Pies of July

My youngest daughter is 14. This past summer I was reminded of what an “in-between” age this is – too old for most summer camps, not quite old enough for a job. Last spring we had been out for a walk discussing the activities that we may want to complete in the upcoming summer vacation.  She is a baker. She loves watching baking videos and trying new recipes. At one point one of us suggested that we do something in a series – -like make a different batch of cookies every week, make a cake every week all summer–something that would be both challenging and fun. And so Pies of July was born. A pie for every day in July. It had a nice ring and spoke to her innate creativeness. 

This shared activity created a sense of togetherness and was a powerful way to connect. What a time of mother-daughter connection we had. The planning, the grocery shopping, the baking, the documenting. Day after day, it never got old because we were doing it together. Both of us played a role in contributing to the final product. This collaborative effort fostered a sense of unity and shared achievement.

Friends and family reaped the benefits tremendously. Thirty-one pies sure do go a long way! The anticipation of enjoying the pies definitely built excitement. We took them to family dinners, outdoor concerts, picnics, and the beach. My daughter brought some when she was invited to friends’ houses. Sharing the experience with her, and then with those in our circle, is something I will always cherish. We may look back on the website or Instagram page and reminisce, but I really look forward to ten, or twenty years from now when we say “Remember that summer we made a pie every day in July?” The shared history is priceless.

About Emma and Jody from Pies of July

Emma is a 9th grader who loves baking, cross country, and spending time with her cats. Jody is a mom and special education teacher who enjoys baking and knitting. You can find them on their website and Instagram.

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