Hi there, I’m Lisa Hartwell, and at 53 years young, I still find deep joy in the sizzle of a hot pan, the scent of garlic blooming in olive oil, and the soul-warming magic that comes from easy home cooking. I live just outside sunny Santa Barbara, California, where farmers’ markets overflow with vibrant produce, and the ocean breeze sneaks in through my kitchen window as I cook.
My love for cooking didn’t come from fancy culinary schools or gourmet family traditions. It came from real-life necessity—and just a little spark of magic. In my twenties, I was a single mom to twin boys and working two jobs to stay afloat. My boys were notoriously picky eaters, and I quickly realized I had to get creative. If I could turn broccoli into something they’d not only eat—but ask for more of—I felt like I could do anything.
What began as survival slowly evolved into passion. Cooking became my escape, my outlet, and eventually, my love language. Over the years, I taught myself how to balance flavors, rescue broken sauces, and bake with confidence. I’ve had my fair share of kitchen flops (hello, sweet potato soufflé disaster of 2007 ), but each mistake taught me something valuable. And often, those detours led to recipes even better than what I originally planned.
These days, I spend my time developing approachable, flavor-filled recipes made for real life. You don’t need a sous vide machine, a chef’s jacket, or even perfect knife skills to create incredible meals at home. I’m here to prove that easy home cooking isn’t just possible—it’s joyful, flexible, and deeply satisfying.
My goal is to help everyday cooks like you feel confident and creative in your kitchen. Whether you’ve got five ingredients or a stocked pantry, I want you to feel inspired to cook something delicious. I focus on dishes that are rich in flavor, simple in method, and made with love. Some recipes are cozy and nostalgic; others are fresh and a little adventurous. But every single one is created to be accessible, doable, and rewarding.
Living in California has also shaped the way I cook. I love incorporating fresh, seasonal produce, and drawing inspiration from my local community, coastal flavors, and global cuisine. But at the core of it all, my food is about connection—bringing people together at the table, even if it’s just for a Tuesday night dinner.
On my blog, you’ll find everything from one-pan wonders to weekend baking projects. You’ll also find personal stories, shortcuts to save time, and tips to help you grow more confident in the kitchen. If you’re juggling a busy life but still want to feed your family well, I see you—I’ve been there. And that’s why I’m here.
If you love food that’s packed with heart, a little storytelling, and the occasional kitchen shortcut, welcome. This is your space, too. Let’s celebrate the beauty of easy home cooking—one recipe at a time.
My mission is to show that easy home cooking is for everyone—whether you’re feeding a family or just cooking for one.