
As many of you know, I wrote my first cookbook filled with the meals we’ve loved as a family over the years—comforting favorites that fed a crowd and brought us around the table together. That book was born out of everyday life with a big family, filled with hearty casseroles, slow cooker staples, and plenty of baked treats.
But seasons change.
Now, I’ve got a whole new group of kids preparing to leave the nest—some already out on their own—and their needs look a little different. They aren’t feeding a table of ten anymore. They’re just learning how to cook for one or two, and that comes with its own set of challenges and joys.
So I decided to create an updated version of the cookbook—one designed especially for young adults, new homemakers, or anyone cooking in smaller portions.
This new book still includes some of our most-loved favorites, but it’s filled with the recipes we’re enjoying right now—scaled down, practical, and easy to make in a small kitchen. I also added sections I wish I had when I was just starting out, like:
- How to Meal Prep for One or Two
- A Sample Weekly Meal Plan
- What to Include in a Beginner Pantry
- Simple Kitchen Know-How and Tips
- Creative Ideas for Leftovers
- And Large-Print Text (a major upgrade from my older, smaller format)
Whether you’re a newlywed, a college student, an empty nester, or just someone trying to cook a little smarter, this book was made with you in mind.
It’s cozy, helpful, and full of real food made for real life.
Thanks for being part of the journey—and for passing these recipes on to the next generation of home cooks.








