Sofull Sista

Ladylike

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Wed, 23 May 2012 03:20:00 +0000

one & three: dress - vintage; shoes - rebecca minkoff; jacket - zara | two & four: top - j. crew factory; skirt - j. crew; shoes - urban; necklace - etsy; sunglasses - anthro

Still Nursing

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Mon, 21 May 2012 03:02:00 +0000

Naja smiling on Mother's Day 2012

I'm skipping the weekly update this week to provide an ~~brief~~ 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.

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.

Since my last update, I have a new tip for the working- nursing mom: Pump and nurse simultaneously - yes at the same time! I stole this genius idea from a mommy mentor. This tip has saved me time, and re-built my milk supply since I lost about 40 ounces due to a fuse break in my freezer. 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.

My body is at an equilibrium with the whole milk supply thing. I don't leak, and I am past the pain that accompanies those first few weeks ~~months~~. 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!

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. No worries - I'm definitely not pregnant. 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. Joanna talks about this here, and Drea talks about it here. 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).

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?

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 ;).

Cheesy Quinoa Cakes

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Fri, 18 May 2012 12:58:00 +0000

It's been a while since I've mentioned this beloved grain (I've referenced it here, here, here, here, here, and here), 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.

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!

Cheesy Quinoa Cakes
Adapted from spoon fork bacon
Makes about 10-12 cakes

Ingredients

QUNIOA CAKES

2 cups cooked quinoa

2/3 cup grated fontina cheese

3 tablespoons all purpose flour

2 green onions, thinly sliced

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

2 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

salt to taste

AIOLI

½ cup light mayonnaise

1 head of garlic, roasted

1 lemon, zested and juiced

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

salt and pepper to taste

Directions

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.

2. Pour oil into a large sauté pan and place over medium heat.

3. Form ¼ cup patties with the quinoa mixture and place in the heated sauté pan. (this will have to be done in batches)

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.

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 quinoa cakes.

Weekly Update 5.6.12

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Tue, 15 May 2012 01:28:00 +0000

Not loving the car ride

Pausing only for a moment for a kiss from mommy!

Beignets to-go from Founding Farmers

My little busybody

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 ~~weeks~~ we've had.

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 a fit if she can't do this. I mean crying, screaming, throwing her head back - an all out fit. 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.

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 (and dogs). When she sees them, she smiles and tries to make friends via gentle love taps and kisses.

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 ~~chasing~~ walking around with our kids, instead of sitting inside a restaurant socializing.

Happy Mother's Day 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Mon, 14 May 2012 02:59:00 +0000

Naja with Mimi & Grandma (my mom & her mom)

This year's Mother's Day activities were similar to last year's - 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 cupcakes over the past few days. My spirit was blessed by all of the warm gestures from friends and family.

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!

Feature on Around The Way Curls

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Fri, 11 May 2012 12:06:00 +0000

Happy Friday everyone! I'm so happy to have the opportunity to share my thoughts on motherhood over at Around The Way Curls - the post went up yesterday, but I did want to let you know in case you wanted to check it out. Have a great weekend!

Happy Birthday Dad

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Fri, 11 May 2012 00:47:00 +0000

Who's the best grandpa in the world?

Naja sleeping on one of her favorite things - Sonny's chest :) - Picture from January 2012

Sonny. Happy Birthday Dad - we love you!

Shots

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Mon, 07 May 2012 12:22:00 +0000

one: top - anthro; skirt - zara; shoes - zara; sunglasses - anthro | two & three: jacket - anthro; top - gilt; leggings - gilt; shoes - bcbg for keds; necklace - c/o oiajules; watch - gift | four: button up - j. crew; pants - h&m; shoes - zara; rings - hautelook; watch - gift; bracelets - anthro; earrings - anthro; sunglasses - anthro

Weekly Update 4.30.12

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Mon, 07 May 2012 01:22:00 +0000

This week...

Playing outside, she loves it!

Little Miss Personality

Clapping and still getting over a cold...

Playing with mommy :)

Naja and I hung outside all day Sunday. We blew bubbles, walked with her giraffe walker, and basked in the sun!

On Tuesday, Naja was sick - she caught a runny nose virus from her uncle, 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 :)

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 didn't know kids did this at 9 months??? No worries though - I don't let it get to me, I just distract her by doing something that makes her laugh.

Despite the lack of sleep, - I still managed to get 3 marathon 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!

Baked Eggplant Burger aka Best Veggie Burger Ever

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Thu, 03 May 2012 14:27:00 +0000

Next 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 overuse the word epic.

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.

Baked Eggplant Burger aka Best Veggie Burger Ever
Makes 4-6 patties
Adapted from The Tolerant Vegan

Ingredients

BURGERS

2 teaspoons olive oil, plus more to brush on eggplant before roasting

1 red onion, diced

1 14 ounce can cannellini beans

1/4 cup diced green bell pepper

1/2 an eggplant (should equal about 1 cup)

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon pine nuts

1 clove of garlic, crushed

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 cup classic hummus (or your favorite flavor hummus)

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Optional burger toppings (Ex. lettuce, tomato, pickle)

TAHINI SAUCE

1/3 cup sesame tahini

1/3 cup water

1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

2 garlic cloves, chopped

Salt to taste

Directions

To make the burgers, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Roast the eggplant by cutting it into 1/4" slices and brushing each side with olive oil.
Bake for 10 minutes on one side, then flip the slices and bake for another 5 minutes.
Once the eggplant is done and you remove it from the oven, turn the oven down to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
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.
Place the eggplant, onion, beans, bell pepper, parsley, pine nuts, garlic, sea salt and cumin into a large bowl.
Add the hummus and stir.
Place the mixture into a food processor and blend everything together. It should only take about 15 seconds.
Pour the mixture back into a bowl, stir in the breadcrumbs, and use your hands to make four large patties.
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray the foil with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray.
Place the patties on the foil and bake for 45 minutes, turning once halfway through.
While the burgers are baking, make the tahini sauce by tossing all of the ingredients into a food processor and blending until fully combined.
Remove the burgers from the oven, serve on pita, add tahini sauce, then toppings, and eat!

Weekly Update 4.22.12

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Tue, 01 May 2012 02:25:00 +0000

This Week...

More teeth for Naja

One of many things that makes Naja laugh, a book about sharing

I actually made these myself, but they were devoured so quickly I didn't take a picture, via

The reason why half of my clothes are stained now - don't let the innocent smile fool you! And yes, that is food in her hair too :)

Naja's top front teeth are coming in more and more every day. Now I tell people she (additively) has 3 teeth total: 2 on the bottom, and 2 half teeth up top. Thus 1 + 1 + 1/2 + 1/2 = 3.

Naja is laughing more and more these days, and her laugh is infectious! It's hilarious to think this tiny little person finds something to be so incredibly funny.

I made some of the best chocolate chip cookies ever this week: crunchy edges with an ooey gooey core, they were sinfully amazing.

I tried something different with my hair - a flat twist out: loved it!

I started my marathon training this week. I ran a total of 4 miles this week, but I was supposed to run 9 miles. Scheduling conflicts and bad weather caused me to push my long Saturday run to Sunday. I'm using the Runmeter app to track my routes, times, and pacing - it's great!

Epic Fish Tacos

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 02:45:00 +0000

I'm going to try taking a stab at posting some food-related posts, since I have a ton of pictures on my computer from dishes I've made over the past few months.

I'm starting with some GREAT recipes, that have been some of the most enjoyable dishes I have ever tasted and prepared. I found the recipe for these Epic Fish Tacos on Pinterest - it has been a great source of inspiration for food. And believe me, they're epic for a reason. When you marry crunchy watercress, with a flaky-fresh cut of Chilean Sea Bass, then add a tangy-spicy sauce and top that with fresh guacamole...it's epic.

Epic Tacos

Adapted from thelondoner

Serves 2

Ingredients

FISH

4 small filets of white fish, cut into inch wide strips *SS: I used Chilean Sea Bass

1 handful of cilantro

2 cloves garlic

1 lime, juiced

6 tbsp EVOO

1 large pinch of rock salt

GUACAMOLE

1 avocado

1/4 red onion, finely chopped

1/2 lime, juiced

1 handful of cilantro, finely chopped

6 cherry tomatoes, finely chopped

1 big pinch of rock salt

SAUCE

2 tbsp mayonaise

3 tbsp sour cream *SS: use creme freche if you're watching your calories

4 tbsp hot sauce

Directions

Use a pestle and mortar to crush up your cilantro, garlic, lime and salt. Keep crushing until everything is combined and fragrant. Add your olive oil, stir and pour over your fish. Flip them around in their salty bath and leave them to stand for a moment.

Now move on to your guacamole. Use a fork to loosely mash your avocado. Mix it together your red onion, cilantro, cherry tomatoes, lime and salt.

Leave this on the side and start heating your frying pan (use a griddle pan if you have one). When it starts to smoke, turn it down to a medium heat and add your fish. Move onto the sauce while your fish is grilling. Mix together all of the sauce ingredients until you have an even colored sauce.

After a couple minutes, flip your fish and cook for the same amount of time on the other side. When you're done, take the fish out of the pan and let it drain on a plate covered with a paper towel. Now it's time to build your taco! Start with the tortilla wrap, then added the watercress, then the fish, then the guacamole and finally the sauce. Enjoy!

New Look

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 04:13:00 +0000

I felt that it was time for a makeover over here at Sofull Sista, thus I gave the blog a brand new look! The biggest change that affects you is that I removed all of the individual labels, and generalized all of my posts into a handful of really relevant topics.

I did the entire redesign myself (with minimal Photoshop and HTML skills), needless to say, Google searches including 'HTML code and blogger' were a lifesaver. This was an exciting project for me to take on, and I hope you enjoy the finished product as much as I do!

Weekly Update 4.15.12

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 02:16:00 +0000

So last week I told you that I plan to blog more, and then I go one entire week without posting anything, lol. I'm still getting the hang of this - so bear with me! I don't want to give up the blog, so I just have to find a balance of blogging that works, and that means a reduced amount of posting for now. I'm shooting for a weekly mish mash of pictures with a couple brief one liners about my week, something like my old Smile posts. Well, here goes...

Chillin on a Friday afternoon :)

(L): Peep my iPhone in her right hand, my little swiper (R) My long legged baby with her yellow cloth diaper!

This is how I get things done - the Ergo Carrier is a lifesaver! PS - she went to sleep right on momma's back shortly after

Naja turned 9 months on the 19th, and she is almost walking - EEK!!! To help her with her walking, I got her this giraffe walker that I ordered from Amazon, and she seems to like it!

I fixed Naja a half of a grilled cheese sandwich for lunch for the first time this weekend, and she tore it up! She's such a good eater, and she's on three solid meals a day now. It's so exciting to see her really eating solid foods, and kind of unbelievable, I mean remember when she was this small?

Naja went to get some impromptu professional pictures taken with her dad and (paternal) aunt this weekend. She smiled in a handful of the shots, and she didn't cry. Go Naja!

I went out (!!!) and saw Think Like a Man with a soror friend of mine. Loved the movie...and the eye candy (hello Michael Ealy and Terrance J).

Finally, I signed up to run a marathon in October with a few co-workers. Here's to making it!

What was your week like?

Splash

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 03:46:00 +0000

Wow, I haven't taken a blogging break since I started blogging regularly in Kendi's 30x30. I have to be honest and share that I started to question whether or not I wanted to continue blogging. Things have been extremely busy, and recently, I haven't even been able to keep my room organized. This is pretty huge for me as I am the type of person who is affected by the space around them - unwanted noise (I.e. constant TV) and constant clutter totally affect my zen. Well, all I had to do was see some old pictures that somehow didn't make it to the blog to recharge my memory of why I enjoy this so much.

This picture is from late February, from a birthday celebration for my maternal grandparents. They are 1 year, and 2 days apart, they have been married for 59 years, and they still carry a spark that is absolutely admirable. I totally look up to them and love those guys!

I'm still working on finding a decent arrangement where I can do all of the things I need to do, and ~~most~~ a few of the things I'd like to do, including finding some 'me time' - sans baby, and sleeping more (5 hours is not cutting it). However, I can already say that it feels good to be writing again.

The title of this post is due to the new splash of color in my hair - I got it colored when I went in for my first shape up since my big cut. It's really liberal for me...and I'm actually surprised I did it. Remember, I do not work in the fashion world, and most of my friends work for conservative, old school, Fortune 100 companies. In fact, I'm sure if I had thought more about it, I would have talked myself out of it, but I love it (surprisingly), and I'm glad I went for it.

So how did I come upon this color? Well, I have been loving my hair cut, but it was time for a shaping, and I was feeling the urge to do something different, so I thought - COLOR! I googled: 'afro color' for inspiration, and most of the results were not all that inspiring. I did come across this picture, and I also referenced Zarna because her hair is super fierce. My stylist came up with this after seeing the pictures - she's good ;). I hope now when folks google 'afro + color' they have another idea for inspiration.

Finally, I leave you with a nice picture of my little bear. I mentioned needing some 'me time' - but don't get it twisted - I love this girl, she is an absolute joy and blessing.

Here's the sitch

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 13:43:00 +0000

I'm still around, but I've been snapping pics with my new iPhone, as oppsed to my dSLR. Thus, if you follow me on twitter, you probably have seen the MILLION pictures of Naja and me via instagram. I thought I'd also share some below...with less than a minute's time read update.

Snapshots of a typical week for me (minus the iPhone - AKA my new favorite thing); my pump; morning reading; commuter shoes

Naja in sunglasses

Naja in a tutu from Gap

A typical weekday outfit

Prepping for the summer sun with a Fedora from Gap Kids

Naja's first time on a swing - she loved it!

1-Minute Update: I started cloth diapering about 2 months ago, it's a lot of work, but totally worth it for the environment. Naja is 8 months old! She is crawling, pulling up, and teething again - this time, it's the top two teeth. These must be more painful than the bottom ones, because she's been pretty fussy, and isn't sleeping a ton. Needless to say, we'll both be happy when that's over! Still - spring is here, so we're going outside a lot more, and Naja really seems to enjoy it; I hope to stop by to see the cherry blossoms this weekend!

If you want to see about 10 times as many pics :) - follow me on twitter and instagram @mowitafro. Peace.

Baby Led Weaning(ish)

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:34:00 +0000

It's been a while since I mentioned my hope to introduce solids using the baby-led weaning method (thanks Maryam for introducing me to the idea). Since then, I would say I've used a combination of baby-led weaning (BLW) and some traditional spoon-fed techniques. Baby led weaning has a website, and a book that explains the concept much better than I will here. In summary, the concept is built on the methodology that at six months, babies stomachs are developed enough to digest solids, and that by using (non-choking) size solids babies can develop motor skills quicker, and have a positive foundation as they start to build their relationship with food.

Naja eating Earth's Best Pureed Sweet Potatoes

I don't totally agree with this introduction of solids having a significant affect on a baby's relationship with food. However, I do think Naja has great motor skills for her age, and I would think I could attribute this to BLW. She knows where her mouth is and definitely puts food there. Not to mention, Naja is an independent little baby - she does not like other people putting food in her mouth, likely a result of BLW.

This is how BLW worked with me...At six months, I gave Naja whatever I cooked for myself for dinner, with foods including: noodles, carrots, hummus and pita, etc. NOTE: I did not give her anything that included peanuts, salt, sugar, or seafood. There's also a list of foods to stay away from, or to use minimally like cheese and bread, the book has details. Naja would "gum" on these foods, and swallow some things. It was difficult to say how much she consumed, and I think this was the main problem my mom and my doctor had with this method. Thus, I decided to introduce some purees after a couple of weeks of "solids only." By this time, Naja was accustomed to feeding herself, so I would simply hand her a "loaded" spoon, and most of it would make it to her mouth.

Naja eating an African Sweet Potato-Red Pepper Stew I made for both of us - recipe to come later

I make some purees myself, however I also buy some food from the store, and if I make a pureed soup for dinner - Naja will eat whatever I've cooked. I try to vary what I feed her, paying close attention to any negative reactions. The only allergens in Naja's immediate family is in the seafood family, which I'm clearly staying away from right now. However, we haven't run into any allergies, and she's tried LOTS of fruits and veggies.

Naja eating a homemade puree of spinach, banana, yogurt, and apple juice

So, this is how I decided to introduce solids to Naja, I am ok with the decision to not stick strictly to BLW. However, the main concept that I attached to was allowing her to feed herself, and she does that, so I am happy about that. This introduction did cause a bit of an interruption in our nursing schedule and it cut out one evening feeding. Aside from that, she nurses about the same amount as before, and consumes the same amount of milk during the day while I'm at work.

Vegetable Sliders: Superbowl Food

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:38:00 +0000

Granted it's several weeks AFTER the Superbowl, but I'm setting you up for future superbowls and summer BBQ's! It can be difficult to find vegetarian dishes that taste good and blend well with "set menus." These sliders pair wonderfully with beer, nachos, wings and meatball sammies.

I prepared these sliders for the big game party I attended at a family friends' house, and they were a huge hit! Eggplant has a very hearty flavor, and when you top it with panko breadcrumbs, fry them in vegetable oil, and add your own special homemade ketchup you have a winner! Even if you hate eggplant, I dare you to try these sliders. The ketchup alone will be a "kitchen staple" for me. It was sweet, with a little bit of heat, and a ever-so-slight tang, and then savory hits ya when paired with the slider. This is vegetarian superbowl food!

Vegetable Sliders
Adapted from Food Network Magazine, January/February Issue
Makes 10-15 sliders

Ingredients
SLIDERS
1 medium-sized Japanese eggplant, sliced 1/4" thick
3-4 portobello mushroom caps
1-2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
Flour
4 eggs, lightly beaten
1-2 French Rolls, cut into slider-sized "buns"
Vegetable oil

KETCHUP
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons moscato
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon fresh ginger

Directions

For sliders: Heat oil in pan. Coat eggplant/mushroom in flour, then beaten egg, then breadcrumbs; fry in hot oil.
For ketchup: Add all ingredients to a small saucepan and boil for five minutes.
Make sliders: Place eggplant/mushroom on bread, top with ketchup, then shredded cabbage, and the top "bun" shell.

The Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 03:59:00 +0000

Here are some more pictures from our trip to Key Largo, and specifically - Naja's first time at the beach! The beach was not adjacent to a real body of water, but the sand was real, and so was the water she splashed in! Naja's Bathing Suit & Hat - Target.

Our day at the beach was spent with Naja observing everything, and slowly playing with her surroundings. She likes to be eased in to things. For example, she likes "flying" in the air, but if you quickly lift her up - she'll scream; however, if you slowly raise her to the sky - she's as happy as can be! Thus, I slowly introduced her to the water, first allowing her to stand and splash, and we eventually moved to sitting in the pool, and then moving around in a floaty tube. She ended up splashing herself quite a bit, and found the entire event quite interesting! I wish I had more pictures of her in the pool, but I was in them, and well, let's just say I don't want my décolletage on the net.

So we go back to the beach. She liked the sand so much, she tried to eat some...speaking of eating things she shouldn't eat - Naja is really fast now. Nearly one month ago, I could easily catch her from putting something in her mouth with a delayed response. However now - I must be quick, or any and every thing is easily in her mouth! I tell you, once they hit six months, those motor skills are in full gear, and you have to have your eye on them at ALL TIMES! Crawling is right around the corner...

Grateful

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:53:00 +0000

I've been pretty MIA from the blog, but I'm happy to say that I have a lot of pictures (I.e. content), that I am just waiting to find time to post! In the meantime, I thought I'd share some pictures from my trip to Key Largo, Florida. Naja, my mom and I flew to Key Largo on Wednesday for an early 7:20 AM flight. Naja was fantastic on the plane, she cried a little, played a little, ate a little, and slept a little. When we arrived to Miami, we quickly rented a car, and drove to the resort.

The trip is a "bonus trip," courtesy of my company for my department hitting our goals. So basically, we're chillin' at a super nice resort, with a lot of DELICIOUS seafood, some sun, and some true relaxation. Times like this, I'm actually happy that I eat seafood, because it literally tastes like it is FRESH out of the ocean. We have one department activity every day, but the rest of the time has been on our own, and we're having a great time. For the first day, we pretty much stayed inside because it was overcast and rainy. Below are some pictures from our brief (I.e. 5-minute) nature walk.

Naja on our nature walk, snacking on a Mum Mum rice cracker.

I am so grateful, because I never would have imagined I would ever be able to go to a place so fancy, and the fact that Naja could tag along is just icing on the cake. Speaking of cake, this trip has also been interesting since Naja is eating solids now, and she's a really good eater. I ended up doing a mixture of baby led weaning with some version of spoon-feeding. She eats just about everything: eggplant, pineapple, broccoli, spinach, potatoes, yogurt, banana - EVERYTHING! No allergies yet - although we are staying away from citrus fruit, nuts, and fish for now. Below are some pictures of Naja eating at one of the fine dining restaurants on the property. It's quite hilarious, because there's a dress code at the restaurant, and here is Naja, in her sneakers and leggings, snacking on all types of tropical fruit. We leave tomorrow, but I'll be sure to post pics from our day at the beach later.

Kairos

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:16:00 +0000

A couple of weeks ago, I tweeted this article from the Huffington Post regarding parenting. In summary, it referenced the full picture of parenting, which includes highs and lows, happiness and frustration - the whole gamut. The author breaks things down into two definitions of time. For the happy times, it referenced the word - Kairos. This time is God's time, it's time when you really recognize how blessed you are to have your child in your life. I took these pictures in the mid-afternoon, after Naja needed a change of clothes and boy let me tell you - KAIROS.

That face; those sweet moments - they get me every time. Several hours later, after a nap - Chronos. Chronos is the time you normally experience, it's regular time. This may include a screaming baby who is teething or a baby who is squeezing your breasts like a stress ball (new nursing thing that Naja thinks is fun now) - the good stuff that we don't always highlight, because we like to focus on the positive.

Yesterday evening, we had some real Chronos time as I think Naja has some more teeth coming in. It took some time, but she finally found something chewy enough to assuage her little gums.

Ah well - Chronos is totally worth it for all the Kairos moments. PS - The real article is 20 times better than my summary though, so check it out.

Spicy Tofu with Grilled Asparagus

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:48:00 +0000

This was my dinner this past weekend. It was enjoyed by all, including my meat-loving brother. I totally agree that if you say "I don't like tofu." It's because you have not had it prepared correctly. Preparation makes a huge difference. I pulled from two recipes to get this tofu, so it's something like an original creation, but not quite. I am trying to get on track to create my own original recipes, taking baby steps by getting creative in taking the guidance in preparation, and mixing and matching sauces and flavors as I think they would work! This one was a hit!

Spicy Tofu with Grilled Asparagus
Adapted from Food Network Magazine and comowater

Ingredients

1 package extra firm tofu

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/4 cup flour

3 tablespoons hoisin sauce

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Asian chile sauce (such as Sriracha)
2 teaspoons cornstarch
Asparagus

Directions
Slice tofu into 1/4 inch slices. Place 2-3 paper towels on a plate. Add one layer of tofu slices. Add another layer of paper towels, and repeat until all tofu is layered between paper towels. Place a kitchen towel over the final layer of paper towels and place a heavy pot or pan on top of the kitchen towel. Press tofu for at least an hour, which will create a firmer, heartier texture for the final dish.

Whisk together hoisin sauce, balsamic vinegar, Asian Chile Sauce and cornstarch. Combine breadcrumbs with flour in shallow dish (for dredging). Brush both sides of tofu with sauce mixture. Coat both sides of tofu slices with breadcrumb-flour mixture.

Heat oil over medium heat. Lay coated tofu in oil. Fry on one side until golden brown (approx. 3 minutes). Once the first side is golden brown, flip and fry for another 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towel.

For asparagus, brush with olive oil, grill on a grill pan until cooked through (about 10-15 minutes total).

New Year, New Hair

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:38:00 +0000

I did it! *In my Dora the Explorer voice* I cut my hair. Well, Alexa at Modern Concepts Salon in Ashburn, Va cut my hair. I love it. It's cute, and easy to maintain.

A new hair blog I found said, "It's time to see your [hair] stylist when:
You have a mullet
You can't remember your last visit
Your hair reaches your bum
You have split ends
You're unhappy with your hair
Your hair is always in a ponytail"
She's right - problem solved!

Answers to a few questions some folks may have:

Why did you do it?
Remember when I talked about my hair woes here, here and here? Well I realized that I'd rather have cute hair that was easy to maintain over cute LONG hair, that takes hours to maintain, and isn't always cute anyway.

Who did it?
Alexa Zagorites at Modern Concepts Salon in Ashburn, VA

How much did it cost?
$70

What do you do to maintain it now?
Same wash routine as before, with a couple new cheaper products that are easily accessible, that I hope to review soon, and I don't make deliberate sections, but it's much quicker with half the amount of hair. I just let my hair air dry, and this is what I get.

I talk about the cut in a video below. So, what do you think?

2012 Resolutions

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:31:00 +0000

In the past, my New Years' resolutions were created with a short time frame of commitment, and thus, they were quickly forgotten. This year, I thought of New Years' resolutions with personal growth in mind - these are things that I can commit to past 2012 to help make me a better "me."

Source

#1. Be content with delayed gratification

The year 2011 was a crazy year for me, with a lot of change. I had my first child, moved to a new city, blogged regularly, moved back home with my parents, got a new job, and became single again. PHEW! I don't regret any decision that I made, because I acknowledge that I had a choice for (most) of these changes. That being said, I struggled with a lot of the change because I had (have) a mindset of entitlement. I thought that by 25 I would be married/engaged, own a house, and be in a career that I love - all things I desire. I struggled with being happy about my situation because I felt entitled to have all of my desires fulfilled NOW.

However, it's just fine if that's not where I am NOW. Thus, this year, I am committing myself to being content with delayed gratification. While some of my dreams and desires are not yet reality, in 2012, I will work to be content with where I am in the present, with reassurance and faith to know that my desires will be fulfilled someday.

Source

#2. Love (specifically when I don't want to)

Building on number one, I was not (initially) happy with some of the changes that came in 2011. I complained a lot. However, complaining did not make me feel better, and it annoyed the heck out of those around me! Therefore, I am committing myself to love when I don't want to. Specifically to love difficult situations and people. It's hard to see the good in every situation. However, I know right now I have been blessed in so many ways due to those 2011 changes, and I am committed to seeing where God takes me!

Source

#3. FOCUS

Last year, I committed myself to this blog in a new way, and I can't believe how much it has really blessed me. In blogging, I have connected with new people, and found a number of other creative outlets that I truly enjoy. Recently I've found myself struggling to balance all of them, as a result of the limited time I have to devote to these creative outlets. Thus, this year, I'm going to focus on one creative outlet, and I'm choosing: PHOTOGRAPHY! I still don't know how to use my camera. Me taking a good picture is really about luck of the 'click.' I love how photography can capture a moment in time, so I can't wait to sharpen this skill!

Source

Those are my resolutions. The source of my growth has been a result of growing closer to God. There is no way I could have gotten through 2011 without Him, and the support of my church in Philly, and now in Leesburg. Here's to a 2012 full of growth, happiness and love!

I picked up all of these pictures from this blog - some inspiration for Resolution #3!

Creamy Polenta with Sausages and Roasted Grapes

noreply@blogger.com (Monique) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:58:00 +0000

I have made several dishes with sausage. This may be puzzling to non-vegetarians, but for me, I like sausage for the flavor: it's smoky, spicy, sweet, and delicious! I can honestly say that I love Field Roast Sausage as a stand alone sausage. It's vegan, and it's pretty delicious - no jokes. The flavor is just spot on. My brother, dad, and even my GRANDFATHER all were pleasantly surprised by how much their taste buds liked this sausage. I will now jump off my vegan sausage rant since I know the majority of my followers eat meat. If you choose to make this, just use your favorite type of sweet sausage.

On to the dish, which simply put, had some of the most enjoyable blends of sweet, savory and creamy in one bite - yum! Also - let me mention that this was surprisingly quick and easy to make. I only had to chop a shallot, and cut the grapes into bunches. Minimal prep and exquisite flavor = winner!

Creamy Polenta with Sausages and Roasted Grapes
Serves 4
Adapted from bon appetit Magazine, January 2012 Issue

Ingredients
1/2 cup medium-grind polenta (not instant)
3 large sprigs thyme, divided
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tbsp (1/4 stick) unsalted butter SS: Use Earth Balance, and this is vegan
1 package Field Roast Smoke Apple Sage Vegan Sausage
1/3 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
1 lb seedless red grapes, cut into bunches with stems attached
1/4 cup chopped shallots
1/3 cup dry white wine

Directions
Preheat oven to 450 F. Stir polenta and 2-1/2 cups water in a medium microwave-safe bowl; add 1 thyme sprig and season with salt and pepper. Cover with a plate. Microwave for 4 minutes. Carefully remove plate and whisk polenta. Cover and microwave for 4 minutes longer. Repeat until polenta is soft, adding more water by 1/4-cupfuls if too thick, 10-12 minutes total, depending on strength of microwave. Stir in butter. Season to taste wit salt and pepper; keep warm.

Meanwhile, heat a large cast-iron or ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausages and fry until browned, turning occasionally about 5 minutes. Add broth, remaining 2 thyme sprigs, grapes, and shallots to skillet; transfer to oven. Roast, turning grapes and sausages halfway through cooking time, until grapes begin to caramelize and sausages are cooked through and begin to burst, 12-15 minutes.

Spoon polenta into wide, shallow bowls. Arrange sausages and grapes over. Add wine to skillet; stir over high heat, scraping up browned bits. Drizzle pan sauce over sausages.