Here it is!

I am so excited to be sitting here at my desk writing this blog for the first time. Looking out of the window, pink gauzy curtains flowing, I see the leaves and branches of the old chestnut tree gently swaying in the welcomed cool morning breeze. The tree has an indescribable scent which is offensive to some people, the pungent aroma making its way throughout the entire neighborhood. It's a smell which I have come to accept as the official announcement that summer is here in full throttle. And I'm thinking, 'this is fun, this blogging thing.' Serenity now!

After admiring the multitude of gorgeous, superbly written blogs, I had this inner desire to try one myself, and being the Gemini I am, wanted it to be perfect and all encompassing. So I'm sure that I drove a few people crazy with my ramblings, and ideas about what it should look like, what it should say, and all sorts of questions about the mechanics of blogging (I am an admitted novice). So first off, I want to thank Duane and Olivia for their patience and help. Second, give up this idea of perfection and just let it flow; let it be sincere and as natural as a happily swaying tree.

My name is Joy and I would like to share with you my insights and thoughts about health, happiness, and spirituality. I have this passion for food, always have, as far back as I can remember. Oh, those days in my youth rolling out homemade pasta with a wine bottle. I no longer eat wheat or gluten, for that matter, but I love what I can eat and relish the challenge of creating new gluten free recipes which most people don't realize are gluten free. I love to cook and feed my family and friends.

I have a confession. I'm also doing this blog so that I can stir up the creative juices within myself. I may just be inspired to make music, paint, sew, draw, or create something wild and unique. I'll keep you posted.

All of it in the spirit of compassion. Hopefully I can touch, or inspire someone, be of help in even a small way by sharing.

Inner harmony is most important. It is moving toward a simpler life, less stuff and all the trappings. It is a greater awareness of our words, thoughts, and actions. A conscious step in this direction makes us feel more connected to everyone and everything, even to that old tree in my backyard. A slower pace, a breather from the craziness. Happiness. Take a long, deep breath now.

There is no way to happiness,
happiness is the way.
You should be happy right in the here and now.
There is no way to enlightenment.
Enlightenment should be right here and right now.
The moment when you come back to yourself, mind and body together,
fully present, fully alive, that is already enlightenment.
You are no longer a sleepwalker.
You are no longer in a dream.
You are fully alive.
You are awake.
Enlightenment is there.
And if you continue each moment like that,
enlightenment becomes deeper.
More powerful.
There is no way to enlightenment,
enlightenment is the way.

-Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Zen Buddhist monk