Mushroom & Wild Rice Soup
This is the ultimate stick-to-your-ribs kind of soup. Wild rice thickens and adds a boost of fiber to make it a filling but- not-heavy cold weather meal. The parmesan rinds add a nuttiness. And a drizzle of sherry vinegar at the end brings just right acidity to brighten this cozy soup and elevate all of … Read More
Mushroom & Walnut Grit Cakes
Grits are a Southern staple and delicious for breakfast, lunch or dinner. This humble ingredient makes a wonderful medium for expressing other ingredients, especially mushrooms. By simply adding a touch of butter, a little cheese and an egg, grits bake up beautifully into tender cakes, perfect for topping with an earthy and flavorful walnut-mushroom sauce. … Read More
Mushroom & Swiss Chard Tart
Multiple varieties of mushrooms are now joining the familiar white button and portobellos on supermarket shelves and at local farmer’s markets. There are meaty shiitakes, sweet-and-nutty beech mushrooms, delicate oyster mushrooms, earthy maitakes, morels, chanterelle, lion’s mane and more. They’re a little mysterious and packed with umami, a fifth taste (alongside sweet, savory, sour and … Read More
Skillet Chicken Pot Pie with Black Pepper Parmesan Biscuits
Few things bring more comfort during cold winter months than a bubbling pot pie: a blanket of warm, savory goodness to tuck into at the end of a long day. This stick-to-your ribs dish is simple, satisfying and surprisingly easy to pull together! Skillet-cooking the pie filling makes for quick prep and clean up and … Read More
Double Chocolate Olive Oil Cookies
These cookies are jam-packed with chocolate, chocolate, chocolate and all the right decadent things for February. Why February? Many of us (including me) back off on indulgence in January to get a healthy, solid start to the new year, which is a good thing! It’s important to allow our internal systems to reset by cutting … Read More
Very Veggie Chilli
I’m going to say it. This is the best vegetarian chili ever. It’s lean. It’s clean. And it’s meanly delicious. And the best part is that once you’ve done all the prep — spoiler alert; there’s a bit of chopping involved — you are left with a simple one-pot wonder, full of immunity-boosting beans, veggies, herbs … Read More
Chili Crunch Cauliflower + Parmesan
Do you know chili crunch? It contains crunchy, flavor-packed bits of onion, pepper, garlic and aromatic spices. It’s a wildly popular condiment that took off during the pandemic and is now available in supermarkets and online. A true flavor bomb, this condiment is incredibly nuanced and full of umami. It goes with everything! Schmear it … Read More
Devilish Deviled Eggs
History tells us that the deviled egg dates back to Ancient Rome and was often served as a spicy starter that, over time, was gradually modified and mellowed down by the addition of mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt. Today’s traditional deviled egg is delightful in so many simple, Southern ways, but the classic recipe is … Read More
Chipotle Steak Salad
The star ingredient in this salad? Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, which are smoked jalapenos mixed in a sweet and tangy coating of vinegar, tomatoes, garlic and spices. Packed with wicked heat, these peppers have a balanced smoky-savory flavor that packs a huge punch. Find them in short 2-4 inch cans in the international aisle … Read More
Too-Good Tomato Pie
Tomato therapy is a thing, or at least it should be. There are few things better than a just-picked tomato; it’s one simple ingredient that can totally transform a dish. I love that tomato season lingers here in the South. Big fat heirlooms are available well into football season and sometimes even early fall. When … Read More
Frozen Peanut Butter Cups
It’s hard to imagine how you can make a chocolate peanut butter cup better than it already is. But we’ve done it! These indulgently rich sweet-and-salty treats have far less sugar than what you’ll find at the supermarket. And by freezing them, you can have an ice-cold bite of heaven any time of day without … Read More
Lemon Icebox Cake
Ice box cakes are so easy and so good and great for simple summer entertaining. No oven required! They are best made ahead so that all the flavors can meld and soak into each and every sponge-and-cream filled bite. This one is light, bright and brilliant, using only five ingredients! Most ice box cakes are … Read More
Mango Buttermilk Popsicles
Summer is peak mango season! And these treats balance the buttery smooth sweetness of a ripe mango with the tangy, bold flavors of buttermilk. Mangoes are packed full of flavor and naturally sweet goodness, as well as antioxidants and fiber. Subbing buttermilk for part of the heavy cream gives these pops a refreshingly lower calorie … Read More
Pear, Prosciutto & Gorgonzola Tart with Dried Cherries
Layers of crisp-crackly phyllo crust make a light-but-sturdy base for this creamy, cheesy tart topped with juicy pears, plump dried cherries and crunchy pecans. Turns out pears pair beautifully with funky gorgonzola, which seamlessly brings out their sweetness as well as that of the dried cherries. Toasted pecans add an extra layer of nutty, heart-healthy … Read More
Chocolate Chip Zucchini Breakfast Cookies
What’s not to love about a cookie for breakfast? These on-the-go-treats are a snap to make and loaded with whole grains, nuts, fiber-filled flaxseed, protein- packed almond butter, antioxidant-rich dark chocolate, plump raisins and loads of zucchini which is (surprise!) a fruit! Make ahead and freeze or savor these cookies immediately. Kids love them, too! … Read More
Strawberry & Snap Pea Salad with Pistachio-Lemon Vinaigrette
The dressing is what sets the salad apart. The combination of bright lemon, pistachios and earthy olive oil make it restaurant-worthy. You’ll want to make a double batch and then invite all your friends over for a spring patio party! Plus, the oil and nuts unlock the peas’ nutritional punch; they’re rich in vitamins A, … Read More
A Discussion with John Moorer
For years, John Moorer felt like there was something off with his health. He sought the counsel of multiple doctors, but none of them provided a diagnosis. They didn’t seem to think there was anything he should be worried about. They were wrong. His story points to the importance of being proactive when it comes … Read More
A Conversation with Javacia Harris Bowser
You’re young. Just starting a new, uncertain career. A global pandemic is raging. And you’re diagnosed with breast cancer. What do you do? If you’re type-A, go-getter, freelance writer extraordinaire Javacia Harris Bowser, you stay calm and carry on. But you also recognize and soak up the support of a loving husband and the small … Read More
A Discussion with Katie Reifenberg Pinson
Katie Reifenberg Pinson was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma in 2020. She was 38 and surprised, to say the least, as there was no history of breast cancer in her family. Add a raging pandemic to the mix, and she was faced with isolation during treatment instead of an inundation of hands-on help. Despite months … Read More
Finding Joy
Cancer has been—and still is—a big part of Susan Reed’s life. It’s a fact that’s hard to reconcile with her easy smile that appears so often and is so freely given to most anyone she encounters. Reed is a cancer survivor. Her husband died of cancer in April 2022. And she’s the Vice President of … Read More
A Discussion with Jannah Bailey
When she received her breast cancer diagnosis, Montgomery native Jannah Bailey took a normal knee-jerk reaction to the news and turned it on its head, finding the strength to fight. But she wasn’t alone. An army of friends and family stood beside her to help. Tell us about your cancer diagnosis and treatment.I had noticed … Read More
A Discussion with Carrie Ward
In 2018, Carrie Ward and her family were still reeling from her husband’s health issues when the news got worse. She learned she had two different kinds of breast cancer and would require multiple surgeries and treatments. Then, after beating her cancer back, as 2021 ended, Ward learned it had returned. In both battles, her … Read More
Survivor Spotlight: Pam Mashburn
As 2007 drew to a close, and Pam Mashburn welcomed a fresh new year, she was on a roll. The small business owner, wife and mom was gearing up for a great 2008. Then, just a few weeks into January, a routine mammogram resulted in some not-great news: breast cancer. With determination, a sense of … Read More
A Discussion with Betty Ehrlich & Elaine Kirkpatrick
When she was three years old, Betty Ehrlich lost her mother to breast cancer. Today, Betty is herself a three-time cancer survivor. Her daughter Elaine has been by her side through all three struggles. The duo shared what they’ve each learned and how prayer and positive thinking have proven powerful weapons in all of Betty’s … Read More
A Discussion with Beverly Helton
In 2008, a very healthy and active 48-year-old Beverly Helton, who up until the moment she detected a lump in her breast felt “just fine,” was diagnosed with stage III invasive breast cancer. She beat it. Then, in 2017, she was diagnosed with stage III ovarian cancer, and she’s beating that too. Through both journeys, … Read More
A Discussion with Hayden McDonald
I turned 40 years old, so I scheduled my mammogram. I’m very thankful I didn’t wait! Hayden McDonald is a Montgomery native who has spent her life being active and helping others improve their health by doing the same, working as an exercise physiologist with the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at Baptist Medical Center South for … Read More
A Discussion with Jackie Butler
(Jackie is pictured above (left) with co-worker Evelyn.) Love is a great healer! Be generous with it! For more than a decade, Jackie Butler has been a valuable member of the Joy to Life Foundation team, working as its book keeper. But she’s dedicated to far more than keeping the foundation’s finances in order. As … Read More
A Discussion with Heather Parrish
I would encourage you [Caregiver/Loved One] to allow the cancer fighter to express whatever emotion they are feeling in the moment, without trying to fix the situation. During two back-to-back battles with cancer, Heather Parrish, proprietor of Montgomery’s Southern Art & Makers Collective gallery and shop, learned the limits of her own tenacity and how … Read More
Check out some of JOY’s favorite fall festivities
Pumpkin patches, football games, crisp air, colorful leaves! Throw in some spectacular seasonal events throughout the state, and you’ve got the best autumn ever. Joy to Life Walk of Life for Breast Cancer Montgomery, Oct 21 Join the Joy to Life Foundation for our annual Walk of Life 5K & Riverfront Celebration in downtown Montgomery. … Read More
Hot Stuff
Some like it hot, and if you’re in this fiery faction, and you like to “eat local,” you’re in luck. Several spicy Alabama-made treats are available to really turn up the heat. Southern Chili Lab Hot Sauces & Chili Crisp This brand-new, Alabama-coast-based condiment company is turning out several varieties of hot sauce and a … Read More
Creating a Smoke-Free City
The statistics on the dangers of smoking and second-hand smoke are staggering: Tobacco is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States. It kills more people than alcohol, AIDS, car crashes, illegal drugs, murders and suicides combined. Aiming to change these numbers for the better in Montgomery, The Alabama Department of Public Health … Read More
Smooth Move
Fruit smoothies are great vehicles for delivering your daily dose of plant-based goodness. These nutrient-packed sips are simple, quick and cheap to make, conveniently portable, and so tasty, they’re incredibly easy drink and sure will put some spring in your step. Start with the below basic building blocks and then get creative, mixing and matching … Read More
Fave Summer Events 2023
Summer is here, and it’s hot! But the event calendars of communities all over Alabama on are fire too, offering a wide range of activities, adventures and happenings to appeal to almost any interest. Chilton County Peach Festival, June 20-28, Clanton Join this monthlong celebration of Alabama peaches. Pageants, parties and tournaments are held throughout … Read More
Eat Alabama
Our state is home to quite a few innovative cooks and companies creating all manner of edible products. Check out some of our favorite Alabama-made snacks, sauces and sweets. Wickles Pickles: Salty and tangy with a little sweet and a nice punch of spice, Wickles Pickles are “wickedly delicious.” Based in Dadeville, this pickle purveyor … Read More
Benefits of Walking
We all walk every day, even if it’s just short distances around our office and our house. Some folks add a planned walk to their routine, one designed to burn extra calories and aid in weight loss while giving their hearts and other muscles a workout. The health benefits of walking for exercise are well … Read More
Little Free Pantry
Food insecurity has been a pressing problem across the United States and all over Alabama for decades. Recent rises in food prices have only exacerbated the issue; as the cost to feed ourselves inches upward, so too does the number of people finding themselves without access to enough nutritious food. One solution to address food … Read More
Know the Power of No
Many of us live in a state of perpetual hurry. Rush out the door to carpool. Rush to meet the deadline. Rush through lunch to make a meeting. Rush to clean the house before the kids come home. Rush to make it to soccer practice, a baseball game or a dance recital. The problem is, … Read More
The Naked Truth
Body image is an issue that so many people struggle with, and parents want to ensure their kids grow up confident and comfortable in their own skin. But can you teach them to love themselves if you don’t practice what you preach? If you have kids, maybe you’ll agree that they are simultaneously the best … Read More
Pedaling Perks
Robert Traphan cycled for recreation and transportation growing up through grade school, and in college, to get around his Connecticut campus. But after his bike was stolen prior to moving to Montgomery, it was years before he purchased another one (in 2007)—and when he started riding with the Montgomery Bicycle Club. For the past 15 … Read More
Products,Places & Things We Love
WEST ALABAMA Even more tastey delights and culinary adventures await around the state. Headed west? Check out a few more of our favorites. Stop in Selma for some cajun flavors at Bayou Rouge Bistró or track down an Abadir’s pop-up around the Black Belt to overload your tastebuds with Sarah Cole’s Egyptian-influenced eats. NORTH ALABAMA … Read More
Special “Spring Has Sprung” Events
Spring has sprung all over Alabama, and pleasant temperatures plus pretty, blue-sky days are calling us to get out of the house to go, see and do. This time each year, the state’s event calendar is jam-packed with fun, fresh-air, family friendly, and often, free, happenings and activities. From food and art to gardens and … Read More
Have a Plan(t)
Make a plan to elevate your health by incorporating more plants in your diet this year. Here, The Alabama Department of Health’s Nutrition and Physical Activity Division shares the reasons you should, easy ways you can, plus a few flavorful, filling and wholesome fruit-and-veggie-focused recipes to help you eat UP. Whether fresh, frozen, canned or … Read More
Creating a Family Budget – And Sticking to It
Good financial health helps lower stress levels so it’s a key component of your overall health and wellbeing. And while saving money in this crazy economy may seem like a daunting task, creating a budget that fits your family makes it much easier. Use these tips to get your household spending in order and start … Read More
Real Life Tips to Health
Did you make a list of things you’d like to change in your life in 2023? Is one of them to get and stay healthier? Whether you set that goal down as a formal New Year’s resolution or it’s a wish you’ve had (but not worked hard on attaining) for a while now, we’ve got … Read More
