Stirring up Memories…The Flavour Files

Food is fuel, but it’s also so much more.

It connects us with family and friends, creating memories around the table. Most importantly, understanding its nutritional value empowers us to support our health and well-being.

We’ve never had more information at our fingertips, but with that comes an overwhelming amount of mixed messages. This is where this week’s mom and home cook comes in.

Vivienne Stallwood has called Thunder Bay home for the past 15 years. She and her husband, Mark, made the move across the pond from the United Kingdom in 2010. Viv is originally from Wrexham, Wales, home to Wrexham A.F.C., the football (soccer) team co-owned by Canadian actor Ryan Reynolds.

Outdoor enthusiasts at heart, Viv and Mark were ready for a change and wanted to give their children, Caitlin and Elliott (then nine and six), a new cultural experience. They were especially excited to trade endless rain for the beauty of four distinct seasons.

Viv laughs as she recalls the initial shock of just how much snow winter brings, and the surprise of summer mosquitoes! But the family quickly found their forever friends and became involved in a Thunder Bay essential: hockey. Elliott jumped right in with both skates.

Fast forward to today, their kids have flown the nest to universities across the country, and Viv has fully dedicated her time and energy to her work as a Menopause Coach, specializing in women over forty.

The changes women face in midlife can’t be avoided, but there are lifestyle choices and nutrition habits that make a huge difference for both symptoms and long-term physical and mental health. Viv’s education in Nutrition, along with certificates in Culinary Arts and Recipe Development, have been invaluable for the women she supports.

This week’s featured summer recipe is not only delicious and family-friendly, but it’s also high in protein and fibre while being low in saturated fat. A perfect example of the simple, nourishing building blocks Viv uses to guide her clients toward better health.

I’ve had the pleasure of spending time with this amazing woman, and her warmth and passion for what she does shine as brightly as her smile.

You can learn more about Viv on her website: www.viviennestallwood.com(http://www.viviennestallwood.com/)

We’d love to share your favourite recipe & story!  Send a note to:  tbayflavourfiles@gmail.com.