When I decided to create my first cookbook, “With the Bickhams Cookbook Volume 1: From our home to yours with love and butter,” I had no idea just how much work and joy it would bring into my life. This journey took about seven months from the moment I decided to take on this fun project until it was available for everyone to enjoy. It was a process filled with cooking, writing, photographing, and a whole lot of learning, and I’m excited to share every step with you.
Deciding on the Recipes
The first step in this adventure was deciding which recipes I wanted to include. I thought back to all the dishes that had brought my family and friends together over the years. I wanted to share not just recipes but memories and flavors that had become staples in our home. From My Mama’s classics to new favorites, each recipe was chosen with care.
Cooking and Photographing Each Dish
Once I had my list of recipes, it was time to cook each one. This wasn’t just about getting the ingredients and following the steps; it was about making sure each dish looked as good as it tasted. I set up my kitchen to be photo-ready, which meant good lighting, clean surfaces, and a decent camera. Some days were better than others, but I was determined to get it right.
Cooking every dish for the cookbook was an adventure in itself. I had to make sure each plate looked perfect for the photos. I’d spend hours adjusting the lighting and arranging the food just so. It wasn’t always easy, but seeing the final pictures made all the effort worth it.
One of the most challenging parts was capturing the essence of each dish. Food photography requires patience and a keen eye for detail. I had to ensure the colors popped and the textures were clear. Sometimes, this meant remaking a dish if it didn’t photograph well the first time. But every setback was a learning opportunity, making me a better cook and photographer.
Writing and Typing Each Recipe
With the photos taken, I moved on to writing and typing each recipe. I wanted the instructions to be clear and easy to follow, just like how I’d explain it to a friend. Each recipe was written with love, making sure to include tips and tricks I’d learned over the years. It was important to me that anyone who picked up my cookbook could recreate the dishes without any hassle.
I spent countless hours perfecting each recipe’s wording, ensuring they were detailed but not overwhelming. My goal was to make cooking these dishes accessible to everyone, regardless of their skill level. I included anecdotes and personal notes to give each recipe a personal touch, sharing the stories behind the dishes.
Finding a Publisher
Finding a publisher was one of the most challenging parts of the process. I did a lot of research and finally found Found.us. They were fantastic to work with, helping me through every step of the publishing process. We collaborated on the design of the book, deciding on everything from the layout to the cover and back design. It was incredible to see my vision come to life with their help.
The process of working with a publisher involved numerous decisions, from choosing the right fonts and color schemes to finalizing the cover design. We went through several drafts to ensure everything was perfect. The support and expertise of the team at Found.us were invaluable, guiding me through each step and helping me realize my dream.
Writing the Introduction and About Me Section
Writing the introduction and the short about me section was a moment of reflection. I wanted to share a bit of my journey and why this cookbook meant so much to me. It wasn’t just about the recipes; it was about sharing a part of myself and my love for cooking with the world. I included a few pictures of myself to give it a personal touch and to let readers know the person behind the recipes.
In the introduction, I shared my love for cooking and the inspiration behind the book. I wrote about my journey, from my days as a Liftboat captain to my transition into a more home-centered lifestyle after my spinal fusion surgery. This project was more than just a cookbook; it was a symbol of resilience and a new chapter in my life.
Naming the Book
Naming the book was a special moment. After much thought, I settled on “With the Bickhams Cookbook Volume 1: From our home to yours with love and butter!” It felt right and captured the essence of what I wanted to share – love, family, and delicious food.
The title reflected the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals and the joy of sharing them with loved ones. It was a tribute to my family’s culinary heritage and the love that goes into every dish.
The Role of Faith and Community
This cookbook wouldn’t have been possible without my faith in God and the support of our followers. During times when I felt overwhelmed or uncertain, prayer and reflection gave me the strength to keep going. I believe that God’s guidance and blessings were instrumental in bringing this project to life.
Our followers also played a crucial role. Their encouragement and support kept me motivated throughout the journey. Every message of support, every like, and every share reminded me that I was on the right path. They believed in me even when I doubted myself, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
The Emotional Journey
This cookbook came into my life at a time when I really needed it. I was juggling everyday life, helping my wife Melissa run her wreath-making business, and dealing with the aftermath of my spinal fusion surgery from four years ago. My self-esteem was low, and I was feeling down. This project gave me a sense of purpose and pride. It was something I could pour my heart into and feel good about.
Seeing the book come together, page by page, was a powerful experience. It reminded me that even in tough times, we can create something beautiful and meaningful. This cookbook wasn’t just a collection of recipes; it was a symbol of resilience and love.
The Final Steps
After months of hard work, the book was finally ready for pre-sale. I was nervous but excited. When it finally became fully available, the sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. I had done it – I had created something from scratch and shared it with the world.
The Impact
The response to the cookbook has been incredible. Knowing that people are cooking my recipes in their homes, creating their own memories, is the best reward. It makes all the late nights and hard work worth it.
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One of the most touching moments was receiving feedback from readers who tried the recipes and shared their experiences. Hearing how my dishes brought joy to their tables was a reminder of why I embarked on this journey in the first place.
A Message to You
If you’re reading this and thinking about starting your own project, whether it’s a cookbook, a craft, or anything else, I want you to know that it’s possible. It takes time, effort, and a lot of heart, but the end result is worth every bit of it. Don’t be afraid to take that leap and create something beautiful.
Working from home and building a social media following has allowed us to take our time back and create a life we love. Melissa and I are just regular folks who decided to share our passions with the world, and you can too.
Remember, you’re never alone in your journey. Lean on your faith, your loved ones, and your community. Together, you can achieve great things.
Conclusion
Creating “With the Bickhams Cookbook Volume 1” has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s more than just a book; it’s a piece of our home, filled with love and butter, shared with you. Thank you for being a part of this journey, and I hope our cookbook brings joy and deliciousness to your table.