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

A Week Of Joy - Day 304

Yesterday hall of fame basketball coach, John Wooden passed away at the ripe old age of 99. He was a winner, a motivator of young men, but most importantly he was a good person. One thing I heard in an interview from a year ago stuck with me. It was a favorite saying from his beloved wife Nel - "Oh Lord, make me beautiful within." It is how John Wooden lived his 99 years and how I plan to live mine.

This week has been one filled with joy, giving and receiving. My down time at Costco today gave me time to reflect on just how amazing the time has been. I passed out cookies, blueberries and advice. I shared ideas, researched and planned. In return I received some unbelievable gifts - a jar of homemade blackberry jam, a home cooked meal served at a dining table with my adopted family, a whole blackberry crumb pie made with fresh picked blackberries, the world's largest zucchini and a loaf of yummy blueberry zucchini bread. Kat, Shawn, Sheri, David, Sarah, Noah and Retta...THANKS! I enjoyed every bite and every minute.

The exclamation point was spent at Polonia Polish Restaurant this evening with Mike. We feasted on Perla Beer and Pork Cutlets for Mike, Raspberry Polish Wine and a Polish Sampler Plate for me. Our server, Marysia took very good care of us. We savored every delicious bite and took home Kolaczki Polish cookies for later. It was joyful soul satisfying evening...kind of like my entire week.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Happy National Donut Day! - Day 303

This morning I went through the Dunkin Donuts drive thru to pick up a cup of coffee to jump start my day and ended up with a free donut. Little did I know that June 4 was a day to celebrate the rounding of America...National Donut Day. I was more than happy to participate.

Donuts are like hot dogs to me. I really like them, but rarely indulge. The guilt about their unhealthiness makes me stay away. Plus I am too busy eating cookies, pie or cake...much healthier choices. Yeah, right! However, a FREE donut is difficult to pass up. My sugar raised donut choice paired quite well with the cup of piping hot coffee. A good day was ahead.

I love obscure holidays...especially when free stuff is involved.

Many hugs,

Kathy

Blackberry Heaven - Day 302

A day can't begin or end any better than today. I started my day with a toasted sandwich thin spread with a thin coating of Irish butter and a generous spread of homemade blackberry jam. This was no ordinary jam. It was the jam made by Kat's fiance Shawn from blackberries hand picked in their back yard. I couldn't help but be in a good mood as I headed to work.

The good mood continued when I walked in my office. Kat had left me a note on my desk telling me she thought Shawn and I were having a "baking affair"...come to her office to find out why. Hmmmmm, I wonder what yummy goody I was in store for?

My jaw dropped when Kat pulled the gift from Shawn out of her cooler. Shawn had made a beautiful blackberry crumb pie. A whole pie just for me. Because he knew I loved blackberries. Because I shared my cookie experiments with him. You know, I think Kat is right. I am having a "baking affair" with Shawn and it feels really good. It feels like blackberry heaven.

Many hugs,

Kathy

The Best Lunch Break Ever - Day 301

Today my work travels took me to Tampa to deliver a rush job for an event this evening. No time for lunch on the trip over. The trip back was another story. A billboard advertising BLUEBERRIES at Shady Oak Farm had been calling to me for over a month. Today I answered. After a brief visit to Mickey D's, I picked up the phone and called to find out when picking season ends and ask for directions. Picking will continue for another couple of weeks and the exit was only two away. What a great way to spend a lunch break!

I LOVE picking fruit!

Shady Oak Farm is located just 3.5 miles off exit 31 (Kathleen Exit) on I-4. Blueberries are available for you to pick for $3.00 per pound or $4.25 per pound freshly picked for you. Did I mention I LOVE picking fruit? You know which option I chose!

I took off my jacket, picked up my bucket and headed to the bushes. The owner directed me to the bushes with the most berries. Nirvana. Peeking out from the lower branches were clusters of beautiful blue goodness. I picked for about a half an hour. Sweat poured down my face. I did not care. I was in my happy place with an added bonus of goodies to share. I would strongly recommend a visit to Shady Oak Farm this weekend before the season ends. Pick your own berries and share with your friends...or make new ones.

Shady Oak Farm (813)512-1547.

Tonight was Dinner at David and Sheri's Part 2. Dinner last week was so wonderful, I was really looking forward to the sequel. And once again David did not disappoint. He served Roasted Chicken, Zellwood Corn, Couscous with Zucchini and fresh from the garden Brussels Sprouts. I could really get used to this Wednesday ritual. Somehow I think his blog is going to take weeks to perfect.

Many hugs,

Kathy

It's All About The Cookies - Day 300

Cookies have taken over my brain. Every spare moment is consumed by thoughts of the next step in the process. Today on my lunch hour I stopped by A Chateau Kitchen, a commercial kitchen for rent in Winter Park. As soon as I walked through the door I was struck by the intoxicating smell of fresh baked goodies. This is home. This is where I belong. This is what I am meant to do. Unfortunately the woman that owns the facility was not available. Her father just passed away. But a woman working for Cake-A-Licious, the vendor responsible for the amazing smell, handed me a business card and said there were a couple of spots available. This was music to my ears. I think my heart actually sang a few notes.

Earlier in the day my friends David and Morgan generously offered...no, begged to help me with my logo. I just cannot get over how many people want to help. Step by step, everything is falling into place. It is like ...this is what is meant to be. True serendipity. I was looking for a way to meet my financial responsibilities. What I found was...I was already the wealthiest woman around.

Many hugs,

Kathy