The recipes, tips, and tricks found on these pages are born out of a love for making life and food simple, fun, and at times a little quirky.
Hi. my name is Gigi Verrey and I grew up watching my father, born in Lausanne, Switzerland, whip up French-inspired cuisine with fresh vegetables, dressings, and sauces. My mother was born and raised in Cold Springs, Kentucky on a farm, and she served up hearty meals like collard greens, pork chops, and biscuits. My parents’ cooking styles instilled in me the desire to go with the flow and to try different food combinations without hesitation.
I was born with a limb difference in my left hand that made certain tasks a challenge, but you can see I still enjoy all the gardening and cooking I want and so can you! I like to say “if I can do it with one hand, you can do it with two!” That’s why I try to keep the things I share very simple so anyone can learn and adapt them for themselves. Whether your challenge is a disability, a health limitation, or just plain life being overwhelming or exhausting, I hope to get you out in your garden, or enjoying time in your kitchen with these quick, fun ideas!
These days I use fresh vegetables whenever possible, but I am not opposed to using canned beans and frozen corn in a pinch! There are no rules here, just suggestions! If you try something and find a new hack! Please share with me on my Instagram by tagging @verysmartideas
It is my goal to use the fewest ingredients and cut out as many unnecessary steps as possible to create simple, healthy, great tasting dishes for you to try, and explain gardening tips I find helpful to get even the beginners growing fresh things as it can be so rewarding and calming. I also try to share home and entertaining tips that can be done without a big budget. I guess you can say I’m working to bring sanity and simplicity back into life and into homes!
The recipes, tips, and tricks found on these pages are born out of a love for making life and food simple, fun, and at times a little quirky.
Hi. my name is Gigi Verrey and I grew up watching my father, born in Lausanne, Switzerland, whip up French-inspired cuisine with fresh vegetables, dressings, and sauces. My mother was born and raised in Cold Springs, Kentucky on a farm, and she served up hearty meals like collard greens, pork chops, and biscuits. My parents’ cooking styles instilled in me the desire to go with the flow and to try different food combinations without hesitation.
I was born with a limb difference in my left hand that made certain tasks a challenge, but you can see I still enjoy all the gardening and cooking I want and so can you! I like to say “if I can do it with one hand, you can do it with two!” That’s why I try to keep the things I share very simple so anyone can learn and adapt them for themselves. Whether your challenge is a disability, a health limitation, or just plain life being overwhelming or exhausting, I hope to get you out in your garden, or enjoying time in your kitchen with these quick, fun ideas!
These days I use fresh vegetables whenever possible, but I am not opposed to using canned beans and frozen corn in a pinch! There are no rules here, just suggestions! If you try something and find a new hack! Please share with me on my Instagram by tagging @verysmartideas.
It is my goal to use the fewest ingredients and cut out as many unnecessary steps as possible to create simple, healthy, great tasting dishes for you to try, and explain gardening tips I find helpful to get even the beginners growing fresh things as it can be so rewarding and calming. I also try to share home and entertaining tips that can be done without a big budget. I guess you can say I’m working to bring sanity and simplicity back into life and into homes!
Follow Me on Instagram!
I tried golfing with my bionic hand 🦾 and it was a disaster🤪 Decided trying again without a prosthetic (the old fashioned way) for the first time in almost 15 years, and here is how I hit a golf ball with one ✋🏻⛳️😃
#limbdifferenceawareness #aboutgigi #verysmartideas #luckyfinproject #golf #tenfingersareoverrated
I tried golfing with my bionic hand 🦾 and it was a disaster🤪 Decided trying again without a prosthetic (the old fashioned way) for the first time in almost 15 years, and here is how I hit a golf ball with one ✋🏻⛳️😃
#limbdifferenceawareness #aboutgigi #verysmartideas #luckyfinproject #golf #tenfingersareoverrated
This weekend I went to Troy Michigan to take part in the Lucky Fin Project weekend. I am overwhelmed by all the wonderful people I met. Such kindness, bravery and gratitude. In particular, the children made a deep and positive impression on me. Growing up I never had a community to share my hopes, dreams and difference with and if I did see someone with a limb difference, I didn’t know it because most of us learned to hide our limb differences at a very early age. I choked back tears of joy on at least 10 occasions and of course there are those times when I couldn’t stop myself from crying. These were tears of joy, as I saw children and adults, hugging each other, laughing and feeling visible relief to be SEEN by so many like themselves. I, along with other adults with limb differences, shared information about medical care, prosthetics and therapies to help mom and dad’s with young children with limb differences. This was an incredibly rewarding experience and would highly recommend for those with them difference. If you’d like more information about limb difference, please go to luckyfinproject.org ❌❌❌🦾 #luckyfinsrock #luckyfinproject #limbdifferenceawareness #limbdifferencecommunity #aboutgigi #verysmartideas
This weekend I went to Troy Michigan to take part in the Lucky Fin Project weekend. I am overwhelmed by all the wonderful people I met. Such kindness, bravery and gratitude. In particular, the children made a deep and positive impression on me. Growing up I never had a community to share my hopes, dreams and difference with and if I did see someone with a limb difference, I didn’t know it because most of us learned to hide our limb differences at a very early age. I choked back tears of joy on at least 10 occasions and of course there are those times when I couldn’t stop myself from crying. These were tears of joy, as I saw children and adults, hugging each other, laughing and feeling visible relief to be SEEN by so many like themselves. I, along with other adults with limb differences, shared information about medical care, prosthetics and therapies to help mom and dad’s with young children with limb differences. This was an incredibly rewarding experience and would highly recommend for those with them difference. If you’d like more information about limb difference, please go to luckyfinproject.org ❌❌❌🦾 #luckyfinsrock #luckyfinproject #limbdifferenceawareness #limbdifferencecommunity #aboutgigi #verysmartideas
Ask me a Question #7 with @abilitylab What everyday task do you find difficult to do with your limb difference?
#limbdifferenceaweness #aboutgigi #verysmartideas #abilitylab #disabiltypridemonth #lucky_fin_project
Ask me a Question #7 with @abilitylab What everyday task do you find difficult to do with your limb difference?
#limbdifferenceaweness #aboutgigi #verysmartideas #abilitylab #disabiltypridemonth #lucky_fin_project
It is always GOOD to try new things. A while back I decided to take acting lessons, hoping they might help me with my videos. In the process I fell in love with the art and recently finished a professional reel to use for my acting resume. Here are a few photos from the experience. My family joined me at the premiere held at Wilmette Theater (too scared to invite anyone else) and it was an awesome experience!
1st photo: Cast
2nd photo: Carole Dibo, founder Actors Training Center
3rd photo: A few seconds of moi on the big screen
4th photo: Credits
4th Audience
#actinglessions #acting #aboutgigi #hollywood #limbdifferenceawareness
It is always GOOD to try new things. A while back I decided to take acting lessons, hoping they might help me with my videos. In the process I fell in love with the art and recently finished a professional reel to use for my acting resume. Here are a few photos from the experience. My family joined me at the premiere held at Wilmette Theater (too scared to invite anyone else) and it was an awesome experience!
1st photo: Cast
2nd photo: Carole Dibo, founder Actors Training Center
3rd photo: A few seconds of moi on the big screen
4th photo: Credits
4th Audience
#actinglessions #acting #aboutgigi #hollywood #limbdifferenceawareness
Ask me a question #6 with @abilitylab What’s the hardest part about cooking with a limb difference?
I am honored to have been asked to talk about my challenges and everyday life with a limb difference with Shirley Ryan Ability Lab patients and doctors.
#aboutgigi #limbdifferenceawareness #verysmartideas #bionichand #bionicchef
Ask me a question #6 with @abilitylab What’s the hardest part about cooking with a limb difference?
I am honored to have been asked to talk about my challenges and everyday life with a limb difference with Shirley Ryan Ability Lab patients and doctors.
#aboutgigi #limbdifferenceawareness #verysmartideas #bionichand #bionicchef
Ask me a question #4 with @abilitylab What should I call your hand?
I am honored to have been asked to talk about my challenges and everyday life with a limb difference with Shirley Ryan Ability Lab patients and doctors.
#aboutgigi #limbdifferenceawareness #verysmartideas #bionichand #bionicchef
Ask me a question #4 with @abilitylab What should I call your hand?
I am honored to have been asked to talk about my challenges and everyday life with a limb difference with Shirley Ryan Ability Lab patients and doctors.
#aboutgigi #limbdifferenceawareness #verysmartideas #bionichand #bionicchef
Ask me a question question #3 with @abilitylab
Where did I get my love for cooking?
I am honored to have been asked to talk about my challenges and everyday life with a limb difference with Shirley Ryan Ability Lab patients and doctors.
#aboutgigi #limbdifferenceawareness #bionicchef #abilitylab #verysmartideas
Ask me a question question #3 with @abilitylab
Where did I get my love for cooking?
I am honored to have been asked to talk about my challenges and everyday life with a limb difference with Shirley Ryan Ability Lab patients and doctors.
#aboutgigi #limbdifferenceawareness #bionicchef #abilitylab #verysmartideas
Happy Father’s Day to all my favorite people out there. These are a few photos of my father, John Verrey. He was born in Lausanne Switzerland, was a member of the Swiss Olympic Ski Team and emigrated to the United States to open the Lake Placid Ski School, in NY, as well as, the Johnny Verrey Swiss Ski School outside of Chicago, Illinois. He helped to pioneer the skiing for the blind programs through the Four Lakes Ski Resort along with the Chicago tribune. He was funny, passionate, and loved to be outdoors whenever possible. He loved his rose garden, loved to entertain and cook. My father, along with my mother, were the main influences behind my love for good food, cocktails and gardening.
#Fathersday #aboutgigi #verysmartideas #Sunday #skiing #switzerland #swiss
Happy Father’s Day to all my favorite people out there. These are a few photos of my father, John Verrey. He was born in Lausanne Switzerland, was a member of the Swiss Olympic Ski Team and emigrated to the United States to open the Lake Placid Ski School, in NY, as well as, the Johnny Verrey Swiss Ski School outside of Chicago, Illinois. He helped to pioneer the skiing for the blind programs through the Four Lakes Ski Resort along with the Chicago tribune. He was funny, passionate, and loved to be outdoors whenever possible. He loved his rose garden, loved to entertain and cook. My father, along with my mother, were the main influences behind my love for good food, cocktails and gardening.
#Fathersday #aboutgigi #verysmartideas #Sunday #skiing #switzerland #swiss
Ask me a question #2 with @abilitylab! What is the one of the most difficult things to do with your limb difference?
I am honored to have been asked to talk about my challenges and everyday life with a limb difference with Shirley Ryan Ability Lab patients and doctors.
#aboutgigi #limbdifferenceswareness #bionicchef #bionichand #bionicmama
#verysmartideas #abilitylab #bionicchef
Ask me a question #2 with @abilitylab! What is the one of the most difficult things to do with your limb difference?
I am honored to have been asked to talk about my challenges and everyday life with a limb difference with Shirley Ryan Ability Lab patients and doctors.
#aboutgigi #limbdifferenceswareness #bionicchef #bionichand #bionicmama
#verysmartideas #abilitylab #bionicchef
I am honored to have been asked to talk about my challenges and everyday life with a limb difference with Shirley Ryan Ability Lab patients and doctors. I will be answering more questions in the upcoming weeks so stay tuned for those! Here is the first question!
#aboutgigi #limbdifferenceswareness #bionicchef #bionichand #bionicmama
#verysmartideas #abilitylab #bionicchef
I am honored to have been asked to talk about my challenges and everyday life with a limb difference with Shirley Ryan Ability Lab patients and doctors. I will be answering more questions in the upcoming weeks so stay tuned for those! Here is the first question!
#aboutgigi #limbdifferenceswareness #bionicchef #bionichand #bionicmama
#verysmartideas #abilitylab #bionicchef
Who else does this? What is your favorite type of box to save? #box #amazon #ups #thrifty #silly #aboutgigi #saturday
Who else does this? What is your favorite type of box to save? #box #amazon #ups #thrifty #silly #aboutgigi #saturday
Happy Mother’s Day to all of you moms, and bonus-moms.
I’m also thinking of those of us who have lost our mamas. My mother, Barbara Verrey, was the first woman in Chicago to become a licensed limousine driver.
This photo sums up her personality. She was fun, loving, a very hard worker, and a wonderful mother. This photograph was taken in 1983 and appeared in the Chicago Sun Times.
#mothersday #aboutgigi #bonusmom #love #familytime
Happy Mother’s Day to all of you moms, and bonus-moms.
I’m also thinking of those of us who have lost our mamas. My mother, Barbara Verrey, was the first woman in Chicago to become a licensed limousine driver.
This photo sums up her personality. She was fun, loving, a very hard worker, and a wonderful mother. This photograph was taken in 1983 and appeared in the Chicago Sun Times.
#mothersday #aboutgigi #bonusmom #love #familytime
May the 4th be with You!
My family and I are big Star Wars fans. We dressed up for almost every premiere over the years. We had so much fun together!
I would love to know what fun things you and your family and tribe do together💚 AND who is your favorite Star Wars character? Please share in the comments😃 Can’t wait to hear all the fun ideas! #starwars #maythe4thbewithyou #family #familyfun #aboutgigi #nerd #cosplay
May the 4th be with You!
My family and I are big Star Wars fans. We dressed up for almost every premiere over the years. We had so much fun together!
I would love to know what fun things you and your family and tribe do together💚 AND who is your favorite Star Wars character? Please share in the comments😃 Can’t wait to hear all the fun ideas! #starwars #maythe4thbewithyou #family #familyfun #aboutgigi #nerd #cosplay
For #limbdifferenceawareness month, @abilitylab asked me to share how I navigate my busy life through creative tips and inspiration! I will be answering questions about my favorite recipes, tricks for cooking with a limb difference and my life hacks!
Please go to their stories and use the question box! Over the next week I will be answering questions and sharing more content 🦾🤍
#aboutgigi #verysmartideas #abilitylab #lucky_fin_project #representationmatters
For #limbdifferenceawareness month, @abilitylab asked me to share how I navigate my busy life through creative tips and inspiration! I will be answering questions about my favorite recipes, tricks for cooking with a limb difference and my life hacks!
Please go to their stories and use the question box! Over the next week I will be answering questions and sharing more content 🦾🤍
#aboutgigi #verysmartideas #abilitylab #lucky_fin_project #representationmatters
Happy Earth Day to my favorite Peeps🌎🌱💚
Did you know Earth day was founded by Gaylord Nelson, a Wisconson politician and environmentalist on April 22nd 1970? Here are five simple things to do to help out Mother Earth!
1. "Plant a tree! Trees help absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, making them a critical part of our ecosystem. Consider planting a tree in your backyard, local park, or community garden to help reduce your carbon footprint and improve air quality."
2. "Reduce food waste by composting! Composting is an easy and effective way to turn food scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil. Consider starting a compost bin in your backyard or finding a local composting facility."
3. "Switch to eco-friendly products! Choose products made from sustainable materials and avoid single-use items like plastic straws and bags. Opt for reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags to reduce waste and conserve resources."
4. "Reduce energy consumption! Turn off lights when you leave a room, unplug electronics when they`re not in use, and use energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances. These small actions can add up to big savings on your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint."
5. "Support local farmers! Buying locally grown food supports the local economy and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances. Visit your local farmer`s market or sign up for a community-supported agriculture program to support sustainable agriculture practices."
#earthday #environment #mothernature #aboutgigi #verysmartideas #organicgardening #garden
Happy Earth Day to my favorite Peeps🌎🌱💚
Did you know Earth day was founded by Gaylord Nelson, a Wisconson politician and environmentalist on April 22nd 1970? Here are five simple things to do to help out Mother Earth!
1. "Plant a tree! Trees help absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, making them a critical part of our ecosystem. Consider planting a tree in your backyard, local park, or community garden to help reduce your carbon footprint and improve air quality."
2. "Reduce food waste by composting! Composting is an easy and effective way to turn food scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil. Consider starting a compost bin in your backyard or finding a local composting facility."
3. "Switch to eco-friendly products! Choose products made from sustainable materials and avoid single-use items like plastic straws and bags. Opt for reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags to reduce waste and conserve resources."
4. "Reduce energy consumption! Turn off lights when you leave a room, unplug electronics when they`re not in use, and use energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances. These small actions can add up to big savings on your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint."
5. "Support local farmers! Buying locally grown food supports the local economy and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances. Visit your local farmer`s market or sign up for a community-supported agriculture program to support sustainable agriculture practices."
#earthday #environment #mothernature #aboutgigi #verysmartideas #organicgardening #garden
April is Limb Difference Awareness Month and I thought I’d take this opportunity to highlight some of the things that you may not think I can do and although, I may not be able to do many things as a two handed person, there are so many more things I can do than I cannot do!
#limbdifferenceawareness #family #horses #workout #adaptivesports #photography #aboutgigi #raisingboys
April is Limb Difference Awareness Month and I thought I’d take this opportunity to highlight some of the things that you may not think I can do and although, I may not be able to do many things as a two handed person, there are so many more things I can do than I cannot do!
#limbdifferenceawareness #family #horses #workout #adaptivesports #photography #aboutgigi #raisingboys