I vividly remember baking with my mom as a little girl. Wearing her apron, she would pull up a chair so I could reach the counter. She taught me how to pour and measure the ingredients precisely. Together we made all sorts of baked goods, including banana bread, different types of cookies, and scones. When I became older, my parents split. My mom became a lot busier, and no longer had much free time. Throughout this, I never stopped baking.

Throughout the years, baking has become comforting in a way. When I get stressed, baking a batch of muffins or chocolate chip cookies always seems to calm me down. The careful measuring and scooping of ingredients tends to take my focus off of challenges in my life. Last year, I baked two types of muffins and six varieties of cookies during finals. I genuinely believe baking was the only thing that got me through that week.

While also being a stress reliever, I also enjoy baking to bring joy to others. Family member’s birthday? I’ll make them a cake! One of my friends is feeling down or struggling? Chocolate chip cookies should do the trick. The unity that shared goods bring to people amazes me. If it were sustainable, I would choose to bake for the rest of my life. I am forever grateful for my mother’s lessons as a girl, and once I perfect my cookie recipe, I think she will be too.