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What's Giving Me Life
The places, people, recipes, traditions, and little moments that are inspiring me lately. Think of it as everything I'd tell you if we were catching up over coffee—or cooking dinner together.


The 2025 Gift Guide
Every item in this guide has earned its place in my kitchen. These are the tools I reach for, the cookbooks I cook from, the pantry staples I buy on repeat, and the gifts I've happily given to the people I love. If you're looking for something thoughtful for the home cook in your life—or simply need a little inspiration for your own wish list—I hope you find something you love. Global Fish Spatula — or any high-quality fish spatula. After many not-so-subtle hints, Frank got m
Maddie Umali
Jul 24


The 2024 Gift Guide
Every year, friends and family ask me what kitchen tools, cookbooks, and pantry staples are actually worth buying. Rather than rounding up trendy products I've never touched, this list is made up entirely of things I use in my own kitchen—items I reach for daily, gift to friends, and would happily buy again. Whether you're shopping for a seasoned home cook, someone just learning their way around the kitchen, or simply treating yourself, I hope this list gives you a few ideas.
Maddie Umali
Jul 24


Classic Coleslaw
Creamy, tangy and just a little sweet, this classic coleslaw is exactly what I want alongside anything coming off the grill. Using a bagged coleslaw mix keeps things incredibly easy, and a simple dressing of mayo, lemon and vinegar brings it all together. Make it a few hours ahead so the cabbage has time to soften and soak up all that flavor. Servings: 6-8 Prep Time: 10 minutes Chill Time: 2 hours Cook Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes Ingredients 1 (16-ounce) ba
Maddie Umali
Oct 22 min read
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