Jess Dang Jess Dang is the Founder of Cook Smarts where she also wears the hat of Chief Kitchen Coach. She left the corporate world in 2011 to start Cook Smarts because she was passionate about bringing food education back to our schools and family dinners back into our lives. Follow me here
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So heartwarming to read about how you and Mary Ann touched and brightened each others' lives. I remember reading her blog spotlight and feeling like I was a part of something great... a blossoming community where we all came from vastly different perspectives to learn and enjoy together. I'm saddened to hear of her passing, but happy that the Cook Smarts community meant so much to her.
I feel certain she knew how you felt, Jess. Your warmth and gratitude comes across vividly in your emails.
What a great story and it is something that I echo. I'm just new to CS but I can feel the community and feel the support in learning how to fall in love with cooking again. It can be so hard...I live by myself and cooking for one can be such a chore. I see CS as a beacon of hope for me. So hang in there and know that what you started with the encouragement of Mary Ann is a living legacy for people like me.
Wow I was not expecting such a moving story! Thank you for sharing. I am new to the community and am blown away. I am also a new mother preparing to leave the corporate world to support my husband's startup business venture, which entails learning how to cook for my him, our toddler with another on the way. I don't know what scares me more, leaving a solid career after 10 years for the unknown adventure of a startup, or taking over the role as cook for my family. Mary Ann and Jess are added motivation and encouragement - 'we can do this!'
Thank you for sharing Mary Ann's story and her part in your own! I am a new CookSmarts member--I am an empty nester who works 50+ hours a week as a high school counselor. Prior to CookSmarts I was picking up fast food on the way home from work. Now my husband and I have found that the shopping lists and weekend prep guides have made us colleagues in the kitchen. He had NEVER cooked dinner before and currently by the time I come home from work, he often has everything cut up and ready to go. We have enjoyed every meal and especially like trying new veggies and international recipes. THANK YOU, Jess for following your dream!!
Jess - What a sweet tribute to an unusual lady - your gratitude for her friendship and support comes shining through.