“Enjoy the little things in life, for someday you will realize they were the big things.”

That’s a popular quote – one I’ve heard maybe hundreds of times – but it’s one that still rings so very true. The more I learn, see, and experience in life, the more I realize that it really is the little moments and simple gestures that can make all the difference in the world.

I’m always on the search for new ways to inspire and uplift others, as well as realizing what it is that inspires me the most. Sometimes that looks like grand gestures. Sometimes it looks like sharing stories of courage, facing challenges, and overcoming hardships. Sometimes it’s sharing wisdom and advice.

But sometimes…the most inspiring of acts are actually the simplest ones.

To me, one of the best ways to share love and uplift others is to just spend time with them and share in celebration – to share joyful experiences together. That’s why this time of year with the holidays are so important to me – I love the opportunity to share the simple moments of love and reflection with the people who matter most to me.

As someone who loves to bake, one of my favorite ways to bring joy to the people around me is to make them something delicious. Sure, eating is something we do three times a day. It becomes habitual. But even so, there’s nothing quite as comforting as eating a delicious treat, made with love.

There’s something about food that brings people together like nothing else. Food is central to celebration, social gatherings, and evoking memories. No matter what culture or background you come from, food is a common bond that ties us together and can be symbolic of much more than just fueling our bodies.

Like Classic Apple Crisp, which my mom and I have made every fall since I can remember. Or Bobby Pin Sugar Cookies – a recipe that has been in my family for decades, and is named after a kindergarten teacher.

Life can be so overwhelming sometimes. And these days with technology, it has become even more difficult to just sit down and enjoy the simple things. That’s why I want to encourage and inspire you to slow down, and enjoy those little things, made with love. For one day you’ll realize they were the big things.

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Here are some other favorite recipes I think your loved ones will enjoy.

Heavenly Almond Bars

Buttermilk Maple Cinnamon Scones

Preacher’s Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Reese’s Pieces Cookie Bars

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What is a “little thing” in life that uplifts you?

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