Tread Earth Lightly

Happy Fourth of July

My little colonial. This could not be more fitting for today. This was taken when we were in Williamsburg, VA a few months ago.

 

A flag photo I took the other day walking around Ocean Grove, NJ.

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!!!

Starting the Garden

 

Though, a little late, we are finally getting the garden started. It's been raining, for what seems like years here, so I didn't mind being out in the blazing sun the past couple of days. I loosened up the soil by hand, no rototiller here, which was tiring, but what a great workout. Next, we need to put up a fence to keep the millions of Peter Rabbits out, and try to figure out how we are going to keep the family of groundhogs away from our radishes. Our seeds have already started to sprout, hopefully most will grow. I will be posting throughout the season on our garden venture and all of it's bounties (fingers crossed).

             

When it comes to discussing Yoga with others it can sometimes be a heated, difficult conversation. For most, Yoga is an exercise. A series of movements that help to tone the body and relax the mind, which is 100% true. However, it's not just that; it's a practice. A mental, physical, emotional, and for many, a spiritual practice. And when I say spiritual I do not mean religious or Hindu. Though, Yoga is rooted in Hinduism, it can be adapted to any religious/spiritual practice.

No, Yoga is more than touching toes and saying "OM." Yet, this post is not about what Yoga is, or is not, it's about what your Yoga is. What your "practice" is. Something you do almost everyday, or on a pretty steady basis. Something that you go deeply into and give your all. It can be anything, from sports to art.

What is it that you practice? 

Think hard about this one because you may have more than one, and they may not always be the best for you. For instance, you could practice art, which can be a very spiritual and self reflective process, just like Yoga. Or you could put lots of energy into partying. Always thinking about what bar to go to, or how wasted you got last weekend. For some this is just a phase, but for others it becomes an addictive practice.

Take a moment now and think about your everyday practices, your life patterns. Maybe even write them down and see which ones you would be better off without. And find ones that you need to do more. Just by doing this process of finding these patterns is part of Yoga, so now you can add Yoga to your list.

Click on images for photographer info.

These days being a parent and a Yoga teacher I give more than take, both in general and with Yoga classes. Most instructors, especially in the beginning, find that they spend a majority of their time teaching. Most parents find that they spend all of their time being parents. Put being a parent and instructor together, getting to a Yoga class rarely happens.

But never fear, the internet is hear! Though, a curse to some and a boon to others, the internet has created a an opportunity for busy people who want to take a Yoga class. Not a Yoga DVD, but an actual class. It's called Yogaglo. They offer a wide variety of classes and styles.  Levels from beginner to advanced; different length video lessons from  5 minutes to two hours. Yogaglo also offers meditation, Yoga for work, and pre natal Yoga, so now there is no reason why you can't get to a class.

The best thing is it's cheap. It's only $18 per month for unlimited classes, which get updated regularly. You can now get to class without worrying about speeding through traffic, or getting someone to watch the kids.

I recently took a couple of classes and fell in love. My two year old actually liked it too. He started following the video along with me one afternoon. Also, my husband and I can even take a class after the kids have gone to bed and don't have to worry if we can make it to class on time, or find a sitter. Though, I still think that a real live class in a studio, or with a private instructor, is key to any Yoga practice, Yogaglo is definitely a great way to add to your practice when you can't get to a class.

For more info and to sign up visit Yogaglo.com

Namaste!

This past Mother's Day I went to visit Longwood Gardens in the good old, neighboring state of Pennsylvania. My husband being a florist, as well as Yogi, had to work (it's a pretty big day for flowers haha!), so my stepfather tagged along with the kids and I. We had never been before, but had heard that it was an amazing place. Boy was it! Longwood Gardens is a great place for the whole family, or for a date with that special someone. The kids can run around, build forts, and climb tree houses. Couples can stroll through the flowers enjoying nature's beauty, and parents don't have to worry if their kids will sleep on the way home. Trust me, they'll be tired. Mother's Day, though busy, is probably one of the best time to go because everything is still in full bloom. Though, the tulips were done everything else was perfect. The Conservatory/Greenhouses were spectacular. My favorite section was the Orchid house. Some looked like creatures instead of flowers. I could go on and on about the plant life, but I don't want to bore you. Another awesome thing, which I did not expect, was all of the "Green" in the gardens, and I don't mean the grass. When we ate lunch there was more than just a recycling pail. The coffee was organic, some of the food was organic, and the utensils/cups/straws were all biodegradable. Wow! Now I know it's an environmental place, but this is amazing! Biodegradable straws! Whole Foods doesn't even do that! Though, they should..everyone should! Anyway, it made me appreciate Longwood Gardens even more. Here are some more pictures from our day in the gardens.

 

Even if you live far away, Longwood is definitely a place to come and visit. There is plenty to see and do at the Gardens, and in the surrounding area. I know this sounds like a review, I guess it kind of is, but I really enjoyed it and cannot wait to go back. And to bring my hubby next time who will appreciate it just as much, if not more, than I did. There is lots to do in the surrounding area too. From museums to wineries, and of course lots of places to eat.

    Sugar and I don't mix, literally! Myself a Type 1 Diabetic, for the past 10 years now, I continually try to stay away from eating too much of it. However, I have a sweet tooth, or two, the size of Texas. If I don't get a sugar fix at least once a day I get cranky (just ask my husband). Though I try to eat homemade, organic, and mostly vegan sweets it is all still too much. After seeing this documentary below I have found another reason why sugar is not so good. And that reason is morality! The ethical and moral treatment of others and land. In this documentary the history of sugar and it's relationship with slavery, poverty, obesity, money, and politics are explained.

    Unfortunately it is a hard truth to swallow, but it one that must be eaten (No pun intended). I do believe that, even considering the predicament we as a human race are in, we can change and free ourselves from 'Big Sugar.' It starts with us as consumers and as parents and mentors. We can begin to stop buying the unethical sugar companies' products and make an effort to buy more responsibly farmed/manufactured sugar. Also, we can teach our future generations about the truth when it comes to sugar consumption and health. It is up to us! The dollar goes a long way especially when we use it in the right direction. Enjoy the film and please share your thoughts.

Part 1

Part 2

Maybe it's because I am of Italian decent, or that I am diabetic and have to be very conscious about what I eat, but when I hear about issues dealing with our food I get all fired up. Here is an amazing interview with Dr. Vandana Shiva from Cooking Up A Story, in which she discusses genetically modified food/seeds, organic farming, and world hunger. Please visit Cooking Up a Story for more details on this interview and much, much more! It is one of my favorite sites!

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

These videos are about play. The Ted video is a lecture with Stuart Brown and why he thinks that play is vital to human development. The other videos are from Ellen Degeneres' stand up show The Beginning. Towards the end of the first video she starts to discuss her inner child and how it just wants to play. She believes that if we played more as adults, we wouldn't be so grumpy and angry all of the time.

I agree! Sometimes it seems that as we get older we just become too serious about everything. We lose the joy that is inherent in our lives. I know that even with Yoga it seems that some classes, teachers, students etc. just seem too uptight. Don't get me wrong there is a need for seriousness with Yoga, but there also is a need for more lightness and laughter. Just because it's Yoga doesn't mean it can't be fun and playful. And I think that is true of everything. Imagine if our jobs were more playful and fun, how much more would we enjoy going to work?

If you are a parent or work with kids, then you already have the best teachers right in front of you. Children in all of their glory are experts when it comes to play. So be sure to take a few lessons from the masters and start playing!

This is Tuesday. She was diagnosed just a few short months ago with stage 4 cancer, at only 18 months old. She recently passed away at home with her loving family and twin sister. I happened upon her family's blog and it brought tears to my eyes, especially because my eldest son just turned 2. Through reading about Tuesday and her journey it made me realize how short life is and how we must always try to bring ourselves back to the present moment. To "Be Here Now."

As a parent I have come to believe that it truly is the hardest job, yet the most rewarding. Yes, it sounds cliche, but it is true. When you become a parent time speeds up and change happens too quickly and right before your very eyes. I feel like high school was yesterday, but it feels as though my eldest was just born an hour ago. Time has gone from being a super-charged sports car, to a space shuttle zooming into orbit. And it all shifts in an instant when your first child is born.

With children life has become richer and more meaningful. And yet the truth is, as a parent, I have learned (have had no choice really) to let go more and more. To let go of what was and what could be. I witness changes that happen so quickly that I don't really have time to become too attached to the past. Though, attachment seems to happen anyway:

Where did my baby go? He's not saying "gah goo" anymore. It is now a clear "thank you."

I have taken, and continue to take, numerous amounts of amateur footage of my children because of these instantaneous growths. I know deep down I will miss these moments immensely. Looking back at my life I see the progress, and sometimes back steps, that I have made. It is clear now, but it wasn't while I was growing-up. But with my kids I see this "growing-up" as it happens. Like a snake they  shed each layer of skin to reveal a new, stronger self. All right in front of me, while I am holding their hands and brushing their teeth.

This pace is teaching me to slow down. To pay attention. To focus on the little moments of book reading, hugs, kisses, and even the temper tantrums, which all end in my lap with a hug. Really, these moments aren't small, they are huge. Huge in both mine and my children's lives. But when I read the blog about Tuesday it really made me think:

Am I slowing down enough? I don't know how much time is left for any of us, so why am I getting upset when they need me more than usual? I should be here in this moment fully with them because in what will be the blink of an eye they won't need me as much anymore.

Tuesday helped me to remember that you can't take life for granted. You can't take the time with your kids for granted. I am sure she has taught and touched so many, especially her family. And especially her parents, who I commend for being as strong as they are in this sad and difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with them, and I am sure yours are now too.

Thank you Tuesday! God Bless and Namaste!

Rev. Jaganath Carrera wearing the maha garland we made him. It was one of the many things he had to wear during the ceremony as you can see.

Saturday January 24th we celebrated Rev. Jaganath Carrera's (Guruji) 59th jayanthi (birthday). It was a beautiful and auspicious event. During this celebration a puja was performed, guests gave gifts, and food was shared. However, because it had been a long day for the kids, we had to leave early and did not get to partake in the food.

For many the word puja is confusing, as well as the actions of a puja itself, so let me explain. A puja is performed in order to honor, praise, give thanks to God, Gods, or guru. (A guru is a person who is regarded as having great knowledge and wisdom, which he/she uses to help others on their spiritual paths. It literally translates GU: darkness and RU: light - one who helps another out of darkness and into the light.)

 It is an event in which you treat the deity or guru as your most esteemed guest. During a puja prayers are recited, chants or songs are performed, and offerings of flowers, incense, food, and candle light are made. To many this may sound strange, but it is just a way to show respect and humility towards God and remove the ego. It also a way to show love to the God or guru. The ceremony itself reminds me allot of going to Catholic Mass and listening to the priest say the prayers and bless the holy Eucharist. Though, a puja is a bit more lively than Sunday Mass. Below are some more pictures of Guruji's Jayanthi celebration. Click on images for larger versions. Enjoy!!


Chanting before Guruji's arrival.


Guruji has just arrived and the puja is about to begin.


Bathing of feet.


Bathing feet with honey.




The garland was beautiful, but very big. I had to hold it like I was holding a snake.


Placing the maha garland around Guruji's neck.




Aarti




Jai and Daddy (Gopal) going up to Guruji.


Bharatan and Mommy (Sumati) going up to see Guruji.






Keeping Jai occupied.




Still keeping Jai busy.


End of ceremony. Some share songs, skits, and poems as gifts.
All were beautiful.

The celebration took place at Naturally Yoga in Glen Rock NJ.
For more info on Rev. Jaganath Carrera click here.

Happy 59th Jayanthi to our beloved Guruji!!

What is your Practice?

When it comes to discussing Yoga with others it can sometimes be a heated, difficult conversation. For most, Yoga is an exercise. A series of movements that help to tone the body and relax the mind, which is 100% true. However, it's not just that; it's a practice. A mental, physical, emotional, and for many, a spiritual practice. And when I say spiritual I do not mean religious or Hindu. Though, Yoga is rooted in Hinduism, it can be adapted to any religious/spiritual practice.

No, Yoga is more than touching toes and saying "OM." Yet, this post is not about what Yoga is, or is not, it's about what your Yoga is. What your "practice" is. Something you do almost everyday, or on a pretty steady basis. Something that you go deeply into and give your all. It can be anything, from sports to art.

What is it that you practice? 

Think hard about this one because you may have more than one, and they may not always be the best for you. For instance, you could practice art, which can be a very spiritual and self reflective process, just like Yoga. Or you could put lots of energy into partying. Always thinking about what bar to go to, or how wasted you got last weekend. For some this is just a phase, but for others it becomes an addictive practice.

Take a moment now and think about your everyday practices, your life patterns. Maybe even write them down and see which ones you would be better off without. And find ones that you need to do more. Just by doing this process of finding these patterns is part of Yoga, so now you can add Yoga to your list.

Click on images for photographer info.

Yogaglo Review

These days being a parent and a Yoga teacher I give more than take, both in general and with Yoga classes. Most instructors, especially in the beginning, find that they spend a majority of their time teaching. Most parents find that they spend all of their time being parents. Put being a parent and instructor together, getting to a Yoga class rarely happens.

But never fear, the internet is hear! Though, a curse to some and a boon to others, the internet has created a an opportunity for busy people who want to take a Yoga class. Not a Yoga DVD, but an actual class. It's called Yogaglo. They offer a wide variety of classes and styles.  Levels from beginner to advanced; different length video lessons from  5 minutes to two hours. Yogaglo also offers meditation, Yoga for work, and pre natal Yoga, so now there is no reason why you can't get to a class.

The best thing is it's cheap. It's only $18 per month for unlimited classes, which get updated regularly. You can now get to class without worrying about speeding through traffic, or getting someone to watch the kids.

I recently took a couple of classes and fell in love. My two year old actually liked it too. He started following the video along with me one afternoon. Also, my husband and I can even take a class after the kids have gone to bed and don't have to worry if we can make it to class on time, or find a sitter. Though, I still think that a real live class in a studio, or with a private instructor, is key to any Yoga practice, Yogaglo is definitely a great way to add to your practice when you can't get to a class.

For more info and to sign up visit Yogaglo.com

Namaste!

Longwood Gardens - Growing Green & Being Green

This past Mother's Day I went to visit Longwood Gardens in the good old, neighboring state of Pennsylvania. My husband being a florist, as well as Yogi, had to work (it's a pretty big day for flowers haha!), so my stepfather tagged along with the kids and I. We had never been before, but had heard that it was an amazing place. Boy was it! Longwood Gardens is a great place for the whole family, or for a date with that special someone. The kids can run around, build forts, and climb tree houses. Couples can stroll through the flowers enjoying nature's beauty, and parents don't have to worry if their kids will sleep on the way home. Trust me, they'll be tired. Mother's Day, though busy, is probably one of the best time to go because everything is still in full bloom. Though, the tulips were done everything else was perfect. The Conservatory/Greenhouses were spectacular. My favorite section was the Orchid house. Some looked like creatures instead of flowers. I could go on and on about the plant life, but I don't want to bore you. Another awesome thing, which I did not expect, was all of the "Green" in the gardens, and I don't mean the grass. When we ate lunch there was more than just a recycling pail. The coffee was organic, some of the food was organic, and the utensils/cups/straws were all biodegradable. Wow! Now I know it's an environmental place, but this is amazing! Biodegradable straws! Whole Foods doesn't even do that! Though, they should..everyone should! Anyway, it made me appreciate Longwood Gardens even more. Here are some more pictures from our day in the gardens.

 

Even if you live far away, Longwood is definitely a place to come and visit. There is plenty to see and do at the Gardens, and in the surrounding area. I know this sounds like a review, I guess it kind of is, but I really enjoyed it and cannot wait to go back. And to bring my hubby next time who will appreciate it just as much, if not more, than I did. There is lots to do in the surrounding area too. From museums to wineries, and of course lots of places to eat.

Big Sugar - The truth & history of sugar.

    Sugar and I don't mix, literally! Myself a Type 1 Diabetic, for the past 10 years now, I continually try to stay away from eating too much of it. However, I have a sweet tooth, or two, the size of Texas. If I don't get a sugar fix at least once a day I get cranky (just ask my husband). Though I try to eat homemade, organic, and mostly vegan sweets it is all still too much. After seeing this documentary below I have found another reason why sugar is not so good. And that reason is morality! The ethical and moral treatment of others and land. In this documentary the history of sugar and it's relationship with slavery, poverty, obesity, money, and politics are explained.

    Unfortunately it is a hard truth to swallow, but it one that must be eaten (No pun intended). I do believe that, even considering the predicament we as a human race are in, we can change and free ourselves from 'Big Sugar.' It starts with us as consumers and as parents and mentors. We can begin to stop buying the unethical sugar companies' products and make an effort to buy more responsibly farmed/manufactured sugar. Also, we can teach our future generations about the truth when it comes to sugar consumption and health. It is up to us! The dollar goes a long way especially when we use it in the right direction. Enjoy the film and please share your thoughts.

Part 1

Part 2

Dr. Vandana Shiva Interview

Maybe it's because I am of Italian decent, or that I am diabetic and have to be very conscious about what I eat, but when I hear about issues dealing with our food I get all fired up. Here is an amazing interview with Dr. Vandana Shiva from Cooking Up A Story, in which she discusses genetically modified food/seeds, organic farming, and world hunger. Please visit Cooking Up a Story for more details on this interview and much, much more! It is one of my favorite sites!

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Let's Play!

These videos are about play. The Ted video is a lecture with Stuart Brown and why he thinks that play is vital to human development. The other videos are from Ellen Degeneres' stand up show The Beginning. Towards the end of the first video she starts to discuss her inner child and how it just wants to play. She believes that if we played more as adults, we wouldn't be so grumpy and angry all of the time.

I agree! Sometimes it seems that as we get older we just become too serious about everything. We lose the joy that is inherent in our lives. I know that even with Yoga it seems that some classes, teachers, students etc. just seem too uptight. Don't get me wrong there is a need for seriousness with Yoga, but there also is a need for more lightness and laughter. Just because it's Yoga doesn't mean it can't be fun and playful. And I think that is true of everything. Imagine if our jobs were more playful and fun, how much more would we enjoy going to work?

If you are a parent or work with kids, then you already have the best teachers right in front of you. Children in all of their glory are experts when it comes to play. So be sure to take a few lessons from the masters and start playing!

What Tuesday Taught Me

This is Tuesday. She was diagnosed just a few short months ago with stage 4 cancer, at only 18 months old. She recently passed away at home with her loving family and twin sister. I happened upon her family's blog and it brought tears to my eyes, especially because my eldest son just turned 2. Through reading about Tuesday and her journey it made me realize how short life is and how we must always try to bring ourselves back to the present moment. To "Be Here Now."

As a parent I have come to believe that it truly is the hardest job, yet the most rewarding. Yes, it sounds cliche, but it is true. When you become a parent time speeds up and change happens too quickly and right before your very eyes. I feel like high school was yesterday, but it feels as though my eldest was just born an hour ago. Time has gone from being a super-charged sports car, to a space shuttle zooming into orbit. And it all shifts in an instant when your first child is born.

With children life has become richer and more meaningful. And yet the truth is, as a parent, I have learned (have had no choice really) to let go more and more. To let go of what was and what could be. I witness changes that happen so quickly that I don't really have time to become too attached to the past. Though, attachment seems to happen anyway:

Where did my baby go? He's not saying "gah goo" anymore. It is now a clear "thank you."

I have taken, and continue to take, numerous amounts of amateur footage of my children because of these instantaneous growths. I know deep down I will miss these moments immensely. Looking back at my life I see the progress, and sometimes back steps, that I have made. It is clear now, but it wasn't while I was growing-up. But with my kids I see this "growing-up" as it happens. Like a snake they  shed each layer of skin to reveal a new, stronger self. All right in front of me, while I am holding their hands and brushing their teeth.

This pace is teaching me to slow down. To pay attention. To focus on the little moments of book reading, hugs, kisses, and even the temper tantrums, which all end in my lap with a hug. Really, these moments aren't small, they are huge. Huge in both mine and my children's lives. But when I read the blog about Tuesday it really made me think:

Am I slowing down enough? I don't know how much time is left for any of us, so why am I getting upset when they need me more than usual? I should be here in this moment fully with them because in what will be the blink of an eye they won't need me as much anymore.

Tuesday helped me to remember that you can't take life for granted. You can't take the time with your kids for granted. I am sure she has taught and touched so many, especially her family. And especially her parents, who I commend for being as strong as they are in this sad and difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with them, and I am sure yours are now too.

Thank you Tuesday! God Bless and Namaste!

Guruji's 59th Jayanthi!!

Rev. Jaganath Carrera wearing the maha garland we made him. It was one of the many things he had to wear during the ceremony as you can see.

Saturday January 24th we celebrated Rev. Jaganath Carrera's (Guruji) 59th jayanthi (birthday). It was a beautiful and auspicious event. During this celebration a puja was performed, guests gave gifts, and food was shared. However, because it had been a long day for the kids, we had to leave early and did not get to partake in the food.

For many the word puja is confusing, as well as the actions of a puja itself, so let me explain. A puja is performed in order to honor, praise, give thanks to God, Gods, or guru. (A guru is a person who is regarded as having great knowledge and wisdom, which he/she uses to help others on their spiritual paths. It literally translates GU: darkness and RU: light - one who helps another out of darkness and into the light.)

 It is an event in which you treat the deity or guru as your most esteemed guest. During a puja prayers are recited, chants or songs are performed, and offerings of flowers, incense, food, and candle light are made. To many this may sound strange, but it is just a way to show respect and humility towards God and remove the ego. It also a way to show love to the God or guru. The ceremony itself reminds me allot of going to Catholic Mass and listening to the priest say the prayers and bless the holy Eucharist. Though, a puja is a bit more lively than Sunday Mass. Below are some more pictures of Guruji's Jayanthi celebration. Click on images for larger versions. Enjoy!!


Chanting before Guruji's arrival.


Guruji has just arrived and the puja is about to begin.


Bathing of feet.


Bathing feet with honey.




The garland was beautiful, but very big. I had to hold it like I was holding a snake.


Placing the maha garland around Guruji's neck.




Aarti




Jai and Daddy (Gopal) going up to Guruji.


Bharatan and Mommy (Sumati) going up to see Guruji.






Keeping Jai occupied.




Still keeping Jai busy.


End of ceremony. Some share songs, skits, and poems as gifts.
All were beautiful.

The celebration took place at Naturally Yoga in Glen Rock NJ.
For more info on Rev. Jaganath Carrera click here.

Happy 59th Jayanthi to our beloved Guruji!!