I fell off...

...the "band" wagon. Really the weight loss/be healthy/new me wagon. Oops. That's what happens when you go to the land of many delicious foods that you haven't eaten in months and have been dreaming of eating again. Also, having an oven. 


So I went home, to the good ole (freezing cold) USA. It was a nice little break filled with friends, family and fun. And eating. 


I ate everything from Panera to Chipotle. Pasta, pizza, enchiladas, homemade soup and even baked cookies! 


I did however do a little spiritual outreach while home at the annual Women's Weekend in western MD. It was good and some things have really opened up my eyes. I will have to continue this journey on my own here, however, I know I have a lot of support from family and friends back home. 


I did do some shredding and attempted some yoga meltdown (also by Jillian Michaels...yoga on steroids). Now I just need to get back to doing it everyday.


Hence, today is day 1 of recommitting to my new healthy lifestyle. I have some gringo activities coming up, but I know I can still be healthy and have fun. 


So today I didn't start out the best---the last chocolate chip cookie for breakfast---however, I plan on exercising and am making a yummy tomato soup for dinner (although it might become lunch too!). 


This is a simple and delicious take on tomato soup, from At Home In Provence by Patricia Wells. (I've adapted it to meet my budget and laziness needs)


2 cloves
1 onion, halved
2 lbs tomatoes (I use canned diced tomatoes by Hunts with basil, garlic and oregano)
3-4 fresh garlic cloves, peeled and diced
1 stalk celery, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups water or stock (chicken...I used water and added some bouillon to the soup)
1 bunch fresh thyme (didn't have...tasted fine without)
2 bay leaves
4 tablespoons basil leaves (she prefers fresh everything, I just added a little dry basil)

What it looks like while cooking

Stick the cloves into the halved onion. Add all the ingredients to a stockpot (or big pot). Bring to a boil and then let simmer, uncovered, for 20 mins. Take out the onions (with cloves), bay leaves, and thyme (if you had it). (**This is where I changed it--more then before**) Let the soup cool, then put into a blender until you reach desired consistency. 


It's pretty good if you add a little bit of cream to it or extra virgin olive oil at the end. Also with fresh bread, grilled cheese. Anything really!


Enjoy :)


I promise I will be back and be a better blogger!