Today I am writing a post to share an incredible recipe with you (one of the most flavorful salad recipes I believe I have created thus far), and open up about some transformations in my life. Some of you have been part of this newsletter since I started it in 2004 and have watched as I have shared photos as our family grew and children went from babies to teenagers! In fact, my oldest daughter is now 21!

Full body health begins with the little things we do every day. Did you know that incorporating fresh herbs and spices into your meals adds thousands of flavonoid compounds that benefit your health and the health of your microbiome? Flavonoids from plant foods have been found to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, are protective against neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration, and help prevent a wide range of cancers. Fresh basil, cilantro, mint, parsley, rosemary, thyme garlic, turmeric, and ginger are herbs and spices that can easily be incorporated into your daily meals. Not only do these herbs brighten the flavors of the final dish, but they add an abundance of phytonutrients that reduce inflammation and prevent disease! 

It's summer! Time to break out the ice cream maker and whip up some dairy-free ice cream—plus, it's cherry season right now. This coconut-milk-based ice cream is a perfect way to indulge in both antioxidant-rich cherries and dark chocolate.

I thought you might like a simple gluten-free brownie recipe to share with friends and family this holiday weekend. This recipe is unique in that it contains NO flour at all. Walnuts and raw cacao powder make up the bulk of the recipe!

I have something for you, just in time for 4th of July celebrations.....and no cooking required! I used to think that making tarts was a complicated process, but it is really quite simple.

Summer BBQ's, potato salad, layered jell-o salads, fireflies, and sparklers flashing through the humid July night sky....these are my 4th of July memories growing up in the Midwest.

Since layered jell-o salads just aren't in my cooking repertoire anymore I have devised something even more delicious...and good for you!