I immediately resolved to stop buying mass produced crackers and begin making them myself. I wanted my crackers to be filled with treats like the ones my Mom used to put in the stocking she lay beside my bed each Christmas eve. In it were pieces of fruit, nuts, candy and tiny wrapped fun surprises. Many people shared my thoughts about how tired and empty the modern day cracker has become; in many cases it is nothing more than a 'decorator' tube filled with plastic gizmos! While they look beautiful, they are a let-down to open. I received mounting requests from people asking me to make my crackers for their families and friends. After only one year I was already making hundreds of crackers for my downtown card shop. Continuing to expand the concept every year, I began to create these gentle old fashioned crackers for my feline friends, including in them, toy mice, catnip and tiny party hats!! I have also developed designs for Hanukkah, Thanksgiving, dogs, cottage parties, birthdays, weddings and valentines. GillianCrackers™ has now grown into a year-round business.