When I relocated to Houston from the fast-paced buzz of New York City, I wasn’t sure what to expect a new city, new people, new everything. I came with my husband, a few boxes, and an open heart. Just one week into our move, I walked into DG for a job interview with Blanca, the Cafe Manager at the time. I remember thinking: this place feels special. The vibe was warm, the desserts looked like something out of a dream, and for the first time since leaving NYC, I felt a little spark of home. I came back for a second interview, and Blanca decided to take a chance on me. Though I had bakery experience, having managed a bakery in New York DG was a whole new world. A world of learning, creativity, and something I didn’t expect: family.From day one, the team welcomed me with open arms (and the occasional teasing about my New York accent and unapologetic love for the Yankees). What started as a job quickly became something much more. Over the years, I’ve had moments where life pulled me away from DG, but no matter the distance, I never truly left. My heart was still here with the teams I grew with, the customers who became friends, and the celebrations that became traditions.I’ve watched generations walk through our doors—families growing, kids getting their first jobs, coworkers becoming lifelong friends. I’ve had the privilege of offering both first chances and second ones. I’ve celebrated nearly a decade of holidays, birthdays, and everything in between with this community. It's been a sweet ride, full of laughter, growth, and more sugar than I can measure—and honestly, there’s no place else I’d rather be. - Mark S.