Hi! I’m Lee-Ann, a self-taught home cook, retired music teacher, and proud wife and mom of three grown kids (how did that happen so fast?!). I live in Connecticut with my hubby & my sweet English springer spaniel, Moose – who also happens to be my very loyal kitchen assistant (and occasional taste tester).
This blog is where I share my favorite family recipes, personal food stories, and all the comforting dishes I love to cook – whether it’s a simple weeknight pasta or something new Lou and I discovered at a restaurant and recreated at home.
Growing up in a big family, food and music were always present. My Dad played the trumpet and my Mom sang all the time! I am one of 5 kids, and we ALL played an instrument or 2! My Mom played music 24/7 – what musical mood was Mom in today? It was a crap-shoot and I LOVED that.
And my mom made the most unforgettable homemade meat sauce – loaded with hamburg, sausage, and pepperoni – and she let me help by opening the cans. That sauce would simmer all day, filling the house with an aroma so rich, you could practically taste it before dinner. It didn’t matter if it was 90 degrees outside – if there was sauce on the stove, we were sweating and eating spaghetti like it was the middle of winter.
Looking back, it’s no surprise I ended up with a deep love for both good food and good music. I studied voice in college, became a music teacher, and somewhere along the way, started falling in love with cooking, too.
In my younger years, I “cooked to survive” – you know, the ramen-in-a-hot-pot phase. College was all about heating up something! I could handle pasta and a few go-to meals, but it wasn’t until my 30s (when I met my husband Lou) that I really started diving into food.
Lou introduced me to linguine with clam sauce (I had never tried it before!) and that was it. From then on, we’ve shared a love for trying new recipes, discovering local restaurants, and finding inspiration in every bite.
Today, I enjoy curating and sharing those recipes – some passed down, some brand-new – for friends, family, and now, you. Whether it’s classic comfort food, seasonal dishes, or just something quick and easy, I’m here to help you make delicious meals with ingredients you can find at your local market, farm stand, or even in your own backyard garden.
◊ Easy, approachable recipes for everyday cooks
◊ Stories behind the meals – because food is personal
◊ Tips for using fresh, quality ingredients
◊ A little music inspiration along the way 🎶
◊ And plenty of love from my kitchen to yours
So come on in! Let’s put on some good music, pour a cup of coffee (or wine – no judgment), and make something delicious together. I’m so happy you’re here.
Food and music. To me, they go hand in hand. That’s Amore! ❤️
Have a question about a recipe? A certain food or product I use? Questions about my privacy policy? Want to know more about Moose/English Springer Spaniels? Bring me your questions!
Fill out the form below and let’s chat!
