Hi! I’m Krista
I’m a lover of Jesus, good food, strong coffee, and living a balanced lifestyle.
I’m German and Polish, which means I basically grew up on sauerkraut, Polish sausage, pierogies, butter, and casseroles. Comfort food was my childhood, and my momma was my first (and best) cooking teacher. When I got married, I took everything she taught me and made it my own — healthier, high-protein, and still full of flavor.
I’m obsessed with three things: my family, Jesus and fitness — in that order… most days. I love moving my body, fueling it well, and helping others feel confident and strong from the inside out.
Fun fact: I hate leaving the house… but I love leaving the country. (Homebody energy with a passport-ready heart.) One day, I’m convinced I’ll live in Napa (or at least visit a lot), because wine is art. I plan to master cool espresso art someday too.
I started my Christian clothing company called The Satisfied Co., because I deeply believe people need to know who they are in Christ. In a world that’s constantly telling us we’re “not enough,” I want to remind you that you are chosen, loved, and highly favored — sometimes through a hoodie, a tee, or a trucker hat.
Everything I do comes back to this: helping you live well, love Jesus boldly, and feel confident in who God created you to be. So whether you’re here for the food, the faith, the fitness, or the fun… I’m so glad you’re here. Welcome to my little corner of the internet.
What Kinds of Recipes I Share
I share recipes that are easy to make, no matter how busy you are or what cooking experience you have. Everything I publish is what my family ACTUALLY eats. Each one has been tested not only by my hubbie and I, but also by our two hungry (highly judgmental) kiddos!
My cooking style can best be described as fresh, flavorful, and wholesome. I make meals with seasonal ingredients that can be prepared with minimal effort. In addition to recipes, I also share simple at-home workouts and wellness tips you can use to feel your best.
My Education
I have a degree in Sport Wellness & Management, which means I’ve studied kinesiology, anatomy, and nutrition. I’ve also taken ACE personal training courses where I learned how to build meal plans, studied nutrition, and created exercise programs.
I recently deepened my knowledge by completing Harvard Medical School’s Health and Wellness: Designing a Sustainable Nutrition Plan program, which has enriched the insights I share here.
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My Most Popular Recipes
There are over 1,200 recipes on this site and these are the most popular ones!
Why Did I Start Joyful Healthy Eats?
I created Joyful Healthy Eats in 2013 because I loved food, cooking and wanted to connect with other people who loved those things. My son had just turned 9 months old and during nap time this site gave me something fun to do. This blog has allowed me to work from home and watch my babies grow up.
I strive to share my heart, my story and my recipes. Food is not only fuel to me, it’s a healing source. We can use it to heal our gut, mind and body. I like to say that my mission is to “feed people’s hearts and their tummies.” I’m an open book and truly believe that there is healing in sharing our stories. So you’ll read about accomplishments, adventures and hard journey’s we’ve had to walk – like our 4 year journey of infertility. This site has changed my life and I’m so happy to share my journey with you.
About My Family
“He saw me in spandex and fell in love.” At least that’s how I like to start the conversation when people ask, “where’d you meet your husband?” And honestly, it’s the truth. He attended one of my college volleyball games, to watch his sister play, and met his wife. Although truth be told, he pursued me for about 3 years before I said yes. When I finally said yes, we knew right away we were made for each other! We dated long distance for 11 months were engaged for 5 months, got married in Wisconsin and moved to Houston, Texas. We’ve been happily married ever since!
Mike and I had our first sweet baby in 2012 and he’s such a blessing. He brings excitement into our lives and has such a tender heart. He’s a choco-aholic and regularly negotiates for dessert, like every night! In 2018, after 4 years of infertility, 1 miscarriage and 1 failed IVF treatment we had our rainbow baby. A sweet baby girl who beams joy with a big dimpled-filled smile and bright eyes that melt you in seconds. And now our family is complete. These lovelies are the joy of my life and the reason I do what I do!
FREE 5-Day Meal Plan
Life’s too short to be stressed about food!
