On November 29, 2007, I made a decision that would start a chain reaction of transformation and change. I wrote a recipe for a dish I developed and clicked the “Publish” button for the first time on. Five years ago today, I staked a place for my little blog, Food Woolf.
Even the smallest action can result in big change. Just ask a ship captain how a simple adjustment of just one degree–sustained over time–can seriously alter a boat’s final destination.
A life changing meal in Panicale, Italy brought me the awakening I needed to wake me up to the need to enjoy my life as an artist. I was an isolated, frustrated screenwriter with few film credits to her name and no Hollywood sale to pay the bills. I was constrained by my art form. The act of screenwriting felt far too futile and dedicated to the constant practice of living in fantasy.
The decision to start my blog was the result of a resolution to try something different. Food Woolf would be my place to offer up weekly literary homage to food, cooking, and my life as a restaurant professional. I would use the blog to motivate me to leave my home and document my life in the world.
It took me a while to sand down the edges to get to the core of what this blog was about. My first post began as a kind of love letter to Nancy Silverton and a conversation we had about a recipe I developed. Over the years I dabbled in restaurant reviews, food profiles, and even did the occasional food news round up. I charted my irrational fear of baking, and spoke about the challenges of being a waiter.
Along the way I found my voice.
A lot can change in five years. Family. Friends. Career. Technology. Even the way I cook, eat, and even drink is different.
I’ve eaten my way through all sorts of culinary infatuations with Louisiana, Italy, Vietnam, Finland, Thailand, Guatemala, and France.
I’ve put away the cocktail shaker and waiter’s uniform and started my own restaurant consulting business.
I’ve met incredible people, made wonderful friends, and cooked with culinary heroes. I traveled far and wide in the name of food and writing. I’ve spoken at conferences, been nominated for food writing awards, and been recognized for my art form by people I truly admire. Foodwoolf–and all the people like you who I’ve meet through this site–are the incremental nudges that have lead me to this place of peace.
Beyond the obvious road markers that are easy to observe, the one thing that’s changed the most in me isn’t something that can be seen.
I have been transformed from the inside, out.
Thank you for reading. Thank you for the inspiration to grow. Thank you for challenging me to be more vulnerable. Thank you for inviting me to keep it simple.
Thank you for hitting the publish button, and for being one of the best blog voices out there. Really enjoy spending time in your corner of the world.
Congratulations!! And, thank you for all you contribute to the fascinating world of Food!
Thank you Janet. I’m so happy to be a contributor!
Happy anniversary, Brooke. It has been a pleasure, an honor and an inspiration to get to know you and to watch your voice, and your new career, develop.
Happy Anniversary! It sounds like your blog has been a blessing in helping you discover different parts of yourself. And, through the journey, you’ve found your voice and inspired countless others in the process. That fact alone seems like a wonderful anniversary gift in itself :] Looking forward to seeing where else it takes you!
Congratulations on your anniversary, Brooke! What a wonderful piece on life changes. I can’t forget the valuable lessons I learned from you at the Big Summer Potluck last July. Everyday, I tell myself to “be mindful”. It has made a difference in all I do. Thanks again and I wish you many more Happy Anniversaries & wonderful milestones !
Congratulations on your anniversary! So glad you took that first step and for all your lovely writing since.
I am new here, but I love your blog already! Happy anniversary!
Thanks! I love your blog! It’s beautiful!
Congratulations on 5 years! I too have noticed dramatic changes in my life because of blogging, and I can’t imagine a better community to be part of.
Nicole,
thanks for the kind words! I’m so glad we found this artform/platform!
Congratulations on your blogging journey – I’ve found masses of inspiration here.
Thank you so much Sally! I’m so happy to hear that something so cathartic for me can help others!
Best,
Brooke
Belated congratulations on this milestone, Brooke!
Congrats! It’s neat to hear the journey you’ve been on and how your site/blog has changed with you. What do you get for your 5 year gift?!?
Hi Brooke,
Congratulations on your blog’s 5th year (wooden) anniversary! Similar to wood, the blog seems strong and durable, standing the test of time. You must feel such a sense of accomplishment creating and sharing information that will benefit many in the food industry and those who are interested in all culinary matters.
As so many continue searching for their voice, I’m glad that you found yours. We’ll continue to benefit from ‘listening’ to you.
Also, I wish you continued success in your restaurant consulting role. I’m glad that you emphasize ‘service’ because too many folks forget how important the simple amenities are to ensuring a pleasant dining experience.