For a small-town Indiana preacher's kid, I've had an interesting life so far. I've raised three amazing children and several milk goats, explored edible weeds and studied art symbolism in Italy. I have sung in professional operas, and driven a 31-foot Winnebago through inner-city Cleveland. I've made yogurt, and Renaissance costumes; I've owned a business, bicycled 700 miles in California, rescued baby squirrels, and moved 13 times. I have worked in publishing, church music, arts administration, communications, and college admissions. I have survived all of it with my sweet husband of 31 years.

I'd like to say I'm not much the worse for wear (we Hoosiers are fond of those old expressions) but I'm not sure it's the honest truth! My husband and I are starting to feel all of our fifty something years, and we have started to try diligently to pursue healthier lifestyles--food that is purer and more refreshing, reduced chemicals in our environment, and managing the stresses of life better. Recently I studied to become a Certified Natural Health Professional, and I am looking forward to beginning my classes to become a Master Herbalist. Although I have been studying these topics on my own for more than 10 years, it was a thrill to join others in the classrooms and learn from several Naturopathic Doctors about a variety of topics.

Natural medicine is on the rise--and it should be. Modern medicine is a blessing, but there are times that the traditional methods of increasing health through careful food choices and herbs can be effective, inexpensive, and less disruptive to our lives. Both fields are vital and should be cooperative; in fact, many nurse practitioners and medical assistants were in my classes. They were looking for new ways to assist their patients with common ailments or techniques that could be used alongside medications. They too were excited with all they learned.

I have always had a passion to help people and teach, so I am excited about the opportunity to share some of what I have learned and am continuing to learn with all of you! If you'd like to learn more about WHY I decided to start a wellness blog when there are so many out there already, look at my very first post (May 1, 2015), "And Now, for Something Completely Different," at www.wellnessworkshop.us.

May God bless the health of your body, mind and spirit.

Marcia Harness Daugherty