This year I planted trees as a way to give back to the Earth that gives us so much. It’s a small step, but one that will grow, provide, and last for years to come. Let’s all do what we can—every effort matters. Whether you’re planting trees, recycling, or simply cleaning up your surroundings, every little step makes a difference. The 3 R’s are always a great place to start: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Planting trees is just one way to support cleaner air, healthier soil, and a mo

If you’ve been following along, you may have noticed that I didn’t plant a spring or summer garden last year — and that was intentional. I made the decision to step back so I could fully focus on completing my Master Gardener internship. Between evening classes, coursework, volunteer hours, and continuing education requirements, my time and energy were committed to learning and growing in a different way. And I’m proud to continuously say… it was all worth it. 🌿 So when fall

I’m still smiling as I write this. QueDaVeggie  has been featured again — this time in Bold Journey ! Although the article was published at the end of February, I wanted to take a moment to reflect before sharing. Being recognized again is something I don’t take lightly, and it’s a reminder that even the quiet moments of creating are part of something bigger. When I started this blog, I simply wanted a space to share my love for food, gardening, and the little things that bri

There’s something about the warmth of the sun that makes you slow down a little. Lately, I’ve been leaning into that—taking a moment to just be. No rushing, no pressure, just sitting still and letting the quiet do its thing. And if you need it too, consider this your reminder that it’s okay to pause. With spring here, I know what’s ahead: planning, planting, and getting back into the rhythm of the garden. But before I jump into all of that, I’m allowing myself this moment to

Sometimes, the best dinners are the quiet ones—good food, a relaxed atmosphere, and a moment to simply unwind. J. Alexander’s delivered. Smoked Salmon Dip I started with the house-smoked salmon dip—fresh, rich, and full of flavor—paired with a Red-Headed Rita Martini, a smooth blend of tequila, Cointreau, and pomegranate juice. Still craving more, I went for the grilled salmon, served with their signature Not Your Ordinary Mac & Cheese and lemon Reggiano broccoli. The salmon

It’s been a while since I’ve shared a recipe here—and that’s no bueno. Cooking and baking are such a big part of my everyday life, and I hope to capture more of that. I'm starting with something simple, cozy, and absolutely worth sharing. This banana nut bread came together on a whim, using what I had on hand (including 2½ very ripe bananas and a generous handful of pecans). What I didn’t expect was just how good it would turn out. Soft, moist, perfectly sweet, with that butt

There’s something about the arrival of spring that just feels like a reset. The days are getting longer, the air feels lighter, and everything around us is starting to bloom again. It’s a season that invites you to slow down, step outside, and appreciate the beauty in simple moments. Spring always brings a sense of calm and clarity, like a gentle reminder to start fresh and embrace what’s ahead. I just returned from a cruise vacation, and one of my favorite moments was simply

Okay, I really debated sharing this because the minute I do, y’all are going to run there. Then it’s long lines. Long waits. And me questioning my life choices. 😂 But here we are. The wings at Bonchon Chicken ? Hands down some of the best in Memphis. They’re double-fried, which means extra crispy and packed with flavor in every single bite. That crunch is unreal. My favorite flavors are Yangnyeom and Korean BBQ....fingerlicking gooood🔥 And I’m definitely not telling y’all a

Sometimes you just need a nice dinner out—good food, relaxed ambiance, and a chance to slow down and enjoy the evening. That’s always my experience at Amerigo Italian Restaurant. It ’s polished without being pretentious—perfect for a relaxed night out centered around great food. I started the evening with a glass of prosecco (always a good idea) and the Tuscan Crab Cakes. Made with jumbo lump crab and served with greens, white bean salsa, and a lemon basil butter sauce, they

Happy Valentine’s Day from QueDaVeggie! I’m definitely someone who enjoys the flowers, the dinners, the sweet gestures, and all the little things that make the day feel special. There’s something nice about taking time to celebrate love—whether it’s with someone else or just enjoying a moment that feels good to you. Sometimes that love shows up in a beautiful bouquet, a thoughtful surprise, or a really good meal. And honestly, I’m here for all of it. However you’re spending t

Happy New Year (again). January has officially ended, February has begun, and winter is still very much clocked in. The year didn’t ease in gently — it arrived with snow, ice, and an unexpected pause from the usual day-to-day hustle. I’ve been snowed and iced in for eight days now, and honestly, it’s been a pleasant break. Working from home has allowed me to slow down and lean into simple joys — cooking, baking, and getting creative with whatever I already had in my fridge an

I’m celebrating the season in Mexico this year and feeling incredibly grateful. Wishing you and your family a holiday filled with love, peace, joy, and beautiful moments to cherish. May the new year bring good health, happiness, and plenty of reasons to smile. ❤️

Last night I headed out for a fun girls’ night downtown and treated myself to dinner at Catherine & Mary’s — a Tuscan- and Sicilian-inspired gem located in downtown Memphis. The place is run by celebrated chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman, and it truly delivers. The restaurant has high ceilings, cozy lighting, and a blend of Italian tradition and Southern soul. First Course — Parmesan Soufflé + Pinot Grigio, I kicked things off with the Parmesan Soufflé: a warm, cozy blend

Happy Thanksgiving

Downtown Dining Week at Slim & Husky's Pizza Beeria

Downtown Dining Week at One11Madison

One of my favorite Memphis food traditions is officially here — Downtown Dining Week 2025 ! For one week only, restaurants all across Downtown are offering special menus and unbeatable deals, giving us all the perfect excuse to explore new spots or show love to our favorites. This week highlights everything that makes Memphis dining special. I decided to kick off the week at Momma’s , a trucker-themed diner serving up all-day deliciousness — from hearty breakfast plates to co

Halloween is one of my favorite days of the year — though I’m never quite sure if it counts as a holiday ! Either way, it’s the perfect time to embrace all things spooky, sweet, and fun. Whether you’re dressing up, passing out candy, or enjoying a cozy scary movie night, I hope you make the most of it. Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy the magic of Halloween!

It’s been a minute since my last Plant of the Month  post, but I’m so excited to restart the series—and what better way than with my birthday present. This year, I received a Japanese Garden Juniper , and honestly, what a beautiful and thoughtful gift. I love this plant already—it’s simple to care for, loves the outdoors, and adds such a peaceful vibe to my backyard. It’s perfect for anyone with an outdoor space who wants a touch of calm, low-maintenance greenery. From what I

I’m feeling so grateful to see another year — another chance to grow, experience life, and appreciate everything that has shaped me along the way. This year, I’m reflecting on my accomplishments and the memories that continue to add depth to my journey. With each passing year comes more wisdom, new perspectives, and greater clarity about what I want in life — where I want to go, what I want to do, and who I want to share my time with. I’m embracing the future with an open hea

Today marks the first day of fall, and I’m ready to welcome everything this season brings — cooler mornings, cozy nights, and the simple...

If there’s one thing everyone knows about me, it’s that I love  breakfast food. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with intermittent fasting...

Dinner at Sakura was delectable, and let me just say—it was one of those meals where you leave full, happy, and already planning your...

After eight months of dedication, late evenings, homework, projects, volunteer hours, and a final exam, I can finally say it: I am...

I’m so excited to welcome all the new readers and subscribers who found me through the recent magazine feature — thank you for being...

✨ Big news! ✨ I’m beyond excited to share that my food blog has officially been featured in the Memphis Voyager! 🥳 After months of...

Chicken & Waffles Roscoe’s House of Chicken ’N Waffles — affectionately called Roscoe’s by just about everyone — and well known for their...

While cruising through Mexico, I stopped in the colorful port city of Ensenada—and let’s just say, my stomach led the way. I stumbled...

July has been a whirlwind of celebration, sunshine, and fun. I kicked off the month with Fourth of July 4 festivities, enjoying time with...

This month’s plant spotlight goes to my Chinese Evergreen —a true low-maintenance beauty that’s been flourishing with very little effort...

I recently had dinner at Sakura , and let me just say—it was one of those meals where you leave full, happy, and already planning your...

The Summer Solstice  is here—the longest day of the year and the official start of summer! With extra hours of sunshine, it’s the perfect...

This month’s plant spotlight is —the beautiful Juniper Bonsai . While I haven’t had this little one for very long, it holds a meaningful...

Happy Mother's Day

Review of Umiya Sushi Memphis

I’ll admit, I was a little skeptical about naming chives as my houseplant of the month—mainly because they’ve spent more time outdoors...

There’s a quiet beauty in the way the earth moves—seasons shifting, leaves unfurling, waves kissing the shore. Earth Day is a gentle...

It’s hard to believe, but my time in the Master Gardener internship program is drawing to a close—at least the in-class portion. We're...

As the month comes to a close, it's time to spotlight another favorite from my plant collection—my Neon Pothos ! I've had this beauty for...

Some people come into our lives and leave a lasting imprint—not just through what they say, but through how they live, love, and teach us...

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to volunteer at the 20th annual tree planting event  with the Wolf River Conservancy. It was an...

This month’s featured plant is the Norfolk Island Pine.

The journey has officially begun! I’m now a few weeks into the Master Gardener internship program, and I have to say—it’s been both...

As we step into 2025, it's the perfect time to reflect on the memories made and the opportunities that lie ahead. This year is a fresh...

Wishing You a Joyful Holiday Season

Happy Thanksgiving, food lovers! 🍂🦃 Today is all about gathering around the table, savoring delicious dishes, and making memories with...

In honor of Memphis' Annual Downtown Dining Week, I decided to indulge at Dvour Desserts—a local favorite known for its decadent,...

This past week, the Downtown Memphis restaurant community came together for the Annual Downtown Dining Week, celebrating the vibrant...

I am thrilled to share that I've recently been accepted into the Master Gardeners program—a dream come true! This marks the start of an...

Today’s Halloween scene is the epitome of fall—a cool, misty rain with leaves swirling through the streets. It’s the kind of day that...