My mother passed away when I was just 13 years old.

Losing her so young left a hole in my heart that I didn’t always know how to explain. For years, I struggled to process her passing and find a way to still feel connected to her.

But one connection was there all along: cooking.

My love for cooking started with my mom. Before it became my passion or my business, it was something we shared. After losing her, cooking became a way to feel close to her again.

In the kitchen, I found a place to pour my heart, my memories, and my creativity. Little by little, I found healing there, too. Every meal gave me a way to carry a piece of her into the life I was building.

That’s the heart behind Tammystastebudz.

My mother dreamed of owning a restaurant. She didn’t get the chance to see that dream come true, but her love for cooking lives on through me.

Now, I’m working toward building a food truck where I can share my food, serve my community, and continue what started with my mom.

I can’t bring my mother back. But I can carry her with me.

Every meal I prepare, every person I serve, and every step toward this dream is another way of honoring her—and building something my children can be proud of.

If you’re able to donate, thank you. If you can share my story, thank you. Your encouragement matters, too, especially on the days when this dream feels far away.

You’re helping me build a future from something my mother and I shared. That means more to me than I can put into words.

Thank you for helping me keep her memory—and her dream—alive. ❤️