When I was 30 years old and 8 months pregnant with my third son, I was given the worst news of my life. I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This came as a complete shock given that there was no history of cancer in my fam whatsoever. The diagnosis was bad enough by itself, but enduring subsequent weeks of uncertainty as to the severity of the cancer, along with the associated paranoia (how long did I have? What kind of treatment would I have to endure? What was happening to my unborn son? What will happen to my boys? etc.) was in a word, devastating. Since I was pregnant, there was not a lot that the Doctors could do or tell me about my condition until my son was born. I chose to wait until my son could safely be delivered at 36 weeks and gave birth to the most healthy, chunky baby boy (yes, chunky, he weighed more than my first full-term boy). I was emotional, happy, and scared of what was to come. 5 days later, I was back in the hospital, having my surgery. 2 days later, on December 1st, I was given incredible news, my brilliant Dr. had removed the cancer before it had become invasive. Ahh-mazing!
While there have be some crazy challenges since then, I decided that I needed to take it upon myself to make healthier changes for me and my family. I have always been physically active and in decent physical health, but I have been known to indulge in some salty deliciousness (popcorn, chips, fries, pizza, salami, chips, you name it). I am now on a mission to freshen up my health and become clean, wiser, greener, and more organic. This applies to food, drinks, and products of all kinds. Of course, this also includes my beloved makeup. In connection with this green "make over", I am ecstatic to announce that I have become a Founding Member Consultant for alex+von selling 100% Pure skin, body, and makeup products! I can't wait to share (and sell) these AMAZING products with you.
First, I must clarify. While I am attempting to go green, I will not be perfect. For example, I currently bus my kids around in a SUV, my hair needs to get colored at times, and ...wait for it...I use regular Huggies diapers---gasp! I am sure this list can go on and on...but the point is, I am trying to make changes.
I am by no means an expert. This is going to be a process but the goal is health, better living, and a cleaner body and planet.
I have been experimenting with foods and juices that make me feel 100% fantastic. My diet which was a little fat on the dairy, salty snacks, and processed meats with an itty bitty amount of fresh veggies is kicking rocks. Move over processed foods, hello organics and where have you been my whole life juicing! While I have yet to cut out dairy completely, I believe I have become at least 85% vegetarian during the week. I eat lean meat when I know that it is organic and have not been pumped with hormones.
We will see where this journey takes me but I bet it will be to greener pastures. I am ready to eat the rainbow and I would love others to join. I am hoping my photography will get better as I promise to show lots of pics- kids, dog, food, and things that make me laugh. It can't be all about the green, so I will try to share music, books, art, and anything else that I adore.
I feel inspired and I hope you do too!
Let's play in greener pastures.