06/09/2026
Giving our mom a mixer — the first one she’s ever had.
A little backstory:
My mom has always been the most selfless person I know. When I was in high school, and money was tight, she saved for months to get me my first KitchenAid. She saw how much I loved baking, and she wanted me to foster that joy. So, she cut out extra spending, shopping, and any personal expenses. No manicures, haircuts, gym memberships… she truly put aside all personal wants to save up enough extra cash to purchase the one item I wanted more than anything.
A little over a decade later, I now own my own bakery. And Betsy (my first KitchenAid) is still with me. After what must be thousands of hours of use, she is still trucking along. Through college, moving jobs, cottage baking, and now being at her final destination, she has carried me through it all. I will forever be grateful for the love and support my mother has continued to show me on my baking journey, starting with that mixer.
For years now, my mother has suffered from nerve damage in her right shoulder. Despite therapies and a surgery, she still struggles daily with pain. And yet, every time I visit, a fresh loaf of sourdough and a perfectly baked batch of her famous chocolate chip cookies are waiting for me. I know she has been mixing everything by hand or with a hand-mixer for years. It was time to pay the gift forward.
It’s a gift she would never purchase for herself. When she’s had the means, she instead invests in my bakery, helping upgrade my equipment or expand the space. She would never choose such a luxury item to spend money on for herself, but never hesitates to give to her kids.
Mama Lisa, you are an extraordinary woman. If I could choose my family, I’d choose you again and again.
I love you.
PS - I expect a spectacular batch of oatmeal cookies the next time I come to visit 😘
