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About Your Hostess

My name is Johanna.  I live in Washington D.C. with my husband Courtney and our pit bulls Lila and Jim.  I love this city and all it has to offer: the people, the places and the happenings.  When I started this blog in 2011, I had no real idea where it was going… most days I still don’t!  But I will say that it has evolved into an outlet to share the cultivation of some of my passions: cooking, writing, traveling, trying new restaurants, fitness, photography and telling folks way more about myself than they ever wanted to know.  Whether you’re here for recipes, reviews, ridiculously cute doggie cameos or my witty banter, my goal here in the Messy Kitchen is to inspire and entertain, so please… have a seat!

I frequently go through food phases, but refuse all labels.  Except breakfastarian, because breakfast is pretty much the best thing that ever was (that particular sentiment happens to be genetic).  There’s nothing I like more than a dinner table surrounded with family and friends.  I take pride in my ability to cook a delicious meal that accommodates just about any food allergy, dietary trend or annoyingly picky eating habit… raw, vegan, gluten-free, paleo, low-carb, eat only pink and green foods on days that end in ‘y’… no problem, I’ve got you covered!  Unless you can’t have salt or garlic.  Then you’re on your own.  Also, I may be the clumsiest, most injury prone person you’ll ever meet and regularly splatter sauces and crumbs in parts of the kitchen you probably couldn’t get food if you tried.  Really, I can’t have nice things.

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This is my husband Courtney (isn't he handsome!?) He is a chemical engineer, brewmaster, footed pajama seamster and cleaner or the Messy Kitchen.
This is my husband Courtney (isn’t he handsome!?) He is a chemical engineer, brewmaster, footed pajama seamster and cleaner or the Messy Kitchen.
This is our daughter Lila, a Washington Humane Society alum. She is a socialite, adventurer, mascot, friend and breed ambassador (when she’s not barking at joggers and invisible objects). If you meet me, I’ll probably show you her picture.
This is our son Jim. He somehow wiggled that big ol' head of his into what I was swore would always be a one dog family. Stealing hearts is his specialty.
This is our son Jim. He somehow wiggled that big ol’ head of his into what I swore would always be a one dog family. Stealing hearts is his specialty.

If you have questions, comments, requests or recommendations please e-mail me at NotesFromAMessyKitchen@gmail.com

9 Comments Hide Comments

Stephen Elsemore says:

johannaelsemore.com? I guess that means you’re not changing your name?

Dee North says:

Johanna, just love your blog… it is crazy fun!!!!!! Really excited about the wedding and have reservations at the Mansion on Forsyth Park …. If you need me to do anything it help you please don’t hesitate to call 404-317-8870 —- Love the blog on the brooches made into bouquets –FANTASTIC —- Dee

Winifred Tate says:

Johanna your blog is amazing and I so enjoy reading it.
Keep up the good work.

Love,
Winifred

Deb Dockum says:

You might not remember me. I worked with your Mom at NGM…you were just a little girl then.

Oh Jo, you should be famous for this website!

Mike Williams says:

Joanna! I read your post and just wanted to let you know that if I had known that you were dealing with TS in the 90s. I would have been the first to let you know that you weren’t alone and that you would find a great guy and get married and that life will be great and that our Lord loves you and has a plan just for you!! So great to see that you know now that!! I was diagnosed in 1976 in the 1st grade and have been Married for 21yrs and we have a TS free almost 16 yr old Daughter! Love your blog and God Bless!! 🙂

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