A Baker's Dozen

The day that Grace passed away, I baked brownies. I didn't know what else to do. It was a Saturday and that day was always devoted to taking care of, and spending quality time with Grace. We no longer had her there to take care of and the thought of moving forward with taking care of any funeral arrangements was just too much to bear. It was raining and cold. Brien made a fire and I baked brownies. We spent the next week eating those brownies and going through the motions of trying to plan a perfect memorial for our little angel.

Yesterday I baked again. Not brownies this time but just some cookies from a box. I'm not a great baker by any means, probably because I don't have the patience or the eye for perfection that most great bakers possess. However, when looking through Grace's pictures yesterday, an overwhelming feeling of sadness suddenly crept up once again. I suddenly remembered how sweet she was and got that urge to bake again. I took my time making each cookie the exact same size and meticulously rolled each one in the cinnamon and sugar mixture. To my surprise, they came out perfect with a crunchy exterior edge and a chewy, but not too gooey inside. It was hard to eat just one. Luckily, one of our friends had a birthday party last night so we brought the cookies to her. Our friend, Alex, loves cookies...she's also a foodie and enjoys cooking. When we arrived her kitchen smelled wonderful....she was making soup and the aroma of the onions and garlic marinating was intoxicating. Alex loves to cook for her friends (so thankful that I am one of them!) and she is one of the most truly caring and giving people that I know. She is always doing thoughtful things for other people and I hope she knows those acts are not unnoticed! We continue to be more blessed and amazed every day with all of our friendships.

So, yesterday, I was reminded of the Christmas legend, the Baker's Dozen. The once curmudgeon baker learned his lesson that you should always give what is needed.....and then a little more. Once the baker learned to give more, his business thrived and he received much more good fortune in return. Although the holidays are now over, maybe it's a good time for you to bake something for a friend, or just reach out and offer them a helping hand or an ear to listen. I believe it is Grace's wish that you receive good fortune, and also give of yourself, just a little bit more.