It’s no surprise that I would consider myself a real foodie, yet alone an “expert” (ha!) in seeking out the best coffee & coffee shops, alongside swirling the latest wines from here to Wine Country.

With health and wellness being at my core, one would say I have always been passionate about coaching and educating on “proper” nutrition.

And, by “proper” nutrition, I mean following the mantra of eating what you like, what works for your body, lifestyle, & goals, and what is going to fuel your heart and soul. Life is way too short to be bound by super strict diet programs that are, simply put, trying to place a “square peg into a circular hole.”

And, if this is something you are looking for, then this is NOT the blog for you (and that’s okay).

I am a person who likes the ritual around food. I am a person who ENJOYS food. And, to be completely honest, I used to be that very individual who wanted a so-called “plan” because I thought that was the only way. This has been a HUGE mindset shift for me, and one for the absolute better!

I love trying out new recipes, new foods (although, yes, salad is very much a constant in my menu repertoire), restaurants, etc. I don’t proclaim when I sit down to a meal “do you know how many calories are in this dish,” or get overly consumed with sauces, creams, dressings, etc. Sure, I may ask for them on the side most of the time, but it’s because I want to taste the ACTUAL food. Can you blame me?

The love of food is about coming together to share in a meal with family, friends, a significant other or, hey, just yourself. I have grown to be totally cool with saying “Party of 1;” it’s kind of liberating. It’s the conversation, or, if dining solo, the time spent reflecting, that gives every bite a little more meaning.

Let food be your medicine; your fuel; your pleasure. Eat for satisfaction, enjoyment, and what makes you feel good. Like what you eat, and never, EVER, apologize for doing so!

And, when you need to pair the perfect drink with your meal, just remember, it’s COFFEE before WINE, or is it vice versa?

Speaking of coffee and wine, my weekly “Coffee Talks” and “Wine Down” moments are a chance for you to get to know a little bit more about me, my life, my current status, and how it is all playing out in real time. Plus, I will be sharing all the ‘deets about my favorite coffee(s), coffee shops, wines, wineries, and a whole lot more! Click on the links to find out a little more! 

WAIT, before you start exploring, here’s a “Fun Fact:” I do some of my best writing, early morning before the sun comes up, with a cup of coffee in hand that includes ½ and ½ and a scoop of Vital Proteins Collagen. 

I do even BETTER writing when the clock strikes 5:00 pm, or whenever I feel it’s “wine-o’clock” or martini hour somewhere!