For years, I measured my well-being by the smiles around me — full lunchboxes, folded laundry, birthday cupcakes on time. If they were okay, I told myself, I must be too. But somewhere between the carpool lines and casseroles, I lost track of me. This is a story about burnout, motherhood, and the quiet unraveling that happens when you forget to feed your own soul while nourishing everyone else’s. It’s about learning to pause, reflect, and come home to yourself — even if it’s one small step at a time.

Diagnosed with celiac disease and early-stage colon cancer at 31 while balancing motherhood, baking, and grad school, Dawn shares how sourdough became a path to healing and purpose.