Dawn's interview

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Interview by Lydia

We interviewed Dawn!

Hello Dawn, so tell us...

When did you begin your blog, and what inspired you to start it?

SOP began June 2012 as a creative outlet. All of my children are grown and gone, needing to fill the void of an empty nest my friends and family suggested I write a cookbook. They have been after me for years but who had the time. Now I had the time. So the suggestion was given that I write a blog. I thought why not. I love it and can't imagine why I waited so long.

What is your earliest food memory?

My earliest memory is probably me licking the beaters of the mixer at around 3 or 4. My mom makes wonderful cakes and pies. I would help and sat patiently waiting for her to be finished so I could have a beater.

My earliest memory of cooking would be when I was 13 and my mom went back to work. Supper became my responsibility. I remember calling my mom at work to ask her how to do something and she talked me through it on the phone. My dad loved the meal that night and I was proud of my accomplishment.

Are you involved in the blogging community - how do you attract new readers?

As a blogger you have to be involved in the blogging community. I am blessed with a great group of women who give me advise, support me and share my content. They share my love of food and appreciate how hard we all work.

Do you have a special dish you prepare for your grandaughter?

My granddaughter will be 3 in October and she is a fresh fruit lover. However, she is a very good eater and will pretty much eat anything set in front of her. As she is 2 hours away I don't see her as often as I would like and visiting her at her home, I don't cook for her often. It is normally breakfast and she loves bacon, sausage and eggs.

What is/are your go to recipe(s) if you’re preparing a last minute dinner or party?

It seems I am not the norm. Most people have their favorite recipes and their 'go to' for when they are in a hurry. I have lots of time and so there are rare moments that I need a last minute idea. When it does happen, that would be chicken and noodles , salad or a quick stir fry.
There are no last minute parties, I plan WAY ahead and fix way too much food for a party. haha

If you could be a contestant or guest on any cooking show what show would you choose?

Oh gosh, I love Master Chef and Chopped. I really enjoy the thrill of the challenge, not knowing what ingredients you will be given and the time limit. I work well under pressure.

Has being an air force mom influenced your cooking?

No. My son has only been in the Air Force since last December and has been gone to school this whole time. As a former Army wife of 17 years, that was probably the bigger influence. Meeting ladies from all over the US and living in different countries. My love for food, travel and adventure brought out the adventurous cook in me.

Is there any dish, ingredient or type of food you refuse to cook or eat?

I would cook anything that my family wanted, even if I didn't eat it. I'm not big on clams, oysters, mussels or squid , rhubarb. I really can't think of anything else. Refuse to eat? Well, I could force myself to try just about anything but would prefer not to eat snails, squid or raw meat.

What are your goals for this blog? Where would you like to see it in the next year? Five years?

In the next year I would love to see my blog grow with daily readers and more opportunities as a brand ambassador. In five years I'd be in heaven if I became the next Hungry Girl.

Anything else you would like to share?

It is very humbling and exciting to know that my passion is shared by so many and that I am blessed to have the following and support of many like minded folks. My husband is my biggest supporter and of course my taste tester, with whom I could not do this without. I am blessed to be able to stay home and follow this dream however far it takes me.

Thank you Dawn for answering our questions and see you soon!
Published by Lydia - 08/08/2013

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