Hey y’all! It’s a gorgeous, rainy day in Alabama, which just makes the greens of the forest floor and the red buds in the tree yonder, and the huge pink magnolia flowers pop even more with color and vibrancy. The chorus of birdsong sounds like the tropics and the air is a comfortable sixty degrees. One thing that strikes me about the south is how alive it is! The land is a breathing, smiling, growing space that invites me in. I want to be as alive as this place.

I don’t have to tell y’all that big life changes bring big life stress, but also big life opportunities. Every day we have a choice to choose opportunity and joy and happiness, or to ruminate in the past and regret and heartbreak. In order to choose the opportunity and all life has to offer, we have to make conscious decisions to keep ourselves healthy and present.

For me, a plant based diet keeps me healthy and happy, starting with a few components in the morning. We start our day with a smoothie. Such a terrible word. This drink is so delicious, it needs a better name. Like morning sunshine drink, or something. Here’s the scoop: in a good blender combine 1 banana, a handful of kale, a cup of frozen berries, a small handful of raw cashews, a squirt of agave, a teaspoon of cinnamon. Add a glass of water and blend. Tada! Sunshine drink. Every day I might change it up a bit, like use spinach, almonds, orange, or pumpkin pie spice or whatever is around! This makes two glasses so I can keep my hubby healthy too.

About mid-morning, I get some oats, brown rice or other whole grain cooking in the rice cooker or on the stove. This fills us up, gives us fiber, and is good for the soul.

I’m incorporating some focused time for deep breathing, and for things I love to do, like paint. I am reaching outside of myself to be a blessing to others. I am teaching the four year old across the street art once a week, and is that ever fun! I am embracing the possibility and awe of the world. How I can be a part of it and be with others. Gathering all the gratitude I can and holding it close. Accepting opportunity and inspiration. Change can be so scary and jarring (even if it was by our own choice!) but there are ways to help our bodies and spirits through the transition. Go for walks, eat well, smile. You are so important here! Have a happy day!