Purveyor of Hugs and Cookies - Day 365 plus 1

Well the epiphany finally came a day late. After much deliberation over whether to continue Diary of a Cash Starved Foodie, I finally made a decision. I am going to put it to rest...and begin a new blog - purveyorofhugsandcookies.blogspot.com. Yes, I have a thing for blog titles a mile long. I tried for simply hugsandcookies.blogspot.com, but amazingly the title was taken. So I opted for the title from my new Heartsong Cookies business card.

With my new venture into the world of entrepreneurship, I find it only fitting to begin anew with my blog as well. I plan to document my journey into the business world and fill my postings with my usual gush and goo. I am still wrestling with its frequency. Karen's look of disappointment when I told her I was considering no more daily posts haunts me. I don't want to disappoint her. So daily posts are my plan. I have so much to do in less than a month to get ready for my debut at the Maitland Farmers Market. It is a bit overwhelming. For now, I am going to create my new blog site and get a little shut eye. Look for the first Purveyor of Hugs and Cookies posting tomorrow night.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Happy Dance - Day 365

As I labored through the day, little thought was given to just how momentous this day really was. Today was August 6, 2010. A Friday. The beginning of the weekend. The finish line. The attainment of a goal. Day 365 in a year of blogging. A year that brought me closer to my friends and family. A year filled with self discovery and realization of a dream. The day I gave out my first Heartsong Cookies business card.

Day 365 was a day filled with work frustration one minute and a relaxing dinner with Mike the next. It was a microcosm of the last year. A roller coaster ride of highs and lows. And I wouldn't trade one moment of the whole experience. I owe it all to a challenge issued by my son Ryan. He told me there was NO WAY I would blog for a full year. Well Ryan, this blog is for you. I know you rarely read it, but maybe someday you will pull it out when you need a dose of your goofy mom.

The epiphany I hoped would bring a resolution to the blog never came. I have absolutely no idea if tomorrow will bring Posting Day 366 or if Heartsong Cookies will win my attention. All I do know is that it is time for the Happy Dance of all Happy Dances.

Thanks for joining me for the ride of my life.

Many, many hugs,

Kathy

I Have A Dream - Day 364

I have a dream. A dream of a business all my own. A business whose mission is to spread hugs and happiness in the form of a tasty treat. A cookie business. Heartsong Cookies. Today I took another big step. I have a business card. One lonely little business card...only a proof really. Tomorrow it will be joined by about 500 friends and then passed around to as many people as possible. It will be my ticket to dream fulfillment and it feels so good. Happy dance good.

Business card giddiness was not my only source of joy today. In fact, my entire day was filled with good things. I had lunch with Heather, Scott, Chris and Tim at Brio to celebrate Heather's promotion. We talked about the RFQ from hell, everyone's new responsibilities and cookies. Heather and the guys loved their cookie gifts. Perhaps the highlight of the lunch was a comment...no a compliment, from Scott. He told me he thought I would be stand out and be successful as the farmers market because of my engaging personality. At a time when my confidence is riding a roller coast of highs and lows...lots of lows, this compliment meant the world to me.

Tonight I met Susan and Chris for a culinary adventure outside their two mile radius requirement. We met at The Ravenous Pig, Oooooh, I love The Pig. We started with a basket of their fabulous Gruyere biscuits. Next was the Charcuterie Platter of homemade sausages, cheeses and pickled veggies to be shared by the table. My entree was the half order of Goat Cheese Tortellini in a Parmesan broth with tri colored cherry tomatoes lightly blistered to a consistency that made them pop in your mouth with an explosion of fresh tomato flavor. All the flavors were savored with a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc shared with Susan. Even though we did not get an entree, we spent more than we intended. But it was money well spent. I could live off the flavor memories for a very long time.

Earlier this afternoon Kenda presented me with a Blue Bird Bake Shop cupcake. The cute little brown box was sealed with a sticker, so the flavor remained a surprise. A surprise that drove me crazy all the way home. When I arrived home, I couldn't stand it any more. I peeled off the sticker and opened the lid to reveal a beautiful sight. A chocolate cupcake topped with just the right amount of pink strawberry frosting. I was compelled to have a little sliver. I did, placed the box in the fridge and walked away...about 5 steps and circled back. That cupcake was amazing. The cake had a vanilla center surrounded by chocolate. It was moist with just the right balance of sweetness. The frosting was light and creamy and filled with fresh strawberry taste. I took another slice and quickly placed it back in the fridge. This time I made it to the stairs before circling back. Another sliver, a moment of guilt and soon the entire cupcake was history.

This was the cherry on top of a day of indulgence. I can't wipe the smile off my face.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Almost Done - Day 363

My blog is heading toward the finish line. Only two more days until I reach Day 365. I keep waffling between taking a sabbatical and moving my focus on to my much neglected Heartsong Cookies blog. My friend Karen begged me to keep it going. My friend Kenda strongly suggested I document my business journey on Heartsong. And I cannot make up my mind. Hopefully the next two days will bring an epiphany.

Amazingly, COOKIES were the theme of the day. I delivered the Love Always Cookie to Carolyn with an added bonus basket of NO NUT Cookies for her husband Randy. They were the result of another cookie experiment...a mix of semisweet, bittersweet and milk chocolate chips added to my base with a touch of cinnamon. The taste was interesting, but not perfect. The cookies spread to the size of Montana. Most of my cookies are filled with lots of chocolate, nuts and/or dried fruit...4-4 1/2 cups. NO NUT Cookies only have 3 cups of goodies, so they don't hold their shape so well. I must find a no nut dough that holds its shape. Maybe a denser flour is the answer.

Tonight after work I threw together a batch of White Chocolate Blueberry Pecan Cookies for Heather's promotion luncheon tomorrow with the boys. Heather is one of my biggest cookie fans and I could not think of a better way to thank her on her way to bigger and better things than with a cookie and a hug.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Love Always - Day 362

Work today was filled with tedious computer work...definitely not my idea of fun. But tonight more than made up for it. Maddie and I fixed a pretty tasty dinner considering the centerpiece of the meal was a bowl of ramen noodles accompanied by a salad and slices of fresh nectarine. My brother joined us for dessert...a cup of the homemade chocolate, strawberry, chocolate chip, pecan ice cream I made the night before. After hanging out overnight in the freezer, the ice cream was pretty darn good. Michael doesn't even like chocolate ice cream and he devoured the cup in record time. After dessert I showed him my plans for displaying the cookies at the farmers market. He approved. I want my booth to stand out in the crowd and I definitely think I am on my way.

My friend Carolyn asked me to bake a large cookie for her anniversary tomorrow. Her husband Randy loves chocolate chunk cookies...no nuts. Instead of a groom's cake for their wedding 20 years ago, they served a chocolate chunk cookie cake. Carolyn wanted to honor that cherished day. I whipped up a batch of chocolate chunk cookie dough and baked it in my large heart cookie pan. Judging cooking time is a challenge with this pan and I am afraid it might have overcooked. But with a little cookie icing, I think it will make Carolyn and Randy smile. The sentiment was simple...Love Always.

Many hugs,
Kathy

It Worked! - Day 361

Dinner tonight was simple fare at its best. Barbecue Pulled Pork Flatbread Pizza, Fresh Mozzarella Cheese Flatbread Pizza and a salad. The crust was about as easy as it gets...a new find from Costco. It is better than any Boboli crust I have ever had. Not too thick or too thin with a made from scratch taste. I topped one with a little barbecue sauce, some of the leftover pulled pork from last night, a few handfuls of Italian blend shredded cheese and a sprinkling of Parmesan. The second was topped with Ragu Pizza Sauce, slices of fresh mozzarella, more Italian blend shredded cheese and a parm sprinkle. They both were popped in a 400 F oven for about 18-20 minutes. Each rectangular shaped crust yields about 8 small slices. Mike and I tried two of each and still have enough for lunch or dinner tomorrow.

Feeling pretty cocky after my pizza success, it was time to try my hand at another batch of homemade chocolate ice cream. Undaunted by last night's failure, I dove into another batch. This time I waited until the very last minute to remove the freezer bowl from the freezer. After the machine ran for about 20 minutes, I added sliced strawberries, chocolate chips and toasted pecans at Mike's request. The goodies took a ride for about another five minutes, then headed for the freezer to
"cure". I was full of pizza, but Mike was ready to tackle the ice cream. I scooped up a bowl after only 45 minutes in the freezer. The consistency was still not real firm, but extremely creamy and rich. Mike have it a thumbs up. Yahoo...it worked. Thanks Michael, for a wonderful early birthday present! With my ice cream craving husband, it will definitely get a lot of use.

Many hugs,
Kathy

The Gift Of Gab - Day 360

My mom was blessed with a special gift...the ability to open up and share a piece of herself with perfect strangers. She is warm and engaging with a knack for putting people at ease. As a teenager, her gift was largely unappreciated by me. In fact, at times I found it somewhat embarrassing and annoying. My friends would come over and spend more time with my mom than with me. Over the years as I ripened into my 52 years, I gained a deep appreciation of just what a special gift she has...the gift of gab. And as much as I fought the idea I was anything like my mom, I realized she had passed the gab gene on to me. Now it is my most prized quality. It is a quality that has served me well during my hours spent at Costco. Friendships have developed from a simple smile, a question answered or a story shared.

As the weeks count down on my time at Costco I realize just how much I will miss all these friendships. Friendships born from the gift of gab.

Tonight Mike, Chris and I created the grand finale for Chris' weekend of thrills. We took dinner over to his house to share a meal with his family, Tom and Susan. After the car was unloaded, it looked like we were moving in instead of just fixing dinner. The menu was a simple mix of prepared items with touches of home cooking. Grilled buns were topped with Costco Pulled Pork. Stouffer's Mac and Cheese, fresh creamed corn and a simple salad rounded out the meal.

Dessert was supposed to be the debut of my early birthday present from my brother, Michael - a Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker. This morning I got up early to make the chocolate ice cream mix. We froze the Freezer Bowl the night before and packed it in ice for the trip to Tom and Susan's. Directions were carefully followed and the mix took a ride in the machine for the suggested 30 minutes. I was filled with joyful anticipation as I stopped the machine to check out the contents. Unfortunately I found chocolate soup instead of creamy ice cream. For the life of me I cannot figure out what went wrong. Time to re-read the directions and try again tomorrow night. Maybe Michael put a hex on the first batch since it was meant to be shared with him. Whatever it is, I can't wait to shut off the machine and find a bowl of decadent creamy chocolate goodness staring back at me.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Chris' Most Excellent Adventure - Day 359

For Chris, Day 2 of his thrill a minute weekend began with a trip to Athena Cafe for breakfast. His eyes lit up when he spied Biscuits with Sausage Gravy on the menu. Chris is the King of Sausage Gravy and Athena's version got two thumbs up. Mike and I ordered our usual, Cheese Steak Omelet for Mike, Athena Special for me.

Postings about Athena are not unusual. This little hole in the wall cafe has a menu filled with comforting goodness, a friendly wait staff and an eclectic clientele. Like the elderly couple sitting in the booth behind us. The wife repeatedly asked our server where her decaf coffee was and when I say repeatedly, I mean 5 or 6 times within a 5 minute span. Our server finally resorted to a play by play of the brewing process which seemed to calm her down. The best line came from her husband. When the server asked him how he would like his eggs, he solemnly replied - "On a plate". Without skipping a beat, the server acknowledged his request and moved on to the next question - "And how would you like them prepared?" Mike and I made eye contact and started to giggle. This started a chain reaction at the table. Chris joined in the fun even though he had no earthly idea what we were laughing about. All that he knew was this was a great start to a most excellent adventure.

This evening the fun continued with a trip to Boardwalk Bowl for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society bowling fundraiser with my buddies from SeaWorld. The cookie basket I donated actually had quite a few tickets in its little bucket. That was a very good thing. We bought a few raffle tickets of our own, won an Outback Gift Basket, collected lots of hugs and headed out before the cookie basket winner was awarded. Buffalo Wild Wings was our next destination. Beer, wings, onion rings, buffalo chips with cheese and celery with blue cheese made for three very happy, very full, very round and very sleepy adventurers.

Seeing our "exciting" life through the eyes of our friend Chris has opened my eyes. I think Chris may be right. Our life is one never ending, fun filled adventure best enjoyed with family and friends.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Weekend With Chris - Day 358

For some unknown reason, our friend Chris thinks we live a really exciting life. So every so often we pick him up for the weekend to prove him just how wrong he is. I picked him up late this afternoon to begin this week's installment of excitement. At Chris' request we headed straight for Brio for a dinner of Peroni beer and Tuscan Tasters. While low on the excitement meter, the food was good and cheap and the conversation quite lively...not. But Chris seemed to enjoy himself. Then it was on to Bake Me A Cake Cafe to meet Kenda and Mark. While the bakery case was quite stimulating, the conversation had a glazing effect on Chris. Poor guy. He had to endure talk of the horrible state of the printing and advertising businesses, layoffs, unemployment, no jobs and worry.

The icing on the cake was a visit to my least favorite retail establishment in the entire universe...a WalMart Super Center. Cash deprivation requires thrifty shopping and unfortunately WalMart is the place to go for thriftiness. They have the best price on Nestle Chocolate Chunks and I needed some for a BIG Heart Cookie order I got this afternoon. Plus, what is more exciting than people watching at WalMart on a Friday night?!

By the end of the evening Chris was catatonic...that is until Mike handed him the remote. Nick at Nite here he comes.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Counting Down The Days - Day 357

Eight days is all I have left of my year long blog adventure. Eight days. I can't believe that I am that close to meeting the challenge Ryan issued 357 days ago. Ryan didn't believe I would keep up a daily blog for a full year. Frankly, I didn't believe I would blog for a full year. But a challenge is a challenge.

I have a confession to make. I actually love doing my nightly posting. It is my therapy. A chance to organize my thoughts, reflect on the day, share tips about places to eat out on a budget and on rare occasions share a recipe or two. I intended it to be a blog about food. I ended up with a blog about life. It gave a handful of people who followed it religiously a window into my life. It brought me closer to my friends. It gave me much more than I ever expected.

As I count down the days, I am perplexed. With a new business only a few weeks away, time is precious. My Heartsong Cookies blog has been sorely neglected. Do I give up the daily posting all together? Do I focus on Heartsong blogging instead? Do I take a blogging sabbatical? I just don't know. Eight days. Eight days to figure it out.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Souper Evening - Day 356

Tonight I needed comfort and relaxation. I found it in the fridge. Soup is my perfect idea of comfort food, so tonight I decided to throw together a chowder from the leftovers I found in the fridge. The result was a Mac and Cheese Chicken Corn Chowder. It sounds decadent and it was. But it was also very good.

Sweet onions were diced and thrown in the pot with a little olive oil, salt and pepper. After they softened a bit, I added corn cut off one ear and a little chicken stock. Five minutes of simmering cooked the corn until it was still a little crunchy. I added diced leftover fried chicken cutlets, skim milk, hot sauce, leftover mac and cheese, a little Parmesan cheese, a teaspoon of butter, Weathervane seasoning, salt and pepper. The result was creamy, cheesy, hearty comfort and the perfect vehicle for hot sauce...lots of hot sauce. I washed it all down with homemade red sangria. Maddie was my dining partner and she loved the chowder as much as I did.

After three days of feeling lousy, doctors appointments and medical procedures, I was ready for Couch Potatoville. What a great destination. A laptop, a bowl of soup, a glass a wine, lots of pillows and Food Network on the tube. This is a souper way to spend an evening.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Surprised Again - Day 355

I think I must have a mental block about this special day. Every year I fall victim...or should I say I am blessed with the most wonderful surprise...Mike's acknowledgment of the anniversary of the day we got engaged. This morning when I got out of the shower two cards were waiting for me on the counter. "What are these for?" I cluelessly asked. Mike just smiled. He got me again. The cards were beautiful and filled with just the right words to make me feel like the luckiest woman on earth.

He also made reservations at my favorite restaurant, The Ravenous Pig, for dinner tonight. It was a splurge we REALLY shouldn't indulge, but it was oh so worth it. A basket of Gruyere Biscuits was a given the moment we walked in the door. These biscuits are the best I have ever tasted. If I ordered nothing else, I would have been a happy camper. But I could not do that. I ordered a half portion of Spaghetti Nero, squid ink pasta topped with Romesco sauce, grilled squid and homemade sausage. This was a stellar dish. The sauce was rich with flavor and the half portion was a perfect amount. Mike ordered a Pub Burger with Truffle Fries and was equally pleased with his choice. If you haven't tried "The Pig" as it is affectionately called, YOU SHOULD! It has a wonderful energy the moment you walk in the door. The menu changes seasonally with a handful of tried and true constants. Most entree prices at dinner are somewhere in the twenties, but options are available for the cash deprived...starters, half orders and the pub fare items allow you to experience the delight of dinner at The Pig without cleaning out your piggy bank.

Michael Paiva, I love you! Thanks for surprising me...again.

Many hugs,
Kathy

The Antidote - Day 354

This morning I woke up feeling like I was 102. Actually I went to sleep feeling the same way. I don't have time for feeling lousy. I've got things to do and people to see. I filled my head with all the positive thoughts I could muster. Nothing. I still felt lousy. Maybe a shower would do the trick. Nope...still lousy. I slowly got dressed, trudged out to my car and headed to work.

After a miserable morning, I finally found the temporary antidote to what ails me. Lunch at Siam Garden with Morgan and David. Somehow mild Panang Curry had a calming affect on my crazy stomach. Go figure. The food was awesome and a great value at $6.95. The three of us plotted website plans for Heartsong Cookies. We worked out business card details. We discussed projects and mutual friends. I walked out to my car feeling 25 instead of 102. The two of them have that affect on me. They treat me like a contemporary, not a woman old enough to be their mom.

I am so glad we will be forever linked by the logo Morgan designed for me. All their hard work on Heartsong gives me a huge incentive to succeed. I can't wait until I can compensate them in something other than cookie currency. It's tasty, but it doesn't pay the bills.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Home Cook - Day 353

The Wine Lady, the Cookie Lady, Butthead...I answer to so many different monikers. One that has been sorely missing from my repertoire is Home Cook. Tonight after work I vowed to remedy that for at least one meal. I picked up some frozen shrimp, a bag of oranges, lettuce, corn, strawberries, blueberries and headed straight home to my kitchen.

I thawed the shrimp, then placed them in a bowl with some freshly squeezed orange juice, olive oil and Weathervane seasoning. While the shrimp bathed in their citrus bath, I cut the corn off the cob and added it to a saute pan with a little water to steam. When the water was almost evaporated, butter, fat free milk, a couple of tablespoons of herb cheese, a few shakes of hot sauce and salt and pepper joined the pan. This is my version of creamed corn - not overwhelmed by creaminess to allow the fresh sweetness of the corn to shine through. My salad was a simple one of greens, crumbled goat cheese, fresh cherries and toasted pecans topped with a drizzle of homemade orange vinaigrette. While Mike heated up the grill, I threaded the shrimp on skewers and made some foil veggie packets of fresh asparagus with Vidalia onion slices, a drizzle of olive oil and more Weathervane seasoning. The veggie packets went on first, followed by the shrimp skewers. For once the shrimp did not overcook. The asparagus were not quite so lucky. They ended up a little limp and bitter. Overall the meal was a tasty success.

Dessert was meant to be a Snickerdoodle Berry Shortcake. I macerated sliced strawberries and blueberries in a little sugar and Frangelico liqueur. While the berries hung out, I threw together a batch of Toasted Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies for a website meeting with Morgan and David tomorrow. This was just enough time for my head to catch up with my tummy. I was stuffed and could not eat another bite. So my pairing of macerated berries served over a buttery, cinnamon Snickerdoodle cookie with whipped cream and toasted hazelnuts will have to wait for another day.

It feels so good to actually write a foodie blog posting about food...food cooked at home.

Many hugs,
Kathy

A Comfort Sandwich - Day 352

As I sat next to Mike and across from Christine and Ryan in the booth at Athena Cafe, a feeling of extreme comfort came over me. The feeling didn't have much to do with the Athena Special platter before me or the big bowl of creamy grits. While both were delicious comfort foods, they don't affect me quite like this. This was a feeling of peaceful bliss that only comes from being surrounded by love.

I am sure the few of you that read my blog on a regular basis must want to gag when I wax on with my sentimental musings. I honestly can't help myself. Challenging times and hormones seem to be the perfect potion to awaken my senses. I see things I never saw before. Feel things so much more intensely. Appreciation takes on a new meaning. In good times I enjoyed my life, but I don't know that I ever truly appreciated it. Now I wrap myself in the good times like a child's favorite blanket and I won't let go.

After work Kenda, Mark, Mike and I set off on an eclectic evening of fun. We headed to Raphsodic Cooperative Company for vegan bakery items and Morgan and David's Designer Showdown event. It was an evening of self discovery...Mike and I discovered we REALLY like our animal products. My Earl Grey Blueberry cupcake was a nice balance of fresh blueberries and tea, but it was very sweet and the texture left something to be desired...like butter and eggs. Mike felt the same way about his Salted Caramel Brownie. Raphsodic has a nice vibe to it. The tea was quite good and those with a taste for vegan goodies will be happy campers.

After dessert, it was time for dinner. Still in a discovery mode, we all piled in the car for dinner at Pom Pom's Teahouse and Sandwiches. This funky little cafe serves a delightful array of sandwiches, tea and Blue Bird Bakery Shop cupcakes. Kenda and I ordered the iced tea of the day - Pumpkin Chai. To me it was delicious. To Kenda it was nose scrunching yuk. Our sandwiches and salads got thumbs up all around. Mark diagrammed a cupcake on a couple of napkins, Kenda charmingly scrunched her nose while describing less than successful evenings out and Mike sat by snickering at the goofiness of it all. I wrapped myself in the same peaceful bliss feeling of the morning surrounded by people I love.

Today was a comfort sandwich and that is a very good thing.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Christine's Snickerdoodles - Day 351

Christine made a special request for her arrival. She wanted Snickerdoodles and Snickerdoodles she will have. Last night I baked a batch of the delightfully simple treat to satisfy her craving. I don't think there is a better name for a cookie in the entire universe. It is impossible to keep a smile from your face when you say it...heck even when I think of the name, I smile. Come on...try it. Snickerdoodles. Snickerdoodles. Snickerdoodles. Admit it, you feel a smile coming on.

This cookie is the perfect Christine cookie. Christine is my son Ryan's friendgirl...girlfriend. Heck, I don't know what she is. All I know is when I get a call or a text or a facebook message from her, I have the same reaction as saying Snickerdoodles a hundred times. Christine lives in Boyertown, a small town outside of Philadelphia, and it has been far too long since she paid us a visit. Tonight is the night and I am anxiously awaiting her arrival.

Cookie baking a batch of Ryan's favorite cookies helped me pass the time. Ryan loves anything with chocolate and nuts, but his favorite is a mix of M & Ms, Mini Kisses and Toasted Pecans. I used the extra large scoop and the end result was a batch of gargantuan treats. As an added bonus, I held back big spoonfuls of uncooked dough to satisfy the inner kid in them.

Oh wait, I think I hear the door! Time for a Snickerdoodle and a smile.

Many hugs and Snickerdoodles,
Kathy

Unwrapping The Best Present - Day 350

Yesterday, Ms. Kathy's Wild Ride was exactly that...WILD. The afternoon found me playing bumper cars in a parking lot with a big black Ford Explorer. My little CRV got the worst of the encounter, leaving the scene with a wrinkled rear bumper. It was not my fault, but still a pain in my rear. Between lack of sleep, a hormone tsunami and stress, I shed a few tears.

I needed a little TLC and some bakery case therapy. I headed to Hair Cuttery for a haircut and then to Bake Me A Cake Cafe to pick up dessert for dinner at McC's. Bake Me A Cake Cafe is a charming little bakery located on New England Avenue in Winter Park, across from Dexter's. When I walked through the door, my heart skipped a beat. Before me was a bakery case filled with beautiful cupcakes and a large selection of mini pastries. I wanted to wrap up the entire case with a bow on top and take it to David and Sheri's. Instead, I asked the clerk to describe each of the choices one by one. He filled a bakery box with my treats from delicate cream puffs to a cookie fudge tart. It was a beautiful thing...and just the therapy I needed to forget my wrinkles.

Dinner at McC's Japanese Garden Cafe was spectacular. I know last night I said I would let the pictures do the talking...but I have so much more to say.

David outdid himself. He set the dinner bar so high I will never reach it. No detail was overlooked. He even wrote out the menu as a cheat sheet for my blog posting. The meal was a feast for the eyes and palate. We began with Udon Noodle Soup, then a salad of Ranier cherries and cucumbers. The lazy Susan was filled with a beautiful sushi selection - Florida Rolls, Shrimp Rolls and Salmon Rolls, an Avocado Salad for Sheri, Tuna Tataki, Sesame Green Beans and Japanese Tea. I am in love with this lazy Susan! Each turn brings a new gift to your plate.

Over dinner we shared stories of their recent trip to Highlands, North Carolina. They described their favorite store in the center of this tiny town - The Stone Lantern, a Japanese wonderland that served as the inspiration for our meal. Quirky family stories and reminiscences from the past filled the conversation. Last night I unwrapped one of the best gifts in life...friendship. Every bite savored and story told unveiled another layer of Sheri, David and Sarah I never knew. Aaaaah...dinner at McC's, one of life's great pleasures. It makes me happy to my very core.

Today was one of those days that was so impactful, it required a Posting Part 2.

When I walked into the cafe in the Harn Art Museum on the campus of University of Florida, I had no idea what a delightful time I was in for. I was meeting Valerie and Kelly for the first time to discuss an art book Valerie wished to publish. Unfortunately my crazy schedule the last couple of days, left me little time to check out her website before our meeting. Shortly after sitting down, Valerie handed me a print out of her book. It was filled with colorful, happy childlike paintings of cows, the central characters of the book. As I thumbed through the pages I soon realized this was much more than an art or a children's book. It was a tribute to her only son, killed less than two years ago in a car accident. Her son was an organ donor. Valerie's book relates the hope and promise that springs from such tragedy. Her eyes welled up with tears as she spoke about her son. Two years is not nearly enough time to heal a mother's pain. But Valerie presses on with a passion to get her message out. I made her a promise...somehow, some way we will make her dream come true. I don't break promises.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Dinner at McC's Japanese Garden Cafe - Day 349

Tonight was an evening I had been looking forward to for a couple of weeks. I had reservations at McC's Japanese Garden Cafe...aka the home of Sheri, David, Sarah and Noah. A couple of weeks ago the family voted on tonight's menu theme. David took us on a culinary tour of Japan that was as tasty as it was beautiful. My description won't do the meal justice, so I will let the pictures do the talking. Needless to say, it is a meal I will never forget.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Back To What I Know - Day 348

My journey into low sugar treats uncovered great information and a less than perfect cookie. The breakfast cookie I baked last night had great flavor, but a spongy, funky texture. I think shredded carrots, apples or zucchini and more nuts may do the trick.

Tonight I went back to what I know...yummy cookies filled with butter, dark brown sugar, chocolate, blueberries and nuts. On the cooling rack they reminded me of the yin and yang symbol. A perfect balance of a Dark Chocolate Marcona Almond Cookie countered against a White Chocolate Blueberry Pecan Cookie.

Size has been a source of angst for me as I plan for my business debut. Tonight I used the extra large scoop and decided this will be the size I sell at the market. It seems to give me the most consistent shape and will justify the price. Now all I have to do is establish a price. This is painful.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Search for Diabetic Friendly Cookie Recipe -Day 347

Today I set out on a quest for a cookie recipe that can be enjoyed by diabetics. I strongly dislike artificial sweeteners and began my search by looking for natural alternatives. I searched for cookies made with agave nectar and soon discovered this can be a little tricky. Agave is 1.4 times sweeter than sugar. It adds additional liquid to the recipe. It browns quicker than a recipe with sugar. And it makes the dough consistency a bit stickier. I found an article that takes a traditional chocolate chip cookie recipe and offers an agave conversion. Tomorrow I am going to try it out.

I continued the recipe search in the recipe section of the American Diabetes Association web site. Surely they would have some good diabetic cookie alternatives. To my delight, they did. However, to my surprise none of the recipes included artificial sweeteners. They all included sugar, a somewhat smaller amount of sugar, but sugar nonetheless. I decided to revive a breakfast cookie recipe I baked last year and compare it to the diabetic friendly recipes. It included an even smaller amount of sugar, very little fat, whole grains, carrot puree, raisins and toasted walnuts. This was the baking choice of the night.

The result was tasty, but missed the fat. I think tomorrow night I am going to try adding grated carrots for additional moisture. It it works, I will publish the recipe.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Sentimental Journey - Day 346

Maudlin. A word that best describes how I felt perched on my stool in the Costco wine section. Traffic was slow, leaving me far too much time to think and write. I thought about the weeks before me. Weeks filled with final preparation for my business debut. I thought about how much I will actually miss the friendships I have made at Costco. The customer regulars like George, Anthony, Bill and Steve. The CDS demonstrators, Minerva, Vera, Nancy, Shirley, July and so many more. The Costco employees, Daniel, Orlando, Justin, Steve, Pete, Gladys, Harold, Leonard, Lauren, Axel and Marsh. Even Phil, the phone kiosk manager. They all became part of my weekends over the last year. I baked them cookies to rave reviews. They delivered demo samples to my station. They gave me hugs. I hugged them back. As I shared my business dreams, they were my biggest cheerleaders.

I won't miss the feeling of boredom or the loss of time spent with Mike. But I will miss all the them. I will miss this time of self reflection...the one time during the week that I actually am not in perpetual motion.

Dinner tonight was back in my court. I called Mike when I got off work and took him on a virtual tour of Costco trying to come up with a plan for dinner. We finally decided on one of our favorite ways to eat. Noshing on a little of this and a little of that. I picked up an eclectic mix of smoked salmon, lime cilantro marinated shrimp, asiago cheese, salami, nectarines, multi-grain crackers and mushroom salad. Combined with the boursin cheese, goat cheese and fresh cherries hiding out in the fridge at home, we had quite a feast.

My journey into sentimentality brought me back to the place I love the most. Home with Mike, Maddie and a cornucopia of good food.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Whatever You Love, You Are - Day 345

For the last several days I have been reading a book loaned to me by my friend Sharon - "A Homemade Life" by Molly Wizenberg. Reading doesn't accurately describe what I have been doing with that book...savoring is more like it. The book is a quick read that I could easily consume in just one night, but I don't want to. I don't want the experience to end. This book reads like an insanely rich cookie filled with lots of nuts, chocolate and dried fruit. A cookie enjoyed in tiny nibbles with a treat in every bite.

I fell in love with Molly's writing style last year when I stumbled upon her column in one of my favorite magazines, Bon Appetit. The topic was kale...not the most riveting subject. I like kale well enough, especially in Zuppa Toscana from Olive Garden. But Molly made me fall in love with kale. She made me want to run out and buy a bunch, saute it in hot oil with chopped garlic and eat a big bowl all by myself...no sharing.

It was a powerful writing style that painted a picture, made you smell the aroma of the garlic as it hit the oil, appreciate the bright green color of the kale as it joined the garlic in the pan and hear the sizzle of the greens as they became slightly crisp. The book is filled with personal stories and food descriptions that have the same impact. Each chapter ends with a recipe. A recipe that moves you to check out your pantry for the ingredients or run to the store to make it...NOW! Yes, Molly's writing is just that powerful.

One of the chapters I consumed this morning had a title that stuck in my mind as I sat on my stool in Costco writing my blog. It was the song title from an album shared with a long lost love...Whatever You Love, You Are.

Whatever You Love, You Are. I love the sound of this. I love the truth in this.

My challenge, or should I say blessing, is that I love a lot of things...from tasty foods to interesting people. I take in a healthy portion of it all. It is why my life is so full and my body so round.

Whatever You Love, You Are. I love the powerful writing of Molly Wizenberg. Maybe someday I will be a powerful writer too.

Little did I know how prophetic that statement would be when I got off work tonight. I called Mike to find out what he would like me to pick up for dinner. He simply said "I sent you an e-mail. Check it and call me back." Hmmmm, I was intrigued. The e-mail simply said "I decided to prepare dinner tonight. So you don't need to pick anything up." This was music to my ears. Mike doesn't like to spend time in the kitchen, so when he does it is a cherished event. His last adventure into the kitchen yielded the best Hamburger Helper I have ever had and a homemade cake to boot. I called him back and then I rushed home filled with anticipation like Christmas eve.

My Mike prepared dinner was filled with thought. He assembled the meal from take out. It was the perfect balance of healthy, tastiness. From the cedar plank salmon from Seasons 52 and the veggie plate from Cracker Barrel to the steamed mussels and salad fixings from Publix. He even made homemade coasters of my new Heartsong Cookies logo by printing it out and placing it in a cut out page protector. This is exactly why I love this man so much. He may be a man of few words, but his actions say it all. He pays attention. He gets it. He has "IT" and I love him very much.

Whatever You Love, You Are. I love this amazing man. Because I do, my life is a wonderful life.

Whatever You Love, You Are. I love the truth in this.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Tub of Goo - Day 344

Tonight Mike and I met for a Happy Hour appetizer dinner at Cheesecake Factory in Winter Park. It had been a while since we had paid them a visit and the menu had a few changes...changes for the better. In addition to a large selection of $5 appetizer selections, drink specials were added to the menu. Mike ordered a $4 Blue Moon on draft. I opted for a $5 Cosmopolitan. For dinner Mike chose burger sliders and nachos. I ordered the fire grilled artichokes. When the food arrived our little bar table was overflowing with goodness. The portion size was tremendous and we ate and ate and ate until we could not take another bite. The bill was a nice surprise for such a wonderful evening of gluttony...$25 for dinner and drinks.

The only problem with gluttony is the feeling you have afterward. Instead of feeling satisfied and happy, I feel like a tub of goo...a great big tub of goo. For me overindulgence is not a rare occurrence...it is becoming the norm. Overeating and no exercise do not make for a happy Kathy. I have to stop posting, working and talking. My ample bottom needs to get off the couch and waddle around Crane's Roost, Lake Florida or the mall. Tomorrow morning I am starting on a mission. Mission Happy Heart. Since my year of posting is about to come to an end, I am going to somehow channel that same compulsion and commitment into fitness. Wish me luck!

Late this afternoon, pre-tub of goo, I took another step toward opening my business. I ordered the training materials for my food certification...the next step in the plan. Mike and I discussed the business opening date, settling on early September and cookie pricing, settling on anything over my usual, free. We still have lots of details to work out, but we are making progress. And progress is a very good thing!

Many hugs,
Kathy

The Big Things - Day 343

Yesterday was all about the little things. Today was all about things big. No, I am not talking about my butt, thighs or belly again. I am talking about the big generosity of the group that gathered together tonight to "Drink for Pink." My friends Carolynn and Diane are participating in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure event in the fall...3 days, 60 miles of walking to end breast cancer. What a huge commitment they have made to be a part of the biggest breast cancer event in history. Tonight they got together their friends and co-workers for a fund raising cocktail party at Urban Flats. The turnout was impressive. Each attendee contributed $25 to attend and enjoy wine, flatbread pizzas and Seasons 52 mini indulgences. Lots of raffle tickets were sold and cool prizes were given out. It was a really nice evening for a really great cause. I don't know the fund raising tally, but I am sure it will have a BIG impact.

To find out more about this great event, go to www.the3day.org.

Many hugs,
Kathy

The Little Things - Day 342

Today was a crazy, frustrating work day. On the surface there was not much good, fun or happy to write about. So once again when I sat down to do my posting I was stumped. And then I suddenly remembered the gecko that hitched a ride on my rear window on the way to work today and I started to giggle. It was the darnedest thing! I looked up and there he was hanging on for dear life as I drove down the road. He reminded me of how I sometimes feel on this wild ride of life...out of place and scared out of my mind. This little guy had a determination that just wouldn't quit. Somehow I found him inspirational. It's the little things...

Lunch time brought a little smile to my face as well. I was in the vicinity of D & G Occasions, a baker's nirvana, and decided to stop in to see if they had a music note cookie cutter. To my delight, they did. Not only a medium size note, but a mini one as well. I paired them with the appropriately sized heart cookie cutters and happily walked out the door with my new found treasures...after paying, of course. I can't wait to bake a batch of heart singing sugar cookies for Morgan to thank her for a job well done on my logo. It's the little things...

Lack of exercise has been weighing heavily on my mind...and my butt...and my thighs. Tonight I did something about it. I took a little walk around Crane's Roost. Only once, but it was a start. A baby step toward fitness. It's the little things...

Many hugs,
Kathy

Unfocused - Day 341

Tonight as I sat down to write my blog I realized my thoughts were all over the place. I was unfocused and uninspired. Today had been a good day. I received an e-mail from an old friend I hadn't talked to in at least a year. The business card designs Morgan created were shared with several of my friends to rave reviews. This evening Apple Cinnamon Crunch Cookies made there way to the oven. I played around a little with the recipe substituting Marcona almonds for the usual toasted pecans and chunkier Granola from Costco for a finer blend. The results were good, not over the top great. But for a change, I was OK with that. With experimentation comes insight and improvement. I am getting close with this combination...just not quite there.

Last night I began reading "A Homemade Life, stories and recipes from my kitchen table" by Molly Wizenberg. Molly is the author of the award winning food blog Orangette and a frequent contributor to Bon Appetit magazine. I love her writing style. It is personal and warm. She has a way of describing food and food experiences that make you want to run in the kitchen to make something right that instant. Then share it around the kitchen table with your family and friends.

I want so much to write with the ease of Molly's style. At times, writing comes easy. More often, like tonight, it does not. I think it is time to head upstairs and read a few more chapters. Maybe Molly's style will miraculously creep into my psyche.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Ole! Dinner at Home! - Day 340

Dinners cooked at home are few and far between for this cash starved foodie. But tonight I was feeling a little spicy...a little cheesy...a little saucy. So I picked up some Mexican fixins on my way home and pulled together an over-indulgent Mexican feast for me and Mike. While dinner baked in the oven, I served blue corn chips, fresh salsa and frozen margaritas as a starter. Our entree plates overflowed with piping hot, cheesy pork enchiladas made from the leftover smoked pork from last night, Mexican rice and a ramekin of black beans. It was a yummy way to make good use of leftovers. After two margaritas I am feeling a little lazy and not the least bit creative. So here's a toast to dinners at home with my husband. Ole! And good night now.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Purveyor of Delicious Treats - Day 339

Late last night Mike finally got Morgan's business card layouts to open. OMG...I love them! She gave me two options and I love them both. The designs are simple, playful and warm...just the image I want to project. One of my favorite aspects of the card is the moniker Morgan game me - "Purveyor of Delicious Treats." I am determined to live up to my new found title.

The cookies I baked last night were divvied up between Mike, Ryan, Ryan's Jacksonville Jaguars co-workers, Chris Long and a few of my Costco friends. I got a lot of mileage out of those two batches of cookies. It felt so good to be the cookie fairy once again.

Anthony, one of my regular customers stopped by. On a previous visit he asked me for a recipe card for White Chocolate Blueberry Pecan Cookies. Today I gave him the card and a cookie to boot. The smile on his face made my day! He even shuffled back by my station on his way out to tell me how much it meant to him. Happy dance.

Ryan stayed long enough to share dinner with me, Mike, my mom and brother before heading back to Jacksonville. Easy was the plan so I picked up pulled pork, Italian bread, Caesar salad and a Boston cream pie at Costco. I cut corn off the cob and made my version of fresh creamed corn, grilled slices of Italian bread, nuked the pulled pork and pulled off a pretty tasty feast in about half an hour. Everyone seemed happy with the results...especially Maddie. She is now a BIG fan of Costco pulled pork. I had never purchased the Kirkland brand of smoked pulled pork, but I definitely will again. For $9.99 we had enough for (5) pork sandwiches tonight and plenty for at least two more meals for two...or three if Maddie has anything to do with it. Don't be deceived by the package size. It packs plenty.

Many hugs,
Kathy

I'm Back! - Day 338

After a fantabulous weekend off, I am back to my weekend gig at Costco. My day was filled with people watching, an occasional wine sale and a lot of sweating. The air was out at Costco on a day when the temperature topped 100 F. Oh my, it was HOT!

Morgan sent me business card layout choices shortly before I walked into work, but unfortunately I could not open the zip file on my phone. When I got home, I could not open the file on my laptop. Aaagh! The anticipation is killing me!

Tonight I baked cookies for the first time since I was overtaken by the baking demon earlier in the week. And I would like to report...I'm baaaaaaaack. The demon has been exorcised and I am feeling pretty good about the results. I baked Toasted Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies for Ryan and White Chocolate Blueberry Pecan Cookies for Chris. Baking cookies for your loved ones is so soul satisfying. I love having Ryan and Chris around the house. Watching Ryan revert to a little kid again when he dipped his spoon into the uncooked dough made my heart dance. This is why I bake! The funny thing is Chris had the exact same look when he dipped into his dough. Once a kid, always a kid.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Filled With The Christmas Spirit - Day 337

Today I had lunch with a friend I haven't seen in quite a while. We dined at a little Japanese restaurant tucked away in an almost deserted shopping plaza off I Drive - Aki Sushi. The prices were reasonable and the food was good. But the best part was the conversation with Sheila. She shared plans for a new home purchase in North Carolina. I shared details of my new business venture. One thing she said struck a chord with me. She wished that you could capture the goodwill and spirit of the holidays and feel it all year long. Why do people seem to only exhibit the love from November to December? I agreed, then I thought for a moment. For me this last year, especially the last few months, have been filled with the Christmas spirit. The wish that Sheila expressed actually came true for me. My friends and family have amazed me with their generosity, encouragement and love. Suddenly I am in the mood for Peppermint Bark HeartSong Cookies and a mug of steaming hot chocolate.

Tonight was the perfect ending to a pretty amazing week. Ryan and his friend Chris Long are spending the weekend with us to visit Universal and steep themselves in everything Harry Potter. They both embrace their quirky geekness and I think that is a very good thing. We all piled in the car for dinner at Carrabba's and dessert at Jeremiah's. I love spending time with them and getting caught up on their lives. Long is doing some pretty awesome things. Currently he is involved with the Florida Sea Turtle Project several days a week. His enthusiasm for his accomplishments is infectious. In the fall, Long begins grad school at UCF. I am hopeful he will pay us many more visits while he is here. He makes me smile.

Many hugs,
Kathy

I Have A Plan! - Day 336

Starting a new business is not only scary, it's extremely confusing. Just when I think I have all the answers, another question pops up. I know what I have to do, but in what order? Egads! This is stressing me out.

So I placed a call to the Florida Department of Agriculture and waited on eternal hold. Finally, a friendly voice came on the line. She was very helpful as I hit her with my barrage of questions. At the end of the call, I felt much better. Now I have a plan.

Next stop, the IRS website to apply for an FEID number. Check. I've got it! Then more calls to food certification services, more eternal hold and finally a cost and date for my Food Manager Certification class...July 19. My plan is falling into place.

Tonight Mike surprised me by coming home a day early. We met at Sweet Tomatoes with our good friend BOGO. The current theme at Sweet Tomatoes is Summer Fruit and the new choices were quite tasty. Mike and I ate like ravenous pigs and hurried home. We could not take a chance at missing "THE DECISION." OMG! I love sports talk radio, but the last couple of weeks have been torturous. If I hear the word "Lebron" one more time...well, I don't know what I will do.

Needless to say I am sick of it all...the egos, the media hype, the money, the power and the manipulation. No on person, no matter how talented, serves this much attention. I think the "King" needs to be deposed!

Many hugs,
Kathy

I Am A Corporation - Day 335

So this is what it feels like to be a corporation...scared out of my mind! This morning I couldn't catch my breath. And then the facebook comments came flowing in. One after another, offering words of encouragement. Next came Joe, my boss, who stopped by my office to see how I was doing. He shared several stories of how he felt when he started Fidelity Press. As he left my office, he looked me straight in the eye and told me I would be successful...he had no doubt about it. Wow! His reaction was unexpected, but much appreciated. Suddenly I felt invincible. I will be successful...if all my friends and loved ones have anything to do with it.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Happy Meal - Day 334

Tonight I had a happy meal for dinner. No, it did not include a toy, French fries or a hamburger on a bun. In fact, it did not come from Mickey D's at all. It was a meal enjoyed at Longhorn Steakhouse with my good friend Dennis. Meals shared with Dennis are the ultimate happy meals because that is exactly how I feel at their conclusion. Dennis always has wonderful stories to share about members of his rather large family. I love listening to every detail. I kind of feel like Michael J. Fox in one of my favorite movies "Doc Hollywood" as he reads the stories of the Pakistani. Unfortunately tonight I think my stories dominated the conversation. But Dennis still managed a few choice nuggets. Like the one where his sister ordered a mail order monkey...don't ask! As usual, he made me smile.

The food was pretty darn good as well. Dennis ordered his usual "Renegade" sirloin steak. I chose the chopped steak smothered in mushroom sauce and fried onion straws. Very fattening and very tasty! As I drove off after dropping Dennis at his home, all I could think of was what a happy mood I was in...all thanks to a happy meal with Dennis. I didn't miss "The Last Airbender" toy one bit!

My happy mood turned ecstatic when I arrived home to Maddie and the mail. Sandwiched between the bills was an envelope from the State of Florida addressed to me. OMG...HeartSong Cookies, LLC is official and I have the certificate to prove it!

Many hugs and happy meals,
Kathy

Pooped - Day 333

Today Mike and I did what we do best...we worked together as a team on an overwhelming project of gutting the downstairs bedroom. We moved all the furniture. Mike shampooed the carpeting. I ran errands and purged more stuff. Together we decided what furniture to move back in and what to place elsewhere. I put fresh bed linens on the bed including a new comforter. The end result was exactly what we wanted...uncluttered, fresh, relaxing and clean.

Now I am pooped. Sweet dreams.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Five Star Dining - Day 332

During the last week I have enjoyed several five star dining experiences. The cool thing is, they weren't at any stuffy, pretentious restaurant. They were all enjoyed at the homes of friends. Each had a uniqueness all its own. All were tasty and completely different. At the end of each meal I was full, happy and completely soul satisfied.

Tonight's dining adventure was enjoyed at the home of our friends Tom, Susan and Christopher. All three outdid themselves. The table was beautiful all by itself, but add the copious food and it was downright amazing. We feasted on baby back ribs, mac and cheese, roasted red skin potatoes, squash casserole, cornbread, corn on the cob, kidney bean salad and Waldorf salad. I am still full and it has been at least 5 hours since we ate.

After dinner we jumped in their boat for a relaxing cruise around Lake Brantley at dusk. We sipped on wine and gazed at how the other half lives. Somehow I cannot imagine they live even half as wonderful a life as we do. We ooooed and ahhhhed over fireworks, got a little soggy from the light rain and headed back to their home for dessert. I was responsible for dessert and unfortunately it did not quite live up to the quality of the meal. My Big Heart Cookie got a little overcooked, but at least it looked cute. I topped it with vanilla chocolate chip ice cream, a drizzle of hot caramel sauce and a squirt of whipped cream. Tasty, but too dry. I still haven't exorcised the baking demons that have haunted me for over a week. I guess its kind of like a bad case of the shanks in golf. I will just have to keep working through it.

In the meantime, I just want to say thanks to Mike, Tom, Susan, Chris, Kenda, Mark, Vicky, David, Sheri, Sarah and Noah. You all have been the best dining companions this cash staved foodie could ever have.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Pass The Unagi - Day 331

Today was the first full day of my free weekend. I spent it doing all the things I never have time to do when I work at Costco. Mike and I set out this morning for market research at Winter Park Farmer's Market. Unfortunately we did not realize Park Avenue was shut down for a Fourth of July parade. There was NO place to park. We decided to go to plan B and head for 4Rivers Barbecue for an early lunch. We picked up smoked turkey and smoked pork sandwiches and headed to Lake Lily for an in our car picnic.

Then it was on to the house to begin the purge project. After two trips to Goodwill with a trunk filled with stuff, the garage stilled seemed as congested as it did before the dump. I think I have accumulated enough stuff for at least twenty more trips.

Late this afternoon I experimented with my new toys...a large heart shaped cookie pan, several heart shaped cookie cutters and a silicone mini heart pan. Cooking times will need to be modified, but overall the experiments were a success. I drizzled the cookies with chocolate and headed out the door for dinner at Mark and Kenda's home.

Kenda had been busy assembling my favorite kind of meal...an appetizer smorgasbord. We feasted on homemade hummus surrounded by raw veggies, Manchego cheese and crackers, fresh berries, grapes and Greek yogurt, tortilla chips, cilantro lime marinated shrimp and mini pizzas made from homemade crust and topped to our liking. We washed it all down with yummy sangria and HoneyMoon Beer. Everything was delish.

The evening was absolutely perfect...relaxed and easy. We ended it with a medley of songs from Mark's Superfizzee collection. The grand finale was Kenda's favorite...Pass the Unagi. I was not sure what Unagi was, but I sure like saying it. Unagi. Unagi. Unagi. Pass the Unagi! And then I looked it up on Wikipedia and discovered it meant eel. Mmmmm...Bypass the Unagi.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Crafting An Image - Day 330

Over the last few days I have been busy crafting an image for my new business venture...with a lot of help from my friends. My friend Mark took the logo developed by Morgan and worked it into a series of amazingly cool t-shirt designs and a color palette for a website, packaging and promo materials. My nephew Kyle took the logo and converted it to an embroidery format for embroidered aprons, caps and shirts. I purchased chocolate brown table cloths, shallow baskets for cookie displays, a cool aqua retro cooler, turquoise curtain panels for a backdrop to my booth and a variety of heart shaped cookie cutters and pans for cookie experimentation. The image that has been camping out in my brain for quite a while is becoming real and I like it. I like it very much!

Now that I have an image, I need to work on the perfect product to back it up. This weekend will be spent purging, organizing, experimenting, registering and researching. But for now, it will be spent doing absolutely nothing and enjoying every minute of my unproductiveness.

Many hugs,
Kathy

Dinner at McC's Garden Cafe - Day 329

I was home the moment I walked in the door. Not my home, but my home away from home...home of my friends, Sheri, David, Noah and Sarah. I affectionately call it McC's Garden Cafe. It is better than any restaurant you will ever visit. Meals are crafted by David from his garden. They are served on the most magical family heirloom table with a huge lazy Susan in the center. No TV is on in the background and conversation flows freely. I have shared three meals at this wonderful establishment and each one is a source of pure bliss.

Last night my dining adventure began at the kitchen table with David and Sheri's daughter Sarah, her Girl Scout camp photos and lots of wonderful stories. While we poured over photos, David served us homemade hummus, crackers and fresh brewed ice tea. Mmmmm! David makes an awesome hummus. Soon after Sheri arrived home and we all convened in the dining room for a lazy Susan feast of salmon croquettes with a creamy sauce, scalloped potatoes, a beautiful salad and fresh from the garden carrots and Brussels sprouts. I cannot even begin to describe how much this evening meant to me. For several brief hours I was transported to a dream of a life where I am a part of a family, tradition and love. My life is amazing, but so far from traditional it is ridiculous. I have always longed for a sense of family. These evenings satisfy my soul.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Love Lost - Day 328

Oatmeal Cookies used to be one of my favorites. I was smitten. I loved the texture and the nutty flavor. The fact that they seemed healthier than the average chocolate chip cookie made me swoon. Sadly, after a challenging week of oatmeal cookie baking, I have fallen out of love.

It all started when my friend Ron requested a birthday basket of oatmeal cookies for Carla in New York. No problem. I had the perfect recipe in my repertoire from my friend Vicky. I can make most of my cookies with my eyes closed, but not this one. The challenge started as I gathered the ingredients together on Sunday night. Oh no...no dates and no untoasted coconut. Hmmmmmm, time to improvise. I substituted a blend of dried cherries, blueberries, cranberries and plums for the dates, toasted coconut for the fresh, and added more toasted pecans. After tasting the raw dough, I was feeling pretty cocky. It was delish.

Then things went terribly wrong. My old lady eyes got the best of me and I set the oven for 350 F instead of 375 F. In went the first pan. When the timer went off and I opened the oven, the cookies were not the golden color I remembered. I left them in for another minute, then another and another. When they finally browned slightly, the cookies were dry and crunchy, not soft and chewy. Was my oven not working? Did I set the timer incorrectly? Oh well...I tried another pan. Same results! I was perplexed. Back to the recipe I went. Oh no, I discovered my oven temp dilemma.

I had used almost half of the dough. It was 10:30 p.m. I was VERY tired and I needed to ship these cookies tomorrow to arrive on Wednesday for Carla's birthday. The balance baked at the correct temperature, yielding barely enough for Ron's order. I was less than pleased. They were good, not great.

At this point, I decided to bite the bullet and bake a new batch the next night with no improvisation. I would overnight the cookies to arrive on Carla's big day. Carla's reject cookies were given to friends with rave reviews. Did I make the wrong decision not to ship?

More ingredients were purchased. The oven was set correctly. The recipe was followed to a tee. Once again, the results were less than perfect...very sweet and somewhat dry. I frantically searched the internet for oatmeal cookie recipes. Finally settling on a simple Raisin Pecan Oatmeal Cookie from Ina Garten. Why is this so difficult? I must be overthinking it. You think?!

Ina's cookies were OK. They spread more than I would like, but came closer to the softer, chewy cookie I was craving. One problem...the recipe called for Kosher salt, I substituted a little less table salt. The cookie had a salty after taste that just wasn't quite right.

My confidence sank to an all time low. Had I lost my baking touch? I could not let Ron down in his birthday wishes for Carla. The less than perfect cookies were carefully wrapped, beautifully packaged and tearfully taken to the post office to make their way to New York. I hope Carla subscribes to the motto - "It's the thought that counts!"

As I pout and worry about my cookie reputation being sullied, I vow to find the best damn oatmeal cookie recipe on the planet. I vow to find that loving feeling again. And Carla...when I do, a surprise will be heading your way.

Many hugs,

Kathy

HeartSong Cookies, LLC - Day 327

It's official. The paperwork to make HeartSong Cookies a REAL business is in the mail. Mike and I decided to submit the paperwork to the state ourselves rather than go through an online legal service. Money is tight and we need to save wherever we can. My emotions have run the gamut today. From excitement and joy to extreme fear. This step makes it REAL...VERY REAL.

It's not the work that scares me. Or even concern over the number of cookies I will sell. I am a little overwhelmed with the monthly commercial kitchen rental fees, but feel somehow the money situation will work itself out. What concerns me the most is self doubt. I am worried that my cookies will stand out in the crowd. I want them so much to be good...no GREAT! The comments from my clients and friends over the last year should have given me the confidence I need. But nooooooooo, I still am consumed with self doubt.

Tonight I am baking cookies for friends. M & M Cookies without nuts for Sarah just came out of the oven to cool. White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies for Marieta just went in the oven. The smell throughout the house is heavenly. And with every pan taken out of the oven, my confidence grows. My cookies are not big and thick like Selma's Cookies. They have the look of a homemade cookie...one like mom would make. They are not perfectly shaped. They do not look like they are mass produced. They look like they are made by hand, with love. They look like they contain a bushel full of hugs. They look exactly like I want them to look. They look like a cookie from HeartSong Cookies, LLC. Happy Dance!

Many hugs,

Kathy

Multitasking Foodie - Day 326

In the olden days...a year ago, Saturday was my day to run errands. The grocery store, dry cleaners and discount stores were my hang outs. No more. Now I work and hangout at Costco on the weekends. Errands are relegated to lunch hours. Multitasking is a must. Super Target is my new best friend. As I mentioned before, I strongly dislike fast food restaurants. I crave a place to grab a quick bite that is inexpensive and relatively healthy. A bonus would be to have this place surrounded by a clean, organized grocery and discount store. I found my haven at the Super Target deli. The deli located just inside the grocery entrance to the store is home to tasty salads, sandwiches and snacks to grab on the run. Usually I opt for a salad for $3.99. Today I picked up a snack of hummus and fresh veggies for $1.49. Fearing I would still be hungry, I also grabbed the meat, cheese and fruit snack on sale for $2.49. With a bottled water my quick grab lunch tab came to $5.00. Too bad I had no one to share my bounty with. It was far too much food for one person alone. Not only did I satisfy my quick, cheap lunch craving, but I also picked up missing ingredients for tonight's baking adventure and a $5.78 cardigan sweater clearance special as a reward to all my thriftiness. I was a foodie at her multitasking best!

Many hugs,

Kathy

A Great Start - Day 325

My son Ryan made a surprise visit from Jacksonville yesterday. To celebrate I took my two favorite men out to breakfast at First Watch. I had an ulterior motive. First Watch is located around the corner from the Maitland Farmer's Market where I plan to set up shop. I hoped if I asked real nice, maybe they would walk the market with me. Breakfast was a tasty and filling skillet with potatoes, cheese, scrambled eggs, crumbled bacon, tomato and avocado. With hot coffee and engaging conversation it made for the perfect start to the day. As we paid the bill, Mike noticed an application for their breakfast club. The card mentioned buy one, get one offers would be e-mailed. Happy dance!

My plan worked. Mike and Ryan accompanied me on a quick stroll through the market. To my delight, we only came across one cupcake baker, one mystery pastry baker and two bread bakers. Market traffic was light. The vendors were not particularly engaging and it was HOT, very HOT. We stopped by to see Cathy of Cathy's Cajun Cuisines. Last weekend I bought some of her Fire and Ice Pickles. This week I reported on how much I enjoyed snacking on them all week. The pride on her face was priceless. I want to experience that feeling. And I will...real soon. Don't forget to check out Cathy's product offerings at www.cathyscajuncuisines.com or better yet come to the Maitland Farmer's Market to visit us both.

One thing that struck me, was just how poorly most of the vendors displayed their wares. It will not take much to stand out in the crowd. Cathy is one of the exceptions. Her booth draws you in with an impressive, in your face, product display and a big smile. Many of the other vendors timidly hid behind their tables. This will not be me! I may not sell a lot of cookies, but I will engage a lot of people in conversation. Thanks to genes from my mom, there are no strangers in this world...only friends I haven't met yet. Thanks Mom!

Tonight I actually cooked at home. Amazingly this cash starved foodie has a habit of eating out. But Costco had fresh Wild Sockeye Salmon on sale yesterday and I could not pass it up. I grilled the salmon along with some chicken for Ryan and served it with mashed potatoes and Caesar salad. Everyone seemed pleased...even Maddie who sampled something from everyone's plate.

My baking adventures tonight weren't nearly as successful as dinner had been. I misread my Oatmeal Cookie recipe and set the oven at 350 F instead of 375 F. Unfortunately it took me two pans before I figured it out. I was baking for a birthday basket for Ron's friend. It has to be there by Wednesday and it looks like I will be baking again tomorrow and shipping overnight. I cannot send something less than perfection.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Surrounded - Day 324

This morning I delivered the fruit of my wee hour baking. Donna's eyes lit up when I handed her the basket full of treats. The baby shower cookies were made from my favorite sugar cookie dough tinged with almond extract, glazed with light blue glaze, sprinkled with light blue sugar and piped with chocolate icing. Each cookie was individually bagged and tied with light blue and brown ribbon...the shower color scheme. These cookies were definitely a labor of love. I could never charge what I should to cover the time spent.

Work today was brutal. Costco surrounded me with all my wants, but cannot haves and they spoke to me the entire afternoon. The storage shed over my left shoulder whispered "I would make Mike very happy." The outdoor kitchen diagonally across from my table chanted "You know you want me!" King crab legs and jumbo prawns shouted "Buy me for dinner!" The Stag's Leap Merlot to my right threatened to leap into my cart..."I'm going to jump!" It drove me crazy. I take that back...I was already crazy. What sane person works seven days a week, ignores her loving husband to bake or write a blog and averages 5 hours of sleep a night?!

Tonight I had a rare craving for steak so Mike humored me with a trip to Outback. I was pleasantly surprised to find the $9.95 Outback Special on the menu. My meal included a 6 oz. sirloin steak, baked potato and blue cheese pecan chopped salad plus bread, good service and no dishes to clean up. It made this cash starved foodie very happy.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Too Pooped To Post - Day 324

It is 1:35 a.m. and frankly I am just too pooped to post. I just finished decorating a batch of baby shower sugar cookies that I have to deliver at 10:00 in the morning...this morning. The light blue and brown color scheme Donna requested turned out pretty cute. Phone battery is dead and so am I. Photos will come later.

Sleep tight and don't let the bed bugs bite. Why my mom told me this almost every night when I was little, I will never know. But somehow at 1:40 a.m. it works!

Many hugs,
Kathy

Mission Accomplished...Almost- Day 323

Accomplishment was the mission of the day. I had proofs to run, quotes to get out and thankfully lots of printing jobs to pick up. It was a work day reminiscent of times past when the printing industry was thriving. It was exhilarating! Now that is a word I haven't used to describe work in a very long time...maybe ever. The adrenaline kept pumping when I got home. I worked on Mission Baking and Packaging Organization. After sharing a Target California Chicken Salad with Maddie and keeping one eye on the Lost Footage of The Housewives of New York City, I actually got most of the project completed. It felt so good!

You know...in the good times today wouldn't have seemed so special at all. In tough times, I relished every moment. Life is very, very good.

Many hugs,

Kathy

The Ultimate Ahhhhh - Day 322

My day was filled with lots of driving, lots of box hoisting and lots of aches and pains. However, all my worries and challenges disappeared the moment I saw him. Brayden, my newborn grand nephew, was born the day before yesterday, but this was my first opportunity to hold him in my arms. He was beautiful! I cannot think of a more peaceful, soul filling feeling than holding a sleeping tiny infant. It is definitely the ultimate Ahhhhhhhhh!

Many hugs,

Kathy

Unbelievable Generosity - Day 321

Just when I saw the business "carrot" move a little further away from my grasp...along came Marieta, my husband's boss. Over the last few months Mike has shared my dreams with her. She took a genuine interest in what I was trying to do and today she gave me a way to make it happen. She pulled out her checkbook and wrote a check. A check for HeartSong Cookies. This tremendous gift combined with the generosity of others close to me means I must make this happen. I cannot be afraid any longer. I have to jump in and I have to do it NOW.

Words are failing me tonight. I cannot express just how much this means to me. Marieta doesn't know me very well. But she knows my husband. She knows what a wonderful man he is. She knows he believes in me. And so, she believes in me too. Her investment may not yield dividends in the near future, but it will yield a sugar free cookie in her honor. For months I have promised to find a recipe that will work for diabetics. Now I am compelled to do so.

Many, many, many hugs,

Kathy

Pity Partying - Day 320

Today I spent the day partying...pity partying. My house is falling apart and I have no money to fix it. I had to use part of the money for my new business venture to take care of something house related that just could not wait. My husband spent his day off from work trying to handle the challenge while I "partied hearty". I cried. I sulked. I said the obligatory "Why me?!"...and then I "sobered up". No, I had not had a drop of alcohol, just a pitcher of pity. After I slapped myself across the face, I thanked my lucky stars that I have a loving husband that puts up with me, a house that is falling apart, three jobs and a boatload of dreams that will come true...someday. Someday real soon! WHEEEEEEEEEEE!

Many hugs and fewer roller coaster dips,

Kathy

Morning at the Market - Day 319

This morning on my way to work I took a detour by the Maitland Farmer's Market to see Cathy of Cathy's Cajun Cuisines. She had graciously given Mike and me a tour of A Chateau Kitchen earlier in the week and I promised to check out her booth. Cathy's product selection is impressive. She offers over 50 varieties of jams, relishes and pickled veggies. I was lucky enough to taste several of them - a spicy Papaya Chutney, a milder Mango Chutney, a savory Pear Relish, Bloody Mary Chutney and a to die for Bananas Foster Jam. All were extremely tasty and I indulged myself with the purchase of several jars. I can't wait to share the kitchen with Cathy.

Work today was brutal. Never have I spoken to so many and sold so few bottles of wine. It I got paid for talking I would have made a million dollars. Maybe I should apply for the CDS demonstrator job as my mom's boss Pat suggested. I seem to have lost my touch with wine sales.

Tonight Mike and I visited Sweet Tomatoes with our BOGO coupon. Then headed home to organize my baking supplies. What a project! Mike has the patience of a saint. Why he puts up with me and my piles I will never know. We made a dent in the project...a very small dent. There is so much stuff to go through. I think the project will take me most of the week.

Last night I baked a batch of Choc-O-Chips cookies for Ryan's Jacksonville Jaguars co-workers. They were filled with lots and lots of chips - white, bittersweet, semi-sweet and peanut butter, but NO NUTS. To me a cookie is not a cookie without some kind of nut, but his co-worker does not agree. He likes peanut butter, but not nuts. Go figure! I aim to please. Hopefully he will like the results.

Sorry for jumping all over the place tonight. I am only half paying attention. David Bromstad is on TV with Color Splash Miami and I cannot take my eyes off it.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Questions Answered - Day 318

This morning I met Donna Moore, the owner of A Chateau Kitchen. I hope to make her commercial kitchen my new home away from home. Donna rents her kitchen to a variety of entrepreneurs like myself starting small food related businesses online and at local farmer's markets. Her rental price is reasonable, but scary. She requires a one year contract. That is the scary part. Thanks to the generosity of two people that believe in me, I have the funds for all the licenses and insurance. But, I will be on my own for the monthly kitchen rental fee. I have to be certain that somehow I can come close to covering the cost each month. Unfortunately I have little room for error. Unless...I go with my husband Mike's idea to tell the mortgage company we will be doing our own loan modification and paying $275 dollars less per month so we can start a business. I think they will find that reasonable...NOT!

As I watched Donna makes several batches of specialty chocolates for a client, I badgered her with questions...many, many questions. She gave me the name of the insurance agent she uses for her liability insurance...the name of the website to register for the food handling class. She explained the house rules of her facility and offered encouragement that space would be available for me even if I needed a little time to get my finances together. She told me the story of how and why she started her business. As I took notes and listened intently, it became more and more apparent that I was on the right path to realizing my dream.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Cure For What Ails Me - Day 317

I spent all day feeling lousy. I whined to Kat and had my own personal pity party. But it was nothing that a dinner with Mike, Ryan, Tom, Susan and Chris couldn't cure. We met up at Cafe Positano for wine, beer, pizza and good conversation.

I still feel lousy, but now I feel lousy with a smile.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Mindless Fun - Day 316

Kenda e-mailed me this afternoon with a night out on her mind. She had a free movie pass and a hankering to see Sex and the City 2. Combine that with Tuscan Tasters at Brio and you have a perfect evening out of mindless fun. I couldn't refuse.

We talked more HeartSong Cookies talk over toasted ravioli, margarita flatbread and spicy shrimp and eggplant...all three for under $10. Add a glass of wine and beer and our total bill still came to only $21.00 You can't go wrong with Tuscan Tasters!

The movie was definitely mindless, but fun. It was made even better by the older women sitting behind us offering play by play. Kenda and I giggled like school girls at their goofy comments.

The only problem with the evening is all that mindless fun left me...mindless. I just don't have a creative posting in me tonight.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Tuckered Out - Day 315

Giggling and baking are the perfect elixir for my happiness. But combine them with 4 hours of sleep after all that fun and you end up with a very, very, very tired girl. I am just plain tuckered out. Which will explain why my ramblings tonight will be brief and possibly nonsensical.

The cookie basket I assembled for Ron's uncle was mailed today. I was quite proud of the finished product all dressed up in turquoise and chocolate brown. I wish I could see Unc's reaction when he opens the package and hope he feels the big hug I tucked inside.

Tonight Mike and I met at the downstairs deli section of Antonio's in Maitland for his birthday dinner part 2. He was craving a calzone and I could not resist the lasagna. The meal exceeded all expectations. Mike's gargantuan calzone put a big smile on his face. My lasagna was one of the best I have ever tasted. For $8.95 it was a great value as well.

Tonight is the premier of Top Chef Washington D.C. It begins in 35 minutes and I can hardly wait!

Many hug......zzzzzzzz,

Kathy

Can't Stop Giggling - Day 314

Today the HeartSong Cookies logo was born...thanks to my friend Morgan. She and David presented it to me over lunch at my favorite restaurant, The Ravenous Pig. We gorged ourselves on deviled eggs, lobster tacos and ugly ends before we even got to our entrees. From this point on the smile on my face just won't go away. I can't stop giggling. The logo is exactly what I had envisioned. It is personal, warm, happy, playful, whimsical, lyrical, simple. It is me. Now I just have to pick a color scheme. Morgan gave me a couple of options and surprisingly, the one that caught me the most off guard is the one I keep going back to. It is a combo of turquoise and chocolate brown.

The day continued on its giggle course as I stopped by to see my friend Dennis with a proof and a peek at my logo. He really like it. Giggle time! Then it was on to my client friends Kristen and Kimberly for proof approvals and more peeks at the logo. They loved it as well. More giggles. I reverted back to Kathy, Careless Driver, as I took numerous logo peeks on the drive back to Orlando.

Dinner was shared with my friends Bree and Lisa over wine and ahi tuna appetizers at BJ's Brewhouse. We had a lot of catching up to do and of course I gave them a peek at my logo. They approved. Back to giggling. The bill kept the smile on my face. Every day from 4-7 appetizers are half price and house wine is $3. But Tuesdays kick it up a notch...all wine by the glass and bottle is half price. That meant my $3 glass of wine was $1.50 and my total bill for the evening came to $6.50 plus tip. Giggle Dance!

The day ended in the kitchen baking cookies for my friend Ron's uncle. They turned out just about perfect. I think it must have been the giggling I mixed in with every batch.

Many hugs and giggles,

Kathy

Nutty For Mike - Day 313

Today is my husband Mike's birthday and since cash is not in great abundance, I had to be a little creative with my gift for him. I surprised him by taking a day off to do whatever he wanted to do. I just hoped he wanted to get a business license. I thought it would be really cool to have the official start of our business be the same day as his birth.

As a goofy gift I created a cookie just for Mike...the "Nutty For Mike Cookie". Last night it made its debut. Mike loves peanut butter and chocolate so this cookie was jammed packed with all his favorites. To my base dough I added a little of a lot of ingredients - semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped Dark Chocolate Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, Reese's Pieces, Reese's Peanut Butter Chips, chopped peanut brittle and chopped cocktail peanuts. It was definitely over the top, but Mike loved it.

Mike likes to sleep in, so sleep in we did on his special day. Then we headed over to Mimi's Cafe for a late breakfast with Mike's Free Breakfast Coupon in hand. Back home we went for business research and played dueling lap tops for the rest of the morning. The information on starting a business was overwhelming. Do we get the license first, then the FEID number? Do we create a LLC or Sole Proprietorship? Do we register with the city, state or IRS first? Uug! Even though we had done plenty of research before, when we were actually ready to act...we froze. I think the license will have to wait a few more days.

The rest of the afternoon was spent running errands and shopping for things we cannot afford. It was fun to have the ultimate gift of time together with no plans. On the way home I took Mike by A Chateau Kitchen to show him why I was in love. The door was locked, but we peeked in the window. As we turned to head home, the door opened and out stepped Cathy to see if we needed help. Boy do we! She let us come in for a tour and although I did not think it possible, I left even more excited than before. Cathy owns Cathy's Cajun Cuisines that specializes in gourmet jams, jellies, preserves, relishes and pickled veggies. She features her products at Lake Mary Farmer's Market, Maitland Farmer's Market and on line at www.CathysCajunCuisine.com. Cathy answered my questions, explained the co-op concept and allayed my fears. It was pure magic.

When we got home, I baked Mike's extremely ugly, but cute birthday cake. His request was chocolate cake with chocolate frosting. I took it over the top with Reese's Pieces gone wild and chunks of Dark Chocolate Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.

Dinner was Dexter's with a Restaurant.Com gift certificate. After dinner came cake and ice cream. Mike had the look of ultimate satisfaction on his face as I sang him Happy Birthday and the look of ultimate over indulgence as he shoveled in the last bite of cake. We had enjoyed a rare day together and it was pure bliss.

Happy Birthday Mike! I am nutty for you.

Many hugs,

Kathy

A Business With A Plan - Day 312

Last night's party adventure to Gainesville was definitely worth the trip. The two hour drive gave Mike and I some quality time to talk. While I was having fun at Costco yesterday afternoon, Mike was busy working on a project of his own. Shortly after we got in the car, Mike pulled out the fruit of his efforts - a business plan for HeartSong Cookies. It was amazingly detailed with all sorts of charts and graphs. I love visuals! He analyzed our target market, made sales projections, set goals and established pricing. It was truly amazing and something so necessary to business success.

As I flipped through the pages, I was reminded exactly why Mike and I make such a good team. He is exacting, methodical, analytical and patient. I am the opposite - creative with attention to detail, an impatient dreamer easily taken off course. We fit together perfectly. I open his eyes to the possibilities of life. He calmly grounds me. On Mike's birthday eve, I am reminded just how fortunate I am to have him in my life.

Margaret's party in Gainesville was as magical as the trip up. She gathered together friends involved in the production of her book, AQUIFERious, to celebrate its success. Good food, drink and warm conversation filled her home. It was an eclectic mix of scientists, artists, writers and loved ones...a mirror image of the charm of AQUIFERious. Shortly into the evening, Margaret offered a toast to all in attendance. But to my extreme joy and surprise, she singled me out and introduced me to the crowd as one of the driving forces behind her dream becoming a reality. I was speechless...well almost. Most of all, I was proud. Proud of a job well done.

As I sat in Costco this afternoon thumbing through the pages of my business plan, I suddenly noticed I was giggling...out loud. The customers must have thought I was delirious or maybe I had been secretly taking in a little Montepulciano on the side. No, I was just reveling in the fact that I, Kathy Paiva, was about to realize a dream. I was about to have my own business - a business with a plan. A plan for success. WHEEEEEEEE, the ride keeps getting better and better.

Many hugs,

Kathy

A Little of This, A Little of That - Day 311

Baking cookies is a pretty sweet way to start the day. Tonight Mike and I are traveling to Gainesville for a party at Margaret's house. I can't go empty handed, so I decided cookies and wine would be the perfect hostess gift. I wanted to make something fun to reflect Margaret's personality. "This and That Cookies" were the perfect choice. This is a recipe that is always changing with my mood and the items left in the pantry. To my base dough I added white, semi-sweet and bittersweet chocolate chips, dried blueberries and toasted pecans. A little of this, a little of that and hopefully a lot of good.

Work at Costco followed the theme of the day...a little of this, a little of that. I met some wonderful people. Louie from South Africa oozing with excitement for the World Cup. Lilla and Chuck, fellow foodies with great tips to share. The Costco love birds flying around overhead. Tastings of pita chips, chicken tenders and Canadian bacon washed down with Vitamin Water. Blog writing, Mike's birthday plotting, wine aisle stocking, wine consulting and oh yes...Montepulciano d'Abruzzo wine selling mixed in between it all. A little of this, a little of that and a whole lot of fun.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Spreading Smiles - Day 310

Today began much better than yesterday ended. It began with a smile...a really big smile. Donna was leaving for vacation for the week with a group of friends and requested (24) HeartSong cookies to take with her as a special treat. "Nothing special, just whatever you have" was Donna's request. Nothing special?! I can't do "Nothing Special"! So I individually wrapped (12) Toasted Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies and (12) White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies, tied them in pink and burgundy ribbons, tucked them into a bushel basket and wrapped it all in bright pink tulle. The result was definitely smile worthy. When I walked through the door, the look on Donna's face told me everything I already knew. "Something Special" is the way to go. I had another wonderful smile to add to my collection.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Ending A Good Day With A Bang - Day 309

Today was a good one. My new found sense of peace in embracing the ride made for a very enjoyable day. I met Beatriz for lunch to deliver the cookie basket I made for her daughter Savannah. We talked of new beginnings, past mistakes and all the options before us. Everything is falling into place for both of us and we are ready to embrace the change.

I had big plans for the evening. Tonight was movie night with my friends Carolyn and Sandy. Movies out are a rare event these days. We were going to grab a quick bite before heading to see the ultimate "Kathy Movie"...Letters to Juliet. As I headed to meet them on my favorite road - I-4, things went a little sideways. I received a call from Consumer Connections asking me to participate in a paid take home survey next week. My appointment to pick up the material was 6/17 at 10 a.m. I was afraid I would forget. Soooooo, I looked away from the road for an instant to grab my note pad. Big mistake! The traffic came to an abrupt stop. I did not. I rear ended the car in front of me. Uug! No one was hurt...just my bumper and a scratch of the other car.

Kimberly, the woman I hit could not have been nicer. We pulled into the Denny's parking lot to wait for the highway patrol. And we talked...really talked...about kids, work and family. We proudly shared pictures of our sons. She had such as ease about her. In some strange way, I was actually glad I ran into her. Until the reality of my $164 Careless Driver ticket and the $500 insurance deductible slapped me across the face. Even with all of that, I did not have my normal reaction...sobbing and despair. I was at peace. This too must have happened for a reason. Maybe the slap in the face was more than just about money. It was a wake up call to stop distracted driving.

With ticket and case report in hand, I headed to movie night. My dinner consisted of a Kid Pack of popcorn, fruit bits and Cherry Coke. Yum! The movie was the perfect tonic for my abrupt ending to my day. WHEEEEEEEEEEEE! That roller coaster ride is amazing!

Many hugs,

Kathy, Careless Driver

New Found Appreciation For The Roller Coaster - Day 308

In the past I was afraid. No more. Now I am exhilarated.

My life the last year has been one long, scary ride with breathtaking highs, stomach turning lows and a few upside down loops thrown in along the way. I have cried. I have laughed. I have screamed to make it stop.

No more. Today I had one of those "AH HA" moments. Why not embrace the ride? For all the joy and pain...at least, I feel. I am alive. I am putting myself out there. I am making mistakes. I am accomplishing things. I am growing (in EVERY way). The good times are relished. The bad times learned from. This is the way life was meant to be...one hell of a scintillating ride!

Last night I baked a "weird" cookie in honor of my brother's birthday. I called it "Nutterly Deminted" - a dark chocolate cookie base with chopped Andes mints, bittersweet chocolate chips and toasted pecans. It was quite nutty and deminted...just like my goofy brother.

Happy Birthday Michael! I hope you will join me for the ride. Don't be afraid. It will be fun.

Many hugs and WHEEEEEEEEE moments,

Kathy

I Found My Kitchen - Day 307

This evening I received a welcome message on my cell phone. It was a message I had been waiting for all afternoon. A message from Donna at A Chateau Kitchen. She informed me that space was indeed available for rent in her commercial kitchen. The price was less than I expected, but still more than I have to spend. But somehow I felt joyful. Each bit of information I uncover brings me one step closer to reality.

Last week when I walked through the door of her facility I felt instantly at home. This is my kitchen. This is where I am meant to be. This is the home of HeartSong Cookies.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Solving Life's Challenges - Day 306

The BP oil debacle, the state of our economy and fears concerning my new business venture continued to slap me in the face this morning. I needed a sounding board to put things into perspective and move on. On the way to work, I picked up the phone and called Kenda to schedule lunch. Kenda needed to get out of the house and I needed her ear. We met at 903 Mills Market...a cool neighborhood cafe that serves awesome sandwiches and salads at a reasonable price. The food was delicious and our conversation was the perfect tonic for what ailed me.

Once again work took me to Tampa this afternoon. And once again the blueberry picking bug bit me on my way home to Orlando. I picked up the phone to make sure blueberries were still hanging on the bushes and off I went for another picking adventure. Retta, the woman who so generously passed on the world's largest zucchini to me last week, greeted me with enthusiasm. She had checked out my blog and was anxious to get the recipe for the Blueberry Zucchini Bread David made with the large gift. She even discussed publishing his recipe in the next edition of her blueberry cookbook. How cool is that?!

I ate blueberries all the way home. Retta told me she rarely washes her berries. They are grown pesticide free. I was very happy about that because I think I must have consumed a whole pound all by myself. I believe whole heartedly in the mental acuity benefits of the blueberry. I am feeling quite sharp this evening...ready to take on any challenge life throws my way.

After a brief stop at Publix to pick up fresh salmon and mashed potatoes, I threw together a mighty tasty meal in less than half an hour. Mike and I dined on grilled salmon, mashed potatoes and a nice salad for about $13.50. I was proud of my frugality and ready to dive into the business research once again.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Lonely People - Day 305

It is amazing to me how many lonely people there are in this world. Sometimes I think my perch at Costco has a sign that reads "The Doctor Is In" instead of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. I am not complaining. In fact, it is one reason I like my job. Today an Air Force veteran, Patrick, stopped by to talk...and talk...and talk. No exaggeration, he talked for over an hour about his time in the service. Time served that he was extremely proud of...as well he should be. He needed a sympathetic ear, eye contact and kudos for a job well done. Listening is something I can do well. So I listened and listened and listened some more. Until nature called. Patrick even escorted me to the Ladies room, but thank goodness he did not come in.

The rest of my afternoon was spent birdwatching. Costco has two new residents...a pair of bird buddies. I watched them fly around overhead and swoop down to grab tasting droppings. All the while hoping that the other kind of droppings did not land on my head. I left Costco unscathed.

Mike had a craving for seafood and I had a craving for relaxation. So we headed to Boston's Fish House in Lake Mary/Sanford to split a seafood platter and a cup of clam chowder. Boston's does fried seafood right. The breading is light and crispy, never greasy, and the portions are quite generous. Tonight the TVs stationed around the room were set on the news. News of the BP oil debacle and the effects on the Florida coast and tourism. I have avoided much of the coverage because I feel so helpless. Mike usually has a way of filling me in on the latest developments without making me depressed. Unfortunately even Mike couldn't sugar coat this mess. I left the restaurant full and filled with frustration over the state of our world, but happy I was not one of the lonely people. I had an intelligent, loving partner to share my life with. Life is still pretty darn good.

Many hugs,

Kathy