After bringing my daughter “Tiny” earthside in early 2009, I left a decade long career as a recruiter behind to focus my energies on mothering. Although I do focus some energy on writing eBooks to share with all of you, I am primarily a stay-at-home mom who loves every minute of it!
I am a hybrid parent. I take a little of this, throw in a little of that, and blend it all together to create a parenting style that is centered on what my daughter needs from me in order to flourish as a human being. I am committed to mindful, conscious parenting. I take a gentle approach which allows my daughter to the freedom to grow, develop and unfold at her pace. I do not impose my will or my ideas on her unless it is a matter of health and safety. Tiny has her own mind, her own will, her own heart, and her own soul. I support her and warmly guide her but I do not force or command her. I am a playful parent, creatively guiding Tiny through colorful, imaginative language and movement. I am a firm believer that children should grow up outside and in nature as much as possible and am committed to getting Tiny outside every day, rain or shine.
I am a Real Foodie through and through. Food is medicine and what you put into your body nourishes your mind, body and soul. I make 80% of our food from scratch using organic and local ingredients whenever possible. The other 20% of our food is called “life.” There are only so many hours in the day to devote to a real foods lifestyle and sometimes package products creep into our pantry and onto our table. I choose wisely, not settling on the standard American junk that is sold is every grocery store these days.
I consider myself “crunchy.” I cloth diapered, still bed-share, practice extended breastfeeding, use cloth instead of paper products, and am mindful of over-consumption. I believe in holistic healing and veer away from Western medicine when there is a more natural way to cure or prevent illness, injury or disease. I live as much of a green lifestyle as I can afford. I make most all of our toiletries and personal care products and many household cleaners as well.
I am very drawn to the philosophies of Rudolph Steiner as it relates to child development, parenting and education. The Waldorf approach to parenting and education resonates deeply with me as I had the pleasure of working in a Waldorf preschool long ago. I believe wholeheartedly in Steiner’s vision of child development and base many parenting decisions around his research and philosophies. Having said that, there are some tenants of the Waldorf philosophy that I do not fully embrace. I take what works and leave what doesn’t.
As for the Rasta part of my moniker. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE reggae music and the Rastafarian culture and way of life. (No – it has nothing to do with marijuana either!) Reggae music touches my soul more than any other music out there. The Rastafarian lifestyle is based on clean living and a devotion to expanding oneself in all areas of life. It’s something that I can embrace with ease and that makes sense to me.
Did you know that you can find me over at the Natural Parents Network? I am an author as well as the Cooking Naturally editor. Additionally, I am a member of the Nourished Living Network of real food, health, and wellness bloggers.
Anything else you want to know about me, just ask! I’ll probably give you an answer!
Photo Credits: please click the links here to visit the talented artists behind a few of the photos you see here: White Magick Alchemy, Nushkie, Love In The Suburbs, VisionWise, and Ras Terms
