Hi, I’m Candie—a home cook, garden dabbler, and whole-food enthusiast doing my best to live a grounded, intentional life.

I created this space to share the recipes, habits, and ideas that have helped me slow down, eat better, and find joy in everyday moments. My food philosophy is simple: real food, mostly plants, and a little indulgence. When I have dessert, I make it myself—because balance matters.

I live on the North Shore of Oʻahu with my husband, our son, and my dad. We share a small home in a beautiful, tight-knit community where neighbors wave hello, friends meet up on bicycles, and meals are often shared. Life here is full and imperfect in the best way. Food is how I connect—with the people I love, with my roots, and with others walking a similar path.

My cooking journey started in college, when a casual joke from a friend over shrimp scampi opened my eyes. After I kept raving about a meal my friend just made, he finally said, “They don’t keep this stuff a secret. There are cookbooks.” That moment lit a spark, and I’ve been cooking ever since.

Back then, I learned from magazines. No social media. Just trial, error, and cooking with friends. I came to realize that cooking isn’t just about feeding ourselves—it’s about connection, health, joy, and healing.

These days, I focus on cooking with intention: choosing clean, nourishing ingredients, supporting local farms, and embracing the seasons. I love visiting the farmers markets and watching my tiny garden grow—potatoes, eggplant, herbs, whatever thrives.

On Olive and Fennel, you’ll find:

• Wholesome, real food recipes that are doable and delicious

• Practical tips for eating well every day

• Inspiration for living slower, simpler, and more grounded

This space is for anyone looking to make their home—and their life—a little healthier, a little calmer, and a lot more delicious.

Thanks for being here. Let’s cook and grow together.