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	<title>Josie Girl Blog</title>
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	<link>http://josieblog.com</link>
	<description>Josie Girl Blog</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:58:07 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>Antigua Food</title>
		<link>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/22/antigua-food/</link>
		<comments>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/22/antigua-food/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:58:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Josie Girl</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guilty Pleasures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leisure]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://josieblog.com/?p=2109</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As we just returned from our babymoon on Tuesday and the food was memorable and delicious, here are some of the highlights of the yummy-ness we experienced on our President&#8217;s Day weekend holiday&#8230;. Last weekend was a relaxing and terrific time, but we are truly looking forward to our normal family weekend routine here in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: left;">As we just returned from our babymoon on Tuesday and the food was memorable and delicious, here are some of the highlights of the yummy-ness we experienced on our President&#8217;s Day weekend holiday&#8230;.</p>
<div id="attachment_2100" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 606px"><img class=" wp-image-2100" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.20.41 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.20.41-AM.png" alt="Ken's breakfast" width="596" height="418" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Some people get normal breakfasts, but not Ken. Ken *always* likes to experience the local cuisine and eat whatever they suggest. Breakfasts are usually his time to experiment and explore new foods. This is salted fish with Antiguan chop. And yep, he ate it for breakfast. Oatmeal or salted fish? Easy choice for Ken!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2097" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 606px"><img class=" wp-image-2097" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.20.16 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.20.16-AM.png" alt="Antigua Jam" width="596" height="423" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The hotel makes their own organic jam with local fruits. I am not sure exactly what type of fruit jams they were, but in any case, they were delicious and I could not stop eating them....</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2096" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 636px"><img class=" wp-image-2096" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.20.09 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.20.09-AM.png" alt="Pastry basket" width="626" height="421" /><p class="wp-caption-text">I am a sucker for all pastry baskets.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2094" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 630px"><a href="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.19.53-AM.png"><img class=" wp-image-2094" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.19.53 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.19.53-AM.png" alt="Coffee and juice" width="620" height="414" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Each morning they had a &quot;special juice&quot; -- on this particular day it was papaya and pineapple. So tasty -- it was like drinking a papaya whole. And the lattes were a special treat as well.</p></div>
<p style="text-align: left;">Last weekend was a relaxing and terrific time, but we are truly looking forward to our normal family weekend routine here in NYC. Soccer class, Brooklyn Aquarium, Central Park visits, grocery shopping, cuddling, relaxing, and being together as a family. Until Friday!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">&#8211; Anika Yael Natori, aka The Josie Girl.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Antigua</title>
		<link>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/20/antigua/</link>
		<comments>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/20/antigua/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Feb 2012 13:32:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Josie Girl</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fun]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guilty Pleasures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leisure]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://josieblog.com/?p=2091</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For better or worse, we decided to leave our little pot of gold behind and take a weekend trip with just the two of us. We debated back and forth whether or not to go as we had never really left our Monkey behind &#8212; especially for 4 days. After lots of debates, tears, emotions, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: left;">For better or worse, we decided to leave our little pot of gold behind and take a weekend trip with just the two of us. We debated back and forth whether or not to go as we had never really left our Monkey behind &#8212; especially for 4 days. After lots of debates, tears, emotions, and anxiety, we both realized that this was our only chance to get away just the two of us before the storm hits (a.k.a. second baby), and so Antigua it was. Although we both missed our King Cruz more than anything, it was an incredible chance to be together and simply do n.o.t.h.i.n.g. I can&#8217;t remember the last time that I slept as much as I did, or just stared off into the distance without any real concerns&#8230;..not that we didn&#8217;t skype with Cruzzie 4 times a day and get 4 texts a day with information on how he ate, slept, etc&#8230;. but I was able to let go (a little) and just focus on us. As hard as it was, it was an absolute blast&#8230;and it&#8217;s not going to happen again for another 5 years&#8230;.</p>
<div id="attachment_2106" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 639px"><img class=" wp-image-2106" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.21.42 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.21.42-AM.png" alt="Steve Jobs" width="629" height="419" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Ken was engrossed with his book &quot;Steve Jobs&quot; the entire time. He found it inspirational, motivating, and captivating. I, too, read a great book -- &quot;The Marriage Plot.&quot;</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2105" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 643px"><img class=" wp-image-2105" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.21.34 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.21.34-AM.png" alt="Resort" width="633" height="416" /><p class="wp-caption-text">At our resort, each room was a little hut. It was a small and secluded area with only 25 rooms, so it was incredibly quiet, peaceful, and relaxing.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2104" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 636px"><img class=" wp-image-2104" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.21.25 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.21.25-AM.png" alt="Beach" width="626" height="466" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The water was as beautiful and clear as it looks in this photo.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2103" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 634px"><img class=" wp-image-2103" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.21.17 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.21.17-AM.png" alt="View" width="624" height="398" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The view from our lunch deck. Situated in a bay, lots of sailboats would dock overnight for the calm water.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2102" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 636px"><img class=" wp-image-2102" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.21.00 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.21.00-AM.png" alt="Beach" width="626" height="418" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The beach was a third grass, a third seashells, and a third sand.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2101" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 630px"><img class=" wp-image-2101" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.20.48 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.20.48-AM.png" alt="Pool" width="620" height="410" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The pool and bar area. Normally, I find myself situated at pools, but the beach was so close to everything that we parked there instead.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2098" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 648px"><img class=" wp-image-2098" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.20.23 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.20.23-AM.png" alt="Chairs" width="638" height="464" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Early morning beach view.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2095" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 594px"><img class=" wp-image-2095" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.20.02 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.20.02-AM.png" alt="Boats" width="584" height="418" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The water activity area, filled with kayaks, sailboats, jet skis, paddle boats, and snorkeling gear.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2099" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 652px"><a href="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.20.31-AM.png"><img class="size-full wp-image-2099" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.20.31 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.20.31-AM.png" alt="Bird" width="642" height="505" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">The only sounds you really ever heard were the rolls of the water, boats in the distance, and birds chirpping away. These birds were some aggressive Mo Fos, always attacking any food we had at our table.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2092" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 714px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2092" title="Screen shot 2012-02-20 at 7.19.29 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-20-at-7.19.29-AM.png" alt="Babers" width="704" height="521" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Sleepy Ken getting his morning coffee ready!</p></div>
<p>Overall, a perfect and restful weekend. But MONKEY HERE WE COME! WE MISS AND LOVE YOU SO VERY MUCH AND CAN&#8217;T WAIT TO BE REUNITED!!!!</p>
<p>Until Wednesday, Happy President&#8217;s Day!</p>
<p>Anika Yael Natori, aka The Josie Girl.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/20/antigua/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>4</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>&#8220;Ice Cream&#8221;</title>
		<link>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/17/ice-cream/</link>
		<comments>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/17/ice-cream/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:40:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Josie Girl</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guilty Pleasures]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://josieblog.com/?p=2050</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Here I go again with another one of my weird concoctions. And once again, trust me&#8230;it is delicious. Ice cream &#8212; but made with (shocker) NO MILK, NO DAIRY, NO ADDED SUGAR (minus chocolate bits), NO GUILT. Warning: You have to like baby food and/or mushy textures to really enjoy this recipe. Otherwise, you will [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Here I go again with another one of my weird concoctions. And once again, trust me&#8230;it is delicious. Ice cream &#8212; but made with (shocker) NO MILK, NO DAIRY, NO ADDED SUGAR (minus chocolate bits), NO GUILT.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Warning</strong></span>: You have to like baby food and/or mushy textures to really enjoy this recipe. Otherwise, you will hate this. Stating the obvious, but you also have to like bananas. Finally, as delicious as this is, it is not really ice cream. I am just saying&#8230;..</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Ingredients</strong></span>:</p>
<div id="attachment_2070" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 360px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2070" title="Picture 2" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-210.png" alt="ingredients" width="350" height="527" /><p class="wp-caption-text">All three of these items are always in the kitchen, so this treat makes an easy go to snack!</p></div>
<p>* 2 frozen bananas</p>
<p>* Several splashes of almond/soy/coconut/rice milk</p>
<p>* some added party favors: chocolate bits, fresh fruit, chocolate sauce&#8230;  the world is your oyster.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Directions</strong></span>:</p>
<p>* First of all, freeze your bananas. This might sound obvious to some, but not to others (when I first tried to do this, I was one of the &#8220;blondes&#8221;) &#8212; freeze your bananas with the peel removed. Meaning, take the bananas out of the peels, place in a ziploc bag and put in the freezer overnight.</p>
<div id="attachment_2069" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 613px"><img class=" wp-image-2069 " title="Picture 1" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-114.png" alt="" width="603" height="414" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Frozen bananas.</p></div>
<p>* Dump the frozen bananas into a Vitamix or food processor, add whatever milk product you chose, and blend for 5 minutes (literally 5 minutes. If the noise bothers you, go to a different room or jam out to your walkman/ipod). Every so often, scrape the banana down to make sure that it is getting mushed up.</p>
<div id="attachment_2071" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 366px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2071" title="Picture 3" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-310.png" alt="vitamix" width="356" height="543" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Vitamix is like your computer -- a little machine that can do ANYTHING and EVERYTHING.</p></div>
<p>* Add your bits of treats to the mush, and VOILA! &#8220;Ice Cream&#8221; Dessert Heaven!</p>
<div id="attachment_2073" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 649px"><img class=" wp-image-2073 " title="Picture 5" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-54.png" alt="chocolate bits" width="639" height="421" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Hey, why not, right???</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2074" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 660px"><img class=" wp-image-2074 " title="Picture 6" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-64.png" alt="" width="650" height="410" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Delicious MUSHY &quot;ice cream&quot;</p></div>
<p>Have a great weekend! For some, it is a long President&#8217;s Day weekend, and I, too, will be away! Will post pics from our babymoon!</p>
<p>Anika Yael Natori, aka The Josie Girl.</p>
<p>P.S. I am now <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/JosieGirlBlog" target="_blank">tweeting</a>!</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/17/ice-cream/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>4</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Josie Natori Fall12</title>
		<link>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/15/josie-natori-fall12/</link>
		<comments>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/15/josie-natori-fall12/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:58:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Josie Girl</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fashion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://josieblog.com/?p=1992</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Josie Natori Ready to Wear Fall 2012 Fashion Show was held yesterday on Valentine&#8217;s Day at the Rubin Museum in NYC. And what a beautiful event it was! The venue was chic with its long spiraling staircase, the models were gorgeous (obvi), and the clothes were unique and breath-taking (as expected). So proud of my [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Josie Natori Ready to Wear Fall 2012 Fashion Show was held yesterday on Valentine&#8217;s Day at the <a href="http://www.rmanyc.org/" target="_blank">Rubin Museum</a> in NYC. And what a beautiful event it was! The venue was chic with its long spiraling staircase, the models were gorgeous (obvi), and the clothes were unique and breath-taking (as expected). So proud of my mother-in-law and the whole team at Natori! What a great success! Now, the stores need to buy every item and it will all be worth it!</p>
<div id="attachment_2055" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 589px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2055" title="Picture-142-covered" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-142-covered.jpg" alt="" width="579" height="666" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The invitation</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1997" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 661px"><img class=" wp-image-1997 " title="Picture 1" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-112.png" alt="Aunt Aida" width="651" height="430" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The show started at 2 pm. I got there at 2 on the dot. And it was so crowded, that this was my view. Hi Aunt Aida! Yep, no special treatment for me!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1998" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 615px"><img class=" wp-image-1998 " title="Picture 2" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-28.png" alt="Champers" width="605" height="436" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Champagne and Godiva Chocolate -- Whaddup?? Don&#39;t you love the fashion industry? Boozing on the job or on a break at 2 on a Tuesday? Nothing like going back to the office with a buzz from your &quot;dentist&quot; appointment.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1999" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 664px"><img class=" wp-image-1999 " title="Picture 3" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-32.png" alt="Nice hair" width="654" height="430" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Not sure who this man is, but I looked at the models walk down the stairs through his smart phone video. And don&#39;t you just love his hair? (Ben from The Bachelor should take note of *this* hairstyle)</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2000" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 371px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2000" title="Picture 4" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-43.png" alt="Photographers" width="361" height="534" /><p class="wp-caption-text">So many photographers, bloggers, store representatives, friends, and important people! OOH LA LA!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2002" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 655px"><img class=" wp-image-2002 " title="Picture 6" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-63.png" alt="Staircase" width="645" height="435" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The models walked down the staircase instead of a runway. Very glamorous and unique.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2004" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 665px"><img class=" wp-image-2004 " title="Picture 8" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-83.png" alt="models " width="655" height="428" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The models en route down the stairs together.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2006" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 659px"><img class=" wp-image-2006 " title="Picture 10" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-103.png" alt="looks" width="649" height="430" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The show lasted for 45 minutes -- the first presentation was ridiculously crowded and packed (always a good sign), and then the models repeated the performance a second time around. This was the line up at the end of the first. Mega applause!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2008" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 668px"><img class=" wp-image-2008 " title="Picture 12" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-123.png" alt="colors" width="658" height="426" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Check out the bright and deep colors! LOVE! SWOON! GASP!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2012" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 326px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2012" title="Picture 16" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-161.png" alt="lady" width="316" height="528" /><p class="wp-caption-text">I am not sure WHO this lady is, but can we talk about how awesome she looks? Her hat???? Her makeup?? Her fur??? You should have seen her shoes!!! (Is she for reals?)</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2015" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 264px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2015" title="Picture 19" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-191.png" alt="red" width="254" height="528" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Gorgeous and practical.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2016" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 190px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2016" title="Picture 20" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-201.png" alt="red draped dress" width="180" height="452" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Beautiful model. Beautiful outfit.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2020" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 240px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2020" title="Picture 24" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-241.png" alt="LOVE" width="230" height="514" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Love this look.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2021" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 234px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2021" title="Picture 25" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-251.png" alt="Furry arms." width="224" height="448" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Gorilla arms. Making a comeback.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2023" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 258px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2023" title="Picture 27" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-271.png" alt="black and white" width="248" height="514" /><p class="wp-caption-text">MY FAVORITE ENSEMBLE. The dress, the coat. I WANT! I NEED!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2022" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 240px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2022" title="Picture 26" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-261.png" alt="gold peek" width="230" height="525" /><p class="wp-caption-text">How hot is this gold sparkle peeking out of the brown sweater? Another thing that I need PRONTO.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2030" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 291px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2030" title="Picture 34" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-34.png" alt="POC" width="281" height="485" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Elegant coat and POC (pop of color). Love.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2031" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 616px"><img class=" wp-image-2031 " title="Picture 35" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-35.png" alt="" width="606" height="435" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Important People in the Biz: Bobbi Queen (WWD), Julie Ann Reinhart from Natori merchandising, Designer Josie Natori, Etta Froio (WWD).</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2032" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 632px"><img class=" wp-image-2032 " title="Picture 36" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-36.png" alt="Hubby-licious" width="622" height="427" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Hubby-licious.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2033" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 671px"><img class=" wp-image-2033 " title="Picture 37" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-37.png" alt="Finale" width="661" height="432" /><p class="wp-caption-text">All together. Overall, the models looked to-die-for in their Shiseido Hair and Make up, Mongolian style buns, and the handcrafted and dreamy Josie Natori Ready to Wear!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2035" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 372px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2035" title="Picture 39" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-39.png" alt="" width="362" height="547" /><p class="wp-caption-text">HUGE round of applause for all the hard work, determination, dedication, love, and passion of Josie Natori!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2036" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 366px"><img class="size-full wp-image-2036" title="Picture 40" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-40.png" alt="" width="356" height="554" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Big huge smile on teeny tiny lady.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_2034" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 658px"><img class=" wp-image-2034 " title="Picture 38" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-38.png" alt="the end." width="648" height="435" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The end.</p></div>
<p>What a well put together, spectacular, and invigorating show! I can&#8217;t wait for the next show in September! Until then, back to reality as a frumpy mother and teacher. Le sigh.</p>
<p>Anika Yael Natori, aka The Josie Girl.</p>
<p>P.S.  Congrats to our two <a href="http://josieblog.com/2012/02/09/bratonique-dvd-giveaway/" target="_blank">giveaway</a> winners: Becca White and Denise Adan.  Thank you to all who entered!</p>
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		<slash:comments>13</slash:comments>
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		<title>Big Night, Big News</title>
		<link>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/13/big-night-big-news/</link>
		<comments>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/13/big-night-big-news/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Feb 2012 14:32:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Josie Girl</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fun]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guilty Pleasures]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://josieblog.com/?p=1927</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The suspense has been killing me&#8230;. and this time, I couldn&#8217;t wait. We didn&#8217;t find out Cruzzie&#8217;s gender until he was born, and it was the best surprise. But this time, I convinced Ken that we should find out the gender of Baby 2. We (aka me) wanted to find out on my birthday (good [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The suspense has been killing me&#8230;. and this time, I couldn&#8217;t wait. We didn&#8217;t find out Cruzzie&#8217;s gender until he was born, and it was the best surprise. But this time, I convinced Ken that we should find out the gender of <a href="http://josieblog.com/2012/01/23/tips-for-pregnant-women/" target="_blank">Baby 2</a>. We (aka me) wanted to find out on my birthday (good compromise, no?), so Ken kept the envelope with the gender in his desk for the last month (had I kept it, I would have cheated on day 1). To celebrate, we went out to dinner at our favorite local restaurant to do the big unveiling&#8230;.drum roll&#8230;&#8230;.</p>
<div id="attachment_1929" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1929" title="DSC_0689" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0689-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="956" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Pre-dinner pic. We have been doing this every week to document my increasing largeness. Hello, belly!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1953" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1953" title="DSC_0743" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0743-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="956" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Entrance to Barney&#39;s. We ate at Fred&#39;s on the 9th floor, our local fave.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1930" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><a href="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0693.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-1930" title="DSC_0693" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0693-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="956" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Elevator to dinner. Uber nervous. (As you can see, I got super dressed up for the big night...)</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1931" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1931" title="DSC_0695" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0695-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="428" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Elevator to dinner. Also nervous. But looking way more dapper and put together than me....</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1932" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><a href="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0696.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-1932" title="DSC_0696" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0696-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="428" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">J2 stands for &quot;Junior #2&quot; -- we called Cruzzie &quot;Junior&quot; when in belly. The envelope was so sturdy and thick that you couldn&#39;t see through it even if you tried...not that I tried....</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1933" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1933" title="DSC_0697" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0697-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="428" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Signed over the seal by Ken. And taped. Just in case. 100% protected.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1935" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class=" wp-image-1935" title="DSC_0699" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0699-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="428" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Nervous smile and laugh....</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1934" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1934" title="DSC_0698" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0698-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="428" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Much more calm and collected....like always in comparison to me.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1950" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1950" title="DSC_0720" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0720-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="956" /><p class="wp-caption-text">OMG!!! What I always dreamed of!!! (My first thought was -- whoa, the technician wrote a sentence instead of just one word).</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1938" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1938" title="DSC_0702" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0702-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="428" /><p class="wp-caption-text">In absolute disbelief. So excited. Best birthday present ever.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1941" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1941" title="DSC_0710" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0710-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="428" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Giggly and thrilled.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1955" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1955" title="DSC_0734" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0734-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="956" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Emotional and sentimental. Ken is going to have a &quot;Papa&#39;s Little Girl!&quot;</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1946" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1946" title="DSC_0724" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0724-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="428" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Hard to believe....</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1957" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1957" title="DSC_0718" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_07181-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="956" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Time for birthday profiteroles!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1956" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1956" title="DSC_0716" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_07161-685x1024.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="956" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The ice cream is melting away......as I gab and gab on the telephone.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1945" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class="size-large wp-image-1945" title="DSC_0728" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_0728-1024x685.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="428" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Yummy. Gestational diabetes here I come....</p></div>
<p>SO there it is&#8230;.the biggest story of our lives in 2012. Another baby and we couldn&#8217;t be happier. It has always been my dream to have an older brother and a younger sister &#8212; and it is all coming true. Of course, I would have been happy regardless, because a life is a life. But a boy AND a girl. It is perfection. And let me tell you, this BABY GIRL is going to be s-p-o-i-l-e-d. Do you know who her grandmother is??? Best birthday ever.</p>
<p>Until Wednesday,</p>
<p>Anika Yael Natori, aka The Josie Girl</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>22</slash:comments>
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		<title>Coconut Almond Flour &#8220;Cookies&#8221;</title>
		<link>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/10/coconut-almond-flour-cookies/</link>
		<comments>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/10/coconut-almond-flour-cookies/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:00:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Josie Girl</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Food]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://josieblog.com/?p=1751</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I am the world&#8217;s best (or is it worst?) picker. I love having nibbles and bites and picks of everything and anything. Mind you, it drives my family absolutely bonkers, but I can&#8217;t help myself. I just love sampling a little of everything here and there. So when I came across this recipe for bite [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I am the world&#8217;s best (or is it worst?) picker. I love having nibbles and bites and picks of everything and anything. Mind you, it drives my family absolutely bonkers, but I can&#8217;t help myself. I just love sampling a little of everything here and there. So when I came across this recipe for bite size healthy alternative cookies, I was thrilled. And Cruzzie loves them too (he is also a picker and nibbler). It is the perfect snack to grab and have in each hand as I leave the house. A little perfect portable pick-me-up. Also &#8212; you can add whatever you want to make them more special and sweet. Isn&#8217;t it fun to change things up here and there? Peanut butter vs almond butter? M&amp;M&#8217;s or chocolate covered raisins? Bare naked? No matter what you decide to throw into these cookies, they end up delicious.</p>
<div><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Ingredients</strong></span>:</div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<div></div>
<div>
<div id="attachment_1753" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 656px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1753 " title="Picture 11" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-11.png" alt="" width="646" height="356" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Ingredients all in a line.</p></div>
</div>
<p>* 1/2 cup to 3/4 cup unsweetened finely shredded coconut</p>
<p>* 1/4 cup of any kind of nut butter</p>
<p>* 1/4 cup agave nectar</p>
<p>* 1/4 cup almond flour</p>
<p>* 1 tsp cinnamon</p>
<p>* 1/2 tsp vanilla extract</p>
<p>* pinch of good quality salt</p>
<p>* any kind of chocolate touch you want to add. Chocolate chips, truffles, anything that you want to spruce up these little nibbles!</p>
<div><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Directions</strong></span>:</div>
<p>* Combine all ingredients, form into small balls, and place on a pan lined with parchment paper.</p>
<p>* Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes</p>
<p>* OOHHHH and AAHHHH at how tasty these little balls of fun are.</p>
<div>
<div id="attachment_1755" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 614px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1755 " title="Picture 13" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-13.png" alt="in bowl" width="604" height="421" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Everything in a the bowl pre-mixing.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1756" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 674px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1756 " title="Picture 14" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-14.png" alt="" width="664" height="362" /><p class="wp-caption-text">The cookies are perfectly little formed balls. When you mix the dough, it is easiest to do so with your hands. So if you live in NYC, make sure you wash your hands after the subway!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1757" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 664px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1757 " title="Picture 15" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-15.png" alt="" width="654" height="434" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Close up shot.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1759" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 626px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1759 " title="Picture 17" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-17.png" alt="King Cruz" width="616" height="423" /><p class="wp-caption-text">King Cruz eating the snack. I hope you find these little balls of energy as yummy as I do. It is like eating a tablespoon of almond butter with a chocolate chip at the same time. But better.</p></div>
</div>
<p>Hope everyone has a great weekend!  And don&#8217;t forget, there&#8217;s still time to enter the <a href="http://josieblog.com/2012/02/09/bratonique-dvd-giveaway/" target="_blank">Josie Bra/Tonique DVD giveaway</a>.</p>
<div></div>
<div>Anika Yael Natori, aka, The Josie Girl</div>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
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		<title>Bra/Tonique DVD Giveaway!</title>
		<link>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/09/bratonique-dvd-giveaway/</link>
		<comments>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/09/bratonique-dvd-giveaway/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:48:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Josie Girl</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fun]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://josieblog.com/?p=1849</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Because of the great feedback from Monday&#8217;s post on Tonique and yesterday&#8217;s Valentine&#8217;s Day gift ideas, it&#8217;s time for a giveaway! Sylwia has donated two Tonique DVDs and we are pairing those with the Black/Josie Red Temptress bra featured yesterday for two lucky winners! &#160; Tonique Premier is a high-intensity interval workout that draws on the muscle-building power of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Because of the great feedback from Monday&#8217;s <a href="http://josieblog.com/2012/02/06/tonique/" target="_blank">post on Tonique</a> and yesterday&#8217;s <a href="http://josieblog.com/2012/02/08/valentines-day-gift-ideas/" target="_blank">Valentine&#8217;s Day gift ideas</a>, it&#8217;s time for a giveaway! Sylwia has donated two Tonique DVDs and we are pairing those with the Black/Josie Red <a href="http://josieblog.com/2012/02/08/valentines-day-gift-ideas/" target="_blank">Temptress bra featured yesterday</a> for two lucky winners!</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZxvxT7iX3TQ" frameborder="0" width="560" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1894" title="Screen shot 2012-02-09 at 5.18.20 AM" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Screen-shot-2012-02-09-at-5.18.20-AM.png" alt="" width="255" height="289" /></p>
<p><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sylwia-Wiesenbergs-Tonique-Premier-DVD/dp/B003WKT7RC" target="_blank">Tonique Premier</a> is a high-intensity interval workout that draws on the muscle-building power of dance, gymnastics, running and skiing to challenge every part of your body. It works your glutes and abs like never before. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxvxT7iX3TQ" target="_blank">Sculpt Dynamics</a> is Sylwia&#8217;s newest DVD that combines dance and fitness, and engages the entire body to provide an intense workout for your core. It is a nonstop mix of dance and sculpt elements that builds your butt and legs (check out Sylwia&#8217;s rockin bod). Its focus is on sculpting and cardiovascular endurance, not on choreographed steps.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1853" title="Picture 11" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-111.png" alt="TP" width="307" height="301" /></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1854" title="Picture 12" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-122.png" alt="SD" width="287" height="287" /></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>HOW TO ENTER</strong></span>:</p>
<p>E-mail: josiegirlblog@gmail.com with the subject &#8220;Bra/Tonique DVD Giveaway&#8221;, and tell me what you look for in loungewear (feel free to provide any other feedback on the blog while you&#8217;re at it!)  Official rules are <a href="http://josieblog.com/tonique-dvd-giveaway/" target="_blank">here</a>.  Two winners will be selected on Monday.</p>
<p>Remember, you want your abs to look like this:</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1866" title="Picture 13" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-131.png" alt="abs" width="207" height="278" /></p>
<p>Have a good day!</p>
<p>Anika Yael Natori, aka, the Josie Girl</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>6</slash:comments>
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		<title>Valentine&#8217;s Day Gift Ideas</title>
		<link>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/08/valentines-day-gift-ideas/</link>
		<comments>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/08/valentines-day-gift-ideas/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:31:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Josie Girl</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fashion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guilty Pleasures]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://josieblog.com/?p=1807</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Valentine&#8217;s Day is next week &#8212; before you know it, it will be Memorial Day! Time flies by as you get older! GEEZ! And so what is better than to treat yourself &#8212; and your man &#8212; to some fun and flirty lingerie! And what do you know? Josie has the best options for a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Valentine&#8217;s Day is next week &#8212; before you know it, it will be Memorial Day! Time flies by as you get older! GEEZ! And so what is better than to treat yourself &#8212; and your man &#8212; to some fun and flirty lingerie! And what do you know? Josie has the best options for a fun, spirited, and confident gal. Here are my top items that are great for Valentine&#8217;s day AND beyond.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.natori.com/JosieProductDetail.aspx?ISC_Category=JosieShimmy_LolitaFlower" target="_blank">Lolita Flower Shimmy</a></strong></p>
<div id="attachment_1810" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 588px"><img class=" wp-image-1810 " title="Picture 20" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-20.png" alt="Lolita Flower Shimmy" width="578" height="430" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Slinky jersey fabric that is super smooth and cool to the touch, with an incredibly flattering fit. SOLD!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1811" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 584px"><img class=" wp-image-1811 " title="Picture 21" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-21.png" alt="Zoom" width="574" height="422" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Look at the beautiful details in the lace at the top of the chemise. Love.</p></div>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.natori.com/JosieProductDetail.aspx?ISC_Category=JosieBra_TemptressContourDemi" target="_blank">Josie Temptress Contour Demi Bra </a><br />
</strong></p>
<div id="attachment_1808" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 650px"><img class=" wp-image-1808 " title="Picture 18" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-18.png" alt="Temptress" width="640" height="414" /><p class="wp-caption-text">What a perfect name for a bra for Valentine&#39;s Day....Temptress....</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1809" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 632px"><img class=" wp-image-1809 " title="Picture 19" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-19.png" alt="Red and Black" width="622" height="442" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Once again, Josie does it with the hidden little details that make a bra special. The red scalloped eyelet embroidery at sides and center, make it sparkle.</p></div>
<p><a href="http://www.natori.com/JosieProductDetail.aspx?ISC_Category=JosieBra_Etoile3/4ContourUnderwire" target="_blank"><strong>Josie Etoile 3/4 Contour Underwire Bra</strong></a></p>
<div id="attachment_1814" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 374px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1814" title="Picture 24" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-24.png" alt="On lamp" width="364" height="549" /><p class="wp-caption-text">By far one of my favorite bras. Featured in In Style magazine, this bra is an intricate bustier bra with allover fishnet lace. Comfortable and sexy at the same time. (Like the backdrop? I am getting creative....it is my favorite lamp and piece of furniture in my mother-in-law&#39;s apartment. TO DIE FOR -- both the bra and the lamp).</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1815" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 655px"><img class=" wp-image-1815 " title="Picture 25" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-25.png" alt="Bra" width="645" height="430" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Better viewpoint.</p></div>
<p>Little Boy Love</p>
<div id="attachment_1816" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 671px"><img class=" wp-image-1816 " title="Picture 26" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-26.png" alt="" width="661" height="434" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Don&#39;t forget that the purpose of Valentine&#39;s Day is to shower those you love with love and kisses. So love and kiss....wearing Josie!</p></div>
<p>Until Friday, have a great week. And be sure to check out <a href="http://www.josiebynatori.com" target="_blank">josiebynatori.com</a> and <a href="http://www.natori.com" target="_blank">natori.com</a> for some Valentine&#8217;s Day gifts!</p>
<p>Anika Yael Natori, aka The Josie Girl</p>
<p>P.S. Come back tomorrow for details of a giveaway!</p>
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		<title>Tonique</title>
		<link>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/06/tonique/</link>
		<comments>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/06/tonique/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:30:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Josie Girl</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guilty Pleasures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leisure]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://josieblog.com/?p=1772</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Hand&#8217;s down, the best secret in town is an intense, crazy, and fun exercise class called Tonique. Currently held at Complete Body Gym (19th Street between 5th and 6th avenue), this insane workout is the work and dream of Sylwia. Sylwia is one of the people you want to hate &#8212; incredibly beautiful, perfect rockin&#8217; [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Hand&#8217;s down, the best secret in town is an intense, crazy, and fun exercise class called <a href="http://toniquefitness.com/" target="_blank">Tonique</a>. Currently held at <a href="http://completebody.com/" target="_blank">Complete Body Gym</a> (19th Street between 5th and 6th avenue), this insane workout is the work and dream of Sylwia. Sylwia is one of the people you want to hate &#8212; incredibly beautiful, perfect rockin&#8217; body, sweet as can be, smart, and dedicated &#8212; and you can&#8217;t dislike her for a second. She is just the nicest, most loving, devoted, and charming person out there (they do exist). She honestly created this program to inspire and empower women. She wants women to feel confident and fabulous through fitness.</p>
<div id="attachment_1790" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 316px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1790 " title="Picture 15" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-151.png" alt="Sylwia" width="306" height="310" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Sylwia truly is a renaissance woman. A thinker, a mother, a wife, a dreamer, a writer, and more! AND LOOKING EVER SO FABULOUS AND CHIC at the same time. Who knew that this was possible?</p></div>
<p>Sylwia&#8217;s Tonique program has inspired people across the country through <a href="http://toniquefitness.com/dvd.php" target="_blank">DVDs</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=tonique+fitness&amp;oq=tonique+fitn&amp;aq=0&amp;aqi=g1&amp;aql=&amp;gs_sm=c&amp;gs_upl=774l2095l0l4901l12l6l0l0l0l0l206l950l1.3.2l6l0" target="_blank">webisodes</a>, and its inspirational <a href="http://www.toniquefitness.com/tw" target="_blank">website</a>.</p>
<div id="attachment_1789" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 645px"><img class="wp-image-1789 " title="Picture 14" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-141.png" alt="DVDs" width="635" height="235" /><p class="wp-caption-text">She sells DVDs and ipod workouts on her website. They are awesome -- especially if you don&#39;t live in NYC. And they make you sweat! At home -- in your living room!</p></div>
<p>Luckily, for those of us who live in NYC, she offers a class three times a week. And this class kicks your A$$. I mean, seriously, your tush gets worked so hard that you can&#8217;t move it later that day &#8212; let alone later that week. Tonique is a class that I hate but love at the same time. The workout is so intense and so all-body, that your muscles get the craziest workout. They literally wobble and shake. And then you have to look at Sylwia, with her sculpted and perfect body&#8230;.</p>
<div id="attachment_1788" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 617px"><img class=" wp-image-1788 " title="Picture 10" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-101.png" alt="Rockin Ab work" width="607" height="381" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Uh yeah, check out those ABS. I didn&#39;t know stomach muscles could look like that...</p></div>
<p>Tonique is an intense workout that uses multi-directional movements which target every part of your body, working every muscle at every angle. Basically, a lot of lunges and squats with two-pound weights. And then some crazy-a$$ kicks here and there, some out-of-control jumps and hops. And then repeat five million times.</p>
<div id="attachment_1773" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 588px"><img class=" wp-image-1773 " title="Picture 1" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-1.png" alt="Tonique needs" width="578" height="431" /><p class="wp-caption-text">All you need for Tonique is a towel, 2 pound weights, water, and commitment. OH, and heart and stamina too.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1774" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 372px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1774" title="Picture 2" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-2.png" alt="Hot Bod" width="362" height="534" /><p class="wp-caption-text">If you attend her class, you have to leave your ego at the door, because you will SUCK in comparison to everyone else. Everyone wears itty-bitty shorts with their hot bods, but don&#39;t be shy....they worked at it and earned it!</p></div>
<p>Her classes are currently held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30 at Complete Body Gym. A long commitment, but it&#8217;s worth the time investment. You will not regret it for a second.</p>
<div id="attachment_1779" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 566px"><img class=" wp-image-1779  " title="Picture 7" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-71.png" alt="Lunge" width="556" height="359" /><p class="wp-caption-text">One of the bazillion and two variation of lunges.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1780" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 488px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1780" title="Picture 8" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-81.png" alt="Kick." width="478" height="529" /><p class="wp-caption-text">And more kicks.</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1781" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 553px"><img class=" wp-image-1781 " title="Picture 9" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-91.png" alt="More kicks....." width="543" height="501" /><p class="wp-caption-text">And more kicks.....And not to be totally inappropriate, but Sylwia has TWO kids and her tush looks this good. I mean, really, doesn&#39;t it make you want to attend one of her classes TODAY????</p></div>
<p>I first heard about Sylwia and Tonique through my good friend, Pamela. Pamela is one of Sylwia&#8217;s success stories and PROOF that her madness and methodology works. Pamela (actually Mrs. Natori&#8217;s old personal assistant at Natori for almost 5 years &#8212; before she had two kids of her own), although never big, was never small. And then, she started working out with Sylwia and doing Tonique, and WAM BAM THANK YOU MA&#8217;AM, HER BODY is HOT!</p>
<div id="attachment_1777" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 349px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1777" title="Picture 5" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-51.png" alt="Pamela Hottie Chickaroo" width="339" height="521" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Barbie Doll Pamela.</p></div>
<p>Tonique TRANSFORMED Pamela, and can do the same for you, too! I swear! Tonique has been featured in Fitness magazines around the world (Sylwia is a native of my father&#8217;s homeland, Poland).</p>
<div id="attachment_1791" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 508px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1791" title="Picture 12" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-121.png" alt="Fitness magazine" width="498" height="642" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Fitness Magazine, October 2011. Sylwia modeling her moves, herself!</p></div>
<p>If you have any questions about the method, DVDs, or need motivation and words of encouragement, I highly suggest you send Sweetheart Sylwia an <a href="http://toniquefitness.com/contact.php" target="_blank">email</a> or facebook message (&#8220;Like&#8221; Tonique or follow her on twitter at @sylwia_tonique). She will respond! And inspire and motivate! I promise! She wants to help you &#8212; even though she doesn&#8217;t know you! For reals. For more reading material on Sylwia, check out this article from <a href="http://www.dailysingle.com/ds/2011/02/07/founder-of-Tonique-Fitness/Sylwia-Wiesenberg" target="_blank">Daily Single</a>&#8230;</p>
<div id="attachment_1793" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 336px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1793" title="Picture 17" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-171.png" alt="Sylwia" width="326" height="301" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Oh, lordie, this inspires me to go eat more cookies...</p></div>
<p>Until Wednesday, have a great day and MOVE YOUR BODY! (You can start by viewing her videos online <a href="http://www.toniquefitness.com/tw/category/video" target="_blank">here</a>)</p>
<p>Anika Yael Natori, aka The Josie Girl.</p>
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		<slash:comments>12</slash:comments>
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		<title>Kale Salad</title>
		<link>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/03/kale-salad/</link>
		<comments>http://josieblog.com/2012/02/03/kale-salad/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:48:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Josie Girl</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Food]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://josieblog.com/?p=1737</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As you may or may not know by now, I love kale! So delicious, fresh, raw, healthy, sturdy, rough, and yummy-in-my-tummy. So no surprise, we always have kale in our fridge, just to keep on hand as a last minute addition. One of my favorite recipes is a simple raw kale salad that is made [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As you may or may not know by now, I love kale! So delicious, fresh, raw, healthy, sturdy, rough, and yummy-in-my-tummy. So no surprise, we always have kale in our fridge, just to keep on hand as a last minute addition. One of my favorite recipes is a simple raw kale salad that is made with ingredients that are always on stock in our household. Super easy, fresh, and nutritious! A tasty lunch or side at dinner.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Ingredients:</strong></span></p>
<div id="attachment_1739" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 597px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1739 " title="Colorful" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-4.png" alt="Colorful ingredients" width="587" height="434" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Colorful ingredients -- green, orange, purple, and white!</p></div>
<p>* 1 bunch kale stemmed and finely chopped</p>
<p>* 2 cups grated carrots</p>
<p>* 1 peeled and pitted avocado</p>
<p>* 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion</p>
<p>* 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice</p>
<p>* A large helping of sesame seeds</p>
<p>* 1/2 teaspoon reduced sodium soy sauce</p>
<div id="attachment_1740" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 566px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1740 " title="Picture 5" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-5.png" alt="Sesame seeds" width="556" height="418" /><p class="wp-caption-text">I never used to have sesame seeds in the cupboard until recently, and MAN, do they come in handy! </p></div>
<div id="attachment_1741" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 653px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1741 " title="Picture 6" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-6.png" alt="Kale" width="643" height="435" /><p class="wp-caption-text">I tend to have multiple types of kale in the fridge. Fresh, normal kale with stems and leaves, and then a box of baby kale mix. So excited to see baby kale mix in grocery stores these days -- a perfect substitute for lettuce in salad or in sandwiches.</p></div>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Directions:</strong></span></p>
<p>* Toss all ingredients together in a large bowl.</p>
<p>* Use your hands or the back of a large spoon to thoroughly mash avocado into kale. Basically &#8212; you mush and massage the avocado into all the ingredients &#8212; kind of like how you wash your hair. You want to get the avocado pureed into everything.</p>
<p>* Set aside at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to allow kale to soften. TADA! MAGIC RAW KALE SALAD THAT TASTES ABSOLUTELY DIVINE!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1742" title="Picture 7" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-7.png" alt="Ingredients for salad" width="630" height="440" /></p>
<div id="attachment_1743" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 666px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1743 " title="Picture 8" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-8.png" alt="Mix it!" width="656" height="429" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Mix it!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1744" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 657px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1744 " title="Picture 9" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-9.png" alt="" width="647" height="436" /><p class="wp-caption-text">DONE!</p></div>
<div id="attachment_1745" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 664px"><img class="size-full wp-image-1745 " title="Picture 10" src="http://josieblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Picture-10.png" alt="" width="654" height="422" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Voila! Finit! Dinner! Kale salad, chicken roullade, roasted potatoes, and a glass of lemondade.</p></div>
<p>Hope everyone has a great weekend! I can&#8217;t believe it is already February&#8230;.whoa.</p>
<p>Anika Yael Natori, aka The Josie Girl.</p>
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		<slash:comments>5</slash:comments>
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