So Many Cookies, So Many Stories

                                           
When I started this cookie journey, I had no clue where it would take me.
I've realized over the past two and a half years that it's so much more than just cookies.
Cookies are just the key to many doors, many stories, many NEW friends.

I've met some great people
because of cookies.

I've interacted with incarcerated youth girls,
because of cookies.

I've heard countless stories of men, women, and children fighting for their lives,
because of cookies.

I just met two amazing women last week in Arkansas who are empowering other women,
because of cookies.

I've met couples starting their marriage journey,
because of cookies.

I've  heard of people who are deeply saddened by events in their lives,
because of cookies.

I've heard about ladies getting together for "girl time",
because of cookies.

So many stories.
So many cookies.

So when I get an order and hear the stories,
I try and think of the person who will receive my cookies.

The excited boy turning 5!
The unsuspecting friend who is having a terrible week.
The teacher who pours her heart out everyday!
The cute little girl celebrating her first dance recital.
The newly married couple moving away from family and friends.
The women having make-overs and photos taken of them as they fight the cancer that has taken over their lives.
The family welcoming a new baby through adoption.

So many cookies, 
So many stories.

I decide to "add" some extra ingredients after hearing the stories.

A pinch of HOPE.
A teaspoon of EXCITEMENT.
A cup of HAPPY.
A tablespoon of COURAGE.
A pinch of LOVE.

So for me, it's so much more than cookies.
I get to serve others with my cookies.
I get to add a ray of sunshine with cookies. 
In the end, I should be paying my customers for allowing ME and my cookies into their lives!