Page 18 - Passion4Baking The Magazine

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«We parted ways in Atlanta but stayed in

touch after I was back in Scandinavia.
When we met a few months later, Melissa’s
outlook had improved and I could sense
that the bubbly, smiling person I knew
existed had emerged. She extended an
invitation to visit The Forever Farm for
a holiday photo shoot, and Melissa and
Steve greeted us with open arms. Melissa’s
changed life was reflected in the welcoming
embrace my friend Janne and I received,
and the laughter that filled the rooms of her
home.
Friends, family members and also some
of my Instagram followers all helped with
the baking, styling and preparations for the
shoot, and for The Forever Farm Christmas
party. Melissa’s sister in law, Lisa, had
decorated a stunning Christmas tree.
Jamie, another of Melissa’s sisters in law,
came to help as well as Instagram followers
Angela, Vanessa and Melanie. Family
friends Susie and Leejan also showed up,
Leejan with her sweet daughter and cute-
as-cupcakes-grandchildren, now featured
on these pages. I felt so blessed – I was
surrounded with people who wanted to
help! Melissa was strolling through the
house with her cute polka dotted apron,
whilst guests arrived to the warmth of a
kitchen overflowing with baked goods:
sugar toasted almonds (page 28), chocolate
cake with ganache (page 104), cookies and
cupcakes (pages 42 and 168), just to name
a few. Danny Gokey and his family were
invited as well, and when they arrived we
served them freshly baked brioche as they
were getting settled.
I felt so much love in the room that night,
and Melissa was the perfect hostess and
her cowboy Steve was all smiles. I was so
happy to get a glimpse of what Christmas
at the Forever Farm would be like, even if
this was September.
Even though life is difficult, each day offers
a new beginning. It’s important to remember
that time is precious, and I encourage you
to share the joy of the holiday season. Love
and meaningful, encouraging words are the
most precious gift… you never know whose
life you may change.

18 Passionforbaking.com