Growing up in Crystal Falls in the 70s, with a traditional family structure, cooking was primarily reserved for my mother. She was a stay-at-home mom until my senior year of high school and the only time I remember my dad cooking was on hot summer evenings when he manned the domed charcoal grill. I know … More Potato Encrusted Fried Chicken
“The deep roots never doubt spring will come.” ― Mary Rubin If your household is anything like ours, May is an exciting and hectic time. The kids and I are finishing up with school and my husband always has extra training and projects to finish at work. In addition, in the spring our farm chores … More Lentil Sloppy Joes – Prepare a Healthy & Hearty Meal with Pantry Staples
We do not have to look at the calendar to be reminded that the winter holiday season is upon us. Christmas displays started popping up in stores right along with jack-o- lanterns, while television commercials repeat a dizzying array of gift ideas. Not to mention that we all have that one friend on social media who has their … More Seasonal Simplicity – Squash
“I remember my childhood names for grasses and secret flowers. I remember where a toad may live and what time the birds awaken in the summer — and what trees and seasons smelled like…” -John Steinbeck, East of Eden While I do not enjoy saying goodbye to summer, I love the feeling of transition that … More Cilantro & Lime Infused Shrimp Tacos with Crunchy Cabbage
Our house was always filled with dogs… They helped make our house a kennel, it is true, but the constant patter of their filthy paws and the dreadful results of their brainless activities have warmed me throughout the years. ~Helen Hayes Ahhhhhhh, weekends – time to breathe and recharge! Though I think it is fair … More The Versatility of Homemade Pizza
“There is no technique, there is just the way to do it. Now, are we going to measure or are we going to cook?” ― Frances Mayes, Under the Tuscan Sun I haven’t read Under the Tuscan Sun in ages and this is my reminder to do so soon. It was one of my favorites when … More Lemony Tomato Sauce with Dill
“You are what you eat. What would YOU like to be?” ― Julie Murphy With the first week of 2015 in the near distance, I keep reminding myself to stay true to my healthy goals and to keep progress over perfection my mantra. I have been navigating a personal struggle and I have to remember that nourishing … More Spicy Peanut Dressed Vegetables
“May your coming year be filled with magic and dreams and good madness. I hope you read some fine books and kiss someone who thinks you’re wonderful, and don’t forget to make some art — write or draw or build or sing or live as only you can. And I hope, somewhere in the next … More Italian Hummus Spread with Sun-dried Tomatoes, Capers, and Olives
“You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” ― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations Since I try to fully embrace a healthy lifestyle, I do wait until the beginning of month to start new if I have slipped up. I truly believe that each day presents an opportunity … More Mediterranean Wrap with Greek Olives & Tzatziki Sauce
“Variety in your diet is health in your life.” ― Toni Sorenson One of the reasons that I started this blog in January of 2013 was to challenge myself to come up with new recipes so I could avoid a food rut. Instead of being limited by a plant-based diet, I wanted to branch out … More Layered Greek Dip with Hummus & Tzatziki Sauce
Produce with Amy 