Welcome to my stories…


Are you ready to hop on the Zabelicious fun wheel? What is Zabelicious, you ask? Delicious. Unstoppable. Unpredictable. I like to mix it up in the kitchen.

I rarely follow recipes. I prefer to improvise. The result is usually Zabelicious. I look forward to sharing those creations and inspiring stories from the heart of the Midwest. Discover the art of journaling through my coaching tips and tools. Hop on the fun wheel and buckle up. I hope you enjoy the ride and visit Zabelicious Life often.

about-Janine-sidebar.jpg
Brand Mark 1.png

It’s a Zabelicious Life!

I'm Janine, a modern mom who wears many hats: journalist, life coach, wife, and entrepreneur. I'm also a connector, explorer, and storyteller at heart.  

Zabelicious Life is an online lifestyle magazine dedicated to nourishing the soul and feeding the spirit through stories and recipes.

Travel Janine Zabel Travel Janine Zabel

Midwest Holiday Festivals

Take a sleigh ride, explore enchanting European style markets and discover magical light displays. Midwest Holiday Festivals have it all. Bring the family. Make holiday memories that will last a lifetime.

Read More
Traditions Janine Zabel Traditions Janine Zabel

Fall Vibes

Feeling the fall vibes and searching for fun things to do? I’m sharing some of my favorite autumn traditions and recipes to help you make the most of the season before it’s over.

Read More
Journal It! Janine Zabel Journal It! Janine Zabel

Enjoy the Ride!

Summer may be long gone, but fond fair memories are never far from my mind. I’m sharing life lessons I learned from my favorite carnival ride in today’s “Journal It.” Hop on the fun wheel and enjoy the ride!

Read More
Traditions Janine Zabel Traditions Janine Zabel

U-Hauls Never Follow a Hearse

“You never see a U-Haul behind a hearse, so you might as well spend what you have and enjoy it!” Wise words to live by from my Grandpa George, whose generous spirit touched the lives of many on earth. Today, would have been his 107th birthday, and although he’s been gone over sixteen years, he’s never far from my mind. Sharing stories of his random acts of kindness to strangers are the perfect way to celebrate his life.

Read More
Traditions Janine Zabel Traditions Janine Zabel

Haluskanating Over the Blue Danube

There was always room for company at Grandma and Grandpa Haluska’s table. It wasn’t fancy or very large, but it was always set properly, with placemats or a tablecloth, and Grandma’s beautiful blue and white china.

Read More