Food and Cooking have always been my passion, but that's only HALF of my love. Inspiring and enriching the lives of others is the other half of what gives my life purpose.

In my lifetime, I've endured many painful events. I can relate to the pain of domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse by family members, child molestation and rape, emotional abuse, death of the only people I ever trusted, divorce, being stripped of my dreams and goals, living as a single parent, living on disability, having nothing and no one to turn to...

But through it all, I had... (and still have) my faith in God. I had to inspire MYSELF and never gave up on the dreams I have. I have worked diligently everyday to write this cookbook which also contains many testimonies and inspirational words to help others find their inner strength. We all have something inside to help us get over the pain and obstacles in our lives. Sometimes we just need a little push or inspiration to get us to recognize it...and use it. That's my reason for living.

My purpose in this life is to encourage and inspire God's precious people to keep their faith. If I never had to cry, I'd never appreciate the joy of laughter. If I was never hurt, I could never open myself to comfort others. I know there are so many people who have gone through worse events in their lives than I have. I just feel that MY purpose is to use my story to touch as many people as I can, and to let them know that their faith can bring them out of any situation.

How does a cookbook fit into my purpose? Well, everyone has to eat. Everyone has to eventually COOK! God has blessed me with this passion for food and cooking. Food is something that can destroy all barriers...race, creed, sex, age, etc. It is the one thing we all have in common, so my gift for cooking is an International gift! It's a way to break the ice and get into the hearts of people. It's my way of inviting you all to the table for dinner and conversation!