Aphrodisiacs used in Romance

We've read about them and we've even tasted them. They're sweet, bitter, gritty, and sour. They're aphrodisiacs.  But do they really heighten romance?

As defined, an aphrodisiac is a food or drink that increases sexual desire. But do they really or is it just a fantasy? Is it just a fantasy effect at the mention of oysters or strawberries or does eating them really put you "in the mood?"

Some of the well known aphrodisiacs include oysters, chocolate, strawberries, artichokes, pomegranate, and even whipped cream.

Biologically speaking…

Oysters are high in zinc and zinc controls progesterone levels. This allows oysters to have a positive effect on the libido. Trust me, it's proven to work.

Chocolate, especially dark chocolate spikes dopamine which controls feelings of pleasure.

Strawberries are high in vitamin c which helps the blood flow to every part of the body.

Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants that also increase blood flow.

The artichoke's appeal comes from the couple pealing off the leaves and eating it together. As for whipped cream, there's no evidence it heightens a physical, biological response, but it sure is fun to play with, so I'd venture to say it's not about the taste, but the texture.

You'll find these aphrodisiacs in romance writing are used to heighten the mood and ambience of the scene. Vivid descriptions of red, plump strawberries dripping in sweet juices most certainly help to enhance the sexual tension between a couple.

Question for you:  In your romance writing, do you use aphrodisiacs? Why or Why not?   

Enjoy the Grill! It's National BBQ Month #BBQ

Who doesn't enjoy a good cookout?

May is the perfect month for outdoor cooking – not too hot or cool. Grilling is fun, gets you outdoors, and is typically healthier than eating out. It's also a great way to spend quality time with friends and family.

What I love about BBQ and grilling is the creativity it affords from meats to veggies and even pitas. Don't forget to throw on spices, sauces, and marinades or extra flavor.  Fresh fruit makes a great desert. Don't forget to bring salads, too.

Question for you: 

What do you do special when you BBQ? Do you prefer gas grilling or charcoal? What meats do you like to Q? Do you make the sauce or do you recommend one? Do you BBQ veggies, too. Share your tips!

Easy Grill Chicken & Veggies

By: Steph

Use boneless chicken breasts and Kraft Italian salad dressing marinade. Marinade at least 30 minutes.  Use medium-low heat to grill up.

I use Zucchini, you can cut into slices or the long way. (you can use any veggie really – onions, green/red/orange peppers) Drizzle with olive oil. I like to use garlic salt w/parsley from Lowry's, or you could you use your own brand of spices.  Spice up the veggies. Use med-low heat to grill them up.

August is National Picnic Month #picnic

August is National Picnic Month. It's a great time of the year to have one, the sun is out, the air is warm, the grass is green…ah…

The traditional picture of a picnic includes a blanket and basket stuffed with goodies on fresh cut grass with a lake or river in the background, but modern picnics usually involve corn-on-the-cob, chips, beer, grilling, etc…

My favorite picnic destination is Castaic Lake. I usually go with my friend, Inna and the kids. Her daughter is 11. Andrew is 11, too and Joe is a bossy 6 year old with a sweet heart.

The food is never the same. Last time we went. Joe helped prepare his food – carrots, salad, root beer, watermelon, and hot dogs. I was proud of him. Inna's daughter made pasta noodles. I keep it easy and bring the charcoal that all you have to do is light the bag. One time Inna brought a bag of charcoal that you had to put veggie oil to light. 

Inna and I cooked chicken, short ribs, and shrimp with peppers and onions.

For me, the appeal of picnics is the ambience of the outdoors. Not only that, it's fun to get out of the house and share a meal with friends.

What are some of your favorite picnic foods? Do you have a spot you'd like to share?

Author Bio: Stephanie Burkhart is a 911 dispatcher for LAPD. Her short story, "Made in America," earned 8^th place in the 82^nd Writer's Digest Competition in the Mainstream Category.

Journey of the Heart:

99 cent Vintage Romance

BLURB: Can James help Rachel save her winery?

REVIEW: "I would recommend this short sweetie of a story. Well done, author." AngelE, Amazon Reviewer

BUY LINK: http://amzn.com/B008G1JI6C

EXCERPT:

"Wait a minute, Sir." James interrupted and peered at Rachel's spellbinding eyes for a second before looking at Mr. Smith. "You've tasted this vintage before?"

"I have."

"So you know how much it's worth?"

"I do."

"You seem like a fair man, Mr. Smith. At least you were with me. I believe if you offer Miss Rachel one thousand dollars, you'll recoup your investment and more."

"Now, young man, what do you know about wine?"

"Not much, but I do know human nature. You respected her father and he, you, enough to share an expensive bottle of wine. Honor that respect now. I suspect if Miss Rachel didn't have to make this offer to you, she wouldn't have. She knew you and her father had a good relationship. Honor that like you honored my service."

"You're good, Son, I'll give you that. I'll offer you nine hundred dollars for the wine." He paused. "I know I've been hard on you, Miss Rachel. You should consider hiring a younger man who can help you manage the estate."

"Thank you, Mr. Smith. I accept your offer and I'll take your advice to heart."

Mr. Smith grabbed his ledger, wrote a check and presented it to her.

"Do you have someone to carry in the cases? It's just Vito and I." She tucked the check into her purse.

"Well—"

"I'll do it," said James.

"Grab my stock boy from the back, Son."

Rachel offered her hand to James. "Thank you, Sir. I appreciate your assistance. I'm Rachel Santori."