The hobby shop’s first holiday-themed class became a reality when more than one hundred service members and their families specifically requested the workshop during a survey, conducted in late August.

"We are always thinking outside the box and listening for new ideas," said Angela M. Frasier, Pendleton’s Arts and Crafts hobby shop manager and military spouse. "Our ears are always open."

The culinary class cost each participant $32 and provided them with a dozen cookies, formal instruction, decorating utensils, and a box to take finished products home.

"I am so excited to support our Marines in any way I can," said Rosanne Zinniger, class instructor and owner of Ro Z’s Sweet Art Studio, San Marcos, Calif. "I hope everyone here is inspired to do this for their family and who knows, it might even spark enough interest for a career."

The 2-hour cookie class drew in the hobby shop’s largest one-night workshop attendance ever seen and did it on a Monday, said Frasier.

"I have spent the last 26 years on this base and have never been to this hobby shop before," said Anita M. Mavridis, participant and administrative clerk, Marine and Family Services, Camp Pendleton’s Marine Corps Community Services. "I only wish I would have found the hobby shop sooner."

Cooking-related door prizes were also raffled away during the 2-hour event as participants polished their holiday cookie-decorating skills.

Future cake decorating classes are scheduled for next spring.

"I wish I could come by everybody’s house and shout out how wonderful the hobby shop is," said Frasier. "Just Google Camp Pendleton Hobby Shop to find out what we offer and if we don’t offer what you’re looking for already, send us your ideas so we can."

For additional information visit the Mainside hobby shop at Building 13113 or call (760) 725-4880. Camp Pendleton’s Hobby Shop is open from noon to 8 p.m. Wed. through Fri. and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the weekend.