Growing up in a house where there was an expectation to finish your plate of food created some confusion over body image as there was much conversation about being weight conscious all of which I didn’t seem to pay attention to until I turned 15/16.
I have always loved sport, especially where there was an element of running...netball, hockey, cross-country when at school but still a keen and driven runner.
The reason I mention sport is that my athletic legs were highlighted by an elderly aunt when I was aged 16 whose comments lead me down a path of poor self-image and really not looking after myself….
I love food and tried cutting down my food consumption
I tried making myself sick
I over-exercised
I became anaemic
My periods stopped
What I realised after 20 years is that none of these worked and I had to find the balance in the food and exercise plus be kind to myself.
Unfortunately lockdowns, hormones and injury over the last year, especially the latest lockdown, I have really struggled with self-image. It has definitely not consumed my life like it did when I was younger but at 48 it has taken up too much space in my thoughts.
Talking my concerns with a couple of people close to me over the last few months has been invaluable…although not a perfect solution, running, exercise and yoga seem to be pushing me in the right direction again for body and mind. Plus good fresh food has always been a constant, I am just making sure breakfast and lunches packed full of goodness, perfect for me.
Although a brief glimpse into a much longer story, it is really important to understand the power that one comment had on my life. Luckily my story created resilience.
Be kind always and see you soon.
Jo x
P.S. please let me know what you would like to see at the table?
EVENTS:
2021 continues to hit us with a whole lot more of the crazy that we would love to escape. Although there seems to be a chink of light with returning to school plus the hope of meeting up with our family and friends soon. I am continuing with delivering allergy friendly treats, it is lovely to be part of the celebrations. This week has seen many birthday treats in the form a cake plus Mother's treats, whether sweet or savoury. A simple pleasure of fresh food delivered to your/their door.
I am delighted to say that all dates have been moved, both with Lovely Bread hat on and also in my other guises - Table Stories and Cooking courses. All of my events are tailored to be allergy-friendly - this means that you can socialise safe in the knowledge that you won't be eating something you'll regret!
Details as follows:
Table Stories Cichetti Supper Club - 22 May, 7.30pm
Table Stories Persian Summer Supper Club - 18 June, 7.30pm
Gather and enjoy an evening without boundaries, allergy friendly food your friends and family will love. Join us
Cooking Courses:
Allergy Friendly Cooking Courses (3 week courses) - Starts 10 May and 21 June, 7.30
Build an Edible Hamper - 30 June, 7.30pm
France - Summer Entertaining - 26 July, 7.30pm
GF Choux - 1 August, 10am
GF Pasta Making - 21 August, 2pm
GF Afternoon Tea - 27 August, 2pm
Having allergies is not as tricky as you think…learn how to prepare quick tasty and nutritious allergy friendly (100% Gluten Free), vegetarian meals using simple and seasonal ingredients. Each evening will include quick and tasty recipes, plus ideas to tweak ingredients to create new recipes. You will get to sample each week’s menu and take home recipes to make your own.
This is the perfect gift idea for the budding cooks in your life!
Book here
Private Dining *(directly or via Create 98)
I am also now cooking for private dining events in your home or at Create 98,
Please get in touch with me, if you'd like to know more.
DELIVERIES
And as always, Lovely Bread and Stuff are baking and supplying you with the best allergy-friendly goods. Easter menu is out but here is a sample of our Monday menus - follow on Instagram or Facebook to see latest menus, subscribe or get in touch if you'd like to know more:
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