Nowadays it is becoming more and more important to advertise projects with a professional appearance on the Internet. In addition to the creation of relevant content for the website and social media channels, it is above all important to create a uniform and appealing design for the representation of the project using colors, fonts and, above all, a logo. This shows professionalism and promotes recognition.

In the case of fonts, you can fall back on a huge pool of license-free fonts on the Internet – and colors cannot be protected anyway. When it comes to logos, however, there are some pitfalls that need to be considered: In an early project phase, it can be tempting to cobble together an initial logo with the help of the extensive pool of stock media. Various license types can be found on the known platforms, which also regulate the usage rights for the stock media.

The issue with logos from stock media

If you now take the trouble to read the fine print of the license agreement carefully, commercial use of stock media is apparently allowed. However, if you read on you will quickly find that there are often further paragraphs in the license agreements that explicitly exclude the use of stock media as a logo or part of a logo, especially in the commercial sector. Interestingly, the exclusion of this type of use usually remains widely unaffected by the chosen license type.

In times in which copyright and license violations on the Internet may be detected fully automated with the help of artificial intelligence, the use of stock media in logos could become a serious problem. To what extent the resulting risks are acceptable, everyone then has to weigh for themselves.

After we became aware of these nasty paragraphs in the license agreements for stockmedia, it quickly became clear to us that our previous almond logo (from the stock media library of a popular graphics platform) had to give way to a symbol with the right to exclusive use. This wish is easier said than done and your own attempts at drawing quickly disappeared in the quicksand of frustration…

What should the new logo be like?

It so happened that me and my love took a little break in Nicaragua at the beginning of 2020. On the heavenly twin volcanic island of Ometepe, we visited a wonderful little eco-project, which was launched by Israelis and is dedicated to the organic cultivation of cocoa and the preparation of vegan food. The project is named El Pital and should be on every itinerary on Ometepe just and not only because of the stunning cocoa drinks.

After some delicious cocoa shakes in El Pital, we noticed their beautiful logo on their business card: A cocoa fruit in the style of a roughly dotted, traditional tattoo (dot work).

We then found out that the El Pital logo was designed by a friend of the project, a French-born tattoo artist living in Guatemala. From that moment it was clear to us that a similar style would also go very well with the almond design of the Mas Baillette logo. Unfortunately we didn’t manage to get in touch with the designer of the cocoa fuit logo of the El Pital.

First attempts but no results

After some deliberation and fruitless tapping into our own circle of friends in Germany and New Zealand, we came up with the idea of ​​posting a tender on a renown platform for freelance graphic designers. There was a flood of offers and we decided to work with designers from Pakistan and the Philippines. Each of the contractors promised to offer us a logo exactly according to our wishes with an unlimited number of corrections at a fixed price. Unfortunately, nothing more came out of all attempts than head-shaking laughs on our part and we ended our collaboration after many correction loops and paid our bill. The beautiful saying “Pay peanuts get monkeys” had once again come true.

New logo in sight!

Our journey through Nicaragua continued and along our route we also reached the coffee-growing region of Nicaragua, the area around Matagalpa. There we spent a few days in the highlands on a wonderfully located small farm where coffee was produced in the finest organic quality. The owner of Finca Musica del Bosque is an Englishman who does not live on site due to other obligations. A Nicaraguan family lovingly takes care of agriculture and guests so that coffee production still works. Organizationally, Finca Musica del Bosque is supported by the Dutch owner of La Buena Onda from Matagalpa, who acts as the local manager. Once there and settled in, we quickly got into conversation with the Canadian volunteer Samaria. Samaria had started to decorate the veranda and the walls of Finca Musica del Bosque hands-free with breathtaking works of art. It quickly turned out that Samaria’s life revolved around art and that she had the dream of one day becoming a tattoo artist. We then told Samaira about our project, the Mas Baillette. We showed her the beautiful logo of El Pital as well as our then current almond from the logo and asked her if she would have the time and inclination to support us in creating a new logo. Believe it or not – she said yes! And although our “new” almond has been dwelling on my hard drive for over a year, I would now like to proudly present the new logo of the Mas Baillette.

Add some text and color and you will get the following look for our various online channels (and hopefully soon business cards).

Dear Samaria, of course a thousand thanks go to you for all the work you have put into the design and revision of our new almond. We feel very glad to have met you!

The article Our journey to a new logo will be published first on Mas Baillette.

Almonds are a real all-rounder. They are an extremely versatile food, tasty and very healthy. But almonds not only keep us healthy from the inside: almond oil can also be found in many products for external use, such as cosmetics. It is not without reason that almonds nowadays bear the attribute superfood!

Here you will learn about the most important nutrients of almonds and I will present their most important health benefits to you.

So why bother with expensive food supplements when the superfood almond does provide us with so much of what we need for a healthy life as part of a balanced diet?

Where do Almonds Originate from?

The almond tree (Latin: prunus dulcis), originally from Asia, was brought to Europe via Persia over 2,000 years ago. Besides their valuable fruits, these species of trees are renowned for their low demands on the soil quality and a very low water requirement. The abundance of proteins, unsaturated fatty acids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals makes their fruits, the almonds, a superfood in our time.

Their culinary versatility and especially their high nutritional value have led to steadily increasing production quantities since ancient times – globally.

When do Almonds Blossom?

The flowering of the almond tree in the northern hemisphere typically takes place in February. Then the gray-brown winter landscape suddenly changes into a beautiful sea of delicate pink flowers that herald spring. Due to this early flowering period, the fruits of the almond trees, the almond kernels or almonds only mature in regions where this season is already frost-free.

Almonds: Fruit, Nut or Kernel?

Colloquially, the almond is often counted among the nuts. Strictly speaking, it is a stone fruit. Other representatives from this genus are cherries, apricots and peaches. The fruit of the almond tree has no juicy flesh – instead it has a leathery skin. This is also the reason why the almond tree needs very little water. The almond itself is the kernel of the almond fruit, i.e., the seedling of the tree.

The Main Nutrients

In the table below you will find a list of the most important nutrients of almonds, as well as an indication of how a quantity of 100g (3.5 oz, about three hands full) would cover your recommended daily amount.

*) Figures correspond to typical values for raw, unpeeled, dried almond kernels. Actual values may vary depending on the variety, cultivation method, climate and soil conditions.

**) Recommended values for daily intake according to EU Directive 2008/100 / EC of October 28, 2008

Why are Almonds so Healthy?

I know a lot of people who just eat almonds because they taste so good. I am one of them.

However, if you take a closer look at the nutrients of almonds, there is a whole universe of health benefits that result from eating them. Nonetheless, very few of us can directly interpret the information from the table above or even draw conclusions for the consequences for our health. To help out, I am going to present 11 reasons why you should eat more almonds.

Healthy Intestinal Flora

Our diet is largely responsible for the health of our intestinal flora. Almonds provide a lot of fiber, healthy fats and essential nutrients that support the development and maintenance of healthy intestinal flora. A prebiotic effect has been demonstrated in almonds. This means that their consumption promotes the growth of healthy bifido and lacto bacteria, while pathogenic (i.e., harmful) bacteria are suppressed. This benefits digestion along with the immune system.

Slow Down Aging

Almonds are rich in natural antioxidants in the form of vitamin E and zinc. The brown skin of the almonds is also rich in polyphenols. For not losing these valuable substances, you should eat almonds unpeeled and raw.

Antioxidants catch free radicals in your body that are generated by various metabolic processes and attack our cells. In this way, the almonds protect their own nutrients – especially the unsaturated fatty acids – but of course also those that are already in our cells after consumption. This catching of free radicals keeps us young and crisp: The immune system, nerves, muscles, skin, hair, heart and circulatory system are protected and the loss of vision in our eyes is slowed down.

Strengthening of Bones

Almonds are rich in minerals. Their natural ratio of calcium to magnesium ensures that both minerals are optimally absorbed by the human organism. Almost all the calcium ingested through food is needed by our body for the growth and maintenance of bones and teeth. The regular supply of calcium and magnesium as well as the trace elements manganese and zinc can help to strengthen the bones and prevent diseases such as bone loss (osteoporosis).

Lowering of Cholesterol Levels

Eating unsaturated fatty acids can help lower the level of “bad” LDL cholesterol in the blood. The antioxidants vitamin E and zinc contained in almonds protect the blood vessels at high cholesterol levels: LDL cholesterol may oxidize in the blood and then gradually build up on the walls of blood vessels.

So, while almonds protect our veins from bad cholesterol, they even help to lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Lowering of Diabetes Risk

Studies have shown that eating almonds can have a positive effect on blood sugar levels. Their high levels of unsaturated fatty acids and fiber prevent the blood sugar level from rising too high after meals. Their protein content increases the body’s GLP level, an intestinal hormone that sends satiety signals to the brain and at the same time stimulates the pancreas to produce insulin. This leads to a longer lasting feeling of satiety and a balanced blood sugar level.

Lowering of Blood Pressure

Magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids relax the muscle fibers on the walls of the veins, which thereby expand and remain elastic. That lowers blood pressure. Dietary fiber and potassium also lower blood pressure. Thanks to the combination of these constituents, the daily consumption of a handful of almonds has been proven as an effective means for lowering blood pressure in various studies.

Reduction of Heart Attack Risk

The proven ability of almonds to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, to improve blood sugar control, to lower blood pressure and their antioxidant effect lead to the conclusion that a regular consumption of almonds also reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Pain Relief

Almonds naturally have a high salicylate content. Another acquaintance from this group of substances is acetylsalicylic acid, which is found in commercial painkillers. Salicylates serve as a natural preservative for almonds. Already 10-15 kernels contain about as much active substance as, for example, an Apsirin® tablet. Therefore, eating almonds can help reduce fever and relieve headaches in a natural manner.

Relieving of Hang Overs

Thanks to their high mineral content, almonds are ideal for bringing missing minerals balance back into the body during or after a rather merry evening. Combined with their analgesic properties, almonds can help relieve your next hangover. They are also an alkaline food that helps to neutralize the organism from acidic degradation products of alcohol consumption.

Beautiful Hair

Our hair can also benefit greatly from a multitude of constituents inside of almonds.

Contained vitamin B3 (niacin) strengthens the hair structure, regulates the production of sebum, protects the scalp from inflammation and coordinates metabolic processes in the hair roots.

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) from almonds promotes the formation of pigments in the hair roots and thus delays the graying of the hair.

Their content of folic acid (vitamin B9) improves the oxygen supply in the hair roots and thus counteracts hair loss. The antioxidant effect of vitamin Eprotects the skin and hair from negative environmental influences such as UV radiation. It prevents split ends and at the same time promotes hair growth.

One of the most common causes of hair loss is deficiency in folic acid, iron or zinc This may be prevented by eating almonds regularly. Zinc also gives the hair moisture and shine.

Finally, omega-3 fatty acids contained in almonds provide moisture and elasticity for skin and hair.

Skin Care

Almonds not only taste good, but are also ideal for external use, especially for skin care: Almond oil is known to be very mild and moisturizing. It can therefore be found in many natural cosmetic skin care products as well as massage oils. The palmitic acid contained in almond oil protects the skin, while its linoleic acid keeps it soft and smooth.

Tips for the Effective Consumption of Almonds

An almond kernel typically weighs between 1.0 and 1.2 g. Most of the effects described here start to be noticeable with a daily consumption of a handful of almond kernels (approx. 25-30g or 1 oz). With this amount, you take up energy of around 150 kcal, which corresponds approximately to the amount of energy from a glass of fruit juice.

You can either nibble the almonds as whole or chopped kernels or enjoy them in the shape of almond butter.

Due to the increased fiber and polyphenol content, the consumption of raw unshelled almonds or dark almond butter is particularly advantageous. Heating and especially roasting decomposes some its nutrients.

Raw almonds can be enjoyed very well as a snack – also in combination with other nuts or dried fruit. Whole or chopped, they are an ideal addition for cereals, bowls or salads.

Almond butter is suitable, for example, to produce your own almond milk, as an addition to smoothies, dips and desserts or may simply enjoyed as a spread.

Conclusions

In summary, the regular consumption of almonds can have a very positive effect on our health, well-being and appearance. The nutrients contained in almonds can support and even improve the health of a large part of our body.

At Mas Baillette in southern France, we are producing almonds from old varieties in extensive organic farming and dry culture.

If you are interested in trying our almonds, just subscribe to our newsletter! With this we keep you up to date on seasonal offers!

The article 11 Reasons Why You Should Eat More Almonds! will be published first on Mas Baillette.

So, what exactly is it that fascinates us so much about the southern French and Catalan way of life? It’s hard to put it into words. But I will try anyhow and I’ll just let the regional experts speak.

Maybe you know this feeling too: On some days you will like to find a good excuse to not to do what you were planning or supposed to.

Where we typically struggle to find a serious and good reason, the southern French pursue a much more pragmatic approach:

“I can’t work today because…

…it’s too windy.”
…there’s no wind.”
…it’s raining.”
…it’s too dry.”
…it’s to cold.”
…it’s too hot.”
…I’ve got a hang over.”

At the beginning we laughed when hearing such excuses, but meanwhile a deep understanding of this kind of justification grown and we even find ourselves excusing us the same way.

“You can leave all the tools outside when you’re gone. The only thing stolen here is alcohol!”

“It’s raining through your roof, but that’s normal! [this is the case for everyone here].”

Sure, placing a bucket underneath the leak causes a lot less work than uncovering and covering the whole roof to fix it.

“Shit, I again forgot to bring the saw. Come on, let’s leave the oak tree where it is and just build the hut around it.”

In addition, it is socially acceptable to overwork neither in youth nor in old age. It sounds something like this:

“He is lazy. Yes, he is still young!“

“Me, I don’t work anymore. I smoke!”

The nice thing is that neither youth nor older are firmly defined. You may regard life simply as a smooth transition between these two stages.

As you may see from the large number of quotes: the topic of work-avoidance is very popular. But the aspects of leisure and eating are also worth a look:

The answer to the question which sports you are doing:

“I dont’ do any sports. I only do hammock.”

The answer to our question how the public picknick will be organized:

“We won’t be preparing anything fancy for the picknick tomorrow. Everyone just brings a little something along. Nothing special. Some will bring oysters and others maybe foie gras with fruit bread or just a bottle of Champaign.”

Our neighbour answering the phone call of the notary:

“No, we can be at appointment early. We need at least two more hours…we haven’t had dessert yet.”

The answer to the puzzled looks on our faces how we would get to the date with the notary:

“A bottle of wine for lunch and driving a car. That works just fine in winter!”

Conclusion

Even if I cannot back up all points of my conclusion with quotes – some beautiful quotes have sure disappeared in the fog of time – I see exactly these four aspects as the core of what magically draws me to the region.

1. Don’t work too much
2. Live and let live
3. Good food and drinks are integral parts of the day
4. The siesta is sacred

The article A southern French lifestyle class will be published first on Mas Baillette.

Nut Cracker, Waiter’s Knife, Oyster Knife, Truffle Slicer and Stainless-steel Wine Goblets.

But why all this effort?

Well, I’d like to admit it: I enjoy eating and drinking very much (I also like to cook). In a country like France you don’t have to be ashamed of this – that’s quite normal here. I would even go one step further and claim that these hobbies are one of the keys to French culture.

Back then, hanging out in a stone hut far from civilization with only rudimentary equipment, the challenge arose to professionally approach the unfamiliar culinary delights. First it was about improvising and then learning. Here you will find our culinary toolbox for a windy surf and turf region.

Nut Cracker

Initially, a hammer or even a sledgehammer was to be used for the region’s hard-shelled almonds. Result: Most of the almond seeds broken ☹

This cracking process is slow, loud and unprecise. The resulting almond seeds are not a nice sight to the to eye, bad for roasting and sometimes unusable.

Waiter’s Knife

Our pocketknife’s corkscrew was tortured for many years in opening more bottles of wine that most swiss army knives will ever see. Result: blunt blades from cutting the capsule (i.e., removing the metal cap on top), deformed corkscrews and crumbling corks. ☹

Oh no, again time to buy a new pocketknife always these cork crumbs in the glass. Yuk!

Oyster Knife

A pocketknife and a work glove had to serve for opening oysters for a long time. Result: bloody hands and broken oyster shells. ☹

You can’t serve the oysters in their shell anymore; you end up with brittles of shell in your mouth and inflamed cuts on your palms.

Truffle Slicer

A regular (and sadly rather blunt) knife was often used to slice truffles. Result: Time-consuming cutting, in which slices ended up much too thick to allow the full celebration of this specialty’s aroma. ☹

Such a shame for the money and what a loss in truffleling potential for the next days.

Stainless Steel Wine Goblets

Again, wind and/or a happy celebration and it happens: The wine glasses tip over and fall onto the rocky ground. These circumstances, and especially their combination, made us pay a lot of tuition fees in the form of broken glass. ☹

You will spill the wine anyway but who would like to have glass shards in their feet and constantly having buy new glasses in addition?

Over the years, juvenile culinary recklessness turned to the conclusion that proper tools (as always) pay off!

Because you are surely reluctant to bring along such many metal items with you to your vacation, you will find this basic culinary equipment in all our accommodations. And of course, we’ll also teach you how to use it.

Cheers and Bon Appetit!

PS: Why a hammer and a pipe wrench are not suitable for properly opening a lobster is a different story.

The article My culinary tool box will be published first on Mas Baillette.