Creating the Life You Want to Live

I recently read an article by Melinda Gates on LinkedIn. In her article,

“The Massive Hidden Cost of Women’s Unpaid Work”,

she illustrates the huge, obscure and real costs of women’s unpaid work. This resonated deeply for me. I have never not worked! Although by today’s standards, some will never see me. I have been the invisible force behind many years of family responsibilities. My son lovingly calls me the One Man Band.

I have risen and stretched myself to meet obligations that have taught me more hands on experiences than I care to recount.

I have my own story to tell. Perhaps this will reach out to those like me, who have given freely, honestly and with integrity.

NOW is my turn to walk into the Light!

With every good story, there is a great beginning! My story begins with this stove. I remember back in the 80’s when Viking came out with their residential line of stoves and kitchen appliances. At that time, mind you, I had never ever even cooked on a gas range. Honestly, I really didn’t even know how to cook either!

YET,
I fell in LOVE immediately with this cobalt blue range!

Every time I saw it advertised, I would sigh and say to myself,
“One Day”!

I laugh out loud at this now! I was maybe 17 or 18 years old, I had no clue how to cook, and yet, this stove had made it onto my bucket list.

Fast forward to 2010, and there I was in the middle of a huge home renovation project. I will admit to you that I designed my entire kitchen space around this range.

I was quite excited and intimidated the first time I ignited these burners! I quickly realized this piece of equipment was no joke! It had more power in one burner than all my previous stoves combined. And with that, I rose to the occasion and really started to create.

It wasn’t long before I was utilizing the many cooking nuances of this machine. Slowly but surely, I was harnessing my passion. Baking, cooking, creating and entertaining were all manifested in the time spent in front of my Viking Range. We all derive inspiration from somewhere. This is where mine bloomed.

With all good christenings, the first dinner I prepared was this Fried Filet of Sole with Spaghetti Aglio e Olio.

As with all inspirations and dreams, there is also my belief in myself. I work hard and I remain humble. I am forever amazed by this journey! Thank you for joining me at Life Around My Table!