Sunday Cortado 17

I love summer rain.  I love the humidity or coolness (you just never know what you are going to get) that comes after.  I love both the thunder and stillness that happens as everyone tries to take cover.  Even the gloom, a calming effect to the usual upbeat excitement of the summer sun.  

During this dreary Sunday, I wanted to share what's been inspiring me.  Because, even on days like these, the love and hustle doesn't stop... in my eyes, it heightens.  Although, you may have the opportunity to take a little more time for yourself, dare I say, relax.  Go back into your book, reorganize your vision board, and maybe have that extra cortadito. 

~

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.  Learn that name.  Know that woman.  Changing the game in politics with humility, grace, morals, and strength, it's been amazing to watch.  In case if you are wondering if there are more, here are a few other progressive women to know. 

This one hit home for me in more ways than 1.  Young farmers and the food revolution of Puerto Rico.  This sparked MANY ideas.  

Top chefs working in our public schools is something I'm here for.  I was even excited to see one of my culinary instructors be mentioned. 

I need to see this ASAP! A tiny sustainable home in NYC, part of a UN and Yale project.  

Now that I'm diving into a chef world, I love to see what other chefs are loving and eating.  Healthy or not, it's pretty fascinating.  

This No-Bake Icebox Tres Leches seems like a fun (read easy) twist on my favorite cake.  

I finally read Bourdain's Don't Eat Before Reading This.  It all makes perfect sense!  And I'm proud to say I wasn't so far along. 

"I love the sheer weirdness of the kitchen life: the dreamers, the crackpots, the refugees, and the sociopaths with whom I continue to work;... Admittedly, it’s a life that grinds you down. Most of us who live and operate in the culinary underworld are in some fundamental way dysfunctional." 

 

Sunday Cortado, 12

Union Square Greenmarket, NYC

Let's get cozy.  

I hope you are lucky enough to have a cortado or espresso in hand, with a chunky sweater, and fuzzy slippers.  These months are sometimes a bit trying, but contain the most beautiful moments and scenes I know.  

With a world so unpredictable and the weather that follows, how are you keeping inspired to just keep going?  To make it all worth it? Reading, Christmas movies, cooking, and cozy blankets, have been my therapy of choice.  The inspiration to share, connect, and constant talks with friends and family have been the push to keep it going.  

Not many, but definitely the standouts... Happy Sunday, my dears!

An Explanation on U.S. Mass Shootings, gives a harsh reality about our countries faults.  

Why They Didn't Stop The Harassment, because sadly looking the other way seemed like the only thing to do.  

An interview with Deb, from Smitten Kitchen and Ella, from Deliciously Ella.  If you are a food or wellness blogger, you may understand the anxiety in change and social media.  The common ground? Stay true, ya'll. 

Settling in Paris.  Kind of like vacationing like a local, but on a whole, pretty funny, level.  Take notes!

What to Cook This November.  It's warm and yummy. 

A moisturizer made out of your own blood.  Blood Cream.  I am intrigued.  

The time of year for boozy festivities, cheese platters, and very dry cold weather.  Activated charcoal, the supplement for detox and beauty this season?  

Baby, it's cold outside.  Let's treat ourselves to a jacket or two.  

Sunday Cortado, 11

Bite 22, NYC

What a week.  If you read my Cortado's often, you know I always have something to say.  For now, I am not so much speechless, but rather in thought.  But, here is a little something....

I never feel safer than when I walk the streets of New York.  A place, even state of mind, where you can be anyone and do anything.  Then reality hits, close to home, and you remember it's just another place and we are all human.  Let's not forget to reconnect, hold the elevator, hold the door, let the mothers and kids pass when you're in a "rush".  Sometimes we get lost in the hustle.  The streets are busy, but keep your head up and walk fierce.  We going places.

Culture cannot excuse racist insult, but here's a standpoint that hits close to home as a Hispanic American.  

Use your phone for this video!  A 360 on Latino NYC.

Lion King cast is out.  And it's a-mazing.

Minoi, the sister of my beloved coconut oil.  I wanna try! 

It's pumpkin pie season.  Let's get super Martha Stewart and make our pumpkin puree. 

Harissa Lentils and Roasted Veggies.  I need.   

Butternut Squash in my bourbon.  Let's be open to all possibilities in life. 

Burnt Butter.  I substituted NY local apples in this crumble.  Yum. 

Is it too early to start my Christmas List? Kitchen wants! 

Women Aren't Ruining Food.  Thank you very much!

Sunday Cortado, 10

Doughnut Plant, W 23 St

The last couple of weeks have ranged from completely booked and overworked, to a complete mental break filled with baked goods, home cooked meals, organization, and day dreams.  Ya'll, your girl was tired. 

I think the point of this wellness thing (yes sometimes it's still a thing to me) is to learn it doesn't ALWAYS have to be that way.  In reality, it may seem we are constantly busy and overbooked, but at the end of the day (or week), our bodies deserve that break, our minds deserve that sanity, and our souls deserve that peace.  Ya hear me?  I wanted nothing more than to come back to writing, serving delicious new recipes and ideas.  Consistently brainstorming and wanting to share, I had no choice but to wait.  That my dears, is okay.  

Grab a coffee or cortado, and a donut if your lucky.  

At such a young age, I don't think it's necessary to separate.  If girls and boys want to work together through challenges and lessons, let them.

Food Inequality in Venezuela.  Quick video to show perspective of what's really going on. 

Helping your former student through a prison cell.  When your job is truly your passion and heart. 

I've really been into literature of the Hispanic Culture.  A story that allows you to look back into their history, relate to our own culture, and be proud of where we came from.  Drown did not disappoint. 

If your a woman in business, finance, or any type of male dominated work-force, please read.  The Moment that Made Me A Feminist.  

More important than ever for minorities to have a face in world of wellness.  Black Women and Wellness: What it means to be Well in 2017.

Inner Life of an Introvert.  Simple drawings to let you know what's really going on in our head.  We still love you!

Fall Kitchen Guide.  Bring this list with you to your nearest Home Goods.  They always know the way to my heart. 

One of my biggest dreams is to have a small gathering on a rustic table to serve amazing food in a creative ambiance.  How To Throw a Fall Party is pinned 

Anti-Inflammatory Diet on a Budget.  I can dig it. 

Chocolate Mint Matcha Cups.  I have matcha sitting in my cupboard and this seems like the only logical use for it right now. 

I'm still a believer and still a lover.  The 10th Anniversary of the Kale Salad, where has the time gone!

Sunday Cortado, 8

Chelsea, New York City

How do I put into words?  Sometimes it feels I say too much.  About the world, politics, and events that I educate myself through a lot and a lot of articles.  Other times it feels I don't say enough.  When shit happens in our world, and I can only express through a simple quote.  Not even.  

Between small talk with many people, it all came down to "life's short".  I just feel like there is so much more to it.  Life is unexpected, but nevertheless a gift.  Enjoy it, yes, but also, use it wisely.  Spread light and love, yes, but shed light on your rights as well.  Times aren't just crazy, they are challenging.  Challenging us to live with a greater heart.  

As the days go buy, and much busier than planned,  I find myself thinking and being told something must give.  Well, I can guarantee the first thing that comes to mind is my 9-5.  Truth, I've stopped doing a few things I loved and revolved other passions on my everyday obligation.  So much, that I now have this notion to complete it all.  Before, after, and every weekend. The days have definitely proved to be shorter, and everyday I think "do I have to do this?"  Write this blog? Test this recipe?  Create this product? 

While I write to you, drinking my espresso with almond milk, I know this is going to stay for now.  Because, I care.  So, maybe somebody else reading this does to.  

So you want to celebrate Columbus Day?  Let's educate instead.  Puerto Rico sheds light on American colonialism now more than ever.  

I think the connection with your mother is vital for every child.  Check out what's going on in this prison in Lima, Peru. 

I shower twice a day almost every day.  Excessive? Maybe.  But once a week?  And she looks amazing!

What's your gut type?!  Let's find out, compare, and talk about it, over a green juice. 

Even with the new, but not so new, concept of grass fed will not save our planet.  So appreciative of the way people are becoming more conscious of their meat and dairy consumption in general.

She was the first person to teach me how to make brown sugar and I'll let her do it all over again.

Guess what?  My detox is over.  Bacon Brussel Sprout Fried Rice.  Oh baby.  

When I travel, I love to explore the local markets and food vendors.  Of course LA, you are my dream, now I know exactly where to go.  First stop, Grand Central Market. 

Sunday Cortado, 7

Kennebunkport, Maine

What a week.  Catching up after a mini vacation is no joke for this girl.  It's straight from reality, to vacation, then a nap back into reality again.  In between all that are things happening, the world changing, and mind racing.  Or is that just me?

I'm struggling to find this balance, you know?  And a part of me wants to say "f*** balance!"  This is lifeI have never been one to put my belief in wellness to the side, but I must admit that meals are skipped, time with loved ones are being sacrificed, and I'm finding it very hard to keep motivated all week long.  

Then I sit down and write these Cortado's.  I gather everything I've read, articles I connected with, from events in the world, to the little things that I want to share. It's not much, but it puts me back in reality, at the same time, taking me away from it.  That's been my goal all along, to share and fight for a world that is so much more beautiful than we give it credit for.  Even if it feels like a whole different one sometimes.

Honestly, I don't have all the answers.  As of late, it's been a lot of, I don't know.  Could it be this transitional period? My cancerian emotions?  Who knows.  What I do know, is that I'm sticking to what I know I love to do.  Posts, recipes, beauty, adventure.  Somebody recently asked me if this is what I want.  My first answer was weak and full of excuses.  Asked me one more time.  I said I couldn't picture myself doing anything else.

~~~

If you know me, you know that family is one of my top priorities.  I called my grandma everyday until I knew she got in touch with her sisters, nephews, and nieces.  Not knowing if loved ones are safe for days seem unimaginable.  To know that the place you once called home has been wiped out and in dire need of help can hurt.  Here is what's happening in Puerto Rico and how to help.  

Even after great natural disasters, the beauty in how people come together is one advantage, if any.  Here quick look how Mexico came together after their earthquake.

Are girls smarter than boys? Who cares, give us the opportunities and watch us shine!

Happiness and Health.  But, where do you live?

Do you suffer from juicing guilt?  Here is why you might and how to solve it.  Someone help me though!

Are you into oils, serums, and toners? You need to read this!  It's all about the layers.

It is officially Detox Season!  As I wrote how to create your own, here is help creating your own detox meals. Inspiration, ya'll!

The Art of Fermenting.  My local farmer recommended me this book.  Some people just get me.

Chorizo Pumpkin Pasta and a Pear Galette.  I'm cold and ready for all of it.    

Sunday Cortado, 6

Union Square Green Market, NYC

You guys, I really do believe the next couple of weeks are going to fly.  Changing leaves, apple pies, brisk mornings, and cold nights, all soon to come or already here.  I say I don't really care for the Fall, but truth be told, I'm kinda excited to use my oven again.  

My Whisk and Mat will be doing it's own changes the next couple of weeks as well.  I'm a little nervous and a lot overwhelmed.  I decided I need to go back to yoga, because that mixture can be scary.  With a transitional season, comes a new mind set, ideas, routines, even wardrobe!  With a New Moon this week, Wednesday Sept 20th, and I am going to make it the MOST....

DACA.  What it means for us and what it means for them.  And, why we all need to care. 

Ending the war on women's health... Who knew we would have to fight so hard for the rights of our hormones and lady parts. 

Ethnic cleansing.  This has been going on for generations in Myanmar.  If you can't get yourself to read the article, PLEASE watch this video.  

I drink almond milk for my health.  Now can we drink it with a better conscious? Milkadamia and free range trees. 

The Best Places for Vegans to Eat in ALL 50 STATES.  I'm not vegan, but I can appreciate a good plant-based meal. 

Part of my routine every morning are fresh juices and smoothies.  Whether you are a frequent juicer or not, here are some ingredients and recipes to help you start or look out for in the Fall.  

What to Cook in September.  The perfect guide and inspiration!

I am so not a soup person, but I know sniffle season is about to come.  This green noodle soup looks like perfection, and not just on a sick day!

A Peruvian Almuerzo.  Because when you give a healthy-living-wellness-loving Latina an idea to make herself and recreate her family's dishes, you take those ideas and run. Or give them to your dad to make...

WASTED, The Story Of Food Waste.  The perfect mix of Anthony Bourdain, fruits and vegetables, and saving mother earth.  I'm very into it. 

Sunday Cortado, 5

Mad Sq. Eats, 5th and Broadway, NYC

These weeks have been flying by.  Both in good ways and ways I wish they wouldn't.  Somehow life happens and it's during these transformation periods we wonder, "What the hell have I been doing?"

Seriously.  It doesn't even have to be so deep or thoughtful as I probably make it.  We can't all help but wonder how this summer has ended. I guess it really started to hit me this week.  Scarfs and chunky knit sweaters made their grand appearance most mornings and I sometimes find myself unable to fully enjoy the quiet nights on the patio.  I am officially making myself readily available to those with fire pits.  I will bring you wine and homemade cheese and fruit platters.  Please?

For myself, I really tried to think about what stood out for me this season.  While I am a firm believer of making the most out of the little things, sometimes you kinda want to shake it.  I went to new and local beaches, reconnected with a few friends I haven't seen or lost touch with, and ate pretty damn good.

I just thought I had timeee.  Time for the passion to explode, beauty to be created, and adventures to be taken.  So, I made a commitment.   I wanna bring a new kind of living to life.  Inclusive, connected, and unrestricted...

~~~ 

There are major disasters going on, everywhere.  Yes, I get upset and empathize, but it isn't until now, hitting places where I used to call home and with loved ones, I get nervous.  A lot of what if's.  For family and friends, please be safe and stay compassionate.

I've been try to cut plastic out of my life.  No more tubberware, but I can say giving up cheap razors may be the challenge.

I've heard rumors of the not so sustainable practices that go on in the palm fruit oil industry.  Here's a little more personal information and something to think about on your next beauty purchase. 

I bet you didn't know and sometimes I forget, but being an adult is hard.  Making friends is hard.  Why can't we just share our crayons and be bff!

Fall = Fashion.  At least that's what I've heard and learned.  So, help!

Fall also equals squash! This is one of my favorite quinoa salads to make.  Perfect mix of sweet and savory, perfect meal prep lunch...

Arugula Pesto Zucchini Noodle Bowls.  I'm not gonna lie though, if I'm gonna eat a bowl full of veggies, Italian meats just may give me that lovely life balance . 

As we say good bye to the peaches and blueberries, I would like to welcome other things.  Fig Jam seems fitting for this Fall season ahead.

I'm going to Maine!!! I've been reading so much about, but as soon as I saw this post, I knew it was meant to be.  Have any recommendations?  Things I MUST DO? Please let me know! I'm a newbie to road trips and mini travels, so I'm open.  

Don't get it twisted though.  I do plan on relaxing.  I am so over 4:45am wakeup calls...

Sunday Cortado, 4

Hudson River Park, NYC

Sometimes, I feel as if I live in my own world.  It was something I found out last year around November, election time.  Whether you are a blogger, health and wellness advocate, sport enthusiast, foodie, or political junkie, you most likely spend most your time researching and reading those topics.  You may even surround yourself with like minded networks of people, Instagram feeds, live or visit those places that just... get you.  

For example, myself, my Instagram is made up of food lovers, health and beauty brandsjunkies, feministas, with the occasional life of friends and family.  I work in the most diverse, fast paced, and accepting cities in the world and I wouldn't have it any other way.  I go to farmers markets where most people have a common belief and love for what local sustainable food/brands has to offer. 

In a way, I think I wanted to keep these Sunday Cortado's going as a way to share interests, educate (both you and I), and maybe learn how to relate to others somewhat better.  My fellow wellness warriors, family, and friends, what's on your mind?  What do wish others would know and see?  We are more than foodies, activists, aspiring artists, travelers.  We care, and that makes our own world a little greater, a little more connected. 

I was having dinner with my family the other day, and my father made a valid point.  You make a greater impact talking face to face with someone, than anything you read or say on the internet. Touché. 

Want to meet and talk with me?  I'm thinking of getting out more, hosting mini pop up events, and making appearances to yours!  If not, let's meet for a Cortado...

There are natural disasters impacting this country to the other side of the world.  Effects are devastating and it's hard to believe there are people now on survival mode and re-adjustmenting.  Please don't forget, we are human and must believe we can always help each other.      

As Summer transitions into Fall, not only does that effect our food and harvest, but body and skin! Summer is a time for protecting and hydrating that sun kissed skin.  Fall is a time for nurturing, nourishing, and revitalizing.  Here is a guide stepping into natural skincare.  

Sweet Treats Beauty is getting a makeover and expanding for the Fall!  Here is what is available now, but I'll make sure to keep you updated with new products to come.

Anyone retired perfumes and fragrances?  When I stepped into natural beauty, it was one of the first things I let go.  Chemicals, money, and strong scents made that very easy.  I think I'm ready to bring it back with this simple DIY! 

If I can make summer last in any way, it would be with food.  Let's pickle.

How delicious does this Creme Brûlée French Toast sound? I think they use this as a dessert, but with just a little fruit, I'm down for breakfast.  

Watermelon and candied pistachios?  I'll be having that until September 20th, thank you.  

Sunday Cortado, 3

Happy Sunday! New week, new things to look forward too.  For me?  I'm kinda looking forward to resetting, cleaning, cleansing, motivating myself for the next month or two to come.  

It's hard to believe that August is almost over, and I'm trying really REALLY hard to accept the colder mornings and shorter days to come along with it.  I don't know if I ever mentioned, but I love summer.  It usually loves me back.  Any one else hoping for another month of hot humid days? Beaches, grilling, fruits, and tacos too.

So did you hear... *sips almond milk cortado*

Around the world things are happing, not so much about war with other countries, but a war within for many women.  From India to Chile, these latest lifts on laws and bans can give a us a little more knowledge and hope. 

I was one of those people who were worried about this "partnership" between Amazon and Whole Foods.  This article tells me, "Fear not!"

This article is telling me what's really gonna happen.  Tomorrow. 

Since the weather is cooling off.  I'm thinking about breaking out the oven.  And I want cake. 

Corn is one of summer's greatest abundance. I want it any which way.  

Please tell me this is not one of the most beautiful things you have ever seen.  Who knew a cauliflower can make you feel this way.  

Sunday Cortado, 2

We are talking links and love again!  I know.  I just did this post last week, and I had every intention in doing an amazing recipe or How To post.  But, things are happen and thing are happening.  

I spent most of my week reading, catching up on events, news, and yummy recipes.  It's the mix I love and crave.  Although my cravings for tacos and local vegetables has been hitting a little more often this summer.  Can you blame me?? Two months of Summer are just not enough.

8 Ways to Help After Charlotte.  It's not just for those who live close or want to be more hands on.  Stay in the know and understand what's going on.  This article was the one that caught my eye, because even I have my doubts.  

This Solar Eclipse is happening tomorrow!!! If you are bold and eager enough to follow it's path, amazing!  If not, check out how it may look where ever you are using this map!

10 Small Ways To Be Happy.  Not all of us can take trips around the world every week, let alone every year.  But I can clean the place I call home, my therapy, my pride and joy.  Then I have cake. Because cake. 

Finished a new book!  But this one I been reading for awhile.  It was one of those you have to be in the right mind set.  White Hot Truth, helps you not take it too seriously, relate, and make you want to own your Goddess Gifts.

Fluffy AF Cornbread Pancakes.  I usually never have all the ingredients for some pancakes.  Always missing some syrup or butter.  But, I have that now.  I am prepared for life, and pancakes. 

On a healthier note, if I step up my spice game, this yummy plate is sure to be an easy side staple.  Summer tomatoes and eggplants are already a weekly thang.

PS. I am trying to post a "How To" on Summer spagetti  dishes.  Because, I can't imagine a week without a bowl of pasta, and I need you to understand why. 

Sunday Cortado

Have you guys ever had a cortado?  A strong espresso shot, always served with a little milk and your choice to sweeten.  Basically, a Cuban coffee.  It brings me back to my cafe con leche days as a child first drinking coffee.  Then later to the days I lived in Florida and happily drank my Pilón or Bustelo every morning.  

During the week I enjoy my coffee black, always Bustelo, always in my coffee pot, half full.  With me gone early in the morning I like to have my coffee strong and while I have my quick me up, I use it to serve the purpose to jump start my day... maybe heart.

But the weekends... Oh, how I love the weekend.  I start it (after my lemon water, of course) with a full bodied strong cup of coffee lightened with hot almond milk and sweetened with traditional cane sugar.  Not exactly a latte, not a exactly a cortado, but my version of a homemade spanish coffee special.

We are calling this a cortado, for no other reason to give you something short, a little bold, with a sweet touch.  Let's start with the key ingredient, that morning shot...

White Nationalists March on University of Virginia.  If you haven't heard, this happen, and it kind of blew my mind.  There are not many words I can say, but what I think is obvious, or maybe it's not.  So wrong.  So shameful.  We cannot accept this and let it go unspoken.  

I'm all about how one person can make a difference.  Whether if it's just one who made a stand, or each individual unknowingly making the same commitment and now all of sudden there are thousand of just "one person."  Climate change is real, and it's refreshing to see individual cities are looking to make a change.  

New book!  I became a bit of a book nerd as of late, so this might become a thing.  The Unit, used a fiction novel that maybe covers the deep underlying thought of many woman feel the pressure to have children and contribute to society, and the growing number who choose to childless.

I love a good review.  Especially ones that give research, honest trial and opinions.  If you haven't been able to get your hands on my Whipped Cream Deodorant, I highly recommend giving this article, The Best Natural Deodorant for 2017, a read and maybe get your hands on another trustworthy product!

I've become a lover of the farmer's market in many ways.  Plants and cactuses included.  I post my trips pretty frequently through instagram, so keep updated on my post and stories here!

I'm making scallion pancakes soon.  It's necessary.  Hopefully they are as good as these Zucchini Fritters.  I'll keep you updated though.