Hi! I’m currently taking time off from regular posting after having a baby this summer, but want to check in with a little update.
Sweet readers, I’m having a tough time right now.
Whether you’re (1) evacuating your home or have family/friends on the west coast during these devastating wildfires, (2) trying to find normalcy in a very not normal world, and/or (3) adjusting to children learning at home or back in school during this pandemic, this season of life feels very different. It certainly feels different for me. We welcomed our beautiful baby girl this past summer and are absolutely in love with her. From her big curious eyes down to her tiny little toes, she is honestly the sweetest. She’s such an easy baby, but maybe that’s because we have the experience under our belts. Our older daughter just loves her and wants to be around her all the time. We’re so blessed to have our health, home, and happy daughters.
My heart is just so full.
However, at the very same time, a piece of my heart feels like it’s missing.
Our beloved dog, Jude, passed away last month. Jude was diagnosed with cancer in August 2019 and fought it for a year. As pet owners know, pets are a very big part of the family. And Jude? He was my shadow. My sidekick. A true companion in every sense of the word. An irreplaceable part of this family. Wherever I was, he was. If dogs have souls, Jude has one of the biggest. Not only because he was enormous at 120 lbs, he just had a very big heart. He was the kind of dog who could sense how you were feeling. Laid with you while you were sick, sat with you while you cried, smiled at you (seriously!) when you were happy. For 12 beautiful years, Jude was our constant through it all: new homes, new jobs, cookbooks, our wedding, birthdays, book tour, miscarriage, pregnancies, babies, and all the other moments in between.
For anyone who thrives on routine, the loss of such a prominent part of your life feels impossible. Additionally, the transition from 1 to 2 children certainly has its difficulties. Pair all of this with postpartum recovery, postpartum emotions, sleepless newborn nights, and the isolation felt during this world pandemic and your emotional and mental stress feel like a mountain weighing on top of you. My husband, always looking on the bright side, reminds me of the silver linings we have. We’re so thankful our daughter got to meet Jude and that we even have a few pictures of him sitting beside her bassinet. And having activities and gatherings cancelled this summer has encouraged us to slow down. Maybe it’s the same for you too? We’re enjoying more time outdoors and savoring the present. And one last silver lining: While Franklin, our other dog, misses his big buddy, he’s certainly loving all the extra attention. He deserves it.
I mentioned this on social media and want to repeat it here. I know it might seem unseemly to grieve the loss of a dog when so many are losing their lives in the chaos of our world right now. But loss is loss and I’m feeling this one really hard. I recently experienced one of my best days and one of my worst. It’s been an absolute roller coaster of emotions and I’m still trying to work through it all.
I miss him so much. Jude was the happiest dog until those final few days.
I planned to post more recipes during my postpartum time off, but haven’t had the chance to clear my head and publish them all. I promise I’m trying my best to bring you fresh new recipes that I prepped while I was pregnant. Thank you for your patience with me and understanding that I need this time to be with my family.
On a brighter note, it’s Noelle’s 3rd birthday next week! I can’t believe my little girl is turning 3. No big parties this year, but we’re going to make the day as special as we can. She loves the Trolls World Tour movie and I plan to make her a special Queen Poppy cake. I’m terrible with fondant, so I’m thinking vanilla cake, rainbow frosting decoration, and a Trolls cake topper. Have you ever made a Trolls themed birthday cake before? I’m open to ideas!
We took a little vacation to Deep Creek Lake last week. It was a quiet and relaxing family getaway in one of our favorite spots. We just needed a change of scenery. If I’m being honest, sitting on the back deck with coffee and a view was all the medicine we needed. It was after Labor Day, so the lake wasn’t crowded. We lucked out with weather.
‘Tis the season for quick bread. We brought a loaf of the September Sally’s Baking Challenge recipe to the lake with us: cinnamon swirl quick bread. (There have been hundreds of participants so far this month!) This time I mixed 1 cup of chopped and peeled apples into the cinnamon sugar swirl mixture before layering it in. Same bake time. It tasted unbelievable– sort of like last week’s apple cinnamon babka but without a yeasted dough. I highly recommend it.
I was going to wait until the official start of fall, but couldn’t resist. Here’s my first loaf of pumpkin bread this season. I actually prefer it plain without the chocolate chips. I used whole wheat flour in this loaf and topped it with coarse sugar before baking. Same bake time. Always so moist and flavorful.
I want to lead by example not only for my daughters, but for my readers and followers too. In my last coffee break post, I shared my commitment to help break the unjust cycle of racism in our world and country. I hope we each yearn for a more loving and inclusive world and sometimes it’s hard to understand that in order for that to happen, we have to be the change… right now. Over the past couple months, I’ve thought a lot about the privilege I have simply because of the color of my skin. I found this article on Allure.com and while the entire piece is a great resource, the section titled “Reflect on all the ways you benefit from privilege” has been enlightening. (It links to a few more pieces and essays too.) I shared this on my Instagram account, but I joined Rachel Cargle’s eye-opening Do The Work course. It’s a free email course that provides comprehensive and concrete ways for being anti-racist. The emails also include links to articles, other resources, and videos. There is also The Conscious Kid organization. By joining, you have access to many resources for how to teach children (of any age) about anti-racism.
I’m still learning and growing in my own advocacy, but I hope to keep the momentum going that was seen earlier this summer. Racism has deep roots and as we continue to see it in the news every single day, it will not go away without the work.
Have you joined the sourdough bandwagon?
I just picked up a copy of New World Sourdough by Bryan Ford. I’m excited to finally learn more about from-scratch sourdough. I’ve always been intimidated by the entire process because the wealth of information online is overwhelming. However his book and comprehensive guide to sourdough (with FAQs) breaks things down into understandable steps. Super helpful if you’re a beginner like I am.
I also got Whole Grain Sourdough at Home. I haven’t had the chance to dive into it yet, but this book covers how to tackle sourdough using whole wheat flour and ancient grains. Recipes seem very easy to follow too.
I think that’s about it for now. Let’s end this post on a positive note though. No matter what we’re facing in this moment: loss, heartache, exhaustion, injustice, natural disaster, anxiety, change, and anything in between, I know that food can be healing. Baking has always lifted my spirits whether that’s receiving something homemade from a loved one, baking to ease my mind, or baking for someone who needs cheering up. It’s so much more than something sweet, it’s comforting for the mind and soul. Need proof? Last year I wrote a post called What Baking Means to You. The comments are beautiful.
Thank you for being here. xo
Congratulations on your family
Addition. What a beautiful family!
Sally, what you have done for the baking community over these trying times has been monumental. You gave love to all the baking community by giving so much of yourself and your love of the kitchen, baking ideas, cook books, and fabulous baking ideas and tips. For this, I thank you!
Sorry fir the loss of your family dog, Jude. I know how painful losing such a beloved family member is very painful as God’s animals are truly our ‘best friends.’
Keep up the great work you do for so many.
Thank you for your heartfelt and honest share. You’re one of my heroes.
❤️
Warms my heart to hear you talk about your young family. My children are also 3 years apart, a girl and then a boy, but much older than yours now! Lol! But your musings stir warm memories. My kids are still best friends and make the time for “sibling days”.
So sorry to hear about your loss of Jude and amused by Franklin’s reaction. Funny, our son was the same when his older sister left for college. We always joked about him indulging his “inner only child”. You have so many wonderful memories of Jude and I hope that they comfort you during this time.
Hugs Sally, so sorry about your loss.
Sending love and strength your way. Things are really hard right now, but thank you for sharing and reminding anyone who needed to hear it, that we’re not alone.
My dog is truly my best friend, so I understand.
“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” – Roger Caras
Oh Sally I feel your pain so very much. When I was 39 weeks pregnant, I found out the my sweet 10 year old Dachshund Chloe had liver cancer and that she was dying. I gave birth to my second son two days later, and she passed away three weeks later. I was devastated. I would be up with Kolton at night and would just sob for her. It was excruciating trying to go through post partum , breast feeding challenges, exhaustion and the loss of my first baby. I got Chloe when I was told I’d never have babies. She truly was with me through EVERYTHING. I too treasure the photos I have of her with Kolton before she died. I’m heartbroken for you that you are going through the very same situation I did. Losing them is a loss beyond words, especially during the wonderful but emotionally draining time of newborn life. Give yourself time to grieve and heal. Congratulations on your sweet girl. Prayers and love to you .
The picture of you and your daughters is SO PRECIOUS, it really brightened my day! I’m really sorry about Jude. I never had a dog myself but we had our Grandog, Heineken, and miss him every day as he was an important member of our family for 15 years. Glad you’re taking time for your own family right now, ENJOY.
So very sorry for your loss! I love my dogs they are very much deserving of the grief as they earn it with their unconditional LOVE! I really love reading through your recipes and hints. They have provided some normalcy during this crazy time in our world! Happy baking!!❤️
❤️❤️ Jude will always be a part of you and be your sidekick.
Oh Sally I feel your pain. No apologies needed to understand your heartache. Anybody who has loved a dog will understand. I am glad you are reaching out to us and letting us know how unsteady your world is right now. That is a good step to healing. Please know we love you and send you peace and hope. xo Wendy
As a 72 year old mother of two girls (probably around your age) and four beautiful grandchildren, and I have to say I think life for a young mother is much harder these days. Many more worries! You’ll come out on the other side. Be prayerful and focus on those babies. I was surprised at your reference to Deepcreek lake. I also raised my little ones in Maryland, specifically Howard County, and made many trips to Deepcreek lake. It was our getaway! We all have turmoil in our life. It’s just the way we handle it! Your blog is now my go to place when I need to bake something and I must say that every recipe has been such a huge success. It started with your strawberry cake and the most recent was your coconut cake. Love everything! Keep your chin up, stay calm and keep baking!
So sorry for your loss. Jude was loved and he loved you right back!!
He will always have a spot in your heart…..
Oh Sally, I’m so very sorry about the loss of your beloved Jude. I know how hard it is to lose a pet, especially one that you’ve had so long. My sister lost her 13 year old dog to cancer last year. It’s hard. And these aren’t normal times where you can grieve in person with loved ones. Sending hugs your way.
On another note, your girls are beautiful! My kids are 5 years apart, and I struggled with the transition from one to two children as well. It’s perfectly normal.
One last thing – thank you for acknowledging racism and privilege, and taking the time to think and act. I’m white as well, but my husband is black, and our kids are mixed race. My husband and kids are dealt with racism as people of color, and we’ve dealt with it as a family, so I appreciate seeing people make an honest attempt to acknowledge and address it.
Take care, looking forward to when you return from maternity leave!
So sorry for the loss of your sweet Jude. Hugs to you during this time and hopes for a brighter tomorrow!
Dear Sally,
Your heartfelt message touched my heart as I can totally connect with what sadness you are experiencing with the loss of your beloved Jude. In July, we, also, lost a fur baby, our Yorkie, Rocky who became a family member from the first day we brought him home … He was a treasure and a blessing. After twelve and a half years, he is now in heaven. We think of him every day and miss him terribly. As I type this, my eyes are full of tears … He was such a part of our home and heart. Dogs are THE BEST of God’s creations … they add a special element to one’s life and provide love, compassion, companionship, loyalty and SO VERY MUCH MORE to our lives. Jude, like Rocky, will forever remain in our memory and heart. We can truly share in your loss ….
Congratulations on the birth of Elise .. both your daughters look like such sweethearts … Just like their Mama.
With Hugs,
Donna
Sally, I’m so sorry to hear about Jude. We also lost our beloved dog, Darcy, 2 months post-partum with my second child. My heart reaches out to you. How wonderful that both of the kids got to meet Jude. Both kids still talk about our dog regularly and have stuffed dogs that they sleep with that they call Darcy- it’s a wonderful legacy. Hopefully, all of the wonderful fall foods are giving you warmth and comfort during this time. Thank you for all you do and for the wonderful anti-racist resources you’ve shared.
Life can be tough to balance, but we have to remember that the balance is ever-shifting. Blessings to you and your family.
For your new one, you might want to check out this link. Black, white, and red are the first colors that baby see it. My son used to coo at the flashcards that I showed him. Also, he used to smile every time our black/white Australian shepherd walked near him.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=black+white+red+baby+stimulation&ref=nb_sb_noss
Sally:
These certainly are challenging times and please take time to be kind to yourself to heal and adjust to all of the changes you are experiencing. I lost my sister to cancer and then was blessed with my first grandchild three days apart. It was a roller coaster of emotions, so i understand conflicted feelings of joy and pain. And for those of us who are pet lovers, losing a furry member of the family who is also a best friend is a terrible and difficult loss. You have given us (your readers) so much happiness with your wonderful recipes and tutorials. I am an avid baker and your blog always lifts my spirits and improves my baking. I hope that we can give back to you some of the love and joy you have poured out on your followers as you go through this season of change. Congrats on the beautiful baby girl!
Sally I have missed you so but I’m so encouraged by your beautiful words. I have also lost a dog that derailed me in my tracks. Congratulations on your beautiful Elise. I’m anxious for your new recipes In the future. However you need to take this time with your beautiful family. All of us readers love and respect you. ❤️
Dear Sweet Sally,
Congratulations on your Beautiful precious Elise. Your Noelle is adorable too. Time goes by so Quickly so I know You will enjoy each moment. My sympathy on losing your Jude. Pets are family! I enjoy all of your recipes and appreciate the time and care You put into your blog. May God surround You with his Peace and Love .
Thank You for sharing your Heart and gifts and talents with us… especially in this crazy time of life.
Blessings
Dee
Oh Sally, I’m so sorry for your loss! It’s been 8 years since we lost our 200lb “Fatty Maddie” and we miss her every day On the bright side you’ve got a new little one, congratulations!!! I’m very happy for you and your family, enjoy the time with the we ones, it goes by quick. Also, keep cranking out the delicious recipes, I don’t usually post, but I pretty much make them all Stay safe, best regards, Dodi
Sorry for your loss of Jude. Thank- you for all your beautiful posts- sending you hugs!
Sally, I am so sorry for your loss. I lost my 13 year old mutt, Izzy, around the same time you lost Jude (also to cancer, but she was only diagnosed a month before). It is so hard on top of everything else going on in this world. Thank you for expressing what is in your heart as it very much reflects what’s in mine too.
Oh what a bittersweet summer. You experienced the joy of a new baby and the grief of losing Jude. I lost my Mariska two years ago to bone cancer. I still grieve for the loss of her sweet soul. Take one day at a time, grieve in your own time and love your sweet family.
Congratulations on your baby girl! Yes settling into this new normal has been challenging but one plus is the LOADS of family time we get this year and the forced slowing down of our usual pace For me, it reminds us to enjoy the little everyday joys that we often overlook, that’s all around us. I’m so sorry to hear about Jude. You’re right, loss is loss and nothing can heal this wound but time. You and your family are in my prayers. I hope you find comfort in knowing, that she’s in a better place and in no pain. A (early) happy birthday to Noelle! Trolls is the best! I have made a Trolls birthday cake before, nothing fancy but I piped the whole cake using a grass tip and piped rosettes on the side and stuck trolls figures on top. It was a hit. I hope you stay well and stay safe and we have TUNS of your recipes to try till you’re ready to come back. Take it one day at a time
❤️
Beautiful! Congratulations on your newest family member and the loss of your buddy Jude. Thank you for sharing your experience and the links. You are the sunshine with my morning coffee.
So sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved Jude. While your heart is full after welcoming Elise (she’s beautiful!), at the same time a piece is missing. A big piece.
These are unprecedented times in our country. In my almost 62 years I’ve experienced none like them. It’s harder just living normal daily life. It must be difficult when life’s landmarks coincide with what’s happening in the world.
Take extra care of yourself and the family, in wjatever way that you need to. In the meantime, I’ll be enjoying the vanilla cake I made yesterday. Sending love and hugs from Montana. ❤
*whatever way you need to. I hate typos, especially my own.
Sally,
I am so sorry you have been struggling. I have been struggling too. I found out in May I am pregnant with twins and I have two little ones already, 3 1/2 and 15 months. This has been such a trying time for everyone. Life doesn’t seem normal these days. Then to add to loss of such a close soul makes it that much harder. I find my strength through family and baking. I wanted to do something nice for my co workers so I made 24 mini cinnamon swirl loaves yesterday to bring to work. I am so grateful for your recipes, encouragement and the baking community you have created. Keep your head up girl, we will get through this together!
Congratulations on your beautiful baby girls. They are lucky to have such a wonderful Mama!
Hi Sally, I was so sorry to hear about the loss of Jude. You write so eloquently about all of these hard topics and I just wanted to say that your thoughts and sentiments really resonated with me. I hope you’re taking care.
I’m so sorry to hear about Jude. I recently lost my “shadow” too. He was with me for 15 years but my heart still breaks every day. I also lost my beagle last year – his “brother” almost made it a year without his dear friend. I know how precious our fur kids are to us. The love of our pets stays in our hearts forever.
Congratulations on the new addition to your family!! Both of your children are beautiful!