Little did I realize that converting my home to “green products” would be such a life changing experience for my family and I. Going back to when I was a small child, I have always suffered with Asthma. I remember my mother would make frequent trips to the doctor and the hospital, if not monthly, at least every other month. History repeated itself when my second child, my son, was born eleven weeks early because I developed preeclampsia. The doctor warned me that he could develop asthma - which he did. We struggled a lot with his attacks in New York, so we decided to move to Florida,... Read more

As the driver of a plug-in hybrid electric Toyota Prius, or “PHEV,” I’ve grown quite immune to the sideway glances or blatant ogling from other commuters as I make my way from Merritt Island to downtown Orlando each day on the freeway. The staring is amplified by the company-issued promotional messaging on both sides of the vehicle, which declares my vehicle’s capability of achieving “Up to 99 miles per gallon.” There is no way I’m flying under the radar. But that’s the point, really. As a manager for all things green and sustainable for OUC, a local... Read more

I have come a long way, baby. Truly I have. I am proud of my journey and what I’ve been able to accomplish, although it hasn’t been easy. First, a little history: back in high school I played first string volleyball, basketball and softball for my school. As a senior there, I got my first job as an aerobics instructor for an all-woman spa. Mind you, this was back in the mid-80’s when there were a ton of them here in the Central Florida area. At this time in my life I had already had my insulin dependent diabetes for more than six years. I did not take care of myself like I should... Read more

About two and a half years ago I bought myself a brand new bicycle. I researched and researched, stopping at all the local shops to find one that was just right. When I found the one I wanted, I knew right away. It was a beautiful bright orange racing road bike. I couldn’t wait to bring it home and start riding -going fast, looking good, and getting in shape. Well, it turns out I did all of that for about two weeks. Then it was just on weekends when the weather was perfect. Eventually my bike just stood alone, forlorn, tires flat, taking up space against the garage wall. Over time without... Read more

This Holiday Season we have so much to be thankful for. But, above all else, my husband, John, and I are celebrating our son’s mid-tour visit from Afghanistan and we couldn’t be happier that he’ll be home in time for the holidays for 18 days. Our son, Sgt. Phillip Elliott, recently completed his first tour in the Army in Afghanistan and has volunteered for a second year. We are so proud of his service to our country and his selflessness it’s beyond words. As any parents would be, we were rather worried when he volunteered to stay a second year, but his words were so inspiring... Read more