If you've been following us for some time, you'll know that we are continually working on projects that will either serve our raw food community or educate others about the health benefits of a raw food lifestyle. If you are new here, or just getting to know us, you can read a summary of what we accomplished last year and a summary of the projects we're currently working on. We're serious about our goal to inspire others to learn about and embrace the raw food lifestyle and community. I've always been someone who helps others, who senses in what direction they are headed and then offers inspiration to keep them moving. I love the work we do as Pure Jeevan and it is extremely rewarding to receive so much gratitude from many of you. But, guess what? Sometimes I get tired!

Sure, some of you may be saying, "But, wait! People who eat raw foods are supposed to be power houses of energy -- able to continually keep active and never run out of steam." Well, that is very true. So, I take it back. I'm not really "tired" like I said -- my body is able to wake up in the morning, easily fall asleep in the evening, and go about its daily work without feeling like it's run down.However, I am feeling like I need a rest from all that I've been doing. Maybe I don't need to sleep hours and hours, because my body isn't truly tired. None of my being is truly tired -- my body, mind, spirit, and emotions are feeling great, actually.

However, I still feel like I need a break from my routine. On top of that, I've been feeling uncomfortable in the cold weather even more this year than I did last year. It hurts all the way down, deep inside my bones. I feel like it will take a lifetime to thaw from the cold I've been feeling here in Pittsburgh. The sun rarely shines, and the snow and ice are brutal on someone eating only raw foods. My instincts told me two years ago that it was time to move to a warmer, sunnier climate, but that hasn't happened yet (even though we are patiently working on it, as Jim pointed out in an earlier post).

So, we're taking a break. We're getting away and heading to a warmer climate for a week of sunshine and play time on the beach and in the ocean. Things fell into place so easily once we agreed that it would be good to take a break and get some much-needed Vitamin D. A wonderful new friend was interested in using our in-home spa area and she was very happy to house and pet sit in exchange for her private retreat, we found an amazing home for rent in the Florida Keys and the owner took pity on my frozen bones and need to get away (offering us an unheard of great rate on the rental home), and Jim was able to easily take a week off work, etc. Without a doubt, we were meant to get away or else it wouldn't have all happened so effortlessly!

We didn't want to just leave all of you with nothing to keep you inspired, however, so we came up with two great series that will run here on the blog until we return at the end of next week! You are going to be SO INSPIRED! The first series is called "Vegetarian Athletes Share: Top Five Sources for Animal-Free Protein." It's a wonderful article by Joanna L. Steven that features five well-known athletes who share information about their favorite sources of protein.

The second series is called "My Raw Story."? Wait until you read the stories that have been shared with all of you, as a way to keep you inspired about the raw food lifestyle! Nine individuals have shared their remarkable stories of health and transformation while following a raw food diet. There are plenty of photos shared, as well as personal stories.

In addition to the two series we'll be running, Rawbin Anderson agreed to share a Joy of Being? diary-type article (two parts) about her experiences while working in the kitchen at the Raw Spirit Festival. As some of you may recall, Rawbin was responsible me being able to attend the Raw Spirit Festival last year (posts and pics here and here). It was a therapeutic and life-changing event -- one I'll never forget.Rawbin is a beautiful light in my life, waking up my more playful side and filling me with love and laughter. I was thrilled that she agreed to share part of her story with all of us. She had the behind-the-scenes look at some of the inner workings for the Raw Spirit Festival and took lots of photos to share with everyone!

So, while we are away collecting some warm sunshine and taking a break from working on our raw food mission, please continue to check back daily for some fun, informative, and inspiring articles being shared with all of you by some amazing individuals.

We'll miss you and we look forward to catching up with all of you when we return!

Lots of love to you,

Wendi

XOXOXO