Living and growing organically is much more than creating a pesticide free and chemical free growing space. To provide food for our family and others with minimal impact on the environment all while maintaining the integrity of the soil is the main purpose of organic gardening. Putting back what you take from the soil is most important. While becoming a self sufficient organic gardener has been my primary goal, I can't help wondering what other parts of my life can I change to become a better advocate for the environment and the people I share it with. I feel a little like I "talk the talk" but don't "walk the walk ". I recycle. I compost. I carpool with other moms in the neighborhood. I use the concepts of beneficial insects and companion planting in my garden. It's just that I have been feeling lately that I should be doing more. No life is without problems, of course. I'm not going to sit here and say my three sons don't drive me crazy most of the time. And my job as a nurse is not the easiest or most pleasant. But I'll tell you there isn't a day I wake up and don't realize how damn lucky I am. A husband that is also my best friend. Three healthy children. And the freedom and ability to set whatever goals I may have for myself. These things are the result of my hard work in part. But most of the credit go to my Mom and Dad. This picture was taken this weekend at my Mom's Graduation from the Lay Ministry program at St Mary's in Mundelein. She and my Dad are going through the Deacon Formation Program together. My father will be ordained as a Deacon one year from now. This is one of the many wonderful things they have accomplished in their lifetime. My mom, mathematician, runner, teacher, and breast cancer survivor....and dad, Vietnam Vet and Purple Heart recipient, extraordinary father and friend and the hardest working man I know. These people are my role models for sustainable living. They have made the most of their opportunities while still finding the time to give back to the community. They are my Alpha and my Omega, and not a day goes by that I don't thank God for having them in my life. They have inspired me in so many ways, big and little. My mothers personal battle with breast cancer has focused my attention on taking the best care of myself. But what about those women already diagnosed with breast cancer and going through treatment now? I have a friend in that exact situation at the moment. She is a very strong person and I want to help her in what ever way I can. Then inspiration stuck. I want to provide free organic produce to women currently undergoing breast cancer treatment. I'm working on the details and investigating at the moment. I know it is a small gesture but one I hope can assist them with their healing process and speed their road to recovery. I promise to keep you posted on my progress.
