Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Autumn Inspired Outfit

I live for those perfect autumn days. Today was one of those days, 65 degrees, falling leaves, and just the right amount of sunshine. Despite having some classes I don't enjoy and a test, it was still a pretty good day.

Today's outfit is inspired by foxes. Autumn always makes me think of woodland animals, and I have foxes on the brain because of my Halloween costume (I bet you might be able to guess what it is!). This outfit also gave me an excuse to wear the chunky heel booties my friend gave me over the summer. 


Shirt: Old Navy
Skirt: Thrifted and altered
Tights: Target
Shoes: Maurices, similar from Debs
Necklace: Handmade by me


Saturday, October 4, 2014

Carrot Apple Autumn Soup


As the weather starts to get colder, I find myself wanting to make warm soups and comfort food. I hadn't had much in the way of carrot soups until now, nor soup with apple, so here we have a soup with both (and my good friend chickpea!). This recipe is also vegetarian, and I believe could also be vegan if you left out the dairy, or substituted it with something. I'm not sure how many "normal" portions it makes, but in my measurement system, this recipe yields one bowl, and 2 mason jars worth.

Ingredients

1 small white onion, chopped
5-6 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 small apples, chopped (with skin)
16oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 to 1tsp smoked (or regular) paprika 
1/2 cup half & half
3/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
olive oil
blender or food processor



1. Heat some olive oil in a medium-large pot on medium heat, adding the chopped onion and paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes, or until the onion is somewhat translucent.

2. Add chopped carrots, apples, and chickpeas to the pot. Pour the vegetable broth in as well.

3. Cover and turn the heat up to medium-high heat. Cook for 15-20 minutes (or until carrots are cooked throughly), stirring occasionally. 

4. Remove from heat and allow to cool for a minute. Pour contents of pot into your blender or food processor. Blend until there are no visible whole pieces.

5. Return pureed contents to the pan on low heat. Add the half and half.

6. Add the cinnamon and nutmeg, adjusting to your liking.

7. Serve hot with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top!