Today I made 15 dozen cookies.

Yep. I also made 10 dozen fudge. That's a lot of preparation and standing on your feet. It took me two days but the order is finally completed.

I began baking for friends and selling my goods about 10 years ago. It started out as a way to earn money for Christmas. My customers still want me to make their Holiday cookies, as well as any special occasion. They have told their families and neighbors about me. They have made my cookies and candies part of their holiday traditions.

Yesterday I made a very large batch and forgot an ingredient. Those cookies are still tasty but I was not comfortable putting my name to less than perfect work. I had to begin again, taking a couple hours to chill the dough and shape into balls. My family happily accepts my mistakes with a glass of milk.

I don't consider myself to be anywhere near professional, but I consider it an honor to be included into these important occasions of others.