Stay at home Thursdays

Today was a great day to be home.  It was snowing most of the day, so a great day to make indoor snowmen and fresh vegetable soup.

This is supposed to be a snowman, but it actually looks a little creepy.

Carter practicing spelling during his quiet time.  He needed some help with popcorn, but he's doing quite well.

Tuscan Minestrone soup.  Recipe anyone?  It is so yummy.

Recipe is from the Best Life Diet.

2 tablespoons of olive oil

1 medium zucchini, cut into slices

1 medium summer squash, cut into slices

1 large carrot

1 small onion

1 teaspoon italian seasoning

4 cups chicken broth

one 15- ounce can diced tomatoes

one 15- ounce can cannellini beans

1/2 cup whole wheat elbow pasta

3 fresh thyme sprigs

salt and pepper

1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/3 cup fresh basil

* i also use lots of fresh spinach

Heat the oil in a dutch oven over medium- high heat.  Add the zucchini, squash, carrot, onion, garlic, and italian seasonings to the dutch oven and cook, stirring frequently , until the veggies soften about 10 minutes.  Stir in the broth and diced tomatoes, cover the mixture, and bring to a boil.  Add the beans, pasta, and thyme, and cook, uncovered, at a low boil until the pasta is done, about 10 minutes.  Remove the thyme sprigs, and season the mixture with salt and pepper.  Serve in individual bowls and top each serving with the parmesan cheese and basil.