It was a total and fortunate stroke of luck, Nora. I’m so glad you like them–let me know how they turn out so we can put our heads together and drool! Have an awesome weekend, Nora!

Heh, just a smidge of Biscoff, Liz! (But I know, right? Way to make it vegan…and less healthy but incredibly delish!). And I love your advice–your confidence totally shines through every time we chat. So I”ll just say, THANK YOU!

Daww, I know what you mean, Shelley! I guess that’s part of it: I squirm when people tell me something I must be a great baker and I know that I had just scrapped bits together from out of a burnt batch of brownies or something. But dude, I think we’d get on just fine 😀 sounds like we’d have loads to discuss, anyway. Isn’t it crazy how much we would talk about on the internet but not in person with our friends? Well, I think you’re a magnificent, talented blogger either way and you deserve a batch of these brownies. If only I could get them to your doorstep!

I was just telling Zainab that grad students always seem to push for something better–I guess that’s why we do what we do! Still, you must be an incredibly intelligent lady and it’s great to meet you. Thank you!

Yes! Was that the Dove commercial? I really enjoyed that one–it raised so many great points about how hard we can be on ourselves. Plus, I notice that grad students tend to go through even more of this than many other folks–I guess the rigor of the field can often lead us to wonder if we’ll ever contribute even a speck of meaningful material! I’d gladly send a slice of this cake to you, Zainab–goodness knows you deserve it. You’re so wonderfully kind and such an intelligent gal, it’s an honor just knowing ya!~ Happy Tuesday, girl!

Oh, you’d love them, Tifa! It’s so great having you around–you always leave the most thoughtful comments, and I appreciate your sweetness in that. I hope that’s a compliment you can (and should) take right off the bat! And you’re right–I think lately I’ve stopped protesting because then it does seem awkward and like I might be fishing, which isn’t meant to be the case. I guess we just all have to try our best!

YAY Meriem–and thank you for your totally sweet comment! I hope you have a day as wonderfully lovely and kind as yourself. Let me know how you like it!