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Fashion Pastel and color blocking, Bohemian beauty Chad Moon, Makeup from the 60’s, Travel A hidden treasure in the Indian Ocean
 Advertisers! You Should be On this page contact us for prices Advertisers! You Should be On this page contact us for prices  Welcome to the 9th edition of
Modelixir the magazine,
Dear Modelixir reader,
Let’s start by wishing a happy mother’s day to all the women that carried, cared for, and loved unconditionally their children. They are irreplaceable so let’s hope that all the dads out there made the day special, no slacking allowed! A certain website designed for married men and women that are looking to cheat, has seen the number of women who sign up multiply by 100 the Monday after Mother’s day. Ouch!
Now back to Modelixir! In this month issue, we prepared some fruity and fresh content that will put you in the mood for summer. It is right around the corner so hang in there if the sun has not come out yet!
Our editorial ‘Bohemian Beauty” was realized by Chad Moon, a Minnesota based photographer. He will surely make you feel as if you were in a summer sunset, where the light is perfect and relaxing like a candle.
We are announcing the launch of our partners section, a list with the contact information and website of our contributors as well as partners. To learn more about how to participate, visit our partner’s section.
Thank you for your support!
The Modelixir Team
Cover pictures
Model: Liz Lattimer
Photographer: Elizabeth callahan-Stekli
of callahan photography
  Table of contents
Travel : The Reunion Island
A day with a reality show producer
Interview of a Nature Photographer
Mod Makeup of the 1960
Quiz : what kind of woman are you ?
Winners of the photo contest about “lips”
4 benefits of following a Mediterranean diet
Editorial : Bohemian beauty
Fashion from NYC : Pastels and color blocking 4 tips to stay in shape
Potiche column : The Advantage
Recipe : smoothie time
Fitness : Alternative sit-up abdominal exercise
Nonprofit: Reserva Natural La Pedregoza
Horoscope
 The Reunion Island
Hidden treasure in the Indian Ocean
The Reunion Island is located east of Madagascar. It is French, but it takes 10 hours to fly there from Paris. This island has thousands of landscapes; the local food is delicious and the people are very welcoming. It only takes one day to drive around the whole island, so it is not very big, but there is a lot to do for everybody.    Saint Denis de la Reunion
This city is the capital of the island and is a great representation of all the cultures present: Asian, Indian, African and European. Walk around the city and discover the colonial heritage and the amazing melting pot. Stroll down the flowery and colorful streets and discover multiple monuments and temples. The cathedral, Mosque and Buddhist temple are close together and respect each other’s beliefs. If you want to purchase some souvenirs, the “Grand Marché” has a lot of choices.
The West Coast
The west coast is bordered by turquoise water beaches with white or black sand. You will also find rocky beaches whose water is full of colorful fish. In this area, you will find a lot of nautical and cultural activities including the aquarium, surfing, and museums.
If you are lucky and patient, you might see whales on the horizon; it is unforgettable!
The East Coast
The east coast is the opposite of the West Coast. Nature is less welcoming. The five elements are always fighting. The wind is constantly blowing and the volcano is active, so the road is often cut by lava. If you like extreme sports, this is the place to go because the heavy rains make the river perfect for rafting.
  
 The Cirques
The cirques are zones in the middle of the mountains, very hard to reach on tiny roads up and down the mountains. The higher you go, the more you will notice the change of vegetation. These areas are quieter, so if you want to disconnect from the busy life, you will enjoy the long walks and the pure air. The different cirques are Salazie, Cilaos, and Mafate.
 The tip corner
- Eat Local Food.
- Go to the Notre Dame des Laves church, miraculously untouched from lava.
- If the volcano “Piton de la Fournaise” is active, you should go and see it at night.
- Go to the Hermitage beach; the trees will amaze you.
   Advertisers! You Should be On this page contact us for prices Advertisers! You Should be On this page contact us for prices   A DAY WITH A REALITY TV SHOW PRODUCER
Don’t be fooled By Brenda Erazo’s look.
With her contagious energy and only 5 feet in height, no one could imagine this latina is the successful producer of multiple reality TV shows played on MTV3. She has climbed the ladder of an industry dominated by men and she shows us that professionalism, team work and love of the job are MUST HAVE to be successful.
Brenda grow up in the Mecca of the entertainment industry: LA. After getting a Masters degree and having an internship in TV, she knew “My passion is creating something from nothing and seeing it all put together on TV”.And she is brilliant at it, all shows have excellent ratings and she has received multiple awards.
She explains the success comes from the respect and the care of her team and talents. “Having a relationship with your talent is essential for them to feel comfortable shooting a reality show. You want them to feel that it’s their sister taping them and following them around… not a producer”.
A producer is involved from A to Z in the realization of the show. Ever wondered what the responsibilities are? Get ready to wear many hats: review the casting tapes sent to the casting department, call the talent and get to know them, create the story from there. Once the story lines are created, it is time to get the team together and schedule the trip. From there, Brenda begins to field direct the team and create the relationship with the talents. ”There isn’t a typical shoot day in the world of reality tv”. However she stays focused and continues working on the direction of the camera, listening to what the talent says etc... It has to tell the story with audio and footage together and
 “if you laugh and cry while taping then most likely the audience will too. If you are bored, again the audience will be too”. This is the secret to a successful show!
The most touching moment Brenda lived while filming was during “Quiero mi baby” . This show follows couples of different origin that are having a baby. The mother to-be was waiting for her C-section in the block and she was scared. Her husband was not there yet. “She was crying and yelling out for her husband as she turned to me (the only person she knew and grown to trust) and I grabbed her hand and wiped her tears telling her it will be ok. Calming her down, seeing the baby come out and the emotion of it all is unforgettable”. Once an episode is shot, it is sent to the post production team that puts it together according to Brenda’s updated story lines.
It sounds like an amazing profession but she says “I choose shows that makeme feel good in the end and that I can enjoy/have fun doing it. I spend so many hours in production (12 or more hours a day) so you really need to love your job”. As a matter of fact, Brenda is constantly on the road. She traveled all over the United States and Latin America. She loves it although she admits “I get homesick and miss sleeping in my own bed”.
All her dedication and skills have paid off, she is an award winning Producer. But she wants to keep growing. Her plans for the future? “Creating my own shows with my own productioncompany.” Wow, there is no limit and Modelixir knows she will be successful! She is also in love with photography and she wants to continue to utilize “my photographic eye by taking amazing pictures of talent, events and anything that needs a creative point of view”. That being said, it looks like nothing can stop Brenda Erazo. So for those dreaming to be part of the arts, there is no limit to what you can do!
Keep working, surround yourself with the right people, give respect and you are on your way to your own success story!  Interview Of A... Nature Photographer Simone Zeffiro
Simone Zeffiro is an Italian photographer whose images of nature will make you understand how delicate and strong this world is.
In this interview, Simone opens up and tell us about his vision.
Simone is a real artist, passionate by his work, but isn’t what Italians are famous for? Their passion of love and life?
1. How and when did you become interested in photography? Describe your photography experience/education.
I started playing with photography when I was about eighteen, attracted by nature, art, lights and shapes. At the beginning it was just a deep feeling that, sincerely, I’m not able to explain but grew day by day. I bought my first camera just for fun, but suddenly I discovered “strange” ways to see the world around me. I bought a lot of different books, because I didn’t have any information about photography: focus, exposition and so on. At the same time I was really interested in understanding how to achieve the idea I had in mind. The experience acquired with time and practice helped me to better understand what to do and where to go.
2. What kind of camera do you use?
I always use a CANON EOS 350D and I also love to use an old CANON AF35M (1979), usually with ILFORD films and strictly for black & white images. I think a black and white film can give you a lot of good sensations. I am currently looking for a camera that could fulfill all my expectations. 3. Besides your camera, what equipment/tools do you use most in your work?
There are a lot of answers to this question. It depends on the images I want to create and the situation. For nature shots as well as panning and macro, I use a SIGMA 70/300 DG Macro; while for other shots I use a CANON 18/55. For short trips, instead, I prefer a SIGMA 18/200 IS which is great for landscapes and long exposure shots. I have different filters for long exposures and a polarizer, but I never use color filters. I use a Tripod or a monopod when necessary.
4. Describe your overall photography aesthetic or style.
I think that I have not found a specific style, especially for artistic images, because everyday something changes; everyday brings different ideas, so it’s really difficult to give a specific answer. I like art, nature, women, colors… but I also love black and white for any subject.
5. What inspires your work (e.g., other photographers, nature, fashion, etc.)
Nature is the most beautiful subject and source of inspiration for me. But, when you think about it, everything is nature: a tree, the moon, a green field, a storm or a lightning, a woman or an animal. When talking about other artists, other photographers, I could repeat all the most important photographers that anyone knows, but I’m often amazed by artists that are not so well know by the public. I really love to see the works by Mindy Mcgregor, Emma Wood,Lara Jade, but I think that for black and white images the one I really love is Ruslan Lobanov.
6. What is your most striking memory as a photographer?
The only one that comes in my mind is when I captured a photo of lighting. It was so powerful that I fell on my back and since it was raining I came home soaking wet!
7. What is your favorite form of photography and why? What are some of your favorite subjects?
I like generically the movements, in any form and any way. For example I like the movement of the lights in the night, the starlights and so on. I like reflections and shadows. I like macro images. The subject is not so important, because I’m curious and I love looking at things in much closer ways. I love to see the details that you usually cannot see. I also like portraits, shooting models and pretty much all kind of photography…if well done.
8. In your opinion, what makes a good photo?
I think photography is comparable to any other form of art such as painting, sculpture, etc… As a consequence, it’s difficult to decide how a photograph must be composed and, sometimes, I don’t like the “typical” points of view. There are a lot of examples showing that the rules are just in order to write books like “photography for dum-mies”. I believe a photograph well done when the viewer is lost in it, when it’s so attractive that they keep watching    it for minutes and minutes…It is an image you can’t forget..
9. Which qualities do you look for in a model? Are you hands-on or do you prefer to stay behind the camera?
I don’t have so much experience with model shootings because it’s not my primary interest. Nevertheless, I can say that I prefer to direct the model to get to the best view and emotions. I participated in photo shoot involving models but it is too static… Models usually strike the same pose, it takes too long to get that one good image and many time the images in the magazines look very similar.
10. What advice would you give to an aspiring photographer?
The best advice is to assist and work with a professional photographer. But I believe it is super complicated because the field is highly competitive. Most professional photographers refuse to give the opportunity to young photographers. So the only alternative is to keep practicing according to your inspiration until the magic starts happening.
11. What are the most common photography mistakes, and what’s your advice on how to avoid them?
I think the most common errors are related to details. For example, the wrong position of an object in the frame. To avoid these problems, you have to double check that everything is correct. There can be some imperfections but we are lucky now with digital photography, because some errors can be easily modified or removed during post-production editing. Another mistake, to my point of view, is the over edition of the images, because the photograph becomes unreal.
12. What are your views in photo editing? Describe your process.
Like I just explained, I don’t like to modify my work significantly except when I have specific ideas in mind that are not technically possible without editing. So for my digital work I use raw images and if necessary I balance the levels. With analogical images, instead, I simply scan the prints with a low contrast mask in order to maintain depth of field and sharpness.
13. Which historical event would you have liked to shoot?
It is very hard for me to pick. I would have liked to shoot so many events and people, for example a historical moment or person of our generation. There are a lot of events I could mention, the Twin Towers, the war in Afghanistan, etc.
14. How do you think the Internet has affected the photography industry? (i.e., online stores, industry-specific websites, forums, etc.)
Internet is a very powerful way to communicate, share, learn, buy and sell, with its advantages and its problems. In regards to photography, I think it’s giving a lot of opportunities to unknown people to get exposure but, at the same time, it creates a lot  of issues for professional photographers and artists. If you look at the main photography websites, everyday millions of images are published from all the over the world. Some of them are not so special some other are truly amazing but because these photographers want to get exposure, they accept to sell their work at a very low price and it does not help people who have made photography their only source of revenue.
15. Which photographers do you look up to and why?
I really like the different compositions, styles and sensations that I feel when looking at Francesca Woodman’s work...in some cases her madness really attracts me. I also love photographers like Cartier-Bresson, Robert Capa, Helmut Newton and, generically all the Magnum photographer’s style. In this moment I really love Ruslan Lobanov and all his works.
You can see some of his works at 22620.portfolio.artlimited.net or directly visiting his official website www.simonezeffiro.com
     Mod Makeup of the 1960
Nicole Patterson
Hair and Makeup Artist
www.NicolePattersonHairandMakeup.com
www.BetheBlushingBride.com
Experienced in all aspects of Hair and makeup
Beauty - Special Effects and everything in between!!
The women of the 60s era really loved their makeup! Bright cheeks and bold eyeliner designs were the signature looks. Pair this with a perfectly bee-hived hairdo and you’ll be ready to doo-wop with the best of them! Some inspirations I used for this article would be Audrey Hepburn, Twiggy and even the Fembots. You know, the robot chicks from Austin Powers that shoot bullets from their bra? Yep those are the ones. They have the perfect 1960s hair and makeup!
Begin this look with some light foundation and powder. Over this add bright peach colored blush right on the apples of your cheeks.
Now for the eyes, start with a shimmer white shadow from the lash line up to the brow bone. Like the 50s styles, use an angled brush and apply a gel or pot eyeliner in black. Make the line nice and thick and wing it out at the end. But don’t stop there! Unlike the 50s, we go on to do the same to the under eye. Then if you want to really get crazy, draw on bottom lashes. This is eyeliner-a-la Twiggy! She is famous for this style and while it might be a bit much for your everyday look, it is great for a costume party! Dramatic lashes were a must as well so either add on a few fakes or do a double coat of mascara to make them pop.
The lips were either done in a nude or a bright Barbie pink. I like to go somewhere in between. You can probably find these colors if you raid your moms old makeup bag but I do not recommend that. Some of the new Mac colors are great for this!
So how do I tackle the Beehive you ask?It’s easier than it looks, really. All you need is some strong hold hairspray, a comb, and a smoothing brush. Backcombing, also known as ratting (but we don’t like that word), is the key. Go crazy with it all over the crown of your hair and then just smooth out the surface and pin into place. I like to add the little sideburn curls to give it a little more flare. For this just use some strong hold gel and sort of “glue” it in place.
Now all you need is some white Go-Go boots and
you’re ready to go!
Nicole  Advertisers! You Should be On this page contact us for prices Advertisers! You Should be On this page contact us for prices
 WHAT KIND OF WOMAN ARE YOU ?
1. When you go shopping, you are looking for:
B Casual clothing
A Dresses and heels
C Go shopping, what for?
2. For you, the perfect diner is:
A A 3 star restaurant
B A homemade meal
C Pizza or TV dinner
3. Your favorite hairstyle:
B Up do to keep your hair off your face
A The latest trend
C No worries, I cut it all off
4. Your favorite actress is:
C Drew Barrymore
A Angelina Jolie
B Jennifer Aniston
5. Your relationship must be:
A Passionate
B Gentle
C Adventurous
6. Your house is decorated:
A Very modern with little furniture
B Light colors and flowers
C I can’t remember, it’s too messy!
7. You drive:
B A small sedan
C A motorcycle
A I don’t need a car, I always have someone to drive me around!
8. When you see your girlfriends, you like to talk about:
C The last football game
A Your latest sexual partner
B The ideal man
9. You like to go to:
B Museums
A Gallery openings
C The top of the Mount Everest
10. Your favorite sport:
A Bedroom activities
C Boxing
B Contemporary dance
 It is christmas year round with , Modelixir!
«Like» us on Facebook and you could win!
www.facebook.com/pages/Modelixir/158679850880753
- $50 gift card raffled when we reach 550 fans
- A camera worth over $200 raffled when we reach 1500 fans
- An ipad raffled when we reach 5000 fans
 And the Winners for last month’s
Modelixir magazine’s
«Lips» themed photo
Contest Are...
Photographer: Haliz Photography from Cleveland, OH
Make-up and Modeling by: Liz Lattimer from Mansfield, OH
Photographer: Yenny Camacho (Ali) of YDC Photography
Model: Elizabeth Schuttz
MUA: Crystal Gossman
Photographer: David Beckham Photography
Model: Rachel Hack
MUA Ericka Reid «the Magic’s In The Make-Up»
Photographer: Chad Moon
Model: Kaitlyn O.
MUA: Teressa Larson
Hair: Heather Wilson Grack
Photographer: David Nix
Model: Jennifer Hook    
     4 Benefits of Following a
Mediterranean Diet
The typical diet from the Mediterranean countries such as Italy and Greece have a lot of benefits. Studies have shown that this alimentation helps people to loose weight and also reduces the risk of diseases. Here are 4 reasons to adopt it.
1. Good cardiovascular system
Most of the recipes from the Mediterranean diet are beneficial for a good heart. The diet uses olive oil, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish rich in omega 3, and a regular small consumption of red wine. All these ingredient help decrease cholesterol and maintain healthy blood pressure. As a consequence, heart diseases are less likely to happen.
2. Faster weight loss
One of the benefits of this diet is quicker weight loss. There is no need for supplements or strict restrictions. Simply implement this healthy habit and eat smaller portions. Weight loss depends on the person but sometimes it is possible to lose up to 10 pounds a month. The recipes are delicious and rich in vitamins and nutrients. The weight loss happens without deficiency.
3. Reduction in risk of cancer
Cancer is sort of the malady of the century. There are numerous factors but food has a very important role in the development of the disease. The Mediterranean diet is rich in fruits and vegetables, which are famous for the antioxidants virtues and their great assimilation into the body.
4. Healthier blood pressure
Food used in this diet helps stabilize and reduce blood pressure. Blood pressure is highly impacted by sodium and fat consumption. In the Mediterranean diet, the food is usually grilled or baked. Because of this, there is less fat and more nutrients in the food.
You can find recipes online and there are a lot of options available so try it, you will love it! Advertisers! You Should be On this page contact us for prices  Advertisers! You Should be On this page contact us for prices Bohemian Beauty
Model: Mariah
Photographer: Chad Moon
Hair: Heather Grack
MUA: Teressa Larson
Wardrobe Stylist: Cheryl Failor
       
    For some, Style is something you have or not. Martina, born in Argentina, is one of these girls whose classy and sexy look does not stay unnoticed. Each month, our fashionista from NYC, will be showing her choice of outfits « In ». Those who are « out » will finally be able to show-off and the others will have new ideas to try. Whether you like her choices or not, you will surely talk about it!
Fashion from New York City by Martina Passa
Paris Milano London Tokio Miami Mexico Sao Paulo Hong kong Los Angeles Shangaï Moscow Pekin Istanbul Rio de Janeiro Bangkok Chicago Boston Johannesburg Washington Toronto San Fransisco Shenyang
San diego Saint
Petersbourg Kuala limpur Detroit Windsor Madrid Riyad Rangoon Dallas Houston Colombo Bruxelles Singapour Atlanta Barcelone Caracas Manchester Berlin Sydney Ankara Jiddah Casablanca Phoenix Athènes Aleandrie Montréal  WOMEN
PASTEL PARTY
1$103 - warehouse.co.uk - Warehouse Lace Dress
2 $250 - stylebop.com - SANDRO Pale Green Pleated Dress
3 pinterest.com - Colourblock Pleated Dress
4 pinterest.com - T R E N D . Pastels. / Sutra sliced sapphire and diamond drop earrings
5 $45 - warehouse.co.uk - Warehouse Medium Flower Clip
6 $39 - wallisfashion.com - Pastel Neopolitan Shopper Bag
7 $1,045 - brownsfashion.com - CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN ‘Sylvieta’ pastel leather and snake chain sandals
8 fortnumandmason.com - Porcelain Cake Stand | 2 Tier Cake Stand | High Tea Cake Stand Feed me Dessert
9 $49 - missselfridge.com - Pastel Flippy Skater Skirt
10 $1,045 - brownsfashion.com - CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN ‘Sylvieta’ pastel leather and snake chain sandals
11 $6,600 - danarebeccadesigns.com – Earings Melissa Louise
12 $76 - topshop.com - Scallop Lace Embellished Top
13 $195 - calypsostbarth.com - SERPUI MARIE Bamboo Bruna Clutch
14 $1,320 - barneys.com - Valextra Isis Gioiello Mini Clutch
15 $78 - katespade.com - Dunes Lane Straw And Linen Sun Hat
16 $32 - mango.com - Trousers Flaco
17 $625 - matthewwilliamson.com - Stretch Crepe Cropped Cigarette Pant
18 look.co.uk - Topshop Pastel Geometric Jeans, £45
19 $1,545 - zenzu.co.uk - Dining by Zenzu
20 harpersbazaar.com - Spring 2012 Nail Polish Spring 2012
21 $29 - harrods.com - DOLCE & GABBANA MAKEUP Bouquet Intense Nail Lacquer Rose
22 tooklookbook.com - OOOK - Versus - Accessories 2012 Spring-Summer  MEN
COLOR-BLOCKING
1$104 - boticca.com Cravatta Pelliano Gordon Gekko 2.0
2 $18 - asos.com - Asos Two Color Nylon Backpack
3 $104 - asos.com Base London Refresh Suede Brogue Shoes
4 €81 (£65) - vanmildert.com Jiggler Lord Berlue Mens Define Double Collar Striped Black & ...
5 $97 - vanmildert.com - Jiggler lord berlue Mens Avaro White Shirt
6 $1,260 - farfetch.com - DSQUARED2 tapered leg trouser
7 $14 - asos.com Happy Socks Stripe Socks 8 $56 - vanmildert.com - Henleys Mens Valdon White & Grey Marl Polo T-Shirt
9 $56 (£35) - vanmildert.com Henleys Mens Valdon Dazzling Blue & Grey Marl Polo T-Shirt
10 $50 - dogfunk.com Nike Chino Solid Short Men’s
11 $87 - piperlime.gap.com Lacoste Shakespeare Casual Shoes
12 $80 (£50) - vanmildert.com Boss Orange Mens Connio Tan Brown Jeans Belt
13 $185 (£115) - harveynichols.com Polo Ralph Lauren Pima cotton jumper
14 $145 - coggles.com Dieselthanaz 00cvm Black Trousers
15 $426 - asos.com Mark Mcnairy Colour Block Saddle Shoes
 4 Tips to
Stay In Shape
Model: Allie Elizabeth
Photographer: Chad Moon
Hair Stylist: Heather Grack MUA: Heather Hagel
Photographer Assistant: Jeanna Moon
USA is the first country that has experienced the obesity epidemic; with this, tons of new medicines, lotions, and pills that are supposed to make you loose weight have appeared. There are so many different diets out there now that are supposed to help overweight people.
What people are lacking is simple, easy to follow tips that they can apply to their daily routine. Weight loss will happen if habits change for the long run.
1. Eat often but in small quantities
The body needs energy all day long. Eat several little meals that include fiber-rich food and vitamins. Do not skip breakfast.
2. Drink water, a lot of water
If you want to eliminate all the toxins accumulated in your body, you need to drink enough water. You have to keep hydrated to function all day. No soda or juice, water is the real deal.
3. Work out
Exercising is essential to your well  being and health. Training helps burn calories, keeps your heart healthy and develops your muscles. You do not need to run a marathon, but you can climb the stairs and walk.
4. Find the strength to keep the habits
Theses changes won’t be maintained if the person does not truly believe they are beneficial. Find reasons to not loose your goals even when your motivation is running out
 Potiche The Advantage Crystal Kolber
At times, I find myself wishing that I was further along in life. This dissatisfaction results in many wasted moments spent dwelling on what is not: I am broke, still single, working at a job far below my intellectual capacity, my family is dysfunctional, and lastly, I wish my hair was fuller (my personal issue as far as vanity is concerned).
Then I read The Favored Daughter by Fawzia Koofi— my latest source of inspiration, and I realized I have been ungrateful for far too long: I am not a woman from Afghanistan and subsequently never have I had to live under a fundamentalist regime that stripped my right to an education away, never has my presence been banished from public life and relegated to my home, and never have I had to wear an article of clothing which has rendered me invisible. We western women are feeble to the noble women of Afghanistan. They have survived more than two decades of war where they almost lost their voices in this world.
In 2014, Fawzia Koofi will become a presidential candidate in Afghanistan , where she currently is the Vice President of the National Assembly. The life of a female MP in this war-torn region is dangerously inflicted by assignation attempts. Within Afghanistan and many other nations, there is a certain element of culture exhibiting an inflexible attitude toward women. Since Fawzia’s birth, the pursuit of a better future for the women of her country has driven her out of cultural silence and into the boldness of what is right.
The gender entitled woman is preordained with burdens and barriers that vary depending on birth-place. Some  of usare simply luckier than others, and as result, the majority of us have become complacent towards our own good fortune. Listen to our daily chatter and you will find that many western women are preoccupied with materialistic notions forgetting the struggle of our fellow women.
As we dilly-dally with our trivial issues, it could only do us good to take a second to reflect on relativity. Most of us are free women from freer parts of the world with judicial systems in favor of protecting us, and for this, we have been given an automatic advantage. This advantage should never be taken lightly, for it is what we do with our freedom that matters the most.
If I spend more time focusing on this advantage, I am confident that my list of complaints will fade away.
 Smoothie time
You finally decided to follow a detox cure. Here are some ideas for recipes. Always try to buy organic and fresh products. The quantity will depend on your taste. If you like your smoothies creamier and thicker try using water or soymilk.
THE GREEN SMOOTHIE
Parsley
Coriander
Cucumber
Celery
Broccoli
Granny apple
Spinach
TOTAL SMOOTHIE
Carrots
Celery
Beets
Cucumbers
Spinach
Garlic
Ginger
Apple
Lemon juice
MELON SENSATION
Watermelon
Cantaloupe
MORNING SMOOTHIE
Organic Soymilk
Banana
Kiwi
Strawberries
THE ORANGE SMOOTHIE
Orange
Carrot
Ginger
DIGESTIVE HELP SMOOTHIE
Papaya
Kiwi
Banana
BERRY SMOOTIHIE
Strawberry
Blackberry
Raspberry
Blueberry
TROPICAL SMOOTHIE
Mango
Pineapple
Kiwi
Coconut milk
DETOX TEA
There are multiple combinations possible. Go to your organic store and buy loose leaf or get the already packed tea bags. Try to be creative in order to maintain this cure at least a full day. Don’t hesitate to share your recipes and advices with us!  Alternative sit-up abdominal exercise
(Great for those who have back pain)!
Step 1: Start in a plank Push up position as in Figure 1.
Step 2: Raise the body in the air by only contracting your abs and keeping your hands and feet in the same position as in Figure 2.
Step 3: Hold for 2 seconds.
Step 4: Return to the push up plank position then repeat steps 1-3
Beginner : 3 sets of 10 repetitions
Intermediate : 4 sets of 14 repetitions
Advance : 5 sets of 20 repetitions
Alfred Kendrick
(323)362-6459
Fit Arts 7561 Sunset Blvd. Unit 101 Los Angeles, CA 90046 Reserva Natural La Pedregoza lat/long: 6.103517,-67.720499
It is always exciting to talk about the Amazon River basin , but that means that other parts of South America tend to get overlooked. The Orinoco is South America’s second largest river and it has the 3rd largest flow of water in the world after the Amazon and the Congo . In the rainy season the Orinoco rises some 14 meters over normal, and is already 10 meters deep during the dry season. Needless to say this makes for a spectacular and interesting environment, which includes amazing biodiversity of both flora and fauna.
In 2009, a Canadian family founded a natural reserve along the banks of the Rio el Bita, a tributary to the mighty Orinoco , in the Colombian departamento of Vichada. They named the natural reserve La Pedregoza after the naturally occurring ferrous-oxide rock and gravel that is endemic to the area. This natural reserve is located about 57 km (35 miles) from the Orinoco river port city of Puerto Carreño . It is 2,470 acres (1,000 hectares) in size, with 6 km (4 miles) of river front along the banks of the Rio el Bita. The natural reserve has inundation and gallery forest making up its rainforest, as well as some grassland savannah. One prominent feature of La Pedregoza are morichals, or heavily treed savannah drainage creeks, so-called because of the Moriche palms (Mauritia flexuosa) that grow in their wet soils. The area receives some 2,400 mm (95”) of annual rainfall.
In keeping with the fact that Colombia has approximately 8% of the planet’s terrestrial biodiversity, the Reserva Natural La Pedregoza is a treasure trove of exotic trees, plants and wildlife. The Dombro family founders set up a non-profit NGO called La Pedregoza Environmental Corporation (Corporación Ambiental La Pedregoza) to manage and operate the natural reserve and its exciting programs. They registered the natural reserve with RESNATUR, the relevant Colombian agency and are presently seeking registration within the Colombian national parks system. Part of these efforts led the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to name Dexter Dombro, one of the founders, to their World Commission on Protected Areas.
La Pedregoza has agreements with major research institutions, including the renowned Omacha Foundation of Bogotá, Colombia, the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada, the Natural Sciences Institute at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia and the Environment Faculty at the Universidad Distrital in Bogotá , Colombia . The purpose of these agreements is to assist researchers and scientists to do studies in the Orinoco River basin at La Pedregoza, as well as to provide support for students doing their internships in various science-related disciplines.
The Reserva Natural La Pedregoza is also engaged in carrying out a number of important programs. The first is the collection, germination and propagation of
     endangered native tree species. The idea is to plant a sufficient amount of these endangered trees to insure their survival and to act as a seed bank, thereby allowing others to plant them in the future. The second program involves the rescue of the giant Podocnemis river turtles. The eggs are collected before poachers can take them, incubated in artificial nests, and when the baby turtles hatch they are looked after until their shells are hard enough to withstand predators, thereby increasing their survival rate.
The La Pedregoza Environmental Corporation’s third program is biodiversity education. Traditional practices such as turtle egg consumption, or the removal of trees from the forest without replanting, simply are no longer sustainable. As a result they are looking to raise funds to build an Interpretive Center at La Pedregoza that will explain the importance of the rainforest, inundation and gallery forest, and the wildlife and plants that depend on it for their survival. The Interpretive Center would be the only one of its kind in the region and a valuable resource for local schools, residents and visitors alike.
Another program is a Sacred Seeds garden. Together with the Missouri Botanical Gardens, the Reserva Natural La Pedregoza is busy setting up a specialized botanical garden that will feature the traditional medicinal and alimentary trees and plants used by indigenous people, before that knowledge is lost to the world.
Whether your interests are conservation, biodiversity, bird watching, endangered wildlife or rainforest preservation, there is something for everyone at La Pedregoza. Your support of their programs would be much appreciated.
You can visit their web site at www.pedregoza.org.  Horoscope May 15th – June 15th
The information we share with you is not intended to be as something predetermined in relation to any particular subject. It has been elaborated with love based on your zodiac sign, hoping it will assist you in the many aspects and challenges of our daily lives. On the other hand, while this information is presented in a generalized manner in regards to your sign, I can provide you with a detailed and personalized interpretation of your Natal Chart once you provide me with personal information such as date and place of birth.
Aries (March 21-April 20)
Keyword for this period: ORGANIZATION
Your desire to make better decisions and feel more secure will lead you to look into your personal values and qualities. If you want to finish a project, you will have to plan accordingly. It will help you feel more confident and motivated.
Taurus (April 21-May 21)
Keyword for this period: PROJECTION.
During this period anything that you want to incorporate in your daily life must be consciously analyzed. You must project your ideas clearly towards the future, so when the key moment comes to make an important decision, you feel confident about it. Go shopping and change your image.
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
Keyword for this period: SOLIDARITY
This is a period in which you should get involved in activities that force you to visit isolated places or hospitals. Syncing yourself with other people’s problems and situations will lead you to reflect, meditate and help the collective. The Astros are pointing to the end of a cycle.
Cancer (June 22-July 23)
Keyword for this period: FRIENDSHIP
This is an important moment to keep in mind that the well being of your relatives cannot be overlooked when assessing issues and impacts related to long-term projects. You must get everyone’s support, without bias, if you want to achieve your assignment while helping the collective as well.
Leo (July 24-August 23)
Keywords for this period: AMBITION AND STATUS
Great period to receive recognition or a promotion related to your professional career or the accomplishment of a project. Remember: a coin has two faces. In this case, one could be the promotion and the other could lead you to personal sacrifices impacting your loved ones.
Virgo (August 24-September 23)
Keyword for this period: EXPANSION
Although the constants in your life are “organization” and “planning”, throughout this period your -> <- priorities will change. Your primary interests will be to travel and explore new cultures and traditions. “Open minded” is the correct attitude and it will help you evolve in every aspect of your life.
Libra (September 24-October 23)
Keywords for this period: SHARE AND FUSION
This is the right time to bring out your primitive desires and instincts in every aspect of your life. Instead of being pessimistic, communicate and share your emotional and material resources. This interaction with others will help you find yourself.
Scorpio (October 24-November 22)
Keyword for this period: RELATIONSHIPS
It will be beneficial not to focus so much on yourself. It is time to give more attention and energy to your partners and loved ones. Share and talk as much as you can, this will also help you formalize agreements and improve your relationships with others.
Sagittarius (November 23-December 21)
Keywords for this period: WORK AND OBLIGATIONS
This is a great opportunity to become more aware of the limits of your qualifications and abilities to achieve objectives. Get up to date with work, health, and specially your family. During this period they may need more attention from you.
Capricorn (December 22-January 20)
Keyword for this period: CREATIVITY
Throughout this cycle your ability to be creative and organized, without exerting so much effort, will give you a refreshing feeling. Include sports and outdoor activities in your daily life; they will support your creativity while having fun in the process.
Aquarius (January 21-February 19)
Keywords for this period: HOME AND INTIMACY
Every aspect related to your home, family and private life will have great importance at this moment. If it is the case of life changing situations, moving somewhere else, or just changing the decorations, it is important for you to really make those changes you want. Your focus and energies should be towards your family.
Pisces (February 20-March 20)
Keyword for this period: ENVIRONMENT
This the appropriate moment to take into account your surroundings and focus your energies to your studies, renovations, travels, visits and family relationships. It is a time of restructuration of your ideas and projects.
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Modelixir can’t thank enough those who are contributing to its existence. Your support, advices and efforts are the source of our energy.
- Elizabeth Callahan and Liz Lattimer for the fruity cover images perfect before the summer. To see more: www.callahanphotography.net
- Simone Zeffiro, our nature photographer, who made us see things differently and makes us want to travel to Italy. Go check out his work at www. Simonezeffiro.com
- Nicole Patterson for the 60’s theme makeup article nicolepattersonhairandmakeup.com
- Claire Nicolas who illustrates our quizzes and the Potiche column. Only true artists are able to summarize an article with one drawing and you are one of them!
- Chad Moon, who was selected after an open submission, for the beautiful editorial. We are looking forward to more of his series. www.cmoonphotography.com
- Martina Passa for keeping up with New York fast pace life and pausing to share with us the latest trends.
- Crystal Kolber, columnist of the Potiche column, who once again helps us realize that we are fortunate.
- Afred, trainer of celebrities, creator of Fit Arts LA and performer for his fitness advice. To check his classes go to www.fit-arts.com
- Reserva Natural la Pedregoza for the work they do to save our one and only planet.
- Mercedes Soler who has shown us many times that she is right!
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