At the age of five, I had my own stepping stool.  I would become very excited when I saw the steps had been moved to the counter.  This meant that I would be helping my grandmother make something special.  I helped with a lot of meals, but that step stool meant that a sweet treat was in my future.  I could not contain myself, and usually giggled into the kitchen.  *Always got told to calm down* 

At the age of 15, I took more photographs of food than anything else.  I was so proud of my creations.  Who knew I was predicting a major future trend.  *Waffle selfie*

At the age of 20, bake sales were plenty.  I set up as many times as I could.  Small towns have a lot of events involving local farmers, bakers, and some clothing makers.  I didn’t go for the obvious bake like brownies, or cookies.  I chose cream puffs and fruit tarts.  I had been making pastry dough for years, not knowing that it’s a pretty amazing skill.  I just like the magic that came from making it.  The taste wasn’t so bad either.  *wink*

By the time I was 30, I had a good flow of repeat customers for birthday cakes, fundraisers, parties; family and friends.  I spent the next five years perfecting some recipes, creating new ones, all to the effort of opening my own catering business.  A business that supported local businesses, by incorporating their product into mine.  The circle of life if you will.  *Holds up dog to recreate the scene from The Lion King*

With ups and downs, new fads, and new diets, food is ever changing.  If you are a foodie like me, stick around, as there are great things to come! “Sporks will be popular once again”

Apples came from my grandparents orchard, not the grocery store.  Ginger, Zucchini, and carrots came from the garden.  Bread came from my mother.  That’s the way it was, the way it should be, and what I decided should be in my creations.