Blog
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!
Welcome to the Flamingo Farmhouse Blog!
Welcome to the Flamingo Farmhouse Blog!
This space is where faith, creativity, and color collide. I’ll be sharing bits of my heart, behind-the-scenes of my Chalk Couture business, fun DIYs, encouragement for moms, and whatever else the Spirit leads me to write. Whether you’re here for inspiration, connection, or a creative spark — I’m so glad you’re here.
Meal Planning 102
Ready to cut your grocery bill and meal prep stress in half?
Meal Planning 102 is here! In this post, I’m breaking down how to shop smarter, cook frugally, and save real money—without sacrificing food quality. Learn why shopping less often, sticking to a list, and using budget-friendly stores like Aldi can completely change your kitchen routine (and your bank account). Plus, I’ll show you how these simple shifts are helping my family save up for something big. Let’s get to planning—and saving!
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.