About Yaya

I am Grandma to Maggie and Reese - Maggie began calling me Yaya when she was one and it stuck! I come from a very large wonderful family. My mother, Loretta Foster, made fantastic breads, pies and cakes and my mother-in-law, Ann Roberts, who grew up on Strawberry Hill in Kansas City, Kansas, is an amazing cook.

I have enjoyed a lifetime of rich experiences and opportunities, providing exposure to tremendous chefs, restaurants, farmers and unique cultural and culinary experiences. I have met so many inspirational people who have enthusiastically shared their passion for cooking and food. 

Though a teacher by degree, I had the privilege of working for nearly 35 years in a leadership role, for a private, non-profit organization serving children and families.  As I began to consider retirement, I knew I wanted to start a new chapter in my life focused solely on things I love most - children, cooking, travel and teaching. Combining these led to the creation of Cooking with Yaya, where I hope to share my love of cooking to inspire a new generation of young chefs. I only hope the kids have as much fun as I do!