Ever since I was a little girl, I loved every moment where I could be side by side with my grandmother, Betty Scardine, or watch my mom prepare the family dinner. Growing up and being the oldest of seven children, I gravitated to creating the culinary experience for my family. My father was the master BBQ king and made some amazing spaghetti sauce. Upon having my own children, the joy of watching them create part of the family meal or a snack is so heart-warming. Raising two children and … [Read more...] about Kids Love the Kitchen
Debbie Maranville
Honoring the Spirit of Giving
I was introduced to a small group of women by my friend, Brandi Jex. A fellow Prescottonian, dear friend and health professional, Brandi played a song by Jason Mraz called, “Wise Woman,” which featured the following lyrics: “She’s a real wise woman with so much love to give - She gives so much ‘cause she stays in touch with what her truest nature is, Yeah, she’s a wise, wise woman, woman, woman She keeps my mind open, mind open, yeah She’s a wise, wise woman, woman, woman She keeps her heart … [Read more...] about Honoring the Spirit of Giving
Holiday and Winter Herbs
We all celebrate our individual cultures and food traditions as a major part of each holiday. Herbs are a natural and normal part of my focus, as our company includes herbs in our recipes and specifically, winter holiday cooking. Adding herbs, fresh or dry, enhances the flavor of food as well as offers health benefits. During these crazy times, we can all use as many healthy options to keep our immune systems in tip-top shape. Herbs can be consumed in teas, soups, broths, stews and … [Read more...] about Holiday and Winter Herbs
Transitioning into the Empty Nest
In 2010, my oldest daughter, Lindsay, packed up her little Toyota Corolla and headed off to California to create a life for herself. I wept for months. She was the first to leave the nest. My youngest daughter, Stephanie, left the nest in 2014 with a short drive to Prescott Valley. This wasn’t as difficult as Lindsay’s move. I knew Stephanie was close, and it was comforting. Fast forward to present time, we have three wonderful grandsons with our daughters and their families. For an extensive … [Read more...] about Transitioning into the Empty Nest
Autumn Cooking with Comfort
Autumn invites us to celebrate the foods that create savor and spice. That’s because when we begin a new season, our bodies make a shift and we sometimes have to help them along a little bit. Hot foods and spices trigger the release of endorphins—the natural chemicals that trigger feelings of euphoria and well-being. I have personally experienced well-being through eating different chilis, curries, soups and warm beverages that include easy-to-find spices and herbs. Roasted, Cooked … [Read more...] about Autumn Cooking with Comfort
Eating During Stressful Times
Stress can be found on the faces of family, friends, neighbors and coworkers. I have seen perfect strangers with frantic looks on their faces. My heart goes out to them. The last several months have been a roller coaster, and with all the uncertainty in our world, many are experiencing stressful times. I can share that I, too, have experienced forms of stress since mid-March and am grateful that our team of “essential” workers has the ability and passion to create delicious and fresh foods … [Read more...] about Eating During Stressful Times
Addressing Menopause with a Healthy Lifestyle
"What’s happening to me? My clothes don’t fit anymore; I am so moody and emotional! I often feel like Ursula, the sea-witch.” That’s how I woke up one morning – with all these crazy feelings. Of course, leading up to this moment, my daughter would always ask, “What’s the matter, mom?” As a woman, we are groomed to wear many hats. Yes, we are multitaskers; however, “Madame Butterfly” (that’s my nickname) needed some coaching. What I needed to come to grips with is the process called … [Read more...] about Addressing Menopause with a Healthy Lifestyle
Relax, Reset and Repair
Life can be hectic, crazy and downright out of control. We live in a world surrounded by chatter and noise, whether it is someone talking on a cell phone in front of you at the grocery store or sirens roaring past you. We have TVs, computers, cell phones, iPads, even phones on our wristwatches. Technology puts us in an incredible position to be more efficient than any generation before us, but I challenge you to define the cost of all of this. How do we determine if we are at risk and what … [Read more...] about Relax, Reset and Repair
Serving Summertime with Basil
It’s no surprise that basil is a summertime staple in our catering recipes – with a warm and spicy flavor, basil is an ideal pairing for sweet or mild recipes. Basil is a common herb in most of our kitchens, but did you know that besides tasting good in our chicken and pasta dishes, it can be used toward having more healthy bodies? It is an excellent alternative health treatment for many minor ailments. Grown originally in Asia and the Middle East, basil traveled the world along the spice … [Read more...] about Serving Summertime with Basil
Practicing Self-Care
Today, I am reminded to open my heart and let in the light. We have been hit with information by the government and news media that could be rather daunting. I have learned from a few mentors and professionals that we must take our own health and environments into our own hands. Of course, we need air, water, food, shelter and love to make it through the day. During these uncertain times, our community is doing so much to live differently. We are encouraged to stay home as much as … [Read more...] about Practicing Self-Care