Today, I was back at Ganache buying more chocolate explosion candy bars (the ones laced with pop rocks.) I didn’t make it far when I was drawn in. Last week at Explorer Toys the baby seed was planted and now it was looming again. As I peeked in Jack & Jill Children’s Shoppe, the chocolate explosion became the baby explosion!
Soft and cuddly sleepers, stuffed animal blankets, and the most adorable striped, polka dot and velvety dresses surrounded me. But, one thing caused me to pause. The Constructive Eating sets, complete with fork, shovel and rake. The goal, I think, is to teach toddlers how to eat with utensils including a plate designed with arrows to direct flow and areas to scoop things. I’m not sure how these sets would teach good manners but would be perfect to teach good “playing with food” skills. I wonder if they have a food fight kit for teens. “Destructive Eating,” anyone?
Okay, I’ve decided that I’m not having any more babies. Instead, I’m having a Christmas party! And it was just around the corner at Butler’s Pantry that Sandy helped me find exactly what I needed. With recipes scattered about her beautifully decorated shop, I picked up one for divinity that sounded interesting, but candy thermometers intimidate me. The part that said, “If the candy becomes too stiff , add a few drops of water. Work fast,” made me nervous, even with “Divinity” as the title. Instead I opted for a recipe on the next table, Easy Sugar Cookies.
“Easy,” now that’s a word that brings me peace, especially during this hectic season. And peace arrived through an array of green packages near the front of the store. “Add cream cheese and/or butter” and it’s done. That’s it! Now that’s my kind of recipe. It reminds me of a trick from my mother-in-law. She would take something simple – ice cream drizzled with chocolate syrup or a dessert from Cosco – and put it on a special plate or in a fancy dish. She would proudly say, “Makes you look like you thought about it.” It worked everytime and now, thanks to Butler’s Pantry, MYLLYTAI has become a reality in my life. All I need to decide is which flavor. Should I go for the key lime, tiramisu, or chocolate chip cheesecake? I will let you know. Until then, Happy Holiday parties!
And my wandering continues ….
