Emma Parker 
These Peanut Butter Cookies are soft in the center, lightly crisp on the edges, and full of that classic peanut butter flavor we all love. I make these when I need something sweet in a hurry. They come together so fast, and most of the ingredients are already in my pantry. In my small Raleigh … Read more
Macaroni Salad is one of those simple recipes that always shows up at the right time. It is creamy, a little sweet, and full of crunch from fresh veggies. I make this for cookouts, church potlucks, and easy summer dinners when it is too hot to turn on the oven. In my small Raleigh kitchen, … Read more
Split Pea Soup is one of those simple meals that just feels steady and comforting. It is thick, warm, and full of tender peas and smoky ham. I love making this on a slow weekend afternoon or when I have a leftover ham bone in the fridge. It simmers gently on the stove and fills … Read more
This Jollof Rice recipe is warm, comforting, and full of flavor. It is one of those dishes that feels special but is still very doable at home. I like making this when I want a cozy dinner that fills the kitchen with good smells and feeds everyone well. I usually make it on a weekend … Read more
This Cajun Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce is one of those meals that feels special but is honestly so doable at home. It’s filled with shrimp, crab, sausage, potatoes, corn, and eggs, all simmered in a seasoned broth and finished with warm garlic butter poured right over the top. I love making this when … Read more
Growing up, many people believe Christmas cacti bloom only once a year during the holidays. However, these plants can flower more than once with proper care. One of the most effective ways to support repeat blooming and maintain plant health is pruning. Although trimming a cactus may seem unusual, pruning helps Christmas cacti stay healthy, … Read more
Growing African violets can feel like a puzzle, especially when these popular houseplants refuse to bloom. Many plant lovers provide what seems like perfect care, yet the flowers never appear. Whether you are new to houseplants or have years of experience, it can be discouraging when your violets hold back their beautiful blossoms. The good … Read more
This easy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is one of those meals that feels cozy and filling without taking all night to make. You get tender chicken, a creamy garlic sauce, and pasta all cooked together in one pan. I like making this on busy weeknights when I want something comforting but still simple. It’s the … Read more
The Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) is a delightful plant, known for its simplicity and colorful winter blooms. If yours seems unhappy, it may be due to too much attention. Unlike many houseplants, this cactus thrives on light care, prefers less water, and grows well when slightly rootbound. Here is how to bring it back to … Read more
This creamy deviled egg pasta salad is one of those dishes that always disappears fast. I like making it for family gatherings, potlucks, or simple lunches when I want something cold, creamy, and filling. It has all the flavors of deviled eggs but in a pasta salad form, which makes it easy to scoop and … Read more