Fresh and dried herbs add unparalleled flavor, color and texture to our cooking – and they are easy to find in most supermarkets. You can also grow them at home, both indoors and out. Let us celebrate these herb forward dishes, showcasing their vibrant flavors. Growing Herbs We have an entire article for you on growing herbs, which we encourage you to read. Whether you have outdoor garden space, or want to cultivate them indoors, you can have success growing your own herbs. Buying Dried Herbs Dried herbs are part of so many recipes, and we highly suggest having many on hand, for inspiration as ..read more

A shower of fresh parsley, fresh basil in a summer Caprese salad, generous amounts of fresh dill and chives in potato salads…there is something that fresh herbs bring to our dishes that nothing else can. While most supermarkets have a good selection, herbs are also easy to grow, both indoors and out. We have the information you need to be your own herb gardener. Whether you have a sprawling garden or a modest indoor area, growing herbs is accessible and enjoyable. Why Grow Herbs? Fresh herbs can be pricey at the market and homegrown are much more economical. Plus, it doesn’t get fresher than s ..read more

According to studies and research at John Hopkins, approximately 45% of the adult population snores at least occasionally, with 25% snoring all the time. This can disturb the snorer’s sleep, as well as the sleep of their bed partner. It is important to understand snoring and its health implications. Here is what medical doctors and science tell us. Who Snores? Snoring is more common among individuals who are overweight, middle-aged or older men, and postmenopausal women, and tends to worsen with age. Causes of Snoring Snoring results from obstructed airways during sleep. Common cause ..read more

Whether you have a demanding job, are a single mom, stay-at-home parent, or combination thereof, most people that we know these days are busy! And, if you are intent on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including nutrition and exercise, it’s hard to get everything done. We have the top 12 tips for maintaining your health and energy on the go.  Plan Ahead We know it’s easier said than done, but planning ahead is key. This could range from full on meal prepping (see next section), to organizing snacks. The last thing you want to happen is to be caught hungry and thirsty with nothing at hand ..read more

Just as us humans need doctors and medical care, so do our dogs. Part of responsible dog ownership is providing food, shelter, socialization, as well as proper medical attention. This includes wellness check-ups, adhering to local laws for vaccinations, and being prepared for emergency visits. According to pet insurance companies, marketing studies, and veterinary associations, some breeds rack up more vet bills than others.  First, Let’s Talk Prevention Reputable, responsible, purpose driven breeders will conduct health screenings on their dogs prior to breeding. These can cost hundreds ..read more

Mother’s Day can be a challenging time for those who have lost their mothers or do not have a mother in their lives. It can be especially challenging if you have a negative relationship with your mother. Here are some ways to navigate what may be a challenging day: Celebrate Other Important Women in Your Life Spend the day acknowledging and celebrating other significant women in your life, such as grandmothers, aunts, sisters, or mentors who have supported you. Visit Places You Enjoyed Together If you have fond memories of specific places you visited with your mom, consider revisiting these pl ..read more

Setting up your first kitchen is an exciting time, but daunting, too. We are here to make it easy for you! I have been a professional recipe developer for over 30 years and know a lot about equipment. You do not need loads of gadgets, but buying quality items and being picky will benefit you in the long run. Here we go! The 21 kitchen tools and pieces of equipment that I think belong in every kitchen. Half-Sheet Pans Whether you are a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, every kitchen needs a half-sheet pan, and preferably a few of them. Half-sheet pans are a specific dimension, typically listed a ..read more

Every year the American Kennel Club (AKC) tracks dog registrations and unveils the most popular breeds. After ruling supreme for 31 years, the Labrador Retriever was knocked out of the #1 position by French Bull Dogs in 2022. For the second year in a row, the “Frenchie”, as they are known, is the top dog. Let’s look at the top 10 dog breeds and celebrate the diversity and charm within the canine kingdom – and also some dogs to steer clear of. Do you have a pooch at home? 1. French Bull Dog: Reigning Supreme For the second consecutive year, the charismatic French Bull Dog claims the coveted top ..read more

Outfitting your first kitchen is thrilling, yet challenging. Fear not, we’re here to simplify the process! With over three decades of experience as a professional recipe developer and managing Test Kitchens, I’ve gained extensive knowledge about kitchen equipment. Remember, you don’t require a ton of gadgets; instead, investing in high-quality essentials will serve you well in the long term. Let’s dive in! Below, I’ve compiled a list of 21 essential kitchen tools and equipment that I believe should grace every kitchen. They will make your time in the kitchen more enjoyable – and yes, even make ..read more

What Is FODZYME? If you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and have been told to follow the low FODMAP diet you may feel a bit challenged by all of the information and guidelines you have to follow. Many of us have had at least a day (or two or three) where we find ourselves wishing there was a magic wand to make it easier – and to help us enjoy our foods symptom-free. FODZYME® might just be an answer for you. FODZYME®, a blend of digestive enzymes, has been lab tested and certified low FODMAP by Monash University, which means that the ingredients are low FODMAP. But does it work? Can it help ..read more