Celeste Meredith And 'The Whole Serving' Share A Mouthful
Having recently returned from Florence, Italy - where my taste buds were lavished with the most delectable food and wine sensations the Italian culinary community had to offer - I arrived home feeling exceedingly underwhelmed by what actually greeted me in my own fridge. Yuck!
"No, Ma'am, we ain't in Tuscany anymore."
Needless-to-say, I vowed to 'up my game' and reached for my computer to help me. A few dozen new recipes later, I came across a food blog that encapsulated "the taste of Italy" that I had become accustomed to during my vacation in one simple recipe -- Roasted Grapes With Burrata Cheese Toast. Magnifico!
Immediately, I needed to know who this blogger was and what she (and her blog, called The Whole Serving) was all about. No doubt, this blog's tag line, "Celebrating Real Food," made perfect sense to me after experiencing the 'party in my mouth' that arose from the roasted grapes, alone. But, obviously, there was more to this blogger's mission than merely posting mouth watering meals and munchies.
And just as I suspected, there was. Celeste Meredith and The Whole Serving bring a lot more to the table than just grand cuisine. They bring a philosopy that combines outrageous taste with health and nutrition. This is not only an 'eating' blog but a 'teaching' blog created by a former educator turned full-time blogger. And she's a mom to boot! That's a whole lotta stuff on any woman's plate.
Thankfully, Celeste doesn't think so, which provides both you and me with a world of opportunity in which to improve our families' menus without compromising taste or nutrition. Read Celeste Meredith's interview below to begin your training.
What is your full name?
Celeste Meredith
What is your personal mantra?
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Tell us about your life, including where you live, number of children and anything else you would like to share.
I live in Plano, Texas (a suburb of Dallas) with my daughter, who is entering her third year of college. Before I started blogging full-time, I worked for over eighteen years as a center director for an early learning center. I enjoy running and I've completed several half-marathons.
Do you believe you have a “life’s purpose?” If so, share it.
To teach, share and show how food can be delicious, nourishing and healing.
Finish this sentence, “The best part about being a mom is _____.”
The unconditional love that my child gives to me and I give back to her.
What is the name of your blog? When was it launched?
The Whole Serving is the name of my blog. I chose that name because I wanted my blog to reflect the type of foods I'd be sharing. All of my recipes focus on the use of fresh, whole foods.
What is the primary focus of your blog and what do you hope to accomplish through it?
My primary focus is the use of fresh, whole ingredients that nourish and heal our bodies.
List any awards you have won.
I haven't won any awards yet but I have been featured on several blogs, and I have had many of my recipes featured on Buzzfeed.
Are you a Brand Ambassador and if so, for which companies?
I'm not yet a Brand Ambassador, but I would love to be for a company that promotes healthy living.
Do you blog for other blogs or sites?
I have been a contributor for This Silly Girls Kitchen.
Which social media outlet (such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pnterest, etc) do you find most useful?
I find that Pinterest and Facebook are the outlets that works best for me and my brand.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to those who may be interested in beginning a blog?
Because blogging is a 'choice', blog about something you are passionate about because blogging can be hard, at times, and if you aren't passionate about it, it will become difficult to continue.
Are you an entrepreneur or professional beyond your blog (and outside of being a mom)? Please share.
Currently, my blog is my profession, however, I'm also working on putting together several e-courses about healthy living that will become available before the end of the year.
Do you support – either formally or informally – a particular social cause?
I informally support my local food banks and Cancer society. Cancer has affected several people close to me.
When 'all' is said and done, how do you want to be remembered?
I want to remembered as someone who lived life to the fullest and loved the Lord.
As it will probably take me another year or two to make it back to Italy, returning to The Whole Serving daily takes no time at all. Hence, that is where you'll find me - and hopefully yourself - until the day I hop on a plane, yet again, and return to my cultural roots. In the meantime, I will savor the sweet memories of this past summer's excusion while sampling some keen reminders, compliments of Celeste Meredith. Won't you join me?