Karibu. Jambo, jina langu ni Michelle! I was born and raised in a small town in Kenya, East Africa and I currently reside in Northern California. I guess this is where I explain why I started this blog. When I moved to the United States I gained a lot of weight. It’s interesting because before moving to the US I didn’t even know that one can gain weight.
Initially, my goal was to just lose weight. I tried just about any diet that’s out there. The master cleanse, grapefruit diet, military diet. I did calorie counting. I mean you name it, I tried it. Whoever said fad diets don’t work clearly knew what they were talking about. They’re not sustainable. I’ve lost weight and gained weight. I’ve seen that number go up and down as I stepped on the scale first thing in the morning.
As I look back I realize how much I’ve evolved. Over the years, my goal has changed from just losing weight, to having a better relationship with food and my body. To stop depriving myself; but instead provide my body the nutrition it needs to function. This looks different every day.
In the midst of this never ending journey, I grappled with the choices of diet – pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan, or beyond. My perspective shifted when I read “The Omnivore’s Dilemma” in high school. The web of the food industry unraveled, revealing its interconnected threads – from farmers to food deserts, culture to food sovereignty.
Reminiscing about my Kenyan upbringing, where vegetables played a central role in our diets. I found myself taken back to a time when food was an intimate connection to nature. It was a communal experience that brought people together. The contrast was loud as I walked through U.S supermarkets, surrounded by an overwhelming array of processed foods that I’m sure my grandma wouldn’t recognize. I yearned for the simplicity of local farms and farmers markets, where you knew where your food came from and it was not filled with artificial additives.
I was also struck by the prevalence of food deserts. My own journey and experiences exposed me to the challenges faced by individuals and families who struggle to put wholesome meals on the table due to economic disparities and geographic limitations. I realized the deep connection between food and chronic diseases.
My background, shaped by both my upbringing in Kenya and my immersion in American culture, has not only cultivated a unique perspective on food, but has taught me the significance of nutrition, living foods, cultural diversity, the value of community engagement, and the importance of addressing systemic barriers to healthy eating.
This platform is a celebration of the beauty and power of food. It’s a tribute to the vibrant flavors that bring people together and the cherished recipes passed down through generations—especially those crafted by my mother. Here, you’ll find wholesome, uncomplicated, and affordable recipes, inspired by the seasons and a desire to connect more deeply with nature and the nourishment it provides.
Beyond the kitchen, this space dives into the bigger picture of food: the systems that sustain us, their impact on our communities, and the challenges we face. Together, we’ll celebrate the dedication of farmers and uncover the stories behind our meals. Whether you’re a busy home cook, a curious foodie, or someone on a wellness journey, my mission is to empower you with delicious meals, fresh perspectives, and practical tools.
The Mindful Omnivore 