Thanks For the Memories

In Scripture, sweets are frequently eaten during special celebrations. In the book of Nehemiah 8:10, the people were given the following instructions during the rebuilding of the wall of Jerusalem:

“Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”

For years my wife and I have been building a “wall” of sorts, in a good way. Grandkids who were able, would assemble at our home to bake Christmas cookies. We saw this experience like build a wall around joyful memories that would prevail against every attempt by outside forces to diminish their value and importance. I liken it to a grandparent’s loving hug.

Baking cookies (and coloring Easter eggs) with grandkids is messy business. Flour from one end of the kitchen to the other. Dropped eggs. Misshapen and questionable cookies. We compliment the final product despite their look as we wonder what else might have found its way into that cookie dough. (I’m talking nose buggers here!)

This year was a turning point. The cookies turned out near-perfect and professional looking. They found their way as gifts into several different homes. The “wall” of cookies and royal icing still stands, protecting the memories that have been in the works for years. And it still stands as the grandkids reach adulthood.

The best part is that my wife and I get to share in those moments. Thanks for the memories.

Robert Parlante

December 2016