Healthy living

Desk work can be a pain in the neck. Literally!

Posted on by Jean Campbell

If you sit at a desk hunched over a computer all day as I do, you have likely experienced what most do from time to time. The neck aches, the shoulders try to sneak into the ears, and the upper middle back cries out for relief. There are a few simple things anyone can do to help alleviate this discomfort. First and foremost, get up and move around. Sitting in one position for extended periods without moving is a recipe for disaster. Our spines are cleansed and nourished through movement... Continue reading

Healthy dandelion salad – who knew?

Posted on by Melissa Carden

I have never understood America's aversion to the humble dandelion. Named for the lion-tooth shape of the leaves, this jubilant weed seems a happy addition to any yard. Is it because everyone can have them? Seriously, what is up? The lion's teeth As a child, I loved to blow away the little parachute seeds after the flowers had gone to seed. But if that childhood joy weren't enough, I recently learned these guys are loaded with good things! The sunny little "weed" is chock full of... Continue reading

Alys Fowler: My new rock star hero!

Posted on by Melissa Carden

Alys Fowler, an English gardener, and writer, has a videos series called "The Edible Garden" that details farming in an urban setting. What an inspiration! Her work and ideas are the embodiment of Deluxe living! A woman after my own heart, she works with the land and what the environment provides. She created a veritable Eden in her own backyard! Check out the episode above entitled "Peas and Beans". If you've got even a hint of love for playing in the dirt, you will be hooked! I aspire to... Continue reading

Making my New Year’s Resolutions Plan

Posted on by Jean Campbell

I gave up making New Year's resolutions about 10 years ago. I mean, really. What are the statistics on the success of these well-intended promises we make to ourselves? Not high. And not only that, but we tend to overindulge before the big event, making them even detrimental. One year I vowed to give up sweets on the first day of the year. So on December 31st, I consumed a bag of cookies and several pieces of Key Lime pie someone brought to the New Year's Eve party. This is more than I would... Continue reading