events because they feel so busy documenting it? This pseudo world has sucked me in and I’m starting to resent it. In 2012 I’m looking for human interaction. Don’t be surprised if I drop off the Net completely.

Travel- Palm Springs. Mammoth. Costa Rica. These are my top three. As for work, we’ve got projects coming up that could (fingers crossed) take me back to Beijing!

Friends- The older I get, the more I realize what I want. Severing toxic ties, albeit tough, was needed in 2011. After all, how can you make room for good energy if you’re retaining the bad? I miss my girlfriends from home, and nothing can replace them, but in 2012 I would like to find more positive energy peeps to partake in concerts, beach BBQs, road trips, photo shoots and adventures galore. Preferably those within walking, biking or driving distance.

Looking for Love- Not really. In fact, nothing annoys me more than desperate people on a quest for “love”. That being said, I automatically file 99 pecent of guys into the friend-zone. The other 1 percet sadly get put on the back-burner after work, working out, girlfriends, blogging, sleep, sunning and travel. Maybe I’ll make time for love in 2012. Maybe not. But if I don’t open myself up to the idea of dating, and look past my stereotypical “type” of tall, tan and usually douchey, I should probably quit bitching. Hey guys- it might be 2012 but chicks still dig dates. (hint, hint)

Welp, that’s it. Goals are up. I am now accountable for what I accomplish in 2012. What do you plan to do in your last year alive?

♥ BB

bloglovin

2010 Holiday Blog Hype

Friday, December 17th, 2010

I would love to give all my friends gifts this holiday season, but I’m saving money and anticipate an upcoming move. Instead of giving material objects that will get stashed in a drawer, I’m giving the gift of hype: blog hype.

The following are a few of my favorite blogs. These people aren’t famous [yet] but certainly have the potential to be. Each blogger is talented in their trade. Their unique writing styles and content set them apart from other “bloggers” on the Internet. These digital journalists cover everything from food to fashion, DIY to DTC. They have something for everyone.

Forewarning: If you bookmark these sites you will get sucked in. Enjoy at your own risk.

Teresa Does It: Teresa is number one, because she is my number one blogging beezy and photo shoot wing woman. Teresa is a crafting, sewing, cooking, DIY genius. What sets her apart from other fashion/DIY bloggers? Well, aside from her skill, undoubtedly her writing style. Teresa, like most writers, writes how she talks. Since she’s is hilarious, naturally her blogs are too. Come on, couldn’t you tell by the name? Speaking of Teresa’s URL and how it came to be… I can close my eyes and travel back to that infamous Beijing subway ride. We discussed Teresa creating a DIY site. “But what do I call it?” she said. Without hesitation I blurted out “Teresa Does It!” Boom. Done.

Mendy Puckett: Mendy is relatively new to the blogging world, but don’t let that fool you. This former NBC Film School student has a slew of great content. Her political blogs are well thought out, written and balanced. She calls it like it is, and has the facts to prove it. Mendy recently wrote President Obama regarding our national debt and blogged about it here. Mendy also writes about travel, wine and current events. She is a blogger to watch in 2011.

Vintage Gem: Vintage Gem is another new blog, but knowing the writer, fashionista and digital diva Annie Bixler, it will take off in no time. Annie has a unique style. She’s an affinity for good music, great design and vintage treasures. Annie can make a granny jacket and loafers look chic. Not to mention those curly locks. Annie brings blue steel to our photo shoots and I’m sure she’ll bring it to Vintage Gem. Bookmark this baby because you will be back.

FVNCY: I discovered FVNCY through Teresa Does It and am hooked. Michelle and Cecillia jam pack this blog with fashion, food, photos and the occasional sketch. Michelle is like me, a blogging beezy, and she’s always posting content, especially her outfits. She rocks shredded knits, animal prints and slouchy beanies. I love the fashion posts, but my favorites are undoubtedly the FVNCY Food Friday how-to’s. Cream puffs? Fried soup balls? Avocado fries!? I’m full just thinking about it (in a good way). Snag one of these recipes and impress your Friday night dinner date!

Elizawhat: I stumbled across Elizawhat in China and started following from that day forth. Elizabeth is a twenty-something web designer and writer. She blogs about her mystery autoimmune disease, life’s struggles and most recently, the loss of her only grandfather. Elizabeth doesn’t hold back. She swears, dishes dirty details and even posts the wild, password required Stuff for Girls Only. Sorry, boys not allowed!

Elyse Canfield: Elyse is a fellow Coug, photographer and Northwest native. She currently lives in Seoul and chronicles her adventures overseas. Elyse is also known to post the occasional wacky audio clip (listen to her interview with the 2010 census worker here). She’s one creative cat. Meow.

Meggy Rose: Megan is another Portland blogger that most students can relate to. She writes about school, family, food, thrifting, crafting and PDX life. I don’t actually know Megan, but since she’s dating the next blogger, I can assume she’s one chill chica.

Keaten Abbott: I met Keaten through mutual friends coming to Pullman to film snowboard footy. Thanks to the joys of social networking, we’ve kept in contact. Keaten is a Portland based filmmaker and photographer. He got into the business in his teens, filming friends skating and snowboarding. Keaten has quite the clientele list, and with his talent it’s no surprise. He’s got a good head on his shoulders and will go far in life. Watch Keaten’s progress here. I’m waiting to see his Northwest filmed, western themed flick.

LeakLight: LeakLight is the epitome of a man’s blog. It covers art & design, fashion, gadgets, music and videos. However, just because it’s a “man’s blog” doesn’t mean women can’t read it. I started following LeakLight for their Weekend Warm-Up. Guys, this blog needs to be on your bookmarks. Ladies, with the holidays approaching, LeakLight has great gift ideas for your man. LeakLight: leaking knowledge by shining light.

What Means The World: I found this blog via mutual Twitter friends. (Did I really just admit that?) After reading a post about Freelensing I decided it was worth a bookmark. Freelance creative James Watts covers photography, videography, design, technology, pop culture and surfing. His article on The Coming of Digital News Distribution was even featured on Freshly Pressed. This is another great “guys blog” so gentlemen, bookmark it up. Ladies, he’s nice to look at. Always a bonus.

Ragasa Photography: AJ hails from the rainy city of Seattle, but his photography is anything but gloomy. He’s been featured in DList Magazine, shot for Etsy designers and takes all-around awesome photos. I’m vibing these and these shots he took of my friend Kayla. Beautiful girl, beautiful fashions and beautiful photos. AJ also has a sick style. Hello, backpacks!? I admire his fashion sense and look forward to working together on future photo shoots. Contact AJ for photos and keep following his work!

There you have it, a few of my favorite blogs. This winter curl up by the fire, sip spiked cocoa and make sure to creep the aforementioned sites. Maybe this will be a Christmas blogging tradition? In 2010 I converted a few friends to the blogosphere. Hopefully 2011 brings out a few more bloggers. What do you think Brittanie, Kelly and Danny!?

♥ BB

Yogamazing

Monday, November 22nd, 2010

I’ve received a few inquires lately on my physique. Most people want to know how I stay fit without starving myself or working out hours a day. One word: Yogamazing.

I started watching Yogamazing video podcasts in China, where pollution prohibited me from running. I only did 20 minutes of yoga a day, but achieved an hours worth of gym results. I couldn’t believe it. Physical fitness aside, yoga is also great for your mental health. I always finish my yoga flow feeling better, both mentally and physically.

What sold me on Yogamazing podcasts is the instructor Chaz Rough. He tailors the asanas to specific athletic needs (dancers, runners, boarders, etc.) so I can maximize my yoga flow. I especially like Chaz’s enthusiasm and attitude towards yoga. He emphasizes the importance of “listening to your body” and progressing at your own rate.

With the stress of the holidays, yoga is a great way to relax while staying in shape. It doesn’t require a gym and can be done in relatively small spaces. If you’re looking for a workout this winter, look outside the Christmas box. Check out Yogamazing video podcasts and jumpstart your holiday weight loss goals today!

*Don’t mind the form in these photos. I took them in my pre-Yogamazing days.

♥ BB

Photo of the Day: Day One Hundred Ninety Five

Thursday, October 14th, 2010

Thanks for the evening bike ride Teresa!

Tonight’s weather is perfect for a beach cruiser bike ride with a bestie. We rode from Hetrick Street to Hanford High and back. After our cruise, we did work on my Halloween DIY costume. I don’t want to spill the beans, but I will say this: it’s killer…

What do you do to enjoy the fall weather?

♥ BB

US Combat Fitness Grand Opening

Thursday, September 16th, 2010

This weekend US Combat Fitness celebrated their grand opening with fitness, food and fun with friends.

I came to snap photos. Luckily I snapped over 500 pictures before my camera crapped out for good. (RIP Mr. Nikon) US Combat Fitness has a wide array of exercises for all ages and abilities. Paul showcased various workouts from fighting and martial arts, to basic fitness.

Interested in working out, losing weight or toning up? Want to have fun while you work out? Check out US Combat Fitness at 8382 W. Gage Blvd., Suite P, Kennewick, WA, 99336 or call them at (509) 438-3134. You have nothing to lose, except the weight, and everything to gain!

♥ BB

USCF Grand Opening

Friday, September 10th, 2010

My athletic and talented friend Paul recently started a gym dedicated to fight oriented fitness. This weekend is their grand opening. If you’re interested in fight fitness, or fitness in general, please read the following press release. The grand opening is this Saturday from 2 to 5 pm at 8382 W. Gage Blvd., Suite P
Kennewick, WA, 99336 and includes free food and fitness!

Via Paul:

“U.S. Combat Fitness is the ONLY facility in southeast Washington devoted to developing and maintaining fight oriented fitness for public safety, military personnel and their families!

If you’re a man, woman, adult or teenager that’s interested in losing fat, toning up, gaining muscle and/or improving your cardiovascular health, while having a blast, making friends, and practicing real-world self-defense skills, you need to come try a workout with us at U.S. Combat Fitness.

Our Fight Functional Fitness (F3) workouts are great for men, women, children – athletes and non-athletes alike! They are designed to simulate situations and conditions that could be encountered in a variety of real-world confrontations that you may find yourself in whether you like it or not. While these workouts are designed to simulate the physical demands of a real-world fight, they do NOT involve fighting or sparring with another person or getting hit (although we do that too if you’re interested!). As such, we can help you prepare yourself for the fight of your life, without getting beat up in the process. Also, since these workouts are performed in a circuit format with a variety of stations you work through, you are in control of how hard you push yourself. For example, if you find yourself too out of breath, dizzy, whatever, you simply slow down your pace, take a break, catch your breath, get a drink, whatever you need to do…then jump back in when you’re ready.

These workouts are great whether you’re an athlete in top condition, or a couch potato who hasn’t exercised in a while (or never!). The workouts generally run anywhere from 30-60 minutes. This includes a low-intensity warm-up, a total body circuit involving real-world self-defense techniques (simultaneously providing a full-body workout AND cardiovascular training) and a cool-down period at the end focusing on total body flexibility and recovery. Join our group here to learn more!”

Wow, what a workout! Hope to see everyone on Saturday!! Paul, I’ll leave my skinny jeans and sunnies at home :]

♥ BB

2010 Richland Farmers Market

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

Here’s a few photos I snapped this morning while wandering the Richland Farmers Market.

If you haven’t yet been to a farmers market and you live in Tri-Cities, you better get it together. There is no excuse to not buy local when you live in a produce abundant area like Eastern Washington.

Today I bought six ears of corn for $2.50. The best part? They picked the corn yesterday! So what does that mean? It means the sooner you eat food after it’s been picked, the more nutrients your food retains. In other words, if you’re buying produce imported from Mexico, it gets picked when it’s green (or not ripe). When the food is transported it loses a lot of the nutrients (and flavor!) you would get by buying local.

Another great thing about local markets is they support our local economy. When we buy local the money stays in our community. It also reduces carbon emissions and road wear caused by trucks transporting the food.

I could get on my soapbox about the importance of local markets, going green, blah blah blah, but I don’t need to preach. The deliciousness of locally grown food speaks for itself. Go on, check out a farmers market and see for yourself why locally grown is the way to go.

*The Richland Farmers Market takes place at The Parkway every Friday from 9 am to 1 pm, from June to October. Over 80 vendors sell produce and products at the market. Click here to see photos from the 2009 Richland Farmers Market!

♥ BB