One of my favorite things to do in my spare time is bake. Ever since I was a little girl, my mom would let me bake in the kitchen. She told me as long as I cleaned up my mess I was welcome to use the kitchen. Of course, she was around to help with the oven and stove until I was old enough. By age 15, I was making dinner for the church board members and their families before monthly meetings, winning church picnic contests, and receiving cookbooks as gifts. Over the years, I continued to bake for the family and this grew into cooking all sorts of meals. I loved cooking in the kitchen with my daughter. Now my husband and I cook meals together. I was excited to win ribbons for my baked goods at the county fair using family receipes, while living in Decatur, IL.

This list "The Phychological Benefits of Baking for Othe People", came across my computer the other day from my friend Anne. I found it to describe me to a "T", especially since I just offered a "dessert a month" for our annual auction. Since I do not do well with quiet sit down meditation, I loved this list, maybe you will too. 

Baking allows for creative expression, and it's well known that creativity enhances our well being. Self-expression through baking is a stress-reliever. 

Baking is a form of communication. Sometimes there are no words to adequetly express our gratitude, appreciation or sympathy, but our gift of baked goods can wordlessly communicate our care and love. 

Baking is a mindful activity. "Baking requires a lot of full attention. You have to measure, focus physically on rolling out dough. If you're focusing on smell and taste, on being present with what you're creating, that act of mindfulness in that present moment can result in stress reduction," explains professor of psychological and brain sciences at Boston University, Donna Pincus. 

Baking can ease sad thoughts. You're not ruminating, which can leaad to depression and sadness, but doing something that is productive. (And delicious to share with others!)

Giving our baked creations to others is an altruistic act, and altruism has several benefits of its own, such as releasing "feel good" hormones and experiencing the self-satisfaction of knowing you have done something to help another. It may also distract you from your your own problems and contribute to longevity. (Studies show that volunteers live longer that non-volunteers).

And finally, "A party without cake is just a meeting." - Julia Child

I bake for fun, for relaxation, plus it makes me happy and to forget other things. I can't wait to be baking every month with the auction winner. What fond memories and new ones to write down forever. For me baking is truly a mindful and giving activity. Try baking and enjoy the month of May!

Hospitality Teams are in charge of Sunday morning hospitality (e.g. bell ringing, welcoming, ushering, providing decorations and refreshments) for two months during the year. Hospitality Teams are a great way to meet people and serve our congregation in a fun and important way. All members and friends are encouraged to join a Hospitality Team.  Each Team has 30-35 members so you do not need to help on every Sunday assigned to your Team. 

Stop by the Hub table on Sunday mornings to sign up for a Hospitality Team (or to find out if you are already assigned to a Team.) Questions? Contact Peggy Patten of the Membership Committee.

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