Since 2013, Julia has owned and operated Cookie Connection, the world’s largest online cookie decorating community with curated educational content, including tutorials, articles, forums, and other resources. Its mission is to be the “place to learn, share, and celebrate the art of cookie decorating” anywhere in the world. And, indeed, with nearly 17,000 members from all corners of the globe, the site is fulfilling its dreams each day. One of the ways the site helps its members improve their skills is through its ever-popular decorating challenges. Originally called Practice Bakes Perfect, and now simply called Cookie Connection Challenges, these tests of skill run bimonthly and are a low-risk way to try new techniques and designs, all in the comfort of your home and with no competition. (The only person you might be competing with is yourself!) Though prizes are given out each time, they are awarded completely at random. And even though ten entrants are featured at the end in a recap blog post, it’s primarily because those entrants learned something along the way that everyone ought to hear about. So, long story short, don’t hesitate to dive in – you’re sure to learn something in every Cookie Connection Challenge. Plus, they’re free, so there is only upside.