We have had such a pleasure working with Arsy all month and learning more from her about the Paleo Lifestyle, great recipes and tips to help keep us inspired. There was an inspiring comment that Arsy shared with us on her Instagram a few weeks ago that I wanted to make sure got a little more attention.

“If I could give you one piece of advice, it would be – Don’t accept the status quo, if it doesn’t feel right for you.  Work really really hard to create a life you love and take the risks necessary to make it happen. I did all the “right” things for a long time, went to graduate school (and incurred massive debt) and got a well paying corporate job to pay it off.  I always thought I would have a career that gave me the opportunity to improve the lives of other people. Once I became a mom, I also wanted a career that was flexible and allowed me to be home with my daughter.  It was scary to make this happen and took (and still takes) a ridiculous amount of work.  I am so so grateful for all of it.  I wouldn’t have it any other way.  There were lots of naysayers, advising me not to change my career in the midst of a recession, but I followed my gut and made it happen. You can make it happen too, if it’s something you want.  Just go for it and start working towards it today and you’ll get there! It takes dedication, commitment and time.”

I’m not sure about you, but I want to know more about this cool chick that calls Santa Cruz, California home.  So, we wanted to share a little more about Arsy; devoted mother, wife, author and successful businesswoman who created the life that she wanted.  What a great reminder to us all to keep following your dreams.  Create the life you want to live and it is only up to you to make that happen. Now let’s have a little fun and get to know Arsy a bit more!

Guilty pleasure:

Dried mangos! I am addicted, I don’t leave the grocery store without them.

Treat for yourself:

Massage or a lunch date with a girlfriend. Nothing like some personal time or gabbing with a close friend to refresh.

Outfit:

Maxi dresses and sandals.  It’s basically my uniform.

Date night:

Dinner at our favorite farm to table restaurant, La Posta. I basically cook for a living, so not having to cook or do dishes is such a treat. I always love a nice getaway to the city too – that’s always exciting.

Go-to snack:

Epic bars are my favorite. They are a great source of quality protein to tie you over when you are on the go.

Vacation spot:

This is a tough one.  I love to travel. My favorite place that I have ever been is Brazil – warm weather, stunning beaches and so much culture.

Restaurant:

Hands down - Naka Sushi. It is a family-operated, authentic, Japanese sushi restaurant in Santa Cruz. It's my two year olds favorite too, we try to have a monthly family date there.  

Coffee:

Verve Coffee Roasters. Order the latte with the organic milk. I guarantee, it is the best latte you'll ever have. 

Ice Cream: 

Coffee ice cream all the way!

I never leave home without…

Essential oils.  You never know when they will come in handy. I use them to calm down, to wake up and for minor cuts and scrapes for my toddler.

In my purse: 

Phone, wallet, primal life organics chap stick and Stress Away Essential Oil.

A perfect Saturday:

I love this question!! Saturday is my favorite day of the week. On the perfect Saturday I completely unplug from my computer. Have a light breakfast at home with my husband and 2 year old daughter and then grab some coffee at Verve before we head to East Cliff for a walk along the coast. This part of the Santa Cruz coast is rustic and lively. My daughter, Indyanna loves to watch the surfers and pet all the dogs that are taking their morning walks. After that, we’ll come home for a nap. I’ll always try to catch the tail end of the farmers market and while I am out, I round up a few friends to see if they can join us for an early dinner. I try to always cook something unique that isn’t for my blog (meaning I just don’t need to have to write down take photos of it) I love cooking for people. I really can’t think of any better way to ending the perfect Saturday than with great conversation, great food and great wine.

Thank you so much Arsy!  It has been a blast, I hope we can have you again!