It’s summer and time to get your camping on. The North Central corridor of Arizona becomes a destination for families, friends, church groups and community organizations to enjoy the tall pines as they experience camping under the stars. I have great memories of camping with my family as a young girl. I was able to experience family camping at Lake Shafer and Twin Mills Campground in Indiana as well as many hidden spots in Arizona. Firepits, lakes, creeks, hiking trails and boating are my … [Read more...] about Memorable Camp Meals
The Natural Healing Garden
Mother’s Day Herb Garden
[/perfectpullquote]I am a wife, mom, daughter, sister, “grammy” aunt, cousin, friend and boss. I am also a trustworthy friend, passionate about God and a strong leader. I am a Culinary Specialist, a Certified Herbalist and have a passion for herbs and nature. I am also on a “hormonal journey.” Yes, I just turned 56 years young! Balancing the roles and responsibilities of marriage, motherhood and business has been overwhelming. I have loved sharing with fellow moms, friends and mentors to … [Read more...] about Mother’s Day Herb Garden
Experiencing Culinary Delight
Culinary Delight: Noun. Definition: Any food dish that is simply delicious. As a young girl in the ‘70s, I had so many wonderful food experiences. I remember going to restaurants in North Chicago with my Nana and Poppy. One restaurant that always created culinary delights was “Scotty’s,” a fine dining establishment with a beautiful banquet room. I was able to order anything off the menu. The New York strip steak and salad bar experience was my true culinary delight. Another culinary … [Read more...] about Experiencing Culinary Delight
Kids Love the Kitchen
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
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
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
Nurturing the Community with Goods from the Garden
From business meetings and award ceremonies to weddings and similar personal festivities, Prescott’s Goods from the Garden caters to the culinary tastes of area businesses and families. Named Best of Business-Catering in 2019 by QCBN readers, the firm boasts 24 professionals with collectively more than 188 years of culinary experience and “amazing” serving skills, according to co-owner Debbie Maranville. Championing “the pillars of healthy living and eating,” Maranville and her husband, … [Read more...] about Nurturing the Community with Goods from the Garden