April 2019 Easter In NYC

Easter in Brooklyn 

What an exciting month April was for us.  My parents ended the month of March with my sister and I in Brooklyn, and started April with us back in Brooklyn.  Addison was able to travel up from Pittsburgh to join us as well- the first time since August all five of us were together.  It was much needed and so appreciated to have everyone come and visit us again. Wish Addison had one more day with us during Easter Service at C3 Brooklyn.  To our family, it was just another day at church.  But understanding the meaning of Easter is the real message.  After spending Easter weekend together, my parents went back to California and I went to visit my brother in Pittsburgh.  Faith, Family and then me.  That's what dad always says.  Guess what, it works. 

We caught up with Amanda and her team as they played against Robert Morrison University in Pittsburgh.  It felt like the good old days when we would attend each other baseball, football, water polo, swim or softball games when we were kids.  I am sure glad that we care for each other.  It makes life easier.   Addison brought his new puppy, Akela and we had another sibling reunion.  My best friends and siblings all in one.  Now Bailey the Beagle has a new niece.  I sure hope they will be able to meet each other someday.  Puppies are so much work.  The more you put in, the more you will get out. 

As our family looks ahead, we have Amanda graduating with her bachelor's and master's degree from Long Island University Brooklyn in May. She will be moving in with me for a few months while we save up to move out of my current apartment into something of our own.  If anyone knows of some apartments in Brooklyn reply to this post please lol!  Can't wait for our own place.  Mom and Dad can sleep over and save on hotel and Air B & B fees and use the money on us !!!

Here's a little flashback of Peeksie's senior day on the LIU softball field. Blessed she is healthy and able to play this year!  It is tradition that the Seniors of LIU get announced and then head out to their respective positions in the outfield.  They are announced and then they leave their cleats on the field while they get carried off by their teammates.  What a tradition. Shay Dickson and Amanda Domingo are the graduating seniors of the class of 2019.  These four years have gone by fast now.  I am so proud of my lil sis.  I am also glad she will be staying with me for my final year for my masters.  If any of you need a fitness membership at Orange Theory, Amanda is on the launch team in Soho as a fitness sales rep.  She needs the commish so hit her up.   

Recipes of the Month

SKINCARE | Spot Treatment 

with: Sarah's Day

Many know of Amanda and I's interest in all things health and wellness.  Many do not know that I suffer from Hashimoto's autoimmune disease and hypothyroidism. AKA, my hormones are imbalanced. So basically, a lot of chemical induce products and food aggravate my immune and hormone system.  An effect of all of this is cystic acne that makes me feel like hiding inside all day.  Recently we came across a vlogger by the name of Sarah's Day.  She too suffered from hormonal imbalances and hormonal acne.  Acne is a hard subject to be open about, and those who have never had severe acne can simply look at it as "no big deal".  In reality, it doesn't just feel like a huge deal, it is.   Through research on Sarah's platform I found a turmeric spot treatment that worked to reduce pimple size and redness over night.  Give this lady a look and check out all her holistic approaches to skin care and wellness. 

Golden Spot Treatment 

- small bowl

- small mixing/measuring spoon

- applicator (mask brush or q-tip will work)

- Manuka honey 

- organic turmeric powder

- organic cinnamon (optional)

Mix well until a paste forms, apply on affected areas (using a clean applicator on each exposed 

SNACKIES | Granola Bars

with: Sarah's Day

Here's another home run recipe from Sarah's Day- this time a super gooey-sweet nut bar pick me up. 

The ingredients are listed below, and click on this link to learn the method for making them:

- 1 c. mixed roasted nuts

- 1 c.  activated buckwheat

- 3/4 c. dried cranberries

- 1/4 c. shredded coconut 

- 1 tsp. vanilla powder

- 1 tsp. cinnamon 

- 1/2 - 1 c. rice syrup/agave 

Restaurant Review

SUGARCANE raw bar grill | DUMBO, Brooklyn 

This Happy Hour is the best I've been to in Brooklyn (granted, I haven't been to a lot #teacherlife)

However, it's located right near the water under the Brooklyn Bridge. It has amazing views, a great atmosphere and so many bathroom stalls you never really have to wait. 

Their signature drinks are $8, wine is $7, beers are $5, and the food selection is amazing. They have small shareable appetizers, or plates that can be a whole meal.  And they're all under $7.  We have a great time hanging out as a family here on Good Friday.  Check it out next time you are in the area.  Here is the menu!

MR. MANGO | Brooklyn, NY

59 Lafayette Ave.

Mr. Mango is small fruit and vegetable store located in Fort Greene. There is a variety of fresh meals to choose from. Some are pre
made, while others are made to order. Like their juice bar, salad bar and sushi bar.  You can find reasonably priced produce, household items and organic foods in this small market.

Thank you all for your continued well wishes and prayers for the safety, peace and provision of our Three Domingo's.  It is quite a compliment from your own children when they tell you that their skill level is where it is because of the opportunity to earn at the office.  Addison is an excellent salesman and coach.  Lexie is a top notch educator and Amanda is going to be a heck of a sales representative.  I am so excited for each of their futures.  All of them have a ROTH IRA, funding them monthly is the next step.  Please reach out if you need assistance for techniques on saving for the future.  Stay tuned for the next blog entry of the Domingo Family Insurance Agency. 

Kindly and with gratitude, Glenn & Alexandra Domingo

March Madness

March 2019

As the third month of the year comes to an end, we can reflect on how fast this year is passing by.  It seems like Christmas was just yesterday, but before we know it, summer will be here.  We hope you are all enjoying Spring and the warmer weather.  Hope you enjoy this blog.  Dad has a few wise words to share as well. 

Hey everyone, just a quick reminder to update your quarterly goals you set in December for 2019.  Don't forget to readjust your task and action plans if you have not completed the goal.  Talk to your peers and mentors, friends and family.  You are not alone so use your resources and your smarts to reach those goals and aspirations. 

SURPRISE, SURPRISE.

As I was finishing my day at work, I received a call from my Dad to not leave the building.  I thought he was just being funny, but soon I found out he and my Mom were surprising my sister and me!  We were hosting parent teacher conferences that day so it was perfect timing for a parent visit.

"What an awesome feeling to see your daughter in her element.  It was really nice to see Alexandra's Peers calling her Ms. D.  My heart was filled with joy and thankfulness as I saw how focused she was at work.  Lexie has surprised me so many times with her Love for the Lord and with all of her accomplishments.  She has great things ahead of her.  Praying, hoping and visualizing her return to California soon.  I know she needs to put herself first and I promise to be the most supportive father I can be."  Glenn P. Domingo, agency owner

"It was so awesome to see Amanda Domingo on the field.  This year has been extremely emotional for Jenifer and me because of the three year injury Amanda overcame.  Her coaches are like second fathers to her.  I am so grateful to Coach Roy, Coach Andy and Coach Bill.  They are men of their word and have the highest integrity.  We, as parents, put our trust in them to teach, nurture and assist in developing responsible young women. Again, I thank the coaches for being there for her and for our family.  Blessings always to you and your families Coaches.  Since Amanda has left us when she turned 18, she has grown up so much.  Still our baby girl, I will always be her Papa Bear.  Her faith in the Lord is getting stronger each day as well.  Upon graduation, she will be working in sales for Orange Theory, a fitness studio, in Manhattan.  Watching her get a base hit and execute two sac bunts were a highlight of my trip.  Letting this one grow on her own is a big challenge for me and I pray daily that our Good Lord continues to give me and Amanda confidence that all is good and will be.  Trust in our Creator.  Graduation and a Masters is around the corner for this Kiki All Star."          Glenn P Domingo, agency owner. 

Amanda and I are so grateful to have parents like ours. Our family is blessed to have opportunities like this, family is everything.  This Easter, our entire family will be together.  We are all excited to see Mr. Addison Domingo from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania join us in the Big Apple.  The last time we were all together was last August for Amanda's 21st birthday.  Thank you for the visit Mom and Dad, we'll see you in a month!

Throwback 

Throwback to last month when Mom and Dad were able to go see Amanda's softball tournament in Santa Barbra.  Our grandparents were able to make it out there to watch a game and take Kiki out for a day.  Once again, we are so fortunate and gracious of the time and support our parents continue to give us.  We both would not be able to survive New York without them two shaping us into the young adults we are today.

Restaurant Review 

CAVA- Brooklyn, NY

Sissy and I went on a date to a new place, CAVA.  Their produce and dips are fresh and prepared daily in both Washington, D.C. and Culver City, CA.  There is no use of additives or preservatives, plus all products are low in sodium.  

The concept of this place is fast, healthy food. Much like Chipotle, you stand in line and create your own pita, salad or warm bowl.  With over 10 handmade dips and sauces to choose from, you can dress it up to your liking.  

We both tried the greens and grains bowl with lamb as our protein and were happy with our choices.  They have locations all over, but if you're in our neighborhood this location is located on Adams Street near the Fulton Mall.

Surfish Bistro- Brooklyn, NY

I've reviewed this spot once before, but it deserves a second go around.  When our parents surprised us earlier this week, we brought them to Surfish.  The chef here was trained by Bobby Flay and is passionate about bringing ceviche to Brooklyn, NY.  Chef Miguel Aguilar brings passion for Peruvian cuisine. Each dish is beautifully presented and bursts with flavor.  Mom and Dad ordered a pair of Pisto Punches.  My cool roomie and friend, Joe, joined us as we enjoyed a ceviche appetizer, seafood stew, pan seared salmon with a coconut based sauce, custom ordered ramen and a braised lamb shank over a bean confit.  Joe and dad shared a flan for dessert.  This Peruvian inspired restaurant is delicious and unique.  

Workout of the Month 

No equipment necessary, you can do this in your office, at the gym, at home, at the park- anywhere. Repeat this whole thing 4 times for a quick sweaty workout. 

45 seconds on, 15 seconds off

Circuit 1: Jump Rope

- skipping

- in and out 

- high knees

- lateral 

Circuit 2: Arm

- push ups

- triceps dips 

- plank shoulder taps 

Circuit 3: 

- jump lunges

- suitcases

- plank jacks 

- toe touches 

Remember that water is your best friend.  Keep that heart rate up for maximum results.  Train to your fitness goals and being sore is OK. Sometimes.  

Financial Corner with the Boss 

Hey everyone, just a friendly reminder to fund your 2018 IRA's by April 15th this year.  The limits of savings have increased for 2019, so make those adjustments and increase your monthly dollar cost average contributions.  If you are under 50, you can contribute $6000.00 per year for 2019.  The catch up clause for those over 50 is $1000.00 extra and above your $6000.00 limit.  Pay yourself first, pay yourself first, again, pay yourself first.  Weather you have a 401K, IRA or other investment vehicle, remember that you are ultimately responsible for setting yourself up for retirement.  Looking forward to chatting with you all soon in April.  Kindly, Glenn P Domingo, Registered Representative with Farmers Financial Solutions, LLC. 

Thanks again family, friends and clients enjoying our monthly Family Blog.  Sorry for the late post.  It has been an extremely busy first quarter for all of us.  Lesson plans, blogging, digital marketing, graduation for Amanda, Mom and Dad working smart and hard at home base and Addison figuring out his business plan.  "Finish Strong" as dad always says.  Until April friends. 

The Blogger from the East Coast, Alexandra Domingo.

February 2019

Celebrating 25 Years

My parents just celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on the beautiful island of Kauai.  They spent over a week relaxing, participating in beach clean ups, going to concerts, riding in a helicopter and celebrating 25 years of union together.  I am grateful to have parents who continue to expose my siblings and I to a dedicated relationship.  Here are some trip highlights! Mom and Dad were able to visit some old friends on the island and see places like the Kauai Coffee Brewing Company and Kauai's surf museum.  My dad was able to get hooked up with a handmade ukulele, and had a little impromptu photo shoot (photo credit to Mom).  

Kauai Travel Tips 

Kauai is the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands and has the densest rain forests of all the islands.  It's nickname is the Garden Isle because of all the beautiful flowers and trees it beholds.  Since the island is covered in rain forests, Kauai is also the wettest island.  Some of the most stunning sea cliffs and hiking spots live right on Kauai.  A few travel tips when venturing out to this beautiful island:

- Pack some shoes with traction! If you plan on hiking, walking, running or doing anything outdoors 

be sure to bring a long shoes with good grip and support. 

- Bring sunscreen, always.

- Bring bug spray! The humid moist climate can make your skin a tasty treat to some insects out on the island.
- Pack a rain coat. In a tropical climate, you can never be to sure about the weather patterns.  Just like good shoes, a good jacket will go a long way on this beautiful island. 

- Eat all the shaved ice you can.

- Hit all these spots listed here  to experience all the wonders Kauai has to offer!
- Aloha means hello and Aloha means goodbye. 
- Remember to smile and take in the island relaxed vibe.

Our Super Star

This is Amanda's first year back on the softball field for the LIU Blackbird's.  Many of you have probably heard of her injury and journey to getting physically healthy again.  It's been a long road, three years to be exact, two surgeries later, countless hours of rehab- and she is back! We are all so proud of her and are anxious to see how far her and her team get this season.  Here's an action shot of our baby girl. My mom and dad are thrilled to go see her play this weekend in Santa Barbra.  Not only is she getting to play, she will be graduating with honors this Spring and is likely to earn her Masters Degree in Exercise Science.  The plan is for her to stay in New York with me as I finish my Masters Degree in Special Education while she finds a job training people or teaching exercise classes like spin or circuit training.  If all goes well, Kiki and Lexie's adventure in the Big Apple continue. 

Recipes of the Month 

Trader Joe's : To the Power of Seven Green Juice Blend

Trader's is always coming out with healthy finds that are just as yummy as they are aesthetically

pleasing.  Their labels and way of marketing are unlike any other grocery brand.  When I have the time, resources and patience to go ahead and make my own freshly pressed green juice, I'll do it- but most of the time I am on the go.  This new product minimizes the stress of not getting all my morning veggies in.  With 7 types of organic greens, your body will thank you. Next time you're at Trader Joe's, look for this guy! It's great over ice, or used to blend up and make a green smoothie. 

Digestion Issues? LEMONS, LEMONS, LEMONS

We often get bloated due to a number of issues: over eating, poor digestion, dietary intolerance's, stress and so on.  At times poor digestion and bloating can be debilitating.  This quick morning ritual recipe will knock the bloating, constipation and digestion problems right out.  

1. Heat up 8-12 ounces of water. 

2. Squeeze the juice of 1 whole lemon in the warm water (use fresh lemon)

3. Slice up some fresh ginger and place that in the water as well.

4. Sip throughout your morning process.

Seared Wild Caught Alaskan Salmon

If you're always running low on time to cook a meal, or hate heating up leftover meal prep Tupperware... turn to salmon! Salmon is rich in omega-3's and is a beautifying food for your skin and nails.  It yields a good amount of protein and can be served hot or cold, on a salad, wrap or as a main entree.  Lately I've been loving this 8 minute salmon filet.  

You'll need a wild caught Alaskan salmon hunk, some coconut oil, garlic, salt and pepper.

Heat up a pan with some coconut oil and take your thawed salmon out. Lightly sprinkle some pepper, salt and garlic on the salmon (skin side down). Once the pan is sizzling with a little oil, place the salmon face down for 4 minutes.  Flip the salmon over for another 4 minutes. Then you're done! It's so easy, super flaky on the inside and a little crispy on the outside.  Pair it with a salad if you're in a pinch, or along side some roasted veggies.  It's filling, fresh and easy to make!

Products and Offerings

Changes to IRA Contributions

Remember to verify with your investment companies the 2018 limits for Traditional or Roth IRA's.  They are changing in 2019, so all you dollar cost average investment folks, increase your monthly contribution in order to meet the maximum allowed monthly contribution for a deduction or a possible tax free distribution after 59 1/2.

We are excited about sitting down with you.  Whether its face to face, on the phone, on the phone in front of a computer, we want to understand your entire situation to make educated suggestions to protect and or assist with long term financial assets, IRA's Roth IRA's , Annuities, and life insurance.  We will be asking, so again, friends, family, clients, referral partners, neighbors, listen for the simple ask from us about life insurance, investments and the umbrella policy.  I appreciate each and every one of you because of our human connection.  Thanks again.  We will all get through this tax season somehow.

Gratefully,

Glenn

January 2019

January 2019

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year friends and family. Our agency is excited for the growth and progress 2019 will bring.  We hope the New Year has been treating you and yours well!

Temperatures are dropping in every time zone lately.  Here in Brooklyn we are expected to have a high of 16 degrees for the last day of January.  FREEZING temperatures!    I am not looking forward to that.  But all the way over in San Diego, CA I hear it is supposed to rain for 4 days.  We all know how much that rainfall is needed.  Always remember to leave your facets dripping if you happen to be in freezing temperatures so your pipes don't freeze.  It is always good to plan ahead of your drive to prevent any unforeseen time delays.  Safety first family and friends.

Domingo & Associates, Annual Farmers Insurance Open 

Torrey Pines, Ca

We had a great time getting ready for and attending the Farmers Insurance Open 2019.  This is our 7th Consecutive Event with Friends, Family and most of all Clients.  Our group likes to start off with a continental breakfast at Casa De Domingo, Bloody Mary's or Screw Drivers, Orange Juice or Coffee, Beer or Beer.  Haha. This was also a special celebration for my buddy Noah Fehser.  He was a high school under classmate from Oceanview and we celebrated his 50th Birthday.  Happy 5.0 my man.  Then we are shuttled in a 15 passenger van by Jenifer as she drops us off at Torrey Pines Club.  Just around the corner is the entrance to the venue.  Upon entering the event, our group heads over to the putting green in hopes for a glimpse of the elusive TIGER, or the lefy Phil.  Some of us follow our favorite golfers, other head over to the Grey Goose Cocktail Lounge.  I enjoy walking to the North Course Par 3 on the 8th hole and camp right by the green.  This allows you to watch all the golfers come through and observe an elevated par 3 golf ball dropping in.  It is tradition to meet for lunch at the Farmers Insurance Care Tent where we are allowed to enjoy the grandstands.  This year was at the 14th green on the South Course where a beautiful back drop of a valley into the Pacific Ocean was viewed.  We do get ready to leave about 4:00 as we gather the troops.  Another easy logistical task when Jenifer pulls up across the street from the exit of the venue.  This year we were able to drive down the coast and enjoy a happy hour and sunset at the Carlsbad Camp Grounds hosted by Mike and Pam Chillinsky.  A happy birthday to Pam as well.  The group enjoys being dropped off in the Carlsbad Village to end a great day of spectating and fellowship.  Cheers and a thank you for all the attendees.  Until 2020 Farmers Insurance Open.  

Noah, Dan, Bingo and Tom enjoying happy hour

Our host and Uber Driver Jenifer L Domingo, your agent for LIFE

Greg, Ned, Chuck, Noah, Austin, Dan, Thomas, Greg, Mike, Bingo, Greg and Jeff

Restaurant Review

Wild | Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY

This place is all gluten free! For those who are gluten intolerance, try to leave it out of their diet, and for those who do eat gluten- this place is great.  Although every dish is made gluten free, they have plenty of protein selections to choose from.  There are several entree sized meals, small plates and their famous gluten free pizza crust.  The food is handled very carefully and ingredients are fresh.  Some show stopping menu items are their white truffle pizza, and all of their desserts.  There is a small bar inside of the restaurant, as well as an outdoor seating area.  This place is quiet, has great lighting and even better food.  

Trader Joe's & Cauliflower

If you have not heard already, cauliflower is the "it" veggie right now.  You can steam it, blend it, mash it, grate it, make pizza out of it- and even eat cauliflower gnocchi.  Trader Joe's seems to have everything cauli right now, and it totally lives up to the hype.  Amanda and I will buy 3 or 4 packs of gnocchi at a time because they sell off the shelves like CRAZY!  Our TJ's location is super populated so if you see it, you have to stock up.

Below are some ideas for the cauliflower craze:

Cauliflower Gnocchi 
- saute cauliflower with coconut oil and a little bit of water until desired texture....so easy!

Cauliflower Pizza
- Buy the pre-made crust and you just have to add sauce and toppings of choice!

Cauliflower Fried Rice
- saute your favorite protein choice (beef, chicken, shrimp, tofu), some good crunchy veggies that can retain some heat, and add in the rice... this makes a great, healthy stir fry! Add TJ's coconut aminos for an extra burst of flavor.

Chilly, Chilly

Cold season starts to pick up again as the crazy temperature changes continue to spiral out.  In order to keep yourself as healthy as possible, and as warm as possible... here are a few tips:

1. Drink warming liquids. Teas or drink with cinnamon, ginger and turmeric- those are all very warm and comforting spices.
2. Sock that cover your ankles! Sounds dumb, but it is so important. Even just walking to and from the train station- you'll be thankful.
3. Dollar Tree $$$$- hand warmers! They're great to put in your pockets, your boots, your jackets or beanies. They keep you so, so much warmer than you would actually think.  Holla at the dolla find.
4. Chap stick and lotion.  Keeping your skin hydrated during these cold months is essential. Not only is it important for us to drink ample amounts of water during the dry season, we must also not forget to moisturize our precious skin.  Coconut oil will work wonders as well!

Warming Teas:

My recommendations: 

1. Yogi Ginger tea

2. Twinnings Lemon Ginger Tea

3. Simple hot water with a squeeze of lemon and touch of cinnamon and honey 

4. Turmeric latte with almond milk

5. Apple Cider Vinegar elixir

Calavera Hills Elementary School Garden Project 

Garden Project 2019 Calavera Hills Elementary. Farmers Insurance offers many grants and scholarships to the youth across america. I enjoy assisting the local elementary and middle schools where all three Domingo's attended. Thank you Mr. Burns for always making this project fun. 

As we all reflect on our goals and accomplishments in 2018, remember to repeat the things that made you successful or assisted in accomplishing a goal.  Make adjustments to those items that were not met.  2019 should bring hope to all of us knowing we live in the best Country in the World.  Farmers Insurance has given our family the opportunity to purchase a new home for my family and include my sister and mother in their own flat.  Farmers Insurance has given our business an opportunity to flourish and earn.  Farmers Insurance has given me confidence as a business owner to run a successful insurance and financial services practice.  I am grateful.  Most importantly, Farmers Insurance has given me a platform to give thanks and give back to the community and lives that surround me.  To a great 2019.  Yours truly and respectfully, Glenn P Domingo, your agent for LIFE.    

December 2018

December 2018

Joy to the World

Happy Holidays friends and family. We hope you have enjoyed the holiday season.  Many of us are fortunate enough to spend this time of year with the people we love near and dear, but some of us do not get that luxury.  Reach out to those who need some holiday cheer, put their needs before your own and your blessings will come in ten fold.  The holiday's are not about how much you gave or how much you get, they are about how you give and how you receive.  Live your days full of love and spread light to all who cross your path.  As a family and as individuals, we are blessed to know you.  

Amanda and Alexandra Domingo Xmas 2019

Auntie Des, Lexie, Mama Fili, Jen, Kiki and Bingo

This Christmas brought my sister and I home to our loving parents and cute dog Bailey the Beagle.  We couldn't be happier. Just missing our big brother, Addison, this Christmas. He spent time with his girlfriend's family in Miami, Florida.  This was the first time without Addison during the Christmas Holiday since birth and we missed him dearly. It was a busy time for mom and dad as they hosted four gatherings of family, bible study group, and business associates.   Our family hopes you had a blessed year.  Thank you for being our friends, family and clients in 2018.  Reflect, improve, set your goals high and adjust.  We hope to visit soon.

The Girls with Pop Pop and Mama'

Jen's Family, Fruechtings, Berbowers, Crouses, Strankowski

Jenifer, Alexandra, Amanda, Glenn

 Family, Domingos, Palmas, Merinos, Hoenigs, Constantinos

May our Creator and Lord Bring you all Hope, Provision,
Protection and Peace in 2019

Restaurant Review | Carlsbad, CA

Board and Brew

If you're from Carlsbad, you know what Board and Brew is. Being away from the beach, sun and family is hard- but being away from the holy grail of Gluten Free Turkado's is even more difficult.  Board and Brew has all the goods and you can never go wrong with their secret sauce- always ask for extra by the way.  My favorite is a Gluten Free Wrapped Turkado, and the veggie supreme is a close second. You can get wraps, salads, sandwiches and beer. They use fresh ingredients and make the sandwiches right there. It literally never disappoints. Check out their website to see what the hype is about and learn how they can cater to your office events, birthday parties and more!

Restaurant Review | Brooklyn, NY

Surfish 

Surfish is located in Industry City in the Brooklyn Borough.  My roommate and I stumbled upon this Peruvian seafood cuisine when we were walking home from the gym. Seems right, right? We decided to give it a try- and it was da bomb!  The atmosphere is casual but cozy. There is a bar and dining room seating.  The food is authentic and out of this world delicious. I got the Parihuela, which included clams, shrimp, squid, mussels and fish in a spicy tomato based broth. It was amazing, if you're not allergic to shell fish of course.  We also ordered the fried plantains which were sweet and savory all at once.  This place also serves crispy baked plantain chips with a spicy dipping sauce, it's their spin on chips and salsa.  Hands down one of the best and most hearty meals I have had in Brooklyn. If you ever come visit or are in the area, you HAVE to go.

New Year, New Work Out Routine

With the New Year approaching I'm sure we are all starting to list off the things we wish we had done in 2018, and we've also started to list off what we hope to accomplish in 2019.  Start small, and expand from there.  According to this website, the most common goal for 2018 was to eat healthier and workout more. I'm sure that is still the top goal for 2019 as well.  So how can we approach the new year with those goals in mind? Like I said, start small.  Each morning get moving! Whether that be taking a walk, going for a jog, riding your bike, hitting the swimming pool or hiking, there's so many options! Drink water throughout the day and make conscious decisions when it comes to food.  We so often eat what is available, or whatever is in front of us.  Think before you eat. It seems so simple but can be so difficult for some. Picture yourself with your goals accomplished, think if the small decision will help you get closer to that person you want to be, or further away.  Each day we have the opportunity to refresh and recharge- approach each day with a positive attitude and your goals will happen!

Farmers Friendly and Financial Review by the Agency Owner

As we conclude the year of 2018, I encourage each of you to revisit your investments and goals.  I have written and accounted for my goals since 1996 and still have that original document in my planner.  It is amazing how blessed I am as I reflect on some of the goals that our family accomplished, some of the goals we still strive for and some of the goals I am still trying to figure out.  Each month Jenifer and I sit and update our goals for immediate / weekly, 1 to three month goals, annual goals, and 5 year or long term planning goals.  Most of them have been accomplished.  Some we are still working on and some need to be re written or revised because of failure.  Don't be afraid to fail friends and family.  Failure sharpens our skill level, sharpens our character and sharpens our ability to adjust to be successful.  As for your investments, conservatively speaking, check your net worth total compared to last years.  Where are you?  Do you need to adjust your allocation in order to meet your goals ?  How did they perform ?  Are you getting closer to retirement and need to tone down the risk ?

If I can advise on one item, maximize your ability to save to your ROTH or Traditional IRA's.  Did you know that limits on contributions have increased?  Check your income if you qualify.  If you are 50 and younger, you can invest $500.00 a month or a total of $6000.00 per year into an Individual Retirement Account.  If you are 50 or over, you can contribute a total of $7000.00 per year.  I always strive to fund my Roth IRA because of the possibility of my money coming back to me tax free on the gains while withdrawing.  Try investing slowly each month rather than a lump sum.  This is called dollar cost averaging and you buy during the highs and the low's of the market.  Over time, this has proven to be a very conservative and prudent approach to saving for retirement.  Remember that Social Security was never meant to be the only source of income for an individual or couple during retirement.  For some couples, including my own parents, it is.  I would love to provide any type of review for you, your insurance portfolio, your savings, your life.  As always, peace and love in 2019 from our family, The Domingo's to yours.  Have a blessed New Year.

Kindly, The Blogger from the East Coast and West Coast,

Alexandra and Glenn Domingo, your agency for LIFE