The Best You Ever Tasted

The heater was cranked in the car this morning and all my kiddos were wearing jackets. Fall has arrived, friends. That can only mean one thing. It is time to share my pumpkin soup recipe with the world. My pumpkin soup is not only a staple in our house during cooler weather, it is also my go-to meal for friends needing a little pick-me-up. Because it is in season, I substitute butternut squash for the can of pumpkin in this recipe. Wishing you all the warm and cozy feelings this little autumn delicacy provides!

Spiced Pumpkin and Shrimp Soup:

2 medium onions, sliced
2 medium carrots, sliced (1 cup)
1 tbsp fresh cilantro
2 tsp fresh grated ginger (must be the real ginger root- yum!)
1/2 tsp ground allspice
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
1 14oz can chicken broth
1 15oz can pumpkin (or 1 butternut squash cooked and pureed)
1 cup milk
1 8oz package frozen peeled and deveined cooked shrimp, thawed
Plain yogurt or sour cream (optional for topping)

1. In a large saucepan cook onions, carrots, cilantro, ginger, allspice, and garlic in hot butter, covered, for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring once or twice

2. Transfer vegetables to a blender container or food processor bowl. Add 1/2 c chicken broth and blend or process until nearly smooth (***Warning- do not blend a mixture that is very hot. I have done this and I had food all over my kitchen cabinets, counters, and floor- ha!)

3. In the same saucepan, combine remaining broth, the pumpkin and milk. Stir in blended vegetables and shrimp; heat through and enjoy!


To really get in the spirit of fall, pick up a copy of the book Pumpkin Soup at your local library and learn how the Duck, the Cat, and the Squirrel made it "the best you ever tasted." Maddox loves the book and the soup!

My Favorite Fall Gal

Well friends, fall is upon us and I have spent the last few days switching out my closet to reflect the cooler temps. What I've realized (along with so many of you ladies) is that I don't need to accumulate another stitch of clothing this year. There is more than enough already and truth be told, I need to pack up a big ol' giveaway box. It can't hurt to look at the fall fashions though, right? In doing so, I've noticed a few things. Beautiful warm colors are in. Rusty reds, mustard yellows, deep teal blues. Leather is back, but not just in jackets, boots, and bags. I've seen many skirts and dresses in leather or with leather detail. Finally, hems are getting longer. You'll find many dresses in a mid-calf length this fall, not flattering on everyone, but worth a try especially with great boots.

All of this brings me to my new favorite designer, Maggy London, sold at Nordstrom. I love Miss Maggy, not just because the line stays on the edge of fashion, but also because it fits well and is affordable. I have bought a few pieces in the past and am tempted once again by these little cool weather beauties:




Love the color of this dress and the neckline. Throw a belt on at the waist and you're set. No other accessories needed.




This one is edgy, but I really like it. It is a black/brown combo, made from a faux leather, making it much more affordable.





Another one with the leather detail.



This was me this summer in my Maggy London dress. Bought it last year just before I found out I was pregnant. ha! It had to wait a while, but I loved wearing it this summer.




This one looks a lot like my dress in the pic above, but is from a different designer and sold for over $300. I only paid 1/3 of that price. Really affordable and stylish!



Happy Fall Fashion Hunting!


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Back to School!

This morning, I dropped Maddox off for the first day of 4 year-old pre-school. That little gal is so independent. Quick kiss on the cheek and she was off. I realize that the first day of pre-school is not the first day of kindergarten, so I shouldn't be sad and I'm really not. We were both ready for school to begin! I'm just a bit reflective this morning on how quickly my daughter is growing. Is it bad to want her to stay little forever? I suppose that sentiment is why I still allow Maddox to say okey-mo instead of oatmeal, Gumbo instead of Dumbo, and glitter instead of litter ("Mom look, somebody glittered on the road!" haha). Not quite ready to correct those things just yet. :)

By the way, on the drive over to St. Thomas, Maddox promised she would make friends with a new kid at pre-school today so they don't feel lonely. Precious girl.