I admit, I’m a sucker for a man in uniform. Military uniform to be exact. I’ve spent my life surrounded by members of the military. I grew up hearing stories from both grandfathers of their experiences in the Air Force and Army, experienced life with my best friends stationed in Florida with the Navy and spent the last few years as an Air Force wife, supporting my husband through various deployments. I spent time working at the Department of Veteran Affairs, visiting with veterans about their time in the military, and was humbled by their stories of bravery. Having witnessed many loved ones... Read More

Bacon isn’t just the cut of pig’s back or underbelly. It’s my absolute favorite food. Ever since I can remember, I have been obsessed with bacon. Maybe I just love salt-cured meats, or maybe it was the fact that my nanny growing up would leave a slice on the counter each morning for me, either way, I love bacon. I’ll shout it from the rooftop. Hell, I even receive bacon inspired gifts as jokes, that I take quite seriously.  Call me weird or pork obsessed if you’d like, it won’t bother me. I’m used to it. So, when a restaurant designed entirely around bacon opened in the Highlands,... Read More

There’s an age old saying that people come together through food. It’s a way for cultures to collide, people to bond, and communities to build. Sharing food has always been part of the human story, and a huge part of mine. I was first introduced to Turkish food, thanks to my sister, after finding true love with Melih, who was born and raised in Turkey. They met in Minneapolis, MN and had an instant connection. During our conversations, she would rave about his cooking and passion for food. When I visited the Twin Cities in 2010, my sister introduced me to Melih one evening at the small family... Read More