The Ole! Report featuring Dalia Ceja

I can and I will, I can and I will…

I’ve definitely taken 2012 by storm and signed up to run my first {ever} half marathon in July! I’ll be running the Napa-to-Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon and I must admit, I’m a bit intimidated. Nervous in fact, but excited to get fit and back on track. Let’s get something straight – I don’t consider myself to be a runner. I played soccer for years during middle school and high school but, come on, 13.1 miles. Ay dios mio!  I’m learning that running is more than just a mental or physical endeavor. It’s knowing the right shoes to wear, when and what to eat, how to pace yourself and what music to listen to {among many other things}.

It’s also been helpful and encouraging that I have an enormously supportive group at Synergy {my local gym}. These girls {and guys} are not only motivating, but they are also turning out to be good friends who happen to kick ass! Yesterday’s workout marked day 4 of some intense training and let me tell you, I am SORE. Everywhere. It’s such a good feeling and makes me look forward to seeing where I’ll be in a few months. All I know is that I have to keep telling myself that I can and I will… and dammit, I will! 

p.s. Does anyone have any good running advice? Please share, I would love to hear your experiences! Ole!

Inspiring images via Pinterest

Have a wonderful weekend! x

Imagine a world without photography, one could only imagine… - Berenice Abbott

Lately I’ve been obsessed with Pinterest to find online inspirational imagery. Black and white photography is a lovely and dramatic effect that has fully captured my attention. Here are a few of my favorite images that exude grace, mystery and perhaps a little inspiration to start your weekend. Ole!

{Images via Pinterest}

I hope everyone has a splendid weekend!

Get inspired this Fall with seasonal food aphrodisiacs. Here are my top choices to awaken your senses and get you in the mood for this holiday season…

Pumpkin Pie …

Who doesn’t love pumpkin pie? I hate to think that this is such a seasonal dessert. Recent studies suggest that the aroma and taste of this Thanksgiving staple was found to increase penile blood flow by 40 percent and was also found to increase sexual desire in women. This Fall favorite seems to conjure up happy memories and a feeling of comfort and safety, making it a #winning combination.

{Baked} Sweet Potato Fries …

These are pretty much an addiction for me. Not only do I love the sweet & savory sensation it brings to the palette but they are also a healthier alternative to your basic, overly salted fries. Now that we’re heading into the holiday season, this is a super appropriate snack or side dish that is packed with seasonal flavors in every bite. Oh yes, and totally drool worthy…

Figs {oh, glorious figs!} …

Alternating from fresh figs to fig jam {with toast} has been a recent favorite breakfast item of mine.  Pair it with a steaming cup of jasmine blossom tea and you will instantly feel rejuvenated and comforted, giving you that energy boost for the rest of the day.

Mexican Hot Chocolate …

Wow, I don’t think I have enough words to describe what this decadent hot beverage does to me. You get the rich and bold flavors from the dark Mexican Chocolate with just a hint of spice to trigger your senses. Dip a bolillo {Mexican bread} in the hot chocolate and this will soon be a favorite combo. Since cocoa is the prime ingredient behind this lusty behavior, the darker the chocolate, the better… 

Cinnamon {Rolls} …

I simply adore all things cinnamon. Cinnamon is so sexy and sensual and I love the aroma, the taste and the feeling you get when you’re surrounded by this enticing and alluring spice. Your senses will be instantly awakened and heightened, causing an instant boost of confidence. All eyes will be on you…

{Pictures 1-5 via Pinterest}

Cabernet Sauvignon {for all you winos} …

As the weather gets colder I seem to gravitate toward this bigger, fuller bodied wine paired with a variety of decadent chocolate desserts. Classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons are quite sexy and velvety, providing dark and luscious characteristics that tantalize the tongue and your senses. 

So there you have it ladies AND gentlemen. Get in the mood and explore these glorious Fall food aphrodisiacs. You never know, you might just have some fun… Ole!

Happy Friday amigos! x