Tomato Soup

Hi, friends!

     It's rainy and cold here in Arkansas, and one thing I love during this kind of weather is soup. I was short on time when I threw this together, but it's so yum that I had to share.

     Having three little boys and being super busy makes me wonder if I have time to cook dinner. So I'm always looking for and trying to create quick, easy, and healthy recipes.

     Another thing I love about soups is that they are even better the next day. This is actually leftover from last night, so I didn't have to really make myself anything for lunch. Meal planning is still something that I'm working on, but it makes for a good week when you can cook once and eat for a few days.

     Here's the recipe. Let me know what you think if you make it.

TOMATO SOUP

Ingredients

• 4 cloves of garlic
• 2 Tbsp of EVOO
• 1 14 oz can of tomato sauce
• 1 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes
• 2-3 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp coconut sugar
• 1/4 cup of coconut milk-I like to use a can
• 2 Tbsp of fresh basil

Directions

• Sauté the garlic in the EVOO for about a minute.
• Add all the ingredients except the milk and basil.
• Simmer for about 8 minutes.
• Add the milk and basil.
• Simmer for another minute.

     And boom! You're done. Easy and healthy!!

     If you want, you can top with organic cheese or make a grilled cheese with organic cheese and rye bread...or whatever bread you like. :)

xoxo
Steph

5 Ways to Have a Healthier Christmas

Hi, friends!

     On Christmas, we will be tempted to eat those unhealthy foods that our bodies do not benefit from. I'm not going to tell you not to eat any of those things that give you pleasure, but I'm going to give you a few tips to keep yourself in check and not overdo it. :)  

1. Eat a healthy breakfast. Most importantly, eat something high in protein.                               
2. Stay hydrated. Dehydration causes hunger. The same hormones that are set off for when you are dehydrated are set off when you're hungry. Drink lots of water--at least half your body weight in ounces. Infused water with lemon or cucumber is a great way to make water less boring.                          
3. Fill your plate up with all the good stuff first (like veggies). When you get to the casseroles or your less-than-healthy favorite, make that portion smaller.
4. Have a small portion of a dessert you love. When it comes to dessert time, make it something your REALLY love. In the first 1-2 bites, you will feel happiness and pleasure. By the third bite, the pleasure is gone. So know that you don't have to eat the whole piece of pie or cookie.     
5. Release those endorphins! I have included about a quick 20-minute workout to help you burn those Christmas calories and release endorphins...to help keep your spirit joyful! :)  

     There you have it--five tips for a healthier Christmas Day.

     I hope you have a very merry Christmas and a happy new year!

xoxo
Steph                                                            

Holiday Party Time...What Are You Wearing!?

     Today I'm sharing my three favorite holiday party dresses, so you can walk into your party with confidence and attitude. :)

 #1 The Lizzy Dress by Alexis

     I'm seriously obsessed with this designer. Every piece she does is amazing! I also love it paired with this amazing boyfriend blazer by Elizabeth and James, another one of my favorite designers. Both pieces can be purchased at my #1 favorite place to buy anything for my closet: Scarlet.

     Go to www.scarletclothing.com or text to order at 501-503-8777.

#2
     Who doesn't love lace!? Oh, and navy lace! This dress is crazy hot, and the price is even crazier! $65! Yep, your heard me. The clutch is by Rebecca Minkoff.

     Dress and clutch can be purchased at www.scarletclothing.com or text to order at 501-503-8777.

#3 The Vivian Mini Dress by For Love and Lemons
     The is a perfect dress for your holiday party or a friend's wedding. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this dress. www.forloveandlemons.com


"Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak"~ Rachel Zoe

"Attitude is everything"~ Diane von Furstenberg


     There you have it, friends!

xoxo
Steph