In the heart of my childhood, the kitchen was the center of our home, a space where traditional family recipes, new creations, and delightful flavors unfolded. Raised by parents who both cooked, dining out was a rarity, reserved only for the most special occasions. Our family gatherings were feasts prepared by my parents, each taking turns meticulously creating a complete family-style meal. Whether it was cooking for our small family of four or our larger family reunions with over 50 people, there wasn't a dish they couldn't master, and every meal was a testament to their dedication.

My father, a maestro of original recipes, would tirelessly refine his creations, chasing the perfect balance of spices and textures. My mother, a perfectionist in her own right, found solace in the kitchen and took pride in flawlessly executing her signature dishes, like the Christmas Kifle. As the official taster, I was always underfoot, absorbing their passion and skills.

As the saying goes, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Inherently drawn to the kitchen, I found my joy as a scratch cook, gravitating towards both the kitchen and the garden, channeling my passion for creating delightful, healthy meals.

While my academic pursuits initially steered me towards a degree in fine art, my journey didn't end there. Embarking on a parallel path as a successful interior designer and business owner, I immersed myself in the world of aesthetics, where the principles of design transcended mere visual appeal. Crafting spaces that breathed life into environments became my canvas, where lines, colors, and proportions danced harmoniously.

Yet, as life often unfolds in unexpected ways, I eventually found myself pulling back from the design world to savor the simpler joys of existence. Now, I find my days are filled more with the laughter of family, the serenity of my gardens, the excitement of travel, and the culinary adventures that unfold both in my kitchen and during my travels. Although I still carry a torch for interior design and continue forward as a consultant, I now see food differently, it's a delightful symphony of passions where each note resonates with love, creativity, and a zest for life.

The transition from interior design to culinary exploration has been surprisingly seamless. The same artistic spirit that once guided my design choices now waltzes through my kitchen and across my plate, infusing every dish with color, balance, and harmony. Just as I once curated spaces to evoke emotions, I now blend flavors to tantalize taste buds and ignite the senses.

At OrangeYouHungry.com , my focus is mainly on tasting great foods and sharing those experiences through my travels. This platform isn't just a food blog; it's a celebration of life's vibrant hues, where every critique tells a story and every meal is an expression of joy. Join me on this delicious journey as I paint with flavors, blend with laughter, and savor the sweetness of simple pleasures. Let's indulge in the art of living, one delicious bite at a time.

Forks Up!