If we were allowed to detect only one smell in life, I would probably choose that experienced the moment the doors of a small artisanal bakery first open. No doubt it would be a very long shortlist, but there are few things I find more soothing than that heady combination of butter, spice and yeast; and even the simple thought of beginning to work dough with my hands brings with it a welcome sense of calm.

Baking is my oasis, and I have learned that whenever it all gets a bit much and I'm feeling overwhelmed, unhappy or stressed I just need to take a step back, peruse a master or two over coffee and then pull on my apron, tighten the strings, and take a long, deep breath...