Know Any Literary Animal Lovers?
Hi there PureJeevan readers! We wanted to let you know that Jim's new novel CHROO is available on Amazon. It's a crazy adventure involving a billionaire heiress, her Chihuahua BFF ("Chroo") and a host of human and animal characters. Find out more on Amazon! Here are some links:
I had to write an update after my grocery shopping today! Remember I said just yesterday that sometimes people comment about the amount of produce we are buying? Well, a sweet older woman saw all of the bananas going into our cart and she asked, "What are you going to do with all of those bananas " You already know the response I gave: "Eat them!"
One of the really nice workers at the food co op commented that he can eat about eleven bananas sometimes. I told him, and another friend we saw shopping at the same time, that I can do that now, too. I explained how I used to get full on just one banana when I ate cooked foods. But, now that my system is so much cleaner and healthier, I can consume 10-11 bananas in a day (bananas should be covered with brown specks to truly be ripe and digestable). I don't remember the maximum I ever ate in a day--it's somewhere in my Going Raw journal, I'm sure. It might have even been more than 10 or 11 when I was going through my major banana-eating phase. Now I eat about 4-6 bananas a day, which doesn't seem like a lot to me (but in the past I would have wondered about all of those bananas in someone's cart, too!).
Read more: What are you going to do with all of those bananas?
I want to admit something to all of you: Sometimes I still cry because of how people treated me when I was obese. Because I stuffed all of my "negative" emotions deep inside my entire life, it's going to take some time to fully release them. I'm working on it, however, and making tremendous progress with healing myself on all levels. I'm not telling you these things so you'll feel sorry for me, however. I'm telling you because I am thankful for all the pain I endured. It shaped me (in more ways than just my physical appearance) into the person I am today.
Even though it sounds strange, and somehow wrong to feel this way, I'm thankful that I was obese. I'm thankful for all of the experiences during my life, even the extremely painful, traumatic ones. Maybe if I was a different kind of person I would wish that those things didn't happen to me. However, I am using those experiences in positive ways. They've helped me understand people even better, and to understand myself on a deeper level, as well. When people reach out to me it's not only because I'm an approachable person, it's because they sense that I understand them--and they're right. I DO understand them. I understand you. My experiences, coupled with my gift of empathy, help me relate to you in a way that maybe not everyone else is able to do.
Before we moved to Portland, Oregon, land of all things fresh and organic within walking distance, we had to drive quite a distance to reach the food co-op (the only place that had a good selection of organic produce and other raw food necessities). So, we only went shopping about once a week. It took a lot of trial and error to find ways to keep our weekly produce fresh for about a week.
We learned which fruits and vegetables stay fresh the longest, and which go bad the fastest. Based on this, we stocked the refrigerator accordingly (and used up the produce accordingly, as well). The fruits and veggies that stayed fresh the longest were stored in the backs of the shelves (things like carrots, beets, broccoli, cauliflower, apples, etc.). Next we stored the greens that lasted a pretty good amount of time (like kale and collards). And in the front of the shelves and in the door, we stored the more delicate greens (like lettuces and herbs).
In this video, Wendi talks with Leela Mata, spiritual leader of the Peaceful Valley Ashram, about her experiences with the raw food diet and a bit about a cob oven structure that was built on the ashram property. This is part 2 of a 5-part series featuring Peaceful Valley Ashram.
Read more: Leela Mata Discusses Her Experiences with Raw Foods
Getting Lyme Disease after regaining my health on the raw foods diet was a tough thing to accept. How could a body cure itself with a raw food diet, yet then fail to even recognize and destroy the Lyme bacteria? So many individuals have recovered from awful diseases, including cancer, by eating a raw food diet. Why, as a raw foodist, has my body been unable to easily eliminate this lyme disease?
I know Jim and I weren't the only ones wondering this. Many of you have voiced concerns, as well. Questions have been asked about how healthy my raw diet has actually been. Have I been cheating and eating cooked foods? Have I been eating too many packaged raw food snacks? Am I drinking alcohol? What have I been doing *wrong* with my diet in order for this to happen in my body? Here are some answers:
Read more: Please Share Immune Building Knowledge with Wendi!
Next weekend I'll be at the Green Festival in Washington, DC. helping Natural Zing at their vendor booth (I'm completely in love with Natural Zing because of their honest business ethics and commitment to having the highest quality products available---and the president is a truly beautiful individual). My dear friend RawBin will be picking me up next Thursday for a RAWsome weekend and I'll fly back on Monday!
Here's a list of some Green Festival facts from their Web site:
Jim here... Today is April 25, 2009 -- Wendi Dee's Birthday!!? She's asleep now. It's 1:30 in the morning & I've been up for hours assembling something stunningly amazing to share with you. You see, this year, I asked some friends, family, and foodies to take a page of a sketchbook and offer Wendi some Happy Birthday wishes -- and then send it back to me so I could bind it all into a large book!? WOW!!! WOW!!! WOW!!! Check out the response from 40+ people from around the globe. It's a little overwhelming to see this much positive energy in one place. What a momentous day she's in for in another 5 hours or so when she gets up and is greeted by such a surprise! If you'd like to say Happy Birthday, just leave a comment here! Thanks to everyone!
Clarifications: (1) Yes, as some of you may have guessed, Wendi's body has circled the sun more than 25 times. If you visit the site, I explain what the "25th" birthday means a little more. It's basically about the amazing power of raw foods. (2) No, I didn't send messages to David Wolfe, Gabriel Cousens, Woody Harrelson, or other raw food celebrities Wendi isn't friends with. However, if they are huge fans of Wendi's, they are more than welcome to contribute via email or comments! LOL ;-)
Original Comments
Below, we have included the original comments from this blog post. Additional comments may be made via Facebook, below.
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Happy 25th Birthday Gypsy!!!
I so wish to be there with you celebrating this amazing day, but as I can't, I send you lotsof e-love.
*hugs tightly*
I LOVE YOU!!!
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Happy Happy Birthday Wendi.............wishing you al the happiness your heart can hold, on this special day of birth and always...........you inspire so many!!!!!
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Happy Birthday Wendi!
I had posed this question in another post on this site, can't remember where now!
But I will post it here too
On my birthday I like to look back to last year's birthday to see what about me has changed!
What about you Wendi? What has changed about you
Hope there are lots of ovely surprises in store for your big day!
Sheryl Miller
Austrlaia
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
wishing much peace, love and joy to you on this special day... Happy Birthday, Wendi!
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Happy Happy Birthday, Miss Wendi Dee! I hope your day is a joyous as ever. ;)
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Very, very Happiest of Birthdays, Dearest Wendi. You give so much of your essence and touch many souls. I wish you a day that is beyond beautiful and filled with joy and blessings as you embark on another wonderful adventure around the sun. And love LOVE love abound...always. xo
Blaq Berry
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Happy Birthday lovely lady!!! I'm sure you'll be glowing all day! :)
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Seesmic video reply from Disqus.
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
That is the best present ever!
And Wendi, if you did not know it before, I think you now are sure....
You Are Loved!!!!!!!!!
Happy 25, can't wait for your 24th next year!!!
love love love deb
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Happy Birthday Wendi. Thank you for being such a light in the world.
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Happy Birthday Wendi!
What a beautiful book!!! I am so happy to be part of it, and thanks Jim for posting the whole thing! It is just beautiful.
We love you!
~ Melissa
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Hey Girl! Happy, happy day to you and thank you Jim for inviting Bo and I to be a part of this special day!
Revvell
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Hey Girl! Happy, happy day to you and thank you Jim for inviting Bo and I to be a part of this special day!
Revvell
(Did this twice since I had to figure out the system)
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Happy Birthday Wendi GIRL!!!
Have lots of fun in this, your 25th year. Blessing and love all around. Kisses riding on the wind for you.
Much love!
P. Lis
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Have a wonderful amazing Day of Incarnation, the sweetness of your eternal spirit always shows!
XOXO!!!
Jill
p.s. thank you to Jim for being such an awesome partner :)
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
I'm glad to know Wendi's birthday was as special as she and her family are. And I love the phrase "Wendi s body has circled the sun more than 25 times." I'm gonna try to remember that one for birthdays!!
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Not even having met you, Wendi, I can always feel your love for others online. Thank you so much for all you do for others. You are a true jewel in this world!!
Much love and birthday hugs,
Jenny
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
May this be the beginning of the happiest birthdays of your life.
love joy and peace
fatima
On April 25, 2009, wrote:
Happy Birthday, Wendi!!
Best wishes!!!
Keep shining!!!
On April 26, 2009, wrote:
Happy Birthday, Wendi! Thanks for all the gifts you've given us!! XOXOXOX
On April 26, 2009, wrote:
Hi Wendi ~ I'm sending HUGE birthday wishes all the way from Washington State! I hope you have a wonderful day!
Debbie *�*
On April 26, 2009, wrote:
Wendi have a blessed day as you have so blessed others.Because you have sown so
much enjoy the returns! Have many more circles around the sun, Love Diane
On April 26, 2009, wrote:
let your light shine and radiate in every nook and corner of our beloved planet and beyond, and let me whisper happy birthday in your ears,thank you for being here
On April 26, 2009, wrote:
Happy Happy Birthday Wendi!!!!
On April 26, 2009, wrote:
Happy, happy, happy birthday Wendi Dee!
hugs from Florida where the coconut grows :)
love
sheila
On April 26, 2009, wrote:
One happy birthday is never enough, here is another one :) <3
I will add to the notebook! I was afraid to sign the real thing, in case it got lost in transit after sending it back :(( I would have felt so awful. I hope you're having an amazing week!
On April 26, 2009, wrote:
Wendi,
So Happy Birthday.I had no idea it was your birthday.I was gone for a few days off computer.BUSY! And still wanted to wish you a Happy belated Birthday! Bye Dianne (DianneRawGirl)
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Happy Birthday beautiful Wendi!!
You are such a light in this world....I hope your day was filled with light and joy and wonder!
Hugs, Tina
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Ulol, my love!!! *blows kisses*
This birthday was THE BEST EVER! Even though you weren't physically here with me, it was extra special because I had your special contribution to my birthday book! It made me cry so much to see your page in the book. It was VERY special to me!
I miss you so very much! Thanks for stopping by the blog and leaving a comment, but most of all for always sharing your love and friendship with me.
I love you, too!
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thank you so very much, Mary!! It was THE BEST birthday EVER!!
I'm so happy that I can inspire others--all of you have given me so much love in return and that has meant the world to me!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks, Sheryl!
I responded to your original question a few minutes ago on the other blog post. :-)
Thanks, again!!!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks so much, Carlos!! Thanks for being a special part of my birthday gift, and for saying Happy Birthday to me on your blog, too!
I love you!
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks so much, WendiLou!!! It was The BEST birthday EVER!!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Blaq Berry!!! You are always so loving to me. *hugs* Thanks for your sweet comment. :-) Thanks for being such a special part of my birthday gift!
I love you!
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
I've been glowing all weekend, Rawbin!! It was THE BEST birthday EVER!! It lasted all weekend and continues through today as I read and respond to all of the love-filled comments that have been shared with me. :-)
I love you!
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
My first video reply on the blog!!! I LOVE IT! I LOVE YOU!!
*blows kisses*
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
It really IS the BEST PRESENT EVER!!! Jim says he's screwed for next year--no way to top this one! ;-)
I think you know me so very well. Yes, I didn't truly realize how much everyone does love and care for me. After this, how can I ever doubt? I am blissfully blessed.
Thank you so very much for being a part of my special gift, Debbie!
I love you!
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Elizabeth!
Thanks so much! I had THE BEST birthday EVER!!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks so much, Melissa! Thanks for making my birthday celebration continue through Sunday, also! You are such a dear friend to me.
I love you!
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thank you, Revvell and Bo!! I LOVE that you were both a part of my gift! It has been THE BEST birthday EVER! It's one I'll NEVER forget!
I love you both!
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks so much, P. Lis!! Thanks for being a part of my gift, also. Jim said he was impressed with your artwork--he hasn't seen your paintings, yet, I told him! You are truly gifted!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Jill! Thanks for such a sweet comment. It was THE BEST birthday EVER! I can't even imagine a better one in another incarnation! :-)
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Oh, it WAS!! It was so very special Allison!! Thanks for being a part of my gift!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks so much for your sweet comment, Jenny! You are very welcome--I love helping others.
I hope to one day meet you in person--maybe while we are on our cross-country tour!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Fatima! This was definitely the happiest and BEST birthday, ever!! Thanks so much!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks, R_Eli! I had a fabulous birthday!!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks, Jacki!
You are very welcome for all of the gifts! I love giving to others!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
More birthday wishes from Debbie! Thanks so much!!
*blows kisses*
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks so much, Diane! It was surely a blessed day for me!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Anasha! Thanks so much for your beautiful birthday wish!!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks, Vebanmimi! I had a wonderful day!!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Sheila! Thanks so much! I had the BEST birthday EVER!!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks for all of the birthday wishes, Joanna!
Yes, please add to the special notebook. I welcome a page from anyone who wants to contribute. It is such a special gift to me; it's one that I will always cherish!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks, Dianne! It was a fantastic birthday!!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
Thanks so much, Tina, for your sweet comment!
Yes, my day was absolutely filled with light and joy and wonder!! It was THE BEST birthday EVER!!
Lots of love to you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
On April 27, 2009, wrote:
The pleasure was all mine, I hope you pass that Birthday love down to all the future generations.. are you listening Kat ??
love you too!
Deb xoxoxo
PS Sam had fun with her drawing too, lest you think I drew that!!!!!hee hee
On April 29, 2009, wrote:
You're very welcome. It was our pleasure and what a GREAT idea Jim had!
Aren't these videos wonderful? Today we have yet another special Raw Spirit interview for you -- the mega-talented Markus Rothkranz. What can I say about Markus? He's a true inspiration, a man who truly lives by his heart and inspires thousands of others on a daily basis. He's actually very tough to interview because he's so interesting and self-actualized, you really just want to hang and chat with him (but then you remember that you're on film and you should probably get back to asking questions that people will appreciate).
Jim here... It's been nearly half a year since we posted a long meditation on living patiently, noting the unique, sometimes-at-odds dovetail that exists between (1) experiencing the zen of patience and (2) living the electrically charged life of raw foods. While we're STILL living with the same patience we talked about, I have to admit there have been times when we've been in not-so pleasant touch with some real frustration about getting our home sold and finally moving on to all of the exciting stuff we have planned for us and for you.
Wendi and I are absolutely ecstatic about taking our raw foods message to the next level -- and not just "next level" meaning more a few more blog posts and videos, but a true quantum leap in terms of our immersion into this world and commitment to advocating the lifestyle. It just gets a little tough, even when practicing patience, to be kind of stuck in the starting gate.
Read more: Pure Jeevan Heads Out of Town: Raw Roadtripping Vids to Come!
What's Valentine's Day without a little "Smooth Love," right ??Here's how we created this simple, creamy delicious, smoothie:
- Start with the water and flesh of one young coconut. We had one left over, still nice and fresh, from our recent trip to the Florida Keys (more raw food videos and posts coming soon from that trip!).
- Add three to four oranges, peeled (and de-seeded if necessary)
- Add two to three large bananas
- Add 12 ounces of frozen strawberries (or to taste)
- Add a small handful of raw almonds
- Add a bit of raw agave nectar or a few dates, if you have them.
Blend in your high-speed blender until smooth ... and share with a loved one! Happy Valentines Day, everyone!
Rawbin brings healing laughter and an unusual gift to unwell Wendi Dee.
Are raw foodists invincible to the common cold? I have to admit that I kind of assumed that was the case. If it's true, at what point does the invincibility kick in? I've been raw for over three years (over two at 100%) and yet the past few days have found me overcome with sneezing, sore throat, runny nose, and fatigue.
My first thought, once my throat started to hurt, was: "Did I eat anything different recently that I'm reacting to in a negative way " But, nothing had changed.My diet is relatively clean, with the exception of the times when I consume too much nut dip. So, when the sneezing and runny nose were added to the sore throat, I knew something else was going on. I had to admit it: "I'm not invincible."