The Old Highway Cottage began as a small blog, then transitioned into a home bakery. It was a hobby and a simple creative outlet for the owner, Chandra Poll. Chandra, as a parent of four, struggles with anxiety and depression. When she was diagnosed, she had to make some significant changes in her life in order to manage her mental health, keep her family together, and stay here. Through therapy and healing she rediscovered her love for baking. Baking for her friends and family gave her so much joy and hope, that she wanted to use it as a way to help provide an income for her family.
In 2016, Chandra was so incredibly stressed with her work at home job and her motherly duties that she had a mental breakdown. Unfortunately, it was bad enough that she had to quit her job and just focus on being a mom. You can read all about that story here. This has been a great blessing in our lives for Chandra to be able to focus on parenthood and herself.
We began sharing on the blog many stories and tips for coping with mental health difficulties in families as well as in life experiences. We were also sharing DIY projects and recipes. We were finding that the recipes and DIY projects were much more enjoyable to share and create.
Since mental health has a mind of its own, it began causing problems for Chandra again. After a second breakdown, she decided that it was critical for her to do something she loved that would continue to help her heal. Since the DIY projects and recipe creation was more enjoyable, that began to be her focus.
Including the Family
Not only does our family enjoy it when Chandra is testing out a new menu item, they love helping with the business. Her husband has become the background businessman, her son is learning how to bake alongside her, and her daughter helps in any way she can. Whether it’s accompanying her to a boutique, wrapping baked goods, cutting out stickers, or tying ribbons, they all love to help.
We take one day at a time, as we all do. We’re discovering that The Old Highway Cottage is more than just a home bakery, we’re sharing our home with you. Thank you for letting us be a part of your lives!
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Thanks for stopping by!
Pictures were taken by my beautiful and very talented sister at Simply K Photography.
