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October 2023 Newsletter

Written by Ayellet Rubinstein

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Posted on October 30 2023

Hi Everyone,
Here we are gliding into holiday season, and of course cooler weather. I'll admit that cozy sweaters, and warm jackets sound very appealing to me right now.
As the weather becomes colder, layering is key. Having the proper layering pieces in your closet is essential and I have always made sure I have the basic tanks, tees, and long sleeve layering pieces in all the basic colors.
They are necessary to build up any outfit. Quality and fit are essential for how it will all come together. If what I am wearing under my shirt or sweater are not feeling great on my skin, or they ride up and not staying where it is supposed to be, then I don't feel good in my outfit. When you start your day, your layering piece goes on first. Then you pick the top, bottom, shoes etc. Our clothes and shoes should be functional and they should fit well.
That's your basis to a good day. You can own a great jacket, but if what you are wearing under it is a poor quality crew neck, it will not look great, you won't be comfortable and that will affect your mood.
A good wardrobe is a combination of solid high quality basics as well as fun unique items. Classic winter and summer blazers, Black dress, and dressy and casual pants are just a few items we should own as our go-to.  So ask yourself what am I missing in my closet that will make it great? 
I encourage you to take regular inventory of your wardrobe and strive to create a space that works for you and your needs. Getting dressed shouldn't be a chore, it should be a fun and pleasant experience.
Feeling good about yourself is important. The clothes you choose to wear are part your self expression, and your uniqueness, so celebrate it and no matter what stay true to who you are. As always, we are here to help, chat and make this part of your life, pleasant.
Sincerely, 
Ayellet.
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The perfect heartwarming fall dish -
Ginger sweet potato and coconut milk stew is super flavourful, beautiful, and extra hearty with kale and lentils. Quick vegan dinner recipe!
Ginger Sweet Potato & Coconut Milk Stew
Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, small dice
  • ½-1 teaspoon dried chili flakes 
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
  • 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
  • sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 ½ lbs (690 grams) sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces
  • ½ cup brown lentils, picked over
  • 4 cups vegetable stock
  • 13.5 oz (400 ml) can full fat coconut milk
  • 1 small bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped (about 4 cups chopped kale)
  • To garnish: chopped cilantro, extra chili flakes, lime wedges, nigella seeds
  1. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat. Add the coconut oil to the pot and let it melt. Add the onions to the pot and stir. Saute the onions, stirring occasionally, until translucent and quite soft, about 5 minutes. Add the chili flakes, coriander, cumin, and turmeric. Saute spices until very fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the ginger and garlic to the pot and cook for another minute. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Add the sweet potatoes to the pot and stir to coat in the spices. Add the lentils to the pot and stir once more. Season everything liberally with salt and pepper. Add the vegetable stock and stir, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot. Place the lid on top of the pot and bring to a boil.
  3. Once the stew is boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and set the lid slightly askew on top of the pot so that there’s a couple inches available for steam to escape. Simmer until the sweet potatoes are almost falling apart and the lentils are tender, about 30 minutes. The liquid should also be reduced by almost a third.
  4. Add the coconut milk and kale to the pot and stir. Place the lid on top and continue to simmer the stew until the kale is wilted and bright green, about 3-4 minutes. Season the sweet potato and coconut milk stew again with salt and pepper. Bring the stew back up to a strong simmer and check for seasoning. Adjust with more salt, pepper, chili etc. if necessary.
  5. Serve the sweet potato and coconut milk stew hot with chopped cilantro, extra chili flakes, lime wedges, and Nigella seeds (if using).
recipe by thefirstmess.com