When I wrote my last post, I was dealing with the consequences of detoxing from the foods that were giving me trouble, trying to fully, powerfully accept my new circumstances. I was wrestling with it, hoping things would change…soon.

Little did I know that just one day later, the clouds would break.

Now I feel fantastic. I’m thinking clearly. My body is no longer creaking and aching with every movement. Given how good I feel, no piece of bread or glass of wine seems important enough to worry about.

So now I can focus on the next part of my mission to help those with chronic illness live a delicious life. And let’s not forget those who are stressed out, because let’s face it: Stress is a major contributor to chronic illness. It’s time we all took a great big deep breath. Together.

It is with so much excitement and pride that I offer you a sneak preview of my new baby, Zenfully Delicious. I am creating a home online for us all to take that breath, and rediscover how delicious life can be no matter what our challenges. Yes, there will be food. But there will be so much more. Excited? Me too.

Right now you can get a little taste and sign up for updates as we get closer to launching the site. I have a magnificent team of people helping me, and we’d love for you to join us if you want to take part. If so, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me here or at foodphilosophy [at] gmail [dot] com.

Get a sneak peek here: http://zenfullydelicious.com

Photo: Kelly Cline

What does your inside voice say when you taste something sublime?

Mine says this.

You’ve seen me talk a lot about Sex on a Plate on Twitter and Facebook, but I think it’s high time we got out of the digital realm of talking food and sensuality to bring the experience to life, so if you’re in NYC for Valentine’s Day, I hope you’ll join us for a very special evening.

WHAT IT IS

We’ll spend the evening exploring the sensual pleasures of food through small plates composed of sultry flavors, textures and colors. We’ll work to envelop each and every one of your senses and push your palate to the limit.

Beer, wine and special cocktails will be available. Our guests will leave with gift bags full of goodies. There’s also a special discount on hotel stays for those that want to continue their evening of pleasure.

While much of the evening will bring you mouth-to-mouth with the unexpected, here’s some of what you can look forward to:

6:30 – 7 PM Passed hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails

7 – 10 PM Small plates and open bar

Throughout the evening, special guest Yolanda Shoshana, the Luscious Lifestyle Diva, will be sharing some of her delicious expertise. I’ll also be available with some special guests to share more about the connection between food and sensuality.

MENU (Subject to change depending on seasonal ingredients)

Passed hors d’oeuvres:

• Avocado mousse with pickled ginger and orange zest on spicy tortilla crisp
• Truffled oysters
• Cardamom-dusted grilled lamb chop

Small plates:

• Endive with bacon, St. André cheese, hazelnuts, caramelized dried figs and honey vinaigrette
• Saffron Gnocchi with crispy artichokes
• Beef with celery root puree, garlic foam and a spiced port reduction
• Selection of artisan cheeses
• Honey-glazed pear tart with lavender whipped cream

Beer, wine and cocktails – Featuring Hahn SLH Estate Syrah Santa Lucia Highlands 2007

Goodie bags (Value: $40+)

WHO THIS EXPERIENCE IS FOR

Singles, couples and groups of friends who want to explore and delight in the sensual pleasures of food. This event is for everyone, regardless of status or sexual preference, so long as you have an adventurous palate.

DETAILS
February 14, 2010
6:30 – 10:00 PM
Roger Smith Hotel, Penthouse Solarium

EARLY-BIRD TICKET PRICES THROUGH 1/31/10

$100 pp
$90 pp for groups of 2 or more
Ticket price includes goodie bag valued at $40+
Space is limited. 21 and over. ORDER YOUR TICKETS HERE.

Note: Due to the nature of this tasting event, we will unfortunately not be able to accommodate food allergy restrictions. Menu may contain shellfish, nuts or other allergens.

HOTEL SPECIAL

The Roger Smith Hotel is offering a special “Take Monday Off” rate on Valentine’s Day for this event. Please contact Brian Simpson at brian@rogersmith.com or @Bsimi on Twitter to book.

Photos: Kelly Cline