It's Here - Day 86

The day of the Florida/Georgia game is finally here...the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party...and my birthday. Mike took me to breakfast at my favorite little dive - Athena Cafe. I had my usual - The Athena Special, two fried eggs (over hard), corned beef hash (nice and crispy), creamy, soul satisfying grits and a biscuit. Mike had his usual - the Cheese Steak Omelet. Unfortunately he forgot to request it with no mushrooms and Mount Vesuvius almost erupted after his first bite. The look on his face was priceless. Also unfortunately for Mike, they were extremely generous with the mushrooms. He spent the entire meal fishing them out.

After breakfast, unfortunately for me, it was on to work at Costco. When I arrived another vendor was in my spot. I was relegated to the back of the wine section where nobody would see me. Somehow I managed to sell 39 bottles in the four hours I was there. I actually was quite proud of my accomplishment...until I called my supervisor to confirm I was leaving a little early to celebrate my birthday. He told me he sold over 100 at the Waterbridge Costco in South Orlando and that my 39 was not very good. My feelings were hurt and I almost quit on the spot. The challenge of working seven days a week is getting to me and I honestly would rather focus on developing my cookie business. I really need to give this a lot of thought.

I headed out the door, feeling defeated and hoping the Gators were having a better afternoon than I was. Thank goodness they were and continued to do so into the evening. The final score was 41 to 17...Gators won!

Mike and I headed for dinner at Bonefish Grill at halftime. We had a wonderful evening. It began with a free Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer. Pomegranate Martinis were my drink of choice. Mike opted for Michelob Ultra. Then it was on to the entree - Rhea's Tillapia, grilled and topped with sauteed spinach, lump crab and topped with a light tomato garlic sauce. Dessert was a coffee with Bailey's and whipped cream. Mmmmmm!

I love my husband and I love my life. All my friends and family that called and left messages and serenades made me feel very special today. Thanks! Happy Halloween!

Many hugs and more birthdays,

Kathy

Birthday Eve - Day 85

The happiness train continued chugging along today.  This morning I delivered a Halloween themed basket to my friends at the Rollins College Theater Department to be used as a prize for the students.  Unfortunately Blair was away from her desk, so I didn't get to see a reaction.  A subsequent e-mail told it all.  She was thrilled and said the students loved the basket.  Wow, this is so much fun!

I carried my Ryan birthday frame and letter around with me all day and showed it to everyone I came it contact with.  Most of the moms I showed it to had the same reaction as I did last night.  They teared up.  Ryan truly got his money's worth.  Fall leaves...free.  Burgundy frame from Marshalls...$7.99.  My happiness and joy with the gift...priceless.

Danielle and her daughter Courtney baked banana bread tied with a bright orange bow for my birthday surprise.  She said they had a blast baking together.  That alone makes me happy.  The mini loaf looks really good.   I am saving it for breakfast tomorrow morning. 

My mom took the family out for my birthday dinner at Buca di Beppo.  She tried her best to convince our waiter that Buca had a happy hour, but he would not give in.  We enjoyed wine, fried calamari, baked rigatoni, chicken carbonara, an extra large cupcake and a candelabra birthday shout out from the entire room.  And if that wasn't enough, it was off to my mom's house for gifts and birthday cake.  She made my favorite yellow cake with homemade fudge frosting and lots of walnuts.  It was very good, but lacked the usual charm of the lopsided versions of years past.  This one was beautiful...and wouldn't you know, I forgot to take a picture.  Thanks Mom for a great evening!

My birthday month has been filled with lots of wonderful friends, family and good times.  I don't want it to end.

Many hugs,

Kathy

A Full Day of Happiness - Day 84

Today was full of happiness from start to finish.  I got up early to bag the cookies baked the night before.  I filled the pink backpack for the "Hot Pink Olives" and assembled two Halloween themed cookie cauldrons for a couple of my client friends.  Then I hit the road.  I called my friend Vicky who offered to photograph the baskets and dropped them off while I made the trek to deliver the backpack.  Carolynn and Karen, of Hot Pink Olive fame, came down to the lobby to get the backpack.  They were about to embark on a 60 mile three day trek to raise money for breast cancer research.  Each day they will burn a lot of calories and need to carb load tonight.  Cookies are on the menu.

Vicky took some cool basket pictures while I was away.  I posted them tonight and will include them in the website I am developing this weekend.  We make a very good team and talked seriously about working together, along with Kenda, to make HeartSong Cookies a reality.

I dropped one of the cookie cauldrons off to my friend Sheri.  She seemed geniunely pleased and even agreed to pose for a blog photo.  Then it was on to UCF with the other cauldron.  My friend Sandy was home ill, but she asked me to take it to her co-workers. 

Lunch was a wonderful treat at Brio with my friend Beth.  We both enjoyed Chopped Salad and Sweet Potato Chicken Risotto.  Mmmmm, it was so good...the ultimate comfort food.  I stopped by Publix to pick up a few things for Sandy and then stopped by her house to drop them off and check on her.

My client friends, David and Morgan, had an open house late this afternoon for their new business, Hatchet Design.  They had a great turnout, but I couldn't stay long.  After all, I am in perpetual motion.  It was on to walk Maddie and then to meet Bree and Jason at his aunt's house (the site of the rehearsal dinner).  We got acquainted and worked out some of the details for the event.

As wonderful as the day was, the best part was a very special birthday gift I received in the mail from my son, Ryan.  He knows fall is my absolute favorite time of year and gathered together beautiful fall leaves in an amazing framed collage.  The letter that accompanied it was filled with all the things I love about Ryan...humor, sensitivity and caring.  He knows exactly how to push my happy dance button and I giggled throughout the evening thanks to his thoughtfulness.

My late evening was spent baking for a basket request due tomorrow morning.  I am tired, happy and feeling extremely blessed.

Many hugs and days like today,

Kathy

Baby Steps Getting Larger - Day 83

My baby steps are growing larger each day.  Today I dropped off a thank you cookie basket to one of my customers and got a request for another one for a Friday function.  Happy dance!

My new Bringing Home the Baking book rode around in the front seat with me today.  At every stop light I would sneak a peek and read another paragraph.  Only one impatient driver beeped at me.

Tomorrow Kenda, my business manager, and I are opening a business account for HeartSong Cookies.  Another baby step.

I dropped off cookies to my friend Dennis early this afternoon.  The timing was great because his department was having a potluck and I was just in time for dessert.  The e-mails I received this afternoon reinforced why I love baking for others.  Dennis said the gang wants me to hold a cookie baking class.  How cool is that!

Tonight I baked cookies to drop off to more of my clients tomorrow.  A group of my friends called  the "Hot Pink Olives" are walking 60 miles over the weekend to raise money for breast cancer research.  I picked up a hot pink backpack on my way home, tied pink ribbon all over it and am going to fill it with cookie treats for their three day adventure as a surprise.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Another Step Closer - Day 82

The birthday barrage of FREE stuff e-mails from the restaurant sites I signed up for continued today.  Kenda and I redeemed the Houlihan's free entree coupon over lunch.  We both ordered the Calamari salad and the coupon saved $14.95.  The salad was quite good and an interesting combination of flavors...Napa cabbage, bananas, cashews and fried calamari.  It sounds strange, but it worked.

The best part of lunch was the gift Kenda gave me - Bringing Home the Baking, How to Start a Licensed Home-Based Baking Business by Quincella C. Geiger.  I feel like I am another step closer to actually realizing my dream of HeartSong Cookies as a viable business.  I can't wait to start reading, so today's post will be brief.

Dinner tonight was a vegetarian delight enjoyed alone...well, not really.  Paula and Rachel from the Food Network kept me company.  I made a salad of butter lettuce, baby cucumbers, tomatoes, olives and Marcona almonds drizzled with Herb de Provence dressing.  Then I roasted butternut squash and brussel sprouts and served myself a big plate.  Yum.  Today was a very good food day.

After dinner I baked cookies for my clients - Dark Chocolate Tri Berry and Cranberry Chocolate Chip Pecan.  Gotta go read now...

Many hugs and baby steps closer,

Kathy

A Flood Of Birthday Gifts from Coupon Cory - Day 81

Over the last couple of months I signed up to receive e-mails and special offers from a variety of restaurant websites.  This weekend I began receiving birthday e-mail coupons with FREE offers ranging from a BOGO offer from Sweet Tomatoes to a FREE Swirl Shake from Arby's.  Last night I decided I might as well join some more of my favorite restaurant sites to see what other birthday treats might come my way.  The birthday coupon barrage continued today with a FREE entree from Houlihan's, FREE slice of pie from Perkins and a FREE Mini Indulgence from Seasons 52.  This is so cool.  I love FREE stuff.  Most of the coupons are good for at least a week past my actual birthday so I guess Mike and I will continue our dining out streak...this time with Coupon Cory.

Here are some of the sites I have joined so far.

www.bahamabreeze.com - Island Insiders
www.olivegarden.com - Olive Garden Family Table Newsletter
www.seasons52.com - Fresh Intelligence Newsletter
www.redlobster.com - The Fresh Catch Club
www.longhornsteakhouse.com - Longhorn's Western Hospitality Club
www.capitalgrille.com - Emagazine
www.brioitalian.com - Posta Toscana
www.mimiscafe.com - EClub
www.cpk.com - California Pizza Kitchen e mail
www.maggianos.com - Maggiano's Little Italy E mail List
www.sweettomatoes.com or www.soupplantation.com - Club Veg
www.carrabbas.com - Amici Club
www.houlihans.com - Email Club
www.perkinsrestaurants.com - EClub
www.arbys.com - Arby's Extras

Many hugs and FREE coupons,

Kathy

Mike's New Ride - Day 80

Mike and I got off to a sluggish start this morning.  We decided to use our $5.00 off coupon for breakfast at Mimi's Cafe.  I ordered the Just Enough Racheros Bowl with eggs fried hard and a pumpkin muffin.  Both the muffin and the coffee were delicious and filling.  This was a good thing since my eggs arrived runny.  I can't eat runny eggs.  By the time they corrected the order, it was time to leave for work.  We boxed my breakfast to go and off I went to work at Costco. 

It had been a couple of weeks since I had worked at the Winter Park Costco and all my demo buddies stopped by to say they missed me.  This is where I feel the most at home.  My demo table was set up across from the toys.  The K'nex Hornet Swarm Dueling Coaster display was a magnet for big and little boys.  It was entertaining to watch them play.

Mike surprised me when he picked me up from work in his brand new car...a beautiful Gator blue Honda Civic.  It had been 10 years since Mike had a new car for himself and the look on his face was priceless.  He wanted to go to dinner to celebrate and we splurged on dinner at Carrabba's.  Mike ordered the Classics Plate with Chicken Parm and Lasagna.  I got the Braised Short Ribs over Risotto.  Our server saw my phone and suggested I send a text to join the Carrabba's Amici Club to receive a free Limocello Bread Pudding with dinner tonight.  I did and Mike and I shared the yummy dessert.

Tonight it was back to baking after a four day layoff.  Thank goodness I didn't lose my touch.  The eyeball test tells me these cookies will be good. 

Many hugs,

Kathy

Food Magazines - Day 79

Fall brings out the best of everything.  The best weather.  The best food.  The best traditions.  The best football.  The best gatherings.  Even the best magazines.  I love food magazines.  All kinds.  I have a monthly subscription to two of my favorites, Bon Appetit and Cooking Light.  Cash starvation requires me to flip through the others at checkout and put back on most months.  But the months of October and November are another story.  I indulge myself in just about every food magazine I can get my hand on.

The November 2009 issue of Everyday with Rachel Ray contains a great article for the cash starved.  It is called "Travel 101 - Take a Volunteer Vacation".  One of the options they mentioned in the article caught my attention.  It is through an organization called Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms - wwoofusa.org.  For a $20.00 yearly membership fee, you have the option to sign up to work an organic farm in exchange for room and board.  You are responsible for your transportation to the location. 

I love to pick fruit and vegetables.  My friend Allan even nicknamed me "Juanita" when I insisted on picking apples and blackberries on my trips to California.  One of the locations mentioned in the article is Maboroshi Wine Estates, a 12 acre Pinot Noir vineyard where you care for the vines during a three to seven day trip in exchange for free room and board.  Many of the Agritourism options (farm-related travel) are abroad.  One couple spoke of their experience on an organic farm in Tuscany.  It was not a picnic.  They worked hard, but had the weekends off to tour the Tuscan countryside, made life long friends and brought home a case of wine.  Sounds like my perfect vacation.

Today I made a new friend at work at the Costco in Kissimmee.  Mara, from Winter Haven, stopped by to talk about the wine I represent, but our conversation soon turned to wine labels, decorating and food.  She told me I had to try Quinoa...even went to the other side of the store to get me a bag.  I gave her one of my HeartSong Cookies business cards and really hope she will stay in touch.  Her description of the decorating of her son's room has me intrigued to see pictures of the results.

After work I picked up a variety of noshing items.  Mike and I love to have appetizers for dinner,so I picked up Mini Bagel Dogs, Shrimp Cocktail and a Chocolate Covered Caramel Apple for us to eat during the Florida/Mississippi State game.  Once again the game was not pretty.  In fact, I spent the second half watching the game alone.  Mike got disgusted and went upstairs.  But the food was good and Florida won the game.  All is right in the world...except the Florida offense.

Many hugs,

Kathy

The Day Mike's Car Died - Day 78

Today I began the day by picking up a really cool cookbook ordered by my friend Sheri.  It is called America's Most Wanted Recipes and is filled with copycat versions of recipes from favorite restaurants.  The recipes include Red Lobster's Cheddar Biscuits, Olive Garden's Salad Dressing and Starbucks' Gingerbread Loaf to name a few.  Sheri was sure I would love this cookbook and she was right.  I can't wait to start cooking again.  My recent time in the kitchen has been limited to baking.

Work was crazy busy today.  I drove all over Orlando and managed to fit in nice visits with friends, Sandy, Beth and Sheila along the way.

Mike and I met for dinner at Bahama Breeze with the $10.00 gift card we received in the mail yesterday.  Mike ordered Salmon Pasta and I tried the Grilled Salmon Tostada Salad.  Both were very good and our bill came to $17.00.  Not bad for a really nice night out.  The trip home was an adventure, at least it was for Mike.  He spent most of the day researching new car options to replace his beloved Honda Accord with over 300,000 miles.  His Honda must have known something was up because it decided to come to an abrupt halt on the trip back home.  New or used car here we come.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Food with Friends - Day 77

Today was a very good day.  I got my voice back and had three good meals with friends.  My day began at Seven Sisters in Orlando with my friend and co-worker Carolyn.  What a cool place!  It is located in a little two story house near Colonial and Mills.  The atmosphere is comfortable and homey.  The coffee is good.  I ordered a Queen Bee...one of their specialties - a latte flavored with honey.  For a tasty treat, I added a slice of pineapple zucchini loaf...very moist and tasty.  Carolyn ordered a coffee and a dark chocolate bar flavored with chipolte and salted pumpkin seeds from the artisan chocolate shop behind Seven Sisters.  The chocolate was amazing and inspired a new potential HeartSong Cookie flavor  - Spicy Mexican Chocolate Pepita.  I am going to use my dark chocolate base spiced with cinnamon and/or cayenne and filled with dark chocolate chips and salted pepitas (pumpkin seeds).  If it turns out half as good as the chocolate bar, it will be pretty darn good.

I met my clients and friends for lunch at the cafeteria at the new Darden headquarters.  They had been bragging on the food and the prices and both lived up to their claims.  Seven of us ate for under $40.00.  The choices were diverse and all looked delicious.  I opted for a cup of Wild Mushroom Soup and a bowl of salad assembled from the salad bar with grilled asparagus, fresh beets, toasted walnuts and a delicious home made herb vinaigrette.  As good as the food was, the company was even better.  We rarely get a chance to talk anything but business and had fun getting caught up.

Tonight I met Bree at White Wolf Cafe on Orange Avenue in downtown Orlando for happy hour, appetizers and wedding planning.  From 5-7 drinks are 2 for 1.  We each ordered martinis, black bean hummus and vegetarian quesadillas to share.  My first of the 2 for 1 drinks was a Mango martini...very good.  My second replaced dessert - a German Chocolate martini.  Oh my, it was soooooooo good!  We worked out a lot of the details for Bree and Jason's rehearsal dinner that I am catering.  I can tell her special night will be amazing and I am honored she is allowing me to put it together.

Many hugs and meals with friends,

Kathy

Lost My Voice, But Not My Appetite - Day 76

Today was another funky feeling day.  I lost my voice and felt like I swallowed sandpaper.  So when lunch time came along, the only thing that appealed to me was Caribbean Chicken Soup and Flan from Pollo Tropical.  It did the trick to sooth my scratchy throat for at least 10 minutes, but did not fill my ample tummy.  Around 5:00, I was ready to eat...a lot.  Of course, my immediate thought was Sweet Tomatoes, my favorite trough feeding restaurant.  And imagine my glee when I discovered a BOGO coupon sent to my e-mail today.  Mike met me for dinner and we feasted on salad, soup and a peanut butter chocolate chip bar cookie...all for a little over $15.00.  Finally my tummy was full...and quite large.  I came home and did 50 sit ups and vowed to do something about my growing girth.

Yesterday my friend Kenda featured King Arthur Flour on her Support American Made Products blog (see my blog list for the link to her site).  The posting is quite good and includes a link to the King Arthur site.  I love the fact that their flours are unbleached and milled in Vermont from American grown wheat.  I am going to pick up a bag this weekend and try it in one of my HeartSong Cookie recipes. 

Many hugs and sit ups,

Kathy

Dusting Off The Power of Good - Day 75

Several weeks ago I talked about starting a movement called "The Power of Good" and then I put it on the shelf for a while...focusing instead on the Power of Good Cookies.  This afternoon I delivered the last basket in Matt's Fall Cookie Basket order.  I was relieved and very satisfied with the results.  Now it is time to take the movement idea down off the shelf, dust it off and go full speed ahead to implement it.

The concept was born out of frustration with the hate and negativity so prevalent in a certain faction of the media and general population.  It is amazing to me the power and influence it has and I thought...why can't "The Power of Good" also have a voice to inspire, inform and uplift.  There are powerful, inspirational stories all around us that need to be told.  I want to tell them.  My goal is to start a website filled with these stories and other positive messages, void of political prejudice and filled with the power of good.  My challenge will be my lack of experience in website development and my total lack of time.  Somehow I will make it work.

I think I may be the richest cash starved foodie in the world.  I called my friend Kenda to join me for lunch at Little Saigon.  She had already eaten, but tagged along to keep me company.  We talked business opportunities, flour, cookies and friends.  It was a wonderful, relaxing lunch that I rarely indulge in and I loved every minute. 

The relaxation continued tonight with dinner at Ruby Tuesdays with my friend Dennis.  His BOGO entree coupon allowed us to be a little more indulgent with our choices.  I opted for the New Orleans Seafood platter, a blackened tillapia topped with a crab cake and served with brown rice pilaf and steamed broccoli.  Dennis ordered a Petite Sirloin served with a baked potato and broccoli.  Of course we also had the salad bar...you can't go to Ruby Tuesdays without it.  The food was surprisingly good and the company was just the comfort I needed after a frantic two weeks. 

I am truly blessed with the best friends in the world!

Many hugs,

Kathy

Almost Done - Day 74

This morning I packaged the cookies for Matt's Fall Cookie Bags...all 21 of them.  It took much longer than I anticipated, but the look on Matt's face and the hug I received when I walked in the door made it all worthwhile.

Tonight I am baking the last basket of Matt's original order.  I am almost done and it feels very gratifying.  I learned a few things along the way...especially last night.  I normally use Gold Medal Unbleached Flour for my cookies, but recently bought a 25 pound bag of Hotel and Restaurant All-Purpose Flour from Costco to try to save money.  I was disappointed that it was bleached, but extremely pleased with the way it performed in my cookie dough.  I actually think it improved the consistency of the cookie.  Last night convinced me of the fact. 

Last week I discovered a new item at Costco...All-Purpose Unbleached Flour.  I know you will think this is absurd, but I actually did a little happy dance when I discovered it.  The flour is made by Eagle Mills and is a blend of white flour and whole grain flour.  I rationalized that this would actually make my cookies healthier.  Unfortunately what I discovered at 1:00 in the morning last night, is that the whole grain alters the consistency of the dough.  The flavor is still good, but the cookies do not spread properly and end up being more dense...almost like a biscuit. From now on, it is ConAgra Mills Harvest Hotel and Restaurant All-Purpose Flour for me.  The perfect cookie is slightly crisp on the edges, moist and dense in the middle.  I am all about the perfect cookie.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Need 36 Hours In This 24 Hour Day - Day 73

My body is rebelling from lack of sleep and non stop action.  I stayed in bed as long as I could before jumping in the shower for my trek to Costco in Kissimmee.  I had no time to eat, opting to grab a Ziplok bag of cucumber, tomato salad from the day before and a fish sandwich from McDonald's.  I may have to change the blog name to Diary of a Cash Starved Unhealthy Eater. 

People watching at Costco was fun again today.  The customer base at Costco Kissimmee is very different from Winter Park...far more diverse.  It was good to see sweaters, scarves and jackets.  This is the what Fall should be...not 90 F.

Tonight I baked 168 cookies for the next installment of Matt's Fall Cookies.  I made 8 batches of various kinds of dough - Toasted Pecan Chocolate Chip, Dark Chocolate Tri Berry and Chocolate Chip Cranberry Pecan.  Not one cookie made it into my mouth.  The last cookie just came out of the oven...at 1:45 a.m. and I still have to package them all.  I really need 36 hours in this 24 hour day!

Many hugs,

Kathy

A Homecoming To Remember - Day 72

Today was a true homecoming in every sense of the word.  Mike and I got up early to make the pilgrimage to Gainesville for the Homecoming game - Florida/Arkansas.  My son Ryan came down from Raleigh for the weekend.  I hadn't seen him in several months and it felt so good to give him a big hug.  Many of his college buddies stopped by.  It felt just like a tailgate should.

We began the feast with cheese quesadillas grilled by my sister-in-law Kevina.  Then it was on to the burgers, hot dogs, grilled corn and Kevina's pasta salad.  For dessert we unveiled the Gator basket of Toasted Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies.  Everything was delicious...except for the Salt Free Ketchup I accidentally picked up the night before.

I left for the game my usual hour before game time to soak in the day and the atmosphere.  What a day it was!  The sky was a bright clear blue with wisps of clouds.  The air was chilly like a fall afternoon should be.  There was an electricity in the air that lasted throughout the game.

The Gators couldn't do anything right.  They fumbled.  They dropped passes.  They missed tackles.  But they battled throughout and in the end, their leader, Tim Tebow, orchestrated the perfect drive for a game winning field goal.  This was college football at its finest and a truly wonderful day!

Many hugs and Gator wins,

Kathy

Homecoming Weekend - Day 71

This weekend is Homecoming for my Alma Mater - University of Florida.  My son Ryan is coming down from Raleigh, North Carolina for his only game of the season.  His tailgate menu request is BIG burgers and hot dogs.  I, of course, wanted something a little more creative, but burgers and hot dogs it is!

Since it has been an eternity since I last baked...a full day, I baked a batch of Toasted Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies and assembled a Gator cookie basket for the get together.

Speaking of cookies, Matt's Fall Cookie Baskets have increased my popularity.  He has received positive feedback and requests for my cookie blog site - heartsongcookies.blogspot.com.  I need to post some more recipes and pictures so it will be worth the visit.  If only there were more hours in the day...

Many hugs and GO GATORS!

Kathy

A Mini Posting - Day 70

My battery needs to recharge.  I am taking a day off from baking and posting of any consequence.

I did meet a friend at Press 101 for lunch and had an amazing Mango Chicken pressed sandwich.  Lightly blackened chicken topped with jalapeno havarti cheese, piquillo peppers, mango chutney and cilantro was sandwiched between two slices of ciabbata bread and pressed to crispy, melty perfection.  It was served with a light side salad and skewered with a deliciously salty caper berry.  Happy dance worthy.  Unfortunately, the $9.00 price was not cash starved friendly, but it was truly worth every penny.

Many hugs and Mango Chicken Pressed Sammies,

Kathy

The Energizer Bunny No More - Day 69

The crazy pace is finally catching up with me.  Sometimes I feel like the Energizer Bunny.  Today I did not.  To jump start my morning, I stopped by Panera for my favorite Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sandwich and a cup of coffee.  Coupon Cory tagged along and saved me 10% on my bill.  Sorry Dennis, I don't have pictures.  He was a little camera shy.

Work was busy.  So busy, that I grabbed lunch at 2:40.  I picked up a Chicken TropiChop from Pollo Tropical.  For me, this is comfort food and the price is right at $5.99 with a drink and a side.

From reading my blog, my brother thinks my life consists of baking and trips to Sweet Tomatoes.  He is not too far off.  I think I need to mix in some new adventures.

My son Ryan called this afternoon to ask me the name of the song that best describes me.  He had me totally stumped.  I told him right now it would be "Free Falling" by Tom Petty.  I love Tom Petty.  And then I came up with the perfect answer..."What a Wonderful World" by Louie Armstrong.  It is sappy and sweet and me.  I could not figure out why Ryan asked me such a bizarre question and then he said it was for my ring tone on his phone.  Cool...I like the idea of that song playing whenever I call him.

Since lunch was so late today, I really didn't feel like eating dinner.  Nor did I have the time.  Baking consumed my entire evening into the wee hours of the morning. I made Toasted Pecan Chocolate Chip, Dark Chocolate Tri Berry and White Chocolate Blueberry Pecan Cookies for tomorrow's baskets and am pleased with the results.

My midnight snack consisted of a bowl of cut up Campari tomatoes and green olives with a drizzle of Herb de Provence Vinaigrette (a gift from Kenda).  Yummy.

Many hugs,

Kathy

A Full Day - Day 68

Today began and ended with cookies and included a lot of good stuff sandwiched in between.  I had early morning meetings, so I couldn't assemble Matt's next installment of cookie baskets before I left for work.  I ran home for lunch and got two baskets assembled and delivered to Matt.  We worked out the details for the balance and he handed me an envelope with "Cookie Lady" marked on the outside.  He paid me before I even finished the project.  I am so blessed. 

The afternoon flew by with quotes, proof deliveries and billing issues.  I really looked forward to dinner.  Kenda, Bree, Jason and I met at Dexter's in Winter Park to discuss the menu for Bree and Jason's rehearsal dinner that I am catering with Kenda's help.  They want to have a New Orleans flavor to the night.  We are going to do a signature cocktail to start.  Appetizers will be simple...Shrimp with Remoulade Sauce, a cheese assortment, marinated olives and spiced nuts.  Dinner will be a buffet service of Shrimp and Andouille Sausage served with baked cheese grits and/or yellow rice and a simple salad with homemade vinaigrette.  Dessert will be a Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce and Irish Coffee.  This will be fun!

Damn...I had too much fun and most of the evening is gone.  I have to bake the cookies for tomorrow's baskets.  Thank goodness I made (3) batches of dough last night and only had to make one batch tonight.  Tonight's cookies were a success and I should be able to finish the packaging early tomorrow...or later this morning.  This full day stretched into tomorrow.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Giddy All Day - Day 67

Today I happy danced all day.  I giggled.  I broke my smile record by several hours.  I was giddy.

It began with a visit to my client Matt's office to present the first basket of his cookie order and some tasting samples.  Matt, Cat and Valerie were extremely pleased...which led to my giddiness.  When I got back to the office Matt sent me an e-mail increasing the order and telling me again that he was MORE than pleased.  I can't hear those words enough.  Confidence is something I have a lot of when it comes to printing sales...not so much when it comes to baking for others.  Matt's confidence in me to do a good job for his customers has had such a positive effect on me.  I can't tell him enough how much this opportunity means to me.  I think I should be paying him...not the other way around. 

I knew yesterday was the start of something good.  My friend Kenda even agreed to be my business manager.  She, unlike me, is very good with money (hence the "cash starved" moniker).  I am counting on her to reign me in.

Kenda is a big believer in the "Law of Attraction" - put good thoughts out into the world and you will attract good things back.  I have always believed this, but never as much as I do now.  Even my Honest Tea bottle cap had a great message for my day.  "When I do good, I feel good.  When I do bad, I feel bad.  This is my religion".  - Abraham Lincoln

Tonight I warmed up a little of the leftover Spaghetti with Braised Kale as an appetizer.  Then I roasted the fresh butternut squash I bought at Costco.  It was just $2.50 for a large container of cubed squash.  I tossed it in a little olive oil, sea salt and pepper and put it in the oven at 350 F to slow roast for 20-25 minutes. It was delicious!  And I still have enough for a couple more meals.  The rest of the night was consumed with baking, baking and more baking...in between the happy dances and giggles.

All in all I think today was just plain giddyrrific!

Many hugs and giggles,

Kathy

The Start of Something Good - Day 66

Thank goodness for Costco...without it I might actually lose some weight.  I ran out of time to pickup lunch after running all my errands this morning.  The tasting menu was quite good.

Roasted Garlic Bread hot from the oven
Chicken Bakes
Veggie Chips with Hummus
Southern Fried Chicken Sandwich Meat with Havarti Cheese
Cape Cod Chicken Salad
Chicken Ravioli
Spinach and Mozzarella Ravioli
Chicken, Spinach and Fontina Cheese Meatballs
Chicken, Spinach and Fontina Cheese Sausage
Artichoke Tapenade with Rice Crackers
Chicken Soup
Flat Bread with Melted Cheese

Traffic was extremely slow at Costco today.  I was actually quite bored and hungry, so I made my tasting rounds almost every hour to satisfy both.  Today was the polar opposite of yesterday.  My forehead must have said "Leave me alone!" because very few people stopped to talk or even made eye contact.  I spent much of the time pondering what I should fix for dinner and downloading FREE ITune applications on my new refurbished phone.  I downloaded everything from Epicureous to Yahoo Fantasy Football.

For dinner I picked up Chicken, Spinach and Fontina Cheese Sausage, Marinara Sauce, Roasted Garlic Bread, Flat Bread and Artichoke Tapinade...all items from the tastings.  When I got home I sauteed onions and added the sausages to the pan to heat through.  I covered both with marinara sauce, added some oregano, fresh basil and a splash of wine.  I served it over spaghetti with the Roasted Garlic Bread on the side.  It was easy and delicious!

This evening was the start of something good.  I finally began making the dough for the cookie baskets ordered by my client Matt.  I made four kinds of dough and baked a tasting pan of each for Matt to try tomorrow - Apple Cinnamon Crunch, Toasted Pecan Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Cranberry Pecan and Dark Chocolate Tri Berry.  I used the new medium size scoop to give Matt the bigger cookies he was looking for.  Each batch turned out perfectly.  This is the start of something good...my cookie business.  Baby step by baby step, I am heading in that direction and gaining confidence along the way.  VERY Happy Dance!

Many hugs and good beginnings,

Kathy

Talk To Me...And They Did - Day 65

This morning I got up early to bake Apple Cinnamon Crunch Cookies for Carolyn's Cabi Party.  Unfortunately my mission last night to find Bear Naked Apple Cinnamon Granola was unsuccessful.  I substituted Mona's Cinnamon Pecan Granola and actually liked it better.  The cookies turned out perfectly.  I experimented with the scoop size for the cookies for Matt next week.  Matt wants BIG cookies for his clients and I aim to please.  The big ones need to cook a little longer, but the turned out better than I expected.  I hastily assembled a dummy basket, packaged the cookies and off I went to do a cookie drive by at Carolyn's party before work.

Work was fun today.  I didn't sell a lot of wine, but I did a lot of talking.  I almost felt like I had a sign on my forehead that said "Talk to me!"  The day began with a wonderful conversation with a Costco shopper, Terry.  We talked wine, family, death and spirituality.  It was quite a conversation and one of the reasons I enjoy my Costco job.  She even shared her dry roasted edamame with me.  Very cool.

Then Steve, a Costco regular, stopped by to say hi.  He stops every week and it makes me smile.

Richard, another Costco regular and my ultra conservative debating buddy, stopped by after a long absence.  I think he stayed away because he didn't like to hear my liberal point of view.

My co-worker Tal was next to stop by.  He and Richard struck up a conservative love fest at my expense.  That made me smile.  Carl and Laura, old family friends, were next on the friend parade.  I hadn't seen them in years and it was great to get caught up.

Costco shopper, Mike and his family recommended a gourmet food store in Oviedo called Cavallari Gourmet.  He told me I have to go if I love food...and I do.  I love great mom and pop stores and will definitely check it out.

James, the manager of Cafe Italiano in Orlando. stopped by to talk Italian wines, the restaurant business and his mom's cheesecake (the best in town, according to James).  He lamented over the lack of customers due to the economy and road construction.  I promised to stop in for dinner next week and write about it in the blog. I need to see what I can do to help.

While shopping after work I ran into Costco shopper Rudy, my yoga and fitness encourager.  He lectured to me about starting my exercise program.  I knew he would check up on me and I had absolutely nothing to report in the exercise department.

On the way out the door I picked up a Take and Bake Cheese Pizza and headed home to watch the Florida/LSU game.  The pizza was good, Tim Tebow played, the Gators won ugly and all is right in the world.

Many hugs and conversations,

Kathy

Cookies for Breakfast - Day 64

No Greek Yogurt Breakfast today for me.  Two Pumpkin Raisinet Cookies were my grab and go choice.  Since they were very soft and cake-like, almost like a muffin top, and filled with pumpkin, raisins (chocolate coated) and walnuts, they must be healthy.  Well....maybe not, but they were tasty.  The only thing that would have made them better was a cup of Kenda's Pumpkin Spice Coffee to wash them down.  I need to make another appointment with that cup of coffee.

This morning I traveled to Gainesville for a late morning meeting with Margaret and Blake to discuss the production of an art book.  Every so often, a very special project comes along.  Margaret's book is one of those projects.  Happy dance.

I cannot go to Gainesville around lunch time without visiting my college haunt - Leonardo's by the slice.  Today's special was Spinach Artichoke thin crust.  As I walked in the door, a whole fresh pizza was placed on the rack.  Mmmmmmmm, I had to try it!  It was definitely extra pound worthy - a white pizza topped with chunks of artichoke, spinach and just the right amount of cheese.

Tonight Mike and I met at Cheesecake Factory for an appetizer and drink dinner in the bar.  This is one of our favorite ways to dine.  We order a beer or cocktail and 2-3 items from their small plate menu.  Normally it is a great way to experience a nice evening out without a lot of expense, however, Cheesecake Factory went up on their cocktail and beer prices.  Our wallet really felt the pinch when the bill was presented. The small plate menu has expanded to include some interesting choices.  Tonight I tried the Crispy Stuffed Olives - large green olives stuffed with sausage and cheese, coated in a light breading, fried until crispy and served with a Red Pepper Aioli.  It sounds weird, but tasted awesome.  Mike ordered Mini Corn Dogs and Stuffed Garlic Rolls.  Everything was delicious and just the right portion size.  The items range from $3.95 - $5.95.  Next time we will order the small plates with water instead of cocktails.

Many hugs,

Kathy

An Appointment With A Cup of Coffee - Day 63

Another morning...another Greek Yogurt Breakfast.  When I find a good thing, I have it over and over again until I get sick of it.  I am not there yet.

Late yesterday my friend Kenda invited me to stop by today for a cup of Pumpkin Spice Coffee.  She knows I have a weakness for anything pumpkin.  Of course I would be there.  I told the office I had a very important appointment, but neglected to tell them it was with a cup a coffee.  My appointment with that delicious cup of coffee, flavored with just the right amount of milk and honey, lasted about 45 minutes and was filled with fun conversation with Kenda.  I rarely take the time to stop and smell the coffee, but I am very glad I did today.

I continued the pumpkin theme this evening by trying out a new recipe discovered on the Nestle site for Pumpkin Raisinet Cookies.  Their cake-like texture made them very different from any of my other cookies, but still very good.

Pumpkin Raisinet Cookies

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 can (15 oz.) Libby's 100% Pure Pumpkin
2 large eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cups Nestle Raisinets Milk Chocolate-Covered Raisins
1 cup chopped walnuts
Vanilla Glaze

Preheat oven to 375 F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Combine flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl.  Beat butter and sugar in large mixer bowl until creamy.  Beat in pumpkin, eggs and vanilla.  Gradually beat in flour mixture.  Stir in Raisinets and nuts.  Drop by rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets.

Bake 15 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.  Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.  Drizzle with Vanilla Glaze.

Vanilla Glaze

Combine 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk and 1/2 tsp. vanilla in small bowl; mix well.


Many hugs and pumpkin goodies,

Kathy

Alone at Last - Day 62

Today was a great foodie day.  It began with my favorite honey drizzled, almond and fruit bit sprinkled Greek yogurt breakfast.  You have to try this...trust me, it is really good and filling.

My client lunch appointment was cancelled at the last minute, so I ran errands and stopped by the Whole Foods food bar for lunch.  I filled the small cardboard container with several tastings from the cold bar - Bowtie Pasta Portobella Salad, Curried Turkey Salad, Cashew Broccoli Crunch, Cilantro Pesto Tofu and Orzo Salad with Olives and Feta.  At $7.99 per pound, it is not inexpensive, but if you exercise portion control, the total price is not too bad.  I filled the small box and the total was $6.07.  All the salads were yummy.  Happy dance worthy.

Today I vented to my roommate Jim about my need to spend a little time alone to recharge.  He was very understanding and offered to give me time alone whenever I need it.  I needed it tonight and Jim graciously accommodated my wishes.  I got home and immediately started to prepare Spaghetti with Braised Kale from the October issue of Bon Appetit.  It took a little time to prepare, but was quite easy.  I tossed the pasta with cubes of fresh mozzarella, a little hot sauce and served it with a cucumber, tomato salad and a glass of wine. Then I curled up on the couch and watched HGTV...happy as a clam.  Thank you Jim.

Spaghetti With Braised Kale

1 pound fresh kale, large center ribs and stems removed, cut crosswise into 1/2 inch slices
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
8 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/2 pound spaghetti
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
finely grated Parmesan cheese

Rinse kale.  Drain and transfer to bowl with some water clinging.

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in heavy large pot over medium heat.  Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 6 minutes.  Add sliced garlic and sprinkle with salt; cook until onion is golden brown, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.  Add kale and remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and toss until wilted, about 3 minutes.  Cover pot and reduce heat to medium low.  Continue cooking until kale is very tender, stirring occasionally and adding water by tablespoonfuls if dry, about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in pot of boiling salted water until tender, but firm to bite.  Drain, reserving 1/4 cup cooking liquid.  Add cooked spaghetti to kale mixture in pot.  Add lemon juice and 2 tablespoons reserved cooking liquid; toss to combine, adding more liquid by tablespoonfuls if dry.  Sprinkle spaghetti with grated Parmesan cheese and serve.

Tip:  I had some Swiss Chard  leftover from the weekend and used a mixture of half Swiss Chard and half Kale.  I thought the flavor was good, but a little bland, so I tossed in cubes of fresh mozzarella, red pepper flakes, freshly ground pepper and a little hot sauce.  The result was delish! 

Many hugs and recharge moments,

Kathy

Feeling Funky - Day 61

Today I was feeling kind of funky and decided that since I had felt this way for a few days it was time to visit the doctor's office.  I arrived at work late morning and spent the rest of the day playing catch up in my funky feeling state.  All I wanted to do when I got home was fix a bowl of pasta with sauteed kale and curl up on the couch alone and watch Food Network.  With a roommate, I don't have that option anymore and I honestly don't know how to make it work.  I am a very social person, but also need time alone to recharge.  I think that may be why my body is rebelling.  Instead of my kale pasta on the couch, I opted for errands and a visit to Steak 'n Shake with Coupon Cory for a Bacon Cheeseburger and a junior chocolate shake.  Coup saved me $1.19.  It was good, helped to raise my cholesterol a few points and not at all what I was craving.  Hopefully I will figure out how to make things work and tomorrow will be a better foodie day.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Happy Dance With Coupon Cory - Day 60

This morning began with a much healthier start than in the recent past.  My old favorite of Fage Nonfat Greek Yogurt with a drizzle of honey, Marcona almonds, and a sprinkling of dried blueberries and cherries was back to jump start my day.

The work morning passed quickly filled with paperwork, e-mails and phone calls.  This was a good thing because I was really looking forward to my lunch appointment with Dennis at Mama Nems, a soul food restaurant near my office.  Dennis and I both love to talk and eat and when we get together a lot of both go on.  Today was no different.  I heard another customer order the Low Country Shrimp and Andouille Sausage over Grits and knew this was the lunch for me.  Dennis ordered Salmon Croquettes with Cabbage, Candied Yams and Fried Okra.  My Low Country bowl was large enough to serve 3-4 people and man was it good.  I ate plenty, gave some to Dennis to take home and kept a full take home container for dinner tomorrow.  A great value at $8.95.  Dennis surprised me by picking up the check for lunch as an early birthday present.  Awesome!

As much fun as lunch was, the afternoon was even better thanks to a very cool e-mail from Dennis to enhance my blog.  Dennis knew of my goofy posting on Friday about my day with Coup and thought he would take it a step further.  I received a thanks for lunch with an added bonus of Coupon Cory, my new best friend he created to ride on my daily cash starved journey through life. Isn't he cute? I have been happy dancing ever since.  I told Dennis he passed the "reflection in the computer screen test" since the rear view mirror was not in site.  He will definitely be a part of my life for a very long time.

This evening I actually got home a little after 5:00...a rare occurrence.  Mike suggested we take Coupon Cory to the Elephant Bar Restaurant for dinner.  Cory stayed in my purse because we opted instead for a couple of the Happy Hour Appetizer Specials - Burger Sliders served with Sweet Potato Fries and Wok-Fired Chicken Lettuce Wraps, a cocktail for me and a beer for Mike.  The total bill came to $20.00, even less than the coupon offerings.  This cash starved foodie left the restaurant  full, renewed and with a happy dance in my step.  And no, it wasn't caused by my Raspberry Lemon Drop.

While at work yesterday I received the coolest picture of my hero, Mary Helen and her two children, Andy and Carrie.  She was basking in the wonderful time spent with the two of them this weekend.  For at least a weekend, cancer took at back seat to love, life and family.

Many hugs and happy dances for Mary Helen,

Kathy

In Need of Alone Time - Day 59

This morning got off to an inauspicious start.  With many challenges along the way, I made Brenna the chocolate chip pancakes I promised.  I have made these before with much success.  However, today was another story.  My first batch of batter was too thin and when I tried to doctor it the results were not good, so down the garbage disposal it went.  The electric fry pan cooked the pancakes unevenly.  In the trash they went.  The butter I added to the oil burned.  I switched to the stove.  The big burner was especially temperamental this morning.  It was extremely hot on one side, low on the other.  I just could not win.  I made a mess.  I served the crappy pancakes to Jim, Brenna and Mike.  I washed dishes.  I did not eat.  All the while craving my lazy Sunday mornings alone with my husband, sprawled out on the couch reading the Sunday paper with ESPN in the background.  I really miss our alone time.

My brunch consisted of a Chocolate Chip Cranberry Pecan Cookie, a peanut butter chocolate I found in my purse from yesterday and a half a bag of Fritos.  Quite a smorgasbord while driving to work.  My only hope for something good was my CDS demo friends at Costco.  I baked cookies for them last night and was hoping to negotiate a trade.  They all came through.  This afternoon I noshed on Manatee Coffee, Salmon Pasta Salad, Buffalo Mozzarella, Aidell's Teriyaki Meatballs and Chicken Apple Sausage.  The cookies I dropped off were well received.  Not only did I receive good food in return, but hugs and smiles as well.

Jim and Brenna offered to grill chicken for dinner.  I took them up on the offer and picked up salad fixins and a scalloped potato bake at Costco to accompany the chicken.  The last thing I felt like doing tonight was cooking after my nightmare morning.  Dinner was a success.  I topped it off with one of Brenna's Candy Shop Cookies...boy, it was good.

Many hugs and moments alone,

Kathy
  

A Nice Slow Start - Day 58

This morning got off to a nice slow start, which is perfectly fine with me.  I got up around 10:15...something I rarely do.  Took my time getting ready and then flipped the "on " switch.  I darted out the door with Mike and Coup.  This time we visited Jersey Mike's Subs with a BOGO coupon.  It saved $6.39 on lunch.  

Work mimicked the pace of my day's beginning...nice and slow.  Great for relaxing, but not for wine selling.  Somehow I managed to sell 55 bottles of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo.  Crucy, one of my favorite CDS demonstrators, brought me a plate of pepperoni pizza tastings hot from the oven and a tasting of pumpkin pie.  How cool is that?!  On a break, Lili, another demonstrator, gave me two very delicious chocolates of the world she was demonstrating.  Yum!  Now you understand why I continue to be so round...and so happy!  It has been several weeks since I brought in cookies to my Costco friends.  I think tomorrow is the perfect day to do it again.

I have been dreaming about a new kitchen for many years.  Today was no different.  I spent the day at Costco gazing at the only Dream Kitchen I may be getting anytime soon.  It was fun watching all the little future chefs checking it out as well.

Mike had a craving for chicken wings and football.  I picked up some wings from Buffalo Wild Wings on the way home from work.  Teriyaki and Parmesan Garlic Wings, Fries and Celery with Blue Cheese hit the spot.  A Boston College win for my friend Chris over FSU was even tastier.

Brenna, my new Junior Cookie Master in Training, baked her cookie creation with me tonight.  She chose the ingredients to add to my base cookie dough.  Her choices were Reece's Pieces, Peanut Butter Chips, Jumbo Chocolate Chips and a large chopped up Snickers bar.  Brenna also chose to make the cookies extra big and they turned out perfectly.  I especially liked the ones with the oozing Snickers bar pieces.  We named them Brenna's Candy Shop Cookies and I will post the recipe on my Heartsong Cookies blog.


Many hugs,


Kathy

Coupons - A Cash Starved Foodie's Best Friend - Day 57

Sorry Mike, but we have to make room for one more at the dinner table...my new best friend, the coupon.  In these troubled times coupon redemption is up considerably and I certainly see why.  A coupon is a win/win proposition.  The restaurant gains business that may otherwise not be there.  The customer feels like they got a deal.  Long gone is the stigma and embarrassment of coupon redemption.  Today I challenged myself to coupon for every meal.


My coupon buddy and I stopped at Panera for a free grande coffee with any breakfast sandwich.  I opted for the Grilled Egg and Cheese Sandwich - a fried egg and a slice of white cheddar pressed between two slices of French baguette.  Oh my, it was yummy and the free coffee was good too.  I saved $1.59 with my new pal.  The bill with tax was $3.20.


"Coup" and I decided on McDonald's for lunch.  My friend Dennis gave me Mickey D's coupons when I stopped by to see him this morning.  Unfortunately when Coup and I approached the drive thru I realized we would be turned away.  Coup had expired on 9/30/09.  No problem, I thought.  I pulled out my coupon envelope tucked away in the glove box and began rummaging.  To my dismay, the dates flashed before my eyes...9/27/09...9/30/09...9/8/09...another 9/30/09.  Every coupon in my arsenal had expired.  Damn, now I can't meet my coupon challenge.


And then I remembered the coupon buddy attached to my Panera breakfast coupon.  It was a loyalty card for 10% off your purchases for a year and it expires August 30, 2010.  Perfect!  And how much more loyal could you be than eating there for breakfast and lunch on the same day?!  Coup helped me out with the You Pick Two - 1/2 Napa Almond Chicken Salad Sandwich and 1/2 Chicken Cobb Salad.  We saved .76 on a bill of $7.27 including tax.  The great thing is this Coup..."SUPER COUP" will be with me for a year.


My friends are always looking out for me.  Danielle left a Sweet Tomatoes BOGO coupon in my inbox this morning.  So of course you know what was on the agenda for dinner.  Sweet Tomatoes with Mike and Coup.  I think Mike and I set a personal record for the longest time in between Sweet Tomatoes visits.  We both thoroughly enjoyed dinner, especially the chocolate chip muffins.  Coup saved us $9.59 on dinner and the total bill including tax was $15.27.


I think my coupon challenge was successful.  A total of $25.74 was spent on food today, including dinner with Mike.  Coup saved me $11.94.  Not bad, I just need to find more coupons to replenish my arsenal.


Many hugs and coupon redemptions,

Kathy

Happiness on a Roll - Day 56

Last night after the blog post was complete, my roommate's daughter, Brenna, handed me a very special gift.  Earlier in the evening we made plans to bake together this weekend and create a cookie called Brenna's Candy Shop Cookie.  It will be my base cookie recipe with whatever Brenna's heart desires added into the dough.  The gift Brenna gave to me was a note telling me how excited she was with our plans.  She was ready to do a happy dance.  After reading her note...I was too.

In fact, I am kind of on a roll with this happiness thing.  On my way to work I received an e-mail from my hero, Mary Helen.  She is finally home from the hospital and got a chance to try the cookies I had left for her last week.  Her boyfriend Ron had been her taste tester last week and froze the rest for her to enjoy.  I got a Rachel Ray "YUMMO" from Mary Helen.  Ron asked if I would ship cookies out of town.  Big smile on my face.

Then I received an e-mail from Richard's mom, Shirley, the recipient of the birthday cookie basket.  She gushed about how much she loved the cookies and asked how much notice I would need to make baskets for her family and friends.  I am almost giddy.  Soon my head won't fit through the door.

I REALLY WANT to start my own business and today I realized I CAN.

My friend Carolyn stopped by my office to issue me a challenge to create a price list before her Cabi party on October 10.  She wants me to bring baskets to show her friends.  I can do that.  I accept her challenge.

I could really get used to this happiness thing.  Finding your passion in life can bring so much joy.  And for me baking and spreading the hugs does just that.

Many hugs and cookie orders,

Kathy