Have you noticed the happiness that lights up the face of a small child?  Have you heard the pure joy in the chuckle of a baby?

You can be certain when an infant or small child is happy, every single thing is perfect for that small being at that moment.  They are not smiling in spite of having a headache/cold/tummyache.  They will let you know in no uncertain terms if there is a problem!  And that makes it all the more perfect when you see the unbridled joy.

In August of last year I felt like one of the luckiest girls in the world. Because of the generosity my family and friends extended to me after I finally graduated college, I was able to go on a 10-day trip to Dominical, Costa Rica, with my boyfriend. Without their graduation gifts I would never have been able to go (thank you, family!). At the time I was a recent college grad with no money except for what I made at the restaurant where I work... wait, that’s still me, haha.

2014 saw public outrage as up to 51% of plants sold at Walmart, Home Depot, and Lowe's contained neonics at levels harmful to bees. What’s more concerning is these were the plants that were labeled as ‘bee friendly.’ In response to the public pressure created by these harrowing results - and a general trend toward concern for pollinators in the recent years - many larger chains have started to phase out neonicotinoids.

It’s officially summer; hibernation is over. Like other creatures, humans get out and about more during summer, and socializing becomes a favorite way to spend days in the summer heat. The warm weather gets people outside and brightens their mood, which lays the groundwork for prime friend-making season! It’s hard to make new friends, especially as adults, when we are no longer part of the built in social circles of school or summer camp. But, that doesn’t mean we can’t forge some meaningful connections. Summer means the blue skies have opened up, but you should, too!

Each time I step closer toward a goal I’ve set for myself—each time I let myself believe I’m growing toward something important or becoming the person I want myself to be—I feel terrified.  I have no idea why this happens.  My friends, a brilliant hodgepodge of medical students and engineers, musicians and itinerant travelers, tell me not only that I’ll be fine, but that I already am.  I love them for that.  They remind me that my life is not and will not be conventional, because I’m not conventional.  I’m a weirdo.

Organic foods have become increasingly popular in the last decade or so. More and more supermarkets are offering “organic sections,” and some. people are paying whatever they can to access organic products.

Organic foods present several health benefits. Their biggest claim to fame is their non-use of pesticides, so consumers don’t have to worry about ingesting chemicals or poisons. Others like the connection of the food, and enjoy supporting the farm-to-table notion.

Life can be challenging at times, and it is during these times that a strong support network is appreciated. For those of us who have any sort of community or companionship to support us throughout it, we are blessed. It is the mere presence of company, of sharing space with another to let us feel we are not alone in this journey, that can grant us the sense of happiness and security we need to move on in life with vitality.

Welcome to our #WellnessWednesday yoga primer. Yoga is a wonderful way to become attuned to your body and increase circulation and flexibility. Each week I'll offer you a pose with benefits and instruction.

Let’s face it…summer would be incomplete without a good hammock hang and a fellow book in your lap. Summer, by its nature, is filled with the energy of the sun and the light of transformation. With that sentiment in mind, here is a list of 7 books that will bend your perspective, provoke inquiry, cultivate an open mind, inspire truth and encourage transformation.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coehlo

Authentic Indian Recipes Direct from Mumbai

Cooking authentic Indian food is actually much easier than many people realize. Indian buffets at restaurants are hit or miss, and nothing beats home cooking  -- no matter what country it originates from. Utilizing spices, having the right kitchen gadgets, and possessing a sense of adventure are all you need to create mouthwatering delicacies. Mumbai is the hub of India where an influx of different regions, communities, and recipes merge.