tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4709809840792232522024-03-13T18:22:26.628-04:00Sofull SistaA blog about hair, music, style, food and holistic living from a cool city girl...b/c I can't just write about one of themMoniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.comBlogger453125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-36701427690296208902015-01-15T12:02:00.001-05:002015-01-15T12:02:52.602-05:00I'm married now, I barely craft or cook, and I finally decided to shut my blog downThis post may be a huge surprise to a lot of people's blogroll feed. This is Monique, I'm still alive, I'm blessed, and I'm well. I apologize for my long departure. I continuously toy with ending the blog, and leaving it open for a comeback on a low committal basis. I've finally decided to come to peace with closing this chapter of my life. Before that, I'll provide a few updates...<br />
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1. I'm actually a Mrs. now!</div>
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I handed in my single card and married a wonderful man, a fellow classmate, on 12/20. He's anti posting pictures online, so sorry, no pictures of him :(. He's handsome, brawny, brown, and hails from the island of Dominica. We had a medium-sized ceremony and reception with about 70 people at a restaurant outside of Pittsburgh. It was beautiful, and I feel so blessed to have met my life partner. We are getting ready to move to Minneapolis once we graduate in May. I'll be working for a major retailer as a buyer, and he's doing IT consulting for a large accounting firm. Naja loves him, and they get along quite well.<br />
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2. Little miss thing - that's Naja - is 3.5, and she is really a big girl now</div>
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I'm talking sass, intelligence, even a little deception at times! She stays home with my mother-in-law, and will be entering Pre-K at a school in Minneapolis this summer/fall. Every day is a new challenge - some that are frustrating, but I'm learning:</div>
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<li>Don't take things personal</li>
<li>Be consistent (and firm)</li>
<li>Make sure she knows momma don't play that!</li>
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3. As for crafting or fun stuff, I'll call the wedding my latest craft project.</div>
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I DIY'd a lot: the centerpieces, the farewell wave wands, the signs, the favors and the programs. I seriously need a job that pays me to do these things since I always seem to find myself doing this stuff for free!</div>
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4. I got Sisterlocks!</div>
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You know I've had hair woes for forever. My hubby told me he would make my SL installation a wedding gift (what a guy). I have had the SL for almost 2 months now, and I love them. No turning back or taking these things down.</div>
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5. I'm a blogger who is really focused on her career, so that means all of the artsy stuff gets put on the backburner.<br />
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This is why I continue to buy cookbooks, and pin crafts to pinterest, and agree to help other people with things. As a full-time grad student/working mom/wife, I've come to a few anti-good-blogger conclusions:</div>
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<li>I don't have time to take pictures of Naja when the lighting is best (mainly because lighting is best during the day, and I don't see her then)</li>
<li>I can't tell you the last time I prepared <b>a meal during the week</b> (I thank God for my mother-in-law's authentic Caribbean culinary skills)</li>
<li>My crafting happens a la carte when it needs to happen, which is very rare</li>
<li>I haven't been shopping for myself in the past five months (gasp!) - thankfully, I do still wear clothes daily</li>
<li>I don't participate in the community of blogging anymore</li>
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I want to be the "go-getter blogger who does it all mom," but I realized that if I try to be her - I'll go crazy. <i>Don't worry - I've read Lean In, so I know she doesn't exist, but I still try.</i> However I need to stop trying, and just accept me as I am: A career focused woman who likes artsy stuff, cooking, and style, but doesn't have time to document this love daily.</div>
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With that said, I've connected with so many wonderful people, and shared so much of my life, and I'm grateful for that opportunity. Thank you for joining me in this journey. Thank you for sharing this space with me. It's been real. Peace.</div>
Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-86749819835249132372014-02-12T15:40:00.002-05:002014-02-12T16:09:39.701-05:00It's harder than you think<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Pictures from a few photo shoots for the "Holiday" cards I've yet to send out...I know it's February</span></div>
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I've never gone this long without posting anything to this blog - no farewell, no hiatus message. Sorry that I kind of fell off there. It was harder than expected to balance everything. School started, blessings poured in, I've had some ups, and some downs, some triumphs, and some failures. In a nutshell: life continued to happen.<br />
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Here's where I stand: I am almost 75% done with the first year of my MBA, and it has been quite eventful. It's a two-year program, so it goes by quickly. This time is proving to be a truly pivotal point in my life from both a personal and professional standpoint. My MBA is doing exactly what I wanted - providing me with the tools to do what I love, and still live the way I'd like to live. I'm growing a lot more than I expected - it's good. I'll be at Target in Minneapolis this summer working as a Buyer Intern. I'm super stoked, and I look forward to the experience.</div>
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From a personal side, I'm dating someone! He's a classmate of mine, and I think he's wonderful - encouraging, challenging, supportive, spiritual - all of the things I prayed for. Having the experience of getting to know him has been a blessing.</div>
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Naja is also well. She's a whopping 2.5 years old and is talking more and more every day. I feel like I'm a mom of a full-fledged little kid. My baby is growing up! Some of her favorite things include: talking to strangers, dancing to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6Sxv-sUYtM&feature=kp">Pharell's Happy</a>, watching TV (I hate to admit it, but it's true), painting, and cooking. Is she potty trained yet? No. Does she use the potty regularly? Yes, sometimes. She's in school three days a week for half a day, and my mom watches her the rest of the day, and when I'm at school. She is loving life right now.</div>
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There's a bit more to tell, but I'll save it for later ;). I'm going to do my best to stay connected. How have you all been?</div>
Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-9987906193123523332013-08-15T12:09:00.002-04:002013-08-15T12:09:50.830-04:00Naja's 2nd Birthday Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Pictures are from Naja's second birthday party (and after party for the last one). Photographed by my good friend <a href="http://thebossesdesk.blogspot.com/">B</a>. </span></div>
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Hello out there!!! It's been pretty quiet on the blog since I've been getting acclimated to being a student again. I'm in Pittsburgh in orientation reviewing things like accounting and calculus, and <strike>attending lots of happy hours</strike> networking with my classmates.<br />
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I've been thinking a lot about how I can fit my blog into my schedule, and I've finally verbalized that I have to schedule time to write my blog posts. Who wants to schedule time to do fun stuff? Not me, but it's necessary if it's going to happen these days. I no longer have time to blog "when I get a chance" - because that's never.<br />
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My goal is to post one to two times per week. One post will surround my love for food. Now that Naja is a full-on toddler, she eats just as much as I do some days, I'll aim to post our weeknight meals. The second post will be a toss up on style post, or a general lifestyle post. I would love to create more dialogue around being a working mom on my blog. I think it's relevant, and it's something I'm growing more passionate about these days. I have attended some phenomenal events that have learned some things that are applicable for everyone - those with and without kids, and stay-at-home and working moms/dads.<br />
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I'm aiming to kick this new schedule off in September. That's all for now - I hope that you're all well. Peace.Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-87295865723661867252013-05-17T12:13:00.001-04:002013-05-17T12:13:15.182-04:00Spring 2013 Updates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Let me summarize the last few months in a handful of pictures with an explanation of everything below...</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">We've been enjoying the warm weather: Naja found a nice place to perch herself</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I've been hanging out with friends & socializing more - I needed it: A little face beat before a night out with my girls</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Have gone back to Philly once over the past few months: Dosa from the Philadelphia Chutney Company</span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lCcKuqF8qG8/UZZPSruJdWI/AAAAAAAACJ0/uX--zuSgZAs/s1600/Photo+Apr+27,+4+02+50+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lCcKuqF8qG8/UZZPSruJdWI/AAAAAAAACJ0/uX--zuSgZAs/s640/Photo+Apr+27,+4+02+50+PM.jpg" width="550" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Still doing a lot of stuff with my sorority: At one of my sorority chapter's community events</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Still trying to eat healthy: Spiced chickpeas, mashed avocado, vegan pesto & grilled asparagus for breakfast - why not?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Loving this girl: All smiles</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Watching her socialize and grow up: Hanging out with some "big girls" at a Jack & Jill picnic </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">No reason for this pic other than I love it: My little model</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Summer weather finally broke: Hanging outside on a weekday after work - Naja loves to sit on the ground like this</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--GMwusPIZ_g/UZZPUTzr1tI/AAAAAAAACKc/2WW55XNmE_M/s1600/Photo+May+17,+11+30+17+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--GMwusPIZ_g/UZZPUTzr1tI/AAAAAAAACKc/2WW55XNmE_M/s640/Photo+May+17,+11+30+17+AM.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hair: My most recent cut & hair style</span></div>
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(All pics taken with my iPhone & most posted to my Instagram page @mowitafro)<br />
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So first I will address hair for Naja and me because that's the heart of where this blog started. As for my cut, I was inspired by <a href="http://www.zuriworks.org/">Zuriworks</a>, a wonderful organization who help cancer patients and encourage women not to be afraid to cut it all off! I am not my hair! As for Naja - this girl has A TON of hair, and she hates getting it done. I was opting for protective styles via cornrows, but she barely lets me detangle on a wash day! I've tried snacks, movies, everything. She hates getting her hair done. Thus, she's been rocking a fro and honestly - her fro is a show-stopper and gets rave reviews. I spritz it at night and in the morning and add oil and Shea Moisture Curling Smoothie to help keep it moisturized.<br />
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Off of hair...the past few months have been very eventful in a wonderful way. I have been fairly busy with a few things. You may remember I hinted that something big may be coming my way, and I'm finally ready to make my announcement...I'm going to business school full-time in the fall at Carnegie Mellon's Tepper School of Business in Pittsburgh, PA!<br />
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It's crazy and unfathomable the way things just work out sometimes. For those of you who know me personally, you know that I was in the process of applying to b-school right around the time I found out I was expecting (Winter 2010). Knowing then that I'd be a single mom, I didn't think b-school would be a possibility anymore. Especially since I wanted to go full-time, and I wanted to go to an elite program (Top 20), but how would I, or could I do that as a single mom?<br />
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Sometimes, you just have faith and let God work things out - and He worked things out AGAIN - financially, socially, personally, I have a ton of support all around, and I'm so incredibly grateful. In short, I received <a href="http://www.cgsm.org/">a fellowship</a> to cover tuition, and my parents live in a suburb of Pittsburgh, so we're staying with them (again). Praise the Lord for minimum grad school debt - I couldn't have asked for more!<br />
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My job knows about business school now, and I'm working there through the end of June. I'm taking off some time for a few b-school related conferences to attend, and then I'm using the month of July to not work at all to take a few road trips, hang out with Naja, and relax before school starts in August.<br />
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My focus in school will be in strategy, with a focus on analyzing market research to make recommendations for larger business decisions regarding trades, sales, acquisitions, or brand changes. I would love to leverage my MBA into the retail space, which means blogging more could actually help me with these new career goals. I'm looking forward to the new scene. I've gained a lot of perspective on life in the past two years. I'm ecstatic about what's to come...I hope you guys are going to join me on this new journey.<br />
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If you do want to stay along for the ride, and you follow me on GoogleReader, follow me on <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/2040456/sofull-sista">bloglovin</a> by <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/2040456/sofull-sista">clicking here</a>, or you can always click the 'heart' icon in the top left side of the side bar. Peace & love.Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-62995849862752134192013-02-04T21:58:00.000-05:002013-02-04T22:59:31.432-05:00What's up (part 2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Part the table set up for the bridal shower I hosted</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bridesmaids from the wedding, I'm in the middle - September 2012</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Some high school friends gathering for breakfast after a wedding in October 2012.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Grilled cheese and tomato and roasted red pepper soup (will post the recipe from <i>Top Chef Cookbook </i>later). November 2012.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The invitation for the baby shower I hosted in December. The theme was: What are little girls made of? Sugar and spice, and everything nice. December 2012.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Momma's night out - a rare occasion, out at The Park for an Inauguration Party with a friend from undergrad. January 2013.</span></div>
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I've finally had a chance to write about myself. This used to come so easily to me, and now, it's like I've got nothing. Since I last gave you an update on me, I've been to a few weddings, one which I had the honor of being the maid of honor. I planned a few showers (one bridal, and one baby), I've been cooking up a storm, I've changed my hair twice, and I just completed a three month shopping hiatus. The pictures are more descriptive of most of the things I mentioned, so I won't go into detail. If you're wondering what I did with my hair...let's just say I paid a lot of money for lock extensions, and hated them, and took them out after 2 weeks, and now realize that I will probably never lock my hair, and I will probably never grow my hair super long. I like ease of hair, and I like styled hair, which translates to short hair for me.</div>
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I've really come to appreciate good friends recently. The past month has been filled with a few weddings, meet ups, parties, and general fellowship, and it's been awesome. This January, I approached my two year mark as a single woman, and I have learned a lot! I am comforted, and appreciative of my friends. They answer when I call, keep me in check, are there for a good laugh, and that is something that I missed when I was dating. I was one of "those friends" who ditched their friends when they got a man. Note to self: don't ditch your friends, it's natural to see a shift in the balance, but ditching is a not cool.</div>
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I feel like posts will be forthcoming as the weather gets warmer. There are some big changes coming that I can't wait to share, but I have to wait for the right time to break the news.<br />
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There is one thing I'm excited about that I can talk about...I'm going to Jamaica in a few weeks! Remember <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2012/02/grateful.html">this trip</a> from last year? Well, my department hit our 2012 goal, so the company is paying for us to go to Jamaica, and we're staying at <a href="http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/RoseHallJamaica/Default.htm">The Ritz</a>! My mom is going to watch Naja for me, while I'm away. I'm looking forward to a few days in luxury, but I think I'll miss Naja a lot. That's all for now. Peace.</div>
Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-3474334477059471522012-12-17T09:57:00.001-05:002012-12-17T09:58:44.723-05:00Updates & Happy Holidays 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">a little blurry, but I love these boots & this vest</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">part of our weekend routine involves big breakfast on saturday: helping mommy make vegan banana pancakes (taste-checking is necessary)</span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kxr9blMOkhs/UMwCDKN6ncI/AAAAAAAACE0/MXLbMmSPRmc/s1600/DSC_0210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="461" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kxr9blMOkhs/UMwCDKN6ncI/AAAAAAAACE0/MXLbMmSPRmc/s640/DSC_0210.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">watching the game with her uncle</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">cheesing after a fresh bath</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">weekend lounging: playing in her toy box</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">holiday photo...<i>for the announcements I needed to send out yesterday</i></span></div>
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Hi everyone, it's been a while. Life is so interesting, it has its peaks and valleys, its lulls and highs, its busy and quiet moments. This year has been filled with momentum, surprises, and changes...more on these things later, as some things are still materializing. To all of you - I wish you happy holidays, may the season bring you peace, joy and love. I am so incredibly thankful for the good friends and family in my life, I hope to share my sentiments with them this season.<br />
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I have quite a few updates, and pictures, so I'm going to split this update post with one post focused on Naja, and another focused on me, so to speak. I will begin with the little lady first, who is now 17 months old - where does the time go?<br />
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Naja is able to run now, and her break-off speed is quite impressive - she continues to keep me busy. Naja is also talking more now, and is very friendly to strangers. She said a sentence last Saturday morning while we were playing with her Brobee stuffed animal. In a high-pitched voiced she said, "Hi <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-fN-yPsMyU">Brobee</a>," I was so proud! But didn't freak out with excitement because that sometimes upsets her - my extremely loud moments upset her when they happen by surprise, lol. Every week she's talking more and more. She says some words very clearly, and others that those close to her understand. She recently started this new thing where her talking is something like baby blibber blabber, and I really don't know what she's saying.<br />
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<u>Definition</u><br />
<b>Baby Blibber Blabber</b>: a series of noises with varied voice inflection followed by a pause that assuredly garners a response.<br />
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I'm confident that she thinks I understand her, and I'm sure I'll understand her soon enough, we'll just keep trying and chugging away with the baby talk for now.<br />
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Naja is also approaching the age of defiance. She has temper tantrums around those she knows well (I.e. my mom and me). Just in case you guys want a few examples: she has thrown items on the floor, bit my mom, and head-butted both of us to name a few. She knows exactly what she's doing, because these reactions only come after she doesn't get her way. She's stubborn, feisty and quite a drama queen. Those who know me well that are reading may be thinking, "...that's what you get," but I can promise you, I was nothing compared to Naja.<br />
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She's been getting a lot of timeouts, stern looks, and firm reprimands, and I don't know if it's "working." I'm finding it difficult to figure out the right way to discipline Naja since I'm not a fan of spankings. Everyone has different parenting styles, and each child is different. I'm just trying this out to see how things go -- I surely don't want a snobby-bratty child. For now, I'm praying for patience while I discipline her, consistency, grace and fairness.<br />
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Recent things Naja's been loving: a <a href="http://www.target.com/p/fisher-price-little-people-shop-n-roll-ride-on/-/A-13477989#prodSlot=medium_4_43">ride on shopper</a> I got her, clementines, her princess snow boots, Princess Tiana, dinosaurs, and my pots & pans<br />
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Ok, that's little miss thing. Updates from me are next...<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>On Naja: one & three: top - h&m; vest - nordstrom; jeggings - target; boots - baby zara | two & five: onesie - children's place | six: top - target; sweater - h&m</i></span>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-45276776356052017482012-09-21T11:55:00.000-04:002012-09-21T12:10:50.671-04:00September Updates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Friday folks! I've been a little better snapping pictures of Naja, although she is incredibly difficult to catch these days. As soon as she sees the camera, she walks up to me and wants to look at pictures, or she runs away like we're about to start a game of hide and seek. I think we're well past due for some updates on the little one so here goes...<br />
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Naja is growing like weeds these days. She's pretty tall for her age - but she doesn't have a lot of girth. I'm still cloth diapering her, and she's long off the bottle and uses sippy cups with a straw. She is starting to formulate some words/sounds. To name a few, she says "buh" for book and "bah" for bath, and she says "Woof woof" whenever she sees a dog. She also says three words very clearly now:<br />
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<li>"agua" for water - yep, she's bilingual - JK - agua is much easier to say than water</li>
<li>"Naja" to refer to herself, because she speaks in third person often and loves the sound of her own name...</li>
<li>"Momma" It may sound crazy, but whenever Naja sees a picture of me, she calls me "Naja" or "Momma". When I point out that I'm Momma, she sometimes points to herself calling herself "Momma". So, basically - we're both Momma and Naja.</li>
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This stage of motherhood is a busy one! I can tell I'm going to have lots of fun stories raising this little one!<br />
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As for me - I'm rearing up for the last week before my cousin's wedding. I passed my sign off for the new role I assumed at work, and I have a new look.<br />
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The glasses are prescription - I wear them for distance, and while sitting at the computer at work. As for my hair - I cut it...why? well...why not? Peace.<br />
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<i>On Naja: 1 & 4: top - gift; leggings - gap kids; sneakers - baby zara | </i><i> 2 & 5 - tutu dress - gapkids; boots - baby zara | </i><i>3 & 6: top - target; skirt - baby zara |</i>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-10987557529893839352012-09-14T08:19:00.001-04:002012-09-14T09:13:18.213-04:00Expressions from Naja<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eAjjq5L_Ehk/UFK1IuBbVlI/AAAAAAAACBU/Qg_gWv7DzxQ/s1600/DSC_0172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eAjjq5L_Ehk/UFK1IuBbVlI/AAAAAAAACBU/Qg_gWv7DzxQ/s640/DSC_0172.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">...stank face</span></div>
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...<span style="font-size: x-small;">ham</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ckbvbJMiL4c/UFKowsdQINI/AAAAAAAACAs/wsr-8cLzaUw/s1600/DSC_0171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="688" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ckbvbJMiL4c/UFKowsdQINI/AAAAAAAACAs/wsr-8cLzaUw/s640/DSC_0171.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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...<span style="font-size: x-small;">sleepy & contemplating</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qDIppJf2RM0/UFKoyM8QZXI/AAAAAAAACA0/GzQ_rWQ7vHQ/s1600/DSC_0177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qDIppJf2RM0/UFKoyM8QZXI/AAAAAAAACA0/GzQ_rWQ7vHQ/s640/DSC_0177.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">...wanting something</span></div>
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I took pictures for a friend of the family who had a rededication of their vows...so Naja got to wear a pretty dress. My child is truly expressive, and this is just the beginning folks! I hope you all have a great weekend!<br />
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<i>On Naja: Dress - Baby Gap; Shoes - Baby Zara</i>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-69855309178556249742012-09-10T23:40:00.002-04:002012-09-10T23:44:02.384-04:00Part 1: A Fresh Look - Repurposing a Dresser & NightstandIn my <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2012/08/august.html">last post</a> I referenced doing some repurposing projects, and I've finally snapped some pictures and gotten around to posting them. FYI - <i>taking</i> pictures, and <i>actually posting them</i> to your blog are two totally, separate, and independent things.<br />
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I don't know how many of you remember <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/06/smile.html">this "Smile" post</a> from last July, where I talked about getting new (to me) furniture that I planned to use for Naja's room. I got the furniture for free, and it was in spectacular shape, and it's probably as old as I am.<br />
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I loved the framework of the furniture, but I hated the color - this pale yellow is just so flat and blah. Originally, I planned on using the dresser in Naja's room. However, I soon changed my mind after I finished another repurposed dresser (to be posted in the near future) and I knew that should be saved for her room. Thus, I knew this furniture had a home in my room.<br />
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Here are some before pictures of the repurposed dresser/chest and night stand:<br />
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<b><u>BEFORE:</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z5VOY4uzig8/UE6uHNcY5EI/AAAAAAAAB_8/mFgSSsx9mVo/s1600/DSC_0396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="830" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z5VOY4uzig8/UE6uHNcY5EI/AAAAAAAAB_8/mFgSSsx9mVo/s640/DSC_0396.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<b><u>AFTER:</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bpsFB1TOOa8/UE6tkBecR6I/AAAAAAAAB_k/VWCnjPtmTeI/s1600/DSC_0209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="826" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bpsFB1TOOa8/UE6tkBecR6I/AAAAAAAAB_k/VWCnjPtmTeI/s640/DSC_0209.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zs-Na-1ruVY/UE6tuM7CcHI/AAAAAAAAB_0/BcUUjTqo2jc/s1600/DSC_0210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="395" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zs-Na-1ruVY/UE6tuM7CcHI/AAAAAAAAB_0/BcUUjTqo2jc/s640/DSC_0210.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-420Gelx_QNI/UE6tqoDldPI/AAAAAAAAB_s/52I5mguPQ9I/s1600/DSC_0212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="768" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-420Gelx_QNI/UE6tqoDldPI/AAAAAAAAB_s/52I5mguPQ9I/s640/DSC_0212.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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Wow - what a world of a difference a nice paint job makes! Thanks to some help from <a href="http://artisticexpressionsbyelisabeth.blogspot.com/">Libby</a>, and my good friends at Home Depot, I did the lazy man's repurposing job with this project. <i>Note: I had one day to do this job, by myself, so I was all about the short cuts, not my preference, but it's real life. </i>I did not sand it, instead I applied a thick coat of <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=202017425&storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&MERCH=REC-_-SearchPLPHorizontal1-1-_-NA-_-202017425-_-N#.UE6uzaS3Aic">primer</a> (only one coat), and then applied the paint. I used a glossy black paint by Rust-Oleum, because they also manufacture paint in a spray can - and I used the same color to repurpose some chairs (also to be posted in the near future). I then used chrome spray paint on the hardware, and voila - a repurposed dresser!</div>
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There are some white parts that peak through around the drawers, and the paint has some texture to it, but I kind of like it. All in all, I am very satisfied with the finished project.</div>
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The cost of this project was:</div>
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Primer - $9.99</div>
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Paint - $9.99</div>
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Spray paint - $3.49 </div>
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Furniture - Free</div>
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<b>Total - ~$25 (including taxes)</b></div>
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<i>This post will be part 1 of 4 of the repurposing projects I embarked upon before my move. I've taken pictures of the other projects, so I will try to focus on posting them across the next few weeks. Peace.</i>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-18880028884494776382012-08-28T21:21:00.000-04:002012-08-28T21:21:06.691-04:00August...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D7-_BJx3F48/UDLig4IJ_8I/AAAAAAAAB-I/gqIFaiKMhwM/s1600/DSC_2057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="367" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D7-_BJx3F48/UDLig4IJ_8I/AAAAAAAAB-I/gqIFaiKMhwM/s640/DSC_2057.JPG" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Painting that we did for some decorations for Naja's birthday party</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8-b5NLVTDQ/UD1p6rkag8I/AAAAAAAAB-s/ZldQ7CcZd0U/s1600/DSC_0106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8-b5NLVTDQ/UD1p6rkag8I/AAAAAAAAB-s/ZldQ7CcZd0U/s640/DSC_0106.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Naja winding down at a family picnic with her great-grandmother</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8XjwaSnZn0w/UD1r4pj3dUI/AAAAAAAAB_E/O8FVI5D-dRI/s1600/DSC_0182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="375" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8XjwaSnZn0w/UD1r4pj3dUI/AAAAAAAAB_E/O8FVI5D-dRI/s640/DSC_0182.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Personal invitations for my cousin's bridal shower</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JgECIksPW0/UD1q8D6fWUI/AAAAAAAAB-8/RDw5RhatIPo/s1600/DSC_0150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JgECIksPW0/UD1q8D6fWUI/AAAAAAAAB-8/RDw5RhatIPo/s640/DSC_0150.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hanging in Philly with old friends - I'm such a ham :)</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WZI7pO0zTzI/UD1p0waXytI/AAAAAAAAB-k/Wxpa86kbxNg/s1600/DSC_0168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WZI7pO0zTzI/UD1p0waXytI/AAAAAAAAB-k/Wxpa86kbxNg/s640/DSC_0168.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Naja's new, favorite face - she does this any time I say " Say Cheese"</span></div>
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Is it just me, or did this summer fly by? I cannot believe it's late August. This summer was packed with a lot of action - most of which was not captured by the camera lense, but it was fun and eventful nonetheless. Some items from this summer include:<br />
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Visit to Philly to hang with my college friends<br />
Moving out into our own space & repurposing half of the furniture in it<br />
Naja's 1st birthday (and party)<br />
My cousin got engaged, and I'm her MOH!<br />
Weaning Naja - drinks up ;)<br />
Locking my hair...and then not locking it (again)<br />
Training for a marathon...<br />
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I met up with so many friends and family these past few months, it was a wonderful reminder of how blessed I am to have kind, caring, and loving people in my life. While I'm a bit saddened to say goodbye to summer, I am looking forward to things slowing down in the fall. I like the cool weather - the turning of leaves...and I can't wait to get Naja outside in the snow!!! I know, we have to get to fall before winter...<br />
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I hope to blog more in the coming weeks - I have some pictures from my trip to Philly that I'd like to share, and I want to share some of my furniture repurposing projects, so there's more to come!<br />
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To my readers - thanks for hanging in there with me. It really means a lot when I read comments even when my posting is sparse. This corner of the internet is really special to me, and I appreciate the support and encouraging words you provide.Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-34430566015326960292012-07-19T21:13:00.001-04:002012-07-19T21:13:43.190-04:00Guess who's one...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sy5Nt5tvCP4/UAiuL4nG9AI/AAAAAAAAB9k/Ht0ASdL8qVk/s1600/DSC_0104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sy5Nt5tvCP4/UAiuL4nG9AI/AAAAAAAAB9k/Ht0ASdL8qVk/s640/DSC_0104.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Taking a dip in the pool on a hot summer day</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Naja loves water...almost as much as food</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qsXCnLeYgXQ/UAiujG3eG3I/AAAAAAAAB9s/LBZR1UklD3c/s1600/DSC_0126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qsXCnLeYgXQ/UAiujG3eG3I/AAAAAAAAB9s/LBZR1UklD3c/s640/DSC_0126.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">On the run and saying "me, me, me" - this girl loves herself</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--a2P_AkN63s/UAivPDoFCsI/AAAAAAAAB90/B-FP6M3jMlM/s1600/DSC_0129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--a2P_AkN63s/UAivPDoFCsI/AAAAAAAAB90/B-FP6M3jMlM/s640/DSC_0129.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A picture of the birthday girl on her actual birthday :)</span></div>
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Yes, my little bundle of joy Naja Simone is one year old today!!! I can't believe that <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/07/introducing-naja-simone.html">one year ago today</a>, on July 19, I called out of a morning conference call for work due to contractions which bred baby Naja a few hours later (yes - <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/07/introducing-naja-simone.html">my labor</a> was only a few hours - thank God!).<br />
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I hosted a party for her last weekend, but didn't take any pictures, however I did post a pic of Naja <a href="http://instagram.com/p/NFtKkIlcHT/">smashing her cupcake</a> ;). I feel awful about not taking more pictures, but this is the kicker with taking pictures: it's really tough to experience the moment, when you're always snapping away. It's like I'm there, but I'm not "in it", I'm just observing. Since it's just Naja and me most of the time, I'd rather experience the moment than observe the moment. Nonetheless, I do like to capture these moments to share with friends.</div>
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The party had a loose theme of "ombre everything" based on <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/122019471124610951/">this picture</a>. I prepared the food and kept the menu simple: sliders: buffalo chicken, ginger turkey burger, beef burger & <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2012/02/vegetable-sliders-superbowl-food.html">eggplant</a>, pasta salad, chips, corn and watermelon. Thanks to <a href="http://artisticexpressionsbyelisabeth.blogspot.com/">Libby</a>, I offered my guests <a href="http://artisticexpressionsbyelisabeth.blogspot.com/2012/07/staying-hydrated-channeling-my-inner.html">flavored water</a> as a beverage. I ordered four dozen cupcakes from <a href="http://sprinkles.com/">Sprinkles</a>, and I gave everyone colored assorted candies in the ombre white-to-red theme as a gift.<br />
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Naja was surrounded by lots of friends and family at the party. There were no kids at the party -- <i>I have yet to vibe with any parents with kids around Naja's age.</i> Still there were a handful of my friends - Naja's "aunts" and "uncles" - who came out to support her. Naja's family was also there to celebrate. <span style="background-color: white;">I seriously am so blessed to have the family and friends I have - they're awesome.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;"> It was a good time!!!</span><br />
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<i>As for other life updates...</i><br />
We finished my sorority chartering, now we're back to our regular scheduled programs<br />
I'm still training for <a href="http://www.marinemarathon.com/">the marathon</a>, my furthest distance thus far has been 10 miles straight. I need to kick up my training, which requires a good amount of time, but I'm not quite sure how I'll balance it just yet...<br />
Naja and I are moving out and getting our own space in a few weeks (we've been living with my parents since she was born), I'm mostly packed and ready for the move<br />
I'll be wearing <a href="http://www.bhldn.com/shop-bridesmaids-partygoers-dresses/macaron-shoppe-dress-sunshine">this little number</a> as the MOH in my cousin's wedding in September, and will be planning the bridal shower soon<br />
I may be locking my hair now - I installed a set of finger coils 2 weeks ago, I don't love it, but few people love these beginning stages of locking<br />
I'll be 26 in 15 days and I have no plans for my birthday right now, but I'm kind of ok with that (if you wonder why -- see above)Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-24628037895958406232012-06-26T20:58:00.002-04:002012-06-26T20:58:30.417-04:00Brief Update 6.24.12 (and prior)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ok folks, in <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2012/06/weekly-update-6312.html">my last update</a>, I mentioned that this summer was busy, and it has not slowed down one bit! I had my first "grown folks" weekend since being a mom. I got a chance to hang out with <a href="http://instagr.am/p/MOw_SflcFa/">my girls</a> in NYC without Naja - she stayed home with Sonny & Mimi. I had a blast! There was lots of singing, <a href="http://instagr.am/p/MOnI5vFcPC/">eating</a>, laughing and girl talk. I'm so grateful for my friends!!!<br />
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I have not taken any recent pictures of Naja with my dSLR. However, I always post a TON of pics on instagram. (Like <a href="http://instagr.am/p/MCBnxclcBG/">this one</a> of Naja representing my alma mater) Little miss thing<span style="background-color: white;"> is full on walking now, and sometimes she tries to run. In fact, she was in a </span><a href="http://instagr.am/p/MWn0v7lcOp/" style="background-color: white;">triple threat</a><span style="background-color: white;"> (basketball) position recently during one of our outside play times.</span><br />
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To add to everything else from the summer, my cousin was recently engaged, and I'm the maid of honor! I'm absolutely delighted. However, if you notice sporadic posts - it's due to all of the exciting events that are happening this summer. I miss updating the blog more frequently, taking more pictures, and trying new recipes, but alas, I can't do everything. I hope you all are well, and enjoying your summer!!!Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-37705582065549534212012-06-11T22:19:00.000-04:002012-06-27T08:24:00.926-04:00Paisley Prints<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>one, three & four:</b> dress - gift; shoes - zara; sunglasses - anthro; earrings - anthro <b>| two & five:</b> dress - gift; shoes - nordstrom; earrings - anthro; sunglasses - anthro</span></div>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-87495220309729586342012-06-10T21:57:00.001-04:002012-06-11T00:06:35.160-04:00Weekly Update 6.3.12<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ytJu8yXijDM/T9VHXxR1W0I/AAAAAAAAB8Q/rgZklcnzy0M/s1600/DSC_0116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="481" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ytJu8yXijDM/T9VHXxR1W0I/AAAAAAAAB8Q/rgZklcnzy0M/s640/DSC_0116.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Playing outside in my favorite new dress (of hers) from Target</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MZYUjdb9s2Y/T9VHHUyrJvI/AAAAAAAAB8A/uRubgsnvOzs/s1600/DSC_0128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MZYUjdb9s2Y/T9VHHUyrJvI/AAAAAAAAB8A/uRubgsnvOzs/s640/DSC_0128.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sometimes she poses for the camera - I love it!!! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zAY67uBPiE8/T9VHH45dLLI/AAAAAAAAB8I/98mzJa2oetw/s1600/DSC_0129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="696" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zAY67uBPiE8/T9VHH45dLLI/AAAAAAAAB8I/98mzJa2oetw/s640/DSC_0129.jpg" width="550" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Always with something in her mouth</span></div><br />
It's been a LONG TIME! Over the past 30 days, I've had two traveling trips for work, which has placed blogging on the low end of the totum pole. I haven't taken any pics either - eek! Here's what's new...<br />
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Naja has a full head of curly hair. I've decided to 'tame' her fro and moved to pigtails for ease of detangling, and to minimize knots. I miss her fro, though <a href="http://instagr.am/p/LoHUw-lcNQ/">she did rock a braid out</a> this weekend.<br />
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</div><div>I firmly believe that Naja <i>could</i> walk...if she wanted to. In fact, I've seen her take a handful of steps on her own when "no one is watching." If you applaud her for her steps - she screams in angst. She prefers to walk while holding someone's hand, and she throws a tantrum if you let go. I think this is my first lesson in learning that your child does things on his/her own schedule. As a parent - I'm letting go of <s>already over-extending</s> wanting my child to walk "early." It's no longer a priority - she will walk (consistently) when she wants to. <i>*Kanye shrug*</i><br />
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Naja is sleeping through the night <i>*Does Dougie*</i>!!! She sleeps from 7:30/8 pm until 6:30/7 am, and takes one or two <a href="http://instagr.am/p/LqAgEelcJM/">naps</a> during the day - it's awesome! In other news - she is still teething, I've lost count of the number of teeth she has coming in, I think it's at least another four.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Finally, I am in the midst of planning Naja's 1st birthday party. Right now, I'm thinking of having a dance party theme where we have a <s>DJ</s> nice iPod playlist, food, and dancing. I know she's only 1, but I don't know of any babies coming, and Naja loves dancing so much - I'm pretty sure she'd love it. She can <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fE_64SdD27w">wobble</a> better than anyone I know.</div><div><br />
<b>In other news</b><br />
...My mom and I are chartering a graduate chapter for our sorority in the county of VA where we live.<br />
...One of my best soror friends recently relocated to the area, and works at the same company as me, and thankfully, she's encouraging me to get out more.<br />
...I have my first baby free non-work related night free trip in a few weeks and I'm slated to see a handful of good friends who I haven't seen in years - I can't wait!<br />
...I'm also <s>scrambling</s> planning to do something for my birthday, which is 15 days after Naja's. <a href="http://www.songkick.com/festivals/21101-summer-spirit/id/12435128-summer-spirit-festival-erykah-badu--common--sharon-jones-and-the-dap-kings">Erykah Badu, Common & Estelle will be in town</a>, I'm aiming for something easy and low key.<br />
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Is it just me - or are the summer months an extremely busy/crazy time?</div>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-41230627799705652792012-05-31T22:09:00.002-04:002012-06-11T08:00:48.875-04:00Shots from Instagram<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>1.</b> Fun time in the pool <b>| 2.</b> New rings I love <b>| 3.</b> Weekend stroll <b>| 4.</b> Shoes my mom picked up, then returned <b>| 5.</b> Hanging at a bar in Ann Arbor with college friends <b>| 6.</b> Mommy & Naja <b>| 7.</b> Newest J. Crew catalog <b>| 8.</b> Things Naja finds on the ground and tries to eat <b>| 9.</b> Shot of me & Naja at 11 months <b>| 10.</b> Naja - she's a sucker for the camera <b>| 11.</b> My little politician<b> | 12.</b> Me rubbing arms with a guy on the bus...unintentionally<b> | 13.</b> Naja smothering uncle with kisses <b>| 14.</b> Car ride to Michigan<b> | 15.</b> My shot - filled with water <b>| 16.</b> Me and the broham</span><br />
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Life's been busy! Something about the summer ignites a lot of happenings, it's fun, and I'm liking it! I thought I'd sum up my past few weeks in photos from instagram...after all, everyone else is doing it.<br />
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To see more of this in the moment, follow me @mowitafro (on instagram and <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/mowitafro">twitter</a>).Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-89389049797171667582012-05-22T23:20:00.002-04:002012-05-22T23:20:46.788-04:00Ladylike<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>one & three:</b> dress - vintage; shoes - rebecca minkoff; jacket - zara | <b>two & four:</b> top - j. crew factory; skirt - j. crew; shoes - urban; necklace - etsy; sunglasses - anthro</span></div>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-64368186102531488232012-05-20T23:02:00.000-04:002012-05-20T23:02:07.189-04:00Still Nursing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Naja smiling on Mother's Day 2012</span></div>
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I'm skipping the weekly update this week to provide an <s>brief</s> update on my breastfeeding experience. Naja is 10 months old now and she is on three solid meals a day, with two additional snacks. She drinks water, and my milk. She has exclusively had my milk, and I continue to pump three times a day at work, and nurse her whenever I'm around.<br />
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I plan to nurse her through her first birthday, and I'll see where we go past that. Her recent set of incoming teeth has caused nursing to be her only consolation to the pain. I'm happy I've stuck with it this long - it's a great feeling to know that I can assuage her pain, even if only for a moment, and I do love the bond that I share with her due to breastfeeding.<br />
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<a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/09/nursing-as-working-mom.html">Since my last update</a>, I have a new tip for the working- nursing mom: Pump and nurse <b><u>simultaneously - yes at the same time</u></b>! I stole this genius idea from a mommy mentor. This tip has saved me time, and re-built my milk supply <i>since I lost about 40 ounces due to a fuse break in my freezer</i>. It's quite simple - whenever you nurse the baby - you nurse her on one side, and pump the other side. It takes some getting used to at first, but after the first time, Naja could ignore the pumping sound and go right to sleep while she nursed. This is really helpful at night now that Naja isn't waking. This is also helpful when I go out on the weekends, as I leave "balanced" - I don't have to worry about one side being more full than the other.<br />
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My body is at an equilibrium with the whole milk supply thing. I don't leak, and I am past <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/08/nurse-baby.html">the pain that accompanies those first few weeks <s>months</s></a>. I even went away for one night for business travel last week, and while away, I didn't have a chance to pump as much as I normally do. Surprisingly, everything seemed to be fine when I returned - my milk seemed to be just enough for Naja!<br />
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This may be TMI but...I still have yet to have a visit from Aunt Flo - no complaints - 19 months and counting! However, recently, as Naja has nursed less, I have experienced bouts of slight nausea, headaches, being tired, and other pregnancy-like symptoms. <i>No worries - I'm definitely not pregnant.</i> In talking with other moms (and googling the heck out of stuff), it seems like other nursing moms have experienced these symptoms surrounding a change in their milk supply. <a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/">Joanna</a> talks about this <a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/2012/02/motherhood-depression-and-weaning.html">here</a>, and <a href="http://ohdeardrea.blogspot.com/">Drea</a> talks about it <a href="http://ohdeardrea.blogspot.com/2011/12/weaning-is-terrible-and-so-is.html">here</a>. This nursing thing is all hormonal, so funky things happen, I'm noting any changes that are out of the ordinary for the future (and my next visit to the doctor).<br />
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Finally, I've lost a ton of weight without even trying! I haven't changed my diet, and I am the smallest I've ever been in life, thus I attribute this weight loss to nursing. I lost a large chunk at the onset, and another 5+ pounds after the 6-month mark. I've heard similar stories from other nursing moms. Who knew?<br />
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No promises that all of these things will apply to you, and this may actually be totally irrelevant...but I thought I'd throw my experiences out into the net to help future google searches ;).Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-56467792825398452962012-05-18T08:58:00.002-04:002012-05-18T08:58:49.901-04:00Cheesy Quinoa CakesIt's been a while since I've mentioned this beloved grain (I've referenced it <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/09/crispy-quinoa-cakes-with-roasted-red.html">here</a>, <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/08/curried-rice-and-quinoa-pilaf-with.html">here</a>, <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/07/zucchini-quinoa-lasagna.html">here</a>, <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/06/quinoa-cake-with-tzatziki-sauce.html">here</a>, <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/07/black-bean-quinoa-burger.html">here</a>, and <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2010/10/quinoa-pilaf-with-curried-sweet-potato.html">here</a>), and now it's back in an appetizer variety with two wonderful accompaniments: cheese, and aioli. The cakes have simple ingredients - fontina cheese, quinoa, green onion, S&P, and flour. They were sauteed to generate a crispy outer shell, and paired with a flavorful, tangy garlic aioli sauce. It's simple, and it's everything that you need for a delicious appetizer.<br />
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PS - if you don't try the cakes, at least try the aioli - it's sure to add lots of great flavor to any grilled panini!<br />
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<b><u>Cheesy Quinoa Cakes</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://spoonforkbacon.com/">spoon fork bacon</a><br />
Makes about 10-12 cakes<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u>Ingredients</u></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><b>QUNIOA CAKES</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">2 cups cooked quinoa</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">2/3 cup grated fontina cheese</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">3 tablespoons all purpose flour</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">2 green onions, thinly sliced</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 egg, lightly beaten</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">2 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">salt to taste</span></div>
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<em style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></em></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><b>AIOLI</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">½ cup light mayonnaise</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 head of garlic, roasted</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 lemon, zested and juiced</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">salt and pepper to taste</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u>Directions</u></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1. For the cakes: Place all ingredients, except for the oil, into a mixing bowl and stir together until well combined. Season with salt and allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">2. Pour oil into a large sauté pan and place over medium heat.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">3. Form ¼ cup patties with the quinoa mixture and place in the heated sauté pan. (this will have to be done in batches)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">4. Cook quinoa cakes for about 5 minutes on each side. Repeat with the remaining patties until all of the cakes have been cooked. Set aside.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">5. For the aioli: Place all ingredients into a food processor, season with salt and pepper and blend until smooth. Pour into a small bowl and serve alongside the warm</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> quinoa cakes.</span></div>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-62786294820103513512012-05-14T21:28:00.002-04:002012-05-15T09:08:57.296-04:00Weekly Update 5.6.12<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hf4xOjooF5g/T7GsGxzLp3I/AAAAAAAAB6o/rfNoV_jMKnc/s1600/DSC_0153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hf4xOjooF5g/T7GsGxzLp3I/AAAAAAAAB6o/rfNoV_jMKnc/s640/DSC_0153.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Not loving the car ride</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xu8tw5ir0ls/T7Gs8ziyzeI/AAAAAAAAB6w/-1KHgMYMqT4/s1600/DSC_0154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xu8tw5ir0ls/T7Gs8ziyzeI/AAAAAAAAB6w/-1KHgMYMqT4/s640/DSC_0154.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Pausing only for a moment for a kiss from mommy!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B-EGUW00gQA/T7CAfJm4buI/AAAAAAAAB6c/r_tmeRnonys/s1600/DSC_0165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="363" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B-EGUW00gQA/T7CAfJm4buI/AAAAAAAAB6c/r_tmeRnonys/s640/DSC_0165.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Beignets to-go from Founding Farmers</span></div>
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<img border="0" height="364" src="http://c.gigcount.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEzMzcwNDUzODg2NjEmcHQ9MTMzNzA*NTczOTU3MiZwPTU3OTAzMiZkPWdpY2tyLmNvbSZnPTEmbz*zMTA3OTY*N2U1/ZDE*NDkxOTAxNTEyZGJmOWEzZTRkZCZvZj*w.gif" style="height: 0px; visibility: hidden; width: 0px;" width="550" /><a href="http://gickr.com/" target="_blank" title="gif maker at gickr.com"><img alt="gif maker" src="http://gickr.com/results3/anim_bd89cd6b-79c8-d0c4-b57d-5a96aa59b438.gif" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My little busybody</span></div>
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This week was a bit meh, and this week's update is all about Naja, which is very fitting considering the past couple of days <s>weeks</s> we've had.<br />
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We have officially passed the quiet reserved baby stage, and moved into full out active baby mode! Naja will give me approximately one hour of being content in her stroller (aside from jogging), and after that - she wants to be FREE! Naja will fly out of your arms to try to walk and run - preferably outside, with help (of course), and she throws <b>a fit</b> if she can't do this. I mean crying, screaming, throwing her head back - <u>an all out fit.</u> I'm at the point now where I remain calm while this happens, and I typically oblige to her desire to be an adventurous child.<br />
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She'll be 10 months in a few days, and she's just shy of walking, so I don't expect her to sit in a restaurant, waiting for food, "socializing" for 2 hours. However, this stage makes family dinners, and any type of social outing a bit of a moot point (I.e. I miss out on the adult socialization part). I honestly think it's great that she loves to be so active and observe plants and critters. When we are outside, you can tell she's in heaven - not a peep, aside from an occasional whim to the little critters she sees. She also loves other kids (<a href="http://instagr.am/p/KgMN-uFcO6/">and dogs</a>). When she sees them, she smiles and tries to make friends via gentle love taps and kisses.<br />
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It's a new stage, and I'm still adjusting. In the meantime, I should plan to hang out with people with kids who want to do similar things so that we're all caught outside <s>chasing</s> walking around with our kids, instead of sitting inside a restaurant socializing.Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-33890152341589613842012-05-13T22:59:00.001-04:002012-05-13T23:31:57.080-04:00Happy Mother's Day 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JoIUOiUNkkc/T7B0bZCAjII/AAAAAAAAB6A/eMrkuXv3YKI/s1600/DSC_0170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JoIUOiUNkkc/T7B0bZCAjII/AAAAAAAAB6A/eMrkuXv3YKI/s640/DSC_0170.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Naja with Mimi & Grandma (my mom & her mom)</span></div>
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This year's Mother's Day activities were <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2011/05/mothers-day.html">similar to last year's</a> - we went to my grandmother's church, and the men of the family prepared the food for all of the women. I received more than a handful of cards, texts, tweets, and even got some <a href="http://instagr.am/p/KfsOfzFcPi/">cupcakes</a> over the past few days. My spirit was blessed by all of the warm gestures from friends and family.<br />
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These past 9+ months have been a whirlwind with highs and lows. Having a daughter of my own has given me a newfound appreciation for my mom, and all of the other mom's out there. To all of the moms out there - know that you are adored, appreciated, admired, and loved. Happy Mother's Day!Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-36496471722390389162012-05-11T08:06:00.001-04:002012-05-11T08:06:25.794-04:00Feature on Around The Way CurlsHappy Friday everyone! I'm so happy to have the opportunity to share my thoughts on motherhood over at <a href="http://www.acurlsbf.com/">Around The Way Curls</a> - the post went up yesterday, but I did want to let you know in case you wanted to <a href="http://www.acurlsbf.com/2012/05/reflections-on-motherhood-monique.html">check it out</a>. Have a great weekend!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N3sXlhHlhrs/T60AaiXKAmI/AAAAAAAAB50/MLlIWfRMPrE/s1600/Around_The_Way_Curls_Feature.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="533" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N3sXlhHlhrs/T60AaiXKAmI/AAAAAAAAB50/MLlIWfRMPrE/s640/Around_The_Way_Curls_Feature.JPG" width="550" /></a></div>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-50700468174742112072012-05-10T20:47:00.000-04:002012-05-10T21:16:07.435-04:00Happy Birthday Dad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Who's the best grandpa in the world?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Naja sleeping on one of her favorite things - Sonny's chest :) - Picture from January 2012</span></div>
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Sonny. Happy Birthday Dad - we love you!Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-18816340337103407592012-05-07T08:22:00.000-04:002012-05-07T08:22:05.710-04:00Shots<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w4LBeYaGgQQ/T6cn92OH0wI/AAAAAAAAB48/Vse2WToJD4g/s1600/DSC_0113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w4LBeYaGgQQ/T6cn92OH0wI/AAAAAAAAB48/Vse2WToJD4g/s640/DSC_0113.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6cNouwProA/T6cn-ib1tnI/AAAAAAAAB5E/VufObLitMq4/s1600/DSC_0118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="884" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6cNouwProA/T6cn-ib1tnI/AAAAAAAAB5E/VufObLitMq4/s640/DSC_0118.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PCejz8TVLPw/T6coRzJ--rI/AAAAAAAAB5c/h-wFjfgXUWw/s1600/DSC_0114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PCejz8TVLPw/T6coRzJ--rI/AAAAAAAAB5c/h-wFjfgXUWw/s640/DSC_0114.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R47A8h0QaeE/T6coBdm80JI/AAAAAAAAB5U/co59qvw_-cE/s1600/DSC_0121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="822" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R47A8h0QaeE/T6coBdm80JI/AAAAAAAAB5U/co59qvw_-cE/s640/DSC_0121.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>one:</b> top - anthro; skirt - zara; shoes - zara; sunglasses - anthro <b>|</b> <b>two & three:</b> jacket - anthro; top - gilt; leggings - gilt; shoes - bcbg for keds; necklace - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/oiajules">c/o oiajules</a>; watch - gift <b>|</b> <b>four:</b> button up - j. crew; pants - h&m; shoes - zara; rings - hautelook; watch - gift; bracelets - anthro; earrings - anthro; sunglasses - anthro</span>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-21534910629985432252012-05-06T21:22:00.000-04:002012-05-07T08:04:33.045-04:00Weekly Update 4.30.12This week...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kQAnHAXsLZQ/T6cgDrWurYI/AAAAAAAAB4o/Us5jiQfZCS8/s1600/DSC_0175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kQAnHAXsLZQ/T6cgDrWurYI/AAAAAAAAB4o/Us5jiQfZCS8/s640/DSC_0175.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Playing outside, she loves it!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CNAqeNHb25I/T6carQBtKZI/AAAAAAAAB4U/r-X6S0UzJIA/s1600/DSC_0104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CNAqeNHb25I/T6carQBtKZI/AAAAAAAAB4U/r-X6S0UzJIA/s640/DSC_0104.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Little Miss Personality</span> </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s1IpVdMw044/T6caHuIpgcI/AAAAAAAAB4E/3e_ltzeE3A0/s1600/DSC_0125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s1IpVdMw044/T6caHuIpgcI/AAAAAAAAB4E/3e_ltzeE3A0/s640/DSC_0125.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Clapping and still getting over a cold...</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k_vGwKarwHA/T6cgsG7oRvI/AAAAAAAAB4w/qVBF5Myh_1E/s1600/DSC_0134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k_vGwKarwHA/T6cgsG7oRvI/AAAAAAAAB4w/qVBF5Myh_1E/s640/DSC_0134.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Playing with mommy :)</span></div>
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Naja and I hung outside all day Sunday. We blew bubbles, walked with her <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wonderworld-Giraffe-Walker-Shape-Sorter/dp/B000FGJLFE">giraffe walker</a>, and basked in the sun!<br />
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On Tuesday, Naja was sick - she caught a runny nose virus from <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2010/10/outfit-of-day-denim-heart-football.html">her uncle</a>, that resulted in several sleepless nights. Funny thing was, while she was up at 3:30 am - she clapped for the first time! She knew just what to do to get me to smile :)<br />
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Naja's personality is developing more and more - she's blossoming into a little diva. She can really throw her head back when she doesn't get what she wants...<i>I didn't know kids did this at 9 months???</i> No worries though - I don't let it get to me, I just distract her by doing something that makes her laugh.<br />
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Despite the lack of sleep, - I still managed to get 3 <a href="http://instagr.am/p/KC9fSIFcMa/">marathon</a> runs in this week, totaling about 9.5 miles. I missed one 6 mile run, but will make it up next week. The runs have been feeling pretty good - I'm just adding mandatory snacking to my diet. Food = energy!Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470980984079223252.post-15653827695035125662012-05-03T10:27:00.000-04:002012-05-03T10:27:19.740-04:00Baked Eggplant Burger aka Best Veggie Burger EverNext on my list of backlogged food items is what I'd like to call the best veggie burger ever. I could also call this "Epic Eggplant Burger", but I don't want to <a href="http://sofullsista.blogspot.com/2012/04/epic-fish-tacos.html">overuse the word epic</a>.<br />
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So why is this the best burger in town? Well, let's just say that the sauteed onions give the burger depth, while the hummus gives it great texture, and with all of the wonderful spices involved...it has great flavor, not to mention it's super healthy - this is energy food people! When you top it off with a homemade tahini sauce - you have added a nice zing, and that's when it hits you -- Best Veggie Burger Ever! It doesn't look like much, but just trust me on this one, it's pretty awesome.<br />
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<b><u>Baked Eggplant Burger aka Best Veggie Burger Ever</u></b><br />
Makes 4-6 patties<br />
Adapted from <a href="http://thetolerantvegan.com/">The Tolerant Vegan</a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pwDwu2_TLg8/T5828ogRy_I/AAAAAAAAB3M/g22dRV2P9B4/s1600/DSC_0091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pwDwu2_TLg8/T5828ogRy_I/AAAAAAAAB3M/g22dRV2P9B4/s640/DSC_0091.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<u>Ingredients</u></div>
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<b>BURGERS</b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">2 teaspoons olive oil, plus more to brush on eggplant before roasting</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 red onion, diced</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 14 ounce can cannellini beans</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1/4 cup diced green bell pepper</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1/2 an eggplant (should equal about 1 cup)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 tablespoon pine nuts</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 clove of garlic, crushed</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 teaspoon sea salt</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 teaspoon ground cumin</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1/2 cup classic hummus (or your favorite flavor hummus)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 cup panko breadcrumbs</span></div>
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<span style="color: #111111;"><span style="line-height: 24px;">Optional burger toppings (Ex. lettuce, tomato, pickle) </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #111111;"><span style="line-height: 24px;"><b>TAHINI SAUCE</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">1/3 cup sesame tahini</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">1/3 cup water</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">2 garlic cloves, chopped</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 24px;">Salt to taste</span></div>
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<span style="color: #111111;"><span style="line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><u>Directions</u></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">To make the burgers, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Roast the eggplant by cutting it into 1/4" slices and brushing each side with olive oil.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Bake for 10 minutes on one side, then flip the slices and bake for another 5 minutes.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Once the eggplant is done and you remove it from the oven, turn the oven down to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">While the eggplant is roasting, place the diced red onion and 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a skillet and cook over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring often, until the onions soften. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Place the eggplant, onion, beans, bell pepper, parsley, pine nuts, garlic, sea salt and cumin into a large bowl.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Add the hummus and stir.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Place the mixture into a food processor and blend everything together. It should only take about 15 seconds.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Pour the mixture back into a bowl, stir in the breadcrumbs, and use your hands to make four large patties.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray the foil with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Place the patties on the foil and bake for 45 minutes, turning once halfway through.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">While the burgers are baking, make the tahini sauce by tossing all of the ingredients into a food processor and blending until fully combined.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Remove the burgers from the oven, serve on pita, add tahini sauce, then toppings, and eat!</span></li>
</ol>Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09727047449152827037noreply@blogger.com1