SOCIAL MEDIA

Tuesday, February 23, 2016

People - Bella Dalili - 4 Basic Rules to Health

4 Basic Rules for Health 


2016 is well on it's way. I've a new job, a new lifestyle and have let go of things (including people) who do not contribute to my health. I have also reconnected with some people that add to my general heart and soul. This is the year for health - spiritually, financially, socially.

I'm always searching for something to make me not only look healthy but more importantly feel healthy. A healthy feeling is not limited to eating right, getting enough exercise or drinking enough water. I know I feel healthiest when I think about things in a "gestalt"  kind of a view. True health is more than the sum of it's parts. Which includes all of those things  up there but also includes a healthy social life void of abusers and spiritual fortification -for some it may be church, for me it is Vinyasa Flow Yoga.

I posted a picture of a sweet tiny cupcake that a co-worker made. It looked like a tiny doggie, complete with hanging tongue and floppy ears (see the side bar to the right). It was liked by an Instagrammer, call name: "bdwellnes."  I immediately did a little research and found Bella Dalili. She has a real edge as a nutritionist because she finds it necessary to take all the guesswork out of nutrition. I tend to agree with her. A whole picture wellness should not be unattainable or complicated but what really stood out the most with this lady was that her spirit in posts (on facebook and on instagram as well) exuded love, patience, acceptance, kindness and inner beauty - characteristics that are often difficult to find these days, especially in this world of narcissism and media bullying, that we've created.

I will tuck Bella away for quiet times, when I feel silently out of control. Perhaps I can get a little guidance and insight from her? During my m&m crazes, I will seek solace in her words of spiritual kindness and nutritional wisdom. I urge you to do the same!

Sunday, July 5, 2015

A White Party Pop Up Dinner in Sonoma by Handmade Events

I recently went to an amazing event that you really should do your best to get to. You will not be disappointed. The premise is: You pay $40 per person, for a sensational venue, a great DJ, amazing musicians and a dance floor, complete with beautiful string lights and a magical sunset. Your part is: wear white, decorate your table with white, bring food (sky's the limit) for you and your attendees.

A view from above on the retaining wall of the Jack London property.

My husband and I saddled up the car with Charlene and Teodora and all our loot. We were contacted by email from Handmade Events the location of the event only an hour before send off. It was so mysterious and exciting (although, the drawback, how to dress?). The event place for this Wine Country Event was in the Valley of the Moon - Jack London State Historical Park in Glen Ellen Sonoma. It was breathtaking if not magical.

Here is an action shot of Charlene. It really captures the whimsy of the evening.


Everyone had their list of items to contribute. Char got napkins, plastic glasses, utensils, taper candles (strictly speaking, they aren't allowed - but I won't tell if you don't) wine and a veggie platter. I rounded up the white ostrich feathers/vases, a song bird candle holder, beet hummus/pita appetizer (recipe below) and shrimp cocktail along with the main course (my own muffaletta sandwiches - recipe below).

A pretty window with shutters and pretty window boxes on the small house on the property.



Charlene and Teodora.
These guys were clever with their decor with simple helium balloons.
Pastel flowers and the aftermath of apps.
So gourmet.
Flour sack napkins and rosemary sprigs tied with hemp twine.
The simple willow branches with one wayward feather...elegant.
These guys had initials with moss and butterflies at everyones place setting.
Faux furs and gold chargers? Over the top fun.
The fashion. This woman was stunning.

Casual and whimsical, these guys has such awesome headwear.
Teodora having a laugh.
Char and I.
Bulent and I.
The main course: Muffaletta Sandwiches containing in butcher paper tied with a hemp string. Juicy Fruit, both a favor and a palette cleanser - plus it's my favorite gum.



Poppies Pressed Muffaletta Sandwiches (Serves 6)
Dutch Crunch rolls
pesto (from the store or homemade) I make my own (1 bunch basil, 3 garlic cloves, olive oil, salt and pepper, 2 Tbs toasted pine nuts and 1/4 cup parmesan cheese - put it all in the Cuisinart - and presto)!
roasted red peppers, eggplant, onions and yellow squash (thinly sliced)
sliced ham and turkey
sun dried tomatoes and sliced fresh tomato
sliced fresh mozzarella cheese
handful of Arugala
olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing (add some dijon and salt and pepper)
Put pesto on both sides of bread
layer all items to your taste
close sandwiches and wrap with paper, put the sandwiches under something heavy (I used cook books).
Voila!

There is the beet hummus and pita platter.
Beet Hummus Recipe
4 small roasted beets
1/4 cup feta cheese
juice and zest of 1 lemon
1 large bunch dill
S+P to taste
Whir it all up in the Cuisinart.
Your party goers will love it!
Beautiful.









Wednesday, July 1, 2015

The Inspired - Moon Madness




Source

Moon Madness

The moon is full.
And that's no bull.
I wonder where the wits have gone.
There are folks in cars
And folks in bars
Trying to run people down.
Don't steal my magic
Oh, so tragic
When friends don't have loyalty anymore.
Makes me just a wee bit sore and geez I mean 
wishin' they were dead as a door.
It's the moon, it's the moon
So I croon with delight
Crazy, awesome, devilish sight.
Remember your day
and try hard to say
It's the moon, it's the moon
Lay your head down; think, sing and pray
that tomorrow will be better when it begins to wane.
Oh great big moon,
You'll be gone soon
Perhaps our brains will return again.