Why I cook

It is nights like last night that remind me why I love to cook, bake, and entertain.

Yesterday was Veterans' Day.  The day was emotionally tougher than I had expected, seeing as my husband came home from his most recent deployment only a short six months ago. Although it was inspiring to see all the Veterans' Day comments and thoughtful words my freinds were posting as their Facebook statuses, it takes a whole different meaning when you can picture faces when some one mentions "those who gave the ultimate sacrifice."  Appreciation is something you can never be shown enough of, and sadly most people try to show it when it is already too late.

So I invited some of my friends, family, and Marines from Hubby's unit over to our house last night for a big 'ol steak and potatoes dinner.  I can't describe the joy that I feel when I see the smiles on people's faces when they have full tummies and a warmed heart.  Having laughter from those I hold close fill my house.  Seeing the sparkle in people's eyes when they tear up from laughing so hard.  That is why I cook. If I can make one person happy just by throwing some stuff on the stove, then count me in. 

It's the littlest things that you often find the deepest sense of satisfaction. And for me, that's filling bellies and making smiles.