Ciao! I’m Mary, a chef with a heart full of French flair, an explorer of the world, a history buff, and a green-thumbed gardener. My love for food, its origins, all things Europe, and the legendary Julia Child has led me to exciting adventures and delicious discoveries. Travel tugs at my heart, leading me to new places to indulge in local delights, explore ancient sites, and learn of secret spots and recipes from the locals. The synergy of these passions culminated in this blog that I started in May 2012.
I fell in love with Europe while studying culinary arts at La Varenne Ecole de Cuisine in Paris. Thanks to my mom and grandmother—excellent cooks who nurtured my culinary interests—I’ve become the chef I am today. Along with food, I cherish its roots, literally and figuratively, thanks to my love for gardening.
My travels to France satisfied my cravings for petite, ruby strawberries, warm breakfast pastries, tender green asparagus, and goat cheese on warm baguettes. Living in Australia as a private chef introduced me to giant prawns, mango everything (including milk!), and a vibrant culture and lifestyle of consistently happy people.
Trips to Portugal, Germany, Hungary, and more have given me new insights to ponder, especially when it comes to how friendly and welcoming most people are the world over. Sharing food is the magical wand that brings us all together. Wine has also been prominently featured in my travels, especially the table varieties from small bistros and family-run wineries crafted with local heart and soul.
Italy has stolen my heart, from the lush Tuscan hills to the heel of friendly Puglia and the vibrant, multi-cultural, and sassy Sicily, which served as the inspiration for my novel, The Sicilian Sorceress.
I must include New Mexico as one of my very favorite destinations. The blue sky, clay adobe structures, chile-infused New Mexican cuisine, energizing art scene, and mountains of yellow-leafed cottonwoods, fill my spirit and leave me craving more.
The best part about traveling? The amazing friends I’ve made along the way: Jacques, Angela, Davino, Nico, Mattia, Michelle, and Roberto. You’ll meet them here too.
I share my home with Desi, my Mexican rescue pup, who is my soul sister. She loves the ball, the beach, and dancing with her stuffed animal babies.
I’m rarely without my camera, capturing my travels, culinary creations, and blossoming gardens. All photos on this blog are taken by me.
Ciao e grazie mille amici,
All I can say is…wonderful wonderful wonderful….you have really poured your heart into this, and it shows. Keep up the good work.
love ya
jeff
Thanks Jeff! I LOVE the cooking/writing combo. It’s like playing a musical instrument, reaching for the perfect notes! I appreciate your support! Some yummy recipes coming up. You rock!
Mary, I feel like I have been to France! Thank you for sharing your genetics and your passion. Jill Murray
Thanks for checking out my blog Jill! Writing gives me the gift of re-living my adventures and feeling the joy fill my soul. It’s all about having fun, isn’t it?
Mary,
I am in the wine and food business and love your Blog. I also live in Southern California. I would love to meet you…if you’re anywhere near San Diego I would love to have you to my home for lunch.
Cheers,
June Dunn, President
EMAIL: dunn@WineKnowsTravel.com
TEL: 760.842.8812
Hi June,
Thanks so much for your comments! Food, travel, wine and gardening are definitely my passions. I’ll get in touch with you via email!
Mary
Love it, love you and looking forward to more! Cheers
HI,
I’m Tokoni, a student and poet. Its nice to meet you. I’d like to invite you to my blog at http://www.insanitybeautiful.wordpress.com if you’re interested. Thanks.
I love your blog Tokoni and now subscribe. Thanks for your inspiration and free-flowing poetry. It’s truly a pleasure to read.
Mary, I loved the kitchen aid article and your blog. I’m quite impressed. Would love to travel to Europe with you sometime. I’m headed to Paris for the first time in June. Keep up the good work.
Leslie Marin
Hi Leslie! Thanks so much! You will love Paris. Be sure to explore all the little neighborhoods and markets. David Lebovitz writes a fantastic blog about all things Paris. Check it out and you might find some ideas for places off the tourist register. http://www.davidlebovitz.com
Would love to catch up with you after your trip! Bon Voyage!!!
Hello Mary, just want to say thank you so much for bringing us along your journey with food and travels. I really enjoyed.. I’m looking forward to your book.. Hmmmmm… Love you my friend
Thanks so much Ralph. I appreciate your feedback and yes, you will be one of the first to read my forthcoming book. You are a wonderful, caring person and I hope our paths cross again someday! Love you too!