a My Dunrovin Story, by Linda Tibbetts
Growing up in Marine on St. Croix, I knew of Dunrovin Retreat Center as the place where Brother Lawrence played the piano at community concerts. In the late summer of 2001, I answered a classified ad for a part-time cook position at Dunrovin. Prior to this, I had been cooking part-time at restaurants in Stillwater to satisfy my creative cooking side. A full-time day job satisfied paying the bills. Over the years, Dunrovin has become a detailed part of my life. I have made many friends and met thousands of people from all walks of life. Creating a wide variety of dishes to please different palates is my way of expressing gratitude for being fortunate to work at such a peaceful place full of serenity.
My life has changed significantly since 2001. I have lost both my parents to cancer; I have found a healthy road in recovery from alcoholism; I have gotten married; I have changed day careers; and I have strengthened my relationship with God. All of these things happened with Dunrovin in my life. More importantly, all of these things happened with the help of Dunrovin and staff and guests and friends.
One of my favorite times at Dunrovin is cooking for returning guests who become like family. Knowing guests’ likes and dislikes helps me present a stellar meal filled with yummy food and love. In the summer, the kids bring smiles and laughter into my life. I love tricking kids into thinking I made Liver and Onions or Brussel Sprouts just to see the cringe-worthy look on their sweet innocent faces. Spoiling kids is what I love best via making delectable desserts and healthy meals.
In closing, I believe my life would have taken a very dark and different road had it not been for Dunrovin and all it has brought to my life, as well as all I have been able to bring to the lives of those introduced to me by Dunrovin.
Linda Tibbetts famously wins cookie bake-offs in Washington County every summer. This is the tip of the iceberg for her culinary skills. Dunrovin is lucky to have Linda’s bright smile, quick thinking, and fabulous food creations.