My paradigm shift from independence to comfort and support

I recently moved home to the Bay Area after living all over Colorado for the last six years.  I have been living and working here for almost two months now, and I have definitely had my ups and downs.  Living at home was a tough decision for me to make, as I love having my freedom and have always been very independent.  However, it was not feasible for me to stay in Colorado and support myself in a career that I did not feel strongly about. I needed to return home for more opportunities in the growing health and wellness industries here.  Even though it has been difficult at times, with many of my friends being in Colorado or in other states, and not always having my own "space," I am still so grateful to have a wonderful family that wants to support me.  My mom has always been my number one fan, supporting me in every endeavor I have taken.  When I completed a 21-day sugar detox when I first moved home, my mom, Maria, was excited to make detox-friendly recipes with me.  When I couldn't have nightshades, she didn't complain or ask why.  She happily substituted other vegetables in place of tomatoes or potatoes.  If she wanted spice in her dishes, she would put my portion off to the side and I could season it without chili peppers.

My mom encourages me to pursue my goals and find my true passions.  We both know this will happen, but it is easy to lose motivation when being at home is easy and comfortable.  I haven't been "forced" to put myself out there, but I know it needs to happen.  I am extremely fortunate and grateful to live in my parents home for the time being.  However, when I'm living on my own, I am my personal support, asking my friends and family for guidance so I know I'm on the right path.  Living at home, my family and friends are my support, and I have become much more dependent on them.

I recently completed a therapeutic chef program in Boulder where I was able to learn from and work under some of the most knowledgeable and experienced individuals in the natural health scene in Colorado.  Everything about this program felt so right with the path that I want to take.   Even though my heart still belongs in the mountains, I left because I wanted to focus on my health and career.  After receiving support from my family and friends, I decided moving home was the best option at the time.  It was a tough decision to make, but I am glad to be home for now.  I know that I will find my way, as long as I stay true to myself and fight for what I believe in.  I do not want to get stuck in a job or career that I do not love with my whole heart.  I need to get motivated about reaching my goals.  I have done it before, and I know it works.  

This is SO MUCH MORE than a food and health blog

Humans are innately a compassionate species.  We don't thrive when we are at war, destroying our planet and causing other's pain.  Human beings are really good at connecting with others, showing sympathy, and embracing one another's talents and passions.  When life was simpler, we lived in complete harmony with Mother nature.  With the busy lives we lead, it can be challenging to listen to our intuition; telling us how to take care of ourselves, the people and environment around us.  Every day I strive to be a better being, friend, lover, daughter, niece, granddaughter, cousin, employee, coworker, leader, student, giver, business woman, confidant, listener, storyteller, philosopher, acquaintance, seeker.  To be the best of these that I can, I must truly love and care for myself as well as the beauty surrounding us.  On this blog, I will share with you happenings in my life that reflect my love for health.  This is my mission: to inspire you to treat yourself, others, and the environment kindly.  My goal is to show you ways to love the life you live!  I hope that you find some inspiration to live a health-minded life you love!