Blog
Delicious, Homemade Lemon Syrup
Spring sunshine, lemon syrup, and a whole lotta love!
As a proud mom of the groom, I’m sharing all the sweet details from our citrus-themed wedding shower—think “The Main Squeeze” decor, lemonade bar goodness, and my go-to recipe for homemade lemon syrup. Whether you use it in tea, on cake, or with chicken, this golden treat is pure sunshine in a jar. Come check it out!
Got Homemade Kalua Pork?
Bring a little ALOHA to your kitchen!
Today I’m sharing one of my all-time favorite recipes—Kalua Pua (Kalua Pork), island-style! Traditionally cooked in an underground pit, this version is made easy using a roaster pan, banana leaves, and a few flavorful ingredients. Perfect for sharing with family, friends, or your Chalk Couture crew! Mahalo and enjoy! 🌺
Let Them Eat Cake
Did you know I don’t just chalk—I bake too?
In honor of National Chocolate Cake Day, I’m sharing a sweet side of my world: specialty cakes by Mama Markel! From buttered almond to chocolate mocha bacon (yes, really!), baking is one of my favorite creative outlets—right up there with Chalk Couture. If you're in the Orlando area, let’s make your next celebration delicious!
PoTATo, PoTOTo
What started as a grocery mix-up turned into a kitchen win!
When life gave me 15 pounds of yellow potatoes, I made magic—mashed potatoes for the freezer and crispy waffle-style hash browns served with fresh guac. In true MARKEL MANIA™ fashion, this cooking adventure was chaotic, creative, and delicious. Come laugh, learn, and maybe get inspired to embrace the “potato panic” moments in your own kitchen!
Let’s talk Guac!
At our house, September means avocado season—Florida style!
While others are sipping pumpkin spice, we’re making fresh guac with fruit straight from the tree. In this post, I’m sharing everything from how to ripen Florida avocados to my favorite guacamole recipe packed with bold flavor and a creamy texture. Plus, a few tricks to help keep it green longer. Let’s get smashing!
Got Bananas?
Yes, we have bananas—homegrown and full of flavor!
After three months of waiting, we harvested a hand of bananas from our own backyard trees. In this post, I’m sharing how we grow, harvest, and ripen these sweet treats (plus a few tasty ways to cook with them—green or ripe!). From tree to table, you’ll never look at a banana the same way again!
Meal Planning 101
Frugal doesn’t mean boring—it means freedom.
In Meal Planning 101, I’m sharing the system I created to feed a family of six on just $350–$400/month—without sacrificing quality or creativity. With simple steps, flexible calendars, and pantry organization tips, you’ll learn how to stretch your grocery budget, reduce stress, and still enjoy your favorite meals. Whether you’re saving for a dream trip or just trying to make ends meet, this system works. And yes—there’s room for whoopie pies.