Do you struggle with losing weight? Or, have you been one that never was the ideal weight for your size? Welcome to my  world. I’ve heard this statement all of my life “You Are What You Eat”. This statement is true because physical and mental health are closely linked together and when one is eating healthy, you will ultimately look healthy and feel healthy. There are many factors that contribute to weight gain and one’s overall health and some of these factors largely depend on one’s genetic makeup. However, there are ways we can be proactive and change the way we live by working toward a healthy lifestyle, which will…

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped 2 medium ribs celery, chopped ¼ cup tomato paste 2 cups chopped seasonal vegetables (potatoes, yellow squash, zucchini, butternut squash, green beans or peas all work) 4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced ½ teaspoon dried oregano ½ teaspoon dried thyme 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, with their liquid (or 2 small 15-ounce cans) 4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable broth 2 cups water 1 teaspoon fine sea salt 2 bay leaves Pinch of red pepper flakes Freshly ground black pepper 1 cup whole grain orecchiette, elbow or small shell pasta 1 can…