MEOWMANTRA

WHAT'S IN A NAME? In a nutshell, a mantra is a sacred, repetitious chant that is supposedly enlightening. Well, it just so happens that my mantra is a meow. WHO AM I? My name is Angelique, but my friends call me Angel. I like to believe I am part blogger, part yogi, part photographer, part foodie and part genius (though I may be bias on that last one).

[meowmantra]

NYE & NYC

So, it's been approximately 7 months since I have posted, which, let's be real, is extremely embarrassing. Sure, I've been busy, but not THAT busy. 

A lot has happened since last July: school has resumed (one more year till graduation), the holidays have come and gone, we've rang in the New York (and my birthday - can't forget that) and I FINALLY made it to New York City. 

To get the year off to a positive start I thought I would share a few photos from my short, but fun filled trip. 

Pre-NYC photo, while we waited for the train. We first visited West Point (somehow have no pictures from there) and then hopped the train to NYC.

One of our very first stops, while in the city, was at the 9/11 Memorial. Though the memorial is quite simple, it has a HUGE impact. 

The newly constructed World Trade Center One - an absolutely stunning building. 

I absolutely adored walking around the city and seeing all the beautiful buildings.

The trip would have been absolutely nothing without these two beauties. It was incredible to be able to experience NYC with such great friends.

The New York City Library and St. Patrick's Cathedral are gorgeous from the outside. Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to go inside either, but that is definitely on my list for the next visit.

If I am being completely honest, my favorite part of any trip is experiencing the location/city's food, which for NYC meant authentic PIZZA (it was literally all I could talk about leading up to the trip).

A friend recommended Joe's Pizza in the West Village and it became my mission to get a slice (or two).

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Casual no shame photo-shoot with my pizza. It was true love and I had to document every bite. I got the Sicilian from Joe's and was blown away.

Another highlight of my trip was visiting the home, at which Breakfast At Tiffany's was filmed. Since it is one of my all time favorite films, I was geeking out. Oh, and it was FOR SALE. Anyone want to loan me a cool eight mil. 

Overall, I had an absolutely incredible trip and can't wait to go back one day (to visit or to live).

xoxo

-A

Oh, and as previously mentioned, I was able to ring in the New Year (and my birthday) with a couple of my best friends, prior to NYC.

[meowmantra]

Pretty Miss Events + Capture For Keeps Photography Present: The Love Contest

Hello friends!! We're so happy and in love with love that Pretty Miss Events & Captures For Keeps Photography are giving away a bohemian inspired love shoot on August 10th, 2014 in Ann Arbor!

So, ladies and Gents (let's be real, probably mostly ladies) get your proposal stories ready, because that beautiful moment could win you a gorgeous photo shoot courtesy of the fabulous Pretty Miss Events and Capture For Keeps Photography. 

All couples are welcome to submit their romantic story! Stuck on ideas: Tell how you met, how you proposed, what you love about one another, or anything, well.....romantic (you get the idea). Be sure to include a picture of your and your honey. The best part: you can be engaged, married or simply, madly in love.

Terms & Conditions

The winners will receive a one (1) hour photo shoot shot on film with Michelle Condne of Captures for Keeps styled by Pretty Miss Events. Second shooter will be present for portfolio purposes. Thirty (30) digital files will be presented after publication, if applicable. 

Winners must be willing to be featured on a publication of our choosing as well as PME & CFK blogs and social media accounts and those of our second shooter.

Only one entry per couple and open to all over the age of 18.

Must be present at shot location promptly and be willing to be styled according to theme. Wardrobe will not be provided.

Entries must be received by 11:59 pm on July 31st. Winner will be announced August 3rd. 

None of the prizes may be exchanged or transferred and no cash alternative will be offered.

By entering the contest, you hereby warrant that all information submitted by you is true, current and complete.

Liability cannot be accepted for entries which are lost in transit or not received due to technical difficulties.

No purchase necessary though you can purchase prints or an album from Capture for Keeps Photography. 

For more information you can head over to www.prettymissevents.com/contests or contact [email protected].

All entries can be sent to [email protected] 

Good luck and congratulations on finding that one true love!

xoxo,

-A

[meowmantra]

Choco-Chip Cookie Cupcakes

In my family, summer brings birthdays (quite a few) and birthdays bring cake. Layer cakes, sheet cakes, cupcakes; you name it we've had it. So, for my sister's special birthday treat, I whipped up this cookie-cake hybrid: a moist, fluffy chocolate cake filled with cookie dough. The best part, instead of a uber-sugary frosting, the topping is slightly doughy and reminiscent of a sugar cookie dough. 

The recipe is adapted from this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcake recipe by TheCakeBlog.

CHOCO-CHIP COOKIE CAKES

Ingredients:

Cake:

2 cups all purpose flour

2 1/4 cups granulated sugar

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

1 cup vegetable oil

1 cup sour cream

1 1/2 cups water 

1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. almond extract

2 organic brown eggs

Cookie Filling:

1 stick unsalted butter (soft)

2/3 cup brown sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk

2 cups all purpose flour

3/4 cup chocolate chips

Frosting:

2 sticks unsalted butter (soft)

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup brown sugar

2 cups all purpose flour

2 cups confectioner's sugar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. almond extract

1/2 cup almond milk

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. 

Combine dry cupcake batter ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Once the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt and cocoa powder are thoroughly mixed, combine the liquid ingredients (egg, vegetable oil, water and sour cream). Whisk to combine. Next, slowly fold the wet mixture into the dry mixture.

After the batter has been adequately mixed, the cupcake liners can be filled approximately 3/4s full, with batter. The cupcakes must then bake for about 16 minutes (depending on your pans/oven), before being set aside to cool on a wire rack.

While the cupcakes are cooling, it is best to construct the cookie dough. For the dough center, you must first beat the butter, sugar and vanilla in the bowl of a stand mixer until creamy (you will need to occasionally scrap the sides of the bowl with a spatula). Next, add in the flour, condensed milk and chocolate chips; and resume mixing to combine. At this point, if the dough is too sticky, it can be chilled in the refrigerator to set. 

Finally, the frosting. For the icing begin my creaming the butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar (let mix about 2 minutes). After the butter and sugars have become creamy, you may add in the flour and confectioner's sugar, taking care to scrap the sides of the bowl. (Please note, the frosting will be VERY thick at this time). To achieve the desired consisting, add as much or as little milk as you see fit (personally, it took about 1/2 cup of almond milk + the tsp. of vanilla for me to achieve a good piping consistency). After the liquid is added allow the frosting to mix for another 4-5 minutes, at which time it will be ready to place in the piping bag.

CONSTRUCTION:

After preparing the cupcakes, filling and frosting it is time to assemble the cookie-cakes. Follow these simple steps:

1. Take the cooled cupcakes and hollow out the middle using a apple corer or cupcake corer. If you have neither, you may simply use a small knife to cut out a portion of the middle. 

2. Fill the centers with cookie dough filling by using a melon scoop, or by using your hands to roll small balls of dough.

3. Using a piping tip/bag artfully pipe the frosting on-top of the cupcakes, which in turn covers the exposed cookie dough.

4. Finally, top the frosting with mini chocolate chips or sprinkles. For a fun, additional touch add a small cookie (like chips ahoy).

I hope that you enjoy this Choco-Chip Cookie Cupcake Recipe! Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!

xoxo

-A

[meowmantra]

Fourth of July + A Fruit Tart

Oh, the Fourth of July. A day bursting with immense pride and joy, emanating from the love an American has for one's home country. On this day, Americans all over the USA are celebrating with barbecues, parties, boating excursions, drinking, eating and all around rowdy behavior (especially when it comes to the setting off of fireworks).

My family was no different (although we tend to shy away from setting off fireworks illegally in the city). The day was beautiful, so a relaxing day in the pool and cook-out was an absolute MUST!

On the menu was a delicious and summery, fruit tart. It was the perfect mix of light and heavy, with a simple crust, rich cream cheese spread and fresh berries/fruit. It was an absolute hit (I literally got only one piece out of the entire tart), so I have decided to share the recipe below.

FRESH FRUIT TART

this recipe is adapted from this recipe, by Paula Deen.

Ingredients:

Crust:

3/4 cup confectioners' sugar

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 1/4 sticks of unsalted butter, room temperature + sliced

Filling:

1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese or greek yogurt/cream cheese blend, softened 

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tsp. real vanilla extract

Topping:

Fresh strawberries, kiwi slices, blueberries + a nectarine (or other fruit)

Preparation Instructions:

Begin by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F (I would also be sure to move your rack to the middle of the oven).

For the crust combine the confectioners' sugar, flour and butter in a food processor, and process until the mixture comes together. Alternately, you could simply use your hands and break apart/gently bring ingredients together in a bowl. Be careful not to overwork. (At this point, I also had to add a bit of liquid to the dough, to help bring it together - I used a splash of almond milk).

Next, take the dough and press into a 12-inch tart pan (preferably one with a removable bottom). Start in the middle of the pan and push the crust outward to reach the sides, taking care to push the crust into the indentations of the tart pan. Once evenly spread in the pan, bake the crust for 10-14 minutes or until lightly browned. Then set aside to cool.

For the filling, combine the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla in a mixing bowl and beat (easy, using a mixer) until smooth. Once the crust has cooled, spread the filling evenly over the surface. Lastly, cut the fruit and artfully arrange. For my tart, I did an arrangement of strawberry slices around the outer edge of the tart, followed by a ring of kiwi, another ring of strawberries, a ring of nectarines and a center of blueberries.

Keep the tart chilled in the refrigerator until time to serve. For best results, remove the tart about 15 minutes prior to serving.

This recipe is a definite must try. Hope you had an amazing and safe Fourth of July!

xoxo

-A

Bonus Photos from the 4th:

If you are dying to see more adorable pictures and videos, of this little monster, then you can find Maize on Instagram: @thelittlebeasty 

[meowmantra]

My New Music Obsession: ECHOSMITH

As you can probably tell by now, I ADORE music and love when I discover new music (or at least new music to my ears); and that is exactly what happened this morning. While listening to new releases on Spotify, I stumbled upon the California based pop group, Echosmith. After a quick Google search, I discovered that the group is comprised of four siblings: Graham, Sydney, Noah and Jamie. That fact alone made me love them, because how amazing is it that they have such a musically inclined family, that they could form a band.

Listen to some of their work. You won't regret it.

I mean this cover though. I LOVE Hunter Hayes, his writing, his instrumentals, his vocals, but this cover takes "Everybody's Got Somebody But Me" to a whole new level. 

This is probably one of my favorites of their original work. The first time, I heard "Cool Kids" was on Spotify which has an amazing acoustic version available. 

Check out more of their work at their Youtube Channel or on Spotify.

xx

-A

[meowmantra]

Throwback Thursday + Miles

I am a self proclaimed Miley Cyrus fan. I have been since day one (yes, the Hannah Montana, blonde wig days). In fact, I even loved her flop of an album, featuring "Can't Be Tamed." Fast forward a few years and the obsession is still going strong, and though I adore 'Bangerz,' I will always have a special place in my heart for Cyrus' Backyard Sessions.

These stripped down, acoustic performances perfectly showcase her amazing vocal talent (something that is not quite apparent in her new music). Not to mention, they feature the famous top knot and took place during the period, in which I has enthralled with her style (I call it Miley circa Summer 2012).

Anyways, here they are. Listen, enjoy and remind yourself that Miley has actual talent (when she's not riding a hot dog on stage):

xoxo

-A

[meowmantra]

No Words....

I honestly have know NO WORDS that can accurately describe how fantastic this collaboration is. 

Mary J Blige + Sam Smith = pure musical magic.

SIDENOTE: I have food/recipe content in the works. That is, as soon as I find my camera's SD card (or I buy a new one....I lose stuff too often).

xoxo

-A

[meowmantra]

Kardashians + the "F" Word

As many of you, all of you are aware, the not-so royal wedding took place Labor Day weekend (also known as, last weekend). Yes, our favorite couple to hate, Kim and Kanye, tied the knot and officially merged to form the biggest ego (and ass) in the industry. Now, while on the subject of large asses, there is but one Kardashian sibling, who failed to attend the over the top ceremony (I mean, seriously there was a wall, an entire wall of white roses-see image below). 

Oh, Robert. Yes, Rob Kardashian neglected to attend his own sister's wedding. According to sources close to the family (a.k.a. people who just want to make a quick buck, by using others), Robert felt insecure in his own body, so much so that he refused to reveal himself to wedding guests and family members. Really Rob? I get it, we all have days where we feel really bloated and insecure, but have you ever heard the saying, "grin and bear it." Obviously not. I mean, I didn't look runway slim or beach ready, last month for my sister's nuptials, but I still put on the fitted-strapless dress and appeared in pictures (FYI, alcohol helps). 

To make matters worse, Rob was already in Paris. In other words, R Kardash took the time and money to fly to France (like that's no big thing), before deciding he really didn't want to be there and heading home. That would be like me taking the time to drive to the gym, sign in, hop on a workout machine and then decide I really don't want to workout and leave. For goodness sake, you are already there, you couldn't make it through one more day in France (or in my case one hour at the gym).

I digress. Now before I completely slam Rob for acting like a chick, who just started her period (just pop a fucking Midol..or ten, like the rest of us Robby), I will add that there have been other rumored reasons explaining Rob's disappearance. Some say there was a big blow up between Kim and Rob, but no matter the reason, skipping a sibling's wedding is inexcusable, even if the sister is getting married for the third time (which Kimmy was). 

So, Rob I get that you used to look like this: slim, tan and attractive, but all insecurities aside, it's never okay to ditch your siblings in their happiest moments (but this is the same guy who has cried on screen about how small his...um...man parts are, so why is anyone surprised). Especially, since everyone is going to see you anyways. Hello!? The paparazzi hounds your family twenty-four-seven. 

Lessons learned from this Kardashian blunder: (1) No matter the situation, you should always be there to support your family and (2) eating In-and-Out Burger for every meal will catch up with you.

xoxo.

-A

[meowmantra]

New Music..

..well new to my ears, at least. i am an absolute music FANATIC. seriously. i pride myself on curating some of the most eclectic, interesting and (overall) amazing playlists. and when i say amazing, i mean amazing to my own soul, because that's what really matters, right? if you love a song and it stirs up something deep inside your whole being, then does it really matter if others like it too? the answer here is a BIG, OLE resounding NO. 

you don't have to like what the radio plays or what is highly mainstream. however, that doesn't mean you're conforming if you do like what the radio DJs place before you. like what you like, because you like it (not because others want you to or you think you should). take for instance, I have a strange love for rap music (some of which has HIGHLY inappropriate lyrics). all the time, i have to explain to others that i don't agree with the negative images and connotations, evoked through the verses. i simply like the underlying rhythm and sometimes, that's enough.

so, in a nutshell. if you find a piece of music (no matter the genre) that pokes and prods at your emotions, then listen and cry a little. or if a song makes you want to dance, then by all means listen and dance, even if no one else is dancing (or liking what you're listing to).

with that being said, here are some pieces of music of that i am currently loving:

[meowmantra]

moods of meow: update

I have, once again, gone MIA for a short period of time. My apologizes, but the surplus of extra work and studying that surrounds the semester's end, made it difficult to find time for MeowMantra. However, the semester's end has come and again, leaving room for extra free time.

So, what's new in my world? First and foremost, I have decided to open an Etsy online store, to sell paper/graphic design products, such as invitations, wedding programs and more. Though, it is currently a work in progress, I have opened the store and uploaded the few designs that I had ready (many more coming, VERY VERY soon). Here is a little peak: 

Be sure to take a look at the entire MeowMantra Design - Etsy  (just click the link name).

In other news, I also have added a new addition to the family, a little fur baby named Maizey. She's a tiny furball, who is full of kisses, energy, nibbles and more. Here is my little Maizey moo in all her puppy glory:

Well, there is a little update. More to come.

xoxo

-A

[meowmantra]

moods of meow + a beautiful reminder

It's midway through the week and I thought I would share some of my recent inspirations: makeup, hair, fashion and more. I am currently obsessing over: all black ensembles, nude heels, top knots (the higher the better), vampy red lips, nude/blush polish, kardashian everything, school girl hair (ala nina), army green, cutout boots, dark hair and even darker eyebrows, overalls, snapbacks and, of course, a little sass. 

More of my daily finds can be seen at: MiniMeow + Angelique's Boards

...and before you go, I have one simple reminder:

Today, I found this special note while using a public restroom. Unfortunately, it seems this is something that girls my age forget, all too often. Between the media and the judgement of others, girls (and even guys) are weighted down by expectations, expectations which they fail to achieve (let's be honest, the images printed in magazines aren't exactly realistic).  

Every person is beautiful and deserving, no matter their size, race, age or gender. No matter what magazines, the media or peers relay as beautiful. As the Buddha said "You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection." So take a moment, look in the mirror, genuinely tell yourself that you are beautiful and then BELIEVE it. 

It's said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and true liberation, from the narrow, societal constraints of beauty, can only be achieved once YOU realize that the true beholder, is YOU. Feel beautiful in your own skin and always remember, genuine beauty cannot be seen. No, the purest beauty radiates from within.

There is no cosmetic for beauty like happiness. + Maria Mitchell

xoxo

-A

[meowmantra]

happy monday. (i hope).

Happy Monday, I think and hope. Monday mornings have such a bad rep, and I can't say that I disagree. Honestly, if Mondays were a gift, I would request the gift receipt, every damn time. My one saving grace: coffee (is there a coffee addict anonymous group, because I might need to attend a meeting). 

Here is a little new music for this chilly (seriously, where is Spring in Ohio, I'm still waiting) Monday.

So, on a scale from one to Miley Cyrus, just HOW crazy has your Monday been?

xoxo

-A

[meowmantra]

I Don't Wanna Break

The perfect music mix, is one built from the new and the old. Blending old favorites, with new interests. Lately, I have had this easy-listening playlist on repeat.

“Music touches us emotionally, where words alone can't.”  ― Johnny Depp

“I like beautiful melodies telling me terrible things.”  ― Tom Waits

Some of my favorites from the mix (not that all the songs aren't fantastic):

+ House on a Hill - The Pretty Reckless: Remember little Jenny Humphrey? Well, she is all grown up (and slightly emo) now, heading her band The Pretty Reckless, and their music is actually pretty good (give and take few songs).

+ Panic Cord & Home - Gabrielle Aplin: I recently stumbled upon this British, singer-song writer and have been hooked to her music ever since. The carefully written lyrics mixed with Gabrielle's vocals, is a magical combination. 

+ Billie Jean - The Civil Wars: If you know me at all, you know that this particular cover combines two of my favorite things: Michael Jackson and the duo, The Civil Wars. I cried when MJ died, just as I mourned when the Civil Wars briefly split in 2012. Fortunately, they got past their differences and have been busy in the studio. (Also listen to "Dust to Dust").

+ A Little More - Eric Hutchinson: a ridiculously catchy, new song from the man who brought us "Rock & Roll." It's light and pop-y. I dare you to not dance when it comes on.

+ I Don't Wanna Break - Christina Perri: Okay, Perri has finally returned with new music and it's as great, as I hoped it would be. This particular song didn't catch my attention at first, however, once the chorus hit, I became hooked. Now, to work on getting tickets to one of her shows in the Ohio/Michigan area.

+ The Girl (Acoustic) - City and Colour: I was introduced to this fantastic musician, back during my OTH (One Tree Hill, for those of you who are unfortunate enough to not have watched the late, great show) days. This song was featured during a Valentine's Day episode, where City and Colour performed an acoustic set. After hearing the first verse, I was sold. 

+ Hothouse - 78Violet: 78Violet aka an updated Aly and AJ. Quite the departure from their 2007 album, but beyond amazing, nonetheless. I think that it is safe to say, they have found their sound.

+ Waiting Game - Banks: Banks is an American singer-songwriter. Her sound is like a mix between Lorde and a haunting R&B piece. Definitely different sound, than most of what is played on the radio stations.

I could go on for days, because I honestly LOVE all the songs on this playlist (why would I have put them on there, if I didn't), but I am going to stop there.

Check it out. Let me know what you think or if you have some songs that you think would fit perfectly in the mix.

xoxo

-A

[meowmantra]

Flashback To Fall

Well, it's official I have survived the Polar Vortex, or so it seems. Since, I am a huge baby and refuse to spend time outdoors when it is below 40 degrees, I have little to show (photography wise) from the winter. So, I figured I would share some photos taken and edited during the early and late fall. 

Enjoy this for now. The temperatures are rising, which means so am I (rising from my bed that is).  

xoxo

-A

[meowmantra]

I'm Sorry. So, So Sorry.

Okay, I know, I know. I have been an absolutely atrocious blog mother. Please don't call child services on me. I promise you, I will be back, better than ever soon. For now education has taken over, so for a temporary fix head over to: http://minimeowmantra.tumblr.com/

xoxo

-A 

[meowmantra]

What I Have Been Up To

Between school and work, my schedule has been a tad exhausting. Honestly, if you hear a faint cry and the sound of teardrops falling, don't worry. It's just me attempting to complete my homework. Lately, my surplus of photography projects has been taking over my life (mostly the weekends). So here is a little look at my labor of love:

xoxo

-A

[meowmantra]

Throwback Thursday

"Throwback Thursday" or more correctly "Toss-Back Thursday," since these photographs are only about a year and a half old, give or take. The posting of throwback pictures is such a hit on Instagram, that I decided why not extend the idea into an entire post, it could be great (or entirely a disaster, but we just won't think about that). So, with that I am looking back to a time when my hair was longer and my brows were unruly (seriously, I just hadn't gotten the hang of it yet).

Putting together a throwback post really makes you contemplate to what extent your life has evolved. When you take time to reflect on varying periods of your life, it's astounding just how much change (physical, mental, and emotional) can take place, within just a few short years.

From the wisdom of Buddha:

“Everything changes, nothing

remains without change.”

So here's to change, for better or worse.

Now excuse me while I go stuff my face with hair vitamins, in hope that they will magically force my hair grow back out over night.

xoxo

-A

SIDENOTE: Oh, and these lovely photographs were taken by the talented Derek Feniger. Be sure to click on the link and go check out his work.