I'm fine. Shaken, not stirred...

Today I experienced my first earthquake! And I knew instantly what it was, because I could feel it in my brain. Like a seasickness. My heart was pumping so fast that the excess blood rushed to my brain and my entire body flushed with fervid adrenaline. This happened as I lounged on the sofa, previewing my mega September issue of Vogue. The bell curve tremors from a 5.9 quake made my body thump and sway on the sofa like an ocean wave... the pictures on the wall and the lamps shook and the building bumped, creaked, shifted and swayed... I just sat there with the Vogue in my hands like a life preserver and when the subtle convulsions ended I continued skimming the Vogue as if nothing that big had just happened.


xo, Ciao Bella

I Roam Around Looking for Good Wine, as the Goats Do



Goats do Roam Red 2010

 I hate to be the heavy... but... it's Autumn. I can tell -  the fragrant scent in the air, the slight fraction of a second shortening of the day, decrease in propensity for nudity, my irritability coupled by my insomnia - it's palpable. I'm ok with that, because I love Autumn. For me, it stimulates growth and renewal. Perhaps it's because my birthday is in September or maybe what I feel is pure nostalgia for the start of something new, like a new school year. Whatever it is, I'm aware of this hyper sensitivity, so it leads to a sense of disquietude. And with this awareness comes wisdom. What am I talking about? I hope this leads somewhere... moving along...

What I look forward to the most this time of year is reintroducing a major staple of my diet that usually lays dormant during the hot summer months. Autumn awakens my insatiable appetite for a full bodied red wine. Sulfates and all! That's why after five straight days of August rain, instead of sulking I've decided to begin celebrating the impending new season. In honor of Autumn, I'm featuring my selection of the best red wine for Autumn that I feel best commemorates this transition. Readers, feast your eyes on this tasty libation! [raise curtains here]

Goats do Roam Red 2010 (http://goatsdoroam.com/) is top shelf material in my book. Goats do Roam is based in the Paarl Region of the Western Cape wine lands in South Africa. The winemakers were inspired by the Saneen goats, which is how they came up with the great name! The art design was actually inspired by an ancient Mesopotamian artifact symbolizing the "importance of balance and composition". And they have proved to have accomplished that with this wine's blends of  Syrah 72%, Cinsaut 13%, Mourvèdre 7%, Carignan 4%, Grenache 3%. It is a smooth wine. I like how dark, aromatic and luscious it is. And I'm such a lush over it! Also pairs well with a warm Vegetable Tofu Soup, using seasonal veggies from the Grower's Market, of course!

I propose a toast to the goats!

xo, Ciao Bella

What to Bring to a Hawaiian Themed Pig Roast

Dear Ciao Bella,

I'm attending a pig roast with a Hawaiian theme. What can I bring to the party and more importantly what should I wear?

Thanks,
Nancy

Aloha Nancy,

I don't know much about pig roasts, but for some reason I'm envisioning the "Lord of the Flies" with a twist of "Blue Lagoon". How chill!

The first thing I would bring would be a gift for the host and/or hostess. I'm thinking some orchids for the hostess and some Hawaiian coffee espresso beans for the host.

You might like to check and see if it's a potluck style party since they're roasting the pig. Perhaps you can bring a side like Tropical Fruit Kabobs with Rum Sauce or a refreshing snack or a dessert, like Watermelon chunks marinated in Malibu Coconut Rum or Spiked Coconut Pineapple Popsicles (can you tell, I love coconut... And rum). Obvi, for adults only B-)

As for what to wear... I know people like to go crazy with the Hawaiian theme, wearing fruit patterned shirts and lays, but this time try going a little more subdued. Wife beater, jeans and flip-flops with just a flower pin tucked in your hair. You'll feel comfortable, relaxed and ready to walk on hot coals!

Let's party!

Xo, Ciao Bella

Birds of a Feather

Even dogs can rock the feather trend.

My obsession of the day: Feather Hair Extensions! I just got back to the office from my morning coffee run and as I walked past my hair salon (Hart's Hair Design) I glanced at the display in the window. I stopped dead in my tracks. And like a limp fish, I took the bait. I was instantly reeled in by the colorful array of feathers!!! So there I stood, mouth suction cupped to the glass... I DIE! They're so dreamy ethereal and they come in such superfly colors, like canary yellow, teal and hot pink. Bonus: They're running a special for fifteen bucks a pop. Buy two feathers get the third one FREE! I know, I know it's so stupid, but I got this overwhelming sensation that I NEEDED one, that I just HAD to have one... or two... or three.... But.... I'm in my 30's. Is getting a feather hair extension age appropriate for me? Or should I just say, "Who cares if I'm a pre-tween at heart?" And just fill my whole entire head with feathers! That would feel awesome. I mean really who cares what age, gender or species you are. When you have confidence you can rock anything you wear.

Steven Tyler (age 63) is totally rockin' his
feather hair extensions!

What are your thoughts on feather hair extensions? Would you get one?

xo, Ciao Bella

August Book Club Selection: HeLa-va Great Summer Read

     HeLa is the name used in the scientific community for the famous cells of Henrietta Lacks. These cells are considered by many prominent specialists in the field to be a miracle of science, because they were the first, ever, human cells to not only be able to live and survive in a culture dish, but to continue to thrive and multiply. And never die!
     These immortal cells were named after the donor's first two letters of the first and last name. It is noteworthy to mention that Henrietta Lacks was a black woman diagnosed with cervical cancer when her cells were taken  and that it was during our nation's pre-civil rights era. Obscured by the media and our nation's history with race discrimination, this is an amazing story that has only recently been brought to the country's consciousness with this best selling work of non-fiction.
     The author, Rebecca Skloot has devoted her life to learning everything about the woman who donated her immortal cells to science. She brings to light a haunting controversy - Did Henrietta Lacks actually donate her cells to science for research and advancement in cancer and medicine? Or were her cells taken without her knowledge or consent? It opens up a whole new can of worms about morals and ethics in the field of medicine and science. More importanly, she brings acknowledgement to Henrietta Lacks. It is an intriguing read and I am fascinated by the woman that lived then and forever.

What's on your summer reading list?


xo, Ciao Bella

Top 10 Fresh Summer Beauty Products

The marvelous thing about summer is that you tend to allow yourself to indulge a bit in the finer things in life, if you believe that these finer things will help you to survive the sweltering temperatures. Here at xo, Ciao Bella we feel that the "Top 10 Fresh Summer Beauty Products" featured in this edition will actually work most effectively when the weather is warm. And with this hot line up you'll want to ride the heat wave all summer long and still feel fresh [insert thumb up here]! Read on to see how.

1. Moroccan Oil Hair Products

I have been using Moroccan Oil for the last year and with remarkable results. My hair is made up of a complex and epic battle between fine, straight hair and thick, wavy hair. Moroccan Oil penetrates through each strand of hair to tame and control the fury, without making your hair look greasy. Over the course of the summer I have also come to love the Moroccan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner. Although you only need to use a small amount with this product... less is more philosophy applies here, I am in love with the results of this product all around. I 'm also really comforted by the natural, nutty (almost as bangin' as coconut) scent it leaves behind Not to mention how soft, shiny and smooth my hair feels and looks.

2. Mario Badescu Summer Shine Body Lotion - $22

I instantly fell in love with this concoction of creamy honeyness and fairy dust! That's not what this product is actually made of, but it is how it feels as I lather it on. Again, a small amount goes a long way. One dollop the size of a nickel should do for each limb. Please do not be intimidated by the shimmer aspect of this lotion, it is very subtle and you end up with a sunkissed glow rather than looking like a disco ball.

3. La Mer Gel Cream - $250

This is it!!! What belongs in every woman's beauty altar! I was recently introduced to La Mer Cream through my friend Gigi, who is a beauty guru in my mind! As I researched more about the product, I learned that they make a slightly lighter variation of the cream in a gel form, which works perfectly on my combination skin in this horrid humid weather. This concoction is so special you have to treat it like the gem that it is, because it is an investment, but very well worth it, because as Gigi pointed out, "Your face is the first thing people see." Duh! Now I's gots to have it! I don't purchase much make up and when I do I use it sparingly, because I like to conserve. I'm glad that I splurged on this one product. I've seen my face go through a metamorphosis with less acne, less acne scars, less outbreaks and a nice healthy glow. Who would've thought La Mer would contain such powerful healing properties.



4. Dove Ultimate Go Fresh Rebalance Antiperspirant & Deodorant Solid - $4

I'm new to this and I love it, because it doesn't have that baby powder or fruit basket smell. So fresh and so clean clean!



5. Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm $7

"Love your lips with a kiss of color," is what the Burt's Bees website reads under the product description. And indeed it is. It does feel like love, what with the sweet smell, the light sheen, transparent color, your lips just look slightly bitten (in a hot way).  I glide it on first thing in the morning and it instantly transforms my face from Walking Mummy to Cleopatra Pharaoh Queen. Gorgeous! And your kisses smell pretty too. I heart!!!

6. Gillette Venus Proskin Moisturerich - $10

I will admit, seeing JLo's gams in the ads for Gilette Venus Proskin Moisturerich were the sole reason for me purchasing this product. I don't even shave my legs!!! As I age, my leg hair just becomes lighter, softer and thinner so why bother? I probably will shave for a wedding or special occasion, but not on a regular basis. It's just too much work and too unnecessary. Besides, I'm European, I don't have to shave if I don't wanna! However, I do love to shave my arm pits, I feel so much more comfortable with a bald pit. I went through my hippie phase where I never shaved, at all, and it was cool to be like, "Hey dude look at my harry pit... I'm a natural woman, free and liberated, etc." ...But... at a certain age you start to wonder what the heck you're trying to prove. Harry pits like a harry south under is just plain hot and uncomfortable and unnecessary in the summertime. So it all must go. I do find that  I love the Proskin's "built in moisture rich bars" that makes the shaving process nice and smooth without the need for any shaving gel, which simplifies the process. And it should be simple. So Fresh!



7. Oil of Olay Body Wash Plus Tone Enriching Ribbons - $5.99

My skin is generally very, very thirsty. I drink plenty of fluids, but with all the summer elements of sun, beach, ocean, heat, daily showers, my skin is stripped of all the natural protective layers that keep it properly hydrated, naturally. It is a relief that I discovered this little gem in the Spring and I've maintained my loyalty, because I love the results. My skin is soft, smooth and with the tone enriching ribbons the minerals reflect the light to reveal a radiant all over glow. I like!



8. Fresh Here Comes the Sun Palette - $45

For realz, this is the most beautiful gift you can give another. It is so fresh and so lovely! As we all know, you just can't be wearing loads of makeup in the summer, because it'll just all end up dripping and melting off your face and that's just not hot! However, with this lovely bronzer trio - colors (left to right): resolute gold, here comes the sun, intense bronze -  you can feel like you're accentuating your facial structure with the bronzing face luster and highlighting the finer areas with the blush powder to enhance your natural healthy glow. I just take my puff brush and swipe it straight across the palette, blending all three shades. ThenI apply it to the areas of my face that would naturally be sunkissed like the brow, nose, cheeks, and lightly to the chin. I also learned a fancy beauty secret, that if you apply it to the base of your face (under chin area just along the jawline) it will give the illusion that you have a stronger facial profile and more defined features.This lovely mineral bronzer is light and transparent so it won't clog your pores or get all cakey, and your face can actually breathe.

Bonus: Instant tan to the face, sans the UV.





9. Flora by Gucci - $50

With notes of Citrus Accord, Peony, Rose, Osmanthus Flower, Pink Pepper, and Sandalwood it's no wonder beauty editors everywhere have voted Flora by Gucci one of the best scents for summer. I think it's the best, because it's light and refreshing and won't react negatively to the heat. I find that unlike certain other perfumes, this particular scent adjusts to your body's temperature so you won't wreak if it mixes with your sweat. It will still smell pretty and fresh, not gross, perfume, sweaty! No, this scent is very playful, feminine and romantic! Freshtastic!!!!



10. Palladio Rice Paper Blotting Tissues - $3.95

This here, is pretty mad fresh! I found these pretty Palladio Rice Paper Blotting Tissues at Sally's for a just a few bucks. Aren't they so pretty? Check it! I love these, because they are made from rice which makes them extra gentle, plus they're two sided. The matte side is for blotting the excess grease and oil from your face and the other side has a natural powder for a pre-happy hour touch up. And it comes in three different shades, Natural, Translucent and Warm Beige. Nice!

Have a fresh summer!

xo, Ciao Bella

Moixy Bitch Wine Spritzer

This time of year with temperatures rising to hell degrees Celsius, we're all looking for some refreshing liquid form of relief. I know at least I am. I don't only mean wanting to submerge my body into an ice cold pool of water and converting into a marine mammal and start living the aquatic life (what?), but I mean more of a cool and tasty libation that will cool the body from the inside out.

I've been chugging Brita filtered water all summer long (out of my Bitch glass), which as purified as they say it is, it does not get the taste of rotten tap water out. Besides, I'm bored with drinking water all the time, beer and soda make me belch and bloat (not hot), juice is for kids and I don't find anything at all satisfying about iced tea or iced coffee (my opinion is that they should only be served hot). So I've decided to create my own little concoction, which is truly a very simple formula. Please follow this recipe exactly to experience the best results... rinse and repeat.



Moixy Bitch Wine Spritzer Ingredients



You will need these ingredients:

1 Bottle of Bitch Wine (2009 was a good year)
1 Bottle of Pellegrino Sparkling Water
1 Wine glass
*Twin Peak like red curtains and candles are optional*

Instructions:

Fill 1/3 of the wine glass with Bitch and 2/3 with Pellegrino
(or vice versa). No need to stir, let the bubbles in the Pellegrino work their magic. Sip and Enjoy!


Not only is this a tasty summer cocktail, but you're actually drinking less wine and as a result you're spending less money, ingesting less calories, and waking up with less of a hangover. Bonus Bitches!

So what's your favorite chillin' summer cocktail? Please share your recipe.

Chin-Chin!

xo, Ciao Bella

xo, Ciao Bella would like to send thanks to Andrea (my sister, whom you will read alot about in future postings) for giving me the bottle of Bitch and I'd also like to thank my grandparents in Spain, who inspired this drink. It was actually my grandparents who'd always serve us this cocktail using "gasiosa" with our lunch.