mpshort

Started baking at 7 (first cookbook was a present from a departing teacher)

At 13 asked for "Joy of Cooking" for Christmas

Graduated high school; wanted to attend Baltimore Culinary College but instead attended Catholic University as a biochem major.

Got married, had three children, saw a little of the world (moved to and lived in Florida, Philippines, and California), got divorced and then became serious about pastry.

Attended and graduated from L'Academie de Cuisine with a Pastry Arts Certificate in 1996

Worked as a pastry cook for Clyde's of Columbia, then for Susan Gage Catering.

Became a pastry chef instructor for the merchant marines.

Attended a week long advanced cake decorating class taught by Colette Peters at Ewold Notter's school.

Moved to Washington state; worked at a small patisserie for a short time, then as a grocery store cake decorator for an even shorter time.

Started my own specialty cake business: Creative Pastries.

Moved to Hawaii and am currently working as the pastry chef for K***** Golf and Beach Club while still keeping Creative Pastries and doing cakes on the side.