A Midwest gal with global tastes
Meet Janine
Connector, explorer, storyteller, life coach, foodie, wife, mother. I’m a Midwest gal with global tastes. My home base is Madison, Wisconsin.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Here you will find…
Inspiring stories about people you meet along the way, whether it’s halfway around the world or in your own backyard.
Recipes created out of fun, experimentation, and sometimes necessity (when the pantry is empty).
Travel tips and life lessons learned after exploring the globe and raising three kids in three different Midwest states.
Life coaching tools, journaling tips, workshops and special events.
Delicious and Unstoppable
What is Zabelicious?
Zabelicious was coined by friends to describe the unique food and drink recipes I often create; many of which I've discovered while traveling. Basically, Zabelicious means delicious and unstoppable. I have journaled almost every trip and am often asked by friends for recipes and travel tips, so I thought, why not take it a step further?
My plans to launch an online journal have been in the works for over three years. A lot has changed since I started this journey. Travel is now restricted. Gatherings are limited. Restaurants are struggling to survive. Masks aren't just for Halloween. Life as we knew it, has been turned upside down. Like most of you, I miss pre-COVID life and it's simple pleasures. Many of us have found creative ways to stay sane and connected while quarantined. For me, baking and writing have provided a welcome respite from the daily news headlines.
I've been blessed with the opportunity to explore many places.
As a journalist, I find joy in sharing stories of inspiring people. So along with food and travel musings from around the world, I will often feature a local's perspective. I know and love the Midwest best, as a Minnesota native who has also lived in Iowa and now calls Wisconsin home. So, expect some cheesy banter about sports rivalries, when I take you on a tour of the scenic Midwest.
I love cooking and entertaining; usually, there's a theme involved, whether it's one of my kid's birthday parties, a holiday gathering, or just an impromptu happy hour. My most cherished memories are created around the kitchen table with family and friends. I have an extensive apron and cookbook collection that dates back to the early 1900's. (Yes, I do use them!) Improvising recipes when the pantry is empty is one of my specialties. In fact, most of my family's favorite meals and desserts have been created by merging two or three recipes.
Like most modern day moms,
I proudly wear many hats.
HOUSEHOLD CEO
I am CEO of a busy household, which includes my husband, three kids, and our dog. Our nest was almost empty before COVID, but then everyone came home to quarantine. Now we are back down to only one kid at home. I'm convinced, downsizing isn't an option, because I think our nest will never really be empty. Wishful thinking, maybe?
TELEVISION JOURNALIST
In my past life, I was a television journalist and a public relations consultant. At one time, we had three kids at three different schools while we both worked full time. I can't imagine how we would manage that schedule during a pandemic. I salute all the parents of young kids trying to balance life as we currently know it.
CERTIFIED LIFE COACH
As a certified life coach, I've learned the importance of self-care and positivity. I try not to dwell on things I can't change. My motto is to honor the past, live in the present, hope for the future and journal it all!
When you are looking for an exciting adventure, join me on a virtual road trip!
Whether it's an inspiring story from across the pond, my Midwest garden, or a Zabelicious recipe,
I invite you to find joy in the journey and visit Zabelicious Life often!
-Janine
