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We all go through stuff, especially once mid-life hits. Finding resilience and making the choice between recovering or not can be difficult, but not impossible.

This week I'm talking with Kelly Beins, an occupational therapist who built a business, closed a business, and now is thriving in her career.

You'll hear about the mental ups and downs in entrepreneurship and how it's not always as easy as pulling yourself up by the bootstraps. Kelly's humor and willingness to talk about the tough stuff makes this conversation really special.

Find Christine at:
FB: @emptynestkitchen
IG: @TheEmptyNestKitchen
Web: EmptyNestKitchen.com

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen

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What happens when you combine a chatterbox cook with an Improv pro?

This week, we're talking about finding the funny with Laura Stark of the improv troupe That's What She Said! The conversations bobs and weaves through pronouns, yoga, bread baking, and why improv for the empty nest ladies is a great (and fun!) idea!

You can find tickets to the That's What She Said May 31, 2024 improv performance in Frederick, MD here.

Find Christine at:
FB: @emptynestkitchen
IG: @TheEmptyNestKitchen
Web: EmptyNestKitchen.com

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen

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Christine Van Bloem's journey from surviving a heart attack to thriving today shows resilience and the power of awareness. Through her story, she not only raises awareness about the often overlooked symptoms of heart attacks in women but also underscores the importance of listening to one's body and advocating for proper medical attention. 

Despite the challenges faced, Christine emerged from the ordeal stronger and more determined than ever. She discusses how her perspective on life and health has shifted post-heart attack, inspiring her to advocate for greater awareness and education surrounding women's heart health.

Tune in to this episode to gain invaluable insights into women's heart health and the importance of proactive self-care.

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen

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Looking to up your wine IQ by trying something new this summer?  This crisp, white wine is a relative of Sauvignon Blanc and though it can be a little spendy, it's a tasty option for warmer weather.

And while we're talking wine, let's bring what is sure to be the cocktail of the summer into the mix too! Fruity with a hint of vanilla and a racy name, you're going to want to add this one to your repertoire!

Find Christine at:
FB: @emptynestkitchen
IG: @TheEmptyNestKitchen
Web: EmptyNestKitchen.com

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen

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In this episode of The Empty Nest Kitchen, host Christine Van Bloem delves into the world of tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen with special guest Marien Hornyak, owner of The Kitchenette in Downtown Frederick, Maryland. Get ready to discover the latest must-have gadgets and hear insights from Marien, who is also known as the @TheBlindKitchenLady on TikTok.

Christine and Marien touch on topics ranging from kitchen organization to marathon running, offering listeners a glimpse into Marien's multifaceted life. Marien provides valuable tips for empty nesters looking to streamline their kitchen and make cooking more enjoyable and efficient in an engaging conversation filled with insights, recommendations, and inspiration. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this episode is sure to spark your culinary curiosity!

Connect with Us:

• Follow Christine Van Bloem at EmptyNestKitchen.com, IG: @theemptynestkitchen, FB: @emptynestkitchen
• Connect with Marien Hornyak on TikTok as @TheBlindKitchenLady  and IG as @the_kitchenette_frederick and at www.thekitchenettefrederick.com. Be sure to visit The Kitchenette too in Downtown Frederick, Maryland.

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen

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Christine Van Bloem and Kristin Smedley of Daffodil Pathways have a  lively discussion  about navigating menopause and holistic health practices, with a focus on empowerment and self-advocacy.

The conversation delves into Kristin's journey transitioning from nursing to holistic nursing, menopause experiences, and empowering women to become their own health advocates. We discovered the inspiration behind Daffodil Pathways and the resilience symbolized by daffodils. Kristin shared her expertise on self-discovery, mental health during menopause, and the importance of finding an educated health provider. 

Enjoy a special offer for podcast listeners to engage with Kristin's services at Daffodil Pathways, emphasizing self-care and holistic health practices. Stay tuned for more empowering conversations with Christine Van Bloem and inspiring guests on Empty Nest Kitchen!

Find Kristin here:

• IG: @ksmeddy
• FB: Kristin Hall Smedley
• Web: daffodilpathways.com

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen

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Podcast Show Notes: Episode 7 - Finding Treasures with Amy Benton of Paris is Calling

Welcome back to another episode of The Empty Nest Kitchen! Today, we're delving into the  world of found treasures with my guest, Amy Benton, the founder of Paris is Calling. Amy is here to share her passion for discovering hidden gems and bringing the charm and vibe of Paris and beyond to local communities.

Amy, the creative force behind Paris is Calling, has dedicated herself to curating unique pop-up showcases that unveil the allure of Parisian culture. From vintage trinkets to timeless pieces, each item tells a story.

Listeners, mark your calendars! Paris is Calling is hosting a local pop-up event at Chartreuse in Frederick, MD, on April 18, 19, and 20. Join Amy and her partner Elin Ross and explore their curated collection of found treasures. Whether you're seeking a piece of history or simply craving a touch of elegance, this event will ignite your imagination.

In my conversation with Amy, we delve into her journey of uncovering hidden gems.. From vintage markets to secret boutiques and thrift stores, Amy's keen eye for beauty has led her to discover unique pieces, ready for new homes.

 Amy also hosts engaging classes, including one on creating captivating tablescapes. Learn the art of French-inspired decor and elevate your dining experience to new heights.

Thanks for tuning in to The Empty Nest Kitchen! Be sure to subscribe for more captivating conversations and inspiring stories. Until next time, au revoir!

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen

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Working with puff pastry is a breeze if you know the tips and tricks to get you from freezer to oven in puffy, crispy, flaky goodness.

This week we're talking all things puff pastry, from how's it's made to techniques that insure puffy success. We'll even talk about how to make the most of frozen puff to turn it into a delightful dinner or delectable dessert, in a flash!

YouTube Video: https://bit.ly/4alSsiY

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen

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This week Deb King from Deb's Artisan Bakehouse and I are talking pastries, why food IS love if you're the cook, and how her terrific bakery got started. If you've ever wondered how she creates a menu or what it's like to have a menu full of choices and options every week, this episode is the one for you.

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen

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Laurie Boucher calls herself a Pastapreneur, but I call her the Pasta Queen. Laurie's dedication to all things pasta on her Instagram account, @BaltimoreHomeCook, will leave you not only hungry, but ready to make your own pasta!

A former attorney, Laurie has jumped into pasta-making full steam ahead. You can find her delicious hand-formed pasta at Cafe Campli in Baltimore or her Sardinian pasta tools and pasta art on her Etsy page, PastaArt.

• Follow Christine Van Bloem on Instagram @theemptynestkitchen and on Facebook @emptynestkitchen
• Learn more about Menopause Meal Plans
• Sign up for my FREE 10 Essential Tools for the Empty Nest Kitchen