PFMs in the Kitchen: Yummy Lentil Soup with Wilted Greens

okay, it only took a week for me to get it together but here is my recipe for lentil soup.  it is the perfect way to cook up a lot and eat for as long as you can stand it.  you can even freeze half and have it as a quick lunch/dinner solution for another day.  hope you enjoy it as much as i did mine!

You need: 

2 16oz. packages of brown lentils

1 onion, peeled and chopped

5-6 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
1 can tomato paste (preferably organic)
2-inch piece of ginger, peeled and chopped (eliminates gas and aids digestion)
6-7 bay leaves (eliminates gas)
4 stalks celery, chopped
2 stalks scallion, halved
1 package frozen loose corn
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (more if you like heat - cayenne is healing to the digestive tract)
2 T Trader Joe's 21 Seasonings
1T Tamari gluten free Soy Sauce like San-J
Sea salt to taste
Trader Joe's Organic Greens mix,  washed and on the side


Prep time: 30 mins
Cooking time: 1 hour-2 hours (depending on how slow you want to cook it)

How to:

Rinse your lentils and put them in a large pot.  Fill with water  (as high as it may go but leave room to prevent bubbling over).  Hint: have boiled water on the side to add to your stock in case boiling decreases your liquid. Put the pot on a medium high temperature adding your bay leaves to the water.  Bring to a boil, reduce fire to medium and let it continue to simmer for about 20 mins.  Add your chopped ginger.  After another 10 mins, add the tomato paste and continue to let it slow cook for another 10 mins.  Then add all garlic, onion, celery, scallion, corn and seasonings. Cook for another 20 mins.  Add salt to taste.  Once done and served, add a handful of washed greens and stir in for a quick green addition. An extra fun addition is some chopped ripe avocado that turns up the volume on delicious!! Yum!! xo Sesheta

A Day in the Life: Soup is comfort

this is a super late post because sometimes life gets in the way of what usually happens.  i spent most of the day nursing my sick little one back to health (still in progress) and that was in addition to packing lunches, checking homework, cleaning the bathroom, running to the orthodontist and cooking dinner.  somehow it isn't that surprising that i wasn't able to post until now.  and even still, this is just a prelude post to my next post where i share my recipe for this scrumptious soup above.  

the weather has been fluctuating but i have officially entered into my warm comfort food mode.  i have been craving soups more and more.  if you are feeling me, then this will be a great add to your personal cookbook.  

...well, enjoy my pic and stay tuned for the details of how to recreate this for you and your loved ones. xo Sesheta

PFMs in the Kitchen: Silky Butternut Squash Soup

Can I admit a somewhat shameful secret? Here it is...I've actually never used butternut squash in a recipe before. Chalk it up to sheer laziness (the thought of cutting, peeling, and deseeding didn't thrill me) but with the cool weather here I had to step it up and create one of my favorite soups. Really-how can I call myself the Soup Queen without having a trusty butternut squash recipe under my belt? This is the soup that reminds me "hey, it's fall." Just curious, is anyone bringing this mustard jewel-tone color into their autumn wardrobe yet?

This recipe was inspired by the ultra-talented Andrea Beaman, a Natural Foods Chef and Health Coach. She's a master of simplicity who really knows her stuff, but I always like to tweak a recipe to make it my own. There were a few spices that I wanted to add, and I also decided to pour organic coconut milk into the soup. I swapped out the last cup of water for a cup of vegetable stock and eliminated the pumpkin seeds and parsley (though they make a pretty garnish.) Using a hand-blender was less fussy than the food processor. All in all, I came up with a silky flavorful soup that had my husband going back for seconds. Yum...I will be eating this again for today's lunch. Success. xoxo Becca

You need:

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, peeled and chopped

1 butternut squash, peeled and deseeded

2-3 inches ginger, peeled and chopped

5 cups water

1 cup vegetable stock

1 can organic coconut milk

1 teaspoon sea salt

21 Seasoning Salute to taste

How to:

Saute the onion in olive oil for 2-3 minutes. Add squash, ginger, water, vegetable broth, and sea salt. Bring to boil, cover and simmer until the squash is soft (about 15-20 minutes.) Using a hand blender, puree until the chunks are gone. Pour in the coconut milk and blend again until super-smooth (save a bit for garnish if you wish.) Add your seasoning and continue cooking, stirring with a spoon for another 2 minutes. Serve and top with a dollop of coconut milk.

Why I love these ingredients:

There's not too many of them=simple and fresh. Yay! Butternut squash contains an ample dose of fiber, vital for a naturally cleansing and rejuvenating lifestyle. It's also rich with antioxidants that fight free radicals and have anti-inflammatory effects (great for asthma, arthritis and premature aging.)

PFMs Healthy Living: Make Time

(image via pinterest, text via me)

Yes you can. Do it. Now. 

Read more books.

Make and eat good food.

Take risks.

Experiment with hairstyles. 

Visit wine country.

Dream big.

Spend a rainy day in bed with your sweetheart.
Inspire yourself.

Meditate.

Be adventurous.

Sometimes we just need a little reminder to make time. What's on your list? xoxo Becca

Spiritual PFM: You Can't Age

image (via pinterest), words of wisdom (via)

If you never know what time it is because of what you're doing, how do you get older? People who love what they're doing stay physically younger and healthier...a concept that's very motivational by itself, but did you also know that you can actually end up changing the world by living a great life? Yep, together we can create a ripple effect that will continually inspire others to live the life they love. I want to know...what makes you lose track of time?

Beautiful ideas like this one have been keeping me in a very positive state of mind lately. It has lots to do with my current training as a Health Counselor. In school I'm learning from world-renowned wellness experts including Bernie Siegel, M.D. who happens to be today's source of inspiration for this post. His words were so amazing that I actually teared up with relief and realization. I guess it was my "ah-ha" moment. xoxo Becca

P.S. Interested in discussing your health concerns and goals and how I can support you? Well lucky you- part of my preperation is to do practice consultations in order to become more skilled about discussing health concerns...and I would love to offer you a free health history consultation. We can do this either in person or on the phone, so contact me for a one-on-one session! 

Ask the PFMs: Making a Change - Step #3

Thank yourself for the progress you have made thus far! 

one of the hardest things to do, especially while trying to make a change for the better in your life, is to remain positive.  no matter the type of change, when we let the universe know that we are interested in doing things differently, sometimes it seems like everything and everyone is against us.  it can be extremely frustrating and can even cause many of us to give up on our goal.  that's why my step #3 is to be grateful.  while simple in concept, trust me, i know how hard it is to see the positive when everything around you seems negative.  besides taking baby steps, i encourage you to be happy with your progress.  it is easy to look at your goal and criticize how far you are from it.  instead of being your own worst critic, relish in the small victories.  pat yourself on the back for making a salad; it's one salad closer to eating healthy.  celebrate losing one pound; it's one pound closer to your goal weight.  applaud yourself for getting back on the horse; yesterday is just that and today is a new day.  thank yourself for your commitment you because, even for that alone,  you have already become a newer you.  congratulations! xo Sesheta

Ask the PFMs: Making a Change - Step #2

now that you have established your goal (see step #1 here), the easiest thing you can do to start incorporating healthy eating is to think green.  this is Step #2.  adding more green foods (especially raw - like in salads) to your diet can help to literally bring more life into your lifestyle.  it is also the simplest way to make a change that won't leave you feeling like you are missing something, especially if the thought of eliminating foods makes you cringe and has kept you from making changes.  here are some quick ways of getting your daily dose of green foods:

1. adding a salad to every dinner - you can find salad fixings all cut-up or pre-washed in your local market, like the salads from Earthbound Farm Organics, for an easy way to throw together a yummy salad.  add your favorite dressing (we love Annie's Goddess dressing) and you are on your way! (hint - if you are trying to lose weight, eat salad first so there's less room for other stuff.)
2. veggie snacks - stick some broccoli, cucumbers or snap peas in a baggie with a side of some dressing as your dip (Goddess dressing is perfect for dipping!!). now your veggies are ready for on-the-go snacking.  
3. green food powder supplements - so you still aren't ready to eat more veggies.  start acclimating your taste-buds by mixing green food powder supplements such as Green Vibrance into a morning smoothie.  loaded with such super foods as spirulina and chlorella, this ensures you will get a dose of green energy without much effort.

as you start to get used to having more green foods in your everyday diet, you can slowly start to increase the amount of veggies (and fruits) and then begin to decrease what you are trying to eliminate.  for example, if you are trying to eliminate carbs, using salad as your "rice" to accompany protein and veggies is a stress-free way to jump start weight loss.  

questions?  remember to shoot us an email at any time if you have specific questions or need us to clarify anything you've seen here.  xo Sesheta

Ask the PFMs: Making a Change - Step #1

Photo Credits

there must be something in the air - maybe the cooler weather and shorter days - that serves as a sign to our bodies that change is in order.  i know i have been feeling the change in the air and it may be what my friend was feeling when he decided to "Ask the PFMs" for  assistance in changing up his diet.  though he isn't necessarily trying to become vegetarian or vegan, he was looking for ways to eat healthier.  he mentioned that he had started working out again and that this was part of an ultimate plan to generally be healthier.  it was also inspired by him often feeling tired.  does this sounds like you?  are you looking to make a change for the better?  well, i decided to share some of the tips that i told my friend with you, in case you have been wanting to do something but haven't figured out where to start.  

Today is step #1 and the tip for today is:

what is your goal? 

this may seem like a simple question but if you really start thinking about it more, you will see that it can really make or break your success.  take the time to examine what your purpose is for making a change.  have you been considering transitioning to vegetarian or vegan and decided this is the time?  are you just looking to lose some unwanted weight or simply would like to detox?  or maybe, like my friend, you are looking to incorporate some healthier choices into your everyday.  setting the intention for what you are trying to achieve is an important part of feeling and seeing a difference.  i challenge you to ponder this question and then write your goal down.  putting it down on paper will also make it more real for you and express your intention to the universe.  post your goal near your mirror or set a reminder with it on your phone so that you can renew your purpose to fulfill your goal every day.  once you have completed this step, you'll be ready for step #2 (coming soon). 

keep a look out for these Making a Change posts to continue gathering some easy first steps to making changes to your diet and your lifestyle. xo Sesheta

PFMs Healthy Living - Renewal through juicing

photo credits

i have been more than a little stressed lately.  with my boys back in school and strict routines back in play, i find that i am being pulled in more than three directions all at one time.  i have a feeling that, though i feel like it's just me, i'm not the only one being stretched to the limit.  most of us, when stressed, prefer to eat sweets or grab a cocktail to help "unwind".  i am no exception.  there are many junk food items that still qualify as vegan not to mention my love of wine and beer!  ...and though i may not let myself go past a certain point, there were many signs that it was time for a change. 

though i am a huge advocate of fasting, embarking on a true fast (juices and raw foods only) has not been attractive to me for a while.  i know for a fact that fasts are only doable when both your desire and mind are in the right place.  well, i can't say that i am ready for a fast, but i am ready for creating change by starting with diet.  i realize that right now, i can only handle baby steps but sometimes baby steps are all you need.  my first step was to start adding fresh vegetable juices to my everyday.  finding time in my already packed morning (or any part of the day) has always been my excuse as to why i haven't pulled out my juicer earlier.    i went to pull it out and dust it off (yes, it had been that long - i'd rather purchase a juice than do it myself lol) and wrapped my mind around that this was one thing i had to do for me.  ...so with my knowledge as well as my new found desire  (and help from Trader Joe's - fresh organic veggies at reasonable prices), i have been juicing to start my day.  i have also made all three of my boys drink some so that they get used to having it more often;  it is the perfect way to bring in the fall season and prevent early illness!   

i know that juicing isn't the solution to world peace or anything (or is it??) but, i do believe that maybe with a clearer body, i'll have a clearer mind.  then maybe i can channel some clear messages for how to make life a little easier.  who knows... either way, i know it starts with me and i have definitely renewed how important taking care of me is - first and foremost.  i'll keep you posted!  xo Sesheta

PFM Obsession: Becca's Beauty Fresh Five #1- Fragrance

Since hopping on the green beauty bandwagon, it's been an impulsive couple of weeks full of  sampling, researching, and purchasing a variety of different healthy beauty products. But when it comes to choosing your signature scent, it can be a very personal thing; many ladies (and gents) don't like to stray from what they know and love. 

I've come to realize love is a coconut. Drumroll please...the all-natural organic french perfume brand Honore des Pres has made it to our #1 spot on the Fresh Five Beauty Countdown with their concoction of coconut, vanilla, and coriander. Love Coconut is an intoxicating light coconut fragrance that's so fresh and so clean (clean!) This special mix of 100% natural and certified organic essences lasts like a long-overdue nap on a tropical beach, where you're sipping an icy cocktail and melting your cares away in the heat. It's vacation in a bottle...and I plan on extending mine by using this perfume all year round. 

I hope this countdown inspired you make some changes in the products you use...there is a healthier side to beauty! xoxo Becca

PFM Obsession: Becca's Beauty Fresh Five #3- Body

I've been reading many online articles on healthy beauty lately, in an effort to increase my awareness about the potential harm that can and will result from the use of common beauty products that contain lots of chemicals. If you have any doubts, read this and then let's discuss! It definitely had me thinking about the body's biggest organ- your skin. It's so important...and we should treat it that way! An all-natural exfoliating body scrub is the perfect way to refresh and renew your skin.

via MindBodyGreen

SkinnySkinny Organic Clementine and Clove Body Scrub has become my latest addiction. It has a light and slightly citrusy scent that's mixed with a subtle hint of cloves...a total indulgence that's got summer written all over it!  You will find me looking for any excuse to open the jar and just take a whiff. Made with organic ingredients, and vegan and cruelty-free, this stuff is seriously drool-worthy. Plus my skin has never been softer! Enjoy xoxo Becca

PFM Obsession: Becca's Beauty Fresh Five #4- Eyes

Hello lovely ladies! After learning about all the ill-effects that these toxic cosmetic ingredients can cause, changes are definitely in order! Next up on the green beauty countdown...#4, eyes. My summer makeup routine is usually very simple (read about my love of a bold lip here) but it isn't complete without a basic black eyeliner. I don't think I'm alone on that! So imagine how excited I was to realize that there's an all-natural beauty essential that's affordable and can be found in most drugstores...yes! Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Eyeliner is free of harmful, synthetic chemicals...it's made with Organic Jojoba Seed oil and Beeswax. Backed by rave reviews from the Green Beauty Team, this healthy beauty product has me ditching my (uber-expensive) Chanel eyeliner for good. 

Physcians Formula Organic Wear Eyeliner & Ilia Beauty Neon Angel Lipstick

There are three shades to choose from- I'm loving Black Night Organics, it's black with the most subtle hint of pine green that accentuates your eye color. I'm a big fan, although one recent steamy summer night had me reapplying the creamy line when the temperature hit 100. Overall this eyeliner is gentle, easy to use, and it's been lasting the entire day. More to come... xoxo Becca

PFM Obsession: Becca's Beauty Fresh Five #5- Lips

Get excited, ladies...it's the latest Fresh Five- Green Beauty Edition! I'm counting down my top five favorite beauty products that are not only going to help you look great, they are actually healthy for you and for the environment too.

Sesheta and I recently had the pleasure of attending an event hosted by the Green Beauty Team. We spent an evening learning and celebrating healthy beauty. Inspired by our good friend (and host) Rebecca Casciano, I've been trying to green up my personal beauty routine...one product at a time. Being that I'm so conscious of what I put in my body, why wouldn't I want to be just as aware about what goes on my body? Does this have your mind spinning a bit? Click here for a list of toxic ingredients that has become my new shopping guide. 

The Two Rebeccas! Images c/o Green Beauty Team

Lately Rebecca's been rocking a shade of neon pink lipstick that has me smitten. I got the chance to sample this lil beauty delight at the event (with an amazing makeup pro applying it, no less!) Immediately, I loved the way it looked with my skin tone.  Ilia Beauty Lipstick in Neon Angel is my now my go-to for bold summer lip color...expect to see a lot more of it in future outfit posts! In the most perfect highly pigmented shade of punchy pink, it rivals the best-selling brands at Sephora...and as a bonus- it actually keeps lips moist and smooth. Most importantly, when you are licking your lips you won't be worrying about what your body is absorbing and how it's affecting your health. Find your perfect shade online at Spirit Beauty Lounge...and stay tuned for #4! xoxo Becca

What is MavenFresh?

It's hard to believe how much time has gone by since Rebecca and I started MavenFresh.  At first, it was all about jewelry and accessories, but, once we realized all that we had to offer, MavenFresh evolved and blossomed into all that it is today.  It is only fitting that we re-define all that we have become.   

Becca and I are personally committed to living a lifestyle based on whole living - in health, beauty and fashion.  More of you are realizing the importance of incorporating holistic practices and green living into your lives.  MavenFresh can help in figuring out where to start.  Why?  ...Because we live it and because a healthier world starts with you and me.

...so if you have been wondering, "what is MavenFresh?", well, now you can't say we didn't tell you!  xo sesheta & Rebecca

MavenFresh grew out of the concrete jungle - the brainchild of Sesheta Holder and Rebecca Santilli.  Drawn together by their love of fashion, color and their vegan/vegetarian lifestyles, Sesheta and Rebecca bring their organic take on life to designing and consulting. 

Creatively fueled by the vibe of NYC, the co-founders coined the term, “premiere fashion maven” or PFM.  As PFMs, Sesheta and Rebecca have a broad vision of design and style. MavenFresh has become more than jewelry and accessories – it is a way of life.

Following a mostly plant-based diet and with a push for a greener lifestyle, the PFMs incorporate holistic healing practices such as acupuncture, herbs, yoga, and detoxification into their daily lives.  Their combined experience in health, design, styling, visual merchandising, real estate staging, redesign, life coaching and in the esoteric arts will help inspire your journey to a new you!

SERVICES

Jewelry & Accessories Designers - MavenFresh designs balance hard materials with vintage-inspired softness.  Each handmade piece is a combination of the colors and beauty of nature blended with the stark contrast of the city (New York, of course).  You can find our modern and vintage-inspired handmade jewelry and accessories in our etsy shop along with  vintage and recycled wares at www.etsy.com/shop/mavenfresh.  Custom orders welcome and encouraged. We are also available to teach jewelry design and crochet classes.  

Personal Stylists- Available for wardrobe editing/recycling (includes re-selling your items on eBay), personal style renewal, closet organization, styling for special events and appearances.

Life Stylists- Here to assist you in a transition into gluten-free, vegetarian/pescatarian, or vegan living complimented by raw foods; we will work to help you create lasting dietary changes while incorporating healthier life choices.  Ready and able to cleanse your kitchen pantry and hit the local health food stores with you- just let us be your guides! We also offer prepared meals and treats to assist your shift onto the path of wellness.

Color Consultants- We are not afraid of bright color...or neutrals! When it comes to choosing paint color, the options are endless. By incorporating paint expertise with numerology and color therapy, we will share our successful tips and picks to have your final project looking fab in no time.  Room redesigns are also an option for those who are interested. 

We are looking forward to hearing from you! Message the PFMs at mavenfresh@gmail.com.

PFMs in the Kitchen: Macerated Fresh Fruit Salad, Sweetened with Agave

If you're anything like me, the summer heat brings around cravings for foods that are refreshing and light. But what's a girl to do when the occasional temptation for sweets come around? Just put together a quick macerated fruit salad...it's super easy and delicious. It definitely beats the sugar crash you will get after reaching for that candy bar or soda bottle. Depending on what fruits and liquids you choose, you can get flavors that range from tart to sugary to spicy...the combinations can be endless. I love to include berries- they are rich in fiber and low in calories. Plus they are full of anti-oxidants and high in Vitamin C. The maceration process enhances the natural flavors of the fruit until they become super juicy with amped-up taste. The almond and fruit flavors in here go incredibly well together. The agave is a low-glycemic alternative sweetener that will take this healthy dessert to another level! This dish is a special treat that my mom shared with me...and now I get to share it with you.  Enjoy *wink*

You need:

2 pints blueberries

4 nectarines, sliced

1 lime, juiced

1/4 cup to 1/2 cup Disaronno Originale amaretto liqueur

1-2 tbsp agave (to taste)

cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

How to:

Combine lime juice with the agave. Pour over fruit, then add the amaretto in and toss gently until coated. Cover and let sit for at least 30 minutes. Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to taste. Serve immediately, (in a fancy martini glass!) or it can be refrigerated, covered for the next day. xoxo Becca

PFMs in the Kitchen: Raw Thai Spring Rolls & Dressing

There are some things that always put a smile on my face...like riding beach cruisers at sunset, or listening to my brother sing...but the best is when my meat-eating man declares a vegan dish so delicious that he didn't even miss the meat. Yay! I made this yummy recipe, and took it on the road with us to a family party on the hottest day (so far) this summer. It's the ideal healthy appetizer. No cooking involved- which means you'll stay cool while whipping this all together. These rolls are full of flavor and pretty to look at, with a dressing that knocked everyone's socks off. I couldn't get enough of the fragrant ingredients; it took me right back to our honeymoon spent in Thailand!

xoxo Becca

PFM Confessional: Cleansing

(Image One via With Style & Grace, Image Two via, Image Three via A Beautiful Mess, Image Four via Lexie's Kitchen)

This is going to be a difficult post to write...but I've wanted to find a way share my personal journey with you. In 2003, I was diagnosed with a disease called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy/Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (RSD/CRPS), a progressive and "incurable" neurological disease. As a result, I spent subsequent years with severe chronic burning pain and inflammation in my right foot from the tips of my toes almost up to my knee.

The majority of individuals with RSD are using equipment to assist with mobility, are on disability, and can no longer partake in life...yet people who I meet would never even know that I have this disease. I know I've beaten the odds. After many unsuccessful and invasive traditional methods of treatment, I couldn't just trust modern medicine. I found my own solutions by focusing on a more unconventional holistic approach. For the past 7 years I've been slowly reversing the condition with acupuncture (thanks Jonny!), yoga, physical therapy, osteopathic care, a loving support system (you know who you are xoxo), and changes in diet and lifestyle. And...drumroll please...I'm thankful to be completely medication-free for over a year.

If you are suffering from a chronic disease, or any disease for that matter, I'm encouraging you to be open to natural healing methods and changes in your diet. Recently I came to realize that there are two things that can make my RSD flare up: stress (like when we moved last year), and poor diet. Being born and raised a vegetarian, the cards were already stacked in my favor...or so I thought. But when spring or summer rolls around, my body seems to crave some sort of detox to get back it into balance and I try to listen. Auspiciously, my friend had mentioned the book Crazy Sexy Diet...I ordered it right away after reading rave reviews from people suffering from chronic pain. Author Kris Carr is inspirational; she writes about healing herself through an anti-inflammatory diet in a way that completely made sense to me and built upon what I already knew about healthy living. After devouring her book I couldn't wait to start things off with the 21-day cleanse...you basically eat a plant-based vegan diet (no meat, no sugar, no gluten, no alcohol, and no caffeine for 21 days) with an emphasis on green juices. Kris offers daily prayers, affirmations, and invaluable tips to encourage you through the cleansing process.

Even though I'm a vegetarian, I didn't fully understand what a healthy diet was. I don't eat meat and I do eat wheat bread...so I'm healthy, right? Crazy Sexy Diet reinforces the fact that the Standard American Diet (SAD) and its lack of nutritious, anti-inflammatory, whole, and plant-based foods can contribute to the onset and cause of many chronic and degenerative diseases. I already knew from experimenting with my diet that eating processed soy products can flare up my symptoms...time to take it a step further. The more I read, the more I realized diet was the key in treating my RSD. 

Now I'm on Day 17 of the Crazy Sexy Cleanse (plus I prepped by avoiding all dairy and gluten a week ahead) and I'm recognizing what my body needs in order to be healthy. After repeating today's affirmation- I believe in me and I'm proud of how far I've come- I was further encouraged to write this post. This entire experience is connecting the dots between my diet, my mindset, and my disease. I know firsthand that whole grains and organic fruits 'n veggies are magical! My skin is glowing and completely clear...yet another reason for me to finally give up dairy. I've been drinking green smoothies at least once a day, and loving it. They are officially my replacement for coffee...shocking, but true. I love eating this way and trying out new recipes with my hubby...we were even motivated to plant about ten different vegetables in our backyard. I've become addicted to dry brushing. Oh, I also bought a new all-natural deodorant. My excitement rubbed off on a friend; for the past two weeks she's been dedicated to cleansing along with me and as a bonus we've both lost a few pounds. Bottom line: I'm on the road to becoming pain-free, and having fun doing it. It's so true that many answers to our health can be found in what we are putting in our bodies. Healthy living is more than just yummy green juice and smoothies. It takes hydration, sleep, exercise, stress reduction and a good dose of love and mental health with a side of forgiveness and joy (thanks Kris Carr)! This sparkly girl is inspired to stick with these new changes in lifestyle. 

Being diagnosed with RSD almost 10 years ago was completely life-altering. The initial years prior to going into remission were traumatizing, but I fought through it. You can't give up or give in. I truly believe that I am a happier and healthier person now than before I got this disease. Obstacles are opportunities in disguise...my path led me to my loving husband; I met and bonded with my MavenFresh girl, Sesheta; and ultimately I've come to realize my desire to learn more about nutrition and empower others to prevent and heal illness with a healthy lifestyle. Everyone wants to look good and feel happy...it all starts with being good to yourself on the inside.  

Thank you for reading this...nothing's truly official till you've written it down and damn- this was a cleansing experience in itself! Please write us with questions...you don't have to wait for a crappy wake-up call to start sparkling! Hey, it looks like future MavenFresh recipes could be both vegan and gluten-free. xoxo Becca

PFMs in the Kitchen: Asian Pilaf (just like mom would make)

My mom is an incredible cook, baker, chef...period. I grew up the daughter of a health-food mom. Soda, Doritos, and Fruit Loops simply did not exist in my house. Chocolate was carob and I lived for soy-cheese sandwiches with avocado and tomato on sprouted bread. I came home from school and the house always smelled like good cooking. It was awesome. If only you could have been around when I was young and enjoying sea salted bread-sticks made from scratch, or super-delicious pizza with homemade dough. My best friend still talks about those dinners! Wow, Tofu Taco Night ruled. Of course times change, life gets complicated, and you can't always have your mom cooking and baking for you. Ha. I may not have much of her gifts in the kitchen, but I do love to eat lots of healthy, tasty food. So I try my best to encourage Leta to break out the pen and paper when she has something simple and yummy to share with me, especially since most of her recipes are either stored in her head or made up on the spot. I get instant inspiration from the best source! This dinner is a slight variation on her original recipe. Gotta change it up a bit you know (and can't give away all of Mom's secrets!)

You need:

1 small onion chopped

3 large garlic cloves chopped

3 tbsp coconut oil

1 tsp grated ginger

1 large handful orzo pasta (or spaghetti broken into 1-inch pieces)

1 cup brown rice

1 tsp vegetable bouillon (optional)

1/2 cup steamed broccoli

1/2 cup frozen peas

2 tbsp hoisin sauce 

1 tbsp red curry paste

1-2 tbsp tamari to taste

How to:

Cook the onions first in the oil, then add the garlic and ginger. Add the pasta to mix and stir until it's slightly browned and the onions are translucent. Add the rice and stir. Pour in 2 cups water and the veggie bouillon (if using) mix, and cover. After bringing it to a boil, simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, then add the hoisin, red curry paste, and tamari. Cover and simmer for another 10 minutes, now stir in the frozen peas. Simmer again for another 10 minutes and give it a try to make sure the rice is cooked. Toss in the steamed broccoli at the end and mix well. Yum!

P.S. Don't feel too bad for me...I still get to pick up homemade granola on a regular basis!
xoxo becca

PFMs Healthy Living: Intentions

Set your intentions. This powerful phrase comes straight from the lips of my Bikram yoga teacher, and I apply it daily. Not only to my yoga practice, (one day I will be able to touch my forehead to the floor) but to my life. Do you have goals that you want to accomplish? Everyone does. Try putting them in writing. Don't hesitate to put your intentions out there in the universe; you will be that much closer to one day reaching your destination...whatever that may be. 

Stewie started with the simplest of intentions: to get out of bed today. He made it halfway, and so I applaud him and his cuteness. All that's needed is purpose and a plan...you'll get there eventually. Here's to a weekend full of best intentions!

PFMs in the Kitchen: Spinach Spaghetti'n Brussels Sprout Delight

Deliciousness

I was always a veggie-lover but when I first discovered brussels sprouts I was hooked, no turning back...popping them left and right, hot or cold. I want to share my obsession with these lil round nuggets and convert all you haters one by one. First non-believer was my husband (who tells me brussels sprouts are NOT candy, but I'm still skeptical.) He agreed to give them another try cooked the right way- nicely golden and crusty. This dish was a hit! Feel free to make it without the pasta too, it would be a delicious side.  

Lemon'n Leaf

  Ingredients: 12 oz. Spinach Spaghetti (I use De Cecco Pasta)

20-25 small brussels sprouts

2-3 garlic cloves, sliced

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for rubbing)

Juice of 1/2 Lemon

Sea Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup grated Cheddar or Gouda cheese (I use the Cabot Cheddar)
Optional toppings: Sliced organic avocado, 1/4 cup walnut halves

Directions: Bring a large pot of water to a boil (and salt it.) Wash and trim the stem ends of the brussels sprouts and remove any sad looking leaves. Cut in half from stem to top, trying to keep the leaves intact. Put a bit of olive oil in a dish and gently rub each half in the olive oil. Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in your largest skillet over medium heat, careful not to overheat. Place brussels sprouts in pan flat side down and sprinkle with a few pinches of salt. Cover & cook for about 5 minutes, then check to see if they are browned. If not, cover and cook another few minutes.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta and drain, reserving 1/3 cup of the cooking water.  Now the brussels sprouts should be tender (test them by cutting into one), so turn up the heat, add the lemon juice and garlic and cook until the flat sides are a deep brown and caramelizing. Toss them to make sure the rounded sides get a little browning too. Using tongs, add your spaghetti to the skillet with the bit of reserved pasta water. Keep cooking/deglazing/tossing over moderate heat, until the water is nearly absorbed. Add another 2 tablespoons of olive oil to taste. Add a generous amount of black pepper and sprinkle with sea salt. 
Remove from heat and stir in the 1/2 cup of grated cheese (tongs work well for this.) Serve the pasta in deep bowls, and don't forget about your optional toppings! Makes 4 servings.

Tip: I reheated it the next day for lunch and added in slices of ripe avocado- so good! Walnuts would be a yummy topping also. Make the dish vegan by eliminating the cheese, but if you are indulging you have to try the Cabot Hand-Rubbed Tuscan Cheddar. I love the coating of herbs and spices. A Gouda would also do the trick for dinner on a cold winter night. The pics will be better in next recipe, promise.