Hi there, I'm Linda, and if you ever find yourself in a small kitchen in Asheville, North Carolina, inhaling the scent of slow-simmered chili or freshly baked cornbread, there's a good chance you're somewhere near me. I'm 31y now, but my love for cooking started when I was just a kid, perched on a wooden stool beside my grandma as she stirred her famous chicken and dumplings. She always said, "Cook with your heart, not your hands," and it's a motto I've lived by ever since.
I didn't go to culinary school. Instead, I learned from life: potlucks, church suppers, roadside diners, and plenty of trial and error in my own kitchen. I still remember the first time I tried to bake a pie from scratch—I forgot the sugar, and my dad politely chewed his way through a slice with a brave smile. These little mishaps didn’t discourage me; they made me curious. I started watching every cooking show I could find, jotting down notes, and tweaking recipes to fit the ingredients I had on hand.
For me, cooking isn't about perfection. It's about comfort, creativity, and connection. I want to show people that you don't need fancy gadgets or exotic ingredients to make something truly satisfying. A simple roast chicken, a hearty vegetable soup, or a warm peach cobbler can bring people together in the most beautiful way. And when you're just starting out, it's okay to mess up. I've burned toast more times than I can count, and I still call my sister when I'm not sure if a pot roast is done.
These days, I spend a lot of time helping friends and neighbors gain confidence in their kitchens. Whether it’s teaching someone how to make gravy without lumps or just sharing tips on meal planning for busy families, nothing makes me happier than seeing that spark of joy when someone realizes, "Hey, I can do this."
So if you're just starting your cooking journey, welcome. I'm here to remind you that everyone starts somewhere, and every great cook was once a beginner with a scorched frying pan and a dream. Let's make something delicious together.