I can still recall the scent of ripe olives and fresh rosemary in the Mediterranean air, a sensory memory that inspired my newly released Mediterranean Cooking Made Simple. This cookbook isn’t just a collection of recipes; it’s a labor of love, flavored with a blend of triumphs and trials. Today, as I celebrate its release, I’m excited to share the joy and obstacles I faced to bring these pages to life.
The Culinary Adventure That Almost Didn’t Happen
The road to publishing Mediterranean Cooking Made Simple was anything but smooth. Picture this: piles of recipe drafts, endless taste tests (some successes, others best left forgotten), and the relentless pursuit of creating meals that felt both authentic and accessible. Then came the challenge of capturing not just the cuisine but the soul of the Mediterranean lifestyle. At times, it felt like I was scaling a mountain, one page at a time.
The practical hurdles didn’t make it easier. Every step of the process tested my patience, from months and months of formatting issues to ingredient lists that mysteriously rearranged themselves. But in the end, the late nights and the countless adjustments were worth it. What resulted is a cookbook that makes healthy Mediterranean meals achievable and enjoyable, and I hope it will transform your cooking adventures as much as it has mine.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DMK8865T
Beyond Food: Coloring Books That Inspire
While I stirred sauces and curated stories for my cookbook, another project brewed in my heart—coloring books designed to uplift and inspire, as if juggling one major project wasn’t enough, I dove headfirst into creating two amazing and inspiring coloring books, one for year-round use and the other for Christmas.
First, there’s A Positive Affirmation Coloring Book for Little Girls and Young Women with Big Hearts. This coloring book is my love letter to every young girl out there, a tool to encourage and uplift through words of affirmation paired with whimsical designs. Each page invites them to color in confidence and embrace the beauty of self-love, courage, and kindness. I wanted to ensure that these affirmations would empower them and spark their imaginations—because every big-hearted dreamer deserves to feel extraordinary.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DK6SW2DC
Then came my holiday-themed creation: Santa’s Christmas ABC & 123 Coloring Book: An Educational Holiday Adventure for Little Learners. It was a festive whirlwind of fun to create, filled with counting Santas, playful animals, and the magic of Christmas. I aimed to blend learning and holiday excitement, helping little ones practice their ABCs and numbers while getting into the festive spirit. It’s more than a coloring book; it’s an adventure of wonder and discovery that brings joy to the holiday season.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DLN6P9Z7
The Balancing Act and the Reward
Balancing three books—each with its unique demands—was like a juggling act I wasn’t sure I’d ever perfect. There were moments I felt overwhelmed, wondering if I’d bitten off more than I could chew. But each hurdle made the reward even sweeter. The moment I held each completed book, all the struggles melted away.
Mediterranean Cooking Made Simple is my heartfelt guide to delicious, nourishing meals. A Positive Affirmation Coloring Book celebrates empowerment and self-belief. Santa’s Christmas ABC & 123 is a holiday adventure that will surely light up children’s faces.
I’m proud to share these creations with you, hoping they inspire confidence, warmth, and a sense of wonder. Whether cooking up a Mediterranean storm, building confidence through coloring, or getting into the Christmas spirit, there’s something here for everyone. Thank you for joining me on this wild and wonderful journey!
Are you ready to explore these worlds of flavor and creativity? Let’s get cooking, coloring, and celebrating life together.
Are you ready for the holidays? These books would be perfect for one and all!
In these days of turmoil, strife, and stress, my heart wishes you joy and happiness.
Helen (AKA Cherish)