Kitchen Wizard Kathy

Variety is the Spice of Life!

2012-02-27T09:55:00.002-05:00

Thinking back on previous jobs I've had, I think I tend to get bored easily. I wouldn't say I have a lengthy job history, but I have felt more satisfied with work when I've had flexibility, freedom, and variety in my job. Money has never been the driving factor for me. I may regret that when I retire, but I don't know if I'll ever WANT to retire!

I've said before how much I LOVE my business. I think a part of that is because I've crafted my business to give me what helps me feel fulfilled. In any given week, I may be baking a shower cake, teaching a kids' candy making program, meeting with possible new venues about cooking programs, baking cookie trays, delivering baked goods, going to a wedding vendor networking event, teaching an adult hors d'oeuvres program, emailing/calling prospective customers, training new instructors, and prepping/packing for upcoming programs. I'll bet you think it sounds like a LOT! I don't - it doesn't even feel like work to me. I get to do a little of everything - spend time working alone, spend time with others (especially children who can be so much fun!), teaching/training, playing with food. It's all enjoyable to me, and that helps the time pass quickly.

When I have "nothing" to do, I tend to bake! And, when I'm teaching folks how to cook or when I'm baking, I'm at my happiest.

I began my business within a month after that dreadful day in US history, September 11, 2001. I'm sure many people thought I was crazy, and the economy hasn't improved much, if at all, since then. But, there's a lot to be said about living your dream! And, I'm doing just that.

I hope you, too, have a job that makes you feel happy and fulfilled. Comment below and let me know.

Love!

2012-02-12T12:34:00.002-05:00

I was inspired to write today, because of what happened at Mass this morning. Each year, around Valentine’s Day, it’s a tradition at many Catholic parishes to have married couples renew their vows. Since I’ve never been married, I have always waited out this tradition, keeping a low profile, waiting for it to be over and Mass to resume. But, not this year. Today, as the priest went through a lengthy prayer/blessing, I just happened to look closely into the faces of the couples, standing, facing each other, and gazing into their spouse’s eyes. How often are couples able, in today’s busy world, to have the time to look closely at each other for several minutes straight? Yet, without exception, I could see the commitment these pairs had for each other.

Some observations…

There were young couples, old couples, and middle-aged couples. Some couples were whispering (sweet nothings? private jokes?) to each other, and others were looking very solemnly at each other.

One young couple looked so hopeful and happy - probably wasn't long ago that they made their vows. Another couple had their newborn along – in her christening gown, for the baby’s important moment, taking place at the end of Mass. I thought about the years that stretched ahead, and how fortunate these couples were to have found their partners for life.

Behind me, there was a couple – probably about my age. I couldn’t see the husband’s face, but the wife had a tentative smile and looked very emotional. It made me wonder if they were facing a challenge in their relationship, perhaps, or if one of them was sick? So many couples have to face challenges together – hardships that might make their relationship grow stronger or tear them apart. A strong commitment is necessary to hold a marriage together through the bad times.

I had to smile at another couple – they were probably in their mid-60s. The husband looked like a pretty crusty guy, and the wife looked...tired. But, during those few minutes, they stood close and held hands tightly, and the husband reached up and brushed a strand of hair away from his wife’s face. Such a tender moment, and, so unexpected from this guy!

I thought, too, of those who were aged and without spouses – did it bring back fond memories of their lost mates or make them yearn to be reunited? How about those who had been hurt in love? Were they cynical, or did they feel hopeful that they could someday find love again? Were children embarrassed or happy to see their parents renewing their love in front of others?

There is so much pressure at Valentine’s Day – what’s the appropriate gift? Will he/she misconstrue or enjoy how you’ve decided to celebrate? What if you’re having trouble in your partnership? Will the boy or girl you like in your class give you a Valentine? Are you sad to be without the one you love? Will you eat a lot of chocolate because you're sad or lonely?

Well, I think that this brief “ceremony” celebrating marriage and LOVE was a nice demonstration of what it’s all about. It brought ME back to the basics – something so normal, natural, simple – yet spectacular! LOVE is found in everyday actions, in the people around you, and in many variations. All you have to do is stop for a minute…and let it sink in.

I wish you all an open heart. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2012-02-05T20:19:00.000-05:00

Today, my Mom, Doris Fugger Wolper, turned 86. We had a wonderful celebration for her last night. Mom has had a great influence on my life, and last evening, at my sister Mary's, we celebrated in a way best suited for Mom. Mom's early life was not the happiest, but things changed when she met and married Dad. Add to that six children, and eventually, five grandchildren, and Mom's life was complete.

A close family was always so important to her - something she instilled in all of us. Getting together as a family has consistently brought happiness to Mom, and so, it was fitting to celebrate her birthday as a family - not with fighting and arguments, like, sadly, she experienced in her childhood, but with a lot of joking and laughs - never in short supply at our family gatherings. Reminscing about favorite Mom memories was a hoot! (Thanks to my brother Joe for the "roast" - it was so much fun!) :-)

I cannot remember a time when Mom looked this happy, and that was great to see. Of course, everyone eating a LOT of food was always part of the equation for Mom, and food was plentiful (and tasty!) at Mom's birthday dinner. Missing (in person) were grandchildren Jeff, Chris, and Allie, who are all away for their studies, but they were close in our hearts - especially Mom's!

So, what have I learned from Mom? Oh, the list is long, but some of the things I've learned are as follows:

to love with my whole heart
family is what it's all about
to enjoy cooking and baking
to stay true to who I am
to fight for what I think is right
to stand by those I love

Happy Birthday, Mom! I love you, and I'm happy to celebrate yet another birthday with you!!!

Gearing Up for the Summer!

2012-01-23T20:57:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited about the direction of my business - it seems to be going up, uP, UP!!

First of all, I brought a business development manager on board. Gene is an old college friend with an entrepreneurial spirit and a nice personality. He is anxious to grow my business for me, and I'm happy to have him handling that part of the business. It allows me to concentrate on other facets of Kathy's Just Desserts and Kitchen Wizards.

We've been meeting with various local schools and starting programs at many of them. We've also made inroads with many Parks & Rec Departments, and now we have programs at many more locations.

Next, I had to find some instructors. I'm thrilled that Wendi, after having her adorable little baby Charlotte, has come back with all the happiness and energy she had when working for me before the baby!

I've also been pleased to have several other instructors come on board.

Mare is a substitute teacher - and she's been experimenting with cooking for several years. I think the "bug" has gotten her, and she's loving the culinary arts.

Shannon is starting her own cake business - and her work is amazing! She loves kids and is looking forward to teaching cooking and baking programs.

Micki is my godchild, my oldest friend's daughter. She's an actress, and for four years, she's been teaching DramaKids programs. Since she and her husband have been together, much to her mom's delight, she has become quite the cook. With her experience and enthusiasm, I know she'll be a great addition.

And, Ashley is Gene's daughter. She's a really great young woman who is really excited to take on this new challenge. She has been getting into cooking, and she loves being around kids. So, she's going to be a great asset!

In fact, all of my instructors are just the nicest people you'd want to meet - and I trust my programs in their hands. It's nice to have that kind of confidence in people who are representing my business. That has not come easily for me, and I know I'm lucky to have found such great instructors!

Next step for Kitchen Wizards? We're expanding even more! So, if you know of any locations in the Philadelphia suburbs and South Jersey (including shore points) that might want to host cooking programs - either after-school, weekends, or summer cooking camps, please have them contact us:

Gene Basso gene@kathysjustdesserts.com
Kathy Wolper kw@kathysjustdesserts.com

And, if you know of anyone who wants a job as a culinary instructor, have them contact us, too.

Remember us for scout workshops and cooking birthday parties, too!

Lofty Goals!

2012-01-11T15:40:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I'm just coming out of the cold/cough/allergy "thing" that's had me down for the past few weeks. It's good to feel "alive" again.

Shortly before Christmas, I attended a PA Parks & Recs expo with my new Business Development Manager (who's doing a bang up job!). At the expo, we met many people and made some good contacts. But, I think my favorite part was meeting David C. Perry, who does caricatures. I highly recommend him - he made me look good! Here's a photo of the caricature he did for me.

Now, I thought I had lofty goals for 2012, regarding expanding the business - offering Kitchen Wizards programs to a wider audience, with more talented instructors who really enjoy teaching kids to cook. But, apparently, David has even loftier goals for me (if only he was a fortune teller, too!), as you can see from the Food Network camera off to the right. I like David's work, but I LOVE how he thinks! Thanks, David!

For more info on David, please check his website - http://www.davidcperry.com/

Happy 2012!

2011-12-31T20:49:00.002-05:00

Just dropping in - between my coughing fits - to say Happy New Year! Each year, all that pre-Christmas baking catches up to me. I guess I'm a bit run down. And, with dry heat in my house, I always get that tickle in my throat that triggers a hacking cough as winter sets in. I'll be laying low tonight, and hoping for good health, fewer personal challenges, and even greater business success in 2012 - for myself, and for all of you, too!

So, when midnight strikes, blow a horn, bang a pot, kiss your sweetie, and toast with champagne for me. I'm hoping to be sleeping - starting now, and lasting at least eight hours into 2012! Happy New Year!!!

Why I haven't been posting lately...

2011-12-21T22:19:00.000-05:00

Well, the crunch is over. Most of my orders are delivered. The remainder of the cookies are baked and wrapped, ready for delivery tomorrow and Friday. And, I only have 100 chocolate pretzels, 3 pies, and a cake to prepare. THEN, I get to decorate! But, in the meantime, how do you like my temporary Christmas tree? :-)

Cookie Baking Tips!

2011-12-09T08:47:00.000-05:00

At this time of year, many folks' thoughts turn to cookie baking. I thought my gift to my readers would be to give you some tips that help me to bake 18,000 cookies in December AND still have time to live my life! It's all about being organized.

1. ALWAYS use parchment paper. In fact, buy a case of it, and share it with your other cookie-baking friends/family - it doesn't "go bad". http://www.acemart.com/prod4502.html Parchment is very expensive when you buy it in the supermarket, and it's in a roll. These cases of parchment are delivered flat. The full sheet size can be cut in half to fit exactly on your favorite cookie sheets - and they stay flat! When using parchment, don't spray/butter/grease the pan or the parchment. After baking, slide parchment onto table/counter to cool completely before removing cookies. Cookies will release easily when cooled. I also use parchment (cut to form) to line bottom of cake pans (but then, I DO spray pans). Makes it much easier for cakes to come out of the pan intact.

2. Make all doughs in one day - only using mixer. Go from plain to nuts to chocolate - then you won't even have to wash bowls in between. (Of course, I don't do this because of cross-contamination issues for customers.) Bag up and label doughs and put in refrigerator.

3. On another day, form cookie shapes (balls, crescents, thumbprints) and freeze. When completely frozen, put in freezer bags and keep frozen until you need to bake. This can be done weeks ahead!

4. When you take the formed cookies out of freezer, place on parchment-lined cookie sheets and thaw (DON'T thaw entire bag - you'll have to re-form cookies).

5. As cookies thaw, preheat oven. You'll be able to just rotate cookie trays through oven quickly to bake - and save on energy bills.

6. My FAVORITE cookie sheets are the disposable ones (which I use over and over and clean in dishwasher) that you can get at some dollar stores. NEVER use a black cookie sheet - I don't even know why they MAKE them - everything burns on black-lined cookie sheets/cake pans!

7. If you ever buy a bag of lemons for a recipe, then end up throwing out the fuzzy moldy ones left in the bottom of the refrigerator, try this! Take a few minutes to zest and juice all lemons as soon as you get them. Put ALL of the zest in a freezer bag and freeze. Whenever you need zest, it'll be ready for you! Just break off a clump (all the zest doesn't freeze together), and you're good to go. Measure out one tablespoon of lemon juice into the well of each part of an ice cube tray. Freeze, then bag up and put in freezer. Whenever you need lemon juice in a recipe, you'll have it ready - and it's so much better than RealLemon in the green bottle!

8. When toasting nuts, grind them up in food processor (pulse - otherwise, you'll have nut butter!). Then, put in dry non-stick fry pan and toast, moving nuts around with a wooden spoon. When evenly toasted, remove from pan and cool. Grinding nuts FIRST will ensure that more surface of nuts will be toasted - and give a much more defined nut flavor.

9. This is more of a cooking/gardening tip. When you grow fresh herbs in the summer, rinse, air dry, and bag up herbs, then put in freezer bags and freeze until you need them. If you're using them in a soup or stew, you can also put them in ice cube trays, cover with water, freeze, then bag up and keep frozen until use. Pop those ice cubes right into soup or stew.

10. If this all seems a bit too much for you, just order your gourmet cookie trays for the holidays from http://www.kathysjustdesserts.com/. We're ready to take your order - and we deliver within a half hour of East Norriton/Blue Bell - what could be easier?!?

My Very Own Elves

2011-11-30T09:08:00.000-05:00

In the old commercials, I always thought the Keebler elves were cute, but they don't hold a candle to Kathy's Just Desserts' elves. If I'm to produce 18,000 cookies in a home kitchen during the month of December, I need help! I present to you Megan, Allie, Ally, and Katie - such a big help!

A Thankful Life

2011-11-20T18:13:00.004-05:00

Thanksgiving is this week! And, while I'm not a big fan of turkey, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, brussel sprouts, parsnips, and many of the traditional Thanksgiving meal foods (hey - I'm a picky eater!), I do like to reflect on all I have to be grateful for in my life.

I think it can all be summed up in one word LOVE!!! I'm fortunate to have experienced love in all of its forms in my life. Feel free to comment below and add something you're thankful for, too!

I have had a deep, intense, romantic love, and though it didn't last, I'm happy to have known what it's like to have that once-in-a-lifetime kind of love, that weak in the knees feeling, combined with knowing I was important to someone else who cherished me and found me sexy, funny, smart, and pretty...and to feel the same way about the man I love.

I also love my family - from remembering childhood memories with my elderly parents all the way down to spending time laughing with my nieces and nephews. Family is so important!

I've been fortunate to have several good friends who know me, accept me, and are there for me - no matter what's happening, no matter when. They are true friends, and we've gone through a lot together.

I love my job! In fact, I've loved nearly every job I've had in my life - don't know if I just picked the right jobs or if I made the best out of the jobs I've had. But, this job, my business, is so special to me. I get such a feeling out of delight out of seeing my business grow. I could go on and on...

I also love (not necessarily in this order):

Chocolate
A cool breeze on a warm summer evening
Sitting on the beach, watching the waves roll in
Sunsets that paint the heavens a "sky blue pink"
The innocence and inquisitiveness of children
That baby smell and the feel of a baby in my arms
Hearing songs on the radio that take me back in time to great memories
Zumba
Christmas music
Long talks with good friends
People smiling back at me
Belly laughs (even if I AM laughing at my own jokes!)
A cup of hot chocolate and some cookies while watching a snowstorm from my picture window - as long as I don't have to go out
Sudoku
Every shade of blue
Water aerobics
Watching TV shows or movies that touch my soul, make me cry
Racquetball - as long as we're not keeping score
Reading a good book that makes me wonder what happened next to the characters after I'm finished the book
Hugs so tight they take my breath away

I know I'll think of more, but when you have felt love like this in your life, how can you NOT be thankful and happy each and every year, when Thanksgiving rolls around?! Happy Thanksgiving!!! I hope you, too, have much that makes you grateful.

Who Am I?

2011-11-10T19:38:00.000-05:00

On the eve of my 55th birthday, I find myself looking at my life - and I want to share who I think I am.

Since I can remember, I've loved children. I'm told that I'd go grocery shopping with Mom when I was a toddler and point at babies in other carts and say, "I want one of those!" I was never blessed me with children, but that has not prevented me from surrounding myself with kids - to teach, to enjoy, to laugh with, to share stories with, and more. Kids are so honest, so innocent, and so funny. I think that's why I like them so much!

It's also why I feel so protective of kids. So, this has been a difficult week, learning about the tragedy of children being harmed at Penn State. It actually hurts my heart - and I tend to get pretty riled up when I hear of anyone who would harm a child or turn a blind eye to knowledge of abuse.

What else defines me? I'd like to think a sense of humor - inherited from my Dad, who always has a ready smile and an easy laugh.

Family is important to me - and although both of my parents have instilled a love of family in me, it was particularly important to Mom, since she had a tough time growing up. It's great to get together with our own family - as well as the extended family.

I really love spending time with my nieces and nephews - and seeing them grow up, seeing how they remind me of my sister and my brothers, hearing their thoughts on any topic, learning their lingo - and using it out of context, much to their delight.

I have been told I'm approachable - I like when people feel relaxed around me. I never want anyone to feel uncomfortable, so I try to be open and welcoming to those I meet.

I'm a good listener (although, truth be told, probably more of a good talker)! I love having gabfests with my oldest, dearest friends - and I find it's easy to pick up where I left off, even if I haven't spoken to a friend in a long time.

I'm direct - you know where you stand with me.

I am loyal when it comes to love - in any of its variations - if you're a friend, family member, or someone else I love, you know you're stuck with me! I'm inquisitive - I like to ask questions - and I really AM interested in the answers.

Oh, yeah, and reading back on this, apparently, I like myself and have no faults! ;-)

And, I have an excellent memory. When I look back at this blog at age 65, 75, and beyond (if blogs are even used by then - who knows what the future will hold?), I hope I can still say that I have a good memory!

With that, I think I'll put on a pair of Depends, take out my teeth and put them in a jar on my nightstand, and go to bed early! (Just kidding!!!) Happy Birthday to ME!!!

Cleaning House

2011-11-01T19:50:00.000-04:00

Just before the busy holiday baking season, I tend to get antsy about clutter in my house. So, this year, I'm trying to keep ahead of the game. I had a Living Social deal for a cleaning service - and they did a GREAT job yesterday! My house has not sparkled this much since I made settlement on that same day, October 31 - fourteen years ago! I could get used to having someone clean my house!

Today, with the assistance of my niece Katie, I got a boxful of filing sorted and filed. Just having her here helped - she's such a sweetie and lots of fun, but also very smart and a hard worker. In no time (well, maybe a couple of hours), we were finished!

It's nice to have things neat and clean. Shakes the cobwebs out of my mind, too. I had a very productive day, and that always feels good!

I spoke with a prospective customer who wants to advertise and take orders for my gourmet holiday cookie trays at her cafe. Completed an application to participate in an ongoing after-school cooking program with a local school district - if they get the grant they're looking to get. Got my holiday help started on an order due this Saturday - the girls (Katie and her friend) had fun dipping pretzels, Oreos, and peanut butter balls in chocolate - yum!

Started the day with Mass for All Saints Day - and thought about All Souls Day tomorrow, when we remember those we've lost and pray for them.

It's days like these when I feel most accomplished, together, capable - all great qualities to strive for every day - but somehow they're so much easier to attain when I have a clean house! ;-)

April Fool's or Christmas or Halloween Weekend?

2011-10-29T08:50:00.000-04:00

Well, this is weird. We're going to have SNOW today. Now, you may remember that, a few posts ago, I wrote about looking forward to the upcoming cooler fall weather. But, isn't God rushing this a bit? Snow before Halloween?

(Grumble, grumble) Guess I'll go dig out my snow shovel and ice melt... ;-)

Happy Halloween! I hope you get to enjoy jack o'lanterns without snow covering them, kids in costumes without boots, and leftover candy (which you wouldn't have if you get snowed in, be honest!).

How to Handle Disappointment

2011-10-20T09:17:00.001-04:00

Well, I'm saddened to report that, despite my best efforts, I've had to cancel the Cupcake Capers event. I don't know why folks weren't interested, but it seemed pointless to hold it for the four people who paid for tickets. I'm going to revise the idea and try again after the Christmas holiday season is over.

I saw a quote I liked on Facebook. I thought I'd share it.

I'm too positive to be doubtful,
too optimistic to be fearful,
and too determined to be defeated!

This mindset has served me well in my life - and most especially, in my ten years in business.

I also shared this quote with my Mom. At 85, her memory, confidence, and outlook on life have become difficult to witness. Once so vital, she's now doubtful, fearful, and seems defeated. She's getting help for this, and we're all hopeful that our Mom will return to us.

With the Cupcake Capers' cancellation happening right after Mom's decline, I have to believe that well-known adage - God doesn't give you more than you can handle. I am happy to help Mom. I love her, and I know that, if I were in such dire shape, Mom would be the first one to help me - or any of her six kids. Helping with Mom also helps Dad, who is her primary caregiver. If my focus was on the fundraiser this week, I wouldn't be able to help out. So, things happen for a reason. It doesn't make me any less committed to Mommy's Light, but my priority has to be with family.

So...onward and upward - to having a successful fundraiser early in 2012 - and even before that, having a "healed" soul for Mom.

Some good press for the Cupcake Capers event!

2011-10-12T09:07:00.000-04:00

http://www.timesherald.com/articles/2011/10/12/life/doc4e9569a9bde4a690621051.txt?viewmode=fullstory

It's NOT the Hokey Pokey...

2011-10-10T19:15:00.002-04:00

...FAMILY is what "it's all about"! This weekend was a busy one. I'm going to take a break from talking about the business this time, because it was a truly memorable family weekend.

Mom's brother, my Uncle Charley, died in Reno, NV in July. His kids Tina and "Davey" decided to have the funeral here, so they brought his ashes, and a lot of out-of-town family (as well as many in-town family members) came to the funeral. It was very difficult for all, but especially for Tina and her fiance Steve, Dave, and Tina's children Kyle and Dawn. But, the show of love and support was palpable when we were all together. Uncle Charley (Charley Chuckles) was a very special guy - soft-spoken but funny, handsome but humble. He suffered for many years, and I'm sure he looked down on this celebration of his life and his family with a big smile.

You see, Dad's family is mostly local, but Mom's family is far flung - from Phoenix to Reno to Pittsburgh to Campbellford, Ontario, so many cousins came - and it was great to get together. Honestly, after the burial, it was more like a family reunion. Even though we don't see the "Fugger" family members often, we are very close. It's obvious how much we all love being together, catching up, and laughing a lot. We just couldn't get enough of each other - breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, plus hanging around for hours, just talking and talking.

My heart is full, and I'm happy for Mom that, even though many of her siblings are now gone, she was present to witness this closeness. For Mom, a close-knit family has always been important, and we demonstrated that in spades these past three days.

So, the song is wrong - Family (and love) is what it's all about! ;-)

Falling for Fall

2011-10-02T11:46:00.000-04:00

Well, we're starting to have a real taste of fall weather, and I couldn't be happier! Now, this is something NEW, because I've always been a spring/summer kind of girl. But, this past summer's heat...and rain, tornado, hurricane, earthquake - just about did me in! For the first time in a long time, I'm enjoying the crisp, clear air, and I'm looking forward to the fall colors and change in season.

I also tend to do a lot of public events once the summer is over, which is always a lot of fun. Once again, I did the GNPAL event (to benefit the Greater Norristown Police Athletic League). The Lower Gwynedd Countrie Picnic was cancelled due to the rain, but I had a table at a new (for me) event - The Junior League Taste of Fall - last Sunday. Great venue, nice crowd, and good reviews for my baked goods.

Next Sunday, I'll be participating in another new event - The Ultimate Birthday Bash, sponsored by Main Line Parent. That event will include a competition between other bakers and my baking business, Kathy's Just Desserts - should be fun! It's FREE to attendees, and you get cake! What more could you ask for on a fall Sunday?! :-D I'll also be happy to tell folks about my kids' cooking parties.

I'm trying hard to get my Cupcake Capers event off the ground - a benefit for Mommy's Light Lives On. Getting nervous because there aren't a lot of attendees as of yet - still 2 weeks left to respond. Details are on my website. In addition to having fun (kids AND adults) decorating cupcakes to take home, we'll also have lots of great raffle items. And, Mommy's Light (www.mommyslight.org) is such a good cause!

In early December, I'll have a table at the LaSalle Mother's Club shopping event for the seventh year. That's always a good event - and folks can pre-order cookie trays to be delivered closer to the holidays (for teacher/client/hostess gifts and home/office parties). This year, I'm ready for any/all orders - two heavy-duty mixers and my new range with a double oven!

So, if you're out and about, please feel free to stop by these events for a sample...or two...or three! I'll be the one NOT complaining about the cool weather - promise!

Love this so much, I’d do it for free!

2011-09-25T20:27:00.000-04:00

Love this so much, I’d do it for free!

I’ve often said this, and it’s so true. Everyone dreams of what they’d do if they won the lottery – well, I wouldn’t change a thing, except I wouldn’t have to charge for my culinary programs or my baked goods.

I’m exhausted tonight, because I’ve spent many long hours baking – for several large orders (thankfully, because they help pay the bills), preparing for fall after-school cooking programs, working on getting raffle donations for my Cupcake Capers fundraiser for Mommy’s Light Lives On (see previous post), and baking for freebie give-away events.

Today, my niece Katie and her friend Ally helped me at an event at Fairmount Park for the Junior League of Philadelphia. We gave out samples - hundreds of mini-cupcakes and even more cookies. Of course, I had business cards available – and so many people took them, especially after they realized that I deliver!

I also gave out flyers for the fundraiser – and many people who never heard of Mommy’s Light seemed interested in a fun afternoon of cupcake decorating – that would also help kids who have lost their moms – to keep their moms’ memories alive. I hope they register! It feels good to be doing something to help others in need.

Tonight, it’s off to bed early to catch up on sleep, rejuvenate my aching body, and look forward to another fun week. It’ll be even more fun, because, after 10 years in business, I’m finally upgrading some appliances in my kitchen. As tired as I am, I can’t wait to try them out!

Tomorrow, I’m having a double oven, 5-burner range installed, as well as a new dishwasher, and a new garbage disposal. Can’t wait! Imagine my productivity – especially in December. Last year, I baked 18,000 Christmas cookies in a single oven during the month of December. I’ll have lots of time to sleep this year – since I’ll be baking cookies in half the time.

And, on that note, Merry Christmas (haha!) to all, and to all a good night! ;-)

A Fundraiser for Mommy's Light!

2011-09-18T20:38:00.000-04:00

I cannot believe that it's almost 10 years since I began my business. It’s been a decade of growth, learning, hard work, and sheer joy as I’ve built my business. So, to give back, I’m holding this benefit for Mommy’s Light Lives On (http://www.mommyslight.org/). As soon as I learned about this organization, I knew I had to help them. Check their website - I'm sure you'll agree.

If you ask anyone who knows me, you’ll find out just how much I LOVE kids! I can’t bear to hear of any child hurting. I find each child to be a miracle, a wonder, loads of fun, refreshing, intelligent, and very cute!

I have such wonderful memories of times spent with both of my parents, but especially, learning to cook and bake with Mom. I can’t imagine how different my life would’ve been without my parents. And, I know that I’m fortunate to still have them at my age…at their ages.

I’d love it if any of my readers could spread the word – this event will be a fun time, and you’ll be donating to such a worthy cause – kids who’ve lost their moms. Thanks!

Cupcake Capers Benefit

Presented by

Kathy’s Just Desserts, Inc. and Kitchen Wizards

Who: Anyone who…loves the culinary arts…wants to have fun decorating cupcakes…loves to eat cupcakes…has nothing else to do on a fall Sunday afternoon (the Eagles aren’t playing!)…wants a fun activity to do with her best girlfriends, mother, daughters, sons, boyfriend, husband…wants to feel good about donating to a GREAT cause!

Where: The Fellowship House of Conshohocken

When: Sunday, October 23, 2011 – 2 PM

What: Cupcake Capers - Cupcake Decorating Event and Raffle

Why: To celebrate our 10^th anniversary in business, we’re hosting a fundraising event, Cupcake Capers, to benefit Mommy’s Light Lives On – a foundation that brings joy and comfort to maternally grieving children and teens by helping them keep alive traditions or simple pleasures they shared with their mothers.

Cost: $25/each – Table of 8 for $180 ($15 per ticket donated to Mommy’s Light)

Please mail your check, payable to Kathy’s Just Desserts, Inc. to:

Post Office Box 804

Blue Bell, PA 19422

Be sure to include NAMES of all attendees and contact information (email address AND phone number)

E-mail: kw@kathysjustdesserts.com

Website: www.kathysjustdesserts.com

Phone: 610 348-5284

Facebook Fan Pages: (Kathy’s Just Desserts DBA) Kitchen Wizards

AND Kathy’s Just Desserts- Wedding Cakes, Baked Goods, Handmade Candies

Twitter: @kjd5

Ten Years Later...

2011-09-11T13:18:00.001-04:00

As we remember the sadness of 9/11/2011, I think of how different my life was before that day. I’d just begun thinking about starting my business – it was incorporated on October 5, 2001, despite the worry of the bad economy. I was just shy of 45, which means that on 11/11/11, I’ll be celebrating my (lucky!) “double nickels” birthday.

With the retelling of stories of those everyday heroes of 9/11/2001, I’m reminded of some of the characteristics we, as Americans, strive to have, just like the citizens who helped their fellow Americans on that bleak day ten years ago.

Growing up as an American, I’ve had many examples of the following qualities, and I’ve tried to be a person who tries to act this way every day. It has helped me to grow my small business.

· Optimism – It’s important to focus on the positives in life. I’ve had my struggles, both personally and professionally, but I prefer to look on the bright side – which I’ve had in far greater abundance than any hurts/disappointments/failures I’ve sustained.

· Persistence – I doubt that anyone starting a business can survive without persistence! I love the business I’ve built, and I feel great pride in the minimal (so far) success I’ve attained. I have never even thought of throwing my hands up in the air and quitting. Kathy’s Just Desserts and Kitchen Wizards WILL be a success. No other outcome is possible.

· Patience – Knowing that good things come to those who wait, I feel certain I can wait. I’m in no hurry. I feel confident that everything will come together, and I trust that God will make that happen.

· Resilience – My business has changed and grown in the past ten years – in part because of its failures. If something doesn’t work out, it’s okay, because another facet of the business will. It has helped me to be more creative, to think of new ideas, and to find new ways to appeal to customers. I try not to dwell on failures and misfortunes – and I’ve had plenty. It’s much better for my soul to think of all the positives I’ve experienced since I began the business. Bouncing back from heartache and difficulties in my life helps me to never reach the feeling of despair.

· Compassion – I’ve often said that, if I won the lottery, I’d still do the same things I do in my business – only I’d do them for free. I’m a softy when it comes to pain experienced by others…especially children! I always try to think of how I can help. I know I can’t change the world, but if I can help in any small way, and if others help in their small way, too, we can make a difference. I find such overwhelming joy when I am able to give. THAT’s what it’s all about!

So, in honor of my 55^th birthday and the 10^th anniversary of Kathy’s Just Desserts, Inc., I’m organizing a fundraiser to benefit Mommy’s Light Lives On. This is a great foundation that helps maternally grieving children to continue traditions they did with their mothers.

On October 23, 2011 (halfway between my business anniversary and my birthday), I’m holding a fundraiser “Cupcake Capers” for Mommy’s Light. This event will be held at The Fellowship House of Conshohocken at 2 PM. I’ll be instructing attendees (children, adults, parents and children, whoever likes cupcake decorating and/or likes to eat cupcakes) in how to decorate cupcakes. What fun! I also plan to have auction items.

Want to attend? More details will be posted soon on my blog and on my website (www.kathysjustdesserts.com) in the coming week. Gather together your best girlfriends – and get a whole table! It'll be a great activity for you and your kids, or your nieces/nephews, or your scout troop. No Eagles game? What ELSE are you going to do on a fall Sunday afternoon? Plan to celebrate your bachelorette party in a different way. Suggest it as a corporate teambuilding activity. Come on, it’ll be fun…and it’s for a GREAT cause!

Want to help? We’re looking for auction items (own a local business? know a local business owner?), helpers on the day of the event, donations of beverages, cups, napkins, sponsorships, donations directly to Mommy’s Light, and more. Check back for more details or call to offer your assistance (610 348-5284).

Looking forward to seeing you there! But on this solemn day in the USA, I need to close this post with a sentiment I'm sure you all share - God Bless America!

What I've learned from kids...

2011-08-15T19:39:00.001-04:00

It's been quite awhile since I've posted, but I have a good reason. I've been learning a lot this summer - from the kids! Yes, I know, I've been conducting camps, so you'd think THEY'd be learning. Hopefully, they learned a bit from me, too, but if you open up your mind and heart, it's amazing how much you can learn ABOUT YOURSELF from kids!

1. I have a sense of humor…

Or, so Aiden told his mom at camp this summer when he was regaling her with stories at the dinner table. This is good. I don’t mind that I have the sense of humor kids enjoy! I love it if they think I’m silly, or funny, or goofy. That makes me much more approachable to them – kids KNOW if you like them.

2. Be who you are – and DON’T try to be someone you’re not…

Okay, so I’m a mid-50ish woman who could never, in any circles, be considered “hip”. But, when I misread one of the girls’ aprons at a cooking camp, and thought it said “Holla”, I really should NOT have tried to show off some hip hop talk I learned at Zumba and Hip Hop workout classes. I will never forget the wide eyes and dropped jaws of the three 12-year-old girls sitting together when I pointed at that apron and said, “Holla atcha boi”. When I got no laughs, I repeated it. At that point, the girl told me in an even, clipped voice, “It’s.my.NAME – Holly!” So, as if it’s not bad enough that I’m not “hip”, I can’t SEE very well either. DUH! I sure felt like a dope!

3. I love what I do – and it’s contagious…

When I get kids psyched about making spanakopita or homemade pasta or inventing their own candy bars, it’s because, even after 10 years, I still get excited about what I do. The kids who take my programs have an interest in cooking – my goal is to make it a passion for them, like it is for me. At the very least, though, they should have confidence working in the kitchen after completing a Kitchen Wizards camp. I love hearing from parents who tell me their kids cooked dinner for the family. I remember doing that when I was their age, too.

4. It’s okay to act like a kid…

When I goof around and the kids see that, they know that it’s okay to have fun while you’re learning. Rarely do kids say something disrespectful, and if they do, it’s not intentional. But, when they hear me saying how tempting it is to play with the freshly made pasta because it’s like playing with someone’s long hair, I can see that they relate to that. If I put myself in my cooking kids’ shoes, I can connect with them on their level. Sometimes their level is not so far from mine – I guess I’m just a big kid at heart! They love my story of hating mustard – then realizing that it’s only when it’s in a sandwich, not when it’s in a cooked dish. Having been a picky eater as a child, I can relate to their hesitancy about trying new foods. And, they know that I won’t force them to eat anything they don’t like, but I encourage them to try new foods or foods they don’t like, prepared a different way.

5. I am young…or very, VERY old…

When I tell kids how OLD I am, most times, kids will say “you don’t looooook that old”! But, I’ve learned to just be honest about my age. Once I asked a pre-school class how old they thought I was and they told me “100 million billion”. If anything, that made my REAL age seem not so old!

6. Kids will tell you the truth when they know it’s safe…

I love to ask kids what their favorite recipe of the camp was – and their least favorite. I’ve noticed that they are reticent until I tell them it won’t hurt my feelings. Then, I get it with both barrels – ha! They become quite the food critics as they analyze why the buns didn’t taste as good as they thought (too much sugar) or why the oven-baked chicken fingers were so delicious (couldn’t even taste the mustard). Developing a discriminating taste will help them appreciate quality food, and that should help curb mindless eating, too.

7. I can’t wait until the fall programs begin…

Because even after all the hard work (and faux pas) of the summer, I love making a positive impact on kids’ lives!

Enjoy the rest of your summer, and I'll be back soon to talk about the next phase of my journey!

It's Really Happening!

2011-07-05T21:28:00.001-04:00

I enjoy teaching people to cook and bake. My education and work experience have been in teaching/training. I especially love that "Aha!" moment with kids when they really "get it". Now, I'd never try to tell you that my culinary programs are rocket science. As my mom said her mom told her, "If you can read, you can cook!" But, there's something so rewarding about sharing the preparation of a meal with others.

So, for almost ten years, I've been bouncing along, baking cakes and cookies, making candy, and teaching cooking programs. Loving it, but realizing that I can't reach as many as I'd like. Several years ago, I started thinking about expanding my business. But, just like an overprotective parent, I was hesitant to allow someone else to teach my programs. You can say many things about me, but I rarely make rash decisions. I think things through from every angle, figure out how to handle any challenge, think some more, figure some more, and finally begin to unfold my plan.

After a few years, I finally started the process of getting the financing I needed to expand. It took another year to GET the financing. I began to interview candidates who responded to my ad for "teachers who love to cook, looking for part-time/summer work". It amazed me to find out that there were so many qualified candidates! I could've asked many of them to join us - but I don't have enough work for them (yet).

Today, our first camps began - at Steve's Sew & Vac in King of Prussia. They have a wonderful Miele demo kitchen in the center of the store. Cooking there feels like you died and went to kitchen heaven! It's bee-you-tee-ful! I went there to assist. Honestly, I wondered how I would feel, not being "in charge". Well, I didn't have to worry - my instructor Wendi did such a superb job today! I also had Michele along - she's doing an internship with me. She was a great help, too. Both of them said how much they enjoyed it. Wendi's excited to be on her own. I've never had children, but I suppose this is how parents feel when their children take off the training wheels, or learn to drive, or go off to college.

So, tomorrow, I won't have to rush out the door to teach the camp - although I WILL stop in to see if Wendi needs any help - but I will have a camp running without me, while I'm drumming up even more business.

Next week, Steph will be teaching a camp. I know she'll do a great job, too! And, I can't forget to mention Shawn, who is taking on a lot of one-day programs at various locations this summer. She's also on reserve as a sub.

It always amazes me when folks think what I do is cool. It is - I've always thought so. But, I have come to realize that it's a really good idea, and I'm very proud of that. I'm happy that going with my gut feeling has helped me along the way. My instructors are willing to come along for the ride, eager to work with me, anxious to see my business grow. THAT makes me smile! I feel very blessed to have found something I love to do - and a way to earn a living doing that. :-)

My Dear Old Dad!

2011-06-18T19:49:00.004-04:00

I've often talked about how I got my love of cooking - the desire to feed/nurture people - from my Mom. I used to love cooking with her, helping in the kitchen (except doing the dishes - ha!), and, as I got older, taking turns cooking dinner (with Mary and Mom).

But, my sense of humor and joy in life has all come from Dad.

In honor of Father's Day, I thought I'd tell you a bit about my father. Dad has always been someone who smiles easily and laughs readily. Even though he was the father of six children (the "Daddy of them all", he always said, with a chuckle), he never let responsibilities get him down. Oh, he was responsible - rarely missing work, always early for church and his job, providing for all of us. But, he never forgot to appreciate the humor in life, to take each day as a gift. To this day, I'll call and, invariably, every conversation with Dad ends with a laugh.

Oh, how we enjoy his PopPop-isms, as my nieces and nephews call them (Put an egg in your shoe and beat it..........I see said the blind man, as he picked up his hammer and saw.........a honeymoon sandwich - lettuce alone)! Kind of corny, but so symbolic of the fun-loving, never-mean Dad who raised me.

My first memories were going to "pay bills" with Dad. In those days, we didn't wear seatbelts. So, I'd stand on the "hump" on the backseat floor, with my arms on the front seatcushions, and together, Dad and I would drive around, belting out "By the Sea" and "It's a Grand Old Flag". Such fun times! Dad worked for Schmidt's Brewery in Norristown. It was a big treat to stop in to pick up his paycheck - and we'd get some fresh brewed birch beer. Yum! I can still taste the bubbles!

Later, Dad was a bit protective - deciding I should buy a Chevy Nova (pale yellow with black vinyl roof - yuck!) for a my first car, because it was "dependable", following me to college (I was commuting to LaSalle) my first day, to be sure I got there okay, and taking Mary and me to our first concert at The Spectrum - John Denver! He made sure to shore up the living/dining room floor with 2x4s when we had parties during college - in case the weight of all our friends was too much for the floor to bear. :-)

All six of us kids have our fond memories of Dad. Since I am in the food business - teaching kids to cook - I will share with you one of my favorites. It sums up what a gem I have for a father.

When I was about 9 years old, I told Mom I wanted to bake cupcakes for dessert for dinner that night. (Oh yes, we had dessert every night - Dad and I also share a sweet tooth gene.) No way would it be a box cake - I was making it from scratch. She took out the recipe, all of the ingredients, and asked if I needed help. Nope! I could do it myself. I worked away, the cupcakes came out of the oven and looked and smelled good. I cooled, then frosted them. After dinner, Mom made a big fuss about the dessert I baked. She served one cupcake to each of us - have I told you I'm the 5th of six kids? As Mom turned to the refrigerator to pour milk for all of the kids, "the big boys" (my three oldest brothers), started clutching their throats, screaming "water, water". Of course, Mom scolded them, thinking they were just being big brothers. They said, "They're too salty!" She looked down to the other end of the kitchen table at Dad and asked, "Jack, are they?" He was trying to swallow, took a chug of his hot tea, and replied, "A little..." With that, Mom took a bite and asked me, "How much salt did you put in the recipe?" Proudly, I explained that I put in one cup of salt, and one teaspoon of sugar, just like the recipe told me. Uh-oh! I never forgot that culinary lesson - but I didn't give up on baking. But, that's a fun story to tell the kids who attend my culinary programs. If I can have a baking business, ANYone can learn to cook and bake! The most distinct and dearest memory I have from that episode, though, was how Dad would've eaten that whole salt cupcake, just so he wouldn't hurt my feelings!

So, to my Dad - John F. Wolper, Sr., Jack, John, Dad, Daddio, The Daddy of Them All, PopPop, HAPPY FATHER'S DAY! This is my Dad's 61st Father's Day, and he is 85. I'm so glad we'll all be celebrating together tomorrow! Love ya, Dad! Now, I think I'll put an egg in my shoe and beat it! ;-)

Kitchen Wizards - Why do I do it?

2011-06-11T18:00:00.000-04:00

This is my first blog post, and I don't really know what I'd have to say that others would care about, but I'm going to try to come up with something! ;-)

Almost 10 years ago, I lost my job as a certified technical trainer, and decided to do something that would make me happy and excited - and maybe even make a contribution to this crazy world we live in. I founded my baking business, Kathy's Just Desserts, Inc. - www.kathysjustdesserts.com.

Now, before I was a computer trainer, I was an elementary teacher. The one thing people who know me realize is how much I LOVE kids - whether it was my oldest friend's daughters - taking them out to give their Mom a break, or my "kids" at St. John the Baptist (4th grade) and St. Pat's (3rd grade - in my very own 3rd grade classroom there!), or my nieces and nephews (yeah, I mean YOU - Jeff, Chris, Allie, Ginny, and Katie), or the little ones in the pew ahead of me at church (smiling and winking at them to make them smile), I LOVE KIDS!

A few months into my business, I called my sister Mary - who's a marketing consultant. I asked her what she thought of me offering kids' cooking programs. She thought it was a great idea - kids love the Food network and parents don't have time to cook or teach their kids to cook. I thought about it, started planning programs, then started offering after-school programs, kids' candy making birthday parties, Scout workshops, summer camps, Ladies' Night Out events - programs for kids AND for adults - eventually renaming that segment of my business "Kitchen Wizards", where we help kids of all ages to discover the magic of cooking, one bite at a time!

Kitchen Wizards definitely brings a lot of joy to my life. You see, I was never blessed with marriage and children. When I was growing up, Mary and I would hang out with Mom in the kitchen. We learned to cook - learned to LOVE cooking, because Mom did. Doesn't every little girl want to be just like Mom? I always thought I'd grow up, have a bunch of kids, and teach them to cook. That didn't happen. But, I'm okay with it. If I'd have married, I WOULD have taught MY bunch of kids to cook and bake. NOW, I touch so many kids' lives. I've had parents send me photos of kids cooking recipes they learned in my programs for their families. That's so great! I'm stopped in supermarkets by people telling me that they still make the Buckeyes their kids learned in camp every Christmas. I'm known as the "Candy Lady" by many campers at MCDC, where I first started doing a candy making camp activity for their large day camp. But, my favorite times are when I'm standing with a group of kids around the kitchen counter, and they're listening intently to how a recipe is made, laughing at my silly jokes, proudly adding their knowledge, repeating the steps I've told them as they make a recipe with their group, delighting in eating what they've made, trying a new recipe, new food - learning that mustard really ISN'T that bad (after hearing my story about hating mustard as a kid), telling Mom they need to stop and buy artichokes on the way home because they're sooooo good!

As a 20-something elementary teacher, I never realized the impact I had on the children I taught. I was young and liked teaching, but never imagined they'd remember specific events from 3rd or 4th grade - not until I joined Facebook a few years ago. My "kids" are now grown, with families and careers of their own, and I love the newfound friendship I have with them - even if it is only online. It's so great to hear about their lives now.

Age brings maturity (one hopes), and I have an awareness now that I never had in my 20s. I know that these cookin' kids are going to have some of the memories I have of cooking with my Mom when I was a kid. I hope they have that memory with their own Mom - but I know they'll remember cooking with me! And that makes me very happy!!