As a young mother, I always thought it was too much trouble to prepare meals ahead. I was all about spur of the moment, throwing together whatever I happened to have. Our cupboards were stocked with processed, instant type foods, you know real healthy, quality stuff.

  After the birth of our third child, I found my health really beginning to suffer. In fact none of us ever seemed to have any energy or real vitality. After a trip to the doctor, where I was told I would need a lifetime of medication for my "condition", I realized it was time for a change.

  We then purchased and read many many books on food, health, and herbs. We threw away our processed foods, white breads and flours, and sugars. I finally taught myself how to really cook!

  The next trip to the grocery store was life changing. I explored the produce section with an enthusiasm that I had never felt before. I had made a rule to ignore the centre aisles of the store, where all the non-foods tend to reside. I came home after that trip with bags and bags of "whole foods" amazed at how little I had spent. It's funny how expensive "convenience" is.

  The next few weeks of our lives were amazing. It wasn't long before we forgot feeling bad. We were enjoying fresh juices, homemade sauces and salsas, and homemade meals every single night. I finally learned how to make a broth, and prepared a homemade soup every day. We discovered the amazing lifeforce in simple foods such as sprouts, and home grown veggies.

   Our third child, and first son was exclusively breast fed until 6 months of age. He then began select veggies and fruit which he couldn't seem to get enough of. He would gobble down broccoli and cauliflower at 9 months of age, much to the amazement of our family and friends. I am proud to say, he didn't even know what a hot dog was until he was 3.5 years old.

  Here are some ways to start your own healthy diet. Stop buying foods that come in a box or a can. Instead choose a whole food alternative like fresh vegetables, or whole grain rice. You will discover these foods actually have texture and flavor. Plan meals ahead of time, and include several servings of vegetables with EVERY single meal. Proteins and fats should only supplement your healthy, vitamin filled vegatables. Read books about eating healthy, and purchase recipe books that are full of healthy recipes. This will give you information to share with your spouse and children to educate them about the food choices they are making. Children are smart, and they will soon realize that they feel better after eating better. Eventually they won't even miss the candy that you have stopped buying.

  Before long, you will notice your children making helathy choices on their own. Encourage them to help with meal planning, choosing juice combinations, or ingredients for soups. Teach them about herbs and spices, and what works with chicken, fish, or beef. Make this a learning experience that the whole family can enjoy.