Lately, I’ve been reflecting on lessons that I’ve learned since changing my career path and branching out on my own 4 and 1/2 years ago. Trying to pursue a new field in which I had no prior experience and grow a business feels like a rollercoaster most of the time. There are many ups and downs! Disappointments. Set backs. Progress. Self-Doubt. Excitement. Stress. Gratitude. Growth. Burn out. Deal Breakers. It’s been such a crazy ride, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. Well, there is one thing I would do differently – I would’ve hired an accountant much sooner than I did. They are worth their weight in gold.
Other than that, I’m a firm believer that the mistakes and tough times are incredibly valuable. I’ve learned to believe in myself which was never something that came to me naturally. I’ve turned down opportunities and walked away from deals because they didn’t have my best interests at heart. While scary at the time, those are some of my proudest moments because I was true to myself and what I believe in.
Whatever path you happen to be on, believe in yourself. Stick to your guns if it’s important to you! When you have a bad feeling about something, listen to your gut. And most importantly, don’t let someone else convince you that you’re nothing without them. It just isn’t true. You might just be one person, but you are everything to your vision. Maybe your journey won’t look exactly as you thought it would, but sometimes that’s for the better anyway. If you have the passion and drive for something go after it and share it proudly with the world. We’re anxiously waiting to see it.
I’m happy to say that I’m getting into a good groove again with recipe development. Look at me posting on a Saturday of all days! Recipe ideas are starting to flow and most of my trials are turning out, almost effortlessly at times. It feels good after a long period of feeling drained on the creativity front. For the first time in a long while, I actually know the next recipe I’m posting on this blog which hasn’t happened in probably 6 months. hah. (Spoiler alert – you’ll never see Tabbouleh the same way again).
This pie. Finally, I get to this pie. Well, it didn’t last long! What else is there to say? I threw together a simple crust made with almonds, oats, coconut oil, and maple syrup. As I’ve mentioned many times before, I prefer this type of press-in crust over traditional flour pie crusts because the flavour is just incomparable. Plus, no rolling or kneading. It’s a no brainer.
The other day I was making my 2-Ingredient Chocolate Frosting and I realized it would make a fun, truffle-like pie filling because it hardens nicely when chilled. I paired it with a warm strawberry vanilla compote to serve on top. The compote is totally optional, but the cold and warm contrast was really nice! It’s also a great way to use up bruised berries that are on their last legs.
Hope your weekend squeezes in some chocolate, fun, sun, & relaxation!