The Writer In Me!

Valentine's Day for Realtors: How to Show Your Sphere of Influence Some Love ♡ ♡ ♡

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 14:29:00 -0800

Happy Valentine's Day, Dear Readers! Whether you're spending the day with a significant other, celebrating with friends, or simply treating yourself, I hope you have a wonderful day filled with love and happiness.

As a realtor, it's important to remember the value of your sphere of influence - your network of past and current clients, colleagues, friends, and family. These are the people who can refer you to new clients, give you positive reviews, and help you grow your business.

Reaching out to your sphere of influence with a thoughtful Valentine's Day message is a great way to show your appreciation for their support and keep yourself top of mind for future business opportunities. And what better occasion to do so than Valentine's Day?

#Realtors This year, I've created a series of Real Estate-themed Valentine's Day cards and messages, perfect for sharing with loved ones or even clients in the industry. It's never too late to reach out....Here are some easy Textable Valentine's Day Cards! If you're looking for something quick and easy, our Valentine's Day Real Estate Textable is a great option. Simply edit the image with your info, download the image and send it as a text message to your client. It acts as a Digital Business Card!

First up, we have our this Valentine's Day Real Estate Textable Card. It features two hearts and an ivy wreath and reads, “Let’s have a Heart-To-Heart about all your Real Estate Needs.” How sweet is that? You can check out this listing here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1395029172/valentines-real-estate-textable-message

Next, we have our Valentine's Day Real Estate Digital Card. This Black & Gold Minimalist Design features a classic look, “A Heartfelt Thank You for Your Business. Sending you Valentine’s Day Wishes for Your Continued Support and Referrals” It's perfect for your referrals and clients. You can check out this listing here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1412663097/valentines-day-real-estate-digital-card

This Valentine's Day Digital Card features a two cute little hearts and some yummy desserts and reads, “A Heartfelt Thank You For Your Business. Sending you Valentine’s Day Wishes for Your Continued Support and Referrals. " You can check out this listing here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1399292912/valentines-day-real-estate-textable

And finally, we have our Valentine's Real Estate Postcards that come in 3 sizes. These adorable postcards feature champagne glasses, flowers, and a home aesthetic, and reads “Any HOME can capture your eye, but it takes a special one to capture your HEART” They're perfect for sending in the mail or leaving as a surprise when you door knock. You can check out this listing here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1412464737/valentines-real-estate-postcards-real

So there you have it, some unique Real Estate-themed Valentine's Day products that are sure to put a smile on your clients' faces this holiday. From digital cards to postcards and textable messages, there's something for everyone in this Etsy shop. So go ahead and spread the love to your clients, coworkers, and loved ones in the Real Estate industry with these heartfelt Valentine's Day messages.

Wishing you all a wonderful Valentine's Day full of love, appreciation, and gratitude for all the hard work you do as real estate professionals.

Your Destination for Premium Digital Downloads at Affordable Prices

And remember, there are many more Real Estate digital downloads available in this Etsy shop, so be sure to check them out for your next special occasion or marketing campaign. https://www.etsy.com/shop/DigitalWorksByMedini

Sublime food experiences come from following an age-old practice!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Sun, 6 Nov 2022 19:39:00 -0800

Humans are born with a spectacular set of eating utensils, don't you think? They are adaptable, difficult to misplace, and relatively permanent. Yes, you guessed it... I am talking about your fingers...all ten of them. So many people around the world believe that neither slender chopsticks nor forks and spoons are better suited for transporting food to the mouth than our own hands. When you eat food with your fingers, it just tastes better. Thus, the term...finger licking good!

I bet you have tried it too. If you've ever eaten a slice of pizza, a burger, or fries, you've already experienced what it's like to eat with your hands.

In India, much of Africa, and Southeast Asia, people who don't use forks rave about how organic and sublime the feeling is. This brings a sense of intimacy and a sensual connection to the dish being consumed.

So how does it feel to eat with your own set of utensils and how does one go about it.

It’s simple. Begin with a clean set of hands. Well, we are familiar with the 20-second hand-washing rule. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water. Now you are ready to dig in.

Eating Indian food with your hands is really up to your level of comfort. Experts pick up and slurp liquids elegantly and swiftly. If you are just a beginner here are some tips. When you first try it, you are most likely going to feel awkward and weird.

I suggest you start with Naan or Roti (Indian bread) and a "not-so-soupy" curry. Break a piece of the Naan with your fingers (yes, you can use both your hands) and dip the piece of Naan or Roti into your curry. And proceed.

Eating rice with curry is definitely challenging. Once you have made a bite of the rice and curry combo, take your thumb and push the bite of rice into your mouth. It is trickier than eating a piece of Naan or Indian bread. Once you are comfortable eating roti/naan with your fingers try eating small portions of the rice.

Let me share one of the physiological benefits of eating with your fingers.

A spoon creates a standard-mouthful for everyone when they eat. When eating with your fingers, you are constructing your own hand-crafted-bite which means you are consuming a bite that is made just for you, by you. Creating a bite needs your attention. This means looking at the food and not mindlessly shoving it with a fork or spoon. This slow, mindful pace of eating hand-crafted bites promotes better digestion. Of course, I know of many food-shovers who use their fingers.

The next time you go to an Indian restaurant abandon the silverware and try it! Have you eaten Indian food with your fingers??

Five Fun Fall Reads For Kids

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Sun, 30 Oct 2022 16:59:00 -0700

The fall season is ideal for curling up on the couch with a good book to read to your children. Kids adore this time of year as the air cools and the colors begin to take on their beautiful autumn. colors. It's time for some hot chocolate and reading! Here are 5 delightful fall books to read with your kids to experience all the wonders of this magical season.

Celebrate fall with the sweet and charming Fletcher the fox! As the leaves fall from his favorite tree, Fletcher worries that something is terribly wrong. But then winter comes, and with it a wonderful surprise. Do you know what it is? Join Fletcher and find out. . . .

Squirrel loves counting the leaves on his tree--red leaves, gold leaves, orange, and more. But hold on! One of his leaves is missing! On a quest to find the missing leaf, Squirrel teams up with his good friend Bird to discover who the leaf thief could be among their forest friends.

As trees sway in the cool breeze, blue jays head south, and leaves change their colors, everyone knows--autumn is on its way! Join a young girl as she takes a walk through forest and town, greeting all the signs of the coming season. In a series of conversations with every flower and creature and gust of wind, she says good-bye to summer and welcomes autumn.

Halloween is almost here, and Corduroy can't wait! He is going to have a party. He and his friends will carve a jack-o'-lantern, bob for apples, and go trick-or-treating! But there is one problem-Corduroy needs to choose a costume. What will he wear?

A New York Times Bestseller! From the bestselling How to Catch series comes a festive turkey tale and Thanksgiving book for kids!

A turkey is running loose in a school right before a Thanksgiving play. Can YOU help catch it so the show can go on? Follow along as students turn their school upside down trying to catch the turkey, ending with a twist that ensures no turkeys are harmed (or eaten!). This hilariously zany children's picture book combines STEAM concepts and traps with a silly story and fun illustrations, perfect for starting a new fall family tradition this autumn or giving as a Thanksgiving gift for kids ages 4 and up!

Yes!! Nana's Call cover got nominated! Help me win this #CoverOfTheMonth contest

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Tue, 2 Aug 2022 18:14:00 -0700

They say not to judge a book by its cover but I need you to do just that. If you liked the cover of my book, Nana's Call: Every Day At 5 o'clock, please vote for it for the Cover of the Month contest on AllAuthor.com!

My chances of winning the "Cover of the Month" contest on AllAuthor depend upon fans of Nana's Call!! I'm going to need just as much help from you guys. I would appreciate it if you could cast your vote for my book cover HERE:

Click to Vote! Voting has ended!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 18:45:00 -0700

Eric Carle, Author Of 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar,' Dies At 91

Eric Carle, a well-known illustrator and author of children's books, has died today, July 14th, 2022. I remember spending countless hours with my children reading his beautifully illustrated books. His books are composed of simple, repetitive phrases that captivate the imaginations of children of all ages.

Did you know.....

Carle was born in Syracuse, New York on June 25, 1929.
Since its initial publication in 1969, Mr. Carle's best-known book The Very Hungry Caterpillar has sold over 55 million copies worldwide.
He created his illustrations with tissue paper and acrylic paint.
He illustrated over 70 books, the majority of which he also wrote, and his books have sold over 145 million copies worldwide.
With only $40 in his pocket, he moved to New York City in 1952 and landed a job as a graphic designer in The New York Times' promotion department.
Eric Carle: Books, Biography, Blog, Audiobooks, Kindle
His publisher was Penguin Random House.

Video of Eric Carle Talking About The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Famous Books by Eric Carle

1967, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
1969, The Very Hungry Caterpillar
1977, The Grouchy Ladybug
1984, The Very Busy Spider
1991, Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear?

Your NEW habits start now! How to make change happen!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Sat, 2 Jul 2022 12:13:00 -0700

Do you want to change something about you? Is there something that motivates you to change? The key for me, has always been to be acutely aware of my habits, feelings, and goals. 
In addition, I ask myself the following questions: Do I want to make the effort to change or am I fine with the way things are for now? What do I really want to change? Whom am I changing for? Many times, I don't get all the answers. Here are some ways to help yourself if this sounds like you.
Join others who are going through the same thing. Joining Facebook groups is a great way to be with like-minded people. As a new author, I have joined many author groups. Do you find joining groups helpful?
Make a commitment to change a tiny bit. Big goals may feel harder to achieve. I try to make small achievable goals using the S.M.A.R.T. system. What do you use? 
Use Self-Help Books.  I love Atomic Habits. Have you read it? 
Read motivational books. I really like Tony Robbins and his methods. Sometimes even listening to a few of his videos makes me think about doing something about my goals.
One-Line-A-Day books are very helpful when it comes to jotting your thoughts - one line a day. I am not sure if you have seen Adam Kurtz's books. His one like a day books are cute! 
If you are looking to change, preview the 3-month undated Journal - “Sweet Musings: A 3-Month Diary” on Amazon. This three-month journal will help you recognize and take action on habits that are holding you back.
Most of all STAY MOTIVATED and NEVER GIVE UP! ✌✌✌✌

Happy Weekend everyone! Happy 4th!! 

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 08:17:00 -0700

Writing is my passion! I have written a Contemporary Children's Rhyming Book - Releasing on Kindle on June 17th, 2022! Here’s a book that will be near and dear to all the young Nanas, Grandmas, Abuelas and Aajis who live far away from their grandkids and talk to them via FaceTime or a Video Phone Call!! Share this special storybook!

Nana's Call is a contemporary charming children's book for ages 1-3yrs. It is a single story that teaches toddlers that even though their grandparents live far away, they do love them very much. Filled with bright and colorful pages and rhyming sentences, which kids will really love and parents will relate to. The rhymes are what make the book fun!!!

The Story: In this book, Nana calls her grandson, Niam, every day after work. They sing and dance and air-hug each other. Even when it's time to say bye-bye, they are not sad, because Niam knows that Nana will call him every day at 5 o'clock.

It’s ready for pre-order!! Paperback coming soon!!! Click Here To Order!

8 Practical Weight Loss Tips to Help You Lose Weight, Keep a Healthy Mindset, and Stay Motivated #Book Announcement

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Mon, 16 May 2022 00:08:00 -0700

Are you hitting a weight loss plateau? Do you struggle to maintain your diet and exercise routine, or do you just need fresh inspiration to help you reach your goals? Whatever your circumstances, there are numerous ways to get back on track with your weight loss.

And who better to help than someone who has been in that situation before and has found their way out? Weight loss motivation can come in many forms. If you are wanting to lose weight and keep it off, then knowing someone who has been through this before and has found their way out can provide a lot of motivation. I have been in this situation numerous times.

I can tell you for sure that an effective weight loss intervention will include not just diet and exercise tips but also psychological tools, resources for continuing the battle beyond that initial intervention period. And yes it is an intervention, because your life and mindset requires change and that too a well informed one.

The following 8 tips take the best info from both worlds — they’re simple and easy, but also effective and helpful for keeping that pesky fat away long-term. This is just the beginning....a broad look at the BIG step you are about to take. Disclaimer : Please consult with your doctor before beginning any lifestyle change.

1. Know your "why" Why are you losing the weight
Know your "why" Why are you losing the weight If you don’t have a strong enough reason to do it, you probably won’t. Why are you changing the way you eat? Why are you exercising? Why are you doing all of this? Better yet, why not? Why should you be unhealthy when you don’t have to be? Because you’re worth it. Because you deserve to be healthy. Because you want to look and feel your best. One thing I have learnt is not doing this for someone else or FOR an occasion. Those goals are temporary.

2. Set small, achievable goals that you can build on.
For example, if you want to lose 20 lbs. in six months, that’s 3 lbs. a month. If you’re trying to reduce your daily calorie intake by 1,000 calories, that’s just a reduction of a measly 125 calories per day! Sometimes people say look at the end goal or the big picture. My theory is to start small, one meal, one step, one habit.

3. Stay away from fad diets and crazy meal plans.
While some diets may provide you with a quick fix, they also may be incredibly unhealthy for your body in the long run. Some may also be incredibly unsustainable for your lifestyle and your mental health. Some may just plain not work for you. So why risk that? Choose a plan that will work with your lifestyle. And sometimes you may have to change that lifestyle...one habit at a time.

4. Exercise regularly and consistently. Make it a habit.
Again, small steps....First let's look at, why exercise? Not only will regular exercise help you improve your cardiovascular health, but it can be an excellent aid in weight loss. Not to mention, it’s a great stress-reducer and mood-enhancer. Exercise also helps improve and maintain muscle mass, which can help you lose more fat when you diet.

If you’re new to exercising, try to commit to at least 10 minutes a day, 3-5 times a week. You’ll really see results if you slowly increase the intensity of your workout as you become more fit. Just like with eating differently, you should aim to make exercise a regular part of your life. It doesn’t have to be complicated — just make sure you’re getting the recommended 150 minutes of exercise per week or at least start at 30 minutes a week...yes I said 30 minutes. If you have a sedentary lifestyle. Start with a 2 minute walk every hour. Apps like "Chirps" will ping you every hour.

4. Don’t let yourself get too hungry — eat often!
This one is pretty self-explanatory. If you’re too hungry, you’ll likely make poor food choices and end up sabotaging your own diet! Most experts recommend eating every 2-3 hours. If you’re just not hungry enough to eat that often, at the very least, eat breakfast and drink water every hour. Meal prep with veggies, berries and water for your work week.

5. Don’t rely on scale weight as your sole indicator of success.
You may be losing fat, but you may also be losing muscle and water weight. The latter two can be misleading as indicators of your progress. A better option would be to use a measuring tape or a body fat percentage (using a tool like a body fat analyzer) to get a better idea of how your efforts are paying off. Fat weighs less than muscle and water — so if your measurements stay the same or go up, it may not be a cause for alarm. Your clothes are also a great indicator of how much you are losing.

6. Build muscle to help you lose fat more efficiently.
Muscle burns more calories than fat, so the more muscle you have, the more fat you’ll burn. It takes about 20 to 30 hours for your body to burn its fat stores for energy — but it can only do that once it has used up its glycogen stores.

Glycogen is your body’s stored glucose — its energy source. You can use these facts to your advantage. The more active you are, the more your body will rely on its fat stores for energy, and the less it will have access to its glycogen stores. If you exercise often, you can train your body to rely less on its glycogen stores and more on its fat stores, which will help you burn fat more efficiently. So, build up more muscle and use that fat for energy more often, and you’ll be able to burn more fat. Non jarring exercises like using 1-3 pound weights are a great way to start. You don't have to jump around or run to get those muscles moving. Try moving your arms, raising your legs, marching in place or just dancing to your favorite song!

7. Good nutrition is just as important as regular exercise.

Whether you exercise a lot or not, you should be eating a well balanced diet. Many people don't realize the importance of food on their bodies. Food has a huge impact on your body chemistry. If you are trying to make changes to your body, the first thing that should go is the junk food and sodas. You will be amazed at how much energy you have if you eat healthy foods.

A good place to start is by setting yourself up for success. A plan isn't written in stone — it's just a guideline that helps you stay on track. Keep it simple and always have an idea of what you are going to eat for each meal and snack. There are plenty of apps that can help with this process like MyFitnessPal .

If you want to lose weight, then make sure you are getting enough protein; about 20-30 grams per day or about 4 ounces. You should also aim for 4 cups of veggies every day and avoid any processed foods as much as possible. Most fruits and vegetables contain natural sugars which is a good thing because your body needs it but try to limit fruit intake because they do contain calories, usually around 100-150 calories each depending on size and type of fruit.

8. Bottom line: You can’t out-exercise a bad diet!
You need to have a solid diet plan in place before you add in the exercise. You need to be fueled for success. You need to be eating the right foods for optimum health and energy. If you try to exercise but you don’t have the energy for it because you’re not eating enough, you may end up hurting your efforts. Ya see, you can’t out-exercise a bad diet! So don’t do that! Instead, eat well and exercise regularly, and you’ll be on the right track to a healthier life.

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Did you know I am writing a book on practical weight loss tips? As a life long "dieter" and Nutritionist, I thought I would share my tips so that it may benefit your journey. This article was a very broad look at what will be in the book. I have detailed chapters in the book that will help you quickly. You can jump to any section of the book. For example, if you want tips on say , "How To Avoid Late Night Snacking" you can go right to that chapter.

The book is written so that you can look up what you need the most help with and read and implement all the tips from that chapter. The fact is that if you are ready to take the plunge to get healthy, this book will be extremely helpful to you. Flip to any page, Start anywhere, Highlight the ones you love. And start your own journey towards good health. COMING SOON TO AMAZON.

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P.S. For reviewers, I would love to send you a copy of the ebook in exchange for an honest review on Amazon. If you would like that - Please fill out this form and I will send you a free copy just before the launch. Let me know if you would like to participate.

Of Spice Mistresses and Grandmas!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Thu, 5 May 2022 00:47:00 -0700

Yes, you could unquestionably call my maternal grandmother a "Spice Mistress"! She reigned supremely in the kitchen; it was her fortress. Snehalata Ambegaonker, was a regal, nurturing, vivacious, podgy, larger than life woman.

Nurturing, because she had six girls and three boys and she loved them all with a gentle kindness, yet had a firm hand. She ran her palatial home in the city of Baroda, in the state of Gujarat in India, with the precision of a conductor, waving her wand to the kitchen staff to generate beautiful homemade dishes.

Vivacious because she was every woman’s best friend and every man wanted to get invited for a meal cooked by her! Her meals were legendary, my mom told me. The mouth-watering descriptions of her meals would always lead me to imagine that each delicious bite her guests ate was a “sublime mouthful of pleasure”.

She was married to my tall and handsome grandfather, Jayawant Rao Ambegoanker. He was an officer in the court of the Maharaja of Baroda in the 1930's. Thus there were many opportunities for my grandmother to throw lavish parties as her guests included Indian dignitaries and royalty. Cooking competitions were her forte! Her first victory was at a cake competition at Nyay Mandir in Baroda where she baked a cake in the form a steam ship, detailed with windows, masthead & funnels!

Before each huge social gathering, the house help - thin bodied strong women dressed in “kashta” traditional Maharashtrian sarees drummed to the beat of my grandmother’s instructions; blending, roasting, chopping, grinding, sautéing and much more. It was an operatic hum, creating magical aromas in the home. It was this infectious enthusiasm for food that my grandmother passed on to all her six daughters. She passed this love and appreciation of food to my mother in particular.....Devayani Kulkarni (nee Saral Ambegaonker)

The six sisters learnt by her side keenly observing as she would cook. She taught them the art of cooking, the science of precision and how to decorate and garnish. She said you have to entice the eyes before even a bite is taken. No fancy table cloths adorned her table, it was her food that brought the table alive. Her table was spread with fragrant Indian biryanis and pulaos, colorful Indian salads all adorned with decadent hand-made garnishes.

Not only that, but for when she had her parties, and there were a lot, she would place a card for every dish and make up rhyming couplets for each dish, how poetic of her! Her guests drooled. My mom used to tell me how they would all wait to see the eyes of the guests, light up when they arrived, and how she and her sisters listened from inside the kitchen only to hear the “ooohs” and “aaahs” coming from the main dining room outside.

Often during the summers, we would visit my grandparents and get royally pampered with fanfare and tasty simple home-made food that my grandmother made lovingly for us from scratch..something that I clearly remember and I still crave today. Baroda had smells of its own; sweet distinct rich saffron like aromas filled the air in the summers from the fresh mango baskets in the kitchen, punctuated with wafts of simple home cooked meals like hot phulkas, daals, bhaajis and the fragrance of freshly cooked basmati rice.

Indian Spice Box

"Maa", as I lovingly called her, used to tell me exactly and explain in simple words, what she was cooking, and that it would literally make me drool. I remember watching her mix, sauté, and cook on her beautiful antique stove in the manner of a dance move. I would literally make my heart smile. As I danced around in front of her, I recall her laughter and smiling face. I remember she would always give me a piece of chappati dough to play with. I knew then, that I too wanted to be like her. I used to love following my grandmother around in her kitchen and watched as she blended, ground and spiced her food…Spice Mistress for sure, and a darn good one at that!

Note : Hope you enjoyed the essay! Will be appearing in my book!

5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Use a Composition Notebook In Their Lives

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Fri, 8 Apr 2022 17:07:00 -0700

Every writer has their own methods for keeping track of their ideas, and a composition notebook is the perfect tool for that. Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom looking for a creative outlet to keep your mind active, an entrepreneur looking for a way to manage your business ideas, or a student looking for a way to organize your notes and keep your writing organized, a composition notebook is the perfect solution.

They can be used for so many different writing projects, from short anecdotes to long essays and research papers. Composition notebooks are not only great for writers, they’re great for everyone. They can be used for personal records or to hold small bits of information that need to be organized or referenced. You can write lists, brainstorm ideas, or keep track of things you need to remember. It can be used for school or personal writing. A composition notebook can be used for anything and everything you can think of. They are a great way to organize and keep track of your ideas. Here are 5 reasons you should be using one...

1. Composition Books Are An Affordable Option To Buying Expensive Software

Composition books are an inexpensive way to document your thoughts and progress. They come in a variety of sizes, making them simple and easy to carry with you. I use composition books a lot in my business, as well as for my personal journaling and goal setting. They are easy to carry, and are often less expensive than other types of leather bound planners or journals.

2. They Help You To Stay Organized

Staying organized can be very challenging for writers. It can be hard to find a balance between being overly anal about details, and not getting so wrapped up in those details that you lose sight of your larger picture. One of the best things about a composition notebook is that it lets you be organized without getting too involved in the details. A notebook can be your home for all your information, but it doesn’t need to be in one place—you can keep it all in your head or on paper. A notebook is a place to store ideas, not to get bogged down with organization.

3. You Need A Place To Distill And Revise

This is a phase where most writers go wrong. It’s easy to get caught up in the details of writing and just do the writing. But that’s the easy part. The challenge is to figure out how to make the writing great. The only way to do that is to, distill and revise. Find the place in your notebook to start organizing your thoughts, to get a bigger picture of what you’re writing, and to go back and revise your ideas. And don’t limit revision to grammar and spelling either. You can revise your topics and plot, your tone, and even your characters.

4. They Help You See Ideas Visually

One of the best ways to organize your writing is to visualize your ideas. If you have trouble seeing your thoughts clearly, try writing them out visually. You can use pictures, charts, or words to help you see what you’re writing. One other reason visualization is important is because it helps you focus on the big picture of your ideas. Once you’re able to see your thoughts visually, you can start to zoom in and zoom out to recognize the shape of your ideas.

5. You Can Write Anywhere

One of the best parts about a composition notebook is how flexible it is. It can be used for so many different writing projects. Whether you’re in the dining room or the bedroom, the kitchen or the backyard, you can use a notebook anywhere. You don’t have to be a certain place or look a certain way to write. You can write anywhere and anytime. There’s no need to look for a quiet place, or set up a desk. You don’t need any of that because you can write anywhere.

Summer Flowers Composition Book | Pretty Gift for Women and Girls | 8.5 x 11 - 100 College Ruled Journal

Conclusion

A composition notebook is the perfect tool for organizing your thoughts and seeing your ideas visually. It can be used for any writing project, it’s cheap, it’s simple, and it’s flexible. You can organize your thoughts, see your ideas visually, and write anywhere. If you’re looking to stay organized and see your ideas visually, a composition notebook is the perfect solution.

Choose some of the many Trendy Designs I have for you. From Flowers to Cats to a Stylish Black and White Designs (Coming Soon) ! Let your writing shine through!

Here is the Composition Book : Summer Flowers Composition Book | Pretty Gift for Women and Girls | 8.5 x 11 - 100 College Ruled Journal More Stylish Designs Coming Soon!

More Journals For You!

Why Journals? Writing promotes healing!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Tue, 5 Apr 2022 13:45:00 -0700

I'm excited to embark on this new Amazon adventure with you! I've always enjoyed writing, even when I was a young child. There is something about putting pen to paper that just feels, so right. Like many of you who love to write daily, I too have enjoyed getting that clarity by writing down my feelings...instead of "eating" them. Don't get me wrong, I have done that too! :)

The idea behind these journals is to help others who struggle with writing down emotions so that they can get clarity and feel uplifted by having them around. That is precisely why I started with, designing Journals. They inspire us, guide us, help us, soothe us, and even heal us.

My Life - Mindfulness Journal For Teens

I tried to create beautiful journals with helpful templates, self-love exercises, and other things that can change your daily routine. I know how important it is to document all the happy as well as sad moments in your life and writing about them in a journal makes their weight on your heart...less. Therefore, I created a few journals you can use for writing down your thoughts and feelings. These journals provide a blank space for you to write on (or even doodle). Please note that the Hard Cover journals do take time to ship from Amazon, but hopefully they will be well worth it.

We need beautiful things in our lives to keep us inspired as we write more and more. I designed these journals because I've always loved designing things. I hope you like the designs. Feel free to recommend any that you think you want me to make. Please comment below with any recommendations you have.

Here are the Black & White Series Of Journals I am working on. Thanks for stopping by! Hope to see you soon. Be sure to bookmark this site for future updates.

Summer time with ice ice ice! #Gola

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Sun, 3 May 2020 01:42:00 -0700

Gola - The quintessential thirst quencher in the SUMMER!

Shaved ice balls on a wooden stick or "Golas" are the perfect way to beat the cruel summer heat in India. Golas are essentially an Indian improvised shaved ice lollipop on a stick. The syrup is added after the ice has been created and formed into a perfect oval on a wooden stick.

Gola is an Indian street food or should I say dessert/drink! It is shaved ice, formed into a ball on a wooden stick topped with flavored syrups. You can use sugar-free syrup's too. Top your shaved ice gola with a dollop of ice cream, crushed pistachios, “Sabja”, or boba! #innovate

Watch how they make Gola!

To make the Goal you definitely need an Ice Shaving Machine. I like the one by Hawaiian https://amzn.to/3fdJdVU

It can make shaved ice from not only the frozen blocks of ice but also from the ice cubes in your freezer. To use, fill the round ice molds with water and let them freeze overnight to produce small, round blocks of ice. Before shaving, allow the ice blocks to thaw for 5-7 minutes. This is what the pros do to provide the best quality snow! This process is called 'tempering'.

Shave the ice and mould it into the cone add your favorite syrup and topping. Here are some toppings you can add. Swizzle them on the top of the ice. Check for the sweetness and add accordingly. Enjoy!

Kala Khatta Syrup
Thandai Syrup
Blue Raspberry Syrup
Pina Colada Syrup
Strawberry Syrup
Torani Sugar Free Syrup https://amzn.to/2YqB0rs

Turmeric the "Miracle Spice"

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Sat, 2 May 2020 15:36:00 -0700

Turmeric is so totally the "Queen of Spices" or as they call it the "Miracle Spice" Not only does it flaunt a bold bright mustard yellow color that some may call attractive but it also has a huge benefit your food and your body!

Besides adding a ton of flavor and color it doubles as a an antiseptic in healing open wounds, as an anti-inflammatory and guess what ....also aids in weight loss! Miracle or not this wonder spice will make you a star in your kitchen!

Turmeric or "Haldi"

What is Turmeric?

Turmeric comes from the root of the Curcuma longa plant and has a tough brown skin and a deep orange flesh. In its root form it is very much like ginger root, but its insides are bright yellow. Turmeric was traditionally called "Indian saffron" because of its deep yellow-orange color and has been used throughout history as a condiment, healing remedy and textile dye.

Taste

I wouldn't taste it raw, but turmeric has a peppery, warm and bitter flavor and a mild fragrance slightly reminiscent of orange and ginger. It is hailed as the "spice of spices" in Ayurvedic cuisine. Some people enjoy eating fresh turmeric root but it is done very rarely. Most of the time the dried turmeric root is ground to a fine powder and used in cooking. It is used to add flavor and color in most simple daals, curries both vegetarian and non-vegetarian and savory appetizers and soups.

Medicinal properties

Turmeric has long been used as a powerful anti-inflammatory in both the Chinese and Indian systems of medicine. Curcumin, one of turmeric's most thoroughly studied active ingredients, reduces the formation of fat tissue by suppressing the blood vessels needed to form it, and therefore may contribute to lower body fat and body weight gain. According to research, Turmeric is used for arthritis, heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea, intestinal gas, stomach bloating, loss of appetite, jaundice, liver problems and gallbladder disorders.

It is also used for headaches, bronchitis, colds, lung infections, fibromyalgia, leprosy, fever, menstrual problems, and cancer.

Did you know that you can get Turmeric capsules that you can take daily. http://amzn.to/1LArB1X

Turmeric is considered highly auspicious and holy in India and has been used extensively in various Indian ceremonies for millennia. Even today it is used in every part of India during wedding ceremonies and religious ceremonies.

Tips for Preparing Turmeric

Be careful when using turmeric as its deep color can easily stain. To avoid a lasting stain, quickly wash any area with which it has made contact with soap and water. To prevent staining your hands, you might consider wearing kitchen gloves while handling turmeric. If you try to wash turmeric stains with bleach they turn red..its best to wear an apron when using turmeric in your kitchen.

Here is a simple recipe for Haldi Doodh or Turmeric milk. I remember my mom making this for me when I had the cough and cold. It soothes a sore throat and makes you feel better.

Milk – 1 cup
Sugar – 1 tbsp
Turmeric powder – ½ tsp

Mix everything together and boil for 2 minutes on a low flame. Close with a lid and keep aside for 5 minutes or so. Strain and have it warm.

More info

Spices have been mentioned in the age old Hindu scriptures called the Vedas and have also been seen mentioned in the ancient Egyptian papyruses and the Old Testament. It was the Romans that actually discovered their culinary possibilities. Besides their intrinsic qualities of healing and preservation, spices have always been believed to have magical qualities. Learn all about the Basic Indian Spices here!!

Sprouted Moong...a healthy alternative to canned beans!!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Thu, 2 Feb 2017 09:49:00 -0800

Sprouted Moong beans are becoming a very popular ingredient in the healthy cooking world, because they are nutritious, healthy and rich in vitamins and enzymes. Most importantly they can be eaten raw.

Sprouted Moong

You will be surprised to know that they are easily available in many grocery stores. I usually find mine at Trader Joe’s or Whole foods. You can also sprout them yourself. It is a very easy process but it does take a few hours of soaking of the dried beans and overnight sprouting.

Sprouted Moong beans are a high source of vegetable protein,One cup of sprouted green moong has only 33-35 calories and 2 to 3 g of protein.

Here is a healthy recipe for Spiced Moong Toss

For the salad

1 cup sprouted moong, par boiled, cooled
1/4 cup Cucumber, cubed
1/4 cup Red onions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup grated carrots
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
2 Tbsp Craisins
Juice of 1 lime
1/4 tsp Chaat Masala
Sugar, Salt and Pepper to taste

To Temper
1 tsp oil
1/2 tsp Mustard seeds
1 Broken Red Chili
7-8 fresh curry leaves

In a bowl, add 1 Tbsp water and the sprouted moong, Microwave for 3 minutes. This will par boil the sprouted moong. Remove and cool. Mix all the salad ingredients in a bowl and gently toss with a wooden spoon. In a pan heat the oil, add the mustard seeds, and red chili. When the mustard seeds start to sputter add the curry leaves. Quickly remove from the flame and add this mixture or “tadka” to the tossed salad and mix gently. Serve as a side dish or in a wrap.

Glossary of Indian Restaurant Curries

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Mon, 30 Jan 2017 08:43:00 -0800

Ever go to an Indian restaurant and wonder what all those words associated with the dishes mean? Well here is the breakdown of the meanings of some of the words that appear on the menus.

Let's begin with....

TIKKA MASALA

Chicken tikka masala is the all time most popular dish on the Indian restaurant menu. It is a mild curry dish made with tandoori chicken in a tomato-based sauce, cooked tandoori style (in a charcoal-fired oven). Optional hefty dose of tartrazine lends luminescent orange glow. Legend has it one obstinate diner demanded gravy on tandoori chicken. A bemused chef responded by adding tin of Campbell's tomato soup and pinch of spices, unwittingly partaking in early example of fusion cookery.

A good tikka masala should have tender aromatic chicken tikka pieces slightly smoky from the tandoor. The masala sauce should be well spiced but not hot, rich and creamy and have a hint of barbeque. Tikka masala usually has a deep red color.

BALTI

Balti is more a style of cooking than one particular curry. The word balti can be translated as "bucket" (i.e. a cooking pan) and some say the style of cooking is indigenous to an area of northern Pakistan known as Baltistan. A balti pan is basically a kadahi which has the shape of a Chinese wok but with 2 small round handles on either side of the pan instead of one long handle. In specialist "Balti Houses" the balti is a meal in itself which contains both meat and vegetables and is eaten straight from the karahi using curled up pieces of nan bread. In standard Indian restaurants the balti is more of a stir-fried curry containing plenty of fried green peppers and fresh coriander (cilantro). Medium hot.

BHUNA

Bhuna is first and foremost a cooking process where spices are gently fried in plenty of oil to bring out their flavor. The dish "bhuna" is an extension of that process where meat is added to the spices and then cooked in its own juices which results in deep strong flavours but very little sauce. The restaurant bhuna is a well spiced curry with a thick sauce. It is often garnished with fried green peppers (bell peppers) and shredded onions. Usually medium hot.

BIRYANI

Biryani is not a curry at all, it is a rice dish prepared with marinated meat and or vegetables and cooked in a pot. Biryani originated in Persia and, at its simplest, was rice and meat baked together in the oven. The cooks to the Moghul emperors took the biryani and transformed it into a courtly delicacy by adding aromatic spices and other exotic ingredients like saffron and cardamom. Traditionally, biryanis are baked in the oven for some time so the aromatic spices and juices from the meat permeate the rice. The restaurant biryani is usually garnished with almonds and sultanas (golden raisins). Mild.

DO-PIAZA

The dopiaza is a classic Indian dish dating back at least to Moghul times. The name dopiaza broadly translates as "2 onions" or "double onions". Some traditional versions of the dopiaza use twice the weight of onions compared to the weight of meat but a classic Indian dopiaza is more likely to use the onions in 2 different ways, fried and boiled, at different stages of the cooking. The restaurant version has small fried pieces of onion in the sauce and then larger chunks of lightly cooked onion are added towards the end of the cooking. Medium hot.

KADHAI

Many Indian restaurants serve Kadhai style curries usually red in color. Both the balti and kadhai cooking methods contain stir fried meat and vegetables and both take their name from the utensil in which they are cooked. Because kadhai is a style of cooking rather than a traditional recipe the curry house versions can vary considerably from restaurant to restaurant. It can be medium or hot and will usually contain green peppers, tomatoes and onions.

KORMA

A traditional korma will have a long slow cooking. In fact, korma is not one particular dish but rather a method of cooking similar to braising. Because korma is a cooking method there are a wide variety of dishes that could be described as "korma". Many kormas call for the meat to be marinated in yoghurt and then the meat plus marinade are braised on a very low heat until all the juices condense down into a thick sauce. The korma you find in Indian restaurants usually contains ground almonds, coconut and thick cream. It is often described on restaurant menus as being "very mild" but not bland.

MOGHLAI

The Moghul dynasty ruled much of the Asian sub-continent for 3 centuries and left behind a fabulous legacy not just in art and architecture but also in sumptuous cuisine. There is no one Moghul style but the usual restaurant interpretation is rich and creamy. Moghlai cuisine contains plenty of ginger, ground almonds, yoghurt and cream. Mild to medium.

ROGAN JOSH

Rogan josh was originally a Kashmiri dish but is equally at home in the Punjab. An authentic rogan josh will be made with lamb. The Kashmiri and Punjabi versions do differ (the Kashmiri does not traditionally contain onions or garlic) but they are both highly spiced and share a deep red colour derived from the liberal use of dried red Kashmiri chillies. It is usually medium hot.

SAAG

Saag gosht is a classic curry traditionally made with spinach and lamb. Saag is, strictly speaking, a general term for tender green leaves such as spinach, mustard greens and fresh fenugreek leaves. If you were talking about spinach on its own it would be called palak. Many restaurants these days will offer a chicken or aloo alternative to lamb and so the dish will show on the menu as just "saag" or "palak" omitting the gosht (lamb) from the name altogether. The saag is usually served medium hot and is made in the bhuna style.

Resolutions

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Sat, 30 Jan 2016 10:40:00 -0800

Many of you may have made resolutions for the new year!! What are yours? Do you write them down? As the first month of 2016 draws to a close.....Here is a poem I wrote to inspire you if you have not thought about it yet!!!

RESOLUTIONS

Staring at the ceiling late at night;

I lay in bed thinking, without the light;

What unknown reality will unfold;

In the year ahead as I get old?

Must write them down these goals of mine;

Design, define & then must climb;

Health, family & friends are first;

But personal goals must be nursed;

You must have yours as I have mine;

Put them down and make them shine!!

Coconut Oil: A tropical vacation for dried out hair follicles!!!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Tue, 9 Dec 2014 13:09:00 -0800

The humble, tropically fragrant and simple coconut oil has reached a new glory and a prime spot on the cosmetic and and health food sections of high-end grocery stores and cosmetic lines.

Growing up in India, I always ran away from putting that goopy oily mess in my hair every weekend as my mother insisted. She always said that it would illuminate my hair and keep it shining and healthy.

Mom was right!!!

With the likes of life guru Deepak Chopra and celebrity doctor Dr Oz encouraging the use of this natural product, everyone has begun ingesting and applying the soft, creamy oil. Coconut oil is now being touted as the go-to for dry damaged, treated and bleached hair.It promotes healthy growth of hair providing a shiny texture and a natural bounce. By regularly massaging your head with coconut oil, you can also ensure that your scalp is free of dandruff.

How to apply coconut oil?

Start applying starting from the roots. A little goes a long way, so a teaspoon will help condition someone with short hair. It is extremely useful if applied a few hours before shampooing. I recommend keeping it overnight wrapped in a soft towel, so that it is better absorbed. If need be, coconut oil can be applied after shampooing to keep hair shiny, but I don't like smelling like a tropical island all day long ...wink wink!!

So always listen to your mama! Tis time to take your hair on a tropical vacay!!

Here are a couple I recommend

Quick hint : Coconut oil can also be mixed with sugar to create a natural scrub for normal to dry skin.

The Lunchbox - A craving for love notes, yummy food and adventure!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Wed, 18 Dec 2013 09:21:00 -0800

There are food films and then there are sensuous food films...this one is the latter!! Set in the city that I grew up in...Mumbai, the story revolves around a mistaken lunch box delivery.

Directed by Ritesh Batra, the film captures our hearts with intrigue, when a relationship starts to bloom between a lonely, nearing retirement, widower named Saajan played by my very favorite Bollywood actor Irrfan Khan (best known to American audiences for his work in The Namesake, Slumdog Millionaire and Life of Pi) and a neglected, unhappy and lonely housewife, Ila played by Nimrat Kaur (who makes her debut in this film).

Ila, determined to spice up her loveless marriage, heeds the advice of a well-meaning Aunty that lives in the flat upstairs and whips up a delicious meal for her husband. But as luck would have it, a rare error in Mumbai's famously efficient dabbawala service, the "dabba" or lunchbox lands up on Saajan's desk. On realizing that her lovingly prepared meal was eaten by someone else other than her husband, Ila encloses a note in the steel lunchbox the following day. Saajan writes back. The exchange of notes leads to a sweet and sour friendship between the two. Slowly but surely it develops into intrigue and then love. They share their daily lives, dreams and memories. They both eagerly await each other's notes!! See what happens that brings this film on top of my #must watch list.

Nimrat Kaur who debuts, playing the lead character, Ila in the movie has done a brilliant job! Much success to her. Nawazuddin Siddiqui another brilliant and well known Bollywood actor made his appearance in the movie unforgettable, as Shaikh, a cheeky, inquisitive co-worker of Saajan's.

I have to say that I did not want the "notes" to end...A feel good romantic, movie, Ritesh Batra has thought of everything!! He skillfully blends delicious simple Indian food into his narrative, making this movie a mouth watering experience. You just want to rush out of the movie theater to your favorite Indian restaurant to devour alu gobi, kheema pao, korma, mutton pasanda tinday ki sabji chappaties, hot plain rice and more. My favorite part was when Ila is making the "Stuffed Karela"...watch how she ties the stuffed karela with the string and ....ok you have to watch this movie!!

Treat yourself to this movie when it is released here in the US and Canada in February of 2014. The Lunch box was screened at the Cannes Film Festival 2013 where it won the Critics Week Viewers Choice Award. Irrfan Khan also just bagged the Best Actor Award for The Lunchbox at the 10th annual Dubai International Film Festival.

Here is the trailer...

Cast

Irrfan Khan
Nimrat Kaur
Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Lillete Dubey
Bharti Achrekar
Nakul Vaid

Director: Ritesh Batra

Brunch time, Lunch time, Anytime..Upma is a versatile Indian snack!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Fri, 13 Dec 2013 10:19:00 -0800

This light and easy dish is great as a Sunday morning breakfast, afternoon snack or anytime meal. Enjoy it with some crispy Papads or if those are not easily available top with some crunchy potato chips. It is often eaten with Indian pickles. Either lemon pickle, mango pickle or a tangy Punjabi vegetable pickle.

Semolina 1 cup (Rava)
Onion 1/2 cup finely chopped
Frozen Peas 4 teaspoons
Black Mustard Seeds 1 teaspoon
Curry leaves a few - 5
Green Chili 1 chopped coarsely
Coriander Leaves 2 tablespoons chopped coarsely
Lime Juice a few drops
Hot Water 2 1/4 cups
Sugar 2 teaspoons
Salt to taste
Oil 3 tablespoons

Top it with grated fresh coconut.

Heat oil in a wok or "kadhai". Add the black mustard seeds. When they stop sputtering, add the chopped onion and curry leaves. Sauté the onion for a few minutes and then add the green chili. Now add the peas . Sauté. Cook for 5-6 min. After 5 minutes add the salt, lime juice and sugar.

Now add the semolina. Mix well. Saute for another 5-8 min. This allows the semolina to cook and absorb the flavors. Now add the hot water. Cover and cook on low-medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes. When you uncover the kadhai, the semolina would have absorbed all the water. Turn off the heat. Mix gently. Turn the upma over gently onto a serving dish. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve immediately.

One of 5 Best Indian Comfort Foods you can't miss trying!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Wed, 4 Dec 2013 09:06:00 -0800

It's hardly a dessert but growing up I lapped it up like dessert...trust me...every bit of it when my mom made it! It's called "Kelyache Shikran" or Mashed bananas in milk!

केल्याचे शिकरण

Rustic and homey, this recipe is one that you can teach your kids to make! Bananas, milk and sugar is the basic recipe..But add a pinch of cardamom powder, a few strands of saffron and garnish with crushed roasted pistachios and it becomes dessert! Slice, cube or crush the bananas..Add skim. 2% or whole milk...Add sugar or splenda...It all comes down to taste.

My version and my mom's is the simple one..Bananas crushed with your fingers (yes get down and get in it, finger-pulp those bananas), milk (I use 2%) and splenda! Now the BEST way to eat this is with a hot hot phulka or roti!

It goes down in my books as one of 5 Best Indian Comfort Foods you can't miss trying!

The ever "unchanging" simple delicious sweet, soft, salty and melt-in-your mouth Amul Cheese!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 09:56:00 -0800

Forget Swiss, Gouda or Cheddar, or the new rage for Goat cheese, Cheers to the ever "unchanging" simple delicious sweet, soft, salty and melt-in-your mouth Amul Cheese!

Nowhere can you find cheese in an aluminum can topped with a plastic lid. Growing up cheese to me, meant Amul!! Staring as a co-op for the farmers in Gujarat, by the brilliant Dr Verghese Kurien, this small cheese making company that started in 1946, now produces milk, butter, cheese and spreads and distributes their products all over the world to the millions of Amul lovers.

India's Amul Cheddar Cheese

Their "Utterly Butterly Delicious"advertising campaign for their yummy sweet yet salty butter was a super hit as it touched everyone's hearts and brought a chuckle on everyone's face with its tongue-in-cheek campaigns as they were delightfully entertaining, stealing headlines from the newspapers and highlighting the news in a "utterly butterly way" Like this one when helmets were made mandatory in Mumbai, in 1976.

Recipes you ask....Here are two of my sweet and salty creations with Amul butter and Amul cheese...

Take two slices of Britania white bread, spread soft room temperature Amul butter on both slices. Top with Indian granular sugar generously. Slap those together and ENJOY! This simple "carb-laden-totally-something-I-would not-indulge-in-today" made it into my "snack box" for break time, at St Joseph's convent almost, once every week!!

This other one is my favorite too!! One slice of Britania bread, Spread a touch of Amul butter on one side. Cover the slice of bread nicely. Add shaved Amul Cheddar cheese generously. Top with red chili flakes and toast in your toaster oven until the cheese begins to bubble and is a nice golden brown. Enjoy with a cup of chai!!! Heaven! Indulgence!

How to make INSTANT Masala Chai!!!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Tue, 4 Dec 2012 08:28:00 -0800

In winters, Chai and pakodas are a favorite. But sometimes we don't have the luxury of time to brew a typical and traditional Masala Chai! Here is a simple way to make an instant cup of Masala Chai!!

Indian Masala Chai Recipe

1 cup unsweetened instant tea (Lipton)3 cups nonfat dry milk powder (Carnation)1-1/2 cups sugar or Splenda (36 packets or 1.5 cups Spenda)1-1/2 teaspoons ground ginger1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Combine all ingredients in a food processor. Give it a few whirls. Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place. Can be stored for up to 6 months.

Note: Adjust the spices as needed. I also like to add a bit of black pepper, saunf or cinnamon to change the flavors.

Wishing you all a very Happy Diwali! 2012!!

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 08:23:00 -0800

Wishing you all a very Happy Diwali!

Diwali is a Hindu festival of lights, held in the period October to November. Deepavali is a Sanskrit term, which translates into “row of lamps”. The religious connotations of the festival are varied. As the story goes, Diwali is the celebration of the triumphant return of Rama and Sita back to Ayodhya, the land where Rama ruled as king. Today in Ayodhya, a symbolic re-enactment of the killing of Ravana by Rama and the freeing of Sita is performed. The festival also honors Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth; and in Bengal, it is associated with the Goddess Kali.

The celebration of the festival include the lighting of homes with clay lamps and paper lanterns. Rangoli or floor designs are made with colored powder or petals of fresh flowers, I used to love the the exchange of sweets and the explosion of firecrackers as they are called in India.

Diwali is the beginning of a New Year and the start of new ventures. Businesses celebrate with pomp and have specials just like during Christmas here. Diwali like any other festival or holiday in the world is associated with special Diwali foods and snacks. Special Diwali sweets called mithai are made. It is the time for social gatherings to exchange greetings and sharing sweets.

Barrington Hills resident blends passion for food, people - Barrington Courier-Review

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 12:36:00 -0700

Sharing this with you! We live in a world of consistently being busy with our work and life in general, yet it is so wonderful to pause and be appreciated by your peers and the local community for the work we love to do. Recently I was featured in the Barrington Courier Review for the Gift basket business I run and for my passion for food and people!

Barrington Hills resident blends passion for food, people - Barrington Courier-Review

Navrarti! A festival of devotion, dance and delicacies! October 16th -24th

podcast@cuisinecuisine.com (Medini Pradhan) — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 12:51:00 -0700

Navratri! If you have never grooved to the beat of the dhol (drums) and to the rhythm of traditional Gujrati folk songs during the festival of Navrati, you should give that a try! One of the most famous singers who rocks the dandiya "maidans" (stage) all over the world is none other than Falguni Pathak , Totally love her Dandia music!

The word Navratri literally means nine nights in Sanskrit, "nav" meaning nine and "ratri" meaning nights. On the 10th day the festival of Vijayadashami" or "Dussehra" is celebrated. For nine nights and ten days, the nine forms of Shakti are worshiped. The festival of Navratri is dedicated to the three avatars of Goddess Shakti - Durga (the warrior Goddess), Lakshmi (the Goddess of wealth), and Saraswati (the Goddess of knowledge). During the nine evenings of Navratri, Hindus perform a special prayer called the "aarti", which when performed bless the devotee. It is during these nine nights that Dandia and Raas are enjoyed with full fervor by men, women and children!

Everyone dresses up in brightly colored clothes. Women adorn traditional Gujrati dresses called Chanya Cholis with lots of mirror work along with traditional Gujrati jewelry. The men are dressed up in their Indian best with colorful Kurtas and pajamas and everyone gets ready to rock and perform the characteristic easy-to-follow folk dances of Navratri known as Garba and Raas. Navratri is a very important and major festival especially in the Indian state of Gujarat and in the city of Mumbai in the state of Maharashtra. Here are some foot tapping songs for Navratri!

Dancers begin by performing Garba, with a clapping motion, which is characterized by intricate circular formations. Men, women and children dance gracefully in a huge circle around statues or idols of the Durga. Throughout the night, the music increases in pace and rhythm until it reaches a pace where the young are totally rocking it while the older generation form smaller slower circles in the middle.

The Dandia or the dance with the sticks is the best part of the evening. With two concentric circles, each person dances with the person they are facing, hitting their dandiyas to the beat of the music. The circles go opposite of each other, so you are dancing with a new partner every 8 beats. The level of complexity of the dance varies and is based on the dancer's skill level. Some of the accomplished dancers swing, swirl and jump with an amazing complexity.

One of my favorite dishes to cook during this festival is Sabudana Khichadi

Wishing you all a very Happy Navratri! May the Goddess bless you and your family on the auspicious occasion of Navratri.