Back to My Roots: A Journey to Reset

"The Benefits of Knowing What You Put Into Your Body - And Your Mind"

At an early age, my grandfather shared a simple yet profound truth: we eat to live, not live to eat. Growing up in the small town of Carlsbad, New Mexico, I was blessed to learn the value of knowing where our food comes from and the importance of farm-to-table practices—long before they became a trend. It reminds me of what my mom used to tell me when I would beg for the latest pair of Justin boots: “Mija, I wore boots to avoid the rattlesnakes. I was country before country was cool.”

As a teenager, I spent countless hours at the slaughterhouse alongside the love of my life and his amazing familia. (Teenage sigh) While I wasn’t working there myself, those experiences taught me invaluable lessons about respecting the process of raising and preparing food with care and intention. Sundays after church at my grandma 'Lipas house also left a lasting impression on me. We’d gather around the table for wholesome meals that nourished more than just our bodies—they created cherished moments of connection and communication. It’s those simple, meaningful traditions that taught me the importance of family, love, and shared experiences.

Now, as I watch my little girl fall in love with highland cows and horses, I can’t help but smile. It takes me back to those early days and reminds me how deeply my love for the outdoors, farm animals, and the values they represent have shaped me. These passions, combined with my commitment to nutrition, wellness, and especially dancing in the kitchen, are at the core of what brings me joy and purpose.

If I can share any advice for taking baby steps toward a healthier lifestyle, it would be this: start by gathering around the dinner table with your family. Use this time to connect, learn about each other, and truly listen. Make it a collaborative effort by deciding together what to create for dinner, and invite the kids to be a part of the process—from choosing recipes to purchasing groceries. You’ll be amazed at how their love for healthy food blossoms when they feel involved. Small, intentional steps like these can spark meaningful transformation and create lifelong habits of wellness and connection.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to share more of these stories and lessons. They’ve been central to my journey of helping others live healthier, more connected lives. Stay tuned—there’s so much more to share, and I’m thrilled to bring you along for the ride. ~ g