Just a quick note as the last rush for Christmas is upon us. I have an elderly gentleman who visits us every once in a while. He used to be a food salesman for me when I had the bakery in Bellerose. He gives us the benefit of his years of experience and runs small errands if I need. Through his old connections he sources some of the specialty ingredients we need for the holidays.

He came in the other day to pick up 17 Christmas Stollen for friends. He told me that 2013 was the first time he got them from me and everyone raved about them. The 10 he got in 2013 turned into 17 this year. That made me feel good.

Like I said, this gentleman is getting up there in years and as he was leaving I shook his hand and said, "You have been a good friend all these years, Merry Christmas". He sort of nodded and continued on. I checked and said, "You heard me, right?" He turned and said, "Yes" and almost embarrassingly, "Thank you". This Christmas let your friends know that they are special to you and don't forget those "Thank yous".

Merry Christmas and thank you to everyone for allowing the bakery to be part of your celebration.