Lesson Learned

This isn't a business blog, but I have to briefly talk about the ridiculousness that is owning a bakery during the holidays...

The bakery turned out to be a huge undertaking.  Whodathunkit??  (Someone, please, remind me never to start a business during the holiday rush again.)  We made well over 200 dozen cookies between Thanksgiving and New Years.  There was the farmers market every week, custom orders, corporate orders, and even two special events.

I never expected such a high demand.  It was encouraging, flattering, and scary all at the same time.  I was taking care of the kids all day long and baking all night long-- most nights (mornings?), I didn't go to bed until 2 am.  My life was literally kids and cookies for one month.  I didn't shower, sleep, or eat nearly as often as I should have; I didn't keep in touch with friends; and I didn't get to do every single thing on my Christmas bucket list (namely Zoolights and the Russo Family Baking Marathon).

The holidays totally kicked my ass.  I learned a lot, though, and, next year, I expect to be the one doing the ass-kicking.  And you, readers, can expect to be hearing from me a little more often now.

Dear kiddos, dream big...

Today, I had my first farmers market.

(You know, for my bakery.)

It was a lot of work.  It was chaotic and stressful, and I haven't gone to bed before 2:00 am in 3 days.  It was a dream come true.

Since I was 7 or 8 years old, entering coffee cakes into the baked goods exhibit at the Durham Fair, I have wanted to be a baker.  Grammy can attest to this.  I don't know if this business will grow into something more (like a storefront...in Flag...), but I do know how great a feeling it is to finally say that I am a baker. 

And, because of that, I want you to know that I fully support your dreams.  Truck driver, dance teacher, astrophysicist, CFO of Something Sweet...whatever.  I will be there for you.  I will come to your house at 7:00 am with coffee and bagels, help you package and label cookies, help set up a canopy sans instruction manual, and "hold down the fort" when you have to pee or breastfeed-- or, you know, whatever you need me to do...  I love you both, and I will do whatever I can to make your dreams come true.

Busy Baking

I'm a busy person.  I am never content to sit still and enjoy the moment.  Here's what I mean by that...most moms use their maternity leave to rest, adjust to motherhood, and snuggle their new baby; but not me.  I am not like most moms.  My maternity leave is being used to start my own business.  My own bakery.  

Something Sweet by Tay is a family-owned and operated bakery primarily serving the Phoenix metropolitan area.  We offer all sorts of yummy things:  cookies, cupcakes, younameit.  If you're craving it, we can bake it.  Our specialty is Royal Icing Sugar Cookies.  They are unique, delicious, and completely customizable.  Served on a platter or as favors, these cookies are the perfect ending to any event. 

I hope you'll wish me luck on this adventure (and/or keep me in mind for all future baking needs).  As a thank you for your support I'm offering my readers a 15 percent discount through October 31, just mention Growing Baby Shelton when placing your order.  And be sure to "like" our Facebook page for future monthly specials and giveaways!

(If you're located outside of Arizona, don't feel bad!  Our Royal Icing Sugar Cookies can be shipped!!!)