Success seems to be largely a matter of hanging on after others have let go.
(William Feather)

It can be awkward or downright scary to break free from comfort zones, but it can also be energizing to try something new. Making sweeping changes or small alterations to our lives lifts us out of ruts. New experiences have the potential to reveal pieces of ourselves that would otherwise go unnoticed. This how I feel about my experience with Whole Living’s 2012 Action Plan.

It was disorienting and difficult at times, but what I gained in return was worth every ounce of sacrifice. Eliminating processed food and drinks, added sugar, dairy, gluten, caffeine, and alcohol from my diet for 4 weeks was eye-opening. I discovered juicing, learned a bunch of new recipes, and started working out regularly.

Week #4 Highlights:

• Making it! I proved that I can achieve an ambitious goal I set for myself.
• Five workouts strong. That’s two weeks in a row and I’m excited to keep it up.
• Spa day celebration. On Sunday I indulged in a massage + mani pedi. Bliss!

Favorite Meals:

• Spinach with Garlic and Scrambled Eggs - the recipe calls for watercress, but the store was all out. Spinach is a healthy & delicious substitute.
• Quinoa Salad with Toasted Almonds - great to make ahead for several easy workday luches. Spicy, fresh and a little crunch from the almonds.
• Stir-Fry with Flavored Tofu and Vegetables – I made this after a long run on Saturday, using quinoa instead of rice. This one is full of tasty flavors.

They say it takes 21 days to establish a new habit. Over the next three weeks I hope to incorporate what I’ve learned into sustainable, healthy habits for my everyday life. Specifically, I’m planning to maintain a diet that is 90% vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and low in processed foods and added sugar.

Thanks to all of you who have shared your wisdom and support through these past few weeks. It definitely helped keep me motivated!

Whole Living Action Plan Recap Posts:
Week #1 / Week #2 / Week #3

Image Credit: 316/365 – Third World Baby via Helga Weber

Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love.
(Rumi)

I recently attended a goal setting session at my local lululemon. I went with my friend and an open mind, hoping to learn something new. The event began with introductions, then a brief visualization of where we hope to find ourselves 10 years from now…

What would you dare to do if you knew you could not fail?
Describe what you see, hear, and feel in your ideal life.
Who is there? How do you spend your time?
Where do you spend your time?

My vision?

A chic and cozy apartment in a big city with my Mister and our two little ones. He’s off to work while I stay home to watch after the babies and manage my successful healthy & creative living empire. I write (articles, books, and my blog), teach yoga, eat all organic, and live my life with abundant love. I’m a leader within my community, make self-care a priority, and have plenty of time to enjoy my family.

I’m trying not to judge myself too harshly, but it kinda seems like I want it all.

After the visualization, the leaders provided instructions on creating S.M.A.R.T goals and gave us some time to brainstorm our visions, 10-year, 5-year and 1-year goals.

What are S.M.A.R.T. goals, you ask? There are variations, but this combo works for me:

Specific
Measurable
Affirmative
Realistic
Timely

Next, they opened the floor for participants to share. I immediately froze, looking intently at a spot on the wall, the back of my hand, and straight through the yoga mat under me. Anything to avoid getting called on! While I’m usually outgoing, I get shy about my goals.

My intentions and dreams have shifted a lot in the past few years. Time and experience will do that to a person. The good news is, our goals are in constant evolution — and it’s ok to change your mind.

I’ve been playing with this visioning concept since the event. Along with reading Style Statement, I find that I’m asking myself these questions:

Do I really want that? Why?
What would achieving that mean to me?
What would I do once I got there?

Dreaming big is scary — especially when we can’t see a path from where we are and where we hope to go. But that’s where the magic lies. In the shimmering possibility of dreams. There’s something delightful about not knowing.

For now, I’m focused on exploring my dreams and examining my hopes. I plan to use this worksheet to get specific about vision, 10-year, 5-year, and 1-year goals and will share more about the process when I do. Please share your thoughts on goal setting and dreaming big in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you!

Image Credit: Ambassador Summit 2011 via lululemon athletica

Each moment of our life, we either invoke or destroy our dreams.
(Stuart Wilde)

Hello, sweet friends. I hope this finds you happy, healthy and enjoying the last full week in January. 2012 is off to a delightful start — a perfect blend of focus and downtime, with lots of new discoveries. With just a week left, I’m working diligently on my goals for January. This iPhone wallpaper is a constant reminder of my focus for the month.

My biggest challenge has been the reallocation of time. With the Whole Living Action Plan, I’m spending more time planning meals, grocery shopping, cooking, and cleaning dishes than ever before. It was a little tedious and foreign at first, but I’m getting the hang of things. And more importantly, I’m having a blast!

I’ve noticed an important shift this past week — a connection between healthy eating and wanting to workout. This is a new development I’m trying to cultivate. Eating clean reinforces my desire to get fit, and finishing a hard workout cements my hunger for nutritious food. I’m doing my best to recognize the tiny victory.

Week #3 Highlights:

• Keeping my cool. I craved coffee, chocolate and red wine this week, but reisted. My resolve was not this strong a few months ago.
• Working out 5 times. I also signed up for the Run Raleigh Half Marathon in April!
• Poaching an egg. I can’t believe I have lived 26 years without poaching an egg! Using Smitten Kitchen’s instructions, I hatched a delicious poached egg on my first try.
• Date night. On Saturday night, my Mister and I went to PF Chang’s for dinner. I order the steamed salmon off their gluten-free menu and it was delicious! Afterwards, we watched Ides of March and snuggled in bed. It was definitely a highlight of my week.

Favorite Meals:

• Avocado-Vanilla Smoothie – Try it with mango nectar for a tropical treat.
• Dried Fruit and Nut Bites – Salty, crunchy, and sweet.
• Chickpea-Brown Rice Veggie Burger - Wrapped in lettuce = delicious.
• Shiitakes and Brown Rice en Papillote - Perfect as simple dinner after work.
• Quinoa with Poached Egg, Spinach, and Cucumber - One of my new favorites.
• Halibut with Sweet Potato Fries and Lime – Quick, easy & yummy.

There’s just one more week left in the #WLActionPlan and I have a massage scheduled on Sunday to celebrate. Next month will present a new set of challenges when I return to my social ways, but overall I’m looking forward to incorporating these changes into my everyday routine.

Have you successfully transitioned from a strict program to a more realistic daily routine? I’d love to know about your experience and any tips or recommendations you have!

Image Credit: Blueberries via Chris Nixon / S u l a v a k a s via Pörrö

Belief in yourself and in the possibility of success
is the most important requirement for living an extraordinary life.
Believe in belief.
Believe in yourself and the best of the world will come to you,
and you will be prepared to receive it. Don’t sell yourself short.
You do not require permission to be extraordinary.
(Richard Quick)

Hello, lovelies! I hope you’ve had a delightful weekend. Thanks so much to those of you who left helpful and supportive comments on my last few posts. It’s great to know that I’m not the only one craving solitude in January.

Since starting the Whole Living Action Plan last week, I’ve noticed how seldom I acknowledge daily victories. Small, quiet steps go ignored while I look towards the finish line and hold off on uncorking the metaphoric bubbly. Do you struggle with the same? Tiny triumphs are critical building blocks—each one a glittering, golden brick worth celebrating.

“You can do this. You are doing this,” I remind myself over and over. Changing patterns, adjusting priorities, and establishing new habits can be disorienting. Until we are practiced and comfortable in our new way of doing things, the old way just feels best. Maybe that’s one reason why so many people drop the ball on their resolutions.

I’ve held onto my intentions and stuck with the #WLActionPlan through this week, but not without sacrifice. I’m laying low and spending a lot of time in the kitchen. And even though the alarm goes off at 5 am, I’m not relying on 3 cups of coffee and 2 shots of espresso to get me through the day. When my energy dips around 3 pm, I am no longer leaning on a bag of mini M&Ms to revive me.

Instead, I’m drinking tons of water and herbal DAVIDsTEA (which I love!) and snacking on kale chips or pomegranate seeds. A change is unfolding. I feel vibrant, happy and connected. This week I got back to working out, with 4 days of Barre3′s DVD in the mornings before work and 3.5 miles run/walk on Saturday. This morning, I went to the lululemon store in Raleigh for a goal-setting session followed by a complimentary yoga class.

Changing my priorities has meant less time with my Mister—and certainly less time for flipping through magazines, painting my nails, and general lounging around. The upside is that I’m in a much better mood and am excited (instead of feeling guilty) when I do find some time to chill.

Week #2 Highlights:

• Listening to my body. This process has brought me a new level of awareness when it comes to hunger and mood. I’m learning to cope with the ups and downs of the day without sugary snacks or surges of caffeine.
• Getting a new package from DAVIDsTEA in the mail! So far my favorites are Forever Nuts, Licorice Twist, Jessie’s Tea and Organic Peppermint Amour.
• Losing a little weight. The number on the scale has dropped some and my clothes are starting to feel a bit too big… I can see a shopping trip for new jeans in my future.
• Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns). I bought Mindy Kaling’s audiobook to listen to on my commute (she reads it herself—so cool!). It’s funny, inspiring and down-to-earth.

Favorite Meals:

• Baked Sweet Potatoes with Citrus
• Raw Kale Salad with Pomegranate and Toasted Walnuts
• Watercress Salad with Sardines, Oranges, and Pepitas
• Grilled Salmon and Bok Choy with Orange-Avocado Salsa

I’m grateful to be in a place (emotionally, financially and otherwise) that allows me to pursue these dietary and fitness changes. Just a few months ago, this would have been too much to take on. It’s as if the stage was set and ready for me to step up. It’s an incredible feeling. Even though I think I could do this on my own, my Mister has been a huge help. He even got up with me this morning to hit up Whole Foods at 7 am so I could get all my grocery shopping done before yoga (I’m a slow shopper and he helps me stay on task).

I’m looking forward to seeing where week #3 will take me. I hope you find yourself happy, healthy and fulfilled this week. If you’re looking for a pick-me-up, I recommend doing something that lights you up. Go to a local tea shop, buy an inspiring magazine, get a manicure, or do some yoga. I’ll be working to do the same!

Image Credit: 164 / 365 – I’ve got the brightest star you’ll ever find via Noukka Signe

If you follow your bliss, you put yourself on a kind of track
that has been there all the while, waiting for you,
and the life that you ought to be living is the one you are living.
When you can see that, you begin to meet people
who are in your field of bliss, and they open doors to you.
I say, follow your bliss and don’t be afraid, and
doors will open where you didn’t know they were going to be.
(Joseph Campbell)

This fall, I will be celebrating my blog’s 3-year anniversary. Three years of showing up, sharing inspiration and connecting with more creative souls than I ever imagined possible.

The keys to a happy blogger? Make a plan, set realistic expectations, write as often as you can, and believe in a little magic. Then wait to see what happens next.

My intentions for this year and KaileenElise.com are one in the same. I plan to focus my energy on living a healthy, active life. I want to blog regularly, but without the pressure and pace of posting daily. I have a content map, plus a long-term strategy and short-term goals. I’m giddy about what’s next—eager to curate links, quotes and images that will inspire you.

I’m quite fond of outlines, lists and game plans. Knowing this, I identified 12 intentions for 2012. Guideposts for this journey, touchstones threaded through each month. Overall, this year is about focus and heart…with a touch of sparkle!

Hat tip to Lifestylista Monica McCarthy for the wonderful idea of compiling a vision board of sorts for 2012 intentions. I love how mine turned out. It’s going straight to my desktop—and I plan to create mini versions for my iPhone each month.

Have you done something like this for your blog? I’ve never sat down and thought an entire year through like this, so I’d love to know more about your experience!

Image Credits: My Work Desk via DeaPeaJay
1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12

I have always been delighted at the prospect of a new day,
a fresh try, one more start, with perhaps
a bit of magic waiting somewhere behind the morning.
(J. B. Priestley)

Hello lovelies, I’ve missed you dearly! It’s hard to believe that I took almost a whole month away from blogging. I hope the past few weeks have been kind to you.

Although my break from blogging was unscheduled, it was exactly what I needed. The Mister and I had a chilly, but very fun trip to Ohio for Christmas, and a quiet party of two at home for New Year’s. It was truly the perfect ending to 2011.

Despite a few bumps and unscheduled breaks along the way, this past year was an excellent time for KaileenElise.com. My heart is filled with love and gratitude for those of you who show up daily, drop in regularly, or stop by once to participate in my story. Thank you for being such a wonderful source of inspiration, accountability and friendship.

Top 5 Posts in 2011:
A Creative Weekend To-Do List
Half Marathon Playlist
Let’s Reverb
Welcoming Summer
Blogger’s To-Do List

Also, the site traffic and pageviews are up 70% from last year!

Speaking of highlights, I wanted to share my deep gratitude to those of you who participated in #reverb11. The project took many forms as individuals and smaller groups adapted it to their liking. For me, reflecting in my journal turned out being the best way to examine my year and establish intentions for 2012.

My focus for this is year simple: healthy living in mind, body and spirit.

Through the next few weeks, I will reveal my goals, reading list, and words of the year. I’ll also share my intentions for January, with weekly recaps on my main focus for the month: Whole Living Magazine’s 2012 Action Plan.

Thank you again for being such a sparkly part of my 2011. Here’s to great things to come!

I believe that everything happens for a reason.
People change so that you can learn to let go,
things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they’re right,
you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself,
and sometimes good things fall apart
so better things can fall together.
(Marilyn Monroe)

The last month of 2011 has arrived! Are you ready for it?

This is my favorite time of year. I am feeling giddy about twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, wrapping presents, Christmas music, holiday parties, visiting family, living in gratitude, reflecting on the past, ringing in the New Year, dancing, singing, and celebrating.

It’s hard to believe that Gwen, Cali and I were kicking off #reverb10 this time last year. Now the project has been turned over to the community. Yesterday I shared my plan for #reverb11 — with a loving invitation for you to join. During the week I will be writing to each prompt in my journal, then posting thoughts on Saturdays.

Life’s been busy, but so very good to me. I set my intentions for November in this post, and while I didn’t cross everything off my list, it was a great month.

The Highlights:

• Try 2 new recipes: Yes! Come back this Sunday for a new series I’m calling Good Eats & Gratitude.
• Workout 5 times each week: I didn’t reach this goal, but I did run 8 days in November, for a total of 20 miles. Better than nothing!
• Run 2 races – 5K on 11/3 & 8K on Thanksgiving: I’m proud to say I actually made this happen. The 5K was super tough, but the race last Thursday was wonderful.
• Finish reading A Place of Yes and Loving Frank: I got through Frank, even though it was a slow read. The ending was a real shock, so I’m glad I didn’t give up. A Place of Yes has been tough to get into, but I’m determined to finish soon.

December Intentions:

• Write, journal or blog daily.
• Contribute to the #reverb11 community.
• Mail Christmas cards by Dec 12.
• Enjoy festivities with family & friends.
• Take more pictures!
• Set intentions for 2012.

And how about you? Share your intentions and goals for December in the comments below!

Image Credit: Snow “Explore” via Luis Hernandez – D2k6.es

One more thing… Join me in celebrating a new season of sparkle! Sign up today to receive Inbox Inspiration and Muse Memos.

Kindness in words creates confidence.
Kindness in thinking creates profoundness.
Kindness in giving creates love.
(Lao Tzu)

Swaps are popular within the creative blogging community, especially this time of year. I’ve participated in several and hosted a handful, including the Holiday Love Gift Swap, the Good Karma Gift Swap, and most recently the Sparkle Swap. I am by no means an expert in successful swapping, but I have learned a few things along the way.

The Good
A lot of great things can come out of swaps. It’s a fun excuse to shop for little treats and trinkets. Wrapping everything up in pretty packaging is an expression of your artistic side. Sending love to a complete stranger is exciting—and really good juju.

The Bad
Swaps can be a logistical mess. Packages get lost or damaged in the mail. People flake out before sending their parcel, never confirm receipt of their gift, or drop off the map completely. After putting time, effort and money into sending the perfect gift, there’s a chance you could be left empty handed.

The Reality
The truth about gift swaps is that you never know what will happen. You could send the most thoughtful package ever, but receive something that’s better suited for your teenage niece. There’s also a chance you could meet one of your best friends through the experience, I certainly have.

Before signing up for your next swap, make sure:

You understand the details & expectations. Hosts typically provide info on the swap – expected cost, what to include, and potential timeframe. If you have any questions, ask!

You have the time and financial means. Some swaps are open world-wide, others are within specified countries. Keep in mind there will be costs for shipping in addition to what you spent putting together the package.

You are inspired and excited about the theme. If you are allergic to peanuts it might be best to avoid a PB&J swap. If ornaments make you giddy, sign up!

Have you experienced the joys and challenges with gift swaps?

I would love to hear your thoughts on the good, the bad, and the reality of hosting & participating in the comments below.

Want to know what happend with this year’s Sparkle Swap? I’ll be sharing a recap soon!

Image Credit: POST via Jaako

Hello friends. Thank you the sweet welcome yesterday. It feels good to be back!

Do you set goals for each new month?

It’s something I like to do — and it seems to be very popular across the blogosphere. However, my personal goals have been nothing more than good intentions recently.

My aim for November is to truly dedicate myself to the goals I’ve set. They are a bit ambitious, but I know I can achieve them with some extra focus and enthusiasm.

• Blog 5 times a week
• Try 2 new recipes
• Workout 5 times each week
• Run 2 races: 5K next weekend & 8K on Thanksgiving
• Finish reading A Place of Yes and Loving Frank
• Finish Christmas cards
• Plan gifts for family & friends

And you? I would love to know more about your goals for November, and if you have any tips for goal-setting success!

Image Credit: [101] there is a river made of light. via Stephen Brace

One more thing! Would you like to join me in celebrating a new season of inspiration?
Sign up today to receive Inbox Inspiration and/or Muse Memos.

Dream on it.
Let your mind take you to places you would like to go,
and then think about it and plan it and celebrate the possibilities.
And don’t listen to anyone who doesn’t know how to dream.
(Liza Minnelli)

Hello lovelies! I hope you have a cup of tea in your hand and a smile in your heart wherever this post finds you. Today marks two years of writing, sharing, celebrating, discovering & blogging here on KaileenElise.com. It’s been an amazing journey.

Thank you for standing by me through the tough times, for joining me on this path, for diving in along the way, for dropping by daily or every once in awhile to say hi. 

You are my muse.

Time has stood still. Flew by at record speed. We’ve skipped through puddles. Bathed in sunshine. Flipped through magazines and shared our favorite tunes. Shared how-to’s and to-do’s. Become friends, soul sisters.

These past 2 years.

Most visits:

• Fall in Love with Autumn
• Enjoy the Little Things
• 10 Websites I Adore
• My collection of Quotes
• A Creative Weekend To-Do List

Favorite projects:

• The Joy Diet Book Club
• Guest blogging for Kimberly Wilson
• #Reverb10 HQ
• Summer Tribe on Roots of She
• Creative Weekend To-Do Lists
• Holiday Love & Good Karma swaps
• Celebrating with 32 Days of Sparkle
• Truth, Love & Insight Series

Looking ahead.

I’m excited to see what the future holds. Sign ups for my Sparkle Swap end today—a delightful way to kick off my 3rd year of blogging. There are so many things that I want to try. Collaborative projects, personal challenges. Muse memos. Seasonal swaps. More to-do’s, inspiration and love!

Image Credit: 2010-CONFETTI via teapotqueen