About Us

Raised by a hardworking teacher in the Pacific Northwest, and shaped by a life of resilience as a single mother, I’m no stranger to juggling countless responsibilities. My most cherished memories, however, center around food—cooking with my grandmothers and sister, where time slowed down, and everyone came together.

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I’ve dedicated my career to helping others. I’ve worked in the aerospace industry for the majority of my adult life, originally with an aerospace nonprofit benefiting at-risk youth, and most recently as a quality systems specialist in the defense aerospace sector. Through this journey, I’ve come to realize that my passion isn’t for aerospace or wealth, but for people and what brings them together. Food, in particular, is the universal thread that ties us all together, no matter how different we may be.

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When I’m not working, I love spending time gardening, cooking, crocheting, and reading. These activities not only ground me but also offer a sense of peace and creativity, providing a welcome balance to life’s demands. I also cherish the time spent with my daughter, who’s now in college; where one of us is, the other is usually close by. She’s pursuing a career in nursing, also driven by a passion for helping others.

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That’s why I started Bitewise Kitchen—to share one of my passions and to bring people together through simple, healthy, and accessible meals, especially for those of us who are pressed for time but still crave a sense of community and belonging.

 - Leah