Gettin' Real! What's me and What Isn't me??

I think I've told you that's it's an annual tradition to go to California with my daughters....sometimes, it's with all three, if they can all make it; sometimes, two...on a few occasions, 1...but every time we go, we have a GREAT TIME!!

Here, in the middle of winter.....I'm going to 'go back' and revisit California.....and bring some sunshine and warmth to January in Colorado!!

I think you ALSO know that I'm re-fashioning myself from being a teacher into 'something else.'  I love to bake, garden, keep house.....hmmm, what can I do with that and get paid something?

• innkeeper
• personal chef
• bakery shop owner
• personal assistant

I'm wondering what the Universe has in store for me.  We've been looking for a bed and breakfast for years now and with the downturn of the economy, that idea has not come to fruition.  But, I'm open to a few other ideas.....if not a bed and breakfast....how about a retreat?  If not a bakery shop owner, then why not a tea shop owner....or, something else!!

In the process of trying to figure this all out, I'm doing my research.  I've visited dozens and dozens of b&b's.  I've had afternoon tea at about a dozen places, including the Fairmont in Banff Springs, Canada.  I've also frequented dozens of small coffee and tea shops to try and figure out which is 'me' and which ISN'T me!  Bakeries, too.  Colors, lighting, decorating, style.....

Meet Wonderland Bakery!

Wonderland Bakery, Newport Beach, CA

 Well, in the process of looking, I came across a really over the top bakery in California. It's cute, pink, and has a lot to offer and they are planning on opening a 2nd location further north. But, this style is not me. I like so many different things that I'm actually happy I've found a style I don't want to look like. It's a bit too fru-fru....and I don't want to cater just to children. But, take a look see and see for yourself. We bought a few of their baked goods and found them to be quite good....but this place is someone else's dream.

dishes, cupcake holders, lunch boxes, tiaras

we were there in September, so Halloween things were out

cookies, brownies, and other desserts as well as cupcakes

beyond fancy---each is a work of art

aprons and tutu's too!! ( say that fast 3 times!)

even stuffed animals that have 'stuffed' cupcakes!

and one-of-a-kind party hats-

Well, off I go to dream of what I am to be tomorrow.....after I re-line the pantry shelves and start to replace cabinets with food instead of having boxes scattered all about the living room! If I'm going to recreate me, I've got to get this place in order!! :)

Empty now....but just you wait!!