Thanksgiving is upon us! Here we are, forced to think about the things we’re thankful for. It’s a great time to reflect on all that we have and what others mean to us. But what about all those other days of the year that we’re not so easily reminded to take a step back and be grateful? Let’s face it, as humans, we’re pretty good at getting stuck in a negativity rut. It’s easy to focus on what’s wrong with ourselves, our lives, our co-workers, our boss, our families, or our partners. When it comes to our relationships with our partners, it seems to be especially easy to focus on what’s wrong, what’s not working, or what’s most recently made us upset. Why is that? Well, we want those parts of our relationship to improve. We want to stop having stupid arguments about the same things over and over again. We want things to be easy. We want things the way we want them! Once we start being critical, we tend to get stuck in this space. The last thing on our minds is what’s actually ...

  I thrive on staying busy . So much so that I regularly wish there were more hours in a day, just so I could achieve more of what I want to do. I make lists of possibilities, spend time researching subjects that pique my interest, and enjoy planning trips and social gatherings. I naturally fill my schedule, and when a gap of time opens up, I jump in to fill it with something else fun and exciting. In my twenties, I worked full-time, went to grad school at night, and still managed to maintain a wide circle of friends, participate in the Austin social scene, and begin a new relationship. A factor that supports me in this lifestyle is that I tend to be extremely positive. I find negativity limiting and uncomfortable; I’m the master at reframing something to see the lesson learned or the potential for growth.   I've thrived on my enthusiasm, endurance, and positivity. These traits have led to many great successes, but my greatest strengths have also contributed to my downfall...

  Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do. I am a culturally Episcopalian, yogi-Buddhist, professional baker, chef and registered dietitian. I was raised by an Episcopalian priest and an artist (my dad actually has a masters in sculpture as well). They gave me a foundation of creativity, independence and something profoundly spiritual and compassionate that I couldn't fully articulate until my 30's. I have spent my life saying yes to experiences and being grateful that every moment is a gem that should be savored. I teach people about nutrition, health, food and food politics through cooking, baking, counseling and eating together. What are your passions? My passions are vast! I love food, physiology, bicycling, yoga, rock-gym bouldering, eating and hanging out with friends (which sounds like a "throw-away" answer, but truly, my friends, their children and my community are paramount).   Tell us about your journey as a baker and dietitian. I have...