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.

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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.

Food, Traditions Janine Zabel Food, Traditions Janine Zabel

Santa's Giant Ginger Cookies

Are you ready for Santa? Don’t forget to bake his favorite giant ginger cookies. It’s a family recipe that’s become part of our “Night Before Christmas” tradition. I can almost guarantee your stockings will be filled, if you leave him a plate of these!

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Traditions Janine Zabel Traditions Janine Zabel

O, Christmas Tree!

What holiday traditions mean the most to you? For me, the magic starts with selecting the tree. It’s a family outing I cherish, almost as much as singing Christmas carols! Cue the music, please.

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Traditions Janine Zabel Traditions Janine Zabel

Homemade Cookie Tins

Looking for a creative way to satisfy those cookie monsters on your list? Start a new family tradition, with these easy homemade cookie tins. It’s a DIY that’s practically fool proof. Get the scoop on the gift that keeps on giving!

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Food Janine Zabel Food Janine Zabel

Aunt Franny's Sweet Potato Casserole

Aunt Franny’s Sweet Potato Casserole was always a family favorite. I’ve updated the recipe with a pecan crust. It’s the perfect combo of sweet and salty to tempt your tastebuds.

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Traditions Janine Zabel Traditions Janine Zabel

Thanksgiving Traditions

Life’s short. Eat dessert first! This is just one of many new family traditions we celebrated this Thanksgiving. What’s your recipe for a memorable holiday? Looking for ideas to inspire you and yours to get into the spirit of the season?

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Food Janine Zabel Food Janine Zabel

Snickerdoodle Cookies

Snickerdoodles are a family favorite in our home. I’m sharing the recipe I’ve perfected over the years, since I just baked a batch this week. Happy baking, friends!

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Food, Wellness Janine Zabel Food, Wellness Janine Zabel

Green Smoothie

Looking for a quick healthy breakfast that tastes good? We’ve got you covered with a refreshing green smoothie that’s become a family favorite. Your kids won’t even notice they’re drinking their daily dose of vitamins!

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Journal It! Janine Zabel Journal It! Janine Zabel

Disconnect to Reconnect

When was the last time you took a break from technology? Ever consider closing some of those open tabs on your multiple devices? We’ve got some tips to help you disconnect in order to reconnect this fall.

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Food Janine Zabel Food Janine Zabel

Mom's Boozy Slushie

Flashback to the 70’s and Mom’s Boozy Slushie. I’m sharing the family recipe that was passed down from my grandma, in honor of Mom’s BIG birthday. Cheers to enjoying a taste of summer all year long!

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Food Janine Zabel Food Janine Zabel

Chicken Curry Salad

Summer salad weather is almost over. I can’t let this season pass without sharing one of my favorite recipes-chicken curry salad, with multiple ingredient choices. No measurements on this one. Trust me, improvisation truly is a chef’s best friend. Give it try, I’m sure you’ll agree it’s Zabelicious!

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Food Janine Zabel Food Janine Zabel

Cherry Frose

Looking for a refreshing cocktail to help you beat the heat? You’ve come to the right place. We’re mixing up an easy recipe for a cherry frosé. Who’s ready for happy hour?

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Travel Janine Zabel Travel Janine Zabel

Summer Bucket List

Summer is flying by, way too fast! Have you done everything on your list? Still scrambling for ideas of fun things to do before Labor Day? Check out my summer bucket list with all the tips and travel guides for fun in the Midwest!

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Travel Janine Zabel Travel Janine Zabel

Villa Bellezza Winery

Join us for one of the most scenic road trips in America, which leads to an Italian gem in the Midwest. Discover a taste of Italy and more at Villa Bellezza Winery.

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Travel Wild Reflection Travel Wild Reflection

Midwest Farmers' Markets

Midwest Farmers’ Markets are some of the best in the country. Find out everything you need to know as we travel to three capital city markets. Get the inside scoop from locals on favorite foods and artists.

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Food Janine Zabel Food Janine Zabel

COM: Italicus Spritz

Our cocktail of the month will transport you to Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Discover why “the sip of Italy” is my new favorite spritz, when you taste it for yourself. Move over Aperol, Italicus is making a splash this summer!

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