Healthy Eating

So, I went to the local farmers market and the grocery store yesterday looking for fresh and healthy ingredients to make new recipes.  I was quite disappointed with the farmer's market.  I felt it was more of an art, jewelry, flower display than a farmer's market, but I am willing to give it another chance possibly next month.  Maybe the crops aren't quite ready yet.  However, I did get some fresh tomatoes, corn on the cob, zucchini and summer squash.  Delicious!!!  After, I headed to the grocery store for the rest of my fresh and healthy foods.  The most hilarious part about this was that when I got home I couldn't remember what I wanted to make :)

On my journey's yesterday, I discovered the difference in the cost of fresh, healthy ingredients and processed, fatty foods.  I've known for quite some time that healthy is more expensive but with the obesity rate in adults and children in America, I was very saddened by this.  It seems to be very hard for a person struggling on a small budge to eat wisely.  I know how much it costs to feed 4 growing boys and it can be devastating if you think about it too much, so a family that is struggling is most likely going to choose value and quantity over health.  How can we change this?  The companies that are making the processed, fatty, oily foods are (I'm sure) quite aware of the economic down falls of people and I believe they take advantage of the situation.  The advertising and the packaging are extremely eye appealing, especially to children.  We are teaching our children terrible eating habits.  So, I have decided I am going to try and change things one person at a time, starting with my own family.  They may not like what I make (3 out of 4 are a bit picky), but I believe I can make meals for them that are healthy and fun so here goes :)

Today's recipe:

Tomato Basil Soup

1/4 c onion
2 cloves of garlic
1 tbsp of olive oil
2 cups of vegetable broth
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
10 med. size tomatoes cored
1  bunch of fresh basil loosely chopped (no stems)
salt and pepper to taste.

In a pot over medium heat saute onion and garlic in the olive oil.  Once they are a bit soft (5 - 10 min) add vegetable broth and balsamic vinegar.  Let simmer.  Next boil a pot of water and immerse the tomatoes for about 2-3 minutes to loosen the skins.  Remove from water and let cool.  Remove skins and add to vegetable broth mixure.  Add basil and salt and pepper to taste.  Allow to simmer for approximately 10 minutes for the flavors to fuse.  Remove from heat and allow to cool.  Place in a blender, food processor, or (as I used) magic bullet (Rob loves it).  Process until smooth.  This soup may be eaten hot or cold as a gaspacho.


I hope you enjoy it.  And remember have a wonderful day, love with all your heart, live your life to the fullest, be positive (with yourself and others), and make sure to smile at someone you do not know...they may need it.

Something new

Good afternoon bloggers ;) I have decided to try something new...blogging. I'm not sure why but it seems like the thing to do for me right now. I will blog about a random variety of things, however, I am sure A LOT of it will focus on family, kids, relaxation, food, and beverages or whatever life throws at me at the time. I just feel the need to get random thoughts written and "out there" because you never know...we may be thinking the same thing!

This past weekend (4th of July) was beautiful and hot. We spent it with family and friends, which always makes for good times. We didn't have all the boys, which was sad but I am thankful for the time we had together and the wonderful weather :) I also know the boys, even though they weren't with us, had fun as well. I love this adventure called life that my husband, Rob, and I are enjoying together. It may not always be easy, but it certainly satisfying.

I am very excited about this new journey I have started and I hope you will enjoy it as well. Have a wonderful day, love with all your heart, live your life to the fullest, be positive (with yourself and others), and make sure to smile at someone you do not know...they may need it.