The invitation said:
MEET ME AT ENERGIZED &JOYFUL STREETS
and one by one they came on the tenth of December 2016, they knew exactly where to find us. This was Choose To Care's and Nutritionist and Friends in Action (NAFIA) celebration of the youth and their families. They were introduced to the variety of squash and their goodness; rich sources of beta-carotene, vitamin C, Potassium and Fiber. Of course the roasted seeds make a tasty and nutritious snack.
A basket on display, featured a few varieties such as butternut, acorn, kabocha and spaghetti squash. A guessing game of naming them turned into a fun exercise and we introduced ways to use these versatile root vegetables from soup and salad to entree and dessert.
The fun continued with lively music that had us moving to the beat. Then we settled down to the hearty kabocha flan, that came with an easy to make recipe. The children and parents came back for seconds, it was heartwarming to hear some of the mothers said they would make this dish at home.
And this is what life is about, we took a familiar recipe for flan and made a substitution of pineapple to kabocha squash, that was a delight. The fear of trying out something new diminished; they experienced trust, they recognized caring from the hands that provided this treat at this special gathering. As they left with their packages of a brand new pair of shoes, we had once more accomplished Choose To Care's mission of providing this small token to a deserving group of children. One child at a time indeed!
On behalf of Choose To Care and NAFIA, I want to extend my best wishes to you and your family for a joyful, healthy holiday and a wonderful 2017.
Peace and Love!
Please enjoy the Kabocha Flan recipe:
Ingredients:
* Kabocha - 1 cup
* Eggs - 6 medium
* Condensed milk - 1 (12 oz. can)
* Evaporated milk - 1 (12 oz. can)
* Skim milk - 1 cup
* Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
Caramel:
2/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup water
Preparation:
1. Cut the kabocha into pieces and boil until tender. Remove and peel the kabocha pieces.
2. Place peeled kabocha and all other ingredients together in a blender and blend until it reaches a
thick and smooth consistency.
3. Mix the sugar and water to form the caramel, then place in a baking dish.
4. Add the kabocha mixture to the baking dish. Place the baking dish on a large oven- proof
container with water. The water should go halfway up the side of the baking dish.
5. Place in the preheated oven (350 degrees F.). Bake for 45 minutes. Best served cold.
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Friday, November 25, 2016
A MOST CAPTIVATING PASSING OF TIME
"I have always known that at last I would take this road but
yesterday I did not know it would be today."
Akiro No Narihara
I have began so many of my stories with that quote, which truly describes my life's journey. Every now and then I have the urge to look at my list of the places I would like to travel to. I make adjustments, mark off the places I have visited, erase those I no longer desire to see for whatever reasons and add to the ever growing list, gems that I continue to discover through travel magazines and conversations with other travelers. I know for sure that a lifetime is not enough to see this vast world of ours. I want to share this amazing pilgrimage, my first, that took me from Venice, Florence, Assisi and to Rome and the Vatican City.
A group of women and men, forty-seven total, traveled together from the St. Boniface Parish for this unforgettable experience. A priest from the Church commanded this gathering in celebration of his 25th anniversary as a Priest. His Bishop from his country of birth the Philippines also came along. We landed in Zurich and headed out to Venice, a beautiful city surrounded by water. The gondola ride and the men singing their heart out kept us smiling even though the clouds opened up and the rain drops came sprinkling down. We lingered for a day and night doing the city tour, some shopping and giving thanks during the celebration of our first mass in Italy.
Then we were off to Florence, passing through Tuscany I remembered Lydia the TV Chef who is always cooking up a storm and singing praises for the fresh produce in the market, while she shop or pick from the family's farm; a rich agricultural region indeed.
In Assisi, the mountain air did us good and our breathtaking hotel served up deliciously grown food from the valley. I am reminded of the prayer I carry around year after year by St. Francis of Assisi, labeled "A Simple Prayer" that begins "Lord Make Me An instrument of your peace...." I certainly had a peaceful and humbling experience to be where he lived.
Rome, the highlight of my trip. Linda, the amazing and knowledgeable tour guide wanted us to get the best seat in the house to see Pope Francis. It was Wednesday, the day that Pap1 Francis as he is fondly called comes out to the square to greet the followers. Linda, kept repeating "we are not competitive but we want to be first." This became our mantra as we prepare to beat out the many thousands of people lined up to see this special man of the cloth. She had schooled us on how to position ourselves in the long lines and where to push to reach the ideal spot with us. We were in the fourth row and couldn't ask for a better place. We watched with excitement as Pope Francis traveled in his motorcade through the sea of people and got out to talk to the disabled,children, those in poor health, ordinary citizens who revered this humble and God-fearing man. The mass on the square was celebrated in different languages and then the name of the Parish that the individuals came from, all over the world was read. We clapped when when we heard our Parish, St. Boniface.
This walking tour took us to many places of interests, too many to describe them all here. The architecture of the Coliseum, the Pantheon, the tour of the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel, left my traveling companions and I in awe. The preservation of these historical buildings for the general public is a remarkable feat. As I pass through this vast metropolis of millions, I noticed the homeless, the beggars, merchants hustling to sell knickknacks, vying for our attention. We were warned about groups of robbers, using children as as a distraction to peddle from the public. This description fits our city also, so we knew to travel with care.
Daily masses served as a reminder that we are our brothers and sisters keepers. On the trip we had some of our companions who needed assistance and great kindness was shown to them and many of the downtrodden we met. The accomodations, no complaints. The food, delicious, so many culinary discoveries in the course of my travel. It was the Greek Philosopher, Socrates, who said "Some people eat to live and some live to eat" For sure, food feeds the stomach but it also feeds the heart. A shout out to Linda, so authentic, no frills. Thanks for the peaceful existence on our tour among the 47 travelers, respectful communication was the key.
"It always seem impossible until it is done"
Nelson Mandela
yesterday I did not know it would be today."
Akiro No Narihara
I have began so many of my stories with that quote, which truly describes my life's journey. Every now and then I have the urge to look at my list of the places I would like to travel to. I make adjustments, mark off the places I have visited, erase those I no longer desire to see for whatever reasons and add to the ever growing list, gems that I continue to discover through travel magazines and conversations with other travelers. I know for sure that a lifetime is not enough to see this vast world of ours. I want to share this amazing pilgrimage, my first, that took me from Venice, Florence, Assisi and to Rome and the Vatican City.
A group of women and men, forty-seven total, traveled together from the St. Boniface Parish for this unforgettable experience. A priest from the Church commanded this gathering in celebration of his 25th anniversary as a Priest. His Bishop from his country of birth the Philippines also came along. We landed in Zurich and headed out to Venice, a beautiful city surrounded by water. The gondola ride and the men singing their heart out kept us smiling even though the clouds opened up and the rain drops came sprinkling down. We lingered for a day and night doing the city tour, some shopping and giving thanks during the celebration of our first mass in Italy.
Then we were off to Florence, passing through Tuscany I remembered Lydia the TV Chef who is always cooking up a storm and singing praises for the fresh produce in the market, while she shop or pick from the family's farm; a rich agricultural region indeed.
In Assisi, the mountain air did us good and our breathtaking hotel served up deliciously grown food from the valley. I am reminded of the prayer I carry around year after year by St. Francis of Assisi, labeled "A Simple Prayer" that begins "Lord Make Me An instrument of your peace...." I certainly had a peaceful and humbling experience to be where he lived.
Rome, the highlight of my trip. Linda, the amazing and knowledgeable tour guide wanted us to get the best seat in the house to see Pope Francis. It was Wednesday, the day that Pap1 Francis as he is fondly called comes out to the square to greet the followers. Linda, kept repeating "we are not competitive but we want to be first." This became our mantra as we prepare to beat out the many thousands of people lined up to see this special man of the cloth. She had schooled us on how to position ourselves in the long lines and where to push to reach the ideal spot with us. We were in the fourth row and couldn't ask for a better place. We watched with excitement as Pope Francis traveled in his motorcade through the sea of people and got out to talk to the disabled,children, those in poor health, ordinary citizens who revered this humble and God-fearing man. The mass on the square was celebrated in different languages and then the name of the Parish that the individuals came from, all over the world was read. We clapped when when we heard our Parish, St. Boniface.
This walking tour took us to many places of interests, too many to describe them all here. The architecture of the Coliseum, the Pantheon, the tour of the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel, left my traveling companions and I in awe. The preservation of these historical buildings for the general public is a remarkable feat. As I pass through this vast metropolis of millions, I noticed the homeless, the beggars, merchants hustling to sell knickknacks, vying for our attention. We were warned about groups of robbers, using children as as a distraction to peddle from the public. This description fits our city also, so we knew to travel with care.
Daily masses served as a reminder that we are our brothers and sisters keepers. On the trip we had some of our companions who needed assistance and great kindness was shown to them and many of the downtrodden we met. The accomodations, no complaints. The food, delicious, so many culinary discoveries in the course of my travel. It was the Greek Philosopher, Socrates, who said "Some people eat to live and some live to eat" For sure, food feeds the stomach but it also feeds the heart. A shout out to Linda, so authentic, no frills. Thanks for the peaceful existence on our tour among the 47 travelers, respectful communication was the key.
"It always seem impossible until it is done"
Nelson Mandela
Wednesday, November 9, 2016
THE TWAIN SHOULD NEVER MEET
Yesterday Mendacity beat upon her with words of hatred; tongue lashing, fiery words of contempt spewed from her lips. She has worked herself into a frenzy. Her face twisted in fury, her eyes bulging with an expression of fear, exhausted she flopped herself down, consumed with bitterness.
Today she invited the one she has cursed with wishes of fire and brimstone, to view her rendition of well-being. Posted on the wall for the world to see were words and picture scenes, assembled with messages of health.
As if to prolong her presence with the one she despises, she painstakingly explained the meaning of this display, step by step. She moved with excitement as the RECEIVER of her condemnation looked on in awe. This is a far cry from the carnage she continues to bring upon her. These words flashed through her mind, DECEIVER, PRETENDER, BETRAYER, CALLOUS MANIPULATOR, TORTURER.
Dear Savior of the world, bestow kindness, mercy and gentleness on this bearer of DANGER; keep her targets far away from her, keep them from her reach, protect them all.
One Love!
REFLECTION:
*Mendacity is an unusual name - seek the meaning.
*Why do you think she has invited the one she cursed to view her renderings?
*Take a guess at a possible meaning for the picture & word scenes with messages of well-being
*She lingered as she showed her work of art - why?
*What makes you think that the cursed one does not trust this joy and excitement?
*Read again the: "Dear Savior" passage - Why is there a call for mercy and safeguarding at the same time?
Today she invited the one she has cursed with wishes of fire and brimstone, to view her rendition of well-being. Posted on the wall for the world to see were words and picture scenes, assembled with messages of health.
As if to prolong her presence with the one she despises, she painstakingly explained the meaning of this display, step by step. She moved with excitement as the RECEIVER of her condemnation looked on in awe. This is a far cry from the carnage she continues to bring upon her. These words flashed through her mind, DECEIVER, PRETENDER, BETRAYER, CALLOUS MANIPULATOR, TORTURER.
Dear Savior of the world, bestow kindness, mercy and gentleness on this bearer of DANGER; keep her targets far away from her, keep them from her reach, protect them all.
One Love!
REFLECTION:
*Mendacity is an unusual name - seek the meaning.
*Why do you think she has invited the one she cursed to view her renderings?
*Take a guess at a possible meaning for the picture & word scenes with messages of well-being
*She lingered as she showed her work of art - why?
*What makes you think that the cursed one does not trust this joy and excitement?
*Read again the: "Dear Savior" passage - Why is there a call for mercy and safeguarding at the same time?
Thursday, September 15, 2016
THERE IS A PRICE TO PAY
It was 26 years ago that I wrote an article for my church's newsletter bearing this same title. This is what I wrote:
"I love a healthy natural meal. No prepackaged food off the shelves, no chemical concoctions, no plastic food. The meal of my dreams has wholesome food , real food, authentic food. Food as food used to be in the olden days. There is only one little problem with my fantasy. In my dream I see the year 2000. The manufacturers have boomed, new additives have been found and there is nothing natural around. Even those foods I thought would never go, got churned in the processors pot. Poor mother nature was helpless!
I travelled to every corner of the earth but the processors had gotten there before me. There was nothing natural left on this earth. I though to myself "What have they done to the poor developing nations?" But the people seemed happy! They too were enamored with technology and the smile on their faces expressed their delight in the "plastic stuff" they had at their convenience.
I woke up washed in perspiration. I ran to the oven and looked for the carrot cake I had made. It was still there. I had a slice and a glass of ice cold milk. Every gulp I took, every bite I made was chewed with care, as if I was expecting a shortage of real food in the near future. That may be true, but there is hope , if we could only pass those blighted food processors."
Here it is 2016 and I have attended the 17th International Congress of Dietetics in Granada, Spain and the hot topic is sustainable eating; the call is for each of us to take care of the planet earth, to embrace a diet which enables the health of humans and the planet forever.There were passionate speakers from around the world who pleaded for us to take action. Although there are no magic bullets we can improve on the choices we make, where we buy our food; buying local makes a vast difference, bringing opportunity for the vendors to grow in their community. This is not a drive to create vegetarianism, but eating less meat in order to discover other proteins, is a step in the right direction.
It was an eye-opener to realize the connection between an architect and a Dietitian; how the kitchen is built, the efficiency of the equipment, waste disposal and other essentials are important. There were speakers who tackled the issue of food waste which has reached a high level globally and we must make it our responsibility to take action and join the movement to cultivate mindfulness. They asked us to take from the land what we need, thus reducing how much is used. The advice is to reuse whatever we can and ultimately recycle what is leftover. Mahatma Gandhi said "The world has enough for every one's needs but not enough for every one's greed."
At this mouthwatering conference, there was a lot of noise about community and the beautiful offerings of the land and sea. In watching the film :A Journey Across La Mancha, Food Sustainability And Union Of Civilization" it was visible that once upon a time everyone lived well together and protected each other, but as soon as man began to plow the land discord began. This is the story I told so many years ago about moving to the prepackaged food items away from food produced by the farmers. It is certainly the job of those in the position to engage the community in improving nutrition and other health care issues,fight against food waste and make an impact. It was Lao Tzu who said: "Go to the people. Live with them. Love them. Start with what they know. Build with what they have. But with the best leaders, when the work is done, the task accomplished, the people will say "We have done this ourselves"
Amazing things happened in Granada, Spain. The 17th International Congress of Dietetics has made sustainable eating their business and so should you. Be inspired! Join the journey and become part of that creative energy.
One Love!
"I love a healthy natural meal. No prepackaged food off the shelves, no chemical concoctions, no plastic food. The meal of my dreams has wholesome food , real food, authentic food. Food as food used to be in the olden days. There is only one little problem with my fantasy. In my dream I see the year 2000. The manufacturers have boomed, new additives have been found and there is nothing natural around. Even those foods I thought would never go, got churned in the processors pot. Poor mother nature was helpless!
I travelled to every corner of the earth but the processors had gotten there before me. There was nothing natural left on this earth. I though to myself "What have they done to the poor developing nations?" But the people seemed happy! They too were enamored with technology and the smile on their faces expressed their delight in the "plastic stuff" they had at their convenience.
I woke up washed in perspiration. I ran to the oven and looked for the carrot cake I had made. It was still there. I had a slice and a glass of ice cold milk. Every gulp I took, every bite I made was chewed with care, as if I was expecting a shortage of real food in the near future. That may be true, but there is hope , if we could only pass those blighted food processors."
Here it is 2016 and I have attended the 17th International Congress of Dietetics in Granada, Spain and the hot topic is sustainable eating; the call is for each of us to take care of the planet earth, to embrace a diet which enables the health of humans and the planet forever.There were passionate speakers from around the world who pleaded for us to take action. Although there are no magic bullets we can improve on the choices we make, where we buy our food; buying local makes a vast difference, bringing opportunity for the vendors to grow in their community. This is not a drive to create vegetarianism, but eating less meat in order to discover other proteins, is a step in the right direction.
It was an eye-opener to realize the connection between an architect and a Dietitian; how the kitchen is built, the efficiency of the equipment, waste disposal and other essentials are important. There were speakers who tackled the issue of food waste which has reached a high level globally and we must make it our responsibility to take action and join the movement to cultivate mindfulness. They asked us to take from the land what we need, thus reducing how much is used. The advice is to reuse whatever we can and ultimately recycle what is leftover. Mahatma Gandhi said "The world has enough for every one's needs but not enough for every one's greed."
At this mouthwatering conference, there was a lot of noise about community and the beautiful offerings of the land and sea. In watching the film :A Journey Across La Mancha, Food Sustainability And Union Of Civilization" it was visible that once upon a time everyone lived well together and protected each other, but as soon as man began to plow the land discord began. This is the story I told so many years ago about moving to the prepackaged food items away from food produced by the farmers. It is certainly the job of those in the position to engage the community in improving nutrition and other health care issues,fight against food waste and make an impact. It was Lao Tzu who said: "Go to the people. Live with them. Love them. Start with what they know. Build with what they have. But with the best leaders, when the work is done, the task accomplished, the people will say "We have done this ourselves"
Amazing things happened in Granada, Spain. The 17th International Congress of Dietetics has made sustainable eating their business and so should you. Be inspired! Join the journey and become part of that creative energy.
One Love!
Saturday, August 13, 2016
Today & Tomorrow - Working Together For A Healthier Community
In spite of a forecast of a very hot day, we welcomed and celebrated yet another wonderful BACK TO SCHOOL EVENT, where the kids and their parents participated in a few hours of learning and merrymaking. Today's event featured the plain yogurt which is not high up on the list of favorite foods for many adults, so we were well aware that it may be a challenge to get our young critics to give it a try. The amazing women of the Nutritionists and Friends In Action group {NAFIA}, gave it their best shot, describing ways to combine fresh fruits and vegetables with yogurt for a delicious treat and they sang praises for its benefits, that would make you want to give it a try.
The dish of the day was pasta with broccoli, cauliflower and grapes thrown in to awaken the tastebuds;served with yogurt dressing, spiked with herbs. Both adults and children enjoyed the mouth-watering dish and each family received a pint-sized mason jar of pasta mixture to take home with them. We asked them to adapt the recipe, to use the fruits and vegetables they preferred and to add their favorite herbs and spices to create their own flavorful plain yogurt dressing.
We know that the parents are the primary shapers of their childrens' behavior and so we beckoned to them to join in the day's nutrition education and physical activities. But this day was also in keeping with Choose To Care's mission of providing a brand new pair of shoes for the child in need. As the kids stepped up to receive their brand new pair of shoes, and as they opened the shoe box, a message awaited them in the cover, such as "do 5 squats",touch your toes 10 times", "do 5 arm circles", etc. We all joined them in squatting and moving to whatever the command was. Buried in their shoes were the messages "stay in school","eat foods that keep you well" Today's lesson was about healthy eating, staying fit and letting the parents know that we and their children are depending on them to put these lessons in practice, making sure that their children have access to healthy foods in the home.
We, the messengers, left with a joyful and thankful soul. Mission accomplished. The NAFIA group is looking forward to our next shindig at the end of the year.
Peace &Love
The dish of the day was pasta with broccoli, cauliflower and grapes thrown in to awaken the tastebuds;served with yogurt dressing, spiked with herbs. Both adults and children enjoyed the mouth-watering dish and each family received a pint-sized mason jar of pasta mixture to take home with them. We asked them to adapt the recipe, to use the fruits and vegetables they preferred and to add their favorite herbs and spices to create their own flavorful plain yogurt dressing.
We know that the parents are the primary shapers of their childrens' behavior and so we beckoned to them to join in the day's nutrition education and physical activities. But this day was also in keeping with Choose To Care's mission of providing a brand new pair of shoes for the child in need. As the kids stepped up to receive their brand new pair of shoes, and as they opened the shoe box, a message awaited them in the cover, such as "do 5 squats",touch your toes 10 times", "do 5 arm circles", etc. We all joined them in squatting and moving to whatever the command was. Buried in their shoes were the messages "stay in school","eat foods that keep you well" Today's lesson was about healthy eating, staying fit and letting the parents know that we and their children are depending on them to put these lessons in practice, making sure that their children have access to healthy foods in the home.
We, the messengers, left with a joyful and thankful soul. Mission accomplished. The NAFIA group is looking forward to our next shindig at the end of the year.
Peace &Love
Saturday, August 6, 2016
HE WHO FEELS IT KNOWS IT
The other day I had a rude awakening. The pair of shoes on my feet were sound when I left home or so I thought. On my journey I felt it loosening but shoes do stretch at times, especially after many wears. This was an old and comfortable pair. Then I felt my toes on the pavement, the sides of one foot had come apart but still manageable; with toes tightly squeezed together, I pushed hard to reach my destination.
I was so conscious of a shoe ripped apart plus it slowed me down because my foot kept coming out of the shoe. I just knew everyone was staring at my feet; although pedestrians are usually in a hurry and barely noticed each other, this time I was sure they saw me.
Some more travel and the other shoe came loose also. Now I definitely could not walk any further, the soles were rapidly falling apart. Going barefoot was not an option, the streets are filled with broken glass, needles and all kinds of sharp objects; besides the hot pavement would have no mercy on the bottom of my feet. I felt embarassed and quickly took cover in a nearby store, grabbing a new pair of shoes and discarding the one on my feet.
I began to think of the many folks without a pair of shoes, such a basic necessity. "He who feels it knows it" I chuckled, because I make it my duty to ensure that the underprivileged youth gets a brand new pair of shoes but I found myself shoeless albeit for a short instant, on the streets.As the saying goes "the cobbler's son has no shoes" Did I need this experience to know what it feels like? Of course not but it is indeed a lesson in humility.
As we prepare for our "Back To School" event on 8-13-16 and as I purchase each pair of shoes, I will do so with renewed enthusiasm, because this incident reminded me why this mission of providing a brand new pair of shoes for the child in need still holds my interest.I have written and spoken many times about the need to protect the childrens' feet, the pride and joy it will bring them to own their own brand new pair and I will continue to be their mouthpiece.
One Love!
I was so conscious of a shoe ripped apart plus it slowed me down because my foot kept coming out of the shoe. I just knew everyone was staring at my feet; although pedestrians are usually in a hurry and barely noticed each other, this time I was sure they saw me.
Some more travel and the other shoe came loose also. Now I definitely could not walk any further, the soles were rapidly falling apart. Going barefoot was not an option, the streets are filled with broken glass, needles and all kinds of sharp objects; besides the hot pavement would have no mercy on the bottom of my feet. I felt embarassed and quickly took cover in a nearby store, grabbing a new pair of shoes and discarding the one on my feet.
I began to think of the many folks without a pair of shoes, such a basic necessity. "He who feels it knows it" I chuckled, because I make it my duty to ensure that the underprivileged youth gets a brand new pair of shoes but I found myself shoeless albeit for a short instant, on the streets.As the saying goes "the cobbler's son has no shoes" Did I need this experience to know what it feels like? Of course not but it is indeed a lesson in humility.
As we prepare for our "Back To School" event on 8-13-16 and as I purchase each pair of shoes, I will do so with renewed enthusiasm, because this incident reminded me why this mission of providing a brand new pair of shoes for the child in need still holds my interest.I have written and spoken many times about the need to protect the childrens' feet, the pride and joy it will bring them to own their own brand new pair and I will continue to be their mouthpiece.
One Love!
Friday, June 17, 2016
BELIEVE * ENGAGE * EDIFY * GO FORTH
We believe that together we can make wonderful things happen. Nutritionist and Friends In Action {NAFIA} aim to be builders. We are sharpening our tools, getting ready to engage a very young group of boys, girls and their families in ways to live healthfully. We would like them to make "My Plate" their very own, so that they will be eager to eat wholesome foods. We will also use this opportunity to promote exercise, giving them the chance to participate in fitness classes; from skipping rope to dancing to popular beats.
We will continue to build confidence and hope that as they grow they will join their community to practise healthy living. The smallest of change we know for sure will make a difference, involving the youth in a winning situation. As the NAFIA folks get ready for the event on 8/13/16 at the Langston Hughes Library, we will also focus on different ways to use plain yogurt to produce a variety of mouth-watering dishes.
These lines taken from the "Servant Song" by Richard Gillard, means so much to me.
"We are pilgrims on a journey.
We are travelers on the road.
We are here to help each other,
Walk the mile and bear the load."
Indeed, on this journey we will help each other become as healthy we can be, no matter how difficult. These words beautifully set the tone of the work we have set out to do. These are the words we hope to live by. We must BELIEVE that our work is possible. We must ENGAGE the youth.
We must EDIFY the youth and give them hope. Today we are are answering the call to be game changers.
One Love!
We will continue to build confidence and hope that as they grow they will join their community to practise healthy living. The smallest of change we know for sure will make a difference, involving the youth in a winning situation. As the NAFIA folks get ready for the event on 8/13/16 at the Langston Hughes Library, we will also focus on different ways to use plain yogurt to produce a variety of mouth-watering dishes.
These lines taken from the "Servant Song" by Richard Gillard, means so much to me.
"We are pilgrims on a journey.
We are travelers on the road.
We are here to help each other,
Walk the mile and bear the load."
Indeed, on this journey we will help each other become as healthy we can be, no matter how difficult. These words beautifully set the tone of the work we have set out to do. These are the words we hope to live by. We must BELIEVE that our work is possible. We must ENGAGE the youth.
We must EDIFY the youth and give them hope. Today we are are answering the call to be game changers.
One Love!
Sunday, May 8, 2016
Lifting Up The Youth - The Work Of Our Lifetime
NAFIA(Nutritionists And Friends In Action) has been created so that a very willing and able group of invigorated folks can gather and plan activities that introduce the youth to the start of a healthy pathway. This gathering is also an opportunity for us to look at our present selves and wonder out loud if a remake is necessary and what the new self would like to be, taking action to make it happen.
I truly believe the caretaker must take care of him/herself and make every effort to reset the body between rest and labor.Yet as we come together we will be mindful not to throw away anything we have done because we want to transform ourselves.Our plan is to take the good portions, the positive elements and make every effort to fit them into our new selves that we constantly have under construction.
I envision a truly highly spirited clan,using their skills in eagerness to build a healthier and sustainable community, starting with the youth. My sincere gratitude to each and everyone as we plan our back to school event in August in the Corona area.The precious young children will not only leave with a brand new pair of shoes, in keeping with the Not-For- Profit,CHOOSE TO CARE's mission, to provide the kid in need with a brand new pair of shoes; but they will gain knowledge of the benefits of living well.
This edification of the youth has become a lifetime work and the enthusiasm it has produced is indeed catching. We hope to lure others, not only to give a helping hand to NAFIA but to explore all the possibilities, with an eye on a brighter future.Our balanced minds are working for yet another chance to bring joy and hope.
Stay tune for details of our upcoming end of summer celebration. We hope you can join us!
Cheers!
I truly believe the caretaker must take care of him/herself and make every effort to reset the body between rest and labor.Yet as we come together we will be mindful not to throw away anything we have done because we want to transform ourselves.Our plan is to take the good portions, the positive elements and make every effort to fit them into our new selves that we constantly have under construction.
I envision a truly highly spirited clan,using their skills in eagerness to build a healthier and sustainable community, starting with the youth. My sincere gratitude to each and everyone as we plan our back to school event in August in the Corona area.The precious young children will not only leave with a brand new pair of shoes, in keeping with the Not-For- Profit,CHOOSE TO CARE's mission, to provide the kid in need with a brand new pair of shoes; but they will gain knowledge of the benefits of living well.
This edification of the youth has become a lifetime work and the enthusiasm it has produced is indeed catching. We hope to lure others, not only to give a helping hand to NAFIA but to explore all the possibilities, with an eye on a brighter future.Our balanced minds are working for yet another chance to bring joy and hope.
Stay tune for details of our upcoming end of summer celebration. We hope you can join us!
Cheers!
Friday, April 8, 2016
GOING FULL STEAM
The CHOOSE TO CARE supporters are an amazing group of people whose caring spirit continue to soar and their desire and contribution to bring joy and hope is applauded.
Although strapped for time, you never hesitated to give a helping hand to the CHOOSE TO CARE organization and you have joined their effort to provide a brand new pair of shoes for the child or young adult in need, while participating in the added practise of delivering nutrition messages and activities; each step leading to CHOOSE TO CARE'S mission of hope.
Thanks for all you do!
Dated: 4/7/16
What drives you to assist?
Maricela
Monica
When
I was a child, my mom taught me how your spirit grows when you help
people. The goal in my life is to
continue what my mom taught me and I pass the same philosophy to my kids.
I
enjoy being part of the events sponsored by “choose to care”. It has always
been my pleasure to help others whenever I can. I like to decorate and do arts
and crafts, but what touch me the most was that I was contributing for a good
cause and that moved me to help in this event. Also, helping other is a gift
from god as roman 15:2 says: “let each of us please his neighbor for his good,
leading to edification”.
Navdeep
I
always like to volunteer during community events and give back to my community.
Sikhs have tradition of seva (which means “selfless service” for altruistic
purposes on behalf of, and for the betterment of a Community). My cultural
beliefs about “offering service to the people around you”, drives me to
volunteer. Choose to care organization is working towards a great cause of
providing a pair of shoes to the needy and that even drives me more.
“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” means
“The world is my family”
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
AWAKENING OUR TASTE BUDS
The Choose To Care Cheerleaders,Niza, Navdeep,Maricella, Monica, Yanilsa, had been preparing for months, getting ready for our Youth In Action celebration which took place on Saturday, March 19. This time around we wanted the kids to learn how good nourishment allowed the body to grow just like the tomato seeds planted months before the actual celebration. The seeds were planted at 2 months, 6 weeks and 2 weeks intervals and were used to demonstrate growth at different period in the young childrens' life and how similar the results are when they are fed nutritious foods on a regular basis, they grow strong and healthy. We hope the families, including the children understood how they measured up to the budding plants.The children planted their own seeds and were instructed how to care for the plant at home,giving water and keeping it in the sunlight on the windowsill.
Snack time featured easy to prepare, finely chopped tomatoes,cilantro, onions, fresh lemon juice, mixed together with a dash of olive oil and served with corn chips. A young girl who at first did not think her taste buds would like this concoction, was encouraged to give it a try; she ended up asking for more. We all enjoyed this refreshing, flavorful dish, tomatoes swimming in its own juice and a bond was formed. The young girl was so impressed with the Nutritionist who had encouraged her to taste the delicious mixture that she requested a photo with her. Such is the power of encouragement, it fosters hope.
Thanks for your expertise and caring, for your compassion and skill that you bring to these young children and their families. Your support of CHOOSE TO CARE gives each of us the opportunity to touch the lives of so many in our communities. As each child left with a brand new pair of shoes,we would like to think that on this day we planted the seeds of hope. One thing we know for sure is that all our taste buds came alive with a snacking good dish.
Peace & Love!
"There can be hope only
for a society which acts
as one family,not as many
separate ones."
Anwar el- Sadat
Snack time featured easy to prepare, finely chopped tomatoes,cilantro, onions, fresh lemon juice, mixed together with a dash of olive oil and served with corn chips. A young girl who at first did not think her taste buds would like this concoction, was encouraged to give it a try; she ended up asking for more. We all enjoyed this refreshing, flavorful dish, tomatoes swimming in its own juice and a bond was formed. The young girl was so impressed with the Nutritionist who had encouraged her to taste the delicious mixture that she requested a photo with her. Such is the power of encouragement, it fosters hope.
Peace & Love!
"There can be hope only
for a society which acts
as one family,not as many
separate ones."
Anwar el- Sadat
Sunday, March 20, 2016
ON THE ROAD - MAKING MY ARRIVAL IN INCREDIBLE INDIA
" I have always known that at last I would
take this road but yesterday, I did not know
it would be today."
Ninth Century Japanese Poet
I had barely began to wonder out loud, where my feet would take me and pooh, my traveling partner and I found ourselves in Delhi, the capital of this magical and exotic country, called India. If I did not know better, I would have said it is the work of the travel genie. Although this was not my first trip to India, I was heading in a different direction in this vast land and I expected a different vibe. We were heading to what the travel brochure aptly described as the colors of Rajasthan.
So we landed in Delhi and was greeted with a huge garland of marigold placed around our necks and proceeded through pristine Marg (Streets) when the guide announced that this is not the way everything looks, as if preparing me for the real deal. Of course I do not need any such caution but he does not know that and I sat back with excitement and anticipation ready to soak it all in. These are the moments that I am glad for, staring out the window of a moving vehicle, lost in my thoughts, right now in awe, and I keep asking myself "How did I get here?" In my youth when I read about this place in books, it was such a distant land; in adulthood, I knew I would set foot on this soil, just did not know when it would happen. Our journey had begun, a tour of the simple marble memorial to Mahatma Gandhi in Delhi, marks where he was cremated. This a man I have revered and admired for his concerns for the downtrodden around the world.
From Delhi to Agra to Bharatpur to Ranthambore to Jaipur to Jodhpur to Udaipur and towns in between, we passed through bustling streets in a dense maze of residential homes; the buffaloes, cows,cats,dogs; the pushcarts of fruits and vegetables piled high, all existing together. The streets are teeming with people, activities, rickshaws, shops galore, selling everyday necessities, sweet shops, street cooking,masala chai stands,scooters,fabrics, colorful saris, flowers and marigolds. Yes, the same marigolds that were strung around our necks on arrival by our welcoming guide, is known as the herb of the sun,later I discovered it is a symbol of passion,creativity and used for weddings, religious ceremonies and offerings at temples. The patterns and colors of the streets are dazzling and I am loving it.
For years, while working on a crossword puzzle, there is often a query about the Taj Mahal and I would fill in Agra. Tonight I am transported to a local theater in Agra, to watch a showstopping production of how this magnificent building came about. The romantic story of the king's love for his queen and her death in childbirth which led him to build this temple as a tribute to her,was moving to put it mildly. The costumes were out of this world, the acting and singing draw you in.The next day our excursion took us to the Taj Mahal and as we enter the one of a kind temple, I am in a trance.
Ranthambore offered a safari, we were searching for the evasive tiger. On the early morning outing, the jeep makes it way through rough terrain and we are holding on for dear life. I can see the monkeys out of the corners of my eyes, up to their antics, the deers are prancing, there are other animals around but we did not come to see anyone but this tiger that is playing the game of hide and seek. The afternoon outing brought us luck, other guides had decided to work together to alert each other when they thought there was a sighting. The alarm sounded and there was a mad rush to the bank of the lake and my alert eyes caught the strut of the beauty, with its striking colors, moving in and out of the grass by the water. You could hear a pin drop, all attention was on the tiger. He disappeared for a while and we sat in anticipation that he would appear again. And he did! The cameras were pointed to capture this beautiful creature with its nonchalant attitude, telling us humans that he is in control. The tiger disappeared once more and we lingered, but "that was enough show for the night" said the tiger and we left as dusk began to fall. The next morning we were still on its trail but it never showed. I am satisfied.
Incredible ingredients make incredible meals. This is the land of vegetarianism and my taste buds were awakened by the spices and the delicious cuisines. My breakfast order was never without masala dosa, that rice and lentil crispy crepe served with sambar and coconut chutney. Idli, the steamed rice and lentil dumplings became one of my favorite, I ate many pieces of paratha,naan, roti and other stuffed flatbreads. Samosa, the fried pastry encased with masala potatoes, the rice and yellow lentils, tempered with cumin seeds, hit the spot and so did the biryani, a melange of fresh vegetables, sprinkled with fresh herbs and saffron; too many delicious dishes to name. My eyes were bigger than my stomach and I could not resist a second helping at each meal, including desserts.
As I sat on the train between cities, it was a time to slow down my senses and savor the beauty in all of this mixture. I relaxed and breathe, took in the countryside, the texture, the flavor, the aroma and i enjoyed it all. Our journey continued on by road to various temples, forts, palaces. In Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, the city is dubbed the Pink City, painted pink, decades ago to welcome the Prince of England and the color has remained. The imposing statue of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India stands in the park. We learned about the moguls, the dynasties, the gem stones, silver, wool productions, the agriculture; lots of potatoes, beets, guavas, zinc, marble,etc. We travelled through garbage strewn roads, dusty fields, there were people feeding birds, an act of charity was the explanation.
We watched the movie Lagaan, while we travelled on our private bus, this was so much deeper than a cricket match between England and India. A visit to a Jain temple, enlightened us to its followers beliefs. We passed through quarries, that produced rose colored sandstone. The gypsies, how can I forget the sight of a young girl doing cartwheels in the busy metropolis, hoping to earn a few rupees for her gymnastic skills. There were others touching their mouths and stomachs, motioning that they were hungry. How about the farm with the ox harnessing the water to the farms. Finally we are in Udaipur, a breathtaking town, called the City of Lakes; we travelled to our equally beautiful hotel by boat, there it was, the Taj Lake Palace, sitting on a lake that comes with so much history.
We had the greatest of accommodation, saw barren and lush lands, walked through a beautiful garden, named the Garden of Maids I could not tell you about every inch of this worthwhile journey but I have told you a lot,in a jumbled way because my experience was a mixture of so many things. I am still tickled pink, remembering the cows and the buffaloes, crossing the streets, paying no attention to the oncoming traffic; they sent the message,loud and clear that they must be allowed to cross at their own pace and the drivers must slow down. I hope I have conveyed how wonderful an experience this was for me. I hope you have sensed the joy running through my veins and into my soul, when I placed this exciting country on my list of places to go, I never expected to discover such a gem. At the end I left on a high note, wanting more.
"Not just yet Genie(grantor of my travel wishes), allow me to savor this extraordinary journey, but I could use a good cup of masala chai, just about now."
Nameste!
Shante!
take this road but yesterday, I did not know
it would be today."
Ninth Century Japanese Poet
I had barely began to wonder out loud, where my feet would take me and pooh, my traveling partner and I found ourselves in Delhi, the capital of this magical and exotic country, called India. If I did not know better, I would have said it is the work of the travel genie. Although this was not my first trip to India, I was heading in a different direction in this vast land and I expected a different vibe. We were heading to what the travel brochure aptly described as the colors of Rajasthan.
So we landed in Delhi and was greeted with a huge garland of marigold placed around our necks and proceeded through pristine Marg (Streets) when the guide announced that this is not the way everything looks, as if preparing me for the real deal. Of course I do not need any such caution but he does not know that and I sat back with excitement and anticipation ready to soak it all in. These are the moments that I am glad for, staring out the window of a moving vehicle, lost in my thoughts, right now in awe, and I keep asking myself "How did I get here?" In my youth when I read about this place in books, it was such a distant land; in adulthood, I knew I would set foot on this soil, just did not know when it would happen. Our journey had begun, a tour of the simple marble memorial to Mahatma Gandhi in Delhi, marks where he was cremated. This a man I have revered and admired for his concerns for the downtrodden around the world.
From Delhi to Agra to Bharatpur to Ranthambore to Jaipur to Jodhpur to Udaipur and towns in between, we passed through bustling streets in a dense maze of residential homes; the buffaloes, cows,cats,dogs; the pushcarts of fruits and vegetables piled high, all existing together. The streets are teeming with people, activities, rickshaws, shops galore, selling everyday necessities, sweet shops, street cooking,masala chai stands,scooters,fabrics, colorful saris, flowers and marigolds. Yes, the same marigolds that were strung around our necks on arrival by our welcoming guide, is known as the herb of the sun,later I discovered it is a symbol of passion,creativity and used for weddings, religious ceremonies and offerings at temples. The patterns and colors of the streets are dazzling and I am loving it.
For years, while working on a crossword puzzle, there is often a query about the Taj Mahal and I would fill in Agra. Tonight I am transported to a local theater in Agra, to watch a showstopping production of how this magnificent building came about. The romantic story of the king's love for his queen and her death in childbirth which led him to build this temple as a tribute to her,was moving to put it mildly. The costumes were out of this world, the acting and singing draw you in.The next day our excursion took us to the Taj Mahal and as we enter the one of a kind temple, I am in a trance.
Ranthambore offered a safari, we were searching for the evasive tiger. On the early morning outing, the jeep makes it way through rough terrain and we are holding on for dear life. I can see the monkeys out of the corners of my eyes, up to their antics, the deers are prancing, there are other animals around but we did not come to see anyone but this tiger that is playing the game of hide and seek. The afternoon outing brought us luck, other guides had decided to work together to alert each other when they thought there was a sighting. The alarm sounded and there was a mad rush to the bank of the lake and my alert eyes caught the strut of the beauty, with its striking colors, moving in and out of the grass by the water. You could hear a pin drop, all attention was on the tiger. He disappeared for a while and we sat in anticipation that he would appear again. And he did! The cameras were pointed to capture this beautiful creature with its nonchalant attitude, telling us humans that he is in control. The tiger disappeared once more and we lingered, but "that was enough show for the night" said the tiger and we left as dusk began to fall. The next morning we were still on its trail but it never showed. I am satisfied.
Incredible ingredients make incredible meals. This is the land of vegetarianism and my taste buds were awakened by the spices and the delicious cuisines. My breakfast order was never without masala dosa, that rice and lentil crispy crepe served with sambar and coconut chutney. Idli, the steamed rice and lentil dumplings became one of my favorite, I ate many pieces of paratha,naan, roti and other stuffed flatbreads. Samosa, the fried pastry encased with masala potatoes, the rice and yellow lentils, tempered with cumin seeds, hit the spot and so did the biryani, a melange of fresh vegetables, sprinkled with fresh herbs and saffron; too many delicious dishes to name. My eyes were bigger than my stomach and I could not resist a second helping at each meal, including desserts.
As I sat on the train between cities, it was a time to slow down my senses and savor the beauty in all of this mixture. I relaxed and breathe, took in the countryside, the texture, the flavor, the aroma and i enjoyed it all. Our journey continued on by road to various temples, forts, palaces. In Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, the city is dubbed the Pink City, painted pink, decades ago to welcome the Prince of England and the color has remained. The imposing statue of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India stands in the park. We learned about the moguls, the dynasties, the gem stones, silver, wool productions, the agriculture; lots of potatoes, beets, guavas, zinc, marble,etc. We travelled through garbage strewn roads, dusty fields, there were people feeding birds, an act of charity was the explanation.
We watched the movie Lagaan, while we travelled on our private bus, this was so much deeper than a cricket match between England and India. A visit to a Jain temple, enlightened us to its followers beliefs. We passed through quarries, that produced rose colored sandstone. The gypsies, how can I forget the sight of a young girl doing cartwheels in the busy metropolis, hoping to earn a few rupees for her gymnastic skills. There were others touching their mouths and stomachs, motioning that they were hungry. How about the farm with the ox harnessing the water to the farms. Finally we are in Udaipur, a breathtaking town, called the City of Lakes; we travelled to our equally beautiful hotel by boat, there it was, the Taj Lake Palace, sitting on a lake that comes with so much history.
We had the greatest of accommodation, saw barren and lush lands, walked through a beautiful garden, named the Garden of Maids I could not tell you about every inch of this worthwhile journey but I have told you a lot,in a jumbled way because my experience was a mixture of so many things. I am still tickled pink, remembering the cows and the buffaloes, crossing the streets, paying no attention to the oncoming traffic; they sent the message,loud and clear that they must be allowed to cross at their own pace and the drivers must slow down. I hope I have conveyed how wonderful an experience this was for me. I hope you have sensed the joy running through my veins and into my soul, when I placed this exciting country on my list of places to go, I never expected to discover such a gem. At the end I left on a high note, wanting more.
"Not just yet Genie(grantor of my travel wishes), allow me to savor this extraordinary journey, but I could use a good cup of masala chai, just about now."
Nameste!
Shante!
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