Gourmet Apples and more: From my family kitchen to yours

It is my dream and hope that this baking book will be for all readers

to enjoy. A guide for you to create the perfect sweet treat that you are trying to make for a loved one, a special event (birthday party, bridal shower, graduation, baby shower, etc.), or just to enjoy on a quiet Friday night at home. I believe that the secret of good baking is a good combination of plenty of eggs, milk, butter, cream and lots of love. Yes, my number one ingredient, whether you are baking or cooking, is making it with a lot of passion and love. People, who love to bake and who always have a sweet tooth, are always looking for new recipes.

The love for baking comes from my ancestors. When I started compiling information for my book, I interviewed both of my grandmothers and I discovered so much information about where my family came from. Baking was a passion for my maternal grandfather, Jose. And I remember eating my paternal great-grandmother Rufina's famous sugar cookies and yeast bread.The love for baking goes back as far as when my maternal great-grandfather and grandfather worked at a family bakery from a very young age in zacoalco de Torres, Jalisco Mexico. Also, my aunt Lupe and uncle Chuy onced owned several bakeries in Los Angeles, CA of whom I was always fond of.

Both my parents love to cook and bake as well, and our family events are always surrounded by food. The minute we plan a gathering the first question is always, "What will the menu be?"

I initially got my start in baking when my youngest son turned three years old, and I was planning his birthday party. I was sure that I was going

to be able to dip an apple in caramel and chocolate with no problem. Piece of cake, right?! Well, not so much. There were a few struggles, and I wish I would have had a baking book about gourmet apples for some guidance and inspiration. Since I couldn't find one, I decided to write one! I had a girlfriend once tell me "Beba, (my nickname) I'm here at Michael's store and saw this book of beautiful dessert tables and I thought of you!" Diana Moreno added this little bright idea in my head that one day I will put a book together like the book she saw at Michael's when she thought of me. I was not sure what the book would be about or how I would even begin the process of writing a book since I was so clueless. It all became a reality when I met my mentor, Davina Ferreira, from Alegria Publishing.