About Renée
Bonjour & hello! Writing this, I’m at a computer—and you might be also. Despite the wonders of digital resources, my mission ultimately is to make a difference in the health, the homes, the kitchens, and the culinary competence of my readers.
Here are a few reasons why that’s my mission.
I had always dreamed of going to culinary school, and eventually did enroll and become a Certified Natural Foods Chef with the Nutrition Therapy Institute of Colorado. Working with a natural wellness clinic for years gave me avenues to grow in my understanding and to inspire others toward a healthy lifestyle. I’m often educating myself about food and cooking, and like to experiment with making artistic what is already nutritious.
I’m recently married to my husband, a marvelous gift, and enjoy cooking for both of us and for whomever else crosses my path during the week. However, interest in eating for wellness started long before. From my mother I have learned about being industrious in the garden, in the kitchen, and in a non-toxic home—since I was a young girl. In my late father, I saw a love for wilderness conservation, for agriculture as a pastime, and for serving people—and I want to honor that heritage.
My writing is from a Christian perspective since I believe that the trinitarian God is the sovereign Lord of creation and of our daily provisions. Scripture gives truth and wisdom for all things in the world, and this is the real foundation for holistic thinking. There is a connectedness—that our lives reflect—because in God are unified diversity and beauty and goodness. How can our designing and cultivating represent what God has first made? It’s a subject of endless opinion and wonder.
One fond memory is cooking in my petite studio apartment complete with slate counters and an antique English table. The abundance of food that could be prepared with a toaster oven and electric burner, chef’s knife and cutting board, and bowls and utensils, was pleasantly surprising. Cooking takes simply a few whole foods, a little heat, attention, and creativity. If you start with fresh ingredients, as Julia Child had said, cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.
After a hiatus with my business {noted for those of you returning}, I am grateful for this occasion to be writing again and to serve you through Mountain Culinaire!
{For further information about my philosophy, my local kitchen concierge services in Montana, or to contact me about anything, please see these pages.}