take a peek behind the scenes of everything that makes Zestful...Zestful.

The Wait is Over: Branded Oliver Merch Has Landed!

The Wait is Over: Branded Oliver Merch Has Landed!

That’s right, our favorite culinary cutie is no longer just a storybook star—he’s strutting into your closet, kitchen, and cart like the feathered icon he is. Whether you’re a longtime Oliver groupie or a curious newbie just here for the cookies, this collection is bold, whimsical, and oh-so-Zestful. You've waited. You’ve wondered. Now it’s time to click add to cart and let your inner owl shine.

Read More
The Heart of the Holidays: Family, Love, and a Year to Remember

The Heart of the Holidays: Family, Love, and a Year to Remember

This year has been a gift in so many ways, from turning a wild creative dream into the Oliver the Owl series to sharing my parents’ legacy with you. But as the holidays approach, my focus has shifted to something even more precious—creating meaningful memories with my mom, who has always been the heart of our family’s Christmas magic. This season, every day feels like a new chapter in a bittersweet story, filled with love, gratitude, and the quiet strength of family.

Read More
My Childhood Dining Room: Where Chaos, Cookies, and Memories Were Made

My Childhood Dining Room: Where Chaos, Cookies, and Memories Were Made

Let me set the scene: holiday meals at my house were like something out of a movie—except with way more food and way less table space. We didn’t just host big family gatherings, we hosted epic ones. Picture this: my mom in full culinary command, whipping up trays of 'pigs in a blanket' (the real kind, with cabbage, not hot dogs), while I tried—and failed—not to spoil my appetite with peanut brittle and glass candy. Add in a few jokes from my older siblings, a card game with Grandma (who always won), and a Christmas tree that never left the room (yep, year-round), and you’ve got yourself a holiday.

Read More
Hey Retailers! Ready to Bring Some Holiday Magic to Your Shop? 🦉🎄

Hey Retailers! Ready to Bring Some Holiday Magic to Your Shop? 🦉🎄

Looking to add some extra holiday magic to your shop this season? 🦉✨ Meet Oliver the Owl—the star of heartwarming stories, family-friendly recipes, and crafty fun! Whether it's stocking a few copies or offering a unique gift, our flexible partnership levels make it easy to bring Oliver's charm to your shelves. Ready to join the fun? Let's chat and make this season unforgettable—one book at a time! 🎁

Read More
Behind the Story: How Oliver the Owl Became a Culinary Pro

Behind the Story: How Oliver the Owl Became a Culinary Pro

Did I ever imagine creating a children’s book series about a chef-owl? Not exactly. But when life leads you through restaurant kitchens, childhood memories, and creative chaos with four kids, the pieces start falling into place! Inspired by my dad, the real "culinary pro," and my own food-filled adventures, Oliver the Owl was born. From leftover borscht to spaghetti tacos (don’t ask!), it’s all about mixing fun with family and bringing young readers into the magic of cooking.

Read More
Here’s to bold birthdays, big dreams, and the unexpected magic in between.

Here’s to bold birthdays, big dreams, and the unexpected magic in between.

Today, I’m celebrating two BIG milestones—400 books sold and my birthday! 🎂🎉 What started as a fun conversation after my 50th birthday photoshoot has turned into an incredible journey with Oliver the Owl flying into homes everywhere. And I couldn’t have done it without you!

To say thank you, I’m giving YOU a gift! For a limited time, enjoy a FREE digital download of Oliver the Owl: A Sweet Season Read-Along Book! Just use code 13NL6B8 at checkout. 🦉💛

Read More