There are all kinds of ways to show people that you care – a thoughtful note, a small gift, a hug, a cup of coffee, or even a homemade treat. Have you ever sent love from your oven? It’s fun! As far back as I can remember I have baked things for the people I love. I remember the first cake I made all by myself for my dad. It was some kind of microwave German chocolate cake. It looked hideous (and probably wasn’t too tasty) but I was so very proud to give it to my dad. Maybe that was the beginning of my love of baking? It made my dad so happy and proud of me and here I am 20 years later baking for the people I love.

A few weeks ago Amanda from i am baker had offered 2 dozen cookies to families who needed some encouragement. People were to send in their nominations and she would pick 5 deserving families to be surprised. Well, the stories came in and she couldn’t say no to even one (because she is the sweetest person you will ever meet) so she sent out a plea for help to the blogging world. Soon every family had a match – 165 families!<

I was so pleased to be a part of this. *My* assigned family was coming home from 4 years of missionary service overseas. I thought a cheery “welcome home” care package might just be the encouragement they need. Cookies can’t change the world but they can make a person smile. And maybe making someone smile will change their world at least.

By the way, I have no doubt Amanda would have made each and every one of those families a cookie care package but she had other things going on in her life that were a little more urgent…like having her FOURTH BABY! We are all very excited for her to welcome little Eddie into the world. Come check him -and all of his red-haired cuteness- out over at her other blog i am mommy.