Happy June, Foodies!
Can you believe it’s June already? Around here, we’re finally getting a real spring — the kind with that perfect mix of sunshine and showers. The grass is so green it practically begs you to walk barefoot, and the flowers are loving all this rain. Honestly? So am I!
And speaking of fresh… I just had new headshots taken! It felt like the perfect time to refresh not just the blog photos, but my face on the site too 😄. I even made a prop — my famous Key Lime Pie, a tart, creamy summer staple that’s always a hit. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the time!
But before we get to the photos, let’s dive into a brand new recipe — and a refreshed old favorite that’s near and dear to my heart.
👉 Would you help me pick the new headshot? Scroll down to see the 4 options!
🍞 June Bread of the Month: Zucchini Bread
Moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, this is the zucchini bread I come back to again and again. My secret step keeps it lighter while still ultra moist, and it’s made with less sugar than most recipes. Bonus? It’s been tested at every altitude — including here at high altitude — so no matter where you’re baking, you can count on a beautiful loaf every time.
It makes two loaves: enjoy one now, freeze one for later… or better yet, share one with a friend or neighbor!
🍝 Grandpa Frank’s Spaghetti Sauce – Refreshed!
I’ve been making our family’s spaghetti sauce for over 45 years. The recipe hasn’t changed (because how do you improve on perfect?), but the post sure has! It finally got the love it deserves — with fresh new photos (don’t worry, not that old), a shiny video, and a few helpful tips to match the quality of this tried-and-true favorite.
→ See the updated post
Rate the Recipe ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love it when you try my recipes, rate them, and share your thoughts! It really helps others and boosts the recipe’s visibility. I so appreciate you!
📸 Help Me Choose My New Headshot!
I’d love your input — which of these feels the most me for The Fresh Cooky?
✨ Option 1 – “Come and have a slice of pie”
✨ Option 2 – “I love green; limes, sweaters, flowers”
✨ Option 3 – “Sassy & Sweet”
✨ Option 4 – “My arms are getting tired of holding this pie”
🗳️ For the easiest way to vote, head back to the email in your inbox and click your favorite option. Or you can simply reply to the email or comment on the post!
What I’m Reading
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Just Finished: The Beijing Betrayal by Joel C. Rosenberg
Just wrapped up this latest novel and it was SO good! Non-stop suspense, politics, faith — Rosenberg knows how to keep you turning the pages. He’s one of my favorite authors, be sure to start at the beginning of the series. 📚 Check it out here
Up Next: Where Secrets Lie by Colleen Coble and Rick Acker
Just cracked open the second book in the Tupelo Grove series and I’m already hooked. It’s got all the good stuff — suspense, secrets, second chances, and a twisty plot that keeps you guessing. If you liked What We Hide, you’ll want to grab this one too!
Soul Food 💚
A few words that encouraged me this week and after hearing from so many of you, thought they might encourage you also!
The first is from a daily devotional I’m enjoying by Alistair Begg.
“Our standing in Christ is unalterable. Once we’ve been adopted into His family, God will never loosen His grip on our souls. During our best week, we are no closer to God than during our worst week, because our standing with the Father is built upon Christ’s righteousness, not ours. We are put right with God not on account of something done by us or within us, but for us.” — Alistair Begg (emphasis mine)
This tied so beautifully into what I read in 1 John this morning:
“He Himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins—and not only our sins but the sins of all the world.” (1 John 2:2)
Not just 2,000 years ago… but for now, for all time. WOW.
Have you accepted that gift? I would love to chat with you — truly.
Just a quick reminder that I read and respond to every email, and I’m truly thankful for every one of you who comes back week after week! Your support means the world to me. Thank you for taking the time to read and click through to a few recipes—I’m incredibly grateful!
Please come back and rate and comment on a post if you try it.
Coming soon…Enchilada Sauce, Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp, Yucatan Citrus Pork Tenderloin, Italian Grinder Salad, Cookies & Cream Ice Cream…and more!
Check out my favorite things and more HERE! Plus, previous week’s finds!
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