My life seams to be dominated by list these days, filled with things that are needed but are not possible due to financial constraints. Doctor’s appointments put off, items that need to be replaced or repaired, basics that worn beyond acceptable standards and the ever growing list of ways to spend my tax refund money – which of course is much more expensive then the money I will receive.
After hearing about all the great deals being offered by the retail community, I decided to tackle one of my lists today, the one with the clothes and personal items I need. Now I know what you are saying – how can I need any clothes? I have a ton, and that is true, but I have not bought anything for over a year and there are certain things, like layering pieces that get worn out after a couple years of wear. So I took $100 of my baking profits and set out to get everything on my list. I have to say I think I did pretty good! I was able to get 1 sweater, 3 long sleeved t-shirts, 2 bath and body works creamy body wash, some unmentionables, a pair of slippers and a pair of jeans. All for $76.69. Oh, did I mention the jeans are Ann Taylor Loft jeans that I got for $17.49, beating my previous best ATL jean purchase of $19.99. If I had paid full price for all of my items it would have been $190. A discount of 60% - not bad! The only thing on my list I didn’t get was some socks – I will have to keep looking for some – socks are expensive.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Once in a life time...
I remember exactly what I was doing one year ago tonight when the breaking news hit, I was in my room folding laundry. The local news had recently finished and suddenly they broke in the national news to announce the death of President Ford. At that time I knew the next week would be memorable for me, but I have no idea what a lasting impact it would have. It was truly a once in a life time experience and one I will never forget. I often think I should write a book about it, and maybe some day I will. But today I am a just a bit sad. One year ago today we lost a great man. Personally I had only met him a few times, have a few brief conversations with him and helped out on his 90th birthday celebration. Yet he his death and the anniversary of it has hit me hard. He had given so much to West Michigan and to our nation, much more then I ever realized until his death, and in the end his death was his final gift. During the events in Grand Rapids we became a showplace to the entire world and the people of West Michigan not only put their best forward they surpassed everyone expectations! They showed the world what it means to be an American. I do not think that I have to words to describe the emotions I felt the first I witnessed this. During much of the time I was in a small room in the Amway hotel, but one of my duties was to staff the museum arrival ceremony. One of my responsibilities was getting the VIP guests from the hotel to the museum. Stepping on the bus was my first time out and seeing the crowds of people that had come out to pay their respects brought tears to my eyes – to the point that I had to stop delivering my instructions because I was crying. Walking through the crowds that night, seeing the individuals who waiting for hours in line, covering miles of roads, crossing three bridges, to pay their respects while President Ford was in repose was unlike any crowd I have ever seen before and will ever see again. It was just amazing, especially when we learned that over 60,000 people had gone though, we were planning on somewhere between 20,000 and 30,000. But West Michigan showed their true colors and exemplified patriotism. Just thinking about it brings back so many memories and emotions! Oh the stories I have! I don’t have a whole lot going on this weekend and I think I am going to watch the two days worth of news coverage I have taped. I have never sat down and watched it – I am sure many of you have seen more coverage then I have, yes we had the TV on in the office, but we were too busy to really watch it. We lived it. Until this point I have not wanted to see it, but I am ready now, to watch this historic event that I had the amazing honor to be a part of.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Merry Christmas
Wishing you a wonderful day spent with loved ones and a time that is rich with blessings.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
It's the Holidays
That has been my mantra for what feels likes weeks now. This holiday season has just been busy! But the other day I pulled out my favorite David Sedaris Christmas essay and read it out loud. I have yet to make it through with out laughing out loud – so I thought I would post it. I am sure I am missing some copy writing information, but it happens, it’s the holidays…
Six to Eight Black Men by David Sedaris
I’ve never been much for guidebooks, so when trying to get my bearings in some strange American city, I normally start by asking the cabdriver or hotel clerk some silly question regarding the latest census figures. I say “silly” because I don’t really care how many people live in Olympia, Washington, or Columbus Ohio. They’re nice-enough places, but the numbers mean nothing to me. My second question might have something to do with the average rainfall, which, again doesn’t tell me anything about the people who have chosen to call this place home.
What really interests me are the local gun laws. Can I carry a concealed weapon and, if so, under what circumstances? What’s the waiting period for a tommy gun? Could I buy a Glock 17 if I were recently divorced or fired from my job? I’ve learned from experience that it’s best to lead into this subject as delicately as possible, especially if you and the local citizen are alone and enclosed in a relatively small area. Bide your time, though, and you can walk away with some excellent stories. I’ve learned, for example, that the blind can legally hunt in both Texas and Michigan. In Texas they must be accompanied by a sighted companion, but I heard that in Michigan they’re allowed to go at it alone, which raises the question: How do they find whatever it is they just shot? In addition to that how do they get it home? Are the Michigan blind allowed to drive as well? I ask about guns not because I want one of my own but because the answers vary so widely from state to state. In a country that’s become increasingly homogeneous, I ‘m reassured by these last charming touches of regionalism.
Firearms aren’t really an issue in Europe, so when traveling abroad, my first question usually relates to barnyard animals. “What do your roosters say?” is a good icebreaker, as every country has its own unique interpretation. In Germany, where dogs bark “vow vow” and both the frog and the duck say “quack,” the rooster greets the dawn with a hearty “kik-a-riki.” Greek roosters crow “kiri-a-kee,” and in France they scream “coco-rico,” which sounds like one of those horrible premixed cocktails with a pirate on the label. When told that an American rooster says “cock-a-doodle-doo,” my hosts look at me with disbelief and pity.
“When do you open your Christmas presents?” is another good conversation starter, as I think it explains a lot about national character. People who traditionally open gifts on Christmas Eve seem a bit more pious and family-oriented then those who wait until Christmas morning. They go to Mass, open presents, eat a late meal, return to church the following morning, and devote the rest of the day to eating another big meal. Gifts are generally reserved for children, and the parents tend not to go overboard. It’s nothing I’d want for myself, but I suppose it’s fine for those who prefer food and family to things of real value.
In France and Germany gifts are exchanged on Christmas Eve, while in the Netherlands the children open their presents on December 5, in celebration of St Nicholas Day. It sounded sort of quaint until I spoke to a man named Oscar, who filled me in on a few of the details as we walked from my hotel to the Amsterdam train station.
Unlike the jolly, obese American Santa, Saint Nicholas is painfully thin and dresses not unlike the pope, topping his robes with a tall hat resembling an embroidered tea cozy. The outfit, I was told, is a carryover from his former career, when he served as the bishop of Turkey.
“I’m sorry,” I said, “but could you repeat that?”
One doesn’t want to be too much of a cultural chauvinist, but this seemed completely wrong to me. For starters, Santa didn’t used to do anything. He’s not retired and, more important, he has nothing to do with Turkey. It’s too dangerous there, and the people wouldn’t appreciate him. When asked how he got from Turkey to the North Pole, Oscar told me with complete conviction that Saint Nicolas currently resided in Spain, which again is simply not true. Though he could probably live wherever he wanted, Santa chose the North Pole specifically because it is harsh and isolated. No one can spy on him, and he doesn’t have to worry about people coming to the door. Anyone can come to the door in Spain, and in that outfit he’d most certainly be recognized. On top of that, aside from a few pleasantries, Santa doesn’t speak Spanish. “Hello. How are you? Can I get you some candy?” Fine. He knows enough to get by, but he’s not fluent and he certainly doesn’t eat tapas.
While our Santa flied in on a sled, the Dutch version arrives by boat and then transfers to a white horse. The event is televised, and great crowds gather at the waterfront to greet him. I’m not sure if there’s a set date, but he generally docks in late November and spends a few weeks hanging out and asking people what they want.
“Is it just him alone?” I asked. “Or does he come with some backup?”
Oscar’s English was close to perfect, but he seemed thrown by a term normally reserved for police reinforcement.
“Helpers,” I said. “Does he have any elves?”
Maybe I’m overly sensitive, but I couldn’t help but feel personally insulted when Oscar denounced the very idea as grotesque and unrealistic. “Elves,” he said. “They are just so silly.”
The words silly and unrealistic were redefined when I learned that Saint Nicholas travels with what was consistently described as “six to eight black men.” I asked several Dutch people to narrow it down, but none of them could give me an exact number. It was always “six to eight,” which seems strange, seeing as they’ve had hundreds of years to get an accurate head count.
The six to eight black men were characterized as personal slaves until the mid-1950s, when the political climate changed and it was decided that instead of being slaves they were just good friends. I think that history has proved that something usually comes between slavery and friendship, a period of time marked not by cookies and quiet hours beside the fire but bloodshed and mutual hostility. They have such violence in the Netherlands, but rather then duking it out amongst themselves Santa and his former slaves decided to take it out on the public. In the early years if a child was naughty, Saint Nicholas and the six to eight black men would beat him with what Oscar described as “the small branch of a tree.”
“A switch?’
“Yes,” he said. “That’s it. They’d kick him and beat him with a switch. Then if the youngster was really bad, they’d put him in a sack and take him back to Spain.”
“Saint Nicholas would kick you?”
“Well not anymore,” Oscar said. “Now he just pretends to kick you.”
He considered this to be progressive, but in a way I think it’s almost more perverse then the original punishment. “I’m going to hurt you but not really.” How many times have we fallen for that line? The fake slap invariably makes contact, adding the element of shock and betrayal to what had previously been plain old-fashion fear. What kind of a Santa spends his time pretending to kick people before stuffing them into a canvas sack? Then, of course you’ve got the six to eight former slaves who could potentially go off at any moment. This, I think, is the greatest difference between us and the Dutch. While a certain segment of our population might be perfectly happy with the arrangement, if you told the average white American that six to eight nameless black men would be sneaking into his house in the middle of the night, he would barricade the doors and arm himself with whatever he could get his hands on.
“Six to eight, did you say?”
In the years before central heating, Dutch children would leave their shoes by the fireplace, the promise being that unless they planned to beat you, kick you, or stuff you into a sack, Saint Nicholas and the six to eight black men would fill your clogs with presents. Aside from the threats of violence and kidnapping, it’s not much different then hanging your stockings from the mantel. Now that so few people actually have a working fireplace, Dutch children are instructed to leave their shoes beside the radiator, furnace, or space heater. Saint Nicholas and the six to eight black men arrive on horses, which jump from the yard onto the roof. At this point I guess they either jump back down and use the door or stay put and vaporize through the pipes and electrical cords. Oscar wasn’t too clear about the particulars, but really, who can blame him? We have the same problems with our Santa. He’s supposed to use the chimney, but if you don’t have one, he still manages to get in. It’s best not to think about it too hard.
While eight flying reindeer are a hard pill to swallow, our Christmas story remains relatively dull. Santa lives with his wife in a remote polar village and spends one night a year traveling around the world. If you’re bad, he leaves you coal. If you’re good and live in America, he’ll give you just about anything you want. We tell our children to be good and send them off to bed, where they lie awake, anticipating their great bounty. A Dutch parent has a decidedly hairier story to relate, telling his children, “Listen, you might want to pack a few a things together before going to bed. The former bishop of Turkey will be coming tonight along with six to eight black men. They might put some candy in your shoes, they might stuff you into a sack and take you to Spain or they might pretend to kick you. We don’t know for sure, but we want you to be prepared.”
This is the reward for living in the Netherlands. As a child you get to hear this story, and as an adult you get to turn around and repeat it. As an added bonus, the government has thrown in legalized drugs and prostitution – so what’s not to love about being Dutch?
Oscar finished his story just as we arrived at the station. He was an amiable guy – very good company – but when he offered to wait until my train arrived I begged off, claiming I had some calls to make. Sitting alone in the vast, vibrant terminal, surrounded by thousands of polite, seemingly interesting Dutch people, I couldn’t help but feel second-rate. Yes, the Netherlands was a small country, but it has six to eight black men and a really good bedtime story. Being a fairly competitive person, I felt jealous, then bitter. I was edging toward hostile when I remembered the blind hunter tramping off alone into the Michigan forest. He may bag a deer or he may happily shoot a camper in the stomach. He may find his way back to the car, or he may wander around for a week or two before stumbling through your back door. We don’t know for sure, but in pinning that license to his chest, he inspires the sort of narrative that ultimately makes me proud to be an American.
Six to Eight Black Men by David Sedaris
I’ve never been much for guidebooks, so when trying to get my bearings in some strange American city, I normally start by asking the cabdriver or hotel clerk some silly question regarding the latest census figures. I say “silly” because I don’t really care how many people live in Olympia, Washington, or Columbus Ohio. They’re nice-enough places, but the numbers mean nothing to me. My second question might have something to do with the average rainfall, which, again doesn’t tell me anything about the people who have chosen to call this place home.
What really interests me are the local gun laws. Can I carry a concealed weapon and, if so, under what circumstances? What’s the waiting period for a tommy gun? Could I buy a Glock 17 if I were recently divorced or fired from my job? I’ve learned from experience that it’s best to lead into this subject as delicately as possible, especially if you and the local citizen are alone and enclosed in a relatively small area. Bide your time, though, and you can walk away with some excellent stories. I’ve learned, for example, that the blind can legally hunt in both Texas and Michigan. In Texas they must be accompanied by a sighted companion, but I heard that in Michigan they’re allowed to go at it alone, which raises the question: How do they find whatever it is they just shot? In addition to that how do they get it home? Are the Michigan blind allowed to drive as well? I ask about guns not because I want one of my own but because the answers vary so widely from state to state. In a country that’s become increasingly homogeneous, I ‘m reassured by these last charming touches of regionalism.
Firearms aren’t really an issue in Europe, so when traveling abroad, my first question usually relates to barnyard animals. “What do your roosters say?” is a good icebreaker, as every country has its own unique interpretation. In Germany, where dogs bark “vow vow” and both the frog and the duck say “quack,” the rooster greets the dawn with a hearty “kik-a-riki.” Greek roosters crow “kiri-a-kee,” and in France they scream “coco-rico,” which sounds like one of those horrible premixed cocktails with a pirate on the label. When told that an American rooster says “cock-a-doodle-doo,” my hosts look at me with disbelief and pity.
“When do you open your Christmas presents?” is another good conversation starter, as I think it explains a lot about national character. People who traditionally open gifts on Christmas Eve seem a bit more pious and family-oriented then those who wait until Christmas morning. They go to Mass, open presents, eat a late meal, return to church the following morning, and devote the rest of the day to eating another big meal. Gifts are generally reserved for children, and the parents tend not to go overboard. It’s nothing I’d want for myself, but I suppose it’s fine for those who prefer food and family to things of real value.
In France and Germany gifts are exchanged on Christmas Eve, while in the Netherlands the children open their presents on December 5, in celebration of St Nicholas Day. It sounded sort of quaint until I spoke to a man named Oscar, who filled me in on a few of the details as we walked from my hotel to the Amsterdam train station.
Unlike the jolly, obese American Santa, Saint Nicholas is painfully thin and dresses not unlike the pope, topping his robes with a tall hat resembling an embroidered tea cozy. The outfit, I was told, is a carryover from his former career, when he served as the bishop of Turkey.
“I’m sorry,” I said, “but could you repeat that?”
One doesn’t want to be too much of a cultural chauvinist, but this seemed completely wrong to me. For starters, Santa didn’t used to do anything. He’s not retired and, more important, he has nothing to do with Turkey. It’s too dangerous there, and the people wouldn’t appreciate him. When asked how he got from Turkey to the North Pole, Oscar told me with complete conviction that Saint Nicolas currently resided in Spain, which again is simply not true. Though he could probably live wherever he wanted, Santa chose the North Pole specifically because it is harsh and isolated. No one can spy on him, and he doesn’t have to worry about people coming to the door. Anyone can come to the door in Spain, and in that outfit he’d most certainly be recognized. On top of that, aside from a few pleasantries, Santa doesn’t speak Spanish. “Hello. How are you? Can I get you some candy?” Fine. He knows enough to get by, but he’s not fluent and he certainly doesn’t eat tapas.
While our Santa flied in on a sled, the Dutch version arrives by boat and then transfers to a white horse. The event is televised, and great crowds gather at the waterfront to greet him. I’m not sure if there’s a set date, but he generally docks in late November and spends a few weeks hanging out and asking people what they want.
“Is it just him alone?” I asked. “Or does he come with some backup?”
Oscar’s English was close to perfect, but he seemed thrown by a term normally reserved for police reinforcement.
“Helpers,” I said. “Does he have any elves?”
Maybe I’m overly sensitive, but I couldn’t help but feel personally insulted when Oscar denounced the very idea as grotesque and unrealistic. “Elves,” he said. “They are just so silly.”
The words silly and unrealistic were redefined when I learned that Saint Nicholas travels with what was consistently described as “six to eight black men.” I asked several Dutch people to narrow it down, but none of them could give me an exact number. It was always “six to eight,” which seems strange, seeing as they’ve had hundreds of years to get an accurate head count.
The six to eight black men were characterized as personal slaves until the mid-1950s, when the political climate changed and it was decided that instead of being slaves they were just good friends. I think that history has proved that something usually comes between slavery and friendship, a period of time marked not by cookies and quiet hours beside the fire but bloodshed and mutual hostility. They have such violence in the Netherlands, but rather then duking it out amongst themselves Santa and his former slaves decided to take it out on the public. In the early years if a child was naughty, Saint Nicholas and the six to eight black men would beat him with what Oscar described as “the small branch of a tree.”
“A switch?’
“Yes,” he said. “That’s it. They’d kick him and beat him with a switch. Then if the youngster was really bad, they’d put him in a sack and take him back to Spain.”
“Saint Nicholas would kick you?”
“Well not anymore,” Oscar said. “Now he just pretends to kick you.”
He considered this to be progressive, but in a way I think it’s almost more perverse then the original punishment. “I’m going to hurt you but not really.” How many times have we fallen for that line? The fake slap invariably makes contact, adding the element of shock and betrayal to what had previously been plain old-fashion fear. What kind of a Santa spends his time pretending to kick people before stuffing them into a canvas sack? Then, of course you’ve got the six to eight former slaves who could potentially go off at any moment. This, I think, is the greatest difference between us and the Dutch. While a certain segment of our population might be perfectly happy with the arrangement, if you told the average white American that six to eight nameless black men would be sneaking into his house in the middle of the night, he would barricade the doors and arm himself with whatever he could get his hands on.
“Six to eight, did you say?”
In the years before central heating, Dutch children would leave their shoes by the fireplace, the promise being that unless they planned to beat you, kick you, or stuff you into a sack, Saint Nicholas and the six to eight black men would fill your clogs with presents. Aside from the threats of violence and kidnapping, it’s not much different then hanging your stockings from the mantel. Now that so few people actually have a working fireplace, Dutch children are instructed to leave their shoes beside the radiator, furnace, or space heater. Saint Nicholas and the six to eight black men arrive on horses, which jump from the yard onto the roof. At this point I guess they either jump back down and use the door or stay put and vaporize through the pipes and electrical cords. Oscar wasn’t too clear about the particulars, but really, who can blame him? We have the same problems with our Santa. He’s supposed to use the chimney, but if you don’t have one, he still manages to get in. It’s best not to think about it too hard.
While eight flying reindeer are a hard pill to swallow, our Christmas story remains relatively dull. Santa lives with his wife in a remote polar village and spends one night a year traveling around the world. If you’re bad, he leaves you coal. If you’re good and live in America, he’ll give you just about anything you want. We tell our children to be good and send them off to bed, where they lie awake, anticipating their great bounty. A Dutch parent has a decidedly hairier story to relate, telling his children, “Listen, you might want to pack a few a things together before going to bed. The former bishop of Turkey will be coming tonight along with six to eight black men. They might put some candy in your shoes, they might stuff you into a sack and take you to Spain or they might pretend to kick you. We don’t know for sure, but we want you to be prepared.”
This is the reward for living in the Netherlands. As a child you get to hear this story, and as an adult you get to turn around and repeat it. As an added bonus, the government has thrown in legalized drugs and prostitution – so what’s not to love about being Dutch?
Oscar finished his story just as we arrived at the station. He was an amiable guy – very good company – but when he offered to wait until my train arrived I begged off, claiming I had some calls to make. Sitting alone in the vast, vibrant terminal, surrounded by thousands of polite, seemingly interesting Dutch people, I couldn’t help but feel second-rate. Yes, the Netherlands was a small country, but it has six to eight black men and a really good bedtime story. Being a fairly competitive person, I felt jealous, then bitter. I was edging toward hostile when I remembered the blind hunter tramping off alone into the Michigan forest. He may bag a deer or he may happily shoot a camper in the stomach. He may find his way back to the car, or he may wander around for a week or two before stumbling through your back door. We don’t know for sure, but in pinning that license to his chest, he inspires the sort of narrative that ultimately makes me proud to be an American.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Big Day
I had a few ordered that needed to be delivered today. When I say a few I mean a ton. Since I was gone on Friday night, it meant a long day of baking and making candy yesterday. After a run to Meijers and Family Fare to get my ingredients (great sales on some of them!) I spent the next 14 hours in the kitchen making 24 loaves of bread, 12 dozen cookies, 2 batches of fudge, 2 batches of heath, 1 batch of peanut butter balls and 1 batch of peanut clusters. I am very thankful for all the orders, but have to admit my body is feeling it a bit today. Of course the weather today was not the best, but it was not the roads that gave me a scare, it was one of the people shoveling my sidewalks. He was trying to be helpful by carrying my bags full of my orders to my car, but thought they were trash and walked over to the dumpster – I almost had a heart attack as I yelled out, those are not trash! I would have cried if he had thrown those away!
Thankfully I do not have as many orders this week, and I am hoping to visit with some friends.
Thankfully I do not have as many orders this week, and I am hoping to visit with some friends.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Prayer Request
Yesterday was a day of not so good news. My sister and brother in law’s 15 year old nephew found his cancer had returned. In May, Kyle was diagnosed with Hodgkins disease, at that time the cancer was in stage 4, so the doctors decided on a more aggressive 6 round chemo plan. Scans after the 2nd treatment showed wonderful progress and the cancer was almost gone. They continued with the remaining 4 treatments and upon completion he was considered cancer free.
The last treatment took place 6 weeks ago. Yesterday they got the results of the 6 week post chemo scan and they found multiple spots of cancer. Kyle is now faces six months of a more invasive chemo, radiation on some of the larger spots and a bone marrow transplant. The doctors are optimistic that they will be able to harvest his marrow for the transplant, but more test need to be run to fully determine this.
Please keep Kyle and his family in your prayers.
The last treatment took place 6 weeks ago. Yesterday they got the results of the 6 week post chemo scan and they found multiple spots of cancer. Kyle is now faces six months of a more invasive chemo, radiation on some of the larger spots and a bone marrow transplant. The doctors are optimistic that they will be able to harvest his marrow for the transplant, but more test need to be run to fully determine this.
Please keep Kyle and his family in your prayers.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Better then expected
I am in the middle of fulfilling all of my Christmas orders. I have to say I have been pleasantly surprised on the number of orders I have received. One of my orders last week was for some chocolate chip cookies. Now I have been making chocolate chip cookies for over 20 years and they are one of the recipes I don’t even think about when I make them, I just go on auto pilot. But since these cookies were for an order, I wanted to take a little more care in making these and I have to admit they turned out really well – so much better then I expected and the customer was definitely satisfied!
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Another Birthday
Today was my nephew’s 10th birthday – it is hard to believe that he is so old. It took him a while to decide what he wanted on his cake. He finally decided on a red wings jersey – Nick Lidstroms of course. I am not sure I would classify this as cute, but the birthday boy was happy with it.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Finally…Success
Over the years there have been a few things that I have tried and tried to make, but they just don’t turn out. Some of these are not that big of deal to me, it is not something I really like, but one of these I was bound and determined to figure out. I am happy to report that over the weekend I, for the first time ever, successfully made a batch of meringue cookies. Much in thanks to my new mixer! That success was worth the cost of the machine, well almost. :)
Here is the light fluffy delicious goodness with the hidden surprise of chocolate inside.
The reason I chose to make them was due to my extended family’s Christmas gathering on Sunday. I figured they were a safe test group. They enjoyed them, included one family member who shall remain nameless who took 3 of them!!
Here is the light fluffy delicious goodness with the hidden surprise of chocolate inside.
The reason I chose to make them was due to my extended family’s Christmas gathering on Sunday. I figured they were a safe test group. They enjoyed them, included one family member who shall remain nameless who took 3 of them!!
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Introducing Christmas Candy!!
Looking for the perfect gift?
Here is your answer, a box of delicious homemade Christmas Candy.
(Heath and Peanut Clusters pictured)
6 varieties –
Heath
Double Delight Fudge
Peanutbutter balls
Peanut Clusters
Coconut Delights in Milk Chocolate
Coconut Delights in Dark Chocolate
(Coconut Delights in Milk Chocolate)
(Coconut Delights in Dark Chocolate)
$5.00 for a small box (10 – 12 pieces)
$10.00 for a large box (20-24 pieces)
You can choose one or a variety of kinds per box.
To order email erinnsedibles@gmail.com
Monday, November 26, 2007
What is that they say about the best laid plans?
I had plans for this weekend, list of things to get done over this rare long weekend. I had things to do to prepare for friends coming for a visit next week, for my Christmas candy display on Tuesday, for my blog updates and mass email about Christmas orders, errands to run… I had lists of lists of things to get done. And virtually nothing got done due to a nasty bout of the stomach flu! Thankfully I did not get it until after the holiday, but it still knocked me out most of the weekend. I shouldn’t be too surprised, I do have a history of getting sick on holidays and after a prolonged time of extreme busyness, but I was not happy. I kept thinking I have so much I need to be doing and I tried to do some things, only to find it completely wiped me out. UGH! Not how I planned to spend my weekend. So hopefully over the next week or so I will be able to get through much of the stuff I had on my lists.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Spoiled kids?
What happens when you ask an almost 2 year old what she wants on her birthday cake?
You get… Elmo, Cookie, Ernie
And what happens when you have an Aunt who will pretty much do what ever the kids ask?
This…
You get… Elmo, Cookie, Ernie
And what happens when you have an Aunt who will pretty much do what ever the kids ask?
This…
Today is my niece's 2nd birthday. Last night I got the creative juices flowing and this is how her cake turned out. I think it is pretty cute. Ernie looks a little goofy, but over all I like it.
Here it is from the other side
I will have to let you know if she likes it. :)
Update - the cake was a big hit, from what I hear she kept asking all day to look at the picture of her cake, and when she saw it she said "ahh it's cute" and I got a big hug. She did decide to eat Ernie first and was very sad when I was ready to leave, she thought I was taking the cake with me. :) Once I told her she got to keep the cake she was happy again. My nephew's birthday is coming up in a couple weeks, so now he will decide what he wants on his cake - the old English D with blue and orange strips, the Sparten S or maybe the winged wheel?
Monday, November 19, 2007
Nostalgia
In the past twenty four I have had two instances that have pulled me back into a former life. First I was reading a book about relatively recent history and many of the scenes depicted events I attended or worked on or played a major role in, and it was so strange to think that my insignificant life intersected people who have books written about them. Then I went to a gathering to offer some advice to someone who is exploring some options and I was not only one of the oldest persons in the room, but also one of the people who had the most institutional knowledge. Both of these events have me reminiscing and let to quite a starling discovery – that I have really been involved for a long time. Almost half my life! I think part of this comes from the fact that for the past year I have really not been involved with this part of my former life and had put so much of it behind me. So being dropped back in the middle of things or reading about events I had not thought about in years really threw me for a loop.
On the baking side of life – busy week with Holiday orders and a special birthday! Check back for pictures of the birthday cake (if it turns out okay) and for an announcement about Christmas specials!
On the baking side of life – busy week with Holiday orders and a special birthday! Check back for pictures of the birthday cake (if it turns out okay) and for an announcement about Christmas specials!
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Technological Frustrations
I have been working on things. I really have. I just can’t seam to find a way to show you. I have been trying to figure out a way to have a link to an order form document. That doesn’t sound too hard now does it? I found out google has an area called google documents. Great I thought I will put my order form in there and we will be all set. Well google docs are a bit specific in the format you can upload. No biggie I thought, I had the document in a PDF – no problems right? Wrong! .pdf is not one of the forms they accept. Who doesn’t accept a PDF? So I looked through the list of accepted formats and see they will take a word doc. Great, I have to redo the order form to add a few things; I’ll redo it in word. So I did. Evidently google docs does not like any formatting on the document, because when I opened it up all the formatting was gone. Fine I’ll reformat it after I upload it, but wait, I can’t, it does not give columns as an option. Now What? Wait I’ll scan it in, save it in an .rtf file and we will be good to go. Nope same problem, did not keep the formatting and still no column option. So try to scan it in as a HTML file and a .txt file. Both times the scanner only captured the imagines, not the whole document. Now what? I don’t know – let me know if you have any great ideas.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
A break
I took a break this weekend. As soon as the farmers market was done for the weekend I had to deal with some family issues and finally this weekend I was back home and just took a break. I know there was a million things I should have been working on; research to be done, plans to be made, rooms to be cleaned… But instead I slept, vegged, read a book… It was great. I also seam to have gotten rid of the headache that had been lingering for a month or so. But the break is over and I am back into the swing of things. Stay tuned for great Christmas gifts.
Friday, November 2, 2007
Wonderful News!
Here is the latest update on Baby Daniel. It is exciting to hear this wonderful news!
Hi Everyone,
I am so happy to report that the surgery on Daniel’s heart went very well and he is recovering nicely! Beth & Andy will be able to see their son in about an hour.
Please continue to keep the Emmitts in your prayers – I don’t think words can express the gratitude I hear in Beth’s voice every time I hear her talk about what they mean to her and Andy. She also asked me to thank all of you who have sent the flowers, cards and other gifts – they have made their room more welcoming and cheerful. However, if you would like to send something to them, they appreciate prayers and words of encouragement over flowers! They have a more lasting effect!
Beth and Andy will be settled in the Ronald McDonald House tomorrow, where they will have internet access. You will be hearing first hand from them at that time, and I’m sure they’ll post stories, photos and updates on their blog too: www.andyandbethemmitt.blogspot.com.
As you pray for the Emmitts, they ask for strength for Daniel’s heart as it recovers, courage for Andy and health and recovery for Beth (don’t forget – she’s still recovering from her surgery too!)
Thanks everyone!!!
Hi Everyone,
I am so happy to report that the surgery on Daniel’s heart went very well and he is recovering nicely! Beth & Andy will be able to see their son in about an hour.
Please continue to keep the Emmitts in your prayers – I don’t think words can express the gratitude I hear in Beth’s voice every time I hear her talk about what they mean to her and Andy. She also asked me to thank all of you who have sent the flowers, cards and other gifts – they have made their room more welcoming and cheerful. However, if you would like to send something to them, they appreciate prayers and words of encouragement over flowers! They have a more lasting effect!
Beth and Andy will be settled in the Ronald McDonald House tomorrow, where they will have internet access. You will be hearing first hand from them at that time, and I’m sure they’ll post stories, photos and updates on their blog too: www.andyandbethemmitt.blogspot.com.
As you pray for the Emmitts, they ask for strength for Daniel’s heart as it recovers, courage for Andy and health and recovery for Beth (don’t forget – she’s still recovering from her surgery too!)
Thanks everyone!!!
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Surgery Tomorrow
Thanks for all of your prayers. Daniel’s surgery has been scheduled for tomorrow at noon. Here are some new pictures and an update from Andy and Beth 
Hello All!
IT'S A BOY!!! Daniel Steven Emmitt, born 6 lbs 14 oz, on Tuesday, October 30, 2007 at 11:48 pm. He is healthy! He is handsome! He is an Emmitt!
We'll update the details of our adventure this weekend but here are a few of the highlights. We checked into U of M, Monday October 29th at 7:00 pm, due to some unforeseen complications with other patients Beth didn't start he pre-labor treatments until 1:30 am, Tuesday morning. Beth's water broke at 12:45 pm on Tuesday and she fully dilated about 10:00 pm; around 11:00 pm she started pushing and by 11:35 it was apparent that Daniel's heart was in distress and that natural delivery was no longer an option. Once the decision for the Emergency C-Section was made Andy was rushed out of the Emergency Delivery Room, Beth was put under general anesthetics and at 11:48 pm we were proud parents.
The after effects of general anesthetics didn't sit well with Beth and recovery has been slow going, but she is now doing great! The pain is being regulated, trips to the baby are frequented and spirits lifted. Today, Beth got to be the first person to hold Daniel since delivery doctors placed him in his incubator and while we were sitting there with Daniel our Surgeon; Dr. Hirsh came and brought us up to speed.
Daniel Steven Emmitt has a prominent Coarctation of the Aorta and a VSD, but he does not have a hypoplastic heart, we repeat there is no hypoplastic heart, the left side of the heart is smaller but functional, this is great news! In addition to giving us the final prognosis the surgery was also scheduled.
Tomorrow, Friday November 2nd at noon, Daniel Steven Emmitt will undergo a four-hour open heart surgery. Please pray for the surgeon's hands, Daniels heart, the family's nerves and overall success. We are so very scared, so very nervous and so very excited for everything that has or is going to happen.
We will keep you updated as frequent as possible, but be assured that Andy is holding strong, Beth is recovering wonderfully and you will all get to meet Daniel before you know it.
Thank you so much for your prayers, Daniel growth since the initial diagnosis is living testament of God's Greatness!
God Bless,
Andy, Beth and Daniel Steven Emmitt
Hello All!IT'S A BOY!!! Daniel Steven Emmitt, born 6 lbs 14 oz, on Tuesday, October 30, 2007 at 11:48 pm. He is healthy! He is handsome! He is an Emmitt!
We'll update the details of our adventure this weekend but here are a few of the highlights. We checked into U of M, Monday October 29th at 7:00 pm, due to some unforeseen complications with other patients Beth didn't start he pre-labor treatments until 1:30 am, Tuesday morning. Beth's water broke at 12:45 pm on Tuesday and she fully dilated about 10:00 pm; around 11:00 pm she started pushing and by 11:35 it was apparent that Daniel's heart was in distress and that natural delivery was no longer an option. Once the decision for the Emergency C-Section was made Andy was rushed out of the Emergency Delivery Room, Beth was put under general anesthetics and at 11:48 pm we were proud parents.
The after effects of general anesthetics didn't sit well with Beth and recovery has been slow going, but she is now doing great! The pain is being regulated, trips to the baby are frequented and spirits lifted. Today, Beth got to be the first person to hold Daniel since delivery doctors placed him in his incubator and while we were sitting there with Daniel our Surgeon; Dr. Hirsh came and brought us up to speed.
Daniel Steven Emmitt has a prominent Coarctation of the Aorta and a VSD, but he does not have a hypoplastic heart, we repeat there is no hypoplastic heart, the left side of the heart is smaller but functional, this is great news! In addition to giving us the final prognosis the surgery was also scheduled.
Tomorrow, Friday November 2nd at noon, Daniel Steven Emmitt will undergo a four-hour open heart surgery. Please pray for the surgeon's hands, Daniels heart, the family's nerves and overall success. We are so very scared, so very nervous and so very excited for everything that has or is going to happen.
We will keep you updated as frequent as possible, but be assured that Andy is holding strong, Beth is recovering wonderfully and you will all get to meet Daniel before you know it.
Thank you so much for your prayers, Daniel growth since the initial diagnosis is living testament of God's Greatness!
God Bless,
Andy, Beth and Daniel Steven Emmitt
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
It's a Boy
Daniel Steven Emmitt
born 11:48 pm, October 30, 2007
6 lbs 14 ozs
Update
This is an email from a good friend of the family -
Hi Everyone!
After 9 hours of active labor and an emergency C-Section, Daniel Steven Emmitt entered the world last night, Tuesday, October 30th, at 11:48 PM,weighing in at 6lbs and 14 oz.
I spoke with Beth this morning – she is doing fine but very tired from avery long night. She is recovering in the hospital till Friday, and thebaby is in the ICU. No word yet on the baby’s condition.
They are planningto stay at the Ronald McDonald House at the University of Michigan. Andy will send out an email later today with more details – stay posted. Iwill help supplement his updates with news, if needed – if you would like tobe removed from this list, please let me know. Please continue to keep the Emmitts in your prayers!
born 11:48 pm, October 30, 2007
6 lbs 14 ozs
Update
This is an email from a good friend of the family -
Hi Everyone!
After 9 hours of active labor and an emergency C-Section, Daniel Steven Emmitt entered the world last night, Tuesday, October 30th, at 11:48 PM,weighing in at 6lbs and 14 oz.
I spoke with Beth this morning – she is doing fine but very tired from avery long night. She is recovering in the hospital till Friday, and thebaby is in the ICU. No word yet on the baby’s condition.
They are planningto stay at the Ronald McDonald House at the University of Michigan. Andy will send out an email later today with more details – stay posted. Iwill help supplement his updates with news, if needed – if you would like tobe removed from this list, please let me know. Please continue to keep the Emmitts in your prayers!
Monday, October 29, 2007
Prayers Requested
Today some dear friends of mine, Beth and Andy Emmitt, are traveling down to Ann Arbor, MI to have their first child, affectionately know as Baby Emmitt until it is born and named. Due to some extenuating circumstances and an extremely astute technician, it was discovered that Baby Emmitt has a few issues with its heart that will need to be corrected surgically sometime in the next several days. But those prayers requests will come at that time. Today or tomorrow, whenever the baby is delivered, should be a time of celebration and joy for Beth and Andy as they welcome their son or daughter into this world. They have started a blog to keep everyone up to date. I have added it to my list, but I will also be including some updates and prayer requests here.
Please keep this family in your prayers.
Specific Requests –
- Safe travel down to Ann Arbor this afternoon.
- Thankfulness that Beth did not go into labor early and needed to be transported to Ann Arbor under an emergency setting.
-That healing and development has taken place over the past couple weeks and the baby is born in the best possible shape.
- For a fast, smooth, normal delivery with out any complications.
- That the baby is big (not so great for Mom, but bigger babies do better in surgery) and healthy.
- That Beth and Andy can feel the support from those who are praying for them.
- That Beth and Andy can agree on a name. :)
- That Beth and Andy can enjoy the wonder and excitement of meeting their child and having time to savory these memories without it being clouded by what will come over the next days.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Arial view of the Farmers Market
This is where I spent my Saturday mornings. I am the tan colored gazebo, 3rd on the right.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Pumpkin Bars
I recently had a social function to attend and these days I see social functions as an opportunity to experiment (with recipes, not what ever else is going through your mind).
The theme was autumn and I had left over pumpkin, so I wanted to find a recipe for pumpkin bars, cake, cheese cake or something of the sort. Over the course of a few days I searched for the perfect recipe, which proved to be a bit more difficult then I expected. During this search I had several, random thoughts.
- Evidently Brandy is the liquid libation of choice to go with pumpkin
- Why does every Pumpkin bar recipe have a cream cheese frosting? (I am not a big fan of cream cheese)
- Where is Loren Bennett when you need him (former State Senator and Statewide candidate who was known for giving out his homemade pumpkin butter)
- This recipe calls for ginger, cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon – that is a lots of spices, maybe I can just double up on the nutmeg since I have a lifetime supple, then again maybe not.
- Is the Captain considered dark rum? It is darker then Bacardi. Good thing the government only shut down for a few hours or I would not be able to buy some of my ingredients.
- This is the 88th time I have seen this recipe – is there only one type of pumpkin bars?
Finally after much searching I found the recipe I was looking for.
It turned out pretty good – several people gave it thumbs up. My family thinks the frosting is a bit rich, so I might have to do a bit of tweaking, but I am happy with the trial run.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Finally
I finally finished figuring out the price list/order form. I have it all nicely laid out and pretty, but I don't know how to import a document (I will be contacting my tech advisor!) So here is the text of it. I am happy (and excited) to take special orders.
Erinn’s Edibles
Offing homemade delights for every occasion
Breads
Varieties -
Amish Friendship Bread
Apple Strudel
Banana
Pumpkin
Zucchini (Seasonal)
Zucchini Carrot Nut (Seasonal)
Prices -
Large Loaf $4.00 each
Small Loaf $2.00 each
Congo Bars
Resembles a chocolate cookie,
only richer and more decadent
.50 cents each $5.50 for 12 $10.00 for 24
Turtle Brownies
Fudge like Brownie smothered in
chocolate, caramel and walnuts
.75 cents each $5.50 for 8 $10.00 for 16
Cookies
Varieties -
Chocolate Chip
Chocolate Chocolate Chip
Deluxe Frosted
Oatmeal Raisin
Oatmeal Scotchies
Peanut Butter
Potato chip
Snickerdoodles
Prices -
$3.00 for 1 dozen (1 variety)
$6.00 for 2 dozen (1 variety)
$8.50 for 3 dozen (1 variety)
$10.00 for 4 dozen (1 variety)
For larger quantities and multiple types of
cookies please contact for pricing information.
Specialty Desserts
Cakes, pies, and other desserts are available for order.
To Order -
Contact Erinn at Erinn’s Edibles
Email - Erinnsedibles@gmail.com
http://erinnsedibles.blogspot.com/
Erinn’s Edibles
Offing homemade delights for every occasion
Breads
Varieties -
Amish Friendship Bread
Apple Strudel
Banana
Pumpkin
Zucchini (Seasonal)
Zucchini Carrot Nut (Seasonal)
Prices -
Large Loaf $4.00 each
Small Loaf $2.00 each
Congo Bars
Resembles a chocolate cookie,
only richer and more decadent
.50 cents each $5.50 for 12 $10.00 for 24
Turtle Brownies
Fudge like Brownie smothered in
chocolate, caramel and walnuts
.75 cents each $5.50 for 8 $10.00 for 16
Cookies
Varieties -
Chocolate Chip
Chocolate Chocolate Chip
Deluxe Frosted
Oatmeal Raisin
Oatmeal Scotchies
Peanut Butter
Potato chip
Snickerdoodles
Prices -
$3.00 for 1 dozen (1 variety)
$6.00 for 2 dozen (1 variety)
$8.50 for 3 dozen (1 variety)
$10.00 for 4 dozen (1 variety)
For larger quantities and multiple types of
cookies please contact for pricing information.
Specialty Desserts
Cakes, pies, and other desserts are available for order.
To Order -
Contact Erinn at Erinn’s Edibles
Email - Erinnsedibles@gmail.com
http://erinnsedibles.blogspot.com/
Fitting End
The atmosphere at the market on Saturday was different from previous weeks. There was almost euphoria among the vendors because it was the last week. Comments were being made about free time and sleeping in and things to do on a Saturday. It is certainly a big commitment to be at the market for a season. That all being said I had a good day. I just about sold out of everything. It was a fitting end.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Last Day
Tomorrow will be the last day for the season at the Farmer’s Market in Byron Center – corner of 84th and Byron Center Ave in the parking lot of the post office from 8 am - 1 pm. The weather forecast is still looking good- sunny and around 60 degrees. I am hoping there will be a nice crowd of people who want to go one last time. I got a great start on things last night (I have a commitment tonight which will take about an hour and a half). I have to admit I love the new mixer! I liked it last week, but I will still trying to figure it and its volume capacity, it felt more like a trial run. This week I could just use it, and it was so wonderful. It is a dream, a very expensive dream, but a dream none the less. I will let you know how the weekend goes and then if anything transpires after that. I will be dealing with some family issues over the next several weeks, so there may not be a ton of news.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Only in Michigan
Monday’s high temp – 88 degrees
Wednesday high temp – 48 degrees
Welcome to fall. After dealing with record breaking high temperatures last weekend we have now had our first blast of artic air. And have heard term lake effect thrown around – granted it is lake effect rain. Forecasts for Saturday are around 60 and sunny, which will be lovely for the final week of the farmers market. I am hoping this cooler weather will get people in the mood to buy pumpkins and apples and other fall favorites.
Wednesday high temp – 48 degrees
Welcome to fall. After dealing with record breaking high temperatures last weekend we have now had our first blast of artic air. And have heard term lake effect thrown around – granted it is lake effect rain. Forecasts for Saturday are around 60 and sunny, which will be lovely for the final week of the farmers market. I am hoping this cooler weather will get people in the mood to buy pumpkins and apples and other fall favorites.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Stifling Saturday
It was a hot Saturday for July. Considering it was October, it was unbelievably warm at the farmers market. The market was pretty slow again, but I was not that surprised, that is just how things are in the fall. I did cut back on my total production and actually did better then the previous week. Part of that had to do with the addition of a second batch of congo bars. I made 48 this week and around noon a family came in and bought all I had left. $9.00 worth of congo bars! That is a bit crazy to me, but since I was on the profiting side, I am not complaining. Next Saturday is the last day of the season.
Friday, October 5, 2007
You be the judge
Capital Investment or Total Indulgence?
I am on the fence.
On top of everything else this week, the mixer I have been watching since July went on sale – the lowest price I have seen, by a significant amount. So I had to make a decision, do I make this large of an investment? And do I really need it?
The model, a KitchenAid Professional 600 series, is the largest stand mixer I could find before moving up to the commercial models (those cost thousands of dollars, even refurbished) So this is the one I was watching. Now I will admit I have wanted a KitchenAid mixer for the past 10-12 years, but it was always one of those - “Sure I’d love to have it, but I don’t really need it and I don’t really have room for it” wants. And I was looking at the basic model in Navy of course. But once I started looking around this summer I discovered that the basic model only had a 4.5 quart bowl and the 600 series has a 6 quart bowl. Which in my world means the difference between making 6 dozen cookies and 13 dozen cookies at one time. So I decided if I was going to make the plunge I was going to go with the big one.
But I teetered back and forth on how much to I really need this? Yes it will save a ton of time and my arm from hurting, but is it worth it? I still am not sure about the answer, but I watched for a big sale, thinking if I could get this on a really good deal I might. Well, the really big sale came this week – of course. I went back and forth and back and forth and back and forth… until I finally decided to get it since it is cheaper then even the refurbished ones on ebay, but would wait to use it, in case I needed to return it. My Mom actually was the one at the store to pick it up for me. Every time I had looked at them they only had 3 color choices, black, stainless steal, and brushed nickel – none of which excited me too much (they don’t even offer Navy as a choice – what is wrong with them?) So my Mom calls me from the store to tell me what they had and as expected they had the 3 neutral colors, but then she said, they do have one red one. Really? Hmm… no choice on that one, I got the Red one! 
I really had every intention not to use it for a while, but me getting this mixer and not using it would be like most women getting a new diamond and not wearing it. So I tried it out last night. I love it already. It is going to take a bit of time to figure it all out, but it already saved me a ton of time and cut down on the dishes significantly.
I am on the fence.
On top of everything else this week, the mixer I have been watching since July went on sale – the lowest price I have seen, by a significant amount. So I had to make a decision, do I make this large of an investment? And do I really need it?
The model, a KitchenAid Professional 600 series, is the largest stand mixer I could find before moving up to the commercial models (those cost thousands of dollars, even refurbished) So this is the one I was watching. Now I will admit I have wanted a KitchenAid mixer for the past 10-12 years, but it was always one of those - “Sure I’d love to have it, but I don’t really need it and I don’t really have room for it” wants. And I was looking at the basic model in Navy of course. But once I started looking around this summer I discovered that the basic model only had a 4.5 quart bowl and the 600 series has a 6 quart bowl. Which in my world means the difference between making 6 dozen cookies and 13 dozen cookies at one time. So I decided if I was going to make the plunge I was going to go with the big one.
But I teetered back and forth on how much to I really need this? Yes it will save a ton of time and my arm from hurting, but is it worth it? I still am not sure about the answer, but I watched for a big sale, thinking if I could get this on a really good deal I might. Well, the really big sale came this week – of course. I went back and forth and back and forth and back and forth… until I finally decided to get it since it is cheaper then even the refurbished ones on ebay, but would wait to use it, in case I needed to return it. My Mom actually was the one at the store to pick it up for me. Every time I had looked at them they only had 3 color choices, black, stainless steal, and brushed nickel – none of which excited me too much (they don’t even offer Navy as a choice – what is wrong with them?) So my Mom calls me from the store to tell me what they had and as expected they had the 3 neutral colors, but then she said, they do have one red one. Really? Hmm… no choice on that one, I got the Red one!
I really had every intention not to use it for a while, but me getting this mixer and not using it would be like most women getting a new diamond and not wearing it. So I tried it out last night. I love it already. It is going to take a bit of time to figure it all out, but it already saved me a ton of time and cut down on the dishes significantly.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Mixed bag of emotions
Since Labor Day I have vocally been counting down the time until the end of the farmers market with great excitement, but now that I am entering the final 10 days I am having mixed emotions. Now I am going to preface this by saying I am not complaining. Cognitively I know that things could be much worse. I am grateful and thankful for what I do have and know it is a lot more then many. BUT I am tired and weary. I have never had to work so hard to barely survive. I am not drowning, but I am certainly not floating or even have my head above water, just my nose and I know that it will only take the slightest splash or momentary lack of focus for me to go under. Living that close to the edge scares me. Which is why I am concerned about the ending of the farmers market. While I am busy and exhausted most of the time, it is bringing in income and I need to find some way to replace it and I don’t know how right now. I don’t have a plan or a focus or a direction. I’m tired and I just want my life back.
Up until this point I have seen my current situation as a temporary one, but now, as I am nearing on it being like this for a year, I am wondering if things will get better or if this is my life from now on. If it is, it makes me sad, I do not like the person I have had to be this past year. I want to be able relax without feeling guilty, laugh and smile without a worry, and do the things that bring me enjoyment. As a kid, at the neighborhood pool there was a time when the boys thought it was fun to hold you under the water as long as possible, I still have vivid memories of those feelings. Initially you would kick and fight and do what ever you could to get up, but there would be a point, that you just could not fight any more, the air had all been expelled from your lungs, your body goes limp and the urge to breath is gone. Then in that split second before the blackness takes over there is a calm, a peace that washes over you. You see it is at that point that you know you have fought with everything you have, literally every bit of your last breath, and you have resigned to the fact that you can’t win. The force is too big, too strong and too powerful for you to overcome, so it is time to let go. Time to stop fighting, end the struggle and just fade away. (we were kids and did kid things -never had the panic of a real drowning since you knew the boys would let you up and there were lifeguards on duty) Recently I have felt like I am nearing that point, that I just don’t have the fight left in me. That the calm and peace would be welcomed even knowing right beyond that is the darkness. It is not that I don’t believe there a reason for this all, that there are lessons I need to learn and all part of a plan that has been specified for my life. But right now it is not making it any easier to live through and I don’t even know what to hope for anymore.
So for now I will get through the next two weekends and pray that they are successful and then, I don’t know what happens.
Up until this point I have seen my current situation as a temporary one, but now, as I am nearing on it being like this for a year, I am wondering if things will get better or if this is my life from now on. If it is, it makes me sad, I do not like the person I have had to be this past year. I want to be able relax without feeling guilty, laugh and smile without a worry, and do the things that bring me enjoyment. As a kid, at the neighborhood pool there was a time when the boys thought it was fun to hold you under the water as long as possible, I still have vivid memories of those feelings. Initially you would kick and fight and do what ever you could to get up, but there would be a point, that you just could not fight any more, the air had all been expelled from your lungs, your body goes limp and the urge to breath is gone. Then in that split second before the blackness takes over there is a calm, a peace that washes over you. You see it is at that point that you know you have fought with everything you have, literally every bit of your last breath, and you have resigned to the fact that you can’t win. The force is too big, too strong and too powerful for you to overcome, so it is time to let go. Time to stop fighting, end the struggle and just fade away. (we were kids and did kid things -never had the panic of a real drowning since you knew the boys would let you up and there were lifeguards on duty) Recently I have felt like I am nearing that point, that I just don’t have the fight left in me. That the calm and peace would be welcomed even knowing right beyond that is the darkness. It is not that I don’t believe there a reason for this all, that there are lessons I need to learn and all part of a plan that has been specified for my life. But right now it is not making it any easier to live through and I don’t even know what to hope for anymore.
So for now I will get through the next two weekends and pray that they are successful and then, I don’t know what happens.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Saturday recap
Saturday was a decent day, not great; you can really tell the traffic at the market has slowed down. That is understandable with people getting busy with school activities and sports. I made just a few dollars short of my normal range, but not too bad! I sold out of congo bars by about 10:30 – so I am going to have to make more next week and hope they sell. The pumpkin bread continues to be a hit, so I am glad I had added that. Weather wise it was a nice day, started out a bit chilly – but an unexpected visit from a friend with a mug of hot chocolate was just what I needed! Got me through until the sun was fully out to warm the area. Two more weeks to go – early forecasts are saying another lovely day. Let’s hope that stays true. I am going to cut my numbers a bit this week and hope to sell out.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Apple Crisp
You might not know it from the weather, but it is fall. This means it is time for fresh apples. I love apples: eating them fresh, drinking non-pasteurized cider, making apple sauce and apple crisp. I am sure this has nothing to due with the fact that I worked at Robinette’s Orchard for years, being surrounded by apples and their byproducts. Tonight I had a little free time and threw together this yummy treat.
The Vacation is over
It is already Tuesday and I need to start thinking about Saturday. I will admit I have really enjoyed my 10 day break from baking. I was able to get stuff done in the evenings, like an oil change and visiting some friends, which I normally don’t have time to do. I also have a wonderful weekend. But to be completely honest I did do some baking, it was suggested to me that I bring some banana bread up to Mackinac with me, as a treat for some of the other volunteers, so I quickly made a couple batches and while I was at it I made some oatmeal scotchie cookies. But it was not really baking; I did it at home, while I was doing other things. :)
Saturday’s forecast looks lovely – sunny around 75 degrees – I am hoping that forecast sticks. I think they are doing another arts and crafts weekend, but I don’t know for sure. Tonight I will have to take inventory and decide what to make for this week. Will keep you posted.
Saturday’s forecast looks lovely – sunny around 75 degrees – I am hoping that forecast sticks. I think they are doing another arts and crafts weekend, but I don’t know for sure. Tonight I will have to take inventory and decide what to make for this week. Will keep you posted.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Mackinacisms
This weekend was the 6th time in the past 10 years I have gone up to Mackinac Island, and I have to say I love it there. To me the island is this safe wonderland where you are transformed into a bygone era, brought back to a slower time and can just forget about the real world for a while. In addition the conference I attended is a large group of like minded people who I have been involved with for 12 years now. To me it is kind of like a family reunion – a great big dysfunctional family, but a family none the less.
I think this is part of the reason I was so disturbed when I saw a new addition to main street.
I don’t have any against Starbucks per say, but to me to see it in downtown Mackinac Island, just concerns me that this is opening a door for a total commercialization of the Island. I love the idea of small mom and pop stores owned by the year round residents of the island that you can not find any where else. The restaurants there are familiar and comfortable and I would hate the idea of a McDonalds nestled in between fudge shops. I hope that this starbucks in the exception and it does not go any further.
There are a many things that you only find on Mackinac and I took some pictures of a few of my favorite things.
Taking a bike ride around the Island is a must! One of the first places I pass is Mission Point where they always have beautiful flowers. Here are some pictures of the view from the bike ride.
If you look real closely in this one you can see the bridge in the back.
A few years back we discovered one of the funniest things I have ever seen. A gated community on the Island. Hmmm.... no cars allowed on the Island, no fence on either side of the gate, so the horses, bikes or people walking can just go around the gate. Unfortunately the gate was open as I rode by, so the effect is not quite as strong.
One tradition I did not get to do this year was to go to the Island school and swing. It is the best view I have ever had on a swing. But I did get a quick picture.
This is the house we stayed in last time - it brings back lots of great memories and from now on will always be a stopping point.
And of course you can not forget the Fudge!
I think this is part of the reason I was so disturbed when I saw a new addition to main street.
I don’t have any against Starbucks per say, but to me to see it in downtown Mackinac Island, just concerns me that this is opening a door for a total commercialization of the Island. I love the idea of small mom and pop stores owned by the year round residents of the island that you can not find any where else. The restaurants there are familiar and comfortable and I would hate the idea of a McDonalds nestled in between fudge shops. I hope that this starbucks in the exception and it does not go any further.There are a many things that you only find on Mackinac and I took some pictures of a few of my favorite things.
Taking a bike ride around the Island is a must! One of the first places I pass is Mission Point where they always have beautiful flowers. Here are some pictures of the view from the bike ride. If you look real closely in this one you can see the bridge in the back. A few years back we discovered one of the funniest things I have ever seen. A gated community on the Island. Hmmm.... no cars allowed on the Island, no fence on either side of the gate, so the horses, bikes or people walking can just go around the gate. Unfortunately the gate was open as I rode by, so the effect is not quite as strong. 
Only I would find the hidden Mickey on the Island - after finding it years ago, it is now one of my favorite pieces of Disney trivia.
One tradition I did not get to do this year was to go to the Island school and swing. It is the best view I have ever had on a swing. But I did get a quick picture. This is the house we stayed in last time - it brings back lots of great memories and from now on will always be a stopping point.And of course you can not forget the Fudge!
All in all it was a great weekend and I will miss it until next time.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Back from Mackinac
Good weekend, lots of fun, tired, but a good tired stemming from a long weekend trying to do too much in too little time.
I did get a couple of pictures of some of the candidates.
Will write more later.
I did get a couple of pictures of some of the candidates.
Will write more later.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Reprieve
This week I am taking a much needed break. Last week I received an email with an offer I could not refuse for this coming weekend. There is a conference that takes place every other year up on Mackinac Island. I have attended every conference since 1997, but due to circumstances this year I had come to the realization that I was just not going to be able to go. I’ll admit I was a bit sad, but was okay with not going. Then last week I received an email offer of a place to stay in exchange for some volunteering. After taking a day to weigh the costs I decided to go. Ever since then I have been so excited and thankful for a week off.
Each of the conferences I have attended has been very different experiences and I never know what to expect.
This year we are staying at the Island House – I have never stayed here before, but I am sure it will be nice. I also am excited to take a bike ride around the Island, 
which is always one of my favorite things to do. Of course spending time with friends is always a highlight. 
And we always seam to have fun.
Each of the conferences I have attended has been very different experiences and I never know what to expect.
This year we are staying at the Island House – I have never stayed here before, but I am sure it will be nice. I also am excited to take a bike ride around the Island, which is always one of my favorite things to do. Of course spending time with friends is always a highlight. And we always seam to have fun.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Cold and Slow Saturday
Saturday morning started out very cold, with temps in the lows 40’s. Thankfully the sun was out, which created some warmth, but it felt much more like late October, not mid September. The market was slow all day long, which made for a long morning. BUT I did decent again. I have hit a range in terms of sales at the market and I was right in that range. After homing home and warming up, I had no complaints.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Productive Thursday
This week there is a wedding at church on Saturday with the rehearsal tonight. I always try to be cognoscente of other events going on and plan accordingly. So Thursday I planned on making more then I usually do. I have to say I got a ton done. I am so excited! I got my banana bread, pumpkin bread, zucchini bread, congo bars and brownies all done last night. I was exhausted by the end of the night, but happy with what I accomplished. Tonight I have to make my Amish Friendship bread, Zucchini Carrot Nut bread (which I have enough pans to bake them at the same time) and make and frost my cookies. That should make for a pretty short night. I am not sure how I will react if I get more then 5 or 6 hours of sleep tonight. :) It should give me time to pull out some warmer clothes, they have lowered the high temp for the day tomorrow and it is going to be cold!
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Brrr....
Saturday’s forecast is calling for a high or 61 degrees, which means that Saturday morning is going to be downright cold. I am really not ready for cold, cooler, yes I wanted it not to be 90 degrees, but a high of 61 – that means jeans and sweaters, pulling out the heavy fleece., maybe even a cup of hot chocolate to hold. I don’t know what impact, if any that will have on the farmers market traffic. Will the colder weather draw people to buy fresh apples, pumpkins or other fall favorites? Or will people just want to stay home and have a cozy morning in bed (that would be my choice :) ). Soccer games have started and other school activities. People just get busy in the fall. So that leads to the big question of how much do I bake? I think for this week I am going to plan the same quantity as last week – partly due to the fact that I have a special order of 5 loaves already. We will just have to see how it goes.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Sunny Saturday
It was another beautiful day Saturday. Sunny, but not too hot. The market was pretty busy with the craft sale. I didn’t get a chance to check out the booths, but from what I hear it was a success, I believe they are going to have it again on September 29th. There was also a lot of new people at the market – not sure if that was the draw or the eat local challenge that started on Friday – but what ever it was it was good. I had another good day. The pumpkin bread had a great debut, I sold 14 loaves! In all I sold 50 loaves of bread!
Friday, September 7, 2007
Dreary day
Today was one of those days I just wanted to crawl back into bed, doze, read, do anything but get up. Unfortunately this was not an option. Thankfully tomorrow forecast does not include rain. They are saying a little fog in the morning and then a sunny day in the mid 70’s – perfect farmer’s market weather!
Tomorrow will be the debut of my pumpkin bread, my new card table (bought on sale Monday) and the art and crafts section of the market. I have not heard recently how many new vendors they expect, but it will be interesting to see how it goes. I do hope it is a success – I think it will be a big draw. I plan to have;
Amish Friendship Bread
Banana Bread
Pumpkin Bread
Zucchini Bread
Zucchini Carrot Nut Bread
Congo Bars
Frosted Cookies
Turtle Brownies.
I did not get time to work out the kinks in the muffins – I was interrupted by a city planning commission meeting concerning a request to build an Auto Zone store next to my driveway – the request was denied. But maybe some time this week? Stop by if you have time – would love to see you.
Tomorrow will be the debut of my pumpkin bread, my new card table (bought on sale Monday) and the art and crafts section of the market. I have not heard recently how many new vendors they expect, but it will be interesting to see how it goes. I do hope it is a success – I think it will be a big draw. I plan to have;
Amish Friendship Bread
Banana Bread
Pumpkin Bread
Zucchini Bread
Zucchini Carrot Nut Bread
Congo Bars
Frosted Cookies
Turtle Brownies.
I did not get time to work out the kinks in the muffins – I was interrupted by a city planning commission meeting concerning a request to build an Auto Zone store next to my driveway – the request was denied. But maybe some time this week? Stop by if you have time – would love to see you.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
The most toxic thing in my house
This weekend’s experimenting with recipes found me in need of some Nutmeg. Now I have used Nutmeg occasionally through out my baking, but not very often and I did not have any on hand. In pricing out this spice I found it to be pretty expensive in small quantities, which was not helping my cost per unit totals. So I make the trek to a distribution center and purchased a large container, roughly 162 teaspoons. After completed the baking test run, I made arrangements with my family to be the taste testers (yes I do accept volunteers for these difficult positions). Now my nephew has a peanut allergy, and I am always very careful about what food I bring into their home and make sure it is safe for him to eat. As I was looking over the ingredients, I realized I did not know anything about Nutmeg, including if it was a nut. So I did a quick internet search and discovered some very interesting things about it.
First of all it is not a nut, a fruit.
Second in large quantities it can be toxic, or even deadly. Here is the report…
In low doses, nutmeg produces no noticeable physiological or neurological response. Large doses of 30 g (~6 teaspoons) or more are dangerous, potentially inducing convulsions, palpitations, nausea, eventual dehydration, and generalized body pain. In amounts of 5–20 g (~1-4 teaspoons) it is a mild to medium hallucinogen, producing visual distortions and a mild euphoria. It is a common misconception that nutmeg contains monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). While untrue, nutmeg taken in combination with MAOIs may elevate risks.[1] A test was carried out on the substance that showed that, when ingested in large amounts, nutmeg takes on a similar chemical make-up to MDMA (ecstasy). However, use of nutmeg as a recreational drug is unpopular due to its unpleasant taste and its side effects, including dizziness, flushes, dry mouth, accelerated heartbeat, temporary constipation, difficulty in urination, nausea, and panic. A user will not experience a peak until approximately six hours after ingestion, and effects can linger for up to three days afterwards.
A risk in any large-quantity (over 25 g, ~5 teaspoons) ingestion of nutmeg is the onset of 'nutmeg poisoning', an acute psychiatric disorder marked by thought disorder, a sense of impending death, and agitation. Some cases have resulted in hospitalization.
Fatal doses in children are significantly lower, with approximately 15g being sufficient to cause one of only two recorded nutmeg toxicity deaths, in an eight year old child.
Nutmeg is an abortifacient, and as such any significant doses should be avoided by pregnant women.
Third in many cultures it is used as an aphrodisiac or stimulant.
First of all it is not a nut, a fruit.
Second in large quantities it can be toxic, or even deadly. Here is the report…
In low doses, nutmeg produces no noticeable physiological or neurological response. Large doses of 30 g (~6 teaspoons) or more are dangerous, potentially inducing convulsions, palpitations, nausea, eventual dehydration, and generalized body pain. In amounts of 5–20 g (~1-4 teaspoons) it is a mild to medium hallucinogen, producing visual distortions and a mild euphoria. It is a common misconception that nutmeg contains monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). While untrue, nutmeg taken in combination with MAOIs may elevate risks.[1] A test was carried out on the substance that showed that, when ingested in large amounts, nutmeg takes on a similar chemical make-up to MDMA (ecstasy). However, use of nutmeg as a recreational drug is unpopular due to its unpleasant taste and its side effects, including dizziness, flushes, dry mouth, accelerated heartbeat, temporary constipation, difficulty in urination, nausea, and panic. A user will not experience a peak until approximately six hours after ingestion, and effects can linger for up to three days afterwards.
A risk in any large-quantity (over 25 g, ~5 teaspoons) ingestion of nutmeg is the onset of 'nutmeg poisoning', an acute psychiatric disorder marked by thought disorder, a sense of impending death, and agitation. Some cases have resulted in hospitalization.
Fatal doses in children are significantly lower, with approximately 15g being sufficient to cause one of only two recorded nutmeg toxicity deaths, in an eight year old child.
Nutmeg is an abortifacient, and as such any significant doses should be avoided by pregnant women.
Third in many cultures it is used as an aphrodisiac or stimulant.
And finally it known as an underground drug and at times has been widely used in jails or by very poor communities.
I found this all to be very interesting. Now, for all I know this could be common knowledge, but this is one area I know very little about. :)
I found this all to be very interesting. Now, for all I know this could be common knowledge, but this is one area I know very little about. :)
It does make me think though, if 6 teaspoons is considered a large amount that could be potentially lethal, I currently have about 27 times that amount in my house. Hmm… I am pretty sure that make it the most toxic thing I have in my house.
Monday, September 3, 2007
Labor Day equals work?
First, an update on Saturday - things went well. With it being Labor Day weekend things were a bit slower, but over all it was a good day. I am looking forward to next week with the introduction of the Art and Crafts area. Of course I know I will be tempted to go see what is over there and buy something. :)
The rest of the weekend I have been busy getting stuff done around my house. I have not had a day off since the 4th of July and had a ton of stuff to catch up on, all those normal Saturday activities that I don’t have time for these days. Did I get everything done I wanted to? No, but I knew that would be impossible, I did get a lot though, and I am happy with my progress.
Pumpkin Bread – I am finally happy with my pumpkin bread recipe. One of my jobs for this weekend was to do some experimenting with this so that I can debut pumpkin bread this weekend. I am happy to say there will be pumpkin bread on Saturday. I am also working on Morning Glory muffins, not quite there yet, but hopefully a little tweaking tomorrow night will produce the results I am looking for.
The rest of the weekend I have been busy getting stuff done around my house. I have not had a day off since the 4th of July and had a ton of stuff to catch up on, all those normal Saturday activities that I don’t have time for these days. Did I get everything done I wanted to? No, but I knew that would be impossible, I did get a lot though, and I am happy with my progress.
Pumpkin Bread – I am finally happy with my pumpkin bread recipe. One of my jobs for this weekend was to do some experimenting with this so that I can debut pumpkin bread this weekend. I am happy to say there will be pumpkin bread on Saturday. I am also working on Morning Glory muffins, not quite there yet, but hopefully a little tweaking tomorrow night will produce the results I am looking for.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Calling all Crafters
A little birdie recently told me that the Byron Center Farmers Market is going to open a new section for Arts and Crafts this fall. I, for one, am very excited. I enjoy going to craft shows and seeing what people make to sell. From what I understand Sept. 8th is going to be the first week and they would like to have it an additional 4 – 6 times this fall. If it is successful they hope to have this addition frequently all season next year. SO if you are a crafter and what to have a booth contact me and I will give you the information. OR if you enjoy shopping for crafts mark Sept. 8th down as the day to come to the Byron Center Farmers Market.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Holiday Weekend
Today is Thursday, but for some reason I keep thinking it is Friday – maybe because I am looking forward to the holiday on Monday? The market will be open on Saturday as usual, so consider stopping by if you trying to beat the traffic by heading out of town Saturday morning instead of Friday afternoon or if you are going to any BBQ’s or other gatherings. :) I do anticipate it being a slower day, so I am planning on making a bit less then my peak amounts, but I have discovered that it is hard to predict what will happen. The forecast for the weather is wonderful, around 80, sunny low humidity, and that is for the whole weekend. If you are traveling or have big plans I hope you have a fun, but safe weekend!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
C is for Cookie
Wednesday is our Family Fun Night at church. I offered to make some cookies for the event - my agreement with the church is instead of paying rent for the use of the kitchen I will provide goodies for our after church coffee time. The problem has been that since I have moved over to the Byron Center market I have pretty much been selling out. So I feel like I have not been living up to my end of the agreement. So I figured this would be a way to help out.
Here is one tray
As you can see I made three kinds, chocolate chip, chocolate chocolate chunk, and my favorite Oatmeal Scotchies.
Here are all of the trays. :)
I hope every one enjoys them. My job for the evening will be running one of the games. I hope it is not the dunk tank.Monday, August 27, 2007
All that remained
I took some pictures of my refrigerator and freezer after I cleaned out all the food ruined from the power outage.
Here is the refrigerator door
The bottom half of the refrigerator
The top half with the lone survivors - some Zucchini I had intended to shred on Wednesday night. Technically they are not mine, as they were bought to use in the Zucchini bread.
The Freezer Door
The inside of the freezer.
Not a whole lot left!
Here is the refrigerator door
The bottom half of the refrigerator
The top half with the lone survivors - some Zucchini I had intended to shred on Wednesday night. Technically they are not mine, as they were bought to use in the Zucchini bread.The Freezer DoorThe inside of the freezer.Not a whole lot left!
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Wild Week
Whew what a week it turned out to be. As previously noted, my home electricity went out on Wednesday night as the storms passed through. Initially they projected restoration time of noon on Thursday. In the past I have found that they usually beat their projections, so I was not too worried. Well Thursday noon turned into Thursday midnight which turned into Friday noon, then Friday 2 pm, 3pm, 4pm, 11 pm… The power was finally restored around midnight on Friday. Needless to say I had to rough it a bit – no lights, cordless phone, internet, computer once my laptop’s battery died, TV, laundry facilities, iron, air conditioning, fans, hair dryer, curling iron….. I am extremely thankful that I did have hot water – so I could shower – although showering by candle light is not something I will continue to do. Thursday night I had planned on going to sleep at my Mom’s house, but her electricity went out with those storms. Crazy! Because of the length of the outage I did lose all the food in my refrigerator and freezer – even though I had not opened my freezer at all, once the power came back I opened it and the food in there was pretty soft. So I have had the fun task of cleaning out and documenting everything I lost. Plus I can honestly say, I have no food in the house. :)
Another huge thing I was thankful for was that the kitchen where I bake never lost its power, so I was able to do my regular baking. As predicted it did rain Saturday morning, for about the first two hours at the Farmers Market. Then the sun came out and it was a beautiful day. With the forecast I made a little less then last week, but not too much less. Over all the day was pretty good. I sold out of my congo bars, all the bread except a few small banana bread loafs and just had a couple brownies and cookies left. I actually made more then I did 2 weeks ago, rain and everything.
This week is going to be another busy week – tomorrow night is my Condo Association Picnic – so I am sure I will hear all the details of why the power was out for so long. I am planning on bringing the pumpkin bread I am looking to add to my bread for the fall. Then Wednesday we are having a family fun night at church and I am going to be contributing cookies.
I hope to get an order form finished this week so people know what I currently make, how much I charge and how to place a special order.
Another huge thing I was thankful for was that the kitchen where I bake never lost its power, so I was able to do my regular baking. As predicted it did rain Saturday morning, for about the first two hours at the Farmers Market. Then the sun came out and it was a beautiful day. With the forecast I made a little less then last week, but not too much less. Over all the day was pretty good. I sold out of my congo bars, all the bread except a few small banana bread loafs and just had a couple brownies and cookies left. I actually made more then I did 2 weeks ago, rain and everything.
This week is going to be another busy week – tomorrow night is my Condo Association Picnic – so I am sure I will hear all the details of why the power was out for so long. I am planning on bringing the pumpkin bread I am looking to add to my bread for the fall. Then Wednesday we are having a family fun night at church and I am going to be contributing cookies.
I hope to get an order form finished this week so people know what I currently make, how much I charge and how to place a special order.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Define Early
Currently all the weather reports are calling for showers and thunderstorms early on Saturday. I wish they would be a little more specific with what they could consider “early.” Is it just after midnight? 4 am? Or 9 am? Obviously I am hoping it will not be during the Farmers Market. Plus it is only Wednesday and this is West Michigan weather changes in a flash. But with this forecast, which has not changed all week, I will have to take it into consideration when I decide how much to bake.
On a weather side note, I was drive home tonight as the edge of the front was rolling in, and as I was entering a construction zone on 196 a large sign, one of the ones that displays electronic messages literally blew across the road right in front of me. Thankfully I was able to swerve in between some barrels to avoid contact.
Update after posting last night I lost my electricity. While sitting around in the evening reading by candle light can be relaxing, trying to get ready in the morning by candle light is significantly less fun. Hopefully they are out there working right now and I will have restored power by the end of the day!
Update 2 - 11 pm Thursday night and still no electricity. I was going to go to my Mom's but she lost hers with tonights storms. Hopefully it will come back on sometime in the next 8 hours before I have to leave for work. Are we having fun yet? Thankfully the church kitchen was with power and I was able to get some baking done tonight.
Update 3 - as of 7:00 am still no electricity. Burnt my thumb trying to light a candle this morning while my alarm was going off.
Update 4 - My electricity finally came back on around midnight last night - after 52 hours of it being off. Needless to say I lost everything in my fridge and freezer. Dealing with these issues this afternoon, will post update on today at the market later.
On a weather side note, I was drive home tonight as the edge of the front was rolling in, and as I was entering a construction zone on 196 a large sign, one of the ones that displays electronic messages literally blew across the road right in front of me. Thankfully I was able to swerve in between some barrels to avoid contact.
Update after posting last night I lost my electricity. While sitting around in the evening reading by candle light can be relaxing, trying to get ready in the morning by candle light is significantly less fun. Hopefully they are out there working right now and I will have restored power by the end of the day!
Update 2 - 11 pm Thursday night and still no electricity. I was going to go to my Mom's but she lost hers with tonights storms. Hopefully it will come back on sometime in the next 8 hours before I have to leave for work. Are we having fun yet? Thankfully the church kitchen was with power and I was able to get some baking done tonight.
Update 3 - as of 7:00 am still no electricity. Burnt my thumb trying to light a candle this morning while my alarm was going off.
Update 4 - My electricity finally came back on around midnight last night - after 52 hours of it being off. Needless to say I lost everything in my fridge and freezer. Dealing with these issues this afternoon, will post update on today at the market later.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Splendid Saturday
Saturday was another great day in Byron Center. The weather was crisp, but sunny. I was located in a new location, further away from the coffee booth, but sales continued to do well. I did not quite sell out of my bread, but I had increased my amounts by quite a bit. Over all it was a nice improvement over the previous weeks. For the sake of comparison on amounts sold
21 small loaves first week - 30 small loaves this week
11 large loaves - 14 large loaves
18 packages of cookies - 17 packages of cookies
24 congo bars - 31 congo bars
16 brownies - 16 brownies
So while I did not sell out I did sell 12 additional loaves of bread and 7 more congo bars. I have noticed that my banana bread continues to be a big seller and is the first thing to sell out. So I am going to continue to increase the number of banana bread I make.
Research and Development –
Saturday afternoon I spent some time looking through recipes and making a trip to Meijers to price out the new ingredients. I am planning on adding pumpkin bread for this fall, but still need to figure which recipe to use – I do not have a tried and true recipe for this. I am also trying to decide if I want to make my Apple Strudel bread as bread or muffins – I have made it both ways. If I decide to go with muffins I would like to add a second type of muffins. Once potential is Morning Glory muffins – which I love, but I also discovered there are many, many variations on these muffins and again I will have to do some experimentation. I will keep you updated on new products.
21 small loaves first week - 30 small loaves this week
11 large loaves - 14 large loaves
18 packages of cookies - 17 packages of cookies
24 congo bars - 31 congo bars
16 brownies - 16 brownies
So while I did not sell out I did sell 12 additional loaves of bread and 7 more congo bars. I have noticed that my banana bread continues to be a big seller and is the first thing to sell out. So I am going to continue to increase the number of banana bread I make.
Research and Development –
Saturday afternoon I spent some time looking through recipes and making a trip to Meijers to price out the new ingredients. I am planning on adding pumpkin bread for this fall, but still need to figure which recipe to use – I do not have a tried and true recipe for this. I am also trying to decide if I want to make my Apple Strudel bread as bread or muffins – I have made it both ways. If I decide to go with muffins I would like to add a second type of muffins. Once potential is Morning Glory muffins – which I love, but I also discovered there are many, many variations on these muffins and again I will have to do some experimentation. I will keep you updated on new products.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Back to Baking
I admittedly digressed a bit this week on this blog. Another busy week baking to get ready for Saturday at Byron Center. I again increased my amounts of bread – if everything goes as planned tonight I will have around 50 loafs of bread – both big and small to bring. 3 of them have been specially ordered, so they will be delivered separately, but still it will be a lot of bread. I am hoping for a good day at the market. The weather tomorrow is forecasted to be a bit cooler, but sunny. After all these weeks of hot weather I am looking forward to needing to wear jeans. Hopefully others will want to go out and enjoy the weather with a stop at the Farmers Market.
Location Update - I am going to have a new spot at the Byron Center Farmer's Market this week. I am not sure where yet, but if you have stopped by before I will not be in the same place. If you have not stopped by before, I have the tan canopy.
Location Update - I am going to have a new spot at the Byron Center Farmer's Market this week. I am not sure where yet, but if you have stopped by before I will not be in the same place. If you have not stopped by before, I have the tan canopy.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Tropical Storm Erin Forms - Gulf Gets Ready for Lashing
This was one of my favorite headlines today. I have to admit I still get excited about Erin being chosen as one of the official tropical cyclone names. I blame some of this on my childhood, my older sister had the most popular name of decades and everywhere you turned her name was the example – named stickers, pencils, embroidered bags, blankets, characters in books, movies, songs… Meanwhile my name as never that popular and I was at the beginning of it being a female name. Plus technically “Erin” is not my name, mine is “Erinn” which meant it was impossible to find anything with my name on it unless it was specially ordered. Nevertheless I will accept this alternate spelling for this purpose. I also claim that I missed my calling as a meteorologist. I love weather. So this culmination of a major weather event being called by my name is thrilling to me.
Currently the lists of names used for these storms are rotated on a 6 years basis with names being retired if they reach a monumental or catastrophic level i.e. Andrew, Katrina. So far pervious storms named Erin have not been significant, although in 1995 Hurricane Erin did make landfall around Gulf Shores, Al. I joking said I need to make up t-shirts that said “I survived Hurricane Erin.” Maybe in 2013?
Monday, August 13, 2007
Downtown Grand Rapids?
Last week I was downtown for lunch with friends and to our surprise we saw this car. Not only was the adornment on the car surprising, but the location – right by the Arena in GR. It would be one thing if we were in Sparta or Hastings, but not in the “big city” :)
While the picture itself is blog worthy the following response from a unnamed source whose job it is to know Michigan laws concerning motor vehicles makes it even more humorous. When asked if this was legal this was the response -
“Why wouldn’t it be? As long as you have two functioning rearview mirrors and they are properly secured to the vehicle, I think it is fine. Tacky yet fine.”
So if I understand this correctly I can mound anything I want to the back of my car as long as I have two functioning rearview mirrors that are properly secured. Hmmm….
While the picture itself is blog worthy the following response from a unnamed source whose job it is to know Michigan laws concerning motor vehicles makes it even more humorous. When asked if this was legal this was the response -
“Why wouldn’t it be? As long as you have two functioning rearview mirrors and they are properly secured to the vehicle, I think it is fine. Tacky yet fine.”
So if I understand this correctly I can mound anything I want to the back of my car as long as I have two functioning rearview mirrors that are properly secured. Hmmm….
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Sizzling Saturday
Saturday was another hot day – both the weather and my sales. I ended up only making a little more for this week. I had a very busy week and basically did all my baking on Friday night, I think it was around 2 am when I finally loaded up my car to head home for a very short night. I ended up with a few more loaves of bread and added cupcakes to the mix. Here is what my tables looked like when I arrived.
The market was a bit slower then last week. My theory is the heat – it was a hot one. I usually start out my mornings in a fleece and some weeks I am in it most of the morning. Saturday I never even put it on. It was hot, humid and no breeze – not a lot of fun. By 11 or 11:30 things were noticeable slow. Someone also mentioned this was the last weekend before all the school sports practices and other activities began, so people were taking a last weekend away. Whatever the cause the other vendors mentioned their sales were down. Here is a picture of my tables at the end.
As you can see I didn’t sell out of everything, but just about. I ended up making $2 less then last week – so even if this was a slow week I did great again. My bread sold out again by 11:00 or so, which means I obviously need to make more bread. This week is considerable slower for me, so I will for sure make more bread and see how it goes next week, also hoping for a cooler day or at least a breeze.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Friday already!
Another week has flown by and it is already Friday afternoon. I will be at the Byron Center farmers’ marker tomorrow from 8 am to 1 pm. I am planning on taking a bit more then last week and adding cupcakes to the mix. Hopefully this week with be as successful as last week. I am also hoping to take some pictures tomorrow of the new market – to spice up the blog a bit. J I am hoping for a full table “before” picture and an empty table “after” picture.
Stop by if you are in the area.
Stop by if you are in the area.
Saturday, August 4, 2007
SOLD OUT
Yes you read that correctly, I sold out, sold everything I had with me. The Byron Center Market is really nice and busy! I really liked it and I am planning on going there from now on.
I had actually made a bit more then I usually do – so I had 18 packages of cookies, 16 brownies, 24 congo bars, 21 small loaves of bread, and 11 large loaves of bread when I arrived and nothing when I left. :) Money wise I made more today then I have in the past 3 weeks combine!! (I am not at all excited here :) ) I am already trying to decided how much more to bring next week. I am going to incrementally increase. I am also thinking I am going to try cupcakes next week.
Thanks to everyone who stopped by – Joel, Brenda, and Emma, Terri, Beth, Shana and Jason – it was good to see you all and chat for a minute. It is so nice to see a familiar face.
I had actually made a bit more then I usually do – so I had 18 packages of cookies, 16 brownies, 24 congo bars, 21 small loaves of bread, and 11 large loaves of bread when I arrived and nothing when I left. :) Money wise I made more today then I have in the past 3 weeks combine!! (I am not at all excited here :) ) I am already trying to decided how much more to bring next week. I am going to incrementally increase. I am also thinking I am going to try cupcakes next week.
Thanks to everyone who stopped by – Joel, Brenda, and Emma, Terri, Beth, Shana and Jason – it was good to see you all and chat for a minute. It is so nice to see a familiar face.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Change in Venue
I am excited to announce that I will be at the Byron Center Farmers Market this Saturday. The Byron Center Market is at 84th and Byron Center from 8 am – 1 pm Saturday. I am really looking forward to this opportunity. They have a thriving and growing market with over 25 vendors. At this time they do not have anyone else selling baked goods. There is some breads, but yeast breads, not sweet breads. So I am hoping this will be very successful. I am planning on my usual, Banana Bread, Amish Friendship Bread, Zucchini Bread, Zucchini Carrot Nut Bread, Congo bar, Turtle Brownies and Frosted Cookies.
If you are in the area, stop by, I would love to see you!!
If you are in the area, stop by, I would love to see you!!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Sunday, July 29, 2007
All was well
I am going to preface this entry by saying I was tired this weekend and reactions are always stronger when you are tired right?
Friday evening I picked up Harry Potter 7. As I had previously mentioned I had wanted to reread the other 6 books to experience the story as a whole. Finishing the 6th book on Wednesday, I gave myself 48 hours before beginning the 7th (I needed to get some stuff done and I knew if I had the book the temptation would be too great.) I arrive home around 10 pm and started the book. An hour or so later and 175 pages into the book I went to bed, kind of sad and disappointed. I had expected the book to be dark, but not like this. I went to bed thinking, well I want to know what happens to everyone, so I’ll keep reading, but I am not too excited. Thankfully the book takes a turn. The next morning I took the book with me to the farmers market and got some decent reading done (the only good thing about that morning.) By this point I was hooked.
I got home around 2 pm and settled in on my couch to finish the book. About 100 pages from the end I started to cry. Now being moved to tears by a book is nothing new, in first grade I cried when my teacher read Charlotte’s Web out loud to the class. I cried reading HP 5 and HP 6. But reading the last 100 pages of HP7 was more then just a few tears. There were points in the story that I had to put the book down due to the fact that I was sobbing inconsolably, those gut wrenching sobs that are usually reserved for the most emotional of times leaving you feeling empty and in my case with a terrible headache. For some reason the climax of this story and the emotions of the characters whom I have grown to love over the years hit me so strongly. Now I am sure you are thinking I am a bit crazy, and I would agree. It was just a book, it was not real life and to be honest, I was pleasantly surprised at outcome. There was no need to get so upset, but I did. I would like think this reaction was because I was tired, but the truth is that it is more of a testament to J.K. Rowlings and the masterful way she developed this realm.
Friday evening I picked up Harry Potter 7. As I had previously mentioned I had wanted to reread the other 6 books to experience the story as a whole. Finishing the 6th book on Wednesday, I gave myself 48 hours before beginning the 7th (I needed to get some stuff done and I knew if I had the book the temptation would be too great.) I arrive home around 10 pm and started the book. An hour or so later and 175 pages into the book I went to bed, kind of sad and disappointed. I had expected the book to be dark, but not like this. I went to bed thinking, well I want to know what happens to everyone, so I’ll keep reading, but I am not too excited. Thankfully the book takes a turn. The next morning I took the book with me to the farmers market and got some decent reading done (the only good thing about that morning.) By this point I was hooked.
I got home around 2 pm and settled in on my couch to finish the book. About 100 pages from the end I started to cry. Now being moved to tears by a book is nothing new, in first grade I cried when my teacher read Charlotte’s Web out loud to the class. I cried reading HP 5 and HP 6. But reading the last 100 pages of HP7 was more then just a few tears. There were points in the story that I had to put the book down due to the fact that I was sobbing inconsolably, those gut wrenching sobs that are usually reserved for the most emotional of times leaving you feeling empty and in my case with a terrible headache. For some reason the climax of this story and the emotions of the characters whom I have grown to love over the years hit me so strongly. Now I am sure you are thinking I am a bit crazy, and I would agree. It was just a book, it was not real life and to be honest, I was pleasantly surprised at outcome. There was no need to get so upset, but I did. I would like think this reaction was because I was tired, but the truth is that it is more of a testament to J.K. Rowlings and the masterful way she developed this realm.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Worst Day Yet
Today sucked, there is just no other way to describe it and I don’t know why. There was a decent amount of traffic at the market, but just not a lot of purchases. I did worse today then I have ever before, including the day it rained. Everyone at the Market said the same thing. Just not a good day and no one could put a finger on why. Maybe it was because it was the end of the month and people were out of money? Or maybe the neighborhood just can’t support it? I just don’t know. Today certainly was not worth the time I put in. I am beginning to think I need to search for a new market. You cannot get into Fulton Street at this point and even Rockford is full – so maybe Byron Center would be a good alternative? Something to think about.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Odds and Ends
Feeling Old
As I have gotten older the biggest change I have noticed is that I need more sleep. I used to regularly get by with 4 or 5 hours of sleep a night and could easily handle an all-nighter. But over the past few years I have noticed that this is no longer the case – I just can’t function as well with little sleep. Last Friday night, for variety of reasons (one described below) I ended up only getting about 3 ½ hours of sleep. I am proud to say I handled it much better then I had anticipated and needed a quick 30 minute nap on Saturday to get through the entire day. Maybe I still have some of it in me. :)
Acting Young
If you have been living in a cave this past week you might not have heard that the seventh and final Harry Potter book came out. HP7 was officially released at 12:01 am Saturday morning or Friday night if you think like me. I had no intentions of purchasing this book due to lack of resources and had hoped I could borrow a copy from someone who had. To my surprise, on Thursday my sister informed me that she just could not wait and was going to get book from Meijer’s, who was running a promotion – spend $30 get the book for $13. Prior to this she also was planning on borrowing the book. I happen to be at her house Friday night as she left around 11:30 to go to the smallest Meijer in the area and when she got there the line was over 500 people line. She called from the store, not wanted to stay (who could blame her). So I told her I would stop at the Meijer by my house on my way home. Thinking the lines would be gone. I think I pulled into the parking lot around 2:00 am and with my sisters list in hand I started picking up the items she needed as I made my way to the back of the store, where I discovered they had sold out of books. The good news was that their staff was out picking up books from other locations and they should be back in the next ½ hour. Hmm… what to do? wait at the store or go home, finish up some of the things I needed to do for the farmers market in 5 hours. I decided to go home and come back. Just as I was exiting the first set of doors, in came a group of girls, followed by 2 carts of books. Happily I went back to the back of the store along with everyone else in the store. The atmosphere reminded me of many crazy things I did when I was young. It was fun.
Harry Potter
No this is not a spoiler, I have not even begun the final book yet, much less finished it. My intentions where to re-read all of the books just prior to this one being released so that I could read them all in row. Unfortunately time has escaped me recently and I did not even start reading the 1st book again until Saturday. (Yes I really did have the 7th book in my possession for 10 hours and never even opened the cover) So over the past 4 ½ days I have been engrossed in the world of Harry Potter. I had forgotten how good these book were – so well written and engaging. Thankfully I am half way through the 6th book and will be able to pick up the 7th soon to finish out the story. Then I will be able to talk to everyone who has asked me about it. (Yes, I have been doing other things then reading, like putting in a full days of work. But I have spent all of my free time reading. :))
As I have gotten older the biggest change I have noticed is that I need more sleep. I used to regularly get by with 4 or 5 hours of sleep a night and could easily handle an all-nighter. But over the past few years I have noticed that this is no longer the case – I just can’t function as well with little sleep. Last Friday night, for variety of reasons (one described below) I ended up only getting about 3 ½ hours of sleep. I am proud to say I handled it much better then I had anticipated and needed a quick 30 minute nap on Saturday to get through the entire day. Maybe I still have some of it in me. :)
Acting Young
If you have been living in a cave this past week you might not have heard that the seventh and final Harry Potter book came out. HP7 was officially released at 12:01 am Saturday morning or Friday night if you think like me. I had no intentions of purchasing this book due to lack of resources and had hoped I could borrow a copy from someone who had. To my surprise, on Thursday my sister informed me that she just could not wait and was going to get book from Meijer’s, who was running a promotion – spend $30 get the book for $13. Prior to this she also was planning on borrowing the book. I happen to be at her house Friday night as she left around 11:30 to go to the smallest Meijer in the area and when she got there the line was over 500 people line. She called from the store, not wanted to stay (who could blame her). So I told her I would stop at the Meijer by my house on my way home. Thinking the lines would be gone. I think I pulled into the parking lot around 2:00 am and with my sisters list in hand I started picking up the items she needed as I made my way to the back of the store, where I discovered they had sold out of books. The good news was that their staff was out picking up books from other locations and they should be back in the next ½ hour. Hmm… what to do? wait at the store or go home, finish up some of the things I needed to do for the farmers market in 5 hours. I decided to go home and come back. Just as I was exiting the first set of doors, in came a group of girls, followed by 2 carts of books. Happily I went back to the back of the store along with everyone else in the store. The atmosphere reminded me of many crazy things I did when I was young. It was fun.
Harry Potter
No this is not a spoiler, I have not even begun the final book yet, much less finished it. My intentions where to re-read all of the books just prior to this one being released so that I could read them all in row. Unfortunately time has escaped me recently and I did not even start reading the 1st book again until Saturday. (Yes I really did have the 7th book in my possession for 10 hours and never even opened the cover) So over the past 4 ½ days I have been engrossed in the world of Harry Potter. I had forgotten how good these book were – so well written and engaging. Thankfully I am half way through the 6th book and will be able to pick up the 7th soon to finish out the story. Then I will be able to talk to everyone who has asked me about it. (Yes, I have been doing other things then reading, like putting in a full days of work. But I have spent all of my free time reading. :))
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
