Behind In Good Thyme

I'm thrilled to welcome you to In Good Thyme and introduce myself as the founder of this food blog. My name is Emily, and I work as a physician in the bustling city of Chicago. Like many people, I’ve felt the daily challenge of trying to eat healthy while balancing a demanding job and a full life. Through long days in medical school, residency, fellowship, and attendingship, I came to deeply value the role of nutrition, but I also understood how hard it can be to cook consistently when you're busy. That’s what sparked the idea for In Good Thyme: a space where I could share simple, healthy meal ideas that fit into real life.

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With In Good Thyme, my mission is to make home cooking feel more manageable, more delicious, and more rewarding. Each week, I’ll share a full meal plan with recipes I’ve created with my own health goals and flavor preferences in mind.

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What to Expect

This site is all about weekly meal plans; no hunting through random recipes, no pressure to cook a fancy dinner every night. Just thoughtful, realistic plans designed to:

• Keep grocery shopping simple

• Maximize the use of shared ingredients

• Incorporate plenty of vegetables, fiber, and variety

• Align with the seasons when possible

• Support a balanced approach to healthy eating

Here’s what you’ll typically find in each weekly plan:

• Vegetarian Delights – I always include two veggie-forward meals that highlight the natural flavor and variety of seasonal produce. These are packed with color, fiber, and plant-based nutrients.

• Chicken Creations – A go-to protein in my kitchen, chicken shows up in one meal each week, prepared in flavorful, creative ways to keep it interesting and satisfying.

• Seafood Sensations – One meal each week features seafood for variety and a healthy dose of omega-3s, whether it’s a quick-cooking fillet or something a little more playful.

• Budget-Friendly Feasts – Eating well doesn’t have to break the bank. Each week includes one meal that’s simple, affordable, and still delicious—perfect for midweek when energy (and time) are low.

• The Fun Meal – Because food is joy, and every week needs a little indulgence. Think cheesy, saucy, cozy dishes that feel like a treat but still keep with the overall theme of nourishment and balance.

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My Philosophy

Healthy eating should never feel overwhelming or boring. My recipes prioritize whole foods, lots of vegetables, lean proteins, and hearty grains. I’m not here to make anyone feel guilty; some weeks, I just make grilled chicken and vegetables, and that’s okay. I always try to add something small (a new sauce, a roasted veggie, a bright flavor) to keep it fun.

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I don't include red meat in most meal plans, but I do believe in flexibility and balance. My goal is not perfection, it’s creating a rhythm of healthy, satisfying meals that make life a little easier and a lot more delicious.

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My Inspiration and Mission

I make my recipes with what I have, what’s in season, and what sounds good that week. They’re inspired by my real life and meant for yours. Whether you’re cooking for one or for a family, whether you follow every recipe or just get inspired by a few ideas, I hope these plans make your week a little simpler and a lot more flavorful.

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A Note on Writing Help

While I create and test every recipe myself, I use ChatGPT to help me turn my cooking process into clear, written instructions and to help write my blog/meal plan posts. Like many of you, I’m juggling a busy schedule. Just as I aim to help you save time in the kitchen, I try to save time where I can, too. Using a writing assistant lets me focus on cooking, planning weekly meals, and sharing more with you. I believe in being transparent, and I’m proud to say this blog is a mix of homemade meals and smart tools that help make it all possible.

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Join the In Good Thyme Community

I want In Good Thyme to feel like a cozy, no-pressure corner of the internet. If you try a recipe, I’d love to hear about it. If you tweak it, even better... cooking should be flexible! This is a space for sharing ideas, celebrating vegetables, and finding joy in weeknight dinners, one plan at a time.

Thanks for being here. I’m so excited to cook with you!

 

Bon Appétit!

Emily, Founder, In Good Thyme 🌿