My cookie story began when I was 16 years old. It was Thanksgiving and I sat in the kitchen watching and helping Bubba, an elegant Southern lady and one of my grandmothers from extended family, prepare all the dishes for the big meal. That day stands out in my mind because Bubba gave me two things. First, she gave me her generations old family recipe for Sweet Potato Soufflé – I was honored. In the South, as you may know, it's a big deal for someone to share their secret family recipe- even with family! Secondly, she showed me the joy that can be found in preparing special dishes for special people. I decided that I needed to carry on this fine Southern tradition and make sure my recipes would be secret - to this day I've still never written them down.
My secret cookie recipe was originally intended for my friends and family. They were always a big hit! That meant I had to bring them with me to all of our get-togethers. No matter how many times I've been asked what goes into these special cookies, I've honored the tradition I picked up from Bubba. As the seasons of my life changed I found myself in a position where I needed to earn some extra money on the side. I kept hearing a small voice in my head telling me to “Stick with what I know.” I realized that others may enjoy these special cookies as well.
So, I finally got enough nerve up to make a batch and try to sell them. My first attempt was a deli owned by some folks from New Jersey. I thought that if anyone would tell me exactly what they thought it would be these guys. I walked in with my basket of Top Secret Cookies and they looked at me expectantly, waiting for me to speak. I looked back, a little wild-eyed and blurted out…. “I sell cookies!!” I then rushed through the second part of my pitch…”Just try them and let me know what you think!” The next day, they actually placed an order. What a thrill!
It has been my pleasure to see time and time again that these cookies speak for themselves. People just seem to connect with these unique cookies. Maybe it's the secret blend of ingredients or maybe it's the Southern tradition of adding the extra ingredient of love. Perhaps it is found in our commitment to GIVING BACK to charities that need our help. Personally, I think it's a combination of all those things.
Speaking of giving back, a portion of the proceeds from Miz Mac sales are donated to charities that help women, children, our elders, and animals. I encourage you to join us and commit to setting aside a small portion of your income to bless others.
I hope you enjoy a weekly Miz Mac Cookie “experience” and share my unique creation with your friends and family as well.
P.S. Please send me photos of how and where you enjoy your Miz Mac Cookies! I will keep posting them on my Miz Mac Monsters page.
Leigh McNamara
“Miz Mac”
Life Lesson Learned: “Stick with what you know – and keep learning!”