There is no denying it. I love dessert. I really, REALLY love food in general. But desserts are my weakness.

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Growing up, my grandmother lived with us and whether you liked it or not, she was the real boss of the family. The head of the kitchen, teacher and moral compass. She was an incredible cook, but admittedly didn't bake that much. However, one of my earliest memories is watching her bake her famous chocolate and vanilla marble bundt cake. We're talking about a simple, no-frills pound cake, no glaze, just cake. It was heaven and she always let me lick the spatula after! Every guest, every friend who ever came over would love to eat this cake and still remember it as one of their own fondest memories. 

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That feeling is what I strive for when I bake. That tender crumb cake with afternoon tea, those chewy chocolate chip cookies, that perfect slice of dense fudgy brownies. Maybe with a few peanuts mixed in and a drizzle of caramel. Maybe not. Sometimes simple is best.

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​Over ten years ago like most people in their mid-twenties, I had no idea which direction I was headed towards. Fresh out of university with no real idea of what to do or desire to work in an office, I did the only thing I could think of. I went back to school. Pastry school that is!

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I learned all the classics and started a blog with so much enthusiasm and eagerness. I somehow found myself thrown into the world of specialty cakes and wedding cakes mixed in with the rush of the bakery life. I did that for a few years but grew tired of it. And then I stopped. 

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​My passion dwindled and I felt lost again. I felt almost paralysed by wanting to do more but lacking the motivation or confidence. It took me a long time to realize that I needed a break and that I was creating things for others without doing what made ME really happy.

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​And so here I am, easing my way back in with what brings me joy. Recipes for a Sunday afternoon with just one or two steps, keeping the focus on taste. Maybe once in a while something more elaborate to test my skills or challenge myself.

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​If you are anything like me and strive for a slow and intentional life, follow along for my favourite recipes. And if it doesn't work out the first time, it's ok, just try again.

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Lisa