About a month ago, my husband brought home a plumeria branch. Rumor has it, if you let it dry out completely, you can then stick in the ground and it will grow into a tree. Well, what’s the hurt in trying, right? So, I threw in down on the rocks beside the house, completely forgetting it was even there until yesterday when I turned the corner.

I was welcomed by these AMAZING little blooms. I will certainly miss these trees the most. My favorite time of the year over here, other than when the trees are in bloom, is when all the flowers begin to fall off the trees, but are still so beautiful as they scatter the ground.

Last picture is a bit dark, forgive me. I’m still learning how to use The Hubs camera. Aren’t they just the most beautiful flowers? I hope they brighten up your weekend! 

Oh, how I love soup. Really, I think it’s one of the most comforting things to eat. And, oh so yummy! I really am a sucker for a good soup. *hint hint* chef husband of mine, make me a good soup! * 

So… speaking of soup, earlier this week I just so happened to come across a new favorite by accident. I was so very hungry, but I am trying to eat healthy. This presents a problem because eating healthy and smart usually means more prep work, which I don’t mind as long as I am not famished (which I was). Anyway, I was low on soup ingredients so I had to just pull some leftovers together, but it turned out to be wonderfully tasty and satisfying! 

Soup: 1 can vegetable broth, 1 can white beans (drained and rinsed), 1 diced tomato, 1/4 of a cabbage (shredded), half can or so of corn, salt & pepper to taste. Heat through and enjoy!

I know it sounds super basic, but it’s so yummy. Want to know a secret? I didn’t even share any with The Hubs! 

Although for the past week, The Hubs and I have really fallen off the “Eating Healthy” wagon…today has been a good day. Back to the task at hand, creating a healthier lifestyle for ourselves. Today I tried another recipe from this book. It’s Gluten-Free Squash Bread. It turned out pretty nice although it is a funny yellowy color. I wonder what other squashes I could use. This called for butternut squash. I also added fresh rosemary. I think next time I’ll add more and maybe some other fresh herbs.

I smeared some baked sweet potato over it which complimented the drier bread taste. It was super easy so I’m sure I’ll be making it again with different variations. You could also smear some mashed avocado on top. That might be yummy.

I’m not sure where I saw this idea for using contact paper to cover your old food cans, but I have been trying to find time to try it for a couple months.

Finally did and it was so easy… here I’ve used it not only as an organizing element, but also as a little flower pot on our “brand new” thrifted table we purchased this week for $8!! I love cool cheap furniture.

I wonder what else could I cover in wood grain contact paper… HMMMMM????

Alright, so I couldn’t just throw out that cute potato stamp. Instead, I got another use out of it. Not quite as cute as the skirt, but I thought it came out ok. I made this drawstring bag to house our fabric paints. I used an old khaki pant leg of my husbands. (it had already been cut off!) It’s sturdy enough to hold a lot of things! I am happy with it, although not completely thrilled. I do like the yellow dots. (made those with a pencil eraser)

Well, he’s not really a taco, but maybe it’s a sun dried tomato tortilla! I always enjoy making these little guys. They are an easy, fun project that always make me smile. *Also made from about 90% second hand materials! I’m sure I’ll be posting more creatures in the near future.

Alright, this is supposed to be a place I share my creative side, but I’m on a cooking high right now so bear with me. Here’s the latest recipe I made today, Adzuki Bean Bake. It’s definitely one of my favorites now!! As you can see, I couldn’t wait to try some of it, which is why it’s cropped! <wink, wink> Don’t be afraid to try your hand at a new recipe today, you could be pleasantly surprised. Enjoy! 

*Recipe from the book Slim for Life, by Dr. Gillian McKeith of You Are What You Eat. 

OK, I just had to share. The hubs and I became a bit addicted to this show, “You Are What You Eat” on BBC America a month or so ago. We decided to make a bit lifestyle change with our eating habits to get healthier. Anyway, I made one of the soups from The Plan this morning and I just love, LOVE… LOVE IT! It’s too bad you can’t lick the screen to get a taste.