Let me tell you something...

Let me tell you something...

This year for me has been truly special for me, but what you see on social media isn’t the full story. Some of you may see this and think that it all comes easy; well, you know the saying - don’t judge a book by its cover.

A year ago, I was at my lowest. I was putting a lot of pressure on myself to validate your support. The result is I get extremely overwhelmed around this time of year and will completely shut the world out and go inwards. This year, I didn’t want to repeat what happened and have been looking at alternative paths to take, so that I’m not hard on myself. I’ve picked up swimming again. I think the constant, rhythmic stroke and exercise has helped me get out of my head - long may this continue.

I still feel waves of anxiety and pressure to “perform” or validate the support you give me. Even though, at times it’s hard and the negative voice in my head gets louder, I try to think of the good that surrounds me and my family. I had a great year and was able to achieve some outcomes I hoped for.

My new cookbook ‘You Can Cook This!’ was voted World’s Best Vegan Cookbook by Gourmand last week and I was named Top 30 Chef Changing The Future Of Food by VegNews.

I never expect to win awards, as I only want to give my best and expect nothing in return. I spent the two years researching, writing, testing and developing recipes whilst juggling other projects - it wasn't easy at times and moments where I wanted to quit and pack it in.

The community here is something else and one I’m very grateful for. Every day I receiving messages, emails and photos from people who have tested a recipe of mine, or simply ask the question "what can I do with this ingredient?" I'm grateful for your messages and couldn't be happier to know that there's people here who care and are supportive.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been reflecting and will continue to reflect over the holidays. At this time, I want to move to the next chapter in my career and in order to do so, I need your help and support once again. My new cookbook is on sale now and it would mean the world to me if you ordered a copy for yourself, your neighbour, your kids, the postman/postwoman, the bus driver, your colleague or angry boss; seriously, anyone who you think might enjoy flipping through my book and maybe cook a few recipes too. I think it makes an amazing gift and one that will be appreciated by loved ones.

I also want to hear from you, please leave a message in the comments down below. Is there anything you need from me or want to see more of?

From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much!

Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy holiday - see you in 2024!

Order your copy here, thank you!

smarturl.it/YouCanCookThis