HAPPY 2021 to our Mill Valley Lumber Yard Community
Janice Mathews
January is a great time to focus on all you hope to accomplish this NEW year. Attention to health and wellness is the main priority for many and we would like to kick-off 2021 with a few suggestions from our Mill Valley Lumber Yard retailers and eateries.
Art and craft projects have similar benefits to meditation, and you can end up with something to show for it! Learn a relaxing new skill like watercolor painting, paint by numbers, hand lettering on paper marbling this year, with one of our entry-level kits from Faber Castell.
If you are looking for some extra motivation to get up off the couch and go on a run, to a yoga class, or to the gym, put on some clothes you actually like. Confidence is half the battle, and having activewear that highlights your hard work will help motivate you to get that sweat on.
Aviator Nation offers not only the comfiest but the most eye-catching activewear, all made here in California. Our leggings and sports bras are not only super comfortable but they are also supportive and breathable and will 100% keep their shape for years of use.
A message and delicious recipe from Heather Hardcastle co-owner and founder:
At Flour Craft, we believe in nourishing our community from the inside out. Our entirely gluten-free, plant-forward menu is carefully designed to fuel whatever adventure or challenge awaits you. We also believe in balance. Maybe today you feel like an abundant seasonal salad, or a comforting vegan soup. Or, perhaps you need a small, sweet indulgence and a specialty coffee drink to get you through the afternoon. Either way, we are here to offer a delicious, bright spot in your day and to provide a moment of community and connection.
Need a new weeknight inspiration? Make this simple roasted tomato and white bean soup at home:
Roasted Tomato & White Bean Soup
Recipe and Photo (c) Heather Hardcastle 2020.
Makes 8 cups
Cook Time: About 20 minutes
1 x - Yellow onion, diced
2 x - Carrots, peeled & diced
2 tbsp- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 sprig- Fresh Rosemary, chopped
1 x 15 oz can- Cannellini Beans, drained & rinsed
1 x 15 oz can- Diced Roasted Tomatoes
2 tspn- Kosher Salt
1/2 tspn- Black Pepper ½ tsp
1 tsp- Smoked Paprika
1/4 tspn- Red Chili Flakes
4 x cups- Low-Sodium Vegetable Stock (or water)
Balsamic Vinegar and chili flakes for serving
1. In a large 5-quart Dutch Oven, saute onion and carrot in olive oil until soft, about 3 minutes. Add rosemary and stir until fragrant. Add cannellini beans, roasted tomatoes, salt, pepper, and spices. Saute for 2 minutes to combine.
2. Add stock (or water) and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid has reduced by about ⅓.
3. Remove from heat and transfer soup to a blender. Carefully blend, taking care to hold the lid of the blender on tightly when working with hot soup. Puree soup until thick and creamy. Serve garnished with a sprinkling of coarse salt, a pinch of chili flakes, and a drizzle of balsamic.
Enjoy!