No matter how much we love what we do, sometimes it's best to step back, evaluate life and take a different direction. After months of soul searching, I decided to do just that. As of today, a new person has been hired to come in and take the position of running Nashville Lifestyles. I am crazy about the choice, as my replacement is one of my original team members from when I started the magazine.  He's a publishing guru and a super guy. I know that my readers, advertisers and staff will feel the same about Brian Barry. But stepping down is a bit bittersweet. I'm posting a few favorite photos here that represent why. The whole experience has been a love story for me, and that is because of the people.

One of the things I am most grateful for in the 14 year process of founding, building, creating, selling and running a publication is the friendships that I have built along the way. Staff members that have moved away over the years are still those I visit with on vacation and holidays. And, the team I have today is just as special. I've been lucky to have attracted the most amazing, talented and fun group of women in the city to work for me, and they will all remain through this transition to continue to make me proud of the magazine. What was once a little start up project is now a viable, moving force in the city and beyond. Under this new leadership, it will only get better.  You will definitely want to keep subscribing and following the magazine online, as some truly spectacular inclusions are on the horizon.

I have been anxious for this actual day to come for the last two months, and now that it's here, want to spend my time focusing on my husband, my family and the things that I enjoy most in life. For me that means lots of travel and time spent working on my home... and then sharing it to entertain friends often. While I will still be writing regularly for the magazine (continuing with my lifestyle/celebrity/style and travel contributions), my primary focus is completely shifting. I will no longer be in charge of a staff or the management of budgets and other 'big-job' responsibilities. Instead, I will be a free agent. My goal is to first take some personal time, and then to explore creative avenues and other opportunities to apply my talents and interests. 

It is an exciting time for me, and I hope you will continue to follow here to see where the next chapter leads. I'm definitely hoping to share it with you! 

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Typically, Wednesdays are just that-- typical (work days). Events are rare mid week and as for fun, usually not-so-much. But, today was completely inspiring on so many levels for not only me, but my team at Nashville Lifestyles.

A

A bit of my stash from today's visit to Nashville's Private Edition 

My day started with an interview with the inventive, energetic founder of Vbeaute, Julie Macklowe at Private Edition (more on that topic in my next blog). This just happened to fall on 'Gift Bag Day' at Private Edition to celebrate their 32nd anniversary. Wow! What a story, what a legacy and what a store. I brought home so many goodies -- from purchases to the freebies that I am super-pumped to try. Some are tried and true favorites like Oribe and Creed-- but lots of new brands were included, and I know from experience that the store carries only the best, so my beauty routine is about to get much better. They are celebrating all month-- so don't miss the chance to experience multiple in-store events (you can see the impressive schedule on their website).

A few of the Wagner Family of Wines in our tasting experience

From there, it was onto the gorgeous Hermitage Hotel where I met the rest of my team for a tasting of Wagner Family Wines to prepare us for this weekend's Savor Nashville events. A fantastic presentation by Joseph Wagner included Caymus, Conundrum, Meiomi and other yummy vino faves. It was the ideal opportunity for us to bond as a group, learn a bit more about wine making and to get to know our event sponsor.

Tina Adams using NL's Taylor Middleton as a model for this season's best bets

To keep the momentum going, I invited the amazing Tina Adams to conduct a tutorial on dressing well for our entire team back at our offices. She brought some essential wardrobe basics courtesy of Nordstrom, and shared tips and insight on always looking polished, professional and on-trend without blowing your budget. Appearance is such an important topic for our business, and I cannot wait for a total closet overhaul with her help (watch for it on a future entry). Tina's connections to great retail savings combined with her positive outlook are why over 500 women are already taking advantage of her savvy services. 

Overall, it was a very productive day -- and one that included fun combined with networking and learning. We also all dressed up for the special day, which added to the 'upbeat' vibe. What's your favorite way to perk up mid-week? Do share here, and keep following for more ways to make life a little sweeter... and sophisticated!  read more

This post is directed to my male followers (or for women to share with their guys) looking for a creative date idea. Centering it around shopping can actually be fun...if you do it right. Luckily, just in time for a bit of Valentine romance, the Antiques and Garden Show has arrived in Nashville. Hundreds of vendors with fabulous goods all under one roof only arrive once a year. And, starting tomorrow-- it's available for the entire weekend in the heart of downtown.

Tim finding lights at Antiques and Garden Show.

One of the booths at Antiques and Garden. Inspiration on tap!

I found that Tim Nichols actually enjoyed the experience. I attended the preview primarily to snap photos for Nashville Lifestyles and do a little reporting, but convinced him to come along on my assignment so we could have a bit of time together. We ended up finding the perfect trio of antique lights to go over our kitchen table (at an unbelievable price to boot) and running into fun friends along the way. If you are seeking furniture, garden art, lights, jewelry or rugs.. this is the place to go. It's a celebration of all things classic and beautiful for the home with one of a kind artistic displays at every turn.

Designer of Heritage Handcrafted, James with his lovely sister, Elizabeth. 

One of the most interesting stops was James Broyhill's Heritage Handcrafted booth. From custom 'celebration boxes' to whiskey barrel crafted coffee tables, my husband was hooked. I think we found all of our Christmas and birthday presents for music industry friends in this spot. James' display alone is reason enough to visit the show. That and the lovely Louisiana folks who hooked us up with fab fixtures while they were simultaneously filling out an order for Sheryl Crow.

The Hemingway Cocktail at Etch...so delicious! 

To make the night an actual 'date', I knew there had to be more than shopping to keep things interesting, so we bellied up to the lively chef's bar at Etch Restaurant for a bite to complete the evening. We took advantage of the happy hour to sample creative cocktails and then ordered my favorite dish, the Ratatouille salad along with chef Deb's unbelievable short ribs. The crowd was hopping, but the service remained on point and the food was outstanding.

Short Ribs are beyond amazing with special sauces and Deb's perfect veggies

If you're seeking a fun way to spend time with your significant other this weekend, I suggest a trip downtown to browse the vendors at the Antiques and Garden Show followed by a meal at Etch. Or, start here to build energy for some serious power shopping.

Do share your finds from A&G here on the Southern Sophisticate! read more

The hardest part about sticking to the FOUR HOUR BODY diet I've picked back up in the last two weeks (post holiday random eating) isn't sticking to the plan during the workweek. It's actually really easy. I keep zero temptations in the house (as in throwing out anything that even resembles bread, chips or sweets). If you don't know the premise of this diet plan, you need to read to my previous post, Slim  Down Success. It totally works and in record time. Just a few cuts of certain foods/beverages and any holiday weight will come right off. It isn't exactly fun, but it is simple and quick... two traits I welcome.

My favorite: The Milano. Sun dried tomatoes,  marinara, shrimp,
 artichokes, spinach, ricotta and mozzarella cheese

The tough decision is deciding what to splurge on on the weekly allowed 'cheat day'. But, after discovering Midtown Nashville's newest addition Soul Shine Pizza Factory, it's a no-brainer on where to go to indulge a bit. I've found a new favorite in Music City, and one that I plan on frequenting often. Even my non-dieting girlfriends love it due to their offering a healthy whole wheat crust option on their pies.

The crawfish bisque is a signature starter, and one not to miss at SoulShine.
PS: My husband LOVES this! 

If you haven't tried this new Division Street venue, I suggest trying it out this weekend. They serve both lunch and dinner. The pizza is the draw but the space is equally delicious. Hoping to see all of my Nashville friends there soon!

What's your favorite indulgence? If it's pizza, what are your go-to toppings?  Share it on the Southern Sophisticate! 

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With the last couple of weeks being colder than I would like in Nashville, I cannot help but wish for a warm escape. With work and other obligations, the timing's not right just yet, but that doesn't keep me from thinking (and scheming) about it.

To keep my mood up when it's absolutely freezing, my therapy is to think about where I would like to be - and to browse through a few vacation photos. I've been lucky to escape to some sensational spots over the past year or so where the warm breezes and cold cocktails offered a much appreciated lift for my spirits. This is a round up of a few of my most recent picks/suggestions on where you can book your own sunny adventure:

The beach at Las Ventanas

Las Ventanas was an unforgettable trip and one I plan to make again as soon as possible. The gorgeous rooms, the amazing food and the view keep it at the top of my list, always! If you've never been, I promise it's totally worth the splurge. 

The view from our room at St. Regis Bal Harbour

A couple of months ago I took a quick jaunt for my wedding anniversary. It included stops at both the new St. Regis Bal Harbor as well as Jumby Bay resorts. Both were incredibly beautiful with endless ocean views, top tier service and romance on tap. For anyone looking for a little private time, check these two out. The Bal Harbour property is all glitz and modern luxury while Jumby Bay provides a relaxed Caribbean vibe combined with total pampering.

Jumby Bay's ultimate package includes a stay in an exclusive private home.

If you think that the near the ocean is the only place to get your sunshine fix, then you haven't been to Phoenix or Scottsdale in winter. The Arizona Biltmore is one of the nation's most distinctive properties, and the temperatures are comfortably warm for poolside lounging this time of year. The bonus is amazing shopping, award winning dining experiences and plenty of opportunities to keep your New Year resolutions via their health and fitness opportunities and spa.

The gorgeous grounds of Arizona Biltmore

Sometimes going to a friend's home is the most special trip. I'm lucky enough to have a girlfriend with a stellar home right on the ocean on the charming island of Isla Mujeres, Mexico. And, for those of you looking for a roomy, deluxe pad for a few days of paradise, she does rent it out! (http://www.vrbo.com/315400).

The view from the house pool on Isla Mujeres

If you want a bit of Nashville worked in with your visit elsewhere, look no further than Naples, Florida where hundreds of locals own second homes that they flock to this season. For those of us not lucky enough to have one-- there are plenty of options for blending in at the best local hotels. The Ritz Carlton Naples and The Naples Grande are both good choices and near all of the nightlife and shopping that keeps Nashville's elite going back each year. I especially love the charming downtown with quaint shops and outdoor patio dining (and drinking) options.

Outdoor dining at Sea Salt in downtown Naples.

What's your favorite warm weather escape? I would love to know. Please do share here on the Southern Sophisticate!

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I am usually a cold beverage kind of girl. I don't drink coffee and it's rare that I get an entire cup of hot tea down (no matter how hard I try). But, as the nights get colder and we are trying to extend the life of our beloved back patio, warm concoctions have become a necessity. No one wants to hold an ice-filled glass when the temp requires snuggling up in a blanket.

Since 'hot drinks' are literally not my cup of tea, I never want to put much energy into making them. Instead, I've found ingredients in our pantry I can whip up easily with no fuss that deliver great flavor and instant relaxation. No gourmet melting or confusing recipes required. Yes, I use pre-blended, store-bought ingredients and the microwave for this. Sometimes I play a bit with the liqueurs splashed in, but ultimately my goal is to keep it simple, quick and delicious. I also try to keep them as low cal as possible so I stick to sugar free mixes and save the calories for the most important ingredients!

This 'instant coffee' is my non-coffee drinking husband's favorite

INSTANT COFFEE CURE

2 Tbsp Maxwell House International Cafe in Suisse Mocha (sugar and caffeine free)
2/3 cup boiling water
1 oz Kahlua Peppermint Mocha  (this is a limited edition holiday offering, so stock up!)
1/2 oz Bailey's Irish Creme  (optional but so yummy)

Pour boiling water over the dry mix in ceramic mug. Stir in liqueurs and enjoy.

If you are serving up hot tea for guests, garnishing with lemon rinds
or cinnamon sticks is a nice touch.

PEACH TEA 

2/3 cup boiling water
1 bag Yogi Peach Detox Tea
1 oz brandy or spiced rum
Squeeze of lemon
1/2 pack Truvia or splash of agave nectar

Steep tea bag for 5 minutes. Remove and stir in liquor, lemon and sweetener (sometimes I leave out the sweetening all together). Enjoy in your favorite mug.


What is your favorite 'warm up' drink for this season? I would love to have more quick recipes, so please do share... and keep following The Southern Sophisticate. read more

With so many events to attend this season, the one must have is a festive bag small enough for evening glamour, but large enough to hold absolute essentials. I purchased two incredible envelope-style designer clutches last year and they just won't do for this particular season. I need to be able to take photos, communicate and have enough 'touch up' product to take me from office to full blown Christmas celebrations to music awards ceremonies and concerts. Thank goodness, a new store has just opened at The Mall at Green Hills that has the best solution. Elaine Turner may not be a household name in Nashville yet... but in a short time, I'm betting that their bags and accessories are going to be on every woman's wish list.

Elaine Turner stores are all about style & ambiance....

The store decor invites you to browse and relax, but it's the bags that showcase the designer's (who hails from Texas) talent most. I am so in love with my find. It even has a name, Blythe. I chose the bronze metallic so that I can mix it up with both black and brown ensembles. I love the fact that it has a snazzy shoulder strap to keep my hands free to hold that important glass of bubbly, and that the closure is a bit dramatic without being too much.

My Blythe bag in bronze metallic

While the bag part of the equation is taken care of, what you carry inside is just as vital. This varies for everyone, but with these items, I always feel completely prepared without overstuffing my small purse.

My go-to essentials for small bag survival

ALWAYS IN MY BAG

-My Iphone for my impromptu Instagram captures, tweeting and texting if I'm running late.

-Elf lipgloss from Target in a sheer pink.

-One of the chunky eyeliner/shadow sticks from Benefit. Staying power plus!

-Make Up Forever's Rouge Artist Natural lipstick doesn't rub off on glassware, stays put and isn't too bright. I rotate about 3-4 shades depending on what I'm wearing.

-PLa Beauty's Mineral Liquid Foundation (I pick it up at Woo Skincare and Cosmetics or Parlour 3 in Brentwood). I use this on my entire face almost every day, but it's also ideal for dabbing under eyes to wake them up and to clean up smudges throughout a late night. It's also my saving grace the next morning for hiding imperfections. 

-For a mirror and super smooth powder compact in one, Pure Pressed Base powder by Jane Iredale  in RADIANT is my choice. Since discovering this skin brightener and smoother at Private Edition, I keep it in whatever I'm carrying, always! Just a swipe keeps oil at bay but causes the light reflect in all of the right places.


What is your favorite bag to carry to holiday parties? And what item do you include no matter what? I would love to see your thoughts and suggestions. Do keep following the Southern Sophisticate and share it with your friends. There's much more holiday to come! 


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Whenever I visit a new restaurant, one of the first things I browse is the cocktail menu. Even if I'm sticking to iced tea at lunch time, my curiosity draws me to look through it. If there are over 4 martinis, I usually close the book.. realizing that the place is just trying too hard (and likely none of the drinks are particularly good). I prefer short lists of libations with sparse, fresh ingredients as opposed to a bar menu comparable to a 'Cheesecake Factory' type book. And, in certain places, I find exactly what I'm seeking: a limited list of super-inventive, mixologist creations that beg to be sampled. 

On a recent trip to Park City, Utah, I found exactly what I was looking for on an afternoon 'relaxation session' on the gorgeous balcony of the St. Regis Deer Valley resort (and so did my husband). We had just one each, shared a little for tasting and that was was enough to make the day special. While this photo doesn't quite do the drinks justice, I promise if you try them at home... you will be blown away by just how smooth and absolutely yummy they are.  

The yellow reflection in this shot is really the sun. The cucumber is ideally a
nice, light green while the gimlet is a pale pink.

CUCUMBER MARTINI
Hendricks Gin, slice of English cucumber with a bit of cucumber juice, lime juice & mint shaken with ice and served straight up.

GRAPEFRUIT GIMLET
Belvedere Grapefruit Vodka, agave nectar & lime juice served over ice with grapefruit or lemon slice garnish.

The quantities of each ingredient really depend on how many you're serving...or how strong you like your cocktail. Experiment with the ingredients and try to keep equal parts alcohol to mixer. Just make sure to choose the premium brands I've suggested (they do taste so much better). Shake well and enjoy... 


Keep following the Southern Sophisticate for more recipes and entertaining ideas, and please do share yours with me here...






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One of my favorite items to give and to get is a cookbook or coffee table book. It's even better when I find one that offers a bit of both. Fantastic recipes, tabletop/decor ideas and an enticing cover to display stacked as decor on my kitchen shelves/counter display. This year, I've explored several-- but only 3 top my list. In each case, I've bought for others, but made an extra purchase for myself. That's not something I usually do, but these are so good and affordable, I just couldn't help it! I promise, anyone you buy these for will be thrilled and there will be no re-gifting.

I bought copies of Moll's latest book for $15 each at Sam's Club. 
You can also get them at Walmart. Such an amazing deal! 

My top pick for one that is affordable and covers all bases is from my very own design guru and friend, Moll Anderson. Her ideas for finding ways to make everything glamorous are always on point and surprisingly easy to pull off. In her latest release, Seductive Tables for Two, she adds even more usefulness to gorgeously photographed pages of tabletop ideas with a section on scrumptious recipes. Since I still consider myself a 'newlywed', I'm especially excited about celebrating winter weekend mornings alone with my husband and a few of her inventive tips on bringing romance into every experience.

'Praline to a Kiss' is just one of the decadent but easy recipes
 just for couples in Moll's new book.

One author and Food Network personality that I go to again and again is Ina Garten. She's come out with a new book just in time for my holiday hassles and gift-giving needs... and it's one of her best yet. Barefoot Contessa Foolproof is available at a bargain ($20) at places like Costco and will deliver years of joy to you and recipient. It's packed with solutions to everyday meals, party-planning direction and of course, her cheerful spirit. Just love her...

Ina's latest book has dozens of resources for super-streamlined entertaining.

Finally, for a large-scale luxury book to please the baker on your list, nothing beats Thomas Keller's latest release. I don't even bake and I'm thinking of starting after browsing the pages.  It includes a lovely collection of classic French and American baked goods from Keller's famous Bouchon. I especially love that the chef included his own versions of fun packaged treats including Hostess Ho-Ho's (which is so interesting since this went to the printer long before the Hostess closure was announced). Pick up a copy for your nostalgic friends who will want to re-create their childhood favorites along with serious cooks for future masterpiece creations.

You can pick up this baker's dream gift for $50 or less... which seems like a bargain
since it's so big, heavy and high-end. Pair it with a luxe essential like a baker's apron or
mixing bowl set for a true gourmand gift!

What is your favorite cookbook on the shelves this season? To give, to get.. or both? Would love to see your suggestions on the Southern Sophisticate! 

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The holidays are almost here!  The hassles I can do without, but I love shopping for personal gifts, wrapping and most of all.... finding the very best things for my girlfriends. I'm crazy over the  palette collections that come from fab cosmetic brands. When I was younger, my mom would get me the 'big holiday kit' from Estee Lauder and it was always my most prized and treasured gift. Now, Estee's granddaughter has given me something I can purchase for myself and my peeps. Sleek, simple items for face (and home) are the backbones of her line... I cannot get enough!

The holiday palette, lipstick and sleek gloss from Aerin's line

 I adore the luxe pink suede bags that house all of her cosmetics & compacts. They can be used for stowing jewelry in a purse or carry on-- brilliant!  The packaging really is like a bonus gift. Most of all, I respect her heritage and the thought she's put into this brand new collection simply called AERIN. Kudos to you, Aerin Lauder for creating such an elegant but fun line of products. I plan to share as much as I can get my hands on with my friends.

Another line that wasn't created for holiday but to me, screams 'celebrate' is the Andy Warhol collection from Nars. The eyeshadows are serious works of art. But, the product I love most is the grouping of lip glosses in a 70's inspired canister. Yes, it is a collectors' limited edition, which means you need to get one asap! The glosses are compact but pack a lasting color punch. Big things do come in small packages, and this offering proves just that. I ordered 2 just to keep stocked (and for the retro-cool package). I am so excited to ditch my lady-like glass container to display makeup brushes in this vibrant vessel and of course, gift the other to a fashionable friend. 

What is your favorite holiday makeup palette on the shelves this season? And, which one are you coveting for a gift -or for yourself? Do dish on your top choices as I'm still shopping for future posts for the Southern Sophisticate.



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For as long as I can remember, I've been visiting Patchouli's on 30A. Loved their original spot in Seaside... and like their store in Rosemary Beach even more. They have a slew of fantastic products from top cosmetic, candle and skincare lines, but what I can't get enough of is their custom scent bar. Yes, you can create your own lotion, perfume...or my favorite....body oil.

My top choice is always their Sweet Almond Oil ($20). It is the most incredible blend; choose a scent that speaks to you. They are fantastic at mixing it up. I almost always go back to the one I fell in love with, aptly named 'the beach'. It's a blend that reminds me of dunes, sand and great times. I purchase 3-4 bottles each visit. 

For when I cannot get to this beach-lovers haven, I create my own concoction at home. It will never master the same scent as their beach version, but it works for me. I use their bottles to mix in, and to display in my shower to make it feel like I'm indulging a bit.


BODY OIL BLEND

2 cups grape seed oil (from the grocery)
3-4 drops of lavender essential oil
3-4 drops of vanilla essential oil

Mix together and keep in your shower. Put on before you dry off for silky smooth skin. Also play with the essential oils and fragrances to come up with something you love. There is an incredible selection at Whole Foods Body, so you can change it up to suit your taste. If you love fig, basil or anything else, chances are there is an essential oil on the shelf. Cost per bottle... about $4, which makes it even sweeter!


I'm headed to 30A in less than 12 hours and will definitely pick up the latest concoctions from Patchouli's, but would love to hear about your favorite products.. and where you get them? Please do share it all on the Southern Sophisticate? read more

There's something about artificial heat (both gas and electric) that sends my skin into a state of panic. Every year, it's the same thing. I start peeling like I have a sunburn. With the milder weather we've been having during the day, bare legs with skirts should be fine...but not so much if they're in a state of massacre. So, over time I've found trusted ways to solve the problem. Lotions and topical oils help, but it really does start with exfoliation. Not just any old scrub will do. I've tried dozens, and the one that I totally swear by is Brown Sugar Body Polish from Fresh that I pick up at Private Edition. The key to getting the full benefit is to really work it into DRY skin before you turn on that shower head. I also like to let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off. The effect usually lasts a couple of days, even with gym visits and multiple bathings. It's a miracle product that I turn all of my friends onto. The indulgent oils, the citrus-sugar scent, the rich feel... it's salvation in a plastic tub.

The only problem is that I like to use quite a bit, and go through it too quickly. With a retail price of $65, it can get pretty pricey if you don't use it sparingly. And what's the fun in that? So, after multiple tubs each winter, I've finally learned how to create my own at home. I am SO not a do-it-yourself type, but this is super easy and actually enjoyable to create. I simply take one of the empty tubs from my Fresh stash and fill it with my own concoction.

SUGAR SCRUB

2/3 cup grapeseed oil (from the grocery isle)
The juice of two lemons
3 TBSP packed brown sugar
1.5 cups Sugar in the Raw

Simply loosely mix all together and voila.. you have a week's worth of daily skin saving scrub at a fraction of the cost of the luxe brand. Smells and feels just as fab... and more importantly, delivers the same skin-saving results!

Things I do still buy from the line are their individual packets of the Brown Sugar Body Polish for travel (if I can find them), and the line's Sugar Berry Tinted Lip Treatment.  In bulk, of course! 

What's your trusted go-to product for fighting the impact of winter? I would love to know your secrets? Share with me and do follow the Southern Sophisticate. I'm going to be sharing a couple more homemade concoctions based on the ingredients of my favorite product lines. Stay tuned!  read more

It's getting cold out and I'm desperately wanting rich, noodle-laden soups and pasta bowls. BUT... I am not going to slip and let that happen. So, tonight I made the most simple, inexpensive soup on the planet to get me through the first few nights of this week. Bonus? This is one of my husband's all-time favorites (and he is definitely NOT on this diet).  There are tons of recipes for taco soup. I found my original in Southern Living years ago and have been making it during this season since. 

Canned and frozen veggies take on amazing flavor with just a little simmering on the stove

This is my 'adapted version' to cut out any of the carbs (sigh, no tortilla strip garnishes,chips or sour cream for me). But, I have to admit, it is satisfying, rich and so flavorful that you almost forget that it's a Four Hour Body approved dish.

The finished product: warm, healthy and spicy enough to keep cravings at bay!

TACO SOUP

1.5 Tbsp olive oil
One medium yellow onion, diced
1.5 lbs ground turkey 
1 pkg taco seasoning
2/3 cup water
1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 jalepeno pepper, seeded and diced
1 can Ro*tel diced tomatoes with lime and cilantro
1 can Goya black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can Goya red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic salt 
1 can chicken broth
1 carton chicken stock ( 2-2.5 cups)


Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened (4-5 min). Add the ground turkey and cook until browned. Stir in the water and taco seasoning, bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the peppers and cook another 4-5 minutes. Pour in all canned vegetables,  corn, chicken broth/stock and spices. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer on low 30 minutes. Serve in a bowl and garnish with avocado slices or fresh cilantro. Makes 8-10 servings and keeps well for 4-5 days.


This also works well with shredded chicken or turkey, making it a great recipe for Thanksgiving leftovers. Do you have any Slow Carb recipes to share? I would love to see your ideas. Please 'dish' here.... and do follow the Southern Sophisticate.

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When hearing about the newest, latest skin saver... I'm always a bit skeptical. With my job, I've tried dozens over the years and honestly, have never found anything that totally blew me away. Until now. Today I popped into Private Edition to meet the founder of Real Chemistry and left with a purchase after hearing the founder's story and experiencing a brief demonstration on my hands.  The results were immediate and totally fantastic.

We had an event to attend shortly after I got home with the product, but once I was able to get out of my dress clothes and wash my face, I was ready to try it out. I also made my husband join me in the test. Within less than two minutes, we both saw tons of skin peeling off from our faces and felt an instant boost. Our trial was late at night, but there is no denying that this stuff WORKS! No burning, redness or anything that I've associated with peels in the past. Instead, the 3 Minute Precision Peel is soothing and removes dead cells that even most expensive microdermabrasion treatments miss. I had better results from this than any facial I've ever invested in-- and in record time. The packaging isn't luxury and the logo looks more drugstore than high-end, but the compilation inside the tube is beyond any expensive brand on the market.

Right now, this product is exclusive to Cosmetic Market and Private Edition in Nashville, but those of you outside the city can easily order it online. For the fast, superior results it delivers, it is surprisingly affordable (as in $40). I'm thinking that this discovery of the protein peel is going to create an instant boom in the marketplace. If you want great skin, my suggestion is to get yours now while it's readily available. 

What's your favorite skin care savior on the shelves? Would love to hear all about it here. But, you've got to try this one, and keep following the Southern Sophisticate!

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Yes, a few days in and I am getting into the swing of things on the Four Hour Body diet. I've taken to hard-boiling a dozen eggs at a time and pre-rinsing black beans - keeping both in plastic containers in the fridge for on-the-run eating. Hey, it's a busy week!

But... all of the pumpkin, caramel cake and stew recipes I keep seeing on Pinterest have me wanting something indulgently fall. No need to wait for a cheat day... I've discovered the PERFECT way to satisfy my craving without breaking any rules. I can't engage in the pumpkin cupcake craze, but I can totally enjoy butternut squash if it's properly prepared. They are offering butternut squash almost daily at the food bar at the Turnip Truck near my office-- simply roasted with olive oil, salt and pepper. It is SO yummy. When paired with a bit of protein, it's the perfect meal. If you don't have time to cook, simply pick it up at one of their locations. But, if you want to make your own..here's the ideal recipe (even better due to the added spices):


BUTTERNUT SQUASH SALVATION

3 good size butternut squash, diced into 1" -1.5" pieces (fyi-- the chopping is the HARDEST part)
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (I like Lucini, always)
1.5 tsp grey salt
2 Tbsp minced garlic
2 Tbsp dried or fresh parsley
2 tsp aged balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Toss squash in a large bowl with all ingredients. Put onto a large baking sheet (or two) and place into the oven for 35 minutes, turning once halfway through for ideal browning on both sides.

When I'm roasting these, I use the remaining squash (there's always tons since I'm not cooking for a crowd) for other dishes. I sometimes cut them into various shapes just to keep things interesting. Beneath roast chicken breast slices and sprinkled with a bit of rosemary salt, they take on a whole new flavor. Ditto with their appearance in my chickpea chili.

CHICKPEA & SQUASH CHILI

2 Tbsp olive oil
2 8oz cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 large yellow onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 small can tomato paste
1/4 cup sliced green olives
1/2 cup water
1.5 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp ground red pepper
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
3 cups low sodium chicken broth (organic)
1 large (24-28 oz can crushed tomatoes)
3-4 cups diced, cooked/roasted butternut squash
1 cup thawed frozen green peas
Freshly chopped parsley for garnish

In a dutch oven, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion 5 minutes, add garlic and continue to sauté  for another 2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, broth, water, spices, olives and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, add chickpeas and simmer for 45 minutes to an hour. Add squash and peas and simmer for another 10 minutes. Keep all leftovers in an airtight container. Reheats well up to 3 days later.


What's your favorite way to enjoy fall vegetables while trying to keep it light and healthy? Please share... and don't forget to follow the Southern Sophisticate. More recipes to come!

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As you know from my previous post, I've committed to completely following the Slow Carb Diet from the book, Four Hour Body. It does work, and I want to be a size smaller in 3 weeks so that I can feel great in all of my fun, party clothes this holiday season.

Every day, breakfast is the same. Either a couple of scrambled eggs with spinach and peppers with a few black beans tossed in, or a protein shake. Lunch is grilled chicken or fish salad loaded with veggies (no cheese or croutons; balsamic and oil on the side). But, to keep me from feeling deprived, I whip up a few comforting recipes. I like to cook, so the chili fulfills my chopping and stirring fetish. The salad is easy to make ahead and to take to work for lunch. Since there is no 'goopy' dressing, it keeps well for several days. For more protein on work out days, I often add shrimp or chicken depending on what I have on hand. 

I could eat this at every meal, even when not dieting-- delicious!

WHITE BEAN CHICKEN CHILI

1 Tbsp Olive Oil
One small red onion, diced
2 cloves minced garlic
2 cans Goya Cannellini beans, drained and rinsed well
1 quart Wolfgang Puck brand organic chicken stock
1 rotisserie chicken, skin removed (or you can bake your own chicken breasts)
1 chicken bouillon cube
2 cups water
1/2 jar Salsa Verde
1 can diced green chilies
1 red serrano pepper, peeled seeded and thinly sliced
1 Tbsp chili powder
2 cups baby spinach leaves
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, and you can use parsley as a substitute)
Salt and pepper to taste


Drain/rinse beans and remove all breast and thigh meat from chicken pull apart into chunky pieces and set both aside. In a large soup pot or dutch oven, heat oil over medium high heat and sauté onions until softened. Add garlic and sauté 2 minutes. Add chicken stock and stir well. Add in chili slices, salsa, chopped peppers, chili powder, chicken and beans. Stir well. Add 1 cup water and bouillon cube. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, add second cup of water and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Put into bowls when very hot and stir in spinach and cilantro. Let sit 5 minutes

** This makes a big batch-- enough for 8 servings. I reserve fresh spinach and cilantro to stir into bowls for later use. Leftovers keep well for up to a week if you wait to add the greens.

Very crisp and fresh for at least 3 days! 

BLACK BEAN SALAD

2 smashed garlic cloves
1 diced and seeded jalapeno pepper
1 tsp cumin seeds
1.5 Tbsp olive oil
1 15oz can Goya black beans (or 2 8 oz cans) drained and rinsed
2 peeled, diced cucumbers
1 pint halved grape tomatoes
4 chopped scallions
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup sliced hearts of palm
1 bag baby spinach salad 
salt and pepper to taste

Heat smashed cloves, pepper and seeds in a skillet with olive oil over low heat-- 5 minutes. Toss beans, cucumbers,tomatoes, lime juice and scallions in a bowl. Slightly mash the garlic mixture and add to the beans. Season with salt and pepper and toss with baby spinach and hearts of palm.

** As a note, you will notice I call for GOYA beans. The type you use really can impact the flavor and satisfaction. I have found this brand to be superior after trying many others.


More recipes to come on the Southern Sophisticate! I hope that you are following and that you will share your favorite creations with me for this diet! 


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