Tentación Thursday-Wisteria Lane Flower Shop

Submitted by on April 30, 2009 - 10:30 am

Continuing on the theme of Hawaii (or the tropics) I thought that I would feature LBL member Sherene Hulugalle’s flower shop, Wisteria Lane. Wisteria Lane Flower Shop’s quest for a sustainable future for nature is the best business practice that they can imagine. Their flowers are grown in a manner that is gentle on the Earth and safeguards the well-being of farm workers, wildlife and the ecology using the best certified sustainable practices including Organic and Veriflora.

I particularly like that Wisteria Lane Flower Shop gives back to the community. Proceeds from the sale of their Eco friendly designs are used to support non-profit organizations dedicated to education, social justice, environmental conservation and protection, such as Heal the Bay, Doctors without Borders & Friends of the World Food Program.

When our son was born Sherene sent us the most beautiful arrangement. And this week 1 (one) lucky LBL member will win an arrangement, designed by Sherene. Leave a comment below this post and you may be the lucky winner of a Wisteria Lane Flower Shop arrangement.

Buen Sabor Wednesday-Whole Wheat Hawaiian Pizza

Submitted by on - 5:51 am

As you can see there is a Hawaiian theme going on this week, at La Buena Life. It’s in celebration of my husband’s Polynesian restaurant’s (Trader Vic’s L.A.) opening. So, here is a healthier recipe for Hawaiian Pizza. Click here for the recipe. It’s made with a whole wheat crust. Remember that you can always make the pizza with reduced fat mozzarella, too.

¡Buen provecho!

Terrífico Tuesday-The Hukilau Song

Submitted by on April 28, 2009 - 10:30 am

In honor of the opening of my husband’s new restaurant, Trader Vic’s L.A., I am sharing my new favorite song (and current ring tone), The Hukilau Song performed by Don Ho. My 6 degrees of separation from Don Ho comes from a visit to Waikiki about a year and a half ago. My Husband, John, and I were attending the cd release party of family friend John Cruz’s latest album, One of These Days. It was a small gathering of mostly friends and family. A pretty Hawaiian woman was walking around handing out beautiful party invitations to everyone there. (I can only imagine that she was related to Don Ho because the party was to take place at the Don Ho residence). However, as luck would have it the party was to take place the day after we were headed back to L.A. Needless to say, we never got to see Don Ho’s home. :( We still like to tell the story, so flattered that we were even invited.

Enjoy The Hukilau Song (on the LBL Music Player).

Maravilloso Monday-The Road to Success

Submitted by on April 27, 2009 - 10:30 am

The road to success is lined with many tempting parking spaces.
- Traditional Proverb

From personal experience, I can wholeheartedly agree with the quote above. It is much simpler to take the easy road (in this case, just park your car) than to forge ahead, against all the odds, the chatter in your head and the doubtful comments around you. This week is a very important and exciting week in my home. My husband, LBL member John Valencia, is opening a beautiful, new restaurant at the famous L.A. Live Complex, in downtown Los Angeles. Opening Trader Vic’s L.A. has been a longtime dream of John’s and I am so proud of him for defying the doubters and going for it (even in this less than perfect economy). His dream was clear as a bell. He kept his focus, and worked hard for the past year and a half, paying tireless attention to every detail. (He never parked). The outcome is a Polynesian oasis in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. One that you will no doubt read about.

So here’s to success, against the odds!!!
(Click Here to learn more about Trader Vic’s L.A. or Here to book your table. Also, check out the video of the Blessing of Trader Vic’s on the LBL Here).

Fabuloso Friday-Greenwala

Submitted by on April 24, 2009 - 10:30 am

This week I have to feature Greenwala, the brainchild of LBL member, and my friend, Rajeev Kapur. What started as a blog with an eco-knowledge game,which plants a tree for you, if you win (check out Treewala) has now blossomed into a full-fledged and super cool website with products, channels, social network and more.

The Greenwala community is made of people who help others live a greener lifestyle by sharing their knowledge, green experiences and actions with friends, family and the world. Greenwala members can read expert articles, post comments and blogs, join or start groups, find new friends and shop.

Click here to visit Greenwala, browse the site or join the community. Have fun! And don’t forget to check out todays’ video (that I, originally, found on Greenwala’s Lifestyle TV channel).

Tentación Thursday-The Body Patisserie Tiramisu Body Glace

Submitted by on April 23, 2009 - 10:30 am

So, I think I’ve got it. I have solved my dilemma of craving dessert right before bed. It’s by indulging in the delicious and organic body products by The Body Patisserie. I tried the Tiramisu Body Glace. It’s scrumptious! I followed the directions on the bottle, which stated that I should use directly after shower on wet skin and let air dry. And I was instantly transported to a Parisian Patisserie. (A welcome break from my bathroom). To my surprise the Tiramisu Body Glace (which is basically an oil) is clear. (I was expecting a chocolaty-brown color). This is because The Body Patisserie products are paraben & dye free. In addition to being an ultra moisturizing oil (for even my sensitive skin) The Body Patisserie Body Glace can also be used as a massage oil, or added to bath water. What a great way to enjoy your dessert-totally guilt free!

Click Here to visit The Body Patisserie. In celebration of Mother’s Day, enjoy a 25% discount on all gift sets. As always, 1 (one) lucky LBL member will win their own bottle of of The Body Patisserie Tiramisu Body Glace. Leave a comment below, for your chance to win!

Buen Sabor Wednesday-Low Fat Lemon Flan

Submitted by on April 22, 2009 - 10:30 am

If you are Latino you have certainly had flan. And if you are not, you have probably heard of it. Flan is the Latino version of créme caramel or caramel custard. It is a rich custard dessert with a layer of soft caramel on top. (My mom makes the absolute best, but it’s hardly low fat). Since it was 95 degrees, here in Los Angeles, today I thought that I’d share a low fat, refreshing, lemon version of this Latino favorite. Click here for the Low fat Lemon Flan recipe. (You can also adorn with fresh fruit, as in the photo).

¡Buen provecho!

Terrífico Tuesday-A Night In Tunisia

Submitted by on April 21, 2009 - 10:30 am

If you are ever visiting Los Angeles I highly recommend staying at the Figueroa Hotel downtown. I was there last night and it was the coolest! If you want to be transported to Morrocco, this is the place to visit. Although not about Morrocco, this groovy song, Night in Tunisia (by the Latin Jazz Sextet) reminded me of Hotel Figueroa, so I thought that I’d share it with you.

Enjoy it on the LBL Music Player (on the Main Page).

Maravilloso Monday-Dream big!

Submitted by on April 20, 2009 - 10:30 am

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light not our darkness that frightens us. Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.

- Nelson Mandela, inaugural address, written by Marianne Williamson

I spent the day, yesterday, at a an Online Marketing seminar with “Online Entrepreneur” Vanessa Summers. It was amazing. I was inspired to do even more than I am doing & to go for my goals and dreams, with greater gusto. She told us a few anecdotes about how she pushed past fear, in her life, and how extraordinary it felt, once she did. So, I am about to push my fear aside and dream bigger than ever!

I hope that you will all move past the fear in your life and obtain all that you ever dreamed of. Have a great week!

Fabuloso Friday-Kiva

Submitted by on April 17, 2009 - 10:30 am

Chances are that you have probably already heard of Kiva. Since its inception in 2005, Kiva (which promotes giving to help an entrepreneur in another country) has received tremendous press. I first heard Kiva a couple of years ago. I was blown away by this concept of global giving (and the ease with which it can be done). All you need is a PC, a PayPal account and $25 (minimum). (I actually gave Kiva gift certificates for Christmas that year, so that my friends could give and what someone’s dream unfold).

Click here to watch video on LBL Video Player. Click here to watch a segment by John Larson about Kiva on CNBC. To learn more about Kiva, or to begin helping entrepreneurs around the world, visit www.Kiva.org.

Tentación Thursday-California Baby® Sunscreen

Submitted by on April 16, 2009 - 10:30 am

Sunscreen is not just for summer. The sun’s rays are very powerful, even if it seems like it’s not sunny out. So it’s really important to wear sunscreen, daily. I was turned on to California Baby® Suncare products when my son was born. They are non-chemical and tear free. (And they are not just for babies). Unlike chemical sun filtering agents, California Baby® Suncare sunscreen lotions and sticks sit on top of the skin scattering and reflecting dangerous
UV rays. I particularly like California Baby® Swimmer’s Defense products. They work to rebalance pH and wash away damaging chemicals. California Baby’s® non-chemical PABA free sunscreen employs a highly micronized titanium dioxide (non- whitening) that scatters and reflects dangerous UV rays, offering UVA-UVB broad-spectrum protection. They have also added Japanese Green Tea (for its anti-oxidant properties) and a beautiful essential oil blend.Their formula is simple and elegant. It glides on easily and will not slip off when it comes into contact with water, so you can feel comfortable that it will last. (Ladies, this sunscreen works great under make-up. It is non-greasy and creates a nice “cover-up” base under foundation or powder).

To purchase California Baby® Suncare products, or any of a host of other all natural California Baby® products Click Here.
Remember that ONE (1) lucky LBL member, who comments on this blog entry, will win their own California Baby® Suncare product.

¡Buena Suerte!

Buen Sabor Wednesday-Picadillo Tacos (with raisins)

Submitted by on April 15, 2009 - 10:30 am

Raisins are easy to carry with you, taste good and have a host of other health benefits. Raisins are rich in antioxidants, which protect our bodies against free radical damage and have been linked to Cancer prevention. They contain many B vitamins, known for boosting energy. They are a good source of fiber, which is important for your body to stay regular. Contrary to what you might think, although sweet, raisins do not cause cavities. The oleanolic acid found within them promotes oral health, by killing the bacteria that causes cavities & periodontal disease. Raisins are also a preventative measure for Macular Degeneration, which has to do with the health of your eyesight. Raisins contain Calcium which in known for promoting bone health. Eating enough calcium will also help protect against osteoporosis.

I’ve always liked raisin, but now I think that I’ll give them a little more credit, along with the almonds I featured a few weeks ago. That being said, I thought I’d share this recipe for Picadillo Tacos (which call for raisins). Click here for the recipe.

¡Buen provecho! Let me know what you think!

Terrífico Tuesday-La Travesia

Submitted by on April 14, 2009 - 10:30 am

This song is by one of my all-time faves, Dominican singer, songwriter & self-producer Juan Luis Guerra. His pop style of merengue and bolero and Afro-pop/Latin fusion have garnered him considerable success outside of his native Dominican Republic. La Travesia is no exception. It’s from his album La Llave De Mi Corazón, which won him numerous music awards including 5 Latin Grammy Awards, 4 billboard Awards, 2 premio lo nuestro, and one Grammy Award.

(A little known fact is that I actually danced in the music video for his song El Costo de La Vida from the album Areito). The photo below is of Juan Luis and me at the 7th Annual Latin Grammy Awards, in NYC.
Enjoy La Travesia on the LBL Music Player (on the Main Page).

Maravilloso Monday-Shoot for the moon

Submitted by on April 13, 2009 - 10:30 am

Shoot for the moon.
Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars…
-Unknown

Dream big! It’s the only way to dream. In order to succeed, one must take risks. So go for it, whatever you desire. If your scared, all the better. Shoot for the moon!

Have a great week!

Fabuloso Friday-The Girl Effect

Submitted by on April 10, 2009 - 10:30 am

Why Should We Pay Attention to Girls?

Little research has been done to understand how investments in girls impact economic growth and the health and
well-being of communities. This lack of data reveals how pervasively girls have been overlooked. For millions
of girls across the developing world, there are no systems to record their birth, their citizenship, or even their identity.
However, the existing research suggests their impact can reach much farther than expected.

The Girl Effect (which was created by the Nike Foundation and joined by the Novo Foundation) in order to create opportunities for girls, and for the world. Because when everyone-girls, parents, artists, rock stars, teachers, chefs, presidents,organizations, cowboys, you and I -knows about The Girl Effect, then real change can happen. The Girl Effect website is only the beginning. The end is nothing less than ending poverty.

Please watch the Girl Effect video. Get the facts. For more information on The Girl Effect & to find out how you can help please visit www.GirlEffect.org.

Tentación Thursday-FEED 100 reusable bag

Submitted by on April 9, 2009 - 2:59 pm

Want to help the environment by using reusable bags (or save 5 cents at the check out counter)? You could use a bag that you have lying around your house. (I certainly have). Or you could tote the eco-friendly AND socially conscious FEED 100 bag. Not only is it cool, but it is GOOD.

One third of the proceeds from each FEED 100 bag sold provides 100 school meals for impoverished children in Rwanda. All FEED products are made as eco-friendly and fairly as possible. Bags are produced with high-quality, 100% organic cotton and natural burlap. Team FEED work with only audited and certified fair labor facilities. It’s important to them to visit the places their products are made AND the places their donations are going.

The FEED 100 bag retails for $30. It can be purchased at Whole Foods Market and online by clicking here.

There are also other style FEED bags on the Feed Projects website. Click here to see them all.

One lucky LBL member will win this great bag. Leave a comment, below, and you will be entered to win.

¡Buena suerte!

Buen Sabor Wednesday-Salmon with Lemon, Rosemary and Capers

Submitted by on April 8, 2009 - 10:30 am

With lots of vitamin D, selenium, B vitamins, magnesium, as well as the prized Omega-3 fats, salmon is one of the most delicious and nutritious foods on the planet. (And it tastes great, even to those of us that aren’t really into fish). But salmon has many other health benefits. According to About.com, “People who eat fish seem to be protected from a host of conditions. Some of this is probably due to the omega-3 fats…Omega-3 fats seem to primarily work through reducing inflammation in our bodies. Inflammation is turning out to be at the base of many health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, some types of cancers and arthritis. Omega-3’s also help prevent the blood clots which cause many strokes”. There’s more. “An exciting, fairly recent development is the realization that omega-3 fats have potential to help slow cognitive problems such as Alzheimer’s disease and age-related cognitive decline. Also, people who have sufficient levels of omega-3’s (especially as compared to omega-6 fats) seem to have less depression and suicide risk, as well as less aggression.” So this week I thought I’d feature a low-fat recipe for Salmon with lemon, rosemary and capers. Who knows, it may not only satisfy our bellies but may also help keep us sharp, happy and peaceful.

Fabuloso Friday-Soles4Souls

Submitted by on April 3, 2009 - 10:30 am

Changing the World One Pair at a Time

Soles4Souls facilitates the donations of shoes, which are used to aid the hurting worldwide. Shoe companies, retailers, and individuals can donate footwear (both new and used). Soles4Souls is a 501(c)(3) recognized by the IRS, and donating parties are eligible for tax advantages.

The idea behind gifts of shoes is nothing new to the Soles4Souls team, as they coordinated relief efforts for the Asian Tsunami and Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, netting over 1 Million pairs donated for these disasters. The team originally operated as www.katrinashoes.org with several churches partnering in the collection and distribution of footwear.

Whether you are an individual, a corporation, a school, a church or a synagogue, YOU CAN HELP. To find out more about Soles4Souls, or to donate or volunteer please visit www.soles4souls.org.

Tentación Thursday-Ana Caban’s Pilates Body Sculpting Kit

Submitted by on April 2, 2009 - 10:30 am

I hope that you’ll forgive a little self promotion. This week I thought that I’d feature my Pilates Body Sculpting Kit. An excellent addition to any Pilates workout, this unique Pilates Body Sculpting Workout Kit includes a six-inch sculpting ball and 33-minute instructional DVD. The ball can be incorporated into traditional Pilates exercises to enhance the use of the lower abdominal muscles and the inner and outer thighs, helping to tone and sculpt these areas quickly and effectively. Use the 6″ sculpting ball to flatten your abs (including those hard-to-isolate lower abdominal muscles), tone your hips, lift your butt and firm your thighs quickly and effectively in the full-length workout DVD.

I shot this DVD on a cliff in Sedona, Arizona. The scenery, alone, is breathtaking.

One lucky LBL member will win my Pilates Body Sculpting Kit. Leave a comment below and it may be you.

Buen Sabor Wednesday-Ensalada de Aguacate y Piña (Avocado & Pineapple Salad)

Submitted by on April 1, 2009 - 10:30 am

Spring is here! So why not enjoy a yummy and refreshing Ensalada de Aguacate y Piña?

Did you know that avocados are considered to be an almost complete food? Avocados are native to Central America and have been cultivated for thousands of years, they are rich in potassium and vitamin A. Avocados are also used traditionally to heal skin problems. The pulp is also believed to be both anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. And in certain parts of the world babies are even weaned using mashed avocado.

Did you know that one of the benefits of pineapple is that it helps to build healthy bones? Just one cup of pineapple provides 73% of the daily recommended amount of manganese, a trace mineral that is needed for your body to build bone and connective tissue. The benefits of pineapple can effect the growth of bones in young people and the strengthening of bones in older people.

Did you also know that pineapple can help with a cough or cold? The benefits of pineapple when you have a cold or cough are the same as the benefits of orange juice, but there is an additional benefit of pineapple. Bromelain, which is found in pineapples, has been found to help suppress coughs and loosen mucus.

¡Buen provecho y salud!

Here is a recipe that gets 5 stars. I hope that you like it!