ABOUT

     Welcome to Lu + Blackboard!  My name is Lyndsy, but most call me Lu.  Ten years ago I realized that I had a passion.  That passion started with food.  I liked to eat, I liked to cook, and I was insanely curious about the subject so I took a leap. I blindly jumped into the fast paced world of cooking. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts from the Art Institute of Houston, a few years later.  While in school I landed my first kitchen job at an upscale restaurant, working salads and desserts.  I quickly learned humility and hard work. From there, I was promoted to the event planning coordinator of the restaurant. During that time, I traveled to Aspen for the Food and Wine festival where I conferred with many staples of the industry from around the world. I also had the opportunity to observe and rub elbows with famous and local chefs alike. Their extraordinary talent made me realize I wasn't going to be, nor did I want to be, the next top chef. Instead, I had other ideas.

     
I decided to take a break to gather my thoughts. My life slowed down, spiritually, mentally and physically.  I began to feel creative and inspired again. That inspiration led to the opening of a small town bakery called Rise Cupcakes.  From the local dairy and the cage free eggs used in the batter, to the signature logo placed on the icing, I was incredibly proud of my work.  I asked a friend to join me in the endeavor, and we worked diligently to perfect our dream.  The bakery was and still is a success, but God had other plans for me. I was a newlywed with a desire to start a family.  That “family” started a little sooner than I expected, so I retired from the cupcake world.  Nine months later, the most precious work of art landed in my arms; my first born son.  I am now a PROUD mother of three incredible little nuggets; which brings me to this project, Lu and Blackboard.

My perspective of food and LIFE has changed drastically. The importance of complexity has lost its allure. Simple is the new black.  Knowing what are we eating and where it comes from is high priority. I also want to give my family the very best when it comes to nutrition, lifestyle, and perspective. Our world is a VERY busy place. I am learning the art of slowing down, and learning to enjoy the present. My goal is to inspire myself and others to do the same. 

I believe in:

• The quality of our food.
• Walking barefoot and doing it outside
• Lots of sunshine (without loads of sunscreen)
• Less medication and more vegetables.
• Preparing a slow meal at home because it is essential for the well-being of my children.
• Balance and moderation.
• The importance of wellness.
• Exploring new people, places and things. 
• Teaching my children to slow down, take it in, and enjoy the simplicity of life.
• Routine AND spontaneity.
• Creativity in all forms: Art, interior design, food, fashion, conversation, travel, photography, parenting, health, beauty and entertaining.
• Trying to capture joie de vivre.  
• Jesus.