Baking Magic

“Staring out the window all day won’t make it stop snowing any faster,” Sarah’s mom said.

Sarah let out a long sigh as she reluctantly turned away from watching the big fat flakes that were covering everything in sight. School was canceled for the next two days at least because of a huge snowstorm, and everyone was happy except for Sarah. Her friends kept calling to say how great it was that they could stay home and play all day. But all Sarah could think of was that she wouldn’t be seeing her grandmother. Nana had to put her visit on hold because of the storm. She might even have to cancel her monthly visit altogether if the snow didn’t let up soon. “But what if Nana can’t come?” cried Sarah. “Then you’ll simply have to wait until next month to see her,” said her mom as she kneaded a second batch of bread dough.

Sarah sighed again. “But mom, four weeks is a really long time to wait. And we had plans. She was supposed to be making bread with us today!”

“You have to look on the bright side, honey. At least Nana is safe at home and not stuck on these slippery roads. And we’ll both get to eat freshly baked bread later.” Her mom beamed as she reached out with floury fingers to pinch Sarah’s cheeks.

“At least one of us is happy to stay home today,” grumbled Sarah.

“You bet! Baking always makes me happy. I think there’s something magical about it. Now, why don’t you go outside and get some