About Me
I am Mary, the writer, baker and photographer behind Sifting Focus. I am currently living in Los Angeles but my roots began in Kentucky where a piece of my heart will always remain. I was lucky to have been raised in a family of great cooks and bakers – my Mom and my Dad and both of my grandmothers. One of eleven children, there was always something in the oven at our house. HA! Money was scarce but great food wasn’t. I learned a lot at the hands of my parents and grandparents and sharing that knowledge with others I view to be both a privilege and an obligation.
You might be wondering what brought me to L.A. from Kentucky. Well, that would be love – then marriage. Then came, yes you guessed it, a baby carriage and a beautiful baby girl. Alas, babies grow up and then they leave for college (darn her) which leaves an empty nest to be filled and the question of – what next?
Sifting Focus is about a space that has opened up in my life where I can pursue my passion for baking. It was my sister-in-law who first introduced me to the world of blogging. She insisted that it was the perfect place for me to share my baker self. I was hesitant at first – what did I have to contribute that wasn’t already being said and done? Then it occurred to me that a personal journal about baking didn’t need to be competitive or the “best”. It only needed to make me happy and offer a place where I could connect with others about something I love so much. So here I am – blogging away and loving it.
In support of the cause, my husband (Howie) and daughter (Jayz) gave me a beautiful Nikon D90 for my birthday. I had absolutely no idea what to do with it. (Thank god for the auto setting.) I was completely camera illiterate, but I took a few classes, wore out the pages of the Nikon manual and then practiced, practiced, and I am still practicing. Who knew that one passion would lead to another.
Well, that’s my story. Glad you stopped by and please come again. We can share a virtual cup of tea along with some recipes, stories and the latest in food gossip.
Happy Baking – or doing whatever it is that makes YOU happy!
Mary
Hey Mary–
Sherry sent me the link to your blog. I wanted to tell you that it looks fantastic. I wanted to reach into my computer screen to make all of your amazing treats. I love the name of your blog and its incredible style. In addition to all of your many talents, you are also a great food stylist.
I wish you the best of luck with your blog and I’ll be following it and licking my lips!
XOXO,
Robin Levander
(Sherry’s cousin)
Thank you so much Robin for your kind words. I truly appreciate it!
Mar,
I spent my Saturday morning with my coffee and your blog. I am very impressed and proud. The blog is a culmination of many of your talents and gifts that go well beyond baking, some of which you know, and some that can only be seen by others. I wanted a scone.
Love ya, Dan
Aaahhh, it feels warm and yummy to have my big brother’s stamp of approval. Love you, too!
Hi Mary,
Howie posted your blog on Facebook so I had to take a look, and wow! I am totally impressed. Amazing job on the blog and fabulous pictures. You are an inspiration. Keep up the good work, and I am so happy for you.
Love,
Jessica Candler
Thank you so much Jessica! So sweet of you to check out my blog. Love to everyone!!
Mary,
it looks wonderful… the blog, the baking, and of course you! It is inspiring and I can’t wait to follow…
Lots of love,
Terra
Thanks so much Terra! That means a lot to me.
Oh, Mary, it is such a joy to see your gorgeous blog up and running. There is so much deliciousness here, I can see the love and dedication in each post already. And I love that picture of you! So adorable!
Thanks Liren for the kind words! It is exciting to be up and running. Now I can start enjoying the experience of baking, writing and sharing.
Love the photo! Looking forward to recipes for your favorite passover desserts! SO tired of matzo – meal sponge cake and macaroons!!
xoxo
julie
Mary, I just love the blog and hope to try some of these amazing creations!!! Your art and talent just shines through and I’m so happy for you. The butter tip for the scones is GREAT!! xo, Robin Rome
Thank you Robin!
You’re more than up and running….you’re galloping.
I love your writing as your true self comes through and the gentleness and sweetness permeates each post and exposes your artistry in a new dimension.
I don’t know much about baking but I’m an expert in eating and I can testify to all who read this that you are not a baker so much as a magician in the kitchen.
Your readership will spread beyond friends and family and will surprise you in all your modesty.
I have it on good authority that Martha Stewart is looking over her shoulder.
Love
Zayzee (aka your loving father in law)
Aaahh! Thanks Dad. Touched by your loving words and grateful for the support. You are one of my best taste testers.
Dear Aunt Mary,
I love this blog! Whenever i am on the computer i check out your blog! Everything looks so yummy! Hope to see you soon!
Love ya
Grace
Thanks Grace for all the loving support as I attempt to get my blog off the ground.
Mary…. I am so happy for you. The blog looks fantastic. For anyone reading Mary’s blog, try the recipes. I have been fortunate enough to have tasted many of Mary’s desserts and they are as delicious as they look in the picture. I look forward to checking you out on a daily basis.
Love you,
Lori
Thanks Lori for checking out my blog and thank you for the kind compliments. I truly appreciate the support!
Very nice blog! It is so wonderful that you grew up in a foodie family. Look forward to more of your posts: ) Thank you for sharing!
Thank you for stopping by!
Mary, as I read your blog, I felt that I was with you, experiencing your grace, generosity, and creativity. Only one missing piece: In person, I would be tasting one of your delicious creations, not just craving one. For the moment, I’ll be happy with a feast for the eyes.
Thanks Nancy for checking in and your kind words. Enjoy!
Mary, Congratulations on taking your passion to another level! I admire your talent as an artistic baker and photographer. I look forward to more tantalizing recipes!
Thank you for stopping by my blog. I truly appreciate it!
Mary,
Reading your blog took me back to eating one of your scrumptious cup cakes from Alana’s b-day party. Yummy! Best cupcake (OK! I had more than one) I have ever had. SERIOUSLY! You are awesome. Love the site.
Wanda (Sylvia’s friend)
Wanda, I’m flattered! I’m glad you enjoyed the cupcakes and I appreciate you stopping by my blog. Thanks a ton!
Hi Mary, you’ve got a lovely website, thoughtful voice, a great eye and your tribute to your Dad was wonderful. Best eWishes.
-Bennett
Bennett, thank you for stopping by and visiting my blog and for your kind words!
The brownies look SOOOOOOOOOO yummy!
Thanks Julie!
Just discovered your blog and I already like you! Will be perusing your pages.
Thank you Rochelle!
Hi Mary- just stumbled across your site- it’s great! Nice to ‘see’ other L.A. bloggers!
Thank you!
Hi Mary! I keep up with your blog daily and am very impressed- wouldn’t expect anything less from you! I’ve been baking a lot recently and am dying to try some of your recipes. I’ll let me know which ones I try and how they turn out. Love, Megan