This morning, I woke up with this craving for cabbage.  As much as I didn’t want to get out of the bed, I had to.  I had to prepare for work.  My entire family depends on me totally. If  I am ever under the weather for a day, my household completely falls apart. You never ever want to be in my household, after I have recovered from any type of ailment, or else, you will behold… the Jamaican in me.  I can not afford to be sick. Therefore, I try to eat as healthy as I know how.

My morning routine involves getting my 84yr old grandma ready for the day.  I prepare her meals and administer her medication. She is diabetic,  and takes insulin, so I definitely have to ensure that she eats properly.

I have been caring for my grandma Dulcie for a few years now.  She raised me until I was 14 years old. Now, I am honored to be her caretaker.  I would never want to be left in a nursing home.  I couldn’t care less how fancy, state of the art, or luxurious the amenities, that are entailed in certain nursing homes.  I will do unto others as I would like them to do unto me, with that being said,  my mama (that’s what we call her) resides with me.  It’s definitely a rewarding experience.  Whomever quoted: “Once a man, twice a child” knew exactly what they were talking about.  She tries to maintain her independence and I allow her to, but for certain things, I have to intervene.

Caring for mama, was the beginning of a healthier life for my family and I.  I had to learn portions control and educated myself on nutrition.  I still haven’t eliminated certain food types.  I just eat in moderation.

I had temporarily switched to artificial sweeteners (because that’s  what all the medical experts claim is supposed  to be healthier).  However, one day common sense asked: “why would an artificial sweetener, be more beneficial than the natural sugar?”  So I have permanently made the switch back to sugar….brown sugar that is.

I began buying more vegetables, and learned how to cook them without depleting all the nutrients. I don’t steam vegetables, unless it is spinach or similar greens that wilts.  I blanch my vegetables.  Not only are they crispier, the flavors are sealed to perfection, and I love it that way.

Today, I honor the earth…..and my grandma. I love you mama!