My Blog

Vegan Tuile Cookies

Sunia — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:25:32 GMT

Vegan Tuile Cookies from www.VeganYumYum.com really nice recipes at this blog. I can't wait to try!

Super Interesting Documentary

Sunia — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 17:22:18 GMT

Just saw this great documentary about Jimmy Carter by director Johnathan Demme (Silence of the Lambs, Philadelphia, Manchurian Candidate). It follows the former president's book tour in 2006 for "Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid." It really gives you a more intimate look into his life and who he is as person. I was not aware he has been such a strong advocate for human rights as well as, a big supporter of Habitat for Humanity. He has actually gone to New Orleans to help the people restore their homes. I was a kid during his presidency, so I do not really remember much about his presidency other than the Iraq hostage situation of the U. S. embassy. In this documentary, he sheds light upon the truth of Palestinian/ Israeli conflict, speaks about the government decisions during his presidency and relates the decisions being made by our country today. It's really interesting stuff, I plan on checking out his book. If you are interested, here is the film's website. You can rent "Jimmy Carter: Man from Plains" at blockbuster. http://www.sonyclassics.com/jimmycartermanfromplains/

The Effects of A Thought

Sunia — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 22:09:59 GMT

I have followed Dr. Masaru Emoto's studies on changing the molecular structure of water by intention or thought. He has found that the molecular structure of water can be changed by an energetic condition. (I.E. thought, intention, prayer-- it has energy.) And his findings are really interesting. Dr. Emoto says: "In late in July 1999, we had a ceremony offering prayer to the biggest lake in Japan called Lake Biwa. Because Lake Biwa is in the shape of a female uterus, it has traditionally been called the “Mother Lake.” Unfortunately, Lake Biwa was extremely polluted and every year it would give off a foul smell. I thought this was an unacceptable situation because Lake Biwa is a symbol of the female body, and I thought we had to do something about that. So 350 people got together around the lake, and we offered a great invocation. About a month later there was a fascinating article in the newspaper. Paper stated, “Only this year, a foreign species of alga that had been notorious for many years for growing unusually in a large quantity and making a foul odor did not show up, and the city office, that had gotten so many calls of complaint from the local residents for many years, did not receive any call this year.” Every year after that date, the city office received more than 300 calls about the smell, but only that year, they did not receive any calls. Since then, a group of people have been getting together to offer a prayer to Lake Biwa, and I understand that the lake is getting cleaner every year.” He also says, “I started taking pictures of water crystals and that was the same time I started to discover the power of prayer. It doesn’t matter if we show written words to water or if we say some beautiful words to water such as “love” and “respect.” The water responds beautifully.” Very cool stuff! I have pictures posted in my photos, of the lake water's molecular structure before and after the prayer conducted by Dr. Emoto and the group. His book, "Love Thyself" has this and several other experiments, with really lovely pictures.

Beautiful Quote

Sunia — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 01:08:44 GMT

Pears and women are the sweetest in the parts that are heaviest. - Japanese Proverb -

Inspired to DRILL

Sunia — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:19:03 GMT

I found an interesting article written by Ariellah for the Hip Circle. "Practice Makes Perfect Art," about how to become a better dancer. In reading this article, it helped me realize a few things about my own dance practice. I rush to learn more, rather than work on refining my technique. Lately, I had been working on movement layering, and it just was'nt happening. I felt very frustrated and I didn't really understand why I was having a hard time. After reading this, it caused me to look at my basic technique and I realized I'm not as proficient with some movements as I could be. Ariellah writes: "With drilling comes refinement and a firmer understanding of the movement, as well as discovering your own style. Your movements will also become larger and more fluid and refined. Through daily drills you will be able to see and feel what needs improvement and you will also learn how your arms and your body in general react to certain movements." I have been so resistant to drills in the past, having viewed them as "tedious." But, I must say, I trust what she says. I have seen her dance----beautifully fluid and precise. . Overall, it's a very nice article, inspiring. Check it out at http://www.thehipcircle.com/article/display.asp?ArticleID=304

Bellydance Name

Sunia — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 16:28:41 GMT

OK! I have been working on a bellydance name for some time. I thought came up with one, but after I took a few days to let it sink in, it just didn't seem right for me. So I let it go. Today, while I was working on something else, the new name came together. Sunia Nadir Sunia (Soon-ia) which means "to deeply listen to the sound of the Divine within." Nadir (N(a)-dir) means "Dearly loved; rare, precious." I am very happy with my new dance name :)

A Super Smoothie

Sunia — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 01:12:36 GMT

I have changed my diet and lifestyle gradually over the last four years, to a healthier one. This smoothie recipe, was inspired by something similar I had at a health food juice bar once. I make this version everyday and I love it! I decided to do a little research to see the health benefits of each ingredient. Please try and enjoy! SUPER SMOOTHIE 1 TBS of Udo’s 3•6•9 oil (oil blend of omega essential fatty acids) Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are necessary fats that the human body cannot reproduce, and must be obtained through diet.The body needs EFAs in order to maintain cellular health as well as to prevent inflammation in the body. 1 cup of frozen Organic Strawberries Strawberries are said to contain more vitamin C than an orange. One-half cup of strawberries provides more fiber than a slice of whole-wheat bread. Strawberries also contain folate, potassium, and antioxidants. Vitamin C and antioxidants neutralize free radicals and help build strong connective tissues (like collagen which is responsible for skin strength and elasticity). 1/2 cup of frozen Organic Blueberries Blueberries have incredibly high levels of antioxidant phytonutrients. These phytonutrients help the body neutralize free radical damage to the body’s cells and tissues that can prevent mutations at the cellular level, even prevent the production of cancer cells. FYI: What's the heck is a free radical? Free Radicals are "a reactive atom or group of atoms that has one or more unpaired electrons." From what I understand, these particular atoms are unstable and chemically incomplete, so they ‘steal’ electrons from other molecules, thus interfering with the cells’ ability to function normally. Free Radicals are created as a result of natural biological processes within the body and from our environment. These environmental causes are things such as, pollution, cigarettes, ozone and nitrous oxide, mercury, lead, alcohol, and chemicals (like preservatives) in food, water, & air. So basically, it sounds like free radicals can be caused by just about anything...great. 1/4 cup of Organic Frozen Sweet or Black Cherries (Good brands are Cascadian Farms, Wild Oates, or Whole Foods they have already been pitted) Cherries are packed with antioxidants and have a high vitamin A content. The Cherry also contains a high level of melatonin, which is important in immune system function. Studies have shown that people who experience heart attack have low melatonin levels. Cherries are also effective cleansers of the liver and kidneys. 2 ripe Organic Bananas Bananas are high in potassium, as well as, a very good source of vitamin B6, dietary fiber, and manganese. Interesting enough, bananas contain tryptophan (found in turkey as well) a type of protein the body converts into serotonin, helping you to feel more relaxed and improve your mood. Stressed out?- eat a banana! 1/4 cup (or more depends on your taste) of R.W. Kundsen Pure Juice Just Black Cherry This brand is unsweetened, 100% juice--not diluted or from concentrate, like most bottled juice at the store. If you can't find Kundsen, Lakewood is another 100% juice only brand, they also have a black cherry too- FYI: black cherry has a naturally sweet taste that isn't cloyingly sweet. Like apple juice for example, it always tastes overly sweet (in my opinion)and can overpower the natural flavors of your fruit. Water Blender 1. Put all your fruit into the blender. 2. Add juice. I usually add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of juice, but if you want a little sweeter add more. It the bananas are ripe, it will be fine. Then add as much water needed to almost cover the mass of fruit, it's OK if the bananas are sticking out ---you don't need to cover them with liquid. 3. Add Udo's oil. 4. Cover and blend until smooth. 5. Check the consistency- you want it drinkable- not too thick or runny. Add more fruit or liquid, depending. Helpful Tips: Very IMPORTANT--make sure your blender can handle all the frozen stuff. I have a Vita-Mixer, and it pulverizes easily. Buy a ton of ripe bananas---then peel and freeze them. You will always have ripe bananas on hand---ready to go. Also frozen, they keep the smoothie texture consistent. I know the Udo's sounds like a weird thing to be putting in a smoothie, but it's great and it does taste good once you get used to it. I love the taste now and I can't have a smoothie without it. But if you have never tried it before, try adding a little less at first to get acclimated to the taste. The taste has been described as nutty and buttery. Smoothie not sweet enough at first? Put in equal parts juice and water, and then add just a squirt of Agave Nectar (at your local health food store.) It will give you some sweetness without the sugar spike. Gradually, reduce the juice, replacing with more water, while adding the Agave Nectar. I don't add the agave nectar at all, unless my bananas are a little under-ripe. I used to be a sugar fiend, and this tip helped me wean off of it. That's it...enjoy!

Gem Sweaters

Sunia — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 01:10:54 GMT

Leslie Hall is a quirky comedian/rapper, I happened to stumble upon on youtube. (Dry wit, mixed with dorky). She playfully calls herself, "Keeper of the Gems" with the aspiration to revive the forgotten art form of "gem sweaters." (Break out your Bedazzler!) She claims to have collected over 150 gem sweaters and has created a mobile Gem Sweater Museum, for your viewing pleasure. Oh and by the way--- when she says "Let Reba crack the base"- she is referring to Reba McEntire. Check out her new music video "How We Go Out" at http://www.leslieandthelys.com/

Nesrin Topkapi

Sunia — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 05:28:22 GMT

I just LOVE Nesrin Topkapi's dance style. I believe she is Turkish. I love "retro" style.

Dance Practice

Sunia — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 21:06:15 GMT

I really love to dance. But I need to practice more. I believe practice and preparation for your dance is important. I am looking for new ways improve my dancing. What works for you? I would love to hear about it :)

It should last more than one night...

Sunia — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 18:33:36 GMT

That's it, Halloween is over. I am a little bummed. So much preparation and it's over in one night. It was a fun night overall. The yard looked great, even though we had some rain. Till next year....hope everyone had fun!

Henna

Sunia — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 17:10:28 GMT

Just messing around, and I ended up with this. Henna is so much fun!

Dead Man's Dip

Sunia — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 16:19:37 GMT

Dead Man's Dip Serves 12 INGREDIENTS: 1 unsliced loaf whole-wheat or brioche bread (about 1 lb) 1 regular breadstick 3 cans (14 oz each) artichoke hearts, drained 2/3 cup grated Parmesan 1/2 block (4 oz) cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 clove garlic, crushed 1/2 tsp hot red pepper sauce Decoration: paprika and a clean plastic skeleton Dippers: baby carrots; red and yellow bell pepper strips; celery sticks; cucumber slices You'll need: two 6-in. bamboo skewers and some toothpicks PREPARATION: 1. To make the bread coffin: Using a serrated knife, horizontally slice through top third of bread loaf, keeping top of bread attached along the long side opposite you; this will be the coffin lid. Carefully raise lid three-quarters open. Insert a skewer through bread top at each back corner of the lid, carefully threading each skewer through the bottom part of the loaf. This will keep lid open. Using kitchen shears, snip top of skewers flush with bread lid. 2. Following the contours of the loaf, and starting 1/2 in. in from loaf edges, score a rectangle in cut surface of bread bottom with a small knife. Carefully discard bread from inside the rectangle, leaving a 1/2-in. bread wall on all sides and a hollow into which to put the dip. Hollow out bread from coffin lid. Insert 3 or 4 toothpicks into breadstick along one length. Attach breadstick handle to front of coffin. 3. Pulse artichoke hearts, Parmesan, cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic and pepper sauce in food processor until finely chopped. (If serving hot, place dip in a microwave-safe bowl; microwave on high 3 minutes or until hot.) Carefully spoon dip into prepared bread coffin. Decorate with toy skeleton, if desired. Sprinkle top of dip with paprika. Serve with assorted dippers. Plan Ahead: You can make the dip up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate, then heat in the microwave and serve hot or at room temperature. Make bread coffin up to 1 day ahead; store airtight at room temperature. ENJOY!

Halloweenie!

Sunia — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 20:54:18 GMT

I am a total kid when it comes time for Halloween! I just love it. I start gearing up in September, thinking about what I am going to create for the haunted yard. I just have such a good time with it. I like to make it creepy, scary but not bloody, Leatherface scary. I like the kids to have fun when they trick or treat at my house, not terrify them. I really enjoy Halloween.... I guess you could call me a Halloween nerd.

Glitter!

Sunia — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 16:39:19 GMT

What a great idea! I love henna, but I think I like the glitter even better. This idea is from Hennapage.com

Why?

Sunia — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 06:59:49 GMT

I love sunflowers.

OMMM!

Sunia — Mon, 07 May 2007 16:04:18 GMT

I found this great chant cd this weekend in Orlando, while traveling. I have been exposed to a little chant style music in my yoga class (Deva Premal). This CD "Triple Mantra" comes through very strong. I listened to it while doing my yoga practice. It helped me to improve my focus and center the mind. You can listen to sound clips here http://www.spiritvoyage.com/shopping/detail_clips.cfm?sku=CDS-001237

Messages From Water

Sunia — Tue, 01 May 2007 16:56:25 GMT

I have been reading Dr. Masaru Emoto's book "Messages From Water." It is really amazing. He has done studies and found that the molecular structure of water can be changed simply by the energetic condition of it's environment. It can be changed by something as simple as a thought. ( A thought or intention has energy.) He goes on to say we can transform our lives and the world by becoming aware of this by consciously structuring our water. Pretty neat. Here is his website http://www.masaru-emoto.net/english/ephoto.html

I am INSPIRED by Spirit of The Tribes!

Sunia — Mon, 30 Apr 2007 18:05:34 GMT

Egyptian style has been my primary foundation in bellydance. This is because this type of class is what is most available in my area right now. Up until now, I have never been really exposed to anything else. I went to the Spirit of the Tribes this weekend, and the performances just blew me away! They were all fantastic! I got a healthy dose of tribal fusion, and I am truly inspired! The performances were beautiful and each unique. Each dancer brought something different and exciting to the tribal dance form. You could see the foundation of tribal but the dancers made it their own, and I admire that. It is hard for me to choose a favorite because they were all great and individual in style. The whole experience has made me realize I need to explore and experiment with different styles of bellydance, and find my own expression through it.