A Yogurt Twist

It was not until a couple of months ago that I started to eat yogurt. I've known of it's benefits for many years, but I could not eat it. I refused.

Not sure how it happened exactly, but I have a feeling the addition of kefir to my diet has something to do with me changing my tune. One day recently I just started eating it. Not allot but a little with some fresh peaches and nectarines.

My honey made me this concoction, which was as tasty as it is lovely... yogurt mixed in the Vitamix with berries topped with some coconut shavings. Try it!

Skip the Vaccinations Part II

(Seriously?)

(There are better and safer ways!)

Not to harp on this again... but since we are inundated with messages (ahem "propaganda") like above... you might think you are a bad mother if you don't get a flu vaccination. You might also only think the way to fight the flu is with this vaccination. But alas... here are some more great articles from Dr. Lipman with information on why you should SKIP them. Check them out HERE and HERE.

Skip the Vaccinations Part I can be found HERE.

"We either make ourselves happy or miserable. The amount of work is the same." -Carlos Castaneda

Spinach n Egg+ Salad

I have been craving more salads... and I am on a hard boiled egg kick and my love for olives has been fierce.

- Spinach
- Arugula
- Pitted Kalamata Olives
- 1 Avocado
- 1 slice of yogurt cheese diced
- Hard boiled eggs

Nice and filling... yet still light. Yum!

A Sparkly Interview with Alexandra Jaye of MyGoddessLife!

In the magical land of Bali, Indonesia, I was lucky enough to meet Alexandra Jaye, who lovingly bestows her sparkly radiance on all that cross her path. She is of course, a goddesss and the creator of mygoddesslife.com. Read on for some sparkly goddess insight and how you can find your radiant goddess self (yes boys- that includes you too!).

1. Define goddess (your definition)
I believe that every woman is a Goddess!! It is s our true nature to be radiant, enchanting, beautiful and powerful! And, I think as individuals we all have our own goddess definition depending on our values and divine essence. I find that these two poems (found HERE and HERE) capture my inner goddess and have a deep resonance for me!

2. How did you find your inner goddess self? or When did you first realize you were a goddess?
Great question. I think I found my inner Goddess through lots of work on myself. As many women have, I struggled with my body image and weight over the years! And, it was a source of great pain for me at one time and then it became a passion of mine. I have spent over a decade studying and learning me. :) I am finding the more I study and embody what I learn the more aware I am of my patterns and ways of being that don’t work for me and I get to transform them. I have transformed the way I relate to my body. Instead of criticizing and complaining, I now appreciate and love this amazingly beautiful miracle, called my body!

I made a commitment to see myself as beautiful, good enough and divine at whatever weight. The reflection in the mirror doesn’t matter as much when I accept myself for who I am. Sure I have my ‘days’ but for the most part I feel sexy & beautiful more times than not when I look in the mirror. Which feels really good!

3. When did you decide to (what made you) or when did you launch mygoddesslife.com?
It has been something that has been stirring in my consciousness for a while now! And, I have always found the word Goddess to be an empowering reminder that I am beautiful, enchanting and divine! MyGoddessLife.com came from wanting to share my Goddess life. I am such a passionate lover of all things dealing with food, movement, spirituality, healing, creativity, relationships, organic/green movement, and beauty! MyGoddessLife.com is an expression of all that I am learning, experiencing and experimenting with in my own life! And, I like to say that I am giving myself a Ph.D. in Goddess Living. I have a whole big plan that will probably take me 10 years to complete, which is awesome because I am so giddy about learning I want to continue learning forever!

I am also passionate about inspiring other women to embrace their own goddess and rock their life in a way that feels most authentic to them!! We as women have such a healing, transforming, nurturing energy that we need to be loving to ourselves and taking time for ourselves so we can inspire, nurture and support the world in transformation!


4. Tell me why everyone is a goddess. Are men goddesses too?
I love to call men Heroes! Heroes and Goddessess!! For me the “goddess” or the “hero” is our highest self. The highest part of us, the most expanded version of ourselves. It us at our most divine state of being! We all have so much potential and when we tap into this higher part of ourselves the world opens up to us and this is where the magic and miracles happen.

A question I always like to ask is…”What would my greatest self do now!?! Or what would my highest self say right now!?! To access this guidance all we need to do is breathe… ask…and trust our intuition to guide us to our greatest lives!

5. When did you get into health? Fitness? Nutrition?
I have been in sports since I was 5. I played every sport growing up, I was one of those kids who did everything. And, in college I played volleyball, which was intense and rigorous. During this time I got really interested in how to optimize my body/mind to increase my performance! And, it has been a passion ever since. I studied fitness and nutrition in college as well, graduating with a degree in Sports & Fitness Management. Then going back to school to receive a massage therapy degree and later competing in fitness shows and becoming a private trainer as well.

I have had struggles with my weight, acne and some digestive issues, so that has been a huge motivator for me as well. When you have a big pimple on your face you suddenly get really interested in how to get rid of it! ;) And, I never really went the medical route. Alternative healing always captured and fascinated me so that is the journey that I began 10 years ago and I am still on it!

Food & Movement have been huge passions of mine - I find them to be amazing vehicles to feel good. When I move and when I eat what my body wants/needs I am high on life-force. And, I find myself being very curious; how good can we feel!?! Is there a limit to how much joy, energy, and vitality that can flow through us!?! I don’t think so, I think we are capable of expanding beyond our wildest dreams. This possibility is what has me keep studying and growing!

6. When did you first come to Bali? Why Bali?
I was with my fiancé in Topanga, Ca and we were feeling like we wanted to be free to move wherever we wanted so we put our stuff in storage and made a list of 15 places all around the world. And, after lots of discussion and feeling into it we chose the magical island of Bali and it was the perfect place. We initially were just going to go for like 3 months and have a mini sabbatical (brought 50 books with us ;) And, a year later we are were still there! We just recently moved to the beautiful Ojai, Ca. Which is becoming my favorite place on earth! Life is good!


7. If someone is feeling down, what suggestions do you have for them to follow to pick their spirit back up?
Move your sexy body! Go to the gym, go for a walk, dance, yoga anything that gets your energy moving! When we are depressed or down we don’t feel like working out but our energy is stuck and we need to get back in the flow. Movement is the number one thing that I recommend people do!

For me playing music and singing and dancing around the house seems to get me out of any funk. And, if you really want to get into it, get a hairbrush (or anything you want for a microphone) and get in your undies and cute tank top or bra and dance and sing in front of the mirror! You can’t help but laugh and play, which will shift your entire mood to one of joy!!

And, I know when I am feeling down, I start to crave unhealthy food choices. Chocolate & chips start to talk to me. ;) When I eat them I only end up feeling worse. So, I would recommend loading up on green vegetables, juices, water and stay away from sugar and processed foods as much as possible.

(Alexandra + Brian)

8. Good books to read for those looking for some enlightenment along the way to finding their inner goddess?
Yay! One of my passions; books! I am such a book addict! There are so many wonderful choices!! And…I happen to know a super cool guy named Brian Johnson (my sexy hero;) who has a rockin website called PhilosophersNotes.com – like mini CliffsNotes for self-development books. Only shorter. And cooler. And a *lot* more inspiring.

Some of my personal favorite books are:
- You can heal your life by Louise hay
- Ask and It is Given by Ester and Jerry Hicks
- Conscious Loving and Conscious Living by Gay and Katie Hendricks
- Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer
- Loving What Is by Byron Katie
- Any book by Paulo Coelo (I loved eleven minutes & the alchemist)
- Take Time for Your Life by Cheryl Richardson
- Transcendent Beauty by Crystal Andrus
- Detox for women by Natalia Rose
- Anatomy of the Spirit by Caroline Myss
- Trust Your Vibes by Sonia Choquette

The list goes on and on… but that will be good for now! ;)

9. Favorite quote/mantras.
It has to be “Follow your Bliss” by Joseph Campbell. I have carried this quote with me for over 10 years now. I am committed to always follow my bliss, my joy. What makes me happy and then following it with all my heart. I am also a big fan of affirmations!

10. What is your favorite song to rock out to at the moment?
I totally LOVE music!! And, right now I am diggin’ Video by India Arie (oldie but a goodie ;). I find it to be a beautiful reminder that I am who I am and it is perfect and beautiful.

11. Best time of the day- why?
5 am to 7 am when I wake up and meditate and do my morning rituals! LOVE IT!! I love that most of the world is sleeping and it is so still and peaceful. I find this time to be sacred time for me to connect to Spirit and my deepest goddess self!


12. What's next for Alexandra?
My intention is to continue creating content for MyGoddessLife.com with blogs, interviews, videos, podcasts, quotes, and goodness. And, I am currently on a life makeover project of 365 to totally transform my body and my life. I just started it last week and I am blogging about the journey every day. I have a list of some amazing Goddesses I intend to interview on a variety of subjects such as; food/nutrition, love/relationships, movement/fitness, creativity & play, spirituality, healing, beauty and sexuality and sensuality! Fun!!

I intend to continue to design and create my ideal life! This is a passion of mine and goes with following my bliss! To totally love who I am, do what I love and, inspire others to follow their hearts and find creative ways to do what they love!! Imagine what the world would look like if all of us women loved our bodies, our selves and our lives!?! WoW there is so much power in the divine feminine to transform the world and it is a very exciting time for all of us Goddesses to rock it and live our own unique, authentic lives.

Which leads me to a project called We Are Beautiful. My mom and I have a non-profit that we are just getting started with the intention to empower women to be the creator of their lives and fully love and appreciate who they are. More to come on this soon but the website will be www.wearebeautiful.org! Super excited about this project!! Be Beautiful!

Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park, Long Island NY

(How gorgeous is this? It was WOW!)

Spontaneously, we went to Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in Long Island, NY... and it happened to be a gorgeous day. If you have never been I definitely suggest checking it out. Make a day of it. The next time we plan to bring a blanket and have a picnic.

(Look who's in the green house...)

Planting fields boasts 409 acres of lawns, gardens, greenhouses, and woodlands that offer a spectacular array of horticultural treasures. The grounds were lush and spread out- full of big old happy trees and really beautiful flowers. It was pretty and perfect.

(No this is not a bush. It is one big tree!)

(There were many Korean Dogwood trees)

(Many lovely flowers)

(Not sure of the name, but I liked the leaves minus it's prickly stems)

(Forgot the name here too, but this is similar to my fav plant that reminds me of Bali)

We didn't have a chance to make it to this, but they are having an exhibition:,"Chocolate: A Dip into History", which runs through September 30th. Check it out HERE. It's another good reason to go soon. For more information on Planting Fields please visit them at www.plantingfields.org.

Skip the Vaccinations

(It's funny + true)

Have you noticed all the hype lately about the swine flu vaccination? I guess Dr. Oz was on Oprah telling people they should get it. Geeeeeez! I believe for the most part he tries to give people easier stepping stones to get "healthier", but he definitely lost some big points with that endorsement. Obama has now endorsed it as well (quite disappointing!). I just really wonder if his kids will receive this vaccination. Look at who is going to profit from the whole thing. DO your due diligence.

There is plenty of information out there from MANY good sources why you shouldn't get the swine flu vaccination- and any vaccinations for that matter. Some of it is this post, but look for it and please share with others.

Don't by into the fear. Educate yourself. There was a BIG swine flu scare back in 1976. 60 Minutes/Mike Wallace did a REALLY good job investigating the whole thing as many people became ill - and it wasn't from swine flu. It was from the vaccination. I wish they would re-run it as the picture it not so clear (and it would help others to think twice), but it's message is the same: YOU DO NOT NEED THE FLU SHOT.

(60 Mintues Part 1)

(60 Minutes Part 2 + at end shows propaganda the government used)

Another good site you should check out is from Dr. Mercola- he has a video on what to do if you are forced to take the vaccine HERE. On a side note- a friend recently disregarded an opinion/person because they sold a product. I bring this up because Dr. Mercola like many others do these days- he sells some products. I understand being weary of those trying to "sell" you things, but only really if you are required to buy something. My advice is to listen to what they have to say. If you don't like what they say and if you don't want the product- don't buy it!

(Do you believe Cocoa Krispies will help your immunity?
Then why would you think vaccinations work? They both say they will.
Do the research!)

I know it may be an odd feeling or you might have an adverse WTF reaction when someone says "vaccinations are not good for you"- especially after we've been taught since birth how they've saved us from many harmful diseases. One of those "harmful" diseases where it seems like vaccinations worked was with Polio. The truth always comes out... apparently it just appeared that way. Polio is now thought to be caused from the exposure of DDT. DDT was used in the springtime to control mosquitoes so it would be sprayed on the fields, where the cows would ingest it and then it would be in the food supply in butter, dairy, icecream, etc. Ironically enough, when the vaccination came out- they also stopped using DDT. Coincidence? Great article HERE.

Here are some sites that tell you what are in vaccinations (heavy metals, poisons, etc- it's crazy!!!):

• CDC (Centers for Disease Control)

• WAVE World Association for Vaccine Education

• Informed Choice

(Really good Probiotics)

What you can do in the mean time is what you should always do - and that is to take care of yourself. Get sleep, exercise regularly, and eat whole foods mineral and nutrient rich that are free of chemicals, additives and preservatives. You also might want to up your vitamin C and most importantly take probiotics daily! Important fact: 80-85% of your immunity is in your gut! I take Ultra Flora Plus DF by Metagenics and Arabinogalactans by Pure Encapsulations.

(Just say NO!)

God help us all if they FORCE it upon us. I can't imagine that. Please spread the word. We need to educate and support each other and most importantly not buy into the fear.

P.S. Had another thought... don't you think if "swine flu" was really a threat, and they cared about our health and the future of humanity that they would be giving it out for free??? Think about it.

New Rule: You Can't Complain About Health Care Reform If You're Not Willing to Reform Your Own Health by Bill Maher.

Find Article HERE.

Yankee Fall Foliage Map

Have you, like I've been wondering just when exactly the leaves are turning? Not sure and you don't want to miss the peak season? Well, check this interactive map to explore foliage in New England. Cheers!

"It is not the skills we actually have that determine how we feel but the ones we think we have." -- Mihaly Czikszentmihalyi

The National Parks by Ken Burns

If you haven't seen any of Ken Burn's films (The War) you might not understand why I was excited to see an advert for his upcoming film debuting on PBS on September 27th. It's all about America's National Parks...

"Filmed over the course of more than six years at some of nature's most spectacular locales — from Acadia to Yosemite, Yellowstone to the Grand Canyon, the Everglades of Florida to the Gates of the Arctic in Alaska — The National Parks: America's Best Idea is nonetheless a story of people: people from every conceivable background — rich and poor; famous and unknown; soldiers and scientists; natives and newcomers; idealists, artists and entrepreneurs; people who were willing to devote themselves to saving some precious portion of the land they loved, and in doing so reminded their fellow citizens of the full meaning of democracy. It is a story full of struggle and conflict, high ideals and crass opportunism, stirring adventure and enduring inspiration - set against the most breathtaking backdrops imaginable."

You can see a little preview on their site HERE.

Be Inspired... Sketches of Frank Gehry

One might wonder how this film, "Sketches of Frank Gehry", has anything to do with this blog. For myself, part of being happy and healthy is being inspired. I find inspiration in many different sources, however... art, architecture and design without a doubt bring me immense joy and tranquility. Good for my health and well being and I imagine it might be the same for some of you as well. Remember, we are all artists in our very own way. Check it out... I think you'll find some of your very own inspiration.

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." --Margaret Mead

Skin Issues? Try a Clarisonic!

(Clarisonic Mia Limited Edition from Sephora)

A good friend recently told me about her Clarisonic... and RAVED about it. I remember I looked at one of these briefly a while back. I think it was on Oprah's list of favorite things or something of the sort. At the time didn't give it much thought, because I think I wash my face pretty well. However, the Clarisonic, aside from just "washing" your face, will help you achieve deeper cleansing and promotes new cell stimulation. No one will argue the many benefits of a good massage. You can liken it to an electric vs non-electric toothbrush. That vibration definitely makes a difference.



After my friend had her Clarisonic for a few days... and the raving didn't stop, along with the evidence in the you tube video above I decided to give it a try. I purchased the "Mia". It only has one speed, but it is smaller allowing more ease should you want to bring on holiday. I've only had it for a few days and I do like it- I'm recommending it. I am not saying all of your zits and/or skin issues will disappear overnight, but I definitely think it's worth a shot. :)

NYT Article: Big Food vs Big Insurance by Michael Pollan

(Image: Brian Rea Courtesy of the NYT)

Really really good article. Wouldn't expect anything less from Michael Pollan and glad someone is talking about the real issues.

Here's a snippet...

"According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, three-quarters of health care spending now goes to treat “preventable chronic diseases.” Not all of these diseases are linked to diet — there’s smoking, for instance — but many, if not most, of them are.

We’re spending $147 billion to treat obesity, $116 billion to treat diabetes, and hundreds of billions more to treat cardiovascular disease and the many types of cancer that have been linked to the so-called Western diet. One recent study estimated that 30 percent of the increase in health care spending over the past 20 years could be attributed to the soaring rate of obesity, a condition that now accounts for nearly a tenth of all spending on health care.

The American way of eating has become the elephant in the room in the debate over health care."

Please read and find the entire article HERE.

Go See: No Impact Man

This just came out... should be at a local theater near you. It's on my list of "movies to see".

Strawberry Kefir Recipe

(Super simple and super refreshing! )

Many of you have been purchasing water kefir grains (if you haven't yet and are interested click HERE for details) and are inquiring about recipes...

1. Take a handful or desired amount of fresh organic strawberries
2. Add kefir water
3. Blend in the Vitamix
4. Add mint or a slice of cucumber to garnish.
5. Viola!

Be creative- there are many many other options for you to play around with. Best part... it's low sugar (+ au natural) and so delicious!

A Woman's World: Episode 11

You must see this video HERE. If anything you should get a good chuckle or two. :)

An Alternative to Agave... Liquid Stevia.

You may be familiar with Bueller's Kitchen- if not you should check out her blog. Lots of good information there. After my agave post HERE, she suggested I try liquid chocolate stevia for my "raw chocolate mylk" (last time I made it with agave I felt really really weird in a not good way).

I was waiting to post this till I picked some up, but I haven't had the chance and wanted to get this information out there. I have it on my next iherb.com order, but until then you may want to try it for yourself.

I've tried packets of stevia before and honestly I didn't love the taste and was happy when I learned of agave. Well, sometimes things are too good to be true and stevia just might be it. I'm definitely intrigued to try it.

There are many, many people out there telling "us" exactly how to get super well and heal our bodies. Look upon each bit of information and just that. Every Soul is totally unique and special. And what makes it fun is the fact, in my opinion, that what this life is about- is understanding and realizing our power and absolute ability to do and manifest whatever we want, all [the] time. - Patrick Timpone

Dan Phillips Builds Low Income Housing Out of Trash- looks AMAZING!

(Photo: Michael Stravato for The New York Times)

Very touching and inspiring article in the New York Times HERE. And a quote to get you going...

"If the walls are wonky, it will be my fault but also my pride," Kristie Stevens (on building her own house out of salvaged materials with Mr. Phillips).

Make sure you check out the slide show HERE. We can do it!

Well Priced Organic + Comfy Sheets

(Pardon the poor quality photo)

Recently, I have been on the hunt for well-priced, yet very comfortable organic sheets. I'll be the first to admit I am all about comfort- especially when it comes to sleeping. Though I try to do as much as I can to be au natural... comfort, good quality and a good value are musts.

We tried some organic sheets from CB2, which are at a good price point, but they were a little too thin for my taste. Though I give them props for adding "organic" to the mix. From the reviews however, there seem to be quite a few happy customers. I am just use to 650+ thread count cotton sateen, and with organic cotton sheets- you'll be lucky to find them at 300 thread count. This is due to the limited supply of organic cotton and the staple yarns are generally shorter in length.

This being said, I must also say I am willing to go down in count as long as they are still comfy. I want to support those small farmers who are conscious about the impact they have on the earth.

I had these organic cotton & bamboo sheets in my cart from Costo and also was eyeing these sheets from Coyuchi (I have a robe from them that I love), but I happened to be in Bed Bath and Beyond the other day and did a double take when I found these Simply Organic sheets.

The cotton is grown free of synthetic pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. Plus, it's grown in crop rotation promoting bio diversity. These sheets contain no formaldehyde and the all-natural coloring does not contain dyes. It's 100% organic cotton with a 300 thread count. Yeahhhhh! The queen sheet set (fitted, flat and 2 standard pillow cases) retail for $79.99. Plus, they generally have 20% off coupons. If you sign up with your email you can get one HERE.

And the best part of all... I think they will be VERY comfy!

The 100% Electric Nissan Leaf + EVcast

Speaking of electric cars... Nissan is introducing the LEAF in 2012- which will be here before you know it. It's not a hybrid- it's better... no need for gas and there are no emissions when driving this 100% electric car. And will perform like a V6 vehicle.

Q: How far can you drive on a single charge?
A:The LEAF will have a range of 100 miles per charge under average, everyday driving conditions.

Q:How long does it take to charge the battery
A:The battery will charge in 4-8 hours on a 220V home charging unit. At quick-charge stations, it will charge to 80% in about 26 minutes.

Q:What is the acceleration and top speed of this car?
A:The LEAF handles and accelerates like a V6 car and has a top speed of up to 90mph.

You can check out all about the LEAF HERE and sign up for updates. Additionally, to learn more about what is happening and related information to electric cars, check out EVcast: the pod cast for electric cars HERE.

Maldives

Just putting it out there. It's on my list of places to visit. When I look at these pictures - it makes me relax. Ahhhh!

Movie: Who Killed the Electric Car

I know this movie has been out for a while... I just recently saw it. It made me crazy, angry and frustrated, which is why I put off seeing it for so long. Though, I am glad I finally watched it. I am hopeful we have learned from our mistakes. It's timely for sure.

Recipe: Light Pasta

Other than salads and smoothies, when it's hot out I like to lighten up the pastas. This one I made consisted of onions, garlic, olives, fresh orange tomatoes, and mushrooms. I lightly marinated them together with olive oil and fresh basil.

I toss this mix on some pasta (I love the springs) and throw in some fresh spinach at the end. Why? 1. So it is not so wilted and 2. It makes you chew your pasta as opposed to swallowing it... which most of us do. Chewing pasta helps it be more digestible. Yeah for digestion!

Movie: The Garden

We just recently saw this and I am recommending it.

Millions Against Monsanto

Have you heard of the campaign: Millions Against Monsanto? Well if you haven't yet... I am glad I could share it with you. The Organic Consumers Organization is very organized with loads of information and a plan on how we can help. Please visit them HERE.

One of the stories they share with you is about Percy Schmeiser, who is a canola farmer in Canada. Schmeiser and his wife were sued for their crop being cross pollinated and unknowingly growing Monsanto seeds. I heard his story on OneRadioNetwork.com and it broke my heart. Monsanto is not only contaminated our food supply, but also trying to take the rights away from farmers. I strongly urge you to listen to it.

I also found this video which is brief, alas well done and explains well what they are doing in developing nations.


Spread the word! A friend said it well... "It should be: Billions Against Monsanto"!