I'm not real big into resolutions, but I have been doing quite a bit of reflecting since 2010 began. I believe that health is so much more than exercise and diet. It's overall wellness- peace of mind, body and spirit that equal a truly healthy lifestyle.
Everything is a learning experience
Even in the yuckiest of situations, there's a lesson to be learned or a silver lining... sometimes it's just not obvious at the time. I've been looking back on the challenges of the past year, and where I am now because of them. I am a better friend, wife, businesswoman and person because of lessons I learned through difficult experiences.
friends are the family you choose
I'm an East coast transplant and have a large, close knit family back in the Boston/NY area. While I'm fortunate to have some family that has joined me out on the West coast, it's hard sometimes to be away from those who love and support you. After 8 years in Santa Barbara, I've found
my friends here are my family. Surrounding yourself with positive people who love and value you is key wherever you may be- traditional family or not. These folks are your biggest cheerleaders; don't forget to let them know you are thankful for them. A good friend (who became my sister-in-law) is a great reminder of this. She's always saying
how blessed we are. It's become a running joke, but in truth I do feel incredibly blessed to have her and all of my East and West coast family members in my life. They help me stay healthy, motivated, connected and so much more.
a few members of my East/West coast family
We all have
something to be thankful for. Voice it. Let those who matter know you care and are there to support them. When sh*t hits the fan,
perspective is the road to recovery. Focus on the positive in your life, and how to turn what may seem negative into a positive rather than dwelling on the issue, however challenging it may be. Sometimes you need those closest to you to help you see the light and gain that perspective. I'm so thankful for all those in my life that do so on a daily basis. Listen, be open and put yourself in others shoes. Perspective...
what do you have to be thankful for?
When it comes down to it, you are the only one in complete control of your health and wellness. I'm coming back to these 3 reflections when I hit a bump in the road, which is bound to happen to us all in the coming year.
Beauty is a healthy mind, body, and spirit; it shows on your face when that balance is present.
this week it's more of a Friday Tweet Steal!
We're tickled to see our mojito man gift box on the
Need a spark to get a bit more creative than flowers and chocolate this year? Check out all of these terrific finds that are sure to wow your sweetie!
The Grapeseed Co. is doing the little bit we can to help out by donating soaps through Clean The World. We donated 60 handmade shampoo and body bars last week. This weekend, I went into the office and gathered all of our slightly imperfect wine bars, soap scraps and ends and sent out another box this morning. Soap and hand washing helps prevent germs and disease from spreading, which is extremely important in a country that did not have advanced sanitation resources prior to the quake. Clean The World is also looking for hygiene and medical supplies and cash donations, you can visit their website to learn more. Please pitch in any way that you can. You can view updates on Clean the World's Relief efforts on YouTube where they are actually tracking the donations and deliveries through cruise lines.
a few members of my East/West coast family
These were hot items this holiday season. We got cleared out, made soap like mad and cured inventory. Then, the LA Times ran a story about our wine soap the Sunday after Christmas. Wine swirled soaps started dancing in my dreams...
Surf's first visit (the office passed his sniff test)
installing new locks
gotta love DIY assemble furniture and a handy man...
entering the eco-beauty kitchen
storage wall
and more storage...
product display
office
